Reviews (11)

Amazingly good but very disturbing movie.
This movie is based on Herbert Selby's cult novel from the early 1960s. The novel traces the lives of some rough urban characters (prostitutes, street hoodlums, transvestites, striking dock workers) in 1950s Brooklyn. Think of this as "On the Waterfront" without the sugar coating. A friend of mine hates the movie because he feels it is nightmarish and lacks a moral center. I like the movie for just this reason, as deep down I think life is that way. The movie is a harsh and uncompromising look at people whose dreams don't work out; in fact, the dreams often explode in the characters' faces. Jennifer Jason Leigh, Stephen Lang, Stephen Baldwin, Jerry Orbach and Alexis Arquette are fantastic. Don't watch this with kids or with people with delicate sensibilities---it's violent, sexually graphic, and full of verbal abuse and foul language.

Nightmarish in the extreme!
(...) As it was, this movie profoundly depressed me. (...)There is tenderness in the depiction of a young man's adoration for a prostitute (Jennifer Jason Leigh), as well as comic relief (of sorts) in the complications arising from an unplanned pregnancy. Unfortunately these moments are few and far between, and the cumulative effect of numerous beatings (starting with the very first scene!), cowardice and sexual violence will greatly disturb most viewers.

The acting, however, is top-notch. The entire cast is thoroughly believable - depressingly so in the case of Stephen Baldwin and his fellow thugs. Director Uli Edel is a master at creating atmosphere, and an operatic sense of doom permeates the entire movie, helped in no small measure by Mark Knopfler's beautiful but ominous score.

As a movie I would give Last Exit to Brooklyn five stars for its execution, but just one star for its sense of life. Nihilists will love it for reinforcing their own bleak view of life, but romantics should definitely give it a miss.

Why the Dodgers left Brooklyn
It's the 1950s. Under President Eisenhower's administration, everyone has a house in the suburbs, a decent job, a gas-guzzling car, and a basic "Leave It to Beaver" lifestyle.

Not so, said Hubert Selby, in his novel, LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN. For a good deal of the working class, times were still tough. Preyed upon by crime, toyed with by factory owners and unions, and, ultimately, shackled by their own ignorance, the working class had their promise of a white picket fence and primrose garden vacated. In Brooklyn, particularly, things were acutely tough. Manufacturing jobs were on a rapid decline, as companies moved out of town or out of state (which was why those companies remaining in Brooklyn were able to mess with their employees: take it or leave it, was their attitude). At the same time, an influx of immigrants seeking jobs made the hunt for work even more competitive--another bonus for the remaining factory owners. Slums rapidly worsened, so much so that Dodger owner Walter Alston decided his team's future was in jeopardy. L.A. looked like a much safer place for a stadium.

But neither Selby nor director Uli Edel portrayed this working class as merely innocent victims. Neither the book nor the film is a didactic rant about class warfare. The poor had their own vices of greed, brutality, and dissipation. Just about every other scene has someone going through someone else's wallets, union funds or pockets. If they aren't doing that, they're drinking, fighting, or whoring. It's a pretty dismal world. The natural response to this film might be: "Wait a minute. Not everyone working class Johnny-Punchclock guy was a criminal. Most people worked hard and honestly." Of course, this is true but it's not the film's concern. This is a study of those who were trapped in that world, and this study is compelling and horrifying.

Uli Edel has perfectly captured this bleak world, either bathing everything in a garish light or obscuring it in heavy shadows. The performances are brilliant. There's no understating Jennifer Jason Leigh's gritty and powerful performance. Also keep an eye out for a cameo by Hubert Selby as the driver who hits Georgette. Not for the weak-stomached and definitely not for kids, LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN is as cinematographically close to the innermost circle of urban hell as you can get.

A Hell of a Film
Last Exit to Brooklyn tells a story the way it needs to be told...realistically. This film is not for everyone. If you can't accept the fact that some people do behave like this than this film is not for you. Everyone doesn't live in a fantasy land and Last Exit to Brooklyn shows this. People brought up in conditions like these or who are familiar with people such as this can vouch that people are truly like this in some places. It may not be an excuse for how others act but it is real and this film proves that. This is a powerful, moving film not to be looked upon if you're easily offended out of your own ignorance and live in a rose-colored world. If you have the ability to watch a movie, understand it and be taken in with what the film represents ( without feeling threatened ) then this movie is a keeper. If you can't see that Last Exit to Brooklyn deplicts reality for people other than the super fortunate, rent Sweet Home Alabama because this movie is not for you.

Nasty, Ugly, Wrong
People who think that the working class or anyone who is down and out is necessarily brutal and self-serving will love this film. For those who like their "social realism" as ugly and unambiguous as possible,this is the film for you. Most of the characters are one-dimensional,yell their lines and are either outrightly cruel/unfeeling (practically everyone) or hystrionic/narcissistic victims doomed to be wiped out by the end of the film (eg Gorgette the transvestite, Tra La La the town "tramp"). Almost all are totally unsympathetic--practically no-one in this film is worth caring about. Sorry, but real life is NOT like this,not even amongst the "downtrodden" who obviously make such sensationalist fodder for those eager to "slum it" vicariously for a couple of hours. This film might titilate nihilistic 20 yr olds or middle class suburbanites and has clearly thrilled all the critics (and almost everyone else in this forum) but I found it stupid and ugly (and boring). Jennifer Jason Leigh is terrific, I must add. That is the only good thing I can say about this film, I'm afraid. For those looking for uncompromising social realism and characters written with compassion rather than contempt, try reading Steinback's "Cannery Row" or see the movie of his novel "Of Mice and Men" or, for a more contemporary, very bleak but infinitly better film than Last Exit see "Nil by Mouth" directed by Gary Oldman. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This underrated comedy-drama by Andrew Fleming may one day be seen as a reflection of the muddled sexual politics of the 1990s. Three dissimilar college students played by Lara Flynn Boyle, Stephen Baldwin, and Josh Charles become unlikely best friends, forging a relationship so exclusive it actually troubles onlookers. From the inside, however, the trio are enjoying the safety of their own bond and exploring varying needs of love and sexual adventurousness. Erotic, bawdy, sensuous, mysterious, and nostalgic, the film can make a viewer envy the state of grace these characters have found with each other. All three actors have never been better. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Triple your pleasure, triple your fun
Due to a computer glitch, Alex (Lara Flynn Boyle) is classified as a boy by her college's housing department, and she's assigned to a suite with Stuart (Stephen Baldwin) and Eddie (Josh Charles). Alex reluctantly accepts the situation as she can't afford to live off campus. A curious scenario develops: Alex has eyes for Eddie, who's studious and bookish and might be gay, sexually brash and obnoxious Stuart likes the demure Alex (who can't stand him) and Eddie realizes he's attracted to Stuart. The unlikely trio explores themselves and their sexuality with an "us against them" attitude, or as Eddie puts it: "Those who get the joke, and those who don't". Very funny and thought provoking, and Boyle, Charles, and Baldwin seem to be tailor made for their roles. I'm sure this known but overlooked movie will achieve cult status over time.

one of my top 5
it also shows a smaller role played by the very funny arguette sibling Alexis Arquette who you may note for his boy george wanna be character in "the wedding singer" in this movie though he plays one of the lobby lizards. a guy with a nerdy little faghag and kittie litter breath with a big ole crush on Eddie..

one of my top 5
i love this movie. i always have since i rented it when i was about 15 (24 now). granted i probly shouldnt have been seeing this movie at 15 but when i watched it as i got older i connected with things alot more. it deals with breaking through your boundaries and basically it shows a trio of friends and what they go through, one main thing being a love triangle. This movies being set in college is too funny because that is in fact where people explore as eddie refers to it in the first 20 seconds of the movie "deviancy". "the word deviancy is from the latin roots. de meaning from and via the road, one who wanders from the road or gets lost. now days it refers to someone whos sexual practices are abnormal. This is the story of stuart alex and me and how for a while we became deviants, in both senses of the word"...
there is so much more to the movie but its not one of those gripping your heart type movies. this movie is mean to be fun. its a comedy, a romantic comedy on the verge of insanity. its also got some of the best lines ive seen in a movie.

Alex: If you're so hot on the idea, why don't you have sex with him?
Stuart: Taste of semen makes me gag.
Alex: How would you know? Whose semen were you eating?
Stuart: My own.(that was one of the many times stuart opens his mouth followed by people just staring at him with nothing to say)

Eddie: If Alex and Stuart were genetically merged into one person, he or she would've been the love of my life.(who hasnt felt like that before)

it also has a great soundtrack.

Everything is fairly much on an equalibrium until Eddie goes to pee one day and finds in the shower next to him a believed anti social suite mate, Alex who is very much a girl. Due to a computer glitch she is registered as male and cant afford her way out of it.

Time goes on as the boys (Eddie and his roommate Stuart) and Alex avoid eachother and Eddie and Stuart keep things that way by being the worst roommates they can find ways to be but soon they al find themselves connecting. well, Eddie and Alex anyway. Alex cant stand Stuart and sees him as a no neck ideot. then as alex describes it
Alex: You have the hots for me, I have the hots for him, and sooner or later he's gonna have the hots for you.
They find themselves in a triangle of hard crushes where "no ones getting out easy".
and as the title shows there is a big threeway which you can guess is going to happen after a short way into the film.

its incredibly funny. you should see it. its a movie that your gonna love wether your gay strait or bi. i dont care what you are just see it..

Sexually Fun
"Threesome" is a hilarious comedy released in 1994. It stars Josh Charles, Stephen Baldwin, and Lara Flynn Boyle. This explores three college students of different life backgrounds who unlikely become friends: a gay and artistic student, a sexually active man, and an emotional wreck. The written despliction is brilliant, keeping a unique theme. They know the perfect way to keep sexual innuendo funny, yet knowing the perfect scenes to add a hint of drama. Such erotica and other risque themes earns the cast and crew tremendous respect for expressing what few other filmmakers have in and before 1994. Many twists and turns arise, keeping audiences interested in every scene. All three lead actors perform at their career best in this film. Whether they're expressing sexual innuendo, suicidal tendencies, loneliness, or any others, they remain flawless in every scene. "Threesome" is a great comedy for those looking for something unique and sexually erotic. This is sure to keep audiences entertained for a long time, regardless the number of viewings.

Nice movie
"Threesome" is a great movie, although it is different than most films of the genre. It's a fun movie to watch, yet melancholy at the same time. I think one reason for its charm is, it is so relative to reality, although the situation, to most, is not. I gave it four stars for this same reason; it always puts me in a weird state of mind by the end. But that is okay -- sometimes, 4/5 star movies are the best. Stephen Baldwin, Lara Flynn Boyle and Josh Charles all make great performances, and I found the "Catcher In The Rye" connection they added in the movie rather unique. To close, I enjoy this film every time I see it. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Weird, Weird Movie...
K, I really want everyone to see this, for the simple fact that my fave actor's in it (who will remain unnamed for personal reasons ^_^ LOL). I must say that it's the stupidest, most terrible movie I've ever seen; I loved it! The "low- budget cult weirdness", the bad writing, the situation, everything about it reminded me of some of the B (Z actually) movies I'd seen before, only it was made in '95. Heehee, this is currently my fave live-action movie. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

I got everything except for the psychiatrist
Mercy was a movie that was released on HBO. Thus, I found it to be a "hotter" than anything that is usually released in the theater. Therefore, most viewers would probably compare it to a lesbian Basic Instinct with the post-violent scenes of Seven.

This movie could have been far more ugly and brutal had we had to witness the deaths of the victims. Instead, we only had to view the aftermath. Ellen Barkin did a tremendous job of playing a homicide detective with the brains, intuitiveness and, dare I say, spunk. Really, I loved her chasing after the bald bad guy. Barkin showed physical dominance, as well as brains as she tried to get into the lives of these potential lesbian victims in order to find her killer.

Peta Wilson's character Vickie Kittrie was a dark, hurt, yet successful woman. She made you see how awful the effects of sexual child abuse often comes back to haunt adults. This character is not at all like Nikita, so if you're expecting your USA Network hero, it's not one to watch.

However, I think that this film could have happened without having Julian Sands character at all. All you know about the Sands character is that he sleeps with his patients and likes to dress up as a woman. I'm not sure how either of those facts really improves the film.

Overall, I think the script was satisfactory and that the cast really played their parts very well. Harris did a good job here on gutting the underbelly of a dangerous, sexual underground of some deeply disturbed, rich people.

erotic in a lot of ways but that doesnt help it
some steamy scenes in this movie with Peta Wilson and Ellen Barkin....Wilson has a nude scene where Barkin is watching her from other window..you know the scene where she gets shot for fake and then rubs the blood off the window...sexy scene. Julian Sands also stars..he's ok but some of the stuff down it and it gets really boring after awhile

You Decide!
I really can not make up my mind properly about Mercy, and it did offer me a slight dilemma reviewing it,
On the plus side, there is Peta Wilson, playing a lesbian who is into SM and who has an erotically charged scene with Ellen Barkin. So as far as erotic/thriller genre is concerned this is somehow a new twist.
On the down side, it is very badly filmed and scripted, a poor imitation of Dressed to Kill without the Hitchcockian atmosphere or De Palma's able direction. And it has also poor Julian Sands with yet another bad role, as bad in fact as his role in Boxing Helena, and this is no easy feat to manage, but he did!
So you can watch/buy this movie for Peta 'lezzing' it up, not a bad thing in itself,yet you can also be excused for using the word 'Mercy' only to be spared such mediocrity in the future..You decide!

better than the novel
i was interested because i had read, several years back, the novel on which this was based, which was imperfect but exciting enough in its way. there are all kinds of flaws... which the film faithfully recreates. but the performances are very good, so it's not bad at all for late night video fare. ellen barkin and peta wilson are especially good.

THIS IS COMPLETLEY ASININE ...
After hearing about this movie and hearing all the decent reviews about it. I really was looking for something exotic, Boy was I wrong! I can't make excuses or even try to make this out of something that was well put together. First of all there were alot of characters in the movie that were extremley irrelevant. I think what the writer was trying to do was put as many screwed up suspects in the movie as he could. Most of the characters were never main characters nor had depth in their character. There was one character/suspect/witness named Vickie. She was the closest to a main character and was the only person other than Helen Birkin that kept the movie interesting. And Vickie looked like a big ole "Drag Queen" that had two many psycological problems. She was a lesbian that was extremley promiscuous and very bold. But don't get excited people, even her character was limited and restricted. She had two good scenes the one with Helen Birkin the seduction that didn't go any where. And there is other scene where she blatantly walks in a strangers dressing room in a store and gives her pleasure. And even Vickie was pointless in the film because her character was eventually terminated, Go figure that? And the shrink basically served as a outlet to introduce more unnecessary sick characters, I guess, so that you can hear their stories as well. The only real tension or interesting plot was between the character witness Vickie and the cop(Ellen Birkin) that was it. Even that turned for the worst because, all the build up to what was supposed to be an attraction or seduction turned into a fiasco! So people if you are looking for lesbian action forget it, because it isn't here. They play it up and they disappoint you in this film. Then most of the women in the film were very hard looking and tired looking. I don't know what the directer was trying to convey in this film? Then the killer turns out to be someone that really didn't have a huge role in the film. And what is even more of a kicker Helen nor the cops never even had this person as a suspect. And what is even more of a kicker there wasn't any contact between the killer and the main characters. And the reasoning for the murders in the killers eyes was completley uproarious! The shrink which is played by (I forgot the guys name)he had no right counseling anyone because he was very strange himself. He was just as sick as the rest of the people in the movie. The ending was just completley stupid and uproarious ! Because there wasn't a previous relationship or connection between Helen or the Killer. So when Helen finally met up with this person there wasn't any tension or surprise! I don't know what this movie was meant for, but it definitley left me unsatisfied! If you are looking for a real sensual experience I recommend Blood Thirsty, Serpents Lair, Kate's Addiction, Body of Evidence, Poison Ivy 3 The New Seduction, Bound, Embrace of the Vampire, Damage, Habit,Life force,Lost Highway, Mulholland Drive,Basic Instinct (Uncut) and No strings Attached. These are very exotic and sensual films that have purpose and make sense! The only thing this movies serves as a lesson on child abuse and people with mental problems. The homes and location of the movie was gorgeous but that is it! And even that leaves question? How ... is a detective going to maintain and live in a mansion like that? Any way buy this one at your own risk........

Arish ... Read more

Amazon.com

The title refers to the time required by all rodeo cowboys to stay on a bull if they want a judge's score. For them, such a short time can seem like an eternity. The same is true of the beginning of this true story, a country tale of Lane Frost, a real-life, crowd-pleasing bullrider who rose to rodeo fame in the late '80s. The characters seem so irrepressibly good, so unreal, that the film comes out of the chute without a buck or much of a purpose. But Frost's story, and that of his relationship with his wife, Kellie (Cynthia Geary), eventually gains momentum. Luke Perry is an underrated actor, and he balances an "aw-shucks-ness" with an internal spark that makes that salt-of-the-earth stuff not so salty. When the film is finally over and the end credits show home movies and stills of the real-life Frost, you'll wish the ride was just a little longer. --Keith Simanton ... Read more

Reviews (102)

Great movie about a person that will be remembered in rodeo.
Lane Frost, was a bullrider that loved what he did day in and day out and that was RODEO. He had to overcome many different problems throughout his short career. In this movie it isn't all about one man who rode bulls for a living. 8 Seconds shows how much rodeo is to all of the Cowboys in rodeo. This movie showed me that Lane Frost was a man that had his ups and his downs throughout his short career as a pro bull rider. It showed me that rodeo is a way of life that is so unpredictable that you never know when your last ride is going to be and it showed me that there is more to rodeo than just getting on a horse, bull, or bronc. Rodeo is a way of life and it can bring people together and build those close relationships that you never want to lose and it can also take away the ones you love. I would have to say this is one of my most favorite movie because it showed me that you need to hang on to the things that last and never ever give up no matter what the coarse looks like ahead of you.

Best Rodeo Movie
Probably one of the best rodeo movies ever made, period. I noticed on one of the earlier reviews that they thought Luke Perry rode some of the bulls in this movie, thats bull in itself. All stunts were done by professionals, Tuff Hedeman, Terry Don West, Cody Lambert to name a few, give credit where credit is due. Luke does a nice job in his portrayal of Lane Frost, but I feel that Stephen Baldwin does just as good a job as Tuff Hedeman and is somewhat overlooked in conversation regarding this movie. Bill Conti's music is just a nice added perk. This is a great rodeo movie, shows the life the way it is, the true story of Lane frost, one of the greatest bull riders cut short in his prime. Life on the road, tough loving dad, falling in love, adultry, comradare, and the movie that most people became familiar with "Cowboy Up!" If this movie does not move you then you just aren't human....or country!

A Legend
I would have to say that 8 seconds is one if my favorite movies. I watch it over and over and cry every time, it never fails. Lane Frost is the best bull rider I know, he is definately the man. He had a lot nuts to keep on riding and don't give up, he had more nuts than Red Rock. Luke Perry was perfect in playing the part of Lane Frost. Every time I see the movie I think about my cousins, friends, and the guys that I don't know and pray the God nothing like that happens.Lane Frost really deserves to be in The Hall of Fame. May God bless his family for holding up.

A solid ride
When this movie first came out, I did not know who Lane Frost was. After I saw it, however, I wish I would have known him. This film may come off as sort of sugary sweet to some, but adultery, drinking, fighting and cussing don't seem so sugary to me. Mr. Frost had faults. He was human. But he prevailed where others have failed. That is what make him a hero and Luke Perry's portrayal of Mr. Frost exemplifies that.

This movie suffers from a few inaccuracies, but those inaccuracies help move this film along at a pace that non-rodeo people can enjoy. The acting is fine, and that's really Luke Perry on some of those bulls. You've got to give the guy a nod for that.

The soundtrack is also very influential on the look and feel of this movie. "Once In Awhile" by Billy Dean is the pinnacle performance in this movie, and if you're eyes don't well up when you hear it, you've got no heart inside.

This is a decent family movie, although some younger kids probably shouldn't be exposed to some of the language and the adultery. It should be noted, however, that these things are key in making this a real story.

This is a solid movie about a real man, full of heart and fault, yet still a hero to us all.

8 seconds
all i have to say about this movie is COWBOY UP ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Drama cop
Drama: An undercover New York City cop must deal with his troubled partner and an investigation into his ties with the mob while investigating the rape and beating of a nun good plot good cast

Movie based 5% on true events.
This movie was 95% fiction. All the shootings never happened,including the Mafia guys and girl friend. About the only thing that was close to real was the nun incident and yet that too,was a bit embellished. Movie makers should do their homework and find other cop stories that need no make-believe script.

HAIKU MOVIE REVIEW:
Better read the book. Real Bo better than Baldwin. But Balwin not bad

Baldwin not bad
HAIKU MOVIE REVIEW: Better read the book. Real Bo better than Baldwin. But Balwin not bad. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Very good
IT IS TRUELY AMAZIN, I HAD MANY PLEASURABLE TIMES OVER THIS VIDEO I ADVISE EVERYONE TO GET IT, AND HAVE A GOOD WATCH WITH YA GIRL, IT WILL GET HER EXCITED!!!

made for tv movie!
This should definitely be a made for TV movie as it was totally predictable! This couple submits an ad to become swingers to spice up their love life. Later they decide they don't need these people anymore but they won't let down...I am sure you can figure out the rest from there, this movie was a total cliche.

Cheap Thrills....
Alan (Cameron Daddo) and Wendy Barnet (Brandy Ledford) are your normal, average couple who have succumbed to sexual boredom. One day, while visiting a sex shop, Alan buys a swingers' magazine. Of course, there is some initial hesitation, but eventually curiosity gets the best of them and they place an ad. They receive a response from a couple Jack (Stephen Baldwin) and Louise (Kristy Swanson) Bauer--who seem irresistibly charming and very good-looking. After a call from Alan, they decide to meet at a local bar, aptly titled the "Zebra Lounge". A few drinks, and Wendy is feeling a little hesistant. I mean is this really what she wants? Is this going to save their marriage? The plot is superficially thin and the acting is so-so. But you can see where this is heading, and that is part of the fun. So needless to say, the Barnet couple give in to temptation--and have a wild time with the Bauers. After satisfying their curiosity, the Barnets are ready to throw in the towel and call it quits. But the Bauers are not so ready to be tossed to the side!! They had plans on a long-term meaningful relationship! And that is where the PROBLEMS start! This movie is okay, especially if you want a cheap thrill, have nothing else to do, or feel like watching some soft-porn with plenty of simulated acts. Just be sure to put the kids to bed first.

can you say predictable
This movie started out promising. A couple decided to become swingers. However the appearance of Stephen Baldwin quickly deminished any hopes for decent acting. The plot is even weaker. It starts out slow, builds some decent momentum and then just ends..... The ending is so stupid and pointless it's like the director just ran out script and decided to just put us all out of our misery...
Oh and if you looking for nudity, sex or anything of the sort.... look somewhere else.

zebra lounge
when i purchased this movie i thought the story would be interesting to see,the idea of the movie is good,but with a subject like this and in the beginning it says strong sexual scenes,theres no sex,the little there is is with clothes on ,some horrible acting from stephen baldwin,the other actors were ok,still woth a look ... Read more

Reviews (5)

SEND IN THE CLONE
MR. MURDER is an okay adaptation of Koontz's novel. It's biggest fault is actually the casting of Stephen Baldwin in the all important leading role. Baldwin's range is extremely limited, and sometimes there was little difference between the real writer and the clone. This is especially true in the first half of the movie; later on, he tries a little harder and he salvages what little he can of his performance. Other than that, there are some interesting suspenseful moments; Julie Warner tries hard as Baldwin's wife, but she has to overcome a lot of inadequacy from Baldwin; James Coburn is wasted but the pro he is, he puts more into his smaller role than Baldwin did. Thomas Haden Church was awful. Monotone, boring, he came off even worse than Baldwin!!!
The movie has some suspenseful moments, but it's not as good as the book. However, overall, it's fairly entertaining and not as awful as some may think.

It's pretty awful.
Stephen Baldwin is a horror writer who discovers he has an identical, murderous clone. This silly Dean Koontz adaptation is based off of his equally silly novel, so it's no surprise the script has all the typical Koontz plot elements: Government conspiracy, heroes going on the run, and a final fight in the middle of nowhere. The only difference is that the mystery is revealed at the beginning! Overlong miniseries (Which actually features nudity in the video version)features countless leapholes in logic, unconvincing special effects, and a hilariously wooden Stephen Baldwin as the writer and killer. You can count the number of good Koontz novels and movies on one hand (Phantoms, anyone?), and this sure as hell isn't one of them.

A decent made-for-TV movie
In general, Dean Koontz books haven't been translated to movies very successfully. This one made the transition better than most. ("Watchers", "Whispers", and "Phantoms" were appalling. The best adaptation, "Intensity", another made-for-TV movie, was never released after broadcast.) This movie follows the book rather well and, several times, generates a nice level of suspense. Obviously, much had to be cut or skimmed over to make it fit time constraints: better that than bogging down the pace with detail. Steven Baldwin wouldn't have been my choice for the lead, but he performs it adequately. James Coburn was wasted. As a made-for-TV, there isn't a widescreen version and the sound is only 2-channel stereo. I'm glad I saw it when first broadcast in two parts; it was good to see it uninterrupted when it was released, but I'm not willing to shell out the bucks to own it.

never again
never ever put any money towards this movie, i wish there were a rating less than one star cause this thing was horrible, talk about predictable i and everyone who watched it had the entire plot of the movie mapped out 30mins into it.

Koontz Fans Will Be Disapointed
I am a Dean Koontz fan and I have to say that this movie is one of the bad translations of his work. If you are not a fan of the book then by all means tell us what you think. I cann't be that objective because I am. So, if you haven't read the book, watch it. If you have read it, you will be disappointed. How does that saying go? It's never as good as the book. ... Read more

Reviews (86)

This is one of the most funniest movies i've ever seen.
This a very humorous movie. Although it didn't become a big hit, it is still a classic. It had the right stars to play the main charters(Pauly Shore and Stephen Baldwin).

The movie focuses on two collage students from Tucson, who stumble apon an experimental dome, believing it was a mall. They stay at the dome and cause total chaos and drive the scientists inside crazy. Then they destroy the dome by having a huge party and become heroes when they clean it up.

The humor was mainly from the stupidity of Bud(Pauly Shore)and Doyle(Stephen Baldwin). They acted like they were still in the eight grade with annoying and senseless humor. They were like the kind of people who could cheer you up when you were down.

The movie did have its downs, though. The main charters didn't act their age. The humor was mainly aimed at young kids but had an "R" rating. The movie could have done good without the involvement of hemp. And Pauly Shore keep laughing after almost everything he said. But, that's why most people like the movie.

Over all, I think the movie was great. It was very funny, had a great cast, and had a good plot to it.

An award winner, not a bomb!
I read on a website that this film was rated as a "BOMB". That is the worst rating I've ever heard for one of the funniest movies ever. Non-stop laughs! Pauly Shore is a comic genius, and he shows it in this movie. If you're a serious comedy lover, this is a must-have DVD. So buy it here at Amazon!

It's Just Like Seventh Grade
I watched 'Bio-Dome' under extreme protest. I didn't really expect much, but I had no idea how wretched it would truly be. Pauly Shore and Stephen Baldwin star as Bud and Doyle, two losers who inadvertently get trapped in the 'Bio-Dome' scientific research station and hilarity (allegedly) ensues. Adding to the agony is an early screen appearance by Jack Black.

'Bio-Dome' is essentially a glimpse of the hilarity that goes on in a seventh grade boy's locker room. Jokes about K-Y Jelly and flatulence abound, so if you think that is utterly hilarious, this movie may be for you. The only bright side to 'Bio-Dome' is this: it is the film that utterly killed Pauley Shore's screen career.

Makes Carrot Top Seem Handsome, and Adam Sandler Seem Funny
I watched 'Bio-Dome' under extreme protest. I didn't really expect much, but I had no idea how wretched it would truly be. Pauly 'The Weasel' Shore and Stephen Baldwin star as Bud and Doyle, two losers (there's a casting surprise!) who, thinking they are going to a mall, inadvertently get trapped within a futuristic 'Bio-Dome' scientific research station, and hilarity (allegedly) ensues. This makes 'Chairman of the Board' starring Carrot Top look like a serious contender for an Academy Award. Adding to the agony is an early screen appearance by the mega-untalented Jack Black, as if Pauly and Stephen weren't more than enough to discourage you.

'Bio-Dome' is essentially a glimpse of the hilarity that goes on in a seventh grade boy's locker room. Jokes about K-Y Jelly and flatulence abound, so if you think that is utterly hilarious, this movie may be for you. The good news is this: this is the film that utterly killed Pauley Shore's screen popularity, so for that I say thank you to the producers of 'Bio-Dome' for making this pile.

Viva Los Bio Dome!
A cult classic. Son-In_law is my favorite but this is a close second. Over the years I have watched this movie at least 30 times. When it comes to the party scene at the end it gets a little weak. Pauly and Steven Baldwin feed off each other like they grew up together. "Hey, Faulkner! Quit hoggin the KY!" ... Read more

Reviews (449)

My Favorite Plot-Driven Movie!
I am glad that I waited for the "Special Edition." In all honesty, I'm not really into the "extras" that some DVDs contain. I've purchased or rented several DVDs in the past year, and I can count on one hand the number of times I actually bothered to check out the extra material. Only Disney's "Snow White" had anything that was truly interesting.

THIS "Special Edition" had extras that were unique (the profanity-laced Gag Reel), and truly interesting (the featurettes that included interviews with actors, producers, screenwriters, etc.) My wife and I especially enjoyed the interviews, because they explained how the actors came together to create the chemistry that was needed to drive the plot and keep viewers guessing until the very end.

To summarize, 5 con artists are thrown together in a police line-up, and after getting out, they decide to teach the NYPD a lesson for giving them a hard time. Their act of revenge (more like a thumbing of the nose, or a flipping of the bird) eventually leads them to more criminal acts. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the mysterious Keyser Soze is pulling the strings and making the quintet dance to his own tune. Just who is Keyser Soze? That's the question that keeps viewers glued to the screen, as the plot goes through several twists while leading up to an awesome surprise ending!

Of course, I am truly biased, because this is my FAVORITE movie of all time. I would have a difficult time understanding how anyone could not appreciate the good acting, fine screenplay, and surprise ending. Kevin Spacey became a household name with his portrayal of "Verbal" Kint, and Gabriel Byrne and Chazz Palminteri were perfect for their roles (a con man trying to go straight and a customs agent, respectively). Benicio Del Toro's small part as "Fenster" was hilarious - a portrayal he dubs as his "Mumbles" (as in the bad guy played by Dustin Hoffman in the "Dick Tracy" movie).

If you buy ONE DVD for great acting and a cool story (as opposed to "Whoa! That sounds great on my home theater!"), this should be that DVD.

WHO IS KEYSER SOZE?...
Christopher McQuarrie's Academy Award winning, original screenplay, coupled with Bryan Singer's masterful direction of a stellar cast, makes for a complex and absorbing film. Told in flashback, the film recounts how five individuals on the wrong side of the law hook up to steal a multi-million dollar cache of cocaine from a docked vessel.

Led by former Los Angeles detective turned bad guy, Dean Keaton (Gabriel Byrne), Roger "Verbal" Kint (Kevin Spacey), Michael McManus (Stephen Baldwin), Todd Hockey ((Kevin Pollack), and Fred Fenster (Benicio Del Toro), proceed to their rendevous point and begin executing their plan of action. Their foray into this million dollar drug heist turns bad almost immediately. Something or someone is afoot who does not want them to succeed, and who seems to know their every move.

The story is told in flashback by "Verbal" Kint, a club footed, crestfallen, soft spoken, unlikely looking criminal. He recounts the details of the doomed heist to hardnosed Detective, David Kujan (Chazz Palmentieri), building his story around an almost mythic, Hungarian crime lord named Keyser Soze. As "Verbal" details what happened, the viewer is mesmerized by his compelling narrative of how he and his partners in crime were inveigled into attempting this daring heist, which ultimately led to the disastrous events that culminated on the ship. It seems that their heist was probably destined to be doomed from the start, as another agenda may have been paramount to theirs.

Kevin Spacey won a 1995 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his low key, ingratiating portrayal of "Verbal" Kint. Gabriel Byrne also gives a compelling performance as the cop who ended on the wrong side of the law. The rest of the cast also give stellar performances, with the exception of Benicio Del Toro, who gives an odd, marble mouthed performance. Notwithstanding this, the film is really a splendid tour de force that is sure to captivate the viewer. Who is the mythic Keyser Soze? Watch the film and find out.

A Masterpiece Especially the Ending!!
Usual Suspects is an excellent well plotted movie. It sent chills down my spine when I realized Kevin Spacey was Kazer Soze. You must see this movie!

I Can't Feel My Legs, Keyser
One of the best movies of the 1990s, The Usual Suspects startles and surprises. A fast-paced story told by a wimpy, cripple felon Roger "Verbal" Kint presents a new take on evil, a new face of violence and murder.

"You think you can catch Keyser Soze?" asks Verbal of Special Agent Kujan. "You think a guy like that comes this close to getting caught, and sticks his head out? If he comes up for anything it'll be to get rid of me. After that... my guess is you'll never hear from him again." Of course, he also says things like "Back when I was in barbershop quartet in Skokie Illinois" and "Back when I was picking beans in Guatemala, we used to make fresh coffee, right off the trees I mean." And a really good one (grimacing and teary-eyed): "Why me? I am stupid, I am a cripple. Why me?"

Nietzsche said: "Talking much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself."

Throwing someone off the sent, and doing this consciously or subconsciously, is nothing new. Things are not always how they appear or how they sound. Agent Kujan has preconceived notions about Keaton, about Verbal, and about himself. Because of these, he cannot see clearly. He also has his back turned to the bulletin board until the very end of the film.

Great script, great acting, great movie.

Michael

I'm still in a state of shock after seeing this
This movie is the story of five criminals and what happened to them after a "ramdom" police lineup. It is one of the best movies of all time and has the most shocking ending I have ever seen. See this movie and you will never regret it. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Much better than the first movie
"The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" isn't what you would expect it to be. Instead of being a sequel to the "The Flintstones," it's a prequel. It shows how Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty came to meet in the first place. Oh yeah, don't forget the well animated Dino. You'll find out some things about Wilma, Barney, and the others that you most likely never knew about, such as Wilma being rich.

If you've ever watched the cartoon series in your life, then you'll already somewhat know how this movie turns out, such as Fred and Wilma being together, but you'll find out a lot of interesting stuff along the way and find out that everything wasn't all smooth sailing for the Flintstones and the Rubbles.

I used to watch the cartoon series of The Flintstones when I was a kid, but I didn't like the movie, "The Flintstones" much at all. "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" is a much better movie than the first one in my opinion. Parts of it are hilarious, and the whole movie is very entertaining. My only complaint is that I sort of doubt that a few parts of the story hold true for a stone age family, such as Mick Jagger being alive and Coca-Cola existing. But there are some of the famous Flintstone antics such as a dinosaur being used as a bridge.

If you've ever been a fan of the cartoon series, and even if you haven't ever been much of a fan, I would recommend watching "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas." It has good acting, it's funny and entertaining, and it has good effects that make it look like a live episode from The Flintstones.

A great time will be had by all...
I was one of the few adults out there who will admit to enjoyed the first flick, but I still stand by that decision. So, I eagerly rushed to the video store to snag a copy of the DVD. I hadn't seen it before viewing it and wasn't really sure what to expect. I shouldn't have worried...the film was great fun.

A little juvenile, a little too silly but what do you expect from a movie based on a cartoon? If you're a fan of The Flintstones tv series or enjoy the work of actors Mark Addy and Alan Cumming you'll be sure to enjoy this flick. The appearance of the Great Gazoo was a nice touch and something well-remembered by this fan. Take a chance...I'm sure you'll love it.

Underrated, Viva Rock Vegas!!!
"The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" brings the iconic 60's cartoon about the "Modern-Day Stone-Age Family" back to the big screen for a second run. During it's first-run in the theatres people blasted the movie for its changes from the first movie (prequel instead of sequel, B-team cast instead of A-team cast). However, taking a look at the movie on it's own merits you'll find an equally well-done story and rendering of America's favorite Modern-Day Stone-Age Family.

THE MOVIE:

The Story:

Again, this movie is actually a prequel to the first movie as well as cartoon. It tells the story of how Fred and Barney first met Wilma and Betty. Buddies and Rock-Quarry workers Fred and Barney meet Betty and Wilma and engage in a whirlwind romance. Along the way the gang gains a pet dino (Dino) and cross paths with an exiled alien (The Great Gazoo). Things in paradise aren't quite perfect though as Wilma's ex-beau shows up to reclaim Wilma and throw a monkey wrench into the boys' relationship with the girls.

The Cool Stuff:

It's all about the story here and effects here. As in the first movie, Bedrock (and Rock Vegas) are beautifully rendered. All the charm of the cartoons shines through in the film from the way Fred bowls to how he and Barney float into the air when things go right (Yabba-Dabba Doo!!!) all the way to Dino's seemingly perfectly transferred animation from the cartoon to the film. While people lambasted this film, the storytelling is once again done very well. The story is classic Flintstones, Fred does some dumb things to his regret landing him and Barney in trouble, Barney's lovably innocent and the girls, of course, prove they are smarter than the men. The addition of the Great Gazoo to the film is icing on the cake.

THE DVD:

While a little sparse compared to most new release DVDs, there are some nice extras here to enhance your viewing pleasure. Among the goodies included here are:

1. "Making of Feature" - 15 minute feature that talks about, among other things, the making of the Rock Vegas set, the CGI animation and the casting of the actors.

2. Trailers: The theatrical and teaser trailer plus trailers for other movies.

3. Production Notes - more insight into the movie

4. Cast and Crew Bios

THE VERDICT:

Overall this movie was just nice. It may have may have been lambasted or passed by your radar the first time around but if you are looking for a nice rental for the weekend or evening this is your film. The storytelling is very solid and is just classic Flintstones in every respect. In my opinion, the movie is perhaps even superior to the first movie in this respect. All the charm of the cartoon translates perfectly is this movie. The DVD features, while a little sparse, help make this particular DVD a nice addition to your DVD library if you are so inclined to purchase it.

Final Grades:

Movie: 5 stars
Extras: 3 stars

Total: 4 stars

Highly Recommended

"Viva Rock Vegas" See how everyone met and fell in love.
This film is NOT a sequel to THE FLINTSTONES (1994), but a prequel. This story takes place before the story of the first movie. A new cast is in this film telling the story (the movie version) of how Wilma, Betty, Fred and Barney meet each other. When it becomes love at first sight, they all become friends and decide to go to Rock Vegas. Ann-Margret sings "Viva Rock Vegas" to the tune of "Viva Las Vegas". Joan Collins plays the rich mother of Wilma who looks out for best interest. Harvey Korman has a fun role. And Dino is born. Locations include, Malibu, Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, California and Blayney Ranch, Palmdale, California. This DVD contains "Spotlight on Location", a behind-the-scenes look of the making of the film. Mark Addy played a wonderful and easier-on-the eye Fred Flintstone.

Mostly [garbage].
Rated 1.5
The actor who played Fred was likeable, but ... dull and unconvincing. The Baldwin brother who portrayed Barney was ideally cast. 'Greg' from 'Dharma & Greg' should've been over-the-top cornball, but he seemed to barely act at all. He seemed like a mildly skewed version of 'Greg', strange that an actor wouldn't want to act completely different. Wilma and Betty are finely casted, though Wilma is a very different from the show. She used to be a 'straight' character, now she's more humorous. Alan Cumming is spectacular as usual, but the script doesn't give him much of anything to do. Joan Collins and Wilma's father, 'Colonel' are perfect.

The SFX are ok, but the script is unredeemably shallow, immature and full of second-rate puns and gags. The biggest payoff is the impressions and the sets, and the original movie had way more of both (along with a decent plot!). The last movie felt like it had a beginning, a middle, and an end, this just slumps the whole way through, but actors help out immensely. I think it tried to be too serious or goofy in scenes. I constantly thought, 'I guess I'm supposed to laugh now' or 'care now'.

I love the surreal nature of having this imaginative world in live action. It sounds strange, but to see Wilma get her pearls is... *weird*. I guess that's where most of my enjoyment comes from, but again, Spielberg did it better.

To put this in perspective, I paid [money] for it and I'm starting to wish I had saved the cash. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The director of Waterworld teams up with playwright William Mastrosimone for a story of a lost Russian tank during the Afghan war; doesn't sound like your normal action fare, does it? Despite its awkward origins, The Beast is a satisfying action yarn that unfortunately was never widely distributed. When Afghan rebels find the lone tank lost in the high desert, a cat-and-mouse chase commences with nail-biting, emotional precision. The Russian tank crew is also at war with themselves after the sympathetic driver (a stalwart Jason Patric) debates the brutal tactics of his commander (George Dzundza). This visceral action drama was adapted from--believe it or not--a stage play but keeps its feet firmly planted in the war-action genre. Director Kevin Reynolds's second film showcases his aggressive camera work that was featured later, less successfully, in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Made directly after the Afghan war, the film was hard to sell in the late 1980s. With the Russians speaking English (and the Afghans their native dialect), the viewer is uncomfortably bonded to the unpopular aggressors. Yet the film reverberates in the sweat and toil of battle, with Patric bringing a more dramatic flair to the role than comes from the usual set of cinematic action heroes. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (54)

Underated desert war film - You can almost smell the dust!
This a great film as those few who have seen it will testify - Really gritty stuff. They must have changed the name because I distinctly remember it used to be known as 'The Beast of War', a better title.

It is pretty graphic in areas, I saw it as a kid and the scene with the guy getting driven over by a tank certainly didn't help me get to sleep. War is hell, to say the least.

As people have pointed out, they used actual soviet T-62 tanks in the film and it really added to the realism and overall effect. Suffice to say it's not going to make you want to become a tank commander any time soon. The T-62 is dark and dingy inside and definitely didn't come with any cupholders.

Performances are great across the board. It's interesting to see Jason Patric in such an early role, but George Dzunda as the tank commander spearheads the cast.

Yes, some people have noted the helicopter isn't an actual Mi-8, but I don't know how they could have gotten their hands on one back in 1988 anyway, it's a minor quibble and I'm just glad they didn't respray an M-1 to make it the T-62!;)

The desert landscape is cruel and unrelenting, yet strangely beautiful.

All up, five stars, this is tight, solid film, that will hold your interest throughout and is superbly shot. Perhaps somewhat topical at the moment, it's well worth a view.

The Hunter Becomes the Hunted
Kevin Reynolds directed this film with a script by William Mastrosimone. Although stylized and a little exaggerated, the film is a great at showing how techonology doesn't always get the upper hand in certain environments: nowhere is this truer than in Afghanistan. The rugged mountainous and desert terrain is mostly inhospitable and full of hiding places for guerrilla fighters such as the Mujahadeen.

I found Jason Patric to be the least believable character in this story. I find it hard to believe that a Soviet tank driver, even if he were to disagree with his superiors or the war, would suddenly join the Afghans in fighting his compatriots; an act tatamount to desertion and treason. The best performance was that of George Dzundza who played the hard and tempered tank commander. The movie follows the tank as it wanders lost through the desert like a wounded animal being stalked by hunters. Altogether an enjoyable action movie that is well paced with good acting.

Important film in 2004.....
Cuban-American actor Steven Bauer (aka. Rocky Echevarria) who played Manolo in "Scarface" does a great job as a Mujahideen freedom fighter in this film. All his lines are delivered in Pashto. Fantastic acting! This film actually serves as a very important propaganda piece by the current Karzai government in Afghanistan and is now shown throughout the country.

Great flick; despite the tactical inaccuracies
This movie is great! ... I have since watched it over and over. Some reviews I have read focus on the tactical mistakes and lack of a "real" Russian helicopter in the film. The interesting thing about this is, war is chaotic. Sometimes tactics go out the window when faced with flying bullets. Even if the Russians used Motorized Rifle units as escorts for their armor, there's no saying that armor NEVER ventured out on their own. Heck, maybe this armored unit was part of a larger force that was simply making a reconnaisance-in-force. Also, the helicopter used in the movie was NOT that much different than the Mi-8 which, as it turns out, looks exactly like the one in the movie. If you don't believe me, check it out. Anywho, being a veteran and knowing how the rules of war are almost always broken, the so-called tactical "mistakes" made in the movie are easily overlooked. The main point of this movie is to give the viewer a feeling of the brutality of war and how it changes ordinarily sane people, into first monsters, callous to their nature, then fearful refugees to the carnage they created. This movie is both entertaining and yet, emotionally invoking. You get the sense that the real "enemy" is not the Mujahadeen pursuers, but the maniacal tank commander, driving his men to the brink of destruction. The last thing I'd like to say about this movie is its WONDERFUL soundtrack. The music definitely sets the mood. Now, if only I could find the soundtack. Arista records doesn't seem to know where to find it. I wish I knew!

Buy this movie, you won't be disappointed!

One of my fav war movies
I just love this movie and its great to see it made it to the dvd format i had a tape of it it's so old half the audio and graphics are gone do to time and age of tape. now i can retire the tape. great movie if you dont have it get one while you can. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Ever since this convoluted thriller dazzled audiences and critics in 1995 and won an Oscar for Christopher McQuarrie's twisting screenplay, The Usual Suspects has continued to divide movie lovers into opposite camps. While a lot of people take great pleasure from the movie's now-famous central mystery (namely, "Who is Keyser Söze?"), others aren't so easily impressed by a movie that's too enamored of its own cleverness to make much sense. After all, what are we to make of a final scene that renders the entire movie obsolete? Half the fun of The Usual Suspects is the debate it provokes and the sheer pleasure of watching its dynamic cast in action, led (or should we say, mislead) by Oscar-winner Kevin Spacey as the club-footed con man who recounts the saga of enigmatic Hungarian mobster Keyser Söze. Spacey's in a band of thieves that includes Gabriel Byrne, Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Pollak, and Benicio Del Toro, all gathered in a plot to steal a large shipment of cocaine. The story is told in flashback as a twisted plot being described by Spacey's character to an investigating detective (Chazz Palmintieri), and The Usual Suspects is enjoyable for the way it keeps the viewer guessing right up to its surprise ending. Whether that ending will enhance or extinguish the pleasure is up to each viewer to decide. Even if it ultimately makes little or no sense at all, this is a funny and fiendish thriller, guaranteed to entertain even its vocal detractors.--Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (449)

My Favorite Plot-Driven Movie!
I am glad that I waited for the "Special Edition." In all honesty, I'm not really into the "extras" that some DVDs contain. I've purchased or rented several DVDs in the past year, and I can count on one hand the number of times I actually bothered to check out the extra material. Only Disney's "Snow White" had anything that was truly interesting.

THIS "Special Edition" had extras that were unique (the profanity-laced Gag Reel), and truly interesting (the featurettes that included interviews with actors, producers, screenwriters, etc.) My wife and I especially enjoyed the interviews, because they explained how the actors came together to create the chemistry that was needed to drive the plot and keep viewers guessing until the very end.

To summarize, 5 con artists are thrown together in a police line-up, and after getting out, they decide to teach the NYPD a lesson for giving them a hard time. Their act of revenge (more like a thumbing of the nose, or a flipping of the bird) eventually leads them to more criminal acts. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the mysterious Keyser Soze is pulling the strings and making the quintet dance to his own tune. Just who is Keyser Soze? That's the question that keeps viewers glued to the screen, as the plot goes through several twists while leading up to an awesome surprise ending!

Of course, I am truly biased, because this is my FAVORITE movie of all time. I would have a difficult time understanding how anyone could not appreciate the good acting, fine screenplay, and surprise ending. Kevin Spacey became a household name with his portrayal of "Verbal" Kint, and Gabriel Byrne and Chazz Palminteri were perfect for their roles (a con man trying to go straight and a customs agent, respectively). Benicio Del Toro's small part as "Fenster" was hilarious - a portrayal he dubs as his "Mumbles" (as in the bad guy played by Dustin Hoffman in the "Dick Tracy" movie).

If you buy ONE DVD for great acting and a cool story (as opposed to "Whoa! That sounds great on my home theater!"), this should be that DVD.

WHO IS KEYSER SOZE?...
Christopher McQuarrie's Academy Award winning, original screenplay, coupled with Bryan Singer's masterful direction of a stellar cast, makes for a complex and absorbing film. Told in flashback, the film recounts how five individuals on the wrong side of the law hook up to steal a multi-million dollar cache of cocaine from a docked vessel.

Led by former Los Angeles detective turned bad guy, Dean Keaton (Gabriel Byrne), Roger "Verbal" Kint (Kevin Spacey), Michael McManus (Stephen Baldwin), Todd Hockey ((Kevin Pollack), and Fred Fenster (Benicio Del Toro), proceed to their rendevous point and begin executing their plan of action. Their foray into this million dollar drug heist turns bad almost immediately. Something or someone is afoot who does not want them to succeed, and who seems to know their every move.

The story is told in flashback by "Verbal" Kint, a club footed, crestfallen, soft spoken, unlikely looking criminal. He recounts the details of the doomed heist to hardnosed Detective, David Kujan (Chazz Palmentieri), building his story around an almost mythic, Hungarian crime lord named Keyser Soze. As "Verbal" details what happened, the viewer is mesmerized by his compelling narrative of how he and his partners in crime were inveigled into attempting this daring heist, which ultimately led to the disastrous events that culminated on the ship. It seems that their heist was probably destined to be doomed from the start, as another agenda may have been paramount to theirs.

Kevin Spacey won a 1995 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his low key, ingratiating portrayal of "Verbal" Kint. Gabriel Byrne also gives a compelling performance as the cop who ended on the wrong side of the law. The rest of the cast also give stellar performances, with the exception of Benicio Del Toro, who gives an odd, marble mouthed performance. Notwithstanding this, the film is really a splendid tour de force that is sure to captivate the viewer. Who is the mythic Keyser Soze? Watch the film and find out.

A Masterpiece Especially the Ending!!
Usual Suspects is an excellent well plotted movie. It sent chills down my spine when I realized Kevin Spacey was Kazer Soze. You must see this movie!

I Can't Feel My Legs, Keyser
One of the best movies of the 1990s, The Usual Suspects startles and surprises. A fast-paced story told by a wimpy, cripple felon Roger "Verbal" Kint presents a new take on evil, a new face of violence and murder.

"You think you can catch Keyser Soze?" asks Verbal of Special Agent Kujan. "You think a guy like that comes this close to getting caught, and sticks his head out? If he comes up for anything it'll be to get rid of me. After that... my guess is you'll never hear from him again." Of course, he also says things like "Back when I was in barbershop quartet in Skokie Illinois" and "Back when I was picking beans in Guatemala, we used to make fresh coffee, right off the trees I mean." And a really good one (grimacing and teary-eyed): "Why me? I am stupid, I am a cripple. Why me?"

Nietzsche said: "Talking much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself."

Throwing someone off the sent, and doing this consciously or subconsciously, is nothing new. Things are not always how they appear or how they sound. Agent Kujan has preconceived notions about Keaton, about Verbal, and about himself. Because of these, he cannot see clearly. He also has his back turned to the bulletin board until the very end of the film.

Great script, great acting, great movie.

Michael

I'm still in a state of shock after seeing this
This movie is the story of five criminals and what happened to them after a "ramdom" police lineup. It is one of the best movies of all time and has the most shocking ending I have ever seen. See this movie and you will never regret it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A Simple Twist of Fate, Steve Martin's second adaptation of a classic (after his Roxanne-ization of Cyrano de Bergerac), is a melancholy, dramatic comedy about a recluse coming out of his shell. Suggested by George Eliot's Silas Marner, this isn't a cutesy picture akin to Father of the Bride. It's much more heartfelt, gentle, and satisfying, as long as you accept its traditional and predictable conclusions. Scorned by life, Michael McCann (Martin) lives in an auburn-tinted town and goes on with his colorless life. That is, until an abandoned child is left on his doorstep, and he adopts her. A custody battle ensues years later with far too many cheap, unconvincing courtroom dramatics in which money is the root of all evil, but the toneand wholesomeness of the story are special. Gabriel Byrne pulls off a nearly unplayable role as the town's aristocrat with fine underplayed support by Catherine O'Hara and youngster Alana Austin. The wonderful score is by Cliff Eidelman. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Modern version of George Eliot's story 'Silas Marner'
I really enjoyed viewing this movie when I rented it a few years ago. 'A Simple Twist of Fate' is based on Mary Ann Evans' (1819-80; Pen-name George Eliot) story 'Silas Marner'(if anyone is interested in reading Silas Marner on-line, go to this web address, inside the {} brackets: {http://www.mastertexts.com/Eliot_George/Silas_Marner/Index.htm}

Steve Martin is a sad & lonely bachelor school teacher who's life feels empty and irrelevant; Then a sweet little baby girl walks into his life. The short of it is that she has recently become an orphan; So Steve Martin adopts her. Raising this precious little girl brings much love, joy, and happiness into their lives. It is a story about the transformative and healing power of love.

I was dismayed to find that this movie is not currently available to purchase

This is an adorable film all should see.
I rented this movie and liked it so much that I bought my own copy. Steve Martin did a good job of taking this movie and making it modern from George Elliot's book Silas Marner. All the characters played their role well and it has great music and scenery. Everyone should at least see this movie once in their life if not more!

Silas Marner gets an update.
A SIMPLE TWIST OF FATE is a good middleweight movie which doesn't quite go into the top-drawer class because of a few predictable moments and a truly cheapjack ending that doesn't just stretch plausibility but mangles it completely. Steve Martin wrote the script and produced it as well as starred and it's apparent that this was a special project for him. He, Catherine O'Hara, Laura Linney and Gabriel Byrne are all in fine form and Alana Austin just melts your heart away as the Martin character's adopted daughter.If it's not a classic film it's still a good way to spend an hour and forty-five minutes and makes me forgive Steve Martin for SGT. BILKO two years later.

A Must Have
This movie warms your heart, feeds your mind and leaves you feeling like there is hope for humanity. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Steve Martin is awesome in this film.

Excellent Movie!
This movie is excellent. Most of the movie was filmed at my next-door neighbors farm across town. I remember watching the movie being filmed when i was younger. It is a great movie and I highly recommend it for people of all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Much better than the first movie
"The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" isn't what you would expect it to be. Instead of being a sequel to the "The Flintstones," it's a prequel. It shows how Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty came to meet in the first place. Oh yeah, don't forget the well animated Dino. You'll find out some things about Wilma, Barney, and the others that you most likely never knew about, such as Wilma being rich.

If you've ever watched the cartoon series in your life, then you'll already somewhat know how this movie turns out, such as Fred and Wilma being together, but you'll find out a lot of interesting stuff along the way and find out that everything wasn't all smooth sailing for the Flintstones and the Rubbles.

I used to watch the cartoon series of The Flintstones when I was a kid, but I didn't like the movie, "The Flintstones" much at all. "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas" is a much better movie than the first one in my opinion. Parts of it are hilarious, and the whole movie is very entertaining. My only complaint is that I sort of doubt that a few parts of the story hold true for a stone age family, such as Mick Jagger being alive and Coca-Cola existing. But there are some of the famous Flintstone antics such as a dinosaur being used as a bridge.

If you've ever been a fan of the cartoon series, and even if you haven't ever been much of a fan, I would recommend watching "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas." It has good acting, it's funny and entertaining, and it has good effects that make it look like a live episode from The Flintstones.

A great time will be had by all...
I was one of the few adults out there who will admit to enjoyed the first flick, but I still stand by that decision. So, I eagerly rushed to the video store to snag a copy of the DVD. I hadn't seen it before viewing it and wasn't really sure