Reviews (2)

Great father - son relationships and family values
My son (and daughter too) loves this video and his father loves watching it with him (them). It is a great video with fun stories of camping out with Grandfather Bear, fishing with father bear, meeting Mighty the whale and his son. It is nice to have something that depicts healthy male relationships and this video is genuine and heartfelt. We love this video.

Little Bear is always a good choice
We got this video and Snacktime Tales for Christmas 2002. It is almost worn out. My 3 y.o. and 2 y.o. just love both of them. I have not noticed a problem with the picture quality on either of the tapes we have. We will be purchasing more Little Bear movies, now that Nick Jr and Noggin are no longer showing Little Bear for somestrange reason. I understand also that Canadian released Little Bear Movies have more episodes on them and would like to investigate that more. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Scary
My two year old loves Little Bear, but this video was too scary for her. She had me turn it off when they were running from the golbins. She did not like the scarecrow either. It's to bad that they couldn't have made it a little more fun.

Great Autumn Stories for Kids
Like all of the Little Bear videos, this charming collection of four seasonal tales is so good that it almost justifies watching TV instead of playing outside in the falling leaves! These stories are about kids just being kids (or rather, animal kids just being animal kids): exploring, playing with friends, laughing, and using their imagination to make up playful games with eachother. In this way, they are like A.A. Milne's original "Winnie the Pooh" stories, in which the characters' games and discoveries are the main attraction, and we come to love the characters not despite their flaws but because of them. And, in the Little Bear stories, mom and dad are supportive presences, mirroring the real world in which mom and dad are usually the most significant people in young children's lives.

My 3-year-old daughter loves the stories, and all other Little Bear videos. The stories are neither too simple, nor too complicated. Similarly, the action unfolds at the perfect pace for young kids, neither too sluggish nor too fast. Little Bear won't insult your kids' intelligence, and you may enjoy them yourself, too!

Unlike so much of TV/movies for kids, the Little Bear stores are not about conflicts with bad people [who, invariably, are bad for no reason other than to move the plot along (e.g., the wicked queen or stepmother, etc.)], or are about loud-mouthed kids who argue with eachother and avoid adults at all times (Rugrats and the like). I recommend all of the Little Bear stories, and the Little Bear show on Nicklelodeon, for any parent who wants a positive alternative to the brain-rotting noise that one usually finds on TV.

Hurray for Little Bear!

Not the tiresome 'Halloween fare' Delightfully Imaginative
My four-year-old daughter has always loved Little Bear, and this video is no exception! As soon as she received the tape, she watched it twice all the way through. What is truly noteworthy about this collection of four stories is how delightfully imaginative they are. In one story Little Bear and the garden scarecrow lead a procession a la the pied piper dancing under the Harvest Moon. In another story, Little Bear's trumpet lesson is followed by an ensemble playing music to ward off the fright from the storm and the wind. These are just some examples of the simple but enchanting creativity of this video. Little Bear & Friends scaring goblins in the forest on the way to the bonfire for roasted pumpkin seeds and corn beats trick-or-treating with mounds of candy, in my book! Refreshingly original!

Enchanting! Beautiful stories! Unusual! Loving & Gentle!
Little Bear explores Fall traditions - pumpkins dance up a hill towards the moon to Moonlight Serenade, ghost squirrels play funky jazz, Autumn leaves and acorns falling. I have always loved the Little Bear videos and books because of Minarik's ability to create engaging stories without good v. bad conflicts. ... Read more

Description

To Little Bear, nighttime is a mysterious time. Monsters begin to bounce around, bedbugs come out to bite and staying up all night seems simple. Contains four episodes: Under the Covers, The Campfire Tale, Up All Night and Night fo the Full Moon. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Video - Awful Recording Quality
I would have to agree that "Little Bear" is one of the best children's shows on television. However, the recording quality of this tape is awful. It was intentionally recorded in EP/SLP mode to save on tape, and is grainy and has poor sound quality. Too bad, I would have spent an extra dollar to have it in SP mode. I would suggest that others write to Paramount, Nelvana or Nickelodeon to complain as I have.

I believe that this is the perfect gift!
Little Bear is the best learning experience for small children as he is such a cute and cuddly little fellow and he shows that you learn from your experiences. My 6 year old loves him!

Great video for kids
My son is 2 1/2 and he loves to watch Little Bear. I put in a video and he will sit still and watch the whole thing. No other show keeps his attention as much as Little Bear.

This is a great bedtime video.
My kids (2 1/2 and 1) love this video, which presents very sweet themes in a quiet way that still catches their attention. It's great for quieting down before bed. There are 4 short stories, so you can watch just one at a time if you want a short video break. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Absolutely Delightful
This tape is just wonderful to watch. The stories are sweet and silly. My 4 and 5 year old watch them over and over. Each time they see the stories they giggle with delight like it was the first time they watched the tape. The music and stories are soothing like in all the other Little Bear stories. Even Mom doesn't get tired of this tape playing over and over. I would highly recommend this and all the other Little Bear stories. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Little Bear is Our Daughter's FAVORITE
These stories are so simple and sweet. Our daughter is completely entranced everytime LB and his friends are on an adventure. It is the only thing besides Maisy that holds her captivated. Lovely concepts and stories. If only the real world were more like the Little Bear world...

Little Bear and his Zen Master Friends
Is there a better childrens show out there? No, there isn't. LB, Duck, Cat and Owl define what childhood should be...living life in the moment, knowing you are loved. Magnificent simplicity! My daughter continues to be enchanted, it's been 4 years now since we started watching these episodes....bring on all the shows on a complete set. Highly reccomended...lose the ritalin, bring on Little Bear. ... Read more

Amazon.com

With snowball fights, snow angels, and a trek to the North Pole, this is the perfect tape to motivate your youngster to get bundled up and go outdoors into the snow. In "Snowball Fight," Father Bear frowns over the family budget until Little Bear lures him outdoors for a snowy match. In the particularly charming tale "Winter Solstice," Emily and her grandmother join the extended Bear family in placing food in a tree for snow angels while singing the catchy song "Loves Winter." Later, the Bear family visits Emily andher grandmother for dinner in "Snowbound," only to get snowed in and share an evening of song, dance, and jokes. Finally, Little Bear and Duck go in search of the place where the snow comes from in "Little Bear and the North Pole." --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Absolutely Magical....The Best Children's Video Ever!~~~
This is my absolute favorite children's video! I would give it 10 stars, if I could! My 3 year old son is fascinated by it, and enjoys it more and more each time he sees it.

The "snow angels" turning out to be wild deer is a magical moment...in the "OLD" Disney tradition. The songs are great, and easy to sing along with...

All in all, this is a heartwarming, family video that is full of magic and fun! Little Bear at his absolute best!

They just don't make them like this anymore. Even (especially) in the hot, humid days of summer...watch "Winter Tales" and you and your child will be transported to a bright, snowy world that is full of old-fashioned joy and laughter...

This is truly "Little Bear's" Happy Winter Solstice and Christmas present to children everywhere!~~~

All children are born with wondrous open minds and imaginations~~~It is adults who close them.

Many people find God in nature...for He created it!

Enjoy this video! It's great!...Lighten up!~~~

Peace and Many Blessings to you and your little ones...they grow up so fast.

Happy Winter Solstice, Little Bear!~~~
"Grandmother loves Winter, and I do too!"

C. Cushinan, RNC, BSN

Great for Christian Kids Too
Not just for pagans! Little Bear's Winter Tales video is a family favorite (except for dad!)that has more of the true values of Christmas: fellowship with your family, and giving to those who are less fortunate. There is also the important idea that there are other spiritual ideas floating around out there, and the most important thing is for people to be kind to each other regardless. My oldest kid also learned some astronomy (he wanted to know what a solstice was) and even the origins of the Christmas holiday, which was highly synchretistic, taking many pagan concepts along with it to make it more palatable. Kind of like nowadays. Until Little Bear starts Goddess worship rituals, his videos are OK in my book. My 3-yr.-old loves this video to pieces, which is why it finally bit the dust and I am getting another. This time, while the tape is in relativcely pristine condition, I will make a personal copy...

A great video--pagan, Christian, or otherwise...
My children (ages 3 to 10) love the Little Bear videos. These stories are gentle and kindly and, of the handful of Little Bear videos that we have, this is their absolute favorite. The "Winter Solstice" episode is beautifully done; as a Christian parent, I've actually found this story helpful in explaining to my children what other people believe. It's about as "nonthreatening" as you can get. I cannot recommend these stories highly enough. While even Disney can come up with some pretty dark and creepy villains, the Little Bear tales are reliably pleasant, cheerful, wholesome, and good natured.

For People Nature-based Spirituality (but not just for them!
As a Pagan and a fan of the Little Bear Books and TV series, i was delighted to see this on Television one day. And even happier to see avaliable on VHS. Hard pressed are we to find holiday shows that celebrate our holiday in its purity. I know that, unfortunately, some find the word Pagan frightening. And feel it's best to shy away from anything with any pagan over- or under-tones. But the fact is it's a lovely video and Winter Solstice is it's highlight in my opinion, and the celebration of a season is not going to harm anyone. (I as a Pagan and as a Former Child still love to watch A Charlie Brown Christmas.)

Does a bear pray in the woods?
I know we are not to comment on other reviews, but I think that some Christian parents will shy away from this video if they think it touts pagan beliefs. Of the four episodes, I think that the Winter Soltice episode rubs some parents the wrong way. I guess the creators were trying to give Little Bear fans a Christmastime story without actually calling it Christmas. I was a little disturbed by the video at first, especially after reading reviews that had pagans praising it and Christians condemning it, but after some thought, I decided that celebrating winter soltice doesn't necessarily make one a pagan. I think the Scandinavian countries have celebrated both Christmas and the winter soltice for eons. The episode does mention snow angels. How can one speak the word "angels" and be a pagan? I have to admit, though, that I don't know of too many Christian bears -- or pagan ones for that matter. Maybe Little Bear's parents just haven't yet been evangelized. On a technical note, I wish the picture quality was better. Less commercials at the beginning would be appreciated as well. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Big Kiss for This Video!
One of the best, if not THE best Little Bear episodes video. (vs the Little Bear Movie, which is wonderful). The episodes are charming, endearing, humorous and absorbing! Really delightful. Even for me as an adult to watch. And my 2 and half yr old son can't stop watching it! Watches, rewinds, watches again over and over. And he has a boatload of videos, of every kind as well as other little bear videos. As for the amount of advertising, I agree with the other reviews that it is too much --BUT ALL the videos these days do that (unfortunately and unfairly I think) --Disney is one of the worst! SO I don't hold that against Little Bear. (I just make a note on the video box how far in the show begins and cue the tape to that spot everytime I rewind.)

No. Too much advertising
The entire tape clocks in at a shade under 40 minutes. Of this, the first ten minutes are advertisements and the last 30 seconds are devoted to yet another nick advertising blurb, making roughly 25% of the tape marketing for young minds. While our almost two-year old daughter enjoys the cartoon, I find the amount of time spent fast-forwarding to be annoying, so I probably won't be buying another Nick tape for my children again.

Little Bear: Kiss for Little Bear
This is one of the gentlest and most endearing videos that my 2-1/2 year-old son has in his burgeoning collection. It doesn't feature loud characters or music, just sweet story-telling. As Little Bear himself would say, "Interesting."

Disappointing
This is the first Little Bear video I have purchased for my two-year old daughter. It is also the first "Nick Jr." video. I must say I was extremely disappointed in the video's quality (picture not clear) and the amount of advertising at the beginning (almost 10 minutes!). I wanted a video about Little Bear and had to sit through (the remote for the video was nowhere to be found) advertising for Blues Clues, Rugrats, and other Nick Jr. products before finally getting to the "feature presentation." Very disappointing. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Outstanding Performances
I had never heard of this film but, being a big fan Of Sissy Spacek, I purchased a used VHS recording and was mesmerized by the performances of Sissy and Straithairn. excellent dialogue and the 2 of them are so utterly convincing. She is one remarkable actress and he more than held his own. Highly recommended.

Revelation for families of Vietnam Vets
This story of a relationship between a Vietnam Vet on death row and the woman he was once in love with kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire 101 minutes. It spoke to me about the brother my family lost to the Viet Nam War even though he returned seemingly whole. He went away a young man of 19, hoping to discover how to be a man in the world and came back an old man, withdrawn, without direction or dreams, constantly on drugs. David Strathairn's rage and hopelessness are a powerful reminder of how such damages are wrought by war on any young man with ideals. Sissy Spacek's quiet persistence is stunning as she digs through the armor of the death row prisoner to find the person she once loved. Arliss Howard's performance as the Vet husband who kept his psychic wounds under stiff control is a wonderful support to this excellent ensemble cast.

Well done death row drama; Superior to Dead Man Walking
This film was a Showtime special based on actual events. Sissy Spacek's role as Pamela, the former girlfriend of death row inmate Russell(David Strathairn) shows her usual depth with a superior script by Doug Magee. Emotion and thought provoking dialogue ensues between the 2, as Arliss Howard as Keith, her husband has the weaker less believable role. Both he and Russell suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome from Vietnam and the audio only flashbacks point to a low budget. The real brilliance of the film is the relationship between Pam and Russell as he gets closer to the execution date.

In the background is the injustice system South Carolina style and the covert commentary against the death penalty. You end up empathizing with Russell up to an emotional end that will stay with you. In contrast to Dead Man Walking where the dialogue spells out everything with overdirectness, this one implies everything assuming the intelligence of the viewer. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Little Bear isn't much of a cook, but he sure eats well! In "Little Bear and the Cupcakes," Little Bear and Emily's cupcake experiment using their favorite ingredients yields a disappointing result. Luckily, Mother Bear comes to the rescue--complete with an explanation of why Little Bear loves cupcakes so much. The road to grandmother's house is littered with hungry friends in "To Grandmother's House." By the end of his journey, Little Bear finds himself without a single gift for his grandparents--or so he thinks. When Little Bear's mother forgets his birthday in "Birthday Soup," Little Bear resolves to take on the role of host and creates some special birthday soup for his friends. Who will supply dessert? In "Gingerbread Cookies," Little Bear and Emily find themselves in hot pursuit of a batch of mischievous gingerbread cookies. Will Emily's granny be upset when she discovers the missing cookies? (Ages 1 to 5) --Tami Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Great Calmer
Whenever my 3 yr old starts whining,I just pop in Little Bear and he is glued to the set. He loves the soft characterizations and the stories. I do too. I wish we still got Little Bear on TV.

Lots of fun for everyone!
This is by far the favorite Little Bear video of both of my sons. Our favorite segment is "Gingerbread Cookies" in which the gingerbread cookies come to life and take off on an adventure of their own! My eldest son and I saw it when he was home sick one day and I have looked for it to appear on a video ever since- it was worth the wait! It is a magical segment that keeps my boys laughing from the minute it starts! The other segments are fun as well. This is a treasure to have and to own! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great for preschoolers.
I agree with what the previous parent said about this video. We stumbled across Little Bear about four months ago, and have been renting them ever since. Most are not at all scary, and none are as scary as the Disney movies. This Rainy Day video is especially good. My 3 and 5 year old girls belly-laugh through the whole thing.

I will say that throughout our rentals, we have found a couple Little Bear stories that are slightly scary for my youngest. But most are a delight.

Among the Best for your Kids Age 2 to 6
Like all of the Little Bear videos, this charming collection of four 7-minute tales is so good that it almost justifies watching TV instead of playing outside! These stories are about kids just being kids (or rather, animal kids just being animal kids): exploring, playing with friends, laughing, and using their imagination to make up playful games with eachother. In this way, they are like A.A. Milne's original "Winnie the Pooh" stories, in which the characters' games and discoveries are the main attraction, and we come to love the characters not despite their flaws but because of them. And, in the Little Bear stories, mom and dad are supportive presences, mirroring the real world in which mom and dad are usually the most significant people in young children's lives.

My 3-year-old daughter loves the stories, and enjoys acting them out with me afterwards. The stories are neither too simple, nor too complicated. Similarly, the action unfolds at the perfect pace for young kids, neither the sluggish pace of Mr. Rogers nor the frantic and incomprehensible jump-cuts of the Power Rangers. Little Bear won't insult your kids' intelligence, and you may enjoy them yourself, too!

Unlike so much of TV/movies for kids, the Little Bear stores are not about conflicts with bad people [who, invariably, are bad for no reason other than to move the plot along (e.g., the wicked queen or stepmother, etc.)], or are about loud-mouthed kids who argue with eachother and avoid adults at all times (Rugrats and the like). I recommend all of the Little Bear stories, and the Little Bear show on Nicklelodeon, for any parent who want a positive alternative to the brain-rotting noise that one usually finds on TV.

I don't know about you, but personally I am tired of trying to answer my daughter when she asks why the Bad Guy is so bad. I suppose that there is a time and place for simplistic Good-versus-Evil morality tales, but I would much rather teach my daughter about real people and the real world, where people are simple Evil or Good, and understanding and cooperation are the main skills in life, and the the primary moral imperative is to be a nice person, not to "resist Evil." Again I don't know about you, but I am saddened by the fact that my daughter does not like Disney stories because they always have so many scary parts. Who likes to explain to their child that Cruella deVille wants to kill the puppies, gleefully and with malice, just to make a pretty fur coat?! Is this really the sort of thing we want to expose young children to??

Hurray for Little Bear!

Little Bear grows on you!
It took my 2 1/2 year old son a while to warm up to Little Bear, but now he loves it! We especially like Mitzi's Mess because it shows how easily little ones make a mess, and that they should always clean it up! The episodes aren't too long for short attention spans, and are very sweet! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Pretty Lame Remake
If you liked the original one, simply watch it again. This isnot particularly well-done. Why remake a classic? END

Adequate remake.
This version (I have NOT seen the original with Barbara Stanwick) is pretty routine. The music score is so subtle, it builds no tension. The acting is monotonous, and Loni Anderson looks pretty healthy to be playing such an ailing character. But, as the story goes, you get caught up in the premise (Loni overhearing her murder plot via phone) that you make it to the end. Has fine support from Hal Holbrook, as Loni's father. I suppose your better off with the original, but stick with Loni and you'll get a guilty pleasure. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Little Bear likes a good mystery and he gets to solve four of them in this 34-minute tape. In the title episode, Father's cherry pie disappears, and everyone's a suspect. Then the ducklings are croaking like frogs and meowing like cats, but Little Bear helps their babysitter regain her voice in "Duck Loses Her Quack." Cat, Duck, and Little Bear take an oath to keep going no matter what before they venture into the woods in "Exploring," but a scary cave gives them pause. Finally, "Detective Little Bear" uses a magnifying glass to search for the goblins he suspects have taken Grandfather's pocket watch, but he gets distracted by ants and such along the way. Children ages 2 to 5 will enjoy the camaraderie and gentle lessons in the woodland adventures from this popular Nick Jr. series. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (2)

littlebear-little sherlock bear
my grandson who is 2 1/2 just loves little bear, we haven't seen one yet that isn't a hit. i like the little bear series because they are so positive, no anger, ugly words like hate or stupid. i recommend them to all my friends with young children!

Another great Little Bear collection
Like all of the Little Bear videos, this charming collection of four 7-minute tales is so good that it almost justifies watching TV instead of playing outside! These stories are about kids just being kids (or rather, animal kids just being animal kids): exploring, playing with friends, laughing, and using their imagination to make up playful games with eachother. In this way, they are like A.A. Milne's original "Winnie the Pooh" stories, in which the characters' games and discoveries are the main attraction, and we come to love the characters not despite their flaws but because of them. And, in the Little Bear stories, mom and dad are supportive presences, mirroring the real world in which mom and dad are usually the most significant people in young children's lives.

My 3-year-old daughter loves the stories, and enjoys acting them out with me afterwards. The stories are neither too simple, nor too complicated. Similarly, the action unfolds at the perfect pace for young kids, neither the sluggish pace of Mr. Rogers nor the frantic and incomprehensible jump-cuts of the Power Rangers. Little Bear won't insult your kids' intelligence, and you may enjoy them yourself, too!

Unlike so much of TV/movies for kids, the Little Bear stores are not about conflicts with bad people [who, invariably, are bad for no reason other than to move the plot along (e.g., the wicked queen or stepmother, etc.)], or are about loud-mouthed kids who argue with eachother and avoid adults at all times (Rugrats and the like). I recommend all of the Little Bear stories, and the Little Bear show on Nicklelodeon, for any parent who wants a positive alternative to the brain-rotting noise that one usually finds on TV.

Hurray for Little Bear! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The library of Little Bear titles is enhanced with Let's Playa Game, a collection of short stories celebrating traditional games still invogue today. It is no surprise that these animated stories are part of one ofNick Jr.'s most popular preschool programs, based on the books by Else HolmelundMinarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Sweet and simple, Little Bearobserves the antics of a young cub and his friends as they experience whatSendak calls the necessities of childhood: imaginative play, endearing mishaps,simple pleasures, and parental love. The four vignettes in this 30-minuteprogram focus on outdoor games requiring no electronics and few props. Viewersare introduced to Simon Says, I Spy, sandlot baseball, and marbles, whilelearning how to take turns, play fair, and exhibit good sportsmanship.Preschoolers (and parents) will welcome the predictable, slow-paced storiesbrimming with gentle dialogue and familiar themes. --Lynn Gibson ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Unbelievable Cast!
This movie is insightful, moving, and profound. Can you believe this cast? Robert Sean Leonard, Beau Bridges, Stockard Channing, Cybil Shephard, Mary Stuart Masterson... How could it be a bad movie with all that talent?

A funny movie for intellectuals
When I read the other reviews I was stunned. Having just seen this movie and looking it up to buy it I cruised the reviews. What a shock. Clearly having lived through the sixties and hearing the truth about Woodstock was considered nothing to even be mentioned in their reviews. This Movie is funny, and it shows how easy it is for people to forget the importance of making a life with another person. How imperative it is to trust while still laughing outloud. In no way do I disrespect the opinions of others. I just don't see how this movie can be considered bland. You have trickery, twists and turns. It takes a bit of caring for the characters to like this movie. With this cast that was not difficult. It takes some intelligence to understand the plotline but not so much that one must be in MENSA. It is a rainy day laugh out loud movie for people who understand the jokes from the sixties. For people who lived through the horrible loss of our leaders in the sixties finally someone has found a way to express it. Bravo.

Bland Story
The film follows three couples in different stages of their marriages--a pair of newlyweds, a couple who have walked the aisle again after their respective divorces, and a long wedded couple. The only halfway decent storyline involves the last couple, a couple of former hippies dealing with their kids and sticking to their 1960's principals. Other than a few good zingers (esp. the one Cybill Shepard says to her stepdaughter in a clothing store), this film never rises to the drama level it's reaching for.

Watch it for Stockard Channing...
Sweet but awkward movie about three couples weathering their marital differences and building friendships. The acting was good, but there was something about the writing that left one somewhat unconvinced that these people could grow to care about each other. Cybil Shepard does a creditable job making us care about an essentially unsympathetic character (part of the writing problem). Mary Stuart Masterson turns in her usual natural and thoughtful work. But watch for yet another outstanding performance by Stockard Channing as Iris -- her scene with Beau Bridges on the balcony of the mayoral party displays an emotional intensity and honesty about many-years-married couples.

The movie itself rates a 3, but the performances rate a 5; I therefore give this a 4.

Dull, unfunny and unappealing movie
Oh great, here comes another movie about people's lives intersecting. This time it's at a PTA meeting in New York where one couple is a group of hippies, another couple just got married, and a third one are who are supposedly the only "normal" characters in the movie...or maybe you can figure it out. The characters here were not of the least interest to me (in fact they were quite repellent!), the screenplay is paper thin and all-too-familiar, and New York City is not particularly a beautiful place to look at so I can't give the filmmakers credit on photography or location. For a much more subtle and original (not to mention a WHOLE LOT better) movie with a vaguely similar storyline, see GRAND CANYON, a great 1991 movie that is superbly acted, enlightening, and almost magical. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Leaves something to be desired
Dated, by todays standards, but still compelling. First half is interesting, and you are glued to the screen trying to absord the information given by Coyote's character, yet hoping he turns out to be the good guy. Little by little we're given bits and pieces of what happened, but only through Coyote's character, who turns out to be a manipulating deceiver, cold and scary with his Manson like powers over less experienced people.The second half is confusing, and Coyote and Loggia are off screen for nearly forty minutes. In the ending court-room drama, we don't see a flashback or re-inactment of what "supposedly" happened to this female school teacher and her two children. I guess both Coyote's character, Bill Bradfield, and Loggia as Dr. Smith did commit the crime. But, we as viewers don't feel or see any concrete evidence, and this leaves something to be desired. Based on a true story that took place in 1979 in Pennsylvania, and a case that lasted seven years. Just too many questions left unanswered. Yet, Loggia is awesome, and scary (wait until you see those "eyes".) And it's always a pleasure to see Peter Coyote, a very under-rated actor. I don't know...maybe I should've read the book instead.

From a UM Perspective
I currently attend Upper Merion Area High School. While the movie was certainly entertaining (well, the first half anyway), the portrayal of some of the teachers who still work at UM seemed over-dramatized, and not very true-to-life. Still, it was interesting to see actors portraying people I know, as they were twenty some years ago.

A brilliant, clever, and hypnotic piece of work...
Coyote and Loggia are utterly compelling in their roles. One watches a nauseating conspiracy emerge tortuously and impossibly between these two apparently (largely)unconnected weirdos. The horror, when it appears, is all the more convincing for having been rendered implausible before. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Shannon Doherty Rules!!
This is an auesome movie. She plays a photographer. So when someone starts following her and taking her picture things get deadly. Anyone who likes a good drama is in for a treat.

5 Stars? Of Course! It's Shannen!
Yes, I'm an unabashedly, unapologetic die-hard fan of Shannen Doherty. She's gorgeous, and she can ACT. Let's get real, okay? 90210 sucked after she left, and Charmed has followed suit. This movie (which I got a Best Buy for $5.99 on DVD) is a starring vehicle for Shannen. She plays a tabloid journalist on whom the tables get turned, as she becomes the victim of a stalking psycho. Throw in a sexy, but dangerous, bodyguard; a kooky best friend, and some bumbling FBI agents, and you have a packed thriller that's not too violent, vrey unpredictable and FULL OF SHANNEN! BUY BUY BUY!

Full of twists and turns
A great film with great plot twists. Gage (Shannen) is a top paparazzi with two problems - 1) She has a stalker, 2) She becomes involved in a murder. You with me so far? From this point on the film rides like a roller coaster: Con artists, black mail and murder land Gage in a quest to win back her life. The storyline alone makes up for the questionable acting (Shannen Doherty excluded) - .
I have yet to decide if the actors are playing bad acting charactors, or if they are just bad actors, even so, viewers will be to busy drooling at Shannen to notice anyone else.

wonderful,
i can not tell you how much i enjoyed this film
is was magtifical.

Excellent Film that Keeps you on your Toes
Striking Poses is an excellent mystery thriller that keeps the viewer guessing throughout. Gage Sullivan, played by Shanon Doherty, is a famous photographer who now has a stalker. She hires a detective and takes many other precautions to keep herself safe. She is then drawn into a grand scale scheme of murder and mayhem, all for one goal- to leave Gage destitute with no witnesses, proof, or self respect.

However, Gage is underestimated- fool her one shame on you, fool her twice shame on her- but she won't let that happen. The seemingly helpless photographer schemes on her own to earn back her money and preverve her dignity. But will she succeed?

This movie was well planned and had an amazing story line that keeps the viewer on their toes throughout, waiting to find out what will happen next. Some of the acting is a little corny, but the plot and other characters can excuse that. I recommend it to someone who enjoys a good mystery and loves to see the bad guys beaten at their own game. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Unbelievable Cast!
This movie is insightful, moving, and profound. Can you believe this cast? Robert Sean Leonard, Beau Bridges, Stockard Channing, Cybil Shephard, Mary Stuart Masterson... How could it be a bad movie with all that talent?

A funny movie for intellectuals
When I read the other reviews I was stunned. Having just seen this movie and looking it up to buy it I cruised the reviews. What a shock. Clearly having lived through the sixties and hearing the truth about Woodstock was considered nothing to even be mentioned in their reviews. This Movie is funny, and it shows how easy it is for people to forget the importance of making a life with another person. How imperative it is to trust while still laughing outloud. In no way do I disrespect the opinions of others. I just don't see how this movie can be considered bland. You have trickery, twists and turns. It takes a bit of caring for the characters to like this movie. With this cast that was not difficult. It takes some intelligence to understand the plotline but not so much that one must be in MENSA. It is a rainy day laugh out loud movie for people who understand the jokes from the sixties. For people who lived through the horrible loss of our leaders in the sixties finally someone has found a way to express it. Bravo.

Bland Story
The film follows three couples in different stages of their marriages--a pair of newlyweds, a couple who have walked the aisle again after their respective divorces, and a long wedded couple. The only halfway decent storyline involves the last couple, a couple of former hippies dealing with their kids and sticking to their 1960's principals. Other than a few good zingers (esp. the one Cybill Shepard says to her stepdaughter in a clothing store), this film never rises to the drama level it's reaching for.

Watch it for Stockard Channing...
Sweet but awkward movie about three couples weathering their marital differences and building friendships. The acting was good, but there was something about the writing that left one somewhat unconvinced that these people could grow to care about each other. Cybil Shepard does a creditable job making us care about an essentially unsympathetic character (part of the writing problem). Mary Stuart Masterson turns in her usual natural and thoughtful work. But watch for yet another outstanding performance by Stockard Channing as Iris -- her scene with Beau Bridges on the balcony of the mayoral party displays an emotional intensity and honesty about many-years-married couples.

The movie itself rates a 3, but the performances rate a 5; I therefore give this a 4.

Dull, unfunny and unappealing movie
Oh great, here comes another movie about people's lives intersecting. This time it's at a PTA meeting in New York where one couple is a group of hippies, another couple just got married, and a third one are who are supposedly the only "normal" characters in the movie...or maybe you can figure it out. The characters here were not of the least interest to me (in fact they were quite repellent!), the screenplay is paper thin and all-too-familiar, and New York City is not particularly a beautiful place to look at so I can't give the filmmakers credit on photography or location. For a much more subtle and original (not to mention a WHOLE LOT better) movie with a vaguely similar storyline, see GRAND CANYON, a great 1991 movie that is superbly acted, enlightening, and almost magical. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Shannon Doherty Rules!!
This is an auesome movie. She plays a photographer. So when someone starts following her and taking her picture things get deadly. Anyone who likes a good drama is in for a treat.

5 Stars? Of Course! It's Shannen!
Yes, I'm an unabashedly, unapologetic die-hard fan of Shannen Doherty. She's gorgeous, and she can ACT. Let's get real, okay? 90210 sucked after she left, and Charmed has followed suit. This movie (which I got a Best Buy for $5.99 on DVD) is a starring vehicle for Shannen. She plays a tabloid journalist on whom the tables get turned, as she becomes the victim of a stalking psycho. Throw in a sexy, but dangerous, bodyguard; a kooky best friend, and some bumbling FBI agents, and you have a packed thriller that's not too violent, vrey unpredictable and FULL OF SHANNEN! BUY BUY BUY!

Full of twists and turns
A great film with great plot twists. Gage (Shannen) is a top paparazzi with two problems - 1) She has a stalker, 2) She becomes involved in a murder. You with me so far? From this point on the film rides like a roller coaster: Con artists, black mail and murder land Gage in a quest to win back her life. The storyline alone makes up for the questionable acting (Shannen Doherty excluded) - .
I have yet to decide if the actors are playing bad acting charactors, or if they are just bad actors, even so, viewers will be to busy drooling at Shannen to notice anyone else.

wonderful,
i can not tell you how much i enjoyed this film
is was magtifical.

Excellent Film that Keeps you on your Toes
Striking Poses is an excellent mystery thriller that keeps the viewer guessing throughout. Gage Sullivan, played by Shanon Doherty, is a famous photographer who now has a stalker. She hires a detective and takes many other precautions to keep herself safe. She is then drawn into a grand scale scheme of murder and mayhem, all for one goal- to leave Gage destitute with no witnesses, proof, or self respect.

However, Gage is underestimated- fool her one shame on you, fool her twice shame on her- but she won't let that happen. The seemingly helpless photographer schemes on her own to earn back her money and preverve her dignity. But will she succeed?

This movie was well planned and had an amazing story line that keeps the viewer on their toes throughout, waiting to find out what will happen next. Some of the acting is a little corny, but the plot and other characters can excuse that. I recommend it to someone who enjoys a good mystery and loves to see the bad guys beaten at their own game. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Shannon Doherty Rules!!
This is an auesome movie. She plays a photographer. So when someone starts following her and taking her picture things get deadly. Anyone who likes a good drama is in for a treat.

5 Stars? Of Course! It's Shannen!
Yes, I'm an unabashedly, unapologetic die-hard fan of Shannen Doherty. She's gorgeous, and she can ACT. Let's get real, okay? 90210 sucked after she left, and Charmed has followed suit. This movie (which I got a Best Buy for $5.99 on DVD) is a starring vehicle for Shannen. She plays a tabloid journalist on whom the tables get turned, as she becomes the victim of a stalking psycho. Throw in a sexy, but dangerous, bodyguard; a kooky best friend, and some bumbling FBI agents, and you have a packed thriller that's not too violent, vrey unpredictable and FULL OF SHANNEN! BUY BUY BUY!

Full of twists and turns
A great film with great plot twists. Gage (Shannen) is a top paparazzi with two problems - 1) She has a stalker, 2) She becomes involved in a murder. You with me so far? From this point on the film rides like a roller coaster: Con artists, black mail and murder land Gage in a quest to win back her life. The storyline alone makes up for the questionable acting (Shannen Doherty excluded) - .
I have yet to decide if the actors are playing bad acting charactors, or if they are just bad actors, even so, viewers will be to busy drooling at Shannen to notice anyone else.

wonderful,
i can not tell you how much i enjoyed this film
is was magtifical.

Excellent Film that Keeps you on your Toes
Striking Poses is an excellent mystery thriller that keeps the viewer guessing throughout. Gage Sullivan, played by Shanon Doherty, is a famous photographer who now has a stalker. She hires a detective and takes many other precautions to keep herself safe. She is then drawn into a grand scale scheme of murder and mayhem, all for one goal- to leave Gage destitute with no witnesses, proof, or self respect.

However, Gage is underestimated- fool her one shame on you, fool her twice shame on her- but she won't let that happen. The seemingly helpless photographer schemes on her own to earn back her money and preverve her dignity. But will she succeed?

This movie was well planned and had an amazing story line that keeps the viewer on their toes throughout, waiting to find out what will happen next. Some of the acting is a little corny, but the plot and other characters can excuse that. I recommend it to someone who enjoys a good mystery and loves to see the bad guys beaten at their own game. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This 1987 Canadian offering based on a true story seeks to offend and to provoke its audience as it dissects the sordid last days of a middle-aged feminist bent on self-destruction. Writer-director Jackie Burroughs plays Marsie Holder, a woman wasting away in Mexico and engaging in sexual trysts with the men she encounters. Bouts of alcoholism and illness shape her days and anonymous sexual encounters frame her nights. Through it all she analyzes her place in the world and pontificates on the role of women through her voluminous correspondence, even as she wastes away in the Acapulco sun and slides downward into an eventually fatal abyss. Shot in a harsh verité style, the film is unapologetic in its assessment of the promiscuous and reckless author, while still showcasing her wry and caustic take on the battle of the sexes. A controversial offering at the Toronto Film Festival, A Winter Tan is both a challenging polemic and an unblinking character study. --Robert Lane ... Read more