Amazon.com

Disney loved to mix live action with animation (Mary Poppins, Bedknobs and Broomsticks), but this 1977 effort falls on its face. The turn-of-the-century story concerns an orphaned boy whose only friend is a cartoon monster. While the latter is entertainingly rendered, the rest of the film strains to be enchanting and the cast overreaches in a big way. Not for anybody over the age of ten. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (67)

Reddy, Rooney and a dragon named Elliott
The seventies were rough on the family entertainment market. Disney, once untouchable in this respect, found itself in a bit of a quandry, the likes of which the theatrical release of "Pete's Dragon" didn't help. Most critics found it hammy and, with the exception of Elliott, the dragon, discarded the movie as just a trite piece of fluff. Well, it was and it is - but why does anything so light-hearted, gay and original have to be anything but? In the intervening decades "Pete's Dragon has gone on to become a much loved Disney classic and for good reasons. Helen Reddy, Mickey Rooney, Red Buttons and Jim Dale are inspired casting choices, giving a depth to their characters that greatly enhances the film. True, the film's score doesn't match the staying power of Mary Poppins but 'Candle on the Water' is a great romantic ballad, 'Brazzle Dazzle Day' is a fun-loving feel good song and 'Passamaquadi' is ultra camp played in the best sense. Not much to complain about with Disney's transfer of the film. It's anamorphic, near pristine and remixed to 5.1 stereo. One note - 'Candle On The Water', for some inexplicable reason, may suddenly freeze frame in the middle of the song on some players the first run through. If you are worried about this, play the song first to see if it does this and if so, simply still frame advance to the next track, then go back and replay the song. This solves the problem for all subsequent times you choose to play the song. As I say, I'm at a loss to explain why this problem sometimes occurs. Over all, this is a wonder film experience no matter your age. One only regrets that there is no making-of documentary included.

Pure Disney Musical Magic
There's something about live-action, animation Disney films that just seem to fascinate me. For one, Disney can go beyond two hours of a movie, and still keep it G-rated. Now that's pretty impressive to me. Most companies would probably have rated it PG, but not Disney. They try and it keep for the whole auidience. Which is what everyone needs to see in a film. And the special effects isn't bad either.

This film also includes the legendary Mickey Rooney. The story of Pete's Drangon is pretty simple. Pete is a young orphan, who is running away from his abopted parents, and end up in Maine, a fishing town with his best friend, Elliott. Sometimes you can see him, and other times, you can't. A kind lighthouse keeper, Nora played by (Helen Rebby), and her father (Mickey Rooney), Elliott's pranks gets them into a whole lot of trouble.

The music in this film is Ocar-nominated beautiful. Like "The Happist Home in These Hills," "It's Not Easy," "Candle on the Water," & "Brazzle Dazzle Day." A simply marvoulous soundtrack for the whole family.

Now you must know, that Pete's Dragon was made in the late 70s, which was long before computer technology was invented. You know, like CGI grahpics and so forth. Which is another thing that impressive me, how Disney can create these images and actually make them work. Pete's Dragon is a wonderful story, that will be treasured for the next generation to come.

Good movie for a Disney musical
I remember this movie from my childhood, so I bought it for my toddler. He loves it. My son points at the DVD case and grunts. He watches it everyday (for 2 weeks now). It must be the music and singing because the storyline is lackluster. Everytime he sees the dragon or hears a song he starts chattering away with his gibberish pre-talk. My preferred character is Doc Terminus - the con man / man of science. I give it 4 stars because I have watched it so many times the melodies are stuck in my head. I hope he gets a new "favorite" movie soon :)

One of Disney's Best Live Action Films!
This is one of those films that you never forget. I saw this movie when i was little and I am still a fan of it. Pete's Dragon is one of the first Disney films to use live action and animation together in a film. The story follows a boy who is on the run from his terrible adoptive family the Gogans (Shelley Winters, Rob Conaway)and his friend Elliot the dragon (voiced by Charlie Callas) who is sometimes invisible. Together, they are the best of friends until they come upon a quaint fishing town where they soon start to get into mischief.
Eventually Pete is taken in by Nora(Helen Reddy) a lighthouse keeper and her father(Mickey Rooney) where he soon becomes part of the family. But soon, the Gogans discover where he is living and are determined to get him back. There are many delightful performances in this film including Jim Dale who plays the terrible Dr. Terminus and his obnoxious side-kick Hoagie(played by red Buttons). The funny thing about this movie is that Mickey Rooney and Red Buttons are drunk through most of it. Lastly, I recommend this movie because of the music. This film has some of the best Disney songs. Most notably Helen Reddy's "Candle on the Water" and "There's Room For Everyone". Along with the singing and dancing, this is one great Disney film and it is not to be missed. If you've seen it, watch it again and if you haven't ,DO!

Woo-hoo! My kid likes it as much as I did!
Yes, the animation is dated. Yes, the plot is kind of corny BUT my daughter is just as enchanted as I was (and still am). You can't miss with this one! Pete's Dragon shows you what it means to be a kid with an unbelievable (only to the grown-ups) best friend who helps you out when you think that there's no one else left to care. The songs are still catchy and the baddies are still scary. The DVD is sooooo much better than VHS; and unlike my VHS copy there is no fear of it wearing out from over-playing. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This story of a winsome orphan and his guardian dragon features an Academy Award-nominated score and song, Helen Reddy's "Candle on the Water." The combination of a live-action story with an animated figure was innovative in 1977, and the green dragon with pink wings will still charm youngsters today. However, its plot has the boy running from a nasty family to whom he's been sold into slavery, as well as an evil magician who tries to steal the dragon for his parts. These dark story lines may scare or bore younger children, who only want to see Elliot the dragon belch fire and give Pete rides on his back. And older children who might appreciate the plot may scoff at the relatively crude animation. This leaves a rather narrow audience window of about ages 3 to 7. A cast of veterans includes Shelley Winters, Mickey Rooney, and Red Buttons, who all turn in the hammiest of performances. Acting newcomer Reddy demonstrates both why her acting career never took off and why her singing career did. (Lines like "You're a bunch of superstitious ding-dongs" don't give her much help.) However, her sometimes awkward performance as the lonely lighthouse keeper who gives the boy a home provides the film with its heart. Bottom line: it's a keeper for diehard Disney fans, dragon lovers, and those who remember this movie fondly from their childhood. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (67)

Reddy, Rooney and a dragon named Elliott
The seventies were rough on the family entertainment market. Disney, once untouchable in this respect, found itself in a bit of a quandry, the likes of which the theatrical release of "Pete's Dragon" didn't help. Most critics found it hammy and, with the exception of Elliott, the dragon, discarded the movie as just a trite piece of fluff. Well, it was and it is - but why does anything so light-hearted, gay and original have to be anything but? In the intervening decades "Pete's Dragon has gone on to become a much loved Disney classic and for good reasons. Helen Reddy, Mickey Rooney, Red Buttons and Jim Dale are inspired casting choices, giving a depth to their characters that greatly enhances the film. True, the film's score doesn't match the staying power of Mary Poppins but 'Candle on the Water' is a great romantic ballad, 'Brazzle Dazzle Day' is a fun-loving feel good song and 'Passamaquadi' is ultra camp played in the best sense. Not much to complain about with Disney's transfer of the film. It's anamorphic, near pristine and remixed to 5.1 stereo. One note - 'Candle On The Water', for some inexplicable reason, may suddenly freeze frame in the middle of the song on some players the first run through. If you are worried about this, play the song first to see if it does this and if so, simply still frame advance to the next track, then go back and replay the song. This solves the problem for all subsequent times you choose to play the song. As I say, I'm at a loss to explain why this problem sometimes occurs. Over all, this is a wonder film experience no matter your age. One only regrets that there is no making-of documentary included.

Pure Disney Musical Magic
There's something about live-action, animation Disney films that just seem to fascinate me. For one, Disney can go beyond two hours of a movie, and still keep it G-rated. Now that's pretty impressive to me. Most companies would probably have rated it PG, but not Disney. They try and it keep for the whole auidience. Which is what everyone needs to see in a film. And the special effects isn't bad either.

This film also includes the legendary Mickey Rooney. The story of Pete's Drangon is pretty simple. Pete is a young orphan, who is running away from his abopted parents, and end up in Maine, a fishing town with his best friend, Elliott. Sometimes you can see him, and other times, you can't. A kind lighthouse keeper, Nora played by (Helen Rebby), and her father (Mickey Rooney), Elliott's pranks gets them into a whole lot of trouble.

The music in this film is Ocar-nominated beautiful. Like "The Happist Home in These Hills," "It's Not Easy," "Candle on the Water," & "Brazzle Dazzle Day." A simply marvoulous soundtrack for the whole family.

Now you must know, that Pete's Dragon was made in the late 70s, which was long before computer technology was invented. You know, like CGI grahpics and so forth. Which is another thing that impressive me, how Disney can create these images and actually make them work. Pete's Dragon is a wonderful story, that will be treasured for the next generation to come.

Good movie for a Disney musical
I remember this movie from my childhood, so I bought it for my toddler. He loves it. My son points at the DVD case and grunts. He watches it everyday (for 2 weeks now). It must be the music and singing because the storyline is lackluster. Everytime he sees the dragon or hears a song he starts chattering away with his gibberish pre-talk. My preferred character is Doc Terminus - the con man / man of science. I give it 4 stars because I have watched it so many times the melodies are stuck in my head. I hope he gets a new "favorite" movie soon :)

One of Disney's Best Live Action Films!
This is one of those films that you never forget. I saw this movie when i was little and I am still a fan of it. Pete's Dragon is one of the first Disney films to use live action and animation together in a film. The story follows a boy who is on the run from his terrible adoptive family the Gogans (Shelley Winters, Rob Conaway)and his friend Elliot the dragon (voiced by Charlie Callas) who is sometimes invisible. Together, they are the best of friends until they come upon a quaint fishing town where they soon start to get into mischief.
Eventually Pete is taken in by Nora(Helen Reddy) a lighthouse keeper and her father(Mickey Rooney) where he soon becomes part of the family. But soon, the Gogans discover where he is living and are determined to get him back. There are many delightful performances in this film including Jim Dale who plays the terrible Dr. Terminus and his obnoxious side-kick Hoagie(played by red Buttons). The funny thing about this movie is that Mickey Rooney and Red Buttons are drunk through most of it. Lastly, I recommend this movie because of the music. This film has some of the best Disney songs. Most notably Helen Reddy's "Candle on the Water" and "There's Room For Everyone". Along with the singing and dancing, this is one great Disney film and it is not to be missed. If you've seen it, watch it again and if you haven't ,DO!

Woo-hoo! My kid likes it as much as I did!
Yes, the animation is dated. Yes, the plot is kind of corny BUT my daughter is just as enchanted as I was (and still am). You can't miss with this one! Pete's Dragon shows you what it means to be a kid with an unbelievable (only to the grown-ups) best friend who helps you out when you think that there's no one else left to care. The songs are still catchy and the baddies are still scary. The DVD is sooooo much better than VHS; and unlike my VHS copy there is no fear of it wearing out from over-playing. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Another Classic!
When I was growing up, this was one of the many classic Disney movies we had taped from the tv, among others, like Snowball Express and Follw Me, Boys. But this is definitely my favorite. After all these years, I still memorize the song in the opening credits, and I can probably recite half the movie.

I have been waiting for this to come out on DVD for about 6 years, and I'm so glad I'll finally have the chance to own it!

Don Knotts and Jim Dale Rule!! Great Western Comedy!!
Don Knotts and Jim Dale in this Great Western Comedy Hot Lead and Cold Feet.It's great slapstick that's fun for the whole Family!!

ONE OF THE CLASSIC COMEDIES
Great performance by Knotts and Elam. This is not the Elam from other westerns. This is the Elam playing himself. He really is a fun-loving guy. Take a GOOD HA HA! This is rare footage and well worth the price.

FANTASTIC!!!!!!!
I love the comedy style in this movie. Don Knotts was especially great ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Infamy, Infamy...
One of the best of the series, being lucky enough to have a reasonable plot combining various influences from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar to the Elizabeth Taylor film Cleopatra. Amanda Barrie reminds us of how utterly gorgeous she was before she was in Coronation Street, whilst Sid and Kenneth W. excel in their usual roles, Ken's first line being 'I do feel queer!' delivered in the way that only he could get away with. Eric Rogers' comic score is serious and oriental when necessary, but light enough just to underline the humour for the majority of the scenes. Charles Hawtrey, for once in the role of dirty old man, demonstrates that his range was wider than was ever required in most Carry-On films. Special praise must however be reserved for the costumes and sets, allegedly re-used from the Cleopatra film, they make the film look much more expensive than allowed by the usual Carry-On design budget. This film features a classic mid-period script from Talbot Rothwell, seeming neither as old-fashioned as the early films of the series, nor as vulgar as the last. Watch out for Jon Pertwee, heavily disguised as he was in each of his four Carry-On roles. This is well worth ($)of anyone's money, but if you can afford to wait, the widescreen DVD would probably show the scenery to its best advantage.

Historical mayhem!
Another romp through the historically incorrect, but funny, past. Sydney James and company are Romans (Caesar and friends) who meet up with the legendary Cleopatra in ancient Egypt. As usual with the Carry On team, mayhem rules, and history is changed to include the humorous interpretation of the British. Well worth watching!

THAT'S CARRY ON!
Carry On Cleo is one of the series entries that will always be remembered. It simply is classic British comedy at it's best. When filming at Pinewood studios for the disastorous epic, Cleopatra, starring Elizabeth Taylor, was abandoned there, Peter rodgers and Gerald Thomas just could'nt resist the advantage of the lavish and spectacular sets, making it all look a lot more extravagent than most of the other Carry On's that were filmed on a shoe string budget. the cast are all on top form with Kenneth Williams as Julius Caesar and Sid James as Mark Anthony, delivering the funniest lines. Also included in the cast are Amanda Barrie in the title role, Joan Sims, Jim Dale, Kenneth Connor as well as guest appearances from acclaimed classical actress, Sheila Hancock and Warren Mitchell from the classic sitcom, Till Death Do Us Part.

Hilarious from beginning to end and packed full of classic one liners ("infamy, infamy, they've all got in for me" cries Kenneth Williams as Julius Caesar as he is about to be killed). This is a absolutley essential Carry On and is a great one to induct somebody who has never heard of this long running and triumphantly succesful British comedy series.

I Have A Poisonous Asp!
If the above title has you chuckling, this is the movie for you! A spoof of Anthony & Cleopatra done in the inimitable Carry On style. Jim Dale & Kenneth Connor as the heroic Ancient Brits, Sid James as the asp-chomping Mark Anthony, and Bernard Bresslaw as Agrippa the bodyguard are all classic characters. My personal favourite Carry On. They don't make 'em like this any more! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

It ain't right! You stealin' yourself like that, Jim!
After watching the Ken Burn's documentary on Mark Twain's life, I looked forward with much anticipation to seeing this film. It was supposed to be a great social commentary about slavery and on the conflict between the Constitution and the reality of slavery. It was supposed to be a kind of mental journey that the viewer took by following the simple logic of a boy, who represented the ideas about black people from that time. And while the movie does repeat all the right lines, "Well, then, I'll go to hell" it doesn't do so with as much power as Ken Burns narrator did. It doesn't set up the real and present tension -- the level of religious faith at that time and just what Huck meant -- how powerfully people of that day feared doing what was wrong and how Huck was meant to really feel it was wrong to help Jim escape.
The power of the soul-searching aspect of the book is really hard to capture on film. It's a good film, as it goes, but I had hoped for something explosive.

Indeed - the best version of Huck Finn so far
Of all the many movie versions of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn", this PBS adaptation is the best. It remains true to Twain's story, though does not incorporate the entire book, for time constraint I suppose. However, enough of the book has been adapted to give the viewer a very good idea of what the book is all about. Patrick Day is by far the best of all the Huck Finn's I have seen, thus far. The actor who portrays Jim is outstanding; as is the acting from the Duke and the King. Also, the scenery is breathtaking. It is truly a joy to watch this movie version of Huck Finn, though apparantly it has been edited, and some of it has been taken out. If you can, buy the version that has the complete four hours - I gauruntee you will not be sorry. I strongly recommend this movie for everyone.

The Best so far! But my second favorite.
My favorite version of Huck Finn will probably always be the Elijah Wood version. It took the original story and sped it up. It's non-stop adventure, with everything else you want from the story included as well. This version however, is not far behind while at the same time being very true to the book. Now the version you see here is the one I saw, I rented it just last night. But there is a version twice as long that is also available here on Amazon. The price is ridiculous since it is NOT a DVD, but rather two tapes, but I want it anyway! I can only assume that it includes everything this one left out, though this version is still fine in a pinch! Even with half of it's running time cut out it's the second best version of Huck Finn I've seen! The casting is great! Only exception is Tom. I mean, he wasn't bad, but didn't look quite as roguish as you'd expect. For a great Tom see Rascals and Robbers. Some of the acting is a little odd, and some is great! And I have to comment on the kid who plays Huck, a grown man by now I'm sure. He's the PERFECT Huck, and would have also played a perfect Young Indiana Jones had he had the chance! I mean he has the look and the act. There's one seen where you totally see his Harrison Fordishness come out at the end as he snaps at Tom and breaks down a door to free Jim! You fellow Tom and Huck fans, be sure to get this one, the long version if you can afford it, and remember to look for what I said, his extreme Indiana Jonesishness. Indy fans like me, though we loved Flannery's Indy, will weep at the fact that this kid didn't have his turn at the hat!

So, where is the remainder of this fine TV production????
I'm giving this video 4 stars although it should have all five because it is by far the very best version of Twain's "Huckleberry Finn" thus far dramatized. UNFORTUNATELY, the powers that be decided NOT to put the ENTIRE 240 minute show on tape so we now have a much (very, very much!) condensed edition of this fine PBS production. Doing this editing does a disservice to Mark Twain's great story, also a disservice to all the fine actors involved, and to the screenwriter who did a remarkable job of making this sprawling book really work as a movie. So, how about bringing out the ENTIRE 240 minute production, let's say on DVD, and maybe with some commentary on Twain, the book, etc. This is really a wonderful production and deserves a better chance on video! DVD the entire show. I'd be willing to pay for it and I'm sure others who are familiar with this production would also purchase it. This is the ONLY movie of "Huckleberry Finn" that comes even close to the book's style and feeling (for example, NO cutesy stuff, NO dumb and misplaced songs), just straightforward storytelling, excellent acting and well done from start to finish. Again, DVD please, and please: the WHOLE 240 minutes! ... Read more

Description

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" involving a bell ringer who must save a young gypsy woman from an evil minister's obsession. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

The Hunchback 1997
This was a wonderful movie. I am look forword to the DVD when it come out. The acting was great. One of the best movies in a long time.

Ummm... Yikes!
My goodness was this a bad version of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Everything about this production reeks. Not even sexy Salma Hayek could save this classic piece of trash. What is with the persute of printing presses, and since when has the hunchback printed books? I had hoped with all its short commings it might include the original ending, but, alas, Esmerelda lived. The only verson that has the original ending where Esmerelda dies is the 1957 version. THAT version is better than this one. This version also deletes the character of Pheobus and now Esmerelda is accused of killing the king's minister or whatever. Take my advice and try and find the 1982 version ( it is very difficult to locate sometimes.) with Anthony Hopkins and Leslie Anne Down. It is far better.

The worst version... by far..
I first read "Hunchback of Notre Dame" in the sixth grade. And since then I've saw every movie version except an English TV version put out in the mid 70's. This version is terrible - period! The best part of this version is the casting of Salma Hayek as Esmeralda. If you've read the novel and seen this movie you know this version does not go by the novel (or any of the prior versions) at all. The sequence is out of order, characters deleted and invented, and Quasimodo is advocating a free press. Also, real fans will note that several lines from the 1939 version have been used in this version verbatim. The sad thing is, given the talent of this cast, with proper writing this could have been the best version ever. Sadly, it appears, this version was SNAFU from the get go. Even the 1957 Anthony Quinn version is better and it was generally considered the worst sequel before this piece came along. If you want the classic "Hunchback" buy Chaney's 1923 version; If you want the sentimental favorite buy Laughton's 1939 version; If you want a modern version buy Hopkin's 1983 effort. But whatever you do - avoid this version if your a true fan - this one stinks! Only hardcore Salma Hayek fans will appreciate it!

faithful and effective retelling of the classic
A surprisingly moving treatment from the Turner Network movie factory. The Hunchback features commanding performances from Harris, Patinkin, and Hayek along with superb sets and literate direction. Neither sentimental overkill nor dry exercise, the film is content to tell the allegorical tale of the "partly made" Quasimodo with sincerity and assurance. If you missed this on its original TV broadcast, treat yourself to this video (and how about a DVD release?).

Modern notre dam
Remake of this classic story by Peter Medak (The Krays/ Romeo is Bleeding) . A difficult task since most of the previous Hunchback movies were main successes . ... Read more

Reviews (3)

ONE OF THE VERY BEST!
A highly amusing comedy and one of the very best entries to the Carry On series. The historical ones were generally regarded as the best in the series and this one is exceptionally good ranking alongside Cleo (1964), Don't lose your head(1966), Screaming (1966) and Up the kyber (1968) in terms of quality. The players all take on surprisingly realistic American accents and the whole scenery and costumes make this a little more beleavable than ususal. The best players are Sid James as the rumpo kid in one of his best roles in the series, Jim Dale, Joan Sims and Kenneth Williams. This was probably the most darkest and violent of all carry On films made but the shoot out scene at the end is wonderfully staged. A very good comedy and a classic in the series.

This spoof of the wild west is excellent.
One of the best! This movie cannot be missd. A great cast and a great story make this Carry On a classic that can be watched again and again and again. Jim Dale is great as the hero and Sid James is brilliant as the bad guy.

The movie starts off just like any western with the 'riding into town scene' and one of the funniest moments in the movie occurrs in the first bit of dialouge when the Rumpo Kid (Sid James) has just killed three cowboys that were walking towards him. He then says with an american accent, "I wonder what they wanted." The rest is a wild ride with mix ups, great comedy and adventure.

This would have to be the best costume Carry on next to Carry on Cleo.

This spoof on cowboy movies is great fun
The plot involves an Easterner who accepts a job in the West and finds his job description puts him at odds with most of the town. Three women want to help him and each declares her interest with the prefix "we go together like..." [visualize the women for yourself] -- [a] ham and eggs [b] peaches and cream [c] syrup and pancakes. It was years ago that I watched this movie and I still smile recalling the hi jinx and farce. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A wonderful discovery of vintage Disney at its BEST
What a joy to find old disney movies released on DVD and in widescreen:) I just discvered THE BLACK HOLE as well also a disney CLASSIC of long ago, when special efects were invented 1st by Disney at every turn. Plus I love Dennis Dugan, you can just take so much of the same disney dudes over and over in the same roles. He is a refreshing change. And the Disney animtronics, that they were so famous for, like Abe Lincoln and the Teeky Teeky Room. BUY THIS One for your Disney collection. I am on a quest for all Disney Vintage movies for my DVD collection, and all the old classics, from Aladdin to Winnie the Pooh. Check out my More about Me page in the near future and you can help me come up with more titles that I have missed and I can help you out with your thirst for "The Happiest Place on Earth" :) When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are. When you wish upon a star your dreams come true :)

A Disney Favorite!
I have always loved Disney movies and this is one of my favorites. I watch it over and over and enjoy it everytime.

Disney Live Action Comedy Hijinks
I remember seeing this movie back in elementary school, and I still find it entertaining today. As the synopsis above states, the plot revolves around a "modern" day space explorer who gets catapulted back to the days of King Arthur. The comedy is derived from the strange predicaments in which Dugan finds himself (the old fish-out-of-water ploy). The movie is one of Disney's better live-action comedies. Since much of the comedy is of the zany, slapstick variety the movie has aged well, and is still humorous twenty years later. The style of comedy is similar to what one finds in other Disney comedies such as the Love Bug. My six year old loves it. If you're a collector of Disney movies definitely add this one to your library.

Despite the age...
Despite the fact that the movie is pretty old for movies today, it is still a very entertaining movie. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Not quite "Tom Jones", but delightful
"Joseph Andrews" is not as witty, charming, and disarming as its predecessor, "Tom Jones", but performances by Ann Margaret and, even moreso, Beryl Reid, lend this film its best moments. The film's hero is a bit bland, his love interest beyond bland, and the film has the feel of "haven't we been here before... and wasn't it funnier then?" There are some genuinely funny moments, but the real reason to see it is the aforementioned Ms. Reid.
The late Beryl Reid, one of the most underrated (and sadly least filmed) character actresses of the film age, is Lady Booby's maid, Slipshod. Her scenes are the best in the film and it's a rare opportunity to see this actress in a role that she can sink her teeth into. See also the hard-to-find "Entertaining Mr. Sloane" and "The Killing of Sister George".

Lady Booby: 'nuff said
What can I say? AM's finest moment. Spectacularly sleazy.

Oh, and the rest of the film's nice too, etc.

Underrated period comedy classic!
JOSEPH ANDREWS is a glorious adaptation of the Henry Fielding novel. Done in much the same style as Tony Richardson's previous film TOM JONES. This viewer prefers JOSEPH ANDREWS as a more satisfying film experience. The adaptation from book to movie works better. The performances from all the classic British actors are priceless. The dialogue, filming, editing, costumes and locations are perfectly brought to life. Special mention has to go to Ann-Margret for her performance as Lady Booby. You won't see a more controlled, flawless, hilarious performance in any other film. She is striking to watch. Not only in her beauty, but in the delivery of her lines. Her accent is totally convincing. When has an actress made eating asparagus look soooooooo enticing! JOSEPH ANDREWS is definitely one of the forgotten gems from the 70's. Mixed-up identities and bawdiness at it's best!

It Works In So Many Ways
This film worked for me in so many ways. Ann-Margret is wonderful as Lady Booby. Tony Richardson is top notch with his direction. The sporting cast is superb, notably Peter Firth.
This is the kind of film worth watching more than once. Not only because Ann-Margret is so beautiful to look upon, but there are so many levels of humor that more than one viewing is required to appreciate it all.
A must see for Ann-Marget fans!

A secret gem!
Henry Fielding wrote Joseph Andrews before he wrote Tom Jones and in my opinion this is the better novel to screen adaptation.
The real surprise regarding this film is Ann-Margret's stunning performance. Here she's up against some of the most established and accomplished English character actors (Sir Michael Hordern, Sir John Gielgud, Beryl Reid, Jim Dale and Peter Firth) and not only does she hold her own, she steals every scene she's in.

Ann-Margret as Lady Booby is genuinly funny dressed as a cherry glazed tart with the most persuasive English accent I've heard in years. The interplay between Lady Booby and her hand maiden Slipslop (played brilliantly by the late Beryl Reid) is hilarious! With a stellar cast and bawdy humour to boot, I can't think of a better way of spending a night in front of the TV. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A wonderful discovery of vintage Disney at its BEST
What a joy to find old disney movies released on DVD and in widescreen:) I just discvered THE BLACK HOLE as well also a disney CLASSIC of long ago, when special efects were invented 1st by Disney at every turn. Plus I love Dennis Dugan, you can just take so much of the same disney dudes over and over in the same roles. He is a refreshing change. And the Disney animtronics, that they were so famous for, like Abe Lincoln and the Teeky Teeky Room. BUY THIS One for your Disney collection. I am on a quest for all Disney Vintage movies for my DVD collection, and all the old classics, from Aladdin to Winnie the Pooh. Check out my More about Me page in the near future and you can help me come up with more titles that I have missed and I can help you out with your thirst for "The Happiest Place on Earth" :) When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are. When you wish upon a star your dreams come true :)

A Disney Favorite!
I have always loved Disney movies and this is one of my favorites. I watch it over and over and enjoy it everytime.

Disney Live Action Comedy Hijinks
I remember seeing this movie back in elementary school, and I still find it entertaining today. As the synopsis above states, the plot revolves around a "modern" day space explorer who gets catapulted back to the days of King Arthur. The comedy is derived from the strange predicaments in which Dugan finds himself (the old fish-out-of-water ploy). The movie is one of Disney's better live-action comedies. Since much of the comedy is of the zany, slapstick variety the movie has aged well, and is still humorous twenty years later. The style of comedy is similar to what one finds in other Disney comedies such as the Love Bug. My six year old loves it. If you're a collector of Disney movies definitely add this one to your library.

Despite the age...
Despite the fact that the movie is pretty old for movies today, it is still a very entertaining movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Mark Twain's wit was oft demonstrated in his short stories and novels,and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court certainly qualifies as one of his most popular. The tale's so well-liked that various renditions--including a musical comedy, an animated Bugs Bunny version, and two kid pics--have been turned into films and telefilms (many of which should be considered "inspired by" instead of straight translations).This Disney film takes the basics of Twain's charmer and turns it into the story of a scientist whose twin-looking humanoid will be the first to try out a faster-than-the-speed-of-light rocket ship. When the humanoid becomes afraid, the scientist climbs on board to comfort it and the ship accidentally rockets off--and into King Arthur's Camelot.Dennis Dugan, an underrated comic actor (best remembered as Richie Brockelman introduced on The Rockford Files), is the likable lead, as well as his robotic alter ego. Ron Moody is a wickedly creepy Merlin, Kenneth More is an elegant, if older, King Arthur, and English actress Sheila White (Oliver!) is a sweet Alisande. Despite its 1979 production date, the film has a surprisingly timeless look. Certainly, the low-budget technology can't compare to today's CGI miracles, but this film is more about ingenuity and resourcefulness, and it gets those messages across well. --N.F. Mendoza ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A wonderful discovery of vintage Disney at its BEST
What a joy to find old disney movies released on DVD and in widescreen:) I just discvered THE BLACK HOLE as well also a disney CLASSIC of long ago, when special efects were invented 1st by Disney at every turn. Plus I love Dennis Dugan, you can just take so much of the same disney dudes over and over in the same roles. He is a refreshing change. And the Disney animtronics, that they were so famous for, like Abe Lincoln and the Teeky Teeky Room. BUY THIS One for your Disney collection. I am on a quest for all Disney Vintage movies for my DVD collection, and all the old classics, from Aladdin to Winnie the Pooh. Check out my More about Me page in the near future and you can help me come up with more titles that I have missed and I can help you out with your thirst for "The Happiest Place on Earth" :) When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are. When you wish upon a star your dreams come true :)

A Disney Favorite!
I have always loved Disney movies and this is one of my favorites. I watch it over and over and enjoy it everytime.

Disney Live Action Comedy Hijinks
I remember seeing this movie back in elementary school, and I still find it entertaining today. As the synopsis above states, the plot revolves around a "modern" day space explorer who gets catapulted back to the days of King Arthur. The comedy is derived from the strange predicaments in which Dugan finds himself (the old fish-out-of-water ploy). The movie is one of Disney's better live-action comedies. Since much of the comedy is of the zany, slapstick variety the movie has aged well, and is still humorous twenty years later. The style of comedy is similar to what one finds in other Disney comedies such as the Love Bug. My six year old loves it. If you're a collector of Disney movies definitely add this one to your library.

Despite the age...
Despite the fact that the movie is pretty old for movies today, it is still a very entertaining movie. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

CARRY ON DOCTOR
For the 15th entry in the long running British comedy film series, it was a return to familiar terriotry - the hospital. Carry On Nurse (1958) had enjoyed immense International success so a similar formular was re-worked into Carry On Doctor.

It must be said that Carry On Doctor is amongst the most famous in the series and indeed it has many fine moments throughout, although I have to say that I found Again Doctor (1969) to be more satisfying as there was a little bit more of (dare I say it) a plot structure. This is no more than an updated formular of Carry On Nurse, with slight variations. All of the gang are here, with guest star Frankie Howard receiving top billing. Also included are Sid James (who due to his present illness at the time was restricted to film most of his scenes in bed), Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey, Hattie Jaques as the ferocious, no-nonsence matron, Jim Dale, Joan Sims, barbara Windsor, Bernard Bresslaw, Peter Butterworth, Anita Harris and Dilys Laye.

Basically all fun and games throughout although the climax is good where the patients rebel aginst Williams and Jaques after the unfair dismissal of accident prone Jim Dale. They subject to Williams to an ice cold bath and Jaques to a degrading blanket bath - amusing stuff.

Best players would have to be Kenneth Williams and Hattie Jaques although many of the other cast members get their moments too including Frankie Howard who seems to effortlessly blend in with the regular Carry On cast as though he'd always been part of the team, Jim Dale who is accident prone throughout and Charles Hawtrey in an unusual role as a patient suffering from a sympathetic pregnacy! Barbara Windsor makes a welcome return to the series who had not been seen since 1962's Carry On Spying whilst Joan Sims is another regular in an unusual role as Frankie Howards deaf assistant. She plays the role masterfully whilst Bernard Bresslaw and Peter Butterworth bubble in the back ground as patients.

The series was on a roll at this time after enjoying success with Screaming (1966) and Don't lose Your Head (1966) and the next two films would perharps be the pinnacle of the series with Up The Kyber (1968) and Camping (1968). As for Carry On Doctor (1967) this defintley ranks up there with the other greats of the series. Recommended! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Hilarious Comedy Riot
This,one of the best of the 31 'Carry On' films,is a great romp that stars Barbara Windsor as Daphne Honeybutt (great name,eh?),and Bernard Cribbins,and Judith Furse camping it up big time.

Dilys Laye also makes an appearance as a vampish band singer,and the whole picture is a delightful spoof on spys and secret agents and anything James Bond takes seriously.

My other favourite 'Carry On's are Cabby,Jack,Abroad,Khyber,Doctor and Cruising.

The Funniest 'Carry On'!
I have seen 30 of the 31 'Carry On' films, and this one is the best. It was the 9th one in the series and was the first one to star Barbara Windsor as Daphne Hunnybutt. When asked for her number she replies, '38-22-35', which happen to be her 'vital thingammyjigs'. Charles Hawtrey plays Charlie bind, agent 0.0.0 ('when they looked at me they said, Oo-oo, Oooh!') along with other characters. The team are on a mission- to Vienna to fight against the STENCH men. It is so funny and the terrible puns, 'oh well, hair today and gone tommorrow', double inuendos, 'I'm sure I'll never get my draws off as slickly as that' and sight gags, such as when they enter a restaurant and Kenneth Williams terrible costume of a beard and hat is removed by a waitress, revealing the man himself. It really is a very funny play on the spying theme with an excellant cast and wonderful story, not to be missed!

Spoof of the Bond films with the Carry On team!
The 'Carry Ons' are finally accepted by the critics with this, the 9th entry in the highly successful British comedy film series. A spoof of the James Bond films, this film provides laughs all the way. Cleverly directed and shot in evocative black and white, there are also wonderful comic turns from regulars Charles Hawtrey and most enjoyably, Kenneth Williams as 003 and a half! All the bawdy humour is there and this film is one of the best of it's kind. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A delight for fans of Anita Harris!
I have always loved this film as it features a surprisingly sexy belly dance by Anita Harris as the duplicitous Corktip. As a kid I was aware of Ms. Harris, as she often appeared on British TV in the sixties as a wholesome family singer. This film made me see her in a whole new light!

Average Carry On
Carry On Follow That Camel (1967) lacks the pace and sparkle of some of the Carry On's other historical epics which is surprising as it was always the period comedies where the team scored best. The fact that Sid James, Barbara Windsor and Hattie Jaques are missing may have something to do with it. As a substitute for the absence of Sid James, the team brought in American comedian Phil Silvers who enjoyed success with his self-titled television show in the 1960's. Basically Silvers reprises his role as Sergeant Bilko in this entry (his only Carry On) and it doesn't quite blend in so well with the rest of the teams characterisations although there are some laughs to be along the way.
After being accused of cheating in a cricket match, Bertram Oliphant (Jim Dale in a familiar characterisation) gives up his fiancee (Angela Douglas) and with his bumbling butler Simpson in tow (Peter Butterworth) joins the Foreign Legion. The Fort he ends up in, which is run by Sergeant Knocker (Phil Silvers) soon comes under seige from Seeikh Abdul Abulbul (played brilliantly by Bernard Bresslaw who relishes every manically evil moment).

The desert scenes are vastly impressive and other regulars of the cast such as Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey and Joan Sims (who is shamefully underused in this one though still puts inan effective performance as the sultry and exotic Zigzig) but the feel-good factor of most of the Carry On films is evidently missing here. Though there are some laughs to be endured the film can best be described as just enjoyably average overall. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Jim Dale Rules!!
Jim Dale rules as the world's most famous explorer Christopher Columbus who tries to find an alternative route to the far east without being sabatoged.It's great fun for the whole family!! ... Read more

Description

Canadian import. Vid. mag. Maiden hosts. Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Nicko McBrain, & Janick Gers tal k about Donington, pick their own idols in GODZ, dissect al bum Fear Of the Dark,& party down @ album release do. Excl. footage! Also interviews w/ mbrs of Skid Row, W.A.S .P., Almighty, Thunder, Megadeth, & Black Sabbath. 90 min. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Great Maiden DVD Swindle
I'm sorry to write this, as I am a great fan of Iron Maiden, but words are not enough to describe how disappointed I felt when I pressed the play button to watch this DVD. There's hardly any footage of the band, no music by Iron Maiden whatsoever since it hasn't been authorised by the band itself and no new insight into Maiden's biography. Altogether a big disappointment. I wish I had spent my money on something else. Just don't make the same mistake and don't buy it!!!

Pretty bad....
Being one of the biggest Maiden fans you'll ever meet (and I really mean that), let me tell you that no amount of adoration for this band will make you pleased with this purchase.

Perhaps the first clue to the let-down of this DVD is in the title, where it clearly says 'Unauthorized'. Well, that's QUITE appropriate since, in this DVD, you'll see almost NO video footage of the band at all. Much less in action. Rather, expect to see countless dull interviews and background images with (and this is the worst part) music that sometimes clearly ISN'T even Maiden. What the heck is up with that ???

On a better note, however, it's always cool to hear more about the band. And if you're like me you can never get enough of anything to do with Iron Maiden. Some of the interviews are interesting and a few are really funny. But its not much.

In conclusion, this is a unfortunately dull and very disapointing DVD. Were it on TV it would certainly be worth watching, but I would hardly advice paying money for it unless you have plenty to burn. Rather I would spend my money finishing up my Maiden collection, since every album rocks. ( Or for a better Maiden DVD purchase, pick up their video history, Visions of the Beast- though its more expensive, it's worth it)

Thank God for Iron Maiden.

The LAME-acy of the Beast
Let me begin by saying I LOVE IRON MAIDEN. That said if you also consider youfself a fan. Don't bother buying this garbage. I believe I could have made a better documentary interviewing my local Iron Maiden-Fan friends. There is absolutely NOTHING redeeming about this DVD. No video footage of the band, only photos with some generic pseudo-metal music in the background. This is the first unauthorized documentary I've ever bought and the last. It's completely worthless...DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. The producers of this piece of junk should stick to local-access cable TV. I'm giving this 1 Star simply becasue the amazon rating system won't allow me to leave 0 stars or more appropriatly negative stars ... Read more