Amazon.com

Best known for light, entertaining musicals such as Singin' in the Rain, director Stanley Donen grew more adventurous (and less successful) in the latter stages of his career, but this edgy romantic comedy from 1967 has proven to be one of Donen's best, most enduring films. Jumping back in forth in time, the film chronicles the marital ups and downs of a stylish British couple (Albert Finney and Audrey Hepburn) as they travel on various vacations over the course of their 12-year marriage. The separate vignettes combine to form a collage of joys and pains as the young couple struggles to maintain their fading marital bliss. In this regard, the film is refreshingly sophisticated in its treatment of the difficulties of long-term commitment, and with Hepburn and Finney in the leads, great performances are drawn from the acerbic wit of Frederick Raphael's screenplay. Fashion mavens will also marvel at Hepburn's astonishing wardrobe of late-'60s fashion--she's a showcase for summer couture, looking fantastic in everything from candy-striped bellbottoms to hip sunglasses and outrageously stylish hats. Some of the melodrama clashes with forced comedy (such as tiresome running gags or a cartoonish portrayal of crass American tourists), but that doesn't stop Two for the Road from being timelessly appealing and truthful to the challenge of lasting love. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (56)

A true classic.
TWO FOR THE ROAD had been nearly forgotten except by a few film buffs until Audrey Hepburn's untimely death. People are discovering it and finding it ageless for a number of reasons. The theme of a marriage changing through the years is a well-understood premise. It could be predictable were it not for the wonderful acting by the entire cast, primarily Albert Finney and Ms. Hepburn. Eleanor Bron and William Daniels are a terrific pair of American snobs who join them through a period of their adventure in marriage. The ingenious filmic vehicle(s) that moves the characters through various periods in time is unexpected and beautifully manuevered by the film's tender and loving director, Stanley Donen. Anyone who accuses Donen of being a one trick pony (Singin' in the Rain) should SEE THIS FILM!

Memory Lane Is A Bumpy Road
Some films from the Sixties have dated more than others. I loved this film when it first came out and for years had many pleasant memories of it. Some years ago, my English wife and I travelled across France by road from Calais to the Med and throughout the journey I had images of this film constantly re-playing in my head. So I looked forward to seeing it again after a long time. I don't know whether the times have changed that much, or I have. What once seemed witty, relevant, truthful, charming and modern now strikes me as a somewhat pretentious mess. I seem to remember more comedy than there actually is in the film. The scenes of the crumbling marriage are much too stark a contrast to the lighter tone of other scenes. Moving the storyline back and forth in time is not a problem, but the frequently uncertain tone is. Is it a comedy? A drama? A comedy/drama? A drama/comedy? Who knows? Certainly not Stanley Donen who was so much more assured directing Audrey Hepburn in Charade. Audrey is Audrey, even in the dramatic scenes. Albert Finney bounces between being a latter day Tom Jones and an upmarket Jimmy Porter. The chemistry between the two is marginal. The sequence with Eleanor Bron and William Daniels - two wonderful performers in other circumstances - now seems strained and tedious. The only saving graces are the French countryside and Henry Mancini's music (one of his best scores). Maybe someone seeing the film for the first time will enjoy it more. I remember once hearing that Meg Ryan wanted to do a re-make of Two For The Road. Lets pray to the gods of cinema that it never happens.

Fantastic!!
OK, this movie is just great!! It puts you in such a good mood and brings you to another land. I see there are a few people who made negative comments about the movie.... They are insane!! Two For The Road is a wonderful movie!! I recommend everyone watch it!! My boyfriend who has completely different taste than me even loved it!! Must see!!

If not the best romantic film ever made one of the five top!
Stanley Donen made an unforgettable film and futhermore a model film .
This is a film you'll enjoy always , for many reasons.
The script is supported by a creative edition , a road movie told at different narrative lines , where past present and future are mixed to create a excellent gaze about a simple couple in a road between England and French with thw forrest , the sea as powerful background.
The couple Hepburn - Finney was a hit. Both of them in the peak of his creative powers .

Delightful , a true song for the life and the love , and despite the crucial emotional croosroad at the end , it gives us amazing dialogues and funny situations.
In my opinion , behind Singin'in the rain , consider this one as the major work of this legendary film maker!

A rocky marriage, and a look back at a happier yesterday
When Mark and Joanna Wallace see a pair of newlyweds in a car, amid a throng of rice-flinging well-wishers, the following exchange is heard.

Joanna: They don't look very happy.
Mark: Why should they? They just got married.

It's clear that the Wallaces' marriage has seen better days from that cynical observation. Joanna is sick of seeing her successful architect husband at the beck and call of a certain Maurice, her husband's jaded indifference and extramarital affairs. That leads to an introspective look at their past, given by a series of questions is posed. Where did it all go wrong? You haven't been happy since the day we met, have you? Why do we keep on with this farce? Is it worth it? And of course, how long is this going to go on? These also seem to reflect Hepburn's own marriage to Mel Ferrer, which would last for one more year.

The series of flashbacks, told non-linearly, takes the viewer seeing how Mark and Joanna first met, their travels with another married couple, and the time when they had their first child, when Mark's preoccupation in his career rather than his family reveals the first cracks appearing in their marriage. And the film's running gag involves Mark unable to find his passport, because Joanna has taken it from him. This comes into play as the one consistent thing in their relationship, and a reminder of the past.

By far, the days when Max and Joanna hitchhike across France are the happiest. Sure, they are on a strict budget, being rained on, and a temperamental MG auto, which has a destructive sendoff when it finally poops out. But they were like a couple of kids without a care in the world, having fun. "What kind of people eat without saying a word to each other?" The answer is married people, they say during their romantic period. Years later, when their marriage is on the rocks, they make the same observation, only this time it's about themselves.

David, Joanna's extramarital lover, puts perspective on things when he tells her "there comes a time when one must grow, when the old things aren't amusing anymore." So what does one do when the old things include marriage or being together? Does one stick it out and become more miserable and self-denying, or does one call it a day? What's clear is that promises of never disappointing one another, that the marriage will be one of heaven, and the magic disappears once things don't become personal anymore, but driven by something else.

The transitions between the different times can be differentiated in the car driven, Joanna's hairstyle, dress, and how happy Mark and Joanna are. Donen's sudden jump cuts from present to the various pasts are effective and creative.

Audrey Hepburn is wonderful as usual, and there's growth in the kind of character she plays. Joanna is a variation of Anna (Roman Holiday) or Sabrina, full of fun and laughter, but she also represents a departure from those genteel characters. Scenes where it's apparent she's nude under the covers--unheard of for Audrey Hepburn, right? And her playing an adulterous woman who humiliates her husband? Albert Finney does well as Mark, and his manners of speech range from the comical Bogart-like voice during their premarital trek to a tired weariness.

Two For The Road is also the last movie Hepburn did with director Stanley Donen (Funny Face, Charade). And upon a personal request from Hepburn, Henry Mancini does another winning theme song, fittingly sweet yet nostalgic. It sets a precedent for Audrey Hepburn, away from the innocent virgin roles of before. Despite this being an analysis of a marriage going sour, with moments of frustration and pain, there are moments of fun, and showing how despite changes, maybe being able to accept things as happened and moving with the future will save a rocky marriage such as the Wallaces. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The hit Broadway musical by Peter Stone and Sherman Edwards became the basis for this 1972 film about America's first congress and the nation's declaration of independence from Britain. Most of the original cast members are aboard, including William Daniels as John Adams. The film is a little stodgy and moves stiffly from scene to scene--the adaptation to the screen is not a smooth success. But it is nonetheless captivating, considering that so few films have dealt directly with America's birth. Directed by Peter H. Hunt.--Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (202)

For God's Sake, John, Sit Down...
First, let me say that I'm not a big fan of movie musicals. However, I've always made an exception for 1776. I suppose it's my abiding interest in history, and in the popular presentation of history, that keeps me coming back to this film. For the uninitiated, 1776 is the story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and was first presented on Broadway in the late 1960s. Set in Philadelphia in June and early July of 1776, the action centers around John Adams's attempt to get a reluctant Continental Congress to declare the 13 colonies independent of Great Britain. Adams, and his allies (including Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson), is opposed at every step by the conservatives in Congress, led by John Dickinson of Pennsylvania. Although we know the ending, it is to scriptwriter Peter Stone's credit that we realize things may have turned out rather differently.

My first recorded version of this movie was taped off of a local television station that had drastically edited it for length and content. When I finally got around to buying the VHS version of 1776, I was amazed at what had been left out, particularly when it came to the earthier dialogue. Imagine my reaction to the new DVD director's cut edition of this musical; it was like watching a completely new movie. Bridging scenes that had been edited out now provide a nearly seamless narrative flow, and the musical number "Cool, Considerate Men" has been restored, providing for greater balance between the conservatives and radicals in Congress.

The cast, a number of whom reprise their roles from the Broadway production, is nearly flawless. William Daniels IS John Adams, hard-headed, driven, passionate, "obnoxious and disliked". Howard da Silva is equally effective as Benjamin Franklin, elder statesman and earthy man-of-the-world, while the rest of the actors do very well by their characters. Of necessity, the film's emphasis is on Congress, and therefore on the male of the species; women are limited to two roles--Martha Jefferson, played by Blythe Danner, and Abigail Adams, played by Virginia Vestoff. Of Danner's role, there is little to say beyond the fact that the actress is a luminous screen presence. Vestoff, on the other hand, has a rather more substantial role as John Adams's wife, confidant, and sounding board. The film effectively portrays the correspondence between John and Abigail, a partnership that was, in many ways, remarkable in American history.

Director Peter Hunt keeps things moving along at a lively pace, propelled by the music of Sherman Edwards, who also wrote the lyrics. It's hard to pick a favorite song, but two stand out in my mind--the chilling "Molasses to Rum to Slaves" and the poignant "Mamma, Look Sharp". The former underlines the flawed nature of the American Experiment--that a new nation established on the principle that "all men are created equal" would also keep hundreds of thousands of people in chains. The latter song brings home the fact that while Congress engages in endless debates, men (and boys) are dying on the field of battle.

I could dwell at some length on the historical inaccuracies embodied in this movie--the character of Judge Wilson, for one, and that of Richard Henry Lee, for another. However, purism aside, what 1776 makes clear is just what a close run thing independence really was, that there was, indeed, a significant proportion of Americans (and their representatives) who wished to remain loyal to the British crown. Better yet, the Founding Fathers are portrayed mot as marble men, but as the passionate, flawed, flesh-and-blood individuals they were.

Delightful History
While obviously a stage play transfered to the screen, "1776" is an interesting movie on several levels. While I can't swear to the accuracy of the history on a micro level - although, from what I've seen in the academic sources, it's pretty accurate - this brings some pretty stodgy material to life.

The cast is intriguing - Howard daSilva(who was blacklisted during the McCarthy era) as Benj. Franklin; William Daniels(St. Elsewhere's Dr. Craig)as John Adams; Ken Howard(The White Shadow)as Thos. Jefferson; Blythe Danner; John Cullum; and others. To see daSilva, Daniels and Howard singing and dancing on the stairs of Independence Hall, debating who should write the Declaration, is a delight.

A few famous one-liners - "Gentlemen, if we do not all hang together, we, most assuredly,will all hang separately." And some commentary, which may not be completely accurate, but is indicative of the personality involved - "Rhode Island's in the 'necessary'."

This is no where near a great movie, but it is both educational and entertaining. And there is little funnier in film than Adams' and Franklin's discussion of sex.

Good Muscial. Good History. Good Fun.
"Is anybody there? Does anybody care? Does anybody see what I see?" John Adams (William Daniels, St. Elsewhere, among other things) musically muses in 1776. He is frustrated and believes that the cause of independence may be lost over the issue of slavery.
1776 is a good musical. Maybe it's not the best musical of all time, but pretty darn good. It's fun, it's witty, it's a little naughty in places, and it's very close in historical accuracy. It is a tradition in my household to watch it every 4th of July, to remind ourselves that the holiday is more than just picnics and firework displays.
The music is special too, because it has meaning to the character(s) that sing it and meaning for us. For instance, when Martha Jefferson (Blythe Danner) sings her song, "He Plays the Violin", it has a poignancy to it, because she sings "Say I died loving bride, loving life, loving wife..." and we are reminded that she dies before Jefferson ever sees the Presidency. The exchanges between John and Abigail Adams show us both the love and friendship they shared and the hardship that the wives and families of the revolutionary leaders suffered. When Edward Rutledge of South Carolina (John Collum, Northern Exposure) incredible performance "Molasses to Rum to Slaves", tells us both something about the economics of the times, the compromises that policymakers have to make, and the tragedy of slavery that haunted our nation until the American Civil War and still has repercussions resounding in our ears. He chastises Thomas Jefferson (Ken Howard) on Jefferson's hypocrisy, "You, sir, are a practitioner." Tough words there but true!
1776 isn't only about colonial history; it was written during the American involvement in the Vietnam War. The young messenger (Stephen Nathan) that carries the dispatches from George Washington, sings "Mama, Look Sharp." This sad, dirge-like song is so moving, because it tells us that while the policymakers are quibbling and quarrelling in Philadelphia (or Washington, D.C.), someone is out there dying for the policies and decisions they have implemented. Something to note is that the song "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men" comes right before the Messenger's song and he walks through them, but the cool men don't even seem to see him. No wonder Nixon wanted it taken out of the picture!
But stop all the doom and gloom. There are fun, rousing songs as well like "Sit Down, John", "The Lees of Old Virginia", and "The Egg". I love this musical, because it makes the founding fathers seem more real than any history book has ever done. This musical captures perfectly the anxiety that shadowed the birth of the United States of America. Whether they were on the left or the right, I feel such love for the idiosyncratic, irascible, dynamic men that helped create this ever-evolving democratic republic.

Never Thought History Could Be So Much Fun!
Witty and wonderful songs help tell the story of the trying times leading to the writing and signing of the Declaration of Independence. Definitely helps explain how America's founders could want independence, while still tolerating slavery.

The sound quality is far superior to earlier releases. This is an opportunity to see "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men," the production number which President Richard Nixon had Jack Warner cut from the original production. It certainly adds to the impact, and should NOT have been cut!

Includes Screen Tests and Trailers. Best of all, it also includes an option to hear a full Director and Screenwriter Commentary on the production.

Why were'nt our history classes this informative AND FUN?!

A Patriotic Lump In The Throat
What a wonderful combination of history, theater, and music. "1776" has been one of my favorite musicals since the late '60's. To some, a musical version of the signing of the Declaration of Independence must seem odd and truly out of place, perhaps blasphemous. True, the music is not by Rodgers and Hammerstein, so there will be nothing from this film to whistle in the shower. But I can imagine this film, to most viewers anyway, ranking up there with "Yankee Doodle Dandy" as required viewing every 4th of July.

I am impressed with how the film (and play) stay close to history, although, for the sake of art, some details are changed. The characters come alive, away from the dusty history books, and show humor and a great desire to do something wonderful for the world.

The commentary is very informative. How interesting it is to learn that, on President Richard Nixon's suggestion, friend Jack Warner (the film's producer) cut all references in the film showing conservatives standing in the way of independence. Fortunately, the original, director's cut edition has been restored to DVD, and presents a film more fluid than what was found on the edited, pan-and-scan tape.

If you don't care for the music, at least watch this great film to see what our Founding Fathers were up against in "1776". If patriotic films bring a tear to the eye, keep a box of red, white, and blue tissues handy. ... Read more

Reviews (131)

Jennifer's The Graduate Review
The film The Graduate is a classic 1967 release that is directed by Mike Nichols and released by Embassy Pictures. The film earned $50 million in 1968, which is number one money maker in that time.
Director, Nichols, won the Academy Award for Best Director. The film was also nominated for 6 other Awards, Best Picture, Best Actor and Actress, and Best Supporting Actress. The soundtrack featuring songs by Simon and Garfunkel was gold in 1968 and "Mrs. Robinson" was number one on the charts for four weeks.
College grad (Dustin Hoffman) does what his parents and other people tell him to do including family friend Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) who tells him to have an affair with her. Then he falls in love with her daughter Eliane Robinson (Katherine Ross), and finally finds something he wants to do with his life.
I give this film 4 stars because I thought Dustin Hoffman did a good job. I thought that the music complimented the movie nicely as well. It was a good film.

always relevant no matter what year you graduated!
This movie put Dustin Hoffman on the map -- it is the tale of Ben (Hoffman) and his uncertainty about what to do with his post-collegiate future (despite his neighbor's advice that the future is in plastics.) At his graduation party, he meets up with longtime family friend Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) who proceeds to seduce him ("I think you're the most attractive of my parents' friends, Mrs. Robinson.") They have a secret affair for quite some time.

Then, Ben's parents think it would be nice if he dates Elaine, that nice Mrs. Robinson's daughter! They set up the date, paying no attention to Ben's wishes against it. He acts like a complete jerk during the date so Elaine won't like him, then ends up falling for her anyway. This ends up with him proposing to her later, even when she has decided to marry someone else. The wedding scene is dramatic, and has been parodied on everything from Wayne's World 2 to The Simpsons.

The writing is hilarious, and Hoffman's delivery is great - upon seeing Elaine's finacee approaching them, he gives the sarcastic praise: "He's a good walker!" I love Ben's mom's over-the-top scream of delight when Ben announces he is getting married -- though he hasn't actually asked Elaine yet. And in the scene at the zoo, when Ben is left alone watching Elaine walk off with her fiancee, the camera cuts from the actors to a pair of monkeys grooming each other, and then to a lonesome gorilla. (I think they were trying to be dramatic but I found it funny.)

The Simon & Garfunkel soundtrack is great, and the acting is superb. Ben's father is played by William Daniels, also known as the voice of KIT on the 80s show "Knight Rider" and Mr. Feeny on "Boy Meets World". Ben's landlord at a boarding house is Norma Fell, Three's Company's 'Mr. Roper' (does he always play a landlord?). A great film!

THE Coming of Age Movie
This one is fantastic and very relevant even now a days. Dustin Huffman's breakout film has wonderful performances by all of the actors, a great story, beautiful filmography and a fantastic sound track by Simon and Garfunkle.

Bad movie, no donut
I was 21 when this came out, it was pointless then and still is.
Hoffman was no actor and still is not.

A Beautifully Crafted Film
This movie is a classic example of how good films were even as recent as the 1960's. The plot itself is not so original (young man has an affair with older married woman), however the movie is done in such an artistic way that the affair itself is put in the backseat for most of the film. If this movie were to be remade today, it would have been very sexualy charged and raunchy will the majority of the content focusing on the actual affair itself. However because this movie was made during a time when true quality and craftsmanship was appreciated, the themes are delicate and subtle. It really makes you use your imagination and look deeper into the storyline, rather than just the obvious. The backdrop (Southern & Northern California), the wonderful musical score (Simon & Garfunkel) and great cast made this movie very worthwhile to see as well. If you enjoy movies made with thought and care behind it, you should definitely check this one out! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Dreadful
I bought this because I am reading all 8 volumes. What a waste (the video, that is ....) The acting is embarrassing and over the top, the music is intrusive, and some of the casting, such as Tom Bosley, is laughable. Don't waste your time with this made-for-TV drivel from the 70's.

The Kent Family Chronicles - expected more?
Well, thats it. The first mini series of one of John Jake`s best selling sagas ever: The Kent Family Chronicles. For a German viewer like me, it was an experience because this series was never shown on German television. Spoiled by the fascinating North and South Trilogy and the marvellous and price-winning mini series it was a little disappointment at first. Young Andrew Stevens as Philip Kent seemed a bit overtaxed in the first scenes but became better and better. The whole setting seemed pale and the dialogues were little more than just "small talk". But I think they got round to it by the middle of the film. When Philip arrived in America beautiful and convincing Kim Cattral appeared and Andrew Stevens seemed to act more out of his stomach than out of his head (forgetting what he learned at acting school). It became a pleasure to watch, see how everything fit together (and everyone:Olivia Hussey esp.). All in all it is worth to watch and makes you want to watch the other two sequels, too. And: you must not forget that North and South was filmed nearly seven years later with a much bigger budget perhaps. Watch it!! ... Read more

Reviews (20)

I Can't Imagine Anyone Else As Murray
A THOUSAND CLOWNS is one of my favorite films. I can't imagine better casting than Jason Robards as the nonconformist Murray Burns. Anyone who has ever been stuck in a dull job will be able to identify with Murray and will applaud his efforts to deal with the situation on his own terms. Barbara Harris is superb as the idealistic but rigid social worker Sandra Markowitz who melts under the collective charms of Murray and his nephew Nick (Barry Gordon).

Martin Balsam won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor as Murray's exasperated brother. The movie also received Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Screenplay Adaptation and Adapted Music Score.

A Cult Comedy about Conformity and Love.
Every bit the equal of Harold and Maude, A Thousand Clowns is the sleeper cult movie of the 60's.

After seeing Jason Robards struggle with telephones, relatives, women and conformity, you too will be talking back to the weather lady with his quotes. Only Zorba The Greek has more memorable one-liners.

Invading social workers threaten to separate Robards from his nephew unless he learns to conform sufficiently to keep a job as a comedy writer for Chuckles the Chipmonk.

Strong acting by a wonderful cast, great dialog, and powerful editing in a black and white format will keep you glued the the screen and smiling from beginning to end.

And for the rest of your life, you will know the proper use of the line "you can never have too many eagles" :-)

To drop out of the rat race and live spontaneously

Format: Black & White
Studio: Mgm/Ua Studios
Video Release Date: August 3, 1999

Cast:

Jason Robards ... Murray Burns
Barbara Harris ... Sandra Markowitz
Martin Balsam ... Arnold Burns
Gene Saks ... Leo 'Chuckles The Chipmunk' Herman
William Daniels ... Albert Amundson
Philip Bruns ... Man In The Restaurant
John McMartin ... Man In The Office
Barry Gordon ... Nick, Wilbur Malcolm, Theodore, Raphael Sabatini, Dr. Morris Fishbein, Woodrow, King, Rover, Lefty, Chevrolet, Big Sam Burns

Murray Burns (Jason Robards) has resigned from the rat race. His young nephew Nick (Barry Gordon), who lives with him, is about to be taken away by the welfare department because he is considered an unfit parent. Sandra Markowitz (Barbara Harris), one of the welfare workers, falls in love with Murray. That, in a nutshell, is the conflict.

This is a good, funny movie, well acted and directed.

Best in scripts ...
This has always been one of my favorite movies because the script is first-rate. I recommend this movie to anyone that appreciates quality and depth in a film.

The movie, set in the heart of Manhattan, is centered around the relationship between an out-of-work actor, his nephew and himself. There are few movies that can capture the real struggle of daily life and still make you laugh along the way. This movie is one of them. The classic lines, as given in other reviews, cannot be given justice in a written review. They must be seen and experienced first hand.

You won't be disappointed by the acting of Jason Robards, Barry Gordon or anyone else in this film. If you're prone to self-examination, this movie will quickly be one of your favorites.

+1/2 - Before the hippies... there was Murray
An intriguing film about the balance between nonconformism and one's responsibility to others. Jason Robards stars as Murray Burns, an ascerbic, bohemian Madison Avenue dropout who spends his days romping through Central Park, visiting the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, seeing ships off, and generally thumbing his nose at all the 9-to-5ers who haven't also had the gumption to quit their jobs. He's also the guardian of his twelve-year-old nephew, Nick, but sadly the child welfare authorities have gotten wind of Uncle Murray's odd ways and willful unemployment, and Robards is forced to contend with the crushing power of "the real world."

Adapted from a stage play, this film retains much of the blocking and timing of its original incarnation, but makes fine use of New York's mid-'60s scenery to conjure the giddy solitude of Murray's outside-looking-in lifestyle. Like many theatre pieces from this era, this grapples with Big Issues and Psychology (both with capital letters), but it does so with a light touch, more a Neil Simon-y bittersweetness than overtly angst-ridden and shouted at the top of one's lungs. Made just before the hippies took over, this film is an obvious precursor to "Harold And Maude" and the like... On the surface, the issues aren't terribly subtle, but they are handled deftly and echo well; the film retains an admirable sense of uneasiness and ambiguity even up through its seemingly neat-package ending. Barbara Harris is good in the role of Murray's anguished girlfriend, and teen actor Barry Gordon is a marvel as the precocious nephew, Nick, giving as good as he gets, playing opposite Robards. (Gordon later moved into bit television roles and voiceover work; a pity, since he's fascinating here, in a more serious role...)

An interesting movie, exploring dilemmas and choices that are still present today. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The cinematography by Néstor Almendros garnered him an Oscar nomination. Unfortunately, the performance by then child star Brooke Shields garnered her a nomination, too--for a Razzie Award. She won, he didn't.

This 1980 remake of a much classier, 1949 British version features Shields and Christopher Atkins as children shipwrecked on a lush tropical island. They grow to maturity and fall in love, with the script paying special attention to their burgeoning sexuality. Should you desire more trite dialogue, there is an even less satisfying sequel, 1991's Return to the Blue Lagoon. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (58)

This film should be hailed as a classic
After things don't go like they should, a boy and a girl get stranded on an island in the South Seas. The two children are forced to stay together for years on the island with no other place to go. As you might imagine, once these two reach their teenage years, they might begin to feel a little differently about each other.

I was born the year this movie was made and I grew up watching it a lot of times. When I was a teenager, I never really paid much attention to the movie itself because I was head over heels for Brooke Shields. Now that I'm grown, I decided to watch it again and see if it was really as terrible of a movie as I've always heard it was.

Sure, the movie is somewhat controversial and it's not all that deep plot-wise, but to be honest, I still like this movie a lot.

In my opinion, "The Blue Lagoon" had and still has a lot going for it. For one, I don't see why everybody cuts down Brooke Shields for her horrible acting. Granted she's not the best actress in the world, but I don't think she did that bad of a job. Another thing, I saw that the movie doesn't concentrate hardly at all on how the couple actually survives for years on the island, it's mainly just a movie about two teens who fall in love on a seemingly deserted island. But that's all the makers intended for this movie to be about, it's not supposed to be much of a story of survival. It kept me interested the entire two hours and I never got bored at all.

Finally, I've always heard about "The Blue Lagoon" winning the 1980 award for best cinematography, and I can see why. Throughout the movie, there are several captivating underwater sequences along with the views of the island itself and the ocean. Equally as impressive is the film's musical score. The music couldn't have been any better for the parts of the movie that it signifies.

If you like great movies and if you can tolerate watching a classic romance/drama film, do yourself a favor and purchase "The Blue Lagoon." I really don't see why many people throughout the years have bashed it flatter than a slice of cheese because it's a great movie, and in my book, it's a classic!

A Tale of Natual Love-Brooke Shields finest
The Blue Lagoon is a true classic, never have I seen a film shot as beautifully as this one. It is a true story about natual love, the discovery of one's self, their bodies, their confusing feelings for one another as they hit man and womanhood. This film deals with a lot of issues- growing up on their own on a deserted island, their sexuality, masterbation, menstration, sex,parenthood. This film is wonderful. Never have I really seen a film that's not set in civillisation but is so entertaining for one but the story is just beautiful, and Brooke Shields as Emmeline and Christopher Atkins as Richard are fantastic. The musical score is truely beautiful and makes me feel a range of emotions. The first time I saw this film I was so fasinated by it, and was about the same age as the characters so I could relate to some of the emotions they were going through, the confusion of everything. Anyone thinking about buying this film-Go for it- You woun't regret it. As for the fans who have loved this film throught out the years, it was worth the wait. The Extras on the DVD are excellent. The two commentaries are very informative and I love listening to the Brooke Shields track and hearing her insight about the film and that time the film came out. It's also interesting looking at her own personal photo album and the featurette from 1980 is very interesting.This film will always be one of my favourites.-Brooke Shields is just beautiful and is one of the best actress' of her generation.

FANTASTIC
The film was dissected by most critics, but I have always enjoyed it. The stars; Christopher Atkins and Brooke Shields shine in their youthful beauty and performances. The movie was banned in Oslo when it opened in 1980, but it played to full houses in the provinces. The docu on this DVD is good, but the sound is not on par with the movie.

I think the critics at the time was embaressed by its sensual frankness and therefor tried to "kill it". It was a huge hit though and still is a film you should see with your loved-one:-)

ATKINS & SHIELDS - BOTH GREAT
I remember that it was banned in Oslo when it came in 1980, but we saw it out of town hehehe. The DVD is perfect. The cinematgraphy and music as good as it gets. The film was dissected by critics, but I think at the time it was strong stuff to see sexual frankness from a major Hollywood studio. Christopher Atkins and Brooke Shields are both at their best in this film. It is the perfect film for two people in the beginning of their love-affair.

Celebration of emotions
What if a man is not influenced by any thoughts of others and stays totally isolate of all human hypocrisy? What if a man has only nature around him and nothing else to prejudice his sense of right and wrong? This is exactly what this movie is all about.
Two children, stranded in an island, form their own set of ethics and morals...as they have to with no adults around. Their lives, as the Director wishes to convey, are a voyage of discovery. They discover the best food to survive on, they discover the places they should not visit, they discover adoloscence, they discover the rebellion of the teenage, they discover love, they discover passion, they discover the joys of family and finally, the irony of life. They have nothing to influence their discovery and that, in itself makes the movie an adventure and enchanting.
This is one movie that's a must in all collections. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Too Faithless Adaptation-Stick To The Books!
John Jakes' "Kent Family Chronicles" novels have long been favorites of mine and it was because of that, that I decided to recently revisit the television adaptations of the first three novels in the series from the late 1970s. Of them, the adaptation of the first novel "The Bastard" was the best, being the most faithful translation of novel to screen with most of Jakes' dialogue left unchanged and only streamlined in spots. Unfortunately in volume two, "The Rebels" there are a number of drastic changes and departures from Jakes' novel and the end result is very unsatisfying. For one thing, in Jakes' novel Philip Kent and Judson Fletcher never meet! We are also given a totally different fate for Philip's wife Anne, and many characters who had returned from "The Bastard" in the novel, such as Alicia Amberly and Captain Will Caleb are nowhere to be found in this adaptation, robbing it of some of its depth. On top of that we get a too abrupt subplot invented for the film of Philip's father, James Amberly (Richard Basehart) coming to America and confronting his son, but what should have made for an interesting scene of drama is dispensed with too abruptly in an unsatisfying fashion. In the end, the changes are just too great to make a fan of the book appreciate the effort.

The one redeeming feature of "The Rebels" however that makes it worth seeing is William Daniels reprising his "1776" role as John Adams (in another touch of irony, Daniels played Cousin Sam Adams in "The Bastard"), and this time showing his depth as an actor by playing Adams closer to historical reality than the famous musical allowed. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

'Conquest Of The Earth' AKA 'Galactica-1980'
Well... The series was Ok... It might have survived better with all the original cast seeing as it was only made a year after ABC axed the original Battlestar Galactica. The only episode I really liked was with Starbuck and a few of the original cast that returned for that episode. 'Conquest of the Earth' is good as a collector's item for any BG fan... But it is such a chopped up and pieced together video of the 13 episodes they made. They should have just released them all uncut on Video than take them all and cut them up for a movie. It's about as bad as when they took the TV Show 'Voyagers!'(That I really liked) and re-edited and changed the effects and cut up shows to make a 'Voyagers!' movie for VHS back in the 80's.
So if you liked BG then buy it if nothing more than to see how they tried to return the show to TV. But fan's try hard to forget the 'Galactica 1980' version... Probably as much as we are not looking forward to the Dec.2003 mini-series "BattleStar Galactica' that is being hailed as 'Reimmagined' for the Sci-Fi channel....Seeing as StarBuck is a female character now, and there will be no Daggit 'Muffit' as well as the mythology background of the original BG. I'll peek in on the Mini-series... Maybe Ronald D. Moore will make it as true to the original as he can? After all... A lot of old Trek fans were up in arms over the thought of Star Trek:TNG at first...But I gave it a chance! And loved it!!! But I think taking a loved male character that worked well with Apollo and making it female would be like Star Trek:TNG being remade with Data and Riker as females, and changing Gene Roddenberry's entire premise of Star Trek. In other words... Don't mess with what works. :-)

They finally made It!!!!
I loved the original when it first started. When they finally reach earth its kind of cool. They got new flying bikes and stealth technology..I just wished the movie was edited better. But its one every collector must have....long live battlestar galactica............

So bad it's... well, it's just bad.
Why on earth didn't they let the Cylons kill Wolfman Jack? OK, this isn't exactly Shakespeare, but you know what - neither was the original Battlestar Galactica, which had to hold the record for most sf/x stock footage ever used in one series. This bizarre combination of "Galactica: 1980" footage and other bits 'n' pieces is worth a look for camp value for any "Battlestar" fan with a sense of humor - besides the aforementioned totally wacked-out cameo by Wolfman Jack, you have the never-explained "human" Cylons, the so-bad-it's-laughable f/x for the "sky bikes," a funky disco soundtrack, the really lame "Dr. Zee" character who's never fully explained, played by two actors in the course of the show (one of them Robbie Rist, lionized as the "ninth Brady!"), and to top it all off, a somnabulent Lorne Greene with a beard looking like nothing so much as a mummified corpse that walks. ("Just gimme the check, and let me go home..." he seems to be thinking.) I have fond memories of the original Battlestar although these days I can see what a fairly dated, hokey piece of work it is (still fun though), and this "Conquest" makes that stuff look like "2001." Get it if you're a fan who never saw the lamentable "Galactica: 1980" series and are trying to remember why it was an even more terrible "TV sequel" than "AfterMASH."

Make it go away!
Ok, everyone close your eyes, tap your heels together three times, and say "There is no Galactica 1980, there is no Galacatica 1980!" This pitiful half hearted, half budgeted attempt to revive Battlestar Galactica in the 80's was so terrible that everyone wants to pretend it never happened. Even Richard Hatch (Apollo) ignored this short lived series when he co-wrote his two BG novels. Basically, this flick has horrible effects, very cheesy acting, and at least a quarter of the movie is clips from the old Galactica series. Take my word, don't waste your money. You can buy all the episodes from the original series and be entertained for a long time, but this one will put you to sleep.

A kind of "best of" Galactica 1980
Though, I do agree that the G'80 series was horrible, it did have some interesting moments. "The Return of Starbuck" was obvoiusly the best episode. "Conquest of Earth" starts off with the first part of "Galactica Discovers Earth" , then skips the stupid subplot and goes right into "The Night the Cylons Landed". Thank goodness they edited all the stupid scenes from it though. I think maybe Glen Larson released "Conquest" to kind of squeeze something good out of G'80. One review on here said that there was no explanation as to the two Dr' Zee's. Actually there is a redub in "Conquest" that mentions that one is Dr. Zee and the other is his brother Dr. Zen. For the most part, "Conquest" is not a great movie, but it's much better than the entire series of Galactica 1980. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

My favorite film for good reason
This is a beautiful movie. Innovative, well-written, well-acted: one of, if not the best, soundtrack of all time. (By the way, this was the first movie to use contemporary music as its score... the first real soundtrack.) It's a great screenplay, I've read it... the actors don't just think of these things off the top of their heads, people! The writer, director and Dustin Hoffman together create one of the best-ever characters of the cinema in Ben: very believable, in my opinion. Great cinematography; let me add again AWESOME SONGS; very funny (but somewhat subtly so); and fantastic ending. This is just a beautiful film. If you haven't seen it, do so immediately... or else.

Dustin Hoffman at his very best. Just wonderful!
Very straight forward at times. Suddle at others. The songs alone make this a simply wonderful picture. The ending was breathtaking!

A most spectacular portrayal of sex and confusion in the 60s
I recently saw the Graduate in my Film class. After picking it apart and examining the details, I realize that this film is one of the best portrayal's of awkward youth in any era. ... Read more

Reviews (202)

For God's Sake, John, Sit Down...
First, let me say that I'm not a big fan of movie musicals. However, I've always made an exception for 1776. I suppose it's my abiding interest in history, and in the popular presentation of history, that keeps me coming back to this film. For the uninitiated, 1776 is the story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and was first presented on Broadway in the late 1960s. Set in Philadelphia in June and early July of 1776, the action centers around John Adams's attempt to get a reluctant Continental Congress to declare the 13 colonies independent of Great Britain. Adams, and his allies (including Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson), is opposed at every step by the conservatives in Congress, led by John Dickinson of Pennsylvania. Although we know the ending, it is to scriptwriter Peter Stone's credit that we realize things may have turned out rather differently.

My first recorded version of this movie was taped off of a local television station that had drastically edited it for length and content. When I finally got around to buying the VHS version of 1776, I was amazed at what had been left out, particularly when it came to the earthier dialogue. Imagine my reaction to the new DVD director's cut edition of this musical; it was like watching a completely new movie. Bridging scenes that had been edited out now provide a nearly seamless narrative flow, and the musical number "Cool, Considerate Men" has been restored, providing for greater balance between the conservatives and radicals in Congress.

The cast, a number of whom reprise their roles from the Broadway production, is nearly flawless. William Daniels IS John Adams, hard-headed, driven, passionate, "obnoxious and disliked". Howard da Silva is equally effective as Benjamin Franklin, elder statesman and earthy man-of-the-world, while the rest of the actors do very well by their characters. Of necessity, the film's emphasis is on Congress, and therefore on the male of the species; women are limited to two roles--Martha Jefferson, played by Blythe Danner, and Abigail Adams, played by Virginia Vestoff. Of Danner's role, there is little to say beyond the fact that the actress is a luminous screen presence. Vestoff, on the other hand, has a rather more substantial role as John Adams's wife, confidant, and sounding board. The film effectively portrays the correspondence between John and Abigail, a partnership that was, in many ways, remarkable in American history.

Director Peter Hunt keeps things moving along at a lively pace, propelled by the music of Sherman Edwards, who also wrote the lyrics. It's hard to pick a favorite song, but two stand out in my mind--the chilling "Molasses to Rum to Slaves" and the poignant "Mamma, Look Sharp". The former underlines the flawed nature of the American Experiment--that a new nation established on the principle that "all men are created equal" would also keep hundreds of thousands of people in chains. The latter song brings home the fact that while Congress engages in endless debates, men (and boys) are dying on the field of battle.

I could dwell at some length on the historical inaccuracies embodied in this movie--the character of Judge Wilson, for one, and that of Richard Henry Lee, for another. However, purism aside, what 1776 makes clear is just what a close run thing independence really was, that there was, indeed, a significant proportion of Americans (and their representatives) who wished to remain loyal to the British crown. Better yet, the Founding Fathers are portrayed mot as marble men, but as the passionate, flawed, flesh-and-blood individuals they were.

Delightful History
While obviously a stage play transfered to the screen, "1776" is an interesting movie on several levels. While I can't swear to the accuracy of the history on a micro level - although, from what I've seen in the academic sources, it's pretty accurate - this brings some pretty stodgy material to life.

The cast is intriguing - Howard daSilva(who was blacklisted during the McCarthy era) as Benj. Franklin; William Daniels(St. Elsewhere's Dr. Craig)as John Adams; Ken Howard(The White Shadow)as Thos. Jefferson; Blythe Danner; John Cullum; and others. To see daSilva, Daniels and Howard singing and dancing on the stairs of Independence Hall, debating who should write the Declaration, is a delight.

A few famous one-liners - "Gentlemen, if we do not all hang together, we, most assuredly,will all hang separately." And some commentary, which may not be completely accurate, but is indicative of the personality involved - "Rhode Island's in the 'necessary'."

This is no where near a great movie, but it is both educational and entertaining. And there is little funnier in film than Adams' and Franklin's discussion of sex.

Good Muscial. Good History. Good Fun.
"Is anybody there? Does anybody care? Does anybody see what I see?" John Adams (William Daniels, St. Elsewhere, among other things) musically muses in 1776. He is frustrated and believes that the cause of independence may be lost over the issue of slavery.
1776 is a good musical. Maybe it's not the best musical of all time, but pretty darn good. It's fun, it's witty, it's a little naughty in places, and it's very close in historical accuracy. It is a tradition in my household to watch it every 4th of July, to remind ourselves that the holiday is more than just picnics and firework displays.
The music is special too, because it has meaning to the character(s) that sing it and meaning for us. For instance, when Martha Jefferson (Blythe Danner) sings her song, "He Plays the Violin", it has a poignancy to it, because she sings "Say I died loving bride, loving life, loving wife..." and we are reminded that she dies before Jefferson ever sees the Presidency. The exchanges between John and Abigail Adams show us both the love and friendship they shared and the hardship that the wives and families of the revolutionary leaders suffered. When Edward Rutledge of South Carolina (John Collum, Northern Exposure) incredible performance "Molasses to Rum to Slaves", tells us both something about the economics of the times, the compromises that policymakers have to make, and the tragedy of slavery that haunted our nation until the American Civil War and still has repercussions resounding in our ears. He chastises Thomas Jefferson (Ken Howard) on Jefferson's hypocrisy, "You, sir, are a practitioner." Tough words there but true!
1776 isn't only about colonial history; it was written during the American involvement in the Vietnam War. The young messenger (Stephen Nathan) that carries the dispatches from George Washington, sings "Mama, Look Sharp." This sad, dirge-like song is so moving, because it tells us that while the policymakers are quibbling and quarrelling in Philadelphia (or Washington, D.C.), someone is out there dying for the policies and decisions they have implemented. Something to note is that the song "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men" comes right before the Messenger's song and he walks through them, but the cool men don't even seem to see him. No wonder Nixon wanted it taken out of the picture!
But stop all the doom and gloom. There are fun, rousing songs as well like "Sit Down, John", "The Lees of Old Virginia", and "The Egg". I love this musical, because it makes the founding fathers seem more real than any history book has ever done. This musical captures perfectly the anxiety that shadowed the birth of the United States of America. Whether they were on the left or the right, I feel such love for the idiosyncratic, irascible, dynamic men that helped create this ever-evolving democratic republic.

Never Thought History Could Be So Much Fun!
Witty and wonderful songs help tell the story of the trying times leading to the writing and signing of the Declaration of Independence. Definitely helps explain how America's founders could want independence, while still tolerating slavery.

The sound quality is far superior to earlier releases. This is an opportunity to see "Cool, Cool, Considerate Men," the production number which President Richard Nixon had Jack Warner cut from the original production. It certainly adds to the impact, and should NOT have been cut!

Includes Screen Tests and Trailers. Best of all, it also includes an option to hear a full Director and Screenwriter Commentary on the production.

Why were'nt our history classes this informative AND FUN?!

A Patriotic Lump In The Throat
What a wonderful combination of history, theater, and music. "1776" has been one of my favorite musicals since the late '60's. To some, a musical version of the signing of the Declaration of Independence must seem odd and truly out of place, perhaps blasphemous. True, the music is not by Rodgers and Hammerstein, so there will be nothing from this film to whistle in the shower. But I can imagine this film, to most viewers anyway, ranking up there with "Yankee Doodle Dandy" as required viewing every 4th of July.

I am impressed with how the film (and play) stay close to history, although, for the sake of art, some details are changed. The characters come alive, away from the dusty history books, and show humor and a great desire to do something wonderful for the world.

The commentary is very informative. How interesting it is to learn that, on President Richard Nixon's suggestion, friend Jack Warner (the film's producer) cut all references in the film showing conservatives standing in the way of independence. Fortunately, the original, director's cut edition has been restored to DVD, and presents a film more fluid than what was found on the edited, pan-and-scan tape.

If you don't care for the music, at least watch this great film to see what our Founding Fathers were up against in "1776". If patriotic films bring a tear to the eye, keep a box of red, white, and blue tissues handy. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not A Bad Movie at All
I know Sunburn was not a big hit with the critics and I have heard that it was a box office flop but I remember watching this movie on HBO with my parents when I was a teenager and liking it. It's not the best movie in the world but it wasn't the horrible movie that the critics had me thinking it was going to be and I actually found that it was a pretty cute movie and I think Farrah Fawcett-Majors, Charles Grodin and Art Carney were all good. Charles Grodin plays an insurance investigator in Acapulco who is investigating a possible murder case that involves a large sum of money and he enlists a ditzy woman played by Farrah Fawcett-Majors to pretend to be his wife and help him investigate and he is also helped by a retired detective played by Art Carney. This is a cute movie and I too wish it was on DVD!

Fun From Two Decades Ago
Anyone who is a Farrah Fawcett fan will love this movie. She doesn't have much of a 'sun tan' here but looks good in one of her earlier films.

Charles Grodin and Art Carney add plenty of humor. Though the movie has a sudden 'wrap-up' ending its 110 minutes of fun, the scenes are pretty nice in Mexico. I was searching for this movie a long time and gave up until recently doing a search for Farrah Fawcett.

Maybe a DVD will come out although I doubt anyone will be re-mastering the soundtrack.

If you've seen this movie in theatres and enjoyed it, at least it will take you back into your past . . . and that was what I expected. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bruce Willis's first starring vehicle was this 1987 comedy by Blake Edwards (Victor/Victoria), in which the actor plays a yuppie set up on a blind date with a beautiful blonde (Kim Basinger). Everything goes swimmingly until Willis does what he was warned not to do: give the lady alcohol, which causes her to get entirely out of control. The one-note joke basically turns the film into a succession of set pieces in which Willis has to keep up with Basinger, bail her out of trouble, or get out of the way of her hotheaded former boyfriend (John Larroquette). Willis is fine, Basinger is impressively unhinged, Larroquette is hilarious, and Phil Hartman has a nice role as the friend who set up Willis's evening from hell. The slapstick shtick is classic Edwards, but the film is not Edwards at his most inspired. Consider Blind Date the work of a good filmmaker in a holding pattern. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Blind Dated
This is one 80's movie! Which is fine considering that particular decade gave us so much nostalgia. I just feel weird giving Blind Dare 4 stars because, even though it's great, it does contain a highly distressing 'disco' scene that will make you cringe.

Walter Davis (Bruce Willis in his first movie) is a stressed workaholic who must bring a date to a business dinner to impress a Japanese client. In desperation his brings his sister-in-laws cousin Nadia (a brunette, and prettier Kim Basinger) who is very cute, but has a drink problem. Despite warnings not to get her drunk, Walter buys her champagne and, like some sort of human mogwai, she transforms into a crazed party animal. Things go very bad for Walter as Nadia proceeds to wreck his life. Not only that, but her totally mad ex-boyfriend David (John Larroquette) is stalking them at every turn. William Daniels (the voice of KITT from Knight Boat) even has a funny role as a disgruntled judge and the late (great) Phil Hartman plays Walter's brother.

Filmmaking legend Blake Edwards (The Pink Panther, Breakfast at Tiffany's) is the man behind the camera. He brings a lot of class and experience to what could have been a generic romantic comedy. His widescreen compositions and long, moving camera takes add a touch of sophistication, it's a shame it just had to end up being so 80's.

There are loads of hilarious moments and I suggest you pick it up whenever you see it. Just use 80's block factor 1000.

The DVD is in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen with average Dolby 2.0 sound. A trailer is included.

Highly underated comedy!
This is one of my favorite comedies. Bruce Willis is very funny, but the one who really cracked me up was John Larroquette. He was hilarious as a psychotic ex-boyfriend of Kim Basinger. Phil Hartman adds a lot as Bruce Willis's untrustworthy brother. Yes the ending is so predictable, but this movie has some great scenes: Willis puking in Hartman's new car; the business dinner; and of course, the funny scenes with Larroquette and Willis. The film drags a little towards the (CHEESY!!!) ending, but this is still a great comedy.

Did I hear the mambo?
I think I must be immune to 80s films now, I've seen them that many times. I really didn't find this movie 80s at all, apart from the clothes. Bruce Willis stars alongside Kim Basinger, in his first movie, and not one I can say that would have really made his name! I don't know what it was, I normally find Bruce Willis quite nice looking, but in this he didn't do anything for me. I think it was the hair! He looks great with shorter hair (and normally I hate guys with skinheads etc), I just didn't like his hair in this.

Apart from that, this film is hilarious! Kim Basinger plays the outrageous drunk quite well, and Bruce Willis plays up an almost comedic role brilliantly! There is a fantastic scene in a courtroom, which I was in fits over, and Bruce doing an extremely fake fall over some golf balls!

The movie's also quite sad, at the same time, as you watch Bruce struggle as Kim's character gets the more worse for wear with the drink, and then he tries to get drunk, and embarrass her when she's sober. And then he deliberately gets her drunk just to win her back - that bit is so sweet!

When you've finished watching this, you'll probably never want to go on a blind date again - or, on the other hand, be nearly married to a guy who sleeps with teddy bears, and worse of all, TALKS to them! All in a all a terrific, if not a little slow to get started.

Superbly hilarious!
And still one of the best date movies around.

A boyish Bruce Willis coming off his emergence in "Moonlighting" fights off insanely obsessed ex-boyfriend John Laroquette while dealing with stunning Kim Basssinger's "alcohol allergy" with hysterical results. The business meeting with the Japanese patron is classic Blake Edwards. I found myself laughing out loud throughout this kooky farce. Very funny.

The DVD has both widescreen and standard, the transfer is pretty good, but the 2 channel dolby is semi-hollow. Who cares, this movie is just pure fun! 5 Magnums

Worst movie ever
I have only walked out of a handful of movies, and this was one of them. Everything about this movie was contrived and stilted. While Blake Edwards has produced some classic movies, this simply is not one of them. I recommend S.O.B if you're looking for a truly excellent Edwards film ... Read more

Amazon.com

Carl Reiner directed this sweet comedy about the Man Upstairs visiting Earth in the form of a funny little guy (George Burns). John Denver is the good man chosen to be God's contact in the modern age--and like an Old Testament prophet, Denver's character pays the price by being ridiculed and faced with criminal charges. Denver is a warm presence, but the film is entirely in Burns's court. Reiner feeds him lines that come out of Burns' mouth like stage patter, and it's no wonder he got a huge career boost from this film in the winter of his life. Except for some courtroom stuff in the third act--where Reiner inadvertently cheapens the movie with editing tricks to suggest "miracles"--Oh, God! is just fine. (It's certainly better than its two perfunctory sequels, Oh God! Book II and Oh God! You Devil.) --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (21)

God recruits agnostic man to spread His Message
George Burns and John Denver are a winning pair as God and the young middle class American guy who has trouble "believing", much less spreading the Good News. The "tests" Denver has for Burns to prove that he really IS God are hilarious. When Denver asks Burns to make it rain (on a sunny day), Burns does just that...but only inside of Denver's car! Eventually Denver does get the "message" and lives his life as a better person. -- This is a wonderful family movie, followed by a somewhat weaker, but no less sweet sequal (Oh God, Book II). A little 70s nostalgia doesn't hurt this film one bit. A winner!

CULT MOVIES 40
40. OH! GOD! (comedy, 1977) Jerry (John Denver) is an assistant-manager for a produce store. He's an honest man who has a wife and 2 kids. Just your normal kind of guy that is until God (George Burns) requests an audience with him. He has picked Jerry to carry his message of good will to an increasingly pessimistic world. But Jerry finds that people are difficult to convert, he even has trouble trying to make his family understand that God appears to him as a kindly old guy. His faith remains strong until his call starts to slowly filter through.

Critique: A surprise box-office hit when first released, it spawned other sequels that proved interesting ('OH! GOD! BOOK 2', 'OH! GOD! YOU DEVIL'). 81 year old George Burns shines as the perennial God, a role that he played with sweet abandonment. His deliveries of lines are perfectly executed. This God seems to have an answer for everything: on creating the world he quips; "to tell you the truth I thought about it for 6 days and did the whole thing in 1". What's most interesting is that the film takes an unbiased, non-religious look at our Creator. This God doesn't believe in religions or its leaders, and sees "human suffering" as being our fault (not his) since we perpetrate the acts. No wonder the very simple themes and in-jokes appealed to so many.

QUOTE: Jerry: "Sometimes, now and then, couldn't we just talk?" God: "Tell you what, you talk I'll listen."

Good movie, good commentary track
As much as I really like this movie, I wish there was a box set including the two sequels. The original is the best, easily, but with the amount of movie series coming to dvd it would only make sense to have the trilogy. "Oh God Book Two" is lackluster, for the most part, but "Oh God You Devil" is quite a corker (with George Burns playing a dual role as God and the Devil).

This is a low-key, laid back kind of movie. This might seem insufferably tame and sedate by many of today's young moviegoers, especially in light of manic "comedies" such as "Bruce Almighty" which had fun with religious-themed humor. But for those of us old enough to remember it- and to remember the sly wit of George Burns- it is a treat to revisit the movie in widescreen. The commentary track with Carl Reiner and Teri Garr is a winner, essentially as laid back as the movie itself but entirely satisfying. Speaking of Ms. Garr, she was quite a fox back in the day and looks great in this movie. God bless her as she struggles with MS.

It's been said before, but the ending of the movie gets a little gimmicky and could've been just as low-key as the rest of the movie. The 'special effects' and theatrics in the courtroom are a bit out of step with the rest of the movie. But otherwise, this one is a real charmer. Now, if only we could get the sequels on dvd too.....

Compelling View of a Very Personable God
When granted an interview with God, John Denver - an assistant manager at Food World, thinks that it is a practical joke by one of his friends. When the invitation turns up again in an unexpected place, it gets his attention - even though he doesn't believe in God.

George Burns plays wonderfully as God and the ensuing scenes where he convinces Denver that he is who he says he is have an enduring and endearing quality. His message is simple. God is alive. God cares. We have been given everything we need to make it work - and it can, if we want it to. Convincing the world, however, is another matter. From the religious editor at the LA Times who thinks Denver is just another fruitcake to Denver's boss at Food World who is offended that Denver would suggest that God would pick an unbelieving assistant manager instead of him, a man who has prayed with Billy Graham, no less, all the personalities come out. After an appearance on Dinah Shore, spaced out weirdos show up on his lawn and harass his kids and wife. Finally, a panel of religious experts agree to give Denver a set of questions that he could not possibly answer (they are written in Aramaic). After completing the questions, Denver delivers his package and a few choice words from God to a stereotypical televangelist (aka "God's Own Quarterback" - having delivered the benediction at this year's Superbowl). The film finally culminates in a courtroom scene where Burns, as God, gives a powerful delivery.

This film has some of the best writing. Burns has many humorous lines - it IS a comedy - but he also has some pretty profound and meaningful lines. In an obvious reference to the film The Exorcist, he comments on how easy it is for people to believe in the devil. But not God. He says that what we have here is some of his best work, that we should take care of it and appreciate it. He says that he knows how hard it can be in these troubled times to believe in God but, if it helps, we should know that he believes in us.

Classic 70's cinema -- weak DVD features
If you're reading this, you've probably already seen it and know it's a great movie. The DVD features are minimal (trailers, a list of awards, and George Burns' movies). Some deleted scenes or outtakes would have been really interesting, but there are none offered.

The commentary track reveals a few interesting things about the movie, but also rambles about non-related things. They admitted they hadn't seen the movie in a long time, so their commentary could have been better had they prepared.

Another weird problem: the music on the main menu is so distorted it sounds like it's being played through a cheap hand radio. But the sound on the movie is good.

If I could rate the DVD features separately, I would give them two stars. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

I Can't Imagine Anyone Else As Murray
A THOUSAND CLOWNS is one of my favorite films. I can't imagine better casting than Jason Robards as the nonconformist Murray Burns. Anyone who has ever been stuck in a dull job will be able to identify with Murray and will applaud his efforts to deal with the situation on his own terms. Barbara Harris is superb as the idealistic but rigid social worker Sandra Markowitz who melts under the collective charms of Murray and his nephew Nick (Barry Gordon).

Martin Balsam won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor as Murray's exasperated brother. The movie also received Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Screenplay Adaptation and Adapted Music Score.

A Cult Comedy about Conformity and Love.
Every bit the equal of Harold and Maude, A Thousand Clowns is the sleeper cult movie of the 60's.

After seeing Jason Robards struggle with telephones, relatives, women and conformity, you too will be talking back to the weather lady with his quotes. Only Zorba The Greek has more memorable one-liners.

Invading social workers threaten to separate Robards from his nephew unless he learns to conform sufficiently to keep a job as a comedy writer for Chuckles the Chipmonk.

Strong acting by a wonderful cast, great dialog, and powerful editing in a black and white format will keep you glued the the screen and smiling from beginning to end.

And for the rest of your life, you will know the proper use of the line "you can never have too many eagles" :-)

To drop out of the rat race and live spontaneously

Format: Black & White
Studio: Mgm/Ua Studios
Video Release Date: August 3, 1999

Cast:

Jason Robards ... Murray Burns
Barbara Harris ... Sandra Markowitz
Martin Balsam ... Arnold Burns
Gene Saks ... Leo 'Chuckles The Chipmunk' Herman
William Daniels ... Albert Amundson
Philip Bruns ... Man In The Restaurant
John McMartin ... Man In The Office
Barry Gordon ... Nick, Wilbur Malcolm, Theodore, Raphael Sabatini, Dr. Morris Fishbein, Woodrow, King, Rover, Lefty, Chevrolet, Big Sam Burns

Murray Burns (Jason Robards) has resigned from the rat race. His young nephew Nick (Barry Gordon), who lives with him, is about to be taken away by the welfare department because he is considered an unfit parent. Sandra Markowitz (Barbara Harris), one of the welfare workers, falls in love with Murray. That, in a nutshell, is the conflict.

This is a good, funny movie, well acted and directed.

Best in scripts ...
This has always been one of my favorite movies because the script is first-rate. I recommend this movie to anyone that appreciates quality and depth in a film.

The movie, set in the heart of Manhattan, is centered around the relationship between an out-of-work actor, his nephew and himself. There are few movies that can capture the real struggle of daily life and still make you laugh along the way. This movie is one of them. The classic lines, as given in other reviews, cannot be given justice in a written review. They must be seen and experienced first hand.

You won't be disappointed by the acting of Jason Robards, Barry Gordon or anyone else in this film. If you're prone to self-examination, this movie will quickly be one of your favorites.

+1/2 - Before the hippies... there was Murray
An intriguing film about the balance between nonconformism and one's responsibility to others. Jason Robards stars as Murray Burns, an ascerbic, bohemian Madison Avenue dropout who spends his days romping through Central Park, visiting the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, seeing ships off, and generally thumbing his nose at all the 9-to-5ers who haven't also had the gumption to quit their jobs. He's also the guardian of his twelve-year-old nephew, Nick, but sadly the child welfare authorities have gotten wind of Uncle Murray's odd ways and willful unemployment, and Robards is forced to contend with the crushing power of "the real world."

Adapted from a stage play, this film retains much of the blocking and timing of its original incarnation, but makes fine use of New York's mid-'60s scenery to conjure the giddy solitude of Murray's outside-looking-in lifestyle. Like many theatre pieces from this era, this grapples with Big Issues and Psychology (both with capital letters), but it does so with a light touch, more a Neil Simon-y bittersweetness than overtly angst-ridden and shouted at the top of one's lungs. Made just before the hippies took over, this film is an obvious precursor to "Harold And Maude" and the like... On the surface, the issues aren't terribly subtle, but they are handled deftly and echo well; the film retains an admirable sense of uneasiness and ambiguity even up through its seemingly neat-package ending. Barbara Harris is good in the role of Murray's anguished girlfriend, and teen actor Barry Gordon is a marvel as the precocious nephew, Nick, giving as good as he gets, playing opposite Robards. (Gordon later moved into bit television roles and voiceover work; a pity, since he's fascinating here, in a more serious role...)

An interesting movie, exploring dilemmas and choices that are still present today. ... Read more