Amazon.com essential video

When Samuel (Lukas Haas), a young Amish boy traveling with his mother Rachel (Kelly McGillis), witnesses the murder of a police officer in a public restroom, he and his mother become the temporary wards of John Book (Harrison Ford), a detective who's been assigned to solve the crime. After suspect lineups and mug-shot books yield nothing, Samuel, in the most memorable scene of the film, recognizes the murderer as a narcotics agent whose picture he sees in the precinct. Once Book realizes that the police chief is in on it, too, he whisks Samuel and Rachel back home to Amish country, where he himself goes into hiding as a plain Amish man. The juxtaposition between the life of the Amish and the violence of inner-city police corruption work surprisingly well for the story, and Kelly McGillis as the falling in love widow gives an almost perfect performance. Directed by Peter Weir, the film is extremely successful in drawing the viewer into its world and, accordingly, is immensely entertaining. The only thing that mars its polish is the one-dimensional, almost cartoonish handling of the upper-echelon police corruption--a subtler, more realistic treatment of this aspect of the story would have rendered the film near perfect. --James McGrath ... Read more

Reviews (62)

An extraordinarily good film ...
At the end of a disappointing summer movie season, I've started watching some of my favorites on tape. This movie is near the top of my all-time list; here's why:

ACTORS -- Most of the actors gave career-high performances in this movie. "Witness" helped establish Harrison Ford as a serious (i.e., non-Star Wars) action hero, and he demonstrates emotional range in this movie that doesn't show up very often in more recent films. Kelly McGillis is compelling, gradually and believably transforming from a shy widow out of her element to a strong, spirited member of her Amish community. Lukas Haas, who plays her son, offers a level of child acting that has only recently been matched by Haley Joel Osment. As other reviewers have noted, his wordless scene with Ford in the police station is a brilliant piece of acting -- an enormous amount of information and emotion is conveyed in complete silence. And Alexander Godunov brings a gentle grace to his role as the Amish farmer competing with Ford for McGillis' affections. It's sad that he didn't get more opportunities to demonstrate his acting ability before his death a few years later.

CINEMATOGRAPHY/SCORE -- As with most of Peter Weir's films (cf. "Dead Poet's Society"), "Witness" is visually stunning. The shift from the gritty heart of Philadelphia to the rolling hills of Amish country is jarring, and leaves one with a palpable sense of longing. I think the barn-raising scene in the middle of the movie is one of the most beautiful scenes I've ever seen filmed, both visually and thematically. Underscored (so to speak) with music reminiscent of Copland's "Appalachian Spring," it drives home the value of community and shared endeavor. It's a marvelously uplifting segment.

ROMANCE/EROTICISM -- The relationship between Ford and McGillis is very well done. The attraction that arises between them (driven in no small part, apparently, by Ford's kindness to the young boy) is constantly and realistically tempered by the awareness that they come from fundamentally different cultures. That slows the development of a relationship between them, which provides the movie with a delightful undercurrent of romantic tension. That tension reaches a peak in a powerful scene in which Ford sees McGillis giving herself a sponge bath. There is nudity in this scene (McGillis turns and shows herself, topless, to Ford), but it seems to be precisely the kind of nudity that, as actresses like to say, "is essential to the story." Given the way in which the Amish are portrayed in this film, McGillis' character is making a very bold (and risky) offer, and the difficulty of Ford's refusal is evident in his face. There certainly is a lot of gratuitous nudity in film, but "Witness" is not in that category.

This movie is aging extremely well, in large part because of the sweep of its vision, the powerful simplicity of its story, and the skill of its execution. It is a terrific movie.

Impressive film!
"Witness" is defineately one of the greatest thriller/romance movies ever made. Directed by Peter Weir, the plot concerns a yuong Amish boy (Lukas Haas) who witnesses a murder in a Philadelphia train station bathroom while traveling to the city with his mother Rachel (Kelly McGillis in her best performance). Detective John Book (Harrison Ford) is assigned to the case, and quickly discovers that a corrupt narcotics cop (Danny Glover) is the killer. After a close shave, Book, Rachel, and her son escape to Amish country, where Book hides out as an Amish farmer--while also protecting the witness and his mother.
Of course, at the end there is one whopper of a scene when the corrupt cop & friends discover Book's safehouse.
"Witness" received several Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, and won for Screenplay, Cinematography, Sound, and Film Editing.

Ford at the top of his game
Some of the most powerful romances can spring up when both sides have to be restrained; here, the widowed Amish woman and the cop-in-hiding know that they come from different worlds, know that a relationship between them will not practically work, and so fill the screen with unresolved sexual and romantic tension.

Woven into the more grisly details of murder and police corruption are scenes of humor and beauty. Dancing in the barn to "Don't Know Much About History". Having to wake up at 4 a.m. to milk the cows. It's funny to see how the cop, John Book, tries to fit himself into Amish life the best he can. And it's very moving to see his growing love for the Amish woman who nursed him through a bad gunshot wound and has enchanted him with her character and beauty. The movie's climax is also riveting; it's not often that one sees gunfighting at an Amish farm.

Great film, poor quality transfer
"Witness" captures director Peter Weir's first exploration of the cultural clash between America's Amish community and modern society. We witness two worlds that collide and two people that can't bridge the gap between their two worlds despite their blossoming love for each other.

The story revolves around Samuel a little boy who has witnessed the murder of an undercover police officer, his mother Rachel (McGillis)and John Book (Ford) who investigates the murder discovering corruption, deceit and a conspiracy at it the heart of his department. After he discovers that his witness isn't safe, Book whisks them back to their Amish farm where he's forced to hideout as well.

One of Weir's finest films to focus on America, this so-so transfer looks grainy and has lots of compression issues. The transfer isn't a widescreen anamorphic transfer but is presented in that format (i.e., it's presented with the black bars at the top and bottom of the screen but the transfer isn't high definition). The picture occasionally comes across as soft and the rich use of color and light that vividly brought the film to life in theaters isn't well represented here. Hopefully Paramount will update this and remaster it the way it deserves to be done.

The extras include an interview with Weir obviously done around the time the film was made or first appeared on video and the original theatrical trailer. I would have expected a commentary track but since Weir isn't all that big on them to begin with, that would be hoping for too much.

A great film just a poor translation to DVD.

Comparing Witness: 1985 and 2004
As I write my title, it is weird to think this film is nearly 20 years old! How time flies! Anyway...I first saw this film when it first came out and I remember I really really liked it. I was 23 years old and not a Christian at that time. Now, I am soon to be 42 and have been a Christian for over 18 years. For 10 years of my life, I lived as a Mennonite (like Amish in many ways, but we drove cars, had electricity, etc.) I am no longer a Mennonite, and now I watch films again. I appreciate classic cinema very much, but recently have wanted to watch Witness again, to see if I would like it as much as the first time, and to see if I thought they portrayed the Amish correctly.

So, I watched it last night. It was interesting in that I remembered so much, even some small details about it. So it really did impress me that first time when I was young. This time, I enjoyed it, but I wouldn't say it is a film I would watch over and over again, as I watch some classic films. To see it once more was enough to just satisfy my curiosity about my memories of it.

I did feel they portrayed the Amish quite well, with the clothes and such. What they did wrong about the portrayal was that in no way would it be allowed for an Amish woman to tend to a wounded man who wasn't her husband, by herself in a room alone with him. It just isn't proper, isn't done. In reality, a man would have done that, or an older woman would have done it, with another woman there. I think the movie allowed the Rachel character to have way more "access" to a man alone than would be allowed in a real Amish or Mennonite community. I doubt he would have really been allowed to stay in the house. In reality he would have been placed in a home with a family who had a bunch of boys and he would work with them and the father, and not have all that time alone with Rachel.

I don't like violence...I knew that the bad part happened in the train station in the beginning, so we were able to fast forward that part. Also, we were able to fast forward the ending "shoot out" stuff. I didn't care for the bad language. The scene with Rachel taking her sponge bath, well when I was young and not a Christian, I found that very romantic. Now, I found it rather silly. A devout Amish girl/woman would not have just calmly turned around and let a man stare at her while unclothed. And later on, when she and he finally "meet" for the romantic moment, I found that sort of offensive. Why kiss out in the yard where anyone could see you? Eli could have easily looked out the window (a real Amish father would have kept better tabs on his daughter with a strange man around the place). I felt that scene was very much just an animal passion thing...sort of vulgar. Not at all romantic, truly loving or gentle. It seems people sure knew how to kiss and show romantic love a lot better in the old movies! And right before she went out there, she took her prayer veiling off. Which again, no Amish woman would do. But then she obviously was rebelling. There was that other time too, when she and John Book were in the barn listening to his radio, and she had it off then, and I am not sure why, for no Amish or Mennonite woman will go without it in front of people or outside the house.

The ending left me wondering...would Rachel just go ahead and marry Daniel? Would she really be happy with him? She really would have to repent of her sins with John Book to be truly happy. I also noticed that the film never showed a church service. Also, none of the Amish folks never seemed to care to tell John Book how to be a Christian. But then there are many Amish who are not born- again Christians, but just are "culturally Amish"...they live the way they do because they have always done so. These must have been that type of Amish. It did seem that Grandfather knew the Bible...he quoted some good verses when talking to the boy about the gun. That was good to see, yet sad that such violence had to even be witnessed by this child.

Oh, of course any film with Amish must have a barn raising scene, and this one did. Also, so many movies with cows mus have the scene where the city person doesn't know how to milk a cow. Of course John Book must learn. He makes a joke about "teats" in this scene, and grandfather Eli laughs at it, which again, I doubt a devout Amish man would do.

Well, these are my thoughts. It was interesting to revisit this film again. In closing, I would say it is an okay film for adults but I would not recommend it for children. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

A MUST HAVE for all DVD collectors and movie lovers!
Lady In White is a true cinematic masterpiece, and one of the greatest horror films ever made. In this haunting, surreal ghost story, writer/director/musical composer/costar Frank LaLoggia gives us chills, chuckles, and a wonderful sense of nostalgia. Horror novelist Frankie Scarlatti (LaLoggia) returns to his small Upstate NY hometown for a visit, where he remembers the Halloween of 1962 - "the year that *she* came into my life." Ten-year-old Frankie (Lukas Haas) lives a carefree life with his brother, father, and grandparents. On Halloween, Frankie gets locked in his classroom closet by his practical-joking classmates. That night, he sees the ghost of a little girl, Melissa (Joelle Jacobi) and a ghostly recreation of her murder. He also sees, but not clearly, her killer, who has come back looking for evidence he left behind. The psycho strangles Frankie, and he has a near-death experience, where Melissa's troubled spirit pleads for him to help her find her mother. Frankie survives the attack, and determines to help Melissa, having lost his own mother earlier. He learns that several children, in addition to Melissa, have been molested and killed by the same man over a ten-year period. The overzealous DA, anxious to solve the murders, decides to indict an innocent black janitor, but the Grand Jury won't buy it. Frankie discovers a link between Melissa, the town madwoman (Katherine Helmond) and the legendary Lady In White, who supposedly prowls the cliffs every night. What Frankie doesn't know is that the real killer is hot on his heels. An excellent script, terrific ensemble acting, and great special effects make this a truly magnificent, unforgettable movie. This film will be with you for a long time after you see it! Though rated PG-13, Lady In White is scarier and more disturbing than most R-rated movies. It is NOT for children under 13. The DVD package is a masterpiece unto itself - the video is a GORGEOUS wide-screen transfer, the sound full and downright 3-dimensional. The print is LaLoggia's director's cut and runs 6 minutes longer than the theatrical and videotape versions. Other great extras include the COMPLETE soundtrack, still picture gallery, seven minutes of deleted scenes, theatrical, TV and radio trailers, and a "Behind the Scenes" featurette. A textbook example of what a DVD release should be. BUY IT!

BRILLIANT---NEEDS TO BE RE-RELEASED
I would LOVE to have this movie on DVD, but it's out of print and now going for a princely sum on the secondary market. This great period piece of early 1960's nostalgia is one of the better ghost stories you will ever see.

It pops up occasionally on TV still. Lukas Haas plays a young boy...perhaps around 4th or 5th grade maybe, who gets locked in his schools cloak room around Halloween. While locked inside he is terrified to see a spectral play acted out before him as a little girl is murdered by an unknown man.

The killer returns to the cloak room to look for something and finds Haas and tries to kill him as well. He's rescued but now he is haunted by the little girl who wants him to find her killer.

He receives messages from her typed out on his typewriter and the record player goes on by itself much to the terror of Haas. Then there is the mysterious Lady in White, living in the old, run down home who seems a ghost herself.

As Frankie (haas) and his older brother try and solve the mystery, somewhere the killer knows who he is and is waiting.

Wonderful piece. Great 1960's midwest nostalgia. Fantastic performances and a genuine feeling of dread make this a great ghost story.

GREAT FILM
I REALLY LIKED THIS FILM I THINK ITS THE BEST HORROR MOVIE MADE, THE ONLY PROBLEM IS IT HASNT BEEN IN THE UK FOR A WHILE AND WOULD REALLY LIKE TO KNOW WHEN IT WILL COME THIS END AGAIN OR IF THERES ANY WEBSITES THAT I CAN BUY IT ON!!
pLEASE EMAIL ME ON FUNLOVIN_AMY@YAHOO.CO.UK IF YOU HAVE ANSWERS!!

A Terrific Ghost Story
I'm not the type who succumbs much to movie presentations -- but when I saw this in the theater during its first run, the scene in the cloak room literally caused chills. It's time for a re-release of the DVD.

YAY! This movie is good!
OMG I watched this movie like every halloween when i was a little kid, i thought it was like sooo scary, but not scary enough to scar me for life like "chucky" did. it's a really cool movie and now that im older i still like it! It's a great movie for kids like 6 and up and for adults! ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Solarbabies Rocks!
Solarbabies is a futuristic movie about a group of kids (ages 7-17)living in an orphanage. None of the kids knows where they came from or what the outside world is about. That is, until they get a chance to go beyond the walls, both the walls of their captivity and the walls of their perceptions. It is a wonderful movie about the underdogs fighting against all odds and about the meek inheiriting the Earth. Whether you like sci-fi or just like movies about kids, this is a great movie for you.

this one brings me back...
Okay. First of all, you have to understand that this is an 80's flick. If you watched (and enjoyed) this movie growing up in the 80's, then it will bring you back. Maybe i'm just a die-hard fan of post-apocolyptic-ish 80's movies, but this one is definatley fun. This movie needs to be released on DVD. Its up there with movies such as The Last Starfighter, The Lost Boys, Gremlins, and other great (semi-cheezy) 80's movies. If you like any of these movies, then Solarbabies is definatley a must see. But its mostly for people who saw it in the 80's and who still love 80's stuff (transformers, pop-culture, various other nostalgic items).
I love this movie, and i recommend for anyone who saw it and liked it growing up, to find a copy and have an enjoying movie night watching it again.

It was....well you'd have to see it to believe me.
This movie was a lot of things. It was funny (not funny haha, but funny that's retarded), it was silly, and it was amusing. One of the things, however, it was not, was good. My personal favorite part was when the children were break dancing with the glowing orb. Now this is a movie with substance. To begin the tale to which this movie is about, is to well, dig deep into one's imagination. (Or a psycho's.) You see there is this orpanage with these kids and they live during the future when there is no water on the surface of the planet. However, I'm not really sure of all the facts because my brain tends to weed out the useless info. Anyways, they find an orb, dance with it and try to escape for some reason. (Again, info has vanished....) Anyways, they run into and indian tribe, small cities, some people that live underground, etc. What I'm trying to say, is that this is definately a B movie. So unless you want to watch a bad movie with friends to laugh at, don't bother. Lesson learned from Solarbabies: If you find a glowing orb, be nice to it. It could help you save the world and teach you to break dance.

If you don't get this you have no soul
I agree with the other positive reviewers that you had to have seen it in the 80's as a kid, with the idealistic view of the world and hope for humanity that does not exist in today's mainstream youth, to truly appreciate the nuances and deeper meanings of this movie and really understand what it's about. For all of you who wrote negative reviews, you just have no soul if you did not "get" this movie.
A group of orphans overcome obstacles to make their lives better, to save the earth from total destruction. A classic good vs. evil overall theme, and also survival of the fittest. Some of the meaning is lost in the ineptness of the creators of the film, but if you have any scrupples, and just a little heart and soul, you will understand it! Recommended for fans of Conan the Barbarian, Beyond Thunderdome, and those type of movies. If you like this movie, you will also like "28 Days Later".

Beneath the Glotz
The story, or rather the spirit beneath the schlocky presentation of SOLARBABIES is rather wonderful. It must be veiwed in terms of it symbolism. The kids are not following a glowing ball, they are following an ideal, a higher consciousness that we all possess if we can only find it. The water represents a rare kind of nourishment that comes from the depths of the cosmos, a nourishment that is indeed becoming more and more scarce in today's world. It's unfortunate that even the movie's director did not understand its meaning, nor did the producers nor the more famous, and over-paid of the two writers, and consequently they all worked too hard to create another B-science fiction movie. This movie could have been a classic. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Whatever happened to Allan Musy?
I immediately fell in love with the movie Warrior Spirit. This story was so compelling and moving that I wished it never end. It tells the story of two young boys who face an incredible adventure and they form a friendship that stands the test of time. Revenge,betrayal, and greed take a part whent the two must face hard challanges and descions on their journey to seek a mysterious legend. I really fell in love with the actor Allan Musy and would love to be able to meet him in person. The ending was great but left me feeling a little sad. I wished it would have ended differently and those who see this movie will see why. Maybe its because I never wanted it to end. I just couldn't get enough of Allan Musy.

allan musy we miss you
It follows the story of two young men who meet in school, a poor white boy and an young indian who is ridiculed by the other white students. They form a friendship and later have an adventure, searching for gold. The film deals with greed, as well as honor, and compassion.
I agree with the above reviews, its hard to seperate love for this movie with love for the ultra-fine Allan Musy, and the character of Wabigon. Also stars loveable Lucas Haas.
Whatever happened to Allan Musy?!! Unfortunately, he dissappeared after this movie:(

Warrior Spirit-Cool Movie
I first saw Warrior Spirit on tv and fell in love with it. I don't know if it was just such a cool movie or because I thought Allan Musy was hot. lol. But I do think it is a good movie and is rather entertaining. I'm glad I bought it. So go check it out!

Wonderful!!!
I just had a crush on Allan Musy! What a wonderful story!!! I mean, it's almost part of our history, and I feel almost concerned too cause it has been turn right here, in Canada. I found it full of emotions, and maybe I fall in love with this movie because my crush in life just look like Allan Musy and I'm emotional... So, I recommand it to everyone.. It's maybe an old movie, but me, I liked it very much! Long life to Allan Musy! :P ... Read more

Amazon.com

Writer-director Woody Allen has produced yet another challenging and funny film, this time taking on the musical genre and bending it to his own unique vision. The result is one of the most charming films in recent years, as Allen assembles a typically sterling ensemble cast to evoke the romanticism of years past. This time, the large cast (including Alan Alda, Drew Barrymore, Goldie Hawn, Edward Norton, and Tim Roth) not only turn in funny and touching performances, but they sing the classic songs of the 1930s and 1940s themselves, and sing them very well. The plot centers on an extended family in New York and their various romantic entanglements, including Allen's pursuit of Julia Roberts through the streets of Paris and the canals of Venice. The musical numbers are the film's high point, displaying wonderful choreography ranging from a room full of dancing Groucho Marxes to a dancing couple in flight at the banks of the Seine. Everyone Says I Love You is a witty and entertaining fantasy, and a truly romantic escape. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (67)

Everyone, Including Me
In Woody Allen's film Everyone Says I Love You, one of the century's great filmmakers gets to make his own dream come true. Just take a listen to the soundtracks for Manhattan or Radio Days and you realize that all the Woodman's ever wanted to do was make a musical.

He's finally found a way. And by taking those timeless songs of Gershwin and Porter and placing them in the context of modern family life, Allen has created one of his most innovative comedies ever.

By its very nature, musicals showcase fabulous singers who are able to stop the world and belt out a tune. Not exactly in the realm of the possible. But by filling his scenery with non-singers, or actors who aren't known for their singing, Allen creates the possibility of song in everyday real life.

Take Holden (Edward Norton), for example. What he lacks in fashion sense, he makes up for in heart. When he goes to buy a rock for his lady love Skylar (Drew Barrymore), the jewelry store becomes a Gene Kelly musical, except Holden's no hoofer. He stumbles awkwardly through the dance number while the jewelry store employees play to the camera.

If it sounds fun, it is. But the two young lovebirds are but a minor diversion. Skylar's mom Steffi and husband Bob (Goldie Hawn and Alan Alda) are trying to keep their family together. Grandpa's gone daffy, their teenage son has up and joined the young Republican's (ick!), and Goldie's ex, Joe (Allen), is living in Paris and wooing an art historian (Julia Roberts).

Even the worst singing, that of Allen (a mouse squeak) and Roberts (can you say tone deaf?), works somehow. In Everyone Says I Love You the commonplace collides with the extraordinary in an alternate universe that's just this side of heaven.

Charming, Funny --- not what you expect from Woody Allen
When I first saw this movie advertised, I was puzzled as to what the concept was--- a musical comedy by WOODY ALLEN? I enjoy Woody Allen, but usually his movies are really crude and disgustingly sexual. But this film was a breath of fresh air. It was witty and funny--- but best of all the performances were wonderful. The concept of the movie is somewhat fuzzy, and the plot is uneventful, but that doesn't matter when you see the wonderful job Alan Alda, Goldie Hawn, Edward Norton and Drew Barrymore do to entertain you throughout the film. The camera movement is erratic at times...but the scenery of both New York, Venice, and Paris is dazzling. The music and the singing performances are--- uniquely done... but very endearing. You should watch this movie if you like simple, charming, witty and slow-paced films. Not a lot of thinking or intelligence is required to watch this movie, and thats the best part. This film is a no-brainer, and many will enjoy this wonderfully acted movie.

Careful what you ask for
I got this movie to satisfy my curiosity. The concept sounded interesting, and it boasted some normally bankable (or at least watchable) cast. Unfortunately, I did not care for the film. Oh, it was well made, and had fair acting, but it just failed to interest me. The songs were not very catchy tunes, like say, something from a "real" musical like "Fiddler on the Roof", "The King and I", or "My Fair Lady", etc. Drew Barrymore had a large part, but was in the lower range of acting, and her singing was dubbed. Natalie and Gaby were under used. Alan Alda and Goldie had decent voices, but again, weak songs.

I had a hard time swallowing Julia and Woody as a couple - though she did say she was crazy - did I miss something else? The most interesting part was seeing two MASH alumni in the same scene for about 10 seconds. For those who don't know why it was rated R, it is because of the rap lyrics. No other swearing or nudity.

I'm being generous with 3 stars. It seemed to be a personal experiment rather than a committed movie. Oh, well - curiosity satified. Waiting for "Take the Money and Run" to arrive.

I loved this movie, it made me laugh so hard...
It is a musical, and it is not a musical. There are songs in the movie, but it is not distracting from the movie, and the songs do not take up too much time. The movie is hallarious. The first time I saw this movie I was laughing for days. There is a scene where the girl is in the kitchen of her fathers house, heartbroken, singing a song about how she is "done with love". In the middle of the song it switches from the upper class white teenager and her tears to a black rapper who uses some of the same lyrics, but delevers it in a completely different manner. I had beer comming out of my nose I laughed so hard. This is a must see!

ONE OF WOODYS BEST
EVERYONE SAYS I LOVE YOU. I can not believe I never saw this movie before. A musical comedy. It's now one of my favorite Woody pictures. Right up there with Love and Death, A Midsummer Nights Sex Comedy, Bloodhounds of Broadway, Manhattan and those other ones that I like. It was worth the price of admission just for the Hurray for Capt. Spaulding in FRENCH number ! Ooo LA LA . A party in Paris Xmas eve and EVERYONE as Groucho Marx. Woody Goldie Ed Drew ect... everyone EXCEPT for Allen Alda, how sweetly ironic that the man who did BAD Groucho imitations all thru MASH was sick in the hotel. NICE touch Woody. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This atmospheric tale of real love, set in 1944 Brooklyn and shot on adeliciously alive studio street, concerns a young Jewish boy named AlanSilverman (Lukas Haas) who is pressured into providing companionship for acatatonic French girl, Naomi Kirschenbaum (Vanessa Zaoui). The latterwitnessed her father's death at the hands of the Gestapo and has been lost in herself ever since. A small crowd of Naomi's boosters, including Alan'sparents (Michael Gross, Amy Aquino), hope that his frequent visits to her can resuscitate her old spirit. Poor Alan, however, with his mind on such crucial matters as improving his stickball game, is hardly in a position tounderstand Naomi's psychological wilderness, let alone penetrate it. Yet hisessential decency wins over all else, and if his secrecy about the matterdraws the disappointment and wrath of his bewildered best friend--anendearing, tough, Irish-Catholic pug named Shaun Kelly (a wonderfulperformance by Kevin Connolly)--then Naomi's progressive steps toward trust are worth it. Writer Jordan Horowitz and director Sterling Van Wagenen,working from the novel by Myron Levoy, lovingly create a nostalgia-glazedworld of childhood innocence and distance from wartime horrors, a world that permanently changes with Alan's first experience of selfless love. Terrificacting by Haas, Zaoui, and the rest of the cast. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (4)

All around great movie
This is something of a coming of age movie, where a young boy learns the meaning of friendship and that life isn't always going to be fair. It is a story that will be familier to any of us who were young teenagers striving to have a degree of independence. It also gives a glimpse of New York during the latter stages of World War II - German submarines are no longer prowling off the coast sinking ships, but there is still the periodic air raid drill to remind you that the war is still on-going.

The cast all around is outstanding. The father charecter of Lukas Haas is exceptional. Mom reminds me of my mother in some or her mannerisms.

The movie leaves you wondering if there will be a better day for Naomi and Alan. It should be in every family movie library.

Beautiful stroy
What a great movie~ I read the book in middle school, then discovered it was made into a movie. It is incredibly true to the book, with incredible performances by Lukas Haas and company.

amazing movie - - wonderful
this movie was wonderful. it was educational about the war and the problem of predjudice--yet interesting and just a great movie to watch. - Danielle

A touching story of a young man learning to be a good man.
This is one of my favorite movies. I was facinated with the relationship between the young man and his father. Alan is a typical 14 year old kid who just wants to hang around with his friends and play stick ball (weren't we all self involved at that age?). Time and again, his father gently prods Alan into trying to break through to Naomi,who is catatonic after seeing her father murdered. Eventually, Alan learns the value of doing the right thing. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There seemed to be a particular spike in nuclear-war paranoia in the early 1980s, probably having to do Reagan's finger being on the trigger. Whatever the cause, it resulted in two particularly powerful 1983 films on the subject: the made-for-TV The Day After and Lynne Littman's Testament, which had a theatrical release before playing on PBS's American Playhouse. Starring Jane Alexander (and Kevin Costner in a cameo), the film shows what happens to a suburban family in the Pacific Northwest after a nearby nuclear attack. As it turns out, those killed by the initial blast are the lucky ones; Alexander and her family must suffer through radiation poisoning and sickness, the daily diminution of life this causes, and, for Alexander, the eventual deaths of those around her. Quietly powerful and never overstated. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Not Your Usual End of the World Movie
As most every reviewer here mentions, this is a quietly powerful film. Jane Alexander gives an excellent performance as a mother trying to carry on after the most devastating of events. Perhaps limited by budget, we don't see any gruesome special effects, over-wrought portrayals of screaming mobs, or even an over-blown breakdown of society version in this movie.

And that's a good thing. By concentrating on character, the movie really packs a punch. We can really identify with the family who isn't even sure the father of the family, who may or may not have gone into the blast zone, is alive.

The theme of the movie, an unbelievable cataclysmic event that kills millions (or billions), is as topical as ever, with the continued proliferation of nuclear weapons. Not to mention the specter of bio-terrorism with its threat of an uncontained plague.

One comment I just have to make about the 'editorial review' in this case. The small town in question is just north of San Francisco. Sorry, but California isn't the 'Pacific Northwest'.

Highly recommended.

Anti-nuclear war film hits hard and personal
I saw the theatrically-released version of "Testament" in Berkeley California in the early 1980s. This was the era of the Nuclear Freeze and huge mass demonstrations against the Reagan government's unprecedented nuclear arms build-up. In the midst of all this landed "Testament", which is by leaps and bounds the most harrowing (and depressing) of any film dealing with nuclear war. After the movie, groups of people just huddled together outside, many weeping. This is strong medicine.

The movie is so sad it is almost unwatchable. The film follows one family's experience in a small Northern California town. Jane Alexander, future head and defender of the National Endowment for the Arts, plays the mother, alone with three school-age children, There are no fancy special effects; the bomb is a bright light through the window.

Somehow everyone has to keep going. One by one, people begin to miss work, students stop showing up at school. When a banana appears, you know its the last one, ever. The film's effectiveness is that we get to know the family and town, they are just ordinary people, and Alexander is a terrific Everymom. The school play scene is just about the saddist thing you will ever see on film.

The movie came out about the same time as the made-for TV, much hearalded ABC's "The Day After" which wowed with special effects and big-name stars, but suffered from poor character development. This movie is the opposite - we care too much about these people.

My friend (an anti-nuclear activist)who was with me at the theater surprised me by saying she thought the movie was calculating and manipulative. I have not made up my mind. Also, with the immediacy of nuclear war somewhat dimmed since the early 1980s, I'm not sure the movie will have the same impact.

Also in the same serious genre: "The War Game" and "Threads", which are British productions. "Testmanet" is the better of the three.

This Movie will stay with you for days!
You think Titanic and E.T. were sad? Watch this heartbreaking movie and you'll be depressed for days.i am not kidding. this is an excellant powerful movie that will stay in your mind. JAne alexander is a mother with her three children and husband living in CA. when her husband is away on a business trip the unthinkable happens. and soon people everywhere are dying of radiation. Watching Jane Alexander trying to keep her family together just touches your heart. Many parts of this movie stay with you that other people have mentioned. This is not a movie you could watch over and over. The music by james horner is beautiful and haunting as well. the few times i have seen this movie after it is over, i either have tears rolling down my face or i am sitting there in stunned silence. Mainly the first. This is a highly recommneded movie!

Great movie -- why isn't it on DVD?
Jane Alexander has never been a terribly show-offy actor, which is probably why she's more respected than recognized. And quite simply: if there is a better lead performance out there by an actor, male or female, than hers in this movie, I have not seen it.

"Testament" has the same basic story as "The Day After" (also a very good, powerful movie), but instead of focusing on several different sets of characters at once, it focuses on one family: the Wetherlys. This decision pays off. You are far more emotionally invested in the characters than you would be otherwise.

The Wetherlys are not sugary sweet, impossibly "good" people. They are just your typical family, with kids fighting and people getting on each other's nerves, but ultimately loving and close-knit.

Carol (Alexander) is literally forced to become the head of the family after the nuclear bombs fall (signified by a flash of light; this is obviously not a big-budget movie, but then again, lots of scenes of nuclear devastation would've only taken away from the intimate, human drama). However, she still holds out hope that her husband got out of the city before the bombs fell and is on his way back to them. She discovers otherwise in one of the most powerful scenes I have ever seen committed to film -- the more powerful because it is nonverbal and presented simply. Equally powerful are the scenes where Carol dashes through the house, madly seeking her youngest son's favorite stuffed animal, which she will not allow him to be buried without, and the scene where she tells her teenage daughter what it is like to make love.

Kevin Costner and Rebecca DeMornay give good performances as young parents who lose their infant to radiation sickness, but fortunately, their present-day stardom is not used to sell this film nowadays, at least not that I have seen. Though Jane Alexander inexplicably did not win an Oscar for this, it remains her film, but she doesn't dominate it so much that other actors (particularly those who play her children) cannot shine as well.

Best End of World Film there is; Excellent human drama
I remember seeing "The Day After" on TV in 1983 and was very unimpressed. Even with big names like Jason Robards and good FX you just didn't care about the characters. Testament, which came out also in 1983 was a MUCH different story. Jane Alexander stars as Carol Wetherly, a mother of a suburban California family, and the film starts out with the normalcy of family life. They are watching TV when all of a sudden the TV show goes dead, and a newscast comes on to say the East Coast has been hit with nuclear weapons. Just then a huge light comes through the window.

This is a realistic depiction of what a limited nuclear war might be like for the few survivors, and here we end up caring about the people of the small town and especially the family it's focused on. An old neighbor is a ham radio operator who has reached a few surviving communities, and we learn people are trying to get to Northern Canada where there are "survival camps". Other than that there is no info at all from the outside world. The town gradually sinks into darkness, oblivion, and radiation sickness, while Carol tries to keep it together for her kids. The father is played by William Devane (Marathon Man) and we see flashbacks from before the world was nuked. We don't learn exactly how the war happened other than theories.

One couple is well played by a young Kevin Costner and Rebecca DeMornay.

As the film ends Carol finally loses it and cries, "Who did this, God damn you!" a la Charleton Heston in the end of Planet of the Apes. There is one thing I'd like to see in an End-of-the-World film that's never really been explored: namely the philosophical implications of the world ending. I mean even in this great film, the characters are concerned with their immediate circumstance in their small community, not the bigger implications. Well maybe I'll write one with that theme myself.

Since the Cold War ended full scale nuclear war is unlikely, however individual nukes by terrorists are getting more and more of a possibility (9/11 proves they have the will to use them), not to mention the new "Powell Doctrine" of using tactical nukes in war. We all must work to make sure all governments know that "a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought" (that quote ironically comes from Mr. Nuke himself, Ronald Reagan).

There are some other good nuclear war films out there from 1963's Ladybird, Ladybird to 1959's On the Beach and 1967's British film The War Game. Also 1989's Miracle Mile is good, but more a satire than a drama. ... Read more

Reviews (163)

Hollywood Attacks
"Mars Attacks!" a film by director Tim Burton, was like a 1996 who's who of the movie industry. Stars were not attracted by a script that showed high art or the greatest feat of the screen writers guild, but rather the chance to work on a fun movie with an amazing director.

"Mars Attacks!" is viually appealing, special effects were state of the art for the time of the movie, and the concept built around a "Topps" trading card set was a wonderful parody of 1950's sci-fi/ horror movies.

The all star cast: Jack Nicholson, Annete Bennning, Michial J. Fox, Glenn Closse, Natalie Portman and Tom Jones (to name a few), were all in rare and wonderfully funny form.

Unlike the majority of director Tim Burton's work, this film is by no means "dark," but both funny and satirical at the same time. The movie is well made, fast paced, funny and a feast for the eyes.

This is by no means high art (or even middle art for that matter), but worth a watch. A definite must for any Burton fan, or fan of those cheesy old sci-fi movies that it is poking fun at.

Campiness at its best!
Hollywood has made movies from books, TV shows, even other movies. However, "Mars Attacks" may be the first time a movie was made from a trading card.

Back in the late 1960s, Topps Cards created a line of Mars Attacks trading cards. However, these cards were pulled off the shelves after only a few months because the aliens depicted on them were considered to be too gruesome. My, how times have changed.

Director Tim Burton has taken those old trading cards and recreated them into this Sci-Fi B-movie throwback. In the process, he has created a movie that is pure, guiltless fun.

"Mars Attacks" also benefits from an all-star cast, including Jack Nicholson (in a dual-role), Michael J. Fox, Sarah Jessica Parker, Pierce Brosnan, Martin Short, Danny Devito, Glenn Close, Natalie Portman, Tom Jones, Annette Bening, Lukas Haas, Jim Brown, and many others. The fact that you get to watch the aliens disentegrate (and otherwise kill) many of these stars only adds to the fun. Unfortunately, Tom Jones wasn't one of those unlucky stars. Maybe someday a sequel will be made that will rectify that. :)

Oh yeah........ did I happen to mention that Congress gets vaporized? This proves that the Martians aren't all bad!

The DVD comes with many extras, including quite a few production notes that helps you to understand how the movie came to be. This is one movie that you will want to see over and over again (especially anytime that Congress is getting on your nerves).

mars attacks-an all star cast
well theres not much of a story.mars attacks.stars are many.jack nicholson is the president.christina applegate is a rednecks ol lady.is that wyona ryder?maybe not.danny devito plays a gambler.wayne newton as well wayne newton.the kids can watch it,but it could freak out the real little ones.tim burton directs this one so it is great as usual.it is one of his best films.there are many creative ideas and imagination galore all throughout this one.the aliens are abselutely hysterical.christina applegate is in it but only for a second.then theres this chick who cheats on michael j fox with pierce brosnan.is this guy always stealing someones woman on his movies?anyway,shes tacky.the hippie chick in it is hot but very deeply emotionaly disturbed.this is a really funny movie and everyone but jack nicholsons personal best.the special effects are not fantastic but the ideas that go into them are very creative.

Destined to be a CLASSIC!
When I first heard that Tim Burton was going to turn the Mars Attacks trading cards into a movie I couldn't imagine how he could adapt them for the big screen for under 100 million, but when I saw it I said to myself, "FINALLY! Some has found a good use for CGI!" This very funny sci-fi comedy is destined to become a classic and is one of the most imaginatively produced films in ages. Featuring tons of great cameos by stars - particularly Jack Nicholson, who plays a dual role and Tom Jones - Mars Attacks also boasts a great score, lots of wild, funny action and, yes.... LOTS OF GREAT DEATH SCENES! Yes, folks, it is DAMN FUNNY when people get killed; heck, SLAUGHTERED, in this film! Yep, death CAN be funny, especially when it happens to movie stars who are all so obviously movie stars in a fantasy movie. I only wish they could have killed a "better" class of movie ACKters, the ones you WANT to see die, like Will Smith, Bruce Willis, Steven Segal, Arn-OLD, Julia Roberts, any model turned actress and virtually EVERY movie star who came to prominence from the time this film was released until NOW (and beyond, it seems). With today's atmosphere, where the world over, especially here in the U.S., people are so insanely and blindly freaful of a coming apocalypse, it's always good to bring it all out on screen, particularly when it's done in such an over-the-top fashion as this. I wouldn't be surprised to see this film become a big hit it it were re-released to theatres today (HEY, ANYONE OUT THERE REMEMBER ANOTHER LITTLE CLASSIC BY THE NAME OF DR. STRANGELOVE, WHICH CAME OUT DURING THE HEIGHT OF THE COLD WAR AND IN WHICH THE ENTIRE EARH WAS DEVASTATED IN THE END????!!!!) Sheesh, some "people"!

It is a comedy.
Neglected masterpiece, misunderstood and unappreciated by far too many. It is not perfect, perhaps could benefit from some extra production time, but the film's incredible inventiveness, brilliantly wacky humor and fantastic sets, more than compensate for its shortcomings. Great, brutal fun. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

A Pleasant Surprise
I had never heard of this movie before I saw it and I wasn't expecting it to be any good--but it is. It's really, really good.
Considering the star status of Steve Martin (who turns out an extrodinary performance in this film) why has it been so overlooked? Martin plays "Jonas Nightengale", a glib traveling evangalist, faith healer, and con man. When one of his trucks breaks down in the impoverished town of Rust Water, Kansas, he sets up his tent and invites the town to a revival. The sheriff (Liam Neeson) is determined to stop Nightengale from seperating the poor and desperate people from what little money they have. At first this film appears to simply be a cynical expose of the tricks fraudulent preachers use to shake down their flocks. But as it progresses it reveals itself to be something much more complex and subtle. At one point Nightengale, when confronted as being a fake, replies, "What difference does it make as long as I get the job done?" Yet when a real miracle occurs, something he can niether explain or control, his lack of faith is shaken and he actually becomes angry with God. As in real life conversions, the film unexpectedly turns you around 180 degrees by the end.

Outstanding!!
This movie touches everyone who watches it. Some may not admit it but you sit through it without being touched you are dead or numb. Steve Martin is super as Jonas Nightingale, definitely an academy award performance. My personal favorite moment is the little comical dance he breaks into in the middle of his sermon. It always breaks me up each time I watch it and I have seen it many times. It is one of those movies you never seem to see enough. Liam Neeson is also great as the sheriff who is skeptical of Jonas and tries to bring him down. Everyone knows how great Debra Winger is and this one of her best efforts. A must for every serious movie lovers library.

The Well Known Correlation Between MEATLOAF & Word Of Faith!
Steve Martin is born to play the starring role of Jonas Nightingale, a travelling huckster, fraud of a faith healer, demon "caster outer", "slay in the spiriter" & more importantly, a money grubbing false prophet. Along with his no-nonsense sidekick manager, Jane, played aptly by Debra Winger, they bilk poor souls from a small town out of their hard earned cash with the oldest profession in the world. No, not prostitution. The selling of the Gospel Of Jesus Christ!

This film exhibits many word-faith doctrines such as "positive confession", "gospel of health", "gospel of wealth" and the whole "name it and claim it" belief. More imporantly, what it also has is some great smaller role performances given by Lolita Davidovich as waitress Marva, Lukas Haas as Boyd, Liam Neeson as Will, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Matt, and MEATLOAF as Hoover!

This movie also has a great soundtrack with samplings from Don Henley, Patti LaBelle, Wynonna Judd and of course, the great Meatloaf with "Paradise By The Dashboard Lights"!

Seriously though... This film has a great ending and shows what REAL MIRACLES are made of and EXACTLY where they are made...

A fun & entertaining family film!

Happy Watching!

WOW
What an awesome movie! I have already watched so many Steve Martin's movies but in this one he gives us the best performance ever.
Jonah, is a public religious speaker who goes from town to town to heal and give hope to people. A whole team works for him. His main assistant gathers and passes on the information to him about people in the audience. Everything she says he got it through the "GOD" (microphones in his ears)...

Very very very funny for us and very very very threatening and serious for phony people such as Benny Hinn and some other wackos like himself.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Phe-no-men-al!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This movie has been one of my favorites since it hit the big screen many years ago. Not that I am old now, but I was a very young person when it came out, and being an avid lover of Gospel music, I was truly taken back by the music that was apart of this movie. Many Gospel music notables such as Ricky Dillard (Choir director) and Albertina Walker (soloist) quickly caught my eye as the movie and plot began to develop. I would truly recommend this movie to those who love Gospel music, and even those who love Steve Martin. He did a phenomenal job of playing a minister and a con simultaneously. I applaud him!!!!! I urge anyone that reads this review and is contemplating purchasing this movie to do so with no hesitation. You will not regret it!!!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

An impressive labor of love from independent writer-director Frank LaLoggia, this low-budget supernatural thriller was a sleeper hit in 1988, deservedly praised by critics and horror fans for its effective combination of ghostly terror and small-town charm. The influence of Steven Spielberg can be felt in the movie's imaginative scenario, but it's also got the affectionate appeal of autobiographical nostalgia, mixing details of LaLoggia's own youth in upstate New York with a frightening tale of Halloween horror.It begins when young Frankie (Lukas Haas) is locked in a grade-school cloakroom on Halloween night of 1962; he witnesses the ghostly image of a little girl and is nearly strangled to death by an unknown assailant. From that point forward, Frankie is convinced that the ghost is somehow connected to the Lady in White, a haunting vision of local legend. A black janitor is tried as Frankie's attacker and suspected in a series of unsolved murders, but recurring apparitions lead Frankie to the truth of the case--a revelation of real-life violence and supernatural wonders. This plot may be a bit too cluttered for a conventional ghost story, but the movie's ambition works in its favor by providing an emotional subtext for its youthful sense of wonder. There's an abundance of charm and humor, but this also a moving story of grief and loss, tracing young Frankie's adjustment to the death of his mother. This gives Lady in White more depth than is typical for horror thrillers, and the movie further benefits from the obvious care and compassion that LaLoggia brought to its creation.--Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (46)

A MUST HAVE for all DVD collectors and movie lovers!
Lady In White is a true cinematic masterpiece, and one of the greatest horror films ever made. In this haunting, surreal ghost story, writer/director/musical composer/costar Frank LaLoggia gives us chills, chuckles, and a wonderful sense of nostalgia. Horror novelist Frankie Scarlatti (LaLoggia) returns to his small Upstate NY hometown for a visit, where he remembers the Halloween of 1962 - "the year that *she* came into my life." Ten-year-old Frankie (Lukas Haas) lives a carefree life with his brother, father, and grandparents. On Halloween, Frankie gets locked in his classroom closet by his practical-joking classmates. That night, he sees the ghost of a little girl, Melissa (Joelle Jacobi) and a ghostly recreation of her murder. He also sees, but not clearly, her killer, who has come back looking for evidence he left behind. The psycho strangles Frankie, and he has a near-death experience, where Melissa's troubled spirit pleads for him to help her find her mother. Frankie survives the attack, and determines to help Melissa, having lost his own mother earlier. He learns that several children, in addition to Melissa, have been molested and killed by the same man over a ten-year period. The overzealous DA, anxious to solve the murders, decides to indict an innocent black janitor, but the Grand Jury won't buy it. Frankie discovers a link between Melissa, the town madwoman (Katherine Helmond) and the legendary Lady In White, who supposedly prowls the cliffs every night. What Frankie doesn't know is that the real killer is hot on his heels. An excellent script, terrific ensemble acting, and great special effects make this a truly magnificent, unforgettable movie. This film will be with you for a long time after you see it! Though rated PG-13, Lady In White is scarier and more disturbing than most R-rated movies. It is NOT for children under 13. The DVD package is a masterpiece unto itself - the video is a GORGEOUS wide-screen transfer, the sound full and downright 3-dimensional. The print is LaLoggia's director's cut and runs 6 minutes longer than the theatrical and videotape versions. Other great extras include the COMPLETE soundtrack, still picture gallery, seven minutes of deleted scenes, theatrical, TV and radio trailers, and a "Behind the Scenes" featurette. A textbook example of what a DVD release should be. BUY IT!

BRILLIANT---NEEDS TO BE RE-RELEASED
I would LOVE to have this movie on DVD, but it's out of print and now going for a princely sum on the secondary market. This great period piece of early 1960's nostalgia is one of the better ghost stories you will ever see.

It pops up occasionally on TV still. Lukas Haas plays a young boy...perhaps around 4th or 5th grade maybe, who gets locked in his schools cloak room around Halloween. While locked inside he is terrified to see a spectral play acted out before him as a little girl is murdered by an unknown man.

The killer returns to the cloak room to look for something and finds Haas and tries to kill him as well. He's rescued but now he is haunted by the little girl who wants him to find her killer.

He receives messages from her typed out on his typewriter and the record player goes on by itself much to the terror of Haas. Then there is the mysterious Lady in White, living in the old, run down home who seems a ghost herself.

As Frankie (haas) and his older brother try and solve the mystery, somewhere the killer knows who he is and is waiting.

Wonderful piece. Great 1960's midwest nostalgia. Fantastic performances and a genuine feeling of dread make this a great ghost story.

GREAT FILM
I REALLY LIKED THIS FILM I THINK ITS THE BEST HORROR MOVIE MADE, THE ONLY PROBLEM IS IT HASNT BEEN IN THE UK FOR A WHILE AND WOULD REALLY LIKE TO KNOW WHEN IT WILL COME THIS END AGAIN OR IF THERES ANY WEBSITES THAT I CAN BUY IT ON!!
pLEASE EMAIL ME ON FUNLOVIN_AMY@YAHOO.CO.UK IF YOU HAVE ANSWERS!!

A Terrific Ghost Story
I'm not the type who succumbs much to movie presentations -- but when I saw this in the theater during its first run, the scene in the cloak room literally caused chills. It's time for a re-release of the DVD.

YAY! This movie is good!
OMG I watched this movie like every halloween when i was a little kid, i thought it was like sooo scary, but not scary enough to scar me for life like "chucky" did. it's a really cool movie and now that im older i still like it! It's a great movie for kids like 6 and up and for adults! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Shattered Spirits
This film depicts substance abuse, domestic violence, co-dependancy in the family. Very powerful, very accurate.

Tough Love, straight up!
"Shattered Spirits" is the best movie I've ever seen in a High School Health Class.

Martin Sheen stars as an alcholic father, while M.I.F. Hall-of-Famer Melinda Dillon desperately tries to hold the family together in the wake of dad's inebriated rampages.

The film is pretty good (if vaguely TV-movie-ish), particularly when Martin Sheen tells his son that he's going into a bar to meet a buddy, and comes out six hours later! Was the "buddy" named Jack Daniels?

However, I did resent watching the movie a bit--I sat next to the class cutie, and we'd struck up a nice little in-class friendship. So for three days, the lights were off and we weren't allowed to talk. Thanks a lot!

Even so, it definitely opened up an important discussion about alcoholism. I have a weakness for Newcastle Brown Ale, but I try to remember the lesson in moderation that Martin Sheen taught me.

This will sneak up on you!
This film was first shown on TV at the boomtime of recovery when Betty Ford was pushing for recovery for families affected by addiction. The story portrays a middleclass family hiding dad's (Sheen's) alcoholism and sliding down the slope of denial. The reactions of the family to crises and the roles they each fall into are so accurately done that the viewer can get way into his/her own alcoholic upbringing and pain before they are aware of it.
I have shown this at several gatherings and it never fails to shake some people up seriously. Kids are especially vulnerable in their teen years. But entire families can get very agitated during the viewing.
So I would recommend that anyone showing or viewing this film be prepared to deal with some extreme reactioons for several days afterwards. Don't just show this and send your guests home. Instead have a discussion and a followup trip to a meeting of Alateen, Al-Anon or AA.
BUT SHOW IT!

Shattered Spirits
This was an excellent movie. The acting was superb & the Directing was great! I hope that it helped many people to see & understand what ANY addictive behavior can do to everyone; families, friends, & themselves. Just a footnote--I hope people enjoyed seeing my cat in this movie as it was filmed just across the street from our home in Simi Valley. :) Also, I would love to have an AFFORDABLE copy of this great film. Thank You :o)

Very Accurate and cathartic for Alcoholic Families
The story is full of those disturbing yet common events which plague families struggling with Alcoholism. The folks who consulted on this film (Claudia Black for one - Authoer of some of the best recovery books for kids) did a great job of keeping the alcoholic insanity just high enough to really affect anyone who grew up with an alcoholic parent. The scenes are well constructed and the outcome is not sugar coated. ONE WARNING...don't just show this to a group or a friend or a bunch of kids thinking they'll like it. There will need to be some help and comfort offered. Some people will discover their own alcoholic and/or abusive past for the first time During the showing. Find out where there are Al-Anon, Alateen, and AA meetings BEFORE you show the film. But SHOW IT! ... Read more

Description

A gritty and poignant look at the world of male prostitutes through the course of a single day on the streets -hustling for money and love while hoping for a little decency.A veteran male prostitute, John, befriends the new guy who looks to John for advice and friendship. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Touching Portrait of Street Hustlers
I was pleasently surprised after watching this film. I wanted to pick up Lukas Haas and hug him--he was so adorable. David Arquette did his finest work to date. Despite some very minor flaws in the plot, the overall effect of the movie lasts for days after you watch it. A must see!!

Slow but still good
The movement of the story is very slow. There are 10 chapters on the DVD. Around chapter 4 I thought I was near the end of the film.

The film doesn't pick up speed until the middle. Here, we finally get to see how all the hustlers are related to each other. Also, the two main characters reveal a lot of themselves. We learn at how Donner's (Lukas) family mistreated him when he decided to stop hiding. And we learn about how sad John (David) is about the unfortunate placement of his birthday on the calandar.

The movie is actually better with the commentary on. But, you should see the film as is first before you watch it with the commentary.

All in all, this film isn't bad. I think it is best viewed when you borrow your friends DVD of this movie. It will not bore you, but you won't have any trouble hitting pause to go to the bathroom, or talk to friends, or answer the phone, or do anything. This film is really for those that LOVE independent films.

Closer to life than most would like
Anyone want to catch a glimpse of what happens to kids who are neglected or rejected by their families? Then you need to check out this movie. While incredibly tame compared to real life, it at least takes the average "john" into a pseudo world of the streets, and the actors are excellent in their roles. I have watched this movie SEVERAL times and have cried at the end each time. While I agree that it is a dramatic close-to-life rendition, and many want a fantasy world in which to escape when watching a movie, it also has a great message, one which you must find for yourself. I believe this is why no other character has a background, save the one, so that each viewer can find themselves in one of the characters. I love David Arquette in this movie...he reminds me a lot of a close personal friend.
Oh, yea, and most of them don't work because they have been on the streets since a very young age. They have few skills, no address or phone number, and perhaps are even a bit scared. My advice, watch this without the rose colored glasses.

Endlessly, relentlessly downbeat
This is not the worst gay-themed movie out there, but it IS among the most depressing. It's about two young guys reduced to hustling on Santa Monica Boulevard. Lukas Haas is reasonably convincing as the teenage cast-out looking for someone to care for irritating. In fact, he's supposed to be straight, and even has a girlfriend, but services middle-aged gay men for money. It's never explained why he doesn't just get a job (his character is a legal adult) and leave that life behind. If the movie did, then I must have dozed off before the story got to that. I really began to lose track after the fancy hotel scene. The locations are authentic, and there are a couple of mildly entertaining scenes here and there. But nearly every moment of this film is downbeat and never gave me any reason to care. The film's endless self-pity inspires depression, followed by boredom, sometimes followed by falling asleep. The only thing the film succeeds in is illistrating the point that prostitution is a dead-end life, but it's never enlightening or compelling in the process. Too bad.

Bittersweet Drama
Arquette at his dramatic best. Haas shines too in this bittersweet drama told on stark sets with painfully true dialogue. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of Jeff Bridges best! Realist portrail of divorce.
Excelent movie, one of the most stiking features was that no one was vilified. Realist depiction of two people who simply drifted apart. This movie may not be action packed, but it's very romantic and enjoyable.

saws wood
There seem to have been a trend in the late 80's of movies about wealthy white men whose lives were just not quite what they had hoped. The worst of them was Blake Edward's "That's Life", but this one is a close second. Poor Jeff Bridges' marriage to gorgeous Farrah Fawcett breaks up. He then marries the luminous Alice Krige. He still isn't quite happy. Really, there should be a telethon!

It's not that the movie is bad: all of the main actors are great, and the plot isn't that bad. Even the actors who play the kids (Drew Barrymore, Lucas Haas, Mackauley Culkin) manage not to be moppets. But somehow I just couldn't seem to care that much. As another reviewer said, it's a rainy day movie; but it would have to be seriously rainy day.

CUTE, MEDIOCRE AND ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Jeff Bridges and Alice Krige give a fair performance of the trials and tribulations of a couple starting over in marriage. I liked this cute tale of seeing how one marriage ended in divorce, the other in a death and finally the challenge of two individuals coming together.

See Jeff as the whacko psychiatrist who will do any outrageous thing to win his girl. Witness him as he deals with his feelings of loss and his inept attempts at trying to fit in with his new wife and step-children.

Alice does a fair portrayal as an obsessive mom. there are a few moments of zaniness snf light humor but for the most part you will ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ! Watch this on a rainy day when you're not in a serious mood and wish to enjoy the ups and down of a step-family forming. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

This 1989 drama penned by pre-Basic Instinct screenwriter Joe Eszterhas is a powerful tale of family identity and loyalty threatened by a ghost from the Third Reich. Jessica Lange stars as a Chicago criminal attorney whose beloved immigrant father (Armin Mueller-Stahl, in his American film debut) is accused of once having been a monstrous SS officer for Hitler. While Lange's character does a good job defending the old man in court against witnesses who charge him with numerous unspeakable acts, her own certainty thathe is innocent slowly crumbles, leaving her with a horrifying personal dilemma. Directed by Costa-Gavras (Z), the film displays some of his distracting tendency toward unnecessarily broad storytelling, but Eszterhas's script is disciplined and moving, and Lange and Mueller-Stahl are stunning in their depiction of a loving relationship deeply shaken by history. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Why is this Widescreen film in Full Screen format????
This film contains the best performance of Jessica Lange's auspicious career hands down. This was also American audiences introduction to the wonderful Armin Mueller-Stahl in the role of Lange's father. Thank goodness I saw this film on the big screen, and then later on the Widescreen Laserdisc. I have never seen this film panned and scanned, and i refuse to now, even though it has been released on DVD. So, unless Artisan Home Video intends on re-releasing this outstanding film in the correct 2.35:1 aspect ratio and in the 16x9 format, they are not getting my money.

Format disappoints
Why does this DVD give only the version that is "formatted to fit your TV screen"? What a disappointment! I already owned the VHS tape and I had hoped for a widescreen version of this compelling movie on the DVD.

Tough to watch
If gritty and high strung drama is your bag, then The Music Box is a must see. I can remember the first time I saw it some five years ago. The ending left me all taut with the agony that Mrs. Talbot (Jessica Lange) must work through. The ultimate drama about the power of truth, hidden and revealed, the Music Box is a tense ride. Even the second time around.

Lange gives one of her most intense performances as a first generation American and hot shot lawyer who must defend her father against charges of bestial war crimes committed some fifty years ago in the glowing embers of a dying Europe. To be precise, in the then fascist satellite state of Hungary, then in the grips of Hitler wannabe, Andras Szalasi and his vicious band of goons, the Arrow Cross.

The ever professional Armin Mueller Stahl serves up a riveting performance as the refugee who sought American haven to hide his shameful secret. His character highlights the dark side of American immigration. People not only escaping poverty and prejudice, but justice and truth as well. Even Mr. Laszlo wants to believe that the American Dream can wipe his slate clean. But in vain, as his past closes in.

All the while, Lange bravely struggles to protect her beloved papa, refusing to see what is before her face. Yet, little by little, as the witnesses build up their mountain of irrefutable evidence, tears and all, doubt begins to creep in. Finally, she travels to Hungary, where the truth begins to unravel......and she is forced into the most painful of decisions.....the truth or her love for her father......

This film is quite cathartic and like the other Gravas masterwork, Missing, asks some difficult questions. Yet, unlike Missing, The Music Box gives us an answer. The truth shall set you free. And at great cost.

Despite its occasional heavy handedness, the Music Box is a sterling little drama that will leave you purged and cleansed. Like all good drama should!

Compelling Story
"The Music Box" is a wonderfully compelling story that highlights issues of personal integrity. In the lead role, Jessica Lange is faced with fundamental ethical quandries. Should she seek the truth? If the truth is harsh, should she face it or evade it? Should she excuse actions by one of her own that she would denounce in others? If you're one of the few looking life in the face, see "The Music Box."

When the past comes knocking, it isn¿t always Teleflora
What if your Dad, the loving and beloved head of your middle-class American family, was suddenly charged with war crimes? This is the scenario for THE MUSIC BOX, a 1990 release, in which Jessica Lange plays a criminal defense lawyer asked by her widower father to defend him against such charges being brought by the US government on behalf of Hungary. The father, played by Armin Mueller-Stahl, is alleged to have committed multiple atrocities as an officer of a neo-Nazi police unit in Budapest during World War II. A complicating element is the father's vocal anti-communism, for which, he claims, the Red regime back in the old country is masterminding a frame-up. (Remember, we're talking about bad ol' days of the Cold War here.) Anyway, the Old Man needs a hotshot attorney, so his dutiful and devoted daughter takes the case.

Another reviewer has concluded that the plot is "far-fetched". Hmm. I would think that those aging American residents who've actually been charged with Nazi war crimes during the past couple of decades might not find it so far-fetched at all. Some have even been deported. Perhaps he's referring to the storyline that calls for the accused to be defended by his own offspring. OK, that probably wouldn't happen in real life. But, what is an otherwise idle Hollywood screenwriter to do when called upon to help fabricate a box office success?

The plot's arguable implausibility aside, both Lange and Mueller-Stahl give forceful and bravura performances as two people caught up in the fading echoes of receding history. The final scene between the two should have earned Lange that year's Oscar, but sadly didn't. There're also some quite good visual images of Budapest, which, at the end of the Cold War when this film was shot, was probab