Reviews (283)

A long time ago, in a cinema far, far away...
A long time ago, in a cinema far, far away, a certain film called STAR WARS was released. Now, George Lucas' first installment in the hugely popular STAR WARS franchise is generally regarded as the greatest movie ever made. Why? Well, what's not to like? From the opening shot of the Blockade Runner accompanied by that great theme tune by John Williams, you know you're in the unique world of the STAR WARS universe. Before George's action-packed THE PHANTOM MENACE and ATTACK OF THE CLONES, A NEW HOPE was known only as STAR WARS. Audiences had never seen anything so original and amazing. Now, the series has entered into the fanboy culture all over the world. In comparison, Episode 4 seems somewhat tame compared to ATOC, but it's still an astounding adventure filled with great characters, great action set-pieces and strident theatrical music.

From Hero Luke Skywalker's symbolic journey from his home Tatooine to the moment of victory at the finale, we are greeted with a myriad of fantastic characters, especially Han Solo, played by a pre-Indy Harrison Ford and his buddy Chewbacca, flying around in their Millenium Falcon. And the ultimate incarnation of evil, Darth Vader. British veteran actors Alec Guiness and Peter Cushing are excellent as a wise yet ageing "Old Ben" Kenobi and Vader respictively. And that, more than anything, is what made TPM so hollow. While the action was good, the lack of good characters was disappointing. But AOTC has regained much of the sense of adventure that this film started off.

Lucas' grand vision illuminates the entire film, with inventive creatures and events. Several scenes that are my favorites are Obi Wan's conversation to Luke about the Clone Wars and Vader, Solo's disposal of Greedo, Obi Wan and Vader's last battle and the destruction of the death star. The prominant influences that left their creative mark on the film range from westerns to Akira Kurosawa's Samurai pictures. The influence the film itself had on cinema (it invented the Summer Blockbuster) is astounding, with everything from figurines to frisbees from the hysteria over the film's captivating originality and subsequent zeitgeist. One of my all-time favorite films, STAR WARS is THE great adventure.

Do I really have to Say anything?
It's what? Going on 30 years since "A New Hope' was released to massive success (and even again in 1997)? You bet, and it still looks fresh and feels right. The film has an attitude to it. A little arrogant and a little sarcastic, but still thrilling and and made the foundation for almost every action and fantasy movie to follow. Only the recent release of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy has had near that much impact (which I consider this generation's Star Wars).

George Lucas was at his creative peak in the "Hope," and it shows. The special effects are used to help paint the world in which the characters live. They don't distract and they don't take away from the actors' performances. The trench run with the Death Star can still live today with modern special effects laden scenes. And the actors are so convincing in their roles, unlike some in the prequels. Alec Gunniess leads the cast with his Shakesperian wisdom, and the cool Harrison Ford is just , well, cool. Also Mark Hamill is great, as is Carrie Fischer as princess Leia. And who can forget Chewie? Star Wars still delivers, watch and enjoy.

It's Star Wars!
If you have seen this movie, then no words need to be said. But if you haven't, come out from under that rock and watch it!
This movie just has to be seen!
By the way, just skip the prequels. Those ones suck.

Yes, Han Shoots First!
Ah, c'est la vie, the best movie of the trilogy, followed closely by "The Empire Strikes Back". "Star Wars" is a classic tale of friendship, loyalty, and bravery. Full of action. Ah, and this version has no CGI Jabba. Han shoots first. Jawa scene where they unload R2 and 3PO. A lot better than Lucas' pile of dog sh*t the so-called Special Editions. Go, original theatricals. Nothing stops these movies in their 1977, 1980 and 1983 debut.

Hard on the eyes - I must disagree with the fans
I much rather want to think about the great theme music by Meco (for which I am giving the 2 stars) than the almost painful visual roller-coaster ride of a movie it came with. The special effects may have been ground breaking, but they were a bit much to watch. I was 15 and could handle such things much better than I could today -- I'd just walk out! Princess Leah was beautiful, but I liked her much better on SNL doing the Beach Scene with Frankie & Annette (Gilda & Bill).** ... Read more

Amazon.com

Again? Yes. Even though no other movie has been released as many times on video as Star Wars (except for its sequels, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi), George Lucas and the folks at 20th Century Fox have actually released a slightly different film this time. This video followed the mega-successful 20th-anniversary theatrical rerelease, in which Lucas personally remastered the image and sound quality of his baby. Other revisions are more obvious, if hardly radical. Lucas enhanced several special effects with updated computer technology--most noticeable are the explosions and removal of matte lines during the Death Star battle finale. And the creatures that populate Mos Eisley's spaceport--though meticulous--are aesthetically superior improvements. The inclusion of extra scenes (originally outtakes), however, is not an improvement. Both the meeting between Jabba the Hutt and Han Solo, and Luke talking with his childhood pal Biggs, do nothing to enhance character development or theme, and serve only as distractions that preoccupy the waiting viewer.And, really couldn't Lucas find something better to do with his time than mess around with a national treasure? As for the video, this boasts both visual and sound enhancements. But since Star Wars has been available with these tweaks numerous times before, the decision whether to purchase this latest new version depends on how badly you want to see Lucas's cosmetic surgery. --Dave McCoy ... Read more

Reviews (283)

A long time ago, in a cinema far, far away...
A long time ago, in a cinema far, far away, a certain film called STAR WARS was released. Now, George Lucas' first installment in the hugely popular STAR WARS franchise is generally regarded as the greatest movie ever made. Why? Well, what's not to like? From the opening shot of the Blockade Runner accompanied by that great theme tune by John Williams, you know you're in the unique world of the STAR WARS universe. Before George's action-packed THE PHANTOM MENACE and ATTACK OF THE CLONES, A NEW HOPE was known only as STAR WARS. Audiences had never seen anything so original and amazing. Now, the series has entered into the fanboy culture all over the world. In comparison, Episode 4 seems somewhat tame compared to ATOC, but it's still an astounding adventure filled with great characters, great action set-pieces and strident theatrical music.

From Hero Luke Skywalker's symbolic journey from his home Tatooine to the moment of victory at the finale, we are greeted with a myriad of fantastic characters, especially Han Solo, played by a pre-Indy Harrison Ford and his buddy Chewbacca, flying around in their Millenium Falcon. And the ultimate incarnation of evil, Darth Vader. British veteran actors Alec Guiness and Peter Cushing are excellent as a wise yet ageing "Old Ben" Kenobi and Vader respictively. And that, more than anything, is what made TPM so hollow. While the action was good, the lack of good characters was disappointing. But AOTC has regained much of the sense of adventure that this film started off.

Lucas' grand vision illuminates the entire film, with inventive creatures and events. Several scenes that are my favorites are Obi Wan's conversation to Luke about the Clone Wars and Vader, Solo's disposal of Greedo, Obi Wan and Vader's last battle and the destruction of the death star. The prominant influences that left their creative mark on the film range from westerns to Akira Kurosawa's Samurai pictures. The influence the film itself had on cinema (it invented the Summer Blockbuster) is astounding, with everything from figurines to frisbees from the hysteria over the film's captivating originality and subsequent zeitgeist. One of my all-time favorite films, STAR WARS is THE great adventure.

Do I really have to Say anything?
It's what? Going on 30 years since "A New Hope' was released to massive success (and even again in 1997)? You bet, and it still looks fresh and feels right. The film has an attitude to it. A little arrogant and a little sarcastic, but still thrilling and and made the foundation for almost every action and fantasy movie to follow. Only the recent release of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy has had near that much impact (which I consider this generation's Star Wars).

George Lucas was at his creative peak in the "Hope," and it shows. The special effects are used to help paint the world in which the characters live. They don't distract and they don't take away from the actors' performances. The trench run with the Death Star can still live today with modern special effects laden scenes. And the actors are so convincing in their roles, unlike some in the prequels. Alec Gunniess leads the cast with his Shakesperian wisdom, and the cool Harrison Ford is just , well, cool. Also Mark Hamill is great, as is Carrie Fischer as princess Leia. And who can forget Chewie? Star Wars still delivers, watch and enjoy.

It's Star Wars!
If you have seen this movie, then no words need to be said. But if you haven't, come out from under that rock and watch it!
This movie just has to be seen!
By the way, just skip the prequels. Those ones suck.

Yes, Han Shoots First!
Ah, c'est la vie, the best movie of the trilogy, followed closely by "The Empire Strikes Back". "Star Wars" is a classic tale of friendship, loyalty, and bravery. Full of action. Ah, and this version has no CGI Jabba. Han shoots first. Jawa scene where they unload R2 and 3PO. A lot better than Lucas' pile of dog sh*t the so-called Special Editions. Go, original theatricals. Nothing stops these movies in their 1977, 1980 and 1983 debut.

Hard on the eyes - I must disagree with the fans
I much rather want to think about the great theme music by Meco (for which I am giving the 2 stars) than the almost painful visual roller-coaster ride of a movie it came with. The special effects may have been ground breaking, but they were a bit much to watch. I was 15 and could handle such things much better than I could today -- I'd just walk out! Princess Leah was beautiful, but I liked her much better on SNL doing the Beach Scene with Frankie & Annette (Gilda & Bill).** ... Read more

Reviews (4)

the standard setter
there have been 4 movies that blew all other sci fi movies away and set the standard for new omes.this one was the second one to do so.the story here is that the rebel alliance had a message transmission going out.the empire picked up on it and overtook the ship it came from.before they could be found out,they jettisoned 2 droids out in hopes of survival.some desert people sold the droids to lukes uncle.luke accidentaly found the message.it was a chick trying to find o.b.won ken o.b.[i know i know]he found him and ben took him along to adventure.luke ends up in the rebel alliance flying a starship.the kids will enjoy it as it is full of giant teddy bears,fantastic laser light demonstrations and exitement.george lucas made this film.it rules!did he ever do a non-star wars related movie?this is the 1st of a big set.the best set anywhere with 6 soon to be 7 awesome episodes.this movie is for everybody.theres one slimy part where theyre trapped in a garbage disposal.leia is the only chick about and she kisses her brother!thats some sick sh........stuff.of course she didnt know but still.oooohhh!the special effects were top of the line in 77.theyre still cool now.this movie is one the all time greatest contributions to film ever!

Everything I need 2 know about life I learned from Star Wars
Title of the review says it all. Move on with life:)

Great 1977 Original
Star Wars (1977)

This is the great original Star Wars, the 1977 movie in which the world first discovered the allure of The Force and the Jedi Knights. Young Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) teams up with Jedi veteran Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) and the mercenary Han Solo (Harrison Ford) to rescue the gorgeous Princess Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) from the sinister clutches of Darth Vader and the evil empire.
High space adventure, with creatures like Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) and the delightful R2-D2 (Kenny Baker).
With the final Star Wars (but will it be the final?) set for release later this year , the original trilogy is a great buy to refresh your memory.

A momentous battle between good and evil. With the empire perhaps at the time representing the evil Soviet Empire, which the free world was then fighting against for freedom in 1977. It has that wonderful 1970's feel, and who would not want to rescue the sexy huggable Princess Leia, even if it means battling the goons of the empire and the horrific Darth Vader?
In my opinion this great original one is the best of the lot.

Great 1977 Original
This is the great original Star Wars, the 1977 movie in which the world first discovered the allure of The Force and the Jedi Knights. Young Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) teams up with Jedi veteran Ben Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness) and the mercenary Han Solo (Harrison Ford) to rescue the gorgeous Princess Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) from the sinister clutches of Darth Vader and the evil empire.
High space adventure, with creatures like Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) and the delightful R2-D2 (Kenny Baker).
With the final Star Wars (but will it be the final?) set for release later this year , the original trilogy is a great buy to refresh your memory.

A momentous battle between good and evil. With the empire perhaps at the time representing the evil Soviet Empire, which the free world was then fighting against for freedom in 1977. It has that wonderful 1970's feel, and who would not want to rescue the sexy huggable Princess Leia.
In my opinion this great original one is the best of the lot. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Buried like a bone in a snowdrift, Balto never achieved the theatrical success it should have, but it's worth digging up. The film is structured on the true tale of a lead sled dog, Balto, that brought a diphtheria antitoxin to the small town of Nome, Alaska. The film balances comedy, villany, and drama very well and the voice work is above average. Safe family viewing, as even the villain's comeuppance manages a civilized resolution. The only problem is that the film never explains why these events in Alaska inspired New Yorkers to build a statue to the dog in Central Park. Maybe Balto eventually got mugged there. --Keith Simanton ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Wonderful!
This is a film I have no problem recommending to anyone! Suitable for adults and children alike, Balto is a movie that first touched my heart back in 1995 when it was first released and continues to reign as my all-time favorite animated movie. Kevin Bacon delivers an excellent performance as the humble and timid, Balto, while the rest of the voice cast brings to life his simple but captivating world. I can't say enough about this movie. While it isn't exactly historically correct, the movie uses the true story of Balto as a stepping-stone into a tale about friendship, love, and what real courage is. Relaying a timeless message of excepting others for who they truly are, Balto is a movie thats perfect for helping children realize that hate, prejudice, and discrimination are evil poisons. It also delivers a message about loving those who hate you and that one person (or dog) can make a difference- they just have to be willing to stand up and step in. These are lessons that not just children but also adults need to be reminded of and this is just the movie to do that. Forget Disney for awhile and check out this true masterpiece from Universal.

Couldn't be a better film!
This is a really good movie.I've been watching it for as long as I can remember.It's about a dog (part wolf)who is an outcast in Nome,Alaska.He's friends with a Russian snow goose called Boris (the funniest character in the movie) and 2 polar bears called Muk and Luk who can't swim.He's also in love with a dog called Jenna, and there's a villian called Steele.
When a disease strikes (with Jenna's owner, Rosie, among the sick) and the sled team sent to get the anti-toxin is lost, Balto must find and rescue the team and face avalanches,icicle falls and (of course) Steele.A brilliant movie.

A powerful story
My only regret with this movie, is that I did not catch it at the cinema! However when I first rented it from a video store, I instantly fell in love with it (and ended up re-renting it out quite a few times before finally receiving a VHS copy of my own later on). Now it is on DVD and so I have happily purchased this to keep forever more, it really is an absolute favourite of mine.

Story Summary:

Our main character is a half-dog, half-wolf protagonist who is shunned by the townspeople and rejects the outside life of the wolves, he doesn't belong anywhere. This story sees the children of the town threatened by a virus and when it seems that the life-saving medicine will be impossible to obtain, our protoganist throws himself into the world of both realities for the sake of others and getting his chance at proving his worth to the world, but not without it's trials and tribulations of course. Place in an overbearing and selfish lead husky, a gentle canine love interest, a cynical goose partner, and some fun polar bears, then be prepared for a ride filled with danger, love and humour. All carried along with a powerful message that "You don't need a pedigree to help someone" and of acceptance of the self so as to cherish those personal qualities that make you different and attempt to rise above the odds by acting to your fullest.

Elements:

The animation is wonderfully done, very impressive and carries the story well. As mentioned before, the music is also a treat, the end credits vocal fits the whole movie extremely well and is as powerful as the movie's message itself, the instrumental soundtrack also gives a powerful underlying atmosphere to all the dynamic scenes. The plot is played out well, as firstly you are gradually introduced to the main characters through fitting scenes and get a good feeling for who they are and how they carry themselves out in life, an important factor for following a character driven plot. Then there is a good variety in the action, causing our protagonist to be pitted against an array of odds that keep you gripped and doesn't let the pace die. As mentioned, the voices are all acted out very well.

Conclusion:

Either way this film is a must-see in my opinion, and one I have happily seen many times myself. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Sidenote:

However on another note, I believe the VHS cover would of been better than this new cover, it seemed to have a more powerful composition with a nice variety of colour. If I remember right, it doesn't outrightly say "true story", it was more like "the story that became a legend" which could still be in a fictional sense since it is a word often used in mystical themes, rather than the word "true" that pulls away any doubt of this not being from something or other based in reality. If I remember correctly that is. Either way, since I didn't enter this movie initially thinking in a forward manner of "This is based on a true story" I felt the ending words had an added impact. But this is an extremely minor point, and this movie is very impacting either way in my opinion.

So, as stated, this is based loosely on a true story. For the purpose of this version of the original story things have been re-invented and so on. I do not believe this being an alternative interpretation detracts from this movie, incase you wondered, and I feel it's very impacting and influential. When I first watched this film I had no idea of this being based at all on a true story, so when the final words came, "Based on a true story", I was very touched as the underlying achievement is extremely impressive. To see the bare facts you may wish to see other documentation in company with this movie, however.

All in all, a great and influential story.

Lots of fun!
Does it really matter that this isn't exactly "historical?" I mean c'mon people, it's entertainment, not a history book.

My only gripe is that is was released in 4:3, aka "Full Screen." This was probably done for the kiddies, but for those of us that enjoy a good animated flick, release it in widescreen! That's the only reason it doesn't rate 5 stars.

If you've got access to a region free DVD player, order the German version from Amazon.de. It's a much nicer presentation, in it's original 16:9, with the english dialogue track.

Maybe Universal will release a special edition here in the states, with the theatrical version. Don't hold your breath too long, tho!

Another Universal Classic Animated Feature
Balto has been around since 1995 and even today the animation is still spactacular. There is nothing but absolute beauty in every shot and in every note in the compelling music score. The voice acting is performed very well. Especially Phill Collins as Muk and Luk. If there's one complaint I have about this film is the fact that it's not acclaimed as much as it should be. I do wish that a widescreen presentation was availible and I don't very much agree with them changing the cover art. Unfortunatey Universal doesn't seem to care much. But the film is a joy either way. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This retro-futuristic adventure depicts a 1964 in which Hitler won the war and Joe Kennedy Sr. is U.S. president. Europe is known as Germania and opens its borders to American journalists, hoping to line up the U.S. as an ally against Russia. Set design and costumes very effectively create a potent and prosperous state, culled both from imagination and the history books. More downbeat and perhaps more effective than Robert Harris's chilling novel, Fatherland is brought to life by Rutger Hauer as an SS officerwho stumbles onto eye-opening secrets. Miranda Richardson is the tough-cookie American caught up in a web of lies made all the more intriguing by a superb supporting cast. They hook up to solve a murder and uncover an atrocity dating back to World War II. Watch for a particularly nasty Jean Marsh in a supporting role; she steals every scene in which she appears. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Solid Political Sci-fi Thriller...
In my estimate FATHERLAND is a rare film which is superior to the novel it's based on. Rutger Hauer is excellent as dedicated Police Inspector, Xavier March( former decorated U-boat Commander), who stumbles on a plot by GESTAPO to exterminate remaining participants in the infamous WANNSEE CONFERENCE (where top Nazis engineered the FINAL SOLUTION). The premise posits German victory in Europe. And: that aging, triumphant Adolph Hitler wishes to "crown" Third Reich supremacy with alliance (or at least DETENTE) with the United States. The Fuhrer "schemes" this will permit the Germans to finally crush still-Stalin-led recalcitrant Soviet Union forces (perhaps even using The BOMB with tacit US compliance).

While Robert Harris novel's focus is REVELATION of Der ENDLOSUNG and politically-driven killing of architects of mass murder, the movie tries to deal with more. An uneasy relationship between March and his young son ( well-played by Rory Jennings) has more depth than the book and more complex resolution. The film-emphasized ironies of alliance between Hitler-led Germany and a President Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.-led USA speak for themselves. Nazi eugenics/abortion policies are given brief, but powerful rebuke in "Father-Son" breakfast sequence wherein young Pili March guilelessly relates to papa what he's learning in school. Jean Marsh has a terrifying cameo as former paramour of a targeted Nazi henchman trading secret knowledge of the Holocaust for asylum in America. Her vile gloating over the fate of the Jews is scary. Miranda Richardson essays the role of American reporter sent to cover THE KENNEDY-HITLER meeting (to be held on Hitler's 75th birthday). She's okay. But her characterization as recklessly fearless, confronting barely masked terrorism of the Police State is sometimes gratingly unbelievable. As is...to some extent...the unsurprising "surprise" ending. The film's pacing and (retro-futuristic: 1964) art direction is fine. This "WHAT-IF?" is recommended for genuinely provocative moments making it a solid, political sci-fi thriller......

ein volk! ein riech! ein fuerer!
this is a what if story about if hitler would have won ww2.its a hbo-back to the 1860s-movie so no stars in this one.the kids will probably fall asleep if they watch it.it isthe second best 3rd reich based movie ever.most of the head full of crap-forced in by society and school types will be offended .but anyone with a mind will enjoy it.the real message here is you cant belive everything you here or read.

Superb speculation about our world as it might have been.
The theme of "Fatherland" is imaginative, and constitutes one of the best "alternate history" scenario stories I have ever come across. Without giving away any spoilers, it is simple: the Normandy invasion of France is an utter failure, and Nazi Germany ultimately becomes the master of Europe, as America turns away from the European war to concentrate on defeating Japan. By 1960, the "Cold War" between Germany "Germania" (still ruled by the 75 year-old Adolf Hitler) and the United States is in full swing. The novel is set in Berlin. The plot centers on a political murder being investigated by Sturmbahnfuhrer Xavier March, of the German SS Criminal Police. More would be telling.

This is a very well done film, and I agree with some of the other reviewers that this film is even better than the book. (By the way, the book is superb as well, and also merits five stars). This is one of those wonderful films in which the musical score adds an extra dimension to the mood, and Gary Chang deserves kudos for his work here. Rutger Hauer turns in an outstanding performance as Xavier March, once again proving that this underrated actor is a considerable talent. Overall this movie absolutely convinces the viewer about how our world might have been. And thank God is not.

I trust that this superb film will soon be available on DVD.

Fairly good Movie
I happened to catch this movie on Fox26 and I thought it was a pretty good movie.

A bit disappointing after the book
I must say, as a disclaimer, that a lot of movies look disappointing after a great book. The pictures in my head are always more entertaining than what I see on the screen. That said, I think the movie was as good as it could have been. It clearly looks as though the people making it had some fun (if that's the right word) creating an image of "Germania," the united Germany Empire after Hitler won the WWII. The first few minutes of watching the movie are so disconcerting that one wants to look away from the swasticas and images of content citizens everywhere. What do you say when SS are actually the good guys? Still, once you get used to this warped atmosphere, it's possible to enjoy the movie for what it is... a good thriller. It's not more and not less. According to the premise, Russia is still fighting the war on the Eastern front, and America and Germania are deciding whether to combine their forces and restore peace once and for all. But would that truly happen if the secret of Holocaust, that everyone is trying to cover up, comes to light?

The acting was impeccable but not outstanding. I think this movie is worth seeing, but I'd recommend sticking to the book and keeping the picture R. Harris paints in the novel. ... Read more

Reviews (201)

Let the "game" begin.
"Spy Game" is a movie that begins in such a manner that you question your interest in it, but it quickly generates into a gratifying mix of action, suspense, and logical plot twists that are intelligent and witty. With a sense of style and a soundtrack befitting of its hardcore approach, and a cast of well-knowns that chews the material with superb gusto, this is one uniquely satisfying thriller that delivers in all fields, a film that will have you talking long after you've left the multiplex.

It also happens to be one of the few movies that makes my job as a film critic surprisingly difficult. There's not a moment in "Spy Game" during which something is going on that adds up to the big picture, which makes the formulation of a discreet synopsis that much harder. And while this presents a challenge, it also proves the movie's brilliance.

The plot begins with an undercover operation in a Chinese prison, in which Tom Bishop (Brad Pitt), a CIA agent, makes an attempt to rescue an unknown prisoner, but fails in succeeding. Soon after, word reaches his mentor, fellow CIA agent Nathan Muir (Robert Redford), who is on the brink of retirement. Tom's impending execution for espionage brings Nathan to a top secret meeting with the heads of Central Intelligence, who seem more inclined to ignore the situation than to take action.

Nathan's drive to understand their position on the matter leads him to answer their questions about his interactions with Tom, from their initial meeting in Vietnam, to his belief that Tom was incarcerated while trying to rescue Elizabeth Hadley (Catherine McCormack), a missionary with whom he shared a relationship. This is all told in flashback, a technique which begins slowly but evolves as past events lead to the present situation at hand. As all of this is going on, Nathan is using his resources and smarts to devise a plan to rescue Tom before time runs out.

The use of reminiscent storytelling takes time to gain momentum; the initial flashbacks allow the relationship between these two different men to expand. Some audience members will lose interest, but as these sequences progress, it gives us an understanding of the complexities and strategies that are important to the success of their various missions. Such a technique is successful in both shaping the characters as well as building up to the later, more intense plot twists.

This is done with an exceptionally high degree of energy. As the movie begins to reach the final half hour, everything we've seen, every action and reaction, every small detail or occurrence, will coalesce into one of the most satisfying conclusions to a film of this genre in quite some time. There's a certain degree of predictability to the final moments, yet they leave no loose ends, and manage to live up to the intelligence and delectable logic of the previous events.

Director Tony Scott adds an extra kick to his film by incorporating an edgy style that suits the material. From sepia tones and dismal colors, to swift, sometimes frightening cuts, the movie never fails to dazzle the senses as well as the mind. Also worthy of mention is the diverse score from Harry Gregson-Williams, which captures the setting and various moods exquisitely, ranking as one fine composition that blends fast, alternative beats with sweeping, heartfelt emotion.

The shining attribute of this gem, however, is its supremely delightful cast, who make the material realistic and exciting. Pitt turns in yet another worthy performance, stock-piling various elements from his previous roles into Bishop's character, whose bold outlook clashes with his naivety with dangerous results. McCormack adds a much-needed mysticism as well as true emotion to Elizabeth, whose motive we're never quite sure of until the movie's finale. Redford steals the show in a patented Redford-esque performance, playing Nathan with all the wit, intelligence and presence that we have come to love him for as an actor.

You can grumble about the style of "Spy Game," but there's no denying its ability to entertain in a pleasing fashion. Here's a movie that knows what it's about, and has the good sense and brains to take us there without resorting to cheap tricks or formulaic contrivances. It's a smart thriller that is easily understood once it picks up speed, and everything about it brings a smile to my face.

Not the usual retirement day party
Because the actor appears so infrequently nowadays, the end of 2001 has delivered a relative flurry of Robert Redford films to the Big Screen - two, THE LAST CASTLE and SPY GAME. The latter was, for me, the most entertaining, though the former includes an Oscar-worthy supporting performance by James Gandolfini.

In SPY GAME, Redford plays Nathan Muir, at the very end of a thirty-year career with the CIA. Before arriving at his Langley headquarters office on retirement day, he learns that a former protégé, Tom Bishop (played by Brad Pitt), has been imprisoned and condemned to death by the Red Chinese. Over the next 24 hours, Muir must race to save Bishop's life in the face of a high level CIA decision to sacrifice the incarcerated agent on the altar of the President's economic rapprochement with China. In the battle of wits with his weasely superiors, Muir must flashback for them (and the film's viewers) the history of his relationship with Bishop, which extends from 1975 Vietnam forward through Cold War Berlin and the war-torn Beirut of the mid 1980s.

SPY GAME is flashy and extremely fast paced, the latter because of film editing which limits each continuous scene to no more than perhaps 15-20 seconds. It's far unlike one of my very favorite spy flicks of the past, THE RUSSIA HOUSE (1990), starring Sean Connery and Michelle Pfeiffer. In the latter, the emphasis is on plot evolution and character development - a slower paced, thinking man's film. However, the differences between the two don't reflect badly on SPY GAME. Redford is too fine an actor to be involved in anything substandard, and watching his Muir persona run circles around his Langley superiors is one of the movie's chief delights. (When was the last clunker Redford starred in?). Pitt does a creditable and credible job as the young military sniper (trained to shoot in the Boy Scouts!) first employed by agent controller Muir for an assassination in Laos, and then permanently recruited for the Agency by Muir soon after the US scuttled out of Southeast Asia.

SPY GAME did have its hiccups. I was unreasonably annoyed that the "Berlin" sequences were actually filmed in Budapest, probably because Berlin is one of my favorite cities. Actress Catherine McCormack's relatively cold performance as Bishop's love obsession didn't really click for me, though she was my heartthrob of the moment in DANGEROUS BEAUTY (1997). And, it seemed a bit much of a stretch for the Chinese correctional officer to connect bubblegum with a prison break. On the other hand, the depiction of chaotic and violent Beirut (filmed in Morocco) was masterfully done. Overall, the director succeeded in producing an intelligent and engrossing holiday thriller. And it's so good to see Redford back. Thus, 4.5 stars, rounded for Amazon to 5.

Awful
Yet another movie in which Robert Redford gets to reprise his role as an irritating know-all. He has played pretty much the same character for the last ten years, and this time the phoney sagacity emerges though the persona of a CIA commander handing out lines like 'don't ever question my orders again', 'you just lost ten seconds', and (yes) 'you're ten minutes late' to his fawning understrapper Brad Pitt. Yawn. Actually wasn't that last line followed by another admonitory cliché seconds later? Oh yes: 'Don't let it happen again.' By the way, this movie *is* marketed as a thriller.

How behind the times is a film which still tries to portray the embattled North Vietnamese as an enemy requiring murderous force to extirpate? How confused is a movie in which Redford refers in one moment to the 'seventeen sects' in Lebanon and thereafter has to use the cumbersomely neutral locution of 'the Lebanese militia' to refer to the sect the US had sided with? How cliched is a movie which intercuts between a tuxedoed reception at an embassy and a gritty car-chase behind the iron curtain? Plus the enemy du jour is - surprise, surprise - the Chinese.

The moviemakers' meticulous research and attention to detail is evdient throughout: Redford repeatedly pronounces Sheik as 'chic'; a scene opens with a shot of the Szabadság bridge in Budapest while the subtitle reads 'Berlin'; and of course stealing top-secret documents at Langley is simply a matter of distracting the secretary, swiping them off his desk and hiding them under your jacket.

But I suppose you could just watch it for the garbled morals, the inapposite techno/dance soundtrack and director Tony Scott's frenetic swoop-then-freezeframe camerawork...

I SPY U SPY
Tony Scott's intricately plotted spy drama ironically places two of our blond matinee idols in jeopardy. A leathery-faced Robert Redford with the fresh blossom of youth in Brad Pitt. Both actors do well in their roles, with Redford coming out on top as his role demands a little more. Scott is good in keeping the pace quick even though there are several moments that you wonder if he can keep it up. Pitt plays a CIA operative captured on a botched mission and scheduled to be executed by the Chinese. Of course, the CIA will allow this because Pitt was on a rogue unauthorized mission, and they don't want to ruin their trade relationship with China. Redford does everything he can in a 24 hour period to ensure Pitt's safety.
The movie has a fine supporting cast including Marie-Jean Baptiste as Redford's secretary; Larry Bryggman (soap opera's AS THE WORLD TURNS); Catherine McCormack as Pitt's love interest, and Stephen Dillane as Harker, the self-assured, egotistical fellow agent.

David Hemmings and Charlotte Rampling have cameos.
All in all, entertaining, if a little hard to follow sometimes.

Great Thriller, practically flawless
Wow, what's NOT to like in this tightly-directed, smart spy thriller? Certainly not Brad Pitt, who plays Viet Nam vet, ex-boyscout, erstwhile trained assassin who doesn't shy at doing wetwork while agonizing about the fate of his "assets" or contacts in the field. And a great performance from Robert Redford as Nathan Muir, who is about to retire as a CIA agent, but has plenty of game left in him on his last day at work.

The supporting cast is mostly unknowns who do a superb job as CIA flacks, and the plot is full of twists, turns and yet is logically laid out. The tension builds nicely at the beginning, and though this is a longish film (2 1/2 hours) it carries the tension well and never, ever drags.

I enjoyed this film for the fact that nothing really was telegraphed as to outcome, though we almost see the film in full circle from beginning to end. A fine effort by Pitt, Redford and most of all, Tony Scott.

Highly Recommended.

JLD ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent special Effects !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is one of my favriote monster movie ever! I think that having a variety of monsters really helped, un-like "predator", witch only had one monster. Don't get me wrong, the special effects in predator were great, but it did not have multiple monsters like this did. This is a great movie with a good script and great acting. If you check the IMDB, it won several awards,too.

a must see if you like the genre.......

better than average,
I don't know why some people did not like this movie.
I did. The story is abouta submersable the "Siren 2"
with a crew that is searching for the "siren 1" a lost submarine.
they discover a under water cave filled with mutants and monsters
that are the results of genetic engineering. Soon they start to kill off the crew in gory deaths. interesting story and good special effects are what make this above average monster movie work. rated R for gore and profanity.

Could have been fun entertainment, but it's just bad
1989-1990 will be the years known for the release of 4 underwater sci-fi horror films. It began with DeepStar Six, Leviathan, Lords of the Deep, and finsished with Endless Descent. The last film makes DeepStar Six and Leviathan look good in comparison.

Siren I is a nuclear sub that's lost under the water. Another submarine, Siren 2, is sent down to find it. An S.O.S. signal leads them to an underwater cavern. There, they find something that begins to kill the crew off one by one and the survivors must find save one more crewmember and find a way to escape.

From the plot, Endless Descent could have been fun entertainment, but it's just plain bad. Had the film been armed with a bigger budget and a longer running time (to match the budget of course) it could have succeeded, but with what the director had to work with, the film is just awful.

The special effects are the worst part. Occasionally, one of the creature effects looks somewhat impressive but almost all the time, they're laughable creations. There's a laughable scene invovling a guy getting eaten by something that looks like a giant starfish. The sets are also quite fake looking and the interior of the submarine looks way too plain and bland. These designs and effects reek of straight-to-video quality.

Director J.P. Simon tries to mount some tension by adding some action sequences in. Heck, one sequence reminded me a lot of the one in Aliens when all the soldiers first encountered the aliens and tried to escape. Simon does manage to create some genuine tension for about five minutes, but that's it. After the sequence is over, the film just goes back to being plain boring.

The acting is pretty bad, too. There's only one decent performance, which belongs to R. Lee Ermey as the captain. Jack Scalia is too bland and Deborah Adair never convinced me she was a real biologist.

The movie's filled with all the usual horror cliches. Black man gets killed, the good-looking woman (as opposed to the middle aged one) is killed, and one person has to make a major sacrifice. Guessing who the survivors are isn't too hard, either. In DeepStar Six, it was a guy and his wife. In Leviathan, it was also a man and a woman. With this pattern, it wouldn't take a rocket scientist to figure out this one.

You'll stop watching after five minutes.
This movie really succked. I saw it on HBO once and I thought, "Man, this movie sucks!" The acting was dry. It was a lot like "See spot. See spot run. See Spot make a spot. Bad Spot!" I think the "colorful" creatures mentioned earlier are just rehashed muppets. I also think "colorful" is just a nice way of saying cheesey. Please avoid this movie and maybe then we can work toward world peace. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Solid Political Sci-fi Thriller...
In my estimate FATHERLAND is a rare film which is superior to the novel it's based on. Rutger Hauer is excellent as dedicated Police Inspector, Xavier March( former decorated U-boat Commander), who stumbles on a plot by GESTAPO to exterminate remaining participants in the infamous WANNSEE CONFERENCE (where top Nazis engineered the FINAL SOLUTION). The premise posits German victory in Europe. And: that aging, triumphant Adolph Hitler wishes to "crown" Third Reich supremacy with alliance (or at least DETENTE) with the United States. The Fuhrer "schemes" this will permit the Germans to finally crush still-Stalin-led recalcitrant Soviet Union forces (perhaps even using The BOMB with tacit US compliance).

While Robert Harris novel's focus is REVELATION of Der ENDLOSUNG and politically-driven killing of architects of mass murder, the movie tries to deal with more. An uneasy relationship between March and his young son ( well-played by Rory Jennings) has more depth than the book and more complex resolution. The film-emphasized ironies of alliance between Hitler-led Germany and a President Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.-led USA speak for themselves. Nazi eugenics/abortion policies are given brief, but powerful rebuke in "Father-Son" breakfast sequence wherein young Pili March guilelessly relates to papa what he's learning in school. Jean Marsh has a terrifying cameo as former paramour of a targeted Nazi henchman trading secret knowledge of the Holocaust for asylum in America. Her vile gloating over the fate of the Jews is scary. Miranda Richardson essays the role of American reporter sent to cover THE KENNEDY-HITLER meeting (to be held on Hitler's 75th birthday). She's okay. But her characterization as recklessly fearless, confronting barely masked terrorism of the Police State is sometimes gratingly unbelievable. As is...to some extent...the unsurprising "surprise" ending. The film's pacing and (retro-futuristic: 1964) art direction is fine. This "WHAT-IF?" is recommended for genuinely provocative moments making it a solid, political sci-fi thriller......

ein volk! ein riech! ein fuerer!
this is a what if story about if hitler would have won ww2.its a hbo-back to the 1860s-movie so no stars in this one.the kids will probably fall asleep if they watch it.it isthe second best 3rd reich based movie ever.most of the head full of crap-forced in by society and school types will be offended .but anyone with a mind will enjoy it.the real message here is you cant belive everything you here or read.

Superb speculation about our world as it might have been.
The theme of "Fatherland" is imaginative, and constitutes one of the best "alternate history" scenario stories I have ever come across. Without giving away any spoilers, it is simple: the Normandy invasion of France is an utter failure, and Nazi Germany ultimately becomes the master of Europe, as America turns away from the European war to concentrate on defeating Japan. By 1960, the "Cold War" between Germany "Germania" (still ruled by the 75 year-old Adolf Hitler) and the United States is in full swing. The novel is set in Berlin. The plot centers on a political murder being investigated by Sturmbahnfuhrer Xavier March, of the German SS Criminal Police. More would be telling.

This is a very well done film, and I agree with some of the other reviewers that this film is even better than the book. (By the way, the book is superb as well, and also merits five stars). This is one of those wonderful films in which the musical score adds an extra dimension to the mood, and Gary Chang deserves kudos for his work here. Rutger Hauer turns in an outstanding performance as Xavier March, once again proving that this underrated actor is a considerable talent. Overall this movie absolutely convinces the viewer about how our world might have been. And thank God is not.

I trust that this superb film will soon be available on DVD.

Fairly good Movie
I happened to catch this movie on Fox26 and I thought it was a pretty good movie.

A bit disappointing after the book
I must say, as a disclaimer, that a lot of movies look disappointing after a great book. The pictures in my head are always more entertaining than what I see on the screen. That said, I think the movie was as good as it could have been. It clearly looks as though the people making it had some fun (if that's the right word) creating an image of "Germania," the united Germany Empire after Hitler won the WWII. The first few minutes of watching the movie are so disconcerting that one wants to look away from the swasticas and images of content citizens everywhere. What do you say when SS are actually the good guys? Still, once you get used to this warped atmosphere, it's possible to enjoy the movie for what it is... a good thriller. It's not more and not less. According to the premise, Russia is still fighting the war on the Eastern front, and America and Germania are deciding whether to combine their forces and restore peace once and for all. But would that truly happen if the secret of Holocaust, that everyone is trying to cover up, comes to light?

The acting was impeccable but not outstanding. I think this movie is worth seeing, but I'd recommend sticking to the book and keeping the picture R. Harris paints in the novel. ... Read more

Description

While on a diplomatic trip to Europe with her parents, first daughter Anna (Mandy Moore) escapes the secret service and meets mysterious stranger Ben Calder, who also happens to be an undercover agent. ... Read more

Reviews (69)

Lead male is all wrong
This movie wasn't as terrible as one reviewer made it sound. It is cliched, soft, predictable and mushy -- but so are most romantic comedies. I mean -- this isn't Ralph Fiennes and Kristin Scott Thomas in "The English Patient." Heck -- it isn't even Tom Cruise and Rene Zelwegger in "Jerry McGuire." And to look for deep love in "Chasing Liberty" is just plain silly. That being said -- the reviewer is right about one thing: The chemistry is not here. No Bogey and Bogart, no Peck and Hepburn ... zilch, nada. The actors are acting to and at each other but not WITH each other. I can at least deal with Mandy Moore -- though her acting in this movie is not as good and lovable as in her other movies. (She was starting to annoy rather than win my heart in this one.) BUT Matthew Goode is just plain awful. His lines are weak and his dialogue and acting lacking any real thrust or at least semblance of emotion. Of course -- working across from Mandy Moore could make a guy a little "less himself" during shoots. But that's no excuse. Simply -- the cast director picked the wrong guy. (Hell -- it's enough that we have to imagine Mark Harmon as the President of the United States.)

Absolutely Adorable Movie
Mandy Moore shines in this delightful movie. She has such an undeniable presence and just makes you love her. Matthew Goode is a newcomer that gives that glint every once in a while of a young Hugh Grant... he definitely has potential and is quite adorable too. Sure the story at times has some plot holes... but this was meant as a feel good movie to escape reality - who doesn't wish they could run away to Europe and meet a handsome stranger? Mark Harmon, a fine actor, was grossly miscast for this role though... sometimes it's almost painful to watch him. Jeremy Piven is hilarious - has great chemistry with Annabella Sciorra and he's incredibly funny throughout the movie. The only thing missing is a Soundtrack - where is it? There is some great music on this movie - especially Caroline Lost's "To Be With You" that you simply cannot find ANYWHERE. Please do us a favor and release a soundtrack for this movie. :)

hi, um does anyone know what song was playing where moore
and the french girl were in the club and there was a band playing

Really likable romantic comedy
If you are a fan of the romantic comedy genre you will like this movie. Mandy Moore and Matthew Goode were terrific in this movie. They had a nice chemistry. Mandy was likable and less annoying than most in this genre. They should had spent a little more focus on Matthew. He had good screen presence and appeal, I hope to see more of him in other movies. My only complaint was that the ending was cut-off. It did drag on a bit in the beginning but it was needed to set up a more believeable storyline. It does have brief nudity, which was a surprise. I had low expectations and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I like it. The movie takes place mostly in Europe and there are some beautiful scenes/locations.

Waaaay too dragged out.
I LOVE Mandy as an actress. I think she's great. But she just didn't do it in this movie. The movie was roughly 2 hours long, maybe a little longer. It mainly involved her and her love interest going back and forth between whether or not they liked each other. There was no real plot or basis to the story, and her love interest didn't have a defined personality very much. I recommend a Walk to Remember instead. One of my favorite movies. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Fish Hooks!!!?
Fish Hooks!!!?
A portly George C. Scott reprises his role from the 1970 classic Patton. Too bad this movie is awful. Briefly stated, this is a sequel that should not have been made. The flimsy dialog, poor editing, and cumbersome made-for-television format do no justice to Francis Ford Coppola's original epic. Be sure to note the expanding belt-line... only a few months in movie-time, but Scott looked like he'd been hanging out with Marlon Brando for the 16 years between films.

Great sequal to Patton
George C. Scott returns as George S. Patton in this sequal to Patton. The movie starts after World War II and shows how he could not adjust to his peacetime role as military governor of Bavaria. Then he gets in more trouble when he lobbies for war against the Soviet Union and gets stripped of his command. And their is the mystery surrounding Patton's death.

George C. Scott does a great job in his portrayal of one of the great military leaders of the 20th century. I think it is a good buy for people who like Patton or who like movies dealing with World War II.

good follow up
this movie is not a academy award winner, but documents the life after the war in germany, and general patton's need to
still be a effective leader even with the buracey of post ar germany.
this movie fill's in the gap's after the opriginal 1970
movie. the dvd is a decent version, but needs to be
cleaned upa bit.

Sad but true
George C. Scott reprises his role as Patton in the 2nd part of the movie "Patton" It picks up where the movie left off, with the end of WWII to the tragic car accident that left Patton paralyzed. Eva Marie Saint climbs aboard as Mrs. Patton. Beautifully done!

Weak film
What a waste of time. They stick fish hooks in his jaw and for two amd a half hours you get to watch G. C. Scott with fish hooks in his jaw mumble weak lines about a person he never met.
And my DVD copy is blurry. What a bore. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Review of The Nightmare Years
I have been a fan of Mr. William Shirer for many years and have read about his correspondence during the Nazi regime in Germany. This video compliments highly his views and the condition of the people very well during those years. Being a newspaperman he is critical and imaginative comparing Germany before and after the Nazi's.

Ronald R. Harris, PhD

Captivating
I rented this movie several years ago and loved it! It's based on a true life story of a top American journalist stationed in Berlin during Hitler's rise to power. He is on to Hitler and the rest of the Nazis very early and tries to warn people in the U.S. When war does eventually break out, the reporter is a thorn in Hitler's side. The Nazis chase he and his wife around Europe, but he keeps escaping their grasp. I can't tell you more without spoiling the movie, but I've been trying to buy a copy of this movie for years. It lasts over 3 hours, but is so exciting that it doesn't seem that long. Enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

DON'T MISS IT
A Ken Follet book brought to life by Timothy Dalton & Omar Sharif! It even features location filming! Not bad for a budget film, and lots of fun too! If you can overlook some of these bad reviews here, and make up your own mind you should like this. Especially if you area James Bond fan, and would like to see a good modern spy action movie.

Big disappointment
The book (unlike the movie) is about the adventures of a young couple in the Panjshir Valley in Afghanistan during the Soviet-Afghan war. It is based in an environment of struggle and heroism of the Afghan freedom fighters under the command of Ahmad Shah Massoud. The movie on the other hand is not even based in Afghanistan, and the acting is pathetic. You can tell that the movie is a low-budget project, and it does the book no justic.

Not Very Good CIA Potboiler
Like several of your other reviewers, I am a fan of Timothy Dalton but I have to wonder what he is thinking half the time with the roles he picks (Brenda Starr, The Rocketeer, etc.). At any rate, while this is a more meaty role, and he makes a very dashing operative, the story is fairly idiotic and the production is second-rate. In fact, the quality of the video is terrible and you have to strain to see what is going on, ridiculous as most of it seems. The picture of Marg Helgenberger dragging a baby over and through the Afghan mountains while spouting flower-child preachings is enough to send you screaming into the night, to say nothing of anything else. In sum, a sad waste of Dalton's talents (can this be the same actor who played the definitive Rochester in Jane Eyre?) as well as Omar Shariff's.

Sorry to think how it could have been...
If you're a great Timothy Dalton fan ( as I am! ), probably you'll make it to the end of the film Eif not, I don't know if there's much I can guarantee.
Altogether, I think the film could have been much much better. I couldn't get rid of the impression that I was watching some cheap soap drama, and it only made me wonder how Timothy could be happy being a part of it ( although not so much as I did when I saw 'Cleopatra'). Like another reviewer, I think he's sometimes inclined to waste his talent on some funny filmsE
As for the accent, I had a hard time convincing myself that he was a CIA agent EI wasn't sure if he was even trying to sound American ( Not having read the book, I thought he must be an American brought up in the UKE.
With Timothy and Omar Sharif, I'm only sorry that the film had to come out this way.

Lie Down With Lions
Terrible, you may have seen my review praising Tim's picture 'Framed' if you liked my review and the film then take my advice this is shockingly bad!! I would really love to chat with Tim about his career, I'm a big fan of his and he is truly a great actor. When he bothers to pick decent roles! He must of seen this one coming as a complete Turkey yet he signed on the dottted line? I'm still trying to figure out whether he picks his roles with thought and care for the piece and the character, or thought about the cheque they'll cut him for his time?
Where does one begin? The plot never gets started and to be frank if your working alongside Nigel Havers you know it's a straight to video release! I guess the cast premier was held at their local Blockbuster rental store! Omar Sharif is the only redeeming feature to this, that and the location which gets a bit tedious after a while. Ken Follet must have to have been sedated after they ruined his written manuscript! For god's sake Tim get it together!! ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Wonderful!
This is a film I have no problem recommending to anyone! Suitable for adults and children alike, Balto is a movie that first touched my heart back in 1995 when it was first released and continues to reign as my all-time favorite animated movie. Kevin Bacon delivers an excellent performance as the humble and timid, Balto, while the rest of the voice cast brings to life his simple but captivating world. I can't say enough about this movie. While it isn't exactly historically correct, the movie uses the true story of Balto as a stepping-stone into a tale about friendship, love, and what real courage is. Relaying a timeless message of excepting others for who they truly are, Balto is a movie thats perfect for helping children realize that hate, prejudice, and discrimination are evil poisons. It also delivers a message about loving those who hate you and that one person (or dog) can make a difference- they just have to be willing to stand up and step in. These are lessons that not just children but also adults need to be reminded of and this is just the movie to do that. Forget Disney for awhile and check out this true masterpiece from Universal.

Couldn't be a better film!
This is a really good movie.I've been watching it for as long as I can remember.It's about a dog (part wolf)who is an outcast in Nome,Alaska.He's friends with a Russian snow goose called Boris (the funniest character in the movie) and 2 polar bears called Muk and Luk who can't swim.He's also in love with a dog called Jenna, and there's a villian called Steele.
When a disease strikes (with Jenna's owner, Rosie, among the sick) and the sled team sent to get the anti-toxin is lost, Balto must find and rescue the team and face avalanches,icicle falls and (of course) Steele.A brilliant movie.

A powerful story
My only regret with this movie, is that I did not catch it at the cinema! However when I first rented it from a video store, I instantly fell in love with it (and ended up re-renting it out quite a few times before finally receiving a VHS copy of my own later on). Now it is on DVD and so I have happily purchased this to keep forever more, it really is an absolute favourite of mine.

Story Summary:

Our main character is a half-dog, half-wolf protagonist who is shunned by the townspeople and rejects the outside life of the wolves, he doesn't belong anywhere. This story sees the children of the town threatened by a virus and when it seems that the life-saving medicine will be impossible to obtain, our protoganist throws himself into the world of both realities for the sake of others and getting his chance at proving his worth to the world, but not without it's trials and tribulations of course. Place in an overbearing and selfish lead husky, a gentle canine love interest, a cynical goose partner, and some fun polar bears, then be prepared for a ride filled with danger, love and humour. All carried along with a powerful message that "You don't need a pedigree to help someone" and of acceptance of the self so as to cherish those personal qualities that make you different and attempt to rise above the odds by acting to your fullest.

Elements:

The animation is wonderfully done, very impressive and carries the story well. As mentioned before, the music is also a treat, the end credits vocal fits the whole movie extremely well and is as powerful as the movie's message itself, the instrumental soundtrack also gives a powerful underlying atmosphere to all the dynamic scenes. The plot is played out well, as firstly you are gradually introduced to the main characters through fitting scenes and get a good feeling for who they are and how they carry themselves out in life, an important factor for following a character driven plot. Then there is a good variety in the action, causing our protagonist to be pitted against an array of odds that keep you gripped and doesn't let the pace die. As mentioned, the voices are all acted out very well.

Conclusion:

Either way this film is a must-see in my opinion, and one I have happily seen many times myself. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Sidenote:

However on another note, I believe the VHS cover would of been better than this new cover, it seemed to have a more powerful composition with a nice variety of colour. If I remember right, it doesn't outrightly say "true story", it was more like "the story that became a legend" which could still be in a fictional sense since it is a word often used in mystical themes, rather than the word "true" that pulls away any doubt of this not being from something or other based in reality. If I remember correctly that is. Either way, since I didn't enter this movie initially thinking in a forward manner of "This is based on a true story" I felt the ending words had an added impact. But this is an extremely minor point, and this movie is very impacting either way in my opinion.

So, as stated, this is based loosely on a true story. For the purpose of this version of the original story things have been re-invented and so on. I do not believe this being an alternative interpretation detracts from this movie, incase you wondered, and I feel it's very impacting and influential. When I first watched this film I had no idea of this being based at all on a true story, so when the final words came, "Based on a true story", I was very touched as the underlying achievement is extremely impressive. To see the bare facts you may wish to see other documentation in company with this movie, however.

All in all, a great and influential story.

Lots of fun!
Does it really matter that this isn't exactly "historical?" I mean c'mon people, it's entertainment, not a history book.

My only gripe is that is was released in 4:3, aka "Full Screen." This was probably done for the kiddies, but for those of us that enjoy a good animated flick, release it in widescreen! That's the only reason it doesn't rate 5 stars.

If you've got access to a region free DVD player, order the German version from Amazon.de. It's a much nicer presentation, in it's original 16:9, with the english dialogue track.

Maybe Universal will release a special edition here in the states, with the theatrical version. Don't hold your breath too long, tho!

Another Universal Classic Animated Feature
Balto has been around since 1995 and even today the animation is still spactacular. There is nothing but absolute beauty in every shot and in every note in the compelling music score. The voice acting is performed very well. Especially Phill Collins as Muk and Luk. If there's one complaint I have about this film is the fact that it's not acclaimed as much as it should be. I do wish that a widescreen presentation was availible and I don't very much agree with them changing the cover art. Unfortunatey Universal doesn't seem to care much. But the film is a joy either way. ... Read more

Description

A rebellious motorcycle racer in the 1930s is given a choice by the Army: spend a year in jail, or lead a motorcycle cavalry unit on a mission in Spain. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Good movie
I liked the plot of this movie. John Stamos actually knows how to ride. The race sceen is pretty cool.

John Stamos Rides Again
This is one of my favorite action movies. I originally watched it because of John Stamos, but now that I don't really care one way or another about him, I still appreciate the movie a little for what it is; a motorcycle/war/action flick. Stamos does a bang-up job, there is an exploding motorcycle for those who resonate to that, and of course, a little love story on the side. So, if you like Stamos, or if you like to see motorcycles burst into flames, watch this movie.

Born to Ride
Don't Buy from these people they have alot of bad feedback and send broken tapes. I bought this movie from them and it took forever to get and when it came it was in pieces! Can't rate it because I couldn't watch it. bbbentertainment-com zShop

STAMOS STINKS UP DULL FILM
A TRIBUTE TO WHAT REALLY BAD ACTING IS.NO SCRIPT, JUST JOHN STAMOS AND ALOT OF BAD STUNT DRIVING.GO BACK TO KIDDIE SITCOMS DUDE.

born to ride
a action/adventure movie which inspires you to watch it a second time and a third. John Stamos performs an award winning performance. a great film with alot of cool motorcycles and a couple of beautiful women. world war 2 action packed movie. A must see film blow you away with world war action along with some romance and some cool bikes. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Wonderful!
This is a film I have no problem recommending to anyone! Suitable for adults and children alike, Balto is a movie that first touched my heart back in 1995 when it was first released and continues to reign as my all-time favorite animated movie. Kevin Bacon delivers an excellent performance as the humble and timid, Balto, while the rest of the voice cast brings to life his simple but captivating world. I can't say enough about this movie. While it isn't exactly historically correct, the movie uses the true story of Balto as a stepping-stone into a tale about friendship, love, and what real courage is. Relaying a timeless message of excepting others for who they truly are, Balto is a movie thats perfect for helping children realize that hate, prejudice, and discrimination are evil poisons. It also delivers a message about loving those who hate you and that one person (or dog) can make a difference- they just have to be willing to stand up and step in. These are lessons that not just children but also adults need to be reminded of and this is just the movie to do that. Forget Disney for awhile and check out this true masterpiece from Universal.

Couldn't be a better film!
This is a really good movie.I've been watching it for as long as I can remember.It's about a dog (part wolf)who is an outcast in Nome,Alaska.He's friends with a Russian snow goose called Boris (the funniest character in the movie) and 2 polar bears called Muk and Luk who can't swim.He's also in love with a dog called Jenna, and there's a villian called Steele.
When a disease strikes (with Jenna's owner, Rosie, among the sick) and the sled team sent to get the anti-toxin is lost, Balto must find and rescue the team and face avalanches,icicle falls and (of course) Steele.A brilliant movie.

A powerful story
My only regret with this movie, is that I did not catch it at the cinema! However when I first rented it from a video store, I instantly fell in love with it (and ended up re-renting it out quite a few times before finally receiving a VHS copy of my own later on). Now it is on DVD and so I have happily purchased this to keep forever more, it really is an absolute favourite of mine.

Story Summary:

Our main character is a half-dog, half-wolf protagonist who is shunned by the townspeople and rejects the outside life of the wolves, he doesn't belong anywhere. This story sees the children of the town threatened by a virus and when it seems that the life-saving medicine will be impossible to obtain, our protoganist throws himself into the world of both realities for the sake of others and getting his chance at proving his worth to the world, but not without it's trials and tribulations of course. Place in an overbearing and selfish lead husky, a