Reviews (3)

short use of good talent
i really must say that it was ok could've been better, alot better! if they only would've taken more time & care on the script. the casting was superb that's why it's a shame it falls soo short of greatest , a great idea just poorly excuted. jeff daniels & catherine o'hara are pefect in their roles but the script leaves little for them to do,the beginning is great but runs out of steam.

there are some funny moments that's about it. it's PG-13 for profanity.

Paydirt - VHS
It's a copy of mad mad mad mad world. Jeff Daniels strikes again, he is one of the funniest people on this planet, what would the world be whiteout him.

PAYDIRT - VHS
It's a copy of mad mad mad mad world. Jeff Daniels strikes again, he is one of the funniest people on this planet, what would the world be whiteout him. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great Story, Great Actors
I was wonderfully surprised with this movie. It ran the gambit of emotions for me: laughing, crying... Frankie Muniz and Mathew Modine were EXCELLENT in their roles. The rest of the cast was great as well. The story was interesting all along and you felt warmth and compassion for the 'deaf man' as he grew in stature.

I've recommended this to anyone who'd listen. Good job!!!!!

VHS Much Better
I was waiting for the DVD format to become available as I loved this movie and was wearing out my tape from rewinding and fast forwarding to my favorite scenes.

The VHS version contains interviews with the actors and behind the scenes making of the movie footage. I guess I expected that if footage was on the video, then it would be in the DVD. Boy was I wrong.

The DVD version was good quality, but contained no extras whatsoever. So if you are like me and hoping to replace your VHS with the DVD, you'll be disappointed. Now I have two copies of this movie depending on if I just want to see a particular scene or the behind the scenes footage. I guess the VCR is sticking around a little while longer.

Not a good representative of the Deaf population
Even though the movie is touching, it doesn't represent the Deaf population. Many of them have told me that it is a good movie and wants me to watch it but they do not understand that it is not anything to do with the culture of the Deaf. If you want to understand the Deaf culture, watch the appropriate videotape such as "Children of a Lesser God" or "Love is Never Silent." I would heartily recommended this movie.

Charming, funny, and touching
What the Deaf Man Heard is a poignantly funny story about a boy abandoned on a bus by his mother (telling you why spoils part of the plot), who tells him not to talk to anyone. When he reaches the end of the bus line, he doesn't talk, so the everyone in the town assumes that he is deaf and dumb. The bus station manager (Tom Skerrit) allows him to live at the bus station and becomes his surrogate father. There are too many funny parts to mention here, but as the events leading up to the boy, now a man (Matthew Modine), revealing that he really can hear and talk are funny and touching. James Earl Jones is fantastic (as always) as the only person in town to figure out the truth, though he keeps the secret for his own purposes. You'll laugh, you'll cry. It's better than Cats. You'll want to see it again and again.

Outstanding!
This is a show to be viewed by all, both young and old, big and small. It accentuates on kindness, hidden secrets, love, loyalty and don't forget, determination. I was impressed with it's quality and with it's humor and sentiment. I have only seen it once, when it was shown on television, but it has stayed with me for years, and will continue to be a desired DVD to add to our library. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A Great Stephen King Movie stays true to the Novel
This movie is a great adaptation of stephen kings Rose Red. It's sort of like the haunting but with an physic twist. a dormat house haunted house with a really shady past is under investagation by a profesesor and her volunteer physics. But whatthey don't know is with their physic enegry they have waken up the spirit sin the house. one by one they disappear till the real horror is the house is changing.It's alive.
This movie is a superb adaptation I loved how they told the history of the house and the people before they went into the house. this is a wonderful movie more errie than scary but still this is must see for any stephen king fan.

worth watching again and again.
Rose Red is one of those movies that stays with you long after it's over. Don't let the length of the movie (almost 6 hrs.) turn you off to watching it. It's well worth the time to sit down and watch this brilliant masterpiece. The cast was wonderfully chosen. From Nancy Travis who plays Dr.Joyce Reardon. The woman who becomes fasinated with a haunted mansion called Rose Red to the point of risking other peoples lives to prove to her boss and collegues that Rose Red truly is haunted. To Annie Wheaton played by Kimberly J. Brown who has the power to waken Rose Red from a deep sleep by using her mind to do. If your a Stephen King fan than you won't want to miss this, and for the rest of you who aren't, well give the movie a try anyway. You won't be disappointed.

Great supernatural movie
Rose Red is a complex film but if you pay attention, it can be followed easily.
The setting is an awesome old house. But there are ghosts that still live there. As the plot unravels, the characters special supernatural abilities bring out the answers to what the group is looking for. Scary scenes, bizzare happenings as the house "lives." One of King's best films.

If you know Stephen King you know this is one of his best
Well, I read my first Stephen King novel when I was 12 years old. I read Salem's Lot and slept with the light on for weeks. Since then I have read everything he wrote as Stephen and as Richard. I watch all of the tidbits, articles, commentaries etc on him. His imagination is amazing. I only became disappointed when filmmakers began botching his books with very bad movie adaptions. There are very few Stephen King novels which have been able to transcend from his wonderful imagination in print to that same imagination re-enacted through the actor/ess. Misery,Green Mile, Needful Things and Rose Red were a select few that made it. Carrie, Firestarter, The Shining(despite a stellar performance from Jack Nicholson), Salem's Lot, The Stand, Dead Zone(again despite a stellar performance from Christopher Walken)and Storm of the Century did not. If you thought the movie was bad, look to your actors and directors, not to Stephen King. There is no doubt that the book was good. It is very hard to capture an imagination that spectacular on film, but occasionally it can be done. It is now many many years later from the year I read Salem's Lot and I can still hear in my mind the line I read from that book about the high, sweet, evil sucking sounds of a child - Danny Glick. Try to capture that on film!

an ok TV movie brought to life
it was boring for some of the time but then theres some good scenes and some jolts. basically a true story and the place is real and I want to visit it. Julian Sands dies in this one, why, he was the cool person and so was Matt Keeslar, but why Sands DAMN IT. Stephen King has a cameo, just like some of his other books brought to life in a movie. basically soe corny effects and cheap dialouge. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

You will really feel the heat with this movie!
This version of the Long Hot Summer is an excellent adaption of the earlier movie with Paul Newman and JoAnne Woodward. Don Johnson is perfectly cast as Ben Quick and James Gammon is appropriately smarmy as his dad. Cybill Shepard, William Russ, Jason Robards, Judith Ivey, and Ava Gardner are also well cast in their roles. You start to sweat right along with the characters as their relationships heat up. Don Johnson just oozes sex appeal in every scene. It is easy to get lost in their portrayals, you will want to order a mint julep and sit on the veranda before the night is over!

Oh yes, it's good!
I happened to catch this movie on TV and fortunately for me, taped it. I loved the scenes between Judith Ivey & Don Johnson - in the store & by the river - best love scene I have EVER seen. The scenes between Jason Robbards & Don Johnson makes you feel like you are listening at the door on the veranda. The music is wonderful, different, haunting and adds so much - the direction and shots and the passion - they're all there. I watch this movie once a summer - when it is very hot out. Wish I could see it on the BIG screen.

Don Johnson Hot and Sexy!
I remember watching this movie on NBC. I was in fifth grade and drooling over this sex symbol. Don Johnson played a drifter Ben Quick, who was mysterious and trouble to some of the residents in the small town. Varner, played by the late Jason Robards, was a man who was respected in his community. He liked Quick. Varner had a daughter Noel, who was aloof and would later find herself in the arms of Ben Quick. Sybil Shepard was Eula Varner, the wife of Jody Varner. She cheated on Jody with another man. When she showed up beaten, Jody was quick to believe Ben did it. When the murder of her lover and a fire occurs, Ben is the first suspect.
Ben, being a drifter, attracted women because of his physique and cool attitude. Don Johnson has sex appeal and a collective attitude that made him good for this role.

Long Hot Summer-Remake
Over the years I have ocassionally seen Long Hot Summer with Don Johnson and have enjoyed it tremendously. He and Ivey did a tremendous job together and I felt the match was perfect. The tension between the two kept the movie very interesting. I liked it so much that I've recently bought both the original version and the remake. When I watched the original with Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward I was a little disappointed in it. Although I like both Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward I felt their acting in this movie had a little to be desired. Maybe for that time it was good, but after having already seen the remake first I didn't think the original was as good. Definitely purchase the remake and you will enjoy it thoroughly.

even better
I have seen both verson's and as much as I love paul newman I liked the remake better. Don Johnson makes you feel his torment in a way that Paul Newman did not. Judith Ivey was good as the love interest because she was not beautiful. In the original the the brother and the boy friend were play by actors that I like, but their personalitys were too strong for the roles they were playing. The longer running time let the writer develope the chactors better and let the plot, relationships, and suspence build gradually. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

An Exceptional Film
Set in the state of Georgia, James Garner renders a powerful and very sensitive performance of a Judge who following the death of his wife, retires from the bench. He tries to with-draw from life esconced in his own grief and bitterness. The mys-tery surrounding an old friend's refusal to accept the Congressional Medal of Honor, and the personal crises in the lives of those closest to him, compel him to step back into the mainstream of society . As he reaches beyond his own pain and into lives of others, he not only becomes an anchor for them, but finds a renewed reason for living, himself.
The supporting cast is superb, esp. Bill Cobbs and Ruby Dee.
This is an exceptional film, providing wholesome entertainment.

Decoration Day - Great Movie
Decoration Day is a great movie - lots of heart and such a fine family show. It reminds us not to make assumptions when we don't have all the facts and shows the great value of friendship and family.

5 stars all the way!
James Garner plays a retiring judge who becomes an unwilling, but interested player in a story centered around the government's plan to award the Medal of Honor to an African American man because of heroic actions during WWII's Battle of the Bulge. Here's the catch -- the man doesn't want to have anything to do with medal!

Garner is convinced that he should intervene and persuade the man to accept the medal. A story of racism, bitterness, decepetion, and revelation unfolds as the movie progresses. Be sure to watch for an interesting, unexpected plot twist toward the end.

This is top-notch drama, and a real treat for James Garner fans.

5 stars all the way! Watch this movie, you'll be glad you did. This is the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" at its best!

Alan Holyoak

Pleasing drama
James Garner stars as a retired judge who is widowed but has a wonderful housekeeper who still keeps him in line. All he wants to do is spend his days fishing and live without any hassles. A call for help from family for an old friend and he finds himself caught up in the human drama that leads to his own renewal. Great performances by James Garner and Judith Ivey and beautiful cenima make this movie a delight. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Too old for Hamlet and too young for Lear--what's an ambitious actor to do? Play the Devil, of course. Jack Nicholson did it in The Witches of Eastwick; Robert De Niro did it in Angel Heart (as Louis Cyphre--get it?). In The Devil's Advocate Al Pacino takes his turn as the great Satan, and clearly relishes his chance to raise hell. He's a New York lawyer, of course, by the name of John Milton, who recruits a hotshot young Florida attorney (Keanu Reeves) to his firm and seduces him with tempting offers of power, sex, and money. Think of the story as a twist on John Grisham's The Firm, with the corporate evil made even more explicit. Reeves is wooden, and therefore doesn't seem to have much of a soul to lose, but he's really just our excuse to meet the devil. Pacino's the main attraction, gleefully showing off his--and the Antichrist's--chops at perpetrating menace and mayhem. The film was directed by Taylor Hackford (Against All Odds, Dolores Claiborne), who provides alternate-track commentary for the movie itself, plus a dozen deleted scenes. Also note: due to a settlement with artist Frederick Hart over the movie's use of a sculpture resembling his Ex Nihilo in Washington's National Cathedral, future releases of the film will be altered. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (174)

Is it just me?
The plain and simple truth is that Keanu Reeves can't act. Never could, but somehow this inability was disguised until "Devil's advocate". But Reeves' characterization of a southerner lawyer turn into a hotshot in one of the most preeminent firms in New York (was it NY? Don't remember) is, to say the least, pitiable. There's one scene in special that embarrassed me, and I kept thinking that this guy is in fact being paid millions to do that. Well, the blame should be divided with the director, the person responsible for the casting and with millions of spectators that still think he's an actor.

Aside from that, "Devil's advocate has many other flaws. Al Pacino as John Milton/The Evil One is laughable. And I like Pacino. If Satan was half as idiotic as Pacino portraits it, the world would be an eternal rainbow-sunshine scene. The plot of this movie is so thin I already forgot it. All other characters (with the exception of the two women) are just ridiculous sidekicks in the unfinishable story of the battle of Good against evil. I can't remember one single actor in this movie other than Reeves, Pacino, Theron and Nielsen. The final confrontation scene and the whole situation it involves is so grotesquely scripted that the movie looses even the aura of "fable", something that could save parts of the story.

I give "Devil's advocate" two stars because of Charlize Theron and Connie Nielsen. The south african is extremely beautiful, and a competent actress that draws attention whenever she's on screen. The dane , though barely opening her mouth, has an unforgettable facial expression, and is also very beautiful.

Watch this only if it runs on TV on Wednesday night and you have absolutely nothing else to do.

Sensational!
I loved this movie. Outstanding in practically every way. Al Pacino's portrayal of Lucifer is exactly how I have always perceived the dark angel to be. The devil does not have horns or a tail, he has the face of man himself. I am always amazed at how the religious zealots seem to conveniently forget that Lucifer was the highest angel, an archangel, thrown out of heaven because of his arrogance and rebelliousness, not because he was a mad demon.

Pacino plays this character beautifully - he is sly, charismatic, chilling, and seductive all at once. One of my favorite scenes was the elevator scene where Milton bates Kevin's mother by calling her "Mrs. Lomax" and asking her slyly that "surely this wasn't her first trip to New York". Absolutely wicked! Then, as Milton casually wisks Kevin off to a night on the town at the Flamingo club and the boxing match (naturally Don King would have an alliance with Satan), I was mezmerized watching Milton weave his spell and reel Kevin smoothly into his web. Pacino's climaxtic argument is brilliant as he exclaims that he's a fan of man and why. As I watched Kevin's descent from Maryann,(Charlize Theron and Keanu had wonderful chemistry as a married couple),I was reminded of how we all make certain decisions then try to justify our actions later, usually with the precursor that, "It wasn't MY fault, it was the work of Satan... then, like Kevin, we make the same decisions over and over.

I thought Keanu Reeves was perfect as the cool, arrogant, hotshot attorney who knows that he is so...good. I am completely baffled by all the haters panning Keanu's acting, he did a great job. I thought the casting of all the actors were on point in this movie, everyone connected with each other and with their characters.

My only complaint is that the deleted scenes cannot not be viewed without the director's commentary. The sub-titles can't even be displayed. While this DVD has one of the best director's commentary's, it would be nice to have the option of watching the deleted scenes on their own since these scenes contribute to the continuity of the story and clear up questions a viewer may have. Overall, this movie is just outstanding!

A Guilty Pleasure
The story a lawyer who works for the devil, not as dumb as it sounds, in fact a surprisingly great movie. Both Keanu Reeves and Al Pacino in great roles.

It makes your stomach churn in two different ways.
"The Devil's Advocate" is one of those movies that you can't stop thinking about after it's finished. Scenes keep replaying through your head. It's a movie that makes you think, despite it's strange, fantasy-like plot-line. Al Pacino, without a doubt, delivers one of the best and most potent performances of his career. Keanu Reeves isn't up to his usual standard of acting, but he plays wooden characters very well. Once again, in "The Devil's Advocate", Keanu is wooden. That's alright though, it really doesn't take anything away from the story line. It doesn't matter who the director intended to be the movies main character; Pacino steals the show, but don't get me wrong. He has his competition.

Charlize Theron delivers a performance the caliber of which I didn't think she was capable. She portrays the stages of madness through which her character stumbles through very accurately, cryptically, and passionately. Her character (Keanu Reeves' wife) is slowly isolated and cut off from her husband through the doing Pacino, who uses the seven deadly sins to manipulate Keanu and keep him as far away from his wife as possible while at the same time manipulating her with a various assortment of devilish tricks.

The dialogue in this movie is incredible. The conversations in this movie alone are worth watching. Pacino generally has the most thought-provoking lines in the film, though Keanu's mother and Theron have their moments. I can't think of a single flaw in the character chemistry and interactions within this movie. It's perfect. Half the movie you feel your stomach writhing and twisting as you find yourself thinking and re-evaluating issues and aspects of your life you'd either forgotten about or taken for granted. These aren't the only time in which you'll feel your stomach doing helixes in your bowels, however.

For the other half of the movie, your insides will squirm with discomfort. This movie is one of the most R rated movies I've ever seen. Chalked full with graphic images including nudity, horror, blood/guts, violence and dialogue that includes some seriously disturbing topics, this movie becomes increasingly difficult to sit through as you go on. The director makes it very clear he's not sparing the viewer for anything. The camera rarely ever cuts or zooms in during the appropriate moments. Instead, he captures everything in startling detail. For instance, a suicide scene in which a character slits their throat is very, very graphic and terrifyingly realistic. Another scene of sequence of violence goes back and forth between Pacino talking about humans greed and a character in the movie being beaten to death by two demons (supposedly sent by Al Pacino). Other examples of disturbing images would be a series of scenes that feature Charlize Theron, one in which you see her completely nude with large gashes and slashes across her body, and another scene which could easily be classified as horror and is too difficult to really describe. It suffices to say that it involves Charlize Theron and a baby child within a conjured halucination of Pacino's; yet another way of driving Theron's character mad.

When these two elements combine, it makes for a compelling and thought provoking film pot-holed with graphic imagery and disturbing themes. Even the climax of the movie includes an impressive amount of nudity, sexual content and violence. Despite all of this though, "The Devil's Advocate" is a very worth-while and ultimately poweful film, if not completely comfortable to watch all the way through. I don't recommend this movie for family viewing or young children. It's a movie that you need to mentally prepare for, and perhaps have an "antidote" movie lined up, perhaps a good-hearted comedy. There is one more good thing I can say for this movie; it has a satisfying ending. It's a film where the ending could make or break the entire feel of the movie. If you're going to sit through a movie that feels twice as long as it is with the constant assaults on your senses and comfort with controversy, adult themes and disturbing images, you're holding out for a good ending. Well, without a doubt, "The Devil's Advocate" delivers. In short, this movie is worth seeing simply for it's thought-provoking dialogue and plot-line.

Will You Play The Expression?
Kevin Lomax (Keanu Reeves) is a success in the courtroom and out of it. He's a young Florida defense attorney who has never lost a case. No matter how repugnant the crime, no matter how guilty the defendant, Kevin Lomax has the power to mesmerize the jury into accepting his arguments, buying into his logic, being convinced by his charisma; and freeing his clients. Soon after he has successfully won the case, where he defended an obviously guilty child molester, Lomax is invited to New York, where a powerful law firm has become aware of the Florida hotshot's acquittal record. Here he meets John Milton (Al Pacino), the founder and head of "Milton, Chadewick, Waters", a mysterious and powerful law firm with contacts and clients all over the world. It is this charismatic and charming man that opens the door to a completely different world; a world of luxury and pleasure, wealth and power; a world of endless possibilities. This is heaven on earth. But as Lomax tastes the power of being a wealthy New York attorney, something in him changes. Winning is no longer just a goal; it becomes an obsession. Soon he starts to realize that things are not what they seem to be; and all the things he once had and cared about -a happy marriage with Mary Ann (Charlize Theron), his relationship with his mother, all his happiness - everything disappear amidst the sparkling illusion of paradise. He suddenly realizes that Heaven and Hell can co-exist at the same place and at the same time.

I do not intend to reveal anything else, since all of the interesting surprises will be presented in the intense and inspiring climax. This is probably Reeves' best performance. He manages to create a believable character - a kind of example, a role model for the American way of life. Kevin's wife, Mary Ann, is most likely the hardest character to play, since she goes through a complex and difficult emotional evolution. From being strong, devoted and ambitious (a female copy of her husband) to vulnerable, hurt and on the verge of madness. Charlize Theron gracefully floats into this character. The most interesting of performances and characters is John Milton - the essence of Kevin Lomax's temptation. Al Pacino is nothing less than astonishing, an award worthy performance that is as good as anything seen this year.

An inspiring thriller, visually stunning as well as thought provoking, 'The Devil's Advocate' should be viewed with an open mind. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Worth adding to your collection!
As a mother of two young children my husband and I often rely on our DVD collection for a night "at" the movies. Hello Again is just a cute film that the whole family can pile up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and enjoy.This movie may seem silly to some but hey sometimes a good movie is just that...silly. I love this film and have seen it many times over without growing tired of it. I am anxiously awaiting its release on DVD.

I love Hello Again!
This is one of my all-time favorites! Yeah it's cheesy, but it's so funny... you really can't take it seriously. I can practically recite the dialogue with the movie, I've seen it so many times... it's great! Shelley Long is hilarious in this role.

VERY cute and funny
I thought this movie was VERY funny. Shelley's death scene is quite a laugh. And of course the story premise is very fun. Not a bad film at all. What can I say! It's just very cute and funny. Very good for a Saturday/Sunday afternoon movie.

If I could give it less, I think I would
This has to be just about the worst movie I've ever sat through. I watched it because I couldn't take my eyes off Gabriel Byrne, who has beautiful eyes and a beautiful accent, but otherwise it was just terrible. It wasn't even bad in a funny way; I just felt embarassed.
The story was completely ridiculous. I'm generally willing to suspend disbelief, but the whole back-from-the-dead thing seemed singularly pointless. Implausibilities mounted like cars in a pile-up. The dialogue was so banal it was almost unbelievable. The problems facing our pair of lovers were so manufactured I expcted the seams of the film to tear every moment. You don't fire a good doctor because reporters are crowding the operating room. You ban the reporters from the hospital. And why did they have to tie up all loose ends by hooking up the protagonists sister with that millionaire?
Among the many bad performances, the sister had to be the most annoying of the lot, but Shelley Long was pretty awful too. Even Byrne wasn't great (how could he be, with those god-awful lines to say) but at least he wasn't embarrassing like the rest.

Hello Again
One of the funniest movies ever produced. Good for families as well as adult viewing. Did not get enough notice in the theatre when first released. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good But Not Great, but Good
I was surprised by Leonard Maltin's negative review of this movie. This is not a great movie, and it does meander a bit, but it is a quiet, thoughtful look at a young man trying to find his niche, a father trying to rediscover his niche or create a new one, and the mixture of conflict, pride, disappointment, and love that flows between them. I have this one on tape and watch it once a year or so.

Great acting? No.

Good acting? Yes.

Great story? No.

Good story? Yes.

A lot of heart and reality? Definitely.

Overall: Very Worth Watching ... Read more

Amazon.com

This subtle and deeply moving film about the life of athlete Steve Prefontaine (Billy Crudup) is a rarity: a movie about the beauty of youth, as opposed to a patronizing, junk-culture youth film. Written by legendary Hollywood screenwriter Robert Towne (along with Kenny Moore) and directed by Towne with his usual masculine insight, bold creativity, and superior taste, Without Limits tells the tale of Oregon runner Prefontaine's love-hate relationship with his tactically minded coach, Bill Bowerman (Donald Sutherland) in the 1970s. The tug of war between the two men--Pre's passion for running each race as if it will be his last and Bowerman's seasoned, conservative strategies for winning--becomes a wonderful metaphor for distinct stages of life and attitude. It almost doesn't matter that this is the story of a track-and-field star: Prefontaine's gift, as Towne describes it, is in his refusal to be influenced by the relativity of talent. That could describe anyone young with a pronounced sense of possibility and organic integrity. But because this film's hero happened to be one of the most exciting American athletes of his generation, Towne also makes every race count--whether college meet or 1972 Olympics--through some extraordinarily well-directed sequences. Crudup and Sutherland are remarkable in their roles, and Monica Potter is stirring as Pre's lover. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (75)

I wished this had better Box Office

It's a shame this movie didn't have wider exposure. It didn't even come to a theatre close to us...I think it played in Dallas, but that's 120 miles one way.

I am a fan of middle distance running...and I'm from the 60's so I remember the impact Steve Prefontaine had on the sport...and I mourned his passing like many others.

This movie is worth watching even if you're not really into track and field...it's a story about a man with a gift. He was talented, difficult, and most of all, true to himself at all times. I wish I had know Pre...I know I would have liked him a lot!

Hat off to Tom Cruise, who produced this tribute to the elusive "Pre."

I am going to purchase this movie and put it up there with my copy of "Running Brave." It's that good. Enjoy!

Take two, a little smoother
I give this movie four stars for general moviegoers, most of whom did not bother to see either this version or the earlier "Prefontaine" the first time in theaters -- probably for reasons sufficient to them.

People who run long distance, who love Steve Prefontaine and/or what he stood for, are throwing stars at both of these movies for those reasons, I suspect, not for the movies as artifacts in themselves. Since I attended Prefontaine's high school a number of years later, I met him my first week of school, I ran long distance and even posted faster two-mile times then Pre as a freshman and sophomore, and I was in the Marshfield stadium when his running colleagues carried the coffin onto the field for a memorial service before the body was taken to its final resting place south of town, I fight to retain some objectivity myself.

"Without Limits" is coach Bill Bowerman's, fellow runner Kenny Moore's, and a particular Pre girlfriend's version of the story, gussied up by screenwriter Robert Towne. Towne has done incredible work in the past ("Chinatown," for instance), but I thought his other Eugene, Oregon/distance running story, "Personal Best," stunk. This one is better.

Crudup does a good job of playing Pre; I think "Prefontaine"'s Leto barely edges him for looks. "Without Limits" does a slicker, big screen presentation compared to the earlier film's home movie/documentary style, which is why I think it might appeal more to the average moviegoer who doesn't know anything about Pre or doesn't care about distance running. They're just different approaches to the same basic story ... and probably equally wrong in many of the details. (Prefontaine's parents were in on the earlier film, and supplied the makers with actual home movie footage of Pre as a child.)

I'm delighted that any film got made about this man, let alone two; I'm gratified if either movie has served to inspire younger runners; but I think it's ridiculous to argue that one or the other "really" captures the man. Just enjoy them for what they are, and cherish the memory of an incredible athlete.

Stupendous movie, uninspired DVD
"Without Limits" does indeed go beyond a typical sports movie by being both an inspirational story and a character study. All of the acting is superb, especially Crudup and Sutherland. The scene in which Pre blatantly ignores Bowerman's mandate to sit back during most of the race and let the front runner wear himself out is especially good. It's funny, revealing of both characters, and just has that right level of inspiration (you can ignore the rules and win out of sheer guts) without being sappy.

I've seen "Prefontaine," the other movie about Pre's life, and I can't say that I was impressed. Some reviewers claim that it is more factual. Perhaps that is the case, but "Prefontaine" is not a well made movie. It also takes on extra baggage that distracts from the story. For example, in one scene they show Pre making snide comments about anti-war protesters. Was Pre a hawk? Did he ever express an opinion about war? I have no idea. But as a college athlete it would have been exceptionally hypocritical to have such an opinion when his status as an athlete allowed him to stay out of the military.

"Without LImits" doesn't get bogged down in these unimportant side issues. Instead, it focuses on Pre's fight against the AAU, the governing track and field organization which was so obviously taking advantage of athletes at the time.

Prefontaine once said, "Most people run a race to see who is fastest. I run a race to see who has the most guts." That about sums up the spirit of this movie.

While the movie is great, the DVD is nothing special. I can't figure out why movie studios make great movies like this and then slap them on a DVD with "extras" that include sub-titles at that's it. If there was ever a DVD that should have had extras this one was it - short documentaries on the real Prefontaine, how the movie was filmed, interviews with people who knew Pre, those who were fans at the time, archival footage. This could have been a stupendous DVD with lots of entertaining, educational and inspirational extras. Maybe they'll release an updated version - because this movie deserves it.

THIS IS THE GREATEST MOVIES EVER
I think that is the greatest movies ever the actor looks almost the same as Pre i would have never became such a big Pre fan as i am now i watch this movie before all of my running races and it really motvates me to do my best and because of this movie i ran my hardest and my team on the Championship and i got fourth nothing compared to Pre but it is a start i have to say he is my biggest role model and I give this movies millions of thumbs up

Sean McClory
#1 Steve Prefontaine fan

Without Limits
This is a must-have movie for all middle and long-distance runners. It's history of a legend that every runner should know about. Absolutely and sublimely awe-inspiring.
After the ordinary person has seen this film it WILL make then want to go out and and start running!
And after a runner has seen this movie they will want to be like 'Pre' and win the Olympics!!!
It also shows us the origins of the sports brand Nike and the superb knowledge and class of a legendary coach in Bill Bowerman.

BUY IT! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Cute
Minor film of no consequence that manages to deftly balance between light comedy and intense drama, led quite ably by the experienced Susan Sarandon, supported by the underrated Edward Herrmann and the late Raul Julia. The story is a murder mystery that draws former journalist Sarandon into the investigation, as it was her periodontist who was murdered. It turns out this dentist was drilling quite a few of the ladies in this upscale Long Island community, and not just their teeth.

Plenty of suspects, plenty of motives, plenty of holes in the script, but don't let that bother you in this bit of cute lightweight fluff that manages to make us laugh a few times and also gets across the tension of a marriage between a very busy attorney (Herrmann) and his stay-at-home wife (Sarandon) who has gotten the jones to get back to a paying job. She's been raising the kids and getting taken for granted, and is tempted by her attraction to the detective (Julia), but ultimately hubby sees where he's gone wrong. Cliche? Sure, but it's not badly done. The luminous Sarandon actually manages to be frumpy, which is no small feat. Worth seeing once.

Superb Performances are Compromised to a Weak Script
Susan Sarandon is one of our finest actors, and though her taste in scripts is questionable, she milks this role for everything it's got - gettig more from it than I believe the screenwriter had ever intended. She plays a happily married housewife who upon learning of her dentist's murder begins to investigate, and winds up fall for the lead detective on the case (Raul Julia). After awhile, the shine seems to fade from what seemed like a perfect marriage and she begins to question her life's direction. And in the film's most potent scene, she sits at her daughters recital, starring into space - wishing she were free from the burdon of having children, which inevitably drives her to stay with her unintentive husband. It's quite a scene, in the vein of the "smugglers" of 40's and 50's, and watching Raul Julia only serves as a sad reminder of what a great talent we lost with his passing.

Pure Style
Rare insight into the place of women at the close of the 20th century marks this stylish thriller about suburbanites in over their heads. Every female character has a unique, intelligent way of dressing, decorating her house and investing her time. The portrayal of an argument between husband and wife over mutual respect (or lack thereof) is breathtaking. I watch this movie when I need a lift.

A So-So Comic Mystery
Considering its subject matter, this film should be much funnier and much wilder than it is. Brilliant actor Joe Mantegna makes an appearance as Dr. Bruce Fleckstein, a lecherous dentist with a mostly-female clientele. Fleckstein sleeps with many of his patients and takes nude photographs of them in a series of 'positions', until an angry sexual partner stabs him with a dental instrument. Problem is, every woman on Long Island is a suspect. The idea itself is rife with comic possibilities, and during his appearance, Mantegna -- hilarious, with an enormous, Liberace-style pinky ring, huge gold chains, and shirt open to the chest -- makes the film; he gives it a necessary dose of comic energy. But that dose isn't quite large enough, for Fleckstein's onscreen time is limited to about forty seconds, followed by a credit-sequence montage, and then the murder. We spend the rest of the film watching housewife (and former patient) Susan Sarandon investigate the homicide and learn of Fleckstein's exploits. Too bad; it isn't nearly as fun as it would've been, had the filmmakers given the audience the chance to watch the dentist philander his way around Long Island and get away with murder (no pun intended), *prior* to his death & Sarandon's crime solving. But the film isn't a total dud; the mystery is mildly engaging, and Sarandon and the always-excellent Raul Julia (as a homicide detective), have terrific chemistry together. This is one film that (save a few explicit descriptions of sexual activity) could easily be mistaken for a made-for-television movie. Yes, that's how innocuous it is.

Swift Comedy, Sharp Mystery, Super Movie
When her Dentist is murdered shortly after her first visit, a housewife (Susan Saradon) decides to reprise her role as a reporter--to help a friend out of a jam, an extra-marital thingy. But he/she who knows WhoDunIt doesn't appreciate the proximity of a successful snoop.

Raul Julia plays an excellent Suffolk Co Detective from Long Island. The entire cast is fantastic. Wish I was better on remembering their names. Today, I came here to replace a worn copy. IMHO, this is the best comedy mystery available on VHS.

If you liked Bogart and Bacall, this movie will give you a modern equal. The dialogue between the characters is sharp and moving. The story is witty and high-calibered. This is a comedy-mystery with a tad of dramatic moments. Susan Saradon plays a strong housewife, non-superwoman, easy to adore. Seek, get, and enjoy this fine film. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

An Exceptional Film
Set in the state of Georgia, James Garner renders a powerful and very sensitive performance of a Judge who following the death of his wife, retires from the bench. He tries to with-draw from life esconced in his own grief and bitterness. The mys-tery surrounding an old friend's refusal to accept the Congressional Medal of Honor, and the personal crises in the lives of those closest to him, compel him to step back into the mainstream of society . As he reaches beyond his own pain and into lives of others, he not only becomes an anchor for them, but finds a renewed reason for living, himself.
The supporting cast is superb, esp. Bill Cobbs and Ruby Dee.
This is an exceptional film, providing wholesome entertainment.

Decoration Day - Great Movie
Decoration Day is a great movie - lots of heart and such a fine family show. It reminds us not to make assumptions when we don't have all the facts and shows the great value of friendship and family.

5 stars all the way!
James Garner plays a retiring judge who becomes an unwilling, but interested player in a story centered around the government's plan to award the Medal of Honor to an African American man because of heroic actions during WWII's Battle of the Bulge. Here's the catch -- the man doesn't want to have anything to do with medal!

Garner is convinced that he should intervene and persuade the man to accept the medal. A story of racism, bitterness, decepetion, and revelation unfolds as the movie progresses. Be sure to watch for an interesting, unexpected plot twist toward the end.

This is top-notch drama, and a real treat for James Garner fans.

5 stars all the way! Watch this movie, you'll be glad you did. This is the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" at its best!

Alan Holyoak

Pleasing drama
James Garner stars as a retired judge who is widowed but has a wonderful housekeeper who still keeps him in line. All he wants to do is spend his days fishing and live without any hassles. A call for help from family for an old friend and he finds himself caught up in the human drama that leads to his own renewal. Great performances by James Garner and Judith Ivey and beautiful cenima make this movie a delight. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There's a reason the Hallmark Hall of Fame series is so acclaimed.They're well-done, thoughtful productions, and The Summer of Ben Tyler is no exception. James Woods and Elizabeth McGovern are credible, likeable, and warm as Temple and Celia Rayburn, who live in a small Southern town at the beginning of World War II. The parents of young and precocious Nell (an utterly marvelous Julia McIlvaine), they've also taken into their home Ben Tyler (an understated and very handsome Charles Mattocks), the son of their deceased "colored" housekeeper. But this is the South in the 1940s, and what is obviously kind integrity is interpreted by the close-minded town as a challenge to its outdated--and immoral--mores. Nell allows Ben to take theblame for the fire she's accidentally set in a neighbor's field. When the son of the town'srichest man is accused of manslaughter, Temple is brought in to defend him. As the trial unfolds, he's confronted with a moral dilemma. Despite the heavy subject matter, this film remains buoyant and hopeful. The acting is superb and the story expresses well its positive messages of friendship, family, trustworthiness, loyalty, morality, humanity, honesty, and strength. While Woods has been heralded for many roles in which he's played the bad guy (Ghosts of Mississippi), it's completely refreshing to see him play a profoundly good guy--and he does a darn good job, too. --N.F. Mendoza ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A very human look at the time
In the tradition of To Kill A Mockingbird, the film takes a look at the realities of a time and the people who lived in it. It is less heavy than Mockingbird, but still takes a real, serious, and human look at the impact -- subtle and not -- of racism and the society where it was normal. It is also quite refreshing to see James Woods in a quality film and playing a normal, sane "good guy." ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A Simple Movie With a Powerful Message
In Country is one of my all-time favorite movies. The plot to the movie is simple enough--a teenage girl who's just graduated from high school is wanting to find out more about the Vietnam War and about her father who died in the war before she was born. The movie quickly becomes so much more. You find yourself truly caring about these characters and what they went through in Vietnam. Bruce Willis does an exceptional job playing the young girl's "mentally alienated" uncle. The movie is really about the importance of family and the bonds that last beyond the grave. The ending is so powerful that it leaves me in tears every time.

bruce willis hogs the movie...give emily some movie time
A good attempt at post war but failed in many ways. the past faze shots are so fake its unbelieveable. ...the best post vietnam is 'born on the forth'. NOT this movie. Bruce Willis plays a Vet but the acting was overdone that it look fake. It works for DIEHARD, but not here. The part is beyond him as he tries to get all the attention, as well as screen shots. Emily Lloyd didnt get enough time thanks to the almighty bruce demand to be the center of attention. The ending is somewhat touching but the rest is boring and a waste of time. Save ur time and money by watching Born on the Forth.

take care all

Tough for Viet Nam Vets
While I agree with other reviewers that this movie has some serious structural and dramatic defects, Willis' performance and character effectively capture much of the discomfort, ambiguity, sadness and displacement of returning Viet Nam veterans. I am one, and this movie is one of the few which accurately captures those feelings without apology, caraciture or political agenda. If only for this, it's an important movie, although not really "enjoyable" to watch or comfortable for Viet vets.

Good movie, lackluster DVD
This is one of those movies best seen on a lazy Sunday afternoon with nothing else to do. It is a thoughtful character study that creeps up on you and really gets under the skin.

Bruce Willis wisely downplays all of his usual acting schtick (much like he did in Terry Gilliam's Twelve Monkeys). He delivers a truly heartfelt performance as an emotionally damaged Vietnam veteran. Pay close attention to what he does in this movie -- he uses his very expressive face to convey a wide spectrum of emotions that brings across the inner turmoil that is going on in his character.

In Country is told from the perspective of Emily Lloyd's character. She is a naive, young girl who wants to know more about the war that took her father away from her and can't understand why her father's friends are so unwilling to talk about their experiences. This is her best performance of her, so-far, short career.

But, let's be honest, this film belongs to Willis and deservedly so. He's the kind of actor who needs a strong director to reign him in and Norman Jewison is that kind of a filmmaker. He really gets a wonderful performance out of Willis that is wrenching, funny, sad and everything in between.

This an excellent character-driven film set in small-town America much like the equally underappreciated Robert De Niro-Ed Harris drama, Jacknife. In Country examines how war not only effects those who fought in it but also the people around them after they return home.

Sadly, the DVD has nothing in the way of extras (a commentary track by Jewison or the book's author, Bobbie Ann Mason, would have been nice) and is also presented in pan and scanned mode. Too bad.

worst movie about vietnam ever
this movie is so full of horrible acting, idiotic writing, and pathetic southern accents that I forgot I was watching a movie about vietnam veterans. the movie bastardizes what should be a solemn moment- when the hillbilly family visits The Wall while discussing barbeque for lunch. I am from Kentucky and I do not know anyone who speaks the ways these idiots do; i noticed in the credits that they had a dialect coach whom I hope is out of a job! Samantha is so full of annoying energy you don't even get the feeling that she is affected by her dad's death- she speaks about it at the dinner table with her grandparents while smiling and passing the mashed potatoes and gravy! did this actress have any clue what the movie was about? the battle scenes look like they took place at someone's lake house, not the in the jungle. to say the movie is oversentimental and trite is an understatement. bruce willis serves no purpose in this movie except to remind you it's about a veteran, not just about his hick niece who jogs all over town and dreams about going to the mall someday. to sum it all up, this movie is not about the pain left from the vietnam war. it is about who can do the worst accent, yell "woo hoo" the most times, and make the most obvious stereotypical references to southern culture. this movie is an utter joke. i threw it in the trash after i saw it, and have resumed my pledge to never watch another bruce willis movie again- or any movie with the other actors/writers/directors. I would recommend this movie to anyone who wants to watch and make fun of one of the most hideous movies ever made, if it were not for the fact that it is about supposed to be about such a serious topic-vietnam. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Gene Saks, an old hand at directing Neil Simon's work on film (The Odd Couple, Barefoot in the Park), here takes a stab at Simon's most autobiographical work, which stars Jonathan Silverman as an aspiring writer living with two families under one roof in 1937 Brooklyn. Following his old working formula, Saks keeps an eye on the cast's energy and timing but otherwise stays out of the way and lets Simon's story and dialogue tumble wonderfully from the mouths of good actors. Cast in the lead in this 1986 film, the young Silverman (later the star of NBC's Single Guy) makes a very good impression, as does Bob Dishy as his narrator-father. The DVD release has a full-screen presentation. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Racey topics aside
This is rated PG 13 but I would advise against having your 12/13 year old daughter watch it. There is much talk of male masturbation. If you let her watch be prepared for a LONG talk afterwards! :-)

Aside from that, it is a great movie that exudes love, desire and real life. The acting is superb. This is one of the best Neal Simon movies ever, I think.

From Stag to Screen
If this was the first time I had ever seen "Brighton Beach Memoirs" I might be impressed, but it's not so I'm not. I saw the play on stag and I have to say that is so much better in real life. The movie really wasn't that bad, but the stag will always be my first love.

so good to see this back!
I have seen BOTH vhs and dvd versions of this classic and i pick the vhs version hands down. the audio on the dvd is pathetic! I bought the dvd and the color is sepia-like. Tell universal to keep vhs alive. It IS superior.

Threre's no choice better than jon silverman for eugene.
He really made it a COMEDY.

A Comedy-Drama Masterpiece
Five stars for the story; four stars for the DVD only because I cannot fathom why - with all the advancing technology and options available - any DVD theatrical release would not be offered in a wide-screen format. Otherwise this has to be the best Neil Simon work I have ever seen. Although I am from a much newer generation, I could identify easily with many of the characters, both from similar personal experiences, and from the culture within which I was raised. I would highly recommend this film, but only to true drama fans (of any age) and to older generations who have lived the times portrayed in this delightful romp. There is mild adult content, so be wary if you allow your young teens to watch. This is one of those rare classics that never received the publicity it deserved on the big screen; but then it can only appeal to a certain audience. If you feel like going out on a limb and watching something different or you want to conjure up old memories of yester-year, then by all means watch this film and enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Gary Sinise, who had built a certain following and credibility based on his work with Chicago's Steppenwolf Theater (which he cofounded with John Malkovich, among others), nearly used it all up on this ridiculous farm story, starring Richard Gere and Steppenwolf alumnus Kevin Anderson. They play a pair of Midwestern farmers who, thanks to a combination of bad luck, bad weather, and Reaganomics, are about to lose the farm that's been in their family for generations. Rather than give it up to foreclosure, they burn it down in an act of protest, then go on to rob banks and otherwise become hayseed Robin Hoods (even attracting the attention of a Rolling Stone reporter played by Malkovich in one of the film's silliest touches). But Gere overacts and Sinise can't transcend what is essentially a witless and unlikely script by Chris Gerolmo. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The most meaningfull Richard Gere movie ever, a must !!!!
Its too bad u only could give it 5 stars(grr). Well first about what this movie is about: its about two brothers who live in a farm. The bank decides to buy the farm. RGs caracther is the big brother, and finds out that if the bank are going to buy the house, then he would rather burn the whole farm down, which both him and his brother(Played by the equally talented actor Kevin Anderson) decides together that its good to do. It al have horrible consequenses as the police are trying to get them. I cant reveall any more for those of u who havent seen it.

Now to my opinions about this movie(the fun part of a review):This movie means so much to me, that if I doesnt get at least tears in my eyes I got real bad feeling(I feel then I own Mr.Gere my al time favorite american movie actor an HUGE appology, in fact he is the only american movie actor I truly like)

If u ever have felt discrimination on your body, then this movie is for u(even if u havent, u will learn alot about how it is to be told by anyone that u are less worh then they are for some stupied reason). RG played this movie in the beginning of his "Fight for the Freedom in Tibet" perhaps thats why he plays with so much emotion, in fact even more then in other classics like "An officer and a gentleman" and "Mr.Jones"

Its also a movie for those who DO discriminate others, in fact I think it was made for those, more then anyone else. I hope this movie can make u think about what u do to others, and what it can leads to, how it can destroy a human beings feelings.

Also the relationships between the two brothers are just amaizing, Richard and Kevin has an incredibly chemistry as brothers. I also like alot the animal scenes. Ive always loved animals, so the fact that this movie also has messages about them just means even more to me.

Kevin Anderson is just great as a little brother, u see that he respects R Geres caracther, but on the other hand he always tries to do things in his own way.

It has some funny moments too of course, its not only sad! (its very real, so real that its almost scary to watch)

But the best thing about the movie has to be the end!

Thank u Richard Gere(and to the director for making this movie) for playing in this incredibly deep and meaningfull movie.

Also u dont have to be the biggest Gere or even not the biggest Kevin fan to see this movie. This movie will make u realize why these 2 actors are so populare with us fans, it was one of the movies that made me a die hard RG fan along with "Breathless""Amerian Gigolo" and of course the incredibly good movie "An officer and a gentleman"

Also its the most underrated movie ever(I mean 1 review exepth this? come on people review this masterpiece and let the world know what good movies are supposed to be about). Also this isnt for action fans to say it like that.(its a drama movie)

P.S if u wants to see a new good movie with RG then I recommend u to see "Chicago" I havent seen it, but my guess is that it will more like this 80s stuff, and not the kind of thing RG did in the late 90s(and in the beginning of this decade)

A Great Movie!
This is a great movie all the way - great story line and great performances. It comes very well recommended to all. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Huge Stoltz fan
He played the killer part well enough to keep me In suspense the whole time.

SHE SEES DEAD PEOPLE...
This is a spooky, southern gothic film about two sisters, both haunted by their pasts. Living together in an exquisite, antebellum mansion in the bayou of Louisiana, the Bonnard sisters struggle to meet each day as it comes, running a bed and breakfast. One sister, Lucy (Jennifer Jason Leigh), is somewhat fey and seems to need a reality check. The older of the two, Charlotte (Judith Ivey) is the more grounded sister. Or is she?

Together, they run the bed and breakfast with the help of a hunky handyman and childhood friend, Etienne (Benjamin Mouton), who is sweet on Lucy, despite Charlotte's watchful eye. Charlotte also has someone sweet on her, the local sheriff, Cleve Doucet (Dennis Lipscomb), whom she is on the verge of losing, because for some inexplicable reason she refuses to marry him. One day, Matt Rutledge (Eric Stolz) arrives at the Bonnard bed and breakfast, where he is to be a guest. He, too, seems smitten by the lovely, ethereal Lucy, much to Charlotte's consternation and Etienne's annoyance.

What follows is a series of macabre events, fueled by secrets of the past and misguided perceptions. While the plot is engaging, parts of it are a little over the top. Still, it is so well done that it keeps the viewer riveted to the screen. Terrific performances are given by all, with those of Jennifer Jason Leigh and Benjamin Mouton being especially fine. The ending is also particularly memorable. Shrouded in the mists of the Louisiana bayou, it is a vindication of Lucy's visions and a fitting memoriam to love everlasting. This is a film well worth viewing. Those who enjoyed that other southern gothic, "The Gift", will, undoubtedly, enjoy this one, as well.

review of sister sister
this is one of my favorite movies growing up, and i cant find this movie anywhere. since the movie is based in the south, and i'm from the south i just love it.

Haunting
Very pleased with this movie Sound and picture quality are very good. It cost me a fortune to purchase but it is rare and out of print at the moment.

Excellent Southern Gothic
Long before he won an Oscar for writing Gods and Monsters, Bill Condon showed his talent with Sister, Sister -- an atmospheric slice of Southern Gothic suspense that deals with two sisters who run a hotel, a swamp that holds many ghosts, and the prerequisite deep dark secrets of the past. If you really waste your time deeply analyzing the plot, it won't make a bit of sense by waste your time doing something as silly as that? With excellent performances from Judith Ivey, Dennis Burkley, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Eric Stoltz, this is one of the most entertaining, low budget horror films that I have ever seen. This movie was made before Leigh and Stoltz achieved their current levels of fame and is recommended to anyone who knows them only from their more recent, more commercial films. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The most meaningfull Richard Gere movie ever, a must !!!!
Its too bad u only could give it 5 stars(grr). Well first about what this movie is about: its about two brothers who live in a farm. The bank decides to buy the farm. RGs caracther is the big brother, and finds out that if the bank are going to buy the house, then he would rather burn the whole farm down, which both him and his brother(Played by the equally talented actor Kevin Anderson) decides together that its good to do. It al have horrible consequenses as the police are trying to get them. I cant reveall any more for those of u who havent seen it.

Now to my opinions about this movie(the fun part of a review):This movie means so much to me, that if I doesnt get at least tears in my eyes I got real bad feeling(I feel then I own Mr.Gere my al time favorite american movie actor an HUGE appology, in fact he is the only american movie actor I truly like)

If u ever have felt discrimination on your body, then this movie is for u(even if u havent, u will learn alot about how it is to be told by anyone that u are less worh then they are for some stupied reason). RG played this movie in the beginning of his "Fight for the Freedom in Tibet" perhaps thats why he plays with so much emotion, in fact even more then in other classics like "An officer and a gentleman" and "Mr.Jones"

Its also a movie for those who DO discriminate others, in fact I think it was made for those, more then anyone else. I hope this movie can make u think about what u do to others, and what it can leads to, how it can destroy a human beings feelings.

Also the relationships between the two brothers are just amaizing, Richard and Kevin has an incredibly chemistry as brothers. I also like alot the animal scenes. Ive always loved animals, so the fact that this movie also has messages about them just means even more to me.

Kevin Anderson is just great as a little brother, u see that he respects R Geres caracther, but on the other hand he always tries to do things in his own way.

It has some funny moments too of course, its not only sad! (its very real, so real that its almost scary to watch)

But the best thing about the movie has to be the end!

Thank u Richard Gere(and to the director for making this movie) for playing in this incredibly deep and meaningfull movie.

Also u dont have to be the biggest Gere or even not the biggest Kevin fan to see this movie. This movie will make u realize why these 2 actors are so populare with us fans, it was one of the movies that made me a die hard RG fan along with "Breathless""Amerian Gigolo" and of course the incredibly good movie "An officer and a gentleman"

Also its the most underrated movie ever(I mean 1 review exepth this? come on people review this masterpiece and let the world know what good movies are supposed to be about). Also this isnt for action fans to say it like that.(its a drama movie)

P.S if u wants to see a new good movie with RG then I recommend u to see "Chicago" I havent seen it, but my guess is that it will more like this 80s stuff, and not the kind of thing RG did in the late 90s(and in the beginning of this decade)

A Great Movie!
This is a great movie all the way - great story line and great performances. It comes very well recommended to all. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Yow!
This film is supposed to be comedy, but Martin's character comes across as just plain creepy... I was hoping that a ten-ton safe would fall on the Larry Hubbard character, or that Godzilla would suddenly appear and turn him into a pile of smoking cinders with a jetlike column of fire. That way, he would be put out of his misery and it would be easier to sympathize with him.

As it were, the Hubbard character comes across like a sexless zombie in a double-knit suit. Watching this film was as frustrating as watching a three week schedule of Roadrunner cartoons 24/7. Even "Dumb and Dumber" had at least a few redeeming qualities.

As of this writing, you can get a used dvd copy of this on amazon for about $9.00. My suggestion would be to throw your money into the gutter instead, because it will be a lot more entertaining and a lot less waste of time.

The Lonely Guy a great rare unseen comedy with Steve Martin
Steve Martin , the great comedian who has starred
in a dozen or so great comedies, stars as Larry Hubbard,
an aspiring writer, who after finding his girl in bed
with another guy becomes "The Lonely Guy".

Hubbard, then goes out on his own in New York City, and
find the right place for himself to live in , along
with trying to find the right girl for him. However,
comic mishaps prevent Larry from doing this, all the while
though, Larry from his experiences as a lonely guy in
New York, will use this for a best seller he is writing
revolving around lonely guys.

"The Lonely Guy" is both a laughfest, and a charming,
sentimental movie about love.

The laughs come in when we see Larry trying to find
an apartment in New York.

He first sees a high class apartment, but then narrates
that looks can be deceiving as, these kind
of apartment have a high crime rate. Then seconds
a guy gets shot and tells Larry: "Don't move
in bad neighboorhood". LOL

Then when Larry starts looking for an apartment, he
decides he wants one with a view of the river.
However, when he looks out of the window of one
of the apartments, he sees that windows is the river!!!
As he sees goldfish, and other fish, swim across
the window!!! LOL

When Larry finally gets settled he meets a man
named Warren Evans (Charles Grodin) a lonely
guy who is contemplating suicide. Larry prevents
Warren from doing this and the 2 become good
friends.

Seeing his skill in dealing with lonely guys, Larry
plans his book based on the subject. However, he
himself feels depressed while writing it, since
he doesn't have a woman.

Larry then goes on a mission (with both comical
and good results) to find the right woman.

He meets Iris (Judith Ivey) a great woman, but
with a troubled past. Will Larry , the lonely guy, find the right woman? See it to find out. There are great funny cameos by Dr. Joyce Brothers, and Merv Griffin, who take a great interest in the writer/ lonely guy.

Other comical scenes involved Larry trying to find
the right dog, to past those lonely nights.

The movie is hard to find, and out of print, but
it's worth searching for.
Overall it's a great comedy, Martin and Grodin,
give exceptional performances, again showing their
comedic talents.

love this movie!
I laugh my ass off at the scene where grodin and martin hold a dinner party with cardboard cutouts! funny! This is a great film if you're a steve martin fan,and charles grodin`s deadpan delivery is funny too.

Steve Martin at his finest.
This is right up there with The Jerk and dead men don't wear Plaid as one of Steve Martins best ever films. Steve along with Charles Grodin tell an exadurated and hillarious story of what it's like to be a "single guy" it's funny it's romantic... it's everything a movie should be!!

Most box sets are like a box of chocolates (not here)!
There is usually one that is ether exceptional or the one that won't sell. Well you are in luck as none of these movies are the exceptional type. Steve Martin has done some outstanding work. None of which is in this set. There are moments that are worth watching. However the moments are not worth wading through the rest of these films. My guess is that you may appreciate this set if you like stand-alone comics. They are more like long skits than movies.
This set includes "The Jerk", " The Lonely Guy", and " Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid" If you like " Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid" you may like "What's Up, Tiger Lily? (1966) - Dubbed in English" ASIN: 6304785801 ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Racey topics aside
This is rated PG 13 but I would advise against having your 12/13 year old daughter watch it. There is much talk of male masturbation. If you let her watch be prepared for a LONG talk afterwards! :-)

Aside from that, it is a great movie that exudes love, desire and real life. The acting is superb. This is one of the best Neal Simon movies ever, I think.

From Stag to Screen
If this was the first time I had ever seen "Brighton Beach Memoirs" I might be impressed, but it's not so I'm not. I saw the play on stag and I have to say that is so much better in real life. The movie really wasn't that bad, but the stag will always be my first love.

so good to see this back!
I have seen BOTH vhs and dvd versions of this classic and i pick the vhs version hands down. the audio on the dvd is pathetic! I bought the dvd and the color is sepia-like. Tell universal to keep vhs alive. It IS superior.

Threre's no choice better than jon silverman for eugene.
He really made it a COMEDY.

A Comedy-Drama Masterpiece
Five stars for the story; four stars for the DVD only because I cannot fathom why - with all the advancing technology and options available - any DVD theatrical release would not be offered in a wide-screen format. Otherwise this has to be the best Neil Simon work I have ever seen. Although I am from a much newer generation, I could identify easily with many of the characters, both from similar personal experiences, and from the culture within which I was raised. I would highly recommend this film, but only to true drama fans (of any age) and to older generations who have lived the times portrayed in this delightful romp. There is mild adult content, so be wary if you allow your young teens to watch. This is one of those rare classics that never received the publicity it deserved on the big screen; but then it can only appeal to a certain audience. If you feel like going out on a limb and watching something different or you want to conjure up old memories of yester-year, then by all means watch this film and enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good But Not Great, but Good
I was surprised by Leonard Maltin's negative review of this movie. This is not a great movie, and it does meander a bit, but it is a quiet, thoughtful look at a young man trying to find his niche, a father trying to rediscover his niche or create a new one, and the mixture of conflict, pride, disappointment, and love that flows between them. I have this one on tape and watch it once a year or so.

Great acting? No.

Good acting? Yes.

Great story? No.

Good story? Yes.

A lot of heart and reality? Definitely.

Overall: Very Worth Watching ... Read more