Description

All eyes are focused on the Vatican, hoping to see the traditional puffs of white smoke that signal the selection of the next Pope. But this time, much more is at stake. The new pontiff may be the only person who can bring peace to a world hovering on the edge of nuclear nightmare. Year: 1968 Director: Michael Anderson Starring: Anthony Quinn, Oskar Werner, David Janssen, Vittorio De Sica, Leo McKern, Sir John Gielgud ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Great movie
Really interesting movie about the papacy, inner Vatican turmoil, philosophical aspects of Christianity, and maintaining your principles in a morally complex, often violent world. That might sound off-putting, but it's anchored by exceptionally strong, moving performances by the late Anthony Quinn, Leo Mckern, Oskar Werner, and others. Kind of old-school Hollywood, with bittersweet rewards--it's pleasing in the manner of 'Inn of the Sixth Happiness' or 'Ben Hur.' It looks and acts like a movie made in the late 60's, but that's a definite plus in my view. Leonard Maltin's review is unnecessarily harsh--he must have been having a bad day. Or sore at the pope or something. Don't let it deter you from enjoying a very colorful, well-acted, thoughtful and old-fashioned movie.

The Authenic Christian Revolution of a Russian Pope
This 1968 film, based on Morris West's novel, has Anthony Quinn as Kiril Lakota, released after twenty years in a Siberian work camp to become a Cardinal and then Pope at a time when the Soviet Union and a starving People's Republic of China are about to go to war. The idea that the first non-Italian pope in centuries would be from a Communist country certainly seems prophetic today. Lakota is released by the Soviet Premier (Laurence Olivier), who is taking a chance that a sympathetic Vatican might tip the balance towards peace. Lakota emerges from imprisonment as something of a saint, admired by the Elder Pope (John Gielgud) for having refused to deny the faith even when seven priests were brought before him and shot.

Although the obvious comparison is to John Paul II, Quinn's pontiff is actually more like John Paul I, who was considered a "pastoral" Pope, capable of relating to the people more on the level of a parish priest. When he is elected and has to change into his papal robes, he introduces himself to his new valet saying simply,"I am Kiril Lakota." The politically charged atmosphere is a bit melodramatic, but the strength of this film is in its portrait of the inner workings of the Vatican where both politics and personalities come into play. My favorite scene is when the college of Cardinals are deadlocked, repeated votes having been "insufficient for election," and one of the elder statesmen of the church stands up to declare his belief that God has sent them the man intended to be the next Pope. With growing horror, Lakota watches as the momentum builds for his stunning election (Now if somebody could just explain to me, when reporter David Janssen announces "They have elected a Russian Pope" is the word "Russia" an adjective or a noun in that sentence? This has been driving me crazy for other 30 years).

Of the two subplots the romantic estrangement of Dan Janssen, the reporter covering the Vatican and his doctor wife, Barbara Jefford, is trivial soap opera nonsense, although it does lead to a nice scene where the Pope sneaks out of the Vatican disguised as an ordinary priest. The doctor sends him to the pharmacy for medicine and is stunned when he returns and is able to do prayers in Hebrew over the dying man. The other, with Oskar Werner as Father David Telemond, is much more provocative and provides an interesting counter-point to the main story line. Telemond has written several books, none of them published, dealing with what he calls the "Cosmic Christ." A Pontifical Commission is investigating his writings as being heretical. Certainly there is a sense in which this film, in the wake of the Vatican II Council, was trying to confront the Catholic Church with certain issues. Ultimately "The Shoes of the Fisherman" is a much more subversive film than "The Last Temptation of Christ."

Quinn's dignified performance holds "The Shoes of the Fisherman" together, aided by Leo McKern and Vittorio De Sica as a pair of Cardinals seated high in the Church hierarchy. This is not a great film by any means, but it is certainly thoughtful even without the provocative final scene in which the new pope proposes to actually implement "the authentic Christian revolution: work for all, bread for all, dignity for all men." Certainly it treats it characters and its subject matter with great seriousness. Michael Anderson's direction is hampered by the film's 157 minute length, but it is still worth the viewing.

Quinn and Werner make this a winner
This epic film has a few bumpy moments, but overall, it's vastly entertaining, with its fascinating cast, interesting premise, excellent cinematography and art direction.
Anthony Quinn is fabulous as the Russian Pope. It's a powerful portrayal, and not the type of role one would normally associate with him. Oskar Werner, in a part based on Teilhard de Chardin, is absolutely superb.

Other notable performances come from Laurence Olivier (as the Soviet Premier), John Gielgud (former Pope), Leo McKern and Vittorio de Sica (Cardinals), and Arnoldo Foa (the Pope's valet).
The part of a journalist (David Janssen), is used as a narrator, to move the plot along, and explain certain Vatican procedures, like how a new Pope is elected. I only wish less time had been spent on his petty romantic problems...the film feels more like an "Airport" movie while these scenes are taking place.

This is a sprawling 60's Hollywood treatment of Morris West's best seller, and I think it succeeds. It's thought-provoking, good for several viewings, and Quinn and Werner are riveting.

A Movie Every Religious Person Should See
This movie was great and I am not a Catholic, I am a Protestant minister. Even though this was just a novel and pure fiction, I learned more about the inner workings of the Catholic Church than I had ever learned from my years of reading about all the "Bad Things" in the history of the Catholic Church. Protestant history, and no other religion's history is "pure white" either. I'm talking about such things and the Inquisition burnings at the stake, and other hedious torture methods that only a feind from hell could think of.

See this movie, meditate on it, and realize the horrendous impack all religions have on Planet Earth for both good and bad. It has been said that if you know only one religion, you really don't know much about any religion--- I agree!

See the struggle in the Church to know God, to understand God's will, to choose its leaders, to be loyal to its leaders, to reach conclusion about all moral, ethical, and social questions. All religions go thru this same process to one degree or another, even your local church. Compare your Minister and the problems in your Church to the the problems of the Pope and the Catholic Church. They are not really all that different. We all have a duty and a tremendous responsibility resting on our shoulders.. We must try to understand each other, love one another, forgive one another, pray for each other, and work together in every way possible......

.....If we will do this then we can help Planet Earth and its people take a "Quantum Leap" up and forward in spiritual consciousness and awareness - where The Word(or Love) becomes Flesh in us - which will usher in a New Day, a New Level of the Kingdom Of God On Earth, that is beyond words to describe. Planet Earth People, are you with me, will you join me in this glorious effort? We all have a Divine Mission and Destiny to fulfill while on Planet Earth. Ken Pamplin, 4504 N.W. 11th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73127

Favorite Movie
This film is inspirational. The scene where the new Pope is proclaimed, against his wishes, he only wants a humble servent life is excellant. To watch Anthony Quinn's expression change when he hears that the Cardinals are talking of him is a classic. lso, his roaming the streets of Rome in a black cassock shows is humanity, wanting to get to know his flock. I think is conseling David Jansen's wife is important. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Great movie
Really interesting movie about the papacy, inner Vatican turmoil, philosophical aspects of Christianity, and maintaining your principles in a morally complex, often violent world. That might sound off-putting, but it's anchored by exceptionally strong, moving performances by the late Anthony Quinn, Leo Mckern, Oskar Werner, and others. Kind of old-school Hollywood, with bittersweet rewards--it's pleasing in the manner of 'Inn of the Sixth Happiness' or 'Ben Hur.' It looks and acts like a movie made in the late 60's, but that's a definite plus in my view. Leonard Maltin's review is unnecessarily harsh--he must have been having a bad day. Or sore at the pope or something. Don't let it deter you from enjoying a very colorful, well-acted, thoughtful and old-fashioned movie.

The Authenic Christian Revolution of a Russian Pope
This 1968 film, based on Morris West's novel, has Anthony Quinn as Kiril Lakota, released after twenty years in a Siberian work camp to become a Cardinal and then Pope at a time when the Soviet Union and a starving People's Republic of China are about to go to war. The idea that the first non-Italian pope in centuries would be from a Communist country certainly seems prophetic today. Lakota is released by the Soviet Premier (Laurence Olivier), who is taking a chance that a sympathetic Vatican might tip the balance towards peace. Lakota emerges from imprisonment as something of a saint, admired by the Elder Pope (John Gielgud) for having refused to deny the faith even when seven priests were brought before him and shot.

Although the obvious comparison is to John Paul II, Quinn's pontiff is actually more like John Paul I, who was considered a "pastoral" Pope, capable of relating to the people more on the level of a parish priest. When he is elected and has to change into his papal robes, he introduces himself to his new valet saying simply,"I am Kiril Lakota." The politically charged atmosphere is a bit melodramatic, but the strength of this film is in its portrait of the inner workings of the Vatican where both politics and personalities come into play. My favorite scene is when the college of Cardinals are deadlocked, repeated votes having been "insufficient for election," and one of the elder statesmen of the church stands up to declare his belief that God has sent them the man intended to be the next Pope. With growing horror, Lakota watches as the momentum builds for his stunning election (Now if somebody could just explain to me, when reporter David Janssen announces "They have elected a Russian Pope" is the word "Russia" an adjective or a noun in that sentence? This has been driving me crazy for other 30 years).

Of the two subplots the romantic estrangement of Dan Janssen, the reporter covering the Vatican and his doctor wife, Barbara Jefford, is trivial soap opera nonsense, although it does lead to a nice scene where the Pope sneaks out of the Vatican disguised as an ordinary priest. The doctor sends him to the pharmacy for medicine and is stunned when he returns and is able to do prayers in Hebrew over the dying man. The other, with Oskar Werner as Father David Telemond, is much more provocative and provides an interesting counter-point to the main story line. Telemond has written several books, none of them published, dealing with what he calls the "Cosmic Christ." A Pontifical Commission is investigating his writings as being heretical. Certainly there is a sense in which this film, in the wake of the Vatican II Council, was trying to confront the Catholic Church with certain issues. Ultimately "The Shoes of the Fisherman" is a much more subversive film than "The Last Temptation of Christ."

Quinn's dignified performance holds "The Shoes of the Fisherman" together, aided by Leo McKern and Vittorio De Sica as a pair of Cardinals seated high in the Church hierarchy. This is not a great film by any means, but it is certainly thoughtful even without the provocative final scene in which the new pope proposes to actually implement "the authentic Christian revolution: work for all, bread for all, dignity for all men." Certainly it treats it characters and its subject matter with great seriousness. Michael Anderson's direction is hampered by the film's 157 minute length, but it is still worth the viewing.

Quinn and Werner make this a winner
This epic film has a few bumpy moments, but overall, it's vastly entertaining, with its fascinating cast, interesting premise, excellent cinematography and art direction.
Anthony Quinn is fabulous as the Russian Pope. It's a powerful portrayal, and not the type of role one would normally associate with him. Oskar Werner, in a part based on Teilhard de Chardin, is absolutely superb.

Other notable performances come from Laurence Olivier (as the Soviet Premier), John Gielgud (former Pope), Leo McKern and Vittorio de Sica (Cardinals), and Arnoldo Foa (the Pope's valet).
The part of a journalist (David Janssen), is used as a narrator, to move the plot along, and explain certain Vatican procedures, like how a new Pope is elected. I only wish less time had been spent on his petty romantic problems...the film feels more like an "Airport" movie while these scenes are taking place.

This is a sprawling 60's Hollywood treatment of Morris West's best seller, and I think it succeeds. It's thought-provoking, good for several viewings, and Quinn and Werner are riveting.

A Movie Every Religious Person Should See
This movie was great and I am not a Catholic, I am a Protestant minister. Even though this was just a novel and pure fiction, I learned more about the inner workings of the Catholic Church than I had ever learned from my years of reading about all the "Bad Things" in the history of the Catholic Church. Protestant history, and no other religion's history is "pure white" either. I'm talking about such things and the Inquisition burnings at the stake, and other hedious torture methods that only a feind from hell could think of.

See this movie, meditate on it, and realize the horrendous impack all religions have on Planet Earth for both good and bad. It has been said that if you know only one religion, you really don't know much about any religion--- I agree!

See the struggle in the Church to know God, to understand God's will, to choose its leaders, to be loyal to its leaders, to reach conclusion about all moral, ethical, and social questions. All religions go thru this same process to one degree or another, even your local church. Compare your Minister and the problems in your Church to the the problems of the Pope and the Catholic Church. They are not really all that different. We all have a duty and a tremendous responsibility resting on our shoulders.. We must try to understand each other, love one another, forgive one another, pray for each other, and work together in every way possible......

.....If we will do this then we can help Planet Earth and its people take a "Quantum Leap" up and forward in spiritual consciousness and awareness - where The Word(or Love) becomes Flesh in us - which will usher in a New Day, a New Level of the Kingdom Of God On Earth, that is beyond words to describe. Planet Earth People, are you with me, will you join me in this glorious effort? We all have a Divine Mission and Destiny to fulfill while on Planet Earth. Ken Pamplin, 4504 N.W. 11th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73127

Favorite Movie
This film is inspirational. The scene where the new Pope is proclaimed, against his wishes, he only wants a humble servent life is excellant. To watch Anthony Quinn's expression change when he hears that the Cardinals are talking of him is a classic. lso, his roaming the streets of Rome in a black cassock shows is humanity, wanting to get to know his flock. I think is conseling David Jansen's wife is important. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier in World War II, enjoyed a Hollywood acting career after the fight. In this 1955 autobiographical film, however, he plays himself re-creating his own actions and movements in key battles. As strange as this project might have seemed to him at the time, the results are pretty impressive. The film, despite a flat script, is really a pretty good war drama about Murphy and his buddies making their way from North Africa to Berlin. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Better Than The Movie!
There is something compelling about the movie version To Hell And Back which I first viewed as a boy in the 1950s. Perhaps it was the fact that the star was the hero himself "replaying" some of his own wartime experiences. Over the years, the movie has appeared repeatedly on television, and almost routinely on the History Channel. I've watched it many times. The movie, however, pales by comparison to Murphy's actual Medal of Honor citation. Now that I finally have read his book, the citation itself seems to offer only a fraction of the story behind his guts,determination, and eventually the horrible memories he endured until his untimely death in a plane crash. It makes me shutter to think of myself as a combat veteran from Vietnam compared to what men like Audie Murphy had to endure for the duration of their tours in World War II. But, it also makes me realize that war for frontline troops has changed little from one generation to the next. This ought to be REQUIRED READING for everyone who send others to war!

Surprisingly Good Hollywood Take On Murphy's War
The single biggest reason to watch this movie is that the star himself was in fact the single most decorated war hero of World War Two, and he is convincing here playing himself with dignity, sincerity, and humility, which, of course, Audie Murphy always had in spades. The movie was adopted from his best-selling autobiography, which my Mom let me read after blackening out all of the four letter slang (as she called it). Perhaps it shows that he was my childhood hero, and I still have a personalized autographed photo somewhere reading "Thanks, Barry, for being my fan" that a friend's mom got for three or four of us ten year olds at the time this movie was released in the mid 1950s. It was the first movie I saw ten times. And I wasn't alone; Murphy was a national icon.

The movie truly is a classic; tightly directed, poignant, honest, accurate, and showing gripping combat without being gory or maudlin. It sometimes decends into travelogue movie-theater type newsreel moments, but these are thankfully rare and forgiveable. On the other hand, this is an interesting and absolutely true story of a common and uneducated boy from rural Texas who wanted more than anything to be a soldier and serve his country, and his subsequent deeds and patriotism above and beyond the call of duty inspired a whole generation of us who wanted to imitate his call to country. Unfortunately we walked into another time and the miasma of Vietnam. But that's another story for another time. Escape back to a time when the moral choices were clearer, and a real live hero was available to act his way memorably through an accurate recounting of his extraordinary if abbreviated military career. He may be gone too soon, the victim of a plane crash in the early 1970s, but his lifetime admirers remain. Enjoy!

Very good
Hey its a good movie....but one thing that the movie compresses to the extreme is his act that won him the Medal of Honor. Its EXTREMELY downplayed in the movie. In reality he held off a German advance from 3 directions for over an HOUR....an hour!!! Then just seconds after he jumped off the tank it blew up.

Just wanted to set the record straight on that....

A Real American
My father enlisted in the Army in 1949 at the age of 18 while inspired by the actions of Audie Murphy. He went to Korea and fought bravely for the USA. I enlisted in the Army in 1992 at the age of 17 for the same reason. This movie not only makes you think but also inspires.

I'm embarassed
I have to say that after I saw this movie, I was a little embarassed that I had never heard of Audie Murphy before, especially since I'm 37 years old. This guy epitomizes the term "war hero" and his story needs to be retold. I'd love to see this remade so that more generations of people would know about him. The current version was great, especially because Audie plays himself. A must watch, especially for anyone who doesn't know anything about him. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great Comedy classic with Sal Mineo
One of the brightest comedies of the 1950's,"The Private War of Major Benson", features brilliant performances by Charlton Heston, Julie Adams, and "scene stealer", SAL MINEO, in one of his first featured roles.Heston is "Major "Bernard Benson. A tough battle-scarred officer whose inappropriate comments to a magazine almost get him kicked out of the service. Instead, as a last resort, he is transferred to the Sheridan Military Academy for boys, aged 6-16. Demanding and unsympathetic is how he seems towards the boys, and they retaliate towards Benson. And the school nurse, Kay (Adams), is concerned that Major Benson's unorthodox methods have much to be desired. Many HILARIOUS moments fill this uproariously funny film. Eventually, nurse Kay falls for the stoic, yet big-hearted Benson. A young SAL MINEO steals the film, as Cadet Colonel Sylvester Dusik. He gains much respect for Major Benson, and has some truly comedic moments. Especially in the scene where Sylvester tells the training troups, in a frenzy, "Does everybody in this school have two left feet? Alright you guys, you're gonna keep on drilling till you do it right!" The delivery of these lines, shows Sal also had a terrific flair for comedy, and shows why he was such a meteoric rising young star! Also notable, is 6 year old actor, Tim Hovey, adorable in the role as Tiger, one of the youngest cadets at the academy. Directed by Jerry Hopper, "The Private War of Major Benson" is a true comedy classic.

Gentle Comedy Scores a Touchdown!
Charlton Heston is generally thought of as the hero of epic-style films. But in this family-style comedy, filmed after The Ten Commandents and before Ben-Hur, he proves he has comedy chops. As a hard-driving Army major, he is "punished" by being sent to work at a boy's milatary school. Perhaps unique to the times, the love interest of this film is not, as Major Benson first supposes, a nurse . . . but a full-fledged doctor, beautifully played by Julie Adams. A trove of child actors from that period, plus wonderful William Demarest and quite a few other recognizable familiar faces (including a very young David Jansen, in the first few minutes) round out the cast. A good script and delightful theme song (used also for another Tim Hovey movie, Toy Tiger) make this a very enjoyable experience.

Never mind Charlton Heston...
It's pretty boy Sal Mineo who's hard to take your eyes from..he was so adorable!..I would've let him keep his shoes under my bed any ol' time!...Handsome Harry From Honolulu

A classic comedy for all time.
Charlton Heston outdoes himself again as the war-hardened, whisky drinking Major who discovers his sensitive side after taking command of an ROTC school in California. Classic lines include: "You'll do it until you get it right." If you love Charlton Heston, you've got to see this movie. ... Read more

Description

" His pacifist philosophy brought one of the world's great powers to itsknees.He proved that violence is not the only road to change. Mahatma Gandhi's lifewas a study in contrast and paradox.He saw himself as doing God's work, yetrecognized only personal conscience as the highest authority.He was a charismaticleader of millions who confounded intellectuals.He took a vow of abstinence, but in oldage welcomed young women into his bed!BIOGRAPHY profiles the small man whotook a great nation on his shoulders and changed the world.Trace his rise to power andfearless campaign of truth, non-violence and non-cooperation with injustice that defeatedthe British Empire.Biographers offer insight into his surprising personal life, whilehistorians explore his remarkable accomplishments.Hear from his grandson, ArunGandhi, and, in a rare interview, the Dalai Lama reflects on Gandhi's incredible life andenduring legacy. From the formation of his philosophy to changing the face of the world,this is the complete saga of the Pilgrim of Peace Mahatma Gandhi." ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Reveals the Mahatma for the human being he was
I enjoyed BIOGRAPHY - MAHATMA GANDHI because it shows Gandhi in both his greatness and his humanness. I believe that Gandhi's legacy is best preserved by remembering that he was, after all, only human. The sense I got from viewing this documentary is that the liberation of India from the British empire was just one aspect of Gandhi's quest for truth, almost an outgrowth of his inner spiritual battles. I don't think he set out to be "the Mahatma." He even writes in his autobiography THE STORY OF MY EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH that the title "Mahatma" (meaning "great soul") often caused him pain because he didn't want to be seen as above others in stature or spiritual enlightenment.

There are several people interviewed in BIOGRAPHY - MAHATMA GANDHI, reporters, biographers, politicians, even the Dalai Lama provides some brief comments (he mentions that deep conviction is necessary in order to maintain a nonviolent movement). But the two interviews that make the strongest impact are those with Arun Gandhi, Grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and founder of the "M. K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence" headquartered in Memphis, TN., and Lady Pamela Hicks, daughter of Earl Mountbatten (the last Viceroy of India). Both Arun Gandhi and Lady Pamela Hicks comment on something the Mahatma is not often known for: a sense of humor. Hicks says that his humor was almost "wicked," and Arun comments that the Mahatma got a good laugh out of the fact that some reporters made fun of him for supposedly looking like a monkey. "'Here's your monkey,' Grandfather would say."

Disappointing -- Other Gandhi Material is Much Better
I consider myself a serious student of the life of Mahatma Gandhi, and to some extent, a formal researcher... I loved Attenborough's movie -- though sentimental in spots, I believe it captured the essence of Gandhi, based on everything else I have studied about him. This documentary seemed a bit obsessed with the "journalistic" need to balance out their overview of Gandhi by outlining semi-deprecating hearsay alongside accolades. Gandhi wasn't perfect -- but please, be sure your facts are straight when reporting! For instance, Gandhi is alleged to have "slept naked with young Hindu girls" later in life to test his commitment to celibacy. Personally, I don't care who or what Gandhi slept (or whatever) with, or didn't (and I believe it was "didn't", per his celibacy vow), so I don't see this as a "slur" per se -- it's just as far as I know, it's simply inaccurate. In several other well-known volumes on Gandhi, his true nature of complete asexuality was expressed both by himself and close associates, and based on his entire life, it's unlikely he would "test" himself in this manner. Still, if you are unfamiliar with Gandhi, this could be a good introduction -- but again, I recommend the movie by Attenborough as being much better, and ironically (for a studio release) more accurate!!

A classic of its time!
This film on Gandhi's life is a classic. Mr Attenborough did a fantastic job in bring this 'documentary' to the screen. Ben Kingsley who plays 'Gandhi' could not have been a better choice. A story that span from South Africa to the vast sub-continent of India has some very panoramic sweeping views. If you want to understand India and its people under the Raj, this is a good starting place. The re-creation of the funeral procession was no small feat. I will strongly recommend FBIs (foreign born Indians) to view this view this film to get some understanding of their heritage.

Very Inspirational
I viewed this movie as a requirement in my "world studies" class during our unit on British Imperialism. The on-screen representation of Gandhi's personality gave me a finer insight into his motivations and background. One particular element to the story I found fulfilling was the display of younger Gandhi as an educated "British" lawyer. His change in identity was very well portrayed as he grew closer to his people. This video was an absolutely excellent supplement to my studies on Gandhi and imperialism. Gandhi's political success was an awesome sight to see portrayed. The manner in which such a frail old man as Gandhi overpowers an entire empire is nearly miraculous, and his attempts at unifying a very religiously diverse India are noble. Gandhi proved to the world that violence is an unnecessary element to "fighting" for change, and that non-violence can be even more effective. It is not hard to tell why people such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Cesar Chavez, both leaders in civil rights movements, were inspired by the achievements of Gandhi, and modeled their political activism after his non-violent model. I felt that this movie exquisitely portrayed Gandhi's persona, his aspirations, and his accomplishments. I very strongly recommend this film to anyone who wants to know more about Gandhi, and anyone who would like to vicariously witness the spectacular accomplishments of one of the greatest persons in history.

TRUTH'S PENETRATING LIGHT
Frail, brown skinned and dressed in a simple loin cloth, who is this man that broke the yoke of British colonialism and inspired a warrior of non-violence, Martin Luther King, Jr.? We know him as Mahatma Gandhi, Truth's Penetrating Light in a world of darkness. But he was more than that as is shown in this documentary of his life.

Gandhi was by no means a genius but grew up as a boy filled with ego and selfishness as all young people. There wasn't anything remarkable about him as he followed the normal course of an Indian man and British Colonial subject. A move to South Africa and a spiritual experience coupled with political action did some things to this young householder.

On his return to India, Gandhi became a force to be confronted. His power didn't come through an army or pure political actions but through spiritual enlightenment. It is this power of Gandhi which impacts all of India.

I enjoyed this chronicle because it shows a man who wasn't perfect but was willing to experiment with his life to achieve oneness with God and at the same time freeing his people. You see a Gandhi with all of the faults of men but also his work in overcoming those pieces of him that got in the way. His story is the story of India and cleary shows might doesn't make right. What is mistakenly perceived as weakness (spirituality) is indeed a strength. Join with Gandhi in his experiment with truth and see how the forces of evil can be subdued by Love. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Anyone who fought in Vietnam can tell you that the war bore little resemblance to this propagandistic action film starring and codirected by John Wayne. But the film itself is not nearly as bad as its reputation would suggest; critics roasted its gung-ho politics while ignoring its merits as an exciting (if rather conventional and idealistic) war movie. Some notorious mistakes were made--in the final shot, the sun sets in the east!--and it's an awkward attempt to graft WWII heroics onto the Vietnam experience. But as the Duke's attempt to acknowledge the men who were fighting and dying overseas, it's a rousing film in which Wayne commands a regiment on a mission to kidnap a Viet Cong general. David Janssen plays a journalist who learns to understand Wayne's commitment to battling Communism, and Jim Hutton (Timothy's dad) plays an ill-fated soldier who adopts a Vietnamese orphan. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (63)

Good, But Flawed
Although I have seen this picture well over a dozen times and although I think it's basically a good movie, I must be objective and admit that "The Green Berets" is basically a propaganda piece that at the time of its filming was an attempt to change public sentiment about our country's involvement in Vietnam. For this reason, as well as the healing period our country went through after Vietnam, the movie seems rather archaic and naive today. Those on the far left ridicule it. Those on the far right treat it with the reverence of a Biblical tale. The truth about "The Green Berets" is that it lies somewhere between these two extremes.

The Fort Benning, Georgia filmed training sequences appear to be as real as anything I ever saw while I was in uniform. The combat sequences, however, contained a fair share of errors, most notably the well-known "sun setting in the east" flub. The acting was rather wooden, especially from Wayne as well as Jack Soo, portraying the ARVN officer, and the plot meandered from being quite good in some parts to being downright silly in others.

The most important thing to remember about this movie is that it should be taken for what it is...a good war movie. To casually dismiss it as irrelevant or hopelessly out of step with the truth simply doesn't do it justice. In similar fashion, it's rather stupid to portray it as an homage to the American way of life and characterize those who point out this picture's many flaws as "un-American", as one previous review did. This picture is best enjoyed with the viewer's bias, be it liberal or conservative, turned off.

from a patriot who was not afraid.
if John Wayne had made something like this today he would be ostracized from all of Hollywood and from about 2% of this nation. he was a man, a patriot and he wanted to show the good of our struggle. vietnam was a war that was not unlike every other war, the only difference was our citizens. the baby boomers grew up spoiled (founding fathers of the modern left). they didnt understand hard work and what a country need's to do for freedom. the left will today say freedom is a slogan, that we will always be free, they will say bush's war is for oil or some uneducated and clichéd response, but freedom is not just about a war or occupation, it's the freedom to not be afraid to get on a airplane, the freedom to not fear going into tall buildings, the freedom not to fear gathering large groups in public. and for the arab world it means to not be afraid to have your wife drive your car, or wear a dress in public, or to question a religious authority. the whole idea of vietnam was to prevent the spread of communism, it was a war that transcended vietnam itself, it was a war to measure our country and our people's resolve. vietnam taught our enemies (and todays modern terrorists) that if they can scare us, horrify us or kill enough of us that we will cower and not fight. Stalin, Khrushchev, khadafi, Usama, and hussein thought this, and we taught them all a lesson through might.

just because liberal's think war is not the answer it does not mean that our enemies do also. we are not europe, if we do not spend money on our military, flex our muscles, set deadlines and take action no one ele will. we do not have anyone to protect us like europe and the world have us. terrorist do not seek peace, they do not hate us because we are us they hate us because of hollywood, because of our freedom from starvation, our comfort in life and from our belief that we can live life any way we want without regard.

John wayne in his portrayal of vietnam was not "propaganda" it was to boost moral for the country, to support our efforts in defeating communism. i read before someone said john wayne was no patriot, what is a patriot if not to support the united states and to keep it's moral up? john wayne did that, ask any soldier from WWII to the present day. i feel bad for the liberal's they hate everyone, stand for everything while believing in nothing and really do not know anything of history or of humanity.

THE DUKE HAS THE LEFT TIED IN KNOTS
In 1969, John Wayne infuriated the Left with "The Green Berets", a film that made no apologies in its all-out support of America's effort in Vietnam. It was lambasted by critics, but in a very interesting sign, sold out at the box office. It plays today and while it is heavy-handed, there is little about it that rings untrue. The soldiers do not swear, complain or bastardize their uniforms like the actual guys did, but their patriotism and military professionalism was the real deal. The Communists they fight in the film are shifty little pissants. This does not deviate from the essential truth.

STEVEN TRAVERS
AUTHOR OF "BARRY BONDS: BASEBALL'S SUPERMAN"
STWRITES@AOL.COM

bad propoganda but a couple of gem performances
the performances of david jansaan and jim hutton stand out in this really blatant propoganda piece.
wayne the director and producer is not someone i empathize with but i do believe wayne the actor was vastly underrated.
too many people, myslef included, often let waynes politcs get in the way of acknowledging his acting powers.
this film is that in a nutshull.
his politics are unavoidable but the scen in which he wells up, on the verge of tears, trying to tell the young boy of huttons death is powerhouse acting pure and simple.
try to appreciate it.

A solid, well-made film
John Wayne like any other American had the right to promote his opinion. Period. ...

Now, the film is as accurate as any other Vietnam film made in that last 30 years because films are created to promote an opinion. (I've known Vietnam Vets who were not dope smoking, gun-totting genocidists.)

As far as action and commitment, the Green Berets succeeds as a solid "war film." No one who cares about good film making can argue that, unless they believe in censorship. The film is panoramic and energetic in cinematic quality. The characters are strong male types (like Vets I've known.) The film chose its side and promoted it. There is one strong element that the film brings home. The US military was better at killing, and it had to be. Most US detachments were generally outnumbered, fighting an opposition armed by numerous totalitarian countries from Europe to Asia. That is a historical fact, which interestingly enough, was introduced into a film over 35 years old.

The Green Berets, again, is a solid war-film and interestingly enough, is less fancifully than Platoon. The Green Berets is worth the time to see. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sigmund Freud didn't intend to get into the field of psychiatry. His dream was to be a research scientist, but because of Jewish quotas he wasn't permitted to enter into the field of study.So he became a doctor specializing in nervous diseases, because at the time that's where the money was and he desperately wanted the cash so he could marry his fiancée. A&E's Biography: Sigmund Freud is an illuminating look at the man who changed the way the world viewed sexuality and who gave us "the talking cure," better known today as psychoanalysis. Through photographs, interviews with psychoanalytic experts and Freud's grandchildren, and even with a brief recording that Freud himself made, we gain a glimpse into the life of this complex man, from his childhood in Vienna to his escape to London during World War II.His life was full of contradictions: he delved into self-analysis, but never looked at his addiction to cigars; he was an early advocate of cocaine, causing a close friend to become addicted; he demanded complete loyalty from his protégés, causing a serious rift in his relationship with Carl Jung.This installment of the Biography series is a worthy addition, providing an enjoyable and educational look at "the doctor of love." --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Disappointing
I think this video probably needed to be 2 hours instead of 1. The coverage of Freud's major contributions/concepts is much too superficial--it also presumes previous knowledge. For example, "libido" is mentioned but the video fails to describe what Freud meant by that term. His conceptualization of personality (i.e., the id, ego, and superego) is never mentioned! Some interesting details about Freud's personal life, but the video fails to capture his theories and the controversies surrounding them.

it gave a brief synopsis of freud
I thought that the video didn't go into detail of explaning his profound theories. ... Read more

Description

His novels are among the most influential and acclaimed ever written. His life is obscured behind the myth that grew up around him. Ernest Hemingway claimed he didn't want his biography written until at least 100 yearsafter his death.But by then, it might be hard to separate fact from fiction.This featurelength BIOGRAPHY, narrated by Mariel Hemingway, follows in the footsteps of theNobel-Laureate in search of the man behind the myth.It is a fascinating trip through hisworld, from the hospital in Milan where he first found love to the resort communitywhere he took his own life.Rare film of Hemingway at rest, excerpts from letters andunpublished works and the memories of those who knew him all shed light on hisremarkable life.Among those interviewed for this definitive portrait are his sons Jackand Gregory, his best friend A.E. Hotchner, Gregorio Fuentes (The model for The OldMan and the Sea), publisher Charles Scribner III, hunter Clara Spiegel and matador JohnFulton.From the battlefields of Europe to the docks of Key West, BIOGRAPHY, tracesthe steps of the man who some call the most influential writer since Shakespeare. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

real hemingway.
This video is a masterpiece. I love Hemingway and here the man is captured in all his in your face-tortured-life loving-woman loving glory. The language in this video is hardly disturbing which makes me think the person who wrote a review for this video claiming it was full of curse words did not actually see it. If anything this video will instill in the viewer a need to read more about the man and his work. A rare video. I've seen it a half dozen times and it never loses it hold on me. For any Hemingway fan this is a must.

for educational purposes
The review belows states that this video is full of cuss words. Unless you're a nun, I don't see why you didn't show 14 year old students this video. I think they can handle words like ''damn'' and ''hell''.
This video is great. It captures the spirit of Hemmingway perfectly; a boy trying to find his masculinity. Perfect for teenage boys, to help them avoid mistakes Hemmingway may have made and realize who they are.

Not for educational purposes
I was very excited to find a video about the life of Ernest Hemingway. What a great introduction for my eighth grade class before we began reading Old Man and the Sea...so I thought. I was very disturbed with the profanity in the video. After the first few "cuss" words, I was just looking for a section I could show, perhaps 15-20 minutes that were profanity-free, alas, it was not to be. Although Hemingway's work is peppered with profanity, I found it unnecessary for the video about his life to be littered with it. What a huge disappointment. ... Read more

Description

He is widely regarded as the greatest artist who ever lived.Yet thisremarkable genius was equally skilled as an architect, engineer and scientist.Leonardoda Vinciís masterpieces are among the most famous and treasured works ever created. His revolutionary techniques transformed art, but he never achieved the fame enjoyed byhis younger rival Michelangelo.This definitive program traces Leonardoís life from hisTuscan boyhood to his death, in relative obscurity, in France.Extensive use of da Vinciísjournals, notes and sketches provide valuable insight into the mind of a genius whoanticipated many of the advances of modern science.And interviews with biographersand art historians provide insight into his life and legacy. Biography proudly presents theincredible story of Leonardo da Vinci the original Renaissance man. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A fascinating look at history's most brilliant thinker
Leonardo da Vinci was probably the most brilliant thinker to ever live. We all know he painted the Mona Lisa and the definitive portrait of The Last Supper, but he was also a scientist, an engineer, and so much more - a true Renaissance man. In fact, he was the original Renaissance man of the 15th century. He changed the art world forever by introducing a three dimensional aspect to his paintings and by giving life to human portraits so vivid and realistic that one almost forgets that they are not real people. I've never been much of an art fan, but da Vinci inspires in me an inspirational, almost devotional fascination with the truly great art he created. Just think how good a painter he could have been if he had been able to concentrate on his work - da Vinci was utterly fascinated with everything around him, and his mind could rarely stay focused on one thing for very long. I did not know this, but he actually left many of his most famous works of art unfinished - yet even these unfinished portraits stunned the art world and established him as the most influential painter of the age and probably of all time - although this fact was not fully appreciated in da Vinci's own time.

This video follows da Vinci from childhood in Italy to his death in France, succeeding fairly well in capturing the scope of ingenious thoughts and ideas. I knew little about the life of da Vinci, so I sat back and absorbed just about everything that came at me. I was a little saddened to learn that he was not truly appreciated during his own time; Florence, Italy, as things turned out, just wasn't big enough for da Vinci and Michelangelo both (and might I mention the fact that Michelangelo was quite a sourpuss about the whole thing). While his paintings amazed those who saw them and even caused his mentor to give up painting altogether, da Vinci was never truly acknowledged as a master among his contemporary rivals. On several occasions, he had to search out a sponsor for his work, and he was not included among the group of Italian masters sent to Rome in answer to a call for the country's most brilliant artists. More often that not, he assumed the duties of an engineer, and the ideas he played around with in his head almost defy belief. His notebooks record the working of this great mind at work in incredible detail (and da Vinci's distinctive backwards handwriting). Da Vinci's notebooks are simply teeming with new ideas, hyper-studious observations of man and machine, and incredible sketches and illustrations of such futuristic things as submarines, helicopters, automatic machine guns, fortification measures, and all sorts of incredible things that would not become reality until the twentieth century. We don't get to see nearly enough of these notebooks in the video, but of course one can never really see enough of them.

Naturally, the modern-day thinkers try to get inside da Vinci's head, and thus we are forced to endure speculation that da Vinci was gay. So he had young assistants who probably modeled for him - come on, any fellow who went around asking little girls to model nude for him would have been locked up in a second. Such speculation is a hurtful reminder of a most painful time in da Vinci's own life - at age 24, he was accused of sodomy, probably by a jealous rival. There was no proof of the charge, but the shameful stigma stayed with da Vinci all his life. He also got in trouble in the latter stages of his life, but this charge belies the cries of homosexuality, in my opinion. Da Vinci was fascinated with the workings of the human body, and at one point he was procuring human corpses for dissection. He wanted to know how the body worked, inside and out, but the Church put an end to his supposedly necromantic activities.

Forty five minutes cannot even begin to cover the life and genius of this extraordinary man, but I found this video very informative indeed and rank it among the most fascinating A&E Biography videos I have seen.

Entertaining and informative
I loved this -- I not only Learned a lot about Leonardo but was entertained by it. I didn't feel the personal stuff was overdone, I like to know about the human side of genius.

Extremely disappointing
A bland account that doesn't go very deeply into the subject and fixates more on the possibility of Da Vinci being homosexual than on the accomplishments and other interesting points of the mans life.

Certainly not worth the money spent to buy it or the time to view it.

Insufficient Data
I bought this video hoping to learn more about the Genius of the Renaissance and instead found it woefully inusfficient. There is in this fifty minute video much too little given to Da Vinci's own words on his notes, and too much speculation on whether or not he was gay. Of course, to A&E, every great artist from Shakespeare to Da Vinci is gay! Like what is their problem?! The progam never went into the depth about Da Vinci's fascination with mechanics - or the reason he never finished many of his paintings. For example, one fresco commisioned in Florence was never completed because he had used an ancient technique not meant for murals. For a much more thorough examination of the artist I recommend Questar's - The Life Of Leonardo Da Vinci.

Lesson Learned?
I am a middle-school teacher. I showed this video to my students with a worksheet to focus their attention. The worksheet had three sections: 1)List 10 facts about Leonardo di Vinci 2)List 5 facts about living in Leonardo's time 3)List the three things you know now that you did not before seeing this film. My students learned that Leonardo di Vinci was a homosexual and that he wrote backwards. Although they wrote many interesting facts about Leonardo, one week later these two items were about all that they could recall. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

International Religious Intrigue
Amid the backdrops of London, Paris, Rome and other beautiful cities, Steven Randall, a PR man, uncovers intrigue relating to a controversial religious discovery -- a new NEW TESTAMENT. He's on the trail of the truth, finding murder and mayhem along the way. David Janssen is slick, cool and confident until put on trial for the theft of an important religious artifact which will prove his case that the controversy is a hoax after all. Beautiful scenery and cityscapes, an all over mellow mood with appropriately romantic score.

Another more complete version
There is another version of this video. It is called "The Word" by USA Home Video, and it has two tapes in a pack with 188 minutes in a full length feature film (according to the box).

NOT the complete series!
This edition consists of 3 50 minute tapes. With 3 tapes, you'd think they would feature the complete mini-series. But many character scenes have been cut, especially those by John Huston! Still worth seeing until a better version comes along. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Donald Shines Twice in Navy
Donald O'Connor had wearied of the Francis series by the time he made this film, but it certainly doesn't show -- his acting is as wonderful, fresh, and funny as ever (could his weariness have had something to do, at least in part, with the fact that he missed out on making White Christmas with his friend Bing Crosby because in real life he'd contracted an illness from the mule??). In this installment, Peter is a victim of mistaken identity. When the young second lieutenant tries to rescue Francis from being sold as surplus, he is mistaken for his doppleganger, Slicker Donovan, a Navy war hero, and carted off to sea. Peter and Slicker may look exactly alike, but they couldn't be more different. O'Connor's whole face changes when he plays Slicker, the sophisticated womanizing gob. Seeing O'connor do double duty in this film really gives us a chance to appreciate his acting ability. He may not have enjoyed it, but you will!

A great highlight is the mandatory psycho ward scene. Peter has given up trying to convince people he's sane -- now he just goes along with the game with a touch of cynicism, and it's wonderful!

Ahoy There Mate! Pipe me On Board!
The Grand Puba (that's Mister Puba to You!) loves Francis! These videos really are great if you are in to family fare! Something that you can let the kids watch without fear of comprimising your values. If you liked Mr. Ed - you'll love Francis! Barney? Ppphhorgetaboudit! Get Francis instead!

Of the series, this is Emma's favorite.
Francis ends up as post-war surplus and the Navy auctions him off. Donald O'Conner as Peter Sterling is Francis' innocent and likeable pal who tries to save him. But enter "Slicker", a notorious, tough womanizer who happens to look exactly like Peter. Slicker's friends (look for a very young Clint Eastwood) and naval commanders get the two mixed up and Peter ends up in a Navy uniform. An old plot (even for 1955) Peter, with the help of Francis, save the day. Emma's favorite scenn is where Slicker, Slicker's sister, and Peter all meet together for the first time. Dad enjoyed seeing some of the young stars (Eastwood, Martin Milner) who went on to bigger things. Emma gives it five stars, but Dad ony give it three. ... Read more

Description

He is one of the greatest artists of all time, a man whose name hasbecome synonymous with the word "masterpiece": Michelangelo Buonarotti.Creator ofunparalleled works of art painted on canvas and plaster, carved in marble and built fromstone, Michelangelo created a legacy of art treasured by the world: The ceiling of theSistine Chapel, the heroic marble sculpture of David, and the central plan for Saint Peter'sCathedral in Rome.Was he the tortured and lonely man who suffered agonies in pursuitof his art, as he is often portrayed?Art historians, museum curators and Renaissanceexperts help dispel the mysteries surrounding the man whose glorious works inspire us tothis day. Examine the broad canvas of Michelangelo's life and legacy to probe the verysoul of the artist who was recognized as a genius in his own lifetime. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

O K For A Short Biography
This is your average ho-hum documentary which in a few minutes tries to tell the life of a genius that over looked two centuries. Like A an E documentary on Leonardo Da Vinci the movie is mediocre at best, over looking many interesting facets of the artist'life. Like Da Vinci, Michaelangelo was multi talented - becoming a poet and architect as well as a sulptor and a painter. This documentary does not do justice at all to his great life. In want of something better I suggest the viewer read Iriving Stone's "The Agony and the Ecstasy". It is a sad world when people try to learn by watching movies or television alone! Please folks, in want of real information, go the local library and check out a book or buy one from Amazon.

The world's greates artist!
Michelangelo is the world's greatest artist. He was one of the best painters, sculptors, drawers, architects, and planner in his time. Go to his life story in Verona to the chapels he has built in Italy. See the glorious sculpture "David" that shows the youth of Italy. See beautiful paintings showing the creation of Adam, the Moses escape from Egypt, and so on. Learn some of the greatets secrets and problems of the great master. All sounds good? Then get this video!

------------------------AHMED MASHHOOD---------------------------

great movie
this is a relly good movie for ages 3 - 29 1/2. it doesn't go into a whole lot of detail though.

Terrific for any school art department to show!
I'm an art teacher at a middle school. I show "Michelangelo" every year to my 7th graders as they study the Renaissance. However this can as easily be used in a college course. This video not only has the specifics of his life, but gives a flavor of his time.

Superbly produced documentary
This video wastes no time in delving into the life and times of Michelangelo. It explains the circumstances of his birth and ascent into the Medici sphere of influence. The video also busts certain myths about Michelangelo, for example a Michelangelo scholar tells us that the artist was actually very wealthy-- which is interesting since much of Michelangelo's writings to his family talk of his financial hardships. All in all this was a great video. In this fast paced world where most people don't have the time to sit and read a book, this is the next best thing! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The most fabled military leader of all time is chronicled in this episode of the A&E Biography series.Born to a Corsican family of shaky financial means, young Napoleon decided upon a military career as a child, winning a scholarship to a French military academy.His meteoric rise shocked not only France but all of Europe, and his military conquests threatened the stability of the world.Making copious use of contemporary drawings, paintings, and maps, and featuring interviews with military historians who specialize in studying Napoleon, the great commander is thoughtfully rendered as an enigmatic figure whose great military triumphs masked a deeply troubled personal life. His marriage to Josephine was tumultuous (and was at times the cause of his being the subject of ridicule), and his fanatical work habits, not to mention a legendary temper, made him a notoriously difficult personality.His insatiable appetite for glory and conquest led him to overcome most obstacles in his path, yet his supreme confidence in himself eventually led him to his defeat at Waterloo and his exile on a desolate island.This is a lively, informative, and entertaining look at one of the most influential figures in all of history.--Robert J. McNamara ... Read more

Reviews (2)

It's for teenagers, not for adult history fans.
See, I'm a history fan. I know everything French. I feel frustrated when I finished watching this video. It's not much more than some still pictures with no professional-level narration. It's a cheap show, not history. Can't believe it's from A&E. However, I understand. It could be an issue of money. Fund they have doesn't allow the makers of this movie to replay the history in a thorough and precise way. Sigh ... Who will pay for history study nowadays? None.

The Great Napoleon
I hail Napoleon Bonaparte as having been a truly recgonized conqueror of modern times. A&E'e Biographly did help to clear- up some points, that I had failed to fully understand during my reading about him. I was hoping to learn more about his General's i.e was it true about their betrayal of him? All in all, I think it was a well produce portrait, of one of the three greatest men in all the history of this world.

bevil ... Read more

Description

"He held absolute power over the Soviet Union for 29 years.His legacyarguably surpasses even Hitler's he sent over 20 million of his own countrymen to theirdeaths! Josef Stalin is one of the greatest tyrants of all time.Since the collapse of theSoviet Union, the extent of his atrocities have been revealed to a stunned world, and hehas taken his place alongside Hitler as one of the most reviled leaders of the century. This comprehensive portrait revisits the life of ""Uncle Joe"" through astonishing Sovietarchival film and an astonishing collection of interviews.Biographers Robert Conquestand Edvard Radzinsky explore his disastrous reforms, including the collectivization ofagriculture and his massive purges.Former interpreter Valentin Berezhkov offers a first- person view of the dictator, while purge victim Dr. Janusz Bardach talks about his time inthe Gulags.And in a rare interview Mikail Gorbachev explores the rise, rule and legacyof the most infamous of all his predecessors.BIOGRAPHY; proudly presents adefinitive history of one of the most important, compelling and hated men in history." ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A lesson in what absolute power can do to a country
My friends are often surprised when I mention that one of the historical figures that I would like to meet is Joseph Stalin. I would like the opportunity to look into the eyes of a man who methodically planned and ordered the deaths of over 20 million people. Of course, I would only do so through the safety of historical retrospective, because without that, it would mean certain death. Stalin was a brutal man, yet in his own way a master politician. One of the most astonishing facts of history was the public and private statements of Franklin Roosevelt, who said that he liked "Old Joe." These statements were made after Roosevelt was well aware of what Stalin had done in the Soviet Union.
This history of Stalin captures the essence of his rule and the amazing hold he had on the vast Soviet Union. Millions of people treated him as an infallible demi-god, although one wonders how much of the adulation was genuine compared to that which was simple self-preservation in a society terrified with itself. The best part, and the most telling about Stalin was the description of how he eliminated all of his rivals among the old Bolsheviks. By making alliances with one side and then the other, Stalin was able to eliminate all of his enemies. In the final analysis, the old Bolsheviks (other than Stalin), were fundamentally intellectuals, who were ruthless to their external enemies, but could not stomach a death battle with a comrade. Stalin of course had no such scruples and he swept aside all opposition, killing all who even hinted at opposition.
With the downfall of the Soviet Union, more information has come out and we now know how much of a tyrant Stalin was. We should all study this tape and learn what unchecked power can do to a country and a man. It is also a reminder of how wise the framers of the U. S. constitution were when they designed the three branches of government with the conflicting checks and balances.

A Brief Introduction to the Life of an Anti-Christ
This video serves well the casual viewer who is looking for a quick introduction to the life of this monster. The interviews that put Stalin into an historical context are quite interesting, especially those with Condoleezza Rice, a renowned Kremlinologist before becoming National Security Advisor to President George W. Bush.

A Brief But Good Look at a Bad Life
In a span of only 45-50 minutes of total video time, the producers of this biography of Stalin can't spend much time lingering on the details of Stalin's life. The pace is quick, starting with "the Man of Steel's" birth, his rise to power, abuse of power, role in WW2 and ultimate death and legacy. Incorporating lively and interesting narration by Jack Perkins, archival footage and photographs as well as interviews with Gorbachev, Stalin's grandson, gulag survivors, a former aid to Stalin and several American Soviet historians, the production captures the essence of Stalin's life and leadership, but does not penetrate deeply into the multiple layers of academic history. ... Read more

Amazon.com

No other 13-year-old girl in modern history has had as a profound effect on readers as Anne Frank. Born on June 12, 1929, in Frankfurt, Germany, Anne, her elder sister, and her parents fled Germany in 1933 for the Netherlands to escape Adolf Hitler and his Nazi regime. This installment of A&E's award-winning Biography series, Anne Frank: The Life of a Young Girl, takes viewers back to her 13th birthday when she received the red-and-white-checkered diary she named Kitty. Just a few weeks later, Anne's Jewish family was forced into 25 months of hiding in the secret annex behind a bookshelf in her father's office. Her diary not only documents the life of a young girl, but the extraordinary circumstances she endured; Anne Frank has become "a symbol, a cause, an institution." Excerpts from Kitty were originally published in 1947 as Het Achterhuis (The Secret Annex) and the acclaim was so widespread that an American edition, The Diary of a Young Girl, was published in 1952. Three years later it won the Pulitzer Prize. There have been Broadway plays and a 1959 Hollywood film based on the diary. A&E does an excellent job telling the story of Anne's life, and presents historical context with limited black-and-white photographs of Anne and her family, as well as footage from World War II. But most significant are the interviews with Anne's father, the only survivor of the 11 people who hid in the annex; Anne's childhood friends and Holocaust survivors; "Hello" Silverberg, the object of her school-girl crush; and her father's loyal assistant Miep Gies, who ultimately saved Anne's diary after Anne and her family were discovered and taken away to concentration camps. Anne Frank: The Life of a Young Girl describes why the young girl's gifted writing in a checkered diary has survived as a formidable force against prejudice and discrimination.--Cristina Del Sesto ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Courageous Acknowledgement of Man's Inhumanity to Man!
Anne Frank lives-in spirit. One of the strongest and certainly youngest chronicler of the holocaust. She is such a heroine role model for today's confused youth. A "must see" VHS and please don't forget a book or other readers/media by the same title. Great for discussion beginning with 10 years olds through middle school. (Not just for girls as Elie Wiesel is not just for boys). "Live life", is the message I get and if you must suffer it than do it with class and even with a sense of curiosity and adventure. And, when you die there will be a definite sense of history waiting for you. Or, should I say an infinite sense of having been and is that not the same as immortality?

Annelie Marie Frank
This was the best biograhpy i have ever seen.

Good for Beginners
This is a nice video overview of the life of Anne Frank produced by A&E's Biography. The people at Biography almost always do a nice job and this episode is no exception. There's not a lot of detail but there are some nice interviews with people like Otto Frank and Miep Gies. Hearing their voices adds something for those who have only read of them. This is what I think is the true power of videos like this--it allows readers to put faces and voices to names.

I think this video is also nice because is fills in the spaces around the period covered by Anne in her diary, particularly what happened after the Franks were arrested and Anne could no longer write. It is important for people who have only read the diary itself to become aware of these other events.

On the other hand, no video (even the best of them--Anne Frank Remembered) can presently compete with the quality of written material out there. There are so many excellent books covering every segment of Anne's life that it would be a shame for someone who is truly interested in Anne to limit themselves to this video.

good
very good, but touchin ... Read more

Amazon.com

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will live long in our collective memoryas a symbol of peaceful resistance to injustice. But, of course, he was more than a symbol--he was a man. Biography: Martin Luther King Jr. uses striking images and first-class research to explore both sides of this tragic hero. It tells us how his comfortable upbringing made him resistant at first to his role as leader of the civil rights movement, but also how he ultimately came to terms with it and even accepted the inevitability of his martyrdom. Documentary footage of his brilliant speeches and interviews with friends and associates make for a penetrating look at the inspirations and frustrations that made up this great man's life. --Rob Lightner ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A good one hour documentary, but not the best in the world
This was an interesting documentary, but the directorial artsy stuff was quite curious. Filters (?) on the camera lenses gave the skies wierd hues and landscapes were odd colors, too. And that "turn the camera sideways" thing was in most of the still shots.

Those nuances almost drew my focus away from the story of King's life, which was not what the director intended, I'm sure.

This is one of the first documentaries I've seen on King where it freely discusses the whole FBI-King wire tapping incidents and the skirt chasing episodes. Also discussed the fact that Daddy King (MLK's Dad) rose up from abject poverty and his own children grew up in relative affluence - compared to most of the black community.

But if you want to learn more about the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr., I'd recommend "Eyes on the Prize" put out by PBS.

It's longish - but I guarantee you can't watch one episode without weeping tears of joy and gratitude at the price that was paid by MLK and others to buy freedom for