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John Waters's goofy, 1990 comedy about a Baltimore girl (Amy Locane) who can't decide if she should remain "good" in her 1954 world or hang out with the motorcycle boys is funny in a scene-by-scene way, but doesn't quite gel into the grand piece the director was hoping for. The cast is exceptionally likable, however, including Johnny Depp as an Elvis type and Iggy Pop as a chattering loony. The best material is set in a fringe world of bikers and losers on the outskirts of town, and Waters writes some hilarious sardonic dialogue for the characters. Cry-Baby is the last of Waters's more undisciplined features; he followed it with the glossier but no less perverse Serial Mom. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (107)

Extremely silly, stupid and bad. It's great!
This movie is so bad it hurts. It's incredibly campy and silly, a wonderful parody. I'd say a definate must for Johnny Depp fans (and I can't say I'm one of them) and for anyone who enjoys a good laugh at stupidly silly films. No smart comedy hear, no deep message or meaning, just a hilarious spoof filled with catchy songs and dance moves. A good rainy day film, or for cheering you up, though I think if you were really in a bad mood this movie would just seem stupid and make you want to scream. Still, not bad when you want a laugh. I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone looking for witty comedy or a serious or engaging film, just someone ready for a silly and over-the-top movie filled with song and dance and tons of unbelievabley stereotyped fun characters.

4-stars for a quirky and silly movie. Nothing extrodinary, but still fun!

Cry-Baby Walker Rules
I had seen this movie in the movie theatre as a teenager and it Rocked!! That started my enjoyment of Johnny Depp films. I never watched 21 Jump Street until this movie. The cast is so funny. The TV version I seen added parts that I had not seen in the theatre but cut out parts that were extremely funny. Now I have a copy of the TV version plus the video version which was what I seen in at the movies. It would be really great to get on DVD with both versions together (played together or both on one disc). To this day I can sing every song (I had the soundtrack before the videos) and say most of the words with everyone. It is a funny movie that just won't get old watching over and over!! In fact I watched it today. I just can't say enough about how hilarious this movie. It is the "bad boy" falling in love with the "good girl" just like "Grease" and other great movies like that. I think they did a great job at making it look like the 50s in the movie. It has been my favorite movie since I seen it.

Cry Baby........
I wouldn't recommend this film. I think I got bored. It was so long ago, but I believe I was bored.

He's so hott!
I have been watching this movie ever since I was 6, and now I'm 15. It's great and the best part is that Johnny Depp is in it. I think he's incredibly hott no matter what he wears. This movie should definately be on dvd. What I don't get is why does Johnny and (Amy) make out in the movie when she is still dating the other guy, lol. But, it's a very cute movie. I think everybody who hasn't seen it yet, should!

why on EARTH is this not on dvd?!?!
I thought that this film was great and fantastic for cheering you up. The songs were really catchy and cheesy (in a good way) and Johnny Depp looked incredible. A must for ALL fans. It just makes me wonder what is going through the directors head by not putting this on dvd, it is mazing. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Amazingly good but very disturbing movie.
This movie is based on Herbert Selby's cult novel from the early 1960s. The novel traces the lives of some rough urban characters (prostitutes, street hoodlums, transvestites, striking dock workers) in 1950s Brooklyn. Think of this as "On the Waterfront" without the sugar coating. A friend of mine hates the movie because he feels it is nightmarish and lacks a moral center. I like the movie for just this reason, as deep down I think life is that way. The movie is a harsh and uncompromising look at people whose dreams don't work out; in fact, the dreams often explode in the characters' faces. Jennifer Jason Leigh, Stephen Lang, Stephen Baldwin, Jerry Orbach and Alexis Arquette are fantastic. Don't watch this with kids or with people with delicate sensibilities---it's violent, sexually graphic, and full of verbal abuse and foul language.

Nightmarish in the extreme!
(...) As it was, this movie profoundly depressed me. (...)There is tenderness in the depiction of a young man's adoration for a prostitute (Jennifer Jason Leigh), as well as comic relief (of sorts) in the complications arising from an unplanned pregnancy. Unfortunately these moments are few and far between, and the cumulative effect of numerous beatings (starting with the very first scene!), cowardice and sexual violence will greatly disturb most viewers.

The acting, however, is top-notch. The entire cast is thoroughly believable - depressingly so in the case of Stephen Baldwin and his fellow thugs. Director Uli Edel is a master at creating atmosphere, and an operatic sense of doom permeates the entire movie, helped in no small measure by Mark Knopfler's beautiful but ominous score.

As a movie I would give Last Exit to Brooklyn five stars for its execution, but just one star for its sense of life. Nihilists will love it for reinforcing their own bleak view of life, but romantics should definitely give it a miss.

Why the Dodgers left Brooklyn
It's the 1950s. Under President Eisenhower's administration, everyone has a house in the suburbs, a decent job, a gas-guzzling car, and a basic "Leave It to Beaver" lifestyle.

Not so, said Hubert Selby, in his novel, LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN. For a good deal of the working class, times were still tough. Preyed upon by crime, toyed with by factory owners and unions, and, ultimately, shackled by their own ignorance, the working class had their promise of a white picket fence and primrose garden vacated. In Brooklyn, particularly, things were acutely tough. Manufacturing jobs were on a rapid decline, as companies moved out of town or out of state (which was why those companies remaining in Brooklyn were able to mess with their employees: take it or leave it, was their attitude). At the same time, an influx of immigrants seeking jobs made the hunt for work even more competitive--another bonus for the remaining factory owners. Slums rapidly worsened, so much so that Dodger owner Walter Alston decided his team's future was in jeopardy. L.A. looked like a much safer place for a stadium.

But neither Selby nor director Uli Edel portrayed this working class as merely innocent victims. Neither the book nor the film is a didactic rant about class warfare. The poor had their own vices of greed, brutality, and dissipation. Just about every other scene has someone going through someone else's wallets, union funds or pockets. If they aren't doing that, they're drinking, fighting, or whoring. It's a pretty dismal world. The natural response to this film might be: "Wait a minute. Not everyone working class Johnny-Punchclock guy was a criminal. Most people worked hard and honestly." Of course, this is true but it's not the film's concern. This is a study of those who were trapped in that world, and this study is compelling and horrifying.

Uli Edel has perfectly captured this bleak world, either bathing everything in a garish light or obscuring it in heavy shadows. The performances are brilliant. There's no understating Jennifer Jason Leigh's gritty and powerful performance. Also keep an eye out for a cameo by Hubert Selby as the driver who hits Georgette. Not for the weak-stomached and definitely not for kids, LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN is as cinematographically close to the innermost circle of urban hell as you can get.

A Hell of a Film
Last Exit to Brooklyn tells a story the way it needs to be told...realistically. This film is not for everyone. If you can't accept the fact that some people do behave like this than this film is not for you. Everyone doesn't live in a fantasy land and Last Exit to Brooklyn shows this. People brought up in conditions like these or who are familiar with people such as this can vouch that people are truly like this in some places. It may not be an excuse for how others act but it is real and this film proves that. This is a powerful, moving film not to be looked upon if you're easily offended out of your own ignorance and live in a rose-colored world. If you have the ability to watch a movie, understand it and be taken in with what the film represents ( without feeling threatened ) then this movie is a keeper. If you can't see that Last Exit to Brooklyn deplicts reality for people other than the super fortunate, rent Sweet Home Alabama because this movie is not for you.

Nasty, Ugly, Wrong
People who think that the working class or anyone who is down and out is necessarily brutal and self-serving will love this film. For those who like their "social realism" as ugly and unambiguous as possible,this is the film for you. Most of the characters are one-dimensional,yell their lines and are either outrightly cruel/unfeeling (practically everyone) or hystrionic/narcissistic victims doomed to be wiped out by the end of the film (eg Gorgette the transvestite, Tra La La the town "tramp"). Almost all are totally unsympathetic--practically no-one in this film is worth caring about. Sorry, but real life is NOT like this,not even amongst the "downtrodden" who obviously make such sensationalist fodder for those eager to "slum it" vicariously for a couple of hours. This film might titilate nihilistic 20 yr olds or middle class suburbanites and has clearly thrilled all the critics (and almost everyone else in this forum) but I found it stupid and ugly (and boring). Jennifer Jason Leigh is terrific, I must add. That is the only good thing I can say about this film, I'm afraid. For those looking for uncompromising social realism and characters written with compassion rather than contempt, try reading Steinback's "Cannery Row" or see the movie of his novel "Of Mice and Men" or, for a more contemporary, very bleak but infinitly better film than Last Exit see "Nil by Mouth" directed by Gary Oldman. ... Read more

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Disney's delightful whodunnit mystery Murder She Purred is told through the eyes of two four-legged critters considerably smarter than the humans they are observing. Based on the novel by Rita Mae Brown, the film is set in a small Virginia town where secrets run as deep as Southern-style charm. Mary Minor "Harry" Haristeen (Ricki Lake) calls the shots around town as she runs the post office. But the real brains of the burb belong to Harry's cat, the acerbic Mrs. Murphy (voiced by Blythe Danner), and the interminably hungry Tucker (voiced by Anthony Clark), a Welsh corgi who suffers from little-dog syndrome. This feline/canine duo is quickly on the scent when a local man is found murdered at the bottom of the lake. All evidence points to Dr. Blair Bainbridge (Linden Ashby) a town newcomer who moves in next to Harry, and, it turns out, has buried some secrets of his own. While local sheriffs try to unmask the murderer, Harry falls for Dr. Bainbridge in spite of his questionable character. As the plot thickens, so do the amusing antics and one-liners from Mrs. Murphy and Tucker. It's up to the animals to solve the mystery, despite their "pet peeves" over the bumbling efforts of humans. Lake is terrific as the low-key, likeable, but lonely Harry, and the rest of the cast deliver decent performances, but the biggest kudos go to our furry friends who save the day in a surprise ending that is certain to please family audiences. --Lynn Gibson ... Read more

Reviews (33)

A great film for all dog/cat fans
I have read (devoured) nearly all the books in the Sneaky Pie mystery series and this movie is a great addition. I've rented it 3 times and watched it at least 4 times. We plan on adding this to our video collection. The movie is suspenseful without being too scary for the younger crowd as well as funny. Ricki Lake as Mary Minor Haristeen is perfect. The only changes I would make is to have the voice of Tucker be a female, as Tucker is a female in the books, and add Pewter. It's great entertainment especially for Corgi lovers. I'm anxiously waiting for more.

We Want More Mrs. Murphy Msteries!!!!
This movie is one that the entire family can enjoy together. No foul language or violent scenes. Solely a good hearted mystery with moments of humor and a dash of suspense. Ricki Lake is believable as the towns Post Mistress Mary Minor Harriston (Harry). The interactions betwen Tucker (the dog) and Mrs. Murphy (the cat) are what I always envisioned cats and dogs are saying to, and about, one another. The voice overs for the animals seem to fit their personalities wonderfully. My family has enjoyed reading the Rita Mae Brown and Sneaky Pie Brown books for years. They loved Murder She Purred so much that I had to rent it because the copy I purchased has not arrived yet. Of course we watched it every day during our five day rental. We anxiously await the next installment in the Mrs. Murphy series. My only hope is that they keep the core actors and animals, as there is true movie magic with that group!

A great movie!
I have watched this movie about 100 times and have never gotten tired of it! The corgi is cute, the cat is smart and Ricki Lake is perfect. The voices used for the animals really fit the bill.

It is Purrrfectly Wonderful!
We love this movie. There are two dogs and a cat at our house and I swear they talk to one another and plan things to do all of the time, like Tucker and Mrs. Murphy. When I need something to curl up with and just relax I watch this video. I am going to buy one for my daughter who will soon move away. Rikki Lake was wonderful in this and should do more acting. Disney....serve up some more Mrs. Murphy....Please : )

Ok Movie, But Mildly Decieving Towards The Books
The movie is fine. Its the usual Disney TV fair, and is fine for the whole family. The book series on the other hand... Well, first off this is not based off of Murder She Purred, but instead Rest in Pieces. Sounds like a slasher movie doesn't it? Well in the original story it almost was. The books are very violent (I believe the book version of this had a severed head in a jack o lantern) and deffinatly not for children.
Now I wouldn't have brought this up except for one small detail. At the end of the movie (at least when it was broadcast on TV) they plugged the books as family books! I mean Pawing Through the Past delt with gay rape, murder, and a transgender killer! The books are not for children, while this movie is. The movie is fine for kids, but keep them away from the books. ... Read more

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John Waters made his bid for PG respectability with this enjoyably trashy comedy about the racial integration of a teen dance show on Baltimore television in the early '60s. Waters, as always, makes a virtue of junk culture and the powerful emotional forces it can represent as kids vie to get on the show. Meanwhile, a parade of former stars (Pia Zadora, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono) and pseudostars (Divine, Ricki Lake) cross the screen, playing freakish characters absorbed by thoughts of fame. (Waters himself turns up as a weirdo psychiatrist.) This transitional film for Waters is rough going at times and not as interesting or funny as his later features Cry-Baby and Serial Mom, but it's worth a look. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Very Endearing
The sad life of Tracy Turnblad is explored in this biting satire set in pre-intergrated Baltimore.

Tracy (Ricki Lake) and her best friend Penny Pingleton (Lesley Ann Powers) spend each afternoon watching the homegrown hit 'The Corny Collins Show' on television,dreaming of one day dancing the Mash Potato or the Frug there.

Tracy's mother (Divine) does not really think her child will amount to anything,and Penny is constantly being punished (her parents make her wear a big 'P' on her blouse).

However,the charmed life of Amber von Tussle,the most popular dancer on the Show,seems too good to be true,despite commemts by Tracy and Penny (''Stuck-up little spastic'' and ''She is such a queer''). Amber also has the brass ring,that of teen heart-throb Link,who also appears on the Show.

Amber's parents are power-mad and drive Amber to ridiculous lenghs to be popular.They are played by Debbie Harry and Sonny Bono.

Soon,Tracy does get to appear on the show,and lands her dream-hunk Link.

A great comedy,with a yummy soundtrack and a real edge to it that does not marr the overall story.

Also featuring Mink Stole as the cue-card holder on the Show (''Falsies! '') and Pia Zadora as a way-out beatnik chick.

Soon,Tracy

'Hairspray' full of tawdry, tacky fun
John Waters' first real attempt at "mainstream" fun is a trashy and critically-acclaimed delight. Set in (where else?) Baltimore during the Civil Rights era, Hairspray is chock-full of stars, mini-stars, and people who just wanna give it a go at being a star.

The story follows young Tracy Turnblad (pre-talk show Ricki Lake) on her rise to being "big, blonde, and beautiful" on a popular teenage dance show. Along the way, however, she runs into some friction from high school brat Amber Von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick, also known as pop star Vitamin C) and her parents, a racial obscenity-spouting mother (Debbie Harry) and a slick politician papa (Sonny Bono). Add in growing discontentment among the city's black populace over whites-only establishments, and you have an explosive mix made even more explosive by how off-the-wall it becomes.

Dance enthusiasts will appreciate the film for its selection of early 60s fad dances like the Mashed Potato and the Madison. Offbeat and fun, Hairspray also has an excellent soundtrack with some obscure songs you'll be hard-pressed to find in another compilation.

Forever Quotable!
Tracy Turnblad is described by her contempories as "a fat trash can," "teenage Jezebel hair hopper," "a whore, (who *I heard* made out in a car - naked!)," "adopted," "white trash or maybe high yellow" or even "mulatto!"... with "roaches in her hair!".... But they're all just hatin', because Tracy is also "the best white dancer in Baltimore" and "a modern teen" that believes in integration! Tracy competes for the dancing queen crown - and also for the leading man - against none other than Amber von Tussle, a "stuck up spastic" who is "*such* a queer," that she makes Tracy's mom ashamed to be white! There's a lot of (funny) trash talkin' goin' on, because a lot is on the line....

The competition between Tracy and Amber, and by extension integrationists and segregationists, will make you feel good, tap your toes, laugh out loud a lot, and cheer. Hairspray's "bad taste" moments are funny as heck, and piece together for a movie that epitomizes good taste -- kind, empathetic, and with a wonderful heart! The music and dancing are just *amazing*! And the fashions and bright colored sets are life-affirming perfect! (Is it just me, or did these early 60's fashions *strongly* influence the early 80's styles?.... Debbie Harry, Ric Ocasek, and Pia Zadora fit in perfect). In the excellent dvd commentary, director John Waters says the sets and styles are realistic for the times. What a bright, bold, fun, cool (when "cool" was cool), forward-looking time! Tracy's mom has a picture of Jackie Kennedy framed on the wall :-). Mom says, "It's the times. They are a-changin'. There's something blowing in the wind. Fetch me my diet pills, would you hun?"

If Hairspray ended with "Where are they now?", Tracy might be a Senator from Maryland, or the Governor, ... or more!! 5 stars as I stand in my chair applauding. Hairspray's bright fun is worth watching many times.

Very Good
The movie Hairspray is Very good. I watched it when I was about 10 and I loved it. My dad keeped telling me to move so he could watch tv and I didn't so I got grounded and after that I have looked for it but I haven't been able to find it until about two months ago now I have it and watch it everyday. I also went to see it live. It was great.

A campy, feel-good film carrying an important message
I think it's safe to say that Hairspray is a unique motion picture. The film, while providing nonstop fun and laughs throughout, also manages to not only confront but to roll right over prejudice in several of its nefarious guises. I was a teenager when this film came out, and sadly, it was the death of Divine (just before the movie was released) that made me aware of this film. I don't know if that publicity helped or hurt ticket sales - Divine, for those who have never heard of him, was famous for playing female roles, and Hairspray had begun to rejuvenate his whole career. As for the film, it's extremely campy in the best of ways, overflowing with great singing and dancing from the early 1960s, and it is the type of film that makes you feel good after you watch it.

Ricki Lake plays Tracy Turnblad, a big, bold, and beautiful teenager who dreams of dancing on the exceedingly popular Corny Collins dance show. Her mother, played by Divine, isn't too crazy about modern music and dancing - until Tracy auditions and gets a spot on the show. Strutting her stuff in front of the cameras, she quickly becomes Baltimore's newest sensation. This does not sit well with Amber von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick), as Tracy steals her man and then threatens to win the coveted title of Miss Auto Show 1963. Tracy is overweight, but she likes herself just as she is and easily dismisses the fat jokes thrown her way early on. The big issue in this film, though, is segregation. Tracy and her best friend Penny Pingleton (Joann Havrilla) soon become friends with some of the black kids in town and begin working toward integrating the Corny Collins show. Collins is all for the idea himself, as currently the Negro show runs only once each month under the controls of sassy Motormouth Mabel (Ruth Brown). The station manager will not hear of integration, though, and Penny's mother is aghast to find out that her daughter is in love with an African-American. This is 1962, of course. The whole segregation issue becomes the basic foundation of the movie as it dances its way to the end, making Hairspray a wonderfully entertaining film with a serious message behind it.

The film is blessed with many interesting cast members. Divine plays not only Mrs. Turnblad but also the station manager, Jerry Stiller plays Mr. Turnblad, Sonny Bono and Debbie Harry (and Debbie Harry's increasingly interesting hair) come together to play Amber von Tussle's parents, and Ric Ocasek and Pia Zadora show up as Beatniks in a strange little cameo appearance. Of course, Ricki Lake pretty much steals the show as the big girl with big dreams, although I found Joann Havrilla's performance as Penny Pingleton quite captivating in a weird sort of way.

It is very difficult to describe Hairspray; you pretty much have to watch it to get a true feel for its entertainment assets and social commentary underpinnings. It does have its silly moments, but this is not entertainment for the sake of entertainment, nor is this a film you will soon forget after watching it. ... Read more

Description

Comedy about a young, lively Italian-American woman and her ex-convict father who sting the Mafia and the law. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

good fun
This movie is good fun. The actors are great: Emily Lloyd, Peter Falk and Adrian Pasdar. It's Peter Falk's typical role and if you like him in it, you'll like him here. Emily should have had more movies because she is great - and finally Adrian Pasdar gets a real chance in a movie. Good entertainment.

cute versin of the mafia
A great sunday afternoon fun story.

Cute story about daughter-father relationship
This is a really cute story about the relationship between a father (Peter Falk) who is a mobster just released from prison who meets his daughter for the first time. It's a comedy with some foreseeable events but it's the performances that are fun to watch. Falk is terrific. Weist is lovingly hilarious as the "oversexed" mistress and mother of the daughter. Brenda Vacarro is wonderfully funny in a campy role as the wife. But Adrian Pasdar as the daughter's love interest and "young sidekick, mobster wannabe" is usually the perfect foil for the rest of the other outrageous, campy roles. Pasdar charmingly steals the scenes. Even though he is often the "straight man" in this comedy, he manages to play the comedic parts very well and is as funny as the more seasoned actors. Though dated (the daughter is a "Madonna wannabe") it is a truly fun ride. ... Read more

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Director John Waters creates here a wickedly funny--and nasty--comedy starring Kathleen Turner as the ultimate suburbanite: a woman so obsessed with suburban perfection that she kills a neighbor for not separating her recyclables. Hubby Sam Waterston and kids Matthew Lillard and Ricki Lake don't have a clue that in fact it is squeaky-clean mom who is the killer at large in their Baltimore neighborhood and who has murdered, among others, the guy who dumped her daughter. The final courtroom scene is a riot, turning her into a celebrity defendant (long before O.J.) and featuring a terrific cameo by Patty Hearst (yes, that Patty Hearst). Not for the squeamish or the easily offended, Waters's fans will find him in classic form. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Great movie, but lacking in DVD version
Let me just start by saying: I LOVE this movie. I've had the VHS version for quite some time now and I never got tired of it.

However, I was a little disappinted by the lack of features on this DVD. I thought it would have behind-the-scenes footage (if it did, I would give it 5 stars).

After seeing other movies with commentary, I was really surprised that John Waters' commentary was excellent. It really explains a lot about the movie (and some of the lesser known actors). Sometimes it almost compensates for the lack of the other features normally seen on DVD.

Okay, back to the movie itself. Like other Waters' films, the plot focuses on a particular social problem (in this case, the fame gained being a serial killer and also about the death penalty). Kathleen Turner is outstanding as an old-fashioned mom with high morals who goes nuts and kills people for very minor infractions (chewing gum, for example). When she is caught, she defends herself in court (with hillarious results!)

Again, this is a great movie, but I could only give it four stars because of the features on the DVD version.

John Waters does it again !
Kathleen Turner chews up the scenery as Beverly Sutphin , A June Cleaver type mom who cooks , cleans , and kills . Her Loving family is made up of Sam Waterson ,Ricki Lake , and Matthew Lillard .
Water's regular Mink Stole is on hand as harrased victim , Dottie Hinkle .
Patty ( Patricia ) Hearst , Traci Lords , Suzanne Somers , and Joan Rivers make up the cast .
Beverly Kills her victim's with a Fire Poker , a Air Conditioner , even a Turkey Leg , all with a Smile and all her Hair in place .
My oldest son's favorite scene is the Sneeze in Church .
This is John Waters at his most Demented Best !
If you've not seen " Serial Mom " you are in for a Twisted Treat !

true murder story from baltmore
yep,its all true!if you watch it,youll laugh hystericly.its about this super- mom who goes around wasting people for very small social flaws like not rewinding thier videos before returning them and not wearing thier seatbelts.o kid should view this under 15.the humor is good natured.there is a good deal of blood.a chick goes topless for a short while towards the end.thats always a plus!riki lake is in it as the serial moms fat little whiny daughter.the message is that everyone has skeletons in thier closet.if you watch closely,everyone in this movie has a wierd flaw.as far as rikki lake goes,this one is far far better than that 50s movie she did.very funny indeed!check it out!

One of the Greatest Comedies Ever!
I've loved this movie since the first time I ever saw it! It's pure comedy and genious! Be prepared for language and gore, and the wildest movie of your life!

so funny
This movie is hilarious. A crazy mom who goes nuts and anyone who gets in her way gets killed. I know it sounds gross, but this movie is too funny to miss. ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Very Endearing
The sad life of Tracy Turnblad is explored in this biting satire set in pre-intergrated Baltimore.

Tracy (Ricki Lake) and her best friend Penny Pingleton (Lesley Ann Powers) spend each afternoon watching the homegrown hit 'The Corny Collins Show' on television,dreaming of one day dancing the Mash Potato or the Frug there.

Tracy's mother (Divine) does not really think her child will amount to anything,and Penny is constantly being punished (her parents make her wear a big 'P' on her blouse).

However,the charmed life of Amber von Tussle,the most popular dancer on the Show,seems too good to be true,despite commemts by Tracy and Penny (''Stuck-up little spastic'' and ''She is such a queer''). Amber also has the brass ring,that of teen heart-throb Link,who also appears on the Show.

Amber's parents are power-mad and drive Amber to ridiculous lenghs to be popular.They are played by Debbie Harry and Sonny Bono.

Soon,Tracy does get to appear on the show,and lands her dream-hunk Link.

A great comedy,with a yummy soundtrack and a real edge to it that does not marr the overall story.

Also featuring Mink Stole as the cue-card holder on the Show (''Falsies! '') and Pia Zadora as a way-out beatnik chick.

Soon,Tracy

'Hairspray' full of tawdry, tacky fun
John Waters' first real attempt at "mainstream" fun is a trashy and critically-acclaimed delight. Set in (where else?) Baltimore during the Civil Rights era, Hairspray is chock-full of stars, mini-stars, and people who just wanna give it a go at being a star.

The story follows young Tracy Turnblad (pre-talk show Ricki Lake) on her rise to being "big, blonde, and beautiful" on a popular teenage dance show. Along the way, however, she runs into some friction from high school brat Amber Von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick, also known as pop star Vitamin C) and her parents, a racial obscenity-spouting mother (Debbie Harry) and a slick politician papa (Sonny Bono). Add in growing discontentment among the city's black populace over whites-only establishments, and you have an explosive mix made even more explosive by how off-the-wall it becomes.

Dance enthusiasts will appreciate the film for its selection of early 60s fad dances like the Mashed Potato and the Madison. Offbeat and fun, Hairspray also has an excellent soundtrack with some obscure songs you'll be hard-pressed to find in another compilation.

Forever Quotable!
Tracy Turnblad is described by her contempories as "a fat trash can," "teenage Jezebel hair hopper," "a whore, (who *I heard* made out in a car - naked!)," "adopted," "white trash or maybe high yellow" or even "mulatto!"... with "roaches in her hair!".... But they're all just hatin', because Tracy is also "the best white dancer in Baltimore" and "a modern teen" that believes in integration! Tracy competes for the dancing queen crown - and also for the leading man - against none other than Amber von Tussle, a "stuck up spastic" who is "*such* a queer," that she makes Tracy's mom ashamed to be white! There's a lot of (funny) trash talkin' goin' on, because a lot is on the line....

The competition between Tracy and Amber, and by extension integrationists and segregationists, will make you feel good, tap your toes, laugh out loud a lot, and cheer. Hairspray's "bad taste" moments are funny as heck, and piece together for a movie that epitomizes good taste -- kind, empathetic, and with a wonderful heart! The music and dancing are just *amazing*! And the fashions and bright colored sets are life-affirming perfect! (Is it just me, or did these early 60's fashions *strongly* influence the early 80's styles?.... Debbie Harry, Ric Ocasek, and Pia Zadora fit in perfect). In the excellent dvd commentary, director John Waters says the sets and styles are realistic for the times. What a bright, bold, fun, cool (when "cool" was cool), forward-looking time! Tracy's mom has a picture of Jackie Kennedy framed on the wall :-). Mom says, "It's the times. They are a-changin'. There's something blowing in the wind. Fetch me my diet pills, would you hun?"

If Hairspray ended with "Where are they now?", Tracy might be a Senator from Maryland, or the Governor, ... or more!! 5 stars as I stand in my chair applauding. Hairspray's bright fun is worth watching many times.

Very Good
The movie Hairspray is Very good. I watched it when I was about 10 and I loved it. My dad keeped telling me to move so he could watch tv and I didn't so I got grounded and after that I have looked for it but I haven't been able to find it until about two months ago now I have it and watch it everyday. I also went to see it live. It was great.

A campy, feel-good film carrying an important message
I think it's safe to say that Hairspray is a unique motion picture. The film, while providing nonstop fun and laughs throughout, also manages to not only confront but to roll right over prejudice in several of its nefarious guises. I was a teenager when this film came out, and sadly, it was the death of Divine (just before the movie was released) that made me aware of this film. I don't know if that publicity helped or hurt ticket sales - Divine, for those who have never heard of him, was famous for playing female roles, and Hairspray had begun to rejuvenate his whole career. As for the film, it's extremely campy in the best of ways, overflowing with great singing and dancing from the early 1960s, and it is the type of film that makes you feel good after you watch it.

Ricki Lake plays Tracy Turnblad, a big, bold, and beautiful teenager who dreams of dancing on the exceedingly popular Corny Collins dance show. Her mother, played by Divine, isn't too crazy about modern music and dancing - until Tracy auditions and gets a spot on the show. Strutting her stuff in front of the cameras, she quickly becomes Baltimore's newest sensation. This does not sit well with Amber von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick), as Tracy steals her man and then threatens to win the coveted title of Miss Auto Show 1963. Tracy is overweight, but she likes herself just as she is and easily dismisses the fat jokes thrown her way early on. The big issue in this film, though, is segregation. Tracy and her best friend Penny Pingleton (Joann Havrilla) soon become friends with some of the black kids in town and begin working toward integrating the Corny Collins show. Collins is all for the idea himself, as currently the Negro show runs only once each month under the controls of sassy Motormouth Mabel (Ruth Brown). The station manager will not hear of integration, though, and Penny's mother is aghast to find out that her daughter is in love with an African-American. This is 1962, of course. The whole segregation issue becomes the basic foundation of the movie as it dances its way to the end, making Hairspray a wonderfully entertaining film with a serious message behind it.

The film is blessed with many interesting cast members. Divine plays not only Mrs. Turnblad but also the station manager, Jerry Stiller plays Mr. Turnblad, Sonny Bono and Debbie Harry (and Debbie Harry's increasingly interesting hair) come together to play Amber von Tussle's parents, and Ric Ocasek and Pia Zadora show up as Beatniks in a strange little cameo appearance. Of course, Ricki Lake pretty much steals the show as the big girl with big dreams, although I found Joann Havrilla's performance as Penny Pingleton quite captivating in a weird sort of way.

It is very difficult to describe Hairspray; you pretty much have to watch it to get a true feel for its entertainment assets and social commentary underpinnings. It does have its silly moments, but this is not entertainment for the sake of entertainment, nor is this a film you will soon forget after watching it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Homelessness is a serious problem, but this film by Mark Rocco made it look like an alternative lifestyle that, if not for drugs and prostitution, would be kind of cool. Set in Los Angeles, the film centers on a group of homeless teens led by King (Dermot Mulroney), who tries to look out for his younger charges. But he can't keep some of them from getting involved in drug dealing, which leads to violence and melodrama involving evil drug dealer Kyle MacLachlan. Mulroney has a poignant quality, as does Lara Flynn Boyle as a runaway girl he falls for. On the other hand, Sean Astin is stereotypical as a strung-out kid who spoils everything. That's Will "Fresh Prince" Smith as a legless kid in a couple of scenes. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Homelessness Hollywood style...
There is a superficiality to this movie that is a bit disconcerting. I suppose it is ironic that big time actors (many not so big then) play no name children of the street. It raises awareness, yes, but it also makes it look kind of cool.

I lived in Seattle for a while and the young people living on the street have a certain belief in the 'coolness' of their lifestyle that actually validates this movie to a degree.

Having worked with the homeless in my hometown, I've learned that it is not monolithic. There are as many 'types' of homeless people as there are homeless people. Does that make me an expert? No.

However, that being said, this is an excellent movie. The cast is phenomenal. With a score by Melissa Etheridge, the movie feels in places like a rock video but it also helps with the flow and mood.

The movie does a good job of exposing, to a greater or lesser degree, the problems that leads to and come with being on the street. It ain't pretty and the movie never really leads you to that conclusion. While it certainly isn't graphic in an extreme sense, it does give you just enough to feel.

Very Intense
Where The Day Takes You gives the viewer a look into the lives of young homeless people in Los Angeles. Remarkable performances keep this film from being another After School Special type film. Sean Astin is particularily effective in this movie, though I could have done without Will Smith and Ricki Lake. Other than that, this film is a must see.

Where This Movie Takes You
With an all-star cast and a great premise, Where The Day Takes You takes a hard look at the lives of children on the streets of Hollywood. The cast includes such greats as Dermot Mulroney, Lara Flynn Boyle, Will Smith and Sean Astin, more recently of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy fame. Both realistic and unsettling, Where The Day Takes You is one movie that I am truly glad I took time to watch.

The Best
I saw this movie for the first time nine years ago. After watching it the first time, I immediately watched it again. This is my favorite movie compared to anything. It definitely gives the viewer a real look into the realm of drugs and homelessness. This movie is definitely underrated, watched too infrequently and too unknown.

Great early movie for up and coming actors
This movie is full of actors that you now know at first glance. But when it came out, it was just a little movie full of a cast of actors with potential.
It's a moving and engrossing charater study that goes over the top from time to time, but never makes you lose your interest. You care about all the characters, whether you like them or detest them, until after it's over, and you realize how sad their lives truly are. At that point, even the detestable characters evoke pathos.
This definitely is a movie that film-lovers should see. If for no other reason, it's great to see the actors before they all broke (and to see the ones that didn't quite live up to potential). But above all, it's a film that deserves it just due, and it's viewing by more people. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Screwball Romance
I want to be adopted by Shirley MacLaine and her butler Paco. Based on a case of mistaken identity following a train wreck; a young, homeless woman has a baby and is taken in by a wealthy family who believe her to be their daughter-in-law. She meets her putative brother-in-law, who suspects she is not who she claims to be and they fall in love. Although he discovers her real identity, he pretends to believe her story in an effort to be sure that she doesn't leave. The movie is fun to watch, very romantic...there is a tango scene which Brendan Fraser fans run over and over again. He plays a snobbish, bright and ironic young man who has ended up holding the bag as the responsible member of his rich family. Shirley MacLaine is brilliant as the mother, and Ricki Lake does a reasonably good job as a Cinderella candidate. The film could have benefited from a few extra scenes to clarify Bill's attraction to Patricia, but is a fun romance/comedy with a happy ending.

An imposter who finds love despite her deceit!
Shirley MacLaine makes the perfect supposed mother-in-law and is the original Mrs. Winterbourne. Her son and daughter-in-law meet up with a very pregnant Connie on a train and soon after Connie tries on Hugh's wife's wedding ring, the train crashes.

Since Connie (Ricki Lake) is the one wearing the ring, everyone assumes she is the wife. Every time she tries to explain, she holds back the truth. The idea of being taken care of by this wealthy family intrigues her. Hugh's mother is such a doting grandmother and Connie isn't sure how she can tell them that she and the baby are really imposters.

Connie's history could destroy the very proper Winterbourne family. Her ex-boyfriend Steve knows he has a son and plots to blackmail her.

Brendan Frasier is so dashingly handsome in this one! Although he has the ability to span the acting scale, I think he is best in this role. He plays both Hugh and Hugh's brother. I enjoyed the plot, contrasts, and romance. Destiny waits for Connie just as her mother said it would, she just never imagines it could happen under such strange circumstances.

A fun movie that moves along at a pleasant pace. It seems Tony Robbins is right: "The future will be exactly what we decide it will be." Well, at least that is what he says at the beginning of this movie.

Beware--New DVD is pan & scan only
Please be aware that Columbia recently "revised" this DVD. The prior DVD had both widescreen and pan & scan on the disc. This new version has only pan & scan. How's that for progress! Thanks Columbia!

Amazon's technical details still show widescreen, which they had told me they would correct after shipping me two copies to try and get me the widescreen version they were supposedly selling. It's a great thing that Amazon is understanding about these things.

great movie with a twisting plot
I really love the movie because of the great atmosphere it has and all those charismatic actors (I do think Rikki Lake did a great job too).
Especially the end was great and resolved in a satisfying way. The only thing I don't understand at all (besides the fact that the real Patricia Winterbourne seemed to be travelling without a passport or any document that could identify her) is why does Grace state she killed Steve, although she did not know who Steve was, nor what Patricia (aka Connie) had to do with him?
It was just so irrational to do that.

All in all a great movie with a few weak points in the script.

Painful
Ricki Lake is horribly miscast in this movie.
She is also a really bad actress.
I'm sure Brendan Fraser would fall for Ricki - right?
There are bad movies and then there are baaaaaad movies.
This one truly is a standout stinker! ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Half-Man, Half-Shark equals one complete gentleman.
This is an excellent movie - a very under-appreciated comedy. It's one of those movies that gets funnier every time you see it. Chris Elliot plays the perfect "Fancy Lad" turned Cabin Boy. Although I often find his performance to be a little 'over the top' in other films, Chris Elliot fits the part very well in this one. Andy Richter (co-host of Late Night with Conan O'Brian) is very funny as Kenny, the dim-witted deck swab.

With fish stick kitties, "Meow, I'm tasty!", giant insurance-salesmen looking guys, and exotic locales such as "Hell's Bucket", this is a very silly, but funny, movie.

The visuals are also nicely done which definitely adds to the films sense of silliness and pseudo-realism.

This tends to be a 'hate it or love it' type of film because of the style of humor. But give it a try - you may enjoy it.

Want to buy a monkey?
Citizen Kane.

Bridge Over River Kwai.

Cabin Boy.

Finally! The Chris Elliot masterpiece takes it's place in pristine digital format! Notable as being co-produced by Tim Burton, but adored by millions (or at least dozens, or *A* dozen) for other reasons.

The plot is as revered as a Mark Twain classic, but here's the breakdown for the naves: Cabin Boy is a heart-warming tale of a fancy lad who takes a wrong turn and ends up on a ship named the "Filthy Whore" instead of his millionaire father's yacht. A mistake anyone could make. A whirlwind adventure ensues involving the shark man and others.

Many reviews call this movie sophomoric. I'm unsure what that word means, but if it means "great" then it's spot on. I think the word sophmoriffic would be even more fitting!

If You Like Silly Comedies You Just may Enjoy This!
I have been a fan of Chris Elliott ever since his days on the old David Letterman show when Letterman's latenight show was on NBC and I watched Cabin Boy on cable and I thought it was pretty cute and had some enjoyable silly moments. Yes maybe some of the jokes didn't work but a lot did and I thought this movie was pretty cute. Chris Elliot was funny as the spoiled dumb rich guy and Andy Richter who was Conan O'Brien's sidekick in Conan O'Brien's late night talk show was very amusing as Kenny the sweet and loveable dimwitted deckswab! I would only recommend Cabin Boy to people who like to watch silly movies! People who don't like comedy movies (or don't like comedy movies that are very silly) will just find a movie like this to be too sophomoric!

This movie stinks!!!
Whenever I'm asked what is the worst movie I have ever seen, I quickly respond, "Cabin Boy." It is like a long, meandering, and entirely pointless joke one might hear from an obnoxious coworker. I would describe the plot, but there is none. I watched the entire movie waiting for the punchline, but it never came. It was written by a former staff writer for David Letterman, which is the only conceivable reason that Letterman would agree to appear in such a monstrosity. Even he later joked about how awful the movie was. Chris Elliott plays the only character he has ever played--the annoyimg dumb guy loser. His limited acting talent, combined with a nonsensical plot, unfunny dialogue, and an absurd tendency to confuse silliness with humor, truly make Cabin Boy a cinematic experience everyone should miss.

Fancy Lad turns out to be a good Cabin Boy
This movie is funny, although at times to strange for me. I was intrigued to see it because someone I know encouraged me to. I thought it was pretty funny, for example a part where I laughed might have been seeing the little "fish stick kitties". Charki (or Sharky, whatever they call him) was pretty comical too, although he didnt even talk, just the appearance of him himself was pretty funny. I do admit I laughed. Yet it was mostly a very weird ( or you could say silly) storyline, which leads my score down a bit for the movie from the top rank 5 stars to 3. I guess that it is just a movie that you kinda' like, like, or don't like at all. I will just put it that way. ... Read more

Reviews (68)

Long Live Guerrilla Film-Making
Even if you're not a fan of John Waters, which I am, this movie is worth seeing at least twice. Despite Melanie Griffith's somewhat tepid acting,its absolute absurdity at times will have you laughing long and hard. And not only is it a spectacular comedy but, like all John Waters films, it's got something to say. Cecil and the Sprocket-Holes' absolute disgust of mainstream film, while taken to ridiculous measures, makes one think: Why ARE there so many movies based on video games? Why do we insist on re-making wonderful foreign films just so we don't have to read subtitles? WHY ARE THERE TWO BRADY BUNCH MOVIES?????? Being something of a film coneisseur myself, as well as an aspiring film-maker, this movie held a lot more than a few laughs for me. I often found myself screaming obscenities along with Cecil's misfit gang. Stop the mass distribution of mediocre films. Yeah! Bring back the dream. Yeah!!! Family (as in "family films") is just another word for censorship! YEAH!!!!! Power to the people who punish bad cinema! YEAH!!!!! Ok, so perhaps I need to get a life. Be that as it may, Cecil B. Demented is still a great flick. If nothing else, watch it for the laughs...and the Christmas Trees. You'll see.

Celibate for Celluloid!!
What can i say...you either like, or hate, this movie...so judge for yourself.
Rogue filmmaker Cecil (played, all too cutely) by Stephen Dorff, meets up with typical-cum-boring film idol Honey Whitlock (played to the utmost by the normally annoying Melanie Griffith). Mayhem ensues...as Cecil and his gang of indie film rioters make their statement with crudeness and sweetness.
I've watched this 4-5 times (and I don't even yet own the DVD, with Waters' comments, which I hear are great!) and I'm hooked again and again. For anyone who is sick and tired of seeing Hollywood anoint themselves with awards and *ss kissing praise, you will *not* be disappointed! Alicia Witt is exceedingly impressive as the porn star with a mission (David Lynch didn't cast her in Four Rooms for nothing!) Melanie Griffith is surprisingly refreshing as the movie-idol with a change of heart (honestly, I hate her with a passion, but she won me over with this!)...to be plain honest, this movie thrills me and is a riot every time...from the opening, warbly credits (to which my friend asked, 'is there something wrong with your vcr?') to the crazy ending, it's a good way to spend a few hours!

What a disappointment
I am a huge John Waters fan, but this movie does not come close to living up to his usual standards. It seems Waters is trying to balance between mainstream filmmaking for the larger audience appeal, and keep his previous biting cutting-edge. Serial Mom was able to do this -- this movie absolutely failed. It is poorly written, poorly acted (Melanie Griffith a bad actor? Yeah, that's a stretch), and poorly editted.

The movie is suppose to be making a statment against Hollywood turning out so much mediocore garbage. This movie is a prime example of the type of garbage that shouldn't be turned out.

John Waters' movies are by all means still worth buying and watching, just avoid this one.

Typical Waters Garbage
There's a reason why the vast majority of Waters' film get a turkey in ALL the review books: his movies suck. Period.

I kept picking this one up at the local library, but not taking it home. This week I finally relented and gave it a spin.

What a waste of 90 minutes! I should sue Waters' for the time I lost!

First, this movie isn't funny. Not one single smile cracked my face. Now, before you call me a prude, or a retard, I love wacky cinema. Some of my favorite movies are off-the-wall films that most of my friends see as stupid and immature.

This one, though, never got so much as a smirk out of me.

The writing is dreadful, the directing and editing turn much of the overall plot into a sycophantic mess. Some of the acting is fairly good, but so much profanity comes out of their mouths.

You know, just because someone says f#%k 1,000 times doesn't make them funny. In fact, I find the use of profanity a sign that the comic has run out of ideas and is trying solely to shock.

And watching Waters crow over his work in the special features was painful. He's such a no-talent freak, and you could tell his cast was imbarassed to be seen in the same shot is him. (He reminded me of someone the Coen Brothers would make up in one of their paradoys - but I kept pinching myself, saying, "this guy is REAL!" Pathetic.)

Take your filmmaking back in the closet, John. How you get any funding is beyond anyone's comprehension....

funny and wonderful, Dorff is the man
Stephen Dorff(Blade and S.F.W.(So **cking What) is Cecil B. Demented and he kidnaps Melanie Griffith to do a crappy film that he is gonna direct, but nobody wants it so then he trys to get his way and Griffith makes up her mind and goes on with the show. Dorff is over-the-top in this funny and wonderful movie. Directed by John Waters..if you know him then you know him, if you dont you dont ... Read more

Reviews (13)

skinner
I only bought this dvd because ted raimi was in it, don't get me wrong seeing him semi naked was fanastic but the quality of this disc is terrible as after three plays it is jumps and pausing when it feels like it. Very disappointed about the quality, but I am still happy as the overall movie is interesting.

An interesting failure
Worth watching once to see the movie it might have been. An amazing performance from Raimi, who slides deftly among the layers of the psychopathic title character without once overplaying his hand in a truly chilling performance. Ricki Lake is also subtle and effective as the unhappy landlady with a slowly growing attraction for her strange boarder. Unfortuately, the high-caliber performances are wasted on a meandering script and unfocused direction -- and a fatally slow pace which destroys any interest we might have in what's going on. As for the gore, it isn't that it's too much, it's that it's not enough. Too little and too late, it's almost half-an-hour before we know anything more about the movie than what we read on the box, and by then we're no longer interested. A shame, and most of the people involved deserved better.

One star is one star too many
This movie is really a dog. If any of you Ted Raimi fans out there ever watch this one and then later meet Ted, don't let him know you watched it. He'll make fun of you! Now that's the sign of a really bad movie! No redeeming factors here that I can see at all. Now, if you'll all excuse me, I think I'll go watch some paint dry.

A winning combination
If you're into classic "show me the gore" horror flicks, check these two out. They may not be too popular, but many of the greats aren't. You can't beat Amazon's price for two DVD's either! Enjoy.

The "North" of the horror genre
This film is vile, badly written, badly acted, with bad sound and a weak male lead. Awful, awful, awful! I thought this film would have some campy qualities since Ted Raimi was the "Buffalo Bill" knock-off of a serial killer. Ricki Lake is predictably terrible ("Hairspray" was her only good film to date). And to top it all off, ex-porn queen Traci Lords isn't even naked! The least the director could have done was give a dollop or two of gratuitous nudity to appease the audience in this horribly written mid-air collision of a film. While the story was unbelievably weak, there was a motif of water which made no sense. I think the director was trying to be pretentious or stretching the film to feature length. Like Oedipus, I felt like blinding myself after I saw this film because it was so monumentally bad. When I say it is a bad film, I don't even mean it in a "so bad it's good" sense either. This film is BAD! I'm sure "Plan 9 From Outer Space" has more redeeming qualities (and had better actors). Too bad Mystery Science Theater 3000 is over, because this cinematic abortion would be a lot funnier with two robots talking back to the screen. This film makes "Army of Darkness" look like "Citizen Kane." If you want to rent a good bad film, rent "Soldier" or "Escape From LA." Keep browsing folks. I wasn't deepy offended that I wasted my money on this, I was offended that I wasted my time on this. As a famous film critic said: "Unclean, unclean, unclean!" ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Search for a Cure. . . . . .
"Based on an Untrue Story" is a hilarious spoof of all those "Disease of the Week" and "Ripped From the Headlines" TV movies we have all been subjected to over the years.

It is the story of Satin Chow, played by Morgan Fairchild, a young executive at Varda Gray Cosmetics, run by Dyan Cannon. During the press conference held to launch a new perfume, Satin is suddenly struck by Anosmia, a little-known but insidious disorder of the ollfactory nerves. The only cure is to have an ollfactory nerve transplant, but the donor must be a blood relative. To complicate matters, Satin finds out that she was adopted at birth, and that the family she thought was her real family, isn't.

She does, however, also find out that when she was born, she was part of a set of triplets. At once she sets out to find her long-lost siblings and her real mother, hoping that one of them will be a match as a donor. She hires a private detective who tracks down her sisters and also discovers that her mother died in childbirth.

If you are looking for a video to provide non-sensical fun, I highly recommend "Based on an Untrue Story". ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Great movie, but lacking in DVD version
Let me just start by saying: I LOVE this movie. I've had the VHS version for quite some time now and I never got tired of it.

However, I was a little disappinted by the lack of features on this DVD. I thought it would have behind-the-scenes footage (if it did, I would give it 5 stars).

After seeing other movies with commentary, I was really surprised that John Waters' commentary was excellent. It really explains a lot about the movie (and some of the lesser known actors). Sometimes it almost compensates for the lack of the other features normally seen on DVD.

Okay, back to the movie itself. Like other Waters' films, the plot focuses on a particular social problem (in this case, the fame gained being a serial killer and also about the death penalty). Kathleen Turner is outstanding as an old-fashioned mom with high morals who goes nuts and kills people for very minor infractions (chewing gum, for example). When she is caught, she defends herself in court (with hillarious results!)

Again, this is a great movie, but I could only give it four stars because of the features on the DVD version.

John Waters does it again !
Kathleen Turner chews up the scenery as Beverly Sutphin , A June Cleaver type mom who cooks , cleans , and kills . Her Loving family is made up of Sam Waterson ,Ricki Lake , and Matthew Lillard .
Water's regular Mink Stole is on hand as harrased victim , Dottie Hinkle .
Patty ( Patricia ) Hearst , Traci Lords , Suzanne Somers , and Joan Rivers make up the cast .
Beverly Kills her victim's with a Fire Poker , a Air Conditioner , even a Turkey Leg , all with a Smile and all her Hair in place .
My oldest son's favorite scene is the Sneeze in Church .
This is John Waters at his most Demented Best !
If you've not seen " Serial Mom " you are in for a Twisted Treat !

true murder story from baltmore
yep,its all true!if you watch it,youll laugh hystericly.its about this super- mom who goes around wasting people for very small social flaws like not rewinding thier videos before returning them and not wearing thier seatbelts.o kid should view this under 15.the humor is good natured.there is a good deal of blood.a chick goes topless for a short while towards the end.thats always a plus!riki lake is in it as the serial moms fat little whiny daughter.the message is that everyone has skeletons in thier closet.if you watch closely,everyone in this movie has a wierd flaw.as far as rikki lake goes,this one is far far better than that 50s movie she did.very funny indeed!check it out!

One of the Greatest Comedies Ever!
I've loved this movie since the first time I ever saw it! It's pure comedy and genious! Be prepared for language and gore, and the wildest movie of your life!

so funny
This movie is hilarious. A crazy mom who goes nuts and anyone who gets in her way gets killed. I know it sounds gross, but this movie is too funny to miss. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Think you can't have that dreamboat? THINK AGAIN!
If I had a dime for everytime I've watched this movie...LOL I'd be pretty doggone rich! Ricki Lake and Craig Sheffer are wonderful together as the most unlikely couple you'd imagine being together. I loved this film because it explores the realm of possibility that you don't have to be a supermodel or anorexic to find love and happiness. It also points out another very important issue about size. Grace knew she was big, but it was her confidence, attitude, and out going personality that made her sexy and ulitimately irrestible to Rob. A great "feel good" movie for any woman who has lost her confidence that she can have her dreamboat man! I highly reccommend this film!

A Wonderful Film!!!!!
When I first watched "Babycakes" years ago on television, I immediately fell in love with it! Ricki Lake does an excellent job playing Grace, an overweight lady with a larger-than-life personality and an even larger heart.

The story revolves around her struggle to "fit in" and finally have a boyfriend. Grace and her friend spot and handsome guy named Rob while ice skating, and Grace makes it her mission to make this guy her own. She tries just about everything, but the one thing that really got him was her ability to be herself and not worry about what others thought about her. It was through her relationship (both good and bad aspects) with Rob that gave her the self-esteem she desperately needed. The movie concludes with a happy ending that will leave a permanent smile on your face!

I highly recommend this film to anyone who would like to see an excellent, heart-warming film. This film really does let you know that you don't have to be the size of a model model to find true love, happiness, or respect and adoration - a lesson that so many people should learn. :) Watch this movie! You won't be disappointed!!!!

A Cute Film
What I liked about this movie is that it is more than meets the eye. It is one of the best romantic comedies that I have seen in recent times, which is why I'm surprised that more people don't know about it. The storyline is pretty standard (overweight, pessimistic girl think she can't find love - but runs into the man of her dreams), but yet the movie was done in such a way that it seemed realistic and not too fairytale-like. It has a universal appeal, especially to those of us who have been through periods of our lives where we felt low about ourselves or negative about finding true love. Although Ricki Lake's character is "overweight", this movie would appea to any woman because the feelings she has in this movie are ones that relate to just about any woman, no matter your size or shape. This is a good film to watch on Valentine's Day or if you are ever in the mood for a good romantic comedy.

A fair remake of a 1985 classic
This film is a remake of a German film called "Zuckerbaby" - translated Sugarbaby - by noted German filmmaker Percy Adlon (he also directed Salmonberries starring k.d. lang (and her video So In Love from the Cole Porter AIDS tribute cd, Red Hot +Blue) as well as "Bagdad Cafe" and "Rosalie Goes Shopping". This American version is indeed a sweet remake, but not as dark as the original. In the original film (which I prefer), Marianne Sagebrecht plays the Ricki Lake part. In it, the makepup artist for the dead spends much of the time trying to get the conductor on the train to notice her. She eventually wins his affection briefly. The difference is how the relationships are handled. In the original, the main character hs no friends or family in the area. She doesn't end up a winner, either. In fact in the original film, she is confronted on a dancefloor by the conductor's girlfriend, who calls her disgusting and beats her in front of everyone...she ends up ultimately alone...Zuckerbaby is highly recommended for anyone that has seen Babycakes..

An old favorite
I cannot count how many times I have seen this movie, and I have loved it every time. Ricki Lake does a great job and while I will admit that in my pessimistic opinion it is a little unbelievable, but I say why shouldn't life be this way? When I am down or depressed and unhappy about the way I look, this is one of the first movies I reach for. A great chick flick. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

skinner
I only bought this dvd because ted raimi was in it, don't get me wrong seeing him semi naked was fanastic but the quality of this disc is terrible as after three plays it is jumps and pausing when it feels like it. Very disappointed about the quality, but I am still happy as the overall movie is interesting.

An interesting failure
Worth watching once to see the movie it might have been. An amazing performance from Raimi, who slides deftly among the layers of the psychopathic title character without once overplaying his hand in a truly chilling performance. Ricki Lake is also subtle and effective as the unhappy landlady with a slowly growing attraction for her strange boarder. Unfortuately, the high-caliber performances are wasted on a meandering script and unfocused direction -- and a fatally slow pace which destroys any interest we might have in what's going o