Reviews (3)

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

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

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

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

Amazon.com

This live-action version of E.B. White's novel doesn't have quite the magic of, say, Toy Story. Instead of entertainment the whole family can be enthralled with, Stuart Little is squarely aimed, and successfully so, at the 4- to 10-year-old watcher. Does this make it a bad family film? Not in the slightest. The gee-whiz visual effects (created by original Star Wars wizard John Dykstra) and the film's ebullient wholesomeness make this a welcome addition to the home library.

In E.B. White's world, it's hardly surprising that human parents would adopt "outside their species." The smooth-talking mouse Stuart (voiced by Michael J. Fox) seems the perfect new child for parents Geena Davis and Hugh Laurie, especially with an adorable wardrobe of very small sweaters and pants. Harder is fitting in with the Little's family cat, Snowbell (voiced by Nathan Lane, who also deftly voiced Timon in director Rob Minkoff's last feature, The Lion King). The simple story deals with Stuart trying to fit in with his new life, including big brother George (Jerry Maguire's scene-stealing Jonathan Lipnicki). And of course there's an adventure when Snowbell's schemes lead Stuart into true danger, in the form of the devious plans of an alley cat named Smokey (voiced by Chazz Palminteri). Brisk--85 minutes--amusing, and tolerably cute, Stuart Little stands tall. Two curios: The effects are so cleanly done that we could call Stuart the first successfully computer-animated actor, and the screenplay was cowritten by M. Night Shyamalan, who made bigger waves in 1999 writing and directing The Sixth Sense. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (162)

Fun entertainment that suffers from an overly-mawkish tone
Stuart Little

Score: 64/100

He's clever. He's enthusiastic. He's a can-do little guy with an attitude. And he's a mouse. From the co-director of The Lion King and the writer of The Sixth Sense comes an entertaining family film from classic American author E.B. White. It's surely a star-studded crew there, and there's not much a family of four could white other than a couple of talking mouse's and many exciting scenes. Even though Stuart Little falls flat from a few flaws, it's still a fun children's comedy, that will be worth your time, depending on your feelings towards movies like this.

In a cosy house near New York City's Central Park, Mr. and Mrs. Little (Hugh Laurie and Geena Davis) bring home a surprising addition to the family...Stuart (voiced by Michael J. Fox), and he's a er...mouse. Despite the urgings of Mrs. Keeper at the orphanage to adopt within their own species, the Littles beam with the pride of new parents. At home the little guy with a big heart (not to mention whiskers, a little pink nose and a really dapper wardrobe), searches for a sense of belonging and a place to call home in the decidedly supersized world. When Stuart is adopted by the Littles he embarks on an adventure with a variety of characters - including his nemesis, the cat Snowball (voiced by Nathan Lane) - and learns the true meaning of family, loyalty and friendship. The Littles, in the meantime, each discover there is a Stuart in all of us - the spunk, spirit and courage to be true to ourselves and follow our dreams despite the odds.

Stuart Little is a good movie, but it suffers majorly from an over-corny note. It's big smiles and drowning frowns all the time, none of the characters ever look normal. Their expressions are practically drawn in, and none of them have much originality about them apart from Stuart, of course. Still, the film provides plenty of entertaining scenes, including an exhilarating cat chase and a superb boat race. It may have a sense of bore in some parts of the film, but overall, it's a very bearable movie that will silent children and, surprisingly, adults for a rainy day. It's a film that combines live action with some groundbreaking visual effects by artists and innovators who have taken digital character creation to a bold new level with the birth of Stuart. The visual effects are the most plausible thing about the film, they are truly memorable, it's some of the most amazingly done animal-talking done since Babe.

Not as good as it could've been, Stuart Little is still watchable fun, a film where you can really expect the whole family to enjoy it.

Pleasantly surprised
I rented this DVD because I am a huge fan of British actor (and musician, comedian, novelist...) Hugh Laurie, and was very pleasantly surprised.

The animation is outstanding, so much that you don't even notice it, and Michael J. Fox is absolutely perfect as the voice of Stuart. The very colorful, almost-realistic-but-not-quite setting was quite well done, and the group of acting cats must have been a monumental accomplishment. Jonathan Lipnicki is cute as a bug, and Hugh Laurie (great fake accent!) and Geena Davis are perfect storybook parents who finish each other's sentences and eat a lot of meatloaf. Rounding out the talent is Nathan Lane as the voice of Snowbell, the cat who is mortified at having a mouse in the family.

It is fascinating to watch the extra features and to see just how much work went into making Stuart so real. Excellent work! A clean, fun, enjoyable movie.

Stuart Little brought to life
This is a marvelous adaptation of E.B. White's tale of the little mouse who found himself a place by the hearth in an all too human family. It is such a wonderful story and the animation brings Stuart Little to life. Hugh Laurie and Geena Davis play the adoptive parents to a tee, and the other members of the family provide excellent support. Jonathan Lipnicki turns in a first class performance as the reluctant brother.

The story plays out effortlessly, with wonderful scenes moving back and forth between mad-cap adventure and family bonding. The animation team really outdid themselves with Stuart and his fake mouse parents, who make a fantastic entrance midway through the movie. The conspiracy of cats is mostly humorous, and not overly frightening for little ones. Every scene appears to have been meticulously created. The toy boat race is riveting. The kids will love every minute of it, as will adults as this movie avoids the typical pratfalls of family entertainment. The DVD also provides some nice add-ons, such as storyboard sequences for some of the scenes and mouse trivia games for the kids.

Mickey Mouse
Magical, heartwarming family film based on E.B. White's children's book. A couple's adoption of a second son, oblivious to the fact that he's a mouse, leads to problems with their human son which plae in comparision to the family cat's resentment. High-quality computer-generated detail allows the mouse to appear real and permits the many featured cats to talk freely. Jonathan Lipnicki is adorable as the human son and the voices of Michael J. Fox as Stuart and Nathan Lane as his nemisis Snowbell perfectly fit the roles.

Animals steal the show
There are few kids movies I can sit through more than once--this one I've already seen 7 times! My son is now over 3 and he can load the DVD player himself and turn on the TV. Guess what gets put on now?! I must say that I love that the movie doesn't patronize my son. There are heavy issues here: fear of being alone; fear of violence; fear of failure--but the characters aren't obsessed or broken by their fears, they confront them and work through them. For example, when Stuart is trying to make friends with the family pet cat Snowball, Stuart says rather naively, "Can't we just be friends? Do you want me to scratch your ear? Can I pat your tummy?" to which Snowball answers, "How'd you like to pat it from the inside mouse-boy!?" Direct, without wishy-washy handwringing, or moralizing. My son says that he "loves Stuart." I too love Stuart. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Chazz Palminteri wrote the script for this excellent story of an Italian American boy (Lillo Brancato) who grows up in the 1960s caught between the strong influences of his blue-collar, straight- arrow father (Robert De Niro) and a Mafia chieftain (Palminteri) who is his all-purpose mentor. De Niro makes his directorial debut with this production and, except for a little stiffness, does very well by the characters and their world. The story does not go precisely where one might expect it to go: Palminteri knows better than to force the central figure to choose between the two most important men in his life, and he doesn't fill time with stock drama about crime or family conflict. Joe Pesci makes an extremely effective and uncredited appearance at the end as a man who doesn't have to do more than speak softly to communicate how dangerous he is.--Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (88)

Wonderful Movie!!
I loved this movie! I applauded De Niro's acting and directing for this film. It's an intriguing Bronx Tale with a young man at its center. It tells the story of Calogero, an Italian boy who grew up in a neighborhood that was run by a local hood named Sonny (Palminteri). Cologero admires Sonny's life of getting things easily like money, respect, and even fear. However his father Lorenzo(De Niro, who's a blue-collar bus-driver, tries to get Cologero to turn his back on Sonny for the sake of his life as well as everything that Lorenzo has instilled in his son. All in all, it's a wonderful movie. It's a story of love, loyalty, friendship and family amidst its violence.
The music's awesome too!! Get the soundtrack.
I recommend this movie to De Niro fans (like me!) and fans of the genre in general.
Oh..and watch for a cameo by none other than Joe Pesci!

Very Accurate Story of Life in the City
This film is definitely one of the most underappreciated films of the 1990s. Besides excellent performances by EVERY actor (I actually can't think of one bad acting scene--even young Francis Capra had his part down cold), there are wonderful sets, great music, and great dialogue. Robert De Niro happens to be my idol in a way, and his directorial debut did not let me down one bit. But for me the most striking aspect of Chazz Palmentieri's script and De Niro's adaptation of it is the way that Calogero falls in with the wrong people. It hits close to home for me, having been in a similar situation and environment. To the people of the neighborhood, Sonny isn't a gangster, he's just an important guy. And that's how it is. Crime is never crime in those neighborhoods, it's just a means to an end. And the way that this movie captures that is truly amazing. My only complaint is the way the movie forks. It starts out as a young man's dilemma of who to listen to, and everything seems to be headed toward a resolution of this. But then a completely alien storyline kicks in about Calogero's crush on a young black girl from Webster Ave. While there is nothing wrong with the second half of the movie, it seems to detract from the first part, in which we were already engrossed in. I think that there could have been a better transition from one to the other. (As a sidenote, all respect to De Niro, I think that he was probably particularly passionate about portraying the white kid/black girl story. After all, he seems to be quite attracted toward black women seeing as how there have been more than a few in his love life. Thank you for showing this, Mr. De Niro. To those people who never lived in a similar place it doesn't seem relevant, but in those neighborhoods it is a very big matter.) Although every actor gave a great performance, I think the shining stars in this film were the uncredited appearance by Joe Pesci, the wonderful job by young Francis Capra, the sets, and last but not least the performance of Palmentieri himself. THis man is a really outstanding actor who stays very true to the central vein of his character throughout the movie. Over all, he playus a very interesting real-life wiseguy.

Don't waste your money!!
This was not a great movie like everyone thinks it is. I really didnt get into it. I thought the actors portrait of "the mob" was not right at all. Very Very off.

Terrific directorial debut
For a directorial debut, Deniros first is impressive. The story takes place in of course, the Bronx, about a bus driver and his kid growing up. Deniro does not overblow the movie....and does capture realistically the street humor and language that makes it very realistic.

It might not be a Scorsese or Coppola film, but its very very respectable just the same. Give it a look, its very good!!

Superb Westsidestoryesque Drama: BEST FILM OF 1993
A compelling insightful drama set in racially-charged New York City of the 1960s. Chock full of wisdom and insight, the powerful message swept along in riveting, tense tale of how making the wrong choices can be truly deadly. Robert Deniro and the youngster that plays his son create a real-life relationship and tug of war that is both fascinating and heartbreaking. Outstanding film that is a must-see for teenagers who think they have all the answers and essential viewing for parents whose uncompromising adherance to can lofty ideals can bring heartbreak to all those around them. Acting is excellent and the staging is superb. One of the top 100 best movies of the 1990s. ... Read more

Description

From the impeccable pedigree of Disney's beloved classic Lady And The Tramp comes an all-new story "Lady And The Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure" told with the same stunning animation, charming musical style and purebred fun.

Along with their well-behaved girl puppies, Lady and Tramp are busy raising mischievous Scamp who's always in the doghouse.Longing for freedom, Scamp ventures far from home and meets a lovely, reluctant stray named Angel. She introduces him to the Junkyard Dogs, led by streetwise Buster.When Buster challenges Scamp to the ultimate test of a collar-free life, Scamp finds himself torn between a world of adventure and love for the family he's left behind.

All-new music and star-studded voice talent headed by Scott Wolf and Alyssa Milano make this irresistible, heartwarming tale a whole new breed of Disney magic. ... Read more

Reviews (70)

Scamp is the poor man's Scrappy Doo...
And just as annoying. My 3 year old daughter loves this movie (mostly because she thinks she's a dog lately), but I just want to bury it in the backyard. Lady & the Tramp was Disney at it's finest, but this movie just felt 2nd tier the entire way through. The animation was dead-on, but the script, music, and voice talents were bland and uninteresting. If it weren't for the special features, and the fact that it keeps the kids quiet for 70 minutes, I'd only give it one star.

Bottom line is that it had little purpose besides dealing [with] how parents are boorish control freaks who set up a bunch of rules "for your own good", but only after children experience the hard-knock life for themselves can they ever accept any guidance or wisdom from their parents. The lessons in these movies are not lost on the kids...I caught my daughter soon after a couple of viewings telling me she doesn't want to take a bath because she's "a wild dog". She took the bath.

I guess there's a market for these halfhearted Disney classic "part 2" direct-to-video disasters, but it sure makes me appreciate efforts like "The Emperor's New Groove" and all of the Pixar movies that much more.

Who let the dogs out? :)
I thought this was surprisingly good for a Disney sequel. Tramp's son, Scamp, yearns to be a "wild dog" and sets out stubbornly to do so. Along the way we see many backgrounds from the first 'Lady and the Tramp'. Old characters are seen as well, from the Siamese cats to old Trusty and Jock. The plot itself is pretty good and goes along nicely. The only time your interest might wane is during the songs which aren't very up to par. The 'Junkyard Rag' started off great, but could've been much better. The characters are great and I really liked Buster. He was sort of like Steele (Balto) and Scar (Lion King) combined. The other Junkyard dogs seemed to fade into the background though once the story gets rolling. Lady's three girl pups, however, are hilarious, and their voices are perfect.The only problems I had with this movie was: The boring songs. How quickly the Junkyard Dogs, (except for Buster,) found a home. The annoying Dog Catcher. When Buster sees Tramp again after all these years he hardly reacts. And Scamp's odd voice. I thought Scamp's voice should've been younger, he sounds more like a teenage dog than a pup.Not quite as good as the original, but I still recommend it. Disney seems to have gotten the "hang" of making sequels....let's see if they can keep it up.

Rehashed and Pathetic.
Take the original, turn it around a little, and you get this piece of trash.

It's sad that this is what Disney has bent to - taking successful films, and turning them into lamed, limping sequels.

While children might find the story entertaining and adorable, their parents will likely find it lacking and a poor attempt to ride on the success of another film. It felt cheap and dirty to me, and like a formula film - which it truely is. Along with a rash of other "II" movies the plot goes like this: Protagonist of first film has kids. Kids face similar issues their parents faced - perhaps with some reversal of situations. Villian of last film is 'not really dead' or has some sort of successor that's pretty much just like them. Kids learn same lessons. The end.

I think it's one of the sad indicators of Disney's current attitude towards animation.

Another reversal of the original.
Scamp, the only male pup of Lady and Tramp, is pretty much the bad seed of the litter. He is rebellious, and disrespectful of his father and owners. He runs away from home, and like the original, falls in love with someone from "the wrong side of the tracks" It took his girlfriend Angel, who eerily resembles Tramp, telling him she would give anything to have what he has, a home and loving family, to finally open his eyes to when you have it all, don't complain about it.

Overall it was decent, but not that terribly great.

DTV
DTV : Abreviataion : Direct To Video.
1. DISNEY : An attempt at making money by producing a sequel to a prior sucess (I.E The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, etc.) Sequel is most normally and/or always about the prior main characters child rebelling against rules, wanting to live life their own way. (I.E. The Lion King II, Lady and the Tramp II, The Little Mermaid II). Result is most normally a terribly bad 72 minute monster. ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of Woody Allen's best films of the '90s, Bullets over Broadway stars John Cusack as a virtual Woody surrogate, a neurotic, Jazz Age writer whose new play sounds wooden and unrealistic to a low-level mobster (Chazz Palminteri) assigned to watch over his boss's actress-girlfriend (Jennifer Tilly). When the hood starts contributing better story ideas and dialogue than what the official playwright can conjure, questions (not unlike those of Amadeus) about the price we pay to make art at the expense of other responsibilities are intriguingly raised. Palminteri gives a very interesting performance as the enforcer waking up to the desperate (and almost feminine) demands of his own creative psyche, and Dianne Wiest (who won an Oscar), Tracey Ullman, Jim Broadbent, and Jennifer Tilly are very funny together playing the ensemble cast of Cusack's play. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Don't speak, just laugh!
Oh Woody, Woody, Woody. When he is funny, he is one of the best comic writers around, and in this movie his writing is hilarious. What other auteur in the cinema today can poke fun at those little idiosyncracies that we all see in ourselves, and get away with it?
Our hero, in a rare departure is not played by Woody Allen but rather, John Cusack, who gives a subtle performance, rather than the over-the-top pisstake by Kenneth Branagh in "Celebrity". He is trying to get his latest play staged, and can only do so by accepting money from the Mob and having a mobster's girlfriend, with no talent, take one of his lead roles. The humour that ensues centres around each of the plays characters, from the fading diva played by Dianne Wiest to the compulsive eater played by the magnificent Jim Broadbent, as they prepare for the play's debut on Broadway. All the performances are spot on and the only criticism comes in the ham-fisted fashion that the film concludes with a mobsters shootout and its all too happy ending.
Nevertheless this is well worth watching to hear great comic lines and the splendid cast who deliver them.

Pure hilarity
As a die hard Woody Allen fan, I can honestly state that this is one of his best efforts. The characters are so incredibly good (dare I say delicious?) and the actors who bring them to life are equally exquisite. From Dianne Wiest ("Don't speak...Don't speak") to Jennifer Tilly ("Hey, Venus, where's that hooch?") to Chaz Palmentieri("You don't write the way people talk")to John Cusack ("I think I'll go now and get the psychiatric help I need"). The rest of the cast is equally marvelous, especially Tracey Ullman. She really is nothing short of brilliant in everything she does. This movie is just a delight throughout. It is truly droll and clever, never once loosing it's intelligence. The attention to detail is admirable, so much so that the film seemingly leaps out at you from the screen. I've seen this film more times than I care to mention and each time I find myself enjoying it more. Only Woody Allen could have devised such an ironic plot twist. He is, without question, the O. Henry of the cinema. One final note: No one, and I mean no one, can make New York seem more fabulous and intoxicating than Mr. Allen. All his films are love letters to this the greatest of American cities. This is to the person who accused Woody Allen of preaching through the Rob Reiner character: Give me a major break. He was spoofing the tendency of some over-indulgent artists to dramatize and take himself too seriously. Sometimes a cigar, my friend, is just a cigar. Don't read so much into things. It can sometimes get you into trouble.

Funny, funny, funny!!
And funny. Great casting, great script, funny dialogue and good directing. The wonderful thing about this whole flick -- Woody Allen decided NOT to be in it. One of his better decisions he's made in years. (Thanks for giving us a break and breather from your repeatible and stale roles Woody!) Don't miss this little-known gem.

Were they trying to make a movie that makes no sense?
I'm not stupid, but this movie made no sense whatsoever. I didn't understand one bit of the boring, mindless conversations, characters, their purpose, etc. And a plot..? Don't even ask. This "sophisticated" comedy (where they got comedy I'll never know as this wasn't the least bit funny) was dull, shallow entertainment. The theme I got out of this movie was "You're not always who you think you are." A theme that could have easily been told in half the time it took this long, dragged out film. Don't believe what the critics say about this. Siskel and Ebert rated it two thumbs up but what do they know? They gave Gosford Park (warning: stay away) the same rating (Actually, that last one was Ebert and Roeper, but they're basically the same). Take my advice and rent something that wasn't directed by Woody Allen. Every one of his movies I've had the nerve to sit through entirely (without falling asleep or turning it off), have been a complete waste of my time. I kept waiting for the ending thinking (and hoping) it would make the movie. It didn't. Those who enjoyed this movie obviously classify it as a work of art much like Shakespeare: boring, but a masterpiece nonetheless. The only reason to watch this movie (by renting it, NOT buying it) is to see the always brilliant Diane Weist in her Oscar-winning performance.

decent
this movie was enjoyable, but not the best woody allen i've seen. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Neither director William Friedkin nor star David Caruso could redeem this vulgar, nasty script by Joe Eszterhas. Caruso is a politically ambitious assistant D.A. investigating the gruesome murder of a San Francisco bigwig. Too many clues point in the direction of his former girlfriend (Linda Fiorentino), a shrink who has a secret sideline as call girl to the rich and kinky. For good measure, she's now married to Caruso's best friend, Chazz Palminteri. Friedkin has done much better work in other places; even he can't perform much magic here, though he tries, with a solid car chase (that suffers in comparison to those he staged in French Connection and To Live and Die in L.A.). --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Mystery and suspense at its best
Some fantasies go too far. Money, sex and power are the things that most corrupt Los Angeles citizens in the modern world and in the classy thriller "Jade", penned by "Basic Instinct" screenwriter Joe Eszterhas and directed by "The Exorcist" director William Friedkin. This is a film I will definitely run out and buy on DVD now that I just got a DVD player. The film, despite many peoples' horrible opinions, is mystery and suspense at its best, delievring powerful dialogue, a chilling and provocative musical score, and unique directing and editing. Not to mention the terrific car chase scene that took the cast and crew three weeks to shoot in the cooperative Chinatown in California. Car chase scenes have become a trifle trite, however it remains tastefully done and riveting in this also riveting film. "Jade" shows that there is a dark side to people of high and low levels of power, and that they will commit heinous and destructive acts to remain in the chair of power, and as clinical psychologist Katrina Gavin (the wonderful and talented Linda Fiorentino) says, "The people who commit these acts are in many ways no different from you and me. But they are no longer able to control their urges. They disassociate themselves from their own actions, often experiencing an hysterical blindness. They are blind to the darkness within themselves."

The car chase alone is worth the price of admission
Jade is an average film. I enjoyed it, but I can see where some didn't. Its a little seedy, and aside from that angle it might have a been there, done that type of plot. The performances are all good. However, the real gem of the film is the fantastic car chase through San Francisco. Hill jumping, collisions and suspense as one character chases an anonymous killer.

It's in the top 5 chases with the all time greats of Bullitt, To Live and Die in LA, French Connection and Ronin. Very tense and realistic scene. Not to be missed!

Seductive.... Jade....Cheating.... Murder...Excellent Movie
Suspensful,Seductive,Excellent Movie!! Another great role for Chazz Palmenteri. No matter what movie he's in or what role hes given he always takes charge! I Love HIM!! The movie is based on a murder in the begining and David Curoso is the investigator and he has to figure out who killed "him". His best friend is married to his ex girl who you can tell is still in love with. Im sorry that wife of Matt Gavins (Chazz Palmenteri) is a hoe! David has to find out who "Jade" is because that will link to the murderer. The Ending is so unexpected and Suprising! I recommend this movie to everyone! Its Great~ but i must say Chazz Palmenteri shows his characters more as a gangster like in "Bronx Tale" You Should Be more in those movies Chazz, your the big boss man who takes over every movie i've seen him in! You go Boy!~

Seductive "Jade"
A corporate man is found murdered and a D.A. (David Caruso) investigates the gruesome crime. He thinks it's his ex-girlfriend, psychologist (Linda Fiorentino) who did it. Ok, there goes the rest of the movie. Better storylines develop on "As the World Turns." All this movie needed was 'small people' with magical powers. But "Jade" isn't a typical movie that deals with 'the dark side.' I mean this woman was icy cold (who I might add is gorgeous)! She made Darth Vader look like an amateur. A huge car chase in Chinatown highlights the movie and the direction by William Friedkin is fine. Ok movie.

Jade is an seducing film by Linda Fiorentino
Basic Instinct screenwriter Joe Esterhas' wicked knowledge of the trangsgressions of the rich and the powerful are deftly exposed by director William Friedkin and Linda Fiorentino. She is perfectly cast as the psychologist and as the illicit liason Jade. Chazz Palminteri, her husband, and David Caruso, a tad young for the role, makes for an interesting storyline. The graphic sexuality exhibited is for adults only but the movie delivers the seedy underbelly of politics and power and illustrates how a woman scorned can enter into a circle from which she has no escape. Unlike the Last Seduction, Fiorentino is the victim and not the temptress yearning for the love she doesn't have. Unfortunately, her husband isn't it either. With Loreena McKennitt's soulful sounds and Linda's great performance, she eventually gets under your skin as a woman looking for love in all the wrong places. Maybe that was the moral rather than Joe Esterhas's preoccupation with all the women he couldn't have in high school (as one critic wrote). Deftly directed, superbly acted, and well-executed. Jade is worth a watch only because of Linda Fiorentino's emotional resonance and convincing performance. Chazz is as excellent as ever. -Felecia Constance Rowe ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Great Movie But Disappointing DVD.....
Remade many times, Chris Rock's new version of a tale about people allowed a second chance on Earth after premature death is a lighthearted and hilarious film. Some of the new aspects I enjoyed with this remake were the theme of a black man getting a white man's life in his second chance on Earth, the main character's (Chris Rock) life revolving around a career in stand-up comedy and the image of heaven as an exclusive nightclub with an Italian Frank Sinatra wannabe as the boss.

If you're not familiar with Chris Rock you're missing out. Rock is one of the best comedians today but the entire cast gives a wonderful performance with great supporting roles such as Wanda Sykes in the role of a bitter and stubborn maid. "Down to Earth" mixes in a nice romantic tale that leaves you with a happy ending and enjoyable cinema experience. The only negative comment I have about the movie is the short length. The movie lasts 87 minute and seems to end quickly but perhaps thats because it's also a good and deep enough film that you wish it would go on.

In DVD version, the movie is a disappointment. The only additional options included (besides audio setup and scene selection) are a theatrical trailer and a ten minute "Behind the Scenes" clip that resembles something you would see on HBO. Considering the DVD price, if you don't have an objection towards mixing your DVD collection with VHS movies, I'd recommend this movie on VHS if you can find a bargain price for it. Besides the sound/video quality and scene selection option, you're almost buying the same version on DVD that you would on VHS.

Super Romantic Comedy & Minor Flaws
Down to Earth surprised me because I assumed I was getting ready to watch another ignorant black movie and I wasn't in the mood. I was glad to see my first impression was wrong. Down to Earth is a wonderful romantic comedy. Chris Rock does what he does best, keep it funny. He has chemistry with all the characters including Eugene Levy, Chazz Pa(? ) and Regina King.

Lance ( Rock ) is a struggling comedian finally winning his chance to become something great. His life is ended when he's confronted by a lovely vision ( Regina King )while riding his bike. Little does Lance know his number is up and Keys ( Eugene Levy ) is the messenger that takes him up to heaven. Lance is given the option of returning back to earth as a rich white man. The fault with this is that when Lance becomes Charles Wellington, he doesn't KNOW anything about Charles. But shouldn't he know everything if he has BECOME Charles? I guess the filmmakers didn't see the slip-up. Once Lance claimed the body he would have automatically become the dead guy. So why was it he didn't know anything about...himself? Anyway, Charles is a " bastard " to hear Sontee Jenkins tell it. Sontee ( Regina King ) has stolen Lance's heart and the only way he can woo her is through Charles' body. That's when the fun really begins. As predicted, Lance slowly charms Sontee until she falls for him. He also ends up with a shot at playing the Apollo. Everything is where it should be and his life has never been better, except that ( it isn't his life is it?). By the time Lance gets in the true groove of being Charles, the angels find another body. Lance tries to allude them so he can keep Sontee and his newfound good fortune but it all comes to an end. But as all romantic comedies go, Lance ends up getting the girl in an entirely different form.

This was predictable at times. It's a remake of Heaven Can Wait with Warren Beatty. We KNEW Lance would get the girl. We KNEW his dreams would come true. The major faults were stereotypical jokes and behavior against blacks. It wasn't a big deal in this particular film, but it was there and it wasn't needed. This film relies heavily on the differences between the black and white cultures. It does move the film along, but it gets tiresome after the fourth " see-how-we're-different " joke.
The actors give convincing performances. Rock is not my first choice for a romantic lead, but he IS the funniest man in America and he was the hottest comedian in 2001. There is no question why Rock was awarded this film deal. Regina King puts in another great performance. Down to Earth is entertaining but would have been even better with a stronger male lead. But make no mistake, I love Chris Rock.

someone kill me now
dreadful comedy about Chris Rock(Pootie Tang, Lethal Weapon 4) who is a dreadful comedian and he dies and goes to heaven where he meets the gatekeepers, Eugene Levy(American Pie Trilogy, Bringing Down The House) and Chazz Palmenteri(The Usual Suspects, Mulholland Falls) and Palmenteri puts rock into a dead billionares body, where he meets the guys butler, Mark Addy(A Knight's Tale, The Order), his maid, Wanda Skykes(Wanda At Large), a mad woman, Regina Hall or King, one of the 2 and people who killed the guy, Greg Germaan(Tv's Ally McBeal) and Jennifer Coolidge(both Legally Blondes and all 3 American Pie movies). starts off ok but then bellys into a swirl of stupid acting, dreadful comedy and mindnumbing music, leaves you with wanting to kill Rock because he made this movie, kill him and the director. its just blehhh, one of the worst movies of 2001. Greg Cho also stars

Chris Rock playing an old, white billionaire?
Once again, I've discovered that you can't go wrong with a Chris Rock movie. His style and character would make even Titanic hilarious.

In this remake of the 1978 film, Heaven Can Wait, Rock plays Lance Barton, a determined young comedian who's accidentally dragged off to heaven forty years before his time. To make up for the mistake, he's allowed to go back to earth -- reincarnated as Charles Wellington, a fifty-year-old white billionaire. Wellington's family and colleagues are stunned to see the change in him as he becomes more charitable -- and much more attracted to rap music. To their surprise, he even buys a comedy club -- so he can practice his act.

Down to Earth is definitely good for a few laughs. It's worth the rental price just to watch Wellington bustin' a move to Snoop Dogg. And there's even a sweet, romantic side to the movie -- but don't worry... it's easy to ignore.

CHRIS ROCKS!!!!!!! THE MOVIE [IS BAD]
What do you get when you take a legendary comedian like Chris Rock, put him in a movie, and then dump 20 tons of stupid on him?
You get a seriously UNfunny comedy and Chris trying to dig his way out, struggling to breathe all the way. What's sad about this is that Chris' career had been more or less spotless prior to this, thanks to his work on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. This was supposed to be the film to make Chris more accessible to his younger fans, but if theyr'e smart, they'll take one lokk at this and just dispise Chris. I didn't,only because of the funny material he's filled his resume with. The "plot" of the film centers on a comedian,who(unlike Chris)is completely unable to make people laugh. He dies in a truck accident, but later discovers that he was taken up to heaven a split second too soon, so the proper authorities allow him to live out the rest of his life on earth, but apparently, the only body available is a fat, old, rich white dude. Believe me, it's just too hard to believe that this dude's body is the only one available out of 6 BILLION people on earth. Oh sure, you could use the defense that people taken before their time after hogging all the bodies, but just how often are people taken too early. Even more mistifying is why Chris couldn't just hop back into his own body. The only thing worth watching in the movie is Chris, but since he didn't write the material, he's not to blame for the fact that is just plain NOT FUNNY. And that about sums up the movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Cast Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal together in a film and it should be a sucker's bet as to who's going to be funnier and who's going to give the more nuanced performance. Somehow, though, De Niro walks away with most of the laughs in Analyze This, a buddy action-comedy about a mob boss (De Niro, natch) suffering from panic attacks who makes a nebbishy shrink (Crystal, natch) an offer he can't refuse--actually, it's not really an offer, it's a command. The good doctor is forced to help the gangster get in touch with his feelings. Had the brilliant TV series The Sopranos not underscored how thin and watery and shticky director-cowriter Harold Ramis's approach to such potentially rich material actually is, the movie--a hit in theaters and De Niro's biggest film ever--would seem more fresh and kicky. De Niro's definitely a hoot as the ever milder menace, and Crystal actually concentrates on giving a credible performance opposite the acting legend (alas, he doesn't turn his character's fear of his patient into inspired comedy, as Alan Arkin did in Grosse Pointe Blank). The conclusion devolves into the requisite gunplay, and Chazz Palminteri and Lisa Kudrow are criminally wasted as an opposing mob boss and Crystal's fiancée, respectively, but overall, it's breezy fun. --David Kronke ... Read more

Reviews (136)

Could be better, but a still a cool mob movie.
This popular gangster comedy is good, but I'll admit, it could've been better. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed the movie and couldn't find too many flaws, but I thought the movie should've been more involving for its excellent premise. I mean, put the one and only Robert DeNiro, Billy Crystal and Groundhog Day director Harold Ramis together and you should have brilliance. Analyze This at times just doesn't analyze itself too brilliantly. Still, I really liked the movie. The characters are fresh, intriguing and really original - especially DeNiro's - and are a delight to watch. Lisa Kudrow's character was an interesting one but I felt she was underused for her talent. Billy Crystal is an utter delight to watch. He has a cool, calm character and gives one of the best performances in the film. The movie is very original and the script is very well written. I appreciated Harold Ramis's effort, but a few more camera tricks or - I repeat - scenes with Lisa Kudrow could've improved the movie. Out of all this, however, I just couldn't go past the character of Jelly. I respected him the most out of all the characters in the movie and whenever he was on-screen; the movie was a delight. His character is one of the most involving ones in the movie and I just thought he was a really good man to take up screen space. Joe Viterelli plays him excellently. Well, through all this review I've mostly flawed Analyze This, but I really think it is worth your viewing time and it still worthy of a strong 4 or 3.5 stars out of 5. I highly recommend this movie if you want a film that blends comedy, drama and mostly importantly mayhem together in a really cool fasion.

DVD STUFF: 4/5. A good DVD. Very cool outtakes which will have you in chuckles, some great commentaries and nice production notes. I highly recommend The Sopranos Second Season and get this film' deal. Cool shtuff!

A Fun and Fanatical Film In The Mobster World!
ANALYZE THIS is a funny film. Directed by Harold Ramis (Bedazzled, Groundhog Day, Caddyshack), this film takes a hysterical view of what it might be like it you took a vicious Mobster and put him into therapy.

Starring and produced by Billy Crystal (The Princess Bride, Monsters Inc., When Harry Met Sally) as the psychiatrist who gets to treat Robert De Niro (Meet The Parents, Showtime, Frankenstein) as the Mobster with "issues". You have a comedic team that reminded me of the old Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis film. Coupled with the very funny performance of Lisa Kudrow (Friends, HangingUp) as the wife-to-be of Billy, this film has a lot of humor and energy.

The story is simple - De Niro needs a psychiatrist because he is becoming emotionally unstable regarding his feelings about the various crimes he is committing. Billy Crystal is forced to see him as his patient when he bumps into one of his Mobsters cars.

From ten on De Niro keeps interrupting Crystals life and wedding plans because he is becoming more and more unstable. There are some great performances by the stereo-typical performance of Italian Mafioso.

The DVD extras include a very funny gag real of all the mistakes the two stars has made and a great DVD commentary with Billy and Robert talking about the making of this film. Really worth this purchase - is the commentary alone. Robert DeNiro and Billy Crystal are hysterical together on and off camera!

This is a great film fo those who like light=hearted comedy and a story that keeps you intrigue and involved. Who knew Robert De Niro has such comic timing as well. A good film to have in your collection of DVD's (12-22-02)

Comedic masterpiece
When I saw the trailer for this movie I thought it was going to be a very weak movie. When I saw it for the first time in the movie theater my side's ached because I was laughing so hard. Everytime I see it it fascinates me, every scene, every sentance is amazing. The chemistry and timing for this film is perfect. OCD..obsessive compulsive disorder? no, organized crime division.

1 star is too much
Ok I get it, it was supposed to be funny. But in reality it wasn't. A mafia man who cries all the time? Then slaps people? Come on! This was so bad, I am still mad I rented this trash.

LIGHTEN UP, PEOPLE!
This is a mob comedy, more like a spoof, and i couldn't stop laughing. DeNiro is great in this and funny(meet the parents funny)so is Billy Crystal, A great cast. Some people need to lighten up, obviously you took this film to seriously. I recommend it to anyone with a sense of humor. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Mystery and suspense at its best
Some fantasies go too far. Money, sex and power are the things that most corrupt Los Angeles citizens in the modern world and in the classy thriller "Jade", penned by "Basic Instinct" screenwriter Joe Eszterhas and directed by "The Exorcist" director William Friedkin. This is a film I will definitely run out and buy on DVD now that I just got a DVD player. The film, despite many peoples' horrible opinions, is mystery and suspense at its best, delievring powerful dialogue, a chilling and provocative musical score, and unique directing and editing. Not to mention the terrific car chase scene that took the cast and crew three weeks to shoot in the cooperative Chinatown in California. Car chase scenes have become a trifle trite, however it remains tastefully done and riveting in this also riveting film. "Jade" shows that there is a dark side to people of high and low levels of power, and that they will commit heinous and destructive acts to remain in the chair of power, and as clinical psychologist Katrina Gavin (the wonderful and talented Linda Fiorentino) says, "The people who commit these acts are in many ways no different from you and me. But they are no longer able to control their urges. They disassociate themselves from their own actions, often experiencing an hysterical blindness. They are blind to the darkness within themselves."

The car chase alone is worth the price of admission
Jade is an average film. I enjoyed it, but I can see where some didn't. Its a little seedy, and aside from that angle it might have a been there, done that type of plot. The performances are all good. However, the real gem of the film is the fantastic car chase through San Francisco. Hill jumping, collisions and suspense as one character chases an anonymous killer.

It's in the top 5 chases with the all time greats of Bullitt, To Live and Die in LA, French Connection and Ronin. Very tense and realistic scene. Not to be missed!

Seductive.... Jade....Cheating.... Murder...Excellent Movie
Suspensful,Seductive,Excellent Movie!! Another great role for Chazz Palmenteri. No matter what movie he's in or what role hes given he always takes charge! I Love HIM!! The movie is based on a murder in the begining and David Curoso is the investigator and he has to figure out who killed "him". His best friend is married to his ex girl who you can tell is still in love with. Im sorry that wife of Matt Gavins (Chazz Palmenteri) is a hoe! David has to find out who "Jade" is because that will link to the murderer. The Ending is so unexpected and Suprising! I recommend this movie to everyone! Its Great~ but i must say Chazz Palmenteri shows his characters more as a gangster like in "Bronx Tale" You Should Be more in those movies Chazz, your the big boss man who takes over every movie i've seen him in! You go Boy!~

Seductive "Jade"
A corporate man is found murdered and a D.A. (David Caruso) investigates the gruesome crime. He thinks it's his ex-girlfriend, psychologist (Linda Fiorentino) who did it. Ok, there goes the rest of the movie. Better storylines develop on "As the World Turns." All this movie needed was 'small people' with magical powers. But "Jade" isn't a typical movie that deals with 'the dark side.' I mean this woman was icy cold (who I might add is gorgeous)! She made Darth Vader look like an amateur. A huge car chase in Chinatown highlights the movie and the direction by William Friedkin is fine. Ok movie.

Jade is an seducing film by Linda Fiorentino
Basic Instinct screenwriter Joe Esterhas' wicked knowledge of the trangsgressions of the rich and the powerful are deftly exposed by director William Friedkin and Linda Fiorentino. She is perfectly cast as the psychologist and as the illicit liason Jade. Chazz Palminteri, her husband, and David Caruso, a tad young for the role, makes for an interesting storyline. The graphic sexuality exhibited is for adults only but the movie delivers the seedy underbelly of politics and power and illustrates how a woman scorned can enter into a circle from which she has no escape. Unlike the Last Seduction, Fiorentino is the victim and not the temptress yearning for the love she doesn't have. Unfortunately, her husband isn't it either. With Loreena McKennitt's soulful sounds and Linda's great performance, she eventually gets under your skin as a woman looking for love in all the wrong places. Maybe that was the moral rather than Joe Esterhas's preoccupation with all the women he couldn't have in high school (as one critic wrote). Deftly directed, superbly acted, and well-executed. Jade is worth a watch only because of Linda Fiorentino's emotional resonance and convincing performance. Chazz is as excellent as ever. -Felecia Constance Rowe ... Read more

Description

The story of a wealthy woman who teams up for revenge with the hitman her husband has hired to kill her. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

"FAITHLESS"
THIS IS THE ONLY CHER MOVIE THAT I ONLY SAW ONCE. CERTAINLY,NOT HER BEST. SHE LOOKED LIKE SHE WAS SLEEPWALKING THROUGH THE ROLE & THE MATERIAL WAS LACKLUSTER. I REALLY DIDN'T WANT TO SEE HER SITTING IN A CHAIR THROUGH THE WHOLE MOVIE. SHE NEEDS A WIDE ARENA TO SHINE & THIS MOVIE DIDN'T PROVIDE IT.

FAITHLESS? NO! FAITHFULLY ENJOYABLE
I would love to rate this 5 stars but I'm an equal opportunity Cher fan. To begin with as other reviewers have remarked, this film - originally produced off Broadway by Palmienteri (who at the time was hot from "The Usual Suspects") does not translate as well to the screen. The wordy script, however, gives Cher some great lines and she really carries the film. It is a very interestingly written screenplay (it varies drastically from the original show) and once again there were rumours of trouble on the set between Cher and Mazursky, the director. The ending and last shot is so obviously stapled on - something Cher was so angry about you can actually see her seething in the scene while she is in the car. And she has good reason - the film reaches a crescendo and then BOOM just falls flat. Cher's performance is wonderful and emotive; unfortunately her recently "touched up lips" shall I say - are hard to ignore in many scenes. (I don't know what she did, however I rode up in an elevator with her back in February and she looked amazing). Ryan O'Neal, as well, is bloated - so there is a desperation of the aging Hollywood actor feel about the film. However, in an odd sense that all actually works very well with the theme of "out with the old" that is O'Neal's character's motivation and Cher's character's desperation as well. A very enjoyable and underrated film.

it can keep you laughing,it's enjoyable movie
from the beggining this movie has a great soundtrack and a beautiful suburb.as for chazz palminteri who played a hired mafia,is such a brilliant actor together with cher.the two actors makes this movie looks like a comedy at times and it can keep you laughing always.this is an enjoyable movie and a must see for all.

A Broken Heart Treat!
Unlike the other reviewers, this under rated and overlooked film put Cher in fine form. She adequately went through the paces of a depressed and suicidal wife to an assertive and in-control woman by the films end.

Anyone who has ever been in a long term relationship will find that their thoughts have been placed in full view on the screen.This was superbly written and acted by Chaz Palmitari who enhanced Cher's performance.

It seemed odd to cast Ryan O'Neal as the slimy husband, but he did manage to pull it off with the accurate yuppie whining headset that the role demanded.

If your heart has been broken or is currently in the throes of a disintegrating relationship, this film is a MUST see! Many introspective ideas will come to the forefront that you may not have considered before.

Rent it if you must, but it is certainly one of those films worthy of a purchase as well as repeat viewings.

Ever had a ceaser salad with ranch dressing?...
...it doesn't quite work, but it's okay right? All the tools are presented to put together a pretty good movie. Paper flat direction by Paul Mazursky is the real let down with this play turned film. No sweat!! Cher and Chazz Palminteri hold things together. Palminteri's script makes many good points, but some how shoots for a degree of shock value that makes for some dialogue that can be a little more hardcore than one might of expected. Thats cool though I haven't heard Cher talk like that since "The Witches of Eastwick" (1987). Some traditional married folk may find themselves offended. This movie was often halarious and insane in it's honesty. Bottomline..for those that love Cher and expect the magic of "Moonstruck", "Mermaids", "Mask", or "Tea with Mussolini". You won't find it with "Faithful". ... Read more

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Too much surface. Director Lee (The Edge) Tomahori's noir story serves as a McGuffin to its ripe style. Amid secret agendas and unspeakable acts onscreen you stare at the fall of light across old cops' desks.Musing on super-8 footage of naked Jennifer Connelly, your mind wanders.Ah, yes, an allusion to the opening shots of Chinatown. Roman Polanski's grand reinvocation of the dark intuitions of 1940s noir is there, too, in the sumptuous look, the plump list of stars (Nick Nolte, Michael Madsen, Melanie Griffith, John Malkovich), and the swoony, bittersweet soundtrack. The zigzags of the story that bring together two cheating husbands, one pneumatic babe, and (somehow) homosexuality waywardly recall The Big Sleep.The Atomic Energy Commission subplot feels like an homage to Kiss Me Deadly.With so many other movies to please, by the middle of the film it's clear that the story isn't going to thicken, that for all the amperage in Nolte's performance, for all the male rage in Michael Madsen and Chazz Palminteri, the hints of sexual malfeasance aren't going much past Nolte's domestic guilt about his affair with Connelly. And yet there are rich things. Tracing a path from his girlfriend to the head of the Commission (Malkovich), Nolte listens, hat in hand, to a purring existential science lecture about the invisible world of atoms."Yeah," Nolte growls, "well, I see too much." Would that the filmmakers had let us see more. --Lyall Bush ... Read more

Reviews (27)

A pleasure to watch
A beautifully shot, low-key noir flick, MULHOLLAND FALLS is a pleasure to watch, despite a too predictable plot and sleepy pacing. I guess we're supposed to be more occupied by "mood" which is okay with me. This is the only film I've seen where Melanie Griffith gives a more than tolerable performance, and Nick Nolte is excellent as your grim, conflicted noir hero guy. Not nearly as emotionally wrenching or as well-written as CHINATOWN, and nowhere near the interesting, subtle and exciting LA CONFIDENTIAL, this is still a classy movie worth watching. The 1940s setting is almost too perfect, and oh my, what a car! Chazz Palminteri is excellent, despite the writers not giving us enough depth. The rest of the supporting cast is superb. A mellow murder mystery making for a great late-night watch, in the tradition of the film noir. Cheers.

A Cops vs. Federal Government story of murder

Format: Color
Not for sale to persons under age 18.
Studio: Mgm/Ua Studios
Video Release Date: June 23, 1998

Cast:

Nick Nolte ... Max Hoover
Melanie Griffith ... Katherine Hoover
Chazz Palminteri ... Elleroy Coolidge
Michael Madsen ... Eddie Hall
Chris Penn ... Arthur Relyea
Treat Williams ... Colonel Nathan Fitzgerald
Jennifer Connelly ... Allison Pond
Daniel Baldwin ... McCafferty
Andrew McCarthy ... Jimmy Fields
John Malkovich ... General Thomas Timms

Kyle Chandler ... Captain
Ed Lauter ... Earl
Larry Garrison ... Perino's Maitre d'
Chelsea Harrington ... Lolita
Johnna Johnson ... Bar Woman
Rick Johnson ... Staff Car Sergeant
Britt Burr ... Staff Car Driver
Melinda Clarke ... Cigarette Girl
Ernie Lively ... Foreman
Richard Sylbert ... Coroner
Michael Krawic ... Assistant Coroner
Titus Welliver ... Kenny Kamins
Robert Peters ... Cop #1
Father William M. Thigpen ... Priest
Drew Pillsbury ... Chief's Assistant
Brad Hunt ... Guard
Aaron Neville ... Nite Spot Singer
Buddy Joe Hooker ... DC-3 Pilot
Eddie Caicedo ... Gasping Patient
Price Carson ... Honor Guard
Azalea Davila ... Perino's Girl
Sky Solari ... Perino's Girl
Alisa Christensen ... Spaghetti Girl
Bruce Dern ... The Chief
Rob Lowe ... Hoodlum
Johnny Martin ... Mafia Hitman
William L. Petersen ... Jack, Mafia Mobster
Sharmagne Leland-St. John ... Woman in Night Club
Louise Fletcher ... Esther

Max Hoover (Nick Nolte) is the head of a special police squad that is given carte blanche when it come to methods of running bad guys out of L.A., including throwing them off cliffs; hence the title: as one of the bad guys observed, "There are no falls on Mulholland Drive," Until of course, he discovers them as he falls down the cliff.

The instant crime which the story centers around is the death of a young woman, whose body, it turns out, is discovered to be radioactive, and was a paramour of General Thomas Timms (John Malkovich), who is in command of an Atomic Energy Commission base. The AEC and the FBI, on the one hand, and the LAPD on the other, head for an inevitable jurisdictional clash, in spades.

I will not divulge further details of the plot, except to say that it is rated "R" for language and violence--deservedly.

But, unlike several other reviewers, I found the film interesting and am watching it for the second or third time.

Perhaps not a "great" film, but certainly entertaining within its genre, and well acted and directed.

Joseph (Joe) Pierre

author of Handguns and Freedom...their care and maintenance
and other books

Mulholland...FALLS--Oh, NOW I get it!
Let's get to the good stuff about this movie before the real fun of dissecting it. For Nick Nolte fans, you'll enjoy it because he's good in it and cuts a swaggering figure in a fedora. For Jennifer Connally fans, this is a must have (you naughty boys) and you'll want to keep your finger hovering over the pause button. In the meantime, you'll be cursing the director for editing the heck out of that really good 8mm B&W movie starring the impressive Miss Connally and spending most of the film on something about radiation and men with hats in a shiny Buick. Even though this impenetrable storyline features the additional treat of one of the Baldwin brothers (Adam? Stephen??) getting the crap beat out of him, I still found it lacking since the complete footage of Miss Connally's kinky films were never found and fully displayed to their archival stature. Talk about an extra for your DVD edition!

Now for the bad stuff. The film tries for atmosphere, but only occasionally succeeds. The shot out at the A-bomb crater is impressive, but on the whole, the movie spends too long doing too little. Of the cast, only Nolte is given enough meat to excel. This is a strong cast, but with the exception of Nolte, they have little to do. Melanie Griffith looks fresh off collagen injections to enlarge her upper lip, sadly ruining her beautiful face. Lord help me, but I kept expecting her to go "quack!" Why is it some gorgeous women keep obsessing about their bodies-tattooes, piercing, injections, etc.? They are like masterpieces that continue to have work done to them and hence ruin their natural beauty (ahem, end soliloquy). And miscasting reaches new heights with uber-quirky John Malkovich as an Army General! Apparently they offered him the part in the B&W porno flick and he was theirs for whatever role nobody else wanted.

Well, I don't want to give away the ending, but for me , the whole movie FELL FLAT. My interest PLUMMETED in the climactic scene. So don't feel you should DROP EVERYTHING to go out and rent this movie.

entertaining
with a early 1950's flair, this los angeles police drama and suspense movie is no oscar winner, however a saturday afternoon a the movies would be good.
also after seeing the cast;

nick nolte
chazz palmenteri
bruce dern
kyle chandler
treat williams
william petersen
rob lowe

they could have had more of a movie, such as l.a.confidential
than this mess.

i liked it, up to a certain point.

Modern Film Noir... a classic!
This movie is NOT on the level of Chinatown, LA Confidential or some of the genuine film noir made in the late 40s.... however... if you enjoyed them, you will enjoy this one, and I give it 5 stars for the atmosphere, music, style, costumes, and story so typical of those other great films. ESPECIALLY interesting is Jennifer's portrayal of a "Black Dahlia" type character, pale blue eyes and all.... and Treat Williams role as a military thug, which he plays beautifully. The score by Dave Grusin is absolutely gorgeous and brings the perfectly beautiful shots of period Los Angeles and matching sets to life. Cinematography and sound is first rate. I can hardly wait to own this on DVD. ... Read more

Reviews (449)

My Favorite Plot-Driven Movie!
I am glad that I waited for the "Special Edition." In all honesty, I'm not really into the "extras" that some DVDs contain. I've purchased or rented several DVDs in the past year, and I can count on one hand the number of times I actually bothered to check out the extra material. Only Disney's "Snow White" had anything that was truly interesting.

THIS "Special Edition" had extras that were unique (the profanity-laced Gag Reel), and truly interesting (the featurettes that included interviews with actors, producers, screenwriters, etc.) My wife and I especially enjoyed the interviews, because they explained how the actors came together to create the chemistry that was needed to drive the plot and keep viewers guessing until the very end.

To summarize, 5 con artists are thrown together in a police line-up, and after getting out, they decide to teach the NYPD a lesson for giving them a hard time. Their act of revenge (more like a thumbing of the nose, or a flipping of the bird) eventually leads them to more criminal acts. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the mysterious Keyser Soze is pulling the strings and making the quintet dance to his own tune. Just who is Keyser Soze? That's the question that keeps viewers glued to the screen, as the plot goes through several twists while leading up to an awesome surprise ending!

Of course, I am truly biased, because this is my FAVORITE movie of all time. I would have a difficult time understanding how anyone could not appreciate the good acting, fine screenplay, and surprise ending. Kevin Spacey became a household name with his portrayal of "Verbal" Kint, and Gabriel Byrne and Chazz Palminteri were perfect for their roles (a con man trying to go straight and a customs agent, respectively). Benicio Del Toro's small part as "Fenster" was hilarious - a portrayal he dubs as his "Mumbles" (as in the bad guy played by Dustin Hoffman in the "Dick Tracy" movie).

If you buy ONE DVD for great acting and a cool story (as opposed to "Whoa! That sounds great on my home theater!"), this should be that DVD.

WHO IS KEYSER SOZE?...
Christopher McQuarrie's Academy Award winning, original screenplay, coupled with Bryan Singer's masterful direction of a stellar cast, makes for a complex and absorbing film. Told in flashback, the film recounts how five individuals on the wrong side of the law hook up to steal a multi-million dollar cache of cocaine from a docked vessel.

Led by former Los Angeles detective turned bad guy, Dean Keaton (Gabriel Byrne), Roger "Verbal" Kint (Kevin Spacey), Michael McManus (Stephen Baldwin), Todd Hockey ((Kevin Pollack), and Fred Fenster (Benicio Del Toro), proceed to their rendevous point and begin executing their plan of action. Their foray into this million dollar drug heist turns bad almost immediately. Something or someone is afoot who does not want them to succeed, and who seems to know their every move.

The story is told in flashback by "Verbal" Kint, a club footed, crestfallen, soft spoken, unlikely looking criminal. He recounts the details of the doomed heist to hardnosed Detective, David Kujan (Chazz Palmentieri), building his story around an almost mythic, Hungarian crime lord named Keyser Soze. As "Verbal" details what happened, the viewer is mesmerized by his compelling narrative of how he and his partners in crime were inveigled into attempting this daring heist, which ultimately led to the disastrous events that culminated on the ship. It seems that their heist was probably destined to be doomed from the start, as another agenda may have been paramount to theirs.

Kevin Spacey won a 1995 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his low key, ingratiating portrayal of "Verbal" Kint. Gabriel Byrne also gives a compelling performance as the cop who ended on the wrong side of the law. The rest of the cast also give stellar performances, with the exception of Benicio Del Toro, who gives an odd, marble mouthed performance. Notwithstanding this, the film is really a splendid tour de force that is sure to captivate the viewer. Who is the mythic Keyser Soze? Watch the film and find out.

A Masterpiece Especially the Ending!!
Usual Suspects is an excellent well plotted movie. It sent chills down my spine when I realized Kevin Spacey was Kazer Soze. You must see this movie!

I Can't Feel My Legs, Keyser
One of the best movies of the 1990s, The Usual Suspects startles and surprises. A fast-paced story told by a wimpy, cripple felon Roger "Verbal" Kint presents a new take on evil, a new face of violence and murder.

"You think you can catch Keyser Soze?" asks Verbal of Special Agent Kujan. "You think a guy like that comes this close to getting caught, and sticks his head out? If he comes up for anything it'll be to get rid of me. After that... my guess is you'll never hear from him again." Of course, he also says things like "Back when I was in barbershop quartet in Skokie Illinois" and "Back when I was picking beans in Guatemala, we used to make fresh coffee, right off the trees I mean." And a really good one (grimacing and teary-eyed): "Why me? I am stupid, I am a cripple. Why me?"

Nietzsche said: "Talking much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself."

Throwing someone off the sent, and doing this consciously or subconsciously, is nothing new. Things are not always how they appear or how they sound. Agent Kujan has preconceived notions about Keaton, about Verbal, and about himself. Because of these, he cannot see clearly. He also has his back turned to the bulletin board until the very end of the film.

Great script, great acting, great movie.

Michael

I'm still in a state of shock after seeing this
This movie is the story of five criminals and what happened to them after a "ramdom" police lineup. It is one of the best movies of all time and has the most shocking ending I have ever seen. See this movie and you will never regret it. ... Read more

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Diabolique is Jeremiah Chechik's 1996 revamped version of the 1955 French film noir tale of two teachers at a boys school conspiring to kill the headmaster (played in the remake by Chazz Palminteri of Jade and The Usual Suspects). The three assemble an intriguing triangle of revenge and deceit as the headmaster's abused and humiliated wife and mistress team up to get even. Mia Baran is the fragile wife with a delicate heart condition, portrayed by Isabelle Adjani (Queen Margot), and Sharon Stone (Basic Instinct) is the plotting, contemptuous mistress. Together they set out to wreak an unfortunate revenge, but as the story reveals itself, miscalculations abound as hidden agendas and secret lives are unexpectedly exposed. Chechik's new look and timeless setting give film noir audiences something neoteric and seducing to play with. A welcomed change to the film's story line is the fresh addition of Kathy Bates as a daunting private detective. Fans of Stone's will not be disappointed with the latest version of her "I-could-give-a-damn smoldering broad" technique and anyone not yet familiar with Chazz Palminteri will love watching him succeed as the ultimately despicable headmaster. --Michele Goodson ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Avoid the Hollywood remake and watch the original instead!
Why am I even writing this review? Why are you even reading this review? This pointless film is a perfect illustration of why we should never bother with Hollywood remakes of their superior European counterparts. This 1990s update of the French classic thriller is dull and boring and utterly conventional. If you watch it, you will instantly have that "deja-vu" feeling of having seen this sort of production countless times in countless Hollywood B-grade movies.

The original Diabolique, in the 1950s, was considered the best Hitchcockian thriller at the time not done by Hitchcock himself. High praise indeed. It is more suspenseful, more cinematographic, and better paced than the Hollywood update. There is really little reason to see the Hollywood version when the original is still around (heck, go rent/buy the Criterion DVD of the original!).

Is there anything worthwhile about the Hollywood version? Well, if you're a Sharon Stone or Isabelle Adjani fan, I suppose you might like this film somewhat. And it's in color and you don't have to read subtitles. But really, don't waste your time.

Thumbs Up For Diabolique
Despite criticism that the film is monotonous and boring, I rented the video and was pleasantly surprised. Sharon Stone seems to be getting better every film she does. The chemistry between Stone and Isabelle Adjani is great. Chaz Palminteri is the perfect bad guy and Kathy Bates was a great detective. Listen close, Bates has some of the best lines. I really enjoyed my first viewing. I liked it enough to watch a second and third time!! Big thumbs up to the entire cast for a job well done. I would recommend this movie to anyone.

Feeding the male libido
This is a sexploitation thriller but not all that bad, mainly because it is played somewhat tongue-in-cheek so that the plot absurdities might be overlooked in the interest of high camp, or at least in the interest of a mild diversion, and also because the women are diabolically diverting each in her own way.

Especially effective in a satirical performance is Sharon Stone as Nicole Horner, a duplicitous siren teaching math at a boy's boarding school. (Just the thought conjures up visions of a vampish Mary Kay Letoureau, although director Jeremiah Chechik studiously avoids that angle.) Her partner in crime is French actress Isabelle Adjani who plays Mia Baran, an ex-nun who is the owner of the school unhappily married to (after being seduced by, it appears) the school's sadistic task master Guy Baran played with a steady macho malevolence by Chazz Palminteri. Adjani, whom I recall (vividly) from Truffaut's L'Histoire d'Adele H. (1975) in which she played Victor Hugo's daughter Adele, obsessively in love with an English army lieutenant who didn't want her. The masochistic persona employed there is revisited here as Mia is used by both her husband and Nicole Horner, who is also Guy's mistress.

Coming lately onto the scene is Kathy Bates as a man-despising, middle-aged, slightly butch Nancy Drew who doesn't let a partial mastectomy slow her down as she sleuths about looking for clues. She has some fine one-liners, but perhaps the best in the film comes from Sharon Stone. Two of the school's middle-aged bores have just come upon Stone and Adjani in the courtyard. Stone's ever-present cigarette inspires this from one of the men: "Don't you know that second-hand smoke kills?" Sharon Stone maneuvers past him, blows smoke in his face, and replies, "Not reliably."

This is a remake of Les Diaboliques (1955) starring Simone Signoret which I have not seen. My guess is that the French version played it straight and made the ending at least plausible. Here we have not only a ridiculous ending but a plot in dire need of a plot doctor. I have also not seen the TV version, Reflections of Murder, starring that quintessential sex-kitten (and personal favorite) Tuesday Weld.

Bottom line: see this for Isabelle Adjani, whose over the top performance is garnished with an au naturale glimpse, and for Sharon Stone who is at her diabolical best. Be aware however that if sexual exploitation of the male libido is not your cup of tea, you will not like this movie, and even if it is, you may find the story more than a bit silly.

Diabolical
One of the most fun, clever and effective scary movies to be found is Henri Georges Clouzot's "Les Diaboliques". But there is a madness around in Hollywood that says it is always a good idea to have a go at remaking a masterpiece. Why? If it ain't broken, surely, don't fix it. Do these people somehow suppose that "Les Diaboliques was a bit of a failure, nice basic idea prevented from great movie status only by the absence of the great cinematic ideas present in this? Sometimes, in fairness, it must be said, the misguided attempt to remake classics has decent enough movies as a res