Reviews (8)

Forgettable Fluff -- Strictly "High School"
Jason Priestley as box office draw? Get real! -- The story here is that of 3 childhood buddies and their obcession with Marilyn Monroe, told in flash backs. Nice 1950s & 60s "Americana", complete with golden oldie tunes, fashions, movie clips, cars and other period gimmicks. Other than the "time travel" perks, there's not much to see. A perpetually cigarette-smoking, babyfaced Priestly becomes annoying. The "tough guy" image of his character reminds on the just as unbelieveable Prince in "Purple Rain". This is no "Stand By Me", so be prepared for a disappointment.**

LOOKING FOR MARILYN.
"Calendar Girl" is about three young men in the '60s who go on a trip to Hollywood to try and meet their dream woman...Marilyn Monroe. Roy (Jason Priestly) is the leader of their little group and gets his hands on both a car and some cash to finance their adventure. Unfortunately, he didn't exactly obtain those things honestly. A couple of goons called the Gallo brothers go to Hollywood to try and find Roy. That's because the money that Roy got his hands on was stolen from them. The Gallos end up being the sole bright spot of the film. One of them is deaf and they use sign language to communicate. What's really cool is the way that they sign in unison throughout the film. They are so smooth in their signing that it is fascinating to watch them together. Stephen Tobolowsky (Antonio Gallo) is his usual humorous self and plays the part of a sarcastic thug quite well.

Unfortunately, the rest of the movie doesn't have as good of a flow to it. The three main characters don't have much in the way of charm or intelligence. They just kinda stumble along, occasionally coming up with pathetic schemes to try and get close to Marilyn. One of them eventually goes on a late night drive and stroll with Miss Monroe. However, it all seems rather anti-climactic and the movie quickly ends afterwards.

For those of you so inclined, you might want to check out "Calendar Girl" for the scene when they try to find Marilyn at a nude beach. It's extremely revealing for a movie that isn't rated R.

Teen age romp
This movie is light and funny, particularly if you like juvenile themes. The only reason I bought this film was because Steve Railsback is in it. Steve gives his usual solid performance and his role is the only meaningful one, as far as I am concerned. His portrayal of a father who is out of touch with a son who feels alienated from his father is touching and sad. The final confrontation between father and son and their reconciliation before the boy leaves for Viet Nam is the best part of the picture.

Like Marilyn Monroe? Check it out..........
Roy Darpinian (Jason Priestly) and his two buddies have the hots for Marilyn; back in the 50's and 60's, what guy didn't? This movie is really for those of us who just need to sit and watch a cute, campy movie that's fun and entertaining. (But, that's just my opinion.) This movie has parts that draw you in because they're so silly. (Jason isn't normally one of my favorite actors, but he plays his part to a "t" in this movie.) He has trouble communicating with his dad, they do work it out before Jason has to go off to Viet Nam. My favorite part is Jason and his father in the boxing ring "working it out" as a matter of fact, but only because they knew of no other way ..it was so sad, that's a plus. The guys get a chance to go to Hollywood and stay with the rich, Hollywood type uncle of Jason's character, so they take it. For one helluva week, they cavort all over trying to get a glimpse of Marilyn, if not speak to her directly. Stuff they get into.....they "boost" a cow haul it to her front yard, wet it down with the hose and pretend it's sad and mooing for her to come rescue it. (Ned, or one of them read she cried over a wet cow when she was young! Funny stuff) They have "bad guys" chasing Priestly for skimming some mob money from them............even that's funny.....there are no bloody parts and lots of light humor. One of the guys actually gets to go on a date with Ms. Monroe, much to his enjoyment...........then she dies, he hears it on the radio shortly after the date. (suicide, I think not!) Great little, likeable flick..........but, that's just my opinion......rent it. I had to have it for my collection....

A movie with bad acting
In "Calendar Girl," Roy (Jason Priestley) and a couple of his friends go on a wild goosechase when they find who they think is the real Marilyn Monroe. The three have always had a crush on Marilyn Monroe since they were kids and now they will do anything to meet her in person. However, they have some enemies who they must stay away from while they try to catch Marilyn.

"Calendar Girl" isn't a good movie. The reason I didn't like it is because it gets old just watching the three chase Marilyn Monroe the whole movie and mainly because the movie doesn't have good acting. Even the bad guys in the movie are unconvincing as the villains who try to get in Roy's way. I wouldn't recommend watching "Calendar Girl" unless you're real bored and there's nothing else on Tv. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

ANGELA starring Sophia Loren
This movie is in English and stars Sophia Loren as a mother who's baby boy is kidnapped by gangsters. She searches for him endlessly. Years later she begins to come alive again after she meets a charming younger man. They fall in love and begin an affair .......then they discover that he is her son. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The "lost" sleeper hit of 1980 has since become one of the most revered cult movies of all time, largely due to its bawdy, irreverent story about the art and artifice of filmmaking and an outrageously clever performance by Peter O'Toole. As megalomaniacal film director Eli Cross, O'Toole plays a larger-than-life figure whose ability to manipulate reality is like a power-trip narcotic. The focus of his latest mind game is a fugitive (Steve Railsback) recruited to replace a stuntman killed during a recent on-set accident. In return for protective sanctuary, the fugitive takes a crash course in stunt work but soon discovers that he's the paranoid player in a game he can't control, with the dictatorial director making up the rules. Or is he? The Stunt Man is a game of its own, played through the fantasy of filmmaking, and half the fun of watching the movie comes from sharing the stuntman's paranoid confusion. Barbara Hershey has a smart, sexy supporting role as a lead actress who won't submit to her director's seemingly devious behavior; but it's clearly O'Toole who steals the show. Director Richard Rush adds to the movie's maverick appeal--in a career plagued by struggles against the mainstream studio system, Rush hasn't made a better movie before or since. The Stunt Man clearly represents the potential of his neglected talent. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (46)

If God could do the things we do ...
... he'd be a happy man!
I just finished watching the DVD of "The Stunt Man." It's still a smart, amazing, funny, scary, exhilirating experience. This is what great movie making (and great acting) is all about. Richard Rush's direction, the acting from Peter O'Toole and the rest, the terrific screenplay, the great music ... it's just ... perfect. As fresh now as the day it rolled out of the camera.
It's a shame Rush hasn't been able to make more films, but with this classic to his credit he can rest assured that his place in cinema history is complete. Thanks, Mr. Rush!
And Peter O'Toole ... nothing will top his work in "Lawrence of Arabia," but this comes darned close. Eli Cross is the classic "film director as god." O'Toole makes him more than just a petty movie-set tyrant. Cross is sly, witty, mysterious and all-knowing. He's frightening but fascinating. You wouldn't want to introduce him to your mother but you would want to take him out to dinner just to listen to him spin his stories. When he descends from above in his camera crane you'll begin to think he's god incarnate ... just as the stunt man does.
And the plot? That's what made "The Stunt Man" such a hard sell to the movie studios and what makes it a classic. What is reality and what isn't? Are we in control of our lives or aren't we? How do we know what's really going on and what it all means? Is Eli trying to kill the stunt man or just trying to finish his movie on time?
Anchor Bay's DVD transfer is superb. The "Limited Edition" includes Rush's documentary on the making the film. Don't miss it!
If you've never seen this film, get it FAST and enjoy! If you haven't seen it in a while, rediscover why it's so great.
Amen!

Lost Classic!
Most films that rely heavily on stunts don't provide much of interest in between the airbag falls and vehicle pile-ups - Hooper, Cannonball Run, The Blues Brothers and their ilk being prime examples, and even the revered likes of Bullitt tend to sag a bit when the protagonists get out of the car. Fortunately this overlooked gem manages to mix stops-out stunt sequences with a borderline-pretentious paranoia plot to cover all bases with ease. Jobbing greenhorn Steve Railsback gets a job in the stunt team of Peter O'Toole's director's World War One action romance, falls for the leading lady, has his every waking moment interrupted by O'Toole on an ace crane-mounted director's chair, and finally takes on the escape from a sinking car stunt that killed his predecessor. There's plenty of elementary-grade symbolism thrown at it (O'Toole's messianic character is called Eli Cross, in true ramming-the-point-home style), and the whole "What is reality after all? Eh? Think about it" ethos of the film won't impress everyone, but it's all done with a light touch, and you really won't see anything like this anywhere else, and the set-pieces, particularly the rooftop gun battle and aerial dogfight, are brilliantly staged.

One of the top cult movies from the eighties!
Through this clever , ingenious script , the brilliant film maker Richard Rush (nominated as best director in 1980) made a emblematic and glorious film for those people who wante to taste something different . Built as a smart chines puzzle , a man suddenly in a location film and the delicate boundaries between the reality and the fiction are broken . Under this perspective the viewer is challenged moment by moment and obilgated to establish who is who and what is what . Think that you are in a mirror hall (Lady of Shangai's ending sequence) and try to find the object and not confuse with its image .
Link this premise with another two film made in the sixties (Blow up of Antonioni)and Belle de jour (Luis Buñuel) and more recently Parole des enfants (1995) Open you eyes (Alejandro Amenábar 1997) or The rules of engagement (William Friedkin 2000) and you'll be rewarded by that intelligent plot , loaded with thrills, chills, suspense , riddles and surprises , plus an outstanding cast: Peter O'Toole (nominated as best actor in 1980 for this performance) and Hershey .
I'm absolutely convinced since the moment you watch this film , it will become one of your timeless and favorites films.
The doubt for acquire this film never must prevail in your mind even for a second.

o'toole should have gotten the oscar
this is a marvellous cult classic and has three fabulous performances in the vastly underrated barbara hershey and steve railsback.
of course the main thing here is o'toole. this and my favorite year were made close together and amounted to nothing less than a 'comeback' for the actor.
unfortunatley hollwood hasnt made such excellent use of o'toole since then but its a proud spot on this wonderful actors resume

DIDN'T FLIP MY MINNOW
Don't get me wrong. This is not a bad movie. It just doesn't compare to Citizen Kane in innovation. Really, some LA Times reporter wrote that! I guess I'm supposed to watch this numerous times, but it just wasn't that interesting to me. Where's the innovation? The crane?(Golly gee Cletus, I never seen a crane that big before) The reflected faces? The cliched lines of the Vietnam Vet? Then there is that quote that's always bandied about, "You're an actor playing a stuntman playing an actor..." I understand what he is saying, it's just not very pithy.

I kept waiting for the big suprise, the part of the movie that floored me. It never came. I wasn't drawn into an anti-reality, didn't see a dual reality and did not see any allegory. To some reviewers this is the greatest film ever. There's a guy at DVD Verdict who wrote that this film changed the way he looked at movies. I didn't see that. I watched a movie, that while good, was not thought provoking. I suppose I should watch it again, but it just didn't flip my minnow. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Release in DVD version Please.!!!?.....
Work Welldone between Hamlin vs Anthony, Hot love scene and the chemistry between them keep the screen heat. I was wondering why the studio not release in dvd format ???. Its really a good entertain movie to collect specially in DVD version (Hopefully soon).

Pretty Good Flick
Actually, I thought the plot was pretty good. It's the kind of movie to rent when you've seen all the hyped films and are looking for something light and different. I enjoyed it more than many highly praised films.

let's hope this movie comes up on DVD soon!
Lets hope for the dvd of this movie in the future sometime!

WWWWWOOOOOWWWWW!
Any movie showing gorgeous Lysette Anthony wearing only her earrings is a must-see-no-matter-what! If, on the other hand, you were expecting an actual movie, forget it! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

NUUUUKIIIEEEE!!! NUUUKIIIEEEEE!!!!
oh man, Ebert & Roeper, you guys got your work cut out for you, Sias Odendal has made a sci-fi epic that will boggle your mind with it's utter insanity and outrageous plot; make sure you're severely intoxicated while watching this movie or it won't make any sense, otherwise you'll wanna be skinned and doused in salt and lemon concentrate and have your eyes torn out by a wild animal just so the aforementioned pain might actually cause you to forget such a movie exists...if you like bad movies, and you haven't seen "Nukie," then you don't like bad movies...

I've been naked under my clothes for years.
I did it all for the Nukie! C'mon, the Nukie! C'mon, the Nukie! So you can take that...I apologize.

I've been naked under my clothes for years.
I did it all for the NUKIE! C'mon! The NUKIE! C'mon! The NUKIE! So you can take that...I apologize.

WHO IS THIS DAVID C WILMOT?
And how did he get past the censors? I demand retribution!

Who is the Glynis person, and why hasn't he been shot?
Damn you, David C. Wilmot. Damn you, and the horse you rode in on. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'
I enjoyed this version more than the old 50's movie because the story in more in depth.....being 4 hours and 38 minutes long. ... there was a lot more time for character developement. Also it is a lot more sexual than the 50's movie. In this vertsion the prostitute, played by Kim Basinger, is a bit more slutty than Donna Reed's version.

It's also the only movie I've liked William Devane in. He and Natalie Wood really heat up the screen and do some fabulous work together. Natalie Wood is brilliant in this TV movie. She is always so vulnerable and fascinating to watch. She has some really great scenes and sometimes breaks your heart.

It's a wonderful tale of many lives converging on Hawaii that infamous day in December which kicked off the war for the USA.

From Here to Eternity -- BUT get LONG version!
There are TWO versions of this film on VHS. The short version -- and the 3 tape (278 min) version. GET the latter. I have both, and Natalie Wood's BRILLIANT performance is severely minimized in the short version, as it leaves out her most powerful scenes!!! Over all, its a well done film from the mini series genre of the late 70's early 80's. William Devane gives a strong performance along with the ever SEXY Natalie Wood (middle age didn't dim her light at all). Also includes a young Kim Bassinger. Nancy J/Ordinaryfool

5 stars for Natalie only!
Where is the rest of the mini series?! This VHS has been cut to shreds! Of course it has my darling Natalie Wood in the lead in her Golden Globe winning performance and as usual she is stunning in a role originated by Deborah Kerr...it's worth the viewing just to watch Miss Wood in a performance that simply drips with sensuality and longing!

HERE TO ETERNITY 1979
I was expecting the original length mini series,this version is chopped by more then half, a major disapointment and in my opinion misleading.

Condensed copy
The version I purchased was cut considerably. Originally a six hour mini-series, my version was condensed to 110 minutes. While enjoyable if you've read the novel by James Jones, there were several key scenes missing. The acting is very good, but the missing scenes make it difficult to recommend. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Disturbing
I bought this movie in spite of bad reviews from critics; reason - I am interested in the work of Steve Railsback. This is one of his earliest movies; the theme is one of revenge basically but there is a sub-plot which is not spelled out and is deeply psychological. It deals with the inherent violence of the human race and the battle to conquer these tendencies. Steve Railsback's performance as the vengeful soldier is chilling but at the same time he manages to portray some vulnerability in the character. I did not find it repulsive but it's not for the faint hearted. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

YET ANOTHER DULL TV MOVIE.
"Sunstroke" is the type of mystery/suspense television movie that you have already seen hundreds of times before. It's what is referred to as "filler". Its sole purpose is to take up space on some poor channel's schedule. The way they represent the city of Scottsdale, AZ is absolutely laughable. It might as well be some sleepy little town of a few thousand the way it is presented here. The plot involves people being killed and we are supposed to be concerned as to who is doing it. Unfortunately, you are never given any reason to care about any character in this whole film. Trite, boring and predictable...stay away!

engaging
I really like this type of suspence/mystery... although very slow at the beginning, fans of Jane Seymour will be held spellbound by her beauty and sexyness and the way her husband directs her; It is still an exploitation of Jane Seymour.. in that there are several nude scenes, which the viewer can only get eye strain. the characters are left for us to build up* I recommend this for the "Coloumbo" buffs.. Jane is impecable in her timing of the action...James Keach knows how to direct her and if U can sit thru the first 45 minutes.. you will be happy U did...a good mystery. editing is fine add another star. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Personal struggles personified!
This movie is not a favorite of the government. It shows looting and survivalist tactics as well as how the Martial Law really works. Acting is not the greatest, but fans of the genre do not usually look for excellent acting. Realism is their preference and this definitly has it. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'
Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'..................

I enjoyed this version more than the old 50's movie because the story in more in depth.....being 4 hours and 38 minutes long. ... there was a lot more time for character developement. Also it is a lot more sexual than the 50's movie. In this vertsion the prostitute, played by Kim Basinger, is a bit more slutty than Donna Reed's version.

It's also the only movie I've liked William Devane in. He and Natalie Wood really heat up the screen and do some fabulous work together. Natalie Wood is brilliant in this TV movie. She is always so vulnerable and fascinating to watch. She has some really great scenes and sometimes breaks your heart.

It's a wonderful tale of many lives converging on Hawaii that infamous day in December which kicked off the war for the USA. ... Read more

Description

Nourished by toxic growth hormones, a giant aligator must feast on human flesh to survive. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Alligator 2: The Mutation
This flick is not so much a sequel to Alligator as a shoddy remake. This sophomoric low-budget effort plays like a bad TV movie about a swamp-dwelling alligator mutated to monstrous size by toxic waste, munching on the screaming residents of a lakefront community. The naughty polluter who caused this mutation is the property developer himself (Steve Railsback). Wacky, rebel (well he's supposed to be) cop, David Hodges (Joseph Bologna) is investigating the mutilation/murders. You know he's wacky and a rebel because every time he does something wacky or rebellious, these two other cops say, "Hodges" and nod their heads while some corny music plays. In an attempt to remedy the situation, a big-game hunter from the bayou (Richard Lynch) is called in to bag the beast. And, you have to applaud his patience, he waits a respectable 30 seconds before making a gumbo reference. When his efforts fail, it's left to Hodges, assisted by a scientist (Dee Wallace Stone) to pick up the pieces and take charge of the situation when the big reptile decides to take in the grand opening of the local amusement park.

From a nonsensical script to cheesy special effects that make the beast look like a pool toy, this film shows none of the cynical charm and sly wit that made Alligator partially enjoyable. It does have some schlock charm that has saved several of its brethren, but falls short with its horrible characters including the cookie-cutter villain played by Steve Railsback, who is so obvious that he might as well have a "BAD GUY" sign around his neck. Yet another addition to the "mutated animal attacks" sub-genre, which fans might enjoy.

Be sure to check out Alligator.

Alligator 2: The Mutation (1990)
Plot: An alligator living in the sewers is mutated into a humongous killing machine by chemicals that an evil corporation has dumped in there. The reptile goes into a lake, which is located right next to a small town. It begins eating people, and a cop named David Hodges (played by Joseph Bologna), another cop named Rich Harmon (Woody Brown), a gator hunter named Hawkins (Richard Lynch) and Hodges' scientist wife Christine (Dee Wallace Stone) work together to try and stop it. There is a subplot about the evil corporation that dumped the chemicals trying to get rich and the leader of them, Vincent Brown (Steve Railsback) trying to take over the town.
This film is okay. The original is much better. Also, this film has nothing to do with the original! It should have a different title. The acting, dialogue, directing and music are okay, but the special effects are terrible. The alligator looks so fake. I have a bunch of toys that look about 10 times more realistic than that piece of rubber used in the film. But, all in all, it's okay.

The second ecounter.
This is is the only sequel to the original alligator. Another bady alligator has end up in the sewer. It is down there for years where it grows to be abnormal large and strong. Appears this greed person has been dumping radiactive chemicals in the swamp.

Just like in the first one alligator goes on a kill spring. Once again it must be stop. Unlike with tremors 2 and 3 none of characters from the First alligator are in it. I have seen the made for television version of this a few times on scifi.

A new sherrif and his with must stop the buffed up mutated Alligator before he kills ever body in the city. What they have to do kill this one makes taking down Romon from the first look easy.

The alligator takes for ever to kill. The try hit it with two bombs one goes of but the damage is not enough to kill. Then they set off a second bomb which fails because the alligator crush the denotation device. Near the end the inject some short ot chemical in him that fails.

They have to bring in guns I do not mean machine guns. They have to use explosive sells which are expensive probly cost the city a lot of meny to get because there so destuctive. Armed with bazkoos the go in and blast the Alligator 2 pieces.

A good movie with a scare theme music lot of suspense. If you liked the first Alligator then you Will love the Second. If you like these I also recomend Crocodile, Crodile 2 Death Roll and Blood Surf.

Huston, we have a problem, in the sewers!
This B grade monster movie was very cool!

Altough, they may call this a sequel, but I do know enough about the first (I've read online reviews about it) to know that THIS creepy monstrousity is no sequel, more like a remake. JAWS 2 follows up to it's original, much better than this, it still had Roy Scheider (Cheif Steve Brody), from the first, in it! Whereas, Robert Forster (Police detective David Madison) is nowhere to be found here. It another cop guy (Officer David Hodges) played by Joseph Bologna. This is still a good beast flick though and I highly recommend it! Just when you thought it was safe to go back in to the sewers.........

PLOT.
As the film begins, there's this tough businessman type jerk named Vincent "Vinnie" Brown (played to perfection by the deliciously evil Steve Railsback, the guy who would play Ed Gein one day), who's men are dumping toxic waste in the city sewers. The chemicals mutate a baby alligator (who happens to be living there), into a horrifying monster. Brown's men are later attacked by the gator in a large, local lake and the police find a severed leg in the water the next morning and a doctor examines it. Hodges goes to the doc's office to investigate, with a series of photographs of other severed body parts that were found. Judging by how the skin is "cut clean", the doc claims that it this was caused by an animal bite, BIG animal, that is. Hodges and his scientific wife discuss that many large animals could have done this, like crocodiles and alligators. Remembering the modern myth about alligators living in the sewers, Hodges ponders on the fact that there might be a giant alligator in the sewers. When he and a rookie cop encounter the monster gator, he and a band of gator killers must do everything in their power to take down their reptilian adversary.

A lack of violence and minimum swearing gives ALLIGATOR 2: THE MUTATION a PG-13 rating. If your family needs a good scare without being splashed with too much blood or bad language, sink your teeth into this farce!

good sequel
this bllody sequel to the critical entertaining and suspensful alligator this time after two divers are aten and one of their bloody legs are found in the lake soon a cop gets in on the mystery and as the bodys come the more he tries o kill the gater. the alligaters enourms cause a bad guy named vincet brown put chemicals in the sewrs go figure though cheesy at times the alligator looks ok sometimes hes tiny some times hes enoughrms. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Before Basic Instinct
Before Basic Instinct, there was "Scissors". Released in 1991, this obscure thriller stars Sharon Stone as the victimized patient of a crazed therapist who drives her to murder. Slight similarities to "Basic Instinct" which was not too far off have been detected. The choice of weapon in Instinct was an icepick, in this film it is a pair of scissors as the title suggests. Sharon Stone delivers a good performance, eventhough she is in a bad film with very little popularity. Everyone's heard of Basic Instinct but who's ever heard of Scissors ? Sharon plays a weak, traumatized woman whose past was painful. Her father abused her sexually and her mother killed him with a pair of scissors right in front of her eyes. The hard-up young woman seeks counseling with a therapist who turns out to be the real murderer in a vein similar to Hannibal Lecter only without the cannibalism. The mood is intense and dark and Sharon Stone has several "Mad Scenes" including one in which after murder, a black bird reminds her vocally of the deed. Sometimes, the film is hard to follow as several characters act as if they are the real brains behind the evil. In the end, Sharon Stone finally gets the guts to confront the therapist and locks him up in a building for good. As the movie ends, a variation on the duet from the opera Lakme plays and Sharon Stone rides off in a cab with the only man who truly cared for her. Ok. So this no Basic Instinct. This movie falls short on a lot of things. Basic Instinct launched Sharon Stone's career and made her famous. This movie was experimental and Sharon Stone had not yet achieved the status of star. In its own way it's still a good thriller. It can be said that this movie is for specialized interests. It's a film for fans of Miss Stone who don't mind what character she plays and in what kind of movie. For thriller fans, however bad the thriller can be or however hackneyed. An early 90's film, it really attests to its time. At one point, Stone looks like Madonna. The eerie and shocking feel of the movie was very typical of the 90's. The 90's would see other such thrillers involving crazed murderers such as Silence Of The Lambs, Misery, The Hand That Rocks The Cradle, and Sleeping With The Enemy. Add this lesser known film to the rest and you have yourself a collection of good thrillers from the 90's.

she's better off with an icepick.
i don't own this movie, i just happened to see it on tv. so i looked it up on here to see when it was made...1991, just a year before "basic instinct." it's amazing what a budget will do.

actually though, it's more than that. cuz "scissors" is pretty bad all around. the script is weird and ridiculous, the direction is a grotesque ape of hitchcock, and the acting - including sharon stone's - is amazingly cliched and superficial even given the material. it's bad enough to be funny, but that usually isn't enough to make me sit through a movie. which i did. it was just so whacked that i actually did want to see what happened next. so really, what am i complaining about, i don't know. i guess that's just the way you talk about this kind of film. i don't know the director but i'm no hard-core film student, so he's probably all famous and respected and i look [stupid], but whatever, all i know is that "scissors" is not a "good" movie in any traditional non-ironic sense. meaning that i think most people watching this would laugh when they were supposed to scream or something.

there are a few odd parallels with "basic instinct." rather than butchering her boyfriend for kicks during sex with an icepick stashed in the sheets, stone fends off a would-be rapist in the elevator by stabbing him with a pair of scissors she has in her purse. in both films the motif of the icepick/scissors reappears obsessively, and appears to be connected with some deep-seated sexual psychopathy on the part of stone's characters - albeit in completely different ways. "instinct's" catherine trammel is a willfully homicidal and utterly liberated bisexual "risk addict," cold, calculating, in complete control of herself and her environment; "scissor's" angela anderson is more of a victim figure, a 26-year-old virgin, confused, out-of-control, constantly manipulated by those around her. catherine wins by sheer diabolical ingenuity; angela scrapes through as if by default.

the plot of "scissors" is like a bizarre arbitrary hotch-pot of about a hundred thousand different films noir. like, of course she restores creepy old dolls as a living/hobby/whatever, and of course there's a wheelchair-bound creepy artist guy and a shifty two-faced father-figure shrink with unconventional ideas about therapy. cinematographically it looks like an inferior product of "the shining" era 80's - offhand i definitely would've guessed it was pre-"total recall." then again, i saw it on tv. the parts where the dolls talk to her are hilarious, then annoying, then hilarious again. not to mention ironic, cuz all the actors are very wooden and out of place. all in all, a very weird movie. if you just like to look at sharon stone you might enjoy it...otherwise go get some other crazy scissors-murder movie - there are plenty to choose from.

It's just alright...
The plot is a laugh-riot. Sharon is real pretty. Sharon makes the film toleratably...if it was cast with any other lead it would be Just Another Bad Late Night Movie.
Don't bother buying this flick...it's on cable often enough.

Psychological suspense drama
This was a great vehicle for Sharon Stone and she plays the part of the disturbed heroine to perfection. Ronnie Cox was chilling as the villain and Michele Phillips convincingly sleazy as the cheating wife. Steve Railsback, playing a dual role as the good guy and the bad twin,turned in his usual good performance with his "bad guy" personna excelling as usual. A good suspenseful story that will have you biting your nails - but sweet revenge in the end.

Not bad.
If you like Sharon Stone and eery movies, you may want to give this one a try. It's not a superb movie, but it's worth watching. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Another classic film from the Candy man
John Candy and Eugene Levy have a great chemistry in this film. The addition of the sweet, innocent character played by Meg Ryan a great plus. Even though the story and filming is not the greatest, their characters in this film play off each other very well to provide for some hilarious, outlandish situations and a whole slew of laughs. For example, this is the only film that features a semi-truck hauling a tanker of rocket fuel playing demolition derby through a traffic jam. Even though some of the humor is a bit campy at times, I could watch this film over and over, and still laugh out loud. This movie is a good addition to you family library, and a must have for John Candy fans.

Sometimes Clever Comedy but John Candy`s Classic.
When an Honest Cop (John Candy) was framed for stealing and Ex-Lawyer (Eugene Levy), they become together Private Security Guards but when a Conspiracy that is happining at the Private Security Guards. The Ex-Cop and the Ex-Lawyer are going to solve the case together, if they like it or not.

Directed by Mark L. Lester (Class of 1984 and 1999, Commando) shows a great fun of Comedy and Action. Candy and Levy are great together, the supporting cast are:Robert Loggia, Kenneth McMillian, Meg Ryan, Jonathan Banks, Brion James and Steve Ralisback (In a Cameo). DVD has an sharp anamorphic Widescreen (1.85:1) transfer (also in Pan & Scan) with the Original:Dolby Stereo 2.0 Surround Sound. This was a box office disappointment in 1986 but it does way better on Video. John Candy and Brion James died years later after this fun. This is a fun cop comedy. Grade:A-.

Very Funny
One of the best comedys of the late 80s. In one scene..John Candy dressed as Divine and Eugene Levy in assless chaps(are'nt you the cheeky one)worth the price of admission.

Great John Candy romp!
Like many of the action comedies of the time this one delivers an entertaining story with John Candy's wacky humor. Candy and Levy star as the protagonists who are forced to join a security agency when all other options fail. Revolving around a plot involving corruption and crooked cops Candy and Levy aim to get to the bottom of all that is wrong while [complicating matters] frequently. I really laughed a lot at this film. Candy and Levy make a great team and offer up some very hysterical scenes. Levy's attempts at being a defense attorney, Candy fishing at a pier, and the two crashing a ball thrown for the chief of police all seem like harmless events but these two always know how to screw them all up. If you are a fan of the SCTV or SNL crews then you definately have to see this movie. It is lesser known but very funny.

good movie
good movie,only good john candy movie made....if u like chevy chase movies, u might like this one ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Just the facts - (more or less) from the back cover:
Debi D'Angelo (Catherine Mary Stewart) is the young songwriter/musician who joins a rock group and dreams of making it big - until she wakes up to the price of success. Niles (Cameron Dye) is the charming & treacherous rock star who's out to steal her heart and her music. All his brother Harry (Steve Railsback) can do is hang around and pick up the pieces when he self-destructs. While her life looks exciting and glamorous on stage, behind the scenes Debi is fighting for her father's love and approval. At the same time she's fighting a losing battle against the drugs that are destroying her brother's life. Finally, her hope and courage find their way into her music - and into the hearts of the fans who love her. Features music by Bryan Adams. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This paranoia-fueled thriller, more intelligent and imaginative than you would have reason to believe, owes a huge debt to The Stepford Wives with its premise of a goody-good high school clique programmed by an evil doctor to be wholesome, academically driven, and shining examples of clean living. Unlike its predecessor, though, David Nutter's film opts to open up its premise for everyone to see, diluting the scares but amplifying the creepy atmosphere. There's never any question of what's happening to the students of Cradle Bay High, who go from being druggies and sex fiends to the academically excellent Blue Ribbons, but it's a lot of fun to see these programmed teens run amok--and start killing people--when their hormones kick in. And considering they're all horny teenagers, this happens, oh, at least a few times a day. Model-perfect James Marsden, with stunning cheekbones and piercing blue eyes, is the new kid in town who stumbles on the plot with a little help from metalhead Nick Stahl. Moody Marsden stirs up trouble when he refuses to join up with the Blue Ribbons, prompting his concerned parents to consider signing him up for the program, especially after it turns Stahl into a vest-wearing, pep-rallying brainiac. The satire isn't entirely fulfilled (the evil kids hang out at the yogurt shop and spout inspirational platitudes), but once the action kicks in it's quite an enjoyable ride, thanks primarily to Bruce Greenwood (of The Sweet Hereafter) as the mad scientist behind it all and Katie Holmes (Go) as Marsden's love interest. Refusing the advances of the star football player and fighting gamely alongside Marsden, Holmes manages to deck a few bad guys with a fervor that squarely puts her in Linda Hamilton and Jamie Lee Curtis territory. With Steve Railsback as the colluding chief of police and Dan Zudovic as a janitor with a penchant for getting rid of "rats," rodent and otherwise. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (122)

TEEN ANGST
While DISTURBING BEHAVIOR is a notch above many of the teen slasher movies, what's most disturbing are some of the deleted scenes they left out, which would have fit nicely into the sometimes confusing film.
James Marsden who would go on to X-MEN, plays the handsome young student who is still suffering from the untimely death of his older brother. His family moves him to Cradle Bay, where a group of students called "The Blue Ribbons" epitomize the perfect teen---they hang out in a yogurt shoppe, for instance! But since they are merely under the mind control of dastardly Bruce Greenwood (always the bad guy it seems), they go out of control and eliminate anyone who stands in their way. Katie Holmes is around for the beauty aspect, but she is a good actress, too. Nick Stahl (Terminator 3) does well in his role as Gavin until he becomes one of the Blue ribbons and its downhill for his performance, too. William Sadler does great in his role as the seemingly ignorant janitor, and Tobias Mehler once again shows his potential in a rather thankless role.
Director David Nutter keeps things eerily spooky, but I wish these directors would stop using songs to bolster their box office. So many times the vocal background songs merely get in the way.
All in all, a tidy little thriller.

Had Potential, But At Least We Get Katie Holmes
This teen thriller could of been something interesting. I've heard rumors that it was butchered in the editing room and studio people toyed with it. I believe it. It seems like there was more there than the final product we got to see. James Marsden stars as a kid who's family moves to Cradle Bay. He soon realizes the good students at school, called the Blue Ribbons, are not what they seem. Think of it as "The Stepford Students". The cast is all pretty decent, especially Nick Stahl. James Marsden is too much of a jock to feel that he would be much of an outsider. It's always nice to see Bill Sadler too. But, if all else fails, there's Katie Holmes. Sweet, lovely, adorable Katie. Bestill my beating heart. Sorry. Where was I?. This is an okay film that doesn't exactly make you think you wasted your time. It could of been so much better. There was so much promise to it.

Technolagy Anyone?
Great...!
This film isn't just another robot/teen/slasher film.
It's way more.
Watch it and find out what i mean.
Also, KI great work in this film.

Thriller or Comedy?
OMIFG! This was one of THE worst movies ever made! Me and my cousin watched it last night, and were crackinig up, the script is hilarious! Who actually talks like that?! We watched it for a half hour only because we wanted to see if it would get any better, uhhh...sadly, no. We watched "American Beauty" instead *brilliant.* I really loved James Marsden in "Gossip"-which was an excellent movie, but the only thing 'disturbing' about this was the writing. Like James, l also liked his weird friend in "Wasted" but not at all in this. I love Katie Holmes, but even she couldn't help this project, talk about a WASTE OF FILM MONEY AND TIME!

Blecchh (warning - spoiler ahead)
This was an awful movie. The premise was an obvious rip off an Outer Limits episode (Straight and Narrow), but I was curious to see what could be done with the topic in a feature-length format. I was sadly disappointed. The film eliminated everything that was interesting about the Outer Limits episode, and instead filled itself with...nothing. In the end the viewer is left with no real reason not to believe the "bad guys" about the hormonally induced killing being a temporary and soon to be remedied side effect. By the time the credits rolled, I was not convinced that the microchips were a bad idea, when properly executed, and I don't think leaving the audience with that ambiguity was the intention of the filmmakers. To sum up: don't watch this movie. It's bad. Watch the 1990's uter Limits episode, "Straight and Narrow," starring Ryan Philippe, instead. ... Read more

Reviews (54)

Ed Gein at last!!!!
First off, let me say thank you to Chuck Parello for bringing us the first and only accurate film about the life and crimes of Ed Gein. This movie is top notch, even for low budget, and Steve Railsback plays Eddie to a "T." What an outstanding performance. Carrie Snodgrass is also brilliant in her role as Augusta Gein, the bible thumping tyrant mother. Truely award winning performances by both. The movie plays in the late 50's during Eddies murdering and grave robbing days, with constant flash backs to his childhood, growing up and losing his family members one by one. The film is about 95% accurate and ends after his arrest for the murder of Bernice Worden. (Collette Marshall in the film). Because the Wordens still actually live in Plainfield and their hardware store still stands, their names were changed for the movie. For anyone expecting to see a grisly bloodfest, this movie isn't for you. It was done in quite good taste, almost too good. I think they purposely kept the film's gore/scare level to a minimum, so as not to attract too much unwanted attention from people in Wisconsin and elsewhere. This film is not scary, not real creepy and not gorey. It could be considered the best "case study" ever done on Americas first "serial killer." Even the musical score is middle of the road, with no creepy under tones and no "stingers." That might disappoint alot of people expecting to be scared and grossed out beyond imagination. None the less, this film is one of the best movies I've seen and the ONLY movie on Ed you will ever need to see. Railsback's potrail of Ed Gein is almost unnerving, right down to the nervous twitch in his lip. Most of you will remember Railsback as Charlie Manson in Helter Skelter. Believe me, he is just as convincing if not more as the Wisconsin psycho. My only disappointment? Edddies farm house is much nicer and well lit then it should have been. Considering he had no electricity, and usually carried around a kerosene lamp, his farm house in this film is very well lit and the insane rubbish just isn't there. Bogey's rating: 11 beers out of a 12pk!

REAL HORRORSHOW
This is not a very good movie. In fact, it seems as if the film makers have taken the most dull, predictable, and conservative route that this subject matter has ever seen. If you are a fan of the classics Texas Chainsaw Massacre or Psycho, don't even bother wasting your time on Ed Gein. With a few quick edits, this could play on network television. There is absolutely NO shock value or gore. The director spends an inordinate amount of time illustrating Gein's relationship with different town members. This is so boring and no one cares! The fact that the man had SEVERED HEADS hanging from his door and dressed in a body suit of DEAD SKIN are just briefly passed over; and I mean briefly. The reason why people wanted to see a movie about Gein is to know the intimate and sick details of what he actually did to his victims. As a film, Ed Gein is so conservative that the most disturbing part is watching his mother and father gut one of the pigs on the farm. Railsback is decent as Gein but attention to detail is overlooked, like having his mom be rail \-thin when in reality she was heavy. The scene were he kills his older brother is pretty ridiculous too, complete with computer generated fire. All in all, I am still waiting for someone to have the guts to show what actually happened inside of that farmhouse. Until that day, I will continue to watch Texas Chainsaw Massacre and believe all the hype about Ed Gein.

Well Made but Somewhat a Hit and Miss Film.
A Man in his late forties, who lived in a Small Community of Plainfield, Wisconsin. A local oddity by the name of Ed Gein (Steve Railsback), who is just a little different from that town. Ed was tormented and abused years ago by his parents, especially his Mother (Carrie Snodgress). Since Ed's Repression brought out the worst of him, which lead to brutal muders and countless mutilations from his Victims and Corpses.

Directed by Chuck Parello made a Horrific, Unflinching Horror film. Which is Based on a True Story of America's First Famous Serial Killer. Railsback, who played a Mass Murderer before in Helter Skelter back in 1976 for a two-part TV movie, which he gived a Vivid Performance. Railsback is Perfect as Ed Gein but not just as memorable as he did with the Manson's role, he did back nearly three decades ago. Oddly Enough, there's a better Ed Gein movie back Three Decades Ago-which is titled "Deranged". DVD has an sharp Pan & Scan (1.33:1) transfer and an fine-Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround Sound. DVD only extra is a Trailer, but this DVD could've used more features of this fascinating true-life story. Railsback is also One of the Executive Producers. A Curio Film. The film was Originally Titled "In the Light of the Mood". Grade:B+.

LISTEN UP!
AN ex-tra-ordinary labor of love [if one can call it that] by Mr. Railsback ~ such an underrated and unappreciated actor. This one is it folks - a chilling look [without unnecessary gore and muck] at the genesis for Norman, Bill, so many more .....

Another winner? Carrie Snodgress as Mama .... also cast aside by the mill, BUT BESIDES that if you want a view into something very disturbing [that .... moonlight dance ..... Now, 'Silence' didn't dare to enter THAT territory .... and remember - this IS fact!]

OK! Enough gushing ... this one's all about obsession, loss and {somewhat} gain .... err Gein ....

Once seen - never forgotten ....

Just hope that Mr. Railsback continues [SUCH an unappreciated artist].

Production values are economic but appropriate - smatters slightly of Terry {'Bad Lands'} Malick's early works .... well worth seeing ... it's really all about loss?

[The big-budget one's don't come close to this one!]

Wow
When I heard that some of my favorite blockbusters of all time, like "Psycho" and "Texas Chainsaw Massacare" were based upon the life of Ed Gein, I knew that I had to see this movie. I enjoyed the movie very much, and I was pleased to find that it was not half as gory as I would have expected it to be. The Ed Gein character, was more distured than Norman Bates in "Psycho" because he would actually keep his victims...hanging around....pardon the pun, as where Norman Bates would quickly get rid of the dead bodies. On the other hand, Ed Gein was more belivable than the leather face charcter in "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" because Ed Gein was a real seemingly normal person, as where Leatherface was more of a monster. I enjoyed this movie so much that it could have actually been longer. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This tale of a boy, a legendary seal, and the hunters after her valuable pelt has enough animal footage and young-boy heroics to keep the kids fascinated, and it has sufficient suspense and plot twists to keep parents' attention. Set in the Aleutian Islands, the story begins with a lonely 10-year-old (Torquil Campball) in search of a pet. Instead he finds the real-life embodiment of a mythical golden seal purported to have deserted the human race because of its greed. With a huge bounty on her head, this seal of native lore returns to be hunted down again, this time with only the boy to protect her and her newborn cub. Despite some awkward lines and performances (with the notable exception of Michael Beck as the snaky charmer of a villain), the story works and the action will keep family members of all ages riveted. The PG rating is for brief swearing as well as some gunplay at the end. With that in mind, this 92-minute movie could be considered suitable for children 4 and older. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Film!!
This is an excellent film about a boy and his relationship with his seal and trying to protect the seal from some greedy hunters.Set in beautiful Alaska!! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Cockfighting Exposed
While the film makers goal may not have been to expose just how cruel the world of cockfighting is, he achieved that aim anyway. This film does not gloss over the realities of the bloodsport. Additionally, the script writers did an excellent job in learning the lingo cockfighters use.

Cockfighting is illegal in 48 states, but is still legal in Louisiana and New Mexico. I would show this movie to every voter in those two states in an effort to outlaw cockfighting. Another good source of information about this is www.louisianaagainstcockfighting.org and www.animalfighting.org.

Hrmph
Not what I expected from a movie with this title.

A little 4 and a half star gem of a film...
I have a vhs copy of Cockfighter that's so old it's voting in the upcoming election's. I can't wait to pick up this outstanding film on dvd. This film was recomended to me about 5 years ago and has become a favorite. First off, you have to love Warren Oates. When you see him cast his spell in Cockfighter or Two Lane Blacktop(and in the many films which he almost stole as an outstanding character actor)you bemoan the fact that their is no one acting in film today that is this interesting. Oh well...

The film itself is a brutal look at the outlaw "sport" which gives the film it's title. It's realism (although I've never seen a cockfight...) and honesty help create the backdrop to the story of Frank(Oates). What kind of man could wager his truck,trailer and woman on a cockfight? What kind of man could take a vow of silence after his boasting causes him to lose a shot at a cockfighting championship and medal? What kind of man foresakes the woman he loves for the "sport" and what kind of man would allow that sport to become his life? Well,Frank.

The film features great proformances by Oates and Harry Dean Stanton as two men engaged in a long running rivalry. Other fine turns are added by a deep cast of character actors (some of whom have very familar faces, if not names),Hellman "regulars" and the non-actors who populate the cockfighting life. Hellman directs in a workman like fashion but that's fine-he leaves the camera pyrotechnics and gimics to those who do not have as good a story or cast to work with. Here it's all about Frank's life and work (the same thing really),the characters he bumps into and the work the actors do that bring it all alive.

There is fine cinematography from Nestor Almendros and the film has the earthy and lived in look and feel of all the great 70's films. I can't tell you why but I love that look. Cockfighter has a tight script that explains Frank and his life to the viewer(with the help of his voice over narative)and ties up all loose ends. The film is off beat without ever nearing the incoherant or strange for strange's sake level and after repeated viewings I think it holds up as one of the best films of the 1970's.

There are great individual moments throughout the film: the bathtub full of dead game cocks in the hotel room, some bits of inspired comedy and Ed Bagley Jr. flipping out after his pet is killed by Frank's bird during a fight are but a few. Still, the one scene that sticks in my memory is the scene in which Frank's boasting becomes his downfall and the reason he stops verbally comunicating. It's the lynch pin that holds the film together. Frank readies his bird for the fight and is full of pride as he announces to the rest of the room "That's the finest five pound chicken alive, Jack!"

If you like solid acting,directing and screenwriting as well as a bit of inspired weirdness and a challenge then seek out Cockfighter.

Oates, and Hellman create an existential comedy drama gem.
Cockfighter was set up and then marketed as a low budget exploitation film, but was turned into a somewhat existential comic character study by director Monte Hellman with just enough elements for Roger Corman to market it as an exploitation film (some violence, controversy, and a bit of nudity).

Most people have not heard of 1974's Cockfighter. It bombed at the box-office and is too quirky a film about too violent and controversial a sport to be widely embraced.

It's time for you to discover this gem of a film, which through some odd alignment of the stars has been given a red carpet type of DVD release by Anchor Bay, which includes a few extras.

It's time to shout from the mountain-tops and let all film buffs, Warren Oates fans, 70's movie lovers , appreciators of quirky cinema concoctions and cult film aficionados know there is an excellent film out there that you probably have not seen that is worth adding to your collection as soon as possible.

The film is based on a novel written by the late great Charles Willeford who also co-wrote the screenplay and plays an important supporting role in the film. Willeford's books have been the basis for a few other good quirky films like Miami Blues and the recent The Woman-Chaser.

Cockfighter is set in the world where fighting cocks are bred, trained and pitted against each other for spectators and gamblers to enjoy, but is focused on Frank Mansfield (Warren Oates) a
Man who has devoted his life to being the best Cockfighter on the circuit. He is willing to risk everything and anything in pursuit of his goal-- a medal. In fact because Frank Mansfield ws too cocky a few years ago, he wound up ruining his chances for the Cockfighter of the year medal. So he took a vow of silence. He would not talk ever again until he won the Cockfighter of the Year medal. It's an ironic vow of silence because fighting Cocks rarely make noise as they fight to the death in the pit.

We are immersed in Frank's world and watch him lose a cockfight to his old adversary Jack (Harry Dean Stanton) that costs him his motor home trailer and current girlfriend Laurie Bird (previously seen in Two-Lane Blacktop) .

He returns to his hometown, and re-acquaints himself with his old girlfriend, Mary Elizabeth (Patricia Pearcy). Mary Elizabeth would prefer marrying Frank than another suitor but doesn't consider Cockfighting a real profession and needs Frank to give it up. Our mute hero isn't about to give up his obsession and hooks up with a new partner, Omar (Richard B. Shull), a new attitude and some new fighting cocks to try again to win the coveted Cockfighter of the year medal. The adventures are unique and the world of this sport is not one you'll likely see portrayed in a film every again.

The violent sport is illegal and cruel to animals and this film doesn't flinch in showing the sport for what it is. Animals were killed in the making of the movie, but they were animals destined to be killed in Cockfights. The film was made on location and the crowd extras were made up of fans and participants in the sport. Also in the film are Troy Donahue, Millie Perkins, Robert Earl Jones (Father of James Earl Jones), Ed Begley Junior and Steve (Helter Skelter, Stuntman)Railsback.

Although Oates plays a man who is silent through 99 percent of the film, he delivers one of his finest performances and also does the voice-over narration. Just for Oates performance alone the film is very much worth seeing, but it's also a unique very well done film. Despite the low budget, cinematographer Nestor Almandros creates a few memorable shots while accommodating Hellman's style which uses many master shots and long takes. Nestor's lighting design accommodated Hellman's style. Some rules are broken to great effect such as when a lake background is too hot and serves as the perfect background for a love scene between Oates and Mary Elizabeth. The film has such a strong documentary verite' we can usually forget we are watching actors. In fact there are so many non-actors in the film, Hellman considers half the film a documentary anyway.

Director Monte Hellman's career started with Corman on 1959's Beast from the Haunted Cave. Hellman made two odd low budget westerns with Nicholson in the late 60's, Ride the Whirlwind and the existentially fascinating; The Shooting. The Shooting also marked the first time Hellman worked with Oates. Two directors; Sam Peckinpah and Monte Hellman utilized Oates best. He made The Shooting, Two Lane Blacktop, Cockfighter and China 9 Liberty 37 with Oates. They worked well together. Perhaps their finest collaboration is Cockfighter.

The DVD presents the film better than it's ever been seen before. It's still a low budget film and there's grain and some soft focus but an excellent damage free print was used for the anamorphic digital transfer.

Lots of extras including one of the best commentary tracks you'll hear on DVD make this one worth getting.

Cockfighter is a gem of a film you're probably never heard of. It's one of best films of the 1970's features one of Warren Oates finest performances and has been rescued from near obscurity by Anchor Bay. The film looks very good on DVD and comes with several worthwhile extras.

Rent it, Buy it and tell your friends to get a copy of a great film they probably haven't heard a thing about. This isn't for everyone and the subject matter is disturbing, but those who enjoyUnique quirky independent films need to have this one.

Christopher Jarmick, is the author of The Glass Cocoon with Serena F. Holder a critically acclaimed, steamy suspense thriller.

Superb DVD transfer of a classic '70s American film
Directed by Monte Hellman (the man behind the ultra-laid-back super-naturalistic "Two Lane Blacktop" starring James Taylor and Dennis Wilson) and fantastically photographed by the great Nestor Almendros, "Cockfighter" is one of those 'cult' films where, as Danny De Vito puts it in that mediocre attempt at satire "Get Shorty,": the visual fabric is consistently maintained while the metaphor plays on different levels! Just check out the brutal slow-motion footage of the cockfight in the hotel-room and tell me it's not one of the most artistic sequences in all of cinema! For someone to try to do that in a film like this is very touching, indeed! Just think: would anyone ever think of a film about cockfighting, something they might show at a drive-in for a week or two in some hick-town somewhere, as having great potential for artistic expression? Not Sylvester Stallone! But people like Hellman do, and did! And I have a hunch that if Hellman directed a film about arm-wrestling or rock-climbing in the '70s it would've been just as good! ... Read more