Amazon.com

You may be surprised to discover that the director of the Lethal Weapon movies and scary horror flick The Omen, Richard Donner, also produced and directed this classic children's adventure (which, by the way, was written by Donner's screen-wizard friend Steven Spielberg). Then again you may not. The Goonies, like Donner's other movies, is the same story of good versus evil. It has its share of bad guys (the Fratelli brothers and their villainous mother), reluctant-hero good guys (the Walsh bothers and their gang of friends), and lots of corny one-liners. Like in an old-fashioned Hardy Boys or Nancy Drew plot, the Goonies need to solve a problem: a corrupt corporate developer has bought out their neighborhood and plans to flatten all their homes. Luckily, the beloved gang stumbles on a treasure map. In the hopes of finding the treasure to buy back their houses, the Goonies embark on their quest through underground passages, aboard pirate ships, and behind waterfalls. This swashbuckling and rollicking ride was also a great breeding ground for a couple of child actors who went on to enjoy numerous successes in adulthood: Sean Astin (Rudy, Encino Man) and Martha Plimpton (Pecker, 200 Cigarettes). --Samantha Allen Storey ... Read more

Reviews (338)

Nothing Will Never Surpass The Goonies!
Like many before me, I grew up with The Goonies. I ran around my house as a young one, trying to act like Mouth, or doing the Truffle Shuffle to entertain friends (I lacked on the truffle, but I could do the shuffle).

The Goonies holds something that every kid should find magical, even though the only magic in the movie is the magic of friendship. Steven Spielberg wrote the story about a group of friends who are about to lose their houses so a country club can be built where they leave. They come upon a treasure map that supposedly has a legend behind it, and leads to a great treasure. Mikey and his colorful bunch of friends set up to go in search of the treasure not knowing the villianist trio, the Fratellis, are also out for the treasure. Along the way, chaos ensues, friendships go stronger, and they meet a creature who has nothing but love to share and Baby Ruths to eat.

The characters are all likable . . . are all lovable, and the actors who portray them made them all that they were. The Fratellis are even, in some ways, likable throughout the movie, but in the end, they get what they were asking for. The directing, of course, is awesome. None like it actually. And the sets are amazing. Especially the pirate ship set. That was too awesome, and enough to satisfy any adventure lover.

The DVD should satisfy any Goonies fan with the word of all the extras to be on it. And I'm ready to see the infamous deleted octopus scene. I hope it's on there. I believe I read somewhere that some of the cast had gotten together to do a commentary. Now there's wishful hoping that that did happen!

"SLOTH LOVE CHUNK!" And Josh loves this movie.

best movie!
When my sister and I were introduced to THE GOONIES about 10 years ago, by our dad, we fell in love with it. My sister and I have watched this movie literally 100 times, and no matter how many times we've seen it, we still continue to get captured into the excitement, adventure and fun the movie holds. For Christimas this year, we got the movie on DVD and its better then ever. Including the original movie, it has a commentary with the cast of the movie, a music video the cast did with Cyndi Lauper, outtakes, the orginial trailer and a look at the making of the goonies. Whenever our friends come over, we ask them, "Have you ever seen 'the goonies'?" And if they hadn't, we introduce them to our favorite movie.
When Mikey (Sean Astin) and his friends, the goonies, encounter a treasure map, they embark on the adventure of a lifetime. With characters like Mouth,(Corey Feldman), Data (Ke Huy Kuan), Chunk (Jeff Cohen) and Mikey's older brother, Brand (Josh Brolin), and the girl goonies, Andy(Kerri Green) and Stef(Martha Plimpton) the jokes are endless. As they out run the bad guys, dodge the booby traps, and find the treasure of One-eyed-Willy, its a thrill a minute adventure that will capture the hearts of young and old for generations to come.

Pinchers of peril!!! The Ultimate Goonie DVD experience!
Growing up in the 80's - The Goonies was one of the most incredible movies for me. It captures all of the childhood joy and want of adventure and excitement that a normal day just doesn't bring. This movie, while it is clearly an "80's" flick, does not appear dated in any way. It still has that spark that gave it life nearly 20 years ago.

That said, here's what you get with this DVD and here's why you should buy it today:

The movie itself is enough however...

The deleted scenes are a lot of fun. We finally get to see the ever-fabled "Octopus" scene. For years, I would scratch my head when Data said "The Octopus was really scary!" Huh? What Octopus? Well, he's in this DVD. You also realize why the scene was cut out. Let's just say the animatronics weren't all that great.

Those old music videos starring Cyndi Lauper and various classic WWF wrestlers are here too. Remember Rock "n" Wrestling? I found myself saying "oh yeah....I remember that!" Watch for a cameo of Susanna Hoffs from the Bangles in the video!

The DVD commentary is a lot of fun! While almost every new DVD has a commentary in place, it almost always bores one to tears with the director or a star just kind of droning their way through the movie. Often, the major stars don't even do the commentary (great example is Rocky - where the commentary features everyone but Stallone himself!) This commentary has all of the original Goonie stars plus Richard Donner. There's a lot of joking around and the stories they tell are funny and don't go off the subject. Note: Sean Astin disappears about halfway through the flick. Also, beware Corey Feldman who talk over everyone to further perpetuate that he is the biggest glory hog in show business.

Enough already. This is such a great movie and the special features are ones that you'll actually watch more than once! Buy the DVD already!

Goonies Never Say Die!
What can I say? This movie has it all! Action, Suspense, Romance, Sean Astin pre Samwise Gamgee. What more could you want?

Steven Spielberg brings a story about a misfit group of kids who set out to save their home. It all hinges on finding the treasure of One-Eyed Willie, a famous pirate who was rumored to have hid his treasure somewhere around where they live.

Throw in a mafia family who has recently broken out of jail, a treasure map, a Baby Ruth, and a wonderful dance called the Truffle Shuffle and you've got an instant classic!!

Also, look for the line about battling the octopus in the end, then think about the octopus battle. Something doesn't add up does it??

I like some types of Korn...............
but this movie was way too corny for my tastes. This movie managed to use every single cliché that ever existed. This ranges from the group of misfits going on an adventure to save their home from evil corporate rich people to mobsters with guns to a pirate treasure cave filled with booby traps to a fat kid who saves the day to a disfigured grotesque monster suddenly gaining human knowledge and capabilities and rebelling against it's owners to love between two 13 year olds. The reason that I gave this movie two stars is because there are worse films than this one and one scene was funny. Other than that, I do not recommend this film to anyone who likes hardy boys and other meaningless kids detective stories. ... Read more

Description

A terrifying tale about a lonely teenage genius whose overwhelming love for a young girl compels him to use all of his scientific knowledge to keep her with him. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Wes Craven's least successful is his best
This movie was known as one of Wes Craven's least successful pictures. It is his best. A nice change. Why is it that he gets recognision for the garbage "Last House On The Left" and not this? You know, it seems actully this is a Steven Spielberg movie in a way. Unlike most trashy Craven movies (Nightmare On Elm Street, Last House On The Left, Shocker) he did good with this one, making a touching story about an experiment with less than positive results. I instantly fell in love with Kristy Swanson the moment she appeared. She is so beautiful in this movie. The way she looks would drive any boy crazy for her. I was 10 years old when this movie came out in 1986. I am now 23 and still cant take my eyes of her. Of course, she has grown up now, and does not look the same as she did in '86. Even when Swanson turns robot with a violent streak, I loved her-- so sweet, so cute, so beautiful. The movie itself is entertaining because it does not show Swanson in a typical horror movie role as a trashy teen, and instead potrays as the nicest, sweetest and beautiful girl next door. I like that. With a Spielberg shadow, this is Cravens' best. The supporting actors are not bad, but not up to Swanson's performance. Very nice, and a break from the "Scream" flicks made today. Note: Don't get me wrong, I liked the "Scream" movies!

Deadly Friend
One of my all time favorite horror movies this film deals with a new familiy in the neighborhood that includes a super intelligent robot that will defend his friends. When the abusive father of the girl next door accidently kills his daughter the robot's microchip seems the answer. Now it hard to tell where the girl ends and the robot begins as she seeks revenge on those who hurt both halves of her. A movie I truely wish would move to DVD in the future for its twist ending alone.

Boring
This is the only movie I have ever seen where the dialog is completely worthless. You can actually watch the entire movie, like I did, on fast-forward, and still understand what's going on. It's that dull. For starters, it takes 29 minutes for things to actually start happening. Very slow development. Too bad for a Wes Craven movie. I guess he should stick to "Freddy".

Deadly Friend
A wonderful movie I was proud to buy when the video store went out of business. Something that I think would sell well if put out on DVD. It deals with a genius boy whose family move to a new town with a robot that the boy built himself. When the neighbor's father accidently kills his daughter the boy plays modern day Frankenstein to bring her back with the use of the robots microchips. Now it hard to tell where the girl ends and the robot begins as both get revenge on those who harmed them in live.

The spirit of Samantha lives forever in our hearts.
Kristy Swanson deserved an Academy Award for her portrayal of the character 'Samantha'. So innocent, yet in so much pain. Pain endured alone in the home of an abusive father. Our hero lives next door to her, a child prodigy. A genius in the field of biology, chemistry, and mathematics. He is in classes far beyond his age group, yet he excels.

Samantha is physically abused by her father, all the classic symptoms are present; mysterious bruises, black eyes, and a shy, quiet demeanor. She will not tell anyone. One day her father goes to far and kills her, throwing her down a flight of stairs.

Oh rue the day of innocence and youth lost. How many of us knew a silent victim? How many of us were helpless to act? How many lost loves were never experienced because of circumstances that were above the realm of the average American teenager? I knew Samantha, a girl just like her. I could have acted, but didn't. That is why 'Deadly Fiend' will always have a special place in my heart.

Our hero, plays a junior Frankenstein upon his friend's death. He rebuilds her, brings her back to life. Will she avenge herself by killing her father? Will she be forever grateful and fall in love with our hero? Will she run off and become a sausage vendor in Wisconsin? I cannot give away the ending of this beautiful, modern Romeo & Juliet. To give away the ending in this review would be a disservice to you, kind reader.

For all the Samantha's of the world. I hope you grow up and salvage just a bit of your childhood for yourself. In a place deep in your heart that is yours alone. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

OH MY G-D
I have seen this movie at least 100 times, and it is still as funny since the first time I watched it! Anne Ramsey is a remarkable actress and I don't believe she has ever performed like this before. The combination of Danny Devito and Billy Crystal couldn't have been pulled off by anyone else. They gave an outstanding performance in this film. The plot is absolutely fabulous and is more realistic than you might think because there are quite a few of us that have, at one time or another wanted to 'Throw Momma From the Train'. The picture quality might not have been the best, but with a story line as 'to the point' and commendable as this one....... Does it really matter?

A classic I grew up with
This is one of the movies I saw before I reached 12 in a tiny cinema and I loved it. I then forgot about it until this year when I found I had a copy of it taped from Cable TV in video library, I made some popcorn sat down and watched a very, very funny movie starring Billy Crystal and Danny Devito, and now it's coming to the DVD format.

Throw Momma From The Train is a classic comedy in which an aspiring man Owen (Devito) wishes to kill his mother who treats him bad. He channels his energy into his writing, for which he takes a class led by Billy Crystal, to which he lets him in on the plan to get rid of Momma.

I can't say any more fearing I would spoil this great, great movie for you all, it simply is a must-see, and definately a must own.

A little dissapointing that the DVD doesn't have an Audio Commentary either by Crystal, Devito, or the Director, but nevertheless, at this price, with scene access, crystal (no pun intended) transfer, and something I'm looking forward to: Deleted Scenes, It is really a crime if you don't pick up this title.

It really is funny, and has a place in my heart, so if you have seen it, click add to cart, if you haven't, get down to the video store, rent it, kick back with some popcorn, and prepare to enjoy some of the best comedy the 80's had to offer.

The story of Owen Lift's momma
Danny DeVito directed and starred in this film about Owen Lift's elderly and senile momma. Owen(DeVito) takes a literature class given by Larry Donner(Billy Crystal). Momma(the late Anne Ramsey) is frequently annoyed by the striking of Owen's typewriter(the kind used was a manual with typebar assembly). He wants to kill her in the worst way. She survives the poison given to her(Pepsi with lye). The lye softened her up mentally! But that doesn't last long. She resumes being her bitchy self. Kate Mulgrew is Larry's ex-wife who's a novelist like her ex-husband. Larry hears on the radio that she was missing and presumed dead. Margaret,the ex-wife promotes her new novel on Oprah Winfrey,who appears as herself. Kim Greist is Larry's girlfriend Beth Ryan. Jazz musician Branford Marsalis is Larry's buddy Lester. Marsalis,a saxophonist,even plays in the film. After seeing a murder movie,Owen suggests that Larry kill Momma,and Owen kill Margaret. Rob Reiner,Crystal's longtime buddy is Joel,Larry's agent. Joel quit representing Larry. Memorable scenes include when Larry introduces Owen to Beth,Larry tells her,"Owen is a dead man!". Owen suddenly appeared in a moment of passion between Larry and Beth. Momma calls the police to report Larry murdered his ex-wife. That's when Larry,Owen and Momma are on a train to God knows where. Larry is physically evicted by Momma from the moving train,resulting in hospitalization. Following his discharge,Larry finally musters up the courage to proceed with his novel which he initially began months ago. A year passed,and Owen phones Larry at a booth near Larry's apartment("Look out your window!"). The two wave to each other and Larry invites Owen in. Momma had died of natural causes. Owen wrote a book entitled "Owen,Momma and Owen's friend Larry". Owen is about to fly to New York to promote the book. There is nothing violent in the book,according to Owen. It tells about what the three did together in the film,them taking a picnic and Owen,Larry and Beth on vacation. Margaret becomes engaged to an Oriental man who revived her when she was drowning. Bruce Kirby(Bruno's father) appears in the film as detective who investigates the rumoured murder at Owen's home.

So Funny I Had To Own It
There is no reason that I would ever want this movie on DVD. There is nothing special. A trailer and extra scene... However There was one reason I did buy this on DVD and that is that it was the funniest movie I had ever seen. This is Dark humor and to me there is no better humor.

NO Comedy Greater
Wow there is no words that describe how hard I laughed when I watched it. After that I could not stop renting it and then I had to buy it. Get it or loose out. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Unusual Western Ballad
FROM NOON TILL THREE is an entirely refreshing and unanticipated idiosyncratic Western full of sentimentalism from Charles Bronson and Jill Ireland. Knowing that Bronson and Ireland were man and wife in actual life makes this film more intimate as it unfolds as some affectionate parlor trick and wink of the eye. Bronson and Ireland explore unknown passions and tenderness of the soul as two strangers thrown together by fate for their accidental afternoon tryst. Elmer Bernstein is known for his more rousing scores that he composed for Westerns. Here Bernstein employs a romantic and bittersweet score for this fairytale Western that works beautifully for the charismatic Bronson and Epicurean Ireland. This is a wonderful film.

One of my favorite movies of all-time!
I first saw this movie in the early 1980's when Bronson was still very active in his film career. I had never been a fan of his movies--he just didn't seem to have a lot of personality. Then I saw "From Noon Until Three"; I could hardly believe he was the same actor I'd seen in other movies. He was GREAT in acting out the irony of the plot; he was funny, he was charasmatic, and he was sinister (at the beginning of the movie). It was as if Bronson finally "woke up" and came to life on the screen for the first time for me. He was great! His wife Jill was great!. I enjoyed the movie so much that I wanted to see it again, and the second time, I decided that it would become one of my all-time favorite movies. If I could give it more stars, I would. It is definitely a "Must See".

One of Bronson's best
This is one of Charles Bronson's best movies. No, it is not an action movie, there is very little action in it. It is a romantic western.Charles Bronson's real life wife Jill Ireland is in this and this is her best acting and role. This movie gripped me from beginning till end and never let go.
From Noon Till Three is about a bank robber known as Graham Dorsey and when something goes wrong with his horse on the way to a bank robbery he and his crew stop off at a ranchhouse where a widowed woman (whose only company is her servants most of the time) lives. The rest of the bank robbers leave Bronson and go to the bank and Bronson stays behind with Ireland.Ireland could have gotten rid of Bronson too because she had a horse in the barn but I suppose she would rather have Bronson there than part with her precious horse.
Bronson manages to get her into bed by pretending he is impotent-this is probably a challenge to Ireland.A romance ensues. They only have three hours until it all ends but already they are making plans for a future even though he is a bank robber, he is talking of going straight.
Soon a boy comes to the house and informs Ireland of a bank robbery gone wrong and that most of the crew are dead and there is to be a hanging of the survivor. Ireland tells Bronson but he doesn't want to risk his life to save his fellow bank robber. Somehow she persuades him to try and he leaves the house and gets chased by a posse. He dresses up as a dentist after he escapes the posse but finds himself in jail in a case of mistaken identity. In a way, lucky for him. In the meantime, this case of mistaken identity leads Ireland to believe that Dorsey is dead. Whilst he is in jail, she writes a book about their short affair and it becomes a bestseller. When Bronson gets out of jail he goes back to the house on a tour, gets let inside the house on the pretence he wants a glass of water before heading back to town.Even when he takes the beard off, for some reason she doesn't recognize him and it is not until he shows her his lower region that she does. But then she tells him there is no running off with him now. They have a responsibility to the legend.
Later, Bronson winds up in a mental institution and for some reason that I find it hard to believe, they recognize him as Graham Dorsey. A little hard to believe but a great movie. Don't miss it.

Unexpected Treat from Charles Bronson
This is a totally unexpected Victorian-like and romantic-comic Western from Charles Bronson and Jill Ireland. It's a bit of a conundrum that Bronson ever made this film. However, that's what makes it a real treat. Bronson is outlaw Graham Dorsey who spends three hours with Jill Ireland, the widow Amanda Starbuck, before a heist. Unlocking hidden passions in the frigid Amanda in her isolated mansion on the open plain, Bronson has every intention of returning from the job but events take a strange and unexpected twist. Bronson is very likable and charismatic in this role. Ireland is every bit the frigid Amanda Starbuck as she smolders sensuality from under her lace embroidered gowns. For Graham Dorsey, Amanda Starbuck is like a dream come true. For Amanda Starbuck, Graham Dorsey is the personification of some romanticized mysterious suitor. This offbeat and likeable tale comes to a most bizarre finale. Cinematographer Lucien Ballard's stark and vivid images somehow give this film a strange fairytale quality when combined with Elmer Bernstein's light yet maudlin and elegiac score.

A romantic Western comedy
A very touching story with a twist. Charles Bronson and his wife, Jill Ireland, portray a couple whose chance meeting leads to a playful and tender relationship, but with a dubious outcome. I recommend it for all romantics!! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

spectaculer
Very well written and acted campy take on the early salem Mass. witch trials. Using the as of yet untested talents of some promising unknowns including
"police acadamy's "tackleberry" and also the mayor a star on "saving grace" . Bawdy raunchy comedy at it's naughty best.

Keeps you laughing long after the movie ends
This is probably the funniest movie that I have ever seen. One laugh right after another and array of characters as unique and hilarious as could be imagined. Never have the Salem Witch hunts been explained in such an irreverent manner. One of those "wait,wait, rewind it, I have to see that again" movies.
It will have you laughing long after the movie has ended and it will be one that you watch over and over and never get tired of seeing. Buy this movie and you will be glad you did. Laugh a minute belly laughs. Share it with your friends.

More truth then they knew
If you like silly, zany, 2nd city type laughs, then this movie is for you. The comedy was relentless. Everywhere you looked, there was a subplot that was almost as engaging as the main plot. The part that got to me the most was when Ann Ramsey did her brief cameo at the end. She appears as the real witch and tells the Salemites that they are idiots. Her point was that a real witch would never have allowed the type of treatment that the town became famous for. The irony was rich. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Nicholson directed and starred in this Western spoof about an outlaw who is saved from hanging by a young widow (Mary Steenburgen) who puts him to work as an indentured servant. She has a gold mine that no one knows about and she wants him to help her get the gold before anyone else finds out. But, of course, his old gang--who gave him up to the law in the first place--finds out about the mine and wants a piece of it. This was filmed in the late 1970s, when drug use was rampant (and not particularly frowned upon) in Hollywood; keep that in mind when you listen to Nicholson's stuffy-nose delivery. Alternately amusing and flat, with a cast that includes Steenburgen in her first movie role and John Belushi in a tiny part as a member of the gang, also making his film debut. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (12)

humorous redemption
GOIN'SOUTH is a funny movie about a humorous redemption. Jack Nicholson is the redeemee and lovely Mary Steenburgen is the redeemor. Jack, the low-life criminal, finds that marriage with obedience to Mary is the price he has to pay for going straight. Mary finds that the price of getting cheap gold miner labor through marriage to Jack includes all of the vows, conjugal and otherwise. They actually strike gold and GREED enters into the plot. Greed is a dandy comedy catalyst. The writers gave this movie excellent dialogue. Casting was terrific. What can telegraph a better joke than Nicholson's devilish leer? Mary Steenburgen fit the role of a prim, greedy reformer to a Tee. Even the cover on the box sets the comedy mood of this film with Jack's leering face framed by a noose, saying if I may, "Hey! This is going to be a funny, funny, movie."

A DEFINITE LAUGHER
This was the first incarnaction of Jack reading the phone book: You don't care what's being said because Jack's saying it. GOIN' SOUTH is so pointless it can't help but be funny. The scene where Jack devours the boiled chicken is hysterical (then dead panning to Mary Steenburgen, "How about a little DE-sert?"). I wonder how much of this film was off the script and how much was improved. GOIN' SOUTH isn't ground breaking comedy, but it is a definite laugher.

Give me more
Jack rocked this. He played his part perfectly. I laughed myself silly watching this movie. It was predictable but hell we all like a movie that touches home base every once in a while don't we. If you rent this movie you will probably want to buy it so just buy it first and watch it with style. A clear picture is worth an extra few bucks. VHS is fading away in front of your eyes.

Goin' South
I have watched this movie many times and never get tired of it. I have shown it to many of my friends and they all enjoy it. Jack Nicholson cracks me up every time. No-one could carry this part off as well. Watch this movie and be entertained as you want to be.

Missing some scenes and lines.
My wife and I both agree that the DVD seemed to be missing some scenes and lines, particularly "We don't need no stinkin' batches" by Belushi. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

It's The Feel Bad Movie Of The Year!
Dustin Hoffman in "Rain Man," Tom Hanks in "Forrest Gump" and Russell Crowe in "A Beautiful Mind" brilliantly portrayed mentally challenged characters, and each film won the Academy Award for Best Motion Picture. In this movie, Jim Belushi plays Homer, a mildly retarded man. He is portrayed as a pathetic caricature, not as a realistic character. Whoopie Goldberg plays Eddie, a patient that escaped from a mental institution, who is dying from an inoperable brain tumor. Spouting profanities and shooting clerks dead in a series of robberies, Eddie is one of the most unlikable characters ever created. Most disappointing of all, blonde bombshell Angelyne is only seen in a cameo lasting a few seconds. Jim Belushi and Whoopie Goldberg have no chemistry together, and their characters are too mismatched to make their growing friendship believable. This movie fails to create an emotional bond between the viewer and the characters. When Eddie is shot dead, the only thing I felt was relief, because I knew this film was finally coming to an end. "Homer And Eddie" should have won the Razzie Award for Worst Motion Picture Of The Year.

It's NOT a comedy movie !
Don't get mistaken. It is NOT a comedy movie. Rather a road movie with a bitter taste to it. As Whoopie Goldberg plays a vagrant with a tumor in her head which is slowly killing her and Belushi plays a retard who's in search of his parents who have left him behind in hospital 14 years ago.

This is rather a drama and shows superior acting skills by both main characters. Definitely worth an oscar (but never nominated). So don't go thinking this is a family movie that you can watch during christmas eve !! It is NOT.

Great Movie!!
If you like James Belushi and Whoopi Goldberg then you'll love this comedy that's about 2 travelers.It's a must see!! ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Wes Craven's least successful is his best
This movie was known as one of Wes Craven's least successful pictures. It is his best. A nice change. Why is it that he gets recognision for the garbage "Last House On The Left" and not this? You know, it seems actully this is a Steven Spielberg movie in a way. Unlike most trashy Craven movies (Nightmare On Elm Street, Last House On The Left, Shocker) he did good with this one, making a touching story about an experiment with less than positive results. I instantly fell in love with Kristy Swanson the moment she appeared. She is so beautiful in this movie. The way she looks would drive any boy crazy for her. I was 10 years old when this movie came out in 1986. I am now 23 and still cant take my eyes of her. Of course, she has grown up now, and does not look the same as she did in '86. Even when Swanson turns robot with a violent streak, I loved her-- so sweet, so cute, so beautiful. The movie itself is entertaining because it does not show Swanson in a typical horror movie role as a trashy teen, and instead potrays as the nicest, sweetest and beautiful girl next door. I like that. With a Spielberg shadow, this is Cravens' best. The supporting actors are not bad, but not up to Swanson's performance. Very nice, and a break from the "Scream" flicks made today. Note: Don't get me wrong, I liked the "Scream" movies!

Deadly Friend
One of my all time favorite horror movies this film deals with a new familiy in the neighborhood that includes a super intelligent robot that will defend his friends. When the abusive father of the girl next door accidently kills his daughter the robot's microchip seems the answer. Now it hard to tell where the girl ends and the robot begins as she seeks revenge on those who hurt both halves of her. A movie I truely wish would move to DVD in the future for its twist ending alone.

Boring
This is the only movie I have ever seen where the dialog is completely worthless. You can actually watch the entire movie, like I did, on fast-forward, and still understand what's going on. It's that dull. For starters, it takes 29 minutes for things to actually start happening. Very slow development. Too bad for a Wes Craven movie. I guess he should stick to "Freddy".

Deadly Friend
A wonderful movie I was proud to buy when the video store went out of business. Something that I think would sell well if put out on DVD. It deals with a genius boy whose family move to a new town with a robot that the boy built himself. When the neighbor's father accidently kills his daughter the boy plays modern day Frankenstein to bring her back with the use of the robots microchips. Now it hard to tell where the girl ends and the robot begins as both get revenge on those who harmed them in live.

The spirit of Samantha lives forever in our hearts.
Kristy Swanson deserved an Academy Award for her portrayal of the character 'Samantha'. So innocent, yet in so much pain. Pain endured alone in the home of an abusive father. Our hero lives next door to her, a child prodigy. A genius in the field of biology, chemistry, and mathematics. He is in classes far beyond his age group, yet he excels.

Samantha is physically abused by her father, all the classic symptoms are present; mysterious bruises, black eyes, and a shy, quiet demeanor. She will not tell anyone. One day her father goes to far and kills her, throwing her down a flight of stairs.

Oh rue the day of innocence and youth lost. How many of us knew a silent victim? How many of us were helpless to act? How many lost loves were never experienced because of circumstances that were above the realm of the average American teenager? I knew Samantha, a girl just like her. I could have acted, but didn't. That is why 'Deadly Fiend' will always have a special place in my heart.

Our hero, plays a junior Frankenstein upon his friend's death. He rebuilds her, brings her back to life. Will she avenge herself by killing her father? Will she be forever grateful and fall in love with our hero? Will she run off and become a sausage vendor in Wisconsin? I cannot give away the ending of this beautiful, modern Romeo & Juliet. To give away the ending in this review would be a disservice to you, kind reader.

For all the Samantha's of the world. I hope you grow up and salvage just a bit of your childhood for yourself. In a place deep in your heart that is yours alone. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great movie for kids, ages 10-15. They'll want to read it!
This movie is great! I read the book when I was in seventh grade called "Good Old Boy and the Witch of Yazoo" and this is a great adaptation. All kids will enjoy it, boys and girls. It has lots of adventure, comedy, and crazy stuff kids love. They'll be able to identify with the rough things that happen in childhood. The main character, a boy named Willie is a superb young actor who lives life to the fullest, has a special relationship with his aging grandfather, and even a budding first romance with a sweet little girl named Rivers! Perfect for people who loved Disney's "Huck Finn," "Annie," "The Sandlot" and other movies about kids starring kids, "The River Pirates" is a sure thing! A+++ ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Eagerly waiting
As soon as Amazon gets this video in, I'm ordering. I grew up watching wonder woman, and am deeply offended that today's little girls do not have that opportunity. This should be required syndication on a national level!

Yes, Lynda Carter was a beauty queen, but she was not airheaded or anorexic. Heck, she was an amazon who could and did save the day while getting the hot guy. Thankfully Wonder Woman's version of "girl power" would be way more Xena/Buffy than Spice Girls. Wonder Woman can hold her own in any sittuation.

Excluding the horrid Cathy Lee Crosby movie, the series was very well done for the time and still holds up. Wonder Woman is one of the greatest shows of all times, and needs to be offered as soon as possible.

Inspired casting
Let's face it, one look at Lynda Carter in the Wonder Woman suit is worth at least three stars. Tall, statuesque, and athletic looking --- especially for the 1970's --- putting her in this role was truly inspired casting.

The 1940's portion of the series was markedly better than the "modern" ones, and wears a bit better. Fighting Nazi supervillains was a better use of the character than the standard crime clichés of the later series. The Seventies cars and architecture date the later series more than these.

Except for the business about the belt being her weakness, as opposed to being handcuffed by a man, the TV show was markedly consistent with the comic book series. They didn't do enough with such things as the invisible plane, but it appears in these. They also didn't seem to find that much time onscreen for Wonder Woman as opposed to Diana Prince.

Still, this was probably the best adaptation of one of the classic superheroes, at least until the first -Superman- movie appeared a few years later. It deserves credit for that much.

WONDER WOMAN ON DVD?
It's really astonishing how an AMERICAN HERO has been ignored by the american movie makers. In England they have already issued Wonder Woman on DVD (I believe 3 episodes, so far).
I wish all of the episodes from the entire series would be available on DVD as soon as possible.
And perhaps a movie would be nice, possibly starring Linda Carter as Wonder Woman (she's still very pretty and young-looking); if not, she could, at least, succeed to her queen-mother's throne in the movie.
WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WONDER WOMAN ON DVD, just like we've had Spider Man, Charlie's Angels, The Hulk come-backs.

WW on DVD
Some people have complained that Wonder Woman isn't available on DVD -- well, it is in the UK. One volume (with 3 episodes) is available already, and a 2nd one is due to be released August 2003. The one that's out now features the pilot for the CBS series (which takes place in 1977) as opposed to the original pilot, featuring Wonder Woman in WW2. The 2nd episode is Anschluss '77, where an evil ex-Nazi scientist (are't all scientists evil??) brings back Adolf Hitler to life. The 3rd episode is The Man Who Moved The World, about an ex-Japanese prisoner of war who has developed telekinetic powers, and tries to kill Wonder Woman (will he? won't he?!) Re-live the fabulousness of the 70s, the clothes, the chest hair, and the wonderful, beautiful Lynda Carter. It's all slightly camp, but all the better for it. Buy it, and enjoy it (although the European PAL tv system may not work on American TVs)

Favorite Super Hero
I think it is about time they put Wonder Woman on DVD. I grew up watching the show and miss it. I see repeats on the Scfi channel but I want the whole series. Come on folks, bring it to DVD. It is way over due. I want my WW. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Weeds
A great movie! One of my all time favorites. Incredible acting by Nolte especially when he reads the letter giving him parole. The music is also incredible, who would have known William Forsythe had such a fantastic voice.

Saint Umstetter
When Weeds opened in late 1987, I saw it with a date, and we expected it to be nominated for a slew of Oscars, starting with star Nick Nolte. We wuz wrong; Weeds bombed. But the reason we expected such industry acclaim has not changed. Nick Nolte carries this story, which starts out as a black comedy about convict lifer Lee Umstetter's failed attempts at suicide. Lee starts to read, and writes jailhouse plays. When he gets paroled, thanks to a pretty reporter's campaign, the movie turns into a road story, as he and his old penitentiary buddies travel to college campuses (and penitentiaries) around the country, performing, backsliding, and getting to know their share of pretty, pampered, radical co-eds. The story is at turns poignantly dramatic, darkly comedic, and just goofy fun. Nolte is aided and abetted by a marvelous cast, most notably, Rita Taggart, William Forsythe, and Ernie Hudson. (Only years later would I discover that that face, so ubiquitous in pictures, was Hudson's.)

Why did Weeds bomb? For all of his personal problems, once the camera is running, Nick Nolte is a treasure. And though he was initially a national sensation in his role as Tom Jordache in 1976 in Rich Man, Poor Man (which prior to Roots, was the miniseries to end all miniseries), and had some early screen hits, the moviegoing public never fell in love with that rough, once-boyish face of his. That's a shame, because his performance as Ray Hicks in Karel Reisz' Who'll Stop the Rain (1978), gave us one of the great tragic heroes in all of moviedom in an intense, violent picture that has more depth than any ten slow, European art house flicks combined. He is brilliant as a racist cop in a terribly dishonest movie, Sidney Lumet's Q & A (1990). His depressed coach Tom Wingo, in The Prince of Tides (1991), was as good a portrayal of a wisecracking, but ultimately sensitive, disturbed character as you'll ever see. He's a riot as the homeless guy who makes out, in Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986). He carries the dark masterpiece, Mother Night (1996), which also bombed at the box office. And he is powerful as a man going to hell, in Affliction (1997), an otherwise overrated, pretentious movie. But that's the way it is. If he'd only been an obnoxious radical, a la Susan Sarandon, he'd have a fistful of nominations and an Oscar by now. Fortunately, savvy directors continue to give him good roles, if he can stay out of jail, and movie lovers can still buy or rent Who'll Stop the Rain, The Prince of Tides, Mother Night, Down and Out in Beverly Hills and ... Weeds. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

"Don't let him down."
In retrospect, it isn't hard to understand why Barbra chose to make this limp, embarrassingly unfunny farce. The arty UP THE SANDBOX had just flopped and the future prospects of the just completed THE WAY WE WERE were unknown. Deciding that her reputation as a movie superstar couldn't take another project that was a commercial risk, she agreed to star in FOR PETE'S SAKE, a woefully misguided attempt at modern screwball comedy. Basically, everything that WHAT'S UP, DOC? succeeded at brilliantly, FOR PETE'S SAKE fails at miserably. Not only are the characters annoying and the puns infantile, but FOR PETE'S SAKE commits the biggest crime known to comedy: it just ain't funny. Throughout all of the typical comedic mix-ups and chases, the viewer will find his or herself moaning rather than laughing.

Barbra tries her best to pump the film up with her undeniable comic gifts, but there's no inspiration in this sitcom-level script, so even her earnest portrayal gets lost amid the murk. Michael Sarrazin fares even worse due to his badly underwritten character, and he has no chemistry with Streisand. Unfortunately, the rest of the cast doesn't fare much better. True, veteran comedic actress Molly Picon has a few amusing bits as Ms. Cherry, but none of the other supporting players are able to break out of their one-note characters. However, when a screenplay is this labored and unfunny, you can't really blame any of the actors - they obviously did the best with what they were given. It's certain that Barbra wouldn't have made this film had she known that THE WAY WE WERE was going to be a blockbuster hit, however that is not a good enough reason to excuse the poor execution behind this picture.

There are fans who like to say that the contrived box office hit THE MAIN EVENT or the off-beat box office flop ALL NIGHT LONG are Barbra's weakest films, but I must strongly disagree. THE MAIN EVENT may have been tired and predictable, but at least it was funny overall, and Streisand did had chemistry with her leading man in that one. And though ALL NIGHT LONG may have not been a perfect film (the film's soggy mid-section is it's biggest flaw), but it had a charmingly odd-ball perspective that made the movie seem bizarrely endearing. FOR PETE'S SAKE has none of the things that make THE MAIN EVENT or ALL NIGHT LONG entertaining. It just stumbles on to the finale, getting progressively worse as it goes. While FOR PETE'S SAKE was actually a box office hit in it's day, in the end it no doubt had a more damaging effect on Barbra's career. It did nothing but provide fodder for the people who never liked her to begin with.

About the DVD: The picture quality is great, much better that I expected, and the sound is also fine. Yates' commentary track isn't very interesting (and has some long silences), but it's still a nice addition.

Barbra Arrives on DVD
It's nice to see more Barbra Streisand titles appearing on DVD. FOR PETE'S SAKE has arrived and although it is not one of Streisand's "classic" films, it is certainly entertaining -- and the DVD makes this 1970's film look great!

For starters, the disk comes with a letterbox presentation on one side and a full-screen presentation on the other. The menu is colorful and a funky 1970's design. The trailers included (WAY WE WERE, PRINCE OF TIDES, and the PETE'S trailer) are interesting. The Talent Files are brief. The colors and clarity of the picture look great to me.

As for the film, Barbra is very funny. She's in her fast-talking Brooklynese mode here. The plot is barely realistic, but that doesn't really matter because this is a romantic, screwball comedy. Actually, when you think about it, the story of a wife who prostitutes herself to pay for a loan is quite horrendous. But director Peter Yates somehow makes you forget this -- in his commentary (an extra audio track on the disk) he keeps saying "This movie is entertainment, it's supposed to be fun and not taken seriously."

Barbra sings the title song (the lyrics are a bit dated, but the song is fun) and wears a short Jon Peters-designed wig. Look for Barbra's longtime manager Marty Erlichman in a cameo. Also, praise should be given to Gene Callahan's production design. Streisand's apartment (although clearly out of her character's means) is gorgeous!

My favorite scene is when Barbra gets licked by the bull while driving a trailer. Barbra's laughs of disgust and amazement are quite hilarious.

Enjoy FOR PETE'S SAKE!

Aptly Titled
Avoid at all costs. Streisand at her most obnoxious, weaker material than a Nick-At-Nite "Facts Of Life" marathon. Wear a life preserver if you have to sit through it because it starts sinking right away.

For God's Sake!
Okay, what were the film folks thinking with regard to this picture? The commentary by the film's director was fun; the film in two formats was nice; but after almost 20 years, there is nothing new to this piece. The only upside is being able to burn on your personal CD player the opening title song, "For Pete's Sake" sung by Streisand. Where is the creative genius' behind these releases?

Barbara chewing scenery
This is not one of my favorite Barbara films. It's ok to watch on a dreqary Sunday afternoon. I'd much rather watch "What's Up, Doc?" or "Funny Girl" the latter of which has finally made it onto DVD.
This little film is basically about the bonds of marrriage and how love overcomes everything, including prostitution, larceny, goodfellas, porkbellies, stocks, snotty family members and Molly Picon!
Barbara plays Henry, whose husband Pete drives a cab by day and plays the stock market putting their savings into porkbellies. The stocks go belly up and Babrba is determined not to let Petes dreams join them. So, she goes from one silly plotline to another to try and get him the money, all the while putting them further in debt. Until the end when the porkbelly stock finally brings them their dreams.

AA sweet comedy with Barbra acting her face off trying her best to make the most of it. I truly hate her short hair in this movie, it distracts me. I hope that "What's Up, Doc?" and "On a Clear Day" get a great DVD treatment. Enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Inspired by O. Henry's short story about a young bride and groom, each of whom foolishly--but quite lovingly--sacrifices a treasured possession to buy the perfect Christmas gift for their mate. Amid a flurry of bustling New Yorkers clad in early-20th-century garb, O. Henry himself (David Wayne) sets the scene: Beth, a teenage orphan (Marie Osmond), comes to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle (the latter played by Donald Moffat). Her friendship with a cheerful kitchen maid soon leads to a stormy encounter with a handsome Swiss immigrant, Rudy (Timothy Bottoms). Despite Beth and Rudy's conflicting social statuses, and Beth's arranged engagement to a sickly bird watcher (a young James Woods, who truly fits the bill), the two fall in love and miraculously overcome these obstacles--all in about 95 minutes. Old-fashioned romance, elegant costumes, and a happy ending make this predictable story completely irresistible to those who love a good fairy tale--or to Osmond fans who fondly remember watching the movie on TV in 1978. Produced by the Osmond Brothers for PBS's American Short Story series. --Liane Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (18)

An oldie but a goodie
My brothers and sisters and I watched this movie over and over around christmas time. We loved it. It is a great movie with good values and a heart warming ending. It is a tv made movie based on the old charming story about the girl who cuts her hair to buy the man she loves a watch chain. While at the same time, he sells his watch to buy clips for her hair. It is old and so is the quality generally but worth it if you are interested in adding a wonderful family movie to your christmas collection that is sure to be a favorite for years to come! :)

Marie Osmond Is Wonderful in a Turn of the Century Story
Marie Osmond shot this film just after completing the film "Goin' Coconuts" with brother Donny. This film is based on the short story "Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. Marie plays "Beth" in the film, a rich orphan who is assigned to marriage in turn of the century New York. Beautiful period costumes and superb acting make this movie a Christmas classic! Shot entirely at Osmond Studios in Orem Utah in September-October 1978 for airing in December 1978.

GREAT MOVIE..MARIE OSMOND IS EXCEPTIONAL
THIS IS A GREAT MOVIE AND I WATCH IT EVERY CHRISTMAS..YOU SHOULD TOO WITH YOUR FAMILY. IT WAS MARIE OSMONDS DRAMATIC DEBUT AND SHE WAS REALLY GOOD..SHAME SHE NEVER MADE MORE MOVIES THAN THE 4 SHE DID..BUY IT YOU WONT BE DISAPPOINTED

This DVD is not closed-captioned despite what the box says..
Even though the box says it is closed-captioned (CC), I could not make captions show up on my computer using various software or on my portable DVD player. I finally came to the conclusion that the company evidently goofed not incorporating the captions in the DVD edition. I sent e-mail to the company that created it and they never replied.

Classic Christmas Romance
I saw this film way back when it first aired and loved it. Both leads are perfectly convincing as a charming couple in love.
I highly recommnend this to anyone looking for a sweet classic romantic film. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

OH MY G-D
I have seen this movie at least 100 times, and it is still as funny since the first time I watched it! Anne Ramsey is a remarkable actress and I don't believe she has ever performed like this before. The combination of Danny Devito and Billy Crystal couldn't have been pulled off by anyone else. They gave an outstanding performance in this film. The plot is absolutely fabulous and is more realistic than you might think because there are quite a few of us that have, at one time or another wanted to 'Throw Momma From the Train'. The picture quality might not have been the best, but with a story line as 'to the point' and commendable as this one....... Does it really matter?

A classic I grew up with
This is one of the movies I saw before I reached 12 in a tiny cinema and I loved it. I then forgot about it until this year when I found I had a copy of it taped from Cable TV in video library, I made some popcorn sat down and watched a very, very funny movie starring Billy Crystal and Danny Devito, and now it's coming to the DVD format.

Throw Momma From The Train is a classic comedy in which an aspiring man Owen (Devito) wishes to kill his mother who treats him bad. He channels his energy into his writing, for which he takes a class led by Billy Crystal, to which he lets him in on the plan to get rid of Momma.

I can't say any more fearing I would spoil this great, great movie for you all, it simply is a must-see, and definately a must own.

A little dissapointing that the DVD doesn't have an Audio Commentary either by Crystal, Devito, or the Director, but nevertheless, at this price, with scene access, crystal (no pun intended) transfer, and something I'm looking forward to: Deleted Scenes, It is really a crime if you don't pick up this title.

It really is funny, and has a place in my heart, so if you have seen it, click add to cart, if you haven't, get down to the video store, rent it, kick back with some popcorn, and prepare to enjoy some of the best comedy the 80's had to offer.

The story of Owen Lift's momma
Danny DeVito directed and starred in this film about Owen Lift's elderly and senile momma. Owen(DeVito) takes a literature class given by Larry Donner(Billy Crystal). Momma(the late Anne Ramsey) is frequently annoyed by the striking of Owen's typewriter(the kind used was a manual with typebar assembly). He wants to kill her in the worst way. She survives the poison given to her(Pepsi with lye). The lye softened her up mentally! But that doesn't last long. She resumes being her bitchy self. Kate Mulgrew is Larry's ex-wife who's a novelist like her ex-husband. Larry hears on the radio that she was missing and presumed dead. Margaret,the ex-wife promotes her new novel on Oprah Winfrey,who appears as herself. Kim Greist is Larry's girlfriend Beth Ryan. Jazz musician Branford Marsalis is Larry's buddy Lester. Marsalis,a saxophonist,even plays in the film. After seeing a murder movie,Owen suggests that Larry kill Momma,and Owen kill Margaret. Rob Reiner,Crystal's longtime buddy is Joel,Larry's agent. Joel quit representing Larry. Memorable scenes include when Larry introduces Owen to Beth,Larry tells her,"Owen is a dead man!". Owen suddenly appeared in a moment of passion between Larry and Beth. Momma calls the police to report Larry murdered his ex-wife. That's when Larry,Owen and Momma are on a train to God knows where. Larry is physically evicted by Momma from the moving train,resulting in hospitalization. Following his discharge,Larry finally musters up the courage to proceed with his novel which he initially began months ago. A year passed,and Owen phones Larry at a booth near Larry's apartment("Look out your window!"). The two wave to each other and Larry invites Owen in. Momma had died of natural causes. Owen wrote a book entitled "Owen,Momma and Owen's friend Larry". Owen is about to fly to New York to promote the book. There is nothing violent in the book,according to Owen. It tells about what the three did together in the film,them taking a picnic and Owen,Larry and Beth on vacation. Margaret becomes engaged to an Oriental man who revived her when she was drowning. Bruce Kirby(Bruno's father) appears in the film as detective who investigates the rumoured murder at Owen's home.

So Funny I Had To Own It
There is no reason that I would ever want this movie on DVD. There is nothing special. A trailer and extra scene... However There was one reason I did buy this on DVD and that is that it was the funniest movie I had ever seen. This is Dark humor and to me there is no better humor.

NO Comedy Greater
Wow there is no words that describe how hard I laughed when I watched it. After that I could not stop renting it and then I had to buy it. Get it or loose out. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

I Love Zane Busby!!!
Wacky! Goofy! Stoooopid!!! Fun! This slasher film parody has me in stitches everytime I watch it. Zane Busby as the cripple who sold her soul to the devil is one of the best character performers of all time. Her facial expressions and side comments crack me up. The late Ann Ramsey (Throw Mama From The Train)as the cafeteria worker brings back memories(?) of mystery meat lunches and creamed whatever that green goop was as part of the high school nutrition program. The few off-color bits in the film are done well and not disgusting or shocking. I've heard and seen worse on late night talk shows! All we needed now was to have Elvira show up as the guidance councillor or school nurse! A job well done on DVD.

Little known but funny
Little known and little remembered except by those who used to watch HBO in the 80's. An early spoof of slasher movies, Class Reunion stands out for the very funny cast of well known character actors.

Hilarious
This movie is so funny! Totally corny, but take it and all other National Lampoon films with a grain of salt. I have fond memories of watching this with my mom and little brother when I was 10 or so. I just saw it again the other night on cable and you definitely need to watch the unedited version to get all the laughs out of it!

A GREAT MOVIE
National Lampoon's Class Reunion is an excellent movie.The actors are good and the plot is twisted!A must see for all Natonal Lampoon movie lovers!

Class Reunion Rocks
National Lampoon's Class Reunion is a murder mystery with a slight twist -- a comic one. The entire movie is a series of funny quips and happenings, making the movie-watcher laugh until their sides ache. Class Reunion is set in an old closed-up school where they are currently having their class reunion, and the people are hilarious, from the snobs to the exchange student from Transylvania. Suddenly people start getting murdered, and the entire party breaks up to find the culprit. The ending is quite a surprise, and I think you will enjoy it as much as I do. There are a few big names in this movie, but at that time they were so young, it's strange to see them. All in all, this movie is great, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to watch it. Compared to all the other National Lampoon movies, I would say it is most like Animal House with it's comedy. I would rate it as one of the classics of the 80's! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

I Love Zane Busby!!!
Wacky! Goofy! Stoooopid!!! Fun! This slasher film parody has me in stitches everytime I watch it. Zane Busby as the cripple who sold her soul to the devil is one of the best character performers of all time. Her facial expressions and side comments crack me up. The late Ann Ramsey (Throw Mama From The Train)as the cafeteria worker brings back memories(?) of mystery meat lunches and creamed whatever that green goop was as part of the high school nutrition program. The few off-color bits in the film are done well and not disgusting or shocking. I've heard and seen worse on late night talk shows! All we needed now was to have Elvira show up as the guidance councillor or school nurse! A job well done on DVD.

Little known but funny
Little known and little remembered except by those who used to watch HBO in the 80's. An early spoof of slasher movies, Class Reunion stands out for the very funny cast of well known character actors.

Hilarious
This movie is so funny! Totally corny, but take it and all other National Lampoon films with a grain of salt. I have fond memories of watching this with my mom and little brother when I was 10 or so. I just saw it again the other night on cable and you definitely need to watch the unedited version to get all the laughs out of it!

A GREAT MOVIE
National Lampoon's Class Reunion is an excellent movie.The actors are good and the plot is twisted!A must see for all Natonal Lampoon movie lovers!

Class Reunion Rocks
National Lampoon's Class Reunion is a murder mystery with a slight twist -- a comic one. The entire movie is a series of funny quips and happenings, making the movie-watcher laugh until their sides ache. Class Reunion is set in an old closed-up school where they are currently having their class reunion, and the people are hilarious, from the snobs to the exchange student from Transylvania. Suddenly people start getting murdered, and the entire party breaks up to find the culprit. The ending is quite a surprise, and I think you will enjoy it as much as I do. There are a few big names in this movie, but at that time they were so young, it's strange to see them. All in all, this movie is great, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to watch it. Compared to all the other National Lampoon movies, I would say it is most like Animal House with it's comedy. I would rate it as one of the classics of the 80's! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

"Don't let him down."
In retrospect, it isn't hard to understand why Barbra chose to make this limp, embarrassingly unfunny farce. The arty UP THE SANDBOX had just flopped and the future prospects of the just completed THE WAY WE WERE were unknown. Deciding that her reputation as a movie superstar couldn't take another project that was a commercial risk, she agreed to star in FOR PETE'S SAKE, a woefully misguided attempt at modern screwball comedy. Basically, everything that WHAT'S UP, DOC? succeeded at brilliantly, FOR PETE'S SAKE fails at miserably. Not only are the characters annoying and the puns infantile, but FOR PETE'S SAKE commits the biggest crime known to comedy: it just ain't funny. Throughout all of the typical comedic mix-ups and chases, the viewer will find his or herself moaning rather than laughing.

Barbra tries her best to pump the film up with her undeniable comic gifts, but there's no inspiration in this sitcom-level script, so even her earnest portrayal gets lost amid the murk. Michael Sarrazin fares even worse due to his badly underwritten character, and he has no chemistry with Streisand. Unfortunately, the rest of the cast doesn't fare much better. True, veteran comedic actress Molly Picon has a few amusing bits as Ms. Cherry, but none of the other supporting players are able to break out of their one-note characters. However, when a screenplay is this labored and unfunny, you can't really blame any of the actors - they obviously did the best with what they were given. It's certain that Barbra wouldn't have made this film had she known that THE WAY WE WERE was going to be a blockbuster hit, however that is not a good enough reason to excuse the poor execution behind this picture.

There are fans who like to say that the contrived box office hit THE MAIN EVENT or the off-beat box office flop ALL NIGHT LONG are Barbra's weakest films, but I must strongly disagree. THE MAIN EVENT may have been tired and predictable, but at least it was funny overall, and Streisand did had chemistry with her leading man in that one. And though ALL NIGHT LONG may have not been a perfect film (the film's soggy mid-section is it's biggest flaw), but it had a charmingly odd-ball perspective that made the movie seem bizarrely endearing. FOR PETE'S SAKE has none of the things that make THE MAIN EVENT or ALL NIGHT LONG entertaining. It just stumbles on to the finale, getting progressively worse as it goes. While FOR PETE'S SAKE was actually a box office hit in it's day, in the end it no doubt had a more damaging effect on Barbra's career. It did nothing but provide fodder for the people who never liked her to begin with.

About the DVD: The picture quality is great, much better that I expected, and the sound is also fine. Yates' commentary track isn't very interesting (and has some long silences), but it's still a nice addition.

Barbra Arrives on DVD
It's nice to see more Barbra Streisand titles appearing on DVD. FOR PETE'S SAKE has arrived and although it is not one of Streisand's "classic" films, it is certainly entertaining -- and the DVD makes this 1970's film look great!

For starters, the disk comes with a letterbox presentation on one side and a full-screen presentation on the other. The menu is colorful and a funky 1970's design. The trailers included (WAY WE WERE, PRINCE OF TIDES, and the PETE'S trailer) are interesting. The Talent Files are brief. The colors and clarity of the picture look great to me.

As for the film, Barbra is very funny. She's in her fast-talking Brooklynese mode here. The plot is barely realistic, but that doesn't really matter because this is a romantic, screwball comedy. Actually, when you think about it, the story of a wife who prostitutes herself to pay for a loan is quite horrendous. But director Peter Yates somehow makes you forget this -- in his commentary (an extra audio track on the disk) he keeps saying "This movie is entertainment, it's supposed to be fun and not taken seriously."

Barbra sings the title song (the lyrics are a bit dated, but the song is fun) and wears a short Jon Peters-designed wig. Look for Barbra's longtime manager Marty Erlichman in a cameo. Also, praise should be given to Gene Callahan's production design. Streisand's apartment (although clearly out of her character's means) is gorgeous!

My favorite scene is when Barbra gets licked by the bull while driving a trailer. Barbra's laughs of disgust and amazement are quite hilarious.

Enjoy FOR PETE'S SAKE!