Reviews (74)

All about the Bolger sisters (and Samantha Morton)
'In America' is a quasi-autobiographical work penned by director Jim Sheridan and daughters Naomi and Kirsten (herself a director). I added "quasi" because a little research turns up that Jim Sheridan had a brother Frankie who passed away in tragic circumstances (I'm not giving anything away by telling you that). That character woven into the 'In America' story in conjunction with the story that is obviously the current Sheridan family's own: Irish mother and father with two young girls in tow trying to make it as immigrants in a hardscrabble NYC neighborhood in the early eighties.

Real-life sisters Sarah and Emma Bolger play what are obviously the on-screen portrayals of Sheridan siblings Kirsten and Naomi. Emma - playing younger sister Ariel - is adorable right from the get go. Older sister Sarah is the mature, world-weary (but still sweet) Christy. When she tells her father "I've been carrying this family on my back for over a year," believe it. And don't miss her stark, beautiful rendering of 'Desperado.' Perfect.

In case you can't tell, I was enchanted by these two girls. But Samantha Morton is a treat, too. She was wonderful but obscured as the pre-cog in the fine Cruise/Spielberg film 'Minority Report.' Here, she's front and center and luminous.

Fanciful but Poignant Story of Recovery. And a Great Cast.
An Irish family, grief-stricken after the death of their young son, moves to New York City to start their lives afresh. With little to their names besides the clothes on their backs, Sarah (Samantha Morton), Johnny (Paddy Constantine), and their two daughters, Christy (Sarah Bolger) and Ariel (Emma Bolger), move into a run-down tenement occupied mostly by drug addicts and misfits. The girls make the acquaintance of a reclusive African artist (Djimon Hounsou) who lives downstairs from them, and that unusual friendship helps see the family through their grief and recover their hope for the future and for each other.

"In America" was inspired by two events in the life of its writer and director, Jim Sheridan. Sheridan's brother died when he was a child, and, as an adult, he illegally immigrated with his family to New York in the 1980s. Sheridan has combined these two seminal events into one generation with the help of his two daughters, Naomi and Kirsten Sheridan, who contributed their childhood memories to the screenplay. "In America" is the story of a family that deals with great loss by uprooting itself and making a new life in an entirely different environment. Already emotionally estranged from one another, they become strangers in a new world. Once a working class family in Ireland, they now struggle with poverty in New York. And this somehow cures their ills. While I was watching this film, I was captivated by its dreamlike quality and impressed with the terrific cast. The story is narrated by Christy, a precocious 10-year-old who documents her world and her feelings with her ever-present camcorder. The actresses who play Christy and her younger sister Ariel really are sisters, and they give some of the most charming and impressive performances by child actors that I have ever seen. Samantha Morton is also particularly good as their broken-hearted mother, Sarah. The character that serves as a catalyst for emotional change, Mateo, the artist downstairs, is little more than a cliché, although Djimon Hounsou plays him well. After I had thought about the film for a few hours, I began to realize that the story is more contrived than I had originally noticed. Mateo is far from being the only cliché, and living in destitution doesn't provide opportunities for emotional epiphanies. It is, in fact, very dangerous, exhausting, and depressing. But as I counted "In America"'s contrivances and preposterous elements, I was also struck by the fact that I wasn't inclined to think about them as I was watching the movie. That's because "In America"'s dreamlike quality and its engaging performances overcome its lapses in credibility. I don't know that this film is supposed to be literally believable. The family's emotional journey is poignant and rings of truth. The details are a little fantastic. But it is told through the memories of a child, which may partly explain its uneven realism. Memory is highly subjective, in any case; its only what one person noticed and clung to. I recommend "In America" for its fine performances and its unique and slightly fanciful perspective.

sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings
This story, about an Irish family that immigrates to Manhattan after the death of a son, is a sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings.

What I liked best about the movie were the very strong performances by the two young girls and the neighbor, Mateo.

On the down side, I sometimes found the Irish accents hard to understand and details were sometimes unrealistic.

The story wasn't strong enough for me to consider it outstanding, but it's an interesting watch, a nice change of pace from Hollywood and a good family film.

Thoughtful...Emotional...Powerful
This is a film that will haunt for some time. The acting is superb; the script well-written. It is a true gem, quite different from Hollywood fare.

American Dreams
In America is a caring movie about an American dream that comes true. It's a sweet movie, with great acting from everyone. A true joy. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When her father is declared missing in action during World War I, Elsie Wrigth (Florence Hoath) goes to live in England with her cousin Frances Griffiths (Elizabeth Earl) for whom the topic of fairies is forbidden. Immediately, the girls discover the winged creatures in the garden and photograph them for Frances's startled parents. This leads to another kind of adventure for the girls. They become the toasts of London as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Peter O'Toole) and Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel), who have seen the photographs, escort them around town. Mildly villainous reporters chase the girls and curious spectators invade their garden after the pictures are printed publicly.

Although fairies are the visible subjects, the enchanting video is really about faith. Frances's parents (Phoebe Nicholls and Paul McGann) recently lost their son, Joseph, who had originally discovered the fairies and would like to think he may be an angel. Sir Arthur also lost his son and is courted by clairvoyants who claim they can talk to the boy. Elsie waits patiently for her father to come home, although it appears hopeless that he will. Harry Houdini is an illusionist but acts against the fraudulent claims of greedy mediums and the like. They are all touched by a need to truly believe in what remains hidden. The story is very loosely based on an early 20th-century controversy involving the real Frances and Elsie who faked pictures of fairies similar to the ones in the video. The real girls never confessed, but the video suggests the manner in which the real life photos may have been produced. --Margaret Griffis ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"If You Believe in Fairies...Clap Your Hands!"
I saw "Fairy Tale - A True Story", when it had it's theatrical release and I was utterly charmed and moved by this wonderful movie. I am so glad that it has finally been released to the DVD format.The story is based upon the true life events surrounding the famous and sensational 'Cottingly fairies photographs'.The film takes place during the dark days of WWI Britain. A young Elsie Wright (Florence Hoath) is sent off to live with relatives, because her father is 'missing in action'.Elsie becomes fast friends with her twelve year old, cousin, Frances (Elizebeth Earl) both of whom seem to have a playful fascination with the subject of fairies. One day the girls borrow an old camera and go off to a local brook to take pictures. When the photographs are later developed, they show images of what seem to be real, live fairies!Through a series of events the photographs fall into the famous hands of Sherlock Holmes Writer, Sir Author Conan Doyle (Pete O'Toole) and Magician & Escape Artist, Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel). Doyle publishes the photographs in a national magazine and causes a sensation throughout the country.Are the pictures real or did these two young girls pull off the hoax of the century? The movie puts it's own twist on the facts and attempts to come up with some very interesting answers.Director, Charles Sturridge and Screen Writer, Ernie Contreras have created a magical and moving film about the subject of faith. Sometimes if you believe in something hard enough, maby it can come true. This is found throughout the film. It applies to everything from the belief in the unseen (such as fairies, spirits of love ones), the return of a father, or even the faith needed to win a brutal war.The acting in this movie is splendid.I especially like the casting of the two girls (Florence Hoath & Elizebeth Earl). Even in the unusual situations, that occur, they both act like normal, everyday, children. Not a false note in their performances.The film's special effects are also great. They are well done and realistic (flying miniature fairies), yet do not overwhelm the story.This is greatly aided by cinematographer , Michael Coulter's beautiful photography, which highlights both the colors found in nature (the woods and brook) and the light and darkness of urban, Victorian England. All these elements come together to make a wonderful fantasy film, which I highly recommend!

"Fairytale:A True Story" absolutely wonderful-A MUST SEE!
For young and old alike,this delightful film has it all! Based on the true story of two young girls who claim to have seen fairies in England during WW1,"Fairytale:A True Story" features superb acting throughout,especially Elizabeth Earl and Florence Hoath as Francis Griffiths and Elsie Wright, whose fairy sightings stir up quite a bit of controversy throughout wartime England. Among the people caught up in the excitement are Sir Arthur Conan Doyle,brilliantly portrayed by Peter O"Toole and Harry Houdini,featuring Harvey Keitel in one of his finest performances. Paul McGann and Phobe Nicols are also wonderful as Elsie's parents. I really can't say enough about this film. Brilliantly cast and beautifully photographed,it is enchanting entertainment from beginning to end. The film score is even well worth the price if you can still find the CD! This film is not your average children's movie and I have read alot of reviews that ask weather this film was aimed at children or adults.This could very well be why it was not more of a commercial success.A pity, because I believe this film offers something for all ages.I also regret that I have not seen Florence Hoath in many other roles,save for "The Governess" and I haven't seen Elizabeth Earl at all-they deserve more recognition!

Don't Let This One Pass By
This amazing film is about two little girls who, with no photographic experience, take photos of Fairies. Kodak examines the photos and says they are untouched, but refuses to acknowledge the existance if these little sprites. In come two of my personal heroes, Sherlock Holmes, because he believes the girls, and Harry Houdini, because he dosn't believe them.
But, reguardless, if you believe, you will be facinated. If you do not believe, you might, just for a moment, question that belief.
Either way, do NOT miss this film!

HORRIBLE
if youre getting this movie for your kid, or any kid, save them the misery. i remember seeing this movie the day it came out, and it was so awful i fell asleep, along with about 5 other kids in the theater. it was by far the WORST movie i have ever seen in my entire life, even worse than that planet of the apes movie. and trust me, i have seen almost every movie that comes out. spare your kids the pain and spare yourself some money. DONT get this movie for them.

Charming little movie
This movie is a gentle story, one that the whole family can watch. Doesn't have much in the way of action, vulgarity or even scimpily dressed faires. The fairies are not a huge part of this story anyway. The story is about two young cousins who concoct a tale about some fairy sightings. This "true" story happened during WWI in England. The story also shows what happens to a small country town when they receive some unwanted publicity after the girls' photos are anonymously published in a leading magazine. It is an interesting tale, charming and cute. People who like trashy, faster movies won't like this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Henry James's classic ghoststory of psychological suspense provides the basis for this Masterpiece Theatre presentation.Jodhi May, with her warm and open demeanor, is perfectly cast as "Miss," the generically named governess at a grand British estate. Her charges are two seemingly angelic little orphans. Miss can't believe her good fortune at landing such a delightful job. "Am I dreaming?" she asks kindly, corpulent housekeeper Mrs. Grose (Pam Ferris). But dream turns to nightmare as the house's spectral inhabitants reveal themselves to her. Miss becomes obsessed with protecting her precious "little creatures" from the vile phantasms. The movie is satisfyingly spooky and makes us jump in all the right places. The children, Flora (Grace Robinson) and Miles (Joe Sowerbutts), are genuinely creepy. "When I'm bad, Miss, I really am extremely bad," asserts little Miles, and we believe him. This provocative adaptation of The Turn of the Screw breathes new life into James's morbid Victorian obsession with sexuality and morality. --Laura Mirsky ... Read more

Reviews (5)

It Must Be Me!
I want to be fair to this movie, but I must preface my remarks with the fact that, admittedly, I thought it was absolutely spineless and horrid. But in fairness, I have never read the book, and am unfamiliar with James as an author.

I think that the problem must be in me, because all other reviews said the movie was sterling. I, however, did not actually understand it. Perhaps I will muster up the strength to view it again, but it did nothing for me, left me with no take-away value, disappointed and blue.

I do not think that the Governess May ever connected with the children. But was she supposed to? It appeared that she was enamored with them, but they never bonded to her. This was confusing to me, for it appeared that she was maniacal, obsessed with fighting for children she supposedly loved, but appreared to have no real clear connection with. Yes, I know it is dubbed a psychological thriller. I need to pull out my Psychology books for this one. Or read the book. In my ignorance, the film made no sense to me. Being a screenwriter myself, if nothing else, the movie taught me great lessons about what I do not want in my films.

I had not done my homework, also, in fairness. I thought that Colin Firth had more of a role in the film, which was my first disappointment. I was hoping to see him throughout the film, which did not happen. I literally was clueless throughout the entire film.

I did not understand the servant who seemed to know all that Governess May mentioned, who the ghosts were, etc., but who still seemed obsure, suspicious herself. I did not understand the function of the ghosts, or their connection to everything else going on. You see----I obviously missed the film's entire essence.

As I said, it must be me. This type of movie, though fraught with some great moments of suspense and wonder, and cinematic triumphs in the sense of great shots, still held no greatness to me. The end was a major disappointment. Obviously dark movies are not my favorites. Don't look at this one uninformed. Read up on its plot beforehand.

Henry James would have approved.
I have seen several versions of Henry James' classic thriller "The Turn of the Screw" on film, but this one is the best yet. It was as if the image in my mind when I read the story was suddenly transfered to the screen. The film is perfectly cast, especially Jodhi May as "Miss" the governess. She gives a very strong performance. The soundtrack is haunting, the cinematography spectral - this is just a great film. Henry James would have aproved - I can't put it any stronger than that.

CHILLING HORROR
Any adaptation of a literary work to the screen runs the risk of coming across as too shallow. Such is not the case in Mobile Masterpiece Theatre's presentation of "The Turn of the Screw". You are immediately drawn into the psychological horror with its varied twists and turns that leads to who knows where?

Identify with the naive character who is given the responsibility to manage the family affairs of a young bachelor who refuses to be bothered with his niece and nephew. Beguiled by his sexually powerful aura, our herione takes on the task. She meets perfectly sweet children in Flora and Miles. Miles in particular is precocious. He is also very adept at playing power games that go beyond that of a child having his or her way. She has the perfect job but there is an unsettling sense of evil in the manor. Ghosts of the former governess and valet haunt the scene and "Miss" becomes unglued but ever ready to "save" her charges.

The psychological changes she goes through hits home. Is she mad? Have these ghost pocessed this children? How is it that a ten year old boy sounds and acts like a mature man making a pass at her? How "Miss" solves this mystery yet managing to keep her mind intact is the great challenge. Jodhi May does a splendid job in her performance as she battles evil that has enveloped the children. Truly this is a psychological drama befitting our attention. Its horror as to what has been done to the children is horrifying. Journey with the character through this dilema. At the beginning of this drama we are given an introduction as to the background of this story by James. Setting it in its context makes it all the more chilling for is it indeed fact or fiction? You decide.

Excellent
This is the best version of "Turn of the Screw" that I've seen (so far I've seen four versions). You may remember Jodhi May from her quiet role in "Last of the Mohicans". Again she has delivered a very subtle and beautiful performance. If you're even thinking of getting this video, I guarantee you won't be disappointed. I was hanging on the edge of my seat and I've already read and seen other versions of this story. Well done!

Compelling Adaptation of Henry James' Classic
"The Turn of the Screw" is as much a psychological thriller as it is a ghost story. This Masterpiece Theatre adaptation is, for the most part, very faithful to Henry James' text, although it does add some interesting interpretive touches. "Miss" (portrayed by the wonderful Jodhi May, with just the right mix of toughness and vulnerability) is a young governess discovering her identity and her way in the world for the first time. Her interview with Bly's owner, which is mentioned only in passing by James, is portrayed at length here, with a powerful sense of sexual tension between the youthful "Miss" and the sophisicated lord of the estate. Indeed, there is a palpable sense of sexual tension and repression throughout this version, although it is very discreetly and tastefully handled. The appearances of "the ghosts" are unsettling without being melodramatic or corny. I recommend this version to any fan of James' text, and it would make an excellent addition to the video libraries of high schools and universities. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Bean in his element...
This series is amazing! A must for any true fan of Sean Bean. If you loved his portrayal of Boromir in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, be prepared for more daring-do and fantastic sword play! This series is set in Napoleonic times, and Bean plays a soldier in the British army. He's definitely earned his heartthrob status in the role of Richard Sharpe. But the secondary characters are nothing to scoff at, either. A great cast and a killer storyline, romance, betrayal, spies, intrigue and a few of the odd comical elements combine to produce a feature length episode you'll have to own. For history buffs, Bean fans, LOTR fans, or anyone interested in a marvelous storyline.

EXCITING STUFF
this is actually the first episode of Sharpe's that i've ever seen, and i found it lots of fun, filled with action and Sean Bean. The production quality is great. The casting is very good as well, especially in Sharpe's company. Must admit that i came to this series as a fan of Mr. Bean, and am in no way disappointed.

Sword of Honor
One of my favorite Sharpe books and definitely one of the better adaptations, even though the action is transferred from Salamanca to the ficitious(?) Villafranca and the romantic subplot involving a novice nun is best forgotten. Sharpe is assigned the task of tracking down Colonel Leroux, who is after Wellington's chief spy, El Mirador - a task complicated by the fact that Sharpe isn't even told who El Mirador is. Sharpe must also contend with an old enemy returned and a traitor to be uncovered, even as he is gravely wounded during the assault on Villafranca, and hovers between life and death...

Sharpe's Sword is great from beginning to end - never skipping a beat, even if there is that annoying nun in the background. Sharpe, Harper and the rest of the supporting cast are in fine form, and a top-notch set of guest stars including Jack Spears, Father Curtis and Colonel Berkeley round it off. Leroux is suitably slimy and deadly, and the climatic sword fight one of the more brutal I've seen in the series. All this, and Sir Henry Simmerson (from Sharpe's Company) too. And of course, Harper dipping into grail lore by forging Sharpe a new sword out of loyalty and love. A must-watch. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"If You Believe in Fairies...Clap Your Hands!"
I saw "Fairy Tale - A True Story", when it had it's theatrical release and I was utterly charmed and moved by this wonderful movie. I am so glad that it has finally been released to the DVD format.The story is based upon the true life events surrounding the famous and sensational 'Cottingly fairies photographs'.The film takes place during the dark days of WWI Britain. A young Elsie Wright (Florence Hoath) is sent off to live with relatives, because her father is 'missing in action'.Elsie becomes fast friends with her twelve year old, cousin, Frances (Elizebeth Earl) both of whom seem to have a playful fascination with the subject of fairies. One day the girls borrow an old camera and go off to a local brook to take pictures. When the photographs are later developed, they show images of what seem to be real, live fairies!Through a series of events the photographs fall into the famous hands of Sherlock Holmes Writer, Sir Author Conan Doyle (Pete O'Toole) and Magician & Escape Artist, Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel). Doyle publishes the photographs in a national magazine and causes a sensation throughout the country.Are the pictures real or did these two young girls pull off the hoax of the century? The movie puts it's own twist on the facts and attempts to come up with some very interesting answers.Director, Charles Sturridge and Screen Writer, Ernie Contreras have created a magical and moving film about the subject of faith. Sometimes if you believe in something hard enough, maby it can come true. This is found throughout the film. It applies to everything from the belief in the unseen (such as fairies, spirits of love ones), the return of a father, or even the faith needed to win a brutal war.The acting in this movie is splendid.I especially like the casting of the two girls (Florence Hoath & Elizebeth Earl). Even in the unusual situations, that occur, they both act like normal, everyday, children. Not a false note in their performances.The film's special effects are also great. They are well done and realistic (flying miniature fairies), yet do not overwhelm the story.This is greatly aided by cinematographer , Michael Coulter's beautiful photography, which highlights both the colors found in nature (the woods and brook) and the light and darkness of urban, Victorian England. All these elements come together to make a wonderful fantasy film, which I highly recommend!

"Fairytale:A True Story" absolutely wonderful-A MUST SEE!
For young and old alike,this delightful film has it all! Based on the true story of two young girls who claim to have seen fairies in England during WW1,"Fairytale:A True Story" features superb acting throughout,especially Elizabeth Earl and Florence Hoath as Francis Griffiths and Elsie Wright, whose fairy sightings stir up quite a bit of controversy throughout wartime England. Among the people caught up in the excitement are Sir Arthur Conan Doyle,brilliantly portrayed by Peter O"Toole and Harry Houdini,featuring Harvey Keitel in one of his finest performances. Paul McGann and Phobe Nicols are also wonderful as Elsie's parents. I really can't say enough about this film. Brilliantly cast and beautifully photographed,it is enchanting entertainment from beginning to end. The film score is even well worth the price if you can still find the CD! This film is not your average children's movie and I have read alot of reviews that ask weather this film was aimed at children or adults.This could very well be why it was not more of a commercial success.A pity, because I believe this film offers something for all ages.I also regret that I have not seen Florence Hoath in many other roles,save for "The Governess" and I haven't seen Elizabeth Earl at all-they deserve more recognition!

Don't Let This One Pass By
This amazing film is about two little girls who, with no photographic experience, take photos of Fairies. Kodak examines the photos and says they are untouched, but refuses to acknowledge the existance if these little sprites. In come two of my personal heroes, Sherlock Holmes, because he believes the girls, and Harry Houdini, because he dosn't believe them.
But, reguardless, if you believe, you will be facinated. If you do not believe, you might, just for a moment, question that belief.
Either way, do NOT miss this film!

HORRIBLE
if youre getting this movie for your kid, or any kid, save them the misery. i remember seeing this movie the day it came out, and it was so awful i fell asleep, along with about 5 other kids in the theater. it was by far the WORST movie i have ever seen in my entire life, even worse than that planet of the apes movie. and trust me, i have seen almost every movie that comes out. spare your kids the pain and spare yourself some money. DONT get this movie for them.

Charming little movie
This movie is a gentle story, one that the whole family can watch. Doesn't have much in the way of action, vulgarity or even scimpily dressed faires. The fairies are not a huge part of this story anyway. The story is about two young cousins who concoct a tale about some fairy sightings. This "true" story happened during WWI in England. The story also shows what happens to a small country town when they receive some unwanted publicity after the girls' photos are anonymously published in a leading magazine. It is an interesting tale, charming and cute. People who like trashy, faster movies won't like this one. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Sharpe as always
Sharpe's Battle is significant because of a couple of things - it is based on the only Bernard Cornwell Sharpe novel to be written while the series was in production, and in it Sharpe not only doesn't get the girl, he turns her down! It is 1813, and when Wellington is assigned the Spanish Royal Irish Guards, a motely bunch who have never fired a musket, he decides to rid himself of them by assigning them the hardest taskmaster he knows - Major Richard Sharpe. However, there are a couple of complications with Wellington's plan: one, Sharpe gets to actually *like* the Irish guards and wants to turn them into soldiers, and Sharpe is also the target of a vendetta by the villanous General Guy Loup, a Frenchman with a wolf fetish. Add to this mix the teetering marriage of Lord Kiely, the guards' commander, his sinister mistress Juanita, and reports of English atrocities in Ireland threatening to start a mutiny and you have the makings of a classic Sharpe adventure.

My main problem with the Sharpe TV series as a whole is that the budget doesn't really allow for the huge battles Cornwell describes. Where in the novel the action takes place in 1811 around the battle for Fuentes de Onoro, the TV version places it in a little town with no real consequence to the war at large. However, this is forgiveable because the acting and the dialogue is top notch. Even if the plot elements are predictable, you get a set of great characters, and even Lord Kiely is more three-dimensional than you initially give him credit for. And if you're a follower of the series, be prepared - one regular is going to bite the dust. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Not impressed
The acting was okay and the story concept (British Army version of Horatio Hornblower) was good. I had the following problems with this DVD:

1. The picture quality was not good.

2. The DVD had a very annoying introduction which is supposed to make us aware of what a wonderful fellow Sharpe is (complete with annoying song). I didn't mind listening to it once, but I was exasperated to find out that each time I started watching the movie, I had to sit through it all over again!

3. I didn't like Sharpe's love interest. In my opinion, a woman who uses her sex appeal to lure soldiers to their death by stabbing them is close to being a psychopath.

4. The conflict with the evil sergeant was a bit ludicrous. Somehow, I think that in the real Napoleonic Wars, annoying officers and sergeants fell victim to accidental shootings. After all, it's not like they'd be able to really investigate something like that. So Hakewell's continued existence got a little bit silly.

5. The combat scenes weren't very impressive. There wasn't enough noise and people just were not moving with a sense of purpose that being shot at gives you.

Oh, well.

Great series
I found the first three Shape's adventures to be wonderfully entertaining. My wife and I enjoyed them together. We were both wondering why this is considered the third episode when it should be the fourth - and there is no third. Somehow between Sharp's Eagle and Sharpe's Company our hero is married and has a child. There are glimpses of a wedding - and a duel - at the beginning of the episode but that is all there is: glimpses. But the individual episodes - though better viewed as a series - do stand alone and you can fill in what seems to be missing.

This episode brings Pete Postlethwaite as Sergeant Hakeswill into the series. He is flat out evil and certainly mad. Pete Postlethwaite is a first rate actor so it's interesting to see him in such an over-the-top role. I'm sure he loved it.

The English troops are storming a fortress. After blasting a breach in the wall they are cut down like stalks of wheat until Sharpe and his men take charge. Sharpe is anxious to get inside as his wife and the daughter he has never seen are inside and he knows the English soldiers will rape and pillage once victorious. Sure enough, the guys you were just rooting for now deserve to be swinging from a tree limb. And Sergeant Hawkswill shows up with designs on Sharp's wife.

I have noticed the scripts are not by the same writer so I am quite sure I will run into a clunker or two in the remaining shows in the series, but the first three were all great and as a whole I am equally sure this is going to be a fine series.

Another winning adventure in the Sharpe's series
Sharpe and his men are fighting not only the French in this tale but an evil and devious sergeant as well who has some history with Sharpe.

The battle and action scenes are top notch again and the characters are grand and heroic. The settings and costumes make it all very colorful and real.

The actors again do a great job with Sean Bean, Asumpta Serna and Daragh O'Malley giving us wonderful heroic performances. Special mention has to go to Pete Postlethwaite who delivers a scenery chewing performance as the evil Sergeant Hakeswill. Marvelous!

I enjoyed this one and have no complaints at all about the quality of the DVD picture or sound.

No Spark
I had already read a few of the books including 'Sharpe's Company' and was looking forward to the filmed version with great anticipation. Firstly, it must be said that these are not 'stand alone' films but episodes in a continuing saga. This being the first DVD of the series I had watched, the lack of character development was noticeable as all the main protagonists had already been introduced in earlier episodes. In fact there were characters (Major Hogan for example) who was not even referred to by name, so remained anonymous to those who had not read the books. It was a bit like watching a movie from halfway through. I was pleasantly surprised that most of the action was outdoors and not restricted to a studio set. The costumes seemed authentic and I felt that the storyline remained true to the book. The real siege at Badajoz actually took place in cold and rainy conditions but that is a minor quibble. I was also pleased that romance played only a small part in the film (as in the book). There was, however, something missing - a spark, some emotional intensity in the battle. It felt rather flat. Perhaps some appropriate music would have accentuated the mood. I did not get the feeling that I cared what happened to the characters. The sound was not wonderful. At times it was hard to understand the dialog. Subtitles would have been a welcome option. Good casting with both Sean Bean and Peter Postlethwaite being perfect in their roles. However, I thought that Daragh O'Malley was not (physically) big enough to play the giant Irishman Patrick Harper. Overall, I would recommend this film but would suggest that the series is watched from the beginning in order to get the most out of the stories.

Grrrr Marketing again
I love Sharpe films. On the whole they have good plot and fine acting. My only Gripe is,

When DVD's first came out here Sharpes Rifles was one of the first films avalible. Since then no more have been released untill now. But this means I have to order them from america

I say again Grrrrr ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The MOONRAKER of the Sharpe movie series
It give me no pleasure to write this review. After years of thoroughly enjoying Cornwell's Richard Sharpe novels I finally caved in and picked up one of the films. SHARPE'S GOLD is one of my favorite of the novels so I figured I'd chosen well.
I was wrong.
This movie is to the novel as MOONRAKER was to Ian Flemming's work.
Sharpe is indeed in the movie, and I think the word "gold" is uttered once or twice, but that's where the similarity ends.

Highly disappointing.
The only reason I gave it two stars is Sean Bean - who really does fullfil my image of Richard Sharpe.

Read the book. Don't waste time or money on this movie.

"Sharpe's Gold"
I have literally just finished watching "Sharpe's Gold" on DVD, I don't have the words to describe my disappointment. It's story line was in such poor taste I had to immediately submit a review.

My recent purchase of the Sharpes's series 1-6 has been shadowed by this absolutely horrible interpretation of the excellent book "Sharpe's Gold" by Bernard Cornwell. "Sharpe's Gold" the film would have made a much better "Doctor Who" episode. I consided myself a collector of the Sharpe series and have read the entire collection. I find it hard to believe that Bernard Cornwell actually allowed them to completely trash his book for his film.

I will continue to collect the rest of this series, however my copy of "Sharpe's Gold" will be collected by the garbage men next Tuesday.

Start with this one and you'll end with it
Had the first of the Sharpe's episodes I viewed been this one, it would have been my last. Most of the series rises above the the genre of pulp escapist adventure-- this one sinks below it.

The screenplay is the culprit here, filled with laughably improbable plot devices and threadbare cliches. It seems a band of Spanish Freedom Fighters are actually a secret religious cult, practising human sacrifice based on Aztec rituals (mysterously imported into Spain hundreds of years before the 1813 setting). This band of merry men has captured some English deserters, and wants to exchange them for modern rifles. Sharpe is chosen for the mission, but upon discovering their true nature is so horrified, he slays them all and dynamites their mountain base.

If you're not bothered by his company routing a far larger number of well-armed and experienced men in a strongly fortified position (all without taking any casualties), then you certainly won't shrug at Lord Wellington's teenage niece coming along for the ride. This lovely, well-bred young lass needed only an intense glance from Sharpe, before she's ready to be plowed by him (Lt. Ayres' words, not mine) whenever and wherever, even next to a pile of freshly sacrificed corpses. Oh, she's also a crack shot ("I only hunted rabbits before Sir!") and assists in the military victories also. That is, before she is captured, given mind-altering drugs, and prepared for sacrifice by having her perky young breasts painted with Aztec symbols. Will Sharpe arrive in time to save her? Such drama!

If you consider your collection incomplete without the entire series, buy this episode. But take my advise-- leave the shrinkwrap intact.

Bit of a disappointment
I really like this series. I've seen several episodes and have also read some of the books. So far I've found this to be the weakest. First, the story is nothing like the book. It contains a completely contrived romance and an unconvincing story about retrieving deserters. Second, Aztecs in Spain in 1813? Where does this come from? Third, the relationship between Sharpe and the Provost Lt. Ayres is quite bizarre. Why does Ayres persist in baiting Sharpe? Does he enjoy being beaten?

Still, I give it three stars for the acting by Sean Bean and Daragh O'Malley (sp?) as well as the action sequences. Also, because it is a Sharpe story. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Worth watching
If you've never seen any of the Sharpe films, you may want to view the previous chapters to avoid confusion. Sharpe runs into old enemies and new in this one. Obadiah Hakeswell,a name from Sharpe's past, (as portrayed by Pete Postlethwaite)almost steals the limelight from Sean Bean.(See SHARPE'S COMPANY for their first "reunion") Hakeswell kills Theresa, Sharpe's wife, near the end of the film, in a short but brutal scene. I for one would have liked to have seen Theresa give Hakeswell a royal arse kicking first, then have Obediah's treachery bring about her demise. (Maybe have Theresa poised for the kill, only to have Hakeswell blindside her) The plot is a tad silly at times, but it IS based on historical fact. Some of the characters come across a little hokey, but are patterned on real persona. And of course there is the menacing Major Duco, (admirably played by Feodore Atkins) who somehow is always foiled by Sharpe. If you like a little "skin" mixed with your swashbuckling, we have Elizabeth Hurley, (who plays a whore to a British Colonel) before she became Austin Power's love interest.

Excellent history, excellent story
Bernard Cornwell's stories of Richard Sharpe do a fantastic job of bringing Napoleonic warfare to the screen. As a special unattached officer serving Wellington, this is one of Sharpe's most exciting adventures. He has to effect the rescue of two hostages, the wives of both an English and French officer, defeat a desperate band of deserters led by his nemesis, Hakeswill, then fight off a French reconaissance force. He does it in the usual style -- a little bluff, a little swashbuckling, and some brilliant tactics. One of the most enjoyable scenes is the one in which a French general explains to the wife of one of his officers how Napoleonic combined arms tactics work using peas on a plate -- then Sharpe promptly undoes his tactics. This is one of the most compelling and exciting films of the entire series.

Bad Movie? No Way!!!
Let me just get to the point... Sharpe's Enemy is my favorite Sharpe movie in the series (and I have seen all of them).Quite frankly, I have no idea why the reviewer a couple reviews below could rate this series 1 star and say it has not a single good actor in it... Sean Bean is superb in the role of Richard Sharpe (and this holds true for all episodes). Pete Postlethwaite is my favorite villan as the monsterous Obediah Hakeswill and Daragh O'Malley is as steady as ever as Sharpe's dependable sergent. In short, Sharpe's Enemy has one of the best ensemble casts ever assembled!More importantly, the story, based on the superb Bernard Cornwell novel, is gripping and action packed. Quite frankly, TV does not get better than this... I have watched this TV movie tens of times and I still am thrilled every time.I highly recommend Sharpe's Enemy and the rest of the Sharpe's series. Also recommended if you like these kinds of movies is the Horatio Hornblower series. Very similar kinds of storylines (with equally good group acting), but at sea...

Major Sharpe Rules
I hate to use a title like this, but Richard Sharpe rules. Yet again he has to prove that he is just as capable an officer as the bought officers. Again he rises to the challenge. This is probably the best of the 4 DVD's that are released so far. There certainly was more action in this one (not that other's are lacking in the action department). The DVD is really good. The picture quality is good for being from a TV show and the sound is really good too. Again, I'll say that it would have been better had it been done in Dolby 5.1, but oh well. I'll take a good story and acting over effects any day.

Bad Movie
This is not a good movie !!!!!!!!! in fact, one of the worst movies I ever seen. I heard about this movie by a friend, thet sad it was a pretty good movie. But when I saw it , it was not good at all, not one good actor/actress

I can't recomend anyone to see this movie. ... Read more

Reviews (74)

All about the Bolger sisters (and Samantha Morton)
'In America' is a quasi-autobiographical work penned by director Jim Sheridan and daughters Naomi and Kirsten (herself a director). I added "quasi" because a little research turns up that Jim Sheridan had a brother Frankie who passed away in tragic circumstances (I'm not giving anything away by telling you that). That character woven into the 'In America' story in conjunction with the story that is obviously the current Sheridan family's own: Irish mother and father with two young girls in tow trying to make it as immigrants in a hardscrabble NYC neighborhood in the early eighties.

Real-life sisters Sarah and Emma Bolger play what are obviously the on-screen portrayals of Sheridan siblings Kirsten and Naomi. Emma - playing younger sister Ariel - is adorable right from the get go. Older sister Sarah is the mature, world-weary (but still sweet) Christy. When she tells her father "I've been carrying this family on my back for over a year," believe it. And don't miss her stark, beautiful rendering of 'Desperado.' Perfect.

In case you can't tell, I was enchanted by these two girls. But Samantha Morton is a treat, too. She was wonderful but obscured as the pre-cog in the fine Cruise/Spielberg film 'Minority Report.' Here, she's front and center and luminous.

Fanciful but Poignant Story of Recovery. And a Great Cast.
An Irish family, grief-stricken after the death of their young son, moves to New York City to start their lives afresh. With little to their names besides the clothes on their backs, Sarah (Samantha Morton), Johnny (Paddy Constantine), and their two daughters, Christy (Sarah Bolger) and Ariel (Emma Bolger), move into a run-down tenement occupied mostly by drug addicts and misfits. The girls make the acquaintance of a reclusive African artist (Djimon Hounsou) who lives downstairs from them, and that unusual friendship helps see the family through their grief and recover their hope for the future and for each other.

"In America" was inspired by two events in the life of its writer and director, Jim Sheridan. Sheridan's brother died when he was a child, and, as an adult, he illegally immigrated with his family to New York in the 1980s. Sheridan has combined these two seminal events into one generation with the help of his two daughters, Naomi and Kirsten Sheridan, who contributed their childhood memories to the screenplay. "In America" is the story of a family that deals with great loss by uprooting itself and making a new life in an entirely different environment. Already emotionally estranged from one another, they become strangers in a new world. Once a working class family in Ireland, they now struggle with poverty in New York. And this somehow cures their ills. While I was watching this film, I was captivated by its dreamlike quality and impressed with the terrific cast. The story is narrated by Christy, a precocious 10-year-old who documents her world and her feelings with her ever-present camcorder. The actresses who play Christy and her younger sister Ariel really are sisters, and they give some of the most charming and impressive performances by child actors that I have ever seen. Samantha Morton is also particularly good as their broken-hearted mother, Sarah. The character that serves as a catalyst for emotional change, Mateo, the artist downstairs, is little more than a cliché, although Djimon Hounsou plays him well. After I had thought about the film for a few hours, I began to realize that the story is more contrived than I had originally noticed. Mateo is far from being the only cliché, and living in destitution doesn't provide opportunities for emotional epiphanies. It is, in fact, very dangerous, exhausting, and depressing. But as I counted "In America"'s contrivances and preposterous elements, I was also struck by the fact that I wasn't inclined to think about them as I was watching the movie. That's because "In America"'s dreamlike quality and its engaging performances overcome its lapses in credibility. I don't know that this film is supposed to be literally believable. The family's emotional journey is poignant and rings of truth. The details are a little fantastic. But it is told through the memories of a child, which may partly explain its uneven realism. Memory is highly subjective, in any case; its only what one person noticed and clung to. I recommend "In America" for its fine performances and its unique and slightly fanciful perspective.

sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings
This story, about an Irish family that immigrates to Manhattan after the death of a son, is a sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings.

What I liked best about the movie were the very strong performances by the two young girls and the neighbor, Mateo.

On the down side, I sometimes found the Irish accents hard to understand and details were sometimes unrealistic.

The story wasn't strong enough for me to consider it outstanding, but it's an interesting watch, a nice change of pace from Hollywood and a good family film.

Thoughtful...Emotional...Powerful
This is a film that will haunt for some time. The acting is superb; the script well-written. It is a true gem, quite different from Hollywood fare.

American Dreams
In America is a caring movie about an American dream that comes true. It's a sweet movie, with great acting from everyone. A true joy. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

A Good Beginning
Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe books are an enjoyable romp through the history of the Napoleonic Wars in the early nineteenth century. So are these films, adapted from the books by the BBC.

Sean Bean is Richard Sharpe, an officer "raised from the ranks" when he saves the life of Sir Arthur Wellesley, soon to be Lord Wellington (name sound familiar?). From there, I won't tell, because it's easy enough to get engrossed in these films.

Sharpe's Rifles is the first in the series of 14, so there is understandably a lot of set-up to be done. However, it is done with alacrity and is all very fun to watch. (Especially Brian Cox's role as Major Hogan - sheer enjoyment!) And most of it is historically true to the period, even if all the events pictured didn't happen (at least in the way the films show).

Like Horatio Hornblower? You'll Like Sharpe Too!
Sharpe's Rifles, (and the rest of the Sharpe series), is a more gritty "version" of Horatio Hornblower (series from A&E). No, Sharpe is in no way related to Horatio, just for your information, this takes place in the Army while Horatio's was at sea.) Actually made BEFORE the Hornblower series, this one will engage you and make you want to see them all! (I've seen 4 in the series now.)Although some reviews have commented badly about the video quality, I would rate it as very good. It is about a B+ in my book, above VCD or VHS quality. Set during the early 1800's, Sharpe is an enlisted man that becomes an officer after saving the life of a lord from England. This series details his adventures as an officer, following him through many battles, promotions and romances. It focuses on his inability to fit into the "officer corp," as most officer's from that period were wealthy men who bought their commissions. The ONLY problem I have had is figuring out the ORDER of the DVD's. They are technically "mini movies," so you can watch them in any order, but watching them in their true order is most enjoyable. Here's what I have so far just so you know, (in order:) Sharpe's Rifle, Sharpe's Eagle, Sharpe's Company, and I THINK the next one is Sharp's Enemy. Hint: look on the side binder of the DVD, their are little codes, these should go in numerical hierarchy, for example, "98579-D,98580-D,98598-D". These won't necessarly be in sequence, (i.e. 1,2,3,4,5) but more like 2,7,11,14 for example. So you should be able to figure it out when you get them. Bottom line: if you like mini-series like the early 80's "Shogun," and "Horatio Hornblower," you'll like this one too.

Great series of swashbuckling Napoleonic war hero
The Sharpe series is an adaptation from Bernard Cornwell's epic series follwing a neer-do-well British rifleman who, in the first episode, has the misfortune of saving the Duke of Wellington from the snatches of French curraseurs at the begining of the Penninsular Campaign. This is not common fare on American screens (we tend to only remember Andrew Jackson knocking down rows of readcoats at the Battle of New Orleans.) Sharpe is made an officer, which is an immediate two strikes against him in an army which expected its upper ranks to be "gentlemen" and not orphans left by prostitutes. Along the way, he confounds French spies, British deserters, and incredibly stupid senior officers.

Sean Bean is an ideal Sharpe and carries the series with his slit-faced scowl (he was the Irish bad-guy in "Patriot Games.") His Irish Sergeant ("ya ignorant paddy"), who tries to kill him in the first hour, becomes best of friends, and the pair are terrific.

The series is episodic, and is somewhat a throwback to the old 1960s "Combat" series with Vic Morrow. (I swear, these guys even carry their Baker rifles like WW2 Thompsons). It suffers from a necessarily small scale and a dearth of the now obligatory special effects. Nonethless, you won't for now find a better treatment of this period.

Bernard Cornwell's "Sharpe" novels are an obligatory (and easy) read for grognards interested in a break from the Hornblower or Maturin-Aubrey books.

Napoleonic Wars
terric....one of 14 DVDs made for televion in England.

Had the VHS for years
A friend of mine loaned me the whole 14 tape series back in 97 and I have loved it ever since. I am a military reenactor and loved the detail that they kept to with the uniforms and food and all the other stuff. For action and adventure as well as seeing the whole class warfare of the time period this is one of the best. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Sharp's Honor
I was disappointed in the screen play of this great book. I found the book much richer in story. In the book Sharp and the (golden Whore) had known each other in a biblical way from a previous book (Sharps Sword) wherein he also slaughters her evil brother(Colonel Leroux ). In the screen play they do not know each other at all. Also Harper did not accompany Sharp on this Mission to capture La Marquesa,this role was better served by the Spanish boy Angel.

Last the Movie did not do justice to the horror of 1700th century warfare and it made the battle of Vitoria look like a platoon Action instead of the Clash of whole Army groups that it was.

Sharpe's New Fan
I am hopelessly addicted to the Sharpe series. As a history major I find the story line fascinating, especially since it's a period they don't teach us much about here in the States. I was drawn in from scene one and haven't come up for air yet. Superb acting, witty dialogue, great battle scenes, lots of action/suspense, endearing characters, wonderful ensemble casts...and a dashing hero to boot! Need I go on? Throughout the series there are some great episodes and some not-so-great, but none truly bad (except perhaps Sharpe's Gold). Sean Bean absolutely *becomes* Richard Sharpe. He's fabulous (and not bad looking either). Daragh O'Malley is wonderful as Sharpe's best friend Harper. Any history fan, military fan, action fan, or swashbuckler fan needs to check out Sharpe. Be warned, though--you can't buy just one. Wonder why don't they show it on American TV? This series is truly a secret that needs to get out.

Good not great
Honour was dissapointing as it marked my switch to DVD from VHS in the series. I agree sound and picture quality are poor. This series is crying out for a repackaging in a DVD box set with digital quality and behind-the-scenes stuff. That said, Honour is fairly entertaining. A good plot and some decent action, along with the traditional kick-to-the-groin fight scenes. The climatic battle sees Sean Bean catapulted over over a downed cart, sword in hand. Great stuff that. The romance is downplayed a bit, with one exception ("He was at her all night sir") and the scene where Sharpe rescues the Marquesa from the band of nuns is hilarious. Worth the time. I'm looking forward to getting further into the series from this point on.

DVD or Video tape?
I was very disappointed in the DVD picture quality; it's on the same level as video tape. I was expecting a much sharper (no pun intended,) clearer transfer. The movie itself was 5 star. I can only hope the next Sharpe Collection transfered to DVD will move up to a DVD quality picture. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"If You Believe in Fairies...Clap Your Hands!"
I saw "Fairy Tale - A True Story", when it had it's theatrical release and I was utterly charmed and moved by this wonderful movie. I am so glad that it has finally been released to the DVD format.The story is based upon the true life events surrounding the famous and sensational 'Cottingly fairies photographs'.The film takes place during the dark days of WWI Britain. A young Elsie Wright (Florence Hoath) is sent off to live with relatives, because her father is 'missing in action'.Elsie becomes fast friends with her twelve year old, cousin, Frances (Elizebeth Earl) both of whom seem to have a playful fascination with the subject of fairies. One day the girls borrow an old camera and go off to a local brook to take pictures. When the photographs are later developed, they show images of what seem to be real, live fairies!Through a series of events the photographs fall into the famous hands of Sherlock Holmes Writer, Sir Author Conan Doyle (Pete O'Toole) and Magician & Escape Artist, Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel). Doyle publishes the photographs in a national magazine and causes a sensation throughout the country.Are the pictures real or did these two young girls pull off the hoax of the century? The movie puts it's own twist on the facts and attempts to come up with some very interesting answers.Director, Charles Sturridge and Screen Writer, Ernie Contreras have created a magical and moving film about the subject of faith. Sometimes if you believe in something hard enough, maby it can come true. This is found throughout the film. It applies to everything from the belief in the unseen (such as fairies, spirits of love ones), the return of a father, or even the faith needed to win a brutal war.The acting in this movie is splendid.I especially like the casting of the two girls (Florence Hoath & Elizebeth Earl). Even in the unusual situations, that occur, they both act like normal, everyday, children. Not a false note in their performances.The film's special effects are also great. They are well done and realistic (flying miniature fairies), yet do not overwhelm the story.This is greatly aided by cinematographer , Michael Coulter's beautiful photography, which highlights both the colors found in nature (the woods and brook) and the light and darkness of urban, Victorian England. All these elements come together to make a wonderful fantasy film, which I highly recommend!

"Fairytale:A True Story" absolutely wonderful-A MUST SEE!
For young and old alike,this delightful film has it all! Based on the true story of two young girls who claim to have seen fairies in England during WW1,"Fairytale:A True Story" features superb acting throughout,especially Elizabeth Earl and Florence Hoath as Francis Griffiths and Elsie Wright, whose fairy sightings stir up quite a bit of controversy throughout wartime England. Among the people caught up in the excitement are Sir Arthur Conan Doyle,brilliantly portrayed by Peter O"Toole and Harry Houdini,featuring Harvey Keitel in one of his finest performances. Paul McGann and Phobe Nicols are also wonderful as Elsie's parents. I really can't say enough about this film. Brilliantly cast and beautifully photographed,it is enchanting entertainment from beginning to end. The film score is even well worth the price if you can still find the CD! This film is not your average children's movie and I have read alot of reviews that ask weather this film was aimed at children or adults.This could very well be why it was not more of a commercial success.A pity, because I believe this film offers something for all ages.I also regret that I have not seen Florence Hoath in many other roles,save for "The Governess" and I haven't seen Elizabeth Earl at all-they deserve more recognition!

Don't Let This One Pass By
This amazing film is about two little girls who, with no photographic experience, take photos of Fairies. Kodak examines the photos and says they are untouched, but refuses to acknowledge the existance if these little sprites. In come two of my personal heroes, Sherlock Holmes, because he believes the girls, and Harry Houdini, because he dosn't believe them.
But, reguardless, if you believe, you will be facinated. If you do not believe, you might, just for a moment, question that belief.
Either way, do NOT miss this film!

HORRIBLE
if youre getting this movie for your kid, or any kid, save them the misery. i remember seeing this movie the day it came out, and it was so awful i fell asleep, along with about 5 other kids in the theater. it was by far the WORST movie i have ever seen in my entire life, even worse than that planet of the apes movie. and trust me, i have seen almost every movie that comes out. spare your kids the pain and spare yourself some money. DONT get this movie for them.

Charming little movie
This movie is a gentle story, one that the whole family can watch. Doesn't have much in the way of action, vulgarity or even scimpily dressed faires. The fairies are not a huge part of this story anyway. The story is about two young cousins who concoct a tale about some fairy sightings. This "true" story happened during WWI in England. The story also shows what happens to a small country town when they receive some unwanted publicity after the girls' photos are anonymously published in a leading magazine. It is an interesting tale, charming and cute. People who like trashy, faster movies won't like this one. ... Read more

Reviews (74)

All about the Bolger sisters (and Samantha Morton)
'In America' is a quasi-autobiographical work penned by director Jim Sheridan and daughters Naomi and Kirsten (herself a director). I added "quasi" because a little research turns up that Jim Sheridan had a brother Frankie who passed away in tragic circumstances (I'm not giving anything away by telling you that). That character woven into the 'In America' story in conjunction with the story that is obviously the current Sheridan family's own: Irish mother and father with two young girls in tow trying to make it as immigrants in a hardscrabble NYC neighborhood in the early eighties.

Real-life sisters Sarah and Emma Bolger play what are obviously the on-screen portrayals of Sheridan siblings Kirsten and Naomi. Emma - playing younger sister Ariel - is adorable right from the get go. Older sister Sarah is the mature, world-weary (but still sweet) Christy. When she tells her father "I've been carrying this family on my back for over a year," believe it. And don't miss her stark, beautiful rendering of 'Desperado.' Perfect.

In case you can't tell, I was enchanted by these two girls. But Samantha Morton is a treat, too. She was wonderful but obscured as the pre-cog in the fine Cruise/Spielberg film 'Minority Report.' Here, she's front and center and luminous.

Fanciful but Poignant Story of Recovery. And a Great Cast.
An Irish family, grief-stricken after the death of their young son, moves to New York City to start their lives afresh. With little to their names besides the clothes on their backs, Sarah (Samantha Morton), Johnny (Paddy Constantine), and their two daughters, Christy (Sarah Bolger) and Ariel (Emma Bolger), move into a run-down tenement occupied mostly by drug addicts and misfits. The girls make the acquaintance of a reclusive African artist (Djimon Hounsou) who lives downstairs from them, and that unusual friendship helps see the family through their grief and recover their hope for the future and for each other.

"In America" was inspired by two events in the life of its writer and director, Jim Sheridan. Sheridan's brother died when he was a child, and, as an adult, he illegally immigrated with his family to New York in the 1980s. Sheridan has combined these two seminal events into one generation with the help of his two daughters, Naomi and Kirsten Sheridan, who contributed their childhood memories to the screenplay. "In America" is the story of a family that deals with great loss by uprooting itself and making a new life in an entirely different environment. Already emotionally estranged from one another, they become strangers in a new world. Once a working class family in Ireland, they now struggle with poverty in New York. And this somehow cures their ills. While I was watching this film, I was captivated by its dreamlike quality and impressed with the terrific cast. The story is narrated by Christy, a precocious 10-year-old who documents her world and her feelings with her ever-present camcorder. The actresses who play Christy and her younger sister Ariel really are sisters, and they give some of the most charming and impressive performances by child actors that I have ever seen. Samantha Morton is also particularly good as their broken-hearted mother, Sarah. The character that serves as a catalyst for emotional change, Mateo, the artist downstairs, is little more than a cliché, although Djimon Hounsou plays him well. After I had thought about the film for a few hours, I began to realize that the story is more contrived than I had originally noticed. Mateo is far from being the only cliché, and living in destitution doesn't provide opportunities for emotional epiphanies. It is, in fact, very dangerous, exhausting, and depressing. But as I counted "In America"'s contrivances and preposterous elements, I was also struck by the fact that I wasn't inclined to think about them as I was watching the movie. That's because "In America"'s dreamlike quality and its engaging performances overcome its lapses in credibility. I don't know that this film is supposed to be literally believable. The family's emotional journey is poignant and rings of truth. The details are a little fantastic. But it is told through the memories of a child, which may partly explain its uneven realism. Memory is highly subjective, in any case; its only what one person noticed and clung to. I recommend "In America" for its fine performances and its unique and slightly fanciful perspective.

sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings
This story, about an Irish family that immigrates to Manhattan after the death of a son, is a sweet film about family, loss and new beginnings.

What I liked best about the movie were the very strong performances by the two young girls and the neighbor, Mateo.

On the down side, I sometimes found the Irish accents hard to understand and details were sometimes unrealistic.

The story wasn't strong enough for me to consider it outstanding, but it's an interesting watch, a nice change of pace from Hollywood and a good family film.

Thoughtful...Emotional...Powerful
This is a film that will haunt for some time. The acting is superb; the script well-written. It is a true gem, quite different from Hollywood fare.

American Dreams
In America is a caring movie about an American dream that comes true. It's a sweet movie, with great acting from everyone. A true joy. ... Read more