Amazon.com

This "To Ma'am with Love" is much more an escapist popcorn movie than the inner-city document its marketing suggested. Michelle Pfeiffer plays real-life former Marine Louanne Johnson, a high school English teacher who meets resistance from kids and administration alike at a tough urban school in Northern California. Pfeiffer is good, and her character's overall development even survives various post-production story cuts. (A romance with Andy Garcia's character was completely eliminated before release; Garcia is nowhere in sight.) The actors who play Johnson's students are also fine, and the whole film becomes the latest in a long tradition of sentimental movies about teachers who change the lives of kids. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (31)

True story of hope.
While about the only inner city experience I had was working in Buffalo for a couple of months, I did enjoy this movie. If you didn't catch it in the opening, it is based on a true story, and that in and of itself is an awesome testimony of hope. I think that Louanne Johnson would ask for no sympathy being a former Marine. I remember seeing this movie the year after I graduated and enjoying the song, "Gangsta's Paradise" by rapper, Coolio. It was a major status symbol that made this movie great. That was almost 10 years ago. Today, I find myself having a major problem with that song. Listen to the lyrics closely enough, and it appears that Coolio is plain feeling sorry for himself, bathing himself in self pity. That, in my opinion, contradicts the movie by saying, "I am nothing more than a victim of circumstances." Boo-hoo-hoo!! I don't know how many jobs I've been fired from, only to dust myself off and get another one. You are only a victim if you make yourself a victim.

Michelle Pfeiffer played an awesome role, the encourager. You take a close look at the role of Courtney Vance as the principal, the one who wants you to knock before entering and you can't help but ask a simple question, "Is he a prick, or a piller of society?" He almost falls into a neutral category for me because of who he is, and his definition of tough love is not something everyone agrees with. It isn't everyday I'd give a movie of this nature a 5 star, but it is an exception.

THESE MINDS AREN'T DANGEROUS THEIR JUST NOT AT ALL APPEALING
Michelle Pfeiffer who is very talented and very beautiful failed to move me here as an ex-marine who becomes an English Teacher at an tough inner-city school where she confronts freaks and viloent students who don't want to learn. The message here is the fact that kids who are mouthy and think that they are tough have a right to do what they want, kind of stupid to see this film now and think it would actually make an impact on today's youth, with it's bland and unbelivable wish fullfilment. I don't see how poetry can tame tough,restive delinquents. Half hour into the film you will feel dissallusined on why you rented this video, and by the end you will throw the VCR or DVD out the window with the movie follwing behind it. Now that's a dangerous mind.

DANGEROUSLY INSPIRING
Definitely a must see movie. "rage rage against the dying of the light" WOW. Every black and latino person must see this movie and understand how the ghetto life is affecting us and adapt some skills to make it a better place. I absorbed the lessons in the movie.

Wonderful
Michelle Pfeiffer stars in this wondrful movie about a ex-marine who desperatly wants to teach, so takes on the job of teaching a group of troubled teenagers. As time progresses, the teacher starts to learn that the only way to get the children to understand what she wants them to, is to reward them after they do what she asks.

GREAT Movie
This movies is so good that everybody should at least watch it once or twice. ... Read more

Reviews (149)

Buckle Up
Con Air is a blockbuster movie. A film that soars with the best of them. And since it's produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, no wonder it's a hit. Making his directorial debut, Simon West does a terrific job pleasing the crowds of movie-goers. Cameron Poe (played by Nicolas Cage, with a Southern accent and shoulder-length hair) has just been releashed from prison after being convicted of manslaughter in the first degree. After 7 years, Cameron is finally going home to his wife and daughter. Hitching a ride home on the 'Jail Bird,' Cameron is put on a plane with the world's most vicious criminals including Cyrus "The Virus" Grissom (John Malkovich), Diamond Dog (Ving Rhames), Billy Bedlam (Nick Chinlund), and Garland Greene (Steve Buscemi) who "makes the Manson family look like the Partidge family." Within 5 minutes of takeoff, the criminals have already assumed command of the plane, are in possession of all the weapons, and took all the guards hostage. Being the former United States Park Ranger that he is, Cameron Poe decides to try and save the day with the help of on-the-ground U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin (played by John Cusack). Con Air is an explosive film with great special effects, superb acting, and humor on the side. I recommend it for anyone looking for a movie with non-stop action beginning to end.

Con Air
Con Air is a good action film and several things keep it alive. One is acting. John Malkovich is good as Cyrus "the Virus" Grissom, who claims he's killed more people than cancer. John Cusack is in good form as U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin, who owns the plane the criminals take over, named "the Jailbird". Nicolas Cage delivers one of his best performances as Cameron Poe, a decorated military hero who is catching a ride home after being in prison for 8 years for defending his wife in a bar fight. Other good performances were by Steve Buscemi as serial killer Garland Greene and Ving Rhames (Mission:Impossible) as Nathan "Diamond Dog" Jones. The musical score was very good. There are a few plotholes but hey, there aren't too many movies that don't have a few plotholes here and there. Another good thing is action. Most of the action on board the plane is hand-to-hand combat. Probably the best action scene in the movie is where the criminals stop to get a new plane. U.S. troops attack them in a long and great gunfight. The other action sequence is when Cusack and Cage chase Cyrus on motorcycles through a tunnel in Las Vegas. It is very humorous when the plane is crashing and Garland Greene is singing "He's got the whole world in His hands". At the Academy Awards Con Air was nominated for two things:Best Sound and Best Original Song. It did not win either. Though Con Air may be a level below Crimson Tide, The Rock, and Air Force One, it's still a great action film

As Believable As Finding Out "Snow White" Is A True Story
This movie is about as believable as finding that "Snow White" was based on a true story...this movie is so ridiculously stupid that I gave one star. First of all, if Nicolas Cage's character killed someone in self-defense, there'd be no trial, he wouldn't be charged. Second, JOHN MALKOVICH AS A VIOLENT, MULTIPLE FELON? WHO DID HE BEAT FOR THE PART...STEVE URKEL? Then there's John Cusak trying desperately hard to show us that he can act...that he's still got it...but HE NEVER HAD IT! BELIEVE ME, IF THESE FELONS COULD FIGURE A WAY TO TAKE CONTROL OF A PRISON TRANSPORT PLANE USING A PAPER CLIP AND A MATCH, THEY WOULDN'T BE IN COUNTY LOCK UP, THEY'D BE RUNNING THE WORLD. Most of the directing shots are tilted and herendous, the acting is stupid (with Cage's phoney Southern accent), and the fact that Malkovich conviently lands on a conveyer belt that ends up crushing his head is way too unrealistic...ANOTHER THING, MALKOVICH IS ABOUT AS BRUTAL IN THE FILM AS IS WATCHING HIM ACT!

OVER THE TOP AND THEN SOME
For pure adrenalin and testosterone exposure, one can't do much better than CON-AIR. There are a ton of unbelievable action scenes, and that's the key word---unbelievable. One can't say director Simon West didn't keep the action flowing. The finale in Las Vegas is way over the top!!!
Credit the actors for doing something with their roles, especially the brilliant John Cusack who puts his teeth into his meaty role as a US Marshall. Also Colm Meaney as the DEA agent who is obstinate and overbearing, to say the least. There are a nasty set of villains--John Malkovich, Nick Chindlin, Ving Rhames, Danny Trejo, David Chappelle---a nice looking guard played by Rachel Ticotin, another good bad guy played by Mykel Williamson, and Monica Potter does a nice turn as Poe's wife. Nicolas Cage is so bland, saddled with a ridiculous Southern accent, and does so many stupid things, it's hard to see how we can consider this guy that heroic.
But, if you want a two hour roller coaster ride with plenty of guns and action, CONAIR is hard to beat. It also has the Trisha Yearwood version of "How Do I Live," which is worth watching the movie!!!!

Great Flick!
When I first sat down to watch this film I was expecting anything, but when it was over I knew it was one i'd always want to Have! The Story is about a man who has done time in prison for murdering somebody who tried to hurt his wife! And Finally he's going to go home! Tho on his way home he is put onto a plane that seems to have Americas worst criminals in hostory abourd, and the plane is highjacked by them and the plot starts! to take place and unfold, and many storys are told through the way, with some comedy, some action and some fun along with some decent acting for a film of this type!

This movie is worth it in my opinion! But its not to everyones taste, my recomendation is to hire it before you buy it if you can! It does play on personal opinions and tastes! To me its a great movie, but you be the judge for yourself! ... Read more

Amazon.com

As a depiction of the computer-hacker underground, this movie is bogus to the bone. As a thriller, it's cartoonish and conventional. The premise (computer-happy kids hack into the wrong system, and the Forces of Repression come after them) is recycled from John Badham's 1983 WarGames. And the corporate-creep bad guy, played by Fisher Stevens, steeples his fingers and growls mossy villainous clichés. ("By the time they realize the truth, we'll be long gone with all the money.") For all its postmodern trappings the movie is working with sub-prehistoric storytelling tools. But it does succeed on one level, as a movie about adolescent bonding and alienation. The director, Iain Softley, helmed the Beatles-in-Hamburg biopic Backbeat, and he seems to have an instinct for the emotions that pull kids together around common interests and the insecurities that drive them apart. The familiar crises of loyalty and betrayal have an ache of real loneliness. It doesn't hurt that the two stars, Jonny Lee Miller (Sick Boy Williamson in Trainspotting) and Angelina Jolie (Gia), are just about equally gorgeous and charismatic; their longing glances steam up the screen. --David Chute ... Read more

Reviews (253)

You mess with the best you die like the rest!
There have been so many teen angst/adventure/comedy films made throughout the years and I have probably seen every one of them, but Hackers shines through like a needle in the haystack. Many of the so-called cliches of this genre are here but are acted so well that it's believable. The on screen relationship between Crash (Johnny Lee Miller) and the woman that portrays his mother is very genuine and Matthew Lillard steals the show (The way he acts in this movie shows us how Shaggy will be in Scooby Doo next year). Oh, don't worry, I didn't forget about Angelina Jolie who shows the viewer how we REALLY Want women to be like, she's a REAL LIFE HERO. But what might be the film's major achievement is that it portrays a real life society that has not been seen (I'm not talking about the HACKING aspect), the society of New York City! What many people don't realize is that New York is the closest thing in America to European Culture! Kids are very much free and they have more opportunities to become adults at a younger age because they are exposed to so much culture. It is very interesting to see how these high school kids hang out, in run down buildings that are remodeled to look like a Nintendo Convention, to the sleek underground laptop/music cafes that cater to the under 21 culture. New York is probably the only place in the U.S. where you don't have to be bored if you're not 21. The fact that they are computer Hackers is just a part of the New York scene and it radiates with curiosity and shows us that we are truly in a new age. But aside from all the technical things, the relationships the actors portray on screen are genuine and compasionate, the comedy is great, and the adventure is A+. In a film that should not have taken itself seriously, it did, and strangely it worked!

Not just a movie, a way of life
If you want a serious movie about hackers, look somewhere else. If you want a really fun movie with good style, Angelina Jolie, and a pulsing soundtrack, Hackers may be for you.

Johhny Lee Miller (aka Crash Override or Zero Cool) moves to New York with his mother. He meets Angelina Jolie (aka Acid Burn) at school and they immediately become rivals. They come up with a hacking contest to prove who is the best. Together with their friends, Lord Nikon, Cereal Killer (my favorite), Phantom Phreak, and Joey (who is nobody without a handle) join up to take on Fisher Stevens as Mr. The Plague.

This movie is chock full of cool scenes, cool people, and skater technobabble. Sure, the hacking scenes are totally unrealistic, the people unrealistic as computer geeks, but with the awesome techno soundtrack and the style they are presented with, it is easy to overlook. Just sit back and enjoy the ride!

I think that most sysadmin types probably have Mr The Plague as their role model. As a villain, he is ultra suave. As a sysadmin, he is over the top. I have never seen a computer guy with this much panache, and I don't suspect I will see another.

After you have made it through the movie a few times you can begin to watch for the fun stuff. Watch Mr The Plague's hands, especially in the flower delivery scene. When they go over to Lord Nikon's place and watch TV, consider what is playing. How many of their secret hacker books do you own?

If I could give this movie more stars, I would. This is by far my favorite hacker type movie, and if you count the number of times I have watched it, it would rank as my all time favorite over all. BUY IT NOW! It is better than Cats, you will watch it again and again.

The soundtrack is available on CD, and if you are a techno fan I suggest looking in to it.

Hack Job
To be honest, Hackers is not a great movie, especially when it stands up against other cyber thrillers like Sneakers and War Games, but as a pure guilty pleasure it ranks as one of my favorites.

Dade Murphy (Jonny Lee Miller) is a hacker prodigy, who, along with his Mom, (Lorraine Bracco) moves across the country to New York City. Soon he meets other kids like him, forming a High School cadre of misfits and rich kids who hack into computer systems purely for fun. When one of their group is suddenly arrested, the others band together to take on a corporate hacker disguised as a security officer in an attempt to expose his plans and save one of their own.

The film is clearly influenced by, and made for, the MTV generation. Director Iain Softley tries to do the best he can. The story has been done before and is muddled by a lot of techno speak. That said, it somehow, still manages to be something that's hard to ignore. The screen lights up as a very lovely Angelina Jolie, playing Kate, makes quite a splash. Miller is your typical anti-establishment hero but some of the sequences he initiates are a lot of fun to watch. I also liked some of the cyber names the characters have in the film, like "Cereal Killer", "Acid Burn" and "Zero Cool".

The DVD's only extras are the theatrical trailer and MGM's--sounds better than it really is--8-page booklet. It features trivia and production notes about the making of the movie.

There's no rhymne or reason, as to why I like Hackers, as much as I do. (Jolie??) If you are looking for a piece of good/bad fluff this fits the bill

2nd Best movie ever (under Citizen Cane)
This is the best movie ever made. I learned most my hacking skills from watching it. Zero Cool is my idol. The depicions of hacking are totally correct in every way and are still very relavent today. If you want to start hacking this MUST be your first step. You also get to see Angalina Jolie's [assets]. If you would like to see the other [assets], I suggest watching GIA also a fine movie.

dont have to be a nerd to understand, just computer literate
This is a pretty good movie, especially when you look back and see how excited the actors get talking about how fast their new computer is compared to todays standards. You do need to know a little bit of computer lingo to under stand what they are saying but the plot is really easy to understand. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Con Air is proof that the slick, absurdly overblown action formula of Hollywood mega-producers Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer (Top Gun, Days of Thunder, The Rock, Crimson Tide) lives on, even after Simpson's druggy death. (Read Charles Fleming's exposé, High Concept: Don Simpson and the Hollywood Culture of Excess, for more about that.) Nicolas Cage, sporting a disconcerting mane of hair, is a wrongly convicted prisoner on a transport plane with a bunch of infamously psychopathic criminals, including head creep Cyrus the Virus (John Malkovich), black militant Diamond Dog (Ving Rhames), and serial killer Garland Greene (Steve Buscemi, making the most of his pallid, rodent-like qualities). Naturally, the convicts take over the plane; meanwhile, on the ground, a U.S. marshal (John Cusack) and a DEA agent (Colm Meaney) try to figure out what to do. As is the postmodern way, the movie displays a self-consciously ironic awareness that its story and characters are really just excuses for a high-tech cinematic thrill ride. Best idea: the filmmakers persuaded the owners of the legendary Sands Hotel in Las Vegas to let them help out with the structure's demolition by crashing their plane into it. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (149)

Buckle Up
Con Air is a blockbuster movie. A film that soars with the best of them. And since it's produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, no wonder it's a hit. Making his directorial debut, Simon West does a terrific job pleasing the crowds of movie-goers. Cameron Poe (played by Nicolas Cage, with a Southern accent and shoulder-length hair) has just been releashed from prison after being convicted of manslaughter in the first degree. After 7 years, Cameron is finally going home to his wife and daughter. Hitching a ride home on the 'Jail Bird,' Cameron is put on a plane with the world's most vicious criminals including Cyrus "The Virus" Grissom (John Malkovich), Diamond Dog (Ving Rhames), Billy Bedlam (Nick Chinlund), and Garland Greene (Steve Buscemi) who "makes the Manson family look like the Partidge family." Within 5 minutes of takeoff, the criminals have already assumed command of the plane, are in possession of all the weapons, and took all the guards hostage. Being the former United States Park Ranger that he is, Cameron Poe decides to try and save the day with the help of on-the-ground U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin (played by John Cusack). Con Air is an explosive film with great special effects, superb acting, and humor on the side. I recommend it for anyone looking for a movie with non-stop action beginning to end.

Con Air
Con Air is a good action film and several things keep it alive. One is acting. John Malkovich is good as Cyrus "the Virus" Grissom, who claims he's killed more people than cancer. John Cusack is in good form as U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin, who owns the plane the criminals take over, named "the Jailbird". Nicolas Cage delivers one of his best performances as Cameron Poe, a decorated military hero who is catching a ride home after being in prison for 8 years for defending his wife in a bar fight. Other good performances were by Steve Buscemi as serial killer Garland Greene and Ving Rhames (Mission:Impossible) as Nathan "Diamond Dog" Jones. The musical score was very good. There are a few plotholes but hey, there aren't too many movies that don't have a few plotholes here and there. Another good thing is action. Most of the action on board the plane is hand-to-hand combat. Probably the best action scene in the movie is where the criminals stop to get a new plane. U.S. troops attack them in a long and great gunfight. The other action sequence is when Cusack and Cage chase Cyrus on motorcycles through a tunnel in Las Vegas. It is very humorous when the plane is crashing and Garland Greene is singing "He's got the whole world in His hands". At the Academy Awards Con Air was nominated for two things:Best Sound and Best Original Song. It did not win either. Though Con Air may be a level below Crimson Tide, The Rock, and Air Force One, it's still a great action film

As Believable As Finding Out "Snow White" Is A True Story
This movie is about as believable as finding that "Snow White" was based on a true story...this movie is so ridiculously stupid that I gave one star. First of all, if Nicolas Cage's character killed someone in self-defense, there'd be no trial, he wouldn't be charged. Second, JOHN MALKOVICH AS A VIOLENT, MULTIPLE FELON? WHO DID HE BEAT FOR THE PART...STEVE URKEL? Then there's John Cusak trying desperately hard to show us that he can act...that he's still got it...but HE NEVER HAD IT! BELIEVE ME, IF THESE FELONS COULD FIGURE A WAY TO TAKE CONTROL OF A PRISON TRANSPORT PLANE USING A PAPER CLIP AND A MATCH, THEY WOULDN'T BE IN COUNTY LOCK UP, THEY'D BE RUNNING THE WORLD. Most of the directing shots are tilted and herendous, the acting is stupid (with Cage's phoney Southern accent), and the fact that Malkovich conviently lands on a conveyer belt that ends up crushing his head is way too unrealistic...ANOTHER THING, MALKOVICH IS ABOUT AS BRUTAL IN THE FILM AS IS WATCHING HIM ACT!

OVER THE TOP AND THEN SOME
For pure adrenalin and testosterone exposure, one can't do much better than CON-AIR. There are a ton of unbelievable action scenes, and that's the key word---unbelievable. One can't say director Simon West didn't keep the action flowing. The finale in Las Vegas is way over the top!!!
Credit the actors for doing something with their roles, especially the brilliant John Cusack who puts his teeth into his meaty role as a US Marshall. Also Colm Meaney as the DEA agent who is obstinate and overbearing, to say the least. There are a nasty set of villains--John Malkovich, Nick Chindlin, Ving Rhames, Danny Trejo, David Chappelle---a nice looking guard played by Rachel Ticotin, another good bad guy played by Mykel Williamson, and Monica Potter does a nice turn as Poe's wife. Nicolas Cage is so bland, saddled with a ridiculous Southern accent, and does so many stupid things, it's hard to see how we can consider this guy that heroic.
But, if you want a two hour roller coaster ride with plenty of guns and action, CONAIR is hard to beat. It also has the Trisha Yearwood version of "How Do I Live," which is worth watching the movie!!!!

Great Flick!
When I first sat down to watch this film I was expecting anything, but when it was over I knew it was one i'd always want to Have! The Story is about a man who has done time in prison for murdering somebody who tried to hurt his wife! And Finally he's going to go home! Tho on his way home he is put onto a plane that seems to have Americas worst criminals in hostory abourd, and the plane is highjacked by them and the plot starts! to take place and unfold, and many storys are told through the way, with some comedy, some action and some fun along with some decent acting for a film of this type!

This movie is worth it in my opinion! But its not to everyones taste, my recomendation is to hire it before you buy it if you can! It does play on personal opinions and tastes! To me its a great movie, but you be the judge for yourself! ... Read more

Reviews (253)

You mess with the best you die like the rest!
There have been so many teen angst/adventure/comedy films made throughout the years and I have probably seen every one of them, but Hackers shines through like a needle in the haystack. Many of the so-called cliches of this genre are here but are acted so well that it's believable. The on screen relationship between Crash (Johnny Lee Miller) and the woman that portrays his mother is very genuine and Matthew Lillard steals the show (The way he acts in this movie shows us how Shaggy will be in Scooby Doo next year). Oh, don't worry, I didn't forget about Angelina Jolie who shows the viewer how we REALLY Want women to be like, she's a REAL LIFE HERO. But what might be the film's major achievement is that it portrays a real life society that has not been seen (I'm not talking about the HACKING aspect), the society of New York City! What many people don't realize is that New York is the closest thing in America to European Culture! Kids are very much free and they have more opportunities to become adults at a younger age because they are exposed to so much culture. It is very interesting to see how these high school kids hang out, in run down buildings that are remodeled to look like a Nintendo Convention, to the sleek underground laptop/music cafes that cater to the under 21 culture. New York is probably the only place in the U.S. where you don't have to be bored if you're not 21. The fact that they are computer Hackers is just a part of the New York scene and it radiates with curiosity and shows us that we are truly in a new age. But aside from all the technical things, the relationships the actors portray on screen are genuine and compasionate, the comedy is great, and the adventure is A+. In a film that should not have taken itself seriously, it did, and strangely it worked!

Not just a movie, a way of life
If you want a serious movie about hackers, look somewhere else. If you want a really fun movie with good style, Angelina Jolie, and a pulsing soundtrack, Hackers may be for you.

Johhny Lee Miller (aka Crash Override or Zero Cool) moves to New York with his mother. He meets Angelina Jolie (aka Acid Burn) at school and they immediately become rivals. They come up with a hacking contest to prove who is the best. Together with their friends, Lord Nikon, Cereal Killer (my favorite), Phantom Phreak, and Joey (who is nobody without a handle) join up to take on Fisher Stevens as Mr. The Plague.

This movie is chock full of cool scenes, cool people, and skater technobabble. Sure, the hacking scenes are totally unrealistic, the people unrealistic as computer geeks, but with the awesome techno soundtrack and the style they are presented with, it is easy to overlook. Just sit back and enjoy the ride!

I think that most sysadmin types probably have Mr The Plague as their role model. As a villain, he is ultra suave. As a sysadmin, he is over the top. I have never seen a computer guy with this much panache, and I don't suspect I will see another.

After you have made it through the movie a few times you can begin to watch for the fun stuff. Watch Mr The Plague's hands, especially in the flower delivery scene. When they go over to Lord Nikon's place and watch TV, consider what is playing. How many of their secret hacker books do you own?

If I could give this movie more stars, I would. This is by far my favorite hacker type movie, and if you count the number of times I have watched it, it would rank as my all time favorite over all. BUY IT NOW! It is better than Cats, you will watch it again and again.

The soundtrack is available on CD, and if you are a techno fan I suggest looking in to it.

Hack Job
To be honest, Hackers is not a great movie, especially when it stands up against other cyber thrillers like Sneakers and War Games, but as a pure guilty pleasure it ranks as one of my favorites.

Dade Murphy (Jonny Lee Miller) is a hacker prodigy, who, along with his Mom, (Lorraine Bracco) moves across the country to New York City. Soon he meets other kids like him, forming a High School cadre of misfits and rich kids who hack into computer systems purely for fun. When one of their group is suddenly arrested, the others band together to take on a corporate hacker disguised as a security officer in an attempt to expose his plans and save one of their own.

The film is clearly influenced by, and made for, the MTV generation. Director Iain Softley tries to do the best he can. The story has been done before and is muddled by a lot of techno speak. That said, it somehow, still manages to be something that's hard to ignore. The screen lights up as a very lovely Angelina Jolie, playing Kate, makes quite a splash. Miller is your typical anti-establishment hero but some of the sequences he initiates are a lot of fun to watch. I also liked some of the cyber names the characters have in the film, like "Cereal Killer", "Acid Burn" and "Zero Cool".

The DVD's only extras are the theatrical trailer and MGM's--sounds better than it really is--8-page booklet. It features trivia and production notes about the making of the movie.

There's no rhymne or reason, as to why I like Hackers, as much as I do. (Jolie??) If you are looking for a piece of good/bad fluff this fits the bill

2nd Best movie ever (under Citizen Cane)
This is the best movie ever made. I learned most my hacking skills from watching it. Zero Cool is my idol. The depicions of hacking are totally correct in every way and are still very relavent today. If you want to start hacking this MUST be your first step. You also get to see Angalina Jolie's [assets]. If you would like to see the other [assets], I suggest watching GIA also a fine movie.

dont have to be a nerd to understand, just computer literate
This is a pretty good movie, especially when you look back and see how excited the actors get talking about how fast their new computer is compared to todays standards. You do need to know a little bit of computer lingo to under stand what they are saying but the plot is really easy to understand. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This echo of 1970s disaster films stars Sylvester Stallone as the disgraced former head of New York City's Emergency Medical Services, a loser who is nevertheless a compulsive rescuer of people in danger. When the Holland Tunnel is sealed off after a fiery explosion and car passengers are trapped within, he goes inside and leads a group of survivors (a mixed group allegorically representing America's diversity) through all manner of pestilence toward safety. Directed by the imaginative Rob Cohen (Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story), Daylight finds Stallone outrageously (and to almost campy effect) pushing the envelope of his martyr persona to near-religious levels. He throws himself, quite literally, into this part, and between that entertainment factor and the unnervingly convincing effects, this is a pretty watchable film. The collector's edition DVD release has optional widescreen and standard (pan and scan) versions, optional Spanish subtitles, and Dolby soundtrack. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (32)

'Daylight' Is a Breakthrough for Stallone
It's been a long time since I've given a Sylvester Stallone flick a positive review, maybe not since First Blood which was released thirteen years prior. But Daylight is maybe his best action movie, a disaster film that'll make you think twice before driving through a tunnel ever again. Sly plays an EMS chief whose been disgraced after losing a team while looking for survivors in a collapsed building. And when an explosion closes the tunnel connection Mannhattan and New Jersey on both ends he offers to go in after any survivors. He's seeking redemption which Stallone plays with subtle grace, giving his best performace since Rocky. The supporting characters are equally well acted and includes Amy Brenneman (Judging Amy), Viggo Mortensen (The Perfect Murder) and Dan Hedaya (A Civil Action). I don't want to make this sound like your typical dumb popcorn movie but Daylight will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense and once the action gets started don't be expecting a chance to catch your breath because it's not coming. The DVD is fabulous, you'll never knew you're not in the tunnel yourself with the creaking walls and splashing water filling every one of your six speakers (if you're so lucky). If not the picture is crystal clear and with special features like this it's hard not to recommend it to everybody.

A collector¿s edition in DVD that is worth every penny!
Here is a disaster flick that puts the audience into a real life situation, which is unique and quite different from the typical action and adventure films. The movie, Daylight, is based on a real life occurrence of a tunnel accident in the late 1940s at the Holland and Lincoln tunnels under the Hudson River. Directed by Rob Cohen, the movie is a visionary masterpiece of a tunnel explosion that brought the whole character set to work together and risk their lives on this horrible disaster situation with the elements of nature involved. The character set is where the true inner beauty of the movie rests. It is one that I describe as not too well known to the public with a notable exception of Sylvester Stalone, who played the lead part. Here, Stalone played a sympathetic character, who brought the survivors to daylight. Although he has the persona of Rocky and Rambo, Stallone was, in the movie, an ordinary citizen who blends perfectly well with the others in the set without putting emphasis on muscles or action. Amy Brenneman (NYPD Blue) plays the female lead. She adds a freshness and excitement in the film. The presence of Viggo Mortenssen (Crimson Tide) was also exceptional who played a role as a sports celebrity. The family role models of Steven & Sarah and their daughter Ashley and an older couple put emphasis on values of caring and loving in a disastrous situation. The juvenile offenders were also terrific. Stalone's son in real life, Sage Stalone, especially gave some good highlights in the movie. The tunnel cop, George, played by Stan Shaw was a symbol of sheer humanity and warmth as he put the survivors together. Lastly, the worthwhile appearances of medical-relief workers, firemen and engineers have given their dedication for making this movie so believable for the audience to like it.

Besides the good casting, this film is appraised for its outstanding cinema production as far as visual effects are concern. The filming of an explosion at the tunnel is one of a kind. What really amazes me here is the long fire ball sequence that takes the audience into this journey, for the first time, of looking inside the horrible flame that is rolling as it impacts every object in its path, melting and burning down vehicles. The DTS sound quality of the DVD is amazing here. Also, there is a lot of stunt work involved here, of course, in order to make it believable. Stalone's stunt work in the fan sequence was a thrill portion to see. Feeling the power of the water reaping through the ceiling, turbulent tremors and explosions, and the tile cracks are all formidable forces that alert the audience to join the character set to express true fear and is really amazing. The blowout was the climatic scene between Stallone and Brennemen for their last chance to escape. This blowout scene is very original and is enriched with animated graphics and stunt work, which is beautifully accomplished.

One thing to comment is the excellent musical score. The musical effects present in disaster films like Daylight have the essence of thrill, fear, escape and hope. In Daylight, the musical score is one that depicts on heroism, failure and triumph of the human spirit over fear. In the introduction of the movie title itself, it has a speedily haunting sound, as it travels with the audience through a laser journey through a tunnel at night and at fast speed, which really prompts the audience to be prepared for that unthinkable situation that is about to happen.

As a huge fan and collector of disaster films, the movie, Daylight, is a great flick. The DVD Collector's Edition is packed with bonus materials. It includes this film in anamorphic widescreen, a special "making of" and behind the scene track, feature commentary, production notes, cast & filmakers, theatrical trailers, a featurette and even a music video of the movie love theme "Whenever There Is Love" performed by Donna Summer. All of this in one DVD, it is definitely a movie to own.

The best part is watching the cliches fight for dominance
This movie goes way off the unintentional comedy scale. A rag-tag group of survivors, containing every possible patented Hollywood character, from the dignified elderly to the know-it-all WASP and the fiesty token minority, are subjected to a truly hilarious disaster that makes the Poseidon Adventure look like Citizen Kane. My favorite part of this film is the invincible dog. You can always tell a Hollywood hackjob by the invincible dog, which always survives everything and is, gosh, just so darn *cute* that you're supposed to get all weepy with relief when it survives through to the credits. A classic example is the golden retriever in Independence Day that, in an awe-inspiring display of poor blue screening, somehow jumps out of the way of a fireball that just destroyed Los Angeles..and of course just at the last moment. A cousin of that redoubtable pup is found here, where it actually disappears for half the movie and then suddenly comes paddling out of nowhere in a moment that is clearly intended to be triumphant, but is just flat out funny. It's long been known that people watching a movie react far more emotionally to injuries to dogs than to people, but you've stooped pretty darn low when you have to fall back on that as a plot device.

not the best film, but the special effects are mindblowing!
This movie has a good but not great plot element to it. The acting was also not the best, but the special effects for the tunnel explosion are some of the most incredible I have ever seen!

I didn't really like this movie ia a favorie but I bought the DVD - just for the explosion scene alone. I watch it frame by frame on my dvd player.

The filmmakers even said that they wanted the fire to have a plasma like look to it and they did a really good job at it! In my opinion, the special effects in that scene are one of the best pyrotechnics displays in cinematic history!

Introduction to some new Stars
I liked this film. I own this film. Yes, it "stars" Sylvester Stallone of Rocky and Rambo fame. He did a very fine job - a nice switch from the beat-'em-up movies he's been type-casted into.

But what I like best about this film is that it "quietly" includes two individuals who are now big hits in Hollywood ... Viggo Mortensen of the recent trilogy Lord Of The Rings and Amy Brenneman of the current TV hit, "Judging Amy."

I like both of these actors so I have a special appreciation for "Daylight." It was one of Amy's first films, but it was just one of many for Viggo. Viggo has worked a long time in film, quietly in the background, offering wonderfully crafted supporting roles. I'm excited that Viggo is now being casted as a Leading Star. Good for him. He is a fantastic actor. ... Read more

Reviews (253)

You mess with the best you die like the rest!
There have been so many teen angst/adventure/comedy films made throughout the years and I have probably seen every one of them, but Hackers shines through like a needle in the haystack. Many of the so-called cliches of this genre are here but are acted so well that it's believable. The on screen relationship between Crash (Johnny Lee Miller) and the woman that portrays his mother is very genuine and Matthew Lillard steals the show (The way he acts in this movie shows us how Shaggy will be in Scooby Doo next year). Oh, don't worry, I didn't forget about Angelina Jolie who shows the viewer how we REALLY Want women to be like, she's a REAL LIFE HERO. But what might be the film's major achievement is that it portrays a real life society that has not been seen (I'm not talking about the HACKING aspect), the society of New York City! What many people don't realize is that New York is the closest thing in America to European Culture! Kids are very much free and they have more opportunities to become adults at a younger age because they are exposed to so much culture. It is very interesting to see how these high school kids hang out, in run down buildings that are remodeled to look like a Nintendo Convention, to the sleek underground laptop/music cafes that cater to the under 21 culture. New York is probably the only place in the U.S. where you don't have to be bored if you're not 21. The fact that they are computer Hackers is just a part of the New York scene and it radiates with curiosity and shows us that we are truly in a new age. But aside from all the technical things, the relationships the actors portray on screen are genuine and compasionate, the comedy is great, and the adventure is A+. In a film that should not have taken itself seriously, it did, and strangely it worked!

Not just a movie, a way of life
If you want a serious movie about hackers, look somewhere else. If you want a really fun movie with good style, Angelina Jolie, and a pulsing soundtrack, Hackers may be for you.

Johhny Lee Miller (aka Crash Override or Zero Cool) moves to New York with his mother. He meets Angelina Jolie (aka Acid Burn) at school and they immediately become rivals. They come up with a hacking contest to prove who is the best. Together with their friends, Lord Nikon, Cereal Killer (my favorite), Phantom Phreak, and Joey (who is nobody without a handle) join up to take on Fisher Stevens as Mr. The Plague.

This movie is chock full of cool scenes, cool people, and skater technobabble. Sure, the hacking scenes are totally unrealistic, the people unrealistic as computer geeks, but with the awesome techno soundtrack and the style they are presented with, it is easy to overlook. Just sit back and enjoy the ride!

I think that most sysadmin types probably have Mr The Plague as their role model. As a villain, he is ultra suave. As a sysadmin, he is over the top. I have never seen a computer guy with this much panache, and I don't suspect I will see another.

After you have made it through the movie a few times you can begin to watch for the fun stuff. Watch Mr The Plague's hands, especially in the flower delivery scene. When they go over to Lord Nikon's place and watch TV, consider what is playing. How many of their secret hacker books do you own?

If I could give this movie more stars, I would. This is by far my favorite hacker type movie, and if you count the number of times I have watched it, it would rank as my all time favorite over all. BUY IT NOW! It is better than Cats, you will watch it again and again.

The soundtrack is available on CD, and if you are a techno fan I suggest looking in to it.

Hack Job
To be honest, Hackers is not a great movie, especially when it stands up against other cyber thrillers like Sneakers and War Games, but as a pure guilty pleasure it ranks as one of my favorites.

Dade Murphy (Jonny Lee Miller) is a hacker prodigy, who, along with his Mom, (Lorraine Bracco) moves across the country to New York City. Soon he meets other kids like him, forming a High School cadre of misfits and rich kids who hack into computer systems purely for fun. When one of their group is suddenly arrested, the others band together to take on a corporate hacker disguised as a security officer in an attempt to expose his plans and save one of their own.

The film is clearly influenced by, and made for, the MTV generation. Director Iain Softley tries to do the best he can. The story has been done before and is muddled by a lot of techno speak. That said, it somehow, still manages to be something that's hard to ignore. The screen lights up as a very lovely Angelina Jolie, playing Kate, makes quite a splash. Miller is your typical anti-establishment hero but some of the sequences he initiates are a lot of fun to watch. I also liked some of the cyber names the characters have in the film, like "Cereal Killer", "Acid Burn" and "Zero Cool".

The DVD's only extras are the theatrical trailer and MGM's--sounds better than it really is--8-page booklet. It features trivia and production notes about the making of the movie.

There's no rhymne or reason, as to why I like Hackers, as much as I do. (Jolie??) If you are looking for a piece of good/bad fluff this fits the bill

2nd Best movie ever (under Citizen Cane)
This is the best movie ever made. I learned most my hacking skills from watching it. Zero Cool is my idol. The depicions of hacking are totally correct in every way and are still very relavent today. If you want to start hacking this MUST be your first step. You also get to see Angalina Jolie's [assets]. If you would like to see the other [assets], I suggest watching GIA also a fine movie.

dont have to be a nerd to understand, just computer literate
This is a pretty good movie, especially when you look back and see how excited the actors get talking about how fast their new computer is compared to todays standards. You do need to know a little bit of computer lingo to under stand what they are saying but the plot is really easy to understand. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

'Daylight' Is a Breakthrough for Stallone
It's been a long time since I've given a Sylvester Stallone flick a positive review, maybe not since First Blood which was released thirteen years prior. But Daylight is maybe his best action movie, a disaster film that'll make you think twice before driving through a tunnel ever again. Sly plays an EMS chief whose been disgraced after losing a team while looking for survivors in a collapsed building. And when an explosion closes the tunnel connection Mannhattan and New Jersey on both ends he offers to go in after any survivors. He's seeking redemption which Stallone plays with subtle grace, giving his best performace since Rocky. The supporting characters are equally well acted and includes Amy Brenneman (Judging Amy), Viggo Mortensen (The Perfect Murder) and Dan Hedaya (A Civil Action). I don't want to make this sound like your typical dumb popcorn movie but Daylight will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense and once the action gets started don't be expecting a chance to catch your breath because it's not coming. The DVD is fabulous, you'll never knew you're not in the tunnel yourself with the creaking walls and splashing water filling every one of your six speakers (if you're so lucky). If not the picture is crystal clear and with special features like this it's hard not to recommend it to everybody.

A collector¿s edition in DVD that is worth every penny!
Here is a disaster flick that puts the audience into a real life situation, which is unique and quite different from the typical action and adventure films. The movie, Daylight, is based on a real life occurrence of a tunnel accident in the late 1940s at the Holland and Lincoln tunnels under the Hudson River. Directed by Rob Cohen, the movie is a visionary masterpiece of a tunnel explosion that brought the whole character set to work together and risk their lives on this horrible disaster situation with the elements of nature involved. The character set is where the true inner beauty of the movie rests. It is one that I describe as not too well known to the public with a notable exception of Sylvester Stalone, who played the lead part. Here, Stalone played a sympathetic character, who brought the survivors to daylight. Although he has the persona of Rocky and Rambo, Stallone was, in the movie, an ordinary citizen who blends perfectly well with the others in the set without putting emphasis on muscles or action. Amy Brenneman (NYPD Blue) plays the female lead. She adds a freshness and excitement in the film. The presence of Viggo Mortenssen (Crimson Tide) was also exceptional who played a role as a sports celebrity. The family role models of Steven & Sarah and their daughter Ashley and an older couple put emphasis on values of caring and loving in a disastrous situation. The juvenile offenders were also terrific. Stalone's son in real life, Sage Stalone, especially gave some good highlights in the movie. The tunnel cop, George, played by Stan Shaw was a symbol of sheer humanity and warmth as he put the survivors together. Lastly, the worthwhile appearances of medical-relief workers, firemen and engineers have given their dedication for making this movie so believable for the audience to like it.

Besides the good casting, this film is appraised for its outstanding cinema production as far as visual effects are concern. The filming of an explosion at the tunnel is one of a kind. What really amazes me here is the long fire ball sequence that takes the audience into this journey, for the first time, of looking inside the horrible flame that is rolling as it impacts every object in its path, melting and burning down vehicles. The DTS sound quality of the DVD is amazing here. Also, there is a lot of stunt work involved here, of course, in order to make it believable. Stalone's stunt work in the fan sequence was a thrill portion to see. Feeling the power of the water reaping through the ceiling, turbulent tremors and explosions, and the tile cracks are all formidable forces that alert the audience to join the character set to express true fear and is really amazing. The blowout was the climatic scene between Stallone and Brennemen for their last chance to escape. This blowout scene is very original and is enriched with animated graphics and stunt work, which is beautifully accomplished.

One thing to comment is the excellent musical score. The musical effects present in disaster films like Daylight have the essence of thrill, fear, escape and hope. In Daylight, the musical score is one that depicts on heroism, failure and triumph of the human spirit over fear. In the introduction of the movie title itself, it has a speedily haunting sound, as it travels with the audience through a laser journey through a tunnel at night and at fast speed, which really prompts the audience to be prepared for that unthinkable situation that is about to happen.

As a huge fan and collector of disaster films, the movie, Daylight, is a great flick. The DVD Collector's Edition is packed with bonus materials. It includes this film in anamorphic widescreen, a special "making of" and behind the scene track, feature commentary, production notes, cast & filmakers, theatrical trailers, a featurette and even a music video of the movie love theme "Whenever There Is Love" performed by Donna Summer. All of this in one DVD, it is definitely a movie to own.

The best part is watching the cliches fight for dominance
This movie goes way off the unintentional comedy scale. A rag-tag group of survivors, containing every possible patented Hollywood character, from the dignified elderly to the know-it-all WASP and the fiesty token minority, are subjected to a truly hilarious disaster that makes the Poseidon Adventure look like Citizen Kane. My favorite part of this film is the invincible dog. You can always tell a Hollywood hackjob by the invincible dog, which always survives everything and is, gosh, just so darn *cute* that you're supposed to get all weepy with relief when it survives through to the credits. A classic example is the golden retriever in Independence Day that, in an awe-inspiring display of poor blue screening, somehow jumps out of the way of a fireball that just destroyed Los Angeles..and of course just at the last moment. A cousin of that redoubtable pup is found here, where it actually disappears for half the movie and then suddenly comes paddling out of nowhere in a moment that is clearly intended to be triumphant, but is just flat out funny. It's long been known that people watching a movie react far more emotionally to injuries to dogs than to people, but you've stooped pretty darn low when you have to fall back on that as a plot device.

not the best film, but the special effects are mindblowing!
This movie has a good but not great plot element to it. The acting was also not the best, but the special effects for the tunnel explosion are some of the most incredible I have ever seen!

I didn't really like this movie ia a favorie but I bought the DVD - just for the explosion scene alone. I watch it frame by frame on my dvd player.

The filmmakers even said that they wanted the fire to have a plasma like look to it and they did a really good job at it! In my opinion, the special effects in that scene are one of the best pyrotechnics displays in cinematic history!

Introduction to some new Stars
I liked this film. I own this film. Yes, it "stars" Sylvester Stallone of Rocky and Rambo fame. He did a very fine job - a nice switch from the beat-'em-up movies he's been type-casted into.

But what I like best about this film is that it "quietly" includes two individuals who are now big hits in Hollywood ... Viggo Mortensen of the recent trilogy Lord Of The Rings and Amy Brenneman of the current TV hit, "Judging Amy."

I like both of these actors so I have a special appreciation for "Daylight." It was one of Amy's first films, but it was just one of many for Viggo. Viggo has worked a long time in film, quietly in the background, offering wonderfully crafted supporting roles. I'm excited that Viggo is now being casted as a Leading Star. Good for him. He is a fantastic actor. ... Read more

Reviews (149)

Buckle Up
Con Air is a blockbuster movie. A film that soars with the best of them. And since it's produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, no wonder it's a hit. Making his directorial debut, Simon West does a terrific job pleasing the crowds of movie-goers. Cameron Poe (played by Nicolas Cage, with a Southern accent and shoulder-length hair) has just been releashed from prison after being convicted of manslaughter in the first degree. After 7 years, Cameron is finally going home to his wife and daughter. Hitching a ride home on the 'Jail Bird,' Cameron is put on a plane with the world's most vicious criminals including Cyrus "The Virus" Grissom (John Malkovich), Diamond Dog (Ving Rhames), Billy Bedlam (Nick Chinlund), and Garland Greene (Steve Buscemi) who "makes the Manson family look like the Partidge family." Within 5 minutes of takeoff, the criminals have already assumed command of the plane, are in possession of all the weapons, and took all the guards hostage. Being the former United States Park Ranger that he is, Cameron Poe decides to try and save the day with the help of on-the-ground U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin (played by John Cusack). Con Air is an explosive film with great special effects, superb acting, and humor on the side. I recommend it for anyone looking for a movie with non-stop action beginning to end.

Con Air
Con Air is a good action film and several things keep it alive. One is acting. John Malkovich is good as Cyrus "the Virus" Grissom, who claims he's killed more people than cancer. John Cusack is in good form as U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin, who owns the plane the criminals take over, named "the Jailbird". Nicolas Cage delivers one of his best performances as Cameron Poe, a decorated military hero who is catching a ride home after being in prison for 8 years for defending his wife in a bar fight. Other good performances were by Steve Buscemi as serial killer Garland Greene and Ving Rhames (Mission:Impossible) as Nathan "Diamond Dog" Jones. The musical score was very good. There are a few plotholes but hey, there aren't too many movies that don't have a few plotholes here and there. Another good thing is action. Most of the action on board the plane is hand-to-hand combat. Probably the best action scene in the movie is where the criminals stop to get a new plane. U.S. troops attack them in a long and great gunfight. The other action sequence is when Cusack and Cage chase Cyrus on motorcycles through a tunnel in Las Vegas. It is very humorous when the plane is crashing and Garland Greene is singing "He's got the whole world in His hands". At the Academy Awards Con Air was nominated for two things:Best Sound and Best Original Song. It did not win either. Though Con Air may be a level below Crimson Tide, The Rock, and Air Force One, it's still a great action film

As Believable As Finding Out "Snow White" Is A True Story
This movie is about as believable as finding that "Snow White" was based on a true story...this movie is so ridiculously stupid that I gave one star. First of all, if Nicolas Cage's character killed someone in self-defense, there'd be no trial, he wouldn't be charged. Second, JOHN MALKOVICH AS A VIOLENT, MULTIPLE FELON? WHO DID HE BEAT FOR THE PART...STEVE URKEL? Then there's John Cusak trying desperately hard to show us that he can act...that he's still got it...but HE NEVER HAD IT! BELIEVE ME, IF THESE FELONS COULD FIGURE A WAY TO TAKE CONTROL OF A PRISON TRANSPORT PLANE USING A PAPER CLIP AND A MATCH, THEY WOULDN'T BE IN COUNTY LOCK UP, THEY'D BE RUNNING THE WORLD. Most of the directing shots are tilted and herendous, the acting is stupid (with Cage's phoney Southern accent), and the fact that Malkovich conviently lands on a conveyer belt that ends up crushing his head is way too unrealistic...ANOTHER THING, MALKOVICH IS ABOUT AS BRUTAL IN THE FILM AS IS WATCHING HIM ACT!

OVER THE TOP AND THEN SOME
For pure adrenalin and testosterone exposure, one can't do much better than CON-AIR. There are a ton of unbelievable action scenes, and that's the key word---unbelievable. One can't say director Simon West didn't keep the action flowing. The finale in Las Vegas is way over the top!!!
Credit the actors for doing something with their roles, especially the brilliant John Cusack who puts his teeth into his meaty role as a US Marshall. Also Colm Meaney as the DEA agent who is obstinate and overbearing, to say the least. There are a nasty set of villains--John Malkovich, Nick Chindlin, Ving Rhames, Danny Trejo, David Chappelle---a nice looking guard played by Rachel Ticotin, another good bad guy played by Mykel Williamson, and Monica Potter does a nice turn as Poe's wife. Nicolas Cage is so bland, saddled with a ridiculous Southern accent, and does so many stupid things, it's hard to see how we can consider this guy that heroic.
But, if you want a two hour roller coaster ride with plenty of guns and action, CONAIR is hard to beat. It also has the Trisha Yearwood version of "How Do I Live," which is worth watching the movie!!!!

Great Flick!
When I first sat down to watch this film I was expecting anything, but when it was over I knew it was one i'd always want to Have! The Story is about a man who has done time in prison for murdering somebody who tried to hurt his wife! And Finally he's going to go home! Tho on his way home he is put onto a plane that seems to have Americas worst criminals in hostory abourd, and the plane is highjacked by them and the plot starts! to take place and unfold, and many storys are told through the way, with some comedy, some action and some fun along with some decent acting for a film of this type!

This movie is worth it in my opinion! But its not to everyones taste, my recomendation is to hire it before you buy it if you can! It does play on personal opinions and tastes! To me its a great movie, but you be the judge for yourself! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

JUST A GANGSTA FLICK THAT HAPPENS TO HAVE A SHAKESPEARE PLOT
A YOUNG LATINO THUG [JON SEDA] BETRAYS HIS OWN BROTHERS ONE BY ONE SO THAT HE CAN CONTROL THE STREETS OF LA. THE ACTING IS OK, BUT, THE PLOT IS MEDIOCRE AND THE MOVIE'S JUST NOT ALWAYS ON TARGET. I THINK THIS MOVIE IS BETTER THAN MOST OF THE GANGSTA MOVIES THAT'RE CURRENTLY AT THE VIDEO STORES RIGHT NOW, BUT, THIS MOVIE NEEDS SOME SERIOUS WORK. THAT'S RIGHT, THIS MOVIE ACTUALLY IS AN URBAN REWORKING OF ''RICHARD III'', THE CLAASIC SHAKESPEARE STORY. IF YOU'RE INTERESTED, RENT IT. BUT DON'T BUY IT.

A lot of fun to watch
This is one for the English teachers out there. The film takes a Shakespeare play [Richard III] and adapts it to a contemporary setting. Anyone who loves Shakespeare will enjoy watching how the plot line is used here. The actors all seem to be relishing their over the top perfomances...but isn't that one of the charms of the original character? I think yes. Buy this one, show it to your students, and discuss how Shakespeare borrowed from other sources.

also listed in the Internet Movie Database as "King Rikki"
Shakespeare's "Richard III" updated so the masses (like me) can enjoy the story for what it is..A Timeless Masterpiece.. without having to translate it into modern American English..rife with deceit and betrayal..Ruthless fun

Worth it for the hotties!
I thank the last reviewer for mentioning the Shakespearean influence. I kept wondering why the protagonist kept making such unrealistic soliloquies. Anyway, this movie had a terrible plot. The way in which a brother was killing his own brothers was very disheartening. It shifted the border from US-Mexico to Northern Cal-Southern Cal for some unexplained reason. Still, this movie was worth it for one reason: THE GUYS IN IT ARE KILLER HOT!!!! Que guapos! Almost every male character wears sleeveless undershirts to displaying their perfect torsos and sculptured arms. Simply beautiful!

A good looking film.
Good prformances. It's an art gang picture that uses Shakespeare's Richard III. Low budget. Thoughtfuly photographed. Splendid art direction. Story is hard to fallow at times. But it's hubris in performances and directing make up for it. Cult Film. Fun! ... Read more