Amazon.com

A slightly dated but nonetheless fascinating snapshot of musical history, Beat Street is an urban musical detailing the roots of hip-hop. Set in early-1980s New York, the film focuses on the lives of a small group of young people setting their experiences against the larger backdrop of the city's burgeoning music scene. The story of up-and-coming DJ Kenny (Guy Davis) and his relationship with jazz musician Tracy (Rae Dawn Chong) may only be a device, but it's surprisingly effective, as is the ultimately tragic tale of graffiti artist Ramon (Jon Chardiet). The movie's real raison d'être, however, is to showcase the sounds of the street, so it's full of some of hip-hop's most influential names--Melle Mel, Doug E Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, the Rocksteady Crew, Jazzy Jeff, and Arthur Baker. And while the combination of electro and rapping may sound a little crude to modern ears, there can be no doubt that Beat Street is the sight and sound of history being made. --Phil Udell ... Read more

Reviews (51)

A Breakdance Movie with a Hollywood Touch...
This movie is about how life was for urban NYC youngsters during the early 80's. Hip-Hop gave rise with its four elements: Graffiti, Breakdance, MCing, and DJing running wild through the streets. This was the rich culture that people all over the world immersed themselves in and were impacted by. But I agree with those that say Hollywood exploited this culture we call Hip-Hop. They made this movie without understanding its true meaning and essence. But this movie is a fun watch because there are many big names known to the Hip-Hop world in it like the Rock Steady Crew and NYC Breakers, Kool Herc, Doug E. Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, and many other big names. If anything, this movie is remembered for one thing and that is the notorious ROXY scene and the battle between two great breakdance crews, RSC and NYC Breakers. It's probably one of the best battle scenes ever. I also like this movie because they had a couple of scenes at my alma mater, CCNY. The romance and drama is typical of Hollywood and it doesn't really help to formidably portray the Hip-Hop culture in anyway, rather it takes away from the few notable parts in the movie. They should of omitted the fakery and just focused on what it claims to be about, Hip-Hop. I think it would have had a better reputation and gotten much more respect from those who actually lived the culture during that period. I recommend "Wild Style" or "Style Wars" to check out what Hip-Hop was really all about in those days. PEACE!

And the Beat Goes On
A true hip-hop classic. I was first introduced to this film through my mother who was a teenager at the time of it's original release in 1984. Thanks to this movie, at 9 years old, i have a greater appreciation for hip hop and better understand its origins. This movie gives an accurate representation of one of the 20th century's most influential musical genres. Unlike the other hip hop movies Beat Street accurately captures the look and feel of the hip hop culture of New York City in the 80s (sheepskins, bomber jackets, kangol hats) It also takes a holistic look at hip hop nation astutely incorporating all of its elements - rap music, break dancing, spinning/mixing, graffiti art. More than just a movie about hip hop, it is a movie about familial ties, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit. It is a must see for the new generation of hip hop soldiers. Buy it - YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED! Peace out!

Leandro B. a.k.a. Rocker

THIS MOVIE SHOULDN'T EVER GET LESS THAN 5!!!!!!
WHOEVER GAVE BEAT STREET LESS THAN 5,,AREN'T TRUE TO HIP HOP,AND PROBABLY DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE MOVEMENT THAT BOUGHT ABOUT YOUR 50 CENTS,AND PETEY PABLO'S,AND JAY-Z'S.... BEAT STREET IS MY #1 HIP HOP MOVIE!!! (...)BEAT STREET WILL REMAIN A CLASSIC TO ME..

A combination of Beastmaster,Andromeda,Mutant X and Hiphop
Beat street is one of the greatest movies of all time since House party and Class act came out in the 90's decade where I grew up.It was really a great movie and one of the best movies of the year!

ROCKSTEADY BY FAR WINS THE BATTLE, OFF CAMERA
In the movie it would have appeared that NYC Breakers would have won the battle @ the Roxy because of their fast, dynamic moves. But I think Rocksteady on the streets would beat them easy. If you see home movie footage of both groups, Rocksteady by far has more original and different moves that show true bboying. But dont get me wrong, I'm not taking away from the NYC Breakers power and speed, and I still think they are tight !! This was my favorite movie growing up in the 80's along with Fast Times @ ridgemont high (what a combination huh !) peace ya'll ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Release the entire series, please!
Though it has a great storyline and a very efficient sense of dramatic motion, this first episode still coudn't show everything this series could do or would turn to be. That is, of course, understandable, nobody knows at this point who were James Sonny Crockett or Ricardo Tubbs, those characters would naturally have a deeper approach later. Lieutenant Castillo (Edward James Olmos) was yet to come. It is nice to see Jan Hammer's Miami Vice theme still without the guitar melody and extended a bit. Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight" is one of the highest tension points during the movie, which has Hammer's "Chase" and "Flashback", too. I can't believe that there are only two episodes available, there are so many other important moments of the series (the coming of the new Ferrari, the death of Zito, the second marriage of Sonny Crockett and etc). At first, other 2 hour lenght (or double episodes) could be released, like "Hit List", "Golden triangle", "Down for the Count", "Hostile Takeover", "Freefall". After that the entire collection should be released. We are talking about an artistic production famous by its development of a new narrative language (having the influence of videoclip and making influence in it too), very original and sophisticated visual textures. And of course, the famous guest stars. I'm sure a lot of people would like to see again the appearances of James Brown, Ted Nugent, Charlie Barnett, Phil Collins, Gordon Liddy, Jan Hammer and SO MANY OTHERS. What is MCA waiting for?

Miami Vice Series
I have been patiently awaiting the complete TV series of Miami Vice to be released on DVD. Canada already has the series. What is the problem in the US?

There are many people in this country waiting for this series, so lets get with the program please and release a DVD series compatible with the US equipment.

Miami Vice was one of the best TV series ever produced. Anyone that loves mystery, drama and action motives, will become addicted to this series. Thank you.

We need more miami vice episodes available for purchase
I am a Canadian who is interested in purchasing "Miami Vice" episodes. I know that series like "The Simpsons" and "King of the Hill" are available for purchase. So far, I own a few of series and I enjoy them immensely. Today's reality programming does nothing for me, so if I feel like watching something, I often have to turn to my own DVD's and Videos. I currently watch programs like "C.S.I.", "Less Than Perfect", "The Simpsons", "King of the Hill" and "Joan of Arcadia". (I was becoming interested in Miss Match with Alicia Silverstone, but it has been slipping.) I look forward to the day when Miami Vice episodes are also released. One of the reasons is that I am fascinated by the evolution in the work of Michael Mann over the years - he is some kind of genius!

A One of a kind Gem
This has to be one of the best programs of the 80's in fact ever.
Never has a show created such an impression on me like this show
did and i probabley won't ever find it again. Because Miami Vice
was a show that was great for it's time and is still way ahead
of our time went it comes to great storylines, music fashion,
cars anything you can think of this show showcased it long before
it became popular. The teaming of Sonny Crockett a wise mouth
seasoned vice cop who lives with his pet aligator Elvis and the
Cool Well dressed Ladykiller Cop from New York Ricardo Tubbs was
well done in contrast and style and as the series went on you never get tired of the show and it's chracters because it always kept you going in non stop excitement with great scripts, great villians and actual beautiful Miami Florida Scenery. I wished they would release the series on video and see just how many die hard fans would pick it up that it would be instantly declared cult status. I love this show!!!! At one time i wanted to be like
Don Johnson because i thought he was what i emvisioned coolness
was a nice sportscar, beautiful women and a fanatastic wardrobe.

Ten Best Miami Vice Epidsodes
10. "Lombard"
9. "The Fix"
8. "Smugglers Blues"
7. "Shadow In The Dark"
6. "The Great Mcarthey"
5. "Calderone's Return" Part 1
4 "Calderone's Return" Part 2
3. "No Exit"
2. "Amen Send Money"
1. "Definately Miami"

Style and Guest Appearances
The acting, story line and photography was great in this series. If the entire season for each year was available I would buy it. What also really made the series were the guest stars as well as Johnson, Thomas and Olmo. While many moods and scenes come to mind, this show used hollywood to dramatize the undercover narc cop. In one episode, an informer is out on the water with Sonny dead in the water (Cigarrette Boat - incredible craft). All of a sudden, he sucks in some air and screams incoming. You could hear the mortar coming in exploding in the water (land based armanent). Still you got a feeling for what our vets must feel when a familar sound triggers memories. The whole series was an incredible escape and now memories of the eighties (clothes, people and action). Micheal Mann, and his staff did an incredible job. Wish there were more reruns and VHS copies of the episodes. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Roger Hedden's charming romantic comedy works where so many like ensemble projects fail--on the strength of its amiable characters. The simple but clever plot, which involves a gambling debt, a bartender collecting overdue IOUs, and a tangled web of lies, sets in motion the trajectories of a dozen or so characters wandering the streets of New York one chilly December night. Against this backdrop they pair off, group up, and slowly wind their way back to the very bar where it all started. Hedden's sharp ear for dialogue comes out in lilting, low-key conversations (he previously cowrote Sleep with Me and Bodies, Rest & Motion), but his greatest triumph is the casting. Campbell Scott, at his understated best as the warm, winsome center of the film, strolls through a series of Big Apple watering holes with all the quiet confidence and affable friendliness a wounded romantic can muster. Equally fine are sweetly sincere Moira Kelly as his sister, thoughtful debt collector Peter Riegert, goofy barfly Katrin Cartlidge, conniving creep Eric Stoltz, and especially the often misused Daryl Hannah, who sends sparks as Scott's old girlfriend. Hedden's leisurely pace gives us time to hang with the characters, who are fine company and never overstay their welcome (the film clocks in under 90 minutes). It's the kind of movie Hollywood has forgotten how to make, a modestly endearing little piece that eschews big drama for delightful characters and enchanting moments. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Witty, Charming and Warm
This is a GREAT little indie. It has a fairly simple plot which sends the characters running around NYC one night at Christmas time - each with his or her own misunderstanding of what is going on. The dialogue is warm and witty and the actors are wonderful. There is not one bad perfomance in this film. Campbell Scott and the late Katrin Cartlidge make a very enagaging duo as they spar and flirt their way through the evening. Eric Stoltz is a great warm-hearted heel and Kelly gets a chance to deliver some great one-liners and zingers that give her character a real zest. This is the kind of small, sweet, funny film that doesen't get made that often and when they do - rarely this well. Spend and hour and a half with this one and make some new friends. I have honestly ended up curled up on the couch watching this more times than I ever imagined. Get it!

Such a fun story to watch unfold in front of you
I watched this movie ...and once it finished I decided I had to log on to Amazon and buy it up. This film is so well done, from the characters, the actors, the dialogue and the stories. A pure enjoyment to watch. I hope everyuone sees it at least once.

A Cast and a Story to Die For!
This film is so good! The dialogue is very clever, and the actors fit the characters well. (Meaning each actor was perfect for the role. The casting department really did their job well for this film) You will love all the characters, from Jimmy the dishonest struggling actor, Minor the thug wanna-be, Fatty the bookie who happens to be whipped by his wife, and my personal favorite, Simon the Jewish Santa. (Played by Dean Cameron, what a surprise :) This is a great film! Buy it!

cult classic romantic comedy set in NYC
This film is smart and funny and low-key. It is set in actual bars in New York City's upper west side, so I felt a little nostalgic looking at places I used to go to, now that I live on the west coast. There are various twists and turns and various actors show up and then dissappear. There's a lot going on, and everyone is trading insults the whole time. Campbell Scott is great as always in the lead.

great little known indie
What a great movie!

If you like 'dialouge' movies, definitely see this one! The script is clever and has a very New York feel to it. I forewarn everyone that this is not a screwball comedy.

I repeat, this is not a screwball comedy.

It does have comic moments, but the goal of this movie is not to have you on the floor laughing. The goal is simply to show you a day in the life of 'average' New Yorkers, and to point out that honesty is the best policy.

To fully enjoy the film, I suggest you just sit back and relax, enjoy the comedy, enjoy the drama, enjoy the dialouge. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A nice romantic comedy
Set in New York, it's the classic story of a man and a woman from different classes who come together to find a commonality, love. Nick and Jane has its comedic moments and romance that will leave you starry eyed. If you're a McCaffrey fan it is a must see. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

A Breakdance Movie with a Hollywood Touch...
This movie is about how life was for urban NYC youngsters during the early 80's. Hip-Hop gave rise with its four elements: Graffiti, Breakdance, MCing, and DJing running wild through the streets. This was the rich culture that people all over the world immersed themselves in and were impacted by. But I agree with those that say Hollywood exploited this culture we call Hip-Hop. They made this movie without understanding its true meaning and essence. But this movie is a fun watch because there are many big names known to the Hip-Hop world in it like the Rock Steady Crew and NYC Breakers, Kool Herc, Doug E. Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, and many other big names. If anything, this movie is remembered for one thing and that is the notorious ROXY scene and the battle between two great breakdance crews, RSC and NYC Breakers. It's probably one of the best battle scenes ever. I also like this movie because they had a couple of scenes at my alma mater, CCNY. The romance and drama is typical of Hollywood and it doesn't really help to formidably portray the Hip-Hop culture in anyway, rather it takes away from the few notable parts in the movie. They should of omitted the fakery and just focused on what it claims to be about, Hip-Hop. I think it would have had a better reputation and gotten much more respect from those who actually lived the culture during that period. I recommend "Wild Style" or "Style Wars" to check out what Hip-Hop was really all about in those days. PEACE!

And the Beat Goes On
A true hip-hop classic. I was first introduced to this film through my mother who was a teenager at the time of it's original release in 1984. Thanks to this movie, at 9 years old, i have a greater appreciation for hip hop and better understand its origins. This movie gives an accurate representation of one of the 20th century's most influential musical genres. Unlike the other hip hop movies Beat Street accurately captures the look and feel of the hip hop culture of New York City in the 80s (sheepskins, bomber jackets, kangol hats) It also takes a holistic look at hip hop nation astutely incorporating all of its elements - rap music, break dancing, spinning/mixing, graffiti art. More than just a movie about hip hop, it is a movie about familial ties, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit. It is a must see for the new generation of hip hop soldiers. Buy it - YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED! Peace out!

Leandro B. a.k.a. Rocker

THIS MOVIE SHOULDN'T EVER GET LESS THAN 5!!!!!!
WHOEVER GAVE BEAT STREET LESS THAN 5,,AREN'T TRUE TO HIP HOP,AND PROBABLY DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE MOVEMENT THAT BOUGHT ABOUT YOUR 50 CENTS,AND PETEY PABLO'S,AND JAY-Z'S.... BEAT STREET IS MY #1 HIP HOP MOVIE!!! (...)BEAT STREET WILL REMAIN A CLASSIC TO ME..

A combination of Beastmaster,Andromeda,Mutant X and Hiphop
Beat street is one of the greatest movies of all time since House party and Class act came out in the 90's decade where I grew up.It was really a great movie and one of the best movies of the year!

ROCKSTEADY BY FAR WINS THE BATTLE, OFF CAMERA
In the movie it would have appeared that NYC Breakers would have won the battle @ the Roxy because of their fast, dynamic moves. But I think Rocksteady on the streets would beat them easy. If you see home movie footage of both groups, Rocksteady by far has more original and different moves that show true bboying. But dont get me wrong, I'm not taking away from the NYC Breakers power and speed, and I still think they are tight !! This was my favorite movie growing up in the 80's along with Fast Times @ ridgemont high (what a combination huh !) peace ya'll ... Read more

Amazon.com

Roger Hedden's charming romantic comedy works where so many like ensemble projects fail--on the strength of its amiable characters. The simple but clever plot, which involves a gambling debt, a bartender collecting overdue IOUs, and a tangled web of lies, sets in motion the trajectories of a dozen or so characters wandering the streets of New York one chilly December night. Against this backdrop they pair off, group up, and slowly wind their way back to the very bar where it all started. Hedden's sharp ear for dialogue comes out in lilting, low-key conversations (he previously cowrote Sleep with Me and Bodies, Rest & Motion), but his greatest triumph is the casting. Campbell Scott, at his understated best as the warm, winsome center of the film, strolls through a series of Big Apple watering holes with all the quiet confidence and affable friendliness a wounded romantic can muster. Equally fine are sweetly sincere Moira Kelly as his sister, thoughtful debt collector Peter Riegert, goofy barfly Katrin Cartlidge, conniving creep Eric Stoltz, and especially the often misused Daryl Hannah, who sends sparks as Scott's old girlfriend. Hedden's leisurely pace gives us time to hang with the characters, who are fine company and never overstay their welcome (the film clocks in under 90 minutes). It's the kind of movie Hollywood has forgotten how to make, a modestly endearing little piece that eschews big drama for delightful characters and enchanting moments. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Witty, Charming and Warm
This is a GREAT little indie. It has a fairly simple plot which sends the characters running around NYC one night at Christmas time - each with his or her own misunderstanding of what is going on. The dialogue is warm and witty and the actors are wonderful. There is not one bad perfomance in this film. Campbell Scott and the late Katrin Cartlidge make a very enagaging duo as they spar and flirt their way through the evening. Eric Stoltz is a great warm-hearted heel and Kelly gets a chance to deliver some great one-liners and zingers that give her character a real zest. This is the kind of small, sweet, funny film that doesen't get made that often and when they do - rarely this well. Spend and hour and a half with this one and make some new friends. I have honestly ended up curled up on the couch watching this more times than I ever imagined. Get it!

Such a fun story to watch unfold in front of you
I watched this movie ...and once it finished I decided I had to log on to Amazon and buy it up. This film is so well done, from the characters, the actors, the dialogue and the stories. A pure enjoyment to watch. I hope everyuone sees it at least once.

A Cast and a Story to Die For!
This film is so good! The dialogue is very clever, and the actors fit the characters well. (Meaning each actor was perfect for the role. The casting department really did their job well for this film) You will love all the characters, from Jimmy the dishonest struggling actor, Minor the thug wanna-be, Fatty the bookie who happens to be whipped by his wife, and my personal favorite, Simon the Jewish Santa. (Played by Dean Cameron, what a surprise :) This is a great film! Buy it!

cult classic romantic comedy set in NYC
This film is smart and funny and low-key. It is set in actual bars in New York City's upper west side, so I felt a little nostalgic looking at places I used to go to, now that I live on the west coast. There are various twists and turns and various actors show up and then dissappear. There's a lot going on, and everyone is trading insults the whole time. Campbell Scott is great as always in the lead.

great little known indie
What a great movie!

If you like 'dialouge' movies, definitely see this one! The script is clever and has a very New York feel to it. I forewarn everyone that this is not a screwball comedy.

I repeat, this is not a screwball comedy.

It does have comic moments, but the goal of this movie is not to have you on the floor laughing. The goal is simply to show you a day in the life of 'average' New Yorkers, and to point out that honesty is the best policy.

To fully enjoy the film, I suggest you just sit back and relax, enjoy the comedy, enjoy the drama, enjoy the dialouge. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A nice romantic comedy
Set in New York, it's the classic story of a man and a woman from different classes who come together to find a commonality, love. Nick and Jane has its comedic moments and romance that will leave you starry eyed. If you're a McCaffrey fan it is a must see. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

A Breakdance Movie with a Hollywood Touch...
This movie is about how life was for urban NYC youngsters during the early 80's. Hip-Hop gave rise with its four elements: Graffiti, Breakdance, MCing, and DJing running wild through the streets. This was the rich culture that people all over the world immersed themselves in and were impacted by. But I agree with those that say Hollywood exploited this culture we call Hip-Hop. They made this movie without understanding its true meaning and essence. But this movie is a fun watch because there are many big names known to the Hip-Hop world in it like the Rock Steady Crew and NYC Breakers, Kool Herc, Doug E. Fresh, Kool Moe Dee, and many other big names. If anything, this movie is remembered for one thing and that is the notorious ROXY scene and the battle between two great breakdance crews, RSC and NYC Breakers. It's probably one of the best battle scenes ever. I also like this movie because they had a couple of scenes at my alma mater, CCNY. The romance and drama is typical of Hollywood and it doesn't really help to formidably portray the Hip-Hop culture in anyway, rather it takes away from the few notable parts in the movie. They should of omitted the fakery and just focused on what it claims to be about, Hip-Hop. I think it would have had a better reputation and gotten much more respect from those who actually lived the culture during that period. I recommend "Wild Style" or "Style Wars" to check out what Hip-Hop was really all about in those days. PEACE!

And the Beat Goes On
A true hip-hop classic. I was first introduced to this film through my mother who was a teenager at the time of it's original release in 1984. Thanks to this movie, at 9 years old, i have a greater appreciation for hip hop and better understand its origins. This movie gives an accurate representation of one of the 20th century's most influential musical genres. Unlike the other hip hop movies Beat Street accurately captures the look and feel of the hip hop culture of New York City in the 80s (sheepskins, bomber jackets, kangol hats) It also takes a holistic look at hip hop nation astutely incorporating all of its elements - rap music, break dancing, spinning/mixing, graffiti art. More than just a movie about hip hop, it is a movie about familial ties, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit. It is a must see for the new generation of hip hop soldiers. Buy it - YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED! Peace out!

Leandro B. a.k.a. Rocker

THIS MOVIE SHOULDN'T EVER GET LESS THAN 5!!!!!!
WHOEVER GAVE BEAT STREET LESS THAN 5,,AREN'T TRUE TO HIP HOP,AND PROBABLY DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE MOVEMENT THAT BOUGHT ABOUT YOUR 50 CENTS,AND PETEY PABLO'S,AND JAY-Z'S.... BEAT STREET IS MY #1 HIP HOP MOVIE!!! (...)BEAT STREET WILL REMAIN A CLASSIC TO ME..

A combination of Beastmaster,Andromeda,Mutant X and Hiphop
Beat street is one of the greatest movies of all time since House party and Class act came out in the 90's decade where I grew up.It was really a great movie and one of the best movies of the year!

ROCKSTEADY BY FAR WINS THE BATTLE, OFF CAMERA
In the movie it would have appeared that NYC Breakers would have won the battle @ the Roxy because of their fast, dynamic moves. But I think Rocksteady on the streets would beat them easy. If you see home movie footage of both groups, Rocksteady by far has more original and different moves that show true bboying. But dont get me wrong, I'm not taking away from the NYC Breakers power and speed, and I still think they are tight !! This was my favorite movie growing up in the 80's along with Fast Times @ ridgemont high (what a combination huh !) peace ya'll ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A nice romantic comedy
Set in New York, it's the classic story of a man and a woman from different classes who come together to find a commonality, love. Nick and Jane has its comedic moments and romance that will leave you starry eyed. If you're a McCaffrey fan it is a must see. ... Read more