Reviews (87)

'Yo Adrian!
I LOVE THE ROCKY MOVIES!!! my god my god my god. they are totally awesome. the first is amazing because it details the beginning of Rocky Balboa's(Stallone) career & relationship w/Adrian(Talia Shire)..that fight against Apollo is one of the best boxing matches & is widely recognized. Follow your love for this movie onto Rocky II where Apollo Creed has a rematch w/the hero Rocky. in Rocky III, Mr. T fights Rocky.. Rocky & Apollo are best friends now & Rocky is really rising(hits the big bucks) meanwhile Adrian & he are still together. she's a very loyal wife. in part IV, Rocky heads off to Russia to fight Ivan Drago(Dolph Lundgren)..this is another gr8 fight..totally & completely nail-biting. & in Rocky V, well Rocky's had many downs in his life/career right now.. audiences find Rocky managing an ambitious youngster & having father-son issues..i suppose what makes these movies one of my faves & one of those well-loved movies is: it demonstrates how a common guy can have a dream,fulfill it, rise up in his career & life, then suddenly fall because of a stupid mistake..the important thing is to realize who is w/him throughout all this time. Rocky's a very courageous, down-to-earth type character. combined w/gr8 fighting sequences & renowned music themes, the ROCKY movies are immediate take-home Blockbuster material. Why are you wasting time reading this?? Buy the movies!!! the DVD is gr8! complete w/awesome features. well hope ya like it!

ROCK-Y! ROCK-Y! ROCK-Y! ROCK-Y! ROCK-Y! ROCK-Y!
So many people have written about the things that make the Rocky movies so successful, and I have no doubt that I'll be repeating some of them in my review. But I have to throw my hat in the ring anyway, so to speak.

Rocky Balboa certainly qualifies as one of the most unique and determined heroes in cinema. His story is truly an inspiraton to us all. In the first movie, of course, he starts out with basically nothing, gets a chance to fight Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers), and loses. In the second movie, he wins the heavyweight title from Creed in a rematch. By the third movie, Rocky is basking in the glow of his success; he and Adrienne now have a son. But Clubber Lang (Mr. T) has been making his way to the top as well, and he challenges Rocky to a match. Rocky trains hard and tries his best, but his concerns about his manager Mickey's (Burgess Meredith) health make it difficult to concentrate, giving Lang the advantage...and Rocky's title. With encouragement from Adrienne and his former rival Apollo Creed, who takes over as manager after Mickey's death, Rocky rediscovers his Eye of the Tiger in the rematch and puts Lang in his place.

In the fourth movie, Apollo is killed in battle by Russian champion Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren). In one of the most intense boxing matches of the entire series, Rocky finds the "chink" in the Russian's seemingly impenetrable armor. It's worth getting the fourth movie just for that match.

But, by the time of the fifth and final movie, things are quite a bit different. (As I'm writing this, I've just finished watching the fifth one for the very first time.) Not only do Rocky and his family find out that they're broke, but Rocky seems to be suffering from brain damage as a result of his fight with Drago. He becomes a manager for a new young fighter, Tommy Gunn (upsetting his son quite a bit), who allows his ego to cloud his judgement, thus luring himself into the sleazy side of the boxing business. When Tommy gets a shot at the heavyweight title, the audience is already in a bad mood because Rocky isn't there on stage with him. But when Tommy takes the title in just over three rounds, the audience is REALLY in a bad mood; at least Rocky had class.

Rocky and Tommy end up resolving their differences in a street fight, and for several agonizing minutes it looks like it could be the end...but Rocky has the spirit of Mickey with him, and for the fourth time, the Italian Stallion wins, proving that he's still a champion and always will be, even after fifteen years.

Whenever I watch these movies I can still feel the excitement of seeing them for the first time. When the odds are stacked against him, even in the face of several brushes with death (Tommy Gunn makes Ivan Drago and Clubber Lang look like pussycats somtimes), he still manages to triumph.

I love you, Rock...you the man!

Awsome Series
I luv all 5 Rocky movies. It was by far one of the best series I have ever seen; along with all Star Track, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings!!! I just finished watching them all this 4th of July weekend when and most of them I watched twice!!! It was an all day Rocky Fest on AMC. I watched them with my girls and they loved it just as much as I did. The movies had a moral to every storyline althrough sometimes repeating itself...It was still good. It was just like I saw it for the first time. I luved it!!

WOW!
I-5 stars-an underdog story
II-5 stars-the rematch
III-5 stars-he gets soft then he gets mad
IV-5 stars-do you believe in miracles?stupid soviets
V-3 stars-it wasnt that good
it teaches you to beileve and never give up-its about heart
once i saw them i got some boxing gloves and started beating up
my best friends.
and i dont get what u yankees and people dont like about #IV,
its better than #V and just as good as the other ones.
dont like my review? say it to my face!

His Entire Life Was A Million To One Shot
American classics only come along once in awhile. Films like Star Wars, The Godfather, and The Terminator are among many. Sometimes you say to yourself, "If that movie never existed, it would have a real effect on culture today." And you're quite right. Star Wars brought us immortal lines like "Luke, I AM your father." and "May the force be with you." The Godfather brought the American fascination with the mafia to life. Just think, No Godfather, No Sopranos. And The Terminator established Arnold Schwarzenegger and James Cameron's careers as well as the "technology gone wrong" and "I'm from the future" genres. Yes, films like these have believe it or not had an effect on everyone. And who can forget the world's sporting people. Everyone who participates in sports has to train hard and balance their personal lives with their professional lives. When I played basketball in high school, I had to. And we all need something to motivate us. To drive us. And being a film fanatic, I got my inspiration from a movie. That movie Was Rocky. Sylvester Stallone's masterwork series that showed us the stages of a man's life through his sport of boxing. From his one shot that put him on the map (Part 1), to his rematch that won him a world title (Part 2), to a rise and settlement, loss, and redemption (Part 3), to a burning vengeance (Part 4), to a retirement, betrayal, and final fight(Part 5). This series shows us that you can be the poorest, dumbest guy in the country, and become a legend just by taking your one chance. Now these movies are on DVD in a beautifully crafted boxed set. Now you can enjoy one man's journey from zero to hero anytime with a great DVD transfer and good special features on the first disc only (didn't understand that one.). This movie can change your life. Now, I recommend the first Rocky over them all because it's very realistic and humanistic. I recommend Rocky 2 as a good sequel with a shocking conclusion. Rocky 3 was the best sequel not only because of the performances of Hulk Hogan and the talented Mr. T, but because it shows how fame can cloud your mind and how putting bitter rivalries and materials behind to regain your drive can help you overcome. Rocky 4 was my least favorite not only for a far fetched storyline and that damned robot, but because it lost it's humanism to go for the revenge plot.Plus it was Stallone's blatant "let's end the Cold War" peace offering. It was saved by good performances, a great fight sequence, a cool villianous contender, and good 80's music. It also screws up the timeline of the story a bit. Rocky 5 regained the humanism and returned Rocky and Adrian back to their roots and it was good because it was different. Rocky had one fight, and it was one hell a fight- on the street. Plus it showed how quick trusting someone else in the fighting game can destroy you. These movies are all good but if you have to see any of them I rank them 1,3,2,5,4. ... Read more

Reviews (257)

It's a Small World
DreamWorks explores the world of an unlikely hero in the imaginative animated adventure "Antz". A neurotic worker ant named Z (Woody Allen) questions his place in the colony and tries to gain the attention of the rebellious princess Bala (Sharon Stone). After a series of mishaps and misadventures, Z becomes an inspirational figure and creates uproar within the colony. "Antz" is a smart and entertaining animated tale of one person making a difference. The story is surprisingly clever, funny and appealing to both kids and adults. Woody Allen delivers a fine comic performance and provides much of the film's witty humor. The all-star voice cast also includes Sylvester Stallone, Jennifer Lopez, Danny Glover, Christopher Walken and Gene Hackman. The computer animation and character designs are quite amazing. The scenes within the ant colony and the fierce battle against the termites are stunning visual achievements.

DreamWorks manages to pull a real winner. The animated feature is presented in its 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen format. The DVD contains a stunning picture quality with striking color detail. Its 5.1 Dolby Digital sound is well balanced and fairly aggressive. The animated menus are colorful and wonderfully done. Its supplemental material features an audio commentary by directors Eric Darnell and Tim Johnson, multiple behind-the-scenes and CGI featurettes, trailers and TV spots. With its lively presentation, "Antz" gets a pleasing "B+".

A very well rendered kid-adult movie.
Who knew a cartoon could have such deep views and ideas about Utopias, communism, dictatorship, and governmental oppression? This is one of the best I have watched. The movie itself is wonderful and has a very deep and involving plot even though you might not expect it. The characters are well written and it doesn't fall into the typical cliches like disney movies do. As for the disc, the video quality is the BEST I've seen, no pixels were present in the video. Heck, I tried to find something wrong with the video quality and I couldn't! The 5.1 audio is excellent also and the .1 channel knows when exactly when to come in. The vibrant sounds never fight with the dialogue, and the movie has a great sense of 5.1 surround creating a real environment. The features are also where this DVD shines. The colorfull animated windows are user friendly leading you to Behind the scenes featurettes, The basics of computer animation, CG facial and character designs, commentaries, a trailor, 4 TV spots, and more. Overall, this is how all DVD's should be and will set a standard. It's a good movie for kids AND adults and I mean that, I'm a 20 year old Male and I loved it. This is definately a movie adults could enjoy.

NOT FOR KIDS
I bought this for my kids and I was NOT happy when I heard cuss words and watched this video. Adults may like this video but I WOULD NOT ever reccomend it for kids.

Clever and Witty Animation for Adults
It's rather unfortunate that Antz and A Bugs Life were released so close together, as they will always be compared, and Antz suffers as a result of the association. In actuality they have very few similarities.
The first thing to note when watching Antz, is that it's not a movie designed for children. There is little here that kids would understand, and some of what they'd be able to pick up on would scare the heck out of them. The battle with the termites is really more graphic than it needs to be. Particularly the aftermath where we see what happened to Barbatus. However, when viewed by a more mature audience this movie is really very bright. The dialogue is clever and insightful. The food for thought comes along just as quickly as the jokes do.
The animation leaves something to be desired. Everything is very angular, and the endless use of browns and greys becomes very monotonous.
The actors do a nice job and put forth a lot of character, and combined with the entertaining story line and intriguing views presented here the movie is definitely worth seeing.

Very Mature in Nature
I don't recommend this movie for kids. Its very mature in nature. Theme is virtually very similar to human, too violent. It doesn't depict the true nature of ants. Ants are more civilized than human, they know what to eat and not to eat. unlike humans anything goes.
One horrific scene of the movie is when they attack their enemy, bodies of ants are scattered all over the place. Especially when Woody Allen is talking to Danny Glover's Head, looking for his body.
This kind of movie relates to striking workers who wants justice.
No wonder this movie never got a sequel.Its a fun movie for grown ups but for kids i don't think so. ... Read more

Description

Sylvester Stallone creates another sports hero with heart in the Rocky mold, a big-rig trucker using his armwrestling talent to rebuild his shattered life. Year: 1987 Director: Menahem Golan Starring:Sylvester Stallone, Robert Loggia, Susan Blakely ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Better the Secound Time
When I 1st saw this movie I was sooo disappointed...being the HUGE Sylvester Stallone fan that I am I was expecting most of what I saw but it seemed to pathetic to begin with...how realistc is it that a truck driver would also be a professional arm wrestler? The main story of Sly trying to win over the love of his son is heartfelt and sweet but with consideration to the movie I decided to watch it for a secound time and realized that it's a better movie the secound time you see it. You become more open-minded to the odd plot and you accpet the flaws that appear throughout this family film.

Sure its bad
The plot is crazy the kid is annoying but you can kind of cheer for the hero...and at least we don't see any shots of Stallone in a diaper. We have to wait for Stop! Or my mom will shoot (the great epic of 1992) for that.

Painful
Sylvester Stallone arm wrestles for the custody of his child...Need I say more?

A masterpiece of bad cinema
Sylvester Stallone plays an arm wrestler and the law won't give him custody of his son. A laugh riot, especially the scene when Sylvester plows down the gate of a mansion with his truck. There are the little details that makes this movie great too like how Sylvester is supposed to be making a truck run to California but the Grand Canyon and the Sahara Desert are in the background. Also weights in his truck and how come turning his hat on backwards makes him magical? Every time I see this I laugh so hard I cry. This needs to be on DVD.

over the top
I love this movie. i was at school when it came out and have seen it countless of times. Cant seem to find it on sale anywhere, and would love to see it again with the family. I'm just surprised its not out on DVD. A typical Sly stallone feel good movie, thats a must for all generations ... Read more

Reviews (11)

MITCHUM IS MARLOWE
Director Richard Rush presented us a valentine with this incredible film, the third version made from the the 1940 Raymond Chandler novel. At least seven actors have portrayed Philip Marlowe. Robert Mitchum, played the part twice. The first time, in this film, he was nothing short of brilliant; just world-weary, battered, meloncholy, and tough enough to spark this tale into a full flame. His voice-over narrative hit perfect pitch; all gravel, too many smokes, and cheap booze. Mitchum, himself the veteran of several Noir classics, played the gumshoe as comfortable as one's favorite overcoat; a perfect fit. He shuffled lazy-lidded yet irascible and alert, as ready for a sap behind the ear, as he was to be the recipient of the sexual energy radiated off of Charlotte Rampling as Helen, the femme. She, likewise, postured perfectly in the Noir 1940's clothes and hairstyles. John Alonzo, fresh from shooting CHINATOWN, presented us with an LA bathed in just the right mix of golden light and shadow. Jerry Goldsmith delivered another spectacular score, overlapping jazz, blues, and swing, underscoring the action and dialogue masterfully. John Ireland, also a veteran of classic Noir, Anthony Zerbe, and Harry Dean Stanton gave tremendous support with their roles. There was even a couple of glimpses of Sly Stallone ( pre-ROCKY ) as a viscious punk. Some of the critics felt that this lush color film had to try too hard for that Noir feel. I disagree. This movie is a modern Noir classic, even in living color.

Movie Transcends the Material
The photography is perfect, the score is magnificent. Robert Mitchum was made to play a middle aged Philip Marlowe, and his voice over has all the weariness and angst the most die hard noir fan could ask for. The mid-30's sets are impeccable. So what is there to complain about? I think the culprit is Raymond Chandler.

One of the most quotable of the hard-boiled writers, his writing sang but his plots were so convoluted, the reader needs a scorecard to keep track of the story. Marlowe is hired by ex-con Moose Malloy to find his elusive love Velma. Until the bloody finale, that was the last time I was clear about the action.

I commend all the actors for delivering fine performances, particularly Sylvia Myles who played the hopeless alcoholic, Mrs. Florian. She was piercingly pathetic as a nice girl who couldn't quite believe she was a middle-aged drunk. Robert Mitchum allowed merciless lighting that occasionally made him look like a guy who has had one too many face-lifts.

This film version of "Farewell My Lovely" is probably as good as it gets. I recommend "Out of the Past" for Mitchum and noir fans.
-sweetmolly-Amazon Reviewer

The sets look really cheap.
'Farewell, My Lovely' is a likable detective film, but the sets look really cheap and fake. I didn't get the feeling I was back in Los Angeles in the 1930s; I felt like I was looking at a set that was trying to look like Los Angeles in the 30s. Robert Mitchum is alright, but he is a little too old.

"New" Old Time Detective Thriller
To many of the reviews I've read rave on about Ms. Rampling, and while she is good in her small role, this is a Robert Mitchum Movie, and he is very good in it.....

Actually, if it was B&W you'd look at it like an old Bogie film like "The Big Sleep",or any one of a dozen classic detective flix.....

Anyway, I happen to get my hands on one of the rare DVD's and it was in great shape. But it's the story...this is one of those films you get to watch 5 times before you actually follow everything that's going on......

I truly enjoyed it, and you will too.

the spirit is dead on
purists might debate whether the deviancies from the novel are to positive or detrimental effect, but Mitchum captures Marlowe in a casual and powerful way. the entire Chandler spirit is kept faithfully intact, creatively filled out by excellent lighting & cinemetography, keeping the viewer involved in the neo-noir attitude as if the film was actually made in 1941.

the anne riordan character is replaced by a newspaper hawker who is a little out of place and unexplained, but perhaps charlotte rampling was all the femme fatale they could afford so...better just hire some young kid to float the story.

jack o'halloran is truly believable as moose malloy, and sylvester stallone performs some of his finest work. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

One of Stallone's better efforts
This movie from the late 70s, loosely based on the life of Jimmy Hoffa, about a labor leader, Frank Kovak, who makes a Faustian bargain with the mob for which he ultimately pays the price, was done before Stallone became locked into the ironjawed superhero mode. In the early scenes of the movie, he is still able to display the qualities of charm, humor and humanity that distinguished his performance in the orginal Rocky and, further back, in The Lords of Flatbush.
Moreover, the film is graced with strong supporting performances. In particular, I would single out Tony Lo Bianco's performance as the mob boss, Babe Milano, to whom Stallone turns when the survival of his trucker's union is on the line, for its chillingly effective qualities of understated and insinuating menace, especially from an actor who I have found to be prone to overacting.
The main criticism that one could make of this effort if one references it to the life of Hoffa is that Kovak is treated as genuinely heroic instead of the corrupted person that Hoffa in fact became, for although Kovak made a deal with the mob, more specifically, Babe Milano, it is made clear that he did so only because he thought it was necessary to insure the continued existence of his union when its striking members were being beaten up by company goons, not for his personal aggrandizement. Moreover, for what it is worth, I remember reading at the time of the film's release that Stallone insisted that the character be portrayed this way. In spite of this caveat, I find Fist to be both dramatically compelling and strongly acted.

one of stallones best
one of stallones best feature film efforts
cast's him as a labor leader who has to deal with
organized crime invading the rank and file of american
working class people, a class struggle between the common
man and the rich, peter boyle, and rod steiger deliver
great supporting performances.
along with rocky, this is a great film of the underdog trying to make it........

Best Movie Ever
This is up there with The Sound Of Music. It should have won best picture, but was knocked out for the political sense of the movie. My father was a main part in making this movie possible. He was the director.

Go on DVD Now!
MGM needs to release this above-average drama on DVD. It is similar to the Jimmy Hoffa story and it's captivating. Sylvester Stallone gives one of his most heart-felt performances and is overshadowed by "Rocky". So, please MGM, release this and the missing "Red Sonja" with the other immortal deity. These are good movies and I would definitely buy at least ten copies on DVD of each movie. Thank you!

Why this movie is not a hit and on DVD is BEYOND me!
First off, Sylvester Stallone is my favorite actor and secondly I believe this to be probably one of his best films (besides Rocky) and why it was not a hit is beyond me because it really is a great story and Stallone does a great job in the acting --- its 2 1/2 hours long but I throughly enjoyed every minute of it and can't wait til I can get my own copy and watch it again.

If you like Stallone this is a DEFINITE must. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After Rocky and its sequels, Sylvester Stallone cast about for another character that would bring him the same kind of box-office hit--and found it in disillusioned Vietnam vet John Rambo in First Blood, a solid little action thriller. So when all else failed, Stallone went back to the same well in hopes of recapturing the same commercial success. Which this film did. But where First Blood was a no-nonsense thriller that pitted Stallone against a worthy (and not necessarily bad) Brian Dennehy, this one is a sadistic chest-thumper in which Rambo gets to go back to Vietnam: ostensibly, he's there to rescue missing POWs, but in fact the movie was a lame excuse for him to refight the Vietnam War--and win. Audiences ate up the cruel Vietcong (and their Russian manipulators) and Stallone's bogus heroics, but it was strictly by-the-numbers action. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (59)

Return to 'Nam.
FIRST BLOOD was a great movie. It was full of not only action, but also suspense; it had great characterization; and Sly Stalone actually did a fairly decent job of acting. John Rambo, though he was an extra tough hero, was a character that seemed real and one that many people could identify with.

In RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD II, John Rambo is back. The movie begins with Rambo working in a prison when he's visited by his former commander, Col. Trautman (Richard Crenna). Trautman offers Rambo a chance out of prison with a special assignment that will almost guarantee him a Presidential pardon. The U.S. government is eager to put the fiasco of Vietnam behind and wants to send Rambo into an old Vietcong prison base, which he once escaped from, to take pictures proving once and for all that there are no American POW's left in Vietnam. Along the way, Rambo looses his camera, but brings back even better proof: a live POW. Unfortunately at the sight of the POW, the beaucrat in charge orders the pickup to abandon Rambo and company. Big mistake.

RAMBO lacks much of the emotional depth that made FIRST BLOOD so enduring. In FIRST BLOOD, John Rambo was a real person. In RAMBO, he has become a one man army, straight off the pages of a comic book. The movie is also full of discrepancies, plot holes, and blunders. Nevertheless, RAMBO remains a classic action flick. Most of the action films of the 1980s and early 1990s were patterned off of RAMBO. It's a fun movie to watch and it's great to see a non-politically correct American action hero kicking the tar out of some evil Communists.

One of the Defining Action Movies of the 80s
The sequel to the critically acclaimed First Blood, Rambo is a film that delivers with intense action from start to finish. You can't be a fan of action movies until you have seen Rambo!

The movie begins with Colonel Troutman (played by the late Richard Crenna) visiting Rambo in hard-labor prison to offer him the chance of a pardon should he return to Vietnam to investigate claims of POWs still held there.

Though asking if "they'll be allowed to win this time," Rambo accepts the mission. Once on the ground, Rambo does find and rescues a POW only to find the political motivations of his mission did not include actually finding anyone. Abandoned by this own men, Rambo must fight out of the jungle with the help of Ko, a pretty young Vietnamese intelligence operative hopeful to leave the war behind against an entire army of Vietnamese soldiers and their Russian allies.

Cold War action at its best, Rambo puts its title character in an impossible situation and lets him shoot, knife, and muscle his way out of it. When he finally returns to base in Thailand and confronts the men who abandoned him in the jungle, he tells Troutman, "I want what they want, what every other guy who came over here and spilled his guts and gave everything he had wants: for our country to love us as much as we love it," the plea of every Vietnam vet who went to a war they didn't want but did the best they could.

Directed by James Cameron before his mania for the Titanic, Rambo is sure to thrill. Great from one end to the other!

"Rambo" DVD Review
Where "First Blood" was a low-budget sleeper hit about a Vietnam vet still caught up in the nightmare, "Rambo" is a much larger and more elaborate fireworks display of an action film. Stallone's John Rambo is offered a potential pardon if he returns to Vietnam and brings back proof that there are still American soliders being held captive there. While there, he starts a one-man war against the sadistic Vietnamese soldiers and their Russian counterparts (led by everyone's favorite villian Steven Berkoff). "Rambo" is in may ways a marketable action vehicle for Stallone using patriotism as a good excuse to use every weapon imaginable to blow up everyone and everything in sight. While it does try to provide a message about the war and its importance, it is rather difficult to take this loud over-the-top live action toy commercial seriously as a "message movie". As a fun piece of adrenaline-filled action, it does however do its job.

THIS IS IN NO WAY BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL ''FIRST BLOOD''
RAMBO RETURNS TO GO TO VIETNAM TO RESCUE SOME AMERICAN PRISONERS. SURE, RAMBO HAS A MUCH BIGGER CHALLENGE IN THIS MOVIE, BUT IT'S SIMPLY NOWHERE NEAR AS GOOD AS THE ORIGINAL. THE STORY LINE HERE LACKS DEPTH AND THE ACTION AIN'T NO DIFFERENT FROM A ''MISSING IN ACTION'' MOVIE. UNLIKE THE ORIGINAL ''FIRST BLOOD'', THIS IS JUST A SIMPLE MINDED ACTION MOVIE WITHOUT ANY KIND OF REALISM. STALLONE IS STILL GOOD AS RAMBO.

Transfer disappointing...DTS a waste
I have a Japanese laserdisc pressing of this flick that has better color and sharpness than the DVD. Oddly enough, when I watched the second DVD's "making of" feature, the video quality of the clips seemed considerably better. That's backwards.

While the sound mix was somewhat improved, you still think your listening to an old Dolby Pro Logic mix at best. I do have a fairly high end system with HD projection, so the stage is there for a well mastered DVD to perform.

Having said that, this movie has one of the best sustained action sequences out there. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Searching for new directions, Sylvester Stallone starred in this farcical, 1993 SF piece about an ex-cop (Stallone) freed from 36 years of forced hibernation to help catch a criminal (Wesley Snipes) who released himself from a similar incarceration. The futuristic story finds Los Angeles a sea of Taco Bells and enforced peace, and within that satiric overview Stallone's character becomes a gun-toting fish out of water. The film plays like a live-action cartoon, and while there is nothing particularly wrong with that, Demolition Man is a rather flat experience. The irony of a peaceable society that both requires and despises its bloody saviors has been captured far more profoundly in movies like Dirty Harry. Sandra Bullock costars. The DVD release has optional full-screen and widescreen presentations, production notes, theatrical trailer, Dolby sound, optional Spanish soundtrack, and optional French and Spanish subtitles. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (70)

Not your typical police action flick.
1996: The city of Los Angeles is an absolute wreck. Crime abounds, with the most notorious bad guy around, Simon Phoenix(Wesley Snipes) taking it all in like one big joke. John Spartan (Stallone) has been after this guy for several years, but in the process of finally arresting Phoenix, the building around them explodes, appartently taking several innocent hostages up with it. Spartan is stripped of his rank and sentenced to cryogenic imprisonment for 70 years.

2032: Spartan has served 36 years of his sentence. Phoenix, who was imprisoned in the same facility, escapes and begins to reinvigorate his reign of terror. The only problem is that the LA that Spartan, Phoenix, and the rest of us all know and love has turned into a megalopolis called San Angeles, a politically correct paradise where there is absolutely no violent crime---correction, no crime of any kind---whatsoever. (There is also no profanity, and anyone who swears is fined for violations of the Verbal Morality Statute.) Consequently, people have forgotten how to deal with a fugitive like Phoenix. The only solution is to bring Spartan out of the freezer, which is exactly what happens.

This movie introduced me to action movies, particularly Stallone movies, and the movie soundtrack genre. The special effects will blow you away all by themselves. This was also the first movie I ever saw with Sandra Bullock. Perhaps it's because of her airy portrayal of Lt. Huxley that made me think of her as my favorite actress for a while. But that's another story.

I think that San Angeles is a funny bone-tickling example of political correctness gone to far. Either that or it's social conservatism. Sometimes I wonder if San Angeles is the kind of world people in the family values crowd would like to live in. In any case, even if you don't like action movies very much, I think you will like this one.

Not Just Another Dumb Action Movie
This action-flick is an excellent satire, spoofing such themes as "political correctness", "moral correctness", & extremes in philosphy & thought, within the context of a live-action "comic-book"-type of story. Of cousre, it also has exciting, well-paced action sequences & fun (because they're so dopey) one-liners. The producers even manage to pull off obvious plugs for their sponsors in a funny, yet (ironically) plausible way. (Taco Bell is the ONLY restaurant left in "the future!" I also wonder if Armor Hot-Dogs & frozen vegetable & dog-food companies also sponsored, since their jingles are the "hit songs" in the future. Well, popular "oldies" at least, according to Sandra Bullock's character.)

Two reasons why I didn't give it 5 Stars:

First, Stallone's daughter is mentioned yet that matter is never resolved. (Why mention something if you won't follow through?)

Second, since this is done in a "comic-book" style, as a personal preference, I would have liked to have seen Snipes' death left somewhat "ambiguous" (so he can come back & plague Stallone in a sequel!) That's just a preference, though.

Of interest: The whole "Rip Van Winkle" frozen-cryogenic plot device used here is almost repeated in exact detail in "Austin Powers."

Listen for Bullock's reference to Jackie Chan's movies BEFORE he hit it big in the U.S. & is it just me, or does anybody else notice that Wesely Snipes' "Simon Phoenix" character resembles the Joker?

NZ Beware
If you bought this like me expecting the Joel Silver commentary; it wasn't on there. Major dissappointment. Also in the version I purchased all references to Taco Bell had been replaced with Pizza Hut. Diff from what I saw at the pix. Loved this movie but dissappointed by this version. Box misled me into thinking extra features were on there. I should have looked closer. 5 stars for the movie though!

Very Entertaining!
Stallone in one of his better roles as a cop frozen in suspended animation as part of a jail sentence. He is awakened several years later because his arch-nemesis (Wesley Snipes)was also awakened from suspended animation and the pacifist future cops have no clue how to stop him. Stallone's rough ways do not bode well for those in charge but he is worshipped as a hero by his new partner (Sandra Bullock). Great exchanges of dialogue and action scenes between Stallone and Snipes. A great deal of comic relief as old commercial jingles have become popular music and Stallone doesn't know how to use the future bathroom or bond with a future woman (Bullock).

Keep watching it and havent got Bored yet
Good movie, i watched movie alot and for some reason i never get bored of it. its a to buy movie ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Way better then the 1st and 2nd!!!
Way better then the 1st and 2nd!!! Robert Rodriguez did a unbelieveable job as director and making this movie so us viewers can watch it in 3-D. Another thing that is so much like Rodriguez is that he keeps the same actors from the first film he ever made (Desperado) and sticks with them throughout his whole directing career. For example Antonio Banderas who has had two box office flops (FemmeFatale, Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever) since the Spy Kids films and George Clooney (Rodriguez's From Dusk Till Dawn) who has had a great box office career (Ocean's 11) with the exception of Solaris which flopped really bad in 2002.
Also I admire Rodriguez for getting the struggling veteran actor as of late Sylvestor Stallone (Rocky, Rambo) back on the big screen. Who's last two films went direct to video, one a horror movie called Eye See You and the other a romantic wanna be gangster comedy called Avenging Angelo.

Anyway the BOTTOM LINE is: THIS MOVIE WAS GREAT ,STALLONE IS BACK, AND THE IDEA OF THE SPECIAL EFFECTS WAS THE MOST ORIGINAL THING SINCE THE 1ST MATRIX !!!

Very cool movie
Being a fan of the previous Spy Kids movies, I decided to see this one. And I don't regret seeing it at all. It's a very good movie, the best Spy Kids movie so far. It is definitely worth seeing (more than once!) This movie is on my list of recommmendations. It's really fun, doesn't get too boring like some movies do. If you have more than 4 family members, then you can order glasses on-line. People need to just get the DVDs since they come with the glasses. I mean, who doesn't have a DVD player? Getting a DVD is worth the few extra dollars, especially in this case. The DVD format comes with special features, and this one comes with lots of special features. The movie is good, you get a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to make the movie-it's a good buy.
About the movie:
Juni Cortez is called in by the OSS to go save his sister, Carmen, who is trapped in a video game. Juni goes inside the videogame, but will he be able to shut the video game down? Watch the movie for the exciting 3-D and to find out what happens. Even parents will like, Spy Kids movies, too!

KINDA GOOD
I DONT LIKE IT AS MUCH AS THE FIRST TWO,BUT IT`S PRETTY COOL BECAUSE IT`S IN 3 DIMENSIONS!

Spy Kids: Series Over
Even though it was targeted at my age group, it was awful. The 3-d effects are awful. I mean, the color is awful, and one of the people I was watching it with got sick from the glasses. It seams to be be parodying the matrix by having 'the guy,' it takes place in a cumputer room, one thing I found in common is the line 'there is no spoon,' the movie feels like 'there is no plot.' Acting is awful in this. When I first heard that it was shot in only a month in a half, I was impressed. After I saw it, I could not believe it took so long to shoot it.

Worth it for the commentary
This is a pretty cheesy movie, a poorly connected sequence of action scenes in CGI. On the other hand, some of those scenes outdo big-budget movies; I thought the outlandish street race in oversized video vehicles was better than the pod race in Star Wars I, and with a less annoying kid.

As bad as it is, it's all worth it to watch Rodriguez's commentary, to hear him discuss the process of making a 3D movie, the future of digital cinema, and how he saved money and made a mildly entertaining (and hugely financially successful) movie under strict time and budget constraints.

Some of my favorite parts of the commentary:

"We didn't have this animation done on time, so we just had the character complain how it looked like an old video game."

"I wasn't sure if people would get splitting headaches from the 3D, so I made the movie only 80 minutes. That way, if it was a problem, at least it would be over soon."

The funniest parts are slightly apologetic, but there's plenty more to learn from, and he's never at a loss for words. Unlike typical DVD commentary, there isn't any dead time while he thinks of some bit of trivia about what's on the screen. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Paul Bartel's 1975 cheap-o satire about a futuristic international sport--an anything-goes car race where drivers score points for hitting pedestrians--stars David Carradine as a hero behind the wheel and Sylvester Stallone as his nemesis. The film is clever and macabre enough as a modernist satire, but finally overplays its hand in grim, decadent humor. The sets are gloriously artificial, and former Warhol star Mary Woronov is in sexy, comic form. A DVD release is available. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (48)

A bad film, unless you like that sort of thing.
This is a very silly movie that hasn't aged well since its release in 1975. It has aspirations of being a clever social satire, but it's really just low-brow entertainment, often not too far removed from the "Skinimax" flicks of the late-80's. That may be a good thing if you're into cult flicks and B-movies, but for most viewers this is too cheesy to even be mildly amusing.

In "Death Race 2000", David Carradine stars as national hero and veteran racer Frankenstein, while Sylvester Stallone plays Machine Gun Joe Viterbo, his biggest competitor. They compete against three other drivers in a transcontinental road race where extra points can be earned by running over pedestrians. One by one, the five cars fall victim to a group of rebels who are intent on putting a stop to the gruesome sport.

The violence, of which there is very little, is played for comedic effect. However I think the intended reaction was more along the lines of "oh man, that was BRUTAL, haha!" rather than "oh man, that looked so cheap, haha!" Low budget film-lovers rejoice! This is your movie.

Interested parties should be prepared for Carradine's "dominatrix" outfit, complete with mask and cape. I think it was supposed to make him look sinister, but instead he comes off looking rail-thin and ridiculous. Stallone, in a supporting role as a stereotypical Italian tough guy, steals the movie.

The beautiful supporting actresses also overshadow the star, Carradine. Anyone familiar with producer Roger Corman knows that, in his world, fast cars and gratuitous violence go hand in hand with bare-breasts and the occasional catfight. "Death Race 2000" is no exception.

If you've seen this before and decided it's your type of film, then this is definitely version to get. Stay clear of the 1998 release by Digital Multimedia, a very poor transfer with blurry, grainy images and an ever-present hiss. This 1999 release by New Horizons looks infinitely better and the sound has been digitally re-mastered. It also has a few extras, like the theatrical trailer, bios and an interview with producer Roger Corman.

Darth Frankenstein ?
Tell Me Mr. Lucas didn't get his idea for Darth from Frankenstein's wacky wardrobe. Even using the unmasking scene!!

If my Auto Insurance Agent only knew!
I loved this movie, actually caught it at a drive-in theater back in 1975, not that long after getting my drivers license. David Carradine, fresh from the cancelled Kung Fu television series, played Frankenstein, a master driver, rumored to be half cyborg. This movies motivation was all about the anti-establishment, post Vietnam War era, and reflected the prevailing attitudes against US Imperialism. Seems a little ironic it takes place in 2000, with our return to that sort of attitude in government today.

In about 1978, just before the launch of the video game Space Invaders, the most popular arcade game in America was Death Race. You chased little stick figures (they called them gremlins... but you know :) ) with a car, and ran them down. They squealed, turned into crosses, (tombstones that is) you would hit reverse, and keep driving. At the end of the game, your score was the number killed. The moms of America were outraged at the game, and later a version was modified, (They renamed it Demolition Derby) you were chasing cars, which then turned into wrecks. In a nutshell, the original game is the plot of the movie Death Race 2000.

The movie is about a national sporting event, apparently to show that life is cheap, and only the meanest SOB wins. Racers get varied degrees of points, for mowing down pedestrians in a cross-country, racing event. A pre-Rocky Sly Stallone plays the main competition for Frankie. Carradine handles the role with just the right amount of campy acting, and without going too far overboard. While some of this stuff plays like an episode of the Road Runner, they never lose the spirit of the film, so it comes off well.

Believe it or not, some of the race itself is very exciting. For a low budget film that was probably made in a week or two, the action sequences were well thought out. The politics may be a little preaching at times in the film, but don't really get in the way of the fun. My five star rating, does not mean I think this is on par with past Oscar winners. What it means is, that for this type of low budget, camp movie, I consider it a classic along the lines of Motel Hell, Little Shop of Horrors, Harold and Maude, and Easy Rider.

Very underrated movie
"Death Race 2000" is an incredibly entertaining movie on various levels. You can sit back and just enjoy the over-the-top acting, amazing cars, and bloody violance, or you can actually get into the story a little deeper, of how America is run by Mr. President and how various people (including, as we eventually find out, Frankenstein) try to take him down for the good of the country.

The film is filmed beautifully, especially when the cars are on the road. There's a lot of action as the cars run over people for points and battle each other to win the race.

The biggest regret I have about this DVD is that it is not in widescreen. This is a shame because, well, if it isn't in widescreen, you are being cheated. And this great film deserves to be in widescreen. (Let the VHS fans have the fullscreen.) Some deleted scenes would have been nice as well, as I have seen photos of action not in the final print, and even in the trailer on the DVD there is a line not in the film ("This is a death race," as said by Frankenstein). Despite no widescreen, still a must-buy.

Classic Comedy
This look at the year 2000 from the 70's, point of imagination, is just as funny as it is disturbing. This movie is for the hit and run junkie, only you get paid for vehicular murder. The drivers race cross country in an all out frenzy to collect as many points as possible running people over. From the young to the old, rich to the poor, no one is safe on the streets of the future. So the next time you cross the street you better think twice about it, because Frankenstein ( David Carradine) Or Sly Stallone's car just might mow you down. The quality of this flic is a little distorted, and cheaply made, but is worth it's weight in gold, and should keep you amused the whole way through.
So grab the gear shifter and hang on For Dear Life, this is one crazy ride. Beep Beep The KritiK ... Read more

Reviews (11)

MITCHUM IS MARLOWE
Director Richard Rush presented us a valentine with this incredible film, the third version made from the the 1940 Raymond Chandler novel. At least seven actors have portrayed Philip Marlowe. Robert Mitchum, played the part twice. The first time, in this film, he was nothing short of brilliant; just world-weary, battered, meloncholy, and tough enough to spark this tale into a full flame. His voice-over narrative hit perfect pitch; all gravel, too many smokes, and cheap booze. Mitchum, himself the veteran of several Noir classics, played the gumshoe as comfortable as one's favorite overcoat; a perfect fit. He shuffled lazy-lidded yet irascible and alert, as ready for a sap behind the ear, as he was to be the recipient of the sexual energy radiated off of Charlotte Rampling as Helen, the femme. She, likewise, postured perfectly in the Noir 1940's clothes and hairstyles. John Alonzo, fresh from shooting CHINATOWN, presented us with an LA bathed in just the right mix of golden light and shadow. Jerry Goldsmith delivered another spectacular score, overlapping jazz, blues, and swing, underscoring the action and dialogue masterfully. John Ireland, also a veteran of classic Noir, Anthony Zerbe, and Harry Dean Stanton gave tremendous support with their roles. There was even a couple of glimpses of Sly Stallone ( pre-ROCKY ) as a viscious punk. Some of the critics felt that this lush color film had to try too hard for that Noir feel. I disagree. This movie is a modern Noir classic, even in living color.

Movie Transcends the Material
The photography is perfect, the score is magnificent. Robert Mitchum was made to play a middle aged Philip Marlowe, and his voice over has all the weariness and angst the most die hard noir fan could ask for. The mid-30's sets are impeccable. So what is there to complain about? I think the culprit is Raymond Chandler.

One of the most quotable of the hard-boiled writers, his writing sang but his plots were so convoluted, the reader needs a scorecard to keep track of the story. Marlowe is hired by ex-con Moose Malloy to find his elusive love Velma. Until the bloody finale, that was the last time I was clear about the action.

I commend all the actors for delivering fine performances, particularly Sylvia Myles who played the hopeless alcoholic, Mrs. Florian. She was piercingly pathetic as a nice girl who couldn't quite believe she was a middle-aged drunk. Robert Mitchum allowed merciless lighting that occasionally made him look like a guy who has had one too many face-lifts.

This film version of "Farewell My Lovely" is probably as good as it gets. I recommend "Out of the Past" for Mitchum and noir fans.
-sweetmolly-Amazon Reviewer

The sets look really cheap.
'Farewell, My Lovely' is a likable detective film, but the sets look really cheap and fake. I didn't get the feeling I was back in Los Angeles in the 1930s; I felt like I was looking at a set that was trying to look like Los Angeles in the 30s. Robert Mitchum is alright, but he is a little too old.

"New" Old Time Detective Thriller
To many of the reviews I've read rave on about Ms. Rampling, and while she is good in her small role, this is a Robert Mitchum Movie, and he is very good in it.....

Actually, if it was B&W you'd look at it like an old Bogie film like "The Big Sleep",or any one of a dozen classic detective flix.....

Anyway, I happen to get my hands on one of the rare DVD's and it was in great shape. But it's the story...this is one of those films you get to watch 5 times before you actually follow everything that's going on......

I truly enjoyed it, and you will too.

the spirit is dead on
purists might debate whether the deviancies from the novel are to positive or detrimental effect, but Mitchum captures Marlowe in a casual and powerful way. the entire Chandler spirit is kept faithfully intact, creatively filled out by excellent lighting & cinemetography, keeping the viewer involved in the neo-noir attitude as if the film was actually made in 1941.

the anne riordan character is replaced by a newspaper hawker who is a little out of place and unexplained, but perhaps charlotte rampling was all the femme fatale they could afford so...better just hire some young kid to float the story.

jack o'halloran is truly believable as moose malloy, and sylvester stallone performs some of his finest work. ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Rocky III
Rocky III is one of the best films of the whole saga. It's to me the best only behind "Rocky IV", my personal favorite. The suspense starts when heavyweight champion Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) is suddenly defeated by a boastful contender, the brutish Clubber Lang (Mr. T). During the bloody defeat, his trainer and close friend, Mickey Goldmill (Burgess Meredith), passes away. Now clear that he has lost his edge, his only hope is when his old foe and nemesis, ex-champ Apollo Creed, comes to help him get back the "eye of the tiger" in Los Angeles. Training in L.A. with Creed and his former trainer, Tony Duke, Rocky attempts to triumph in a comeback rematch at Madison Square Garden in the Big Apple with the cocky Lang. A must-see hit from United Artists and writer, director, and star Sylvester Stallone.

Sylvester Stallone's Rocky III
This was the best sequel to Rocky for my opinion. After winning the title from Apollo Creed(Carl Weathers), Rocky Balboa(Sylvester Stallone) has defended his title several times. Then, Clubber Lang(Mr. T) challenges Rocky to a match and Rocky accepts. Before the fight, Mickey(Burgess Merideth), Rocky's trainer, has a heart attack and can't watch the fight. Rocky looses the match inside of three rounds. After the fight, Mickey dies in the locker room. Apollo Creed offers to train Rocky to get his title back in a rematch. This was a great sequel and it had great acting. Watch this movie, you won't be disapointed.

The saga continues
The saga continues - and I couldn't be happier. I believe each Rocky movie had its own appeal, and this one appeals to the 80's and to slacking. Rocky III is about resting on your laurels, and Rocky learns the failure in this when Clubber Lang (Mr. Midget throwing bouncer champ T.) shows up on the scene. I don't want to give it away that Mick dies...oops, and that Apollo trains Rocky to find the "eye of the tiger" again (apparently Rocky lost it when he became civilized).

This is a great film. Yeah, I know, the artsy-fartsy fans didn't like it. But they should stick to their abstract art shows and leave the movie reviews to us real-men.

Rocky III is action packed, movie making at its best. Buy it, even if its just to see Hulk Hogan throw Stallone out of the ring and into the audience. They should have made that a 3D scene!

See ya next review.

www.therunninggirl.com

I enjoyed it a lot
Yes yes I know....the first Rocky is the best....not going to front on that. But the sequels were very good and Stallone is not a bad director either!! He puts in plenty of action, good camera work, and once in a while a VERY hilarious comment hehe.

So if youre a fan of the Rocky movies, check this one out, its great entertainment!!

BETTER THAN THE FIRST SEQUEL
THIS TIME, ROCKY DEFENDS HIS WORLD TITLE AGAINST CLUBBER LANG [MR. T]. MORE ENTERTAINING THAN THE LAST SEQUEL. HAS MORE FIGHTS AND A BETTER PLOT THAN THE SECOND MOVIE. WATCH FOR AN APPEARANCE BY HULK HOGAN IN A BOXER VS. WRESTLER MATCH AGAINST ROCKY, WHICH IS ONE OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS SEQUEL. I'D SAY THIS IS WORTH OWNING. FEATURES THE CLASSIC ''EYE OF THE TIGER'' SONG. ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Fast paced action thriller set in the Pacific Northwest
First Blood is the story of a Special Forces Vietnam veteran John Rambo who returns home to America to find that he doesn't fit in. Hiking throught the Pacific Northwest Rambo finds out that his best freind from Nam has died from agent orange induced cancer. He wanders off and in a nearby town encounters a small town sheriff who first harasses him and then arrests him. Rambo busts out of jail using the skills that were taught to him in Nam. It turns out that Rambo was a member of an elite special forces group and that he is in essence a killing machine. Most of the movie revolves around Rambo taking to the woods with the local police and then the State Police and National Guard giving chase. Of course they are no match for Rambo who is able to demonstrate his fighting skills admirably. The action sequences in this film are excellent. Stallone is at his best as the crazed predator hunting down the inept police force. The film holds your attention and is interesting to the end. The only downside is the final speech given by Stallone which is so rambling and hard to understand that it could put the audience to sleep. Stalllone is best when he is not talking but attacking and this is what made this film 4 stars.

Watch the Movie-Then Go to Film School With David Morrell!
***Note-This is an update to my previous review***

The latest DVD version of the classic Stallone action flick provides several supplemental features, the most notable being the outstanding commentary by David Morrell who wrote the novel the film is based on. More on that in a moment.

First Blood is about a Vietnam vet named John Rambo who comes to a small Washington state town (actually British Columbia) to find the last surviving comrade from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he too is dead, Rambo makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being arrested by the hick local sheriff (Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by the locals but manages to escape sparking an all out manhunt.

This film has 55 minutes of action out of 96 total highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase. Jack Starrett is great as the cop that does most of the abusing while Davis Caruso is fine as the only deputy (among the surprisingly large local force) that seems to have a conscience. Dennehy is good as always and makes a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna is great as Rambo's former CO and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well. Even though he has limited speaking parts, this is probably one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the "Vietnam speech" near the end of the film.

The film is presented in digitally remastered widescreen 16:9, and is without a doubt the best video presentation of First Blood to date. The movie was shot in the temperate rain forest of BC and is quite dark at times. However, the darkest scenes have been enhanced here and are much improved over the various VHS versions some of which are terrible. Sound is Dolby 2.0 only but not bad considering. Also included are a cute trivia game (get all 10 right without a mistake to see a Rambo cartoon), production notes, and a teaser and trailer. The "featurette" is nothing more than a glorified trailer.

Now on to the best feature of this DVD, one that is worth the price of admission all by itself. If you are at all interested in how films are made and the behind the scenes tidbits about Hollywood, then RUN do not walk (or let your fingers do the walking online) to your local video store and get this disc. Why? For the outstanding commentary of writer David Morrell. This talented man begins to speak before the opening credits and does not stop for 96 minutes. When he does you will wish he could have continued for 96 more. You will find yourself listening again and again and picking up something new each time. This is without a doubt far and away the best commentary on any DVD.

Here is just a partial list of the things Morrell covers:

1. The many differences between his novel and the film-very fascinating stuff. 2. His experience when seeing First Blood the very first time. 3. The three act structure of films. 4. How he chose the name Rambo and other character names. 5. How First Blood set a number of precedents for the industry. 6. Why films were kept to 90 minutes in length for so long a time. 7. A touching story about his son and Stallone. 8. The story of how Kirk Douglas was scheduled to play Troutman and why Richard Crenna ended up with the role.

And that is only scratching the surface.

In conclusion, First Blood was a precedent setting film featuring top-flight actors and some of the best believable screen action. The wonderful commentary of David Morrell caps off a great experience.

A tremendous movie....
When Sylvester Stallone is involved....you know youre going to get terrific action. But the movies story and Stallones character of John Rambo are very interesting as well. The thing that appealed to me most of all in this movie is Rambo barely says 2 words througout the whole movie and at the end he just blows up. He explodes about the war, his buddies getting killed, etc. Its an explosive and dramatic moment....the topper of the whole movie.

Again, terrific movie, if youre into action/drama, take a look at this one, its great!!!

America missed the meaning of this movie
I remember seeing this movie for the first time on July 4, 1984. I know back then I was into long hair, and alot of 60's and 70's music. Didn't do acid, or any drugs as I was 16, and grew up in a police officer's house. I always knew police brutality existed, but after this movie I suddenly realized that men in short hair aren't always the good guys. I mean after all there are no pictures of the devil with long hair, or at least from what I've seen. I know watching this movie I've developed a intense prejudice of hick folks, and country bumpkins, and the such as I feel that they are self-righteous, and know it alls, and that they are God. I know that the only other people in movies that rubbed me the wrong way were Sherrif Buford T. Justice from "Smokey and the Bandit", and the corrupt sherrif who smacked around his deputy in the movie "Tank". However, don't get me wrong the same way that Sherrif Teasle, and crew are accountable so is Rambo. Rambo still is accountable for murdering an officer of the law even though it was self-defense. He'd have to go to court, and prove it as such. The Veitnam war no doubt has ruffled alot of feathers, and in my opinion while I understand why some ran away to Canada I also understand why some went there. I can only imagine what the soldiers went through there as I was only a baby when this was all going on. Like all veterans of all the wars the Veitnam Veterans should've been given dignity, and respect all along for fighting to keep our freedom. Mind you I'd have to start digging for the whole 30 year war over there, and why it impacted us so much. The same way I feel that the laws back here are to be respected, and a police officer should be given the same dignity, and respect as that of a soldier who went overseas to fight. I know one phrase was powerful when Teasle said "That if a prisoner is mistreated, by a deputy he brings it to him, and then Teasle(him) goes to the deputy, and that's how the law works", but what happens when the head vigilanty is your Sherrif? Overall this movie should've made America reflect on how we reacted, and treated these brave soldiers when they returned from Veitnam, and come to grips with our actions, and our attitudes. However, America missed the boat by glorifying Rambo for all the wrong reasons, and diffused the character, and the message. They made Rambo a gun toting vigilanty, and that was America's new superhero. Rambo wanted no war. He wanted to visit his friend, and became heartbroken when he found out his friend was dead. All Rambo wanted was a hot meal, and a chance to grieve before moving on; who knows Rambo may had found peace for once in Holidayland, but now it's citizens will never know as Prejudice was standing at the door when Rambo knocked. To me America is still acting that way, and it's time to forgive, and reconcile, and move on.

First Blood is still best of three Rambo movies
The first Rambo movie called First Blood was released in the fall of 1982. The movie was arguably Sylvester Stallone's best performance since Rocky II. First Blood is about a Vietnam veteran named John Rambo who comes to a small town in Washington the state(it was actually filmed in the dead of British Columbia, Canada's winter of 1981/82) to meet a fellow comrade/friend from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he died of cancer, Rambo sadly in disbelief makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being harassed and arrested by the hick local Sheriff Will Teasle(Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by Deputy Galt(Jack Starrett) and fellow sheriffs Ward and others but a flashback to being abused and tortured in a POW prison while being processed causes Rambo to snap and manages to escape jail by taking out five cops and sparking an all out manhunt between 200 people versus one Rambo. This film is a 96 minute action rollercoaster highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase and fighting with the national guard. Jack Starrett was great as the hillbilly cop that did all of the abusing while David Caruso was fine as the only deputy that had a conscience and a heart and did not abuse Rambo. Dennehy was superb and made a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna gave his best performance as Rambo's former Colonel Sam Trautman and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well(originally Kirk Douglas was to play Trautman but that fell through at the last minute). Despite the fact he had very limited speaking parts, First Blood was one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the Vietnam speech near the end of the film. (..). This DVD is well worth the money. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If Sylvester Stallone plays the world's number one assassin in this thriller, that must make Antonio Banderas, well, number two. The two are competing to hit the same target for a $20-million payoff, and their challenge takes them from explosion to explosion on a cat-and-mouse chase from Seattle to Mexico. Julianne Moore plays the cagey cat fancier and computer hacker who possesses a stolen computer disc that makes her a prime target for bad guys, and Robert Rath (Stallone) is only too happy to come to her defense. Director Richard Donner handles action sequences with adequate flair and has a good time blowing things up. Banderas has fun with the nonsensical plot, and Moore is enjoyable in one of her big-budget mainstream roles. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Very Intelligent!
I thought this movie was very well done, especially the casting and plot. Stalone is wonderful as Robert, the #1 ranked assassin. I am not a big fan of Stallone, but this movie made me like him. This is actually a softer role for him, and I think it is perfect for him. Banderas is absolutely hysterical as Miguel, another assassin who is assigned to kill Stallone. His little gestures, smiles, and fanatic moves were great, and I thought he was exceptional in this role. Moore is also well suited for the role of Elektra, a thief who is marked for Stallone and Banderas to kill. She was one of the best female characters I've ever seen, clever, funny, sensitive, and tough all at the same time. This movie is very intelligent with the plot and storyline, and I found it extremely entertaining. This is a must have for anyone who enjoys a comedic, action-packed adventure.

Stallone's Best
I personally think this was one of Sly's best movies, even better than the Rocky series.

Stallone plays the part of a man named Robert Rath who has been an assassin for over fifteen years. His conscience is finally cathing up to him and he wants out of the business. Before he retires he decides to do one last hit worth $20 million, enough money to live comfortably for the rest of his life.

Banderas plays the part of Miguel Bain, a young, very ambitious, ruthless assassin who is determined to be the world's best contract killer. The only thing standing in his way is Stallone.

Moore plays the part of the woman who Stallone was supposed to assassinate, but instead developed strong feelings for.

The three of them combine to make one of the best movie's of 1995 with plenty of action, drama, and a semi-love story. I highly recommend it.

Stallone and Banderas bash head on
the two leads are great, especially Banderas with his chitchattering character Miguel who is hilariously deadly. best highlight would be when Banderas gets blown out a window when the gaslight in Julianne Moore's apartment ignites, it sends him flying out baby. though the downfall is length, especially in the end where it seems endless and yawning.

3 stars ONLY because of Sly.
"Assassins", just one more in a seemingly endless (until "Cop Land") string of bad career moves by Sly Stallone. The "plot" centers around Robert Rath (Stallone), a veteran hitman who is haunted by his violent past, and wants out of his profession. But he is being toyed with by a younger hitman named Miguel (Antonio Banderas), who wants to make a name for himself by taking Rath out. Let's get right down to it: Sylvester Stallone was the only reason to even think about watching this movie. He's always been good at playing characters that, haunted by past violent mistakes, yearn for second chances (like John Rambo in the original "First Blood"; Gabe Walker in "Cliffhanger"), and his turn as Robert Rath is no exception.

Richard Donner's direction was horrible, a mishmash of weak camera tricks and unnecessary quick cutting. Julianne Moore's performance in this movie is the total opposite of every good one she would give later in her career: in this, she makes for good eye candy, but not much talent or charisma on display for her thankless role as a mark caught between two hitmen. No indication of the incredibly talented actress she would become soon after "Assassins".

And Antonio Banderas. Antonio, Antonio, Antonio. I'd be surprised if any self-respecting vegetarian could watch Antonio Banderas act in this movie, because he makes for the biggest ham you ever saw. I couldn't understand half the character's lines without putting on the captions. Word of advice to Antonio Banderas: speaking in a growling half-whisper with a heavy accent does not equal acting. And did his character Miguel have enough gel in his hair?! Scrape some of that gunk off, and you could've solved the world energy crisis.

I saw it, I tolerated it, but you should use extreme caution when dealing with "Assassins". - *** out of 5

AWESOME
This was a sweet movie. If there is any one out there looking for a good action movie to watch, this is the one. WATCH IT! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not Baker's or Haas' Movie
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SYLVESTER STALLONE stars in a comedy about NY life in the 1940's. Three brothers, stooges, fail at multiple attempts to make it out of the slums of Hell's Kitchen. In trying to make the big bucks, they neglect the one thing that matters, Love. In realizing this, the little brother makes a decision that might jeopardize their big Blue Heaven.

I thought the movie was funny in every scene, but it wasn't so funny as a movie. If that makes sense. I thought maybe this was due to poor direction, STALLONE'S debut. It would make a very good Theatre production. Cutting a few scenes out of the picture, would have made it a better movie (example: ice cream scene).

A few things about the movie stand out. Firstly, this is legendary singer/songwriter TOM WAITS' Hollywood debut. Any TOM WAITS fan will want to get this movie, just to watch those few glorious moments over and over again.

Secondly, SYLVESTER STALLONE sings the theme song. This is priceless. If you've watched his career blossom, and are able to observe the contradiction in his newly found intellectualism, then you will appreciate hearing him sing a theme song for a movie. I rank this action second to hearing WILLIAM SHATNER'S rendition of 'Rocketman'. Very nice.

Thirdly, the lines spoken by a thug mentioned in a previous review are truely classic.

So it's a great picture, however, the optimum enjoyment for this movie is to be experienced in parts, by previewing one scene, before that evening's alternate DVD is queued.

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Fueding, fighting,dames,and the disire to leave the slums.
With 3 brothers trying to put their difference aside, they try to conquer the wrestling world. With Cosmo(Stallone), and brother Lenny(Arsanti)arguing over the same dame like teenage kids. Their youngest brother VICTOR is stomping butt in HIGH OCTANE wresling matches. I personally think that Stallone(who directed the movie) should have used better, and more ferocious wrestlers than Ray Stevenson,Ted Debiosi, and the Funks. Although Terry Funk's lines were hilarious, and every wrestling buff out there knows that he is the King of HARDCORE wreslting. A very good betrayal of if you can't fight, get someone bigger than you to fight for you. ... Read more

Reviews (72)

ONE OF MY ALL-TIME FAVORITES!
This is my favorite out of the Rocky movies. I would give this movie SIX STARS if I could! I have seen this movie over and over and over again... maybe a couple dozen times.. at least. This movie was soooooo awesome. It is one of those few movies that you can see over and over again without getting tired of it. A true classic.

I liked this the best because I felt the most inspiration out of this film. I felt a lot of inspiration and emotion for Rocky to beat the heck out of Drago. In addition, unlike the original Rocky, this movie was fast-moving