Reviews (21)

A Martial Arts must-see
Jeff Speakman displays awesome speed in his fight scenes, indicative of the lightning-fast techniques used in Kenpo Karate. A tribute to this amazing and effective martial art as much as it is an action flick, Jeff's precise and powerful moves far outshine his acting abilities. The language used in this movie makes it (in my opinion) unsuitable for young children, but the action is stellar! The villains in this movie are a who's-who of recent martial arts movies, including actors who will be recognized from Mortal Kombat, Goldfinger, and Bloodsport II. Tanaka (Oddjob from Goldfinger) again plays an indestructable man-tank who smiles while shrugging off blows that would cripple any normal movie character. His martial techniques are more developed than in Goldfinger, but he is still portrayed as a lumbering monster. Tanaka is a highly-ranked practitioner of Judo in real life, and should be cast in roles which alow him to display his technique, rather than simply being a massive behemoth. Martial-arts megastar Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (I might be misspellng this), who most recently played Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat, plays a minor role as a Korean thug who has a few good lines but was underused as a martial artist. If you are a fan of martial arts movies, this is definitely on your to-see list!

The True Spirit of Martial arts & Kenpo Karate(especially)
After a long time here was a martial arts movie that was not with the same kick punch and kick plot but one that displayed real practical fight scenes with regard to the use of martial arts on the street.

There is no doubt that Jeff Speakman is a complete martial artist and a good actor who really knew how to express fight sequences in a manner that would catch the attention of the audience.

His moves are fluid Continuous and powerful and he has done great justice to the spirit of the late dynamic founder of Kenpo Karate Grandmaster Ed Parker.

I wish Jeff Speakman all the best and pray that he continues making such movies to show the world what is a real down to earth Martial art(In other words Kenpo karate)

Thank You

V.Ram Kumar 2nd gup Red Stripe Belt Tae kwon do(Korean Karate) Chennai,India.

Excellent Martial Arts Film/Good Intro to Kenpo
I studied Kenpo Karate as a kid and enjoyed this movie when it came out in the theatre years ago. I recently watched it again after so many years and enjoyed the fight sequences and the way that they introduced kenpo karate to the viewers. Recognizing some of the self defense techniques and kata from the movie made it authentic and different from other movies in this genre.

Great action!
This is Jeff Speakman's best movie and it stands up there with other great Martial Arts movies. Speakman's kenpo is very realistic in this movie. An action fan could not ask for more than this movie delivers! But why is this great movie not on DVD yet?!?

Great movie ! no dvd :(
I love this movie!!!! I am very sad to see that to it has not been Released on DVD. Well the movie is definetly worth buying even on VHS. It continues to be one movie that I can say is a favorit, and for me that is a rare occasion. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While 2003's Daredevil was a conventional superhero movie, the 2005 spinoff, Elektra, is more of a wuxia-styled martial arts/fantasy flick. Elektra (Jennifer Garner) has returned to her life as a hired assassin, but she balks at an assignment to kill a single father (Goran Visnjic, ER) and his teenage daughter (Kirsten Prout). That makes her the target of the Hand, an organization of murderous ninjas, scheming corporate types, and a band of stylish supervillains seeking to eliminate Elektra and tip the balance of power in the ongoing battle of good vs. evil.

As the star of Alias, Garner has proven that she can kick butt with the best of them, and some of the visual effects are impressive, but the action sequences tend to be anticlimactic, and there's not much to the story. Fans will notice numerous references to Frank Miller's comic books, but there's very little resemblance to Miller's cold-blooded killer (Elektra with an agent? Elektra referring to herself as a "soccer mom"?).

Is Elektra better than Daredevil? Not really, even with the distinct advantage of having all Garner and no Ben Affleck. That could be the spinoff's greatest disappointment: after Spider-Man 2 raised the bar for comic-book movies, Elektra lowered it back to Daredevil's level.Directed by Rob Bowman (the X-Files movie), and featuring Terence Stamp as the mysterious mentor Stick, Will Yun Lee (Die Another Day) as the chief villain, and NFL-player-turned-mixed-martial-arts-champion Bob Sapp as the immovable Stone.

DVD features
Ben Affleck's much-rumored cameo is one of the deleted scenes on the Elektra DVD.It's a one-minute throwaway, and while he's supposedly appearing as Matt Murdock (who romanced Elektra in Daredevil), the barrage of celebrity gossip makes it impossible to see him as anything other than Jennifer Garner's real-life boyfriend.There's also a making-of featurette, which is mostly promotional hype other than a few interesting effects shots; four editing featurettes; and Jennifer Garner's videotaped message to ComicCon.--David Horiuchi

More on Elektra

Elektra: The Album (Soundtrack CD)	Elektra: The Movie (Comic Adaptation)	Frank Miller Comic Books
Daredevil (Director's Cut) (DVD)	Jennifer Garner stars in Alias (DVD)	More Superhero DVDs

... Read more

Reviews (163)

Not bad
I don't understand when people complain about Elektra being trashy. Com' on, you know you're watching a comic character, a character written from comics, how intellectual do you want the movie to be?

I love the trashiness of the movie.

More like E-Suck-tra...
This was one of the crappiest movie I have ever seen in the history of movies. The boss fights were stupid, the final boss, stupid, The tatoo guy that was supposed to be TOTALLY sweet died way way way too easily. She had this stiff pissed look the entire movie which just made me fell Stiff and pissed. I think the only part I found entertaining was how they died, If you want to laugh get this movie, if you want action(which is what you expect from this movie) Go try Samurai Champloo.

good dvd release but worst superhero movie i've ever seen
I'd never seen this movie in big screen, but one of my friends told me it was an average movie. when the dvd released, I Bought to put it near my daredevil DVDs (special 2 discs edition & directors cut), oh my... when i watched it... it was not an average movie but one of the worst superhero movies i've ever seen. too much lies! terrible actings and a boring story! not comperable with daredevil in any way, daredevil was a five star movie but this can hardly get one star! its just like one of jackie chan recent and cheap movies with a TV Worthy picture and special effects. it's not even worth to rent. don't be fool by the beautiful and kind of sexy photo on the cover of dvd! don't buy it even you are a super hero DVD Collector

Good acting , silly story
I was surprised that someone like Jason Isaacs would appear in a movie like this... special effects are very good, but still, the story wasn't very good. Goran Visnjic did a great job, excellent. But I don't know...watch it if you want to have some fun.

A Different Concept ?!!/ Disappointing and Medicore!!!!
I personaly am a comic book fan and can tell you from experience that the comics of Elektra are way better. The movie was somewhat weak with barely any action scenes!!! The only good part of the movie was Jennifer Garner which put some flavor into the movie and was in fact perfect for playing the part of Elektra!!! I place all blame on marvel who basically focused too much on setting up for the sequel and less on the action!!! This movie had so much potential but in the end it was barely amusing!!! If you want the truth the only reason I gave this movie 3 stars was because, of pitty and Jennifer Garner!!! It was a nobel effort but there are way better movies than this!!! The special features aren't that special either and not worth buying the movie over!!! Some hardcore Elektra fans will have a special place in their hearts for this movie!!! Don't buy this movie because of Jennifer Garner, if you want to see more of her just watch Alias/ or buy the first season!!! Marvel used to be about making comics and pleasing their main fan group, but now they have turned into a bunch of corporate business investors trying to make a profits!! The movie "Hulk" was even worse than this, which makes this look good!!! If you are looking for good movies from marvel here are some suggestion:

Spiderman
spiderman 2
X Men
X Men 2
The Punisher
Daredevil
The Incredibles

I hope Marvel is wise and makes more movies like the one's listed above!!! I suggest you rent this movie first to see if you truly want it!!! If you are a action fan like me you will probably not like it!!! Better luck on the sequel!!!

-Anonymous ... Read more

Reviews (103)

Masterpiece!
If you somehow missed this one, do yourself a favor and make time available in your schedule for viewing this masterpiece from director Bernardo Bertolucci! Nine academy awards, including Best Picture [1987], only gives partial credit to this magnificently epic and absolutely unforgettable true story. It is the story of Pu Yi, who at the age of 3 comes to the Imperial Dragon Throne to become the Last Emperor of China. His whole life is spanned in this film, from his childhood, to his ultimate fate as an unskilled gardener in the streets of Bejing. Throughout this film we are treated to a cinematic feast for the senses, so rich in detail and imagery, you will be compelled to see it again as soon as possible (I saw it again the very next night!). You will have felt the full range of emotions from having experienced this movie, and few others in recent memory have mesmerized me so totally in an almost 3 hour (164 min) time span. Truly one of the greatest films of all time! Masterpiece!

Bertolucci's Last Epic!
By that I mean with great respect! Bernardo Bertolucci is known for such cinematic extravaganzas as 1973's LAST TANGO IN PARIS and 1977's 1900; and to add to his credits, 1987's Best Picture winner THE LAST EMPEROR!

A film of major diversity. An Italian director (Bertolucci), a predominately Chinese cast including frequent costars John Lone and Joan Chen, British actor and seven-time Oscar nominee Peter O'Toole, an American producer named Jeremy Thomas, and distributed by an American studio, Columbia Pictures!

John Lone is the title character, Chinese emperor "Henry" Pu-Yi, who became the last Emperor of China at the age of 3, and would be the "Lord of Ten Thousand Years!" Nothing would prepare him for the change that would eventually occur when he is forced into abdication, forced into retaking his kingdom, and forcing him to attempt suicide after his arrest and capture by Chinese and Russian communist troops after World War II. Eventually, after serving his time for conspiracy, he released from prison and lives out the rest of his life in 1967 -- as a simple gardner.

Imagine. From Emperor to gardner, totally heartbreaking! Heartbreaking is the fact that it cost him EVERYTHING! His wife "Elizabeth" Wan Jung, played with grace by the gorgeous Joan Chen; his kingdom and his freedom. But, you can't simply hate the guy! He is, of course, a man who was spoiled by his servants and soldiers as a child.

The film has both an epic scope and an excellently-written character story. (Though most historians believed that the film embellished on certain facts, like Pu-Yi's homosexuality.) It is played competently by an Asian cast and a wonderfully witty Peter O'Toole, who should have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor that year, as the Emperor's patient tutor Reginald "R.J." Johnston.

Needless to say, I cried at the very end of this film! I LOVED that scene between the elder Pu-Yi and a little boy who appears to be just like the Emperor as a child. And the symbolic message this film taught with the cricket in the jar, as the little boy opens the jar to reveal the insect (by then, Pu-Yi has magically disappeared). An epic film with a heart (like my PRISONER OF WAR)!

Winner of all 9 of its nominations including: Best Picture - Jeremy Thomas, producer; Best Director - Bernardo Bertolucci; Best Adapted Screenplay - Bertolucci and Mark Peploe; Best Cinematography; Best Art Direction/Set Decoration; Best Costume Design; Best Score; Best Sound; and Best Film Editing.

THIS FILM IS APPROXIMATELY: 2 HOURS AND 40 MINUTES.

But well worth it!

great film, awful dvd
I had the misfortune to buy this BEFORE I read the Amazon reviews and discovered that the DVD looked awful-a particular injustice for a film that won Best Picture. It's only 17 years old; there are films from the 30's that look great on DVD! I see though that in the U.K. they released a 2-disc version with commentary and both the original theatrical cut as well as the director's cut. I assume it's also restored and anamorphic and can only hope that we get an American version soon. The movie gets 5 stars, even at 219 minutes. The DVD gets 1 star, so that averages out to a generous 3.

Breathtakingly Beautiful, Decadent and Misconceived.
I revere every Bertoluccifs work tremendously, and this lavish film is no exception.
I was completely mesmerised by the view of the Forbidden City, beautiful period costumes of the Emperor and the Imperial family with which the director says he really cared about the historical accuracy to recreate as well as other things.
The historical accuracy is, however, not necessarily applied to the part of which Japan was involved. The foundation of Manshu-koku, (Manchukuo is the Chinese word) and the restoration of the Manchu Emperor Pfu Yi, and the alleged atrocities made to the Japanese Imperial Army, namely, gRape of Nankingh, etc. It is so because both Bernaldo Bertolucci and the producer Jeremy Thomas seem to have truly believed in the auto-biography of Pfu Yi, gFrom Emperor to Citizenh that written for propaganda purpose, and the Frank Caprafs U.S. propaganda film; gThe Battle of Chinah at their face values.
First thing is first, Chinese Communistfs gbrainwashingh undeniably exists. In the same year this film first came out, 1987, gFrom Emperor to Citizenh was re-published by Oxford University Press with new comprehensive general introduction and chapter introductions by W.J.F. Jenner, the translator of the original 1964 gdeliberately restricted editionh published by Foreign Language Press, BeiJing.
Jenner explains; gThe special consideration shown Pfu Yi and other high-ranking Manchukuo(sic), Japanese, and Nationalist officials cannot be regarded as typical of Chinese prison conditions. These were all people of potential value in winning over others in future, and political considerations saved them from the harsh justice that many lesser figures received.h And, Jenner continues, Pfu Yifs gsuccessful thought reformh which made him gusefulh and able body to work like other ordinary people, that Bertolucci praises vigorously, was, in fact, gsomething of ritualh. Pfu Yifs fourth wifefs account of his incapableness of looking after himself, even after his release of 1959, reveals some part of the truth.
His fifth and final marriage to a well qualified nurse was garranged by the Chinese Peoplefs Political Consultative Conference and the Communist Partyfs United Front Department. [cccc] He was even protected from the Cultural Revolution by Chou En-laifs intervention, and the local police kept Red Guards away. [cccc] Pfu Yifs presentation to foreigners as a living advertisement for the Peoplefs Government and the Communist Party began in 1956, while he was still in prison; and after his release he was often required to meet foreign visitors to China.h Those facts show that Pfu Yi was not successfully remolded@into an ordinary citizen after all, but made a perfect gmouthpieceh of the Communist Party Propaganda Department.

Bertolucci may never have read this revealing version of the Pfu Yifs gauto-biographyh. (In fact, the book was re-written before it was published in 1964 by Communist Propaganda Department writers based on the gconfessionsh Pfu Yi and Pfu Chieh had made in the prison as outcome of gbrainwashingh.)
But, in any case, the directorfs knowledge on the so-called gRape of Nankingh is awfully wrong.
He believes; gThe Japanese killed 300,000 Chinese people in *2 or 3 days* in Nanking.h (How did he think it was possible as the matter of reality?)
In fact, however, the *200,000* civilian refugee in Nanking were well protected by the Japanese Army and decrease of the number never recorded by the gobjectiveh foreigners of the International Committee of the Nanking Safety Zone, who, by the way, are assumed by many people including scholars as gthe witnesses of the Rape of Nankingh. They, on the contrary, recorded *increase* of the population to 250,000 within a few weeks after the capture of the city. No one saw such barbaric massacre except the Chinese propagandists and, actually, some members of the Committee who were hired by the Chinese Nationalist Party as international propaganda agents. Some ordinary Chinese people (genuine citizens of Nanking) even condemned the Chinese soldiers for the wrong-doing in Nanking.
Apart from gRape of Nankingh, the gnewsreelh in the film Pfu Yi and his co-inmates had watched is full of errors and, I dare to say, pernicious propaganda.
The planes that bombed Shanghai International Settlement and killed thousands of civilian was actually the Chinese. (Page 352 of The China Year Book 1938, edited by H.G.W. Woodhead, North China Daily News) And, the gexecutionh scene of the Chinese civilian is, I am sure, taken from the famous propaganda film by Frank Capra; gThe battle of Chinah that shows, in fact, the executioners are the Chinese Nationalist Party Army. Because of the fact the scene was gtrimmedh to ghideh the true identity of the executioners, I think Bertolucci did know they were using propaganda material.
What I do not know is their purpose. It may have been to get permission to make the film in Beijing under ghawk-eyeh of the Communist Party authorities they might have pretended to be pro-communist. In either way, this filmfs authenticity was sullied and that is very a shame.

Still, to me, this special edition is very interesting as a resource to understand the Cultural Revolution and the nature of brainwashing because it includes first-hand interviews of aging Pfu Chieh and the real life prison governor. Only one thing I would desire is subtitles, for the sake of clarification of the dialogues spoken by non-English speakers.

Good movie.... Awful DVD
Enough comments have been made on the movie so I'll just tell you my opinion on the DVD edition. It is one of the worst DVD transcription I have ever saw. I really had the impression to watch a DivX. Do I need to tell more about the resolution? Only the english soundtrack is available (I wish the movie had been shooted in Chinese or Mandarin but that's not the point) and no subtitles. The DVD presents the director's cut which makes the movie 3 and a half hour instead of 2 and a half. The theatrical version is not available on the DVD... Otherwise there is no additionnal material. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent Story of the Indianapolis
This movie is a very good adaptation of the events surrounding the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. I was impressed with the attention to detail that the producers paid in the movie. For example, it is known that the ship's doctor burned his hands to the point of uselessness while trying to open a door, and sure enough, this scene was excellently covered in the movie. Stacy Keach stars as Captain Charles McVay, and he does an excellent job throughout the film. Richard Thomas portrays the ship's doctor. The scenes of the sinking and the subsequent struggle to survive on the sea is vividly portrayed. I was also impressed with the attention payed to the rescue and Captain McVay's court martial. In fact, this movie does a better job of covering the court martial phase than many of the books I've read on this subject. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who knows or has read about the story of the USS Indianapolis.

Mission of the VCR
I was interested in the Indianapolis disaster after seeing the movie Jaws, where it is discussed. I was hoping this VHS film would give me some more information, and it might have, if the tape had been of sufficient quality to actually watch.

Unfortunately, the company that copied the tape for distribution, which must have been "Bubba's Backstreet Tape Copiers and Stormdoor Company," apparently used one of the first VCRs ever made to do their copying. The tape is recorded on Super Long Play, and I don't care how good your automatic or manual tracking is, your VCR can't keep up with the grainy, flipping images of this tape. The thing is unwatchable. You can just hit yourself in the head with a hammer a couple of times and get the same headache. Save your money.

Like JAWS, only real, and worse
This film is quite upsetting, perhaps because the real event on which it is based was probably worse. It is not as if the makers didn't do their best to tell this true horror story. I believe they did, or if the didn't, I don't wish to see a more upsetting version. Don't expect to sleep well after you see this. ... Read more

Amazon.com

To call Pearl Harbor a throwback to old-time war movies is something of an understatement. Director Michael Bay's epic take on the bombing that brought the United States into World War II hijacks every war movie situation and cliché (some affectionate, some stale) you've ever seen and gives them a shiny, glossy spin until the whole movie practically gleams. Planes glisten, water sparkles, trees beckon--and Bay's re-creation of the bombing itself, a 30-minute sequence that's tightly choreographed and amazingly photographed, sets the action movie bar up quite a few notches. And in updating the classic war film, Bay and screenwriter Randall Wallace (Braveheart) use that old plot standby, the love triangle--this time, it's between two pilots (Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett) and a nurse (Kate Beckinsale) who find themselves stationed at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, during what they thought would be a nice, sunny tour of duty. Then, of course, history intervened.

For the first 90 minutes of the movie, Affleck and Beckinsale find a nice, appealing chemistry that plays on his strengths as a movie star and hers as a serious actress--he gives her glamour, she gives him smarts. Their truncated romance--the beginning of which is told in flashback so we can get right to the point where he has to leave her to go to England--works, thanks to their charm. They're no Kate and Leo from Titanic (a strategy the film strives hard toward), but they're pretty darn adorable in their own right. Hartnett, as the not entirely unwelcome third wheel, squints bravely but makes only a slight dent in the film. Everyone else in Pearl Harbor--from Cuba Gooding Jr.'s brave navy seaman to Jon Voight's able impersonation of FDR--is pretty much a glorified walk-on, taking a backseat to the pyrotechnics and action sequences that keep the three-hour film in fairly constant motion. But when that action does take hold, Pearl Harbor is quite a thrilling ride. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (1812)

'Pearl Harbor' a big misfire
From up to its pretty exciting 15-minute sequence as the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor, 'Pearl Harbor' is a lumbering, barely involving film, which gives us a love triangle between two hunkish World War II fighter pilots, Josh Harnett and Ben Affleck and pretty nurse Kate Beckinsale.

'Pearl Harbor' tries to capture the atmosphere and engaging set up of 1997's better "Titanic" by setting up three star-crossed lovers, instead of the usual two. It fails terribly, but it's mostly scripter Randall Wallace's fault, which tries to balance three to four subplots by compromising the film's integrity and intelligence.

This 3+ hour film is obviously meant as a tribute to the people who died December 7, 1942 and has pretty nice cinematography, but the film itself is a shoddy-made puzzle in which all the pieces don't quite fit together.

The characters wallow in sentimentality and the film unsuccessfully tries to create atmosphere, romance and humor, but the film's bottom drops out in the final third, not only to reveal a plot full of holes, but a incomprehensible story told in bad faith.

Sorry, Bruckheimer. Nice try but no cigar.

September 11, 2001: Another "date that will live in infamy!"
"Pearl Harbor" is a movie of far greater importance after the terrorists attacks of September 11. We are now at war against ideologues committed to destroying our nation. Americans only a few months ago considered "Pearl Harbor" as merely a depiction of a bygone tragic era, but not particularly relevant to our present
concerns. Needless to add, this mindset is no longer embraced by the majority. Jon Voight brilliantly portrays President Franklin D. Roosevelt. You will have a difficult time remaining stoic and tearless when Voight gives tongue to Roosevelt's famous radio speech to the American people after the Japanese treacherous
December 7, 1941 assault on Pearl Harbor. "We are at war," declared the President and "we have been described as weaklings and playboys" unwilling to overcome formidable obstacles, and too cowardly to fight. Does this rhetoric sound familiar? History has been repeated, and once again we are challenged to bravely confront our enemies.

The cast that includes Ben Affleck, Kate Beckinsale, Cuba Gooding Jr, Josh Harnett, Alec Baldwin, and Jon Voight are fantastic. Michael Bay should be congratulated for directing this work of art. The lengthy battle scene ranks among the best of all time. Every moral person should also be taken aback by the scene
where a wounded seaman curses a Japanese-American physician who comes to his aid. Racial and ethnic bigotry was wrong in 1941, and must be wholeheartedly rejected today when some less than admirable individuals are tempted to blame their fellow Americans of Arab descent for the horror of just a few weeks ago. The
United States courageously and ethically faced its enemies over fifty years ago. We must do so once again.

The very fact that this film's creators relied so extensively on focus groups to guide the making of this film was a serious mistake. Both Liberal and Conservative commentators used this as an excuse to blast "Pearl Harbor" immediately upon its initial release. Many wrongly concluded that these marketing studies might be dismissed as a mere cynical attempt by the producers to increase their profits. I strongly disagree with this assessment, and instead strongly recommend that every citizen view this film at least once. It may very well be your duty to so.

Awesome deleted scenes
This is the DVD to get, it has the deleted scenes of the love affair between Doolittle (played by Baldwin) and Beckinsale - the child Beckinsale carries was actually Doolittle's, not Josh Harnett's - in this restored, original version

good but not THAT good
This is a good movie but not great. It's way too long and the actors are not really that good. The special effects are amazing to look at but it gets boring after a while. Jennifer Garner had a very small role in the movie. Why didn't she got a bigger part is beyond me. This unrated version is not that special only has a lot more gore/violence. Why did I waste time and money on this one I really don't know. If you love violence movies buy this now if now avoid it at all costs.

Pearl Harbore, and inaccurate
I must say that, when I saw this film. I was expecting a high intensity build towards the ultimate climax of the attack itself. Instead, we get the usual Hollywood love fest, Hollywood liberties on the truth (though I am not bothered by the liberties themselves, but sometimes the liberties are too ridiculous!) For example, some of the ships used in the movie to be hit by torpedoes are woefully modern, IE not of WWII time period. The Doolittle Raid, look at the aircraft carrier, it shows an angle that only modern nuclear ACC's have, back then the ACC's were long rectangler shaped vessels.

Lastly, I just found it boring and it was like the director was attempting to do a Titanic style story with fictional characters caught in a love triangle all the while the story builds towards the attack as a secondary mentioning. Just way too much Hollywood liberties taken against one of the darkest times for America, and I can't help but feel that the veterans, especially those who were there, should have been given something that respected them more.

I will say though, the attack itself is stunning, why I give it two stars... other than that this movie falls flat for me. ... Read more

Description

Hawaii's own Johnny Kapahaala suddenly finds himself in the cold mountains of Vermont, without his friends, his grandfather, and those famous Kauai waves! When some jealous locals make fun of his "island style," he must find a way to unite his past and present -- which leads to some awesome snowboarding and a radical downhill race! Starring Brandon Baker (THE JUNGLE BOOK: MOWGLI'S STORY) and Kirsten Storms (ZENON, GIRL OF THE 21ST CENTURY) JOHNNY TSUNAMI is one great ride full of surfing, skiing, snowboarding, and just plain fun, wherever you're from! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A Great Made For T.V. Movie!
I love Disney Channel Original Movies! They are fun for the whole family! This one is about Johnny! His grandfather is a surfing legend known as Johnny Tsunami. And he is about to fil his grandfathers shoes. But his dad and step mom make him move. To Alaska! He has trouble fitting in. But soon finds out that The hip sport their is snowboarding. Johnny also gets a crush and makes enimies with her boyfriend. When Johnny's grandfather makes an offer for Johnny to live with him in Hawaii, Johnny has to choose between surfing in Hawaii and becoming a legend, or staying with his family and friends! This movie teaches kids to make good choices and about family and friends! I recommend you go rent it today!

A Great Made For T.V. Movie!!!
I don't normally like made for t.v. movies, but Disney makes some
pretty good ones! This is the story of Johnny Tsunami. He lives in
hawaii and is a great surfer. He would have been famous like his
grandfather if his dad and step mom hadn't made him move to alaska. He
has a hard time fitting in, But makes a friend and quickly learns the
next best thing to surfing, snowboarding. He deals with his bully, his
crush, and leaving his home behind ...

YES TOTTALY RICTER
this movie was totally ricter. My bra's and i were hangin out every single day just because this movie is the bomb!! I would recoment this movie to anyone who likes love movies or just totally narly shredding by chinese guys. I LOVE THIS MOVIE.

YE GUYS YE THIS IS THE BOMB. MY name is the Murf and I have no friends in life. EVERYONE HATES ME AND I DING DONG DOOR DITCH PEOPLE BECAUSE IM AFRAID OF THEM. I HOPE THEY WILL NEVER FIND OUT

Heart and Soul
This is a great movie! Johnny's parents are not very good "listeners," but his Grandfather is completely there for him. It's a Disney movie formula, but there's some truth to it...a kid doesn't really require a " village," but he does need one adult in the world that he is really connected with.

Johnny Tsunami also has a lot to say about surfing and skiing and what it's like to be the new kid in school.

CLM

Heart and Soul
This movie is great! Johnny's parents are not very good listeners, but his Grandpa is. All a kid needs in life is one grown-up who really cares.

It's also a great story about surfing and snowboarding and what it's like to be a new kid at school. It's a movie that works for both kids and adults.

Clementine Morse ... Read more

Amazon.com

Essentially a cautionary tale of slightly futuristic cyberterrorism, Netforce carries Tom Clancy's heavyweight name as the executive producer (but not writer). Don't expect a drama on the level of Patriot Games, however: Netforce is a blunt and somewhat rushed thriller with little time for character or relationship development. What it does offer is a scenario for the prospect of organized crime uniting with computer geeks and malevolent industrialists to sabotage national security through attacks on the Internet. Scott Bakula plays the FBI agent in charge of the Netforce division of the bureau; he takes charge after his mentor (Kris Kristofferson) is murdered and the investigation points to the involvement of a Web pioneer (Judge Reinhold). The hero's romance with a colleague (Joanna Going) grows a little trickier after he promotes her to the number two spot behind himself, but with the president's chief of staff (Brian Dennehy) breathing down their necks, that's the least of their professional problems. The action bounces around from good guys to sundry bad guys, but there's no question that a creeping paranoia about Net vulnerability and its disastrous implications grows on this production--and the viewers. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Trite, slow, boring, inaccurate - Minus 5 stars
I've read a lot of Tom Clancy bookds and seen his movies...this is really a travesty...a poor premise/plot, a clunky use of technology throughout, just a sad, sad excuse for a movie. By the way, I really have begun to dislike Scott Pakula as an actor, he's not too smart and in my mind has screwed up Enterprise ... he does an equally lame job here

A great movie
I have never read Tom Clancy's books nor had I heard of the Net Force series before, but this movie was so good that I actually went to the net to look for Clancy's books. Even though some characters are not well developed, the movie was a very realistic depiction of how our technology could be in about 20 years. The plot was fast moving and it kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end.

Tom Clancy's Netforce
I've read some of Tom Clancy's works before. They are all quite entertaining in their own different way. However, the only one of Clancy's works transferred to the screen I've bothered to watch was Netforce. That was strictly to see Scott Bakula again. Scott's portrayal of Alex was a gem to see. After Netforce, I went out to find other books in this series and only read the Alex parts!

It sounds good
Hi everyone. MOst of you know who Tom Clancy is. He has video games out there. Like Tom Clancy's Rainbow 6 and Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell. Those are great games. So most people would think this would be a great movie since it has his name in it. I thought it was a pretty good movie. But most of the other reviews said it sucked. So if you don't believe me just see it yourself. And stop listening to the reviews.

Clancy must not research his movies as much as we thought
Very inaccurate depiction of computers. Tom Clancy, i thought you were highly touted as being a realistic researcher of the details... how did you flub this one so bad? ... Read more

Amazon.com

Author Michael Crichton and director Philip Kaufman had a falling-out over the script for this film, based on Crichton's best-selling novel (which was controversial for its take on the Japanese invasion of American business in the early '90s). Kaufman ultimately won, doing an above-average job creating a murder mystery based on the culture clash between Los Angeles cops and Japanese multinational business interests. When a prostitute is murdered at the opening of a new L.A. headquarters for a Japanese company, detective Wesley Snipes is forced to call upon retired cop (and Japanophile) Sean Connery to help solve the murder. But he runs into obstruction from the Japanese, as well as a high-tech cover-up, while having to deal with anti-Japanese sentiments from people on his own team. Intriguing if overlong. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (21)

I Recomend the Book first then the Movie
I first read the book just recently in 2004 and rented the DVD right after. My first Michael Critchon book, I must say I am impressed with the author's knowledge, he is a genius to write about so many topics in all his books.
The main difference i noticed was that in the book he talks much about business between America and Japan but in the film not much of that theme is really stressed or atleast the average viewer might not pick up on it. also in the book the main character (played by w. snipes in the movie)has more of his life story told and you get a sense of his life history more. but all in all all the actors in the movie do a terrific job.
the addition of martial arts fighting in the movie is a plus aswell. i would have liked to see more special features on the dvd though such as interviews from cast,etc.

International Incident
The film adaptation of best selling author Michael Crichton's Rising Sun had its share of troubles...both on screen and off. Crichton had a falling out with director Philip Kaufman over some of the script changes. While I never read the book, and have nothing to compare the film to, I can't say that I wasn't all that thrilled with the film version anyway.

When a call girl is found to have been murdered in the boardroom of a Japanese corporation in Los Angeles, Lt. Web Smith (Wesley Snipes) is assigned to work the case. He soon realizes that his lack of knowledge about the culture is hurting the investigation. He is forced to team up with Captain John Connor, (Sean Connery) who is not only an expert on Japanese culture, but he's also spent time there as well.

As I say, even though Mr. Kaufman seems to have changed key elements of the story, in translating the book, I had other concerns on my mind. In order for "good cop--cop on the edge formula" to work--there has to be chemistry between the actors. Here, Connery and Snipes have very liitle. In fact, as a huge Connery fan, I was suprised at how bored he seemed. The mystery in the story, while having a few nice twists--doesn't sustain enough tension throughout. The usually great Harvey Keitel and Asian legend Mako are wasted in thankless roles. Rising sun is a film brimming with missed potential.

The only extra on the DVD is the movie's theatrical trailer. Given the problems I have with it, that's probably a good thing...What a disappointment. Maybe Kaufman should have stayed closer to the book??

Bleh.....
First, I wanted to see this movie because of I heard Sean Connery played a mentor on Japanese customs to Wesley Snipes in a homicide investigation-and I thought "How interesting!", but after watching it, I felt the plot was disjointed, and choppy, and the dialogue was constipated.
The movie does not flow well at all. I have not read the book, but I have heard it is better than the movie (as usual), and I do like Chricton's work. Still, I found this movie slow, and wondering what the point was.

Yakuza classic
This move is simply amazing. Excellent mixture of action flick with a gangster edge.

A lacklustre movie from an interesting book..
For one thing, the movie is a pale adaptation of a fairly decent book into an intended "thriller" tinged with pseudo-racial slurs. Sadly, these clueless bromides about a Japan of yore are probably all mistaken. For instance, we are made to believe that all Japanese "keiretsu" companies have a barrage of video cameras and monitor their employees 24 hours; a "sempai" (boss) and "kohai" (subordinate) have only one unilateral way of dealing with each other; a man who has lived in Japan for 18 years somehow just has to know a mysteriously effective form of aikido that only requires the use of 2 fingers to knock a man unconscious in a second; and oh, he has to have a Japanese wife (who btw does not look Japanese at all, and this is explained by the fruitcake theorem that one of her parents was black); etc etc...ad infinitum ad nauseum.

But as though the cultural glitches were not misplaced enough, the acting in this plotless movie is torrid too. Sean Connery scrambles to come off as an expert in all things Japan, but his Japanese is nearly incomprehensible. Minor nits about Japan are excruciatingly explained every minute of the movie bogging down the pace of a thriller beyond any semblance of thrill.

But above all, the central event -- a much-ado-about-nothing strangling of a girl during a business conference -- is pretty much left hanging in mid-air. Why was it done? We do find out after wading through an hour and a half of farcical Japan-Culture-Versus-US-Culture morass about WHO did it (and this was anything but a surprise) but WHY it was done is still a mystery to be addressed in a part 2 that we can only hope never sees the light of the day.

In a nutshell, a suspense movie without any suspense, stereotypical misgivings about Japan (the country does admittedly have its quirks but not so bird-brained), a plethora of ill-timed and abysmal attempts at humor without inducing any real laughs, the tired cliche of a black-cop/white-cop combo that start out with mutual chagrin but end up with a deep reciprocal esteem, and a Wesley Snipes perpetually dressed in a flourescent orange shirt.

With a Jackie Chan + Chris Rock/Tucker combo a flaky adaptation such as this could have meant some entertainment, but Rising Sun ends up being a painfully ordinary affair and a tragic squandering of a great cast over what was quite an alright novel. If you really must see the Japan of 90s, you'd learn a lot more by reading the book, or by watching "Black Rain" (Michael Douglas) or "Mr. Baseball" (Tom Selleck). Both of which don't jumble up on the reality and have a real story up their sleeves. ... Read more

Description

A former Marine officer takes six prison renegades into Vietnam in search of a kidnapped heiress. It's a new kind of killing field - and if they can rescue the girl before killing each other, all they have to do is get out alive. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

thhey have to survive the fight
Michael Dudikoff(Quicksand, Rignmaster) leads a bunch of criminals into Vietnam territory to save a woman who needs their help...Dudikoff leads in a rapist, a mistaken murderer and a nazi..among others..when they get there,,conflicts start..they have to survive before they kill each other. also starring Channon Roe(Girl, Cant Hardly Wait), JAcqueline Orbadors(Six Days, Seven Nights, Deuce Bigalow) and Tyrin Turner(MEnace II Society and Deep Cover)...runs out of steam in the middle and the end is unsatisfying and too forced

"Soldier Boyz" is Foundation of Comedy
Too bad there wasn't a showdown between Michael Dudikoff and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. Real "Mortal Kombat" time, but no. As long as lots of stuff blows up, this movie, "Soldier Boyz" is a treat to any action fan. Halloween has come early to me every time I watch this movie. At least I can watch this and its content will not harm my teeth like sugar. Maybe my brain, but this stuff is Lordage, with a capitol L. "Don't move means don't move," yes, you tell them Tolliver (Dudikoff). Those misfits are only kids. That boy on the bridge messed it up, asinine child. The movie is funny to watch at times, so please put this on DVD now!

LOSER!
A terrible story and plotline. This is a poorly executed B movie and an obvious example of trying to make money by ripping off other films. The direction isn't bad for an action movie like an episode of TEXAS RANGER, a lot of blown up stuff. Just not happy I got suckered into renting it.

Good Action
the problem with people today is that they dont know how to sit back and enjoy a movie without picking at it and destroying the mood. Soldier Boyz is one movie that I feel people write off as being stupid and predictable and so not possible. But I say. Hello people of course not its a movie! anywho the story takes off when a rich girls plane is shot down over a modern day vietnam. She is then taken hostage by a terrorist who demands war funds for her safty. And now it is up to a bitter war hardend youth prison worker to get her back. but only under one condition. he can bring six of his vicious teen inmates with him with the promise of freedom for anyone who survives the mission. And so he joins forces with a skin head,a drug dealer,a gangbanger,a rapist,a wrongfully accused martial artist, and for fun, a axe weilding street smart girl. Once in vietnam they have to learn to get over their differences or it could be lights out for these teens! I really enjoyed this movie becuse of its hidden message to get people to overcome racism towards color and sex in order to complete a goal. Also a whole lotta stuff explodes and the action is exciting! And also my personal congradulations to Demetius Navarro who played Lopez,my favorite charecter. Dont miss this flik it will definitly become a favorite.

Okay but to fake great action though
This movie is okay but the fact that taking people out of prison to fight instead of a really special forces squad to do the job well watch it see what I meen ... Read more

Description

based on the best-selling home video game, this action adventuretells of a group of expert fighters who compete in a dangerous tournament for the fate of mankind on a mysterious island. ... Read more

Reviews (111)

A silly film I find myself still enjoying.
I think some of the negative reviewers are taking this movie way too seriously. I actually saw this movie in the theatre because I ejoyed the video games(hey, i was just a 14 year old kid at the time). What's most surprising about it is that it has been translated from video game to cinematic format quite well, unlike other disasters such as Street Fighter, Double Dragon and Super Mario Brothers. As others have pointed out, the plot is rather thin, but at least it makes sense(unlike the dreadful sequel which i'll get to later) and follows the story from the video game just fine. While the actors don't deliver oscor caliber performances, they all play their characters quite convincingly. Ashby Linden(not a very well known actor) does a fantastic job as Johnny Cage with hilarous lines and that certain snirk Cage needs. He holds the film together and keeps it interesting/entertaining when there isn't a fight scene happening. Christopher Lambert is also good as Rayden, and believe me, I'm no Christopher Lambert fan beyond the Highlander movies. What truly makes this movie great is director Paul Anderson's attention to detail. He's clearly a fan of the games and it shows. Every set, as well as the outdoor shots are beautiful and well designed, the fights are quite impressive and the high energy techno-metal soundtrack is excellent. The CGI is also very good for the time(1995). One thing that's really disappointing is the lack of blood and gore that made the games so incredibly popular. There's virtually no blood in the movie in order keep a PG-13 rating. There's rarely any fatalities and the few that are in the movie are very tame. If you're expecting to see people have their hearts ripped out or their head and spine pulled out of their body, you should just go play the games instead. You aren't going to get that here. However, the characters, sets, music, fights etc. are very loyal to the games and save the movie. As I mentioned I saw the movie in the theatre and I've also seen it on video several times and recently on tv. I find it's still entertaining and holds up pretty well after 7 years. In many ways it's like an early Matrix, except the story isn't as good.

Like others have pointed out, the DVD release isn't too impressive. However, if you own a large screen tv and surround sound system it's definitely worth buying. The visual and audio aspects of the film will make it quite an enjoyable DVD experience. If you're home on a Saturday night with nothing to do, pop it in the player and crank the sound up. I think you'll find it quite exciting. Personally I think the movie is worth owning, but at least give it a rent sometime. Just don't take it too seriously and I think you'll find it to be a good action/martial arts/fantasy movie.

(...)

I understand they're putting together a third movie right now. I just hope for the sake of the fans of the video game and the first movie, that it's an improvement over MK: Annihilation. I can't imagine any movie being worse than that one, so hopefully they'll be able to improve on it and make a worthy sequel of the first movie even if it's just a straight to video release.

The Cheese Takes The Cake
This action/martial arts film should also be listed under comedy.
It is loaded with tons of sarcastic remarks, many of which Christopher Lambert adds in.

The whole movie plot is basically about a handful of people in training to save the world from a psychopathic, power-hungry emperor. The group of people includes the characters of g-man wannabe Sonya Blade, martial arts actor Johnny Cage, and Liu Kang, a former member of the Order Of Light Temple, or something like that.

These people are on the skeptical side and these are the reasons why: Sonya is out for revenge, Johnny is on an ego trip, and Liu thinks fighting in a tournament for the fate of the world is nonsense, and he only wants to fight so he can find his brother's killer.

As I said before, the cheesey lines are what's best about the movie, unless you happen to be a fan of Christopher Lambert, then that's the other main reason to watch Mortal Kombat.

although not always true if you watch a movie with cheesey lines and at least one good looking actor it should be good.

how ever it is NOT always the case.

this movie is great
if u are a kung foo fan like me u should get this movie it is so fun to watch ive probly watched it more then any other movie besides star wars empire. it has every person from the first game in the movie. including my favorite charector reptile. he rules but what i hated was he never used a special attack when he was in his ninja form. but he did use the poison spray in lui kangs eyes once and he was invisible as the lil lizard type form of himself. i cant wait till mortal kombat deception comes out that game is gonna be awesome and you should all buy it because deadly alliance was awesome and it uses the same type of fighting as that game and it includes new modes of fighting...online play...a new cool story mode...and new charectors but the problem is reptile wont be in it. when u beat deadly alliance with reptile it says a roaring beam of light enters his body and twists and transforms him the dragon king has returned...does this mean he turned into the dragon king of the the dragon king killed him? because it would explaine how he evolved so many times...oh yea and if your mad i didnt talk about the movie enough cry me a river.

Best movie based on a videogame
Mortal Kombat is probably my favorite fighter out there. It's been around for more than a decade and just got better and better through the years. The movie may loosely be based on the game, but many characters from the game are present, including Liu Kang, Johnny Cage, Kano, Raiden, Sonya Blade, Sub Zero, Scorpion, Reptile, Goro, Shang Tsung, and Jax. All of them are true to their fighting style in the video game. Liu Kang has his trademark special kicks, Johnny Cage pulls off his nut punch, and, best of all, Scorpion's got his spear attack. Movies based on games are generally weak and get a lame score in the B.O., but this was the opposite.

Sure, it's kinda corny, but it's older than people realize. It came out in 1995, and the series was pretty young then, as was the use of computer generated technology. Nowadays, the C.G. enhancements would make the movie even more spectacular, but thems the brakes. Anyways, if you are a fan of the franchise (I have been since age 7), check it out.

The most badass movie ever
This movie rules. It has almost every aspect of awesomeness in it. Badass fighting, badass ninja's, badass soundtrack, badass Christopher Lambert. BAD-ASS! If you didn't like this movie, then 'what the hell?' How could you be such an idiot? Go punch yourself in the groin for being so stupid. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Timothy Dalton's second and last shot at playing James Bond isn't nearly as much fun as his debut, two years earlier, in the 1987 The Living Daylights. This time Bond gets mad after a close friend (David Hedison) from the intelligence sector is assassinated on his wedding day, and 007 goes undercover to link the murder to an international drug cartel. Robert Davi makes an interesting adversary, but as with most of the Bond films in the '70s, '80s, and '90s--and especially since the end of the cold war--one has to wonder why we should still care about these lesser villains and their unimaginative crimes. Still, Dalton did manage in his short time with the character to make 007 his own, which neither Roger Moore did nor Pierce Brosnan did. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (172)

One of the Series Best!
I have seen where a few critics have down-graded this movie and that is a shame as "License to Kill" has a lot going for it. The concept of Bond as a rogue was a refreshing change, and one of the best concepts in any of the Bond films. Essentially, the plot goes as follows: A renown drug dealer Sanchez (Robert Davi) is arrested in Miami with help of the DEA and Felix Leiter (Bond's CIA contact and good friend). Following the arrest, Felix gets married. Sanchez escapes and commits a brutal act of revenge before returning to Isthmus City. James Bond (Timothy Dalton), determined to take Sanchez down, enlistes Pam Bouvier (Carey Lowell) to help him. One problem for Bond is that Sanchez is well guarded and has numerous contacts. Bond will have to have to be careful in infiltrating Sanchez. The other problem is that he is now a rogue agent, having his license to kill revoked by the British government.

The only real weak points of this movie would be the occasional weak acting from Talisa Soto (Sanchez's girlfriend), and a little bit more swearing than some of the other bond films, but many other elements more than make up for these two minor shortcomings.

Timothy Dalton is superb as James Bond. Dalton is a great, capable actor, and he is perfect for the movie and its concept. Dalton did a superb job and this is a key factor to the success of the film. As a side note, Dalton needed to make a change in the approach from Roger Moore, just as Moore needed to make a change from Connery. This change between actors is important, otherwise comparisons are made, and usually it is the incumbent who loses (in the minds of the general audience). Dalton did the right thing by changing the Bond to a darker persona. The contrast is important because of Roger Moore's 12-year tenure as Bond, which spread over seven films. Carey Lowell makes a very capable Bond woman as it nice to see a tough woman pairing up with Bond. The central villain, Sanchez, is very strong and well acted -- and also a nice change away from villains who want to destroy the world. Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Zerbe are well cast and well-acted as Sanchez's henchmen. Also, it was nice to see Q, played by the late Desmond Llewelyn, get more to do than his usual brief cameo or two. He certainly deserved it and rose to the challenge admirably. It was also nice to see David Hedison return to play Felix Leiter (he previously played Leiter in "Live and Let Die").

Other elements that make this a very enjoyable, memorable Bond film to watch are the location work, great special effects, and great stunts. The stunts with the semi-trucks toward the end are great fun! Michael Kamen's score adds a lot to the movie as well.

VHS or DVD? The VHS version simply contains the movie. The DVD version is a special edition that includes two different audio commentaries which let you watch the movie and hear commentary by some of the cast and production members. They comment about the actors, work on the set, the scenes, and how certain scenes were shot/created. Two music videos are included: "License to Kill" by Gladys Knight is the opening theme, and "If You Asked Me To" by Patti LaBelle marks the closing theme. A promotional feature on the stunt footage at the climax and a documentary on the film itself are also included. Finally, two theatrical trailers and a photo galary with over 100 stills are included.

If you are a fan of the Bond series, I highly recommend this movie, and the same goes toward Timothy Dalton and spy/action movie fans. This movie is also included in the first volume of a Bond Collector's set. If you like extra features, I would recommend the DVD. Overall, I happen to think that "License to Kill" is one of the best Bond movies. Major re-evaluation required.

[Darn] shame Dalton STILL isn't playing Bond....
I loved The Living Daylights, and feel that, with this movie, Dalton was, without a doubt, the best replacement for Connery as 007 so far! He had Connery's look, the purposefulness, mixed with a softheartedness when it came to action and the ladies respectively. He was a DEFINITE improvement over the bland, too-pretty Rogie Moore. (I wonder how many Brits made light of that first name!) "License" takes an unresolved issue from "Daylights": the fact that Bond didn't destroy that opium shipment that the Afghanis were going to ship to the West, and finally does something, as he destroys a major cocaine kingpin's operation in a vendetta to avenge the maiming and death of his friends Felix and Della Leiter. Bond goes undercover, posing pretty much as what he is, a FORMER British agent, after he quits MI6 over his attitude toward the Leiter incident. The villain, Franz Sanchez, in fact, is RESPONSIBLE for the death of Leiter's wife and the mangling of Leiter himself, since Leiter was responsible for Sanchez' capture.

Along the way, Bond runs into an old associate of Felix', played by Carrie Lowell, and together, they work their way into Sanchez' organization, which is fronted by a bogus religious organization and the Bond luck works its magic from there.

This is probably the third best of the Bond movies, along with "Goldfinger" and "Daylights" and the series lost a good Bond in Dalton, who was actor enough to give the character the dimension it needed after FIFTEEN YEARS of Roger Moore's Matt-Helm-ization of the franchise. In some ways, he was actually better than Connery.

BIG improvement over Roger Moore
Moore simply could not make Bond seem real. Perhaps it was the appearance (blond hair) or his - how to say this politiely - advancing years in which some of the babes appear as daughters rather than gal pals. Dalton was great. It was different in that Bond was not on a government-sanctioned mission but a personal vendetta. It was exciting and yes, violent, but it did reinstill some much-needed reality back into the series. With Moore, everything - from plot to dame to prize - was a joke. Here one realizes that the spy game is more than a game - it is dangerous and dirty. Great villians but the romance side was rather weak despite the lurid (for Bond) scenes.

Super performance by Wayne Newton!!

Not Your Average Bond Again
I loved this story. Unlike the other Bond films, it is more like an action drama then an action adventure. Dalton's performance is again wonderful and real. The apperence of Q on the battle field is priceless.

Effective immediately - your LICENCE TO KILL is revoked!
The 16th James Bond movie. Producer Albert R. Broccoli and screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Michael G. Wilson had nearly 30 years of success behind them with 15 smashing James Bond adventures. For the next film a major challenge was faced in inventing a new story with a darker, hard-edge, and sense of danger in the character of 007! For this an epic tale of revenge, passion, and greed set a blueprint of the South American drug trade. The idea of James Bond being thrusted out of his Secret Agent Spy network, licence to kill revoked, and setting foot on a journey of revenge against the drug lord villain and his henchman. This, plus many explicit scenes, would qualify this the first James Bond film to receive a PG-13 rating. A spectacular supporting cast includes Carey Lowell and Talisa Soto as the essential beautiful Bond girls, and LIVE AND LET DIE's David Hedison returning as Felix Leiter, and many surprise appearances by popular stars today in the making. Also featured is a thrilling Michael Kamen score, and exotic locations in Key West, Mexico, Acapulco and Vera Cruz. This would be the final James Bond screenplay from Richard Maibaum, who passed away in 1991. A true Summer blockbuster, LICENCE TO KILL proves you just can't keep a good 007 series down, but why would you want to?

THE ASSIGNMENT: For the first time since ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE, there is no official assignment for Bond to undertake. After the arrest of drug kingpin Franz Sanchez in the Bahamas, Bond's good friend Felix Leiter is happily wed to his bride Della Churchill. Tragedy strikes when Sanchez escapes from prison with help from a traitorous FBI Agent and his fellow henchman. Della is murdered, and Felix horribly mutilated from being tortured in a shark-infested tank. M is aware of Bond being personally involved with Felix and Della, and takes Bond off the case. When Bond refuses, M has no alternative but to ask 007 to submit his licence to kill and weapons. Bond defiantly continues his investigation and determination to bring Sanchez down. Now a private citizen with a personal vendetta, his acting outside the secret service results in British, American, and Hong Kong services on his trail. The consequences can be dangerously unexpected!

THE VILLAINS: Robert Davi as Franz Sanchez, Anthony Zerbe as Milton Krest, Everett McGill as Killifer, Wayne Newton as Professor Joe Butcher, Anthony Starke as Truman-Lodge, Benicio del Toro as Dario, Don Stroud as Heller, Alejandro Bracho as Perez, and Guy de Saint Cyr as Braun.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! BUY IT! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This plain-vanilla version of the old Lee Falk comic strip stars Billy Zane as a 1930s incarnation of the Phantom, an African-based, masked hero whose forefathers have all donned the costume at one time or another. Sworn to crush evil, the Phantom leaves his jungle lair to venture to New York, where he takes on a charming but criminal mastermind (Treat Williams). There's no oomph to this film at all. The very capable director Simon Wincer (Phar Lap) seems to be working with a leaden production and an inferior talent pool behind the camera.The talent in front of the camera do their best, but it isn't enough. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (58)

SUPER FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT five stars
He is a hero who is simple a decent person. A hero without super powers or trust funds. A very humane person with a code of decency. A hero who is certainly needed today. It is a film that is needed today. It is a film to watch and enjoy. This movie leaves one with a good feeling. It is not a film to nitpick or compare to others because that would totally miss the reason for escaping into it. A truly wonderful family film, that will live in the memories of those lucky enougn to watch it together. What a great cast! Billy Zane,his penetrating eyes framed by the Phantom' mask, brings the hero to life. Kristy Swanson and Catherine Zeta-Jones are strong,independent women. Veteran actors such as John Capaodice, Al Ruscio, and Samantha Eggar to name a few,lend their considerable expertise to the production. Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa appearence dominates the screen, generating much excitement. Patrick McGoohan's presence and voice is a outstanding. He is truly an screen legend.

Unfortunely the critics in their wisdom contributed to the short run at the box office office nevertheless the viewers know quality. The Phantom and all he stands for lives in the hearts of those willing to understand.

Ineptly written and directed
The Phantom has one saving grace: Billy Zane. Without this fine actor, the film would have been absolutely horrendous, possibly unwatchable. The simple fact is that The Phantom could have been good entertainment, but it's so poorly written, directed, and acted, I have to wonder why the film was greenlighted in the first place.

Sure, the prospect of an Indiana Jones-type film is a fun idea, but it's nowhere in the vein of the the films in that series; it never generates any thrills or genuine fun. The action sequences are simply too routine and are occasionally terribly choreographed.

As for the script, it's been a while since I've heard dialogue this hackneyed. It makes the recent Mission to Mars look like something written by David Mamet in comparison. The plot's also fairly ridiculous and is done with a touch of camp, but nowhere near enough to at least make the movie so bad it's almost enjoyable to watch. I can't believe Jeffrey Bowman doesn't show any of the creative touches he put in The Last Crusade.

Performances, the less said the better. The only guy who does a fine job is Billy Zane, and though he never always convinces as a superhero, he's charismatic enough to make the experience bearable. Treat Williams as the villain overacts to an extent I would rather not describe. Catherine Zeta Jones also shamelessly hams it up with a cheesy accent; I bet she's taken this film out of her resume. As for Kristy Swanson, I guess we can tell why she won't nowhere. If anything, the movie proves she's not a very capable actress.

Pulp hero
Billy Zane plays the Phantom perfectly. He's not a dark, grim superhero like Batman or a neurotic superhero like Spider-Man. The Phantom loves being a superhero and being the good guy.

This is one of the best adaptions of a comic book (cartoon strip) ever captured on film. This is the type of movie meant for children of all ages. If you're looking for a movie with deep meaning, thought provoking dialogue and lots of introspection, what the heck are you doing watching The Phantom? Go see a different movie. If you're looking for entertainment in the vein of pulp fiction heroes from the Golden Age this is the movie for you.

Nifty live-action comicbook
This is the type of DVD that works best if you watch it on a rainy Saturday morning. I missed "Phantom" when it was released theatrically many years ago and discovered it on DVD. This is an old-fashioned comicstrip/movie serial sort of film that's perhaps too straightforward for most tastes. There's no irony or winking references here, which sets it apart from most other superhero movies. I liked it, but didn't love it, and I can fully understand if it's not to everyone's taste. I suggest you rent it, watch it on a gloomy weekend and see if it doesn't make you feel like a kid again if only for a few minutes.

Great Comic adventure
The Phantom is quite good and the cast is great too. The Phantom was an enjoyable facinating comic, and any fans of the comic book will find no reason not to watch the feature-length movie. This movie is a great action ride adventure and i'm sure you'll love the story. Same charecters and no flaws, this movie is perfect. 8.5/10. ... Read more

Reviews (103)

Masterpiece!
If you somehow missed this one, do yourself a favor and make time available in your schedule for viewing this masterpiece from director Bernardo Bertolucci! Nine academy awards, including Best Picture [1987], only gives partial credit to this magnificently epic and absolutely unforgettable true story. It is the story of Pu Yi, who at the age of 3 comes to the Imperial Dragon Throne to become the Last Emperor of China. His whole life is spanned in this film, from his childhood, to his ultimate fate as an unskilled gardener in the streets of Bejing. Throughout this film we are treated to a cinematic feast for the senses, so rich in detail and imagery, you will be compelled to see it again as soon as possible (I saw it again the very next night!). You will have felt the full range of emotions from having experienced this movie, and few others in recent memory have mesmerized me so totally in an almost 3 hour (164 min) time span. Truly one of the greatest films of all time! Masterpiece!

Bertolucci's Last Epic!
By that I mean with great respect! Bernardo Bertolucci is known for such cinematic extravaganzas as 1973's LAST TANGO IN PARIS and 1977's 1900; and to add to his credits, 1987's Best Picture winner THE LAST EMPEROR!

A film of major diversity. An Italian director (Bertolucci), a predominately Chinese cast including frequent costars John Lone and Joan Chen, British actor and seven-time Oscar nominee Peter O'Toole, an American producer named Jeremy Thomas, and distributed by an American studio, Columbia Pictures!

John Lone is the title character, Chinese emperor "Henry" Pu-Yi, who became the last Emperor of China at the age of 3, and would be the "Lord of Ten Thousand Years!" Nothing would prepare him for the change that would eventually occur when he is forced into abdication, forced into retaking his kingdom, and forcing him to attempt suicide after his arrest and capture by Chinese and Russian communist troops after World War II. Eventually, after serving his time for conspiracy, he released from prison and lives out the rest of his life in 1967 -- as a simple gardner.

Imagine. From Emperor to gardner, totally heartbreaking! Heartbreaking is the fact that it cost him EVERYTHING! His wife "Elizabeth" Wan Jung, played with grace by the gorgeous Joan Chen; his kingdom and his freedom. But, you can't simply hate the guy! He is, of course, a man who was spoiled by his servants and soldiers as a child.

The film has both an epic scope and an excellently-written character story. (Though most historians believed that the film embellished on certain facts, like Pu-Yi's homosexuality.) It is played competently by an Asian cast and a wonderfully witty Peter O'Toole, who should have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor that year, as the Emperor's patient tutor Reginald "R.J." Johnston.

Needless to say, I cried at the very end of this film! I LOVED that scene between the elder Pu-Yi and a little boy who appears to be just like the Emperor as a child. And the symbolic message this film taught with the cricket in the jar, as the little boy opens the jar to reveal the insect (by then, Pu-Yi has magically disappeared). An epic film with a heart (like my PRISONER OF WAR)!

Winner of all 9 of its nominations including: Best Picture - Jeremy Thomas, producer; Best Director - Bernardo Bertolucci; Best Adapted Screenplay - Bertolucci and Mark Peploe; Best Cinematography; Best Art Direction/Set Decoration; Best Costume Design; Best Score; Best Sound; and Best Film Editing.

THIS FILM IS APPROXIMATELY: 2 HOURS AND 40 MINUTES.

But well worth it!

great film, awful dvd
I had the misfortune to buy this BEFORE I read the Amazon reviews and discovered that the DVD looked awful-a particular injustice for a film that won Best Picture. It's only 17 years old; there are films from the 30's that look great on DVD! I see though that in the U.K. they released a 2-disc version with commentary and both the original theatrical cut as well as the director's cut. I assume it's also restored and anamorphic and can only hope that we get an American version soon. The movie gets 5 stars, even at 219 minutes. The DVD gets 1 star, so that averages out to a generous 3.

Breathtakingly Beautiful, Decadent and Misconceived.
I revere every Bertoluccifs work tremendously, and this lavish film is no exception.
I was completely mesmerised by the view of the Forbidden City, beautiful period costumes of the Emperor and the Imperial family with which the director says he really cared about the historical accuracy to recreate as well as other things.
The historical accuracy is, however, not necessarily applied to the part of which Japan was involved. The foundation of Manshu-koku, (Manchukuo is the Chinese word) and the restoration of the Manchu Emperor Pfu Yi, and the alleged atrocities made to the Japanese Imperial Army, namely, gRape of Nankingh, etc. It is so because both Bernaldo Bertolucci and the producer Jeremy Thomas seem to have truly believed in the auto-biography of Pfu Yi, gFrom Emperor to Citizenh that written for propaganda purpose, and the Frank Caprafs U.S. propaganda film; gThe Battle of Chinah at their face values.
First thing is first, Chinese Communistfs gbrainwashingh undeniably exists. In the same year this film first came out, 1987, gFrom Emperor to Citizenh was re-published by Oxford University Press with new comprehensive general introduction and chapter introductions by W.J.F. Jenner, the translator of the original 1964 gdeliberately restricted editionh published by Foreign Language Press, BeiJing.
Jenner explains; gThe special consideration shown Pfu Yi and other high-ranking Manchukuo(sic), Japanese, and Nationalist officials cannot be regarded as typical of Chinese prison conditions. These were all people of potential value in winning over others in future, and political considerations saved them from the harsh justice that many lesser figures received.h And, Jenner continues, Pfu Yifs gsuccessful thought reformh which made him gusefulh and able body to work like other ordinary people, that Bertolucci praises vigorously, was, in fact, gsomething of ritualh. Pfu Yifs fourth wifefs account of his incapableness of looking after himself, even after his release of 1959, reveals some part of the truth.
His fifth and final marriage to a well qualified nurse was garranged by the Chinese Peoplefs Political Consultative Conference and the Communist Partyfs United Front Department. [cccc] He was even protected from the Cultural Revolution by Chou En-laifs intervention, and the local police kept Red Guards away. [cccc] Pfu Yifs presentation to foreigners as a living ad