Description

A series of interlocking stories about blue-collar life in Southern California, involving twenty-two characters. ... Read more

Description

A Directors Guild Award-winning movie for director Mick Jackson, starring Michael Keaton and Helena Bonham Carter. In 1990, CNN was a 24-hour news network in search of a 24-hour story. They were about to find it in Baghdad. Veteran CNN producer Robert Wiener and his longtime producing partner Ingrid Formanek find themselves in Iraq on the eve of war. Up against the big three networks, Weiner and his team are rebels with a cause, willing to take risks to get the biggest stories and - unlike their rivals - take them live at a moment's notice. As Baghdad becomes an inevitable US target, one by one the networks pull out of the city until only the crew from CNN remains. With a full-scale war soon to be launched all around them, and CNN ready to broadcast whatever happens 24 hours a day, Wiener and Formanek are about to risk their lives for the story of a lifetime. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Pretty good movie, but...
I liked this movie because I'm a news junkie and a fledgling journalist myself, but I also liked it because of the acting by the various leads. Micheal Keaton has refined the manic energy of his more extreme roles to portray go-getting CNN producer Robert Wiener. You'd never think that Helena Bonham-Carter is British, I had no idea she was this good an actress. David Suchet as the Iraqi official who heads the Ministry of Information is superb also. The rest of the cast likewise deserves a big hand.

The question is whether or not the story is accurate or if the filmakers have taken "liberties." I tend to think that author and scriptwriter Wiener has given himself a small pat on the back in his portrayal of himself. In the movie he starts off as a hotshot relentlessly pursuing his agenda. When he inadvertantly puts the life of an oil worker in danger he finds himself questioning his journalistic ethics as well as his own morality. Ultimately his motives are noble and he is absolved of any wrongdoing. So what's the real story? Is this realism or idealization? I'd say it's some of both. In what proportions it is hard to say exactly. I'll give the movie the benefit of the doubt.

Great Movie !!
What a film! It is so great to see a movie that can not only entertain, but also educate. And it was great to see Michael Keaton doing what he does best, after so much time. It brings to life what was going on over there. I was 15 when I was watching The Gulf War on TV... It was scary, but at that age I didn't understand. I'm glad to learn the truth in history, especially from movies. I felt the same about the movie "Thirteen Days". Keep bringing those movies that teach us our own history. Robert Wiener and Mick Jackson, you did a great job in telling the story from this perspective.

Would have been interesting if it was true
Sadly, this docudrama is built around the infamous 'incubator' story, which was later found to be US and Kuwaiti propaganda. The movie never admits this. I suppose if it had, a lot of the motivation for the movie characters would be lost. It's a pity that the filmmakers decided not to plumb the real depths that surrounded the events that the movie covers, for if they had, there would be a really gripping story of media manipulation (i.e. not only manipulation by Iraq). Sadly, the filmmakers either ignore the more subtle manipulations that went on, or are blithely unaware of them. In the end, this movie becomes a pro-CNN fluff piece, and is as superficial as the network coverage it intends to portray.

Wow
I liked this movie and so would you. It is based on a true story of CNN heroes who are and decide to stay in Iraq during the Gulf War despite the so many risks. Their brave hearts make them the envy of every journalist from all over the world as this CNN crew is the only one that covered Gulf War - LIVE.

Michael Keaton rocks in this movie. I liked his performance here more then in the famous Batman movie or any other he played before.

I would especially and highly recommend this movie to those people who burned their own flags that represent Justice and Democracy for a scumbag such as Sadam Hussein and its loyal followers which today thanks to U.S.A are the sorest losers as they have always been. Then you'll see how "smart" you were to burn your own flag for someone who is a menace to the civilised world.

A must watch movie. Well done to all the people who made this great movie. Well done to CNN heroes too. CNN rocks - as always.

A great Docudrama
I found the story compelling to follow, I've watched this movie 3 times and enjoyed all aspects of it. Because the characters are real (i.e. CNN's crew) it was credible.But the most moving part was the background music. This would make an awesome CD to own, ranking it right up there with Black Hawk Down Sountrack. I can't find any reference as to the availability of this in a soundtrack, but if it exists......I WANT IT! ... Read more

Reviews (40)

Must-have for Julia fans
If you love Julia Roberts, you will LOVE "Mystic Pizza". If you're a fairly new Julia fan, you may have never even heard of this film becuase it's pre-"Pretty Woman" and "Steel Magnolias", which in itself is fun. Julia is at the ripe old age of about 20 in this flick, and it's great to see her talents at a raw, fresh stage. She also plays a sort of complex charachter in this film - Daisy, a young girl who is stuck at a turning point in life and isn't sure which way to turn. While both of the other girls seem to have something to live for (Jo-Jo has Bill, and Kat has her future career at Yale studying Astronomy), Daisy, as she points out in a rather touching scene, only has her six-pack of beer and her smile. (Which, as everyone knows, turned out to be the most loved smile in Hollywood). It's a fun movie for not just Julia fans, but young women in general. It's a must-see for any Julia fan and a great flick for a night with your girlfriends and some popcorn.

A Pretty Woman type movie
This is a definite must have for fans of Julia Roberts. It is one of those movies that makes you feel good after watching it. It is about 3 girls growing up in a small new england town. One is supposed to be getting married, another is just struggling to live life, find a job and hopefully a rich husband and the other is getting ready to head off to college. Julia Roberts is one of these charachters and plays the older sister to one of the other charachters that I mentioned. It is the story of a typical summer that they spend together before one gets married, the other off to college, etc. All 3 of them work in a pizza place in a town called Mystic. It is a fun movie and if you like Pretty Woman, you will love this also. I have watched it probably 25 times. It's a "eat popcorn, chill out/hang out, nothing else going on" kind of movie. It is fun!

Yeah, it is a chick flick, and yeah, you will love it
A 1989 Julia Robert film. She's one of 3 girls who work at a pizza parlor in Mystic, Connecticut, and each has her own set of guy troubles. Julia, the living-on-the-wild-side, sort-of-slutty townie falls for the slumming rich kid who comes to town; her sister (brainy, headed to Yale on scholarship) falls for a married man; the other one is in love with a big galoot of a local fisherman but just can't make up her mind to commit to marriage. And the fat-momma owner of the pizza place years for the day when the snobbish food critic will show up and sample her wares.
Order a pizza, pop the lid off a Pale Ale, kick of your shoes, and sit back for a kick-ass of a movie. It's great.

A Girl Movie
This is definately a girl movie because it is all about the lives of 3 girls around 20 or so. I loved the fun they had together. They partied and danced, laughed and played tricks on each other and the guys they were involved with. Robert's character had alot of bravado and spirit. Taylor's was cute and funny, sweet and without anger. Gish's was sensitive and smart. She held back more when the other 2 partied or got crazy. I loved the town of Mystic, Ct. You know there really is a Mystic Pizza. I looked it up and they really have good pizza. It can be ordered frozen through air mail and some stores actually sell it in the eastern states. It sounds absolutely wonderful. My favorite would be the Seafood Delight, with clams and scallops. They even vouch to have the mysterious sauce. The film was based on this tiny restaurant. It has expanded and there are now two. I would like to go to Mystic, it seems like such a neat place to visit.

Lisa Nary

Delicious entertainment
There's a line from American Pie in which one of the young guys declares, "Women are like fine wine. They just get better with age." So true. All of the women in this movie are living proof of that, especially Annabeth Gish, who went from being merely girl-next-door pretty in Mystic Pizza, to the mature goddess we have seen on the X-Files.

Mystic Pizza is very much an ensemble movie, with no one person standing out above the rest. A very strong female cast is counterpointed by some solid male performances, such as that of the always superb Vince D'Onofrio - also check out The Cell, with Jennifer Lopez.

Beautifully filmed in Conn. New England, the movie is also a visual delight, and captures the reassuring simplicity of life in an Atlantic fishing community. I love Nova Scotia and Maine for the same reason. The original Mystic Pizza restaurant is still going strong and their website is well worth a visit.

All in all, a very sweet movie about real people and real family situations, and it remains one of my favorite movies of all time. I literally never tire of this modern classic. My only quibble is that the last spoken line is disturbingly unimaginative and anti-climactic. After crafting such a superb screenplay, the writers just seemed to run out of inspiration at the last hurdle. As Mr. Spock would say, "Fascinating." ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Insightful look at American 60s radicals
In some ways, the group known as the Weather Underground (originally the Weathermen, an offshoot of Students for a Democratic Society) were more a symbol of 1960s radical idealism than a real revolutionary movement. Although they planted many bombs during a decade-long period, they never did anything that seriously threatened the government or power structure. Their goal, of course, was to spark a mass movement and inspire others to follow their example, but they remained essentially marginalized. The film, The Weather Underground does a good job at letting members of this group explain their motives and, in some cases, misgivings about their foray into revolution. Directors Bill Siegel and Sam Green seem to be sympathetic with the movement, and most of the material is told from the point of view of members. Leaders of the group Bernardine Dohrn and Bill Ayers have retained their radical views and are anything but apologetic about their past actions.

Most members of the group, despite the bombings, were committed to not harming people. This brings up a rather blatant omission in the film -Kathy Boudin, perhaps the group's most notorious member (for her participation in a robbery where a man was killed) is not mentioned at all. This was an unfortunate decision, apparently done to portray the Weathermen as essentially nonviolent. To leave out such a well known chapter in the group's history leaves a gaping hole. Still, the parts that are included are fascinating and give a glimpse into the idealism and naivete of these leftist radicals.

In retrospect, it is (at least from one perspective) a little sad to see how little long term effect the 1960s counterculture had on society. It seems that they were no match for the propaganda machine of the government and mass media. This film, of course, employs propaganda methods of its own, as when brutal footage from the Vietnam war is shown. Propaganda it may be, but it does serve to almost trivialize the violence committed by the Weathermen compared with that perpetrated by the government it was opposing. The other side to this argument is that the fact that these radicals are still alive and that a film like this has been allowed to be made is proof that America is not as oppressive as some would have us believe. Yet, this is only true to some extent; as the film explains, the FBI made a concerted (and mainly illegal) effort to destroy radical movements. There is also evidence that the government murdered members of the Black Panthers.

How you react to The Weather Underground depends on your political and cultural perspective. Regardless of this, this film is a compelling study of a radical group and gives us a glimpse into their world.

Nominated and should have taken the Oscar
Looks like McNamara won again with his anti-war doc. film. The insight and proggressive beliefs that the Weather Underground stayed true to act as a legitamite foundation for the liberated America we live in. If you are enticed by politics but are sick of corruption in America check out this film about a group derived from the SDS that took its war with the government to an extreme that had to be recognized. I never knew they busted Timmothy Leary out of jail and attacked symbols of American injustice without using murder (the tool those in power use to stress their point) don't think you've seen a film like this before, it left me energized with a tendency toward learning about political struggles of today! Who'd think a gen-Xer could look at a film about revolutionairy soldiers of the past and wonder what he could do today to maintain the liberation sparked by students from the 60's. A must have for any leftist, documentary fan, or anyone interested about the origins and movements of the "New Left"

Not Bias
Weather Underground doesn not seemed to be a bias look at the organization. It doesnt say their actions were good, they let the people speak for themselves. An interesting film on US history.

An excellent historical treatment
I am absolutely opposed to violence as a form of protest so the Weather Underground was not a group I agreed with, yet, one could agrue that they did play a role in the Vietnam protest era so this film is a good review of that.

The film is well done. I feel the Todd Gitlin, Mark Rudd and Brian Flannagan were the more realistic people on this DVD. Clearly they had come to see that the Weather Underground's methods were not ultimately the most effective and said so. They also saw the orgies as self indulgent and stupid.

In the end, all would truly admire a man of peaceful protest like the late David Dellinger for his methods as his were better than their methods.

This film should be seen as a great period piece. It should also be seen to affirm that violence wasn't the answer then and it isn't in Iraq now.

This is an educationally significant film that should be seen by all who are interested in the 60's.

Spoiled Brats
Where do I sign up for the FBI? And if a few rules are broken - shock! - to break these guys up, so be it. And if they use their rich connections to get out of jail time... the system can't be that bad, right? Most rich kids backback through Europe, and these guys went to Cuba and came back to blow up buildings... before going back to booshy comforts. If Hoover had went over the top to nail these guys, I'd have looked the other way. They are very, very, ugly. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Director Nancy Savoca tackles tough material in the battle of the sexes, late-teen division, and makes it bitterly moving. River Phoenix plays one of a group of youngish marines on the verge of shipping out to Southeast Asia in 1963 San Francisco. On their last night in port, they decide to hold a "dogfight": a contest to see who can get the ugliest girl to go out with him. Phoenix winds up with a pudgy waitress (Lili Taylor), who has dreams of being like her hero, Joan Baez. As he draws her out, he finds himself intrigued by the self-contained world she has created for herself and by the time he gets her to the dance he is regretting his decision--but is too macho to pull out. Barely released, the film features touching performances by both the late Phoenix and the always fascinating Taylor, who gives this character great dignity. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (39)

A Beautiful, True to life story
This movie was directed by Nancy Savoca, a woman who did much with low budgets. Here she gets her first fairly large budget (but still not much by Hollywood Standards) and she gives us a wonderful story. Set on the Eve of the Kennedy Assasination, when most people thought Vietnam was a minor annoyance that would be quickly solved, Sgt. Eddie Birdlace(River Phoenix) and his pals have landed in San Francisco. Birdlace has to find the ugliest date he can to Bring to the "Dogfight". The Dogfight is a party where Marines bring their "dates", and the one with the ugliest date wins. This seemed believeable to me because of the time the movie was set in (1963). Birdlace settles on Rose Fenney, played to perfection by Lily Taylor. I wont delve too much more into the story, but the love that devlops between Fenney and Birdlace is something to behold. Birdlace ships out and returns to a very different San Francisco in 1967. This movie was barely released, and I cant understand why. It was an excellent one. The soundtrack was superb, but I cant seem to find it anywhere.

DOGFIGHT - The ultimate love story!
Dogfight is a simple story set in a complex time(early '60's/ Vietnam War time). River Phoenix and Lili Taylor are both phenomenal in this low budget film directed by Nancy Savoca. It is set in 1963 San Francisco, four Marines are out on the town for thier last night of fun before shipping out to Okinawa. They have arranged a "dogfight", a contest where the Marine with the ugliest "date" wins. Little did Eddie Birdlace(Phoenix) know, he would find true love in Rose Tinney(Taylor), his "date" for the contest. This movie is the most realistic, touching, and darkly humorous love story I've ever seen. I saw it for the first time several years ago and fell in love with it. Phoenix gives his best performance, next to My Own Private Idaho, in this film, and Taylor hers next to I Shot Andy Warhol. This film also has a great soundtrack, lots of folk music not normally used in early '60's period films, though it must be out of print because I can't seem to find it anywhere. This film didn't see a wide release and is fairly hard to find in rental stores, but it is well worth your time and money to get it. If you like the everyday, run-of-the-mill, romance films, you will love this extraordinary one. It's fresh and new, not like the more commercial films of this genera. It is definately a must have for River Phoenix or Lili Taylor fans.

One of the Best Films Ever!!!
I saw this movie for the first time about a year ago and i just fell in love with it. It is a love story set in the Veitnam war era that has, as with all great love stories, love, unknown futures and an uncertain outcome. If you want a change from all of those stupid "new age teen romances" movies then I would definatly recommend this movie. It really does diserve the 5 star rating!

Takes Your Breath Away
This film is one of my favorites. I have enjoyed a lot of River's roles but none like the lovesick marine he plays in Dogfight. He and Lili Taylor have excellent chemistry that makes this the perfect date film.

The film starts with Eddie Birdlace AKA Birdlegs ( Phoenix ) reminiscing about the night before he left for the Vietnam war. We learn about his three marine friends who help him form the Four B's. The last night before they leave they embark on a traditional girl hunt called " Dogfight ". The object is to find the ugliest woman you can find and bring her to the marine's dance so she can be judged on. If your date is the ugliest, you win money. Sounds cruel? Well it is. Anyway, Eddie finds quiet, innocent slightly plump and unique-looking Rose ( Lili Taylor ) at her mother's diner. He's attracted to her singing more than her figure. He ropes her into accepting his invitation to the dogfight. Seeing how Rose doesn't have many dates she jumps at the chance to be with the handsome marine. At the dance Rose learns of the horrible reason Eddie invited her. Eddie makes it his mission of the night to apologize. By this time he really likes her. She allows him to take her for a night on the town in which the two fall hopelessly in love. They end the night very romantically and Eddie leaves to hook up with the other B's so they can leave for the war.

This movie is one of the most touching I have ever seen. It drug out many emotions. I was angry at how cruel Eddie could be, but at the same time I felt sorry for him. I realized he didn't know any better. The turning point was how Rose was able to show him that his faults may not have been visible as hers, but were actually worse. The acting was wonderful. Lili and River did a great job and they fit the parts beautifully. Taylor is always a breath of fresh air and is one of the most underrated film stars. This is another movie that saddens River fans because unfortunately he is no longer with us. Dogfight was River's best film in my opinion. It's a love story that tugs at your heart and opens your eyes. It's a film for everyone to enjoy. And for the record, Lili Taylor is prettier than most. The sad thing about this film is that " dogfights " are real. But this movie allows the culprits to see how their victims feel. Lili Taylor is a true winner in this one. Enjoy.

great movie
Lily Taylor is great in this movie. Captures San Francisco of another era. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Intimist And Interesting
With its offbeat take on relationships and preoccupation with videotape, this movie is something like what Atom Egoyan might have come up with if assigned to do a screwball comedy. It was actually made by Spanish director Isabel Coixet, but the setting is somewhere in North America. (It was filmed in northwest Oregon and in Spain.) The story involves an oddball group of people whose paths tend to cross in interesting and sometimes romantic ways. In the lead role, Lili Taylor (I Shot Andy Warhol, Girls Town) tones down her usual psychotic screen persona to being merely odd and quirky and actually endearing.

A masterpiece! Lili Taylor is absolutely perfect!
Spanish director Isabel Coixet collaboration with North American actors like Lili Taylor, Andrew McCarthy, Debi Mazar or Alexis Arquette turns into a very human and tender story which tells the life of Ann (Lily Taylor), whose boyfriend, which is working in Praga, Europe, has just left her. Her reaction is sending him some videocassettes in which she personally tells all the things she never told him but she wanted to tell before. Don (Andrew McCarthy) is a house seller and a strange, lonely man. One day their lives get through. ---I would recommend this film for all the people who still keep their sensibility to see a beautiful movie..people who is saturated about violence and are waiting for the sun to shine... Alvaro ... Read more

Reviews (9)

It's not for the Pope....it's for God.
This is one of my favorite top 10 movies. My favorite character is the superstitious Santangelo Gramma who once picked clam shells out of the garbage and made a delicious soup. Household Saints reminds me of friends and relatives that were all around me growing up.

wow
This movie is amazing. it's about hope, superstition and the desire to find ones own true happiness. You do not have to be religious or have a basic understanding of theology (like a previous reviewer stated). it explains things to you as you need to know them. it has a perfect cast, story line and is wonderfully directed. this is one of those movies that you hope everyone sees at lesat once...hopfeully more.

Household Saints
This movie has a haunting quality that stays with you and in quiet moments you see scenes in your mind's eye and it makes you wish to go back and watch it again. Each time you watch it there are deeper & deeper levels. It really is quite an amazing film. Being brought up Catholic probably has something to do with it....especially if you were born in the l950's or before. People born after "Vatican II" took place probably can't relate to, nor appreciate, some of the symbolism. GOOD, SOLID FILM. WORTH OWNING. WORTH WATCHING MORE THAN ONCE.

This film stays in your mind!
Unlike one of the other reviewers, I don't agree that one would have to have a deeply religious background to appreciate this film. Although Catholicism is an important theme, the film is really a character study, and all of the stories, including the subplots about the tortured Italian-American man in love with Asian culture via Madame Butterfly, the crazed mother-in-law, etc. are touching and funny and unforgettable. All the performances are outstanding. I would highly recommend it.

Okay Movie
At first I didn't know if I would like this movie or not. It didn't seem TOO great, seeing as I'm not very religious... but I was willing to try it for the sake of my favorite actress, Lili Taylor. I knew that her previous work had been very good (like her roles in Dogfight and Short Cuts) so I decided to try it. And I was surprised. It was better than I thought it would be, but not as great as I hoped. However, the fact that I am not really a strong religious person may have swayed my liking to this movie. If you are relious, I suggest this movie to you. But if not, please don't waste your time... it may not be to your liking. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A sweet and sassy comedy about the bonds of sisterhood, Mystic Pizza offers the opportunity to see some solid young actors early in their careers. Three sisters of blue-collar Portuguese descent work in a pizzeria in the coastal town of Mystic, Connecticut. Each has her own unique romantic entanglements. One is the fast girl in town (Julia Roberts), who falls for a rich kid but wonders if she'll ever be accepted; one is the lifelong local girl (Lili Taylor) in love with her fisherman boyfriend (Vincent D'Onofrio) but scared of what marriage will do to their sex lives; and the youngest sister (Annabeth Gish) dreams of going to Yale but during a summer of baby-sitting has an affair with a married man. Through it all each sister depends on the others regardless of the complications. It's the alluring charm of the three disparate leads that makes Mystic Pizza the delightful experience it is. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (40)

Must-have for Julia fans
If you love Julia Roberts, you will LOVE "Mystic Pizza". If you're a fairly new Julia fan, you may have never even heard of this film becuase it's pre-"Pretty Woman" and "Steel Magnolias", which in itself is fun. Julia is at the ripe old age of about 20 in this flick, and it's great to see her talents at a raw, fresh stage. She also plays a sort of complex charachter in this film - Daisy, a young girl who is stuck at a turning point in life and isn't sure which way to turn. While both of the other girls seem to have something to live for (Jo-Jo has Bill, and Kat has her future career at Yale studying Astronomy), Daisy, as she points out in a rather touching scene, only has her six-pack of beer and her smile. (Which, as everyone knows, turned out to be the most loved smile in Hollywood). It's a fun movie for not just Julia fans, but young women in general. It's a must-see for any Julia fan and a great flick for a night with your girlfriends and some popcorn.

A Pretty Woman type movie
This is a definite must have for fans of Julia Roberts. It is one of those movies that makes you feel good after watching it. It is about 3 girls growing up in a small new england town. One is supposed to be getting married, another is just struggling to live life, find a job and hopefully a rich husband and the other is getting ready to head off to college. Julia Roberts is one of these charachters and plays the older sister to one of the other charachters that I mentioned. It is the story of a typical summer that they spend together before one gets married, the other off to college, etc. All 3 of them work in a pizza place in a town called Mystic. It is a fun movie and if you like Pretty Woman, you will love this also. I have watched it probably 25 times. It's a "eat popcorn, chill out/hang out, nothing else going on" kind of movie. It is fun!

Yeah, it is a chick flick, and yeah, you will love it
A 1989 Julia Robert film. She's one of 3 girls who work at a pizza parlor in Mystic, Connecticut, and each has her own set of guy troubles. Julia, the living-on-the-wild-side, sort-of-slutty townie falls for the slumming rich kid who comes to town; her sister (brainy, headed to Yale on scholarship) falls for a married man; the other one is in love with a big galoot of a local fisherman but just can't make up her mind to commit to marriage. And the fat-momma owner of the pizza place years for the day when the snobbish food critic will show up and sample her wares.
Order a pizza, pop the lid off a Pale Ale, kick of your shoes, and sit back for a kick-ass of a movie. It's great.

A Girl Movie
This is definately a girl movie because it is all about the lives of 3 girls around 20 or so. I loved the fun they had together. They partied and danced, laughed and played tricks on each other and the guys they were involved with. Robert's character had alot of bravado and spirit. Taylor's was cute and funny, sweet and without anger. Gish's was sensitive and smart. She held back more when the other 2 partied or got crazy. I loved the town of Mystic, Ct. You know there really is a Mystic Pizza. I looked it up and they really have good pizza. It can be ordered frozen through air mail and some stores actually sell it in the eastern states. It sounds absolutely wonderful. My favorite would be the Seafood Delight, with clams and scallops. They even vouch to have the mysterious sauce. The film was based on this tiny restaurant. It has expanded and there are now two. I would like to go to Mystic, it seems like such a neat place to visit.

Lisa Nary

Delicious entertainment
There's a line from American Pie in which one of the young guys declares, "Women are like fine wine. They just get better with age." So true. All of the women in this movie are living proof of that, especially Annabeth Gish, who went from being merely girl-next-door pretty in Mystic Pizza, to the mature goddess we have seen on the X-Files.

Mystic Pizza is very much an ensemble movie, with no one person standing out above the rest. A very strong female cast is counterpointed by some solid male performances, such as that of the always superb Vince D'Onofrio - also check out The Cell, with Jennifer Lopez.

Beautifully filmed in Conn. New England, the movie is also a visual delight, and captures the reassuring simplicity of life in an Atlantic fishing community. I love Nova Scotia and Maine for the same reason. The original Mystic Pizza restaurant is still going strong and their website is well worth a visit.

All in all, a very sweet movie about real people and real family situations, and it remains one of my favorite movies of all time. I literally never tire of this modern classic. My only quibble is that the last spoken line is disturbingly unimaginative and anti-climactic. After crafting such a superb screenplay, the writers just seemed to run out of inspiration at the last hurdle. As Mr. Spock would say, "Fascinating." ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pecker (so named, at least according to his grandmother, because healways pecks at his food) loves to use the camera to capture his fellow Baltimore residents living their daily lives. Of course, since this is a John Waters movie, those daily lives include visits to strip bars, shoplifting, and various other quirky, and frequently hilarious, human activities. When Pecker's makeshift photo exhibit comes to the attention of a New York art agent (Lili Taylor), Pecker becomes the latest sensation.Unlike the hero in most sudden-fame stories, however, Pecker, as played by Edward Furlong, isn't exactly an innocent; rather, he takes in the world with his eyes, and his mind, wide open. So instead of suffering a precipitous fall, Pecker eventually turns the tables on his more worldly New York peers.

While not as outrageous as early Waters features such as Female Trouble and Pink Flamingos, Pecker still has something to offend just about everyone. But those who take the offenses to heart would be missing out on what amounts to a sweet-natured farce. The movie is not so much a pointed satire as a gentle teasing of the art world and its pretensions. The all-embracing world of John Waters allows for lovable freaks from the big city, too.

The movie sags a bit when it settles into its plot; it can't sustain the comic inspiration reached in the opening scenes of Pecker's encounters with Baltimore's misfits. But running gags about a sugar-addicted child and a ventriloquist-doll Virgin Mary are hilarious. What ultimately makes the movie such a pleasure, though, is Waters's genuine fondness for all of his characters. Aided by a charming cast, including Christina Ricci and Waters regulars Mink Stole and Patty Hearst, Waters has created a surprisingly touching ode to human eccentricity. --Chris Neman ... Read more

Reviews (50)

DARN GOOD MOVIE!!!!!!!!
He's the gentleman who did such a superb performance in Detroit Rock City, now in this movie he plays an aspiring photographer who's work includes everything from a pic of his sexy girl friend, (played by the ravishing Christina Ricci) to photos of the food cooked on the grill where he works. His art evolves around his life in a lower middle class neighborhood in Baltimore Maryland.
Then one day, Pecker (yes that's his name in the movie) holds an exhibit of his work in the grill. Just so happens an expert in photographic art is there and she buys one of the photos then inquires about having him come to New York and exhibit his work there.
Pecker goes to NY, and his exhibit is a success, bringing him instant fame, as well as many of the people he has photographed. But fame has its price, especially when many of the town folk turn against him for making their lives a public display. Lives are transformed, and at the first, in a bad way. His sugar hyper sister is put on medication by Social Services, which puts her in a zombie state, his girlfriend is hounded by "excited" men to the point to where even where she works isn't safe due to pervs who drop in to "display" their activities, and others experience different types of changes. But as the movie proceeds, lives become better for the town folk, as Pecker does another exhibit and exploits the exploiters.
Instead of his hometown people, Pecker shows off photos of the photograph collectors and photographers and others from NY. Now its their turn to learn what its like to have their lives put out for the public to see. In this movie people learn that success has its price, but when you learn how to handle it, it can be a sweet thing.
This film is a mild comedy, with superb dialogue. Actually, the dialogue is inventive, and shows a unique skill. It is also wonderfully cast, with each actor and actress filling his or her role perfectly. Not a cornball movie by a long shot. Sort of fits into the Woody Allen style of Comedy. From time to time it has some strong language, but not overtly, and adult situations.

Relax and enjoy this quirky, special movie
If you keep looking for Divine in every new John Waters film you will surely be disappointed. Divine is gone and cannot be replaced, so why not just relax and enjoy this special little film, with all of it's quirky Baltimore characters and its mild "poking fun at" art and intellectuals. I highly recommend this film. If you miss having something to feel intellectually superior about, you can always see "The Blair Witch Project". If you want to have some fun, see "Pecker"

A must-see for photographers
There's a deeper understanding for this movie from photographers, especially pro-level amateurs who keep a day job to support themselves. Almost anyone familiar with the so-called "art scene" will also find many poignant moments. There's a lot of visual and verbal innuendos, so it's great viewing the second and third time around. John Waters fans will love it.

If we are normal?
If you like Waters, you will like this film. As for the guy who said you won't like this if your "Normal", What is normal again? You? Sorry sir, you have a disorder known as solipsism, where you think the universe actually revolves around your conciousness and "normal" is defined by you. Wake up dude. Normal is relative to perception, a concept you obviously can't grasp. I think this is why you don't like this movie, you couldn't apply it to your "normal" life, which is life where you don't have to think, just process information with mouth hanging open.

If you can think for yourself, watch this film, if you are a slack jawed, drooling fool, find something "Normal".

If you're normal, you'll hate it
Pecker's been out for 5 years and it has a whopping 46 reviews (you're about to read the 47th. That tells you something: The maker of this movie has a following, and the following is WEIRD.

The movie isn't funny. Not even a little. The acting seems deliberately awful (maybe it's a movie that makes fun of people who act. God only knows). The background music seems deliberately awful. I normally don't notice background music in a movie (except a thriller), but this one you notice, because the music is obnoxious and distracts the already unbelievably stupid scenes.

Who cares. Look. "Adult Film" actors put forth a better job of acting. Every single scene leaves you wondering if you should turn off the movie. And guess what? I didn't make it through. I kept waiting for it to get better, and it never did. After a half hour, off it went.

Seriously, if you're not familiar with John Waters, don't buy it. If you're stubborn and you're thinking of renting it, get a backup movie just in case you found it as horrible as I did.

And remember: If you're normal and into normal movies, you definitely will hate this movie. Maybe if you like totally weird movies that make absolutely no sense and the whole point of the movie is to showcase horrible acting, then it's your cup of tea. It's not slapstick comedy. It's just stupid. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

scorpio1113
Two hours of your life you'll never get back again....
I bought this video second-hand merely because a friend of a friend is an extra in the film. When I saw the line-up of stars (Sam Shepherd, Mary Kay Place, Dermot Mulroney) I thought it would be worthwhile for sure. Never was I so mistaken! What a drag! None of the big names, except Mulroney, are on screen for more than 3 minutes, total production costs were probably about $7.98. Low-life white trash in primer-covered cars, a sleeping-around wife kicked out of the house, a slatternly road chick going to get her brother out of jail, fights at the bus station. Save your time and your money. The final scene of the main character in the back of a pick-up truck, a bemused and vacant look on his face, I expected something to really start happening but that was the end of the film. Just call me chump for spending $3.00 on this turkey.

Nice scenery, bad script
Set in the desolate expanses of working-class and sub-criminal Montana and Oklahoma, it's a kinda-sorta coming of age story where characters wander through the plot without any particular purpose and things just seem to happen without any particular reason.

That's great in real life--people do tend to wander aimlessly in and out of each other's lives and things do just sort of happen without any discernable pattern--but it makes for a bad movie. The only real drama of the film happens about 3/4ths of the way through it... and it's way too brief.

Lili Taylor and Bill Pullman give nice performances (which is why the flick gets two stars instead of one), but there's not much else worthwhile here. Pass on this one unless you're the world's greatest Lili Taylor fan or don't have anything else to spend the $8 on.

An amazing film
I was one of the few people to see this movie when it first came out, and I thought it was amazing. A strong sense of place and mood, and a haunting performance from Mulroney,

Lili Taylor is reason enough to see this film
This somewhat flawed coming of age film is remarkable for the performance of Lili Taylor as Lucy, a world-weary young woman out to save her brother from jail. Richard Ford has written some wonderful dialogue for her character but to appreciate it you have to see her delivery. Wonderful cast includes Sam Shepherd, Mary Kay Place, Valerie Perrine and Bill Pulliam. Score is original and interesting.

Lili is a GODDESS!
I love Lili Taylor and her body of work, and this indie film is just one example of how good of an actress she is. The story is great and the Montanan country side is breath taking. It's a great film. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

A Beautiful, True to life story
This movie was directed by Nancy Savoca, a woman who did much with low budgets. Here she gets her first fairly large budget (but still not much by Hollywood Standards) and she gives us a wonderful story. Set on the Eve of the Kennedy Assasination, when most people thought Vietnam was a minor annoyance that would be quickly solved, Sgt. Eddie Birdlace(River Phoenix) and his pals have landed in San Francisco. Birdlace has to find the ugliest date he can to Bring to the "Dogfight". The Dogfight is a party where Marines bring their "dates", and the one with the ugliest date wins. This seemed believeable to me because of the time the movie was set in (1963). Birdlace settles on Rose Fenney, played to perfection by Lily Taylor. I wont delve too much more into the story, but the love that devlops between Fenney and Birdlace is something to behold. Birdlace ships out and returns to a very different San Francisco in 1967. This movie was barely released, and I cant understand why. It was an excellent one. The soundtrack was superb, but I cant seem to find it anywhere.

DOGFIGHT - The ultimate love story!
Dogfight is a simple story set in a complex time(early '60's/ Vietnam War time). River Phoenix and Lili Taylor are both phenomenal in this low budget film directed by Nancy Savoca. It is set in 1963 San Francisco, four Marines are out on the town for thier last night of fun before shipping out to Okinawa. They have arranged a "dogfight", a contest where the Marine with the ugliest "date" wins. Little did Eddie Birdlace(Phoenix) know, he would find true love in Rose Tinney(Taylor), his "date" for the contest. This movie is the most realistic, touching, and darkly humorous love story I've ever seen. I saw it for the first time several years ago and fell in love with it. Phoenix gives his best performance, next to My Own Private Idaho, in this film, and Taylor hers next to I Shot Andy Warhol. This film also has a great soundtrack, lots of folk music not normally used in early '60's period films, though it must be out of print because I can't seem to find it anywhere. This film didn't see a wide release and is fairly hard to find in rental stores, but it is well worth your time and money to get it. If you like the everyday, run-of-the-mill, romance films, you will love this extraordinary one. It's fresh and new, not like the more commercial films of this genera. It is definately a must have for River Phoenix or Lili Taylor fans.

One of the Best Films Ever!!!
I saw this movie for the first time about a year ago and i just fell in love with it. It is a love story set in the Veitnam war era that has, as with all great love stories, love, unknown futures and an uncertain outcome. If you want a change from all of those stupid "new age teen romances" movies then I would definatly recommend this movie. It really does diserve the 5 star rating!

Takes Your Breath Away
This film is one of my favorites. I have enjoyed a lot of River's roles but none like the lovesick marine he plays in Dogfight. He and Lili Taylor have excellent chemistry that makes this the perfect date film.

The film starts with Eddie Birdlace AKA Birdlegs ( Phoenix ) reminiscing about the night before he left for the Vietnam war. We learn about his three marine friends who help him form the Four B's. The last night before they leave they embark on a traditional girl hunt called " Dogfight ". The object is to find the ugliest woman you can find and bring her to the marine's dance so she can be judged on. If your date is the ugliest, you win money. Sounds cruel? Well it is. Anyway, Eddie finds quiet, innocent slightly plump and unique-looking Rose ( Lili Taylor ) at her mother's diner. He's attracted to her singing more than her figure. He ropes her into accepting his invitation to the dogfight. Seeing how Rose doesn't have many dates she jumps at the chance to be with the handsome marine. At the dance Rose learns of the horrible reason Eddie invited her. Eddie makes it his mission of the night to apologize. By this time he really likes her. She allows him to take her for a night on the town in which the two fall hopelessly in love. They end the night very romantically and Eddie leaves to hook up with the other B's so they can leave for the war.

This movie is one of the most touching I have ever seen. It drug out many emotions. I was angry at how cruel Eddie could be, but at the same time I felt sorry for him. I realized he didn't know any better. The turning point was how Rose was able to show him that his faults may not have been visible as hers, but were actually worse. The acting was wonderful. Lili and River did a great job and they fit the parts beautifully. Taylor is always a breath of fresh air and is one of the most underrated film stars. This is another movie that saddens River fans because unfortunately he is no longer with us. Dogfight was River's best film in my opinion. It's a love story that tugs at your heart and opens your eyes. It's a film for everyone to enjoy. And for the record, Lili Taylor is prettier than most. The sad thing about this film is that " dogfights " are real. But this movie allows the culprits to see how their victims feel. Lili Taylor is a true winner in this one. Enjoy.

great movie
Lily Taylor is great in this movie. Captures San Francisco of another era. ... Read more

Reviews (49)

The best movie with a 5 star cast
This gripping thriller about a kidnapping is an absolute must-see. The drama is gripping, the suspense is real, with edge-of-your seat excitment. Mel Gibson and Gary Sinise lead the cast in an unforgetable, tense, sweat-soaked, gripping story about the young boy of wealthy Tom Mullen, who is held for ransom by a band of ruthless kidnappers. The long, drawn out sequences between Gibson and Sinise just add to the suspense. This is Mel Gibson at his absolute best! Ransom is probalbly the best movie I've seen. Gary Sinise is mesmorizing as the kidnapper and makes the movie all the more exciting. It's action-thriller, suspence, and drama all at once. Fantastic!

IF THIS IS A JOKE IT'S NOT A FUNNY ONE!
"Ransom" is the taut thriller about a man's desperation to get back his kidnapped son. Instead of paying the ransom, Tom Mullen (Mel Gibson) decides to play a deadly game of cat and mouse with his son's kidnappers. He publically offers a million dollar reward to the person who can apprehend his son's attackers - either dead or alive. Gary Sinise, Rene Russo and Brawley Nolte (yes, Nick Nolte's son)all offer stellar performances that make this high stakes drama intense visual pleasure for the cinematic thrill seeker.
TRANSFER: Unfortunately no one at Touchstone seems to agree. There can be no other reason for offering "Ransom" in the identical, tired, poorly rendered, NON-ANAMORPHIC transfer that was previously available. The open credit sequence is riddled with "age" related nicks, chips and scratches (how old is this film?!?!). The color palette is betrayed with muddy, inconsistent hues and an overly low contrast level that even in a completely blackened room is hard on the eyes. Aliasing, edge enhancement and pixelization - as before - are obvious on this transfer as well as more than a passable amount of film grain. The audio is STEREO - not 5.1!!!
EXTRAS: An engaging commentary by director Ron Howard, four deleted scenes, a ridiculous but new making-of featurette and a thoroughly useless "Between Takes" featurette. Also, the internationl trailer (gee, thanks!).
BOTTOM LINE: DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY!

Mercy
Slick psychological thriller about the high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between a ruthless businessman and the kidnappers holding his son for ransom. Tom Mullen (Mel Gibson) is the self-made head of a major airline who wears his aw-schucks affability like a suit of silk chain mail. When his boy (Brawley Nolte) is snatched by a gang of mercenary lowlifes, His true nature comes to the surface: Ignoring his tearful wife (Rene Russo) and the seasoned FBI agent (Delroy Lindo) assigned to the case, Mullen starts messing with the kidnappers, convicing that only he has the cojones to get his son back. Until the disappointingly conventional ending, in which the dad and the head baddie (Gary Sinise) go it mano a mano on the streets, this dark drama--based on a 1956 Glenn Ford picture of the same name--negotiates its narrative twists and turns with professional aplomb, even daring to make the hero an arrogant schmuck. As is often the case, the scumbags are far more interesting than the good guys, perhaps because they're not played by stars cocooned in suffocating personas.

Pass the time
ENOUGH with the "cat and mouse" expression! Anyway, this is another "Hollywood" movie. Very unrealistic, many times during the movie you will be thinking "that would NEVER happen". The beginning of the movie we see dad and son play around, laugh, and and have fun, as if that is a typical every day for them. (Who hasn't seen that 20 times before?)

This DVD was given a special edition, but I am unsure why. The featurette is boring, 3/4 of it are clips we've just seen from the movie.

Overall, sure it's mildly entertaining if you can ignore how unbelievable it is.

MARVELOUS MEL-O-DRAMA
RANSOM is probably Ron Howard's most fully realized film to date. Howard helms a tense, literate script, without letting its potential maudlin come through. Mel Gibson, who has "ruined" his career with the 350 million dollar+ gross of THE PASSION OF CHRIST (Notice tongue in cheek, folks) shows us what a powerfully commanding actor he can be. His role as the tortured, yet committed, father is beautifully performed. Mel doesn't parlay his looks into establishing his popularity. The Australian is a very good actor, and in some ways, has never been recognized for the fact. Rene Russo is amazing, too. Starting off in a cool, I've got things under control aura, she melts into a desperate, crazed, and passionate woman who loves her husband dearly, but can't believe he's risking their son's life. Gary Sinise once again brings a mercurial sense of villainy to his role as the mastermind behind the kidnapping, and his coldhearted murders only enforce his psychosis; Delroy Lindo as the head FBI agent gives a sturdy, tense and compassionate portrayal; Lili Taylor is devastating to watch as she crumbles under the pressure of her part in the kidnapping, but her cold hearted willignness to kill the little boy is frightening; Liv Schrieber and Donnie Wahlberg as the brothers are convincing, in view of their relatively little time on screen.
I liked this film a lot because it touched my emotions in the way a thriller of this type should. Nail bitingly good, it's one of Gibson and Howard's best works. ... Read more

Reviews (24)

FINE OFF-BEAT DRAMA.....
Amazon.com's Tom Keogh's remarks aside, this is a fine chronicle of the events leading up to the shooting of Andy Warhol by deranged fringe-dweller Valarie Solanas. Having grown up in the Warhol era, I thought the film rather accurately captured the essence and feel of the Factory and Warhol's groupies. As to Solanas' psychological deterioration--who's the expert? Keogh? I don't think there's anyone who can explain in gratuitous detail what the woman was actually going through and why she shot Warhol. The film only gives an account of what could have happened based on the information available. And it did a great job. Casting was perfect--specifically Lili Taylor as Solanas and Stephen Dorff as Candy Darling. Jared Harris was OK as Warhol. But truthfully, I don't think anyone could actually play Warhol but Warhol. He was that unique. I recommend this film to anyone who remembers that era and anyone even interested in it. The film is fine and stands it's own ground exceedingly well. If anything, just see the film for the performances. You'll still learn something.

Revealing the S.C.U.M. manifesto

Excellent indy pic with outstanding performances especially by Dorf, Harris and Taylor, all excellent small-budget mainstays. I liked Harris' portrayal of Warhol, because he's usually represented by someone who just acts aloof and goofy, but here he actually works as a person. Stephen Dorf as Candy Darling and Lili Taylor as Valerie Solanas are entirely convincing. This movie started director Mary Harron's reputation for skillful storytelling, and it was later cemented by her work 'American Psycho.' I greatly anticipate her next film.

The Amazon critic here criticized Harron for not taking a stand on Solanos and the S.C.U.M. manifesto. Why? The movie's not about the manifesto, but Solanos' bizarre character and the story of how she shot Warhol. This is done to a T.

Great flick!

Award Worthy Biography!
I don't know if I Shot Andy Warhol won or was nominated for any film awards but it certainly deserved some. Lili Taylor ( the princess of offbeat roles ) and Stephen Dorff were at their best. If Hollywood was smart enough to recognize talent over looks then Taylor should have won an Oscar. Taylor once again delivered a wonderful performance showing she can make any role her own. Dorff not only played a convincing drag queen but was so realistic you'd actually think he was a woman. The film is a todrey, strange look into the life of writer Valerie Salinos ( sp? ) a feminist, man-hating butch that took feminism to the highest level. This film may be uncomfortable and at times socially disturbing but it gets the job done by telling Valerie's life realistically. It's nothing short of entertaining as well. Highly recommended especially for fans of Lili Taylor.

Excellent film
This film wisely makes no value judgements about its subjects. It just portrays, as best as it can, the late '60s icon that
was known as Andy Warhol. Some things are unfortunately left out, such as the fact that the insane Solanis considered Warhol a vampire and spraypainted her bullets silver. She tried to wrap them in foil, but it made her gun jam. It jammed anyway, which
is why she was unable to shoot the third man. An excellent
portrayal of a bunch of nuts, even though the movie never explicitly says they are.

Alternative film hits alternative bull's-eye
I suppose "I Shot Andy Warhol" is different things to different people. I have argued vehemently with friends whose opinion I respect about the extraordinary merits of this film. I think "I Shot Andy Warhol" was one of the finest films of 1998. I also think this film is blessed with one of the most intense performances of any era by Lili Taylor, unforgettable in the lead role of lesbian-prostitute-feminist-deranged-Warhol-groupie Valerie Solanas. Hers is a brave, utterly believable portrayal, wrought with desperation, loneliness and a creative need chained by conventions of American society.

To expect a by-the-numbers retelling/recreation of the true events portrayed in this film - Solanas' assault of Andy Warhol - is entirely missing the point. I believe film director/writer Mary Harron was trying to reveal a type of exploitation of women that existed during this time, and certainly hovered in the shadows of the pseudo alternative arts culture of Andy Warhol's Factory - a dream-like warehouse littered with black-clad artists/writers/filmmakers instinctively creating against-the-grain works while rebelling against the conservative conventions of 1950s-1960s American culture.

Harron's version of Solanas, who would go on to publish the frightening though fascinating work "SCUM Manifesto," is a lonely, out-of-place soul. She initially appears to have found a comrade haven in Warhol's Factory. But her rage, plus her radical feminist views, eventually causes her "excommunication," leading to her assualt of Andy. The shooting itself essentially ended Warhol's artistic career, leaving wounds which would never entirely heal.

I like the contrast Harron makes several times throughout the film between Warhol (well played by Jared Harris) and Solanas - with Warhol as the effeminate introverted male and Solanas as the masculine extroverted female. These two are definitely opposite sides of the coin. I was also impressed by Harron's pointed observation of the women-hating exploitation that existed in much of the Factory's art. It has always been cool to admire Warhol and the legend of his Factory. Harron's recreation of several of the warehouse parties, including a memorable Velvet Underground concert, are some of the many highlights of this film.

But eventually in Harron's film, Solanas' radical views are too counter culture for even Warhol and company. And once again Solanas is an outcast, lonely and adrift within the confines of the New York art scene of the 1960s. "I Shot Andy Warhol" is such a sad film in many ways, detailing lost souls void of acceptable identity. Solanas' rage is the angst of all struggling outcasts, cursed by a need to create, but unable to find the proper forum or audience. That she took her rage to the ultimate extreme should not be applauded. But to place her into the conventional (and safe) category of demented psycho is not entirely accurate. It's a brave stance "I Shot Andy Warhol" makes, and perhaps it is just another form of the emotional truth of this story.

Harron's "I Shot Andy Warhol" is an alternative examination of alternative lifestyles. It's stance is disturbingly unique, with a creative style undeniable. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Metaphorical Directing
the whole movie, i found to be so slow-paced (that's what makes it so deep). it calms you with its thoughtful conversations and metaphorical images. it jolts you when you see an act of violence. stand-out stars: Tony Danza! this movie shows how underrated movie stars are. danza gives an oscar-worthy performance. nick gomez uses the camera to bring meaning and art to the miserable lives of two major drug dealers.

IT'S A MUST SEE MOVIE FOR ANY DAVID LYNCH FAN!

Forever
Had to see it twice. A very surreal dipiction of the "drug dealer life" (like I know anything about it). Well developed characters and plot line. Notice the theme of "forever" and "eternity" throughout the film (appropriately echoed in one of the 50s songs played in the film). Not a typical Hollywood gang-banger flick. Something deeper. Tony Danza popping up is a trip and is cool. But that doesn't overshadow the exceptional acting of other lesser-known talents in the film.

Rapaport is awesome!!
This is an intense movie. You can't take your eyes off Michael Rapaport. It is nice to see a movie in which the actors can actually ACT!

Good Story, good storyline
I watched this movie on, I believe TMCw, DSS satellite TV. I liked this movie a lot. It had a lot more than just shooting, and crime. It actually has some good acting, and shows what it might be like to deal drugs. This movie has a lot of spiritual scenes, after somebody dies, the characters have guilt and visions. They don't like being drug dealers, and would like to get out of the business. Certain factors, such as "THE MAN"(Tony Danza) prevent that. I expected much less from Tony Danza, but he was superb. Much better than his performace in "Going Ape!" *****

Breathtaking!!!
I came in LATE on this film and was just in awe by the story line. Its a MUST see and I dont say that about many movies. It makes you want to close your eyes in disbelief yet you cannot stop watching the TV with your mouth open in total shock. Yeah so Tony Danza is in it...but he's not the star or main character..and he plays a good part. This movie will haunt me and I could watch it again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Metaphorical Directing
the whole movie, i found to be so slow-paced (that's what makes it so deep). it calms you with its thoughtful conversations and metaphorical images. it jolts you when you see an act of violence. stand-out stars: Tony Danza! this movie shows how underrated movie stars are. danza gives an oscar-worthy performance. nick gomez uses the camera to bring meaning and art to the miserable lives of two major drug dealers.

IT'S A MUST SEE MOVIE FOR ANY DAVID LYNCH FAN!

Forever
Had to see it twice. A very surreal dipiction of the "drug dealer life" (like I know anything about it). Well developed characters and plot line. Notice the theme of "forever" and "eternity" throughout the film (appropriately echoed in one of the 50s songs played in the film). Not a typical Hollywood gang-banger flick. Something deeper. Tony Danza popping up is a trip and is cool. But that doesn't overshadow the exceptional acting of other lesser-known talents in the film.

Rapaport is awesome!!
This is an intense movie. You can't take your eyes off Michael Rapaport. It is nice to see a movie in which the actors can actually ACT!

Good Story, good storyline
I watched this movie on, I believe TMCw, DSS satellite TV. I liked this movie a lot. It had a lot more than just shooting, and crime. It actually has some good acting, and shows what it might be like to deal drugs. This movie has a lot of spiritual scenes, after somebody dies, the characters have guilt and visions. They don't like being drug dealers, and would like to get out of the business. Certain factors, such as "THE MAN"(Tony Danza) prevent that. I expected much less from Tony Danza, but he was superb. Much better than his performace in "Going Ape!" *****

Breathtaking!!!
I came in LATE on this film and was just in awe by the story line. Its a MUST see and I dont say that about many movies. It makes you want to close your eyes in disbelief yet you cannot stop watching the TV with your mouth open in total shock. Yeah so Tony Danza is in it...but he's not the star or main character..and he plays a good part. This movie will haunt me and I could watch it again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

They don't make movies like this anymore!
"The Imposters" is a genuine treat. I haven't seen a movie made like this or made this funny in a long time. It is hilarious! People in the mood for a madcap farce with plenty of mishaps is sure to enjoy this one. The supporting characters are all so wonderful as different stereotypes, but the real treat is watching Stanley Tucci and Oliver Platt, who have perfect deadpan expressions. You can't go wrong with this one!

The best comedy of the 1990's!
The Imposters is a classic farce. The film is not only hilarious, but also packed with talented actors. (I haven't seen this many cameo's since The Muppet Movie.) Stanley Tucci and Oliver Platt play two umeployed actors in New York during the 1920's. They accidently become stow-aways on a classy ocean liner. Not only are they stow-aways, but a rival actor on the boat is out to destroy them. The comedy in this movie is not only brilliant, but extremely entertaining.

Wonderful Little Comedy
I haven't seen any of the Marx Brothers films that many reviewers have referred to, but I imagine they're fantastic. Stanley Tucci and Oliver Platt deliver a terrifically wacky yet clever performance about two starving actors who become stoweaways on an ocean liner. This movie performs like a comedy should...funny, light-hearted and cheerful. A great movie to watch if you want to laugh after a hard day. Plus, it's nice to see some of your favorite drama stars perform as more humorous characters.

Laurel & Hardy Meets Lubitsch, But It Somehow Doesn't Work
This comedy should have been great. Actually, it starts wonderfully, with Stanley Tucci and Oliver Platt playing unemployed actors during the Depression-era, and the opening credits show a brilliant Laurel and Hardy-like silent comedy. Then, the film traces their struggle to keep their heads above water, with assorted episodes of their life, one of which include a big surprise cameo of W.A. who plays a henpecked stage director. So far, everything is really great.

Then "The Impostors" gradually loses its power though it never fails to be charming. The pair go to see one of the most terrible stage of Hamlet (done by Alfred Molina), and after being mistaken for criminal for assaulting this ham, they accidentally find themselved on the ocean line leaving for Paris. On this ship, Tucci and Pratt meet many, many strange characters. I only cite the names of actors: Steve Buscemi (as suicidal 'Happy' Frank, who entertains us with crooning), Isabella Rossellini, Lili Taylor, Cambell Scott, Tony Shalhoub, Billy Connolly, Hope Davis and others.

The star/director Stanley Tucci is always amusing with manic turns, and so is Pratt, but the screwball comedy situaltion which directors like Ernst Lutbisch was good at needs quite a sophisticated and tightly-woven script. "The Impostors" doesn't have that, and as the film nears to the end, it becomes more like a farce, which itself is not bad, and I like that kind of comdey, but the lack of polished story is painfully obvious when we see Connolly plays a tennis pro (and Greek) whose character is based on now hackneyed gay jokes.

"The Impostors" is not a bad film. It shows intelligence of the director, and there are some brilliant moments. But it stops short before the lofty aim of ressurrecting the old-style comedy.

Long on premise, short on delivery
First off, something I liked: The production value of the film and the DVD transfer is very good. Sadly, this is the best I can say about the film.

The film itself? A good premise poorly executed. Firstly, the previously-mentioned overacting is wholsesale replacement for actual acting by all the characters. Any real acting in The Impostors is torpedoed by "performances" so over-the-top you're expecting John Lovitz' "Great Actor" character from SNL to stride onto the screen, waving his arms and yelling, "Stop it! Stop it!" The worst offenders are Steve Buscemi, Alfred Molina and Isabella Rosselini, whose performances are nothing but overacting to the extent the character is nothing but air. You watch the film with a sort of horrified fascination, unable to tear yoursaelf away from this train-wreck of talent by so many actors who should have known better. The overacting stuns you until it inevitably bores you.

What acting there is (spasms of it by Oliver Platt and more evenly by Lili Taylor) is acceptable, but still nothing to risk a