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Jessica Lange is a social worker who falls for an abandoned newborn and breaks all the rules by bringing him home. Halle Berry is the homeless druggie who dumped the baby. One of the film's best attributes is that it reveals everyone's perspective, though much of the story is told from Berry's point of view. Strung out on crack, Berry's character thinks nothing of hiding her baby in a cardboard box near a dumpster before going off for a fix. We watch Berry painfully pull herself up out of the gutter and make a life for herself. She embraces decency and sobriety and becomes the person she might have always been had her childhood been different. After Lange and her amiable spouse (David Strathairn) have formed strong family ties with this difficult child, they find themselves fighting to keep him when Berry decides she wants Isaiah back. Naomi Foner's clever script reveals a legal system that is as much a character in this painful story as the attorney (Samuel L. Jackson) who takes on the case pro bono. Though the film ultimately flounders under a hesitant ending, Lange is such a dynamo that this tragic story still comes recommended. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Losing Isaiah is the best
Losing Isaiah is the best movie that i've seen so what if Isaiah is african american and a white person wants to adopt him the way i see it is it shouldn't be about race it should be about the love and care that a child gets from the family that they are with no matter what race they are in my opinion Isaiah should have stayed with the family he was with before they moved him they were giving him the love and care that he needed and deserved. he shouldn't have went back with his natural mother he should have stayed where he was at in the first place.the place that he felt the most loved and secured that should have been his family.

Good story plot ;good acting by "et al"
12/04/03 The movie ends with one line on the screen Isaiah 11:6 "and a little child shall lead them"...Supense is there from the moment that the child's biological mother*(played by actress Halle Berry*)) puts him in a cardboard box behind the "beastly room she has herself & he living in"; to him being rescued from the inside of a Muncipal Trash Truck " in the nick of time;to the ER representing itself as the life saving force of hospitals once more, in rescusitating him; with a woman* (of another race and her family adopting him)played by actress Jessica Lange*) saving him from an early life of "foster homes" ,his biological mother raising from her demons,pits and dens of self destruction",the courts ruling in favor of the biological mother (so he can be raised in the culture which is the reality that he must be groomed to realize)to an ending of the adoptee's mother and the biological mother going beyond "self" to be a team in helping him reach the age of reason and beyond as a sensible human.

Who's Better at Being a Parent?
Seeing this movie for the second time, twice on television, the story is about a an African-American baby abandoned by his mother, Khaila Richars, who was strung out on crack, and his foster mother, Margaret Lewin, a social worker who raises him. The first three years of the boy's life, he is nurtured and cared for by the Lewin family while his mother goes through rehab and getting herself a job and a place to stay. She learns of the child she abandons and wants to claim custody of him.
I felt that Khaila needed more time be an adult rather than trying to claim her son back. For one thing, she abandoned a baby and got hooked on drugs. And another, she needs to know how to be a more responsible adult. Although she got rid of her married boyfriend and kicked her habit, she couldn't offer much for Isaiah who was already accustomed to his surroundings. The Lewins, who are white, raised Isaiah, despite the cultural differences. But they have to relate to a society that is colorblind. They just can't up and assume that everything is like a fairy tale. Margaret's husband cheated on her and she didn't even know it until he admitted it in court.
Unfortunately children like Isaiah are put away and await for families that reflect their background and oftentimes, they never get adopted fully. It's even more sad when people have children that they aren't prepared to care for. Government intervention has made it worse. It is argued by some people that they need to bring back group homes and orphanages and put more funding into them. But of course, that too was under fire.
I felt that Isaiah better off living with a family that was stable and nurturing and that Khaila needed to grow up and get herself together. Perhaps even form a certain bond with the family that took in Isaiah.

Cried SO hard!
I've seen this movie on Lifetime Movie Network last year, in my own home, during the Spring. All I remember is little bits and peices of it, but - at the end ... I was hystarical in TEARS! I don't want to spoil you, but - she (the birth mother) did give back her son to the one that cared for her, because the son was CRYING and not eating a THING for weeks. This is why I was CRYING because it was SUCH a happy ending! Gotta watch it... :) You'll cry, too, if you're as sensitive as I am. :)

Powerful and Emotional
For those of you that think Halle is just a pretty face...hopefully her Oscar winning performance in "Monster's Ball" showed you that she wasn't...but if you still have doubts this is a movie you should see. Halle is well deserving of an Oscar in this film as well, she plays a crack addicted homeless woman who loses it all and dumps her baby in the trash just so she can get a hit...when she comes out of her drug stooper she then realizes her mistake, but it's too late. The baby was adopted by a white family and she believes her baby to have died. The movie takes off from there, the white family raises and cares for the child. After Halle's character struggles but reforms herself she finds out that the child is still alive. Then the battle for who is rightfully the parent of the child begins. Some of the highlights here...Samuel L. Jackson's role as Halle's Lawyer and the scene in which the 2 "mothers" meet in the bathroom for the first time...that is a very powerful scene. The movie is a very powerful and moving piece of cinema. Excellent film. ... Read more

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Rocky director John Avildsen championed the briefly famous New Jersey high school principal Joe Clark in this upbeat 1989 drama. Morgan Freeman plays the tough-love educator who wields a baseball bat and bullhorn to keep discipline in his hallways and to motivate underachieving students to keep their acts together. After establishing Clark's controversial methods and showing him giving some punks the boot, Avildsen relies on the usual school-drama clichés to fill out the rest of the movie, including a challenge to Clark's philosophy from timid authorities. Freeman makes a strong impact as Clark, his dignity and integrity a sometimes awesome thing. Avildsen, however, is going for a Rocky-esque emotional crescendo. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Gripping
Morgan Freeman gives one compelling performance in Lean On Me. He really captures the spirit of Joe Clark in portraying the turn around at East Side High. The film is loaded with dynamics. The scene where he shows Sams that he is no fool and dares him jump is a bit unrealistic and even inappropriate, but you got to admit it makes a point. It dares Sams to make a change if though it takes some time. The chaining fo the fire doors and the confrontations with the drug dealers also add fire if not totally realistic.

The many moments of heated confrontations between Clark, the teachers, the students, and the school board parents will definitely keep an audience listening. It delivers a good message that one man with a strong will can certainly accomplish a great deal. Realism aside this is a good movie. And anyone, does everything have to be so practical?

'Crazy Joe' goes Hollywood...
'Lean On Me' has become one of my favorite inspirational movies involving real people and events, despite the simplified and sometimes sappy-sickly-sweet Hollywood 'feel-good' treatment it's been given, along with a happy ending that ties everything up a bit too neat and nice. The forces trying to stop Joe Clark's straightforward efforts to turn Eastside High School around has been simplified for the movie, basically involving just a disgruntled parent and the city mayor. Even the many heated arguments between Clark and his faculty & superiors are less than sophisticated in wording and tone. None the less, I've always loved Morgan Freeman's performance of Clark.

Clark's expulsion of the most delinquent students was a pretty neat scene, and was something of a surprise when I first saw it. Anyone who'd attempt that nowadays would probably get sued penniless. And the rooftop scene where he tells expelled crackhead student Thomas Sams to just jump off the roof of the school and kill himself swiftly rather than slowly by smoking crack is one of my fave film moments, and the best 'tough love' moment in movie history: "It kills your brain cells, son, it kills your brain cells!"

And as the school improves, Clark does as well. In the movie you see him learning and adapting alongside the students & faculty. Even with his best efforts, he discovers that can't turn things around by himself. At first, his gruff behavior and strongarm approaches to solving problems makes most of the teachers reluctant to help him out. But they learn to adapt to Clark, and he learns to soften his methods a bit, and even gains a sense of humor.

Sadly, the real Joe Clark, to a small degree, has 'gone Hollywood'. His big gig nowadays is working the lecture circuit, as a motivational speaker. He's even written a book about what to do to save America's public schools. I've heard some of his speeches, and found them rather compelling, but I feel his talents and drive are best suited for running a school in need of a decisive, no-nonsense leader who gets things done.

'Late...

Perseverance and Determination
Morgan Freeman plays an excellent role as principal Joe Clark of a crippling New Jersey high school. The school was falling apart because of neglect from the teachers, parents, community, and state government. Joe Clark stormed in and fixed all that with old-fashioned techniques by getting everyone involved in the school and its students. Clark didn't back down despite the powers that be that were against him. The supporting roles from Robert Guillaume and the late Lynne Thigpen helped make the movie a good watch.

Entertainment value *****: Credibility *
"Lean on Me" is one entertaining movie, and Morgan Freeman is sensational in it. In fact, if he hadn't made another movie that year called "Driving Miss Daisy," he probably would have gotten an Oscar nomination for this. That said, I have to say the film has gotten the traditional Hollywood biographical treatment, which is to say credibility and plot coherence take a backseat to uplifting entertainment. The final score: for entertainment value, give "Lean on Me" *****; however, it only ranks a * on the credibility scale.

The plot has been regurgitated enough by previous reviewers, and several of the more honest reviews have been incisive and accurate in pointing out the flaws in the plot. I, too, had a hard time with the chaining and locking of the school doors; this act is such a flagrant violation of the fire code it is laughable and puts the safety of hundreds of students at risk. Also, the speech Clark gives where he blames the faculty for the failure of the students (in front of the student body, no less) is offensive and disrespectful and totally ignores a more important problem altogether: the total unwillingness of many parents to take responsibility for their failings as parents and for the acts of their children. And I truly doubt Clark could get by with expelling three hundred students and face the wrath of a small group of angry parents led by what can only be described as a cruel stereotype: the loud-mouthed, trouble-making, liberal-minded, white and authority-hating ghetto mother, played by the late, wonderful character actress Lynne Thigpen. (Even she struggles with this dreadful role.) And the entire student body rallying to Clark's defense when his irresponsible actions finally catch up with him? Laughable, to say the least. But I have to disagree with the reviewer who characterized the story as a "liberalization" of what really happened. If anything, Clark's tough-love approach to running the school is extremely conservative in nature, and many of his educational tactics are reminiscent of G.W. Bush's "No Child Left Behind" educational programs, which is the main reason Thigpen and the other parents fight him as hard as they do.

But as I said up front, the film is definitely entertaining if it isn't taken too seriously. Director John G. Avildsen approaches the material in the typical crowd-pleasing, underdogs-win-in-the-end-so-let's-have-a-good-cry manner, which is effective until fifteen minutes after the film is over and you kick yourself in the butt for being manipulated. And the supporting cast is stellar, including Robert Guillaume, Beverly Todd (as the beleagured vice principle) and Michael Beach. And the wonderful Regina King has a touching two-scene cameo as a depressed, unemployed mother who no longer feels worthy of her daughter's love.

But this is Freeman's show and his incredible performance dominates the proceedings. No matter how ridiculous his actions, no matter how over-the-top his character travels, (picking up a baseball bat and declaring to the press: "They call me "Crazy Joe" now they can call me Batman!") he makes Clark believable and manages to pull back and reflect on his own shortcomings and accept criticism at just the right time to keep the character from becoming a total egomaniac. He is sensational, and "Lean on Me" was one of several consecutive films (including "Street Smart," "Clean and Sober," "Driving Miss Daisy," and "Glory") in the late '80's that made him one of the most unlikely superstars in cinema history.

Believe me, you'll love "Lean on Me." Just don't be surprised if you end up hating yourself for it.

Inspirational
'Lean on Me' truly inspires its audience. Morgan Freeman triumphs in this drama turning a ghetto-style school filled with gangs, under-achievers, and drugs into a scholastic phenomenon. The bad reviews below seem pretty shallow to me. But don't trust any review, just watch the movie and decide for yourself. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Although it eventually runs out of smart ideas and resorts to a typically explosive finale, this above-average thriller rises above its formulaic limitations on the strength of powerful performances by Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey. Both play Chicago police negotiators with hotshot reputations, but when Jackson's character finds himself falsely accused of embezzling funds from a police pension fund, he's so thoroughly framed that he must take extreme measures to prove his innocence. He takes hostages in police headquarters to buy time and plan his strategy, demanding that Spacey be brought in to mediate with him as an army of cops threatens to attack, and a media circus ensues. Both negotiators know how to get into the other man's thoughts, and this intellectual showdown allows both Spacey and Jackson to ignite the screen with a burst of volatile intensity. Director F. Gary Gray is disadvantaged by an otherwise predictable screenplay, but he has a knack for building suspense and is generous to a fine supporting cast, including Paul Giamatti as one of Jackson's high-strung hostages, and the late J.T. Walsh in what would sadly be his final big-screen role. The movie should have trusted its compelling characters a little more, probing their psyches more intensely to give the suspense a deeper dramatic foundation, but it's good enough to give two great actors a chance to strut their stuff.--Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (121)

Here's To Successful Negotiations!
The Negotiator is an action flick starring Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey. Samuel L. Jackson plays Chicago Police Department Hostage Negotiator, Lt. Danny Roman. Roman is an expert at dissolving critical hostage situations, keeping a level head and making quick on-the-spot decisions. When Roman's partner approaches him with information about money embezzlement within the department, cool methodical Roman decides to investigate. But before he can begin, Roman's partner is killed, and Roman is framed for murder. With no where to go except jail and his back against the wall, Roman does the only thing he can do - He takes the one man he believes responsible for the murder as his hostage. In to talk with Roman about releasing his hostage is Lt. Chris Sabian, played by Kevin Spacey. As the plot thickens, we learn that everyone is suspect, including Roman's friends within the hostage negotiations unit.
Expertly played by Samuel L. Jackson. It seems he can do nothing wrong. Kevin Spacey is excellent as Lt. Sabian. Fast-paced, action-packed, and unpredictable at times, this movie is great for anyone who loves action and suspense.

Negotiator negotiates with an negotiator
Intense, packed of 140 minutes of action. Witty and demand the audience as a certain intelligensia, the Negotiator delivers a good, quality entertainment.

Focal upon the corruption and misuse of welfare fund in the Chicago Police Department, the Negotiator Danny Roman (played by Samuel Jackson)found his friend dead and himself in this web of dirty little tricks. He was convicted of murdering his friend with his own gun and accused of making up a fictitious informer.

Asking for justice, he became a hostage-taker of his own colleagues and several innocent citizens, he locked himself and others in the internal investigation office. He called for Chris Sabian (Kevin Spacey), a cool and cerebral negotiator from another precinct, to begin a negotiation process of finding the truth. The bad and corrupt guys within the Police, however, determined to thawrt Danny's plan.

Director F. Gary Gray successfully tells of a very realistic story with, on occassions, powerful images. You hold your breath tight, waiting for the next step both negotiators might take. The result is a constantly engaging experience, interlocking story and a complete satisfaction.

The Negotiator (1998)
Director: F. Gary Gray
Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, Ron Rifkin, John Spencer, J.T. Walsh.
Running Time: 135 minutes.
Rated R for violence and language.

When the director has the lucky chance to work with not just one, but TWO of the most exceptional modern actions of the past decade, he should have been licking his chops in anticipation. Director F. Gary Gray (whose previous work was with Ice Cube and Chris Tucker in "Friday") uses the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey to his advantage, creating a fast-paced action-drama that uses both actors as chess pieces that are intertwined in a suspenseful race against time.

Jackson stars as an extremely successful hostage negotiatior who loses his partner in an accident. When he is framed for the accident as murder, he takes matters into his own hands by taking hostages himself. Kevin Spacey is the top-of-the-line officer assigned to assist the police department with consultations with Jackson, only to find himself in the most unique hostate situation he has ever encountered. Both must learn to trust each other, with Jackson attempting to find the true answers about his partner's death and Spacey trying to keep his incredible reputation in tact.

Gray does a fine job using the intense script (which unfortunately does have a few logical lapses), producing a motion picture that possesses all the essential ingredients to be a successful and enteraining flick. Jackson is very good in the lead role, while Spacey is as his usual best. Although F. Gary Gray was lucky enough to have excellent people for support, he does a fine job pulling off one of the better action thrillers of the year.

An Smart Action/Thriller.
One of the finest Police Hostage Negotiator:Danny Roman (Samuel L. Jackson) is framed for murdering his best friend (Paul Guilfoyle) and for embezzling money from his union`s pension fund. When nobody doesn`t want to believe him for not killing his partner & embezzling money. He decides to takes Hostages & try to clear his name. The only person, who could help him in this Situation is another Top Negotiator (Two Time Oscar-Winner:Kevin Spacey).

Directed by F. Gary Gray (Friday, A Man Apart, Set It Off) made a entertaining, suspenseful, action-thriller made surprisingly believable, thanks to Jackson & Spacey terrific performances and especially the Supporting Cast are Strong. The film wasn`t a Hit, when it was release in the Summer of 1998, despite Good Reviews by Critics & Audiences, who seen the film. This film did much better on Video. The Script might have some logic lapses but it`s a gripping & well-made taut thriller. Gray`s Best Film to Date. Written by James DeMonaco & Kevin Fox. Super 35. Grade:A-.

Action Jackson.
Samuel L. Jackson has become quite adept at portraying intense characters who are both likeable and bothersome. His cop in "The Negotiator" is a desperate man, who although perhaps innocent of the charges against him is certainly capable of having done them. By taking hostages, he automatically guarantees himself prison time even if he is exonerated of the murder charges against him, and yet this character cannot help but be likeable and sympathetic in Jackson's hands. Kevin Spacey's negotiator is both arrogant and clever, and the climax of the film shows his expertise at both negotiation and deception. A good suspenseful action film, with Jackson at times over the top but always in charge. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Really fun modern romance.
Although not a great film, Jersey Girl is a well-done -- and very enjoyable -- version of the classic Cinderella story. In this case Cinderella (played by beautiful Jami Gertz) is a very pretty but very unsophisticated girl from New Jersey who sets out to find a Prince Charming in Manhattan. She succeeds in meeting him by accidentally wrecking his new Mercedes with her dilapidated Volkswagen. The subsequent events in their developing relationship are similarly unconventional, and even nearly disastrous. Nevertheless -- as it must in any good telling of the Cinderella story -- love wins out in the end. This movie isn't quite on a par with Pretty Woman, but it is an awful lot of fun.

Gertz and McDermott a match made in Jersey!
I first saw this movie about 6 years ago on T.V., and I never knew the name of it until I was channel surfing and saw it again a year ago. I fell in love with it the first time I saw it and even more the second time, that is why I now own it. Every girl who has been in a relationship needs to see this movie. I have watched this movie so much, my picture quality isn't so perfect anymore. The ending just melts me away. Jamie Gertz is wonderful and Dylan McDermott is even hotter in this movie then I have ever seen him before. I laughed with this movie and I cried with it too. I highly recommend this movie, and I know for a fact you won't be dissapointed once you've seen it. I just hope they release it on dvd in the near future.

Love The Movie!
Found it surfing the cable channels - but - hope they release it on DVD - I'm done buying VHS tapes.............

Beautiful,wacky and romantic.
This movie is the best generic movie I have ever seen in my life!A love story about a sweet and beautiful loud mouth from New Jersey.The beautiful and tacky young woman purposely seeks a rich man with class and style from New York. The wonderfully handsome and stunning man is running from his past. He seeks a rich and classy lifestyle of money and status.The woman of his worst nightmares runs into his brand new Mercedes Benz. She falls in love with him instantly and stalks her way into his heart. The wonderfully dressed and groomed man is reminded of his past by dating the loud fun loving woman. He is caught between two worlds. Which world will he choose? Buy the movie and see. You will watch this campy movie over and over again. There is a special spark about it.The woman's fun loving wise cracking friends makes this movie a well beloved friend of your vhs collection. A great romantic saturday night flick.A winner!

Jersey Girl
I first seen the movie on TV, I loved it so much I had to buy the tape. I have watched it so many times, and it still has the same magic to it as when I first watched it. The music is great, I wish there was an available soundtrack I would buy it also. You just have to see the movie to judge for yourself, if you like romantic love stories, then this one is it, as far as .....Dylan McDermott.... why else would I watch the movie a million times over! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

very nice story, a lesson for all

A FAMILY THING

Robert Duvall, James Earl Jones, Michael Beach, Irma P. Hall, 1995

Synopsis

An Arkansas man (Duvall) in his 60's finds out, after his mother dies, that his birth mother was a black woman, who died giving birth to him. He then goes to Chicago to find his half brother (Jones), who does not want anything to do with him. It is thru his Aunt T. (his birth mother's sister) that the two men grow to understand the truth of their relationship.

My Review

You can't go wrong with Robert Duvall and James Earl Jones. Irma P. Hall (grandmama from 'Soul Food') gives a great performance giving this movie that special boost that makes it worth seeing and talking about. The flashback scene near the end of the film is superb. An interesting and touching story.

MOVIE BY OUTSTANDING VETERAN ACTORS FOR EVERYONE
Oddly enough, I purchased this video from a bargain bin of pre-viewed tapes at a local video store. The cast led by Robert Duvall (Earl Pilcher Jr.) and James Earl Jones (Ray Murdock ) was enough to peak my interest. I had not heard of FAMILY THING until taking it home that evening. This is the poignant story of an intense midlife crisis lived through by an ordinary middle aged white Arkansan, played by Duvall. Head of an extended family, upon his mother's death Pilcher is handed her personal letter to him by their family minister. Her letter says, his secret birth mother was his adoptive mother's then taboo Black friend. Also, he has an older half brother Ray Murdock (skillfully played by James Earl Jones). This is how the story begins. A central character named Aunt T (Murdock's surrogate mother) is so well played by veteran actress Irma P. Hall that her not receiving a nomination for an Academy Award cannot so easily be explained as an oversight. The tensions, ironies and intense character developments interpreted by Duvall and Jones keeps this movie alive from beginning to its happily resolved end. It is too bad that censors in Hollywood were embarassed by common and infrequent street talk and a mild childbirth scene in a flashback. Making an optimistic guess, these innocent segments alone led to the movie's PG-13 rating. Yet it contains important social and family messages that should be received by all children (and adults). Having raised four of my own, my position would have been to allow my nine years old and older to see Family Thing on their own.

IMPORTANT AND WELL MADE MOVIES STILL CAN BE SEEN AT THE TURN OF THE MILLENNIUM. Family Thing is one of them.

One Great Movie!
To make a long story short, this is one awesome movie. I'm proud to own it on dvd. I highly recommend it. This movie plainly proves that we're all God's children, pure and simple!

EXCELLENT MOVIE -- A FAMILY THING
When my husband asked me to watch this with him, I was like "ok, there's nothing on cable, might as well". I wasn't really thrilled about watching it but to my surprise it is one of the BEST movies I have ever seen. Robert Duvall is super in this movie not to mention James Earl Jones. This movie really says it all "it doesn't matter your color...family is family, it's just A FAMILY THING. I give this 2 thumbs up and 5 stars.

Overlooked masterpiece
When I looked over the video box and saw the fine cast, I rented this movie expecting some enjoyable but fluffy entertainment. However, this sleeper turned out to be a true masterpiece, easily making my list of all-time best. Within the first few minutes, Robert Duvall gives us a study in fine acting when he confronts his father with the mother's letter about their long-buried family secret. And how many people would recognize the authentic Southern slang when James Earl Jones declares, "I ain't studyin' you!"

The only flaw I can find in this picture is the jarring music that inappropriately breaks the mood to introduce the final credits. But that's the only one, a millionth of a percent. I will snap up the DVD now that it is available.

Good story, great cast, engrossing from beginning to end. So why didn't this movie receive more attention? Was it because it isn't the kind that generates huge box office receipts? Was it moviedom politics? Or did the reconciliation between brothers who grew up on different sides of the color line make the p.c. types, the ones for whom injustice and victimhood are the only valid racial topics, uncomfortable? ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Leon!!!
1 star for Leon...he is so hot! He has a great body and super hot rear end. And just to let you know I am a 19 year old straight guy!

GREAT CONCEPT--A BLACK THRILLER/LOVE STORY
I LIKED THE CONCEPT OF THIS FILM. IT DEALS WITH THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. AFRICAN RELIGION AND AFRICAN AMERICAN SYMBOLISM, A LOVE TRIANGLE (A HUSBAND AND WIFE AND A GHOST. AND THE PAINTER/"VAN GOGH" MENTAL ILLNESS CONCEPT. LEON AND REGINA TAYLOR ARE GOOD IN THIS. ITS GOOD TO SEE REGINA TAYLOR PLAY A DIMENSIONAL CHARACTER. SHE'S ALWAYS PLAYING A STOIC ASEXUAL CHARCTER IN MOVIES. TOO BAD THE MOVIE DOESN'T GET INTO THE SUBPLOT OF THE SLAVE GIRL (CYNDA WILLIAMS)MARRYING HER SLAVEMASTER AND HER TRAGIC DEMISE AND TEH HOUSE THAT SHE HAUNTS THAT LEON AND REGINA BUYS.. EXCELLENT AND INTELLIGENT FILM. GREAT SCENERY. THE END OF FILM IS CHEAPENED WITH NO EXPLANATION OF LEON'S CONDITION AFTER HIS SPIRIT CAME BACK FROM HBEING POSESSED BY THE SLAVE GIRLS' (CYNDA)SEXUAL POSESSION OF HIM. THE SEX SCENE WITH LEON (WHO HAS A GREAT BODY!) AND TEH GHOST AND REGINA TAYLOR CATCHING HIM WAS HILARIOUS!

Very Sexy
I have to admit, the reason I bought this movie is to see the stunning beauty Cynda Williams play the role as a sex crazed ghost. She has an unbelievably gorgeous body and I'm a fan for life. I guess the role didn't require her to have any lines. The movie was real slow and non-emotional. Leon is a good actor but its not much he can do with this script.

Boring Film
I didn't like this movie because it was so boring. Nothing scary really happened. It wasn't even a bit violent. This movie belongs in the thriller section only, because it's not a horror movie whatsoever.

I kind of liked the acting. The beginning of the film is the kind of beginning that is put into a good horror movie. However this beginning tricks you. It seems like it is going to be a good horror flick, but turns out to be boring.

The ending was kind of pointless, too.

Well directed movie that was poorly edited
The film appears to have been recut to favor Leon. What happened to Regina Taylor(great actress)? THe director, Neema Barnette has done some good films and it doesn't l;ook like she had the final cut, judging from the rest of her work. It just didn't make sense that Leon began and ended every scene and Regina wascut out. The camera work was beautiful and the scenes flowed but they weren't put in the right place, which is a tell tale sign of a producers takeover. Too bad because the director has the talent to make it good. ... Read more

Description

When a U.S. submarine accidentally collides with an armed Soviet sub spying off the coast of America, it sets off a suspenseful chain of events that could lead to all-out nuclear war. Based on true events, this ' 'taut thriller' ' (People) raises the action stakes on a crisis that heated the Cold War at sea up to boiling point. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Take it or leave it
This movie wasn't bad, but it was by no means great. I found it quite difficult to follow the storyline, and the special effects were less than convincing (is it just me, or did they use the exact same shot of the Russian submarine, like, 5 times?) Some of the acting, Sheen and Hauer included, seemed forced.
The first 45 minutes of the movie were nearly unbearable, but towards the end, the pace picked up and it became more interesting. I even enjoyed the ending.

(Note: If you are buying this movie for the performance of Dominic Monaghan [as I admit I did], don't waste your money on it. He is hardly shown and has ONE line. Just a heads-up)

Hardly Serviceable
Little more than a serviceable introduction to the historical proceedings. Wooden acting all round. In fact, Sheen looks like he's sleepwalking (or punchdrunk) through the thing. Still, Hauer does manage to conjure some sympathy as the Russian captain who does his best to save all his men, though, regardless of what he does, he can't win back home with the Soviet officials. Otherwise, there are handful of interesting insights into submarine culture--if what we're seeing is an accurate portrayal.

Overall, Hostile Waters the feel of a mediocre (to bad) TV movie (which I'm assuming it isn't), including some particularly unconvincing special effects--to the extent that, though this was made in 1997, I would've guessed '87. It just looks that dated. Only Hauer and Sheen's haggard appearances are any clue that it was made later.

A missed chance
Having read the book first I really looked forward to the movie as a chance to dispel some of the strange ideas we have about Soviet sailors and to shed a little light on a very shadowy place in the worlds militaries.This chance was missed however by skimming over the cause of the events and failing to show the almost superhuman efforts the Rissian captain and crew went through to save the situation. Rutger Hauers performance as a consumate submariner and commanding officer are as close to reality as this movie comes. Surely a missed chance.

A BORING WHITEWASH; READ THE BOOK INSTEAD
Read the book, but DO NOT BUY THIS TRAVESTY! Worse than a made for TV oversimplification, this HBO film completely distorts and actually REVERSES essential facts of the true, exciting and important story detailed in the book upon which it is based (St. Martin's Press, 1997). Anyone with respect for the history of submarines and submariners should avoid this poor "dramatization." It isn't even a "taut thriller," as People Magazine was quoted as saying. It's just a boring whitewash of the actual events. Besides failing to show that an irresponsible cowboy US Submarine Commander (James Von Suskil of the USS AUGUSTA, the man and the ship both cowardly renamed in this low-budget stinker) recklessly caused the accident, they depicted the Russian Captian receiving a hero's welcome when he returned to the USSR, when in truth he was tragically court-martialed and imprisoned after taking necessary steps to save his crew and the eastern seaboard of the US! Why do people make movies like this, and why do actors like Max Von Sydow and Martin Sheen participate in covering up the misdeeds of a reckless US sub commander and the depraved indifference and cruelty of the Soviet Navy toward its own sailors. The simple truth of the book would have been far more exciting and enlightening. Shame on everyone associated with this little piece of anti-history!

Nice little submarine flick
Not "Das Boot," but don't overlook this one. Rutger Hauer gives an excellently controlled performance as the captain. No phony baloney. Very gripping towards the end. Worthwhile. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Gripping
Morgan Freeman gives one compelling performance in Lean On Me. He really captures the spirit of Joe Clark in portraying the turn around at East Side High. The film is loaded with dynamics. The scene where he shows Sams that he is no fool and dares him jump is a bit unrealistic and even inappropriate, but you got to admit it makes a point. It dares Sams to make a change if though it takes some time. The chaining fo the fire doors and the confrontations with the drug dealers also add fire if not totally realistic.

The many moments of heated confrontations between Clark, the teachers, the students, and the school board parents will definitely keep an audience listening. It delivers a good message that one man with a strong will can certainly accomplish a great deal. Realism aside this is a good movie. And anyone, does everything have to be so practical?

'Crazy Joe' goes Hollywood...
'Lean On Me' has become one of my favorite inspirational movies involving real people and events, despite the simplified and sometimes sappy-sickly-sweet Hollywood 'feel-good' treatment it's been given, along with a happy ending that ties everything up a bit too neat and nice. The forces trying to stop Joe Clark's straightforward efforts to turn Eastside High School around has been simplified for the movie, basically involving just a disgruntled parent and the city mayor. Even the many heated arguments between Clark and his faculty & superiors are less than sophisticated in wording and tone. None the less, I've always loved Morgan Freeman's performance of Clark.

Clark's expulsion of the most delinquent students was a pretty neat scene, and was something of a surprise when I first saw it. Anyone who'd attempt that nowadays would probably get sued penniless. And the rooftop scene where he tells expelled crackhead student Thomas Sams to just jump off the roof of the school and kill himself swiftly rather than slowly by smoking crack is one of my fave film moments, and the best 'tough love' moment in movie history: "It kills your brain cells, son, it kills your brain cells!"

And as the school improves, Clark does as well. In the movie you see him learning and adapting alongside the students & faculty. Even with his best efforts, he discovers that can't turn things around by himself. At first, his gruff behavior and strongarm approaches to solving problems makes most of the teachers reluctant to help him out. But they learn to adapt to Clark, and he learns to soften his methods a bit, and even gains a sense of humor.

Sadly, the real Joe Clark, to a small degree, has 'gone Hollywood'. His big gig nowadays is working the lecture circuit, as a motivational speaker. He's even written a book about what to do to save America's public schools. I've heard some of his speeches, and found them rather compelling, but I feel his talents and drive are best suited for running a school in need of a decisive, no-nonsense leader who gets things done.

'Late...

Perseverance and Determination
Morgan Freeman plays an excellent role as principal Joe Clark of a crippling New Jersey high school. The school was falling apart because of neglect from the teachers, parents, community, and state government. Joe Clark stormed in and fixed all that with old-fashioned techniques by getting everyone involved in the school and its students. Clark didn't back down despite the powers that be that were against him. The supporting roles from Robert Guillaume and the late Lynne Thigpen helped make the movie a good watch.

Entertainment value *****: Credibility *
"Lean on Me" is one entertaining movie, and Morgan Freeman is sensational in it. In fact, if he hadn't made another movie that year called "Driving Miss Daisy," he probably would have gotten an Oscar nomination for this. That said, I have to say the film has gotten the traditional Hollywood biographical treatment, which is to say credibility and plot coherence take a backseat to uplifting entertainment. The final score: for entertainment value, give "Lean on Me" *****; however, it only ranks a * on the credibility scale.

The plot has been regurgitated enough by previous reviewers, and several of the more honest reviews have been incisive and accurate in pointing out the flaws in the plot. I, too, had a hard time with the chaining and locking of the school doors; this act is such a flagrant violation of the fire code it is laughable and puts the safety of hundreds of students at risk. Also, the speech Clark gives where he blames the faculty for the failure of the students (in front of the student body, no less) is offensive and disrespectful and totally ignores a more important problem altogether: the total unwillingness of many parents to take responsibility for their failings as parents and for the acts of their children. And I truly doubt Clark could get by with expelling three hundred students and face the wrath of a small group of angry parents led by what can only be described as a cruel stereotype: the loud-mouthed, trouble-making, liberal-minded, white and authority-hating ghetto mother, played by the late, wonderful character actress Lynne Thigpen. (Even she struggles with this dreadful role.) And the entire student body rallying to Clark's defense when his irresponsible actions finally catch up with him? Laughable, to say the least. But I have to disagree with the reviewer who characterized the story as a "liberalization" of what really happened. If anything, Clark's tough-love approach to running the school is extremely conservative in nature, and many of his educational tactics are reminiscent of G.W. Bush's "No Child Left Behind" educational programs, which is the main reason Thigpen and the other parents fight him as hard as they do.

But as I said up front, the film is definitely entertaining if it isn't taken too seriously. Director John G. Avildsen approaches the material in the typical crowd-pleasing, underdogs-win-in-the-end-so-let's-have-a-good-cry manner, which is effective until fifteen minutes after the film is over and you kick yourself in the butt for being manipulated. And the supporting cast is stellar, including Robert Guillaume, Beverly Todd (as the beleagured vice principle) and Michael Beach. And the wonderful Regina King has a touching two-scene cameo as a depressed, unemployed mother who no longer feels worthy of her daughter's love.

But this is Freeman's show and his incredible performance dominates the proceedings. No matter how ridiculous his actions, no matter how over-the-top his character travels, (picking up a baseball bat and declaring to the press: "They call me "Crazy Joe" now they can call me Batman!") he makes Clark believable and manages to pull back and reflect on his own shortcomings and accept criticism at just the right time to keep the character from becoming a total egomaniac. He is sensational, and "Lean on Me" was one of several consecutive films (including "Street Smart," "Clean and Sober," "Driving Miss Daisy," and "Glory") in the late '80's that made him one of the most unlikely superstars in cinema history.

Believe me, you'll love "Lean on Me." Just don't be surprised if you end up hating yourself for it.

Inspirational
'Lean on Me' truly inspires its audience. Morgan Freeman triumphs in this drama turning a ghetto-style school filled with gangs, under-achievers, and drugs into a scholastic phenomenon. The bad reviews below seem pretty shallow to me. But don't trust any review, just watch the movie and decide for yourself. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

An Average Joint
This crime drama about a troubled, confused teen boy has some well-done elements but the overall result isn`t too exciting or innovative. Strike is a young dealer living in a dangerous and claustrophobic neighborhood, and as he becomes more involved with some bad influences his problems start to increase and leaving him in a difficult situation.
Director Spike Lee uses a typical murder mystery to offer some insight into this NY community, showcasing their connections and relations. There are some stylish and edgy camera angles, the acting is generally convincent and the characters complex enough (even if a bit stereotyped), but the movie is ultimately too long, the pacing slow, the plot unsurprising, the score melodramatic and the ending a bit weak and forced.
So, despite some good moments, "Clockers" could have been more developed and edgier, since most of the picture offers nothing that hasn`t been shown in some TV series out there. Passable entertainment.

ALEXS CAPSULE MOVIE REVIEWS
Highlights: Harvey Keitel's, Mekhi Phifer's and Delroy Lindo's amazing performances; the tightest script ever written by Spike Lee; philosophical themes well-developed; candidly brutal depictions of the projects, with all their crack dealers and lack of aspiration.

Lowpoints: The musical score at times gets a little too overwhelming; Clockers' pace falters, but that's to be expected from a Spike Lee joint, and Clockers is the most successful venue on his resume yet.

Conclusion: A fine, powerful drama that deals with the life of a young man, born in the projects and trying to make a living from dealing crack cocaine. The acting is exceptional, particularly Harvey Keitel's, who always mesmerizes and here delivers a performance that, in terms of intensity, could only be compared to his work in Abel Ferrarra's Bad Lieutenant. The characters are spot-on, the script sizzles, and there are scnes that will make viewers choke on tears of compassion.

SEE THIS IF YOU LIKED: Do the Right Thing, Menace II Society, Baby Boy.
DON'T SEE THIS IF YOU LIKED: O, Save the Last Dance, Monkey Trouble.

Classic Gangsta Cinema from the hardest of hardcore Spike
Yo, you gotta buy this yo. This is where it all comes from. This is the movie that in the future will be viewed as the end all be all of gangsta movies. It chronicles the trials and tribulations of a smart teenage drug dealer as he grows up in Brooklyn and tries to gain a lucrative spot in the drug game off the benches. It shows with flashbacks and good storytelling how black on black crime is created and perpetuated in the hood: too many men dealing crack son. This teenage hardcore is called Strike and he must choose his path in life and one thing the movie makes abundantly clear: Strike can stop dealing anytime he wants. Strike has money and trains. Strike has people in the community including two understanding cops and a mother and a brother and a sister in law who would like to see him change his ways and the script shows that he can chance anytime. He can go into witness protection. He can just up and move and take his money elsewhere. He's smart. he can do alot of things, but he chooses to stay and be a dealer. Why? because the most father-like influence on him is a hard-boiled dealer played by Delroy Lindo who permeates the film with rationale evil and avarice that make bad leutenant look like good family fun. So in short, Spike is showing through Strike how all the black youth just need a good father figure to set them straight, stop dealing and raise a family like Strikes brother who is honorable and sympathetic to the extreme. The soundtrack is brilliantly wrought to effect sympathy and compassion from the audience while the shocking visual elements cause us to question our own society.

Fair to middlin'
I'd probably like this movie a lot better if I didn't feel it was such a disservice to the novel it's based on.

Delroy Lindo does give a standout performance as Rodney, but I just wasn't that impressed with Keitel. I guess it's a testament to Price when I say that the Rocco Klein of his novel felt more lifelike, more deeply conflicted, and more rounded than Keitel's Klein seemed on screen.

I found it irritating that there were certain surreal elements added to the script which seemed to compromise the grittiness of the story. The additions didn't make the movie funnier, they just made it strange.

As a side note, less than ten years old, the soundtrack already seems incredibly dated.

Don't even rent this one, go read it. If you're dead set on spending your loot, buy two copies of "Do the Right Thing."

VERY NOSTALGIC
This film is probably the most emotionally compelling film I've ever seen. I feel like the ghosts of my past are reaching into me as I watch this. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Cora Triumphant
Almost all of the "Masterpiece Theatre American Collection" dramas have been disasters. The sole exception is "Cora Unashamed." This adaptation of Langston Hughes's short story is beautifully written, directed, and cast. It packs a greater emotional punch than almost anything else that television has produced in recent years.

Cora, a black housekeeper, works for a well-placed white family in a small Iowa town, and loses her young daughter to illness. Cora finds a surrogate child in the youngest daughter of her employers, and the daughter, in turn, finds a soulmate in Cora. This friendship, as well as the young girl's romantic attachment, does not please her social-climbing mother. Matters come to a head when this child also falls ill.

The underrated Regina Taylor plays Cora to perfection, displaying the full range of the character's emotions. Cora's sense of humor, honor, and love balance her pain, hurt, and jealousy. She never loses sight of the entire woman. Cherry Jones, one of the New York stage's greatest actresses, matches her as the flawed and domineering mother. Where a lesser actress would portray a cardboard villain, Jones displays all the vulnerability and humanity that lies under the surface.

A job well done.

Faithful adaptation-and then some!
This film, and the underrated talent Regina Taylor, does a great job of "fleshing out" Langston Hughes' classic short story. The film remains faithful to the Hughes tale and does an excellent job of giving the characters added depth. We see all of the elements that cause the bond between Cora and Jessie, the misunderstood daughter of her cruel and indifferent employers. The acting and Iowa scenery are superb. This is one adaption that does not require you to read he original first. Read it to compare, but see thins and it will really make you think of what's important in life.

A Great Movie
This movie is based on a short story by Langston Hughes. It is the best movie I have seen this year. The movie is about Cora. She is one of the only black people in her town. Cora has a little daughter and she is the housekeeper for a rich white family. After a tremendous heartbreak Cora becomes close to the youngest daugther of the family. Cora will once again suffer heartbreak. Your heart will break with her's because of the touching scenes that follow each heartbreak. You might cry but when you reach the end of the movie, you will be rewarded. This is a great movie and I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

A year after a devastating friendly fire incident during the Gulf War,Lt. Colonel Nathaniel Serling (Denzel Washington) is in a Washington, D.C., desk job assigned the rudimentary task of overseeing a Medal of Honor candidate who died in the war. However, the case and soldier in question are a political hot potato--Captain Karen Walden (Meg Ryan) is America's first female soldier to be killed in combat.

Serling soon finds discrepancies in the case of a downed Medevac helicopter in the rocky Kuwait territory. What unfolds in flashback are several versions of Walden's tactics (à la Kurosawa's Rashomon) to rescue the soldiers and survive the downing. As with Glory, Director Edward Zwick's cast of unknown and famous faces always comes off as the real article. Walden's crew is especially convincing. Matt Damon as the medic comes off as the giddy scaredy-cat when telling his story to Washington. In battle he's a flawed, humorous soldier. The most surprising work in the movie is done by Lou Diamond Phillips (as the group's gunman), whose career hadbeen headed to straight-to-video oblivion.

Then there's Ryan. She has done well with dramatic work in the past (When a Man Loves a Woman, Flesh and Bone) but has never been able to escape the romantic-comedy image. With dyed hair, a light accent, and the dramatics of the situation, Ryan finally has an enduring dramatic film. Even though she has half of Washington's screen time, her brave and ultimately haunting performance makes Courage something special, right down to its curious but rewarding final scene. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Washington and Ryan in a Gulf War "Rashomon"
The basic plot line of "Courage Under Fire" is that Lt. Col Nathaniel Sterling (Denzel Washington) is investigating an incident during the Gulf War to determine whether or not the Medal of Honor should be awarded to Captain Karen Walden (Meg Ryan). It does not take us long to find out that the title of this film refers to both Sterling and Walden. The initial story on Walden, the pilot of a rescue helicopter, is that she made a spectacular rescue of a downed helicopter crew, then fought off attacking Iraquis after her own copter crashed, dying right before they were rescued themselves. But as Sterling questions the surviving members of Walden's crew, he discovers their various versions do not jive, and he begins to question what is the truth. Moreover, Sterling is haunted by his own actions during the Gulf War, where he was responsible for a "friendly fire" incident that resulted in the death of American soldiers. To complicate matters, Sterling is drinking too much, has grown distant from his family, and is being hounded by a commanding officer who wants the P.R. value of Walden receiving the medal and a reporter who knows something of what happened to the Colonel in Iraq.

"Courage Under Fire" makes excellent use of the "Rashomon" technique, wherein we get to see each person's version of what really happened in Iraq. Sterlings own feelings of guilt and responsibility for what happened in Iraq provide an additional level of depth to the narrative (more so than in Kurosawa's original classic film in fact). Some may find the parallel attempts to find redemption to be somewhat heavy handed, but ultimately the film succeeds because of the solid acting performances. In addition to Washington and Ryan, who knew have a scene together, there are solid performances from Lou Diamond Phillips and a very underweight Matt Damon as surviving members of Walden's crew, Michael Moriarity as the General, Scott Glenn as the reporter, and Regina Taylor as Sterling's wife. Certainly this film is closer to the reality of Desert Storm than "Three Kings," but the main enjoyment here is watching Ryan and her crew do the same lines with totally different meanings because of radical changes in context while Washington tries to find meaning in his own life.

Very Good
On the surface this was a good movie. Denzel Washington must investigate the situation surrounding a medical chopper being shot down and if the commanding office of that chopper, Meg Ryan, should receive the medal of honor. She would be the first woman ever to receive this decoration, and it would be posthumously. Denzel's character receives conflicting information and is determined to get to the bottom of what is going on. The cast is rounded out by Lou Diamond Phillips, Matt Damon and a few other familier faces.

Under the surface this becomes a better movie. Denzel's character is struggling with a friendly fire incident he was just involved in and is willing to take responsibility that the Pentagon will not allow him. His inner struggle is a fine secondary story line and as any good soldier would do he is doing without the help of his family (his wife is trying to help) or his friend and commanding officer (whom he will not turn to).

An excellent insight into human emotion, the conflict of war, the battle of the sexes and one man's struggle to do what is right. A worthwhile addition to any DVD library.

Good movie, compelling story...
Courage Under Fire stars Denzel Washington, who plays a very convincing LTC Nathaniel Sterling, a tank commander in the Gulf War; and Meg Ryan as a CPT Karen Walden, a pilot killed in action during the Gulf War who is considered for recommendation for the Medal of Honor, the first woman to be considered for this award.

Meg Ryan appears in the movie only in several of the numerous flashbacks. The movie revolves around two storylines: the facts behind the death of Meg Ryan's character, CPT Walden, and the life of LTC Sterling who has the unfortunate assignment to uncover what really happened when CPT Walden was killed.

Throughout the movie, LTC Sterling must face his own demons, including a drinking problem, difficulties with his wife, and a Washington reporter hounding him for information on the story he's researching.

Lou Diamond Phillips and Matt Damon also appear in the movie, both of whom portray soldiers who witnessed the events that led to CPT Walden's death.

Good, involving story
Yes, I praise the film for its veracity and the qualities of the various members of the cast. But, let's remember the only woman who has ever been awarded the Medal of Honor in all the
history of the award, Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, of Civil War fame.
Don't lose sight of the real thing!

Big-name stars: A great story, brilliantly acted.
First off, the time for this review is a little off. (09/2003) Right now the "anti-war" crowd seems to hold sway ... at least in the media. But take it from a former soldier, this is a great and very realistic story about what happens under fire.
(War ... IS ugly. But perhaps September 11th, 2001 taught us there are some battles you should not run away from.)

You should also read a few of the other reviews about this movie, they are very well-done.

This story is about Denzel Washington's character (Sterling) who is assigned to investigate a dead helicopter's actions after their aircraft went down in the first Gulf War. (1990) The deceased helicopter pilot is Meg Ryan's character (Walden); she gets precious little screen-time in this movie ... it is perhaps the only criticism I can think of that is valid.

I don't need to tell you the rest of the details, story and technique of this film, other reviews do this as well as anyone possibly could. What I do have to offer is a word about the acting of this movie.

Normally Denzel Washington plays action characters, and Meg Ryan almost always seem to do a comedy/drama about a woman in love. Here both actors are engaged in a radical departure from their normal fare.

I don't know how many Oscar's this film was nominated for, (and I don't really care, Oscar's seem to be as much about politics as anything else); but Washington, Ryan, and Damon all give performances that are quite worthy of this award. And the rest of the cast is very good as well. I would personally like to say that this film could have easily been the best picture of the year, and the actor's could have easily walked away with several statues. The director could have won an Oscar as well.

In the end, you are irrevocably drawn into the story and live it, just as you should be with a really good film. My only word of warning is that this is a real tear-jerker, the end of this one could have you crying like a baby.

There are few films that I would recommend to anyone, this movie is definitely one of those. (Of course you have to put the kids to bed, some of the words, action, and violence are not really suitable for children.) A+ ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Good Movie Based On a Totally Bogus Premise
I place Courage Under Fire in the same class with A Few Good Men as "A military movie that would have been a lot better if the people writing/directing it had actually done a bit of research on the military." Let me hasten to add, I enjoyed Courage Under Fire, but I had two gripes:

(1) In the scene where the Meg Ryan character dies while charging the Iraquis and firing an M16, we can see down the muzzle of the rifle, and the "muzzle" is a mere pinprick. Obviously, this is a blank gun. A small thing, but jarring to those who know guns, at a key moment in the film.

(2) The entire premise of the movie is bogus. An Army helicopter pilot played by Meg Ryan has been killed in combat, and has been nominated for a posthumous Medal of Honor. Denzel Washington's character is tapped to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. This is a political hot potato because, if he recommends her award, she will become (drum roll) THE FIRST WOMAN EVER AWARDED THE MEDAL OF HONOR.

False. Historically, factually false. Dr. Mary Edwards Walker of the Civil War Union Army was awarded the Medal of Honor on November 11, 1865. This is, um, kind of an important point. Either the folks making this movie didn't know that, in which case they're sloppy, or they chose to ignore it, in which case they're willfully dishonest.

Did I mention I enjoyed this movie?

A Gulf War Rashomon with Washington and Ryan
The basic plot line of "Courage Under Fire" is that Lt. Col Nathaniel Serling (Denzel Washington) is investigating an incident during the Gulf War to determine whether or not the Medal of Honor should be awarded posthumously to Captain Karen Walden (Meg Ryan). It does not take us long to find out that the title of this film refers to both Serling and Walden. The initial story on Walden, the pilot of a rescue helicopter, is that she made a spectacular rescue of a downed helicopter crew, then fought off attacking Iraquis after her own copter crashed, dying right before the besieged group was rescued. But as Serling questions the surviving members of Walden's crew, he discovers their various versions do not jive, and he begins to question what is the truth of what really happened. Moreover, Serling is haunted by his own actions during the Gulf War, where he was responsible for a "friendly fire" incident that resulted in the death of American soldiers. To complicate matters even more, Serling is drinking way too much, has grown distant from his family, and is being hounded by both a commanding officer (Michael Moriarity) who wants the P.R. value of Walden being the first woman to receive the Medal of Honor and a reporter (Scott Glenn) who knows something of what happened to the Colonel in Iraq and wants to know the rest.

"Courage Under Fire" makes excellent use of the "Rashomon" technique, wherein we get to see each person's version of what really happened in Iraq. Serling's own feelings of guilt and responsibility for what happened in Iraq provide an additional level of depth to the narrative (more so than in Kurosawa's original classic film in fact). Some may find the parallel attempts to find redemption to be somewhat heavy handed, but ultimately the film succeeds because of the solid acting performances. In addition to Washington and Ryan, who never have a scene together, there are solid performances from Lou Diamond Phillips and a very underweight Matt Damon as surviving members of Walden's crew, Michael Moriarity as the General, Scott Glenn as the reporter, and Regina Taylor as Serling's wife. Certainly this film is closer to the reality of Desert Storm than "Three Kings," but the main enjoyment here is watching Ryan and her crew do the same lines with totally different meanings because of radical changes in context while Washington tries to find meaning in his own life.

A Meg movie that is not a comedy
Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Serving (Denzel Washington) makes the ultimate boo boo. In the heat of the moment he targets our side. While still in a slump over this he is challenged to check out Captain Karen Emma Walden (Meg Ryan) who is inline for the Medal of Honor. We go through several versions of her story. And she does a good job of portraying the different personalities describe. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

very nice story, a lesson for all

A FAMILY THING

Robert Duvall, James Earl Jones, Michael Beach, Irma P. Hall, 1995

Synopsis

An Arkansas man (Duvall) in his 60's finds out, after his mother dies, that his birth mother was a black woman, who died giving birth to him. He then goes to Chicago to find his half brother (Jones), who does not want anything to do with him. It is thru his Aunt T. (his birth mother's sister) that the two men grow to understand the truth of their relationship.

My Review

You can't go wrong with Robert Duvall and James Earl Jones. Irma P. Hall (grandmama from 'Soul Food') gives a great performance giving this movie that special boost that makes it worth seeing and talking about. The flashback scene near the end of the film is superb. An interesting and touching story.

MOVIE BY OUTSTANDING VETERAN ACTORS FOR EVERYONE
Oddly enough, I purchased this video from a bargain bin of pre-viewed tapes at a local video store. The cast led by Robert Duvall (Earl Pilcher Jr.) and James Earl Jones (Ray Murdock ) was enough to peak my interest. I had not heard of FAMILY THING until taking it home that evening. This is the poignant story of an intense midlife crisis lived through by an ordinary middle aged white Arkansan, played by Duvall. Head of an extended family, upon his mother's death Pilcher is handed her personal letter to him by their family minister. Her letter says, his secret birth mother was his adoptive mother's then taboo Black friend. Also, he has an older half brother Ray Murdock (skillfully played by James Earl Jones). This is how the story begins. A central character named Aunt T (Murdock's surrogate mother) is so well played by veteran actress Irma P. Hall that her not receiving a nomination for an Academy Award cannot so easily be explained as an oversight. The tensions, ironies and intense character developments interpreted by Duvall and Jones keeps this movie alive from beginning to its happily resolved end. It is too bad that censors in Hollywood were embarassed by common and infrequent street talk and a mild childbirth scene in a flashback. Making an optimistic guess, these innocent segments alone led to the movie's PG-13 rating. Yet it contains important social and family messages that should be received by all children (and adults). Having raised four of my own, my position would have been to allow my nine years old and older to see Family Thing on their own.

IMPORTANT AND WELL MADE MOVIES STILL CAN BE SEEN AT THE TURN OF THE MILLENNIUM. Family Thing is one of them.

One Great Movie!
To make a long story short, this is one awesome movie. I'm proud to own it on dvd. I highly recommend it. This movie plainly proves that we're all God's children, pure and simple!

EXCELLENT MOVIE -- A FAMILY THING
When my husband asked me to watch this with him, I was like "ok, there's nothing on cable, might as well". I wasn't really thrilled about watching it but to my surprise it is one of the BEST movies I have ever seen. Robert Duvall is super in this movie not to mention James Earl Jones. This movie really says it all "it doesn't matter your color...family is family, it's just A FAMILY THING. I give this 2 thumbs up and 5 stars.

Overlooked masterpiece
When I looked over the video box and saw the fine cast, I rented this movie expecting some enjoyable but fluffy entertainment. However, this sleeper turned out to be a true masterpiece, easily making my list of all-time best. Within the first few minutes, Robert Duvall gives us a study in fine acting when he confronts his father with the mother's letter about their long-buried family secret. And how many people would recognize the authentic Southern slang when James Earl Jones declares, "I ain't studyin' you!"

The only flaw I can find in this picture is the jarring music that inappropriately breaks the mood to introduce the final credits. But that's the only one, a millionth of a percent. I will snap up the DVD now that it is available.

Good story, great cast, engrossing from beginning to end. So why didn't this movie receive more attention? Was it because it isn't the kind that generates huge box office receipts? Was it moviedom politics? Or did the reconciliation between brothers who grew up on different sides of the color line make the p.c. types, the ones for whom injustice and victimhood are the only valid racial topics, uncomfortable? ... Read more

Reviews (121)

Here's To Successful Negotiations!
The Negotiator is an action flick starring Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey. Samuel L. Jackson plays Chicago Police Department Hostage Negotiator, Lt. Danny Roman. Roman is an expert at dissolving critical hostage situations, keeping a level head and making quick on-the-spot decisions. When Roman's partner approaches him with information about money embezzlement within the department, cool methodical Roman decides to investigate. But before he can begin, Roman's partner is killed, and Roman is framed for murder. With no where to go except jail and his back against the wall, Roman does the only thing he can do - He takes the one man he believes responsible for the murder as his hostage. In to talk with Roman about releasing his hostage is Lt. Chris Sabian, played by Kevin Spacey. As the plot thickens, we learn that everyone is suspect, including Roman's friends within the hostage negotiations unit.
Expertly played by Samuel L. Jackson. It seems he can do nothing wrong. Kevin Spacey is excellent as Lt. Sabian. Fast-paced, action-packed, and unpredictable at times, this movie is great for anyone who loves action and suspense.

Negotiator negotiates with an negotiator
Intense, packed of 140 minutes of action. Witty and demand the audience as a certain intelligensia, the Negotiator delivers a good, quality entertainment.

Focal upon the corruption and misuse of welfare fund in the Chicago Police Department, the Negotiator Danny Roman (played by Samuel Jackson)found his friend dead and himself in this web of dirty little tricks. He was convicted of murdering his friend with his own gun and accused of making up a fictitious informer.

Asking for justice, he became a hostage-taker of his own colleagues and several innocent citizens, he locked himself and others in the internal investigation office. He called for Chris Sabian (Kevin Spacey), a cool and cerebral negotiator from another precinct, to begin a negotiation process of finding the truth. The bad and corrupt guys within the Police, however, determined to thawrt Danny's plan.

Director F. Gary Gray successfully tells of a very realistic story with, on occassions, powerful images. You hold your breath tight, waiting for the next step both negotiators might take. The result is a constantly engaging experience, interlocking story and a complete satisfaction.

The Negotiator (1998)
Director: F. Gary Gray
Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, Ron Rifkin, John Spencer, J.T. Walsh.
Running Time: 135 minutes.
Rated R for violence and language.

When the director has the lucky chance to work with not just one, but TWO of the most exceptional modern actions of the past decade, he should have been licking his chops in anticipation. Director F. Gary Gray (whose previous work was with Ice Cube and Chris Tucker in "Friday") uses the likes of Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey to his advantage, creating a fast-paced action-drama that uses both actors as chess pieces that are intertwined in a suspenseful race against time.

Jackson stars as an extremely successful hostage negotiatior who loses his partner in an accident. When he is framed for the accident as murder, he takes matters into his own hands by taking hostages himself. Kevin Spacey is the top-of-the-line officer assigned to assist the police department with consultations with Jackson, only to find himself in the most unique hostate situation he has ever encountered. Both must learn to trust each other, with Jackson attempting to find the true answers about his partner's death and Spacey trying to keep his incredible reputation in tact.

Gray does a fine job using the intense script (which unfortunately does have a few logical lapses), producing a motion picture that possesses all the essential ingredients to be a successful and enteraining flick. Jackson is very good in the lead role, while Spacey is as his usual best. Although F. Gary Gray was lucky enough to have excellent people for support, he does a fine job pulling off one of the better action thrillers of the year.

An Smart Action/Thriller.
One of the finest Police Hostage Negotiator:Danny Roman (Samuel L. Jackson) is framed for murdering his best friend (Paul Guilfoyle) and for embezzling money from his union`s pension fund. When nobody doesn`t want to believe him for not killing his partner & embezzling money. He decides to takes Hostages & try to clear his name. The only person, who could help him in this Situation is another Top Negotiator (Two Time Oscar-Winner:Kevin Spacey).

Directed by F. Gary Gray (Friday, A Man Apart, Set It Off) made a entertaining, suspenseful, action-thriller made surprisingly believable, thanks to Jackson & Spacey terrific performances and especially the Supporting Cast are Strong. The film wasn`t a Hit, when it was release in the Summer of 1998, despite Good Reviews by Critics & Audiences, who seen the film. This film did much better on Video. The Script might have some logic lapses but it`s a gripping & well-made taut thriller. Gray`s Best Film to Date. Written by James DeMonaco & Kevin Fox. Super 35. Grade:A-.

Action Jackson.
Samuel L. Jackson has become quite adept at portraying intense characters who are both likeable and bothersome. His cop in "The Negotiator" is a desperate man, who although perhaps innocent of the charges a