Amazon.com essential video

Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones star as Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call, aging cowboys and former Texas rangers and who organize a 2,500 mile cattle drive for one last great adventure in this excellent 1989 miniseries adaptation of Larry McMurtry's novel. The best friends, who steal the herd from a gang of Mexican cattle rustlers, drive their herd from Texas to Montana, battling horse thieves, angry Indian tribes, and a renegade half-breed killer named Blue Duck (Frederic Forrest) on a mission of revenge. The excellent cast also includes Robert Urich as cardsharp and former Ranger Jake Spoon, Anjelica Huston as McCrae's old flame Clara Allen, Danny Glover, Ricky Schroder, Diane Lane, Chris Cooper, D.B. Sweeney, Steve Buscemi, and even a small role for author Larry McMurtry. Australian director Simon Wincer shows a tremendous capacity for balancing sweeping drama and intimacy against the gorgeous landscape of the American Southwest, giving a grandly epic feel to the film despite its small-screen target and limited budget, and for forging memorable characters of even the smallest supporting parts. The heart of the drama belongs to McCrae and Call, memorably etched by Duvall and Jones as the last of the range romantics. In the age of revisionist Westerns, this excellent cattle-drive drama nicely maintains an old-fashioned feeling while still showing the dark side of the American West. Winner of seven Emmy Awards and responsible for two miniseries sequels (Return to Lonesome Dove and Dead Man's Walk) and a TV series. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (172)

Probably the Greatest Western Ever!
A few years ago I had the opportunity to speak personally with Robert Urich about his role as ill-fated Jake Spoon in the epic western Lonesome Dove. Simply put, he said that it was "the most fun I have ever had making a movie. Think of it. Riding and shooting every day with two of the greatest western stars ever: Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones! I won't have that much fun ever again!" I am sure that he could have gone on for hours but, unfortunately, time would not permit. The look on his face and the light in his eyes said it all. Tragically Urich passed away a year or two thereafter.

The legend and the story live on in the Pulitzer Prize winning book by Larry McMurty and in this faithful video depiction of the classic story.

A star-studded cast, headed by Duvall, Jones and Urich, along with one of the most beautiful western soundtracks ever composed make Lonesome Dove a viewing experience that you will enjoy time and again.

One of the best things ever done for television.
Although the phrase "made for television" conjures up the images of the tabloid story of the week and women-in-peril films; Larry McMurtry's epic novel "Lonesome Dove" would not have been given justice in any other format. Television allowed that magnificent work to be brought to life in some form resembling the novel. The six hour running time enabled character and storyline development that would not have been possible if the novel had been adapted for theaters.

Although it does have the jarring breaks that marked where a commericial interuption had once been and it's share of television stars (Urich, Shroeder, Corbin); "Lonesome Dove" is movie big. Big stars. Wonderful cinematography. Great locations. An authentic look. A terrific score. The producers, cast, crew, and director went the full measure to ensure that this movie did not look or feel like a "movie of the week" production.

Personally, I believe it, along with "Roots," to be the finest work ever done in the medium of television. It really does make you feel for its characters. The viewer will cheer and hope for them, and when tragedy occurs, as it does throughout the film, it will shake the viewer. Nobody is safe: comic relief characters, children, and, even, experienced Rangers. McMurtry drives home the message that death in the Old West could occur to anyone at anytime with shocking suddenness. In the end, Captain Call looks back and remembers his friends and comrades who did not return with him. As he does, tears come to the eyes of this taciturn character; and rest assured he is joined by many in the viewing audience.

The Return of the Western
It's ironic that the western, a staple of TV until sci-fi eclipsed its presence, would find its home again on the small screen during a time when big budget westerns seemed to be biting the dust to space opera blockbusters. And that it would take an Australian to realize it. Director Simon Wincer's big-vista understanding of the genre is apparent throughout "Lonesome Dove," which also features some great performances by screen familiars Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones, even if the latter too often looks like a scowling Kenny Rogers here. This tale of an arduous cattle drive by two retired lawmen has the sweep and grist of such classics as "True Grit," "Red River," and "Once Upon a Time in the West," with which it shares many elements (the conversational style, the brutal drive, and the buddy relationship, respectively, the most obvious). And while "Lonesome Dove" doesn't really say anything new about the old west, it is entertaining and fares better compared to many westerns past in terms of presenting the ethnic diversity that history records. Look for many bravura--and few corny--moments like Captain Call's (Jones) reaction to a cavalry scout's whipping of Call's alleged son (a likable but sometimes too aw-shucks Rick Shroeder), MacCrae's (Duvall) gutsy stand against a pack of outlaws, and the touching and remarkably in-character last goodbye between the leads. Basil Poledouris, an underrated composer, provides a solid score. Of the episodes, only one stands out as pedestrian, making this a pretty good choice for viewers who want to savor their entertainment choice.

Yes, it is 360 minutes, not 240.
240 minutes refers to the much shorter Return to Lonesome Dove mini-series. There is nowhere on the the Amazon website that the original series of Lonesome Dove DVD set is only 240 minutes, it is 360 minutes.

By the way, my daughter and I loved this series when it was on TV and I purchased the multi-tape set VHS way back when. But the last tape was bad and Cabin Fever, the manufacturers/publishers, would not replace my bad tape (they never even answered my mail except to tell me how to order the set), so, now that I have the DVD version, I finally have a complete set of watchable scenes.

Sorry SD, you're wrong. It's not complete. Check IMDb.
I'm sorry to have to point out to those of you who think this is the complete version, but if you go to IMDb and look up Lonesome Dove, you will find that it has a 384 minute running time. Amazon's version is listed at only 240 minutes. That's over two hours difference from the original film, and no, we're not talking about commercials.
So unless Amazon has their listed time wrong and it is actually a full 6.4 hours, you've been duped. I wouldn't pay for less than the original length film.

So, the question stands for those of you who actually bought this DVD, was it 6.4 hours long, or only 4 hours long? ... Read more

Reviews (2)

AN ARTIST'S PASSION
To me, someone who doesn't normally watch miniseries based on Romance novels, the chief value of "Mistral's Daughter" lies in its music score, penned by Vladimir Cosma. While I don't think much of Mistral as an artist (he's 10 times better than most 20th-century artists--which is not saying much) or of his morals, the music that underlies his creative moments is truly exceptional. I know of no other theme that so fully captures the GLORY and PASSION of artistic creation--it is lush, it is thrilling, it is unforgettable. Rachmaninoff would have been proud of it.
(Unfortunately, the most extended passage of this theme has been cut from recent TV showings.)

Hopeless Romantic
Mistrals Daughter is excellent, expecially if you are a hopeless romantic like me. Stephanie Powers is very believeable as the 18ish country girl who arrives in Paris hoping to find love and success as an artist's model. A reality check occurs when the object of her affection, Mistral, played by Stacy Keach turns out to be more interested in himself and his own pursuits as an artist, than his realtionship with "Maggie Lunel"(Powers). Broken hearted, Maggie is pursued and falls for the enigmatic wealthy American from New York played by dashing (and young)Timothy Dalton. Tragedy folows "Maggie" all of her days and the story follows three generations of Lunel women. Their romances intertwine with Mistral and his illegitimate daughter. Worth watching on the couch witha hot cup of tea and an afghan. Enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Fantastic Movie!!!!
I saw this movie twice on TV and loved it both times; I've been looking for it to buy so I can add it to my "Classic" collection, along with Dr. Zhivago. Very worth seeing, buying. Robert Urich's performance is fantastic; as usual he pulls the audience in and allows it to feel what he is feeling whether it's laughing or crying. His eyes are so incredible, his look so deep; he easily enters your heart. He did mine... and will remain there.

Robert Urich is worth the price of admission
This is a rich drams with some nice twists and turns. Best of all is the opportunity to see Robert Urich in a role that allows him to express the sensitivity and caring that he had in real life. The story is sweet -- definitely captivating -- but it's especially dear to me now that Robert Urich is no longer with us. A special man and fine actor, he is superb in this film. Many of us will miss him and recall his courage and good humor as he dealt with his illness. As good as this film is, Robert Urich's performance is worth the price of admission! It's also safe to say that any Danielle Steel fan will *love* this movie!

Very bad Movie!
I didn't like this movie at all. No movie made of any books of Danielle Steel is good, well it's rare that a movie is as good as the book is, the book is always better. I had like reading the book but the movie who was made out of it was so bad and boring!

a really good movie
I saw it on televison so i wanna buy the movie. It's a great movie and everyone should rent/buy it/ ... Read more

Reviews (11)

"The Western Epic " Most Honest Portrail Ever!
Larry McMurtry, being a native Texan, wrote from the heart when he fashioned the characters of Lonesome Dove. In Lonesome Dove, you see true men and women of the West with the mannerisms and habits of genuine Texans. I was constantly reminded of men long gone that I had had the honor of knowing back in Texas. Men who were the real article as a cowman, rancher, or peace officer. They were men of my grandfather's and his father's time. Men who held their honor and courage in the most sacred place. Lonesome Dove illuminates brilliantly these character traits and the script certainly follows McMurtry's vision. It is Tommy Lee Jones and Robert Duvall though that help us see these authentic characters function in the real, basic, and heart-stopping beauty of the West. Whatever you do, do not deprive yourself of this experience. Tighten your cinch and come with grit teeth! It is a once in a lifetime event!

One of the Greatest Westerns Ever Made
I have never known anyone to have a dry-eye after watching this moving film. The characters are truly believable thanks to the stunning acting jobs done by Tommy Lee Jones, Robert Urich, and ESPECIALLY Robert Duvall. His characterization of Gus is, in my mind the role of a life time for any actor. Mr. Duvall rose to the occasion. The pain and heartache that these characters suffer is enough to bring anyone to tears. The movie is also beautifully filmed, with realistic sets and gorgeous landscapes. A must see for anyone who enjoys westerns. Get it! You won't be disappointed. Keep a box of kleenex close at hand when you watch it, though!! END

We Don't Rent Pigs
How many works of cinema are worth sitting through for 6 hours? Not many at all, but here you can't put it down. An unvarnished portrayal of the best and worst of humanity under harsh conditions. It makes you wonder where you would fit in, in this cinematic worldly epic. Most movie Westerns pale in comparison, especially the pop pseudo western bravado ones. Lonesome Dove finds the strength in humanity despite man's frail existence in nature. You don't have to like Westerns to love Lonesome Dove.

Lonesome Dove
Received tape in a very timely manner. Seller emailed to be sure I received item.(Very impressive.) Tape in excellent shape.
Lynne

A Magnificent American Epic
I certainly agree with the other glowing reviews of this movie but I would like to say that it is not simply the best western ever produced, it is, in my opinion, the best movie ever produced. I have seen it approximately 10 times and it is just as good each time as it was the first time. Rober Duval's acting is as good as it gets. Tommy Lee Jones is at his finest. The music is superb. The cimematography is excellent. The story is masterfully crafted and is based largely on real life characters. Charles Goodnight was the real life model for Woodrow Call and Oliver Loving, Goodnight's partner, was the model for Augustus McCrae. Duval, in playing McCrae, brings to life the character of the gallant old ranger and lover of all women with a degree of perfection of art that is unsurpassed in the history of movie making. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Thank You! To the Late Robert Urich
Hello, I'm Janie Strifler. My only and deepest regret is that I wasn't able to say "hello" or "thank you" to this great actor. So, if you were ever a fan of Robert Urich from his character on "Soap, to Dan Tanna, Spenser, you'll want to add this video to your collection and to keep him in your memory. If by chance you happen to be a fan of Las Vegas and the Desert Inn Hotel this video is what you've been looking for. As a fan of this late actor and a fan of the entertainment industry Robert Urich will be forever missed but not forgot by this fan. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

"A man's got to know his limitations."
Who can forget that line from Magnum Force? It has more than one meaning here and definitely sets the theme. Dirty Harry says it a few times in the film but it has the most impact right after Hal Holbrook meets with an unfortunate accident in his car...priceless scene. This is my favorite line Eastwood says to Holbrook in the movie, with the second being when he throws a shell casing from evidence at him saying "eat it!". Magnum Force (1973) is the sequel to Dirty Harry (1971) and this time Harry is still an outsider with his own brand of justice, but he's got nothing on the 4 young motorcycle patrol cops who don't even bother with arrests and paperwork (the criminals don't make it that far!). In Dirty Harry, Callahan chased Scorpio, the mad sniper, but in Magnum Force he doesn't have to go far to find the criminals...they work with him! Action packed and stylish, Magnum Force is essential in the Dirty Harry/Eastwood Collection. The film is directed by television director, Tim Post (Baretta, Combat!) and written by Michael Cimino (director: The Deer Hunter, Thunderbolt & Lightfoot). The cast is great: Felton Perry plays Harry's unfortunate partner who just had to open his mailbox. Look for several familiar faces before they made it big: David "Hutch" Soul, Robert Urich, & Tim Matheson. Also look for a topless Suzanne Somers (uncredited) getting blown away in a swimming pool! I can imagine Joyce DeWitt from Three's Company laughing maniacally when she saw that scene.

"A man has to know his limitations".
"Magnum Force" from 1973,the follow up to "Dirty Harry",(a movie many consider to be a classic) is not as good.Of course sequels rarely are. It does have more action and laughs.You could call it a kind of black comedy,because it is kind of far fetched. The screenplay was cowritten by Michael Cimino,(who wrote and directed "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot" with Clint Eastwood and Jeff Bridges in 1974,which was a good flick),and John Milius,who had an uncredited hand in the original "Dirty Harry". Milius wrote the now famous line,"This being a .44 magnum,...."Do you feel lucky?". It turns up again here right after the opening credits for "Magnum Force". It came out just two years after the original,both were Christmas releases, and it was just as big a hit.They both made about the same amount of money.

The producer and writers had in mind to answer the critics who called Harry Callahan a fascist and a vigilante.Clint Eastwood said in an interview in 1997 about him being called a fascist,"that was just nonsense.Harry was just very concerned about the rights of the victims.What's the matter with that?" The late Gene Siskel also disagreed with those critics. He said "if Harry were to encounter Mussolini or Hitler,he would have popped them to".The critic Roger Ebert calls Harry "extremely fair, he'll shoot anybody". "Magnum Force" is well paced,has some good action sequences and a good chase scene and it does get intense.But,the plot is hokey and it's a little too violent at times.This is not a movie for the kiddies. The cinematography isn't nearly as good as in the original. It doesn't make very good use the San Francisco locations. Lalo Schifrin's score is good though not as inspired as in the original. It's still better than many so called cop movies that have come out since.Like certain bloodthirsty,sadistic mayhem released in the '80's and '90's. In the funny book "Real Men Don"t Eat Quiche" from 1982, the author Bruce Feirstein put "Magnum Force" among those movies real men will pay hard cash to see. Feirstein had a couple of dozen on the list including "Patton","Rocky",some of the James Bond movies,only the ones with Sean Connery,"North Dallas Forty" among others. All these movies are for men only.

Some trivia,Clint Eastwood said in an interview that this story was inspired by the Brazilian death squad of the 1950's.Actor Robert Urich appears as one of the rookie motorcycle cops,this was Mr.Urich's movie debut.Also,a then unknown Suzanne Sommers appears in the swimming pool party scene.Ms. Sommers scenes have her showing off a ring she just received and where she takes her bikini top off in the pool.(Not so shocking since she did do a layout in PLAYBOY about ten years later).Her name didn't get mentioned in the credits.And,Ms.Sommers gets blasted along with the other unfortunate people at the party.And,remember "a man has to know his limitations".

My Favorite Dirty Harry Sequel
Okay... before I begin, I must tell you I am a bit prejudice. I actually saw a scene from this movie being filmed. I lived in San Francisco and in 1973 was walking up the hill to Lafayette Park as they shot some scenes in a high rise apartment building.
I was fascinated as they shot the scene over and over to get the "tension" just right.

Now it is on DVD 30 years later. It has never looked better. Color corrected true wide screen picture, and a soundtrack that is crystal clear.

2 of the vigilante officers are played to perfection by "pre-Starsky" David Soul and, in his first role, the late Robert Urich. The scene in the darkened garage is still powerful in it's quiet threatening tone. It is SO CLEAR the cops enjoy wearing their elegant uniforms and tall boots, leather creaking and chrome gleaming in the dark... an awesome and memorable moment when those who are sent to protect and defend, go over the edge so confidently, quietly and in their minds, logically. It is still very frightening.

Tell Warner Brothers to release the WHOLE film!
The people who assembled this DVD should be ashamed of themselves - the whole film is not there!

One of the most hilarious scenes in the original version of Magnum Force was when the crooked cops are chasing Harry around inside the (very dark) hull of a ship. Every time a shot was fired down there, there would be at LEAST six or seven loud, cartoon-like ricochets. The fact that this might really happen when all of the walls and ceiling are solid steel does not take away from its comic effect. Well, when they remastered the film for DVD, they took all of the ricochets out!

They also cut out some of the sting operation where three hoodlums hold up a convenience store.

Magnum Justice
This is the second of five "Dirty Harry" films in which Eastwood stars as a San Francisco police detective. By the time the last appeared (The Dead Pool in 1988), Eastwood had aged and times had changed but Callahan's non-negotiable values and unorthodox methods had remained essentially the same. In this film, directed by Ted Post with a screenplay co-authored by directors John Milius (e.g. Conan the Barbarian) and Michael Cimino (e.g. The Deer Hunter), the essential premise is that the same legal systems and law enforcement systems to which Callahan so strongly objects have encouraged others to become vigilantes, four of whom serve as police officers under the direct supervision of Lieutenant Briggs (Hal Holbrook). They target and assassinate those whom the "system" has failed to keep off the streets. Of course, Callahan has no sympathy whatsoever for those eliminated. However, he is uncomfortable with the vigilantes' methods (if not their motives) and with what the ancient Greeks -- but not Callahan -- would characterize as their hubris. Eventually, there is the inevitable and obligatory confrontation with them. (Guess who wins?) Those who enjoy this film should also check out The Brotherhood of the Bell (1970), Death Wish (1974), and The Star Chamber (1983) in which Holbrook also appeared. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Originallity at it's best
I have watched both makes of the movie, although I have to say the original Jock of the Bushveld is preferred to by many people out there. Whether you watch the second make or the book,you will always have a tear in your eye.

The movie shows courage and determination in South Africa and I hope this movie shows people what a great country it is.

If anyone knows of where the original can be bought then please let me know.

THE BEST SOUTH AFRICAN MOVIE MADE
This is one the greatest movies made in South Africa. It's funny, heartwarming and of course sad. If you are South African, this would definately be one of your favourites. The best part is going to the place where the movie was filmed called Pilgrims' Rest, which looks exactly the same. It's definately a movie worth seeing.

He was shot!
I guess I saw the original version too. Jock was accidentally shot at the end. Hard to watch. Kinda like Old Yeller.

A Great African Adventure
A story of courage and adventure all set in the Southern Africa bush... Jock has become a folk-hero in South Africa... watch this and you'll now why! Based on the novel by Fitzpatrick, it is one of those rare flics where the film is as good as the book. A cultural tear-jerker of an adventure, with a superb soundtrack to match - curtousy of Johnny Clegg and Savuka (formally Jaluku). This film puts a whole mew meaning to the phrase " a dog is a mans best friend".... nead I say more! If you like dogs, adventure and a touch of African history then this is the film for you... GET IT!

Jock of the Bushveld
A wonderful "family" movie, of which there are all too few these days. Music track by South African Johnny Clegg is outstanding. Yes, it's a tear jerker, in a league with 'Sounder.' Like 'Sounder,' this film will teach children and adults alike a lot about a time and culture of which Americans are barely aware. My daughter, who is now 18, loves this movie as much today as when she was a child. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

FANTASTIC, TRUE TO LIFE STORY.
To the person who wrote the first review...this was in no way a sleazy movie. It was a true depiction of a diabolical self-centered sociopath who killed his wife for greed, and the horrific fall-out.

By the way, this movie also was made with the main character's oldest son on the set as an advisor. Learn your facts.

If you don't like true crime stories, don't waste your money the next time!

Typical NBC TV Trash Movie.....
NBC TV movie of the week about a murder case that left three boys with a mother and a father in jail, and they did not give their approval for NBC to make this sleazy movie. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Ice Pirates leave a warm feeling!
What a wonderful piece of sci-fi fun! I always loved this picture since the first time I saw it WAAAYYY back in '84. I have to admit, it's not for everybody. You really have to be in a class of science fiction fans who also enjoy movies like Sleeper or tv shows like Red Dwarf. My only regret about Ice Pirates was that the director didn't have a larger budget--then again... Urich, Roberts and Huston (The Space Samurai Chick!) really steal the show--check out the gut-funny scene when Ulrich and Roberts were about to lose their "manhood". Hilarious!! The story is ludicrous in itself, water has become more valuable than gold or silver. I always found it funny that these people have the ability of interstellar travel but they can't produce water. I give the movie four stars--even though it loooks really bad on tv--in anyevent, Ice Pirates makes me wish filmmakers would produce more sci-fi satires. Long Live Jason and his Ice Pirates!

clasic cult sci fi
i stumbled across this in a video shop that imports vids from all over the world & it only cost me £2.99 (about $6.00) it aint a pg here thogh its a 15 so i had to get some 1 to buy it.
my mates used to pile round to watch it evry so offten the short guy loved the tiny robot kicking hell out of the big one

cant wait for it on dvd

I'm tired of waiting
I remember when cable was first introduced into this world except it was called "ON TV" where i'm from. I remember when this movie came on at that time. I was amazed by the humor and science fiction mixed into this great film. I'm still searching for a copy on DVD. I can't wait I've tried everything as to getting this film on DVD. I tried to buy a DVD format machine, but it was sold out. I'm getting impatient, but I still have some patience, and not for long.

SWKO-period piece
This a cult B-sci fi, and another SWKO (Star Wars Knock Off). Another Period Price. To it's credit, it is a lot funnier than Buckaroo Banzai.

A different type of sci-fi
This is one of my all time favorite b movies. The fx aren't well done but the story is great. There needs to be more cheesey sci fi movies like this, and space raiders. I would really be heart broken if this title never arrives on DVD because I would love to add it to my collection. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Shadowbox is powerful
Living with a terminal diagnosis, working with, loving someone with a terminal diagnosis? This video is for you. It is powerful, incredibly realistic in its portrayal of anger, denial, fears, as well as hope and humor. As a hospice employee I've seen hundreds die, just as these characters in Shadowbox have. This would be great film to share with Hospice employees, and with medical staff who often don't understand all that the patients and their families experience. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Scenery and star help Blind Man's Bluff see daylight
Gosh! It's been a while since I last saw this made-for-t.v. movie, so I'll give it the old college try with the review. Journeyman actor extraordinaire Robert Urich stars in an unusual role. Urich's usually casted as a smarmy cop or as the sensitive everyday man in extraordinary situations. But this time he's in the title role as a blind man whose friends and collegues are turning up dead around him. He goes from bystander to ameteur sleuth to prey. Trouble is, he's blind. Makes for a nice twist on the whodunnit routine. Ron Perlman and Lisa Eilbacher are okay as a couple of Urich's close friends who may be next on the killer's hit list. The most impressive thing I remember about Blind Man's Bluff was its unusually good production values (for a t.v. movie). I believe it was shot in and around Vancouver, British Columbia (a lovely city you don't see everyday). And the music was good too. But it was a made-for-t.v. flick, and I remember being bored with the pacing of the story and the number of cannon fodder extras. All in all, I thought it was an above average, but not superior, whodunnit. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Civil War Era Nowhere Man!
Great movie, wish that the other episodes would come out on video also. If ever a movie screamed for a 2hr. followup ending to wrap up the loose ends this is it. Too bad Mr. Urich is dead this was one of his best roles!

excellent
Everyone should see this video!!The 90 minutes went by too quckly! I was sorry when it ended, hopefully some more episodes will become available. Robert Urich is just great, handsome, appealing, and so believable as Lazarus. The music is enchanting, the sets excellent and the story exciting. I just can't say enough about how wonderful " The Lazarus Man" is. I will watch this again and again.

I loved this
I had only heard of this series as I am from Australia. I was not disappointed, Robert's acting, the civil war conspiracy and the music was top notch TV and I am sorry this show had to end because of robert's illness. I would love to see the rest of the series of video..anyone listening;)?

This is a true modern work of art...
I first saw this television show and was enraptured by it. From the fine acting on the part of Robert Urich to the scenic beauty of the landscape in which it was filmed. The costumes and the music: how could somebody not love this? Moreover, the opening two-hour episode (the series pilot) weaves a tale of conspiracy theories mixed with post Civil war angst that would make any fan of westerns or the X-files want to give this one a peek. If only the other episodes were also available...sigh! ... Read more

Reviews (12)

A HISTORICAL FICTION SOAP OPERA
April Morning is a historical fiction soap opera loved in great big portions by N. Lampi. (Une lampe for short) He made us watch this movie and I was shocked at how EVIL the British appeared to be. However, this movie was very soap opera-like. For example, the main character (Adam Cooper) said, "FATHER, WHY DO YOU HATE ME SO!" I found that very funny and TOO dramatic. Also, it maybe hard to remember *cough*test*cough* but at the end Adam receives his father's watch. WATCH! w-a-t-c-h!!! Remember that!!! Oh well. Thus, this movie gets 3/5 stars. Some talking people *cough*J. Reeves III*cough* ruined it by talking! OH well......

Factual, moving account of the birth of our nation.
I saw this a few years ago on T.V. and have wanted a copy of my own. I can't believe a movie this powerful is not on video yet. A must for all young people to see! Masterful telling of our country's revolution.

Ap-ril Morning
This was asesome I saw it at school

A morning for greatness
This is simply a gem of a movie based on Howard Fast's excellent 1962 novel,( which I still have), of the first day of hostilities between colonists and Britain.

There may have been bigger blockbusters made about the American Revolution (The Patriot, Revolution etc) but to me this under- rated 1988 film is a true classic, capturing the quintessential decency of American colonial village life in Lexington and the developing tensions and conflict on that fateful day of 19th April 1775.

I agree with the 2 previous reviewers that this film is a great teaching tool. It shows many things: the tensions and love in family life, particularly between Moses Cooper ( Tommy Lee Jones) and his son Adam ( Chad Lowe),who is no longer a boy yet not quite a man; romance between Adam and Ruth Simmons ( played by the lovely Susan Blakely); different generations and how they relate to each other; the underlying strong Christian faith of the era,( which still prevails in American life today); the need to perform civic duties; and culture and costumes far removed from our own period etc.

"April Morning" is also effective because it does not glamourise war or demonise the redcoats. In fact both Adam and a young redcoat are both seen, at various stages, to be scared witless by the whiff of 'grapeshot' and of battle. Yet overall, in what is truly a momentous day for Adam personally, (as well as the villagers of Lexington and Concord), we see how the events mature him and this is brilliantly illustrated at the end of the film when he leads his family in prayer for their food and life. This very subtle approach makes it evident that the boy, like colonial America, has gone for ever and has been replaced by a decent man who would,with humility, be worthy of his emerging new leadership role-as would America.

As a non-American I conclude by saying that any American who fails to appreciate this film simply lacks a soul and an understanding of the greatness of American history - a fact which was demonstrated on that dusty Lexington-Concord road 226 years ago- and by the makers of this film who have created another very special "April Morning".

One Shot Heard Around the World
This movie gives an accurate and interesting account of the beginnings of the American Revolution. A boy becomes a man, not by choice but because of events that are not under his control. There is great acting by all. My students will love this movie and will gain a greater understanding of the Lexington and Concord battles. I only wish I could obtain a video of the movie. My copy is so old! This is an action/adventure/drama all rolled into one. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A guilty pleasure...
Princess Daisy is an enjoyable little mini series for a rainy afternoon. It's a movie good for using very little of your brain's resources but darn entertaining if your into lust, passion, betrayel, (and the occasional incestual rape sub-plot). All in all, a rather nicely done soap-drama. Not a bad way to spend a lazy afternoon at all.

And I'd just like to mention another mini series which was originally penned by Judith Krantz. "Mistral's Daughter" is an even better mini series than this! When will the DVD gods bestow that wonderful mini series on dvd????

Princess Daisy
I first saw Princess Daisy on WE. I didn't know what it was or what it was about, but i was immediately hooked on it. Merete van Kamp, who plays Daisy, is beautiful, graceful, and elegant, and Rupert everett, as Ram (Daisy's step brother who falls in love with her) is stunningly handsome. But not only are the actors beautiful, but the story is captivating. The acting isn't fabulous, the screenplay is at times cheesy, but all in all, it was very entertaining and i watched all three hours of this soap-opera-ish movie, and in the end decided that i thoroughly enjoyed it! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I Thought This was a Good Movie!
I haven't seen the original 1937 black and white Captains Courageous movie that starred Spencer Tracy but I saw the remake and I liked it and I think Robert Urich was terrific and so was the rest of the cast, especially the actor who played his son and the actor who played Harvey.

Another great version of Captains Couragous
One of my favorite movies was the older version of Captains Courageous with Spencer Tracy.I bought this version and I was not disappointed.The story is a little different than the older version.In this one Harvey has no living parents,and his friendship is developed with Dan (son of the captain)instead of Manuel.This is another great version of Captains Courageous.A wonderful movie and a tear jerker.

Where's the Original????
I fail to understand how a 1996 remake of this movie can be on DVD before the original. I have never seen the remake, and will likely never. A remake, no matter how good, can only taint Spencer Tracey's performance.

Release the ORIGINAL verison! Please. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

AWSOME MOVIE!!
One of the best movies I've ever seen!!!! I love it!

This is not a Drama! This is a great familly movie.
A must see for horse lovers! This movie touches the heart and soul. Leelee does a great job in her first movie and Robert Urich only enhances the preformance. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This first sequel to Dirty Harry was written by a couple of strong voices, writer-directors Michael Cimino (The Deer Hunter) and John Milius (Farewell to the King). But that doesn't mean the film is particularly good. After Don Siegel's ferociously dark style in the first movie, Ted Post's blocky, television-ish direction in Magnum Force is a huge letdown. The story doesn't win any prizes, either. Eastwood's San Francisco detective Harry Callahan (apparently having retrieved his badge after throwing it away at the end of Dirty Harry) takes on a vigilante squad within the city's police force. David Soul is pretty convincing as the major spokesman for these right-wing avengers. Eastwood, on the other hand, had already turned Callahan from fascinating outsider in Siegel's film to purveyor of tough-guy shtick in this one. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (39)

"A man's got to know his limitations."
Who can forget that line from Magnum Force? It has more than one meaning here and definitely sets the theme. Dirty Harry says it a few times in the film but it has the most impact right after Hal Holbrook meets with an unfortunate accident in his car...priceless scene. This is my favorite line Eastwood says to Holbrook in the movie, with the second being when he throws a shell casing from evidence at him saying "eat it!". Magnum Force (1973) is the sequel to Dirty Harry (1971) and this time Harry is still an outsider with his own brand of justice, but he's got nothing on the 4 young motorcycle patrol cops who don't even bother with arrests and paperwork (the criminals don't make it that far!). In Dirty Harry, Callahan chased Scorpio, the mad sniper, but in Magnum Force he doesn't have to go far to find the criminals...they work with him! Action packed and stylish, Magnum Force is essential in the Dirty Harry/Eastwood Collection. The film is directed by television director, Tim Post (Baretta, Combat!) and written by Michael Cimino (director: The Deer Hunter, Thunderbolt & Lightfoot). The cast is great: Felton Perry plays Harry's unfortunate partner who just had to open his mailbox. Look for several familiar faces before they made it big: David "Hutch" Soul, Robert Urich, & Tim Matheson. Also look for a topless Suzanne Somers (uncredited) getting blown away in a swimming pool! I can imagine Joyce DeWitt from Three's Company laughing maniacally when she saw that scene.

"A man has to know his limitations".
"Magnum Force" from 1973,the follow up to "Dirty Harry",(a movie many consider to be a classic) is not as good.Of course sequels rarely are. It does have more action and laughs.You could call it a kind of black comedy,because it is kind of far fetched. The screenplay was cowritten by Michael Cimino,(who wrote and directed "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot" with Clint Eastwood and Jeff Bridges in 1974,which was a good flick),and John Milius,who had an uncredited hand in the original "Dirty Harry". Milius wrote the now famous line,"This being a .44 magnum,...."Do you feel lucky?". It turns up again here right after the opening credits for "Magnum Force". It came out just two years after the original,both were Christmas releases, and it was just as big a hit.They both made about the same amount of money.

The producer and writers had in mind to answer the critics who called Harry Callahan a fascist and a vigilante.Clint Eastwood said in an interview in 1997 about him being called a fascist,"that was just nonsense.Harry was just very concerned about the rights of the victims.What's the matter with that?" The late Gene Siskel also disagreed with those critics. He said "if Harry were to encounter Mussolini or Hitler,he would have popped them to".The critic Roger Ebert calls Harry "extremely fair, he'll shoot anybody". "Magnum Force" is well paced,has some good action sequences and a good chase scene and it does get intense.But,the plot is hokey and it's a little too violent at times.This is not a movie for the kiddies. The cinematography isn't nearly as good as in the original. It doesn't make very good use the San Francisco locations. Lalo Schifrin's score is good though not as inspired as in the original. It's still better than many so called cop movies that have come out since.Like certain bloodthirsty,sadistic mayhem released in the '80's and '90's. In the funny book "Real Men Don"t Eat Quiche" from 1982, the author Bruce Feirstein put "Magnum Force" among those movies real men will pay hard cash to see. Feirstein had a couple of dozen on the list including "Patton","Rocky",some of the James Bond movies,only the ones with Sean Connery,"North Dallas Forty" among others. All these movies are for men only.

Some trivia,Clint Eastwood said in an interview that this story was inspired by the Brazilian death squad of the 1950's.Actor Robert Urich appears as one of the rookie motorcycle cops,this was Mr.Urich's movie debut.Also,a then unknown Suzanne Sommers appears in the swimming pool party scene.Ms. Sommers scenes have her showing off a ring she just received and where she takes her bikini top off in the pool.(Not so shocking since she did do a layout in PLAYBOY about ten years later).Her name didn't get mentioned in the credits.And,Ms.Sommers gets blasted along with the other unfortunate people at the party.And,remember "a man has to know his limitations".

My Favorite Dirty Harry Sequel
Okay... before I begin, I must tell you I am a bit prejudice. I actually saw a scene from this movie being filmed. I lived in San Francisco and in 1973 was walking up the hill to Lafayette Park as they shot some scenes in a high rise apartment building.
I was fascinated as they shot the scene over and over to get the "tension" just right.

Now it is on DVD 30 years later. It has never looked better. Color corrected true wide screen picture, and a soundtrack that is crystal clear.

2 of the vigilante officers are played to perfection by "pre-Starsky" David Soul and, in his first role, the late Robert Urich. The scene in the darkened garage is still powerful in it's quiet threatening tone. It is SO CLEAR the cops enjoy wearing their elegant uniforms and tall boots, leather creaking and chrome gleaming in the dark... an awesome and memorable moment when those who are sent to protect and defend, go over the edge so confidently, quietly and in their minds, logically. It is still very frightening.

Tell Warner Brothers to release the WHOLE film!
The people who assembled this DVD should be ashamed of themselves - the whole film is not there!

One of the most hilarious scenes in the original version of Magnum Force was when the crooked cops are chasing Harry around inside the (very dark) hull of a ship. Every time a shot was fired down there, there would be at LEAST six or seven loud, cartoon-like ricochets. The fact that this might really happen when all of the walls and ceiling are solid steel does not take away from its comic effect. Well, when they remastered the film for DVD, they took all of the ricochets out!

They also cut out some of the sting operation where three hoodlums hold up a convenience store.

Magnum Justice
This is the second of five "Dirty Harry" films in which Eastwood stars as a San Francisco police detective. By the time the last appeared (The Dead Pool in 1988), Eastwood had aged and times had changed but Callahan's non-negotiable values and unorthodox methods had remained essentially the same. In this film, directed by Ted Post with a screenplay co-authored by directors John Milius (e.g. Conan the Barbarian) and Michael Cimino (e.g. The Deer Hunter), the essential premise is that the same legal systems and law enforcement systems to which Callahan so strongly objects have encouraged others to become vigilantes, four of whom serve as police officers under the direct supervision of Lieutenant Briggs (Hal Holbrook). They target and assassinate those whom the "system" has failed to keep off the streets. Of course, Callahan has no sympathy whatsoever for those eliminated. However, he is uncomfortable with the vigilantes' methods (if not their motives) and with what the ancient Greeks -- but not Callahan -- would characterize as their hubris. Eventually, there is the inevitable and obligatory confrontation with them. (Guess who wins?) Those who enjoy this film should also check out The Brotherhood of the Bell (1970), Death Wish (1974), and The Star Chamber (1983) in which Holbrook also appeared. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A Feel Good Movie !!!
This movie is by far my husbands favorite movie! He has watched it numerous times. I can't get him away from the TV set when it is on. I really wish they would put this movie on DVD because it rightly deserves to be there. It is a great movie. It has everything a movie needs action, drama, excitement and any other words I could think of other than GREAT !!! Maybe someday they will put it on DVD and we will get a clearer picture. I definately would buy it in a heartbeat! Once you watch it you will have to watch it over and over and over again. It is a great movie!!!

Touching
I have four brothers and this movie does a great job showing a "brother's love". If you are synical and like to pick everything apart you probably won't think much of this movie but if you have a heart and like feel good movies, you'll love it!

Great Memories.
This movie is the most memorable movie in my existance. In 1985 this played on HBO shortly after its release and it has a special meaning in my life. I was 17 at the time. My girlfriend Debbie and I had a joke that everytime we turned on the TV, "Turk 182" would be on... and it was! It's a great movie, with the same passion of "Taps". Rent or buy it!

-Charlie

just for the name
think about it, maybe blink 182 got their name from this movie. If it was called turk 185, they might of called the band blink 185. Certainly not the same. God bless this movie for getting made. Im deffintly looking forward to viewing it in the future.

It's a great little film
If you're a fan of Tim Hutton.. then you already have this in your collection.. This is a great little film, with a predictable storyline, but the characters draw you in, simply because of the talented actors that bring this this quirky little tale of brotherly love to life... and its worth the price simply for Kim Catrall ... Read more