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John Lasseter and his gang of high-tech creators at Pixar create another entertainment for the ages. Like the few great movie sequels, Toy Story 2 comments on why the first one was so wonderful while finding a fresh angle worthy of a new film. The craze of toy collecting becomes the focus here, as we find out Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks) is not only a beloved toy to Andy but also a rare doll from a popular '60s children's show. When a greedy collector takes Woody, Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) launches a rescue mission with Andy's other toys. To say more would be a crime because this is one of the most creative and smile-inducing films since, well, the first Toy Story.

Although the toys look the same as in the 1994 feature, Pixar shows how much technology has advanced: the human characters look more human, backgrounds are superior, and two action sequences that book-end the film are dazzling. And it's a hoot for kids and adults. The film is packed with spoofs, easily accessible in-jokes, and inspired voice casting (with newcomer Joan Cusack especially a delight as Cowgirl Jessie). But as the Pixar canon of films illustrates, the filmmakers are storytellers first. Woody's heart-tugging predicament can easily be translated into the eternal debate of living a good life versus livingforever. Toy Story 2 also achieved something in the U.S. two other outstanding 1999 animated features (The Iron Giant, Princess Mononoke) could not: it became a huge box-office hit. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (453)

Toy Story 2 Is Better Then the Original!
I had expected a dull child's cartoon with a meaningless plot and dull characters...wow was I ever wrong! Toy Story 2 is funny, exciting, dramatic, and very entertaining! This time around, Woody is stolen by a greedy toy collector...why? Because it turns out that Woody is a valuable doll from the 1950's when he had his own popular TV show! As Buzz and the rest of the toys frantically try to find a way to rescue Woody, our cow-boy hero meets other toys just like him---Jesse the cow-girl, the Prospector, and Woody's hillarious horse. And all this time Woody starts to wonder if maybe he's found his rightful home...or has he? The animation is tops, the plot is engrossing, and the movie is excellent! If you think an animated feauture is just a bunch of interesting graphics then you're wrong! This is a heart-warming and wonderful family film.

Toys
Toy Story (1995, 80 minutes, Dolby Digital Surround; Audio Commentary, Interviews) As 6-year-old Andy's favorite toy, Woody (Tom Hanks), a take-charge, pull-string cowboy, is confident in his role as room leader. But after Andy's birthday party, newcomer Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), a flashy space ranger with laser action and pop-out wings, crash-lands into Woody's world.

Buzz instantly wins the admiration of Andy's other toys, igniting a rivalry that lands the duo inside the home of Sid - the toy-torturing boy next door. To escape Sid's evil plans, Woody and Buzz must work together and realize they've got the perfect friend...in each other!

Toy Story 2 (1999, 94 minutes, Dolby Digital 5.l Surround EX; Audio Commentary, Sep. Film Score Audio Track, Outakes) Andy goes to summer camp and the toys face a new crisis: Woody turns out to be a valuable collectible, and is kidnapped by an evil toy collector. It's now up to Buzz and the gang to find a way to save him.

Five stars for the movies, one star for Disney
Why must they stick to this archaic way of releasing their movies on video/DVD? I could understand discontinuing collector's or limited editions, but why discontinue entire movies? Well we all know the answer, I just hate to be jerked around like this. Disney is the largest movie company in the world but our enjoyment of their films is based around their idiotic release/discontinue schedule.
Well, with that unpleasantness out of the way, I must say Toy Story 2 is my favorite animated movie of all time and the Toy Story series is my favorite animated series (if you think about it, though, that's not saying a lot). Let's just do this in the order they came out.
Toy Story blew my mind, because the things they did in that movie (the first in particular) were so like me when I was a kid (at that age). Toy Story is sure enough my second favorite animated movie ever. It's funny, and colorful, and touching. I think all good kid's movies should have a sense of wonder, or delight, and it shouldn't be in either a cynical or naive way. They should show wonder in a way that can be found in the real world, which is a balance hard to find. The original Toy Story has all kinds of wonder and awe, both in positive and negative ways (some kids could be afraid of Sid but I bet they won't be able to stop looking at him). It's about finding your place in life, and what to do with what you've got. When Buzz happens upon a commercial for himself and then tries to fly through the window-well that is one of the most touching scenes in any movie I've seen. And the whole ending sequence is beautiful, from Buzz and Woody on the RC car going through traffic, or them being blasted from a rocket through the air. Not to mention it's filled with all kinds of toy-related jokes that any kid can relate to. I think it's safe to say it'll be looked back on like the very first full-length animated movie (it was Snow White, wasn't it?).
Toy Story 2 is nearly flawless. It has one of the craziest openings for a movie ever, and I love the way it can find a way to have characters with all kinds of motives. Al is driven by his greed, the Prospector is jaded but just wants to be loved, Jessie hasn't given up hope yet so is overjoyed when she can find a way to confirm her hopefulness. The movie uses the toys as a metaphor for growing up and moving on: or not. You can aspire for your dreams or you can realize you're happy with what you've got. Toy Story 2 is/was the last movie Disney made with Pixar before they got too smug and self-indulgent. They realized they had the power to stir emotions and awe (they also realized they could make a ton of money), but instead of giving us a sweet movie like Toy Story, we got the self-congragulatory Monsters Inc, with its obvious conflicted main character, and instead of a great secondary character like the Prospector, we got Boo. Finding Nemo was a step in the right direction, but in my opinion doesn't have the heart of the Toy Story movies.
I can actually think of one thing wrong with Toy Story 2, and that's that lame Sarah Mclachlan song. I'm not one of those people with a weird Randy Newman fascination, but his songs were so much better than that one Mclachlan song. I guess it's because the scene in which it's used is already so emotional, instead of Newman's weird but effective delivery we got Mclachlan hammering the point home with her yodeling. But I love that scene because it shows how the little girl grew up. Other than that, Toy Story 2 is great: funny and vibrant, even on my crusty old VHS tape.
I wish I had these movies on DVD. They spark wonder in me at my age just like they did when I first saw them. They have plenty of in-jokes and such but also have a timeless quality (and a strong sense of innocence). Five stars for the both of them, the best animated series of all time.

It's Different.
It's different from your average animated film. So was Toy Story part 1 but this one is better. The movie plotting is a lot better in this part. I give it five stars(I'd give it six if it was in my hands!)

The secret lives of toys
Woody (Tom Hanks), who turns out to be a rare collectible, is stolen by an unscrupulous toy store owner and slated to be sold to a toy museum in Japan. Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and friends embark on a dangerous cross-town rescue mission. This is a very entertaining and perceptive film that remembers the guilt that a child can feel over outgrowing a favorite toy. Sammy the bear was my own constant companion when I was a young child. As I grew older, I sometimes felt a pang of shame when I would encounter him lying unloved and unplayed-with in the bottom of my old toy chest. I hope he's as philosophical and understanding about it as Woody is. As cheerful as this film is, it takes on an added dimension by honoring that first melancholy that a child feels upon outgrowing a formerly cherished plaything. The animation and voice talent are also top-notch. ... Read more

Reviews (81)

Toy Story
1995's "Toy Story" was the first feature length film generated entirely by computers, and Pixar's first dive into theatrical films. The movie opens as young Andy turns 7. The undisputed leader of Andy's toys, a 50's cowboy doll named Woody (Tom Hanks), finds himself challenged by the new toy on the block, "space ranger" Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). When Woody's plan to get rid of Buzz backfires, the two find themselves lost in the suburbs. Woody and Buzz relize they have to work together to get back to Andy's, and they eventually become the best of friends. The humor and animation is terrific, and a great start for Pixar. This lead to several other successes, such as A Bug's Life and Finding Nemo.

Now on to "the vaults". Disney is trying to squeeze every last penny out of the cash cow, and have the two Toy Story films under lock and key, no doubt so they can sell millions of "Special Editions" in five years. Once again, Disney appalls me with their unmatched corperate greed. In conclusion, Toy Story is an excellent film and a true must-see.

The Secret Lives of Toys Revealed
"Toy Story" is a modern fairy tale created with appropriately modern computer animation. Its snappy dialougue will appeal to adult viewers, the spectacle of fantastic toys coming to life will appeal to children, and adults may wax nostalgic about the toys they enjoyed as children, several of which are featured in this movie.
The story revolves around a cowboy doll named Woody, and his imminent replacement as the favorite toy of his owner, Andy, by Andy's new Buzz Lightyear doll, a multigadgeted gift that Andy receives for his birthday.
Tom Hanks'personality shines through in the persona of Woody, and Tim Allen's voice lends the right amount of charisma to Buzz.
In the process of forming an eventual friendship, the characters go through a lot of antagonism and a lot of other real human emotions. As they prepare for life in a new home, they are imperiled by the sadistic kid next door named Sid, into whose clutches they fall by accident.
It's entertaining to watch the toys interact with each other.
Buzz gradually learns that he is simply a child's plaything and not the noble space crusader he fancied himself to be in the beginning, and Woody learns to share his special place in Andy's heart. A great supporting cast including Annie Potts as Woody's sweetheart, Bo Peep, Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head, Jim Varney as Slinky, Wallace Shawn as Rex, John Ratzenburger as Ham, and Laurie Metcalfe as Andy's mother help fuel this tale.
Seeing this innovative film made me want to buy dolls of Woody and Buzz as collector's items. But I am content with just a copy of this movie. The second installment of the "Toy Story" saga is an enhancement of the first one, and just like the first, nothing short of delightful.

Original and fun for the whole family!
This movie took me by storm when I saw it back in the summer of 1995 at the theatres and let me tell you, this movie is still one of the best computer animated movies of all time. In fact this movie shattered new grounds back in 1995 by not using drawing cel animation and instead this movie is the first of an unbroken chain of computer generated animated movies that has continued to date with "Finding Nemo".

The plot is absolutely joyful and stunningly original. The story revolves around the quiet family home of a quiet town where a boy owns numerous toys with his toddler sister. The toys however, are almost like beings of their own and are 'living' as well but stop 'moving' when the boy comes back into his room. However, a cowboy named Tim is the most popular 'toy' in the boys bedroom and is kept by the pillow almost every night until on his birthday, he gets a fancy astronaut toy named Buzz Lightyear who has many 'gizmos' and in time takes over the toy cowboys place as the most popular toy and Tim gets enormously jealous of this. However, after a botched attempt to remove Buzz, the cowboy himself along with Buzz end up in the hands of a punk teenager who takes joy in blowing up toys with firecrackers and or other means like burning, breaking, or smashing them and/or even taking them apart and re-assembling their parts to create 'mutant' toys and now the clock is ticking for Tim and Buzz to escape from the boys house before they end up being blown to molecules.

This movie is absolutely fun and original even by 1995 standards. The computer generated special effects are innovative and unbelievable especially considereing the fact that this movie came out nearly a whole decade ago. The whole tone of the movie is just fun and charming and is for the entire family. Not only that but this was what put the then newcomers Pixas right into the front seat of movie animation and would be the start of an unbroken streak of excellent movies from this dynamite team.

Computer animation wow. 16th april 2004.
The toys are great, the graphics and scenery is too. The collectables are boys mostly but the film is ace for anyone. The 3D toys look real, the colors are excellent[like finding nemo]. The talking toys are all friends, and they live with their owner andy.

Hit Me With Another One!
Give me another Toy Story and while your at it lets go for a 5th. Wow lets see...Tom Hanks and Tim Alan...Pixar and Disney...Go get it or miss out! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

There is greatness in film that can be discussed, dissected, and talked about late into the night. Then there is genius that is right in front of our faces--we smile at the spell it puts us into and are refreshed, and nary a word needs to be spoken. This kind of entertainment is what they used to call "movie magic," and there is loads of it in this irresistible computer animation feature. Just a picture of these bright toys on the cover of Toy Story looks intriguing, reawakening the kid in us. Filmmaker John Lasseter's shorts (namely Knickknack and Tin Toy, which can be found on the Pixar video Tiny Toy Stories) illustrate not only a technical brilliance but also a great sense of humor--one in which the pun is always intended. Lasseter thinks of himself as a storyteller first and an animator second, much like another film innovator, Walt Disney.

Lasseter's story is universal and magical: what do toys do when they're not played with? Cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Andy's favorite bedroom toy, tries to calm the other toys (some original, some classic) during a wrenching time of year--the birthday party, when newer toys may replace them. Sure enough, Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) is the new toy that takes over the throne. Buzz has a crucial flaw, though--he believes he's the real Buzz Lightyear, not a toy. Bright and cheerful, Toy Story is much more than a 90-minute commercial for the inevitable bonanza of Woody and Buzz toys. Lasseter further scores with perfect voice casting, including Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head and Wallace Shawn as a meek dinosaur. The director-animator won a special Oscar for "the development and inspired application of techniques that have made possible the first feature-length computer-animated film." In other words, the movie is great. --Doug Thomas

... Read more

Reviews (81)

Toy Story
1995's "Toy Story" was the first feature length film generated entirely by computers, and Pixar's first dive into theatrical films. The movie opens as young Andy turns 7. The undisputed leader of Andy's toys, a 50's cowboy doll named Woody (Tom Hanks), finds himself challenged by the new toy on the block, "space ranger" Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). When Woody's plan to get rid of Buzz backfires, the two find themselves lost in the suburbs. Woody and Buzz relize they have to work together to get back to Andy's, and they eventually become the best of friends. The humor and animation is terrific, and a great start for Pixar. This lead to several other successes, such as A Bug's Life and Finding Nemo.

Now on to "the vaults". Disney is trying to squeeze every last penny out of the cash cow, and have the two Toy Story films under lock and key, no doubt so they can sell millions of "Special Editions" in five years. Once again, Disney appalls me with their unmatched corperate greed. In conclusion, Toy Story is an excellent film and a true must-see.

The Secret Lives of Toys Revealed
"Toy Story" is a modern fairy tale created with appropriately modern computer animation. Its snappy dialougue will appeal to adult viewers, the spectacle of fantastic toys coming to life will appeal to children, and adults may wax nostalgic about the toys they enjoyed as children, several of which are featured in this movie.
The story revolves around a cowboy doll named Woody, and his imminent replacement as the favorite toy of his owner, Andy, by Andy's new Buzz Lightyear doll, a multigadgeted gift that Andy receives for his birthday.
Tom Hanks'personality shines through in the persona of Woody, and Tim Allen's voice lends the right amount of charisma to Buzz.
In the process of forming an eventual friendship, the characters go through a lot of antagonism and a lot of other real human emotions. As they prepare for life in a new home, they are imperiled by the sadistic kid next door named Sid, into whose clutches they fall by accident.
It's entertaining to watch the toys interact with each other.
Buzz gradually learns that he is simply a child's plaything and not the noble space crusader he fancied himself to be in the beginning, and Woody learns to share his special place in Andy's heart. A great supporting cast including Annie Potts as Woody's sweetheart, Bo Peep, Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head, Jim Varney as Slinky, Wallace Shawn as Rex, John Ratzenburger as Ham, and Laurie Metcalfe as Andy's mother help fuel this tale.
Seeing this innovative film made me want to buy dolls of Woody and Buzz as collector's items. But I am content with just a copy of this movie. The second installment of the "Toy Story" saga is an enhancement of the first one, and just like the first, nothing short of delightful.

Original and fun for the whole family!
This movie took me by storm when I saw it back in the summer of 1995 at the theatres and let me tell you, this movie is still one of the best computer animated movies of all time. In fact this movie shattered new grounds back in 1995 by not using drawing cel animation and instead this movie is the first of an unbroken chain of computer generated animated movies that has continued to date with "Finding Nemo".

The plot is absolutely joyful and stunningly original. The story revolves around the quiet family home of a quiet town where a boy owns numerous toys with his toddler sister. The toys however, are almost like beings of their own and are 'living' as well but stop 'moving' when the boy comes back into his room. However, a cowboy named Tim is the most popular 'toy' in the boys bedroom and is kept by the pillow almost every night until on his birthday, he gets a fancy astronaut toy named Buzz Lightyear who has many 'gizmos' and in time takes over the toy cowboys place as the most popular toy and Tim gets enormously jealous of this. However, after a botched attempt to remove Buzz, the cowboy himself along with Buzz end up in the hands of a punk teenager who takes joy in blowing up toys with firecrackers and or other means like burning, breaking, or smashing them and/or even taking them apart and re-assembling their parts to create 'mutant' toys and now the clock is ticking for Tim and Buzz to escape from the boys house before they end up being blown to molecules.

This movie is absolutely fun and original even by 1995 standards. The computer generated special effects are innovative and unbelievable especially considereing the fact that this movie came out nearly a whole decade ago. The whole tone of the movie is just fun and charming and is for the entire family. Not only that but this was what put the then newcomers Pixas right into the front seat of movie animation and would be the start of an unbroken streak of excellent movies from this dynamite team.

Computer animation wow. 16th april 2004.
The toys are great, the graphics and scenery is too. The collectables are boys mostly but the film is ace for anyone. The 3D toys look real, the colors are excellent[like finding nemo]. The talking toys are all friends, and they live with their owner andy.

Hit Me With Another One!
Give me another Toy Story and while your at it lets go for a 5th. Wow lets see...Tom Hanks and Tim Alan...Pixar and Disney...Go get it or miss out! ... Read more

Reviews (20)

THE BEST!
I am probably the biggest Scared Stupid fan that there is. This movie is just absolutly brilliant! It's funny and scary all at the same time. Even though small kids might find Trantor (the troll) frightening (as I once did when it first came out)! I own this movie and definatly recommend it to anyone who even remotly likes Ernest or Jim Varney. If you like Ernest but have never seen this, watch it as a tribute to him, not only is it his best movie, but his acting and comedy is at its best!*****

Funniest Ernest ever.
This movie is the funniest Ernest ever made.It's not scary but it's funny just like every other Ernest movie.It's not regular movie it's really stupid funny.If your a real Ernest fan you'll know that all Ernest movies are funny and stupid,Ernest Scared Stupid is just like Ernest Goes to Jail,Ernest Goes to Camp,Ernest Goes to Africa,Ernest Goes to School,Ernest Rides Again,Slam Dunk Ernest,Ernest Saves Christmas,and Ernest in the Army.Hopefully to honor Jim Varney they will release his final Ernest movie "Ernest the Pirate."

Scared silly and loves it
Weird how sometimes kids like or dislike movies. My Grand Daughter, Sarah watched part of this when it came on Cable and my 14 y/o Grand Son was watching it.

She would peek around the corner of the living room and watch parts of it and then run screaming back to her mother in the kitchen. Then she would sneak back and watch some more. It was funny and interesting to watch her reactions.

She finally came in to the livng room when it was over and said " Papa, trolls, buy the trolls"...So I ordered the video and she has watched it over a dozen times. I also bought some of Jim's other movies. The camp one, the army one and one other that I can't think of the subject/title right now. She loves them all. She thinks he is great. Its such a shame and loss that he is gone. He was and will always be unique and wonderful.

Papa Ray

Maybe the Best Ernest Film
In this hilarious Ernest movie, Ernest P. Worrell, Class A goofball, unleashes a curse and must fight to stop a troll from turning all the children into wooden dolls. Better than Ernest goes to Camp and Ernest saves Christmas. I've seen it at least a dozen times and still laugh at the "Knowutimeans." Great family fun!

One Of THe Best Ernest Movies ever
This is a movie no matter how many times u see it its still funny. But its sad to see them stop makeing the movies cause Jim Varney Died of lung cancer in 2002 but this is a must get ... Read more

Reviews (21)

A Great Movie; A VERY Poor DVD
I really wanted to give this movie the five stars it so rightly deserves, but I can't. The DVD is just very, VERY poor. I will get to that later.

I always loved the Ernest movies when I was a kid, and even today at age 20, I still find them as funny and humerous as I did when I was little, if not more. "Ernest Goes to Jail" is by far my favorite Ernest movie.

Ernest always seems to get in trouble, and this movie is no exception. Ernest P. Worrell works as a janitor at a bank; or at least TRYING to work. Things go horribly wrong when Ernest is framed by a ruthless convict who looks EXACTLY like him, and is sent to the big house. While the evil look-alike is living his life, Ernest has to make it out of jail alive in hopes of proving his innocence. But of course, as always, nothing ever comes easy for Ernest. And the results are hillarious.

Jim Varney is as hillarious as ever in this out-of-control comedy. Forget Jim Carrey, THIS guy was the king of physical comedy. He also takes the challeng of playing TWO roles; playing Ernest, and the evil convict, Nash. And as goofy as this movie is, it actually has a creative story and plot.

The DVD, on the other hand, is not so great. Be warned: it is FULLSCREEN. I don't care if this is a comedy, it should be widescreen. Now, I wouldn't had mind if this movie had not been shot in widescreen, but from what I can remember, this one WAS in theatres, so it HAD to have been shot in widescreen format. But, I guess I can let that slide, since I have never seen the movie in widescreen, and being used to seeing it in fullscreen. The picture quality is so-so; not bad, but not great. Might as well have watched it on VHS. However, the sound quality is really good.

Special features? There aren't any. So don't go searching for them, because they aren't there. Nothing. I would've been satisfied with at least one theatrical trailer.

All in all, "Ernest Goes to Jail" is an awesome movie; despite how poor the DVD is. It's still funny, even today. I almost gave the DVD 3stars, but the movie is so good, I didn't want to give it too much of a low rating. So, I'll settle for 4 stars. Just keep in mind if the DVD wasn't so poor, I would've had no problem giving it 5 stars. It's a 5 star movie on a 2 star DVD. Maybe you should just get the VHS instead, since there isn't much of a difference between the two.

My very favorite Ernest movie
Ernest Goes to Jail in my opinion is the best Ernest movie out there cause it has more of a adult comedy feel to it than the rest of the Ernest movies, well anyway this movie is about Ernest P. Worrell who is a janitor at a bank but he wants to be a clerk but Ernest's boss Mr. Pendlesmythe won't give him the job and Ernest's co-worker/girlfriend Charlotte helps back Ernest up, meanwhile Jim Varney has another role in this movie as 'Nash' who is a cold hearted prisoner that is on deathrow and Nash's cellmate Rubin kills a fellow inmate while trying to escape. Meanwhile Ernest is on jury duty for the crime and there's a hilarious scene when Ernest was chewing on his pen and the ink comes out and while he was trying to wipe the ink off, the judge askes Ernest "Excuse me sir, are you all right?"
"Just Fine, Thank You."
And Rubin realizes that Ernest looks exactly like Nash and the trial resumes at the scene of the crime and before you know it, the switch is on meaning Nash and his other cellmate Lyle beat him up and changed each other's clothes meaning Nash walks away with the jury duty and Ernest is now a prisoner and it takes a while for him to realize that he's in JAAAAAIIIIIIILLLLLLLLLL!!!!!
The scenes with Ernest and the head guard are hilarious, meanwhile Rubin was acquitted with the murder charges and is going to finish his previous sentence and Nash is living Ernest's life, and Rubin tells Ernest that he has to be Nash or else. Later on in the movie Ernest later realizes that he's on deathrow and Nash is attempting to rob the bank and kidnaps the two security guards and Charlotte.
Will Ernest get out of deathrow alive, will Ernest finally get out of jail. In order to find out, watch this movie cause it's a classic, even if you're not a diehard fan of the Ernest movies but love comedies, then you should give this movie a try.
But the DVD version is no different than the VHS and it would be perfect if it had deleted scenes, a theatrical trailer and movie previews. But overall watch this movie.

Best Ernest movie ever..........
Ernest goes to jail is a the best Ernest movie ever.
The story go's of when Ernest is captured and switched places with an evil look a like by the name of Nash Ok I know that was a horrible description of what the story is about so I won't even bother saying what it is about so The viewers watch it.

Over This was a great Ernest flick to watch. If you're an Ernest fan this is the perfect Ernest movie to watch.

R.I.P Jim Varney

The best of the Ernest series!
"Ernest Goes to Jail" is easily the greatest of the Ernest series and a classic in it's own right. Jim Varney was one of the most talented and sadly, underrated, comedic actors in the history of film. See why in this movie. It's a comedic gem.

I just wish Disney spent the time and money to give the DVD release the justice it deserves. How soon they forget that this film tripled it's production budget at the box office. So what gives? The film transfer is bad (granted it's still much better than watching it on VHS), it's not widescreen, and finally, there are absolutely no special features. The only positive thing about this DVD is the audio quality.

In conclusion, "Ernest Goes to Jail" is certainly Jim Varney's masterpiece, but Touchtone Pictures should be ashamed for not giving this film the quality DVD treatment it deserves.

The Best Ernest Movie Ever
This is the best example of an Ernest movie. Jim Varney was a very good actor and it is a shame he died. This is a movie the whole family can enjoy and includes plenty of "Knowutimeans" to keep you laughing again and again! ... Read more

Reviews (19)

heartwarming and rich
A friend of mine introduced me to this movie and I'm glad she did. I'm not the kind of person who normally watches sappy movies when anyone has a chance of seeing me watch them. I am, however, a closet romantic and I must say I happily watched ANNABELLE'S WISH and unashamedly sniffled with tears in my eyes towards the end.

I think this movie ranks up with some of my all time holiday favorites like "The Year Without a Santa Clause," "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas," and "Small One". In terms of length, it's a little short, certainly designed so for the younger audiences it will attract, but it's the kind of movie you'll pull out of the cabinet time and again during the holiday season simply because it will make you feel good to watch it. Cocoa or warm cider, a blanket, and a few children watching will make your viewing time that much better.

Cute story, grabs the attention of everyone!
We rented this movie for our 2 year old son who loves animals.He loved the Bambi & Tigger movies and after seeing Annabelle's Wish, he found a new movie to add to his favorites! We were so happy to find it available from Amazon.This story has a wonderful story line, and shows children how a child with a disability can enjoy life just the same.

A Delightful Story
Annabelle's Wish is one of the best non-commerical and non-religious Christmas stories ever told. The ending can bring a tear to most eyes. Although it is a straight-to-video cartoon, the cast is full of big names like Jerry Van Dyke, the late Jim Varney, Frank Welker, Cloris Leachman, and Randy Travis (who also sings a few songs).

Annabelle is a calf born on Grandpa Baker's farm on Christmas Eve who wants to become one of Santa's reindeer. Struggling for money, Grandpa gives Annabelle as a Christmas gift to Billy, his orphaned grandson who lives with him. We learn that Santa Claus gives the animals the gift of speech each Christmas Day and that Billy has been mute since being caught in a barn fire when he was younger.

During the coming year Grandpa Baker tries to keep guardianship of Billy from a rich and tenacious Aunt Agnes while Billy is tormented by the bullying Holder Boys. Luckily Billy has his two best friends Annabelle and neighbor Emily to help him though it all.

Does Billy stay with his poor Grandpa on the farm or go to the city with his rich aunt? Will he ever talk again? Does Annabelle ever pull Santa's sleigh? Will the Holder Boys ever get what's coming to them?

I won't tell you, you have to watch the movie. It's worth it!

Annabelle's Wish Is A Classic In Our Home
This is just the best "cartoon" Christmas movie ever. And what a great message it gives us through Annabelle the cow. Annabelle teaches us by example that it is better to give than to receive. Her best friend is a little boy who is now mute because of his fear in a barn fire some time in the past. The boy has few friends, but the animals and a little girl who befriend him are true-blue. The boy is given his voice in the end from Santa because Annabelle gave up her wish to fly like the reindeer. It really is touching. You've got to get this one for the kids (and adults who are soft at heart).

One of the few Modern Xmas Classics
Well, alot of the newer Christmas specials don't have the same kind of magic that the older classics had. This is a wonderful exception. Its charming and sentimental, and full of magic. With a down home "country" feel, this special shows that christmas is about love and giving. When Annabelle is born on Christmas Eve, Santa comes and gives all the barn animals a special gift, they can talk on Christmas Day! Annabelle decides that if she is really good all year long, maybe Santa will grant her a special wish so she can fly with his reindeer! But when Billy needs her, does that mean she won't get her chance? There's a star-studded cast of voice, and the DVD contains lots of great extras (including a deleted song, a funny one which the kids might enjoy!) This movie is a total tear-jerker and great for adults and children too. Definately make this a special you watch! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Don't waste your time on this turd!!!
This movie was god awful from start to finish. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Thornton's other movies, especially "Bad Santa." But this flick is a piece of crap. I don't even think there was a script. They just said what came to mind. The only 2 things worth watching are Andy Griffith's un-Andy Griffith like portrayal of a man worried about his brother(Jim Varney) getting "cornholed" in jail and the first theatrical appearance of phone prankster Roy D. Mercer. Otherwise, the movie just plain sucks.

a finely crafted southern movie
I had been wondering if this would ever be released,and thankfully it happened.I don't know how Billy Bob Thorton assembled this great cast, but it was quite a feat to have this many greats on a picture.John Prine was a real treat in his first acting debut, and It's the last wink from Jim Varney you'll get to see.This picture is a hilarious look at things southern that will make you take note of simpler places in life and re-acess whats important in our everyday worlds.

Originally funny!
I gave this movie four stars because I laughed almost throughout. When I sit down to watch a comedy, I don't care about plot so much as I care about being entertained in an original way. Daddy & Them is funny because it echoes real life... not my life, but some people I've had the misfortune of getting trapped next to for seemingly unending periods. This movie has some of the most stupid conversation I've ever heard, played with flawlessly straight faces - and that's what's funny. I wish I could go over all the wonderfully funny parts, but that would spoil it for you :). It's definitely worth at least one viewing. I'm adding it to my DVD collection.

a must
This is an excellent movie-very funny. If you like the Big Lebowski, check this out.

If you're looking for laughs, give it a try.
I watched this film when it appeared on TV, with NO expectations, since I'd never heard of it. (It had a miminal theatrical release, mainly in a few film festivals where it won some rave reviews and high rankings in the audience-favorite votes.) Actually, I had negative expectations since Showtime's description made it sound like yet another "Hollywood Makes Fun of Hillbillies" movie. But I thought the cast listing made it worth a try, and I ended up laughing out loud repeatedly while watching it. I taped it and hesitantly showed it to a group of friends, all very sensitive to hillbilly stereotyping -- they all loved it. It's quirky enough that you'll probably love it or hate it, but I bought the DVD as soon as it was released, and plan on buying several more as gifts. Granted, it's not Shakespeare, but it has a wonderful set of characters, all very well acted, and just enough of a plot to let them shine. If you're looking for laughs, give it a try. And, as another reviewer noted, be sure to catch John Prine's song, "In Spite of Ourselves," during the credits at the end. It's such a hoot that I bought the Prine album on which it appears, even though I generally hate country music and it's a country album. ... Read more

Description

From the creative team who brought you THE LION KING and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST comes an exciting quest of adventure and discovery. Join the expedition and search below the sea for one of the greatest mysteries of all time ... ATLANTIS: THE LOST EMPIRE. The world's most highly qualified crew of archaeologists and explorers are led by historian Milo Thatch as they board the incredible 1,000-foot submarine Ulysses and head deep into the mysteries of the sea. The underwater expedition takes an unexpected turn when the team's mission must switch from exploring Atlantis to protecting it. Filled with stunning visual effects, this captivating story is loaded with laughs and messages of friendship and teamwork. Dive into ATLANTIS: THE LOST EMPIRE -- it's an adventure your family will enjoy taking over and over again. ... Read more

Reviews (325)

Someone should put Disney out of their misery
Disney hasn't made a decent movie since the Lion King. Since then, their films have been kiddie fare with plots and characters as deep as a puddle.

Now they are trying to appeal to the sought-after teen audience. First they tried with the CGI Dinosaur, which was a spectacular flop. Then they tried with Atlantis, which is pretty much also a flop (Shrek is crushing it).

Atlantis tries to look hip and mature with an array of machinery, some cartoon violence, and some slightly-above-average humor. Unfortunately tDisney just dosen't get it. Just because a film is rated PG instead of G does not make it a more intense movie, nor does it draw a broader audience. Atlantis's plot is rushed and confused (makes sense, since the plot was ripped of from a 39-episode series called NADIA), and its characters are, as usual, one-dimensional and stereotyped. Not even the character designs are very impressive.

Note to Disney: You want to get back your reputation and some teens into your audience? Then fire your writers, and get the people who did Watership Down, or even Princess Mononoke.

Atlantis gets 2 stars for some impressive eye candy.

Not Your Typical Disney Film, but Lots of FUN
Despite the venom spewed forth by previous reviewers, I really think there's a justifiable place in the Disney vault for Atlantis, and I'll admit, it has quickly become an unlikely favorite of mine among Disney animated features. I hold it akin to an animated Star Wars, if that makes sense. With lots of action, no sing-alongs, and a cast of animated adults, this movie will lend itself more towards 8 year-olds than toddlers. I don't see a problem with that as children aren't one age and have different tastes.

This is not your usual, happy-go-lucky, sing-a-long style movie that Disney is known for proliferating. It takes me back to Disney's Black Cauldron in terms of mood and feel. It is somewhat dark, eerie, and action packed. But the characters are fun and interesting, and Michael J. Fox does a great job as Milo Thatch.

It is true that the story is set as a period piece in the early 1900's, but I don't agree with one viewer's gripe that historical accuracy was not maintained. Don't fault Disney for not being a historical educator. They're not! In response to "How are children to know the difference between what is real and what isn't if adults don't show them?", my first reaction was to think who would intrepret animation as reality? It's moving ink! It is not reality! It's entertainment. So what if you cross time periods? Or if the weapons and objects in Atlantis weren't invented for decades afterwards? By this logic, Rambo was a more educational movie because he used the weapons of the time?

And as far as "If you want to teach your children to smoke buy this movie." - Gimme a break. I'd like to believe that parents play a larger role in child development than to blame TV for how their kids turn out.

Great movie though. If you think you'd enjoy the action and adventure of Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark in an animated form, this is for you.

A New Age Adventure
Atlantis: The Lost Empire has the most mesmerizing, clear, crisp, animation since Fantasia. The music is also exceptional - I am going to purchase the soundtrack. The story is inventive and original, capitalizing on the intriguing mystery of the lost city of Atlantis.

Michael J. Fox is wonderful as Milo, the unrecognized and unappreciated geek archaelogist who spends his time researching Atlantis and fixing the New York Museum of Natural History's cantankerous boiler in the basement. His life takes a turn when a beautiful woman (voiced by the woman who did the Fairy Godmother's voice in Shrek 2) takes him to a reclusive millionaire who is willing to fund an expedition to search for the legendary city.

Other great voice talent brings the characters to life: Cree Summer as the beautiful Princess Kida, Leonard Nimoy as the King of Atlantis, the late Jim Varney as Cookie, and James Garner as the military leader of the expedition. The movie's creators brought in a linguist who had worked on the Star Trek movies to create an Atlantean language.

The very last scene made me cry. Grab your crystal and some popcorn. The movie is at once dreamy and inspirational, and highly recommended.

Another rip-off by Disney!!!
This trashy Disney film is nothing but a rip-off of Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, which is a wonderful japanese anime series.

This "Lost Empire" is Waiting to be Discovered!
Any time you stray from the basic formula (even if it hasn't produced anything worthwhile in several years), people are going to question it. Whenever you attempt to try something new, people are going to have mixed reactions. And just because something is supposed to have a certain look, a certain feel, yet goes in an entirely different direction, does not necessarily label it as bad. Such is the case with Disney's "Atlantis: The Lost Empire."

This film was largely passed over by movie-goers simply because it came out during Disney's animated dry spell (which began a long time ago and is still occurring today). I consider it a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. This movie has a lot going for it - namely because it's not your typical animated fare from Disney. Everyone involved tinkered with a formula that desperately needed an extreme makeover. And for the most part, it worked.

I don't watch a movie for deep, moving storylines. I don't plunk down my eight bucks for a film that will tug at my heartstrings. I tune in to be entertained, plain and simple. And "Atlantis: The Lost Empire" did just that. I enjoyed this movie from the opening scenes to the closing credits. For the first time since "The Lion King" back in 1994, an animated feature from Disney held my interest. And while I wouldn't place it on a pedestal next to likes of "The Lion King" or "Beauty and the Beast" or "The Little Mermaid," it does rank as one of Disney's better animated movies of all time (especially lately).

"Atlantis: The Lost Empire" is not littered with sing-a-long songs. What it does have is an awesome orchestral soundtrack by James Newton Howard (one of the best composers of any era EVER); I disagree with one reviewer who said there wasn't "a breathtaking musical score." What movie were you watching? There isn't a witty sidekick to accompany the main character on his adventure. What the movie does have is several eccentric characters which flesh out the film, rather than relying on the cliché partner/chum to spout off nifty one-liners. And the feature isn't cutesy-wutesy like most Disney animated films. It's got some attitude, it's rough around the edges, and it's just plain awesome to look at from a visual standpoint; very exotic. I agree with another reviewer who said this movie is "one of Disney's most underrated films ever made." You hit the nail right on the head.

This movie is not groundbreaking. It will not change your life. But it sure is entertaining. It's got lively voice actors (Michael J. Fox, James Garner, etc.), a delightful Disney heroine in Princess Kida (she ranks up there with Ariel and Beauty, in my opinion), and it's a visually-stunning treat that mixes standard animation with computer-generated effects.

"Atlantis: The Lost Empire" is one of the few good animated films offered from Disney in the past several years. Like I said earlier, it's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Give it a chance. What have you got to lose? You could waste your time with far worse movies than this one. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

The Funniest Movie Ever!
Ernest Goes to Camp is one of the funniest films I have ever seen. Jim Varney is one of the funniest comedians ever and along with this film, should go down in comedy classics history. It is certainly worth a look for fans of the genre or the curious, who will no doubt fall in love with Ernest and want to see all the wonderful sequels this movie produced. Ya know what I mean Vern?

Humorous and Touching
Jim Varney does an excellent job with his humorous, yet touching role as Ernest: Camp Counselor. The introduction to this movie is really funny. If you haven't done so already, pay attention to the golf cart! That isn't the last time you'll see it. Ernest's tolerance of the Second Chance boys is touching. I listen to "I'm Glad It's Raining" every now and then to remember this movie. It's really nice to see a movie where everything comes out ok in the end. The war at the mining camp is a riot! Simple little things such as the turtle saying "I'm scared, sarge" adds to the humor. This movie would not be as good if you tried to apply logic to some of the actions or if you dissected the plot. Just enjoy it for the humor & caring!

One Of My Favorite Movies Ever!!! (For Some Sick Reason)
"Ernest Goes To Camp" You just can't say that phrase, and not crack a smile! Jim Varney (Rest In Peace) Is my second favorite actor, next to Jack Nicelson. This is one of my favorite things do do at school:

[Go up to someone and ask:]
Me: "Have you ever seen "Ernest Goes To Camp"?
[They responed either "Uhh... Yes" or "Uhh... No".]
Me: "Oh, well I could get a projector, and show it on my butt."

I guess you had to be there... Anyway. I love this movie. If you love stupid/funny/retarded people doing/saying stupid/funny/retarded things. you'll love this movie!!!

P.S. Jim Varney, We hardly knew ye.

Cinematic Perfection
Why Jim Varney was overlooked for an Oscar for his portrayal of Ernest is a mystery to me. This film is pure comedic genius which rivals that of Charlie Chaplin and Lauryl and Hardy. The premise of the film is simple enough. Ernest longs to be a camp counselor where he works as a maintenance man. The hijinx are a plenty as Ernest takes on a group of tough misfit kids. This heart of gold maintenance man can teach us all a lesson for what's really important in life, being true to who you are and having friends. This film generated a lot of Oscar buzz when it was first released in 1987 and hasn't lost a step over the years.

Going Back to Camp.
ERNEST GOES TO CAMP was the first of the Ernest movies and it was made in the hey-day of Jim Varney's career as Ernest. The movie was made when Varney had a Saturday morning television show and was still making those popular television commercials on a regular basis. The film precedes other ventures in Varney's career, such as his voice work in the TOY STORY films. Next to ERNEST SAVES CHRISTMAS, ERNEST GOES TO CAMP is the best of all the Ernest movies that were made.

Unlike the other Varney films, Varney sticks to playing Ernest. Ernest works at a summer camp for boys as a maintenance man. He longs to be a camp counselor, but the director feels he isn't qualified. However, when the camp participates in a "Second Chance" program for delinquint boys and no one else seems to be able to handle them, Ernest is given the job of being their counselor. At first the gang finds him annoying and a push-over, but over time they come to respect him and realize all he has done for them. The climax of the movie erupts when a nearby mining company threatens to takeover the camp after duping the Native American chief who owned the land. Ernest won't stand by and see the camp destroyed and with the help from his boys they take on the mining company.

The movie is full of dumb humor that kids are sure to enjoy. I remember laughing hysterically when I originally saw this film in the theatre. My tastes have changed since then, but after watching the movie again on DVD, I still enjoyed it for what it was: a big, dumb movie with an awful lot of heart. The movie is a great family movie because it contains no foul language or sexual innduendo and very little violence. It's also a joy to watch because it illustrates the comic genius of Jim Varney back in his prime. Plus, it has the only film I know of that includes turtle paratroopers. Happy viewing! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

There is greatness in film that can be discussed, dissected, and talked about late into the night. Then there is genius that is right in front of our faces--we smile at the spell it puts us into and are refreshed, and nary a word needs to be spoken. This kind of entertainment is what they used to call "movie magic," and there is loads of it in this irresistible computer animation feature. Just a picture of these bright toys on the cover of Toy Story looks intriguing, reawakening the kid in us. Filmmaker John Lasseter's shorts (namely Knickknack and Tin Toy, which can be found on the Pixar video Tiny Toy Stories) illustrate not only a technical brilliance but also a great sense of humor--one in which the pun is always intended. Lasseter thinks of himself as a storyteller first and an animator second, much like another film innovator, Walt Disney.

Lasseter's story is universal and magical: what do toys do when they're not played with? Cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Andy's favorite bedroom toy, tries to calm the other toys (some original, some classic) during a wrenching time of year--the birthday party, when newer toys may replace them. Sure enough, Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) is the new toy that takes over the throne. Buzz has a crucial flaw, though--he believes he's the real Buzz Lightyear, not a toy. Bright and cheerful, Toy Story is much more than a 90-minute commercial for the inevitable bonanza of Woody and Buzz toys. Lasseter further scores with perfect voice casting, including Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head and Wallace Shawn as a meek dinosaur. The director-animator won a special Oscar for "the development and inspired application of techniques that have made possible the first feature-length computer-animated film." In other words, the movie is great. --Doug Thomas

... Read more

Reviews (81)

Toy Story
1995's "Toy Story" was the first feature length film generated entirely by computers, and Pixar's first dive into theatrical films. The movie opens as young Andy turns 7. The undisputed leader of Andy's toys, a 50's cowboy doll named Woody (Tom Hanks), finds himself challenged by the new toy on the block, "space ranger" Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). When Woody's plan to get rid of Buzz backfires, the two find themselves lost in the suburbs. Woody and Buzz relize they have to work together to get back to Andy's, and they eventually become the best of friends. The humor and animation is terrific, and a great start for Pixar. This lead to several other successes, such as A Bug's Life and Finding Nemo.

Now on to "the vaults". Disney is trying to squeeze every last penny out of the cash cow, and have the two Toy Story films under lock and key, no doubt so they can sell millions of "Special Editions" in five years. Once again, Disney appalls me with their unmatched corperate greed. In conclusion, Toy Story is an excellent film and a true must-see.

The Secret Lives of Toys Revealed
"Toy Story" is a modern fairy tale created with appropriately modern computer animation. Its snappy dialougue will appeal to adult viewers, the spectacle of fantastic toys coming to life will appeal to children, and adults may wax nostalgic about the toys they enjoyed as children, several of which are featured in this movie.
The story revolves around a cowboy doll named Woody, and his imminent replacement as the favorite toy of his owner, Andy, by Andy's new Buzz Lightyear doll, a multigadgeted gift that Andy receives for his birthday.
Tom Hanks'personality shines through in the persona of Woody, and Tim Allen's voice lends the right amount of charisma to Buzz.
In the process of forming an eventual friendship, the characters go through a lot of antagonism and a lot of other real human emotions. As they prepare for life in a new home, they are imperiled by the sadistic kid next door named Sid, into whose clutches they fall by accident.
It's entertaining to watch the toys interact with each other.
Buzz gradually learns that he is simply a child's plaything and not the noble space crusader he fancied himself to be in the beginning, and Woody learns to share his special place in Andy's heart. A great supporting cast including Annie Potts as Woody's sweetheart, Bo Peep, Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head, Jim Varney as Slinky, Wallace Shawn as Rex, John Ratzenburger as Ham, and Laurie Metcalfe as Andy's mother help fuel this tale.
Seeing this innovative film made me want to buy dolls of Woody and Buzz as collector's items. But I am content with just a copy of this movie. The second installment of the "Toy Story" saga is an enhancement of the first one, and just like the first, nothing short of delightful.

Original and fun for the whole family!
This movie took me by storm when I saw it back in the summer of 1995 at the theatres and let me tell you, this movie is still one of the best computer animated movies of all time. In fact this movie shattered new grounds back in 1995 by not using drawing cel animation and instead this movie is the first of an unbroken chain of computer generated animated movies that has continued to date with "Finding Nemo".

The plot is absolutely joyful and stunningly original. The story revolves around the quiet family home of a quiet town where a boy owns numerous toys with his toddler sister. The toys however, are almost like beings of their own and are 'living' as well but stop 'moving' when the boy comes back into his room. However, a cowboy named Tim is the most popular 'toy' in the boys bedroom and is kept by the pillow almost every night until on his birthday, he gets a fancy astronaut toy named Buzz Lightyear who has many 'gizmos' and in time takes over the toy cowboys place as the most popular toy and Tim gets enormously jealous of this. However, after a botched attempt to remove Buzz, the cowboy himself along with Buzz end up in the hands of a punk teenager who takes joy in blowing up toys with firecrackers and or other means like burning, breaking, or smashing them and/or even taking them apart and re-assembling their parts to create 'mutant' toys and now the clock is ticking for Tim and Buzz to escape from the boys house before they end up being blown to molecules.

This movie is absolutely fun and original even by 1995 standards. The computer generated special effects are innovative and unbelievable especially considereing the fact that this movie came out nearly a whole decade ago. The whole tone of the movie is just fun and charming and is for the entire family. Not only that but this was what put the then newcomers Pixas right into the front seat of movie animation and would be the start of an unbroken streak of excellent movies from this dynamite team.

Computer animation wow. 16th april 2004.
The toys are great, the graphics and scenery is too. The collectables are boys mostly but the film is ace for anyone. The 3D toys look real, the colors are excellent[like finding nemo]. The talking toys are all friends, and they live with their owner andy.

Hit Me With Another One!
Give me another Toy Story and while your at it lets go for a 5th. Wow lets see...Tom Hanks and Tim Alan...Pixar and Disney...Go get it or miss out! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

BAD compared to his earlier movies
Slam Dunk Ernest isn't that good, it's a total disapointment compared the Ernest Saves Christmas and Ernest Goes to Jail (my favorite Ernest movie). But it does have some funny parts but the bad parts are when Ernest's girlfriend doesn't turn out the way she seems and when the basketball players are mean to Ernest. Only recommended to diehard Ernest fans.

Morality play
This is the most moralistic of Ernest's films. In this film, Ernest is a night janitor at a shopping mall, who wants to join the basketball team that his fellow janitors play on. Naturally, given Ernest's uncommon ineptitude, the other fellows don't want him anywhere near the court, never mind letting him join the team. But a heavenly basketball angel (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) drops by with some shoes that give Ernest the edge. Success quickly goes to Ernest's head. He finally gets his girl, but she doesn't quite turn out to be the sweetheart that he had in mind. To save the day this time, Ernest has to make up his mind about what is really important in life.

This movie focuses relentlessly on how decisions affect the lives of the characters. Each of the main characters, Ernest, his girl friend, his buddy on the team, and the buddy's five-year-old son are forced to face the consequences of the decisions that they make. There aren't many super-hilarious scenes in this movie, but I still find it great to have around the house. My 85 year-old grandmother loves it because of its religious themes as well as the lack of sex, violence, or bad language. And my 4 year-old niece loves it, too.

The pits
I'm a bona-fide Ernest fan. But if I had seen this movie first, I probably would never have seen another Ernest movie. It's just not funny. Jim Varney's talents are wasted, and nobody else in this movie had any talent to begin with.

For those looking for great Ernest, check out "Ernest Rides Again", "Ernest Goes to Camp" or "Ernest Goes to Jail."

The worst Ernest movie.
I found the magic sneeakers plot very stupid. I'm sorry Jim (may you rest in peace), but this one was one I looked forward too and it was a let down. But I'l still watch it, just because it's an Ernest movie. Sorry Mr./Mrs. barb@favorites.com, but in case you haven't heard, Jim Varney died earlier this year. I know it's sad, I'm still mourning over it. Maybe the people who made the Ernest movies will come to their senses and rerelease the Ernest movies in his memory. Or maybe he finished Ernest the Pirate before he died and release that.

Ernst Rules!!!!!!
My daughter is probly Jim Varneys biggest fan. She dressed up in a wedding dress at the age of 2 yrs old and was waiting for Ernst to get out of Jail so he could marry her. She is now 11 yrs old and she just found her Dad dead last year, it is my desire to find out Jim Varney's address so that she could write her dream man and maybe get her dream come true-a letter from the man of her life. She is true blue to him. Has all of his movies memorized. Please someone help me find Jim Varney's address, please!!!!! My e-mail is barb@favorites.com Please make my baby's dream come true her birthday is Oct 6th and I would like to supprise her by then! Thanks ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Ernest's downfall
I've always pretty much liked the Ernest movies. Yes, they are silly and whatnot but they were always funny and I can't think of another actor who can make such funny faces. Unfortunately, in this one the budget was seemed to have been kept to a maximum of about 200 bucks. It's very low budget and it was dissappointing to see Ernest in something so stupid.
The story was cheesy, flimsy, and stupid. The actors (excluding Ernest himself) were horrible, and it was altogether just cheesy. Ernest also wasn't very funny in this one at all. His co-star, that dumb waitress who goes along with Ernest to Africa was so mean and stupid I just wanted to slap her across the face. Anyways, there's not much to say about this movie except if you want some real Ernest, I'd suggest "Ernest goes to Jail","Ernest Scared Stupid", or "Ernest goes to school."

COMEDY CLASSIC!
One of the series' best finds Ernest in love and on the run from jewel thieves in Africa. It's great to see Ernest in such an exotic setting.

Almost realistic
In this film, Ernest wants a date with Renee, the waitress at a local diner. She considers herself to deserve more than this Mr. Nobody. At the advice of the other waitress, Ernest tries to win Renee's heart with a gift. Unfortunately, while shopping for the gift, he gets mixed up in a jewel theft involving stolen African treasure. That lands both Renee and Ernest in Africa, where they must try to evade capture by competing teams of jewel thieves. While in Africa, Ernest gets to try out an extended scene with the old lady in the green dress, and he does a masterful job as an Indian swami.

The first time I saw this movie, I thought it lacked continuity. I found it somewhat strange to see Indians, Arabs, and Brits mixed in with the African characters, and I thought that Varney had gotten his geography thoroughly confused this time. I also found the stereotypes that he was playing with a bit offensive- -many of the characters certainly aren't politically correct. However, after seeing the film again after living years in the Middle East, I can now recognize the characters easily, and they are incredibly realistic and very funny indeed. Varney must have spent some time in East Africa before making this film. While he was there, he no doubt visited an Arabic palace in Zanzibar, had some run-ins with Indian servants and British hunters, and met some friendly tribesmen who taught him some key phrases in a Bantu language. Unlike some of Ernest's more kid-centered movies, this film doesn't have a moral theme. It's just Ernest on safari.

Maybe he's too funny to be appealing.
I saw this movie today and the one thing that disgusted me about this movie more than anything was that woman Renee. She totally deceived a funny, warm-hearted guy who really had feelings for her. How bitchy she treated him was in my opinion absolutely uncalled for. All he wanted was for her to be his girlfriend, but all he got was hurt feelings and deception instead. She was mean and what I'd rather see in a movie is a nice woman who gives the hero the love and romance he deserves.

I hope you see my point in my sincere interview.
Steve

Great movie.
This is by far the greatest movie ever made.I love Ernest,but all his other movies suck.This is by far,the best Ernest movie ever made.I love when he's in Africa.I watch it every time,and every year.If you haven't seen this movie,your missing alot. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

If you like Jim Varney, you'll enjoy this movie!
I've enjoyed this movie since the year it came out. I had recorded the TV version years ago, but it is very worn. I logged on today to find and purchase a copy of Ernest Saves Christmas. It is so disappointing that copies are not available now. Is there any way to get copies again?

This is a movie that even my teenager will sit down and laugh at, even with Mom and Dad still in the room. Ha! If YOU haven't seen it, you've missed a delightful Christmas story with warmth, compassion, and lots of funny moments. Oh, and it's clean! You can let your elementary age kids see it without hesitation on your part.

Ernest saves Christmas
When I was a kid and I first saw this movie, it was one of my favorites. Now I'm 20 and I watched it again, and I still like it. Ernest (Jim Varney) unwillingly tries to help out a retiring Santa Claus in order to save Christmas.

It takes "Ernest Saves Christmas" a long time to get to the real good parts. Until about the last 20 minutes of the movie, the story goes along at a slow pace following Santa Claus's struggle to get people to believe that he's the real Santa Claus and to try to convince the man that he wants to pass the torch to in order for him to become the next Santa Claus. However, the movie is funny, especially when Ernest finally tries his skills at driving the sleigh with the reindeer.

"Ernest Saves Christmas" isn't the funniest of the Ernest movies, but it is a good one. If you like other Ernest movies or Christmas comedies, I recommend getting "Ernest Saves Christmas."

Christmas is coming! Know what I mean?
1988's "Ernest Saves Christmas" is a loveable children's movie that's packed with goofy gags and silly holiday humor. Of course, most of the magic is brought out by America's favorite country bumpkin, Ernest P. Worrell (Jim Varney).
After 151 years on the job, Santa Claus (Douglas Seale) moves to Orlando, Florida to retire. To keep the Christmas spirit alive, he attempts to hire a former T.V. show host named Joe Curruthers (Oliver Clark) as his replacement. Joe is chosen because of his unending devotion to making kids happy. However, Joe's money-hungry agent, Marty Brock, (Robert Lesser) offers him a chance of a lifetime; a starring role in a gruesome horror movie called "Christmas Slay." Later on, after believing that Santa isn't who he claims to be, Marty has the old man arrested and taken to prison! Even worse, Santa accidentally left his bag of toys behind! Meanwhile, Ernest is an airport taxi driver who tries to celebrate Christmas with his flabbergasted neighbor Vern...and with disastrous results! When he discovers Kris Kringle's magical bag of toys, Ernest realizes that he's the real thing! In a race against time, Ernest and a runaway teen named Harmony Star (Noelle Parker) have to bail Santa out of jail and help him fetch Joe before 7:00 pm on December 24th. Otherwise, the magic of Christmas will disappear forever! Along the way, Ernest flips pancakes onto the ceiling, crashes a chandelier on a dining room table, adapts a few cartoonish disguises (including that of the cranky Auntie Nelda), and rockets to the moon on a sleigh with 8 tiny reindeer! To make a long story short, "Ernest Saves Christmas" is fun for the whole family.

Ernest in a holiday comedy romp!
"Ernest Saves Christmas" is one film I can't understand why is so underrated, and overlooked. TV Guide gives it one star which means poor. That's not right. Some film critics they are. I find this film very enjoyable and a must-see holiday film. Ernest (Jim Varney) with the help of Harmony Starr/Pamela Trenton (Noelle Parker) help retiring Santa (Douglas Seale) get beloved former kids' TV star (Oliver Clark) become the new Santa Claus before 7:00 PM on Christmas Eve. Ignore the underratings and take a shot at this beloved and cherishing film that remains timeless. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Christmas Cool
This is by far the best of the "Ernest" films. Disney did a great job with this one. Catch the cute littles things they put into this one. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Don't waste your time on this turd!!!
This movie was god awful from start to finish. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Thornton's other movies, especially "Bad Santa." But this flick is a piece of crap. I don't even think there was a script. They just said what came to mind. The only 2 things worth watching are Andy Griffith's un-Andy Griffith like portrayal of a man worried about his brother(Jim Varney) getting "cornholed" in jail and the first theatrical appearance of phone prankster Roy D. Mercer. Otherwise, the movie just plain sucks.

a finely crafted southern movie
I had been wondering if this would ever be released,and thankfully it happened.I don't know how Billy Bob Thorton assembled this great cast, but it was quite a feat to have this many greats on a picture.John Prine was a real treat in his first acting debut, and It's the last wink from Jim Varney you'll get to see.This picture is a hilarious look at things southern that will make you take note of simpler places in life and re-acess whats important in our everyday worlds.

Originally funny!
I gave this movie four stars because I laughed almost throughout. When I sit down to watch a comedy, I don't care about plot so much as I care about being entertained in an original way. Daddy & Them is funny because it echoes real life... not my life, but some people I've had the misfortune of getting trapped next to for seemingly unending periods. This movie has some of the most stupid conversation I've ever heard, played with flawlessly straight faces - and that's what's funny. I wish I could go over all the wonderfully funny parts, but that would spoil it for you :). It's definitely worth at least one viewing. I'm adding it to my DVD collection.

a must
This is an excellent movie-very funny. If you like the Big Lebowski, check this out.

If you're looking for laughs, give it a try.
I watched this film when it appeared on TV, with NO expectations, since I'd never heard of it. (It had a miminal theatrical release, mainly in a few film festivals where it won some rave reviews and high rankings in the audience-favorite votes.) Actually, I had negative expectations since Showtime's description made it sound like yet another "Hollywood Makes Fun of Hillbillies" movie. But I thought the cast listing made it worth a try, and I ended up laughing out loud repeatedly while watching it. I taped it and hesitantly showed it to a group of friends, all very sensitive to hillbilly stereotyping -- they all loved it. It's quirky enough that you'll probably love it or hate it, but I bought the DVD as soon as it was released, and plan on buying several more as gifts. Granted, it's not Shakespeare, but it has a wonderful set of characters, all very well acted, and just enough of a plot to let them shine. If you're looking for laughs, give it a try. And, as another reviewer noted, be sure to catch John Prine's song, "In Spite of Ourselves," during the credits at the end. It's such a hoot that I bought the Prine album on which it appears, even though I generally hate country music and it's a country album. ... Read more

Reviews (3)