Reviews (1)

Could have been better
In this movie, a trio of young people build an independent burger stand on the outskirts of a college campus in direct opposition to an evil burger baron (played by Jim Varney), who wants their space. The burger stand doesn't get very much business until one of the managers decides to try adding an experimental aphrodisiac to the special sauce.

The plot actually isn't that bad-it has great potential for some laughs. Unfortunately, the script is terrible, so bad in fact, that you can actually see some of the characters cringe as they say their lines. Some of the acting is pretty good, despite the script. Varney fans get to see him as a bad guy for a change. Some of the funniest scenes show Varney as the burger baron on the set shooting ads for his burgers, where Varney shows another perspective on all those ads that he made himself. Unfortunately, there isn't enough Varney footage in this flick to save the film. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Funny when I was paying attention
I liked it. It was funny,exiting, it was just the kind of movie I like. But it did'nt quite keep my attention.

Not a great flick, but sort of fun
This movie has the feel of a television pilot (I think it was). It isn't a great movie, but if you're a fan of Stephen J. Cannell shows, it's for you. For Jim Varney fans, his role is a real treat ­ a goofy inventor (brother to Chad Everett character) who always has a scam up his sleeve. ... 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 (5)

hot movie, cold price
This is a really delightful and peculiar comedy from GG Caron (Moonlighting). Unfortunately, it is also ludicrously overpriced at $22. If this film had come out on MGM instead, at about half the cost, it might have found a more receptive market.

So bizarre it's fun!
This movie stars Dennis Quade, Arliss Howard and Debra Winger. Debra Winger is married to one of two brothers who share an unusual ability, the ability to start fires. Of course the movie starts out with Winger under house arrest for arson and only gets better from then on.
From chorusing firemen to twisted carnival clowns and look out for Jim Varney to be part of the action too.

This is a Must See Movie!!!!!!!!
I feel sorry for Lenard Maltin that he couldn't see the wonderful intertainment in this film. My wife and I saw it a few years ago and had to make it a part of our perminent collection!
Anyone who doesn't see the genius in this film has no depth.
We are 50 something and don't understand why Lenard pulled a thumbs down.
Do yourself a favor and get his movie! Everytime you watch it it reviels something new.
The singing firemen were the icing on the cake!!!

If you want to see a wonderful unusual film, see this! =o)
Forget Leonard Maltin! He's whacked out! This is one seriously wonderful underrated film! The movie has a delightfully unusual premise and some truly original writing, among other positive traits the score of the film can only be described as irresistibly lovable.

The film brings the phrase quirky love comedy to new heights. It should be praised for it characters alone, first and foremost Debra Winger's energetic, nymphomaniac, music loving, green wearing, accidentally arsonistic character of Vida. Mixed with elements of Unresolved loved Sibling rivalry, childhood trauma, Acapela singing firemen, and a whole lot of Carnies, and you've got a plot that expertly combines heart rending drama and touching romance, with a healthy dose of lovably bizarre comedy. All of these things more than make up for an occasionally slow film. This film is definitely worth seeing for any self-respecting open-minded film buff.

Off-beat and a REAL hoot!
Two brothers have fire-starting capabilities; one chooses to live as normal a life as possible while the other chooses the field of entertainment to showcase his fire-starting talents. Things "heat up" when the circus comes to town and brings the brothers back together and they once again compete for the charms of the same woman. Clever story and Dennis Quaid's dancing to "She's A Lady" is not to be missed! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The Most Touching High School Drama of All Time
The Treehouse Hostage, an evolutionary masterpiece in the art of high school drama, takes a daring step in analyzing the social dynamics of the youth of our nation. Starring such unsung talent as Jim Varney, who has played the hopelessly lovable Ernest in the well...Ernest movie classics series, plays a ex-vietnam, underwater, basket weaving coach who befriends a hilariously charming talking dolphin named Nicodemus. Jim Varney's arcane knowledge of ancient Filipino stick fighting style makes for a zenith in the realm of martial arts cinema, the culmination of 20th century action. Overall I would recommend this to anyone possessing any type of obsessive compulsive disorder of the shin, of south east Pennsylvanian descent, or is in any way named Bob. 5 stars. Nuff said.

good movie
i enjoyed this movie. buy it or rent it. enjoy it!

OK
This is an ok kids movie, like the movie Jack type, but the kids are not cute in this one! It stars that Ernest guy. Its an okay movie for like 9 and 10 yr olds.

Gross!...Awful!...Avoid it like the plague!
If you enjoy jokes about wedgies, flatulence, spitting, nose-picking, and using the bathroom, then this is the movie for you. If you want to see 3 remarkably ugly kids exchange vulgar insults, torture an escaped convict, harass their parents, and waste food, then this is the movie for you. But if you have any taste at all, stay away from Treehouse Hostage!

Perfect!
I was a great movie. One of my favourites. Buy it, rent it, You will not be disappointed ... Read more

Reviews (27)

WELLL DOGGIES THEIR ON THE BIG SCREEN
Penelope Spheeris does a GREAT job directing this feature film based on the 1962-71 CBS-TV series. The plot is basically the same as the classic TV sitcom. A family of hillbillies become millionaires overnight when the father,while hunting a rabbit,misses his shot and strikes oil. Jim (Ernest) Varney stars as "JED CLAMPETT". The role made famous by Buddy Ebsen in the TV series. Cloris Leachman is "GRANNY", Lily Tomlin is "JANE HATHAWAY" and Dabney Coleman is "MILBOURNE DRYSDALE" the President of the Commerce Bank of Beverly Hills. This big budget box-office smash also has a cameo by Dolly Parton as herself and a cameo appearance by Buddy Ebsen as private detective "BARNABY JONES" the other role he portrayed about a year after the cancellation of his classic sitcom. TWO THUMBS-UP to one of the best based-on-TV series movie ever filmed.

A nice movie that is worth watching!
I liked this movie which I saw before The original Beverly Hillbillies TV show which I had never seen before they started showing reruns on TV Land. I liked everyone but especially Diedrich Bader who was a wonderfully idiotic Jethrow and Jim Varney who though not as good as Buddy Ebson was a good Jed Clampett. Erika Eleniak though not as good as Donna Douglas was really quite good as Elly May but Chloris Leachman and Lily Tomlin though giving decent performances were not nearly as good a Jane Hathaway as Nancy Kulp or as good a Granny as Irene Ryan, but lets face it no one could possibly be as good a Granny as Irene Ryan she's the definitive Granny! one of my favorite scenes in this movie is when Miss Hathaway rang the door bell at the Clampett estate and dopey but loveable Jethro couldn't figure out where the sound was coming from and when Miss Hathaway spoke on the intercom and he thought she was trapped in the wall and was ready to demolish the wall to let her out. By the way I now like the classic TV show too and while I do prefer the TV show the movie is good in it's ownright and is worth watching!

Peggy B
I would recommend this movie gets put on dvd. I really enjoyed the movie with Jim Varney. I had started a dvd collection and I have been watching for this to come available on dvd for quite some time. I think it is a really funny remake. And I would recommend this movie to everybody who loves Jim Varney as I do! I would also like to add that Lilly Tomlin and the rest of the cast were excellent in their protrayal of the orginal characters in the tv series. I have to admit I was very surprized as to how well Jim Varney played Jed in this movie. He had to follow Buddy Epson, whom is an excellent actor, as Jim Varney I believe, if had he lived longer, he would of shown us his real tallents.

pretty funny
lemme give you an example
Jethro Bodine: Jed Clampett has all of the 3 A's. He's A-ttractive, A-vailable and A-billionaire.

Not as Funny as the TV show but Still Enjoyable!
This movie remake isn't as funny as the TV show episodes but that doesn't mean that I thought the movie was not funny and wasn't good, the movie had some scenes that were very funny and all in all it was a pretty cute movie and I got a lot of enjoyment from watching it and I thought the actors were really good, especially Jim Varney, (Ernest Goes to Camp), Deidrich Bader (The Drew Carrey Show), Chloris Leachman (The Mary Tyler Moore Show), and Erika Eleniak (Baywatch). I had this movie on tape and I would love to have it on DVD so I hope it gets released on DVD. I would also love to see the TV show get on DVD in complete season boxsets. Yes I know the TV show is on DVD but it's only some best of episodes and not complete season DVD boxsets! ... Read more

Amazon.com

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 (1)

A must for the Ernest collector
This video contains a full hour of Ernest commercials, together with a few out-takes and bloopers. The title of the video, "Win $10,000", comes from a contest in which you are supposed to count the number of times on the video that Ernest says "Vern" or "KnoWhutImean" and send in your answer to an address found on the back of the video-by April 1, 1988. Hard-core Ernest fans will be delighted to view this goldmine of classic Ernest material. Nevertheless, watching a whole hour of commercials can get to be a bit tiresome, KnoWhutImean? ... Read more

Description

While having a blast at their favorite amusement park, Mega Mountain, the Ninja brothers witness the kidnapping of TV action superstar Dave Dragon (Hulk Hogan) by evil Lothar Zogg (Jim Varney) and his kid-hating love Medusa (Loni Anderson). When Medusa's henchmen surround the park and demand ten million from the park's owner, the Ninjas strike back with a vengeance. Join Rocky, Colt and Tum Tum for a roller coaster ride of fun, action and comedy. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great!
I have a really rambunctious, 5-year old brother and he is always running around and getting into trouble! We rented The 3 Ninjas and he actually sat down and watched the whole movie! He especially likes Tum Tum!

The greatest movie, Just like Hogan, the greatest!
This movie features Hollywood Hogan, Hulk Hogan, in the roll of a after-school TV show action hero who's show was cancelled due to the kids of the 90's not believing in heroes anymore. Hogan and the 3 Ninja's go against a money and power hngry woman who buys Ninja's and fighters of her own to fight her battles and like in life and in wrestling, Hogan, who plays "Dick Dragon", had the task of proving himself as a hero and does so.

10 dollar budget + washed up stars = 3 ninjas!
A friend of mine caught the end of this movie on cinemax, then he waited until the next time it was on, and taped it. When he brought it to my house I was shocked and apalled. The acting is horrible, the fight scenes are disgusting, and the children are flat out annoying, not to mention Colt, who has a mullet and nostrils the size of dump truck tires. I started watching the movie at the part where multiple "ninjas" in funny black costumes attack the children. One of the 3 kids jumps about 12 feet onto the roof of a building, the ninja he is fighting appearently intentionally falls off after he gets hit. Tum tum the youngest one is always kicking these 6 foot tall men in the face, but they never show him do it, just a leg probably on a stick. The movie is chock full of "Ball" jokes, every ninja that Tum tum ever fights gets kicked in the privates, ha ha? What about the time a ninja gets knocked onto a railing, and is sliding down it butt first. Naturally another ninja ends up keeping his chin right on the railing, for some wierd reason, and gets hit in the face by a butt. How about when the lady shoots out all the lights and sends ninjas after the three children, they are swinging in the dark, one falls off the scaffolding, is holding on by a hand, it's dark right? Well to summon up courage in the ninja the other one shows him a picture of their grandmaster guy, I thought it was just dark? This movie is ... horrible ..., watch it and write everything that is wrong with it, what was the director thinking?

...

it [stunk]
this movie is not worth it . buy part 1,2,3. don't waste your money on this piece of trash.

DO NOT WATCH
DO NOT WATCH IT. it is a complete waste of time. the shots are off (you can see the people in the background and it's obvious that the film is being sped up). if you want to watch a good 3 ninjas movie, stick with the first 3. i do this to warn you. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

One of my favorites
This is one of the funniest Ernest movies ever made. In it, Ernest is a university janitor who befriends a history professor with a preposterous idea. Preposterous that is, until Ernest stumbles upon the physical evidence that proves the professor is right. But of course, a wily, rich, and ruthless antiquities collector wants the stuff for his own collection. And the professor has only Ernest to help him save the treasure.

In this movie, Ernest puts academics in their place, quite a few notches below where they think they should be. If you have any connection to academia, this movie will keep you in stitches- -believe it or not, Ernest really does understand how the inhabitants of the ivory tower think. Despite appearances, Varney must have been a scholar at some time to meet characters such as these. The movie starts with the Makita Warriors scene, an all-time Ernest classic.

THE FUNNIEST "ERNEST" EVER!
"Ernest Rides Again" is the funniest of the Ernest films! Absolutely hilarious! A don't-miss! Grade: A+

Stopped by apple maggots again!
This movie has to be the pinnacle of Ernest's movie achievements. It has the perfect combination of Jim Varney's silliness, outrageous situations and great bad guys.

It's also the most likely Ernest movie to be able to appeal to both adults and kids. It's a real showcase for Varney's comic talents. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Funny when I was paying attention
I liked it. It was funny,exiting, it was just the kind of movie I like. But it did'nt quite keep my attention.

Not a great flick, but sort of fun
This movie has the feel of a television pilot (I think it was). It isn't a great movie, but if you're a fan of Stephen J. Cannell shows, it's for you. For Jim Varney fans, his role is a real treat ­ a goofy inventor (brother to Chad Everett character) who always has a scam up his sleeve. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

terrible
What a peice of crap. This movie is terrible. The only decent actor in it is the lady who works the proshop, who doesnt really even do anything in the movie. Terrible plot, some stuff doesnt even make sense, like the french guy and the stoner guy, both would have been better just thrown out of the movie. But I will admit that there were som really funny random jokes in there, but there were only 2 or 3 of those, and the rest was terrible. Also, whoever said the snowboard sequences were really cool, has clearly never seen a real snowboard video. It might have been alright boarding when it was originally filmed apporvimately 10 years ago, but compared to todays snowboarding its a joke. Oh yeah and who ever said jim varney is good is a numbskull. Hes the most unfunniest person Ive ever seen. In fact, I think Ronald Mcdonald commercials are funnier than these. I cant get over what a bad movie it was.

PS
The best part was when they show the snowboard go down the hill riding regular, then show him going off the jump switch. What a joke.

snowboard academy
This would have to be one of the worst movies corey haim has played in. The boarding was all fake and were just stupid scenes. The comedy in this movie was pretty stupid and un comical to tell you the truth.

Completely biased
I think this movie is the funniest film since 'Truimph of the Will'. Snowboard Academy has it all: teen heartthrob Corey Haim, saucy euro-wench Bridget Neilson, the multi-faceted Jim Varney and the unstoppable juggernaut of SCTV, Joe Flaherty. But the real find of this stunning film is the amazing and over the top performance by newcomer James Salisko. This man is a powerhouse of entertainment. What sly wit , what eloquence, what a brilliant and original character he has created. Such a bold and brave portrayal of the usually hackneyed stereotype of the 'fat bartender'left this viewer agape in disbeleif. We've seen a bold new force on the horizon . And it's name is James......

Great Images
Honestly I bought this book becase it's about snowboarding. I wasn't expecting a great comedy (and didn't get it as a matter of fact). The actors are far from excellent and the humor leaves much to be desired, but I have to say that the snowboarding sequences are really good. Camera angles are great and I will end up watching this tape over and over just for that. If you are looking for a comedy get something else, but if you want to look at cool snowboarding filming this video is very cheap and will satisfy you.

Awesome movie!
This movie is so funny,the first time I saw it was laughing my head off!Jim Varny is a exellent commiedest,and any of these fine actors in here should have been given an award. ... 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 (2)

A Look Into the Dark Side of Kentucky Culture
100 proof is one of the most powerful films I have seen. I lived in the Lexington area all my life and can attest to it's dead on accuracy in portraying the dark side of a impovrished, uneducated, and isolated white culture. It's the side of our society we try to forget when we tell others that we are no longer fit the "Hatfeild and McCoy" stereotypes people have of us. The character's lines in the movie have an eerie familiarity, and the scenes are like places in a vauge memory of my childhood. In fact, after going through old family photos, I realized the couch in the characters Arco and Sissy's house is exactly like the one my great grandmother had in her living room (in a house that didn't have running water until 1988). The thought and work that the director has put into the details of this movie are amazing, and could only be done by a person who has seen first hand lives that become the plots of an insane, violent, and disturbing story such as this.

Writer/Director Jeremy Horton's First & Only Film (to date)
"100 Proof" is an extremely low-budget first feature from writer/director Jeremy Horton, that covers 24 hours in the lives of two female druggies who go on a desperate killing spree. Filmed in Kentucky, the story is based on the true story of a killing spree in Lexington (...). In this disturbing 1996 drama, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, the two are renamed Rae (Pamela Stewart) and Carla (Tara Bellando). Growing up in a small, impoverished town, they turn to hustling and prostitution to survive. But after Rae has an encounter with her alcoholic and sexually abusive father, played by Jim Varney in a performance that goes well beyond any dark side of "Ernest" jokes, the pair spend the day drinking, shooting up and snorting, before going on a spontaneous killing spree when the sun goes down. The film offers no explanation for the random violence beyond the environment in which the young women are trapped; I think this is one of those cinematic Rorschach tests where you see what you want, so the rationale for the violence may be entirely in the eye of the beholder. This is a powerful film, but not a polished one. The opening is very intriguing: an old man named Arco (Jack Stubblefield Johnson) rambles on about his assorted aches and pains before getting around to talking about how to kill cats. But while this obviously parallels the story we are about to see, it ends up seeming out of place with the rest of the film. Still, a more than interesting debut work from Horton, who has yet to produce a second film. Too bad, because it would have been interesting to see where he would have gone from here because clearly this film is more than a cheap, violent rip-off of "Thelma and Louise." ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not one of his best
I'd have to say that I was very disappointed with this movie. The fight scenes were hard to follow and the story was pretty weak. The bad guy played a pretty good nut case and I'm a pretty big Speakman fan but overall I'd have to say that this wasn't a very good movie. The one thing that I'd have to say I liked about the show is the first couple of minutes where you can see Jeff performing some of his Kenpo techniques. That is really the only reason I ever put the tape in the VCR.

Don't waste your money
I am a big Jeff Speakman fan but I have to say that this is probably the worst movie that he has made so far. The best part of the whole movie is the first five minutes where you get to see him perform his Kenpo techniques as a silloette. The story isn't that bad but the direction stinks. Especially for the fight scenes. Things go by so fast that you can't really see what Jeff is doing to the bad guys. Plus alot of shots get obscured by objects in the rooms. And just as a final comment, if you watch this movie watch as a stunt man jumps backwards through a window before Jeff can fully extend his kick. ... 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

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 (5)

The Most Touching High School Drama of All Time
The Treehouse Hostage, an evolutionary masterpiece in the art of high school drama, takes a daring step in analyzing the social dynamics of the youth of our nation. Starring such unsung talent as Jim Varney, who has played the hopelessly lovable Ernest in the well...Ernest movie classics series, plays a ex-vietnam, underwater, basket weaving coach who befriends a hilariously charming talking dolphin named Nicodemus. Jim Varney's arcane knowledge of ancient Filipino stick fighting style makes for a zenith in the realm of martial arts cinema, the culmination of 20th century action. Overall I would recommend this to anyone possessing any type of obsessive compulsive disorder of the shin, of south east Pennsylvanian descent, or is in any way named Bob. 5 stars. Nuff said.

good movie
i enjoyed this movie. buy it or rent it. enjoy it!

OK
This is an ok kids movie, like the movie Jack type, but the kids are not cute in this one! It stars that Ernest guy. Its an okay movie for like 9 and 10 yr olds.

Gross!...Awful!...Avoid it like the plague!
If you enjoy jokes about wedgies, flatulence, spitting, nose-picking, and using the bathroom, then this is the movie for you. If you want to see 3 remarkably ugly kids exchange vulgar insults, torture an escaped convict, harass their parents, and waste food, then this is the movie for you. But if you have any taste at all, stay away from Treehouse Hostage!

Perfect!
I was a great movie. One of my favourites. Buy it, rent it, You will not be disappointed ... Read more