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Robert Redford's underrated directorial follow-up to his Academy Award-winning Ordinary People, The Milagro Beanfield War is a loose and whimsical fable about community pride and social activism in the face of modern progress. Sonia Braga (Kiss of the Spider Woman) plays a local mechanic in a small New Mexico town who takes up the challenge of rallying support for a local farmer who uses water owned by a real estate developer to grow beans in his field. Everything escalates to a showdown between the townspeople and the developers, with unexpected results. The strongest aspect of the film is the way it doesn't take itself too seriously, with Redford adopting a leisurely tone and allowing his fine cast (including Ruben Blades as the pragmatic town sheriff and Christopher Walken as a nasty state police officer) to deliver finely nuanced performances that touch on themes of faith and perseverance without seeming heavy-handed. The Milagro Beanfield War is an overlooked gem. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (29)

UNHERALDED BUT WELL WORTH A WATCH
After his well-known, Academy Award-winning success with ORDINARY PEOPLE, Robert Redford directed the unheralded MILAGRO BEANFIELD WAR, a tale that speaks of the importance of the basics of life versus the onset of supposed progress, materialism and pride.

A small farmer makes the mistake of using water that isn't his to use in order to cultivate a parched and unproductive beanfield. Sonia Braga (STREETS OF LAREDO) stars as a mechanic in the farmer's New Mexico pueblo who supports the farmer and joins the "war" against the real estate developer who cares about nothing but himself and his profits. Ultimately the townspeople and the developers square off. You'll love the "hombre angel" that keeps popping up.

Enchantingly written THE MILAGRO BEANFIELD WAR is a wonderful film. Frankly, I'm surprised that it doesn't have a stronger following. A great cast includes Ruben Blades as the sheriff and Christopher Walken as a corrupt state police officer.

It's high time for this one to be released on DVD.

THE HORSEMAN

An ode to New Mexico, and a sweet fable
Only the townspeople, in tune with the land and the spirit of New Mexico, can hear the coyote angel's playing music. Because you can hear it too, you feel special.
This is a superb feel-good movie (although having seen the movie dozens of times, I still am not quite sure-- in the end, does he die or doesn't he?? he does walk off with the angel who says in Spanish "Let's take a shortcut to where they are playing the music!")
The soundtrack, the scenery, the actors' portrayal of New Mexicans transport you there. Drive through Espanola and Truchas the next time you are in the Santa Fe area, and you will see, it feels in person just as it appears on the movie. You can stay very quiet and almost, but not quite--(we are not native townsfolk!)--hear the magical accordion.
Note: the Migration CD by Dave Grusin has, along with other selections, VERSIONS of the music on the soundtrack, beautiful, but not exactly the same. I want the exact renditions! and I want a DVD too!

best movie not on dvd
come on redford, please release Milagro to dvd. this is the finest movie most folks have never seen. it surely deserves a wider audience. i would advise all to see the movie, even if you have to buy it on vhs. funny, smart, honest, compelling, good performances from a fine cast and kudoos to redford for this fine effort.

Beautiful, Magical Film
Beautiful film from (then very fresh) director Robert Redford. This film depicts the epic struggle between good and evil with some very nice twists. Excellent roles that were handled well by Ruben Blades, Sonia Braga, James Gammon, and a host of many other great characters that were depicted quite well. Chris Walken presents to us the governmental enforcer to a sheer tee. Richard Bradford (joined by Melanie Griffith) also gives us the perfect "fat cat" & (his) band of bad guys that are trying to hoard an already conspicuous pipeline of water through a dry valley near the Mexican border when one of the (near povertied) residents of Milagro makes a grave, yet somehow worthy mistake.
Milagro is a community inhabited by crazy townfolk, idealistic views, & even a familiar face (Freddy Fender) as town mayor. Get ready for ghosts, legends, and an inspiring story and cast that will keep you smiling, thinking, and loving this film for many years to come!
*A grammy won that year for the haunting soundtrack was also quite well deserved.

Waiting for DVD
A great movie. I am waiting for the DVD to come out with some interesting extras. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A great finale for Animaniacs...not just for kids, either.
Through the application of liberal amounts of cash and anability to place last-second bids on eBay, I've managed to lay handson an advance copy of Wakko's Wish. I'm glad I did. It's a worthyfinale to the Animaniacs franchise.

I won't get into the plot. Daniel Gallo did so on Usenet a few months ago, and did a thorough job of it. Suffice it to say that the plot is a good framework to build the movie on. For those who were wondering if Animaniacs could support 80 minutes worth of story, this will answer the question with a loud YES!. The different characters have different places in the story, but they're woven together smoothly and well; there's no sense of jumping back and forth between storylines. The ending is logical and fits well.

Wakko's Wish spends a lot of time paying homage to the series itself. I believe that most of the CRGA entry for the movie will be references to Animaniacs episodes, rather than the rest of the world. There's a fair amount of that as well, though. Those who appreciate potshots at real- world happenings won't be disappointed. You'll find plenty of humor here, whether you're 10 or 40. I suspect that, had this gotten theatrical release, it would have been a case of kids dragging their parents to see it, with the parents coming out afterwards laughing more than the kids.

There's plenty of original music here. At first, I thought it was all going to be musical, but right about the time the story picked up, the prevalence of songs as opposed to spoken dialogue changed. That made for a good change in feel, and worked well. The music, as well as the story, allowed Jess Harnell's singing talents to take center stage, and he shows just why he's doing well as a professional singer (though in places where he's not immediately known). Just about everyone gets a chance to show off their musical talents; those who think that Pinky can't sing get a dramatic rebuttal, and even Sherri Stoner and Ben Stein take a whack at it, with humorously bad results. I don't know if Sherri can sing, but Slappy sure can't.

TMS's animation is at the top of the heap. Their Warners are generally recognized as the standard to which everyone else aspires, and, if anything, they've raised the bar here. Not once did I catch an error in modeling or in continuity. There are several scenes with very fast action, all handled quite well, and more than a few difficult pans. There's also a fair amount of CGI, though it's so well done and so unobtrusive that you'll have a hard time picking it out. This is the first cartoon I've seen that combined cel animation and CGI in a manner that wasn't jarringly dissonant.

About the only negative I can bring up is the final bit. The writers resisted the tendency to over-senitimentalize right until the very end, but there they succumb to temptation and deliver a message with a heavy hand. Animaniacs can and does do better than that. Even so, it's not objectionable enough to make you want to throw the tape in the trash after seeing it; the rest of the movie is way too good for that.

The credits had a pleasant surprise; every major and nearly all minor speaking roles are credited to the voice actors who performed them, and the rule the TV series follows about only crediting a voice actor once even if they play multiple characters is not followed here. The viewer is shown exactly who voiced everyone. There's also a disappointment: no gag credit. I don't know why not, but I expected to see one and didn't.

Overall, Wakko's Wish is a winner. It's well worth ordering and waiting with bated breath for it to hit your doorstep on December 21. Animaniacs fans, and anyone who enjoys a good comedy, will love it. Tom Ruegger and his team have done a great job.

Thanks, guys. If it had to end, this is the best way I can think of doing it.

Just too cute...
When I was in elementary, I worshipped Animaniacs. I've grown out of that phase, but if I pass a younger sibling watching it, I can't help but sit down and laugh.

Their full length movie is no disappointment. If the video had been aimed toward adults, I would have had to knock off a star, but hey, it's a kid movie.

The movie takes place in an imaginary little kingdom (think fairy tale mode) It's the basic plot, good king dies, evil warlord type person takes over. He taxes everyone to poverty, and it seems as if all hope is lost. But this is Animaniacs. So the entire cast of the show is off to a fallen star in hopes of getting their wishes granted.

At first, I was worried that this wasn't as funny as the tv series. (the end proves me wrong.) But I think the creators were aiming for a more serious undertone, and that's what they got. But there is still the refreshing signiture Animaniacs humor that keeps it alive. The Animaniacs siblings were for once portrayed as a loving family, and there were several scenes that made me want to cry. One scene almost overdid the sentimentality, but leeway must be given for a kid's movie. My little brothers absolutely adored it!

All in all, this may be more serious than the usual Animaniacs, but still a wortyy collection for the Animaniac fans.

Wakko's Wish Is Amazingly Heartwarming and Fun!
Always a big fan of the Animaniacs I love the teo brother sn the sister named Yakko, Wakko and Dot.

This is the story of Wish that can be granted to anyone in the old town of Acme Falls. Every Animaniac character has a role in this story that involves everyone in a race.

Little Dot needs an operation, the town is Poor, the Nurse is confused as being just good-looking and the Brain still wants to take over the world.

It is filled with music, fun, action, chases and even a Mime!

Fun for the whole family and great to watch for the Holiday Season. I ahve watched this every year over the Holidays since it came out. (11-30-03)

Wakko's Wish is Wonderful!
This movie is cute and fun! It has new songs and all your favorite Animaniacs characters. Some of the songs and actions take after other famous musicals which makes it fun for the parents to watch and, of course, the kids are ALWAYS entertained by Wakko, Yakko, and their adorably cute sister Dot. =) Then again, I too am always entertained by the Warners.

The warner siblings are back once again
this movie is great there is a classic line in there that mindy said and it is so cute she said bunny squirlly wirrly's ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Favorite Cartoon
Why aren't these cartoons on DVD yet? If you too love the Animaniacs, go here to help us get them put out on DVD.

Insightful (and Inciteful) Satire
With the Pinky and the Brain cartoons, Spielberg productions found the root cause of the Warner Bros. classic animation success: a good story that appeals to adults will win over children. I have had the good fortune to watch my son appreciate more about these cartoons over the years, and, when he's ready to vote, I'll be sure to get him to watch "Meet John Brain" again--a clearer explanation of the electoral process than anyone ever got from "Schoolhouse Rock." ;) Now, if only Warner Home Video would release P&tB on DVD . . . .

A MUST for Pinky & The Brain Fans!
This video contains a few of the funniest toons featuring Pinky & The Brain, and of course, The Brain is up to his usual scheming to take over the world. Cartoons on this video: "Puppet Rulers"--Pinky & The Brain become pop culture icons on a childrens' puppet show, only to abandon the show at the height of its popularity, sending their viewers into therapy. "Win Big"--a classic toon spoof of "Jeopardy!" Even The Brain is no match for Alex Trebek's smugness! In "Battle for the Planet," they spoof the radio version of "War of the Worlds," and darn near convince their listeners that the earth is really being invaded, and of course, the plan backfires and the show ends up being a comedy smash instead of a power coup. In "Meet John Brain," The Brain runs for president, and it's not until he's rating high in popularity polls that anyone notices he's a mouse. For anyone who couldn't stomach Billy Ray Cyrus, then the last toon "Bubba Bo Bob Brain" will have your side splitting. Brain tries to take over the world by combining country music and subliminal messages! Watch for the caricatures of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton... Guaranteed to make you laugh good 'n hard -- NARF!

Yes, I WILL buy this video.
I love the Animaniacs. I used to watch them every afternoon, and this video provides a great way to get my fix any time of day. Attention college students: buy this video as a way to procrastinate! It's better than just sitting around! ... Read more

Description

Go with Pinky and The Brain on 2 world dominating adventures in space and on the high seas! Year: 1997 Starring:Pinky, The Brain ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Landmark in Animated Christmas Videos
The test of a truly extraordinary production, long or short, is its ability to evoke a broad range of human emotions, and that is exactly what "A Pinky and the Brain Christmas" does. From the opening scene, in which Pinky gleefully sings "Deck the Halls" while sliding down a decorative Christmas ribbon, to the ending, when they exchange gifts, our little mouse friends take us on an emotional journey. We laugh hysterically as they are flown to the North Pole by a character strangely similar to "Large Marge" in "Pee Wee's Big Adventure". Later, we are captivated by Brain's brilliant pitch and Pinky's familiar, delightful giggle, as they interview to become new elves in Santa's workshop. Then, in the the end, when Brain exasperatedly begins to read Pinky's selfless, innocent letter to Santa, we are moved to tears right along with him.
In many ways, this episode is like any other charming, thought-provoking "Pinky and the Brain" offering; Brain conceives a brilliant plot to take over the world and Pinky laughingly assists him along the way, sometimes for better and sometimes times for worse. This time, however, Brain's plan "fails" by his own choice.
It is Pinky's innocence and loyalty to his friend that make this episode such special and touching Christmas fare. Watch it and you are guaranteed to fall in love with these little "rodents", if you haven't already.

Christmas
awww, its touching, and so cute! A great xmas video too, especially for you Pinky and the Brain fans!

It's a must have for Pinky and the Brain fans!
This video is so touching, I wanted to buy it immediately! It will have a place of honor in my Christmas Video collection! There aren't many animated features on TV today that I like. This video I love! I'm 47 years old and I adore Pinky and the Brain!

For any Pinky and the Brain fanatic!
A touching story that involves the mice actually coming closer and realizing what's really important as they try to take over the world. I can see why it won an Emmy! Great video! A must see! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Favorite Cartoon
Why aren't these cartoons on DVD yet? If you too love the Animaniacs, go here to help us get them put out on DVD... (...)

"Warners Escape"
This is absolutely the vest "Animaniacs" VHS Tape KNOWN TO MAN! I love the "Animaniacs"! Even though there have been no new episodes since 1998, I still watch re-runs on Nicktoons TV!

here are the animaniacs and there zany to the max
if you like the animaniacs you will love this video it has 4 episiodes including the 1st one de-zanitzed wher DrScratchinsniff explains his life story other episiodes in this video are temporary instantly where the warners go onto a sound stage hello nice warners where they help thadeis plotz in his office and then video review where the warners describe movies and what they are about.
also in this video before the pogram there is a short story about ther warners and how they got started.

Animaniacs RULE!
I realize I may be a bit biased, since I happen to be totally obsessed with Animaniacs. However, having seen all but one episode, I can honestly say that the four contained in this video comprise an excellent introduction to this amazing cartoon show. The Animaniacs at their most animaniacal! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Classic Animaniacs
The cartoons on this "Animaniacs" compilation all come from the first and best year on Fox, when the gang at Warner Bros. TV Animation were at their peak in terms of writing and visual invention. These particular cartoons were all written by John P. McCann, a specialist in finding the fun in "spooky" subject matter (and like most of the best Animaniacs writers, a gifted sketch comic). Within the general theme, this collection has a lot of variety, including two welcome contributions from the cat-dog team of Rita and Runt. Here's a cartoon-by-cartoon evaluation: "Draculee Draculaa" - one of the first Animaniacs cartoons to be recorded and animated, this cartoon shows just how quickly the show hit its stride; the TMS animation isn't as slick as it would later become, but the Warner sibs' trademark combination of innocence and knowingness is here, as are plenty of good one-liners and visual flourishes. Dan Castellanetta guest-stars as Dracula. "Phranken-Runt" - perhaps the best Rita and Runt cartoon; it's very funny, beautifully animated by TMS, and the Rocky Horror-esque songs contribute to the story rather than slowing it down. Mr. Squeak, the large but uncoordinated mouse, is the scene-stealer here. The late Richard Stone comes through with one of his finest background scores. "Meatballs Or Consequences" - One of McCann's best and most quotable scripts, replete with satirical knocks at Ingmar Bergman movies, bureaucratic red tape, and (ahem) Steven Spielberg. "Scare Happy Slappy" - a good, standard Slappy Squirrel cartoon, with plenty of pointless violence and meta-humor. The sadly defunct StarToons provides excellent animation, particularly on the hapless Walter Wolf. "Witch One" - a short Rita and Runt, nothing spectacular but with some funny "Beauty and the Beast" song parodies. "Hot, Bothered and Bedeviled" - The Warners meet Satan. Animaniacs at its best and least kid-friendly, with many unforgettable moments -- inlcuding Satan's idea of an agony that is worse than all others. No bonus material here, and some of the closing credits are inaccurate, but for 50+ minutes of pure "Animaniacs" entertainment, this tape is a sound investment.

Halloween will never look the same
Those pesky little critters and friends take you on a ride through some of the most hilarious machs on infamous ghosts and ghouls including Dracula, Frankenstein, The Grim Reaper (Who it turns out is actually Swedish), The Salem Witch Trials, and even the Devil himself. Yakko and Dot are especially funny as is Slappy the Squirrell in the fourth skit. If you are in any way a fan of the show or a general laugh a holic, I suggest you purchase this video. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Fun & catchy. Warning: it may take over your brain!
I'm not a big fan of the Animaniacs TV show, but these songs are lots of fun! If I'm bored, or having a bad day, this tape always cheers me right up. I often find myself humming bits from The Quake Song, The Big Wrap Party, and others. Recommended for anyone, of any age, who appreciates inspired wackiness, bad puns, and silly rhymes. :) ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great for Teachers and other educators
Okay yes they do talk fast, but this particular video has a great learning addition: both Wakko's America and Yakko's world is on this tape. Even if they kids don't get all of it, they'll pick up on some of it, and before you know it, maybe they'll recite the state capitals without much trouble.

It is fun, and while not all of the tape is relavent to the classroom, Animaniacs do provide a screen for learning that isn't evidant in many other 'educational' tapes.

Schnitzelbank rock's
The only Song in this video that makes it worth wile is schnitzelbank so if your looking for that song this is the video to get

Animaniacs Rocks!
Animaniacs is the best show with the best music! This is my review of every song: "I'm Cute" is a very cute and funny song thanks to Yakko and Wakko getting bored. "Snitchelbank" is very funny when you are seeing the cartoon, the same thing with "Make a Gookie", a parody of "Fealing Grovy". I like how they combinded 2 cartoons to do "Our first day of School" and "Wakko's America". H.M.S. Yakko has a funny story and the songs get better and better near the end. Can you sing "Yakko's World" without the words? I can! "I'm Mad" is a great song to sing along with my sister Nina. The theame song is great and very energetic. All in all, this is great!

Schoene Schnitzelbank
V. funny - for 4 year olds, and 34 year olds :) Some cartoon violence (cannons blowing up pirates, etc). The German "Oh du schoene Schnitzelbank" song is v. catchy.

Fun but difficult
This is a fun compilation of "Animaniacs" songs. Unfortunately, "Animaniacs" songs are so rapid fire that it's hard to keep up if you know the words, much less if you're trying to follow along with the lyrics on screen. (And I'm a grownup!) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Favorite Cartoon
Why aren't these cartoons on DVD yet? If you too love the Animaniacs, go here to help us get them put out on DVD... www.petitiononline.com/toon0001/petition.html

Please: no more toons, Spielberg!
Someone should tell Steven Spielberg to stick to CGI dinosaurs and glowing turd-like aliens, because Animaniacs was the worst toon from Warner Brothers prior to, Looney Toons: Back in Action.

Grant it, this show is not as bad as Tiny Toon Adventures. The "comedy" on the show is mostly forced, and the actions of the characters are so repetitious they will have you snoring on the couch after a mere fifteen minutes. In almost every one of these cartoons, the Warner Brother and their sister Dot annoy the some political figure, creep, actor, or monster. This involves hitting the unfortunate character with a mallet or dropping a safe on them, ha-ha-ha. Like we haven't seen enough of that on most of the Warner Brother's toons for decades!

And you thought Pinkie and the Brain are repetitive. In short, Anamanics is a lame cartoon that tries to use frantic, aged jokes borrowed from other cartoons in pathetic attempts to humor the viewer. Though it's a toon geared for kids, it features political and media-oriented jokes that only adults are likely to understand (and are unlikely to enjoy).

If you only buy one...
If you only buy one Animaniacs video, this should be the one! (note: the TV version of Animaniacs stew is different) In "Slappy Goes Walnuts," Slappy is on a quest to obtain walnuts from Doug the Dog's walnut tree to make some brain food for Skippy. Buttons has his paws full keeping Mindy safe in "Operation: Lollipop." The Warner sibs are magically summoned to Camelot to defeat a dragon in "Sir Yaksalot." "In the Garden of Mindy" finds Brain in Button's place but he still has time to work on his global aspirations. Slappy plays the part of Dot in "Baghdad Cafe" and Brain is nearly replaced when he walks out on a voice-over session in "Yes, Always." This tape is full of classic Animaniacs and is an absolutely faboo must-have. Also included but not listed on the jacket: Mime Time, Dot's Poetry Corner, Randy Beaman's pal (Colin), and "Bumbi's Mom"--another great Slappy/Skippy short.

Animaniacs Stew!
This tape contains the Animaniacs Stew ep of the incredibly groovy show Animaniacs. This basically involves the characters being switched around: Slappy and Dot are swapped, Pesto wanders about on Runt's back, Brain has to manage taking over the world *and* watching Mindy at the same time. Bottom line: It's Animaniacs. You should buy it. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

OhmeGod, what a joking movie!!
Totally ridiculous, wasted a lot of money on the meaningless dynamite, gasolin and the explosions are absolutely unnecessary. The movie script is done by a 5th grader I think, so funny, shallow and so clueless, wasted Walken. The problem of this actor is that since he won the best supporting actor in the Deer Hunter, all the movies he decided to play a role... big time, no matter it's a mob story or anything else, except one movie that was seriously enough to be treated as a not bad movie, The Dog(s) of War.

McBain Is Definetly No Rambo!
In the aftermath of the Vietnam War, a group of rangers led by Santos risk their lives to rescue POW Robert McBain.

The beginning is basically the only good part of the film. The rest is kind of dull. It seems like one of those stories I made up when I was in grade five. There is not enough of the U.S. involved to call them "American Soldiers". You would think they would be fighting people like this in Afghanistan or Saudi Arabia, not colombia. If you look in a tv guide and see this movie's listing, you will notice it only has one star. I gave it two stars because I don't find it completely awful. There are some good parts to it. Mostly the war scenes.

There are a lot of action movie heroes like John Rambo, Snake Plissken, Darkman, and many characters played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. McBain is nothing like them. In fact this movie should have a different title with a character named Robert McBain in it. McBain ain't even popular.

I really can't tell you if you should rent this or not. I didn't find it that bad, but the other viewers hated it. They made good points on why the movie was awful. So my only suggestion is that you rent it on a two-for-one night. I got it free at the library, so I didn't have to pay.

If you want real action, I would try either FIRST BLOOD or DIE HARD.

I hope my review was helpful to you!

WHOLY SHEET
I know Christopher Walken is a great actor and all but heres my quick input on McBain:

McBain could have been really cool, had the charater McBain ACTUALLY DONE SOMETHING.

Basically it's Walken, walking around with his pants pulled way up to his chest giving orders out to other middle-aged men who end up dying. Even though he is giving out all these orders he only has about 4 min of dialogue in the film, and around 6 min of on-screen acting. Yeesh. If they were to put the damn credits in 'order of appearance', Walken ought to be dead last. After letting so many of "his men" die he shoots the president in the end and everyone cheers HIM. Yeesh. And I haven't even mentioned the plot. The only reason why I give this movie 1 star is because it has a cool name and is unintentionally hilarious.

(Especially the scene where McBain and one of his friends are in a truck with rigged explosives, and McBain jumps out of the truck and leaves his friend to die. What a hero! Hail McBain)

Rent this movie if you want the unintentionally-funny yet boring complete-opposite of Rambo.

Usual Midless Glickenhaus Excess
I'm very glad James Glickenhaus hasn't made any films lately (although I haven't checked). This movie, much like his other ones, are so amatuerishly written that they don't even have a leg to stand on. I can't really tell if every film is tongue in cheek, or if he is even making an attempt at any sense of realism. Executioner, Shakedown, and now McBain, these are all basically the same movie. Man is driven over edge, man gets gun, man kills all the bad guys, the end. Nothing new nothing worthwhile. I am especially upset with this film, due to the presence of Christopher Walken. A great actor who puts in a good performance, but is given the dialogue of a block of wood. lots of things blow up, lots of people get shot, but in the end it doesn't add up to anything. Check out Christopher Walken in the King Of New York, for a great display of his talents, and a good script to back it up!

One of the greatest action movies
mcbain is one of the greatest action movies I have ever seen. Christopher Walken ist very, very cool. Rambo, be careful...! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

a master at work
a down to earth plot coupled with some excellent action...I'm not sure how Ed Parker directed this movie though, as one review suggested, since Ed Parker died in 1990.

Great style excellent movie
Actually Jeff Speakman studies a form of Martial Arts called American Kenpo that was founded by Mr Ed Parker. My son and I both study American Kenpo and love to pick out the diffferent techniques that Jeff Speakman's using in the film. Ed Parker is responsible for directing all the fight scenes in the film. Ed Parker is responsible for teaching such notables as Jeff Speakman, Elvis Presley, and Blake Edwards to name a few. He also was the one that is responsible for introducing Bruce Lee to the Hollywood jet set and getting him started in films.

KENPO MASTER JEFF SPEAKMAN DOES IT AGAIN
LIKE ALL SPEAKMAN MOVIES THERE ARE PERIODS IN THE MOVIE THAT WILL BORE YOU, BUT IF YOU ARE A DIE HARD SPEAKMAN FAN LIKE MYSELF YOU CAN EXCEPT THIS. SPEAKMAN DOES HAVE TO ACT IN THIS AND ALL HIS OTHER FLICKS. HE HAS TO ACT TO BE COOL BECAUSE HE IS NOT AS NATUAL AT IT AS LET'S SAY STEVEN SEAGAL. ALL IN ALL FOR THE BUDGET THAT SPEAKMAN FILMS HAVE THIS IS A PRETTY GOOD MOVIE, THOUGH NOT NEARLY AS GOOD AS THE PERFECT WEAPON. ( BUT THEN AGAIN PERFECT WEAPON IS THE BEST MOVIE EVER MADE). SO IT COMES DOWN TO THIS. IF YOUR NOT A JEFF SPEAKMAN FAN AND WOULD'NT KNOW HIM FROM A STRANGER ON THE STREET, SAVE YOUR MONEY, AND GO CHECK OUT THE NEW STEVEN SEAGAL MOVIE AT THEATERS. ON THE OTHER HAND IF YOU ARE A KENPO ARTIST LIKE MYSELF THIS MOVIE IS ONE OF SPEAKMAN'S BEST, SO I WOULD RECOMMEND PURCHASING THIS MOVIE, AND ALL OTHER SPEAKMAN MOVIES. MY ONLY WISH IS THAT SPEAKMAN WOULD GO BACK TO HIS ORIGINAL IDEA TO PROMOTE MORE KENPO IN HIS MOVIES, BUT WE'LL HAVE TO WAIT AND SEE.

Pretty good!
If you can get by a few inconsistencies, this isn't a bad movie. Let's do the inconsistencies first. In the scene where Speakman is getting his paper he is clearly wearing clothing that says kenpo (Speakman's martil art). So why is everyone so amazed when he dusts the car-jackers off? But this is little stuff. Speakman does a good job playing the reluctant hero, not everything works for him, he makes mistakes. Good plot, and a couple of good fights. Look for the cameo of Judo Gene Lebell (for you Martial Artists this is another inconsistency: the scene where Lebell gets Jeff in a choke and Jeff justs slips out. As good a Martial Artist as Jeff Speakman is, I don't hink anyone has just slipped out of a choke by Gene Lebell in the last forty years!) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A truely engaging story!!
Kirstie Allie stars in this true story of a young writer's journey through the misguided fantasyland of the Playboy Club also the harrassment and pain behind the official smile.In 1963 a young journalist Gloria Steinem posed as a Playboy Bunny to find out what type of funny, glorious life a bunny leads.It wasn't pleasing,with false promises of easy money being forced into a painful,numb fitting uniform being overworked without breaks,paid less than promised and being dominated by the patrons and staff into a subservient role.Her journalistic story ended at the end became very distraught and serious.A truly engaging story!!

Based on an article
"A Bunny's Tale" was a made for TV movie that originally aired on ABC in 1985. It was based on an article, "I Was a Playboy Bunny," wrote in 1963 by Gloria Steinem. This article can be found in Ms. Steinem's book entitled "Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions" with added postscript on the movie in the second edition (1995).

This movie takes place in 1963 with Kirstie Allie portraying Gloria Steinem, a reporter posing as a Bunny in the New York Playboy Club to get an article. The movie does do a good job of including alot of riveting facts that Ms. Steinem wrote about. Unfortunately other fascinating tidbits were left out. Also I felt the made up part involving the main character's boyfriend took up to much time, and most of that story line was not interesting. The only good thing about the relationship of the boyfriend is that it showed how Gloria's working at the club affected one of her other relationships. Overall the movie was interesting and worth watching, but I still walked away a little disappointed. Ms. Steinem article was so much more rich and detailed on what it was like to be a Bunny. The movie lacked in ways on that.

Awesome
Just seeing Kirstie in that bunny outfit was enough for me.

Great Movie!
This movie is really a good one. Really gives true view of what the playboy clubs were like. The funniest part would have to be when they all dance to "The Stripper". A must see movie! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

"Brainstem" song alone well worth the price
Pinky & the Brain is a great modern cartoon. The Snowball episode is not at all bad but is far from the hilarious heights they usually reach. "Welcome to the Jungle" episode is quite entertaining as Pinky adapts to the jungle more easily than the Brain resulting in funny hijinks. Though not usually mentioned the key to this compilation that makes it a must have is the educationally accurate rendition of "Brainstem" that will leave you rolling on the floor while you brush up on your neuroanatomy under the tutelage of the Brain (& Pinky). Based on this musical intermezzo I must wholeheartedly recommend this video collection!

The Return of Snowball
Pinky & the Brain is wonderful cartoon masterfully written to appeal to both kids and adults. The folks at Warner Brothers have created yet another classic cartoon that will always be remembered by its fans. For anyone who enjoys animated comedy, the Pinky & the Brain series is for you.

This video consists of two great episodes entitled: Snowball and Welcome to the Jungle. The video is about 42 minutes long total with a few comercials for other WB videos at the beggining. Both Episodes feature the return of the Brains long lost pal, SnowBall, who has now turned to evil and is also bent on world domination. In Snowball, the Brain actually has to save the world from Snowballs evil plot to take over the world. In Welcome to the Jungle, Pinky & the Brain find themselves "rescued" by animal activists who release them into the Jungle forcing the duo to fend for themselves in a place they have never been before.

Both wonderful episodes that should be a part of any cartoon fans video collection. Order them now before they are no longer available. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A must have for Pinky & the Brain Fans
Recently I bought six Pinky & the Brain videos and this one has to be my favorite by far. The video includes two wonderful episodes: Fly and Around the world in 80 Narfs. For a total of 41 minutes of great entertainment for the whole family. Each episode is an absolute classic that will apeal to both children and adults a like.

In Fly the Brain devises a plan to melt the polar ice caps to take over the world. Disguised as Icelandic astronauts, Pinky & the Brain head into space to hijack the Hubbell Telescope.

In Around the World in 80 Narfs Pinky and the Brain are challenged to circle the globe in 79 days to win the presidency of a British Explores club.

Don't pass this video up if you enjoy the cartoon at all. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Poor Ms. Roberts...
... she kept missing the boat, didn't she? She landed a co-starring role in Charlie's Angels just as the series was on its final slide to oblivion. Then came The Beastmaster, a fine adventure piece of fluff (which earned her a steaming pictorial in Playboy magazine, and that issue was for a while a much sought after collector's item) - but the genre fizzled out, so she never got a chance of achieving "B-queen" cult status. Next she played Velda in the two feature-length Mike Hammer pilots, and was slated to co-star in the series, yet opted out for what she believed would be *the* break into widescreen if not major at least second-tier stardom, the title role in the movie version of Sheena, Queen of the Jungle. Which turned out to be a flop ("a triple waste", I believe I called it in my review): then-retired Irish McCalla, who starred in the short-lived TV series, actually got more mileage out of the film's release than she did.

Which role required her to submit to a peroxide job, and while still stunning as a blonde she was no longer as dazzling as a brunette. Which peroxide seems to have seeped into her brain, as she compounded her mistake by going on to play one of the lamest Bond girls ever in the thoroughly forgettable A View to a Kill - and have what minimal thunder that turkey could muster just as thoroughly stolen from her by Grace Jones.

So, what's a gorgeous gal not yet quite thirty and down on her luck to do? Why, erotic thrillers, of course, at least she has the, er, assets, for it. Never mind the shoestring budgets, the amateurish productions, the next-to-non-existent plots, the not-quite-there casts, the talent-deprived directors: it's a living, right? Not for long, alas; *that* genre was also on its last legs...

Still, of her ventures into it, Night Eyes remains the most, er again, accomplished. At least, it *does* have some semblance of a plot, the production is not quite shabby, she gets a chance or two to flex whatever acting muscles she may have had, and several chances to show her best profile, as well as front, back etc.. And to contribute a bit of undying trivia to movie history, as Night Eyes would have a scene - the "pain and pleasure" dripping hot candle wax bit - later shamelessly copycatted by Madonna in the utterly lousy but big-time nonetheless Body of Evidence.

(Last we saw of Ms. Roberts, she was a regular in a TV series again, the not-quite-prime-time That 70's Show - billed ninth ot tenth in the opening credits, and playing the *mother*, albeit a juicy one, of an adolescent...)

Night Eyes - Who's Watching Who?
Night Eyes explores the concept of voyeurism, whilst maintaining a steady flow of revealing scenes of green-eyed Tanya Roberts, who I am still hung up with since the awful "Beastmaster". In the sequels, Shannon Tweed would go on to join Andrew Stevens in further cashing in on this successful release, although other titles such as "I'm Watching You" and "Scandal - Big Turn On" would deal a little more with the topic than Stevens would.

However, the first Night Eyes is a considerably good movie, with enough suspense and action to keep you through the scenes between softcore sex scenes. If you're looking for some extremely revealing Tanya Roberts scenes, you'll not get them here, and personally, I thought she was much more revealing in Sheena!

The acting here isn't top-notch, the dialogue is pretty poor, and the sex scenes more creatively used to push the plot which isn't too bad. If you love Tanya Roberts as I do, then this one's a welcome addition to your collection.

But, if you want more skin, then try Playboy's "I'm Watching You," which has both Shannon Whirry, and more of a focus on the erotic side of voyeurism which gets forgotten in Night Eyes. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Favorite Cartoon
Why aren't these cartoons on DVD yet? If you too love the Animaniacs, go here to help us get them put out on DVD... www.petitiononline.com/toon0001/petition.html

"Helloooo Holidays"
I LOVE The "Animaniacs"! They are so cool! This is one of the funniest Christmas Specials EVER! Gotta Love The "Animaniacs"!

The Animaniacs At Their Holiday Best!
This particular Videos is amazingly funny for adults and the kids. It's got Holiday flavor, music and more. It is fun and energetic and clever. Clever anuimation and color schemes for the Holiday Season.

You'll hum at the tunes and laugh at the two brothers and one sister Yakko, Wakko and Dot.

Twas The Night Before Christmas: An interesting telling of a Classics. Funny and witty.

Yakko's Universe: This is a Christmas rehash of the famed explination by the Warner kids of how the universe works.

Little Drummer Warner: An upbeat and traditional telling of the special gift for a special child.

A Gift Of Gold: A real sweet story of the short lived lif of wrapping paper.

A Christmas Plotz: A great twist of Dickens A Christams Carol. And fun too!

The Great Wakkorotti: Okay this is my least favorite. Why its a little much, cute, but I'm sure the kids will love the belching Musical.

I watch this abong 30 others every Holiday Season. Watch it! Buy it! (11-30-03)

A Family Tradition
Every year, my family gathers 'round the TV and laughs as we watch "Twas the Day Before Christmas", which we can all recite by heart. The rest of the tape is excellent as well no matter how many times you watch it, it just gets better. I recomend it to anyone who likes to laugh.

Heloooo, Holidays!
This video is great! It has lots of Animaniacs episodes about winter. Besides a little belching, it has a few good lessons, takeoffs, and jokes. The Animaniacs are just as zany as ever! If you like Animaniacs, you'll love this video. You'll probably also like other Animaniacs tapes(see Customers Who Bougth This Also Bought:). :-) ... Read more

Reviews (12)

View the Power of the essence of Love.......
Wow, I don't know where to begin. I always wondered where the days went, when a man would kiss a woman and she would lift her leg behind her. As a man who is married with two young kids, I found this movie to be beyond romantic. I pursued my wife in college with the same vigor as Matt (Richard Gere) pursued Jean (Lisa Eichhorn). In an odd kind of way my wife resembles Jean, a naive beautiful woman whom I decided that I could not live without. As a self-proclaimed romantic and one regularly read Frost, this movie captured my heart. I can't stop talking about the subtlness of the love between Matt and Jean. Also, I found Helen (Vanessa Redgrave) and John (William Devane) to be absoulety devine, their story touched my soul. Specifically, toward the end while she was in the church. The ending of this movie is a marvel, I can only hope that it is nominated or re-nominated for an Oscar... Thank you Matt, Jean, Helen, and John, thank you for allowing Love to be so Real.......

Frost once said, " Love is the irrestible desire of being irrestibly desired". I'm a life long fan...Thanks

A sweet love story
Richard Gere has said this was one of his favorite movies. It's a tender love story and a study in cultural contrasts between the U. S. soldiers camped all over England in the days before D-Day, and the local British citizens. As a young soldier in foreign surroundings, facing the upcoming test of battle, Richard Gere shows the gentleness of heart which has endeared him to movie audiences in later films.

Pretty good, unusual movie.
The film covers the impact on a small yorkshire town of the arrival of american GIs from 1942 to 1944. The main thrust is that of a love story rather than a war film.

Although the writing is not going to set anyone on fire with excitement, the subject and the emotions of the characters are handled well. All the leads (Gere, DeVane, Eichorn, Redgrave) are at their best, although Eichorns performance does show some signs of the fact it is her debut.

The film works as entertainment rather than art, and is more an interesting study of the impact of loneliness than as a historical piece. In essence, the film could have been an hour long and acheived all that it does. Having said that, it can hold your attention for the full runnning time, and only one or two scenes are really unnecessary (such as the racist fight scenes at the dance).

Overall, I quite liked this film, and it was quite refreshing to have Yorkshire accented English people alongside Americans (although Eichorn's accent is terrible!) rather than the ubiquitous cockneys we usually get.

My main criticism is that it would work better on TV, by which I mean it is too fragmented. For instance the relationship between Redgrave and her son at school and the effect of an absent father figure, is touched on but not fully explored. The characters could have been much better exploited in this format, giving the audience more opportunity to care and become involved. Mini-series, people!

It was also a shock to see that the film was produced in 1979. Watch it, and wonder why a lot of american films of the same time are so shoddily produced.

and english review
Just to let you know that I watched this film many years ago and have been ever since trying to get hold of it. It is a must to watch and brings to life the war when the americans came over to britain. I am still waiting for it to come out on DVD and trying to find it so i can play it on my vhs, ( i am from england and i will keep looking!!!!) Any way i highly recommend this and you will be very satisfied.

Beautifully made, romantic wonder
This is full out one of the most moving romances ever made - the last scenes are so gripping, so heartfelt, so overpowering in their romantic feeling.

It also succeeds superbly as social history of the impact of American soldiers on a British town in W.W.II.

I completely agree with the reviewer below about falling in love with the American actress Lisa Eichhorn playing a northern English shopkeeper's daughter in love with Richard Gere- I've been smitten ever since. Her beauty, reserve, intelligence, grace are extraordinary - she can somehow project vast depth in her character. (She does the same in her other movies - check out her name in imdb.com to rent them).

Gere is awfully good - unassuming, usually courteous, sweet -I like his dashing self in most other movies but he's just right here. Vanessa Redgrave is superb - Devane is ok - I might have preferred someone a bit more like Cliff Robertson in look, voice, gesture and manner to play the American officer so at ease with an English upper class woman - borrowing books, opining on English public schools, listening to her play the cello. Devane's voice is more that of a tough guy.

I'd also say the screenwriters skimp a bit in fleshing out the charcters of the two 'chippy' working class characters.

Gee - these are minor criticisms - this is a wonderful, heart swelling movie. That old phrase "see it with someone you love" is definitely appropriate - yet it's very much a movie with appeal to men and women. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

For good, sleazy fun, check this fun T&A-fest out!!
I was never a huge fan of the first "Body Chemistry" and this made me not want to see the first sequel. However, I was intrigued by this entry into the already rather bland series (as erotic thrillers go, they're a tease at best, since they don't come in UNRATED editions), not only for the presences of Andrew Stevens (the hottie king of erotic smut) and Morgan Fairchild, but for the plot.

For those who don't know (and there are probably a lot who fit that category), "Point of Seduction's" plot revolves around a TV Producer named Alan Clay (Stevens) and his wife Beth Chaney (Fairchild), a soap star on a trashy nighttime soap called "Empire." Beth is looking for a magnum opus role for TV that her fans will truly remember her for, while Alan wants a production he can really sink his teeth into.

Alan hires an aspiring writer named Freddie(?) to write a script about the story of Dr. Clare Archer, a possible sociopathic radio psychiatrist who has been stalked by two of her former lovers. These supposed stalkings resulted in both their deaths. Of course, these are the two previous entries in the series.

Clare (this time played by Sherri Sattuck) objects at first, but after a night of steamy lovemaking with Alan in a hotel room after the power goes out, she gives into his ideas. And the usual trouble ensues. Is she a temptress in distress, or a heartless, bitchy murderess (gasp!)

It was SO much fun watching this corny flick, because the actors try to be so serious, but instead are wooden, melodramatic, and ultimately unconvincing. But it was intentional, to an extent, I'm sure. Also, the film was made by classic smut jockey Jim "Remove Your Tops, Please, Ladies!" Wynorski, who gave the late-night direct-to-video crowd other "gems" such as "Sorceress," and "Sins of Desire."

Soap fans will undoubtedly enjoy this, as it is a tighter 90-minute version with a LOT of flesh you'll never see on TV!

Overall rating: *** out of *****. ... Read more