Description

A plastic surgeon and a model investigate the murders of three women, who were killed after being used as models for subliminal advertisements. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Unique
This is a rather unique film, though the commercials in the movie are rather cheesy, but funny which adds to the essence of the film. The music, acting and dialog are your typical 80's style. I guess that's why I love movies from the 1980's. I highly recommend this film who has a Sci-Fi interest. Albert Finney and Susan Dey do a great job.

Love this movie!
Yes, it's a little cheesy and so 80s. lol! But I really like it for some reason. I've always liked it since it came out years ago, especially the chemistry between Albert Finney and Susan Dey and the way a particular gun is used in the film. And I also like the theme song. I have this movie taped, but I might have to buy me one, because it's packed away somewhere. lol!

why they were doing it - response to ophomike
this is in response to ophomike's great featured review, wherein he felt there was an unanswered question. namely, why were they killing all the models if they just wanted to use computer doubles to get perfect performances?

i haven't seen the film recently, but i think - if i recall correctly - the reason was explained by coburn at one point. besides the issue of perfect performances, building computer models also meant that they didn't have to deal with the flakiness and mood swings of real actresses and - most importantly - they could use their image forever without ever having to pay them. they would pay the models to submit to the series of full body scans, do some filming in private, and then the models would die. since no one knew of their process, they would keep using the model's image indefinitely wthout ever paying anyone any royalties because everyone would assume all of the "filmed" content had been done prior to the model's death.

one of my favorite parts was susan dey in the scanning sarcophagus with all the grid lines projected onto her as she was rotated. it was in this creepy, dark, deserted lab - but her agency had arranged it, so she didn't ask any questions. haha. oh, and also the scene where a model feels she's being stalked in her own apartment, even though she doesn't see anyone (too many diet pills?) and she then proceeds to work herself up into a fever pitch until she manages to tangle herself up in the drapes and fall over and out the window... now, i can accept the fact that she was at some point zapped with the black-out gun and then lost bodily control, but please - her little model body did not weigh enough to rip those draperie hooks off the rod. haha.

i love this movie and forgive me if my memory has clouded about the details. as a kid, this film left a lasting impression on me and i'm sure it played a part in my fascination (my whole age group's fascination, perhaps) with sinister technology and corporate conspiracy.

Everyone will hate me for this, but...
I'm sorry, but I just didn't like Looker, and it wasn't [JUST] because of the cheesy mustache. It's a neat technological idea, and an insightful social warning of what is, has been, and will continue to happen in TV advertising, but it's missing that "something". Someone failed to sprinkle any "science fiction magical pixie dust" on the celluloid before it was sent to the lab for processing. It lacks any real depth and, although accurate with some parts of the amazing technology, displeasingly unrealistic in others. One thing they did tap into accurately was the creation of "perfect" computer models to take the place of real actors. Now, twenty-plus years later, that technology is quickly coming to fruition.

Having these actors in this movie is like having seasoned journeyman carpenters build a doghouse out of mismatched plywood scrap and bent nails while downing shots of Jagermeister and watching skimpy swimsuit videos. There is no essence of greatness here. From moment to moment, I continually anticipated the acting would suddenly turn good. It never did.

BUT...if you haven't seen it, I do recommend seeing it. It's not "horrible", it just totally lacks any of the magic found in things like The Forbin Project and Blade Runner.

Models & Media
I used to watch this film on cable ALL THE TIME growing up in the 80's. What I've found over the years is how close we are coming to the realities presented in this film. This film is becoming more and more ironic and brillant each year. It HAS to come out on DVD...PLEASE! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The peril facing a lone American amid Third World political turmoil is elegantly communicated in this important film from Costa-Gavras (Z), adapted by the director and Donald Stewart from Thomas Hauser's nonfiction book. The key to its power onscreen stems from the decision not to center the action merely on the disappearance of Charles Horman (John Shea), but also on the search for him by his father Ed (Jack Lemmon)--and on Ed's discovery of a son he never knew. The Oscar-winning script flows freely between that search and Charles's earlier experiences in the unnamed country (in the true account, Chile). Providing a link between those two stories is Charles's wife Beth (Sissy Spacek), who follows her father-in-law around a country in chaos, teeming with reckless authority and disinterested American diplomats (epitomized by ace character actor David Clennon). The film, which was nominated for a Best Picture Oscar and won the Cannes Film Festival's top prize, is certainly manipulative, but it works because of its finely detailed human elements. Usually emotionally extroverted, Lemmon gives one of his finest performances playing against that type--here,he's a controlled, intellectual man who learns more about his son, and his country, than he ever dreamed he would. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (23)

How do you lose an American journalist in Chile?
Missing begins with journalist Charlie Hormon (played by John Shea) and his wife Beth (Sissy Spacek) spending time in Chile during the coup of 1973. Charlie wants to get the big scoop and although the streets are muddled with dead bodies and tanks, he feels quite safe, and consoles Beth with the line "They can't hurt us, we're Americans."

Needless to say Charlie turns up "Missing" and the majority of the film follows Beth and his father, Ed (Jack Lemmon), on a search for him. During their search Ed finds himself dumbfounded by the corruption and bureaucracy he constantly comes across, not only of the Chilean government but also surprisingly of the one he trusted most, the American government.

One may find this movie slow-moving if you don't really have too much background into the coup or are old-enough to remember some of the Cold War politics of the past. You don't get to know Charlie well enough through the script to really care that he's missing. These factors may add up to a dull movie for some viewers or it could motivate you to learn more. The film rewards every viewer with great acting performances and a cool soundtrack by Vangelis.

MISSING is left-wing propaganda? Not by a long shot!
Based on the true story of Charles Horman,a young American journalist who mysteriously vanished during Chile's 1973 coup and was later found dead, MISSING is an extremely well-constructed political drama--the first American film from Greek director Costa-Gavras (Z, STATE OF SIEGE).

John Shea portrays Charles Horman, who, while covering Chile with a friend (Melanie Mayron), disappears from view, causing his wife (Sissy Spacek) to ask for help from Shea's staunch "my country right or wrong" father Ed (Jack Lemmon). Lemmon openly disapproves of Shea's and Spacek's political views and staunchly supports the preservation of the American way of life. Unfortunately, his rose-colored view of his country slowly but surely come apart as he and Spacek, who are initially at considerable odds, unravel bit by bit important details. As one Chilean informant tells them, Shea disappeared because "he knew too much." He knew that thousands of innocent people were being murdered by the new Chilean government, a staunch right-wing one that ousted a far more Marxist regime led by Salvador Allende.

Eventually, MISSING comes to a point of increased sadness and anger, as Lemmon comes to realize that not only was Shea killed (in the national soccer stadium), but that his own government probably had a hand in doing it. The unfolding tragedy brings Lemmon and Spacek together in the end.

A very poignant and highly dramatic story, with a fine score by Vangelis, MISSING also boasts typically top-of-the-line performances by Lemmon and Spacek, who have never been anything less than watchable. The script by Costa-Gavras and Donald Stewart (the latter of whom would do the adaptations of three Tom Clancy novels in the 1990s), won a richly-deserved Oscar for adapted screenplay (from Thomas Hauser's similarly-titled novel).

As to the previous reviewer's attack on the film as left-wing propaganda, I honorably but strongly disagree with that notion.

The facts have shown that the U.S. government supported the coup against Allende only because he believed in communism, but the regime that came to power then systematically trampled over the basic human rights of its people. And here, it very well may have contributed to the death of a young American--and the U.S. government turned its back on that man! No government anywhere in the world, anti-communist or otherwise, is worth American support if it ignores human rights. THAT is the political arguement clearly at the heart of this excellent 1982 drama.

A MUST HAVE
Thought-provoking,shocking,and brave. As relevant today as it was when it first appeared in the early 1980's. The fact that this movie will most likely not be available outside the U.S. and Canada says a mouthful. There is no way you can walk away from this movie and not be disturbed.

Outrageous, unbelievable and true.
I have looked at the cover of this video many times and then put it down again-not being very interested in South American history. It just so happens that I'm taking a class in South American history (!) and we watched the film this week. If you want to know what a 'military coup' is...this film does an excellent job of illustrating just that. It is absolutely terrifying. And the fact that it was U.S. backed has simply outraged me. Richard Nixon's administration was so corrupt. Henry Kissinger had knowledge of this torture and allowed it to happen. I can understand why he's afraid to leave the country. He could easily be charged with war crimes against humanity. This is not an easy film to watch, but for over a decade, this is how Chile existed.

The Classic Search Theme
Yes, Costa-Gavras couldn't help putting his Leftist beliefs into this film, but to dismiss MISSING as mere propaganda for the Left is to miss the entire point of the movie. Beneath the thin political veneer is the classic theme of people searching for a loved one who is lost. There was John Wayne in THE SEARCHERS (nobody called that propaganda against Native Americans). Then there's Hitchcock's THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH where parents search for their kidnapped son. More recently, there was THE VANISHING (not the miserable American version--I mean the original French film).

So it is in this movie. Jack Lemmon and Sissy Spacek play the father and wife, respectively, of a young American man who vanishes off the face of the Earth during Chile's most violent uprising. They are an unlikely pair: Lemmon's character, Ed Hormon is a proud conservative American, whereas his daughter-in-law, Beth (Spacek) is a vaguley leftist hippie. However, their search for the missing Charlie, and their love for him, bring them together in almost typical Hollywood fashion. But the relationship is more complex. What saves the film from that two-dimensional Hollywood ending is that they are also brought together by the horror and very real fear of the violent chaos all around them. Each interrogation of witnesses, each visit to the local militia, each stop-over at the stuffed-to-the-windows morgues seem to quench a little more the sparks of hope and belief in their fellow man in their eyes.

I've always loved Jack Lemmon (God, I miss him!) in his brilliant comedies, but never cared for his serious roles (SAVE THE TIGER? Feh!). In MISSING, however, his performance is without flaw. Sissy Spacek delivers her reliable skills to this movie as well. See it.

Rocco Dormarunno, author of THE FIVE POINTS. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Hoo-ah! After seven Oscar nominations for his outstanding work in films such as The Godfather, Serpico, and Dog Day Afternoon, it's ironic that Al Pacino finally won the Oscar for his grandstanding lead performance in this 1992 crowd pleaser. As the blind, blunt, and ultimately benevolent retired Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade, Pacino is both hammy and compelling, simultaneously subtle and grandly over-the-top when defending his new assistant and prep school student Charlie (Chris O'Donnell) at a disciplinary hearing. While the subplot involving Charlie's prep-school crisis plays like a sequel to Dead Poets Society, Pacino's adventurous escapades in New York City provide comic relief, rich character development, and a memorable supporting role for Gabrielle Anwar as the young woman who accepts the colonel's invitation to dance the tango. Scent of a Woman is a remake of the 1972 Italian film Profumo di donna. In addition to Pacino's award, the picture garnered Oscar nominations for director Martin Brest and for screenwriter Bo Goldman. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (73)

By far my favorite movie
When I first heard of this movie, I had no clue what it was about. My friend and I saw a teaser poster with Al Pacino and Gabrielle Anwar dancing the tango labeled "Scent of a Woman". Putting two and two together, we went into the theater thinking we were watching a love story until the movie started. Whoops. Despite my misgivings in the beginning, I was pleasantly surprised. What I found was a riveting story of mentor-mentee relationship. I love movies that involve the master taking young grasshopper under his wing. Except master is not Mr. Perfect himself. Both the student and the teacher learn from each other's weaknesses. And despite Lt Col Slade's struggle with his misfortunate blinding accident, his Army core values were still in tact. Hard-working and willing to give up a Thanksgiving weekend to look after an embittered retiree, Slade sees an underlying goodness in Chris O'Donnell's fragile, fence-sitting character, Charlie. Like most young men his age, he was susceptible to peer pressure and could easily choose the wrong path as his friends had. Slade is blind but easily sees the temptation to compromise the boy's integrity and future. "This old bat has sharper radar than the Nautilus" Slade tells his young league. He lays all the cards out for Charlie to see, but knew instinctively it was up to the boy to make his own decision. Charlie eventually shows his true colors in the face of adversity. Like a good soldier, he never leaves his commander's side even when the danger is self-inflicting. Character like that is a rarity in anyone and must be preserved! This prompts Slade to reciprocate his support for Charlie who is enrolled in a prestigious school reknowned for producing some of the most important figure heads in America. "Be careful what type of leaders you're making," he warns the school staff. Charlie learns lessons in life that no school could teach him.

Underneath the tough exterior, there was a softer side to Slade. He definitely had a thing for the ladies. Instead of playing up a macho cassanova, "Mac-Daddy" persona predominate in a lot of films today, Slade is quite the charmer and gentlemen. He's cultured, sophisticated, genteel and surprisingly knowledgeable about women's perfume. Hence the film's title. I find that warrior-poet quality incredibly sexy and appealing. You can't resist a man who makes the tango look so easy and doesn't mind getting "all tangled up" with you. A beautiful role played by Pacino earning him a well-deserved oscar which probably was most credited for by his empowering monologue in the end. This is by far his best role in a movie.

Lovely film. Sweet, sad, romantic yet uplifting. This is truly a classic for the ages.

One of This Decade's Best Films
I have probably watched "Scent of A Woman" thirty times. I find it one of those movies that becomes hypnotic a few minutes into it. Al Pacino is absolutely outstanding in the role of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade, retired from the U.S. Army. Slade, blinded by a drinking/grenade game he was playing with one of his drinking buddies, is now living as an embittered alcoholic with an adult niece, her husband and two little children. He is an arrogant, angry man used to issuing orders and not displaying very much gratitude or affection.

Charlie Simms, played well by Chris O'Donnell, is a scholarship at a nearby prep school in the same town in New Hampshire where Slade lives. Charlie's trying to earn some money over the Thanksgiving weekend so that he can travel home to his parents in Oregon at the Christmas break.He discovers an ad placed by Slade's niece to care for her blind uncle over the Thanksgiving break so that she can travel with her husband and kids to Albany, New York for Thanksgiving with her in-laws.Charlie answers the ad and the adventure quickly develops.

Slade has his own plans for Thanksgiving. A last big blowout in New York City before killing himself.

He is abusive to Charlie at first and acts as if he is one of his military aides. He doesn't let him in on his plans until it's practically time to leave for New York -- while Charlie had been told by Slade's niece that the weekend would be at her home looking after her uncle.

A beautiful bonding begins as Slade and Simms interact and except for his anger and bitterness, it is obvious that Slade is not particularly handicapped by his blindness as he has developed an extra few "senses" which make him seem remarkable.

The journey to New York is a roller coaster of emotion from comic to touching to almost tragic. When Slade finally decides to kill himself, Charlie manages to save the day -- although it's pretty touch and go keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout.

Charlie has problems of his own. He's not particularly self confident and Slade is tremendously intimidating. Charlie's other problems center around an incident at school which places him at a crossroads -- whether he should rat on some kids at school at the headmaster's own brand of intimidation, or face expulsion.

The movie concludes with an impassioned speech by Colonel Slade on Charlie' behalf before a school-wide assembly being held for a disciplinary committee hearing on the incident Charlie has knowledge of.

Simms remains true to himself and proves himself to show new confidence and an outstanding sense of personal integrity.

Slade has also benefited by his own plans gone awry and his opening a window of care for Charlie as another human being. He emerges as a sign of hope to overcome his bitterness, anger and alcoholism.

An absolutely remarkable film!!!

My Two Scents
Actor Al Pacino has amassed quite a stellar career over the years, filled with strong performances, that make him one of the best at what he does. He skills, magnetism, and range put him at the top of my favorites lists. For 1992's Scent Of A Woman he hits another high point, winning an Oscar, and alowing a relative newcomer to earn his acting chops, working with a master.

Charlie Simms (Chris O'Donnell) is a young scholarship student at an exclusive prep school in New Hampshire who agrees to look after Lt. Col. Frank Slade (Al Pacino), a blind retired army officer, to earn extra money over the Thanksgiving break. Frank is an acid tongued and cynical bully who completely suprises Charlie with his plans for their weekend together. He has bought them tickets to New York, booked a suite at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel and rented a limousine, all to take the Big Apple by storm. Before Charlie realizes what he has gotten into, he is accompanying the colonel around Manhattan as they begin their wild and eye-opening adventures that include a fast-paced test drive in a Ferrari and a tango with a beautiful woman (Gabrielle Anwar). Frank's passion is women; he waxes lyrically on their bodies, scent, and sensuality, and gradually Charlie becomes aware of the sentimental romantic buried deep within the lonely man's heart.

Directed by Martin Brest, the film is nearly pitch perfect, with Pacino commanding the screen. Even though, I know Pacino isn't really blind--he plays the disability very well. By the end, I couldn't imagine another actor, playing it as "real" as he did. I thought O'Donnell was also quite impressive holding his own oppossite Pacino. The script from Bo Goldman has drama, humor and is very organic. The only minor problem I had was the film's very end. A bit predictable if you ask me...

The film deserves to have an upgrade to special edition status. The current DVD has little in the way of extras. I wanted more. There's only a few production notes and cast biographies on the disc. Not even the theatrical trailer made the extras. Until a special edition is a reality, the film is still a must see, even in its current form on DVD.

I'll Show you out of order!
I absolutely love this movie. The first advertisement I saw for this movie was a poster of Al Pacino and Gabriel Anwar doing the tango. My firend I went into the movie theaters eagerly awaiting to see a lovely romantic comedy. But when the first scene started with a boys school and just kept going, we were beginning to wonder if we walked into the right movie.

However, the movie was captivating as soon as Al Pacino came on screen, he obligates Chris O'Donnell to accompany him to the airport and head to New York. You keep wanting to see what happened next in the movie and before you know it, you've just fallen in love with a hopeless manic-depressive and a young kid whose promising future is about to go under because of a compromising situation that swing the wrong way.

Where does loyalty start and integrity ends? Both Pacino and O'Donnell have to come to grips with in some fashion or another. But there is no doubt the bond between the two of them is unbreakable.

Pacino Shines
Scent of a Woman, a 1993 Academy Award Nominee for Best Picture, is about a friendship that builds between two opposite people, the blind retired Lt. Colonel Frank Slade and the prep school student Charlie Simms, during a wild weekend in New York City. Both are coming to a crossroads in their lives. Charlie has to decide whether he will tell on who played a practical joke on the school's headmaster. But his future is lying in midst of it. And Lt. Colonel Frank Slade, once an aide to Former President Lyndon Johnson, now blind, is considering taking his own life. Their friendship grows, and although I don't want to give too much away, I'll say that I was satisfied with the ending.

Al Pacino's performance in this was stellar, and have many others have mentioned, won him his first Best Actor Oscar. Great film which will undoubtedly be enjoyed by many for years to come. ... Read more

Reviews (120)

Excellent Satire - Incredible Acting from Peter Sellers
This film came out in 1979 and seems to get better every year. It is the bizarre story of a blank slate of a gardner who literally has never been outside of the walls of a single house until he is in his 40s or 50s. The entire view of this man comes from watching television.

The basic story is quite simple. As Chance the gardner is forced to leave the house he has lived in as a child, he is hit by a limosine transporting the wife of a dying plutocrat. Taken to the home of the plutocrat, he eventually meets the rich and powerful of the land (the president included)and is taken to be an oracle of wisdom with his simple statements about gardening and the television he has watched. It is a great satire that just keeps getting better as we rely more and more on soundbites for our information.

The best part of the film is Peter Sellers who plays this absolutely blank, innocent, and slow-witted person with complete aplomb. I remember an interview with Sellers when the movie came out, and he said it was a real struggle to develop an accent that had no roots at all -- a perfect blend of voices heard on television. He plays the movie absolutely straight, the comedy being how people react so seriously to his child-like comments. For example, in a television interview about the economy, people take his comments that "there is always growth in the spring" to mean an end to a recession when he is simply talking about his garden.

This is a unique film with lots and lots of subtle humor (no slapstick ala Clouseau). There are some very funny moments as people react to Peter Sellers, but the humor always comes back to how we choose to see the world. There is no deception of the part of the character of the gardner -- it is everybody else who plays the fool here.

This is a definitely a movie to own and to watch over and over. I know some people who have found it a bit slow, in that very little really happens -- it is almost a comedy of manners. It is a great memorial to Peter Sellers from one of his very last movies.

"I like to watch..."
Peter Sellers is wonderful as the simpleton gardener who in middle age finds himself in the real world for the first time and through a series of coincidences is hailed as a genius with all cures for mankind's problems. As a confidante to a wealthy philantropist, Chance the gardener is introduced to the President of the United States. Paraded through formal dinner parties, invited as talk show guest, and eventually investigated by the CIA, "Chance Gardener" becomes an unprecidented enigma .

A star-studded cast includes a beautiful Shirley MacLaine as the tycoon's wife who is very attracted to the "inexperienced" Chance. Melvyn Douglas took the Best Supproting Actor Oscar (his second) for his role as the dying philantrophist.

The slow moving yet poignant film offers many observations about people and how they are perceived by new acquintances. Peter Sellers' character benefited greatly from his handsome, classy attire when forced out of his home of many years. His simple speech would have been taken as foolish babble, had the man been dressed in rags.

There is a particularly moving scene near the end of the film, when Chance's benefactor is layed to rest. Seemingly disinterested in the ceremony, Chance wanders off, examining nearby plant life, to see what improvements need to be made. The DVD version offers a hilarious set of "bloopers", showing how Sellers can't get through the lines without laughing out loud.

"Being There" is certainly quite a departure from any standard comedy/drama. Not for everyone, but worth a chance!****

Two movies in one!
This is really two different movies. Most viewers will watch the DVD up until the credits start, hit the Stop and Eject buttons and will have seen one, admittedly excellent, story.

BUT... those lucky few who tend to watch the credits to the end...will get a mind-snapping shock! For there's one additional scene burried in the credits, a scene that changes the entire meaning of the movie - and will send you back to chapter 1 to watch the entire film all over again.

And you will then see the SECOND story.

It was THIS movie that has led me to sit in theaters until the end of the credits ever since!

I'm very hungry
My wife and I tend to quote lines from this wonderful movie, much like I do on the golf course with Caddy Shack lines. As Caddy Shack is to golf, Being There is to life: a delightful comedy but with meaning.

Brilliant and haunting.....
This film is like none I have ever seen before. In the past, when I thought of Peter Sellers (who plays lead character "Chance the Gardener"), my mind automatically went to Inspector Clouseau from the Pink Panther series. I thought of the bumbling, clumsy and silly detective in hot persuit of the pink panther jewel. What a terrific change of pace! I really got a sense of Peter Sellers' depth as an actor in this brilliant film. Sellers, Melvyn Douglas, and Shirley Maclaine were all strong leads in this story, along with a great supporting cast.

BEING THERE tells the story of Chance, the Gardener, a simple man who spends his entire life gardening in the backyard of his boss' house, until one day the old man passes away. When a couple of journalists come around to find out more about the former master of the house, Chance is the only one there. The house must close, and for the first time the man must make strides into the big, wide world. This world is like nothing he could have ever imagined outside of the house where he worked. One thing that keeps him tranquil and holds his attention is the television. As Chance says, "I like to watch." (this line is misinterpreted a few times during the course of the movie.) By chance, Chance meets up with Shirley Maclaine the wife of an elderly billionaire. This is just the beginning of an intriguing series of events where Chance--renamed Chauncey Gardner--the simple man who speaks of plants and their growth (the only real knowledge he has about the world) becomes central as wise sage in one of the most intriguing political ventures.

This film has moments of laugh-out-loud comedy, and serious elements as well. (The final scene is chilling.....that is all I am going to say......)
Check it out if you are in the mood for something completely different. In the words of Chauncy, this is definitely a film "I like to watch." ... Read more

Reviews (6)

One of my top 10 movies....
I love this movie, it's one of my top 10 favorites. It's glitzy and it dazzles me, and it's just the kind of movie that gives me sweet dreams and one you'll love to cozy up with on a Saturday night. It's so very lavish and everything in this movie is just beautiful and huge!! Everything about this movie is on such a grand scale, everything is just so big and gorgeous, the mansion is again just gorgeous, the rooms are perfectly and beautifully decorated and the colors that are used are just dreamy, the flower arrangements are also huge and they sit atop huge fireplaces, this movie is just a feast for the eyes! (I found that I watched it again so that I could rewind and rewind just to feast on the sets!) For the most part, the movie stays pretty close to the storyline of the book, and the book was again a huge and wonderful read, (which I also suggest!) My husband also liked this movie, he liked the actors and the storyline, the cars, the racing and the bird's eye view of the auto industry, and one of his favorite actress is Leslie Ann Downs. The flashbacks made me feel like I had slipped back in time, and oh I also just loved how Betsy got her man, the little swim she took... (she's the same actress who played the little girl on Make Room For Daddy with Danny Thomas--I think?). Lawrence O is in my opinion, very sexy and magnetic and perfect for the part, he's very handsome and even though I had never seen him before in any other movie, whew, what a cutie he is, even for an older man! But I love Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones. And yes, I totally agree with the viewer who said there was no chemistry between any of the actors and that Tommy Lee rushed through his lines like he was in a hurry to get to an audition for Coal Miner's Daughter (I had a good laugh at this!), but still he's young and cute and he does not disappoint. I love movies with good actors, pretty sets, lovely clothes, romance and happy endings and any movie that goes back in time or ia a period piece, gets my vote every single time.

Not a masterpiece but still good
The betsy which is based on a novel by Harold Robbins is not

a very good movie but it is not that bad.I didn't like Olivier's

performance but i think Tommy Lee Jones did great.The love

scenes in the movie are very beautiful and Kathleen Beller is

a very gorgeous actress [Most known for her role as Kirby

andrews in Dynasty] and i adore her love scene with Tommy Lee

Jones.

A So-Bad-It's-Great Classic
There's so much awfulness to love in this movie, a camp classic done as straight as an arrow.

I have a hard time figuring out what's my favorite thing about this movie because there's so much to love -- the total miscasting? Olivier's "Americanish" accent which is frequently slurred? The complete lack of chemistry between any of the principle characters? That "Where's My Paycheck?" look on Katherine Ross' face? The way Tommy Lee Jones spits out his lines so quickly like he needs to leave the set early to go to the Coal Miner's Daughter audition? ... The heavily gauzed-lens flashbacks? The complete implausibility of Harold Robbins' story? Mansions decorated with whicker furniture? Sir Larry's parade of horrendous toupees?

If you miss Dynasty or The Colbys for any of the above reasons, or if you are just a connoisseur of So-Bad-They're-Great movies you can't miss this one. ...

Great Fun in A Grat Pot Boiler
This is a movie with no pretensions. It is about corporate intrigue, family disputes and beautiful bodies. It is an unashamed pot-boiler. It is helped by the fine acting that does not descend into camp. There are many highy capable actors here. No one hams it up for the camera which only makes this glorius bit of cheese all the more fun.

A 3-star movie, 5 stars for Tommy Lee Jones, average to 4
This is a big, gorgeous movie, but can drag at times. Whenever Tommy Lee Jones is on the screen, however, it's fabulous. I remember seeing this movie when it first came out, and wondering why he wasn't in more movies. Some very beautiful and surprisingly explicit nudity showing the actress playing Betsy. I wonder what happened to her? ... Read more

Reviews (20)

WHY ISN'T IT ON DVD
I would rate it as a five if the whole TV mini-series made it on the tape. It was a very well done, made for TV movie. Bette Davis is excellent, but then isn't she always great. Rosanne Arquette was young, but gave a very good performance; So did the actors who played Nick Constantine and Worthy Pettinger. Worth producing on DVD with commentary by the author of the book, director and the living actors and actresses. Ask them what it was like to work with Bette Davis.

The evil role Davis played in "Harvest Home" was as good as her performance on "What Every Happened to Baby Jane?"

Everytime I travel to Maine I can picture the harvest home festival. Makes you a little afraid of those New Englanders and the secrets they may hold. If you liked Harvest Home you may also want to buy Dead and Buried with Jack Albertson and James Firorentino. Another New England chiller, alot like something Stephen King would write. (Reminds me of Monhegan Island, Maine "Spooky")

Don't buy Harvest Home on tape demand a full DVD Version.

NEED THE WHOLE THING ON DVD NOT JUST PARTS.

THIS IS A FIVE STARS MINI SERIE
I purchased the VHS version and was extremely disappointed by the extensive cuts performed on the tape. Where is the Worthy story, he is an integral part of the story....what was left was
not worth watching. I only watched the tape once, when I received it. Bring the entire story on DVD

DARK SECRET OF HARVEST HOME
DISAPPOINTED IN THE SOUTH
I cannot begin to explain how disappointed I was with the VHS of this movie that I purchased for too much money then to realize that I did not have the entire miniseries. Please put this movie on DVD so many people would like to see the whole thing as it was shown on TV originally. All in all I loved the movie but if someone is seeing it for the first time an they've already been told about it. It really can't be appreciated with the hachet job thats been done on it. Entire miniseries On DVD PLEASE!!!!!!!!

Give us the FULL SERIES on DVD!!!
Just wanted to add my voice to the chorus of outrage at the hatchet job that was done to this VHS release of this classic horror TV mini-series.

I really hope somebody out there in DVD-makerland pays attention and hears that there are many people out here waiting for this to come out (uncut, with the picture cleaned up and remastered) on DVD.

And while you're at it, how about the TV mini-series of Stephen King's "The Shining", another exceptional TV effort that definitely merits DVD release.

WHERE'S THE DVD OF THIS CLASSIC TV MINI-SERIES?
I remember watching this on tv when it first came out, and later reading the book. Excellent adaptation of a very creepy and disturbing story, kinda along the lines of The Wicker Man. Have been patiently (not) waiting for the whole mini-series to be released on DVD, and not a chopped up version that is almost impossible to find on vhs that is overpriced! PLEASE, I IMPLORE SOMEONE TO FINALLY RELEASE MOVIES THAT ARE REALLY ENTERTAINING AND MAKE YOU FEEL SOMETHING, AND NOT JUST THE SAME MOVIES RELEASED IN SPECIAL VERSIONS, EXTRA LONG VERSIONS, SUPERBIT VERSIONS, DIRECTORS VERSIONS, ETC. ETC. ETC.!!!!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A movie that is deserving of being re-released.
I think Tommy Lee Jones does a wonderful job of portraying the life of an actual person. He shows you the many different sides, good and bad, of a man who probably wishes his life would have been different, better, and probably wishes he was never born.

Tommy Lee Jones is superb in his portrayal of Gary Gilmore.
What a great movie! Tommy Lee does a superb performance portraying the convicted killer Gary Gilmore. Tommy Lee and Roseanne Arquette really make this movie execiting. I think this is one of the finest true life dramas ever produced. BRING BACK THIS MOVIE!! I would really like to purchase this movie. Why isn't it available? I'm sure I am not the only one who would like to purchase it. Please BRING IT BACK!

EXECUTIONERS SONG TOMMY LEE JONES
Tommy Lee Jones is clearly outstanding as Gary Gilmore. He captures the expressions and emotions behind the character like noone else could. The drama takes you through the craziness that Gary Gilmore had throughout his life and shows the love-hate relationship that friends and family had for him. Tragic, yet facinating, this movie is sure to hold your interest time after time.

The Real Gary Gilmore is lost here
I found this movie rather disappointing.After reading the Pullitzer Prize winning novel by Norman Mailer,& an in depth interview with Gary Gilmore by Playboy in 1977,it is for certain that Gary Gilmore was not accurately portrayed in this movie.The book was well researched based on actual court transcripts,letters between Gary & Nicole,& interviews with several people who knew the convicted murderer.
In the movie,the man was played with far too much feeling.The character came across as too mannerly & wimpy.The real Gary was no wimp by any stretch of the imagination.Consider a man at 35 who spent half of his life locked up.A man who killed 2 men execution style for no reason whatsoever - without even batting an eye.A guy like that is not going to be overly sensitive.The movie portrays him as a sensitive person.In actual fact he was quite intelligent,but rather curt & aggressive in interview,& only showed any iota of feeling for his mother,his brother,& Nicole,& even then it was basic.
Maybe it was in part due to the fact the movie was made for TV.The first part of the movie I kept wondering when the real Gary would come across.It was only in the second part where Gary was captured,that parts of the real Gary Gilmore were allowed to shine through.Some things were true to form,for instance when the Judge asked Gary what his preferred mode of execution would be,Tommy Lee played that out exactly as it should be with the exact words Gary said.There were a few other scenes where he played it well.I don't think it had anything to do with the acting at all.It was probably the fault of writing & directing that caused the essence of the real man to be lost.As well I think Roseanna Arquette made Nicole seem a lot more intelligent than she really was.
What this movie needed was to show the character as hard,edgy,& aggressive.The movie should also have captured the period with more 70's hit songs,than just a couple with a great deal of hokey country tunes for the soundtrack.Also they completely botched up the music that actually played in the van when Gary was taken to the cannery for his execution.The real song that played would have been perfect because of the lyrics,but the filmmaker botched that up too,& once again,on comes another hokey,tear in yer beer country tune.
If you want to find out about the real Gary Gilmore,read the book by Norman Mailer.It's fascinating & factual.If you can get a hold of that back issue -The April 1977 issue of Playboy,that contains the powerful interview with Gary Gilmore ,GET IT!It's very enlightening & profound.Check out the A & E biography of him,& get a hold of Mikal Gilmore's book about his brother.
This movie is well cast,& fairly good.However you only get a tiny glimpse of the real killer here.

One of the BEST!
One of the best movies period! Tommy Lee Jones is great as Gary Wayne Gilmore. Rosanne Arquette does an outstanding job as Gary's wife and Eli Wallach is outstanding as Gary's uncle. The foreign version (in english) is better than the US version as it includes extra scenes. Should be released on DVD. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

The Man, The Machine...Streethawk
Jesse Mach is an ex-motorcycle cop injured in the line of duty. He has been recruited by a secret government operation to ride Streethawk, an all-terrain, attack motorcycle; capable of incredible speeds, and immense firepower. Only one man knows Jesse Mach's true indentity, special agent Norman Tuttle. It was great to see this again, but it was a little disconcerting that all of Streethawk's amazing devices were monitored with the help of the telephone company. I would have assumed the a secret government operation would have a more secure phone line.

STREET HAWK
Yeah this is the series, folks- I have always been a fan of S/H, since 1985, and after 15 years (I've just got the entire series on video, along with my original PAL and NTSC versions of the pilot), I can honestly say that my allegiance to Michael Knight seems to be wavering... Okay, so the guy's name is Jesse, but aside from that, this is the series that should NEVER have been canned. If you've only seen the pal version of this vid, (British and Canadian versions had different effects in the pilot to the US version), you'll be over the moon with the US NTSC version. Cleaner effects, notably the particle weapon beam, and the hyperthrust, and also has the opening credits from the series, that the pal does not have. What else can I say? COOL music by Tangerine Dream, reasonably undated action, yep, buy it NOW If you don't, and it gets deleted, well you've only yourself to blame! Love, Stu. (RankinAce@aol.com)

StreetHawk is the KnightRider of motor cycles
Im 20 now but the last time i saw this film it was 1985....along side knight rider this was my favourite TV show... this is a great film for bringing back those childhood memories or even for your kids to watch...if u can get hold of the series as well, ull be impressed....great film

street.hawk
I have brought street hawk and I want to buy the rest of the collection. There was more than one series made. Rex Smith made 12 series and I have got the frist video I want to see the rest of them if anyone has any for sale please E Mail me at Martinmoulds@freeserve.co.uk

Hyperthrust, 5 4 3 2 1......
When you say the word "1980's" to me, two things come to mind. Duran Duran and Streethawk. Im not too sure what the appeal of this series was to me, but somehow im hooked. All you need to say to me is the word Hyperthrust and my pulse will indeed race. If you liked Night Rider you'll love this. I mean what can I say....Night Rider would drive at the bad guys, Streethawk would blow the s**t out of them. No contest, quality stuff. Buy this video! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'
I enjoyed this version more than the old 50's movie because the story in more in depth.....being 4 hours and 38 minutes long. ... there was a lot more time for character developement. Also it is a lot more sexual than the 50's movie. In this vertsion the prostitute, played by Kim Basinger, is a bit more slutty than Donna Reed's version.

It's also the only movie I've liked William Devane in. He and Natalie Wood really heat up the screen and do some fabulous work together. Natalie Wood is brilliant in this TV movie. She is always so vulnerable and fascinating to watch. She has some really great scenes and sometimes breaks your heart.

It's a wonderful tale of many lives converging on Hawaii that infamous day in December which kicked off the war for the USA.

From Here to Eternity -- BUT get LONG version!
There are TWO versions of this film on VHS. The short version -- and the 3 tape (278 min) version. GET the latter. I have both, and Natalie Wood's BRILLIANT performance is severely minimized in the short version, as it leaves out her most powerful scenes!!! Over all, its a well done film from the mini series genre of the late 70's early 80's. William Devane gives a strong performance along with the ever SEXY Natalie Wood (middle age didn't dim her light at all). Also includes a young Kim Bassinger. Nancy J/Ordinaryfool

5 stars for Natalie only!
Where is the rest of the mini series?! This VHS has been cut to shreds! Of course it has my darling Natalie Wood in the lead in her Golden Globe winning performance and as usual she is stunning in a role originated by Deborah Kerr...it's worth the viewing just to watch Miss Wood in a performance that simply drips with sensuality and longing!

HERE TO ETERNITY 1979
I was expecting the original length mini series,this version is chopped by more then half, a major disapointment and in my opinion misleading.

Condensed copy
The version I purchased was cut considerably. Originally a six hour mini-series, my version was condensed to 110 minutes. While enjoyable if you've read the novel by James Jones, there were several key scenes missing. The acting is very good, but the missing scenes make it difficult to recommend. ... Read more

Description

Based on the bestselling novel, the film follows a priest and his struggle between his calling and his carnal lusts. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The controversial, Reagan-era invasion of Grenada by U.S. troops is, oddly enough, at the center of this initially interesting story of a seasoned Marine sergeant (Clint Eastwood) routinely insulted by younger officers for being a symbol of the war that America "lost" in Vietnam. Looking for both a victory and a little redemption, Eastwood's character trains a squadron of scrappy pups and turns them into fighting grunts, just in time to follow White House orders and take the little island. Marsha Mason plays Eastwood's love interest, and Mario Van Peebles is funny as an undisciplined con artist who joins Clint's men and finally catches the spirit after getting his butt kicked a few times. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (52)

Heartbreak Ridge
Easily one of my favorite films of all time. From the intro's black and white scenes of the Korean conflict with Don Gibson's "Sea of a Heartbreak" playing, with a dubbed in banjo, in the background to the fade to color present with a battle scared Clint in the drunk tank telling war stories and backing it up with action to prove his point in front of a captive audience. This is a great action and scene packed film. Meant to be taken as tongue in cheek. I look at it as what it might be like if Clint Eastwood did standup comedy. I probably watch this movie 3 times a year. No it's not high art as other reviewers have stated; but who cares. It's a good story, an honest story with some peripheral basis in fact and a lot of patriotism. The story exploits ideals and emotions that most folks over 50 can probably identify with throughout the movie. My 11-year-old son loves the movie. " This is an AK47 assault rifle, the preferred weapon of your enemy and makes a distinct sound when fired at you." This is entertainment at its best.

Clint Eastwood's Marines
Clint Eastwood directed and starred in the lead role of this film about a "salty," battle-hardened career sergeant who whips a platoon of new Marines into shape. Along the way, he attempts to repair his failed marriage and locks horns with the Marine Battalion's Operations Officer.

Eastwood is Gunnery Sergeant Highway, a Korea and Vietnam veteran who won the Medal of Honor and survived a horrific battle in Korea referred to as "Heartbreak Ridge" in the film. He's a warrior on the battlefield, but his aggressive, hard-drinking and "tell-it-like-it-is" personality has cost him promotion and his marriage. Nearing retirement, he receives orders to return to his elite specialty of Force Reconnaissance. Upon arrival, the battalion's operations officer treats Gunny as a washed-up old prima donna and he finds his new platoon comprised of misfits. On the personal side, Gunny's ex-wife still resides locally earning a living as a cocktail waitress.

Tackling his main problem, he commences to breathing fire into his young Marines, turning them into "heart-breakers and life-takers." During his off-time, he tangles with his ex-wife in an attempt to repair their failed marriage. All during this time, he's one step away from being under-mined and kicked out by his nemesis.

The film culminates with their deployment to intervene the crisis on the Island of Grenada (actual operation in 1983), leading the way into combat for the Marine battalion. It is here where the plot unfolds to reveal if Gunny's old-school training methods have worked, if his wife decides to return, and if he'll survive.

Overall, the movie has Eastwood's brand of humor and it's a likeable feature not to be taken too seriously. There are some technical flaws, such as an absence of other officers in the battalion, but this doesn't spoil the movie too much unless you're a proud member of the Marine Corps. Another item about this movie is the use of profanity; it's colorful and there's plenty of it. By rumor, this story was originally written for an Army Ranger battalion, but apparently the Army denied permission to portray their Rangers in this fashion. Whatever the case, it's enjoyable to watch and does touch upon some actual leadership values.

"I'm mean, nasty, and tired"
I can't tell you why this movie is great, if you break it down into individual pieces, it probably wouldn't hold a candle to a bad made-for-TV movie. However, I've watched it dozens of times (and several more on the extra-clear DVD version) and enjoy it thoroughly each.

Eastwood's lines are memorable, if only for their raunchy hilarity. "I eat canstantino wire and piss napalm". Ooh Rah!

A Tribute to Greatness
Heartbreak Ridge is hardly about the military- it's more about greatness and integrity. Clint is assigned to lead a team of rowdy recruits. By demanding greatness from them, Clint is able to transform the group from a bunch of criminals into a well-oiled military team. In doing this, Clint shows the true nature of great leadership. There is also a fair amount of comedy throughout the film, making it enjoyable on multiple levels.

A Great Ride With Clint....To..."Heartbreak Ridge"....
This review refers to "Heartbreak Ridge"...Warner Home Video..DVD edition...

"Heartbreak Ridge" from 1986 is Eastwood's tough guy image personified. He is Gunnery Sgt. Tom "Gunny" Highway. Gunny has seen it all, and done it all. He's a decorated war hero who has survived battle in both Korea and Vietnam.He's tough and gruff and will soon face mandatory retirement.With no war to fight his last assignment is to whip the members of a raw but feisty recon platoon into shape. He's up against an unwilling group,a "follow orders or else"(not exactly his style)type commanding officer, and an ex-wife who's as feisty as the recruits.Both he and his men(and his ex-wife) are put to the test when war breaks out on the Island of Grenada.It was directed by Eastwood, Marsha Mason co-stars and the cast is nicely rounded out by Mario VanPeebles, Moses Gunn, Bo Svenson and the wonderful Eileen Heckart.

This 1986 film looks great on this DVD. Warner has done a nice job with the clarity and colors. The widescreen format lets us in on all the action and the Dolby Dig 5.1 surrounds wonderfully. Lennie Niehaus' fabulous score completes the package.Don't look for much in the way of special features.There are theatrical trailers, some cast film highlights,and subtitles in English, French, Spanish,Portugese and Japanese.It may be viewed in French as well.

If you're a big Eastwood fan, you may want to purchase this in the Eastwood "Hero" 3-pack instead. It also includes "Absolute Power" and "A Perfect World"...You know you'll buy them all anyway and this way will save you some money...check it out!

Thanx...and enjoy.....Laurie ... Read more

Description

Gary Sinise is "Give 'em Hell" Harry, a simple man of the people who became one of America's greatest presidents.Through victory in the second World War and the beginning of the Cold War, through the birth of the United Nations and his decision to drop the first atomic bomb, Harry Truman lived by the premise that "the buck stops here." ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Sinise is Brillant!
I have watched this movie many times and have always felt better for it. I have always had a great respect for President Truman. Mr.Sinise's performance was heart-warming & captivating. He brought the essence of the character to life. The movie transports the viewer to his time and does not let go until the end (which, I found myself wanting to know more of the Trumans, post-White House). Diana Scarwid's portrayal of Bess Truman conveyed that the man who made some very tough calls in a nation's darkest hours had a woman of steel behind him. He made decisions that were unpopular and yet necessary. "War is Hell". Our 33rd President did what he felt was right at the time. He is in my estimation one of the most under-appreciated US Presidents and important historical figures of the 20th Century.

WHO SAYS HISTORY ISN'T INTERESTING!
Film biography is very ticky business. Directors are often tempted to to make their subjects out to be over the top martyrs, or self- importent gods. Frank Pierson avoids that trap in this wonderful look at our 33rd president, Harry S. Truman. The Truman we see here, as brought to us by the always wonderful Gary Sinise, is a very flawed human being. He's not sure of everything, and he makes his share of mistakes. However, he is also an honest, inteligent man, who works hard to help our country, and becomes one of our greatest presidents.Pierson's attempt to make such an honest movie is commendable, as is his wonderful recreation of America in the first half of this century. Rural Missouri in the 1920's and Washington D.C. in the 1940's are brought to us effortlessly. It is a delight to see such informative and interesting portrayals of great men like Harry Truman coming out in recent years. It is importent that we as Americans know about the great men who have served our country, and what better a way then through the movies?

Gary Sinise does it again!
This DVD stars Gary Sinise as Harry S. Truman and covers his life from when he is a farmer, through marrying Bess, up until the time he leaves the White House. Gary is terrific as usual and when he gets going as the older Truman on the campaign trail, he is dynamic. Also stars Diana Scarwid as Bess, who is usually in campy movies such as playing Christina Crawford in Mommie Dearest, but she is also very endearing as Mrs. Truman. There are some very cute points, especially when the Truman's move into the White House, the "first house they have ever had alone" and Mrs. Truman comments about how dirty it is! Not to be missed! One minor flaw - there are NO special features on this DVD.

One Small Complaint...
The wardrobe researchers should have paid more attention to the military uniforms worn by the real-life personages herein portrayed, particularly Gens. Marshall and MacArthur. Aside from that, this is an interesting movie condensation that should prompt viewers into reading more biographical information about Harry Truman. He and Sam Rayburn appear to have been the last two honest and honorable Democrats who ever drew breath.

excellent
this movie was a great portrayal of a man who was a good leader thru difficult times,it seems like the presidents before and after had a difficult time, but not like harry truman. his decission to fire general macarthur, was probably
the worst decision he made, but generally his difficult decisions were for the best interest of the people he served ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Good but not Great
Charlie Sheen was not as passionate in this as he was in Platoon, which by the way, was intense. Biehn was decent, but he could've had better writing. The producer was definitely thinking you throw a couple names together, along with some two-bit typical Hollywood writing, and you'll get a blockbuster. That's not the way it works, and it showed. It was, however, good for action and mild gore. As an Military Officer myself, I can say that the scenes of Navy tactics are midly accurate, albeit modified slightly for TV. The action, as said earlier, is pretty good, especially given the era in which it was produced. The plot was pretty ridiculous, not true to life in any aspect. The idea of a SEALs unit operating indepedent and autonomous of the Navy Chain of Command is downright unheard of and the plot offers no consolation to the hackneyed Hollywood writing. Navy SEALs has the repuation for being a "shoot 'em up" movie, with little to offer in any other department. This is pretty much true. There are good gunfights, lots of explosions, bad guys who hit everything but their targets and consequently die, BADLY, but nothing to stimulate the intellectual modern barbarian. Basically, if you like shoot 'em up movies and don't care about too much of a plot, this is for you. If you want to be stimulated, go buy some sappy chick flick.

The Navy SEALs seem pleased with Michael Biehn¿s performance
I love the movie, but readily admit there are parts that could most definitely use some improvement. It does, however, have lots of action, emotional moments, and even comedic relief throughout; making it fun to watch no matter what mood you're in.

I believe the SEALs deserve the utmost respect and was a bit upset that some parts of the movie, a movie bearing their name, didn't seem to do them justice. Though I don't know how your average Navy SEAL feels about the movie itself; they seem to be very pleased with Michael Biehn's (yay!) portrayal as a Navy SEAL. I read an article (I'm not sure if I'm allowed to cite in a review, an internet search should lead you to it though - fan club) that said the SEALs were excited about the prospect of Mr. Biehn being the narrator for the U.S. Navy UDT/SEAL Museum in Florida's new film. The film (I believe, as I haven't had a chance to visit the museum yet) is running continuously, showing the history and evolution of the United States Navy SEALs. Biehn, honored, narrated it for free. The SEALs seem to feel that Michael Biehn's depictions as a SEAL in "Navy SEALs" and "The Rock" were very accurate and well done. This is further evidenced by the fact that after his part in the museum film was completed, he received a special honor from Rear Admiral E.T. Olsen; he was awarded with a plaque and named Honorary Frogman for Life. This is a real honor since the SEALs say that the Admiral has only done this a few times and rarely gives such glowing compliments to anyone.

So, though the movie has it's faults, and what movie doesn't, it's still a good movie. Give it a try and enjoy if for what it is, a movie. If you're a Michael Biehn fan, it's a must see. Also, though Charlie Sheen's portrayal of a SEAL may not, putting it mildly, be the greatest, don't be too harsh a judge; remember, he's just doing the best he can, which is pretty darn good, with the shoddy part he's given.

misinformed viewers
I have read many reviews that have been compared to the "real" SEALs.I would agree, there are some parts about the film that seem unbelievable. However, if you are going to do enough research into the SEAL teams to "know" this movie is unrealistic, here is an idea for you. Research a navy SEAL team called Red Cell. After reading about it, you will agree that this movie is almost exactly to a tee on how that team operated. Keep that in mind next time you watch the film.

I'm no Charlie Sheen fan, but he deserved better than this
1990 wasn't a good year for Charlie Sheen. As if "Navy Seals" wasn't bad enough, he followed it with "The Rookie", another brainless action flick that both he and director/co-star Clint Eastwood would like to forget. But of the two, I'd have to say that "Navy Seals" is worse. Overflowing with cornball dialogue, stupid action scenes and MTV filler (remember that golf-cart chase set to music?), this movie was made for a twelve-year-old. Watch "Black Hawk Down" and see how a real modern war film sould be made.

navy seals
well hmm i was a little skeptical about this movie and was even laughing at it at the beginning but that is just because it is so outdated.. this is an era before everyone had cell phones, and the music is laughable except for a good ted hawkins song. i found the main seals sheen and beihn to not be particularly believable as seals ( they didnt have the builds, and there hair was to pretty boy) however i was impressed with the supporting seals. i liked seeing slider from top gun, and pedro cerrano from major league as beleivable seals, and paxton plays a good sniper. i didnt like the romance with the lebonese reporter and beihn, and couldnt really find out what she did to help the seals. the beirut scene was good with the apc and seal rescue, but i could have done without some of sheens silly antics and overacting by other cast members. the movie is oh so predictable but it is still very entertaining. they do cover a good bit of actual seal techniques from halo's to 12 mile swims to cqb, bu they did not use stealth to the degree that actual seals would. tears of the sun is much better although it is modern so they are not really comparable. watch it though its good enough ... Read more

Description

Based on the bestselling novel, the film follows a priest and his struggle between his calling and his carnal lusts. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent Story/MovingPlotline/Good Add to Library
I have always thought Richard Chamberlain was a doll; from his Dr. Kildare days on television. He played Father DeBrichassard with polish and selfishness. However, seeing him rise to power from Father to Cardinal during this mini-series was bittersweet. Watching Meggy Cleary go through hell during that period was a contrast in good and evil because she suffered while Father Ralph was getting rich along with the the Catholic Archdiosese from Meggy's inheritance money by her own aunt. What a plot and storyline.

The fact this mini-series had Barbara Stanwyck was a brilliant stroke; she has always been one of my favorite actresses. A very strong woman; I grew up watching strong women on television and in movies; it helped me be the strong woman I am today. There are contrasts of women in this mini-series; Meggy who marries Luke, but loves the priest, just wants to be loved. Fee, her mother, who had to marry out of convenience; and didn't realize she loved her husband until he was dead. And, Meggy's daughter who never felt loved by her mother at all; until her brother died.

I have watched this movie at least 10 times, and I always cry at the same scene; Maggie on the beach crying because of her loss. But then Father Ralph comes to her and the plot thickens. This is a must-have movie for anyone to own for their private video collection. It is a classic that one can watch over and over again and still enjoy it like the first time you saw it. Superb!

Fabulously written and acted
The Thorn Bird is one of the all time greatest love stories. True Love that is forbidden.

A modern day masterpiece
A long absorbing video/book were everything happens. It has a certain something that is truly refreshing, addictive, infectious, and fast. One of the most beautifully composed story of all times. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'
Natalie Wood Shines in 'From Here to Eternity'..................

I enjoyed this version more than the old 50's movie because the story in more in depth.....being 4 hours and 38 minutes long. ... there was a lot more time for character developement. Also it is a lot more sexual than the 50's movie. In this vertsion the prostitute, played by Kim Basinger, is a bit more slutty than Donna Reed's version.

It's also the only movie I've liked William Devane in. He and Natalie Wood really heat up the screen and do some fabulous work together. Natalie Wood is brilliant in this TV movie. She is always so vulnerable and fascinating to watch. She has some really great scenes and sometimes breaks your heart.

It's a wonderful tale of many lives converging on Hawaii that infamous day in December which kicked off the war for the USA. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

PU
Most reviewers blasted this film when it came out and for once the critics were right. It's so terrible it has a kind of fascination to it as you watch this assortment of fine actors trying to bring some life to a script of pure claptrap. Perhaps McQueen's judgment was clouded by the onset of his mortal illness when he ok'd it. He couldn't have been feeling very well and his discomfort is palpable. Allegedly and laughably based on the life of bounty-hunter Ralph Thorson, it's an idiotic mix of domestic whinery and crook-catching that should have been played for straight comedy. Then we'd have had a happier finale from this great actor.

Not the best ending for McQueen's career.
Steve McQueen plays Papa Thorson a man who lives in the past with the motto "New things are no Good." Papa's a bounty hunter who relies on a law from the late1800's that allows anyone to capture those who jump bail (by almost any means necessary).

Most of the movie shows Papa tracking down and capturing criminals. There are some wacky chase scenes -- one involving a Trans Am and a Harvester in a corn field - but most the action is mundane especially compared to McQueen's other films.

The movie would have benefited greatly with better effects (explosions, etc), some one liners and stronger characterization. The ending is somewhat sentimental and cheesy. The film is based on a true story - which probably could have used some embellishment. McQueen gives a pretty good performance and it's fun to see Levar Burton in one of his earlier roles. Recommended for hard-core McQueen fans only.

McQueen's last movie still a good one
The Hunter is a very exciting movie based on the exploits of real life bounty hunter Ralph "Papa" Thorson. The movie follows his efforts to bring the bad guys in at all costs. One of the best scenes in the movie involves Thorson chasing his man through the streets of Chicago, the subway, and then up one of the towering parking garages that border the Chicago River. Needless to say, the chase ends with a bang. As well, there is a subplot involving a man named Mason, a speed freak bent on