Reviews (87)

Whimsical Romantic Comedy
This movie was filmed in my hometown in Washington state. I got to see part of it being filmed. The diner in the film, where Julianne Moore works, is my brother in law's. So, needless to say, this interesting film hits close to our hearts. In the film, Johnny Depp stars as an eccentric character who goes to live with Benny(Aidan Quinn), and his mentally unstable sister Joon(Mary Stuart Masterson). You see, Benny lost a poker game and had to take Sam(Depp)in. That part is a little hokey. The two eccentric characters of Sam and Joon click and start a secretive relationship. They don't want big brother Benny to find out. There are a few delightful moments of whimsical silliness that makes this movie quite charming. Depp showcases his brilliant talent for physical comedy. His Buster Keaton routine is priceless. His Chaplin shtick in the diner is a classic. By the way, the jukebox in the diner was a prop. It's not ours. Masterson is quite effective as Joon. They are both very believeable. Aidan Quinn is solid as the overprotective brother Benny. A good performance. Dan Hedaya and CCH Pounder also star. The movie was directed by Jeremiah Chechick, who also did "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". This is a sweet little movie with a sweet little story. Might want to check it out.

LOVE CONQUERS ALL...
This is a quirky romantic comedy about two people who, deemed as misfits by society, fall in love with each other. Featuring outstanding performances by the entire cast, this is a film that lets the viewer know that there is, indeed, someone for everyone.

When eccentric Sam (Johnny Depp) enters the lives of a brother and sister, Benny (Aidan Quinn) and Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), he changes their lives forever. Benny, it seems, is always worried about his sister who seems to be autistic. He treats her like a baby, making sure that she is never left alone. Highly intelligent, creative, and articulate, Joon, however, chafes a bit under the thumb of her protective older brother, but she does have some issues, as there are certain things that act as triggers for some odd behavior on her part.

When Sam begins living with Benny and Joon, acting as a housekeeper-babysitter, Sam treats Joon like a regular person, and before you know it they are falling in love, each accepting the quirks of the other with complete equanimity. Meanwhile, Benny is attracted to Ruthie (Julianne Moore), who owns the local diner. The only thing is that he cannot seem to concentrate on romance, as he is so worried about what the future holds for his sister.

There are some twists and turns in the romances between Sam and Joon, as well as in that of Benny and Ruthie. There are some very funny moments, as well as those filled with genuine pathos. There is also a certain amount of physical comedy reminiscent of that of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. In the hands of the adept Johnny Depp, it works.

This is a film that will be enjoyed by those who love off-beat, beautifully acted films. Bravo!

He's On A Roll!
The scene with Benny, June and Sam in the diner makes it worth buying this movie! The roll-and-fork scene and plate juggling, shows that Depp is SO much more than a handsomely pretty face.

Beautifully acted love story.
This film features Johnny Depp as Sam a quirky off beat character who moves in with brother and sister, Benny and Joon (played by Aiden Quinn and Mary Stuart Masterson) after Benny loses at a card game.
Benny takes care of his ill, troubled sister and initially is grateful to have Sam there to help care for her, especially as Sam seems to understand Joon and brings laughter into their home. As Sam and Joon's relationship starts to deepen into love however Benny protective instincts kick in and he becomes hostile and angry.
Very strong acting from all the leads stop this film from becoming too schmaltzy. The result is a beautiful film, which has a perfect balance of humour and pathos. Highly recommended

Johnny Depp is excellent
But what else is old? "Benny and Joon" tells the unlikely love story of a mentally ill woman, Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson) and an odd man who walks around doing Buster Keaton impressions, Sam (Johnny Depp). Sam comes to live with Joon and her brother, Benny (Aidan Quinn) after Joon loses a card game in which Sam was part of the stakes (he had previously been living with his cousin, who could not stand him). Sam and Joon fall in love, leaving Benny in the dark as he tries to sort out his own romantic life involving a waitress (Julianne Moore).

The movie is charming, funny, and not as by-the-book as one might think. All of the actors give great performances, but the standout is Johnny Depp, as usual. He obviously put a great deal of time into preparing for this role, studying the old silent film stars. It pays off greatly. It's hard to rank Johnny Depp's performances, but I would put this one up towards the top.

All in all, if you want to see an original romantic comedy, rent this movie. It's extremely entertaining. I just cannot recommend it enough -- see it as soon as possible. I give it four stars because it's by far not the best movie I've ever seen, but nonetheless it's very good. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The worst movie I have ever seen
It doesn't deserve a review, it is that bad. Don't buy it, don't rent it, don't watch it, don't even pick it up out of the remainder bin at your local Wal-Mart. It will contaminate your life.

The worst B-movie EVER made
One star for the "no glove, no love" scene. All the rest is
worth minus 17. Truly appaling. I would not recommend this to
my worst enemy. OK maybe to her. It is beyond being one of
those "so bad it is good" type of movies. It is just plain bad.

Cool Sporty
I got this DVD at the bargain price of US$10 and I'm not about to complain about it.

The story is OK, the cast does their best, Amy gets to kick the daylights out of the bad guy!

Hey it's OK. There's also some motorcycles in it at least and I love motorbikes. Amy rides a cool Sporty she got from a guy she picked up after a job (I think she keeps the bike when she kicks him out). The Bad Guy rides a badder bike off-course. Amy is pretty and takes her clothes of once so that's another plus.

Sexy and Exciting
Good movie for people who's looking for action and pleasure. Not a thriller but a must have anyway. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Saved by the Light
I saw this movie when it was broadcast on television. I have been searching everywhere for the video. No where to be found. Unfortunate. I was spritually changed when I saw this movie. I have heard Dannion interviewed several times. Each time I hear him I thank God for allowing him to stay with us a little longer to teach us how to be loving and compassionate beings. Everyone needs to see this movie and I pray daily that it will be re-released.

Tremendous Job. . . Bravo
This film is stupendous, and none of it is staged. Director/Author Paul Perry followed Dannion with a camera to capture the true "man behind the myth."

There are many heart rending scenes, including the hospice visit to a dying woman. And there is humor, when Dannion stops at a table in a local restaurant and shocks a group of women having lunch by giving intimate details about their lives.

Watch this film and read the book. It will be time well spent.

Everyone should see this movie.
I lost my older sister Nov. 18, 2002. She was more than a sister, she raised me when my Mom was taking care of my Dad before his death with MS. She was 12 years older than me and carried me to school with her, I was 3, and I sat on her desk. She made me shoes out of ribbons that people threw away at a cemetery near our house. I had went on a week-end trip that came up spur of the moment. While we were there watching tv, Saved By the Light came on and we started watching it. Not knowing that it was preparing me for what would face me the very next day with my sister. The only way I got through as well as I did was because of the strength I drew from this movie. I was holding my sister's hand when she went to be with my Mom, Dad and 2 other sisters, one who was born before me and when this sister was only a year old so we never knew her. I told her to go to my Mom and our sisters , that it was ok to go. I helped her to go in peace I truly feel like. And I wouldn't have known how if I had not watched this wonderful movie. I'll forever be thankful to Dannion and also Eric Roberts for being so real. I miss my sister but I know she's with our parents and 2 other sisters and that she's happy. Thanks so much for the lesson from this story.

Well acted and thought provoking
After wanting to see this film for a long time, I finally obtained a marketplace copy from Amazon.

I read Dannion Brinkley's first book years ago, but this film even more powerfully displays the purpose and meaning of his life and his message.

Seek this one out - all of the acting is first rate, and for a television film, it's a fine production (all except for the cheesy "God" special effects). It's much better than any of the direct to video garbage that Roberts has turned out in recent years. Once in a while, he does a good one, and this is one of them. I found the film inspirational and thought provoking. Brinkley's message of the power of each human being is a strong and important one, and Roberts' performance does it justice.

Tape vs The Book
I read the book first then saw the movie. The movie was easier to understand but the book was in further detail of the experiences of Dannion Brinkley. ... Read more

Amazon.com

An oddball love story about a fey loner named Sam (Johnny Depp), who falls in love with the mentally unbalanced Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), who lives in the care of her protective brother Benny (Aidan Quinn). This 1993 story is hard to swallow, with its message that love can conquer a brand of mental illness that manifests itself in pyromania: Joon has a bad habit of going a bit around the bend and setting fires, but Sam's tender care apparently has the cure for what ails her. Still, if you want proof that Depp has significant chops as a physical comedian, give this film a try: He does note-perfect renditions of slapstick routines made famous by Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (87)

Whimsical Romantic Comedy
This movie was filmed in my hometown in Washington state. I got to see part of it being filmed. The diner in the film, where Julianne Moore works, is my brother in law's. So, needless to say, this interesting film hits close to our hearts. In the film, Johnny Depp stars as an eccentric character who goes to live with Benny(Aidan Quinn), and his mentally unstable sister Joon(Mary Stuart Masterson). You see, Benny lost a poker game and had to take Sam(Depp)in. That part is a little hokey. The two eccentric characters of Sam and Joon click and start a secretive relationship. They don't want big brother Benny to find out. There are a few delightful moments of whimsical silliness that makes this movie quite charming. Depp showcases his brilliant talent for physical comedy. His Buster Keaton routine is priceless. His Chaplin shtick in the diner is a classic. By the way, the jukebox in the diner was a prop. It's not ours. Masterson is quite effective as Joon. They are both very believeable. Aidan Quinn is solid as the overprotective brother Benny. A good performance. Dan Hedaya and CCH Pounder also star. The movie was directed by Jeremiah Chechick, who also did "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". This is a sweet little movie with a sweet little story. Might want to check it out.

LOVE CONQUERS ALL...
This is a quirky romantic comedy about two people who, deemed as misfits by society, fall in love with each other. Featuring outstanding performances by the entire cast, this is a film that lets the viewer know that there is, indeed, someone for everyone.

When eccentric Sam (Johnny Depp) enters the lives of a brother and sister, Benny (Aidan Quinn) and Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), he changes their lives forever. Benny, it seems, is always worried about his sister who seems to be autistic. He treats her like a baby, making sure that she is never left alone. Highly intelligent, creative, and articulate, Joon, however, chafes a bit under the thumb of her protective older brother, but she does have some issues, as there are certain things that act as triggers for some odd behavior on her part.

When Sam begins living with Benny and Joon, acting as a housekeeper-babysitter, Sam treats Joon like a regular person, and before you know it they are falling in love, each accepting the quirks of the other with complete equanimity. Meanwhile, Benny is attracted to Ruthie (Julianne Moore), who owns the local diner. The only thing is that he cannot seem to concentrate on romance, as he is so worried about what the future holds for his sister.

There are some twists and turns in the romances between Sam and Joon, as well as in that of Benny and Ruthie. There are some very funny moments, as well as those filled with genuine pathos. There is also a certain amount of physical comedy reminiscent of that of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. In the hands of the adept Johnny Depp, it works.

This is a film that will be enjoyed by those who love off-beat, beautifully acted films. Bravo!

He's On A Roll!
The scene with Benny, June and Sam in the diner makes it worth buying this movie! The roll-and-fork scene and plate juggling, shows that Depp is SO much more than a handsomely pretty face.

Beautifully acted love story.
This film features Johnny Depp as Sam a quirky off beat character who moves in with brother and sister, Benny and Joon (played by Aiden Quinn and Mary Stuart Masterson) after Benny loses at a card game.
Benny takes care of his ill, troubled sister and initially is grateful to have Sam there to help care for her, especially as Sam seems to understand Joon and brings laughter into their home. As Sam and Joon's relationship starts to deepen into love however Benny protective instincts kick in and he becomes hostile and angry.
Very strong acting from all the leads stop this film from becoming too schmaltzy. The result is a beautiful film, which has a perfect balance of humour and pathos. Highly recommended

Johnny Depp is excellent
But what else is old? "Benny and Joon" tells the unlikely love story of a mentally ill woman, Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson) and an odd man who walks around doing Buster Keaton impressions, Sam (Johnny Depp). Sam comes to live with Joon and her brother, Benny (Aidan Quinn) after Joon loses a card game in which Sam was part of the stakes (he had previously been living with his cousin, who could not stand him). Sam and Joon fall in love, leaving Benny in the dark as he tries to sort out his own romantic life involving a waitress (Julianne Moore).

The movie is charming, funny, and not as by-the-book as one might think. All of the actors give great performances, but the standout is Johnny Depp, as usual. He obviously put a great deal of time into preparing for this role, studying the old silent film stars. It pays off greatly. It's hard to rank Johnny Depp's performances, but I would put this one up towards the top.

All in all, if you want to see an original romantic comedy, rent this movie. It's extremely entertaining. I just cannot recommend it enough -- see it as soon as possible. I give it four stars because it's by far not the best movie I've ever seen, but nonetheless it's very good. ... Read more

Description

A sexy newlywed takes a job at a phone fantasy company and gets her husband’s attention when she begins taking her work home with her. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Saved by the Light
I saw this movie when it was broadcast on television. I have been searching everywhere for the video. No where to be found. Unfortunate. I was spritually changed when I saw this movie. I have heard Dannion interviewed several times. Each time I hear him I thank God for allowing him to stay with us a little longer to teach us how to be loving and compassionate beings. Everyone needs to see this movie and I pray daily that it will be re-released.

Tremendous Job. . . Bravo
This film is stupendous, and none of it is staged. Director/Author Paul Perry followed Dannion with a camera to capture the true "man behind the myth."

There are many heart rending scenes, including the hospice visit to a dying woman. And there is humor, when Dannion stops at a table in a local restaurant and shocks a group of women having lunch by giving intimate details about their lives.

Watch this film and read the book. It will be time well spent.

Everyone should see this movie.
I lost my older sister Nov. 18, 2002. She was more than a sister, she raised me when my Mom was taking care of my Dad before his death with MS. She was 12 years older than me and carried me to school with her, I was 3, and I sat on her desk. She made me shoes out of ribbons that people threw away at a cemetery near our house. I had went on a week-end trip that came up spur of the moment. While we were there watching tv, Saved By the Light came on and we started watching it. Not knowing that it was preparing me for what would face me the very next day with my sister. The only way I got through as well as I did was because of the strength I drew from this movie. I was holding my sister's hand when she went to be with my Mom, Dad and 2 other sisters, one who was born before me and when this sister was only a year old so we never knew her. I told her to go to my Mom and our sisters , that it was ok to go. I helped her to go in peace I truly feel like. And I wouldn't have known how if I had not watched this wonderful movie. I'll forever be thankful to Dannion and also Eric Roberts for being so real. I miss my sister but I know she's with our parents and 2 other sisters and that she's happy. Thanks so much for the lesson from this story.

Well acted and thought provoking
After wanting to see this film for a long time, I finally obtained a marketplace copy from Amazon.

I read Dannion Brinkley's first book years ago, but this film even more powerfully displays the purpose and meaning of his life and his message.

Seek this one out - all of the acting is first rate, and for a television film, it's a fine production (all except for the cheesy "God" special effects). It's much better than any of the direct to video garbage that Roberts has turned out in recent years. Once in a while, he does a good one, and this is one of them. I found the film inspirational and thought provoking. Brinkley's message of the power of each human being is a strong and important one, and Roberts' performance does it justice.

Tape vs The Book
I read the book first then saw the movie. The movie was easier to understand but the book was in further detail of the experiences of Dannion Brinkley. ... Read more

Reviews (87)

Whimsical Romantic Comedy
This movie was filmed in my hometown in Washington state. I got to see part of it being filmed. The diner in the film, where Julianne Moore works, is my brother in law's. So, needless to say, this interesting film hits close to our hearts. In the film, Johnny Depp stars as an eccentric character who goes to live with Benny(Aidan Quinn), and his mentally unstable sister Joon(Mary Stuart Masterson). You see, Benny lost a poker game and had to take Sam(Depp)in. That part is a little hokey. The two eccentric characters of Sam and Joon click and start a secretive relationship. They don't want big brother Benny to find out. There are a few delightful moments of whimsical silliness that makes this movie quite charming. Depp showcases his brilliant talent for physical comedy. His Buster Keaton routine is priceless. His Chaplin shtick in the diner is a classic. By the way, the jukebox in the diner was a prop. It's not ours. Masterson is quite effective as Joon. They are both very believeable. Aidan Quinn is solid as the overprotective brother Benny. A good performance. Dan Hedaya and CCH Pounder also star. The movie was directed by Jeremiah Chechick, who also did "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". This is a sweet little movie with a sweet little story. Might want to check it out.

LOVE CONQUERS ALL...
This is a quirky romantic comedy about two people who, deemed as misfits by society, fall in love with each other. Featuring outstanding performances by the entire cast, this is a film that lets the viewer know that there is, indeed, someone for everyone.

When eccentric Sam (Johnny Depp) enters the lives of a brother and sister, Benny (Aidan Quinn) and Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), he changes their lives forever. Benny, it seems, is always worried about his sister who seems to be autistic. He treats her like a baby, making sure that she is never left alone. Highly intelligent, creative, and articulate, Joon, however, chafes a bit under the thumb of her protective older brother, but she does have some issues, as there are certain things that act as triggers for some odd behavior on her part.

When Sam begins living with Benny and Joon, acting as a housekeeper-babysitter, Sam treats Joon like a regular person, and before you know it they are falling in love, each accepting the quirks of the other with complete equanimity. Meanwhile, Benny is attracted to Ruthie (Julianne Moore), who owns the local diner. The only thing is that he cannot seem to concentrate on romance, as he is so worried about what the future holds for his sister.

There are some twists and turns in the romances between Sam and Joon, as well as in that of Benny and Ruthie. There are some very funny moments, as well as those filled with genuine pathos. There is also a certain amount of physical comedy reminiscent of that of Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. In the hands of the adept Johnny Depp, it works.

This is a film that will be enjoyed by those who love off-beat, beautifully acted films. Bravo!

He's On A Roll!
The scene with Benny, June and Sam in the diner makes it worth buying this movie! The roll-and-fork scene and plate juggling, shows that Depp is SO much more than a handsomely pretty face.

Beautifully acted love story.
This film features Johnny Depp as Sam a quirky off beat character who moves in with brother and sister, Benny and Joon (played by Aiden Quinn and Mary Stuart Masterson) after Benny loses at a card game.
Benny takes care of his ill, troubled sister and initially is grateful to have Sam there to help care for her, especially as Sam seems to understand Joon and brings laughter into their home. As Sam and Joon's relationship starts to deepen into love however Benny protective instincts kick in and he becomes hostile and angry.
Very strong acting from all the leads stop this film from becoming too schmaltzy. The result is a beautiful film, which has a perfect balance of humour and pathos. Highly recommended

Johnny Depp is excellent
But what else is old? "Benny and Joon" tells the unlikely love story of a mentally ill woman, Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson) and an odd man who walks around doing Buster Keaton impressions, Sam (Johnny Depp). Sam comes to live with Joon and her brother, Benny (Aidan Quinn) after Joon loses a card game in which Sam was part of the stakes (he had previously been living with his cousin, who could not stand him). Sam and Joon fall in love, leaving Benny in the dark as he tries to sort out his own romantic life involving a waitress (Julianne Moore).

The movie is charming, funny, and not as by-the-book as one might think. All of the actors give great performances, but the standout is Johnny Depp, as usual. He obviously put a great deal of time into preparing for this role, studying the old silent film stars. It pays off greatly. It's hard to rank Johnny Depp's performances, but I would put this one up towards the top.

All in all, if you want to see an original romantic comedy, rent this movie. It's extremely entertaining. I just cannot recommend it enough -- see it as soon as possible. I give it four stars because it's by far not the best movie I've ever seen, but nonetheless it's very good. ... Read more