Reviews (3)

Adult Thriller episode~
This episode is not as much fun or nearly as creepy as other Thrillers,but the acting is superb.This was more of an adult presentation~~no thunder & lightening & old,dark mansions in this one!Worth owning,tho'!

One of the better "Thriller" episodes.
"The Terror in Teakwood" is a typical horror installment of "Thriller" in every regard. The horrific and supernatural elements are presented in a matter-of-fact, Jacques-Tourneur fashion, with the primary emphasis placed on telling a good story. Such an approach renders the frightening moments all the more frightening. Whatever happened to this approach?

The story is an imaginative variation on "The Hands of Orlac," with a dangerously obsessed pianist stealing the hands of his dead rival from the graveyard. The pianist is played by none other than Guy Rolfe of William Castle's 1961 "Mr. Sardonicus." Not the scariest "Thriller" episode, by any means, but scary enough.

Creepy Episode of a Sublime, Though Sadly Forgotten, TV Show
True fans of Horror who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s love this show. Even Stephen King, in his book DANSE MACABRE (p. 216 of the oversized paperback), calls this "the best horror series ever put on TV." The show's host, Boris Karloff, was obviously no stranger to the genre, and he even starred in several notable episodes.

This episode, "The Terror in Teakwood," tells the story of a pianist and composer who is obsessed with proving to the public that he can best his late rival. He is eventually able to perform his rival's most difficult pieces, but only when wearing the severed hands of the deceased rival like a pair of gloves. Of course, such gruesome acts ultimately lead to the jealous pianist's demise....

This is a particularly eerie and morbid episode, so fans of the genre should definitly find here those chills they seek. Also worth noting is that the episode was directed by Paul Henreid, who is well known to fans of classic cinema as the actor who played Victor Laszlo in 1942's CASABLANCA. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Our favorite Starfleet trio, Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Mr. Spock(Leonard Nimoy), and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) beam down to Capella IV topersuade the resident warrior race to sign up with the Federation.Unfortunately, a Klingon agent named Kras (Tige Andrews, the captain of TV'sMod Squad) has preceded them and set enough doubt into play that thetake-no-prisoners Capellans decide to give Kirk and company a hostile reception.Written by story editor D.C. (Dorothy) Fontana, "Friday's Child" has the broadoutlines of a Western, with the good guys getting rebuffed by hostile Indiansand a final showdown with crude weapons set up in the barren hills. JulieNewmar's guest role as Eleen, wife of a former ruler and a pawn in the barbedpolitics between Kirk, Kras, and the Capellans, even has something of thefrightened but stoic native princess about it. Viewers hoping to catch Newmar ina Capellan catsuit, however (an extension of her iconic, sleek presence asCatwoman in the old Batman TV series), will be sorely disappointed: Eleenis quite pregnant, fit to burst and placed in McCoy's capable hands. Trekstalwart Joseph Pevney directed this action-adventure piece, which contains oneof the good doctor's most memorable utterances, spoken when Eleen expects McCoyto carry her up a steep hill: "I'm a doctor, not an escalator!" --TomKeogh ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Classic season 2. Action plus parallel earth culture study
Here we have a classic action episode about a war-like people caught between the Klingons and the Federation. This is one of the more nuanced cultures we encounter on Star Trek (with parallels to Native Americans or other indigenous groups), despite (or perhaps because of) the fact that they are not 'highly advanced'. The thoughtful, conscientious scripts of the first season often made the most of more advanced civilizations, but as the show became less introspective and more action-oriented, it made more sense to include less advanced cultures. The second season episodes often did so with success (see also Bread and Circuses, A Private Little War, and a Piece of the Action). By the third season, they were again relying almost exclusively on more advanced aliens, albeit for a new reason. It was easy to introduce the 'danger' theme, but without the complex motives we might expect of advanced people (contrast the subtlety of season 1's A Taste of Armageddon and Errand of Mercy with the sadism and nihilism of, say season 3's, Plato's Stepchildren and The Savage Curtain). The latter episodes lack both suspense and plausibility.

But back to Friday's Child. Julie Newmar gives a strong performance, and we begin to see one of the signatures of the 2nd season-real humor-first in the play between Newmar and McCoy. It just seems like the cast had fun making the second season shows. But this episode isn't all fun; it's one of the more violent episodes. In addition to the brutality of the teaser, this is captured in the show's heavy music and dark lighting. Interestingly, the Federation (read the U.S.) commit missteps throughout the episode, proving unable/ unwilling to adapt to te local culture. While the Klingon (read Russian) is equally inept, it is in some ways the Capellans who shine. The original chief shows integrity and courage, and the usurper ultimately shows these traits as well in the somewhat convoluted and convenient climax. One might have wished for a less rosily convenient ending and more introspection about the superpowers' manipulation of the indigenous people, but the episode certainly works on the level (suspenseful, yet ultimately humorous and not too cerebral) it is intended. Funny ending, too.

Kirk blows off the Prime Directive for an unborn child
"Friday's Child" is one of those diplomatic disasters that the Enterprise stumbles across from time to time. On Capella IV, Kirk, Spock and McCoy are negotiating for Federation mining rights. The Klingons also have a representative negotiating as well. When there is a coup and a Capellan named Maab takes over as leader, their culture demands that the old leader's wife must die. Kirk, refusing to let the pregnant woman be slaughtered, stops the execution and has to escape with her to the hills so she can have her baby. Then the politics gets really confusing, which is pretty much where this episode loses me; nothing like being consistent to a really stupid principle. Besides, the Capellan's have such funny looking outfits and it is just strange to see the Enterprise crew scrambling around rocks avoiding guards throwing killer frisbees. Actually, Peter David does a nice take off on this episode as the backstory behind Quintin Stone's bizarre behavior in the STNG novel "A Rock and a Hard Place." But "Friday's Child" is a below average Star Trek episode.

The sky changes colors
The first half of this episode was filmed on Capella 4 and the second half was filmed in Calfiornia, thus the changing sky and landscape. No, actually this is a fine episode that really plays on the strengths of the big three more than many other episodes. The big three try to deal with a fight for leadership that puts them on the run and Scotty and the ship try to deal with Klingons out in space. The episodes that show the constants in emotions and feelings in other beings are some of the best and this episode plays it out beautifully. Seeing Spock and Kirk fight with bow and arrow is also a big plus.

No Mission is ever easy for James T. Kirk
Kirk, Spock,and Bones try to get the people of Capela to sign a mining treaty with the Federation, but their efforts are hampered by the Klingons, and then they must flee for their lives when they save a wife of a slain ruler (Julie Nemar) who is pregnent with child. Meanwhile the Enterprise is engaged in battle with a Klingon warship and is unable to help the landing party. Directed by Trek veteren Joseph Pevney.

An exciting adventure with a few twists
"Friday's Child" is one of the best episodes of the original Star Trek. Kirk, Spock, and Dr. McCoy must beam down to Capella IV in order to get some rocks from the planet for their ship. However, there is a major obstacle in their way, a Klingon. Kirk must prove to the new leader of Capella IV that he's worthy of the rocks that he needs. But first, he must do something with the Klingon that has gotten their first.

In "Friday's Child," you will see an exciting adventure while Kirk and the crew try to stay away from the approaching Klingon and the people of Capella IV. In addition to the Enterprise crew, they have brought a woman from Capella IV with them.

If you're a fan of Star Trek, "Friday's Child" is one of the episodes you need to get. Dr. McCoy puts on one of his best performances of the series and you'll see him perform one of the biggest deeds of being a doctor. At the end of the episode, there are many funny lines that you'll remember from the series. "Friday's Child" is one of the best overall episodes of the original series that any Trekkie needs to own. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

One of the best comedies of the 1970s, Blake Edwards's ode to midlife crisis and the hazards of infidelity now plays like a valentine to that self-indulgent decade, and it's still as funny as it ever was. In the signature role of his career (along with "Arthur"), Dudley Moore plays a songwriter with a severe case of marital restlessness, and all it takes is a chance encounter with Bo Derek (in her screen debut) to jump-start his libido. Julie Andrews plays Moore's wife, who will only tolerate so much of her husband's desperate need to reaffirm his sexual vitality, while Moore pursues Derek to a tropical rendezvous. The action builds to the now-famous bedroom scene that sent everyone rushing to the music store for their own copy of Ravel's Boléro. Talk about a classical climax! --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Five Stars for Dudley and Julie
In 10, Dudley Moore gives a five star performance on two fronts as both a comic and music genius. Film fans may be unaware that Moore scored several films and performed as a concert pianist in his career in addition to his acting talents.

Moore plays a fortyish songwriter who has developed the mother of all mid-life crisis's. Julie Andrews (who looks fantastic here BTW) shines as his impatient love interest and Bo Derek is lovely as Dudley's fantasy girl. Brian Dennehy and Dee Wallace-Stone are very good in supporting roles.

The DVD transfer is good especially for a film that has a little age. The sound is mono only which is disappointing but understandable. This is one of Blake Edwards best films and a must see for fans of romantic comedy. It is sad and sobering to realize that both Moore's and Andrew's gifts have been diminished by illness. Grab this DVD and take time to remember how really talented they both are.

Pleasant little outing for Dudley Moore and Bo Derek
Buying this DVD shortly after the unfortunate demise of Dudley Moore brings home how little of the artists work is currently available on DVD and CD.

Growing up in England in the 1960s in England it was hard to miss the revolution that was taking place in comedy as well as in other areas of the arts. Dudley Moore was an integral part of that revolution along with his friend and colleague Peter Cook. Sadly much of their recorded output is no longer available. Even sadder is the growing number of those performers who were part of that revolution who are no longer with us.

10 is the story of a wealthy composer who has everything that money can buy and a long-suffering girlfriend played by Julie Andrews who has a mind of her own.

Moore sees Derek, in her first starring role, and pursues her through a series of misunderstandings from the moment he first sees her on her way to a wedding to finally being alone with her in her hotel room where he discovers her to be a hedonist only seeking self-gratification.

The movie is notable for the consideable degree of nudity and for it's moralising on the relaxed social attitudes, if in fact there were any, following on from the nineteen sixties social revolution. There is a moralising tone throughout as we follow Dudley's escapades and although there are a number of humourous situations it is hard to tell whether it was intended as a comedy or whether there was a more dramatic intent.

It is nevertheless a warm nice movie and in some ways is more representative of Dudley Moore the person than his other silver screen appearances. Bo Derek gives a faultless performance as the pleasure seeking girl but that is all her role is limited to. Julie Andrews will forever remain to me the way she was in the Sound of Nusic and that is all I can say about it.

This DVD is a pleasant way to remember Dudley Moore. He would be better remembered if his catalogue of films and music were once again to be made available for public pleasure and enjoyment.

Good movie - poor casting
I would just like to use this space to contest that Bo Derek never was qualified enough to be a 'sex symbol' character in anything. So, to cast her in this movie as the 'sex' interest of Dudley Moore doesn't quite work. (I keep wanting someone to yank those raggedy beads off her odd looking head.)

I would also like to give a special message to John Derek: John, may Providence strike you down for subjecting us to misshapen, no-talent hacks such as Bo Derek and Linda Evans. Two unsexy and boring women (unless one is in to women who look like Skeletor from He-Man).

Also, Julie Andrews gives one the impression of being Dudley's mom, not his wife. Why not cast Doris Day as the wife of Dudley's character?

Sorry all, I had to vent.

Likeable comedy
This is a likeable, interesting comedy. The movie is mostly remembered for Bo Derek, but her screen time is far less than the two main stars, Dudley Moore and Julie Andrews, portraying a couple with relationship problems. The supporting cast is also good. This is a film for adults, with plenty of nudity.

10
Do not waste your money or time on this video. I am only giving it one star because I cannot give it a zero! It was the most boring movie I have ever watched...was not funny...was not anything except BORING!! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

That's no malfunction
This episode, involving an accelerated species, has always been a favorite of mine. It is a very dreamlike episode; the scene depicting Kirk's acceleration must be one of the show's most bizarre segments. Tilting the camera and returning to music used in 'The Cage' were nice ways of embellishing acceleration. The idea also struck me as quite original (although I must confess I've read very little science fiction). Others have noted that when you sit down and work out the times involved, there are a lot of inconsistencies and implausible outcomes, but I do not look to Star Trek for that kind of realism.
Kathy Browne does a nice job as Deela. While clearly serious about the business of reproduction, she has a light, flirtatious quality which, along with her power, forces Kirk out of his usual domineering role. Of course, the two of them generated a scene for the sensors to miss nonetheless!
One final note: Even after several viewings I'm still not sure I understand the final scene, when Kirk utters the cryptic line, "That's..no malfunction." Did the production team just run out of steam at the end of the episode? Or did Deela intentionally leave the tape nearby (for Uhura to mistakenly pick up) as a momento to Kirk? Not clear. What is clear is that things were starting to get sloppy by the middle of the 3rd season; it would only get worse.
Nevertheless, I feel this episode, number 13 of 24) sits solidly on the winning side of what would be a turning point for the show. The remaining shows as a rule wouldn't feel as stylized as those from the first half of the third season, and were somehow less quirky and more formulaic. Given that they also tended to have thin plots, this would be a formula for disaster.

boring
most people who watch star-trek think Spocks Brain is the worst episode of the original series. Wink of an eye IS truly the worst, it's boring it makes no sense and just drags and drags and drags

The Scalosians try to pull a fast one on Captain Kirk...
Another race of people with strange powers is encountered after the Enterprise responds to a fake distress call in "Wink Of An Eye." Five Scalosians, who move at super speed, slip aboard the Enterprise and take over. It seems a terrible war destroyed most of their planet and not only caused them to speed up but rendered all their males sterile. Consequently they need to trap spaceships from time to time so their women can mate. However, after drinking the Scalosian water the men who are selected also speed up, but so quickly that they die. Most of the Enterprise crew will be put into suspended animation so they can be thawed as necessary. Having been chosen by Deela, the queen of the Scalosians, as her first mate, Kirk finds a way of letting Spock know what is going on and it is not long before the First Officer speeds up to rescue the captain and save the ship. "Wink Of An Eye" actually ends up being an above average episode of "Star Trek," although I would not want to work out the math to find out whether Spock really had enough time in "normal" speed to hatch his plan before the hyperfast Scalosians have finished with their own nefarious designs. There is also Kirk's discomfort with the prospect of being just a sex object, a rather nice little bit of irony, which I always tend to appreciate.

A good and compelling episode
In "Wink Of An Eye," Kirk must face some invisible beings who are struggling to continue their species. The queen of the species wants to use Captain Kirk to mate so her species will have more members. Kirk must find a way to escape these beings who sound like flies before they capture him in the wink of an eye.

"Wink Of An Eye" is a good episode of the original series. I recommend any Star Trek fan to give it a try.

A Pretty Forgetable story...
Star Trek had an almost complete change of film crew in it's thrid season. Mostly in so far as the production and plotting of the stories went. Many leading figures who guided Star Trek through it's first two seasons were gone, as a result, many stories were rushed into production, and only a small handful were any good. This was not one of them. It basically delt with humanoid aliens who exist at an acelerated rate of time who board the Enterprise and try and save their race from dying. It takes the combined efforts of the Captain and Mr. Spock to save the ship and return the aliens to their planet where they will eventually become extinct. This is not Star Trek as so many have come to know it. Not at all. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Season 4 of "M*A*S*H" ends with "The Interview"
A pair of tour de force episodes with Alan Alda and the entire cast are the highlights from the eight episodes ending Season 4 of "M*A*S*H" collected here on Volume 4:

Episode 17, "Dear Ma" (Written by Everett Greenbaum & Jim Fritzel, Aired December 23, 1975) finds it is Radar's turn to write home in the third "letter" episode from Season 4 and offers a familiar hodge podge of what is happening at the 4077th. 4 Stars.

Episode 18, "Der Tag" (Written by Everett Greenbaum & Jim Fritzel, Aired January 6, 1976) has Colonel Potter (Harry Morgan) ordering Hawkeye (Alda) and B.J. (Mike Farrell) to be nice to Frank Burns (Larry Linville). That can only last so long and after putting on a toe tag that declares Frank to be "Emotionally Exhausted and Morally Bankrupt," the inebriated Major Burns ends up at a battalion aid station. Less than pleased, Potter orders the two doctors to the front to retrieve Frank. A nice example of the Swampmates going too far. 4 Stars.

Episode 19, "Hawkeye" (Written by Larry Gelbart & Simon Munter, Aired January 13, 1976) is a chance for Alan Alda to shine as a actor. Hawkeye overturns his jeep trying to avoiding hitting some children and sustains a concussion. Knowing that if he loses consciousness he might never wake up, Hawkeye babbles continuously to the mystified Korean family into whose home he has stumbled. Ambitious if not completely satisfactory and certainly something completely different. 4.5 Stars.

Episode 20, "Some 38th Parallels" (Written by John Regler & Gary Markowitz, Aired January 20, 1976) has Frank's bright idea of having the South Korean locals bid on the 4077th garbage merging with Hawkeye's disdain for Colonel T.K. Coner, who insists on losing more men sending them to retrieve the bodies of their dead. An average example of the type of episode where the doctors bump heads with gung-ho Army types. 4 Stars.

Episode 21, "The Novocaine Mutiny" (Written by Burt Prelutsky, Aired January 27, 1976) provides a "Rashomon" like look at an incident for which Frank wants Hawkeye court-martialed. The chief attraction here is Frank's idealized vision of himself as a medical deity. Even if it is only in his own mind, this is one of Frank's finest moments. 4.5 Stars.

Episode 22, "Smilin' Jack" (Written by Larry Gelbart & Simon Mutner, Aired February 3, 1976) is the nickname of Jack Mitchell, a M*A*S*H chopper pilot who has flown 839 soldiers to M*A*S*H units and is shooting for the record of 842 help by Dangerous Dan Murphy. The only problem is Smilin' Jack has diabetes and has to be grounded. On the one hand taking a look at the chopper pilots is a nice change of pace, but the ending of this one is pretty foreseeable if not forced. 4 Stars.

Episode 23, "The More I See You" (Written by Larry Gelbart & Gene Reynolds, Aired February 10, 1976) finds Hawkeye confronted with Carlye Breslin (Blythe Danner), who is not just any old flame but the one that dumped him in medicine school because it was clear he would always be a doctor first. A pivotal episode that pokes some major holes in the persona of Hawkeye Pierce. 4.5 Stars.

Episode 24, "The Interview" (Written by Larry Gelbart, Aired February 24, 1976) takes the simple idea of having reporter Clete Roberts interviews the staff of the 4077th. Partly scripted, mostly ad libbed, this is a riveting episode in which the most memorable comment comes from Father Mulcahy talking about surgeons warming themselves over open wounds when it is cold. This episode more than any other signals that "M*A*S*H" is now a dramedy and not a situation comedy. 5 Stars.

One of the problems with rating the "M*A*S*H" episodes on this videotape is that if "The Interview" is a 5, then nothing else here can be. But half the episodes here at only half-step below that classical black & white season finale. The show will keep getting better, but clearly Season 4 of "M*A*S*H" was the best to date. ... Read more

Book Description

When a routine burglary in an elegant, upscale Virginia mansion goes awry, career thief Luther Whitney finds himself witness to a brutal murder involving none other than Alan Richmond, the youthful, charming, and thoroughly corrupt President of the United States. Torn between fear for his life and devotion to his family and country, Luther must make a decision that will change not only his own destiny, but the destiny of the world as we know it. Based on the best-selling thriller by David Baldacci, described as "relentlessly entertaining" by The Atlanta Journal & Constitution, William GoldmanÕs screenplay captures the paranoia, greed, and corruption of politics through the ages and around the world. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Two fabulous moments
Given its pedigree, and the talent on offer in every department, "Absolute Power" ought to be Absolutely Stunning. However, except for two sequences, it is merely competant entertainment.

The first great moment is a conversation in the Museum between Ed Harris (a cop investigating a robbery and murder) and Clint Eastwood (a known jewel thief). Harris suspects Eastwood, and is hoping to trick him into an admission by asking for "advice" on how the crime might have been committed. Eastwood did in fact commit the break-in and witnessed the murder, neither of which facts he wants to reveal. The conversation is a delightful cat-and-mouse game, acknowledged as such by both characters while they continue playing. It ends with Eastwood remarking that he must leave to go and have his pace-maker checked: Harris counters that he will be back tomorrow: "Tomorrow is promised to no-one," comes the rejoinder.

The second is a consumately filmed conversation between Gene Hackman and Judy Davis (respectively the U.S President and his Chief of Staff) while they give an exhibition-dance at a formal White House function. As they waltz, the President reveals to Davis that she is unknowingly wearing a necklace belonging to the murder-victim; in turn, Davis tells him that incriminating evidence is in the hands of Eastwood, who may use it to expose them both. As they trade this ghastly information back and forth in front of the assembled dignitaries, they have to pretend to be having a light-hearted, joking conversation.

Two fine scenes do not make a fine movie. But the rest is sufficiently entertaining that you will probably feel it was worth it.

A political thriller but also a strong father-daughter story
At the start of "Absolute Power" Luther Whitne (Clint Eastwood), cat burglar par excellence, finds himself in a very strange situation. While robbing a rich man's safe in a large bedroom closet, he is interrupted by the appearance of a man and woman who head straight for the bed. While hiding in the closet, where he sees what is going on through a two-way mirror, he watches while the sex play gets rough: the man hits her, she stabs him with a letter opener, and then two men come into the room and shoot her. Luther gets out of there, but while his presence was undetected it does not go undiscovered. The problem is that the man he was watching happens to be the President of the United States (Gene Hackman).

Now, I have to stop at this point and tell you that one of my cinematic pet peeves is the idea that the United States Secret Service will let the president do anything, no matter how stupid or reckless, without batting an eye. Indeed, in "Absolute Power" there are two such agents, who help to cover up the murder and then try to track down Luther and kill him. However, the actors playing those two agents happen to be Scott Glenn and Dennis Haysbert, which is an important fact because a lot of the faults in this film area absolved by the casting, the credit for which goes to the film's director: Clint Eastwood.

The hook for this thriller is the idea that the president, his Chief of Staff (Judy Davis), and the Secret Service are out to get Luther, whose stated intention is to get out of town and get lost as quick as possible. But the key to this film ends up being a rather odd romantic triangle that exists between Luther, his estranged daughter, Kate (Laura Linney), and the D.C. homicide cop, Seth Frank (Ed Harris), who is assigned to the murder. Frank interviews Luther, not because he thinks the old con is a murderer, but because he is one of the few that could have pulled off the heist. He then moves on to Kate, hoping to get her to persuade her father to turn himself in before the wrath of the rich man (E.G. Marshall) whose wife is dead comes crashing down on him. Frank clearly likes Kate and is rather impressed by Luther, which is good because I like smart cops. For his part, Luther clearly has some admiration for the detective and also likes his taste in women.

My favorite scene in this movie is when Frank takes Kate to her father's house, where she has never been, and (knowing where Luther hides the key), takes her inside. In one room she finds a gallery of photographs, of all of the key moments in her life after her father left. "She was at none of these," she insists to Frank, although clearly that was never the case and we can see in an instant that she is rethinking her entire relationship with her father. As much as it is fun to watch Luther outsmart the cops, the Secret Service, and the hitman sent by old man Sullivan, the heart of this film is between Luther and Kate. Even when she sets him up, believing it to be the only way of helping keep her father alive, he surprises her by showing up. His reasoning? He did not want her to believe he was a murderer. Besides, his daughter wanted to see him.

I understand the script by William Goldman is quite different from David Balducci's novel, but that simply has to do with Eastwood playing Luther (if you read the novel you will understand why this would matter in terms of the significant changes). Eastwood's direction is competent as always, and, as I mentioned above, he gets the credit for being able to bring together such a solid cast for one of his projects (who would turn down a Clint Eastwood movie?). Final Note: the White House Tour Guide is played by the director's daughter, Kimber Eastwood.

THIS TAKES A SWIPE AT CLINTON
"Absolute Power" had me thinking that somebody read my screenplay, "A Murderous Campaign", used my idea but gave me no credit. Maybe. "Absolute" is a Clint Eastwood picture, playing on the public perception that Bill Clinton might just be a murderer. However, the President bears no resemblance to Clinton.

STEVEN TRAVERS
AUTHOR OF "BARRY BONDS: BASEBALL'S SUPERMAN"
STWRITES@AOL.COM

Brilliant Thriller!!
In the dark times of the Clinton presidency of scandal and corruption ....this movie really hit home. I was amazed that Hollywood even let this movie slide by, considering their Leftist politics!
Gene Hackman plays a Clinton like President who cheats on his wife and biggest fund raising supporter,...with his chief of staff..seemingly resembling Hillary Clinton, who covers up for him...added to the dimension of realism to this movie. It almost resembles Tom Clancy's work with all the politics and secret service detail. Given the hilarious irony that a jewel thief/War hero (Clint Eastwood)had more honesty and character than this wife cheating President was even more funny!

This movie is one of Clint Eastwood's best...and is enjoyable no matter what party you are from.

Clint vs. The White House...Who Will Win?...Well, You Know!
This review refers to the Warner Home Video(DVD edition) of "Absolute Power"

This is one of Clint's best. It really shows off his expertise in front of and behind the camera. His on screen magnetism matches his superb direction in this great thriller. Also included is some of the best talent in Hollywood, as Clint has a knack for surrounding himself with the finest actors.

"Absolute Power" from 1997 is a terrific thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat(even after repeated viewings) as Clint goes up against some mighty powerful enemies. He is an aging master thief, and while in the process off pulling of the ultimate job, witnesses a murder.And this murder involves the most powerful man in the world. When Clint is the chief suspect, he must prove that the blood trail leads all the way to the Whitehouse. Not an easy task for our guy, as he is being persued by all sides.The film is multi-faceted as it also let's us in on this thief's softer side as he tries to build a relationship with his estranged daughter. A huge cast includes, Ed Harris, Gene Hackman, Laura Linney, Scott Glenn,Judy Davis, Dennis Haysbert and the great E.G. Marshall.

This film looks and sound magnificent on this superior quality DVD. You have the choice of widescreen(highly recommended), or standard format. Colors are vibrant, and the picture is crystal clear.The Dolby Dig 5.1 will have you thinking all the action is going on right in your living room. There are some production notes included and there are subtitles in English, French and Spanish.

This film is also offered as part of a 3-pack here at Amazon...The Clint Eastwood "Hero" collection. It also includes "Heartbreak Ridge" and "A Perfect World", which also stars Kevin Costner. If you are like me and can't live without ALL of Clint's work..the 3-pack would be a more economical way to go!

Washington is no match for our guy!(Who is?)....Go for it..and enjoy...Laurie ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good Scott vehicle...
RETURN OF THE BADMEN is in reality a sequel that RKO released after Randy Scott's success in BADMEN'S TERRITORY and TRAIL STREET. It's full of solid action, good acting, and the special touches that "Gabby" Hayes always adds to his roles. TCM occasionally runs this film. Recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Great follow-up from the first!
"A Shot In The Dark" finds Peter Sellers' Inspector Clouseau on the case of a murder at the Chateau. Maria Gambrelli (Elke Sommer), a resider, is accused. Clouseau has fallen in love with her and is willing to free her of any charge by watching her every move and masquerading, which finds him going to the police station 4 times in a repeated paddy wagon sequence which is absolutely the cream of it all. Streaking through a nudist colony is another great sequence that is a quite a shocker on film. When the climax is about to occur, Clouseau questions a group of bickering people who've comitted dirty sinful deeds, plus Dreyfus (Herbert Lom) is out to eliminate Clouseau. He did, of course, fail to do so. The outcome is surprising. You'll have to see for yourself. It's not better than "The Pink Panther Strikes Again" as it is called by many the best. It comes close, though. This is the only Pink Panther movie that does not have the Pink Panther in the title and the theme song in the movie, but is definetly worth seeing. There's no question about it. You'll laugh so hard you'll fall. Don't fall to hard, otherwise you'll receive a "bemp" on the head!

"I Seem To Have Stabbed Myself With A Letter Opener."
This is one of the very rare films where the sequel is better than the original. This movie is absolutely a letter perfect comedy: suave yet silly; understated yet over the top; pompous yet reserved. You get the idea. A perfect film. I wouldn't change one thing about this movie, even if I could. Peter Sellers defines the bumbling Clouseau as an individual better here than in the original, and I think the supporting cast is stronger as well. Elke Sommer is perfect as the beautiful, naive murder suspect who Clouseau goes to any ends to defend, while George Sanders is wonderful as the great scoundrel millionaire, Benjamin Ballon. Introduced for the first time in the series are Bert Kwouk as Kato (later spelled 'Cato'), Graham Stark as Clouseau's (extremely) patient assistant, Hercule, and my favorite of all the Panther supporting characters, the great Herbert Lom as Inspector Dreyfus. Watching Lom go through the phases of psychosis in this film is one of the greatest experiences and delights a person can have as a movie viewer. (I particularly like his performance in the closing scene, and when reading the newspaper with trembling hands and twitching eye.)

The plot concerns Clouseau's infatuation with a wrongly accused murder suspect, and the chaos that develops from that unlikely situation. The film is filled with a degree of nuance seldom seen in a comedy, and is probably the best crafted of all the Panther films (although I have to admit that the way over the top "Pink Panther Strikes Again" is my personal favorite.) The physical comedy that Sellers could make totally natural (watch the "spinning globe" scene for an excellent example) is still unrivalled, and the nuanced interplay with other cast members is better than in any other comedy that I can think of (to see what I mean watch the "curved pool cue" scene and the interaction of both Monsieur Ballon and the butler.)

I highly recommend this film. The DVD print is good, though there are few extras (the original trailer is very amusing and a tad on the weird side.) It is slapstick, but it is very refined slapstick done by the master, Peter Sellers. If only they still made movies like this today. I give it five stars only because Amazon won't allow more!

Pretty funny, though I'm still not a big Clouseau fan
I gotta be honest: before watching this movie, I had seen clips of this and one or two other Inspector Clouseau movies on TV, and I've never really found him all that funny. I'd usually wince more often than I'd laugh at his idiotic physical behavior. Now that I've watched A SHOT IN THE DARK, though, I see a perspective of his classic comedy character that I didn't see in those short clips. I still can't say I'm a big fan of Clouseau, but, at the very least, A SHOT IN THE DARK made me laugh pretty heartily at times---more than I expected.

I dunno...I've just never truly responded to these films' brand of slapstick. Those constant falls and accidents of Clouseau's always seem to irritate me more than amuse me. I know Clouseau is stupid, but did he really need to be THIS stupid? That last sequence at the Ballon household, for instance, seems to go on forever because this cop carelessly keeps stepping on people's toes and falling down from couches and doors, etc etc. It's not funny; it's simply repetitive, and it annoyingly slows down the film at certain points.

Fortunately, Inspector Clouseau's idiocy isn't totally physical. There are, for instance, a few funny jokes involving Clouseau and his assistant Hercule. Clouseau recites all the facts of a case ("Facts, Hercule, facts!...Without them the science of criminal investigation is nothing more than a guessing game"), asks Hercule what he makes of the facts, and when Hercule responds with the most obvious conclusion to be drawn from them, Clouseau cries out "You idiot! Only an amateur detective would say something like that!" Amusing indeed. That's the kind of satirical humor I responded to most in A SHOT IN THE DARK, and there's enough of it that saves this movie from simply being asinine.

That, and some genuinely funny sequences: Clouseau's scenes with Cato, his inadvertently going undercover in a nudist colony, and the sequences involving the unlucky assassin. There is a brilliantly filmed sequence in the prologue, leading up to the movie's first murder; and the animated credits (without a pink panther in sight) is always fun to look at. Herbert Lom is also pretty funny as the increasingly crazy Inspector Dreyfus, who is slowly going mad b/c of the mess Clouseau is making of the Ballon case. As for Peter Sellers, he's admittedly very good in the role of the bumbling inspector, but his full comic brilliance can be glimpsed elsewhere (Kubrick's DR. STRANGELOVE, for example).

All the good elements help make A SHOT IN THE DARK a fairly entertaining, pretty funny time. To me, though, it is not the comedy classic everyone says it is. If you want to see truly funny exploits of an utterly incompetent cop, see Leslie Nielsen in the NAKED GUN movies. You'll laugh a lot longer and harder at Lt. Frank Drebin's brand of comic stupidity than you will at the occasionally irritating Inspector Clouseau here.

THE BEST OF THE PINK PANTHERS!!
THIS MOVIE IS THE VERY BEST OF THE WHOLE SERIES. IT HAS MANY GREAT LINES AND SLAPSTICK COMEDY.THIS IS HOW I WOULD RATE THE REST.
1. THE PINK PANTHER- GOOD MOVIE PROBABLY 31/2 STARS BUT SELLERS ISNT IN IT AS MUCH AND IT SEEMS TO ME THAT IT IS A LITTLE TOO SERIOUS IN PLACES.
2. A SHOT IN THE DARK- THE BEST. HILARIOUS.
3. RETURN OF THE PINK PANTHER- 2ND BEST. VERY FUNNY.
4. PINK PANTHER STRIKES AGAIN- THIS ONE IS PRETTY FUNNY BUT A LITTLE CORNY WITH A SUPERLASER KIND OF DEAL.
5.REVENGE OF THE PINK PANTHER-THE FINAL TRUE MOVIE WITH SELLERS. AND IT IS A GOOD ONE.
6. TRAIL OF THE PINK PANTHER- BAD MOVIE BUT.... I SORT OF ENJOYED IT BECAUSE IT SUMS THINGS UP A BIT IT PROBABLLY DOESNT GET QUITE AS BAD AS A RAP THAT IT DESERVES.
7.CURSE OF THE PINK PANTHER -THIS MOVIE IS NOT A BUNCH OF OUTTAKES LIKE THE PREVIOUS ONE. IT HAS AN AMERICAN DETECTIVE SEARCHING FOR THE INSPECTOR. NOT TERRIBLE BUT WAY BETTER THAN THE TRAIL AND THE SON OF THE PINK PANTHER.
8.THE SON OF THE PINK PANTHER- THIS MOVIE SHOULD NOT EVEN BE RELATED TO THE ORIGINALS. THE WORST. BELIEVE IT OR NOT THERE ARE SOME PEOPLE WHO ACTUALLY LIKE THIS ONE. IM NOT ONE OF THEM. SO TO SUM IT ALL UP, THIS IS THE ORDER FROM BEST TO WORST-SHOT IN THE DARK,RETURN OF THE PINK PANTHER, PINK PANTHER, REVENGE OF THE PINK PANTHER,PINK PANTHER STRIKES AGAIN, CURSE OF THE PINK PANTHER, TRAIL OF THE PINK PANTHER, AND FINALLY SON OF THE PINK PANTHER.

Brilliant
A chapter in the myriad of Pink Panther films, this film is one of the best crafted and most hillarious in the series. Unlike the other films in the series, this film does not focus as much on the Pink Panther as on The Svejk-like inspector Clouseau himself. Valuable to a fan of the series it takes the time to provide a deeper insight into the character of the infamous and clumsy inspector. Investigating a murder in the house of the multimillionaire leads Clouseau to brilliantly farcical adventure, unexpected romance as he tries to defend his lovely object of affection from false accusations and yet a more unexpected conclusion to his case.
Clouseau's developed persona and the mishaps attached to it may be the highlight's of the film, but they do not compensate for the 2-dimensionality of the rest of the characters. There is little to the films secondary protagonist, Maria Gambrelli, as her only feature is a magnificent talent to attract bad luck and being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Yes, having a well-developed character, Clouseau in this case, is very good, but it seems that there should be more Clouseau's in the film.
So, this dramatic production seems to have spread out a bit too thinly as it tries to focus on Clouseau, the case, and the sparked romance. If the director could perhaps chose a more defined focus, this film could have been improved greatly. Having said that, this film does a far better job in the field of comedy than most modern films that audaciously bear the title of "comedy". Highly recommended ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Lots of heart
The best part of this movie is without a doubt Clint Eastwood. He brings style and power to the role of an ex-con roving the countryside with his merry band of misfit rodeo clowns. I'll tell you right now that I can't stand Sandra Loche, but she does play an excellent .... I think this film owes a lot to George Romero's Knighriders. The real life toils of traveling carnivals is at the core of this film. Bronco Billy beleives in bringing joy to his "liddle pardners" that come out to see the show. His affection for the children is very contageous and is the reason his friends stay with him despite being completely broke. Heart is the key to this film and nobody plays tough guys with heart better than Clint. The only reason I'm only giving this film 4 stars is because Loch's character is the only one that changes at all throughout the film. It would have been nice to see Billy look at life a little differently because of this trail, but he is exactly the same man at the end that he is in the beginning. Maybe that's the message, but I would have liked to see some growth.

MINOR EASTWOOD BUT MAJOR PLEASURE
Between two Harry Callahan movies, Warner Brothers used to let Clint Eastwood direct more personal movies. Everybody knew that these films wouldn't be hits, they were little presents offered to the successful actor. Thanks to these minor movies, Clint Eastwood is now considered, at least in Europe, as one of the major american film directors.

BRONCO BILLY, shot in 1980, is a good surprise for the Eastwood fan. Starring Sondra Locke, Geoffrey Lewis Scatman Crothers, Sam Bottoms and Clint, the movie has all the ingredients of a good comedy. Witty and heartful. The show presented by Clint and his friends is hilarious and the relations between Bronco and the children very well developed. In Bronco Billy's world, everybody can become what he wants to be ; a shoemaker can become a cowboy, a desertor a master in throwing lassoes and so on. Come join this pathetic world described with tenderness by Clint Eastwood. The director.

Widescreen and standard copies, english and french subtitles and an incomplete filmography of Clint Eastwood as bonus features. Rather meager.

A DVD zone curious ones.

Saddle Up Partners.....
This review refers to the DVD edition(Warner Bros) of "Bronco Billy".....

Watching this wonderful film you will come to realize that this was a labor of love for Clint Eastwood, who directs as well as stars. He had something to say and said it with this story.It is many things. It is entertaining, amusing, inspiring and poignant. The message is clear. You can do what you want to do, be what you want to be.

Eastwood gathers all the usual suspects together and casts them as a group a misfits who all have a special role as part of "Bronco's Billy's Wild West Show", a modern day attempt to bring the wild west back into the hearts of all the "young partners out there". Of course Eastwood is "Bronco Billy", the rootin tootin sharpshooter who runs the show. His problem (besides never having any money to pay the crew) is holding on to a good assistant. Enter one Miss Antoinette Lilly(Sondra Locke). A snobby, wealthy heiress that has just been deserted by her new husband, in the middle of nowhere and she is presumed dead. She reluctantly becomes Bronco Billy's new assistant and learns the hard way, that there is more to life than money.

It a great story and an inspiring one also.It makes you want to follow your dreams. Most of the actors are recognizably some of Clint's favorites. They have been in many of his other films like "Outlaw Josey Wales","The Gauntlet", and "Pink Cadillac" to name a few, often working together and they do this well. The cast includes Geoffrey Lewis,Bill McKinney, Sam Bottoms, Scatman Crothers and William Prince. It has a great soundtrack and score, with music by Steve Dorff. Also watch for a cameo performance by Merle Haggard as our bar room buddies brawl in the neighborhood saloon.

The DVD is not the best transfer I have seen. This film from 1980 appeared a little washed out, and the colors seemed somewhat dated.(Nothing to take away from the enjoyment of the film though.)It may be viewed in widescreen or the standard format. The sound was good in Dolby Dig Surround Stereo(but could be really great in 5.1). There are subtitles in English and French. Warner brothers...this one is really in need of a remastered Special Edition. (Of course, I always feel that Eastwood films should be given special treatment)

Rated PG, it's one for the family but there are some adult situations that border on PG13.

So saddle up partners and enjoy this ride. It's rootin tootin fun....Happy trails....Laurie

adaveen76
Unfortunately a lot of people don't "get" this movie. WHat's really unfortunate is that they have absolutely no sense of irony. This movie shows the Duke in an amazingly touching and funny way. It deconstructs in a hilarious and sentimental way the American cowboy and indian fantasy. On top of that the sound track rocks.

One of Eastwood's Worst Movies...
The thought of a lord trying to be funny, is ludicrous, but Clint Eastwood did it. "Bronco Billy" is the best shot in the West, so he says. Watch him shoot plates being tossed up into the air. It's pure ability. Yes! I liked watching Billy jump from side-to-side of a galloping horse. It was almost comical. Good thing there was a bar fight in this movie, it was enjoyable. Why did that noisy blonde woman have to join the show? Those poor people who actually paid money for an already bad Wild West Show had to also listen to her? A lord does make a mistake here and there, Schwarzenegger with "Junior" and Eastwood with this. Oh well. But, as long as Clyde, the monkey, didn't show up, this movie would've been a complete nightmare. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Signs of trouble ahead, if you take Trek seriously
Many have asked whether airing 'Spock's Brain' first sealed Star Trek's fate. More to the point, any brain trust that thought 'Spock's Brain' the strongest of the early episodes was almost bound to produce more lemons the rest of the way. Particularly destructive is the fact that while the episode is high camp, unlike 'I, Mudd', here the cast attempts to play it straight (presumably Frieberger and Daniels were holding up weapons offstage). This must have contributed to the gradual loss of conviction about the product-always a pernicious thing.
Anyway, about the episode, in which Spock's brain is stolen. The basic premise is silly, and most of the plot far fetched. Just a few examples: 1) Carting Spock's brainless body about, 2) Brain and body surviving independently, 3) the reconnective surgery. There is also seemingly little thought behind the separation of the sexes, although we can thank that premise for the description of women as 'the givers of pain and delight." The S & M theme would make a few appearances before season 3 concluded.
As a third season fan, I can't resist pointing out a couple things I like about the episode. First, there is a pervasive mysterious and surreal feel about the episode. The score introduces several dramatic vignettes that would be repeated (and repeated, and repeated..) throughout the 3rd season. There are also some cool shots of the bridge during an interesting scene in which the officers are invited to participate in some decision-making. Finally, the teaser is pretty strong.

Makes more sense if you've been to graduate school...
Don't be too hard on this episode. It's definitely a throwback to an earlier type of Sci-Fi -- Forbidden Planet and its ilk, with beautiful, brainless babes who must be rescued from themselves -- not the ground-breaking fiction of the best Star Trek. But it's still a lot of fun.

And if you've ever had a really dumb day, where you can't seem to think straight or get anything done and stuff that was clear as water the day before is now opaque as mud, well, all I can say is "Brain and brain, what is brain?"

If you laugh at Spock's Brain, check out "Amazon Women on the Moon."

One of the worst plot lines of all time
This episode has only two things going, dialog that is somewhat funny (most likely unintentionally), and beautiful women clad only in the absolute minimum required by the censors. The rest of the story is so preposterous that I rank it in my list of the five worst episodes of the original series. A society has somehow been split where the females live underground with the technology, but understand none of it. In essence the ultimate bimbos. The males live above ground and appear to have retained some intelligence, but are considered brutes by the females. Since this society has survived for a long time, one wonders how they manage to procreate.
Fortunately for the society, there is a fancy hair dryer hat that connects them directly to the computer database containing vast amounts of knowledge, including how to remove and reattach a human brain. Unfortunately, the knowledge fades from human memory after a short period of time.
Females from the society obtain the knowledge that allows them to extract a brain and then beam aboard the Enterprise and remove Spock's brain, leaving the body. They apparently need it to run their machinery, since theirs are so devoid of knowledge. The quick thinking Dr. McCoy attaches a device to Spock's head that keeps his body alive and allows them to control it. The usual party beam to the planet with Spock's animated body in an attempt to recover the brain. Absurdity is piled on absurdity, as Nimoy looks like an actor trying to keep a straight Vulcan face while knowing it is ridiculous, a point he makes in his book, "I Am Spock." McCoy eventually puts on the hair dryer hat, gains the knowledge and is able to reattach the brain in the nick of time.
The "high" point, other than the babes, is when Dr. McCoy says, "I never should have connected his mouth." With no underlying significant message to hold this pointless episode together, it fails in all respects. It is one of the few that I turn off when I see that it is the episode currently being shown.

Brain, Brain, What is Brain?
This is a great Star Trek episode. If you don't think so then you either analyze star trek too deeply or have no sense of humor, possibly both. It was obviously done tongue in cheek and with a nod to 50's sci fi.
Some highlights:
1. Cool wrist bands which render the star trek crew unconsious. A writer of the Wonder Years had been impressed with this part of the episode and did an homage to it in a Wonder Years episode.
2. The facial expressions of McCoy, when he wears the helmet which temporarily emparts advanced surgical knowledge to him are priceless!
3. The fact that the crew members can converse with Spock's brain which had been previously disembodied is hilarious. In addition, the fact that Spock can move about without his brain is very amusing. Does the gadget which makes this possible look similar to the device used on Checkov to revive him in The Voyage Home?

Mini-Skirted Alien Pseudo-Intellectual NeuroSurgeons?
Cost of a Star Trek script in 1968? $4,500

Cost to produce an episode of Star Trek in 1968? $185,000

Cost to film an episode of Star Trek in 1968? $200 a minute

Cost to see McCoy wearing The Salad Bowl Of Knowledge? Priceless

Nearly every fan who has watched Spock's Brain has been unable to sit through it without giggling a little, sustain genuine belly laughs or shake their heads in disbelief. I have a love-hate relationship with this episode. I love it for the simple reason that it contains some scenes that induce great laughter - or at least it does for me. Surely, the creators of Star Trek mean us not to take this episode seriously. Let's examine some of the elements:
1. On this alien planet men have lived on the surface as unintelligible savages while women have lived below for thousands of years. How exactly are each of them procreating? Specifically the males living alone on the surface!
2. Why are the men exiled to the surface and the women kept separately below?
3. Why is it that the women's ability to learn or retain knowledge atrophied?
4. Keeping in mind the relationship between men and women on the alien planet why would such a culture of women choose to take a man's brain to be their leader and instruct them in what to do? Wouldn't they naturally have taken a woman's brain for this purpose?
5. Finally, why would the women choose mini-skirts and go-go boots for daily wear?

I also hate this episode for the same previously stated reasons. The whole sequence of events as presented is illogical and absurd. It may have seemed like a good idea in it's conception but even in 1968, when this episode first aired, the plotting used here was implausible and ludicrous. Still, because I am a completist I find it necessary to include it as part of my collection. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

hard edge action
The rookie is a hardcore action ride.Sheen @ eastwood are very good together.The shoot outs are hard,the fights are bloody,the language is brutal.A hard movie along the lines of The last boy scout.

Race car scenes are famous
This film is known for the miniature race cars that zoom under real cars and then explode. Pretty cool.

FORMULAIC BUT WATCHABLE COP THRILLER
Clint Eastwood and Charlie Sheen make strange co-cops, the chemistry was there but not quite. The Rookie is full of formula action cliches with plot holes so large you could drive a stolen SUV through them. The saving grace: a funny grizzled performance by Clint Eastwood. If you can digest the first 15 minutes and not think too hard about it, "The Rookie" is actually quite a watchable movie with some pretty nifty explosions, escapes and chases. You know, the works.

Another Eastwood Goody!!! And Sheen Was Good Too!!!
When two policemen move in on car thieves, one of them gets killed. And the fallen officer isn't just a partner, he's a friend. Now it's PERSONAL!!! Clint Eastwood plays Nick Pulovski the surviving partner, who makes it a point to try and find the hoodlums. Of course Clint plays a rough and tumble policeman like in his Dirty Harry roles, but in this movie, he does show a more down to earth side, lighter side. There's a terrific car chase involving Clint and when it's over, it's rather comical.
Nick gets a new partner David Ackerman (played by Charlie Sheen) who looks more like an insurance salesman than a policeman, mainly because he's from the side of town where you learn early in life where to put your fork and knife on the table.
With this new partner, the two head out to try and find the thieves. The head goon is played by none other than Raul Julia. I must admit, when I first spotted Raul playing that of a villain, I didn't think he'd fit the role, but after seeing the entire movie, I'd say he done a terrific job at it!
The big question is Will Nick and David get their man? Well, of course I'm not going to say, but I will say that if you like movies with just the right amount of action, plus an equal helping of suspense, intrique, drama, and a light seasoning of comedy, you'll be sure to love this entertaining film.
It's the perfect movie meal.

Ultimate Eastwood Action!
"The Rookie" is the best Clint Eastwood movie to have ever been made since "Dirty Harry." You have a veteran cop named Nick Puvloski teamed up with a clueless, gutless rookie (Charlie Sheen) and you have pure lordage. They've teamed up to bring down an import auto dealer who was also the genius bad guy in "Street Fighter" (Raul Julia). Puvloski put his cigarette in the man's drink. Pure admiration. Genius lines were delivered with "Welcome to hell, man." Remember the parts where Ackerman goes on a rampage at the bar and raises some unholy hell. The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire. We don't need no water, so let the MF burn! "Get in the freakin' car!" The stunts are worthy. This movie has brought lots of joy to my life. Heaven to my eyes and gratification to my mind. I have found myself after watching this movie. Praise Clint Eastwood for this masterpiece film. So, Warner Bros. PLEASE put this on DVD now, if not for me, but for human civilization. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Clint Eastwood tried to get mellow--and/or funny--with a series of films in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This one works better than most (certainly better than those monkey movies he made), though it's far from perfect. Still, there's something charming about Eastwood as a cowboy wannabe who runs his own version of a Wild West show in modern times. The show is ragged and his sharp-shooting skills are suspect, but he's having fun. At least until a runaway heiress (Sondra Locke) joins his second-rate band of buddies and proves to be both a divisive and jeopardizing force and who ultimately forces Eastwood to admit to his New Jersey roots. Eastwood is nice in a relaxed mood, but one wonders (as he must at this point) what he saw in Locke. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Lots of heart
The best part of this movie is without a doubt Clint Eastwood. He brings style and power to the role of an ex-con roving the countryside with his merry band of misfit rodeo clowns. I'll tell you right now that I can't stand Sandra Loche, but she does play an excellent .... I think this film owes a lot to George Romero's Knighriders. The real life toils of traveling carnivals is at the core of this film. Bronco Billy beleives in bringing joy to his "liddle pardners" that come out to see the show. His affection for the children is very contageous and is the reason his friends stay with him despite being completely broke. Heart is the key to this film and nobody plays tough guys with heart better than Clint. The only reason I'm only giving this film 4 stars is because Loch's character is the only one that changes at all throughout the film. It would have been nice to see Billy look at life a little differently because of this trail, but he is exactly the same man at the end that he is in the beginning. Maybe that's the message, but I would have liked to see some growth.

MINOR EASTWOOD BUT MAJOR PLEASURE
Between two Harry Callahan movies, Warner Brothers used to let Clint Eastwood direct more personal movies. Everybody knew that these films wouldn't be hits, they were little presents offered to the successful actor. Thanks to these minor movies, Clint Eastwood is now considered, at least in Europe, as one of the major american film directors.

BRONCO BILLY, shot in 1980, is a good surprise for the Eastwood fan. Starring Sondra Locke, Geoffrey Lewis Scatman Crothers, Sam Bottoms and Clint, the movie has all the ingredients of a good comedy. Witty and heartful. The show presented by Clint and his friends is hilarious and the relations between Bronco and the children very well developed. In Bronco Billy's world, everybody can become what he wants to be ; a shoemaker can become a cowboy, a desertor a master in throwing lassoes and so on. Come join this pathetic world described with tenderness by Clint Eastwood. The director.

Widescreen and standard copies, english and french subtitles and an incomplete filmography of Clint Eastwood as bonus features. Rather meager.

A DVD zone curious ones.

Saddle Up Partners.....
This review refers to the DVD edition(Warner Bros) of "Bronco Billy".....

Watching this wonderful film you will come to realize that this was a labor of love for Clint Eastwood, who directs as well as stars. He had something to say and said it with this story.It is many things. It is entertaining, amusing, inspiring and poignant. The message is clear. You can do what you want to do, be what you want to be.

Eastwood gathers all the usual suspects together and casts them as a group a misfits who all have a special role as part of "Bronco's Billy's Wild West Show", a modern day attempt to bring the wild west back into the hearts of all the "young partners out there". Of course Eastwood is "Bronco Billy", the rootin tootin sharpshooter who runs the show. His problem (besides never having any money to pay the crew) is holding on to a good assistant. Enter one Miss Antoinette Lilly(Sondra Locke). A snobby, wealthy heiress that has just been deserted by her new husband, in the middle of nowhere and she is presumed dead. She reluctantly becomes Bronco Billy's new assistant and learns the hard way, that there is more to life than money.

It a great story and an inspiring one also.It makes you want to follow your dreams. Most of the actors are recognizably some of Clint's favorites. They have been in many of his other films like "Outlaw Josey Wales","The Gauntlet", and "Pink Cadillac" to name a few, often working together and they do this well. The cast includes Geoffrey Lewis,Bill McKinney, Sam Bottoms, Scatman Crothers and William Prince. It has a great soundtrack and score, with music by Steve Dorff. Also watch for a cameo performance by Merle Haggard as our bar room buddies brawl in the neighborhood saloon.

The DVD is not the best transfer I have seen. This film from 1980 appeared a little washed out, and the colors seemed somewhat dated.(Nothing to take away from the enjoyment of the film though.)It may be viewed in widescreen or the standard format. The sound was good in Dolby Dig Surround Stereo(but could be really great in 5.1). There are subtitles in English and French. Warner brothers...this one is really in need of a remastered Special Edition. (Of course, I always feel that Eastwood films should be given special treatment)

Rated PG, it's one for the family but there are some adult situations that border on PG13.

So saddle up partners and enjoy this ride. It's rootin tootin fun....Happy trails....Laurie

adaveen76
Unfortunately a lot of people don't "get" this movie. WHat's really unfortunate is that they have absolutely no sense of irony. This movie shows the Duke in an amazingly touching and funny way. It deconstructs in a hilarious and sentimental way the American cowboy and indian fantasy. On top of that the sound track rocks.

One of Eastwood's Worst Movies...
The thought of a lord trying to be funny, is ludicrous, but Clint Eastwood did it. "Bronco Billy" is the best shot in the West, so he says. Watch him shoot plates being tossed up into the air. It's pure ability. Yes! I liked watching Billy jump from side-to-side of a galloping horse. It was almost comical. Good thing there was a bar fight in this movie, it was enjoyable. Why did that noisy blonde woman have to join the show? Those poor people who actually paid money for an already bad Wild West Show had to also listen to her? A lord does make a mistake here and there, Schwarzenegger with "Junior" and Eastwood with this. Oh well. But, as long as Clyde, the monkey, didn't show up, this movie would've been a complete nightmare. ... Read more

Description

Loaded with nonstop action -- this thrilling, high-powered motion picture stars Michael Dudikoff (RINGMASTER, AMERICAN NINJA 2)! Dudikoff is a bounty hunter who forms an uneasy partnership with a rival to capture a fugitive. But the hunters soon discover that the crook is also the man the mob most wants dead! Ready to battle anyone in their way, these hard-hitting bounty hunters won't quit until they've brought in their man ... and brought down the mob! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

okay movie, but not one of Michael Dudikoff's better movies.
Michael Dudikoff's acting was alot less 'stiff' than his earlier movies; showed more humor, but the character "BB" could have been played by someone better. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Enterprise's Vulcan-born first officer, Mr. Spock (LeonardNimoy), generally smiles about as often as Greta Garbo. But in episode 25 ofthe original 1960s series, not only does Spock smile, he laughs, dangles from atree, kisses a good-looking blonde woman, and gets into a fight with his best friend. Could this be some long-lost episode in which Nimoy's stoic heroregresses into a 6-year-old? No, but it is one of the most popular stories from Gene Roddenberry's classic Trek. Spock, Captain Kirk(William Shatner), Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley), Sulu (George Takei), and acouple of crewmen beam down to Omicron Ceti III hoping to find out what happenedto a group of scientists who built a research colony on the planet. What theydiscover is a little spooky. The self-satisfied colonists claim they'vecreated a true paradise where no one has needs or wants, where no one ages or gets sick, and everyone is part of a collective mind bent on positivity.Kirk, naturally, argues that paradise robs men of their need to suffer andcrawl toward progress. Meanwhile, Spock is zapped by an exotic flower that is the real source of all this community goodwill, and he instantly gets happy--acting like a kid, renewing a romance with a comely biologist (an angelicJill Ireland), and giving the sputtering Kirk an earful of entertaininginsubordination. Story editor D.C. Fontana's script contains some obviousparallels between a chemically induced "paradise" and a drug-induced high in the '60s. But the real draw here is Spock's uncharacteristic joy and the drama behind Kirk's shattering decision to break his friend's heart. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (9)

"For the first time in my life, I was happy."
Happy is putting it mildly! See Spock swing from trees and engage in some serious lip-lock with Leila Kalomi! The care-free colonists of Omicron Ceti III have a secret -- they should have died of Berthold Rays, but they're all happy, healthy, and not at all concerned that all of their animals have died. Kirk gets to the heart of the matter (with Samsonite luggage in hand).
One of my favorite, favorite episodes of all time. This episode features one of the sweetest goodbye scenes ever. Guest stars include the lovely, and much missed Jill Ireland as Leila.

Another top notch episode from the end of season 1
Yet another excellent episode, this one concerns a planet where plant spores have caused an epidemic of joyful inebriation. Like many of the best early shows, the slow pacing here allows a sense of mystery to develop before the hook is revealed to us. This is one of the more convincing of the 'Enterprise in danger' episodes, but it is more than that. The plot device enables several crew members to flesh out their characters, most notably Leonard Nimoy. It is difficult not to feel angry at Kirk as he goads Spock with racial slurs, even as we understand why he says what he does. Certainly the conflict between the happiness provided by drugs and alcohol on the one hand vs. their 'unnatural' tendency to hinder personal development and achievement is as resonant today as it was in 1967.

"We march to the drumb, not stroll to the flute."
I like this episode because It's cool. I like how William Shatner gives into the dark side in order to combat the spores while everyone else has been infected. I like this because it says that all of us should march to the drumb, and not stroll to the flute. I think that applies to the Star wars fans who dwell on the original Star Wars trilogy. I also like how Spock shows human emotions for the first time. This is a very cool episode. When I watched it! I imagined myself being infected by those spores, and getting angry to defend myself against it's affects. That's a little spooky, Isn't it? I highly recommend this film to future Star Trek fans.

Mr. Spock is happy for a while...
"This Side of Paradise" is the infamous episode where Spock is actually happy for a while. The Enterprise visits Omicron Ceti III, expecting to find all the colonists dead from Berthold radiation. Instead they find a happy, thriving colony. When Spock seeks an explanation from Leila Kalomi (Jill Ireland), an old friend, she shows the Vulcan a bunch of plants that suddenly spray him with spores, turning him into a happy camper, just like the other colonists. The next thing we know McCoy is beaming the plants up to the Enterprise until the entire crew, include Captain Kirk, have been infected. "This Side of Paradise" is one of the better "accidental" utopias episodes, mainly because seeing Spock smiling and laughing is so unforgettable. We do have to suffer through Kirk's flowery speech on the destiny of mankind (we are intended to march to the drum, not stroll to the flute), but Spock's final line is memorably touching.

Spock Does Hallucinogens -- and Jill Ireland
For the first time in his life, Spock has a good time. After Jill Ireland's character, Leila, tricks him into ingesting hallucinogenic spores, he smiles, laughs, plays in trees, marvels at clouds and sunsets, and becomes incredibly insubordinate to captain Kirk. He also falls in love with Leila.

Eventually, the entire crew, with the exception of the captain, succumb to the spell of the spores and abandon the Enterprise in lieu of an idyllic life on a peaceful planet.

This fun episode is a bit slow in parts, but Kirk's solution to the problem is one of those classic Trek moments. It must be viewed to truly appreciate. Over all, a very good episode. ... Read more