Reviews (62)

*Scratches head* Why did this do bad at the box office?
Actually I can probably answer my own question: because everyone went to see this movie expecting The Jerk and got Woddy Allen. This is not a bad thing, in fact this is (in my opinion) Steve Martin's finest achievement, a brilliantly written, witty, well-rounded romantic comedy that is definately a "cult-favorite". I hate most romantic comedies, detest them because they use stupid plots designed only to drive the characters together. This movie builds a world of comedy around Steve Martin's character, then gently and subtly introduces the romance in a very artistically delightful bit of filming, with a dreamy Enya soundtrack in the background (back when she was at her best). How can you not laugh when Steve Martin is on the freeway and, to his horror, hears it's the first day of spring and consequently "open season on the LA freeway", to which he immediately takes out his gun and starts firing blindly at the old granny in the car next to his, who fires back. Or all the great cameos like Rick Morrannis, Patrick Stewart, Chevy Chase, and even Terry Jones. If you're a fan of Steve Martin's more subtle wit instead of his goofy antics (read his book Pure Drivel for similar subtle humor), you will love this movie.

L.A. STORY is Steve Martin's masterpiece
It's always a delight to follow a movie comic who really knows what he's doing, because eventually you hit the jackpot. With Woody Allen, it was HANNAH AND HER SISTERS; with co-exec-producer/writer/star Steve Martin, it's L.A. STORY. Rarely does any movie, much less a comedy, keep me bolted upright in my seat in anticipation of what might happen next. But from its schizoid opening ballet to its sweetly happy ending, even when I wasn't laughing, I was enchanted.

Martin plays Harris K. Telemacher, a Los Angeles TV weatherman who's unsatisfied with his superficial lifestyle. He woos and beds some women whom most men would probably be thrilled to have (Marilu Henner, "Sex and the City's" Sarah Jessica Parker), but he is unsatisfied until he meets a British journalist (Martin's then-wife Victoria Tennant) whose very unpretentiousness is enough to knock him off his feet.

This is obviously Steve Martin's attempt to be another Woody Allen--there's the Annie Hall-like quirky romance, the use of jazz great Django Reinhardt on the soundtrack (he also uses Enya, which was my introduction to this beautiful vocalist), and he romanticizes L.A. the way Allen does The Big Apple. Funny thing is, it all works. Even if you're as anti-L.A. as Manhattanite Allen is, it's an L.A. crafted in Steve Martin's mind, anyway--and what an original landscape it is.

It even goes Allen one step better. One scene Allen filmed and then deleted from ANNIE HALL featured the rolling news marquee in Times Square telling him to return to Annie in L.A. I have no idea whether Martin ever heard about this or not, but in L.A. STORY, he gets romantic advice from a highway traffic sign. The concept sounds hopeless (as Allen obviously decided it was), but Telemacher is so disbelieving about the concept that its comedy comes across. After all, everything else offbeat happens in L.A.; why not this?

There are few comedies that meld so perfectly. One is tempted to credit its lush visuals and on-the-button pacing to director Mick Jackson, except that Jackson has done little before or since that is this striking (THE BODYGUARD was a big hit, but I can't say it stands out in my mind). It's obviously Martin's comic vision all the way, and it's pure delight.

Martin's physicality and wit are on grand display here. And though Victoria Tennant, like Jackson, has done little else in her career that's this good, Martin certainly makes us see just what he saw in her. When they finally come together, it feels deserved and not at all forced.

In an era where gastric wheezing and room-temperature mentalities substitute for wit, it's refreshing to see a comedy that actually creates its own special world. For me, L.A. STORY ranks right up there with Preston Sturges's screwball comedies--a one-of-a-kind take on the world's craziness and the love that helps us endure it.

L.A. STORY is rated PG-13 for sexual situations and strong language.

One of Martin's Worst...
Having recently been certified as a qualified Steve Martin Critic under the auspices of the ASPG (American Society for the Prevention of Gout), I feel that I must impart what knowledge I have about "L.A. Story" so that the world will be a better place.

"L.A. Story" bombed at the box office after word of mouth killed it. In looking at the overall effort, it's not difficult to see why. "L.A. Story" is, in effect, a vanity effort, something that was manufactured for film critics and industry insiders. After films like "The Jerk", "Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid", and "The Man with Two Brains", Martin probably felt that it was time to move on to films that would appeal to a more mature, demographically correct audience.

The only problem is, "L.A. Story" is an effort that over reaches. As celeberal humor, it's too predictable. The sight gags and dialogue exchanges really don't work as humor, because the story itself plods along in a rather formulaic and mechanical manner.

"L.A. Story" is a film that will appeal mainly to members of the International Steve Martin fan club or certain Hollywood mutual admiration societies. If you want to see a good Steve Martin Film, watch anything else but "L.A. Story".

Incidentally, as of this writing, used VHS copies of "L.A. Story' are selling for $1.10 on Amazon...

Pure Genius
I have to admit, I'm not too keen on Steve Martin's newest (especially family-fare) movies, but can put L.A.Story up there in my top 5 movies of all time. Martin is a comedic genius and I get very excited to see him on Saturday Night Live, or in a movie such as this where he is truly in his element. I have owned this DVD for a few years and have put many miles on it, but long for artisan to release an updated version. Perhaps it is not on the top of the list for the studio or Martin (especially since it stars his ex-wife), but true L.A.Story fans hear me out and respond if you remember this:

Throughout the film there are references to "Harry Zell" (a Hollywood player)- more than I can count on one hand, actually. If you are paying attention, you keep expecting to see a scene with Mr.Zell but alas, it ended up on the cutting floor. I can vividly remember the first time L.A.Story debuted on Showtime in 1993 or so and surprise! the debut was hosted by the talented and hilarious John Lithgow- one Mr.Harry Zell. He introduced the movie and with a tear in his eye, showed his scene at the end of the movie. I'd love the film to be completed with this scene inserted in the appropriate spot- or at least included as a deleted scene.

All in all the movie is just about perfect, and people should get the Cliff's Notes to "A Mid-Summer Nights Dream" if they can't understand it.

Literate Love
Let's get this right out in the open. This is a love story. It is nothing more, and it does not need to be. It's context is a combination of philosophical literature and Los Angeles references, which makes for a dynamic range of comedic styles; testicle humor to Shakespearean parody. The sound track adds some magic and lends a weight to a story that is nothing new to the movie business. Yet it is the combination of elements that makes this movie a favorite of mine. Cinematically, it is clean and surreal.

I have read reviews that have called this movie Martin's masterpiece, and in the genre of romantic comedy, I agree. It is my favorite romantic comedy, and know that as a general rule, I hate romantic comedies. And yes, I still say this is a five star movie, definitely on my top 100 list as a Steve Martin fan and critical reviewer.

If you are looking for the "wild and crazy guy", look to The Jerk or his old stand up albums. If you want an intelligent love story in a unique backdrop, get this movie. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Absolutely Delightful
When I saw this movie had not been reviewed I just couldn't resist. This is a wonderful family flick for all ages and boasts a "who's who" list of very funny character actors from the 1960's. Tony Curtis is outrageously funny and charming as Steve McClusky, a Nevada casino manager who winds up caring for Penny, a 5 year old orphan with amusing results. Suzanne Pleshette as a romantic endeavor never looked better. And Phil Silvers' portrayal as the loveable tough guy Uncle Bernie can't be topped. The "chase" scene thru Disneyland is pure fun. This movie truely is a family classic! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Rattle and Hum is not a film for anyone looking for an introduction to Irish band U2's career in the 1980s, but it is a vibrant portrait of an established group making its musical pilgrimage through the America it has always imagined through blues, gospel, and early rock 'n' roll. Filmmaker Phil Joanou(Heaven's Prisoners), a veteran music-video director and maker of the distractingly kineticThree O'Clock High, finds a suitable outlet for his high energy in this juggernaut of a journey, which finds U2 collaborating with a black gospel choir and B.B. King, recording inside the legendary Sun Records studio, dropping by Graceland, and in a moment of fearlessness, performing the Beatles' "Helter Skelter" to exorcise Charles Manson's sick claim on the song.--Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (81)

A Truly Amazing Experience
Rattle and Hum is one of my two favorite U2 DVD's out there, tied with the excellent Best of 1990-2000.
While technically considered a documentary, Rattle and Hum is really a concert film, each song filmed during one of their live shows on their tour for the Joshua Tree album. But Rattle and Hum is a real movie, (it even has an MPAA rating). The directing is unbelievable, especially for a concert film. Instead of setting up cameras in the crowd and using a zoom lense, director Phil Joanou uses swooping cameras all over the stage, and it makes you feel as if you're on stage with them. Most of the film is in artsy black and white and it really brings out the emotion in the music, although there are three songs filmed in color.
The picture quality is very good, and although I won't claim to be an expert on sound quality, it sounds very good.
U2 are incredible live performers. These live versions of 'Exit, 'Where the Streets Have no Name', 'Sunday Bloody Sunday', and 'With or Without You' may very well be superior to the already excellent studio cuts. They even perform 'I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For' with a gospel choir, and it is absolutely amazing. If you are a fan of U2's older stuff I suggest you purchase this immediately. Otherwise, it's definitely still worth checking out.

U2-The Birth of a Super-Band
U2--nothing more nothing less. This is U2 at it's best. No video screens. No Zoo-tv. No props whatsoever. Just a band that knows how to rock. And rock they do from the beginning with a version of The Beatles "Helter Skelter". They take you on a journey thru America in 1987 and 1988 during the Joshua Tree tour--perhaps the bands best years. Highlights include a version of "Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" with a Harlem chior, and the recording of "Angel of Harlem" at Sun Studios in Memphis--same studio that Elvis used, and a blazing version of "Desire". Perhaps the most moving moment is the chilling version of "Running to Stand Still". Along the way Bono tries to educate, from the problems in Northern Ireland ("Sunday, Bloody Sunday") to the problems in Nicaragua ("Bullet the Blue Sky"). During one such moment, Bono uses one of the best lines I've heard in a long time when talking about money-hungry evangelists--"The God I Beleive in Doesn't Run Short of Cash". If you missed this defining moment, this is a great catch-me up.

a must
raw, powerful, u2 at their uninterupted best...clearly defines u2 as one of music's best live bands...a peek into their experiences on tour in the US...if you are a u2 fan you already have this, if you dont then you are not really a fan....

A Masterpiece
This is one of the ultimate rock movies for me. It ranks alongside The Beatles "A Hard Day's Night." It doesn't really have a story though. It's closer to a concert video, but instead of showing a single concert, it puts together some of the best performances of U2's Rattle and Hum tour. There are quite a few masterpiece performances in the movie. Of particular note is "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" which takes place in a Harlem church with a full choir. It's a very moving performance. Also I really loved "Angel of Harlem" which was performed in the Sun Studio in Memphis. It's the use of these kinds of unique performances that make this special. For fans of U2's 80's songs, this is the ultimate collection. It's a must have for every U2 fan.

Rattle and Hum
Looks like I have finally found what I was looking for...
Rattle And Hum on DVD is what every U2 afficionado cannot and will not do without! A travelogue of sorts for the irish band in the US, Phil Joanu's film captures the band's essence in the 80s, when they were essentially basking in the glory of Joshua Tree. Loads of attitude (Check out their interviews) but no pretensions here, its just the band at their musical best, as ordinary people who can be dazzled by the splendour of Graceland and get excited jamming with B.B. King and amidst their bantering admire with all honesty a roadside blues guitarist and do an impromptu session with a Church choir for I Still Havent Found What Im Looking For. In between all this is the exemplary courage shown by Bono to go public against the IRA in one of the bands concerts. If I had to look in perspective, this DVD serves as a perfect window to see the band as who they were and what they would be [As seen in Zorropa] before their radical Discotheque days. Right at the start of the film, you are treated to an exquisite vocal rendition by Edge of a song thats hauntingly familiar [I dont remember the name]. Gloria was not how I expected it to be, but in the larger scheme of things, it hardly matters. Though the entire format is in black and white, I would say this is an excellent decision taken by the director, because in a certain way it has added a subtle surreal atmosphere. All in all an hours worth of pure music fidelity... Sit back and enjoy... ... Read more

Reviews (37)

Oh those zany 80's
I remember seeing this in 1987 at the theater. It was kind of embarrassing because there were like only ten people in there.

If you're looking for the zaniness of Ferris Bueller, this is right up your alley. Jerry Mitchell has to fight a school bully at three o'clock. He tries to pay off a huge jock to protect him, which ends up being film history's largest domino demonstration. He tries to get detention, but just ends up turning on his English teacher. Throw in a bratty little sister, a new age girlfriend, the 'perfect girl' and a nerd sidekick, and you got yourself an hour and a half of decent entertainment.

Hey we all had those butterflies in our stomach when we knew we had a fight set for after school, it's all apart of growing up. It just sucked when it happened first thing in the morning, so you had to dwell on it all day. So there's a little Jerry in all of us. Of course those were the 80's. For those too young to remember, teenagers would settle their differences with their fists, not guns. Hard to believe but it's true.

Notice how at the end of the movie, the whole school looks like the Roman Collusium or a scene out of Mad Max. Outrageous.

Great Teen Film
Ask any "child of the 80's" and they'll give you the usual list of classic "teen films" - Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Pretty in Pink, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, etc... But there's a good chance they'll fail to mention one that really stands out: Three O'Clock High. It takes place over the course of a single school day. Jerry Mitchell (Casey Siemaszko) is a nerdy, wimpy kid assigned to tackle a frightening assignemnt: write a school newspaper story on an incorrigible badass bully names Buddy Revell (Richard Tyson). Not knowing Buddy's temperamental nature, and inability to forgive a grudge, he gets Buddy upset enough to make him set up a fight after school. At three o'clock, natch. Jerry spends the day trying to avoid the confrontation with Buddy, and everything he tries simply gets him in trouble with school authorities, and with Buddy himself. And the moment of truth draws closer... Three O'Clock High is basically High Noon in high school, but it's done in such a fresh and interesting way. The cinematography is spare and clean, with some deft camera moves. The dialogue is pretty crisp, and occasionally hits the mark dead-on. It's surreal, but any recent ex-high schooler will easily recognize the "types" depicted here. END

Great comedy-drama, even better than da BREAKFAST CLUB!
To make one thing clear in front; THE BREAKFAST CLUB is one of those films I'll even love and won't get enough of, when I've even seen a thousand times! Because of its typical 80s-flair, and the great intense actings, it is for me one of the greatest films ever made!
Wouldn't there be THREE O`CLOCK HIGH - a laconic highschool-comedy-drama with a hilariously extravagant story and a standout in acting-qualities!
Casey Sziemasko has to match Richard Tyson in a fight he can't win! So he does anything to prevent the fight - funny, but also dramatic situations follow and in the end anything has to come how it had to come!

GO WATCH IT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!

If you like the 80's and movies like the Breakfast Club.....
...then Three O'Clock High is for you. I have an old VHS copy that I taped off of Starz or Encore many years ago and I haven't seen it on any of the movie channels for quite some time. Needless to say, my old VHS copy is worn out and I've gone in search for the DVD and I've found it!

I've watched this movie countless times as I've introduced it to my friends who hadn't saw it or even heard of it before I turned them on to it. Everyone I've shown the movie to has liked it. Many of the other reviews do a good job of describing who's in it and what the story is about. It's a movie I think a lot of people can relate to with their own experiences of high school.

It'll become one of those movies that you watch while you're not so sober too! Enjoy.

High Noon at Three P.M.
THREE O'CLOCK HIGH is a forgotten gem and one of the better high school teen movies from the 80's. Casey Siemaszko (BACK TO THE FUTURE, STAND BY ME) plays Jerry Mitchell who inadvertantly gets challenged to an after school fight with the new kid in school, Buddy Revell (Richard Tyson -KINDERGARTEN COP, BLACKHAWK DOWN). Buddy is mean, moody, huge, and probably has a questionable past. This happens practically at the beginning of the school day so the film focuses on Jerry's activites the rest of the day leading up to the time of the fight. He gets in all kinds of funny predicaments (at some of his classes, and at the student supply store which he runs and operates) trying to figure out how to get out of the fight. In the meantime the rest of the school finds out and want to be there (at the school parking lot). The audience is allowed to watch, along with Jerry, the school clock(s)and see his 'life' ticking away. There are many twists and turns involved including a scene where the two meet up again at a math class (actually sitting next to each other) and Jerry helps Buddy cheat on a math quiz. The film could have been predictable, but the fight does insue and it is handled with good direction, care and timing. The filmakers let Jerry hold his own against Buddy with a great and amusing payoff. Then, part of the ending is taken straight out of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE. Genuinely, a smart movie with some interesting camera work, good production values, a good performance by Casey Siemaszko and a good supporting cast which includes veterans Jeffrey Tambor (AND JUSTICE FOR ALL) and John P. Ryan (THE RIGHT STUFF). Note: Look for Mitch Pileggi (Agent Skinner from the X-FILES) as the school security guard. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

I saw this in Paris in the 80's, and it just clicked
I was a lonely GI living in Germany in the early 80's and was in Paris for the weekend. A Parisian couple (Great folks, I've NEVER found Parisians to be anything but nice and warm people!) invited me to the film. We saw it near the George Pomp. (I can't spell...) center and it was marvelous. Enough has been analyzed about the film, but to me it struck a personal nerve/note on items of alienation, lonliness, and finally, warmth and acceptance. Screamin' Jay Hawkins "I put a spell on you" fits so well...it was genius to place it (and the boombox, in black and white on a lonely street corner...) in the film. I even bought his albums (that I could find).
Anyway, it's a slow movie, definitely art house, but if you're in a very expat (American) mood, or halfway intelligent, you'll get it. I think it would be interesting if the director did a more updated film on Imigrants. I have a friend who's parents are from Syria, who was brought up in the U.S. He is your typical (OK, well, we're like that) American, and when cousins visit from the Middle East they're in culture shock. I think if Jim J. did something with a Middle Eastern bent it would be interesting.

Mark

Tired of Hollywood Crap??? This is the Remedy.
What a refreshing change of pace this movie is from all those big-budget Hollywood bores. Finally on DVD, Jarmusch's great first flick is available once again to shine for movie lovers everywhere. It's basically just a slice of life piece on three characters: Willie, friend Eddie and Eva (Willie's cousin). Their lives are pretty much going nowhere, so they set out to Cleveland and later Florda to find paradise. But what they discover is that "whatever new place we go to, it all looks the same." There really is no message here, though, it's just a remarkable look into the lives of 3 real characters. Funny, touching and downright engrossing, it's a great little film. The DVD presents the B&W film in widescreen. The only "extra" is some soundless behind-the-scenes footage (in color) shot during filming. There is no trailer...(this is MGM you know).

A Perfect Movie
Maybe THE perfect movie, very funny, very close to the bone & improves immensely with each viewing.

Back when hip meant wise rather than trendy, I would have tagged it the hippest.

Paradise is in the wind
Brilliant deapan humor, slow timely dialog, low budget distinct look, raw though beautiful black and white production and stunning subtle performances by a small well placed cast. When Willie's (Lurie) Hungarian cousin Eva (Balint) comes to stay with him for a few weeks before retreating to Cleveland to stay with her Aunt, we experience, from a fly on the wall perspective, the boring lives of the two unfold. After Willie grows fond of her, he tracks her down in Cleveland along with his buddy Eddie (Edson) in search for something more in their dull existence. The three decide to voyage to Florida to escape the cold and dark environment, only to find similar dullness only in sunnier shades. Brilliant deapan originality and haunting story of three people looking for "Paradise" or any place that doesn't resemble hell. This is the greatest Indie flick ever made.. simple and honest the film's low budget production looks better than most. This one will stay with you and force you to look at our world differently from here on.

slowest film I ever loved
This is not an exciting film. It is a love story -- a platonic love story about an American, played by John Lurie, who "doesn't even consider himself part of [his] family anymore," who is forced by his mother to host a cousin who has just arrived from Europe. He wants nothing to do with her and her treats her [badly]. He's the kind of guy that wants to be cool, never show his emotions, you know the type. He and his best friend occupy themselves by cheating at poker and going to the track. As far as he is concerned, she's about as uncool as it gets. His cousin barely speaks English, and when she speaks she says what she thinks. That's how it starts out. I don't want to tell you the plot so... if you want to see where it goes check it out for yourself. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Art imitates life in this romantic comedy, which casts Reynolds and Hawn as a successful Hollywood screenwriting team. Their harmonious working and romantic relationship goes south when they decide to get married after years of living together. Written by and based on the lives of writers Barry Levinson and Valerie Curtin, the film is a decidedly bittersweet affair: after all, Levinson and Curtin got married, then divorced, just like the characters in the movie. Consequently, there's less real humor than kidding as the relationship develops cracks, chinks, and leaks, before foundering altogether. Still, Reynolds and Hawn have a likable chemistry because neither is trying too hard. Watch for a particularly funny and crass cameo by Ron Silver, as a big-shot director they wind up working for. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great flick! I'll second the other five star reviews.
But if you're looking for the scene where Goldie is briefly topless in the shower, forget the DVD. Either the widescreen format cut it off or this is the later edited for TV version. Stick to the original VHS tape version.

One of the few Goldie flicks I like
This is a sweet movie about what happens when you add the pressures of family, unspoken expectations, and travel to a new marriage. no matter how well you think you know one another...

Best Friends
Funny, sad, heartwarming. I'm happy to see that Amazon has this movie for sale. The Patty Austin/James Ingram music gives a lovely air to this touching story.

Enjoyable, but drags a bit...
Burt Reynolds and Goldie Hawn are two of the most likeable actors in Hollywood, so it's natural that a movie that places them on-screen together is bound to be great, right?

Well, for the most part.

Yes, the two do have a natural chemistry, and the premise of the movie is decent enough. But as the movie progresses -- and as their characters' love affair begins to disintigrate -- the laughs get fewer and farther between and you might find yourself wanting to see what's on TV. However, if you fight through the lulls that dominate the middle-third of "Best Friends," you'll be rewarded with perhaps the best part of the movie -- the end. Ron Silver is great as a Stephen Spielburg-ish director, and seeing Burt and Goldie make up is worth watching the grueling break-up.

Funny, heartwarming and irresistable
Heartwarming, funny and touching story of a couple where woman (Goldie Hawn) is afraid that marriage will destroy their already loving and stable relationship. Goldie Hawn and Burt Reynolds are both great. I loved this movie. It was very funny at times because it was very realistic and true-to-life. Very entertaining movie! Watch it, you won't be sorry (men and women can enjoy it). ... Read more

Amazon.com

Beavis and Butt-Head are (gasp) separated on Christmas Eve and each experiences a variation on classic holiday tales. While Beavis experiences a (sadly temporary) change of heart after visits from the spirits of Christmas past, present, and future, Butt-Head is visited by Charlie the Angel, who shows him how much better life would be without him ... if only he would just jump from that bridge. Somewhere, Dickens and Capra are turning in their graves, but this is a show that a B&B diehard could definitely watch once a year. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Beavis and Butthead are great
Beavis and Butthead are the two coolest doods around. They rock. They make fun of Stewart, and say butt alot. They also watch cool music videos. In this movie, they have Christmas. It rocks. This is the B&B Christmas special that MTV runs.

"this is like cool and stuff" huh huh heh heh
this is the best christmas special i have ever seen! it is very funny! there are music videos! there is even a music video by the ramones! there is also some wacky music videos in there too. there is a couple scenes where there is a real picture of fire and beavis and butt-head are talking for awhile then they just start singing ozzy. lol, that part is funny. there are also letters to santa butt-head where butt-head is dressed up as santa and beavis is dressed up as a reindeer! i watch this alot, even when it's not christmas! that's how funny this is. really, just buy this because it's funny.

Best of Beavis and Butthead Vol 1
I bought this 3 volume set from Time Life video and is three of the best cartoon Comedy DVD's I own. I am a diehard B+B fan who started watching them in 1994. Ever since then I longed for the day they would release these two wackos on DVD. No bullsh_t videos or commercials just the best of the most rediculous retards you have ever known. Long live Beavis + Butthead!!!

More "worst" of Beavis and Butt-Head
I am a *HUGE* Beavis and Butt-Head fan. Needless to say I saw the ads on TV and had to order the 3-disk collection called "Best of Beavis and Butt-head". I was (and still am) greately disappointed.

The collection consists of 3-disks, each with two groups of episodes. The resultant six groups are also sold seperately as:

- Troubled youth
- Fell our pain
- Innocence lost
- Chicks n' stuff
- Butt-o-ween
- Beavis and Butt-head do Christmas.

Whoever tossed-together this collection didn't select the "best" episodes. They selected probably the worst. I don't even remember most of the episodes that appear in this collection. I seem to recall plenty of stomach-busting B&BH episodes, but for some reason they don't appear anywhere in this collection.

The collection does not include any episode(s) with "fire! fire!". How can you have a Beavis and Butt-head collection without the words "fire! fire!"??? Don't waste your money on this garbage. Also missing is frog baseball.

Hopefully, way back when they were on MTV you taped the truly "best" episodes - 'cause they ain't in this collection. I can't say enough bad about this collection. True Beavis and Butt-head fans will be woefully disappointed.

this is cool
the episodes plus the letters to santa Butt-Head all get an A+. This is one of the funniest collections to own. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

john/jimmy..kirk/johnny
this movie should be given its place in any western collection.
much as another fabulous western 'the man who shot liberty valence', it deals with a 'west' that has changed beyond the main characters' capacities to understand.
and, in common with countless westerns (of the a, the b, and the c varieties), it all comes down to who fastest, ¿no? or does it?
both the leading characters are riveting in their own ways,and ¡the ending! oh my, what an ending. whew.
this is a fine western, definately watchable again and again, and therefore definately buyable.
alvin

A Gunfight
Pretty good western with Johnny Cash in his first starring vehicle. Two aging gunfighters decide to sell tickets to a final showdown with the winner taking the proceeds. The whole town wages on the fight. Kirk Douglas in fine form. Cool ending, but does the winner really win? ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Eddie, Norby, and Veeko Should be Very Quiet Inmates
If I were in the shoes of the three thugs who kidnapped Baby Bink, I wouldn't want anyone to know how I was foiled by a nine-month-old, especially one who helped put me behind bars.
This is a hilariously funny movie about a wealthy couple(Lara Flynn Boyle, Matthew Glave), whose precious baby is kidnapped all because Mrs. Cotwell wanted her son's photo in the newspapers. The thugs disguise themselves as photographers and trick her into leaving them alone with her son. But in the hilarity that follows, Baby Bink proves that he is not so helpless as he leads his captors on a wild goose chase around Chicago.
The whole family can watch this movie together,with great scenes of Chicago, and a wonderfully acted morality tale showcased in one of the best ways possible.-- Through the eyes of a child.

Imagine that---a baby who's smarter than his kidnappers!
I remember seeing this movie in the theater when it came out and I finally managed to get it on tape this Thanksgiving. It's as funny now as it was back then. Why these three ditzes are holding a baby for ransom in the first place isn't really explained; it's pretty obvious that they don't know thing number one about taking care of a baby. But the scenes which make this movie one of my favorites include the incident involving the cigarette lighter, Joe Mantegna doing battle with the gorilla, and Nordby's completely off the wall rendition of "Mary Had a Little Lamb". (It followed her to work one DAY!!...and Mary lost her job!)

It's 12 noon, do you know where your baby is?
When baby Bink is kidnapped by three bumbling kidnappers posing as baby photographers, he manages to escape from their hideout and do all the things mentioned in his favorite story book.

Always one step ahead of his would be captives, he leads them through parks, construction sites and an ape house at the zoo. The best part of all is when they finally get their hands on him just as the cops come up to ask about their vehicle. Trying to hide baby Bink under his coat, Eddie gets a little warm downstairs. By the time the cops leave and he is able to remove his coat from his lap, he is on fire. His buddy stomps him out again and again ("THAT is how you put out campfires")

I laughed so hard at this movie I was crying. Not really for children, but a great comedy for teens and adults.

Not the best acting
This movie is cute, and that is why I rated it two stars. Otherwise, I would have given it a one. The baby in the
movie is not really acting. It is just simply following someone and smiling. The whole theme is just plain dumb
and stupid. A baby smarter and more durable than it's kiddnappers? HUH?! Who would want to watch some crazy baffoons waddle around with goop sliding down thier noses and arms? I'll tell you what, not me.

This Was So Funny I cant describe it
this is the story of 3 nitwits trying to kidnap a baby from his family after the family disapears and the baby is at the kidnappers apartment thats when the fun begins i love the end of the movie when the kidnappers got arrested "you little infent" if i was in those kidnappers shoes i couldnt get my hands on that kid i would be super mad ... Read more

Reviews (1)

SNL rebirth!!
The year was 1989 and already SNL had gone through a tremendous cast change since Lorne Michaels took back his gem in 1985. Fresh, young comics Dana Carvey, Phil Hartm & then newcomer Mike Myers (who would later be known as "Austin Powers") burst on the scene with ther array of hilarious, off-the-cuff characters. All is captured in this video! I bought it when it first came out back in 92 and lost it. Now that I have it back, I love reliving Wayne's World, Dana Carvey's dead-on President Bush and Phil Hartman's Anal Retentive Chef & Donald Trump impression. Quite a masterpiece of comic genius. SNL still continues that tradition today. If you can find it, grab this and all the other great SNL videos & DVD's!! ... Read more

Reviews (94)

This, unfortunately, has to be my favorite movie
For all those people who are totally tearing the movie, you will probably grow up to be critics. It IS true that the movie will never be on any The Best of The Century's Movies list, but if you're looking for entertainment: Mario Bros. are your men. The movie is not made to be believable: two "brothers" get trapped in another dimension while trying to save Luigi's kind of girlfriend, who happens to be the princess of this strange world. The princess is trying to reverse the damage King Koopa did to her father (he turned him into a giant ball of fungus). In the end, the Mario Bros. save the day (did you expect a different ending?). Don't expect a recreation of the game; this movie is a far cry from any version of Super Mario. I have watched and rewatched this movie since I was little and I STILL have to say that it is my favorite. The plot line is a wee bit out there, yes; it's not like the game, that's true; all the aspiring critics out there will not get into it, unfortunately; but for all you normal people out there who don't care what the rest of the world thinks about reality and just want a nice, quiet night to yourself or with a loved one: check this out.

A completely misunderstood movie. Here's why it is good.
Most people tend to hate this film. I think, though, that they hate it because they're looking at it the wrong way. It's one of those movies that has a point, and if you miss that, you don't get any of it.

Their mistake is to watch this expecting a Mario movie. I know, it sounds like the right thing to expect, but hear me out. Fans of the game know what Mario is all about - powerups, angry mushrooms, winged turtles and flying blocks. If you watch this movie expecting that, you'll be disappointed, as you'll find NONE of it. But that's not to say it isn't worth watching.

Picture the scene: a couple of directors are asked to make a Mario movie by Nintendo, and they want it to be live action. That was the flavour at the time - take cartoon characters and make them real. Now, these directors know about Mario. They say "No way can that be done. Mario is all about being a cartoon. Jumping on little angry animals, everyone's a mushroom... It's a great game, and it'd make a good cartoon, but a live action version would just be moronic." "Oh, don't worry about that," says Nintendo, "just so long as you get the main elements in, do it how you want."

The directors go away, rubbing their chins, trying to think of a way to do that but still do justice to the games. And then they have a fascinating idea.

What if they don't do a Mario film, exactly. What if they do a sci-fi film, but fill it to the brim with Mario references, for the keen-eyed game fans?

That's what this movie is. If you watch it with that in mind, you will enjoy it. I've tested this theory out already on a friend who thought the film was a bit stupid when he saw it as a kid, but watched it yesterday with my little thesis in mind and he loved it.

What you get here is a quite serious (despite the light-hearted script) sci-fi flick about the nightmarish world ours may soon become: crowded, filthy, choked with pollution and overrun with a hate-filled populace who will fight you, yell at you, even try to shoot you if you pass too close. Run by a demonic well-dressed dictator politician (played to amazing effect by Dennis Hopper) who has let this world become the dark horror it is through neglect: there is no water any more, only sludge, and a slimy infestation of fungus has grown over everything, draped in great loops like one gigantic, chaotic spider web. Into this world come Mario and Luigi, similar to their game counterparts but more human, a pair of plumber brothers from Brooklyn who grew up together as orphans. They are trying to save a girl, who has been kidnapped and dragged here, and along the way they get wrapped up in something really horrifying: the president and his people are human, but human descended from dinosaurs instead of apes. He's found a way to revert his citizens back to their prehistoric roots, and with his army of lizard lackeys he's going to bridge the split between worlds (that formed when the meteorite that "killed" the dinosaurs hit) and take over our own.

And through all this we find references of the sort that Mario's biggest fans will drool over, so long as they are watching this in the way I suggest. These prove that the film has been put together not by someone ignorant of the games, but by someone very well versed in their lore. A large woman called Big Bertha, dressed all in red, is named in reference to a large red fish enemy from Mario 3. She wears mechanical boots named "Thwomp-Stompers", after the classic ice block enemies, and they are powered by capsules that look exactly like Bullet Bills, from Super Mario Bros 1. Shops are apparently owned by people with the same names as characters from the games (Hammer Bros and Bullet Bill), a protest singer is named after Toad, the happy little mushroom from the games, but his hair is shaved into the pattern on the shell of Lakitu, a fan favourite since day one. These references go on throughout the film and shape its world - the fungus, which turns out to be a conscious entity, helps the brothers in every way it can; they are saved on more than one occasion by mushrooms, in what has become a literal mushroom kingdom.

It's all in here if you keep your eyes peeled. Go in ready to watch not a Mario film, but a film that references Mario, and you will love it. It doesn't "change" anything from the games, because it is not any kind of filmed version of them, but it nods to them constantly.

Viewed in this light, it is a treat to watch, and a rare treat, because no other film has ever crammed in so many references to videogaming before. Simply put, a live action Mario film could never be made, and the directors asked to make one did a brilliant job at trying something new and original. Well worth the ten dollars for the DVD.

So Zany and Senseless It's Great, IMO of course
The story is absurd, despite it being inventive enough... It isn't a real movie version of the adventure, but more like a movie starring the characters, with constant bits of homage to the original series, such as a "Thwump" store, sniffits, the character's occasional and believable super-jump trademark, a dino named Yoshi, and last but by no means least, a GREAT scene with a Ba-Bomb (who was wearing Reebok shoes, which was funny!!).

Being the first movie ever based on a game (unless you count Clue), and also being inspired by a series that didn't call for the slightest bit of realism, this movie didn't have much call for reality. It's not sci-fi, but pure fantasy (meaning the plot's fiction isn't just the existance of the story's elements, but every plot sequence is based on how the world the movie takes place in is much unlike our own). Luckily, the screenplay, while sometimes quirky and silly, does call for some great moments, usually revolving around Koopa's idiot cousins Iggy and Spike (my favorite example - Spike:"Wrong again...how many times have we gotten it wrong?" Iggy:"YOU've gotten it wrong five times!" Spike:"Over five...OVER five...what percent is that?" Iggy:"I don't know, let me think......I don't know, but it's not good!" -- they couldn't figure out 100%!!).

Also going with the movie on a few other nice points are the performances of the main characters: Mario, Luigi, Koopa, Daisy, Iggy & Spike, which are nice and solid, despite that they don't really resemble the image of the characters themselves (especially Koopa). Hoskins does great in a more laid back role than say in 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit?', while John Legizamo starts off his more energetic personna that was used very well in his standup routine in the late 1990's, and he was enjoyable to the point in which whenever I see 'Moulin Rouge', I'm always like "YEAH!! LUIGI!!" (not to knock Moulin Rouge, a masterpeice in it's own, albeit weird). Samantha Mathis is another strong performance, as well as a beauty on screen as Daisy, the princess in distress, albeit she doesn't have many good moments to herself. And Dennis Hopper, whether you like him or not, is undeniably good in villainous roles like this...here he plays a meglomaniacal dictator of an entire civilization, but again, sadly he has fewer memorable moments than Mario and Luigi, which is a shame, as Koopa is one of the most popular villains of all time.

However, if you don't think the screenplay or casting were anygood, there are four things that this movie excells in, that are undeniable: superb special effects (from puppets to some amazing CGI for 1993), art design that's out of this world (from fungus to flashy lights to spikes on the clothes and walls of the buildings), intense action sequences, which are very high in pyrotechnics, flashing lights, and explosions, and a brilliant musical score, courtesy of Alan Silvestri (responsible for almost 80 movies so far, from the Father of the Bride movies to Roger Rabbit, to the Predetor's, to the Mummy Returns)! In my opinion, these three aspects warrent this movie a watching, as it's very high in production values!

I really can't understand why people hate this movie. It's not sophisticated, but it is intelligently enjoyable....Con Air is undeniably smart, although I certainly wouldn't call that movie sophisticated, would you? I think not! Yet still it's a great movie! Perfectly combining parody, B-movie aspects, and advanced sci-fi, this movie spells out perfect cult-classic, and I'm one of those who does like it! I won't even try to talk you into it if you hate it, but I just feel that this movie is good for its own reasons. If you're into zany, partially senseless, partial sci-fi type movies, this one just might be for you.

Great movie!
This is a GREAT movie! The special effects are excellent, the monster are awesome, the sets are great, the cast is great; production values incredible. Buy it!

A fun kids movie...
"Super Mario Bros." may have very little to do with the video game of the same name, but it is a lot of fun. Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo play Mario and Luigi respectively. They're Brooklyn plumbers who stumble upon a parallel universe containing the evolved versions of dinosaurs. The leader of this new dimension is Koopa, played with charisma by Dennis Hopper. Koopa is in search of a meteorite piece that will merge the two dimensions and allow him to rule the Earth. This is an enjoyable film for the most part, though it has its disappointments, the biggest being that it's almost nothing like the game. But it contains quite a few laughs and good moments that should be a pleasure to kids. While this DVD contains no special features, it makes for a great collectible item. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A Well-Intentioned Effort
As a child growing up, I fondly remember going to the matinee in the 1970s to see all of those disaster films such as "Earthquake," "The Towering Inferno" and "Airport 1975," starring Charlton Heston more often than not. So the made-for-TV film "A Thousand Heroes" seemed like an interesting bet to view on video. I was familiar with the true-life incident -- the 1989 crashing landing of a United Airlines flight in Sioux City, Iowa -- and was interested to see how these dramatic events would be played out.

I was a bit disappointed by the lack of tension for much of this film, undoubtedly limited by the low-budget restraints of the TV movie format. Perhaps the most dramatic scenes in "A Thousand Heroes" were the events following the airplane crash, in which rescue workers frantically sift through the horrible wreckage in an attempt to find survivors. When they are greeted by the dazed passengers, walking out of the corn fields in zombie-like fashion, the film reaches its most dramatic moments.

How 180 passengers could have survived this terrible tragedy is beyond me, but certainly the efforts of the pilots and the rescue workers enabled these people to somehow walk away from the wreckage. "A Thousand Heroes" portrays these efforts in documentary-like fashion, never choosing to embellish or dramatize. Thus, this film deserves a three-star rating.

I had problems with the tensions in the cockpit, as we are shown a few sweaty brows and darting eyes, but for the most part, the portrayal of the pilots' frantic efforts is anything but exciting. Charlton Heston is probably about 15 years too old to play the part of the head pilot whose cool almost saves the day. Heston's undeniable presence boosts the film never-the-less, though a younger, more intense physical actor may have better served the role. James Coburn is terrific as a salty airport fireman, while Richard Thomas is given the thankless role of the young tenderfoot who trys to whip the rescue team into shape months prior to the incident.

One can't help but respect "A Thousand Heroes" as an earnest effort about an extraordinary incident in which man's better self rose to the occasion. The actual story is one of epic drama and nightmarish tension. This film, based on the story, never quite reaches those stirring heights.

The Miracle In Sioux City
The 1992 TV film A THOUSAND HEROES (which first aired as CRASH LANDING: THE RESCUE OF FLIGHT 232) recounts the events of July 19, 1989, when United Airlines Flight 232, enroute from Denver to Chicago, suffered a catastrophic engine explosion in mid-flight, which totally disabled its ability to stay airborne. Captain Al Haynes was forced to bring United 232 in for a very hard landing at Sioux City Airport in Iowa. The plane blew up and came apart on impact. But in one of the most miraculous outcomes ever, of the 289 passengers and crew onboard, more than 180 managed to survive the horrific ordeal.

With the exceptions of some slight dramatizations, A THOUSAND HEROES remains true to the essence of the story. Both veteran director Lamont Johnson and screenwriter Harve Bennett (STAR TREK III) are aided by a solid enough cast. Charlton Heston is quite good as the heroic Al Haynes (even if his being cast here seems a bit predictable). James Coburn scores as the tough-as-nails Sioux City airport emergency official who manages to get his team on the tarmac in time; and Richard Thomas, though he doesn't completely escape his "John Boy" image from "The Waltons", also does good work as the green rookie of Coburn's team.

A story as true as this with a miracle finish would seem tailor-made for the movies, and A THOUSAND HEROES works in that fashion. But we also see how Haynes and his crew managed to handle their in-flight emergency like the professionals they were, and how the Sioux City ground crew prepared for the kind of emergency that no airport, however big or small, would ever want to have on their hands. It is a movie well worth seeing for the cast and, most importantly, for this miraculous true story of survival.

unforgetable
i saw this film a long time ago on british television. for years i could not think of the name, but what i could remember was charlton heston starred, along with many other fine actors, and that i had to have the movie. for the last ten or so years i have searched movie books, video shops etc, to see if i could recognise the title, to no avail. then i went onto an actors website, punched in charlton hestons name, and hay presto, there it was. the plot was so unforgetable and i am so pleased i found it, although i have not managed to retrieve a copy of the movie yet. this movie shows that human beings can pull together in times of disaster, and how well firefighters, and medics can do their jobs. how lucky we are

A good job of portraying the real event
I was a long-time resident of Sioux City when this happened, and the events are etched on my memory. This is largely a true recounting of the crash of United 232, with a few variations for dramatic effect. In my opinion, Al Haynes with Bill Records and Dennis Nielsen were far more heroic than the actors could convey. There was about an hour of lead time before the actual crash, which gave outlying rescue units from as far as 50 miles away time to arrive and be ready. Eastern newspeople asked, "Does Sioux City have an airport large enough to land this plane? Do they have any hospital facilities?" Big city prejudice! Of course, we did. The airport, in a rural area south of the city, was left over from an air base with long runways built during WWII. Our hospitals were the best between Omaha and Minneapolis. What better place to have a crash than where it happened! Doctors and nurses were ready; helicopters were positioned; traffic was halted. The movie could have highlighted the most dramatic moment in a more meaningful way--the boy held in the arms of his rescuer. A statue in a memorial park preserves this moment. Perhaps a lesser-known actor than Heston would have been better in the role of Captain Al Haynes, if only to emphasize the heroism of the man rather than draw attention to Heston the celebrity. One can only say that the movie was a good job, but could never approach the level of heroism of everyone who was there that day.

Not bad!
I would not have cast Charlton Heston as the humble Captain Haynes, and I'll NEVER be able to watch Richard Thomas portray a character without thinking "John-boy", but it is still a very good made-for-TV movie. I had hoped for more scenes on the jet while it was still in the air, because not all the heroes were in the cockpit or wearing badges that day. There aren't ANY scenes of the jet beyond the cockpit (or exterior views), and even those are few and far between.

As a bonus, I noticed several of the actual people involved pop up in cameo roles. Very nice. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Robin how he was meant to be
Robin is at his best when the script is either loose or nonexistent. Here you will see some of Robin's best works. A masterpiece in its own right. Get this movie for fantastic ad-libbed brilliance. Also, with guest singer Paul Simon and brief appearance by Art Garfunkel... how can you go wrong?

Two of my favourite things... Robin Williams and SNL!
There is only one thing better than Saturday Night Live and thats Robin Wiliams live! He is really out there and can make me laugh like no one else! He does some great skits on this video including acting out Shakespear and my favourite in the future with Dana Carvey as his son! This is another rare snl video so if you can get a hold of it don't hesitate to snap it up! ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Oh no! Oh why, why!" Before getting killed in every episode was made en vogue by South Park's Kenny, there was poor, hapless Mr. Bill. The ever-buoyant clay Everyman brought the house down by being smashed, mangled, and flattened again and again and again. Mr. Bill's 20th Anniversary is a testament to just how experimental the 1970s' Saturday Night Live was willing to go. And far it went, from the ill-fated fishing expedition (watch out for that hook, Mr. Spot!)to his nightmarish trip to court (remember the jury full of Sluggos?)--"Mr. Bill" always managed to find inventive ways to be disturbing.

Those of meek temperament may find Mr. Bill's 20th Anniversary a bit excessive: it is literally the same "uh oh, he's not going to be nice to me!" gag over and over. But the true SNL fan will treasure this little bit of history, perhaps one of the weirdest comedy segments ever to make it to the small screen.--Brendan J. LaSalle ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great buuuuttt.....
I loved this tape I really did, but I have to give it four stars instead of five b/c I didn't like the clips of people on the street doing sub-par impressions of our Mr. Bill.

Classic S.N.L. gags can be seen along with new footage
This is the best Mr.Bill video ever!Constantly funny and will apeal to anyone! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

When Pigs Fly
Well, perhaps you won't have to wait that long to see this gem of a British comedy from the late Nineties. Good thing, too, if you like this sort of thing: quirky, smart, fresh, and completely disarming. It seems to have come in rather below the radar of most film viewers in the U.S., and it's still (as of Sept. '03) available only on VHS in the States. Start lobbying now for a DVD viewable in America, 'cause you're going to want to own it, and you're going to want to show it to all your friends--all, that is, who might be in the mood for something offbeat and weird. (A Jewish-British quest romance, anyone?) But the film eludes simple categorization. It's hard to imagine how any casual flight of whimsy could have produced this particular, tender riff on the classic coming-of-age situation. Be forewarned, though, guys: it's a bad choice for a date movie.

Leon The Pig Farmer
This was a strange movie, but I love it. It was very funny. And the reilgous jokes were not that bad. Mark Frankel did a great job. I love the whole part were he is at the bowling alley. When he got hit in the face by the ball, I never thought I was going to stop laughing. It was a great movie. Everyone should see it. I would buy it for a friend

Thanks
Rbecca Brown

A GREAT, GREAT MOVIE!
A wonderful, funny, thoughtful movie with Jewish themes, concerning identity, family and love. Strongly recommended. I bought this movie several years ago after seeing it at the Palm Springs film festival. Also has a very good "jazz" sound tract.

A not-so-kosher romantic comedy
If you have strong religious views better skip this one. If not, this is a hilarious little British gem done in the best Richard Lester tradition, with lots of talent and practically no money at all.. Wonderful performances all around (notably the late Mark Frankel) but Maryam D'Abo steals the show as the ultimate goy sex kitten from hell! Great fun! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

An ageless story of Generals and Grunts.
One and a half million men were rejected for psychological reasons during WWII. Hundreds of thousands suffered combat fatigue during combat.(Depends whose counting.) A confused General slaps soldiers in a field hospital for breaking under the stress of war. (We all learn that it is only a matter of time before all would break.) The medical men say breaking is normal and Generals say it is an act of cowardice. All this sound and fury boils down to this...Private Slovick the only man to be killed by his country for being human and too honest.
Not one man in the firing squad that was made up of his buddies missed when they fired. Think you would have?

the execution of one miserable man
i'm an entusiast colector of world war II movies and i never see nothing like that before,i was a military at another country and another war{nicaragua}almost 25,000 of many young people die over there,there where many desertion too,but we never put nobody on front of fithing squad,i admire this private,because he prefer to die by his believe,than kill or be killed in action,in honor to the truth i think he was executed no by his desertion,but like he say by his criminal record,i do think ,the sistem was the one guilty because he recruit the man knowing his record.The problem is "the history don't make honor to desertors".

Chilling Performances Of A Chilling Story
A must see (and read) for anyone interested in WWII or the conflict each dogface must have experienced on the front lines. It is amazing to me how out of 40,000 deserters, 49 of which were sentenced to death, only ONE was executed. Indeed, the only one since the Civil War. What was so "special" about Eddie Slovik? The movie follows true to the excellent book by William Bradford Huie and Martin Sheen's performance is a study in reserved pain. He doesn't shout with indignation when sentence is conferred upon him. Rather, he takes it "in stride" as just another bit of dumb luck he has experienced his whole life. Snatched from the only good thing his short life ever provided, his wife Antoinette, after being reassured he would not be drafted was a cruel joke played upon a guy who was made to suffer cruelties all his life. I am not going to sit in judgment on his decision to confess to desertion. Hey, my dad faught in that war, you just can't have everyone deciding they are not going to fight. My argument is with the system that drafted this guy in the first place and the system that made him unique in the execution of sentence. Was Eddie Slovik the worst case of desertion in the entire war? I highly recommend this film and book. The book is out of print but Amazon found me a copy and I just finished reading it. I wish the film was available on tape but it isn't. I saw the movie on the "Encore" channel about a month ago after first seeing it on TV in 1974. It hasn't lost a thing. If you get a chance to see it, please do so, you won't believe how moving this story is.

Martin Sheen portrays my great uncle greatly!
This movie shows how brave, and great of a man my great uncle really was. I don't think any movie can ever top this. Not even Saving Private Ryan. This movie shows you that you don't have to have million dollar special effects, foul language, and blood to be good. Eddie Slovik was a truly brave man who stood up for what he believed in, even through death. I am proud of him, and I only hope he is proud of me. Thank you to everyone who has viewed this movie. I am sure he would be very proud if he knew he was looked upon as a very courageous man.

Parade of Mistakes
Being an active-duty military member, I have a special interest in the world of the profession of arms. Especially fond of WWII films, I have seen many of the wonderful and entertaining creations from this genre. It was my pleasure to view The Execution of Private Slovak, I ranked it right up there with films such as 12 o'clock High and Saving Private Ryan.

I must admit I was not all too familiar with the life and death of Mr. Slovak. As I watched his life develop under the brilliant acting of a young Martin Sheen, it became aware to me this young man only wanted to be happy and safe in life. He was not a fighter, but a lover of life.

After his reformatory days, Eddie is keen on getting his life together and getting a good job, and a fine woman. He gets both eventually, Antoinette was a definite match for him made in Heaven. They complimented each other perfectly. The draft board ultimately selects Eddie and he is off to training before you know it. You can sense the fear growing in Eddie already, not only because of his new warrior status, but because he is separated from his lovely new wife.

In the days that follow, he is sent to the front lines and comes under fire, which scares Eddie so much he decides to be a deserter, rather than face almost certain death from enemy fire. His zest for life picks up when the Canadians befriend him, but is reunited with his unit where he ultimately goes AWOL once again. This time, Eddie turns himself in and sign a confession stating his guilt. If only poor Eddie had broken parole back home and done a few months. He would've never been in that situation. But as Eddie said in a letter to his wife; "I never had a streak of luck".

Upon his courts-martial, Eddie is convicted of the charges of desertion in three separate ballots, and sentenced to death. Even then, the reality hasn't sunk in to his head yet. There is always the hope he will be reunited with his love. It isn't until the very end, where Eddie shows his true bravery, that he accepts nervously his fate.

I loved this film tremendously. As stated earlier, Martin Sheen made the movie true to life, as it should have been in the memory of Mr. Slovik. The special effects were lacking to today's standards, but hey, we're talking about a 1974 film here. The other actors, such as Ned Beatty and the actress who played Eddie's wife, we're also worth mentioning, they did a more than fine job. Also, the Major who presided over Eddie's execution and final drama was very convincing. He had many different emotions and a job to do, which conflicted with each other, and it showed.

Finally, this film brings out many deep thoughts and emotions brought on by the superb acting and storyline. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is a lover of WWII, drama, and the condition of being human. It can also be considered a tragedy in a sense. I salute Mr. Slovik, may he rest in peace. ... Read more

Description

Embark on a globe-spanning, richly documented search for the fabledLost Tribes of Israel -- and discover the extraordinary evidence now being unearthedabout a mystery that has tantalized the world for almost three thousand years.Conqueredby the mighty Assyrian Empire over 2,700 years ago, ten of the twelve tribes of Israelapparently vanished into the mists of history. But a dedicated team of documentaryfilmmakers believes that remarkable newfindings could confirm the Tribes' existence andwhereabouts. Pursuing clues across time and space from the Middle East to India,Afghanistan and even the Native American West, they attempt to sort myth from reality.What do new archaeological discoveries say about the Lost Tribes? Can their lineage betracked across three millennia? And does their prophesied return to Israel mark thebeginning of the biblical "end times" -- Armageddon? Join the adventure, on an eye- opening, thought-provoking QUEST FOR THE LOST TRIBES. ... Read more