Amazon.com

The cinematography by Néstor Almendros garnered him an Oscar nomination. Unfortunately, the performance by then child star Brooke Shields garnered her a nomination, too--for a Razzie Award. She won, he didn't.

This 1980 remake of a much classier, 1949 British version features Shields and Christopher Atkins as children shipwrecked on a lush tropical island. They grow to maturity and fall in love, with the script paying special attention to their burgeoning sexuality. Should you desire more trite dialogue, there is an even less satisfying sequel, 1991's Return to the Blue Lagoon. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (58)

This film should be hailed as a classic
After things don't go like they should, a boy and a girl get stranded on an island in the South Seas. The two children are forced to stay together for years on the island with no other place to go. As you might imagine, once these two reach their teenage years, they might begin to feel a little differently about each other.

I was born the year this movie was made and I grew up watching it a lot of times. When I was a teenager, I never really paid much attention to the movie itself because I was head over heels for Brooke Shields. Now that I'm grown, I decided to watch it again and see if it was really as terrible of a movie as I've always heard it was.

Sure, the movie is somewhat controversial and it's not all that deep plot-wise, but to be honest, I still like this movie a lot.

In my opinion, "The Blue Lagoon" had and still has a lot going for it. For one, I don't see why everybody cuts down Brooke Shields for her horrible acting. Granted she's not the best actress in the world, but I don't think she did that bad of a job. Another thing, I saw that the movie doesn't concentrate hardly at all on how the couple actually survives for years on the island, it's mainly just a movie about two teens who fall in love on a seemingly deserted island. But that's all the makers intended for this movie to be about, it's not supposed to be much of a story of survival. It kept me interested the entire two hours and I never got bored at all.

Finally, I've always heard about "The Blue Lagoon" winning the 1980 award for best cinematography, and I can see why. Throughout the movie, there are several captivating underwater sequences along with the views of the island itself and the ocean. Equally as impressive is the film's musical score. The music couldn't have been any better for the parts of the movie that it signifies.

If you like great movies and if you can tolerate watching a classic romance/drama film, do yourself a favor and purchase "The Blue Lagoon." I really don't see why many people throughout the years have bashed it flatter than a slice of cheese because it's a great movie, and in my book, it's a classic!

A Tale of Natual Love-Brooke Shields finest
The Blue Lagoon is a true classic, never have I seen a film shot as beautifully as this one. It is a true story about natual love, the discovery of one's self, their bodies, their confusing feelings for one another as they hit man and womanhood. This film deals with a lot of issues- growing up on their own on a deserted island, their sexuality, masterbation, menstration, sex,parenthood. This film is wonderful. Never have I really seen a film that's not set in civillisation but is so entertaining for one but the story is just beautiful, and Brooke Shields as Emmeline and Christopher Atkins as Richard are fantastic. The musical score is truely beautiful and makes me feel a range of emotions. The first time I saw this film I was so fasinated by it, and was about the same age as the characters so I could relate to some of the emotions they were going through, the confusion of everything. Anyone thinking about buying this film-Go for it- You woun't regret it. As for the fans who have loved this film throught out the years, it was worth the wait. The Extras on the DVD are excellent. The two commentaries are very informative and I love listening to the Brooke Shields track and hearing her insight about the film and that time the film came out. It's also interesting looking at her own personal photo album and the featurette from 1980 is very interesting.This film will always be one of my favourites.-Brooke Shields is just beautiful and is one of the best actress' of her generation.

FANTASTIC
The film was dissected by most critics, but I have always enjoyed it. The stars; Christopher Atkins and Brooke Shields shine in their youthful beauty and performances. The movie was banned in Oslo when it opened in 1980, but it played to full houses in the provinces. The docu on this DVD is good, but the sound is not on par with the movie.

I think the critics at the time was embaressed by its sensual frankness and therefor tried to "kill it". It was a huge hit though and still is a film you should see with your loved-one:-)

ATKINS & SHIELDS - BOTH GREAT
I remember that it was banned in Oslo when it came in 1980, but we saw it out of town hehehe. The DVD is perfect. The cinematgraphy and music as good as it gets. The film was dissected by critics, but I think at the time it was strong stuff to see sexual frankness from a major Hollywood studio. Christopher Atkins and Brooke Shields are both at their best in this film. It is the perfect film for two people in the beginning of their love-affair.

Celebration of emotions
What if a man is not influenced by any thoughts of others and stays totally isolate of all human hypocrisy? What if a man has only nature around him and nothing else to prejudice his sense of right and wrong? This is exactly what this movie is all about.
Two children, stranded in an island, form their own set of ethics and morals...as they have to with no adults around. Their lives, as the Director wishes to convey, are a voyage of discovery. They discover the best food to survive on, they discover the places they should not visit, they discover adoloscence, they discover the rebellion of the teenage, they discover love, they discover passion, they discover the joys of family and finally, the irony of life. They have nothing to influence their discovery and that, in itself makes the movie an adventure and enchanting.
This is one movie that's a must in all collections. ... Read more

Description

European chefs are being killed in the manner that their signature dishes are prepared. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Food, Mystery and Intrigue
As Dr. Michael Lim, The Travelling Gourmet, I have dined and tasted fine wines all over the world. I love this movie because of its humour, attention to detail and great food. Jacqueline Bisset is the most voluptuous Chef ever, although I did know a blonde Chef of wondefully statuesque proportions, and I am not referring to her Bombe Alaska. Great story, bizarre but believable. This is not a high brow movie for arrogant and pompous people but one for those who love life and have that joie de vivre that only the truly secure can ever appreciate. If Jacqueline Bisset can cook as good as she looks in this movie, she can fry my Bratwurst, grill my Schweinshaxe and flambe my Bananas Foster any time! George Segal, the Canadian actor is wonderful as the straight man, and it is obvious that all the actors are having a hell of a time on the set of this movie. Robert Morley, the gargantuan actor is very funny too as the stiff, upper lipped Englishman. One my favourite restaurants is a star in this movie. It is the regal la Tour d'Argent overlooking the Seine in Paris, the City of Light. I love to go there for the Duck a la Tour d'Argent and to see my old friend, Claude Terrail, the Directeur. A movie for gourmets, gourmands and food lovers with a good sense of humour. See it and then eat a large banana split with lashings of strawberry sauce & chocolate sauce and be happy you are alive. Guten Appetit!!! By Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet

Delicious Romantic Comedy To Feast On
"Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?", is total fun from start to finish with an irresistable cast, beautiful locations, superb food on display and wonderfully comic writing all wrapped up in one of the most appealing comedies to come out of the late 1970's. It really is a gourmet's delight as we get to see some of the most superb eateries in some of the most beautiful parts of Europe serving as a backdrop for a very funny murder mystery that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

"Chefs" stars the perfect team of George Segal (in one of his most endearing comedy roles of the late 70's and early 80's), the gorgeous Jacqueline Bisset in without a doubt her most appealing performance and the incomparable Robert Morley in a character role tailor made for his unique talents. It tells the very comical story of crass fast food Giant Segal and refined pastry cook expert Bisset, bickering former husband and wife, who find themselves drawn into a real life murder mystery set against some of Europe's most exotic backdrops. It seems for some unexplained reason that the greatest chefs in Europe are being killed off according to what their speciality is. Their ends are very grizzly as one is cooked like Roast Beef, another is drowned with his famed lobsters, while another dies in a duck press. These "creative" deaths seem to indicate that Natasha (Bisset) is the next target as her speciality is desserts and the race is on to solve the mystery before she becomes the next statistic on the menu!! All ends well in a fiery climax when Natasha is almost killed while preparing her famed Icecream Dessert on a TV talk show where she is saved in the nick of time by Robby (Segal). The finale in a surprise twist, reveals the murderer from a totally unexpected source which I wont reveal for the benefit of those who haven't had the pleasure yet of seeing this delightful film.

The three leads of this film make "Chefs" a memorable viewing experience. George Segal delivers a delightful performance as the loud mouth American fast food retailer who is the exact opposite of the world inhabited by seasoned gourmets Bisset and Morley. He is at times, crass, outrageous and really sends the comedy into high gear. Jacqueline Bisset, a much underrated actress has never been more delightful than here, finally in a role that totally suits her considerable talents. She has rarely been more gorgeous as the talented pastry cook who hates her loud ex-husband but finds herself falling in love with him again. Robert Morley as the self proclaimed food expert who lives solely for the sole pleasure of eating literally steals the film with his witty and outrageous line delivery and his putting down of everyone and everything around him is absolutely priceless . His is a memorable performance that really raises "Chefs" to the level of a great comedy. The film benefits from some of the most beautiful locations possible in London, Paris and Venice and the masses of gorgeous looking food used throughout the film will be guaranteed to have your mouth watering from start to finish! The use of a mainly European cast in the supporting roles of the chefs and Police adds greatly to the warmly continental feel of the film and actress Madge Ryan who plays the ever suffering and ever loyal Beecham, personal assistant to Max (Morley), really scores and plays a major part in the films climax.

If a film could be called "deliciously edible" then "Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?", would be it. Everything about this film is a treat for the eye but what must not be forgotten is that it also is a very witty, and well performed murder mystery with the emphasis on laughs and intriguing twists as we follow the trail of a highly creative murderer. Such fun is rarely experienced in films of today and "Chefs" deserves to be better remembered for providing just that! Dine out on "Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?", soon!

This is a very funny film.
Great acting. Great Plot. This is a real scream.

Under-cooked!
Someone is killing the great chefs of Europe...and we're supposed to care??!!

WHO IS KILLING THE GREAT CHEFS
ONE OF THE ALL TIME FUNNEY FILMS I HAVE EVER SEEN ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A STEP UP FROM THE LAST ONE
THIS TIME, PORKY AND HIS NIGHTCLUB [WHICH IS NOW ON A BOAT] RETURNS. THE BASKETBALL COACH OWES MONEY TO PORKY, TO CLEAR HIS DEBT, HE AGREES TO PURPOSELY LOSE THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP. THIS ONE IS A LITTLE SOFTER IN TERMS OF THE NUDITY THAT THE FIRST TWO. THIS WAS A BIG IMPROVEMENT OVER PORKY'S 2 AND IT'S UP THERE WITH PORKY'S 1. FOR A GOOD FUN TIME, CHECK THIS SEQUEL OUT.

Much better than Porky's 2!
Porky's Revenge marks the return of Porky and his establishment.This time Porky has a casino on a riverboat and the basketball coach owes a great debt to Porky.To clear his debt the coach has agreed to throw the State Championship game.Tommy,Pee Wee,and Meat are back as well as the rest of their buddies.Much more entertaining than Porky's 2.The graduation part is great too.If you liked the first Porky's movie check this one out.

Come celebrate the Year of the Pig
Most of the gang from Angel Beach High is back, and they're preparing for graduation. Trouble abounds when their basketball coach gets in hock with Porky over gambling debts, and is ordered to throw the state championship game-or else. In between tangling with their old nemesis, the boys "help" Meat pass his biology exam by blackmailing the teacher, Pee-Wee becomes enamored of Inga, the attractive exchange student from Sweden, and they're still locking horns with the diabolical Ms. Balbricker. Lots of fun for fans of the series. I've heard rumors about a fourth movie but nothing definite yet. Veteran TV director James Komack took over direction from Bob Clark and does a good job, adding a different kind of look for this sequel. Recommended.

FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY, CLOSE TO BEING AS GOOD AS THE ORIGINAL
So we're put back in the pit of teenage disregard, and Pee Wee is just as funny as he ever was, and we find that the boys get thier real revenge on the man that started it all.Its funny and fun. Its good ol' sit back and enjoy it while you can fun.

A must see for all contemptables
Anyone considering blackmail as a means of getting even, needs to see this one for sure. As if these teenagers hadn't had enough to deal with, they find themselves in a bind only to find creative ways of getting out of them. They include blackmailing the school chaplain and one biology teacher with photographs, backstabbing Porky, and countless other tactics to take back what is righfully theirs(their dignity), and let's not forget about Kong and Tommy Turner butting heads for the last time at the Motel room. This is a must see for those who have already seen the first two Porkys movies. ... Read more

Reviews (69)

Freaky Movie
I enjoyed this movie cause i like Horror movies with kids in them. The movie starts out with your ordinary Sunday morning Church service. Everyone in the town is going to the local cafe for an after-Church service dinner get together. Well, everyone is having a good time untill the kids show up and come into the dinner. They stand around till thier 9-year old leader come to window and gives them a signal. They kill all the adults. Then the movie comes back to present day and shows 3 kids helping thier sibling try to escape. The kid runs through the corn field, but Malachi gets him and slits his throat and throws him out into the road where this couple hit him. They ride into Gatlin and find there is no one there except kids. They find a little girl names Sarah who tells them whats all going on till the kids show up and take the wife away to sacrafice to "he who walks behind the rows" Thier leader is Issac. He tells all th ekids they need to get rid of all the adults...and they listen. Soon, her husband finds her in the corn field where the final showcase is and saves her and they rescue Sarah and her older brother Job they are the 2 kids that tried to help thier sibling escape) Its a pretty freaky movie. When the kids turn 19, they get a knife and engrave the star of the devil thing on thier chest and pass around the little blood dish to the other kids and give thierselves up to "he who walks behind the rows" good movie though, the storey stinked though in "Night Shift".

A great classic..!! -A really inspired masterpeice..!!
I've really love; -this masterpeice.. -Not as brilliant as a
masterpeice though. -I've herd that a real; -special
edition with extra features are comming out..! -That's
why I did not get the original edition..! -Becuase it's
just waste of money that you spend it on some DVD with
out the goodie's.. -I'm a goodie's; -fan's..!!

I think that; -Stephen king.. -Will finally; -respect
his art of work..! -Even he's not included in the extra's..!
I've saw this movie when I was a child..! -It totally did
freaked me out at the end..! -Even the beginning where he
slaughter's all the parent's..! -I've seen this on video
when my dad wooed rent lot's of these horror movie's when
this one came out.! -I remember this flick; -perfectly

Well..! -I can't weight too see the digg's of this new
Special edition.. -I think the transfer will be top notch..?
any how; -it is just an old movie..! -Old movie's; -can't
seem too be better..! -These day's..! -I've also have
"Creepshow 2.." -1987.. -Which had nothing..! -I've guest
I've shooed of gotten the original with it..! -But I've
cerntinaly enjoy this better then; -"Creepshow.." -1982..

Back with the; -flick..! -I've think that; -Children of
the Corn II: -The Final Sacrifice.." -1992.. -Was a lot
better..! -Yep..! -They totally messed the sequel's up..!
Permintally..! -The other's had nothing too deal with the
second one..! -If you are a hardcore fan..!! -Stick with
this; -and; -the second one..?

A couple of travlers from a country site..!! -Vickie and
Burt..! -Go two a rural
town.. -As they've discover a deadly secret of the town's
history..! -Their own fate..!! -A crazy wacho preacher
has brutally kille the parent's; -after a service at the
church..! -Until; -Vickie and burt..! -As
the two stumble into a corn field..! -They run over a kid..!

They meet some kid's at some secluded farm house..! -And
take them with them..? -But the town know's their here..?
and Issac.. -The town loony preacher..? -Will not give up
with out a fight; -as they fight and kill a gasstation
man and his dog.. -The ending is a resemblance of; -John
Carpenter's; -"The Thing.." -1982.. -Were we see some
god alwfull human that Issac has brought down..?

The ending is downright; -waterdown..!! -Their are great
moment's; -in this flick..! -But sometime's the movie
can bore you or just entertain you; -from the beginning..!

Never the less..! -This was a fun movie two watch..!!
I'll be glad too have fun with it..? -Again..!

It just doesn't do much
A chef can have a table full of fine ingedients to make a perfect soup but, if the chef forgets one ingredient (like salt) or undercooks the soup or adds something that doesn't belong (like sugar) or puts too much water in the stock, you end up with a soup that just doesn't cut the mustard. There is enough talent in the cast of "Children of the Corn" and a good enough story (thanks to the Stephen King story it's based on) for this to have been a horror classic. I know it spawned a sequel and I know it has a cult following, but this movie just didn't scare me, or even interest me that much. Too much water? Sugar added? Undercooked? No salt? Perhaps, all of the above.

Lame and offensive, but a guilty pleasure
Pro:
-Interesting story idea, fairly well executed.
-Capably acted.
-Cult-movie "camp" factor.
-A little creepy.
-You'll remember it.

Con:
-Wears out its welcome; a little boring.
-Ridiculous "monster." (You'll be reminded of "Caddyshack")
-A bit overacted at times.
-Children slitting each other's throats.
-You'll remember it.

Creepy, enjoyable fun? Or offensive crap? You be the judge!

kind of a bore...
yea yea yea its a cult classic and very memorable...but why...stephen king is an amazing writer, but this is weak...its not very suspensful, not very well acted, the score tho is probably the best ive ever heard from a horror movie, but the story line is slow and at times very boring. And a lot of the characters are really annoying i mean, they make you want to take a gun to your TV annoying! Isaac, i wanted to slaughter that high pitched, midget friend of Dorothy, always complaining and going on! and malachae or w/e his name is...the dood with the red mullet and horse jaw....he annoyed me more than isaac...and whats with the stupid ending? the visual looks sooooo bad and soooo stupid! this movie as a whole just makes me mad....ok im changing the rating from a 3 to a 2. Only reasons its getting 2 stars is cuz the music is awesome and its by stephen king....other than that...its not worth it ... Read more

Amazon.com

This smart, funny episode finds the Enterprise visiting the planet Iotia, where the starship Horizon accidentally left behind Earth materials a century before. During that time, as Captain Kirk (William Shatner) discovers, the Iotians have made much of one of those items, a book called Chicago Mobs of the Twenties. The planet's population has divided into rival gangs who dress, speak, and do violence like the spiritual descendants of Al Capone, plunging Kirk, Spock (Leonard Nimoy), and McCoy (DeForest Kelley) into a facsimile of Earth's colorful and dangerous past.

The episode is played for comedy: Kirk and Spock keep getting kidnapped by the warring hoods, each of whom wants the Federation team to use their technology to defeat the other side. The big payoff, however, is a summit meeting of bosses, where Kirk employs plenty of gangster-movie jargon to get matters settled. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Except on Tuesday
This gangster episode, and Tribbles, were the two Trek comedies that really worked. While I wouldn't exactly call the humor here subtle, it is intertwined in a fairly traditional action plot. We are able to enjoy Kirk and Spock's thuggishness for its own sake while simultaneously staying focused on the plot, for the simple reason that their behavior is called for by the story, rather than being a gimmick. The idea of a highly impressionable alien race who's cultural evolution could depend so thoroughly on a random event (the leaving behind of the book) is an interesting one as well. This episode is also helped by strong guest acting, most notably from Tayback.

The funniest of the original series
This is without question the funniest episode of the original Star Trek series. There is no funnier deadpan scene anywhere in television than the one where Kirk is "explaining" the fizzbin card game and asks Spock what the odds are against getting a royal fizzbin. His deadpan, yet truthful answer is, "I have never computed them." I laughed out loud the first time I saw that and still smile when I see it, even though I have seen it over fifty times.
The main premise is that a Federation vessel visited a planet before the Prime Directive was imposed and members of the crew interacted with the planet's inhabitants and contaminated them. Therefore, the primary task of the Enterprise is to repair the damage. The earlier Federation vessel left a book that described the Chicago gangs of the prohibition era and the inhabitants have modeled their entire culture after the book. Their clothing, buildings, speech and social structure are all modeled from the gangster movie cliches.
After many trials and errors, including Kirk trying to drive a car, there is a climactic scene where Kirk takes charge and unifies the government under one of the gang bosses. His pacing on a pool table while brandishing a machine gun and speaking one gangland cliché after another is one of the best scenes in the entire original series. His solution, where the Federation is described as an interplanetary gang, is funny and original. I have always wondered what the reaction of Star Fleet command was to his report of how he solved the contamination problem.
Funny, and essentially a spoof of a movie genre, this is one of the best Star Trek episodes ever, original series and beyond.

"A Piece of the Action," the 2nd funniest Star Trek episode
"A Piece of the Action" has the Enterprise visiting Sigma Iotia II, where a hundred years early the USS Horizon visited. Apparently this was before the Prime Directive, because one of the Horizon crew left behind a book: "Chicago Mobs of the Twenties." Now, once you get past the fact that (a) someone was toting a book into Deep Space and (b) it happened to be that particular book, you can really enjoy this one. Bela Oxymy wants the Federation to supply his gangsters with weapons so he can take over the planet, taking down Krako and the other bosses. My favorite part is when Kirk makes up a very complicated card game to play with the gangsters holding him hostage and Spock has to admit having never calculated the odds on the rarest of possible hands. Then there is also the bit where they try to drive an automobile. In the end, Kirk decides if you cannot fight them, join them. "A Piece of the Action" may well be the second funniest Star Trek episode, after "The Trouble With Tribbles," of course.

Excellence
In my opinion, A Piece Of The Action is in the top 3 episode category along with Mirror Mirror and the Corbomite Manuever. The whole episode is very deep and never uneventful. The action never stops. It employs humor in the form of "slang talk" which people like Spock and McCoy dont understand. I cant explain it all here, but I will tell you it is a very good episode.

One of the funniest and best Star Trek episodes
"A Piece of The Action" is one of my five favorite episodes of Star Trek. In "A Piece of The Action," Captain Kirk, Spock, and Dr. McCoy beam down to a planet whose landscape is similar to that of earth. The boss of a bunch of gangsters demands that the trio from the Enterprise make a deal with him which would help him ward off some of his enemies. To put it short, the Enterprise crew has been tricked. There must be a way for Captain Kirk, Spock, and Dr. McCoy to escape the planet alive, but they have a little bit of fun first.

"A Piece of The Action" is a great episode of the original series of Star Trek. It is well written and some parts of it are hilarious, especially the part when Captain Kirk drives a car for the first time. It's also amusing the way that Kirk talks in slang and has to repeat himself for the others to understand him.

William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy both give one of their best performances to make this one of the unforgettable episodes of Star Trek. I recommend "A Piece of The Action" to anybody. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

WOW!
David Duchovny hosts three more episodes of the popular adult series. Contains the episodes: "The Psychiatrist," "Four on the Floor," and "Emily's Dance."

Segment: "The Psychiatrist." Linda, the client played by Demetra Hampton (Valentina [1988]), picks up men on trains and in hotel bars and accepts money for various active and passive sex acts but contends that it's the psychiatrist with the problem. Linda asserts, "You sit there in your big chair and listen but you feel nothing." The "Psychiatrist" (Denise Crosby) writes to Red Shoes lamenting, "Whom does he psychiatrist talk to?" (Actually, the role looks more like that of a psychologist, because she seems to rely on logo therapy rather than drugs.) The Psychiatrist goes to the hotel bar and hooks up with the same man (Georges Corraface) replicating the experience of Linda. On "The Man's" prompts, she progressively removes items of her clothing, accepting various amounts of money for each garment. But eventually she turns the tables on him by demanding that he touch her. Has she gotten in over her head or can she manage a real relationship with him? Segment: "Four on the Floor." An old movie featuring two couples who engage in group sex while on a vacation far from home serves as the inspiration for the story. The Red Shoes correspondent (Rachel Palmieri, I think) reports having seen the movie during a break from final exams preparations at college. Later, when she and her lover are involved in a car accident while on a double date with their best friends, they have to take shelter from the rain in an old abandoned building. Of course, they must all remove their rain-soaked clothing and huddle together to keep warm. Is history (as told in the movie) about to repeat itself? Segment: "Emily's Dance." Emily (Kent Masters King) is an aspiring dancer. Her technique is excellent and the film makers like her looks, but she can't let herself "get into" her performance. She gets a tryout on a project directed by Zalman King (Himself), who is assisted by Ashley Lowengrub (Herself) and which is choreographed by Tony Ciulla (Himself). Freedom Williams is the lead male dancer who also coughs up the rap stuff in the background. He sees her talent and tries to push her over the line where she will finally be free to express herself through her dance. Will he succeed or just break her spirit?...

Not sure if this is same version? Different Box
The one I have, I like the first story best with Denise Crosby from Star Trek Next Generation. She plays a psychiatrist and mimics her patient's wild adventure, except she is better. It is called The Psychiatrist. The next one is called Four on the Floor like the title, it is sexy, but as the other reviewer stated these are soft porn. The last one is Emily's Dance, it is really sexy dancing. The first story is the best. I was going to put it up for sale here, but since it has a different box, I will put it up in auctions with a picture.

My Review
This is one of the best porno movies that i have ever purchased it has some of the best details. And the picture is so CLEAR. The movie has some of the hottest girls I have yet to see in a movie. The one thing i didn't like about this movie is their wasn't enough hardcore. It was just a lot of softcore. I would strongly recemend this movie if you are into softcore, but i would look for something else if you want hardcore. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

John Philip Sousa Fantasia
This is an amusing little yarn on Sousa and his music. Being only about 90 minutes long the movie does not attempt to be comprehensive with his life, but concentrates instead on creating a portrait of him. Clifton Webb has Sousa's somewhat stiff, yet humorous personality down pretty well. The episodes depicted in the movie are brief vignettes, loosely based on some actual events. The Marine Corps probably did treat their March King in a rather off-hand manner as shown in the movie. Sousa did make the Marine Band from a 3rd rate emsemble into one of the best military bands in the country, and the Marines could not really offer him anymore than what they had already given him.

The truth is Sousa saw an opportunity to market himself to a growing American audience that was starting to become more sophisticated in its musical tastes. He would perfect the band tour concept. Others had done it before him, but Sousa would make himself into a super-star, and truly traveled the world. The movie accurately shows his formation of his own Sousa band after leaving the Marines in 1892. Where the movie strays a bit is with the silly sideline romance. Here we have the typical 1950s guy meets girl thing going on. It's cute, but kind of takes away from the subject matter. Its also hard to say whether this is a musical or not? There is a lot of singing and show numbers presented, based, supposedly on Sousa's music. We do get to hear some good versions of "Semper Fidelis" which is played ad noseum!

I would have liked this movie a lot more if it had been a little more serious and showcased some more of Sousa's music. He really did write more than just 10 marches you know! Plus countless classical transcriptions, overtures, songs, novely items and arrangements of old American folk music. Sousa was our most prolific composer, his music typifies an era that is no more in this country. The Sousa band didn't march as much as shown in the movie. The band was intended as a symphonic ensemble. Sousa had enough marching from his Marine days! His band was certainly accomplished, and had some very fine players in it. To say as Americans often do that it was the best in the world is a bit of Yankee over-statement. Compared to most bands in the US, yes, the Sousa band was among the best. Abroad in Europe there were many fine military bands that were just as good. Sousa knew this, and he was careful not to over-step his bounds. He received many fine praise from European audiences, and this must have pleased him very much indeed. Sousa knew that the Coldstream Guards in London, The Garde Du Corps in Berlin and many others were just as good, lacking only the showmanship and Sousa's ability to market himself and his band and music.

The movie shows the warm relationship Sousa had with his wife, who always supported him and his music. "Stars and Stripes" came into Sousa's mind whilst returning from abroad after he had learned that his manager had died in the States. The movie cleverly marches us into the Sousa legend at the end which is probably just as good an ending as any. This is an old style movie with a lot of cute touches in it. It provides a musical fastasy of Sousa and his times. You can get an idea of who the March King was by watching it, but in order to get a truer picture I would suggust Paul E. Bierly's biography "John Philip Sousa: American Phenomenon"

An heroic American figure
This is a wonderful movie. I have been a serious Sousa fan since I stumbled across the movie several months ago. I marvel at the impact Sousa had both during his life and since. Great composers have an ability to far transcend their own lifetime and enrich ours. This is exemplified in the final scene where an ethereal Sousa is leading all bands.

Stars And Stripes Forever is Americana at its best!
Wonderful portraying by Clifton Webb. No other American musical comes close to "Stars and Stripes Forever." If you've watched this film and enjoyed it, you'll love "The Music Man". No musical holds a candle to these two! If you're proud to be an American, like me, you'll be entertained by this movie every time you see it. The way the marches are played in this film is extraordinarily exuberant. Treat yourself to a outstanding biography that is Americana at its best!

The story of John Philip Sousa, the March King
Well, I have just watched "Stars and Stripes Forever" (again) and gotten teary eyed at the ending (again). As in most musical bio-pics, the historical details play second fiddle to the music in this 1952 film directed by Henry Koster. This film follows the career of John Philip Sousa (Clifton Webb), from his last days in the Marine Corp to the end of the Spanish American War. Helping American's March King along the way are his wife, Jennie (Ruth Hussey), young Willie Little (Robert Wagner), an enthusiastic young man and inventor of the Sousaphone, and Lily Becker (Debra Paget), the love of young Willie's life. Musical highlights of Sousa's marches includes "Semper Fidelis," "Washington Post March," "Presidential Polonaise," "High School Cadets March," "El Capitan" and the title march (which came to Sousa on an ocean voyage and which he wrote down without ever changing a note). My favorite scenes are between the Sousas, as when he insists he has written a new ballad called "My Love is a Weeping Willow," but which she plays as the "Semper Fidelis" march (lyrics by Ken Darby). Then there is the point when Sousa is shocked to discover Willie sneaking into Lily's compartment on the train and stunned to learn the couple are married. "But they know how I feel about that," he sputters helplessly, having a rule that none of his musicians can travel with their spouses. "Yes," agrees his wife, "so that is why you have to pretend you don't know." I just love the way she handles him. Then there is the finale, when Willie returns from the Spanish American War, having lost a leg, and is called up on stage by Sousa to play with the band as they introduce his latest march, "Stars and Stripes Forever." I have always thought this was an awesome march and when the music swells as we see American soldiers marching to its spirited strains, it always gets me choked up. Now, of course, more than ever.

Outstanding family entertainment.
This is very much an "old fashioned" movie, with acting, timing, dialog, etc.without the use of todays special effects, nudity, profanity and violence. It appeals to your brain, rather than to your animal instincts. ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Bless them all...bless them all....
I am unable to recall another film whose opening and closing scenes are more effective than those in this brilliant portrayal of the 918th Bombardment group based in England which flew almost daily missions to Germany during World War II. The character of General Frank Savage (Gregory Peck) is reputedly based on Brigadier General Frank A. Armstrong, Jr. Sy Bartlett wrote the book and then the screenplay. Brilliantly directed by Henry King, we are introduced to a combination of combat fatigue and self-pity which results in the replacement of Colonel Keith Davenport by his friend Savage who is told by his commanding officer, General Pritchard (Millard Mitchell), to shape up the 918th while avoiding Davenport's problem: Becoming overly involved emotionally in decisions to send B-17 crews on exceptionally dangerous missions, day after day after day. Savage immediately establishes his authority and almost immediately loses whatever goodwill he may have had. He applies and then maintains constant pressure on the crews to improve their performance in all areas of flight operations. Underachievers are reassigned to one B-17 renamed "The Leper Colony." Morale deteriorates to such a point that those at headquarters become concerned. A formal investigation of the situation is conducted. This is a critical moment for Savage. If he has "lost" his men, he cannot continue. In fact, he expects to be relieved and begins to pack his personal items. However, for reasons revealed in the film, Savage remains in command. And then....

It would be a disservice to those who have not as yet seen this film to say any more about the plot. Suffice to say that brilliant direction, great acting by everyone involved (notably by Dean Jagger who received an Academy Award for best actor in a supporting role), superb cinematography (Leon Shamroy), and haunting music (Alfred Newman) are seamlessly integrated in this analysis of effective leadership (especially decision-making) under wartime conditions. The film begins when Harry Stovall (Jagger) makes an especially significant purchase in an antique store and then proceeds to what has by then become an abandoned air base. As we begin to hear the bombers' propellers whine as the engines roar to life, we are transported back in time. Later, as the film ends, civilian Stovall climbs back on his rented bike and departs what is again an abandoned air base. Stunning images throughout both sequences.

Peck included this among his favorite films, while adding that he was especially proud of his performance as Frank Savage. When first released more than 50 years ago, it did not receive the recognition (much less the appreciation) it so obviously deserves. Whenever CEOs and other senior-level executives ask me to suggest war films which offer important lessons about leadership and management, Twelve O'Clock High is first on the list, joined by (in alphabetical order) Command Decision, The Dirty Dozen, The Enemy Below, Fort Apache, The Hunt for Red October, Paths of Glory, Pork Chop Hill, The Red Badge of Courage, They Were Expendable, and Zulu.

The best war movie I've ever seen. Magnificent!
Twelve "O'Clock High is a powerful and true-to-life film dealing with the early days of the 8th US Air Force in Great Britain. Its mission: to bomb Germany not by night in saturation bombings as the British were doing, but instead to boldly engage in "precision daylight bombing." No one knew if the concept was viable because no one had ever dared try it before on a large scale. Gregory Peck plays the role of a leader suddenly thrust into command of a deeply troubled, demoralized, and shot-up bomber squadron. How he motivates the men and overcomes the fact that the men well know that their chances of survival were poor (the worst survival odds of any American combat assignment in the war) is a deeply moving, powerful, indeed unforgettable story. This is a great movie.

The cinematography of this movie is wonderful, featuring actual combat footage of B-17s engaging German Focke-Wulf fighters in deadly combat. The sense of authenticity that this movie brings to the screen is total. One feels transposed back into England in 1942, engaged in a life-and-death struggle in the air against the Germans. The uniforms, dialogue, everything, about this movie reeks of authenticity. The storyline moves along at a breakneck pace--no dull interludes. And yet this is not just a "shoot-em-up" war flick. It is a stirring story of leadership, personality clashes, honest fear and human imperfections that reminds us what an incredible debt we all owe to the men who fought and won the air war over Nazi Germany.

This is a DVD movie to keep and watch repeatedly over the years. It is not only a great movie, it is wonderfully entertaining. This is truly one of the all-time great war movies.

The best review from someone who lived it.
My father, a b-17 bomber pilot, flew 52 missions out of England (Bassingbourn) during WWII. He spoke very little about his war-time experiences, but he said that this was the closest that Hollywood ever came to capturing what it was like for the B-17 bomber squadrons during WWII. It is a great film about human beings under extraordinary stress, making extremely difficult choices and living with their consequences - but most especially it is a moving portrayal of the complexities of leadership and friendship, and the trust needed to get others to do difficult, if not impossible things.

the meaning of "Maximum Effort"
This is a magnificent World War II film about U.S. airmen stationed in Britain in the fall of 1942, and so much more; it's about the psychology that goes into situations of extreme stress, and what makes a man a winner or loser when put to the test. As General Savage (Peck) says in his pep talk, "fear is normal, but stop worrying about it". Savage has no time for self pity, for himself or anyone else, and his toughness and high principles bring out the best in his men, and it also points up the dangers of emotional attachment in the wrong situations.
The script by Sy Bartlett and Beirne Lay Jr., from their book which is loosely based on a true story, is intelligent and insightful, and the direction by Henry King meticulous. The cinematography by Leon Shamroy is crisp and marvelous, and also includes riveting portions of actual WWII battle footage interspersed in the aerial shots.
The Alfred Newman score also adds much to the film.

Gregory Peck is perfect as General Savage, fabulously handsome, with one of the greatest voices of the 20th century, one cannot imagine a better actor for the part. Dean Jagger is also splendid as Major Harvey Stovall; wise and often witty, it is through his eyes that we see the story, told in flashback as he wanders the deserted airfield in 1949.
Other excellent performances come from Gary Merrill and Hugh Marlowe, but every cast member is good, with strong turns from all.

Nominated for a Best Actor and Best Picture Oscar (losing out to "All the King's Men" on both counts), "Twelve O'Clock High" spawned a much better than average TV series (1964-67) that I enjoyed watching, especially in its first season when it starred Robert Lansing.
This is a film that is actually used in "leadership seminars" for business executives, and by the U.S. Airforce as a teaching tool. It has lessons for the average person too, but most of all, it's a superb film, with memorable performances. Total running time is 132 minutes.

Excellent Movie for Leadership
This movie is a classic tool used by the USAF Squadron Officer School. It is a great way to see the different styles of leadership. When we viewed it in an educational fashion the movie carried a much greater sense of meaning for us. For all military buffs this movie has to be in your collection. Tobey Jugs, leather caps, B-17s...Bless them all, bless them all... ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Kusturica is a profound visual poet and a cinematic genius.
I have nothing more to add about TIME OF THE GYPSIES. Everything you need to know about its contents is adequately described in the other reviews. This review is about the director, Emir Kusturica and his films as a whole, all of which are remarkable.

I don't want to say too much, because it is almost sinful to recommend something so exquisite that I fear I will not do it justice. But I will try. Anyone who hasn't seen every one of Emir Kusturica's masterpieces is missing out on the most remarkable creations since the conception of the moving image. I am at a loss for words when it comes to describing what exactly it is that Kusturica does, but I will do my best to give you a glimpse: He combines the surreal with the absurd, to create a result more beautiful and more real than anything I have ever before experienced. He gives you a glimpse of eternity. He gives your life those moments of unpalpability, that remind you that there still is something magical and mystical, that the world is not as calculated and banal as you may once have thought. I would also like to express my utter disgust to whoever is at fault for the delay of the release in the US of Kusturica's masterpiece of masterpieces, UNDERGROUND which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes in 1995. It is a film by a Yugoslavian about the loss of Yugoslavia, and as any work of art built on personal experience, the creator's passions have been torn apart by idiotic critics because of the film's supposed political innuendos. The New Yorker, among other periodicals in the US was first in line to spew its bulls**t american quips all over its critique of the film. I will stop here before this entire review is censored for its explicitness. To the best of my knowledge UNDERGROUND is being released in the US by New Yorker Films on February 9th. Don't miss this film...you have too much to lose.

Magical realism
This film blends real-life heartache and squalor with a poetic dream world. In spite of its many surreal touches, Time of the Gypsies seemed an accurate depiction of the social fabric and sense of economic desperation that characterize Rom life in numerous countries. When beauty, magic, and love exist in these circumstances, they are powerful forces indeed. This film gives us a painfully hard look at world of the gypsies we have scorned and romanticized: we know that our fascination is justified. To have entered their world is a rare privilege, and a real trip. (I too was shocked to read Matlin's lukewarm review.)

Great film, great music, and a great director.
I decided to make, instead of the review, a comment of the film:
I couldn't believe what I was watching at the first 10 minutes. I didn't know if I had to laught, cry or just stare at the tv.
The history of the characters is amazing. One by one envolves you and introduce you to their owne history.
The music is unbelievable, is perfect.
El film por completo es exelente.
Forgive me for the grammar mistakes.

Sublime
The first great film from the greatest living European director. Underground may be a more weighty work, but this is a deeply felt and beautiful movie. The acting is great, the music superb and the art direction grotesque and masterful. It is a fairy tale, an ethnography, a comic caper and a work of neorealism. It succeeds at each level.
If one needs more evidence that this is a vapid and vile age, please note that this, one of the great masterworks of recent world cinema, is available only on VHS, while that Silent Bob releases on DVD interviews in which he pontificates away.

maybe my favorite movie.
First of all, I'm not a reviewer, I don't believe in deep or intelligent reviews but in feelings or sensations caused by a specific movie to a particular person.
I first time saw this movie when I was no more than 14 years old. I saw it with my parents, and to be honest, I wasn't very excited at the moment... but ten minutes later I was unable to take away my eyes and mind from the screen. This film made me cry, laugh, think and then cry again. It made a point of change, It taught me WHAT I want from a movie, and it showed me that this kind of movie is unfortunately rare. ... Read more

Amazon.com

No studio was better than Darryl Zanuck's 20th Century-Fox atdishing out lovingly textured Americana, of which this movie is a primeexample.The outlaw gets canonized as an American Robin Hood, anhonest farmer who, with post-Civil War Missouri overrun by corruptagents of the Railroad, had no choice but to start robbing banks andtrains to achieve a measure of social justice the System wouldn't provide. Tyrone Power as Jesse is quietly out-acted by Fox's emerging star HenryFonda as brother Frank.The supporting cast is solid--Randolph Scott,Nancy Kelly, Brian Donlevy, John Carradine (as Bob Ford), Jane Darwell,Donald Meek--but the liveliest thing in the movie is Henry Hull, playing anewspaperman whose editorials invariably prescribe that whomever he'sdenouncing be "taken out and shot like dawgs." Fonda, Hull, andCarradine re-created their roles the following year in The Return ofFrank James. --Richard T. Jameson ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Awful, just awful
Whatever significance this film has, it derives from the stellar cast. Tyrone Power and Henry Fonda do a credible job portraying Jesse and Frank James despite a screenplay that takes criminal liberties with the historical record. You may find it entertaining, but don't come away from it thinking you've learned anything useful about the James boys. The distortions become all the more shocking when you realize that there were still people alive in western Missouri who remembered the original people and events when this silly thing was released.

Enjoyable movie, but historically inaccurate
"Jesse James" has good actors, a quality script, and attractive, colorful scenery. However, it is wildly inaccurate from a historical perspective. The way Jesse James is lionized in this movie is hard to stomach if you know the facts. I will concede that Jesse was a colorful, brave man who loved his family, and had a tough life growing up, but he was also a thief and a killer. That should be remembered when watching this movie, which is at least 50% fiction.

Outlaw or Hero?
A real life legend of the Old West comes to life in this 1939 film, which may not be historically accurate or honest enough for purists, but nevertheless tells a good story while leaving any moral judgments up to the audience. "Jesse James," directed by Henry King, stars Tyrone Power as the man heralded by some as the Robin Hood of cowboys. Whether or not he was actually a hero is debatable, and what this movie does is supply the motivation for the wrong-doing on Jesse's part-- at least up to a point. At the time this film was made, it was necessary for the filmmaker to present a story like this in a way that reflected a reckoning of sorts for a character engaged in any form of moral turpitude; and this film is no exception. But in this case, it's done with subtlety, and in a way that still allows the viewer's sympathies to be with the protagonist, regardless of his crimes.

At the heart of the matter is basically another version of the oft-told David and Goliath tale. In this story, Goliath is the railroad, expanding ever-westward and growing bigger and stronger by the day. When they encounter the farm on which Jesse, his brother, Frank (Henry Fonda) and their mother (Jane Darwell) reside and make their living, the railroad does what any self-respecting conglomerate would do-- they take it, pay the owners a pittance and lay their rail without giving it another thought. Only this time, the railroad messed with the wrong people. Not one to take it lying down, Jesse forms a gang-- which includes Frank-- and strikes back in the only way he knows how: By robbing the trains. And, just as Bonnie and Clyde would become, in a sense, local heroes a few years later, many began looking up to James as something of a redeemer; the man who stood up for all the others who were either unwilling or unable to do it for themselves after being wronged, as well, by the ruthless machinery of progress.

Power gives an outstanding performance as Jesse James, to whom he brings an intensity that seethes beneath his rugged good looks and determined attitude. Like Beatty did with Clyde, Power makes Jesse an outlaw you can't help but like, and actually admire. Because the James Power presents is nothing more nor less than a good man seeking reparation for the injury visited not only upon himself, but upon his family, to whom he feels justice is now due. It's a very credible and believable portrayal, though under close scrutiny his Jesse may come across as somewhat idealistically unflawed. Then again, within the time frame of this story, we are seeing a man adamant and single-minded of purpose, and the depth Power brings to the character more than accounts for what may be construed as a flawless nature.

As Frank James, Henry Fonda presents a man perhaps more laid-back than his brother, but every bit as volatile and adamant in his quest for justice. There's a coolness in his eyes and in his manner that belies the tenacity of his character. Fonda conveys the sense that Frank is a lion; he's no trouble without provocation, but once aroused he will demand satisfaction and stay with the scent until he has it. And it's that sense of dogged determination that Fonda and Power bring to their respective characters that makes them so engaging and accessible. Goliath is the real bad guy here, and you want to see him fall; and these are the guys you want to see bring him down.

In a supporting role, John Carradine gives a noteworthy performance as Jesse's own personal Judas, Bob Ford, a man who made history by demonstrating that there is, indeed, no honor among thieves. Carradine brings Ford to life in a sly and sinister way that leaves no doubt as to who the real villain of the story is.

The supporting cast includes Nancy Kelly (Zee), Randolph Scott (Will), Slim Summerville (Jailer), Brian Donlevy (Barshee), Donald Meek (McCoy), Charles Tannen (Charlie Ford), Claire Du Brey (Mrs. Ford) and Henry Hull, in an energetic and memorable performance as Major Rufus Cobb. Compared to many of the westerns made in the past couple of decades or so, this film is rather antiseptic in it's presentation; that is to say it lacks the graphic visuals of say, "The Wild Bunch" or Eastwood's "Unforgiven." But "Jesse James" is satisfying entertainment that doesn't require or rely upon shocking realism to tell the story, but rather the talent and finesse of a great cast and a savvy director. It's a movie that will keep you involved, and Power and Fonda make it an especially enriching cinematic experience. In a very classic sense, this is the magic of the movies.

TERRIFIC MOVIE
For sheer gusto, excitement and action, it's hard to beat this classic western which unfolds the legendary saga of the notorious James boys. Tyrone is sympathetic, dashing and utterly charming as Jesse who lives on his mother's farm with his slow, deliberate, dependable brother Frank (Fonda). Director Henry King gives the film his special brand of zest and the acting of both Brian Donlevy and Jane Darwell is superb. More Hollywood than real-life for sure, nevertheless Power proved he could really act in this one; before he was just a beautiful matinee idol for the women to swoon over. Here he appealed to the menfolk as well as he successfully captured the good and evil which existed in one of America's most enigmatic men; Fonda was so good as brother Frank that Fox cast in the sequel RETURN OF FRANK JAMES; this film made the not-so-young (34) Henry Fonda a star. The Technicolor is magnificent!!

A CLASSIC REMINDS US THAT THE WESTERN ONCE RULED HOLLYWOOD!
There was no surpise when the recent publication of the TOP 50 STARS list put HENRY FONDA in the top ten, because Henry Fonda is certainly one of the pantheon of Hollywood actors that defined the term "star." JESSE JAMES offers a delightful opportunity to go back to 1939 when the star many of us know as a grand old man was a breathtakingly handsome romantic lead. In this film Fonda has the second lead, playing Frank James, America's most famous romantic outlaw, with the characteristic understated warmth and dignity that would enoble his whole career. The real star of JESSE JAMES is Tyrone Power, sadly neglected by the TOP 50 LIST, but an actor of exceptional charm, charisma and talent as we can see from his performance in the title role. The two actors achieve a balance in their different styles that not only colours and enriches the story but creates a beautiful context of the love between two brothers. JESSE JAMES marked the beginning of a long collaboration between Power and director Henry King. King is barely remembered today, but he was an integral part of Hollywood history, making 116 films from the birth of cinema until the 1960's. He came from a rural background, evident in his silent classic, TOL'ABLE DAVID, and in JESSE JAMES he evokes a realistic portrait of farming folk just as he had in his earlier hit. He shows particular empathy for the hardships they faced, especially after the Civil War, a time when big business was taking over with carpetbagging tactics that crushed the small homesteaders who had tamed the frontier. This allows King to romanticize the outlaws into heroes in a tradition resonant in recent films like BONNIE AND CLYDE and BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID. The film is particularly strong on character, creating a tragedy that ranks high in the great outlaw movies, like THE WILD BUNCH and UNFORGIVEN. Beautifully filmed in the glorious technicolor of the 1930's, JESSE JAMES contains breathtaking horseback riding sequences as well as the great Northfield Minnesota Raid, a bank robbery that stands up to the action films of today. The literate and considered screenplay is by Nunnally Johnson, who gave Fonda some of his most memorable moments in his adaptation of THE GRAPES OF WRATH. That was another film in which the luminescent Jane Darwell played Fonda's mother. John Carradine, illustrious father of David, Keith and Robert gives an inspired performance as Bob Ford, the man who shot Jesse James, a role entirely different from his famous portrayal of Casey in THE GRAPES OF WRATH. Also in the cast are the genteel and humble Randolph Scott and the deliciously evil Brian Donlevy. They are supported by the great character actors Henry Hull and Donald Meek who were part of an ensemble company of actors that remains the envy of filmakers today. The film and Fonda's performance as Frank were so strong that a sequel was made, THE RETURN OF FRANK JAMES, in which Frank seeks revenge for his murdered brother.JESSE JAMES helps us understand the enormous popularity of the Western, once the foundation of Hollywood movies. The film is beautiful and enthralling, entertaining as drama, action and even comedy. A rich canvas that deserves to be called a classic, JESSE JAMES is an opportunity to see the best work of some of the finest craftsmen of Hollywood's Golden Age. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fine Tale of Derring-Do, 1935-style!
This fine British pre-war adventure film is a pleasure to watch. Sanders (played by Leslie Banks) plays the decent District Officer trying to to put and end to chaotic inter-tribal warefare in colonial Africa, using mostly his powers of persuaion. But the fun of it all is in the 1930's style of the film, which is full of dashing, derring-do. Paul Robeson plays a native helper to Sanders (look for the King George medal ["G. V. I." - George V, Emperor] around his waist) - he's not the star of the film (as the box says). The theme of "good government is a good thing" was perhaps noted by an extra in the cast - Jomo Kenyatta, who went on to become the first leader of independent Kenya (alas, his successors have not taken the message to heart.) There is an eerie prophetic quality to this light-hearted adventure - it may remind a few viewers of the awful, bloody Mau Mau uprising in 1950's Kenya, in which various tribes went for each others throats in an orgy of violence. Fortunately, this film is just a wonderful piece of 1930's British cinema!

If you like this, try: The Drum, Kim (the old version, starring Sabu), The Four Feathers, Gunga Din, the Charge of the Light Brigade, A Passage to India, Out of Africa, Gandhi, the Jewel in the Crown, the Man Who Would Be King and Zulu.

QUALITY COMPLAINT.
Bought as new, the picture quality of this video can only be described as AWFUL. After only a few minutes viewing I trashed it. It is a disgrace that unsuspecting buyers should receive goods of such a low standard from both "Timeless Video Inc" and "Madacy Entertainment". ... Read more

Amazon.com

Most of this second volume of stories from the 1985-87 televisionanthology series is a middling offering from former Steven Spielbergprotégé Robert Zemeckis, who later won an Oscar for directingForrest Gump. (Spielberg was the creator of Amazing Stories.)Zemeckis's episode is a bit of schlock horror called "Go to the Head of theClass," and while itstars Christopher Lloyd in a fiendish role as a decapitated teacher, and an atypical part for Mary Stuart Masterson as a manipulative teenage babe, there isn't much that sticks to the ribs.

The real treat on Book 2, however, is the animated "Family Dog,"directed by the little-known Brad Bird but supervised by Tim Burtonlong before he became a household name. A witty and observant satire on familydysfunction as seen through the eyes of a pet pooch and perennial scapegoat,"Family Dog" follows the misadventures of a sweet-natured mutt just trying tofit in with his human housemates but betrayed at every turn. Tormented by abratty boy, prodded by an exuberant toddler, and an easy target for an unhappymom and duplicitous dad, the dog can't get a break. Burton's dark sensibilitiesare certainly in play, and the animation--while owing something to Warner andDisney--is novel and expressive. One needn't worry about young viewers watchingthis one: there's no physical brutality and the comedy always prevails. Plus,the ending proves, definitively, that every dog does indeed have hisday. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Family Dog Takes the Cake!
The Family Dog is absolutely the funniest cartoon I have ever seen. We wore out our copy years ago, and I'm so grateful to find that it's here for sale. Although we haven't seen it for eons, my family still quotes from it, and we never fail to crack up in giggles at even the memory! I can't speak for the Christopher Lloyd portion, but Family Dog is WELL worth the investment, for the youngsters as well as the adults in the family!

Family Dog is the head of its Class! But, Class is a Dog.
This tape consists of "Go to the Head of the Class" and "Family Dog." Team Robert Zemeckis with his 'Back to the Future I, II, & III' & 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' star, Christopher Lloyd and you are bound to get a hysterically funny, creative tale. But, that did not happen here. Nothing of Zemeckis' (Used Cars, Contact, Forrest Gump) film making know how is evident here and Lloyd has never been more annoying. Additionally, this hour long episode has a half hour story-line stretched way too thin. Even Coffey and Masterson have no charm here. On the positive note, some of Stan Winston's (Terminator, Jurassic Park) headless effects are very impressive for 1980's television. BUT Family Dog!This could be the most successful of the entire series. After all, it spawned a spin-off series! (Very short lived). But, it is meritous. The animation is great fun. The dog's nose floating an inch off his face is hysterical and his reactions are obvious without being human. The stories themselves are smartly paced with 'real' dialogue and each is balanced with humorous music by Danny Elfman of Oingo Boingo fame. Enjoy!

OH MY GOD!!!
The cartoon was unbelievably funny! That rotten little boy and the smartass dog was too too funny for words.I RECOMMEND THIS MOVIE TO ANYONE WITH AN ATTITUDE PROBLEM BECAUSE THIS MOVIE WILL GET RID OF IT TEMPORARILY. JUST LONG ENOUGH FOR YOU TO FORGET WHY YOU WERE MAD IN THE 1ST PLACE

Amazing Stories Review By MaxS. McPike
When I first watched the Amazing Stories TV show I was just
stunned ,I loved it and I even thought it was better than
the Twilight Zone movie and also it was a lot different than other movies and TV shows . What I also liked about it was that it had a lot of famous people in it like: Kevin Kostner, Pat Hingle, Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Stuart Masterson,Christopher Lloyd, Rhea Perlman, and many others. I think it is fun for the whole family. P.S. I think they should put it on DVD.

THE BEST ANIMATION SHORT OF ITS TIME
BUY IT BUY IT BUY IT, just for the short, "Family Dog" I have been looking for this cartoon for years!! I knew of someone's household that was similar to this short! My family and I used to watch this everytime it came on cable, before the series came out. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A romatic yet cynical look at the nature of 'Revolution'.
I really enjoyed this film directed by Elia Kazan with a screenplay by John Steinbeck (his only credited screenplay). Their vision of the Revolution is at once both impossibly romantic as well as bitterly cynical. The romance lies in the pure-hearted desire of Emiliano Zapata to bring justice and land reform to 'the people'. The cynicism is expressed in the constant betrayal and manipulation of the Revolution by men who are either weak, self-seeking, or who have absolutely no commitment to justice or to 'the people. Then there is the character of Fernando, deliciously played by Joseph Wiseman, the professional revolutionary who will never be satisfied with the attainment of objectives but only in incessant foment and agitation (in real life, Kazan detested doctrinaire Stalinists). Brando gives a brooding performance as the illiterate Zapata who inwardly burns at his inability to read. Anthony Quinn won an Oscar as Zapata's older brother, Eufemio. Virtually all of the characters in 'Viva Zapata' are ground down by the realities of constant struggle of revolution. We are not to have illusions about the nature of Revolutions. And yet, Kazan and Steinbeck still leave us room to believe that the ideals of revolutionary struggle in themselves can be endowed with nobility and worthiness. The cinematography by Joe MacDonald is tasteful as is the music score by Alex North.

Viva Kazan!!
A great film directed by Elia Kazan, written by John Steinbeck and scored by Alex North. These are the ingredients of a great film. Brando plays the brooding Zapata in fine style. Joseph Wiseman a standout as a corrupt revolutionary and Alan Reed as Villa.

Anthony Quinn shows us all how to win an Oscar when your screen time is so little. Quinn, as Zapata,s, brother takes the viewer to another world of acting a role, his performance is a knockout.

Louis Gilbert has a soul for the times..and this is a good chance to see " Margo" in one of her later films.Quinn,s execution scene is one of the best two minutes put on film in a very long time. No video collection should be without this film.

Visually opulent in Black a White CP

Revoulationary spirit lives on
I've read the screenplay by John Steinbeck and recently watched this movie again and I have some problems with it. The casting was not the best but I guess names sell movies. I know all the reviews are glowing 5 stars but I was less than convinced that Brando was Zapata. First of all that wimpy mustache has got to go. The real Zapata had a mustache for the ages. On the other hand the actor who played Porfirio Diaz at least looked a bit like him.Brandos terrible "Mexican accent" made me cringe throughout the movie. I know everyone says his acting was great but his crediblity was damaged right out the gate for me. If a movie is in English just speak English. Is the "Mexican accent" supposed to make it more authentic? I don't think so. Anthony Quinn would have probably made a better Zapata but instead he was relegated to the supporting actors role. Anthony Quinn, who spoke with such fervor and eloquence throughout the movie stole many of the scenes. The script by Steinbeck was much better and the movie adaption was loosely followed and often out of sequence. These personal observations aside I did think it was a good movie. The film is a romanticized version of Zapata(and Pancho Villa)and is full of interesting cinematography. One of my favorite scenes is when Zapata is brought into an ambush and later his lifeless body is left in town for display. As the dead Zapata lies in the plaza beneath him the water is flowing out of a pipe; the symbolism of water as the basis of life continues to flow, meanwhile the dialogue centers around how the man is not dead but will continue to live in the hearts and minds of the people. There are many memorable moments in this classic movie that compensate for the poor but prosperous Hollywood casting. All in all it is worth seeing again and could serve well in a film study class.

Amazon has lost it here
This is a CD of the movie soundtrack and all that are posted below are movie reviews.

A huge fresco of Mexican Revolution.
Actually it was this film that triggered my interest on the Mexican Revolution. I've seen it many times and always found new details to take into account. As I read more and more on the subject my appreciation of this movie increases.
It presents the viewer with a big fresco of the Revolution that convulsed that country for more than ten years.
I admire the strange capacity of the film to show condensed in each scene, many key issues of why and how the Revolution exploded and continue growing along the years, with an immitigable fire.
The first shot, showing a very accurate characterization of President Porfirio Diaz (Fay Roope), gives an inkling of the type of ruler he was. Francisco Madero's (Harold Gordon) personality and idealistic naïveté is also depicted with very few strokes. Huerta's (Frank Silvera) wickedness and treachery too. Above all Emiliano Zapata's figure impersonated by an inspired Marlon Brando stands with an epic height. His ideals, stubbornness, charisma and internal sorrows leading him to the final sacrifice, are shown convincingly. A special mention must be done of Anthony Quinn's superb performance, that entitled him to win the Oscar. He not only has the physique du role, but an internal conviction to give flesh to Eufemio, Zapata's brother, a semi cultured and brave centaur, product of his times and environment. Josefa (Jean Peters) the fiancée and later wife of Emiliano shows all the traits of a high middle class woman romantically requested by a rural hero. The scene played with Brando in the church's atrium is wonderful. The only character that gives a discordant note is the fictional Fernando, representing an addict to revolution for revolution in itself.
The black and white photography is very beautiful. Steinbeck's screenplay has a solid internal coherence that shows along the film.
A Classic not diminished by the more than fifty years passed. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Cameron's work on view....
During the second half of the 1940s and into the early 1950s cowboy actor Rod Cameron ranked up there with Scott, McCrea, Rogers, Elliot, and others. He was a staple "A" budget star for Republic Pictures, making a number of very entertaining oaters. RIDE THE MAN DOWN is one of his better ones, and well repays viewing. The plot is complex but handled deftly. Cameron's acting is quite good, in the tradition of the rugged cowboys of an earlier generation. Supporting roles are handled well. Don't miss this one--it'll make you wonder why more of Cameron is available.

terrific, classic, compact Western; great cast; real treat
Wonderful western. Hidden treat; especially enjoyable surpri