Amazon.com

The press kit's historical notes should be standard issue for anyone who sees Alan Rudolph's (The Moderns, Choose Me) look at the famous intellectuals who dotted New York's finest hour in the 1920s. If you only know the names of Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, et al. in passing, this movie will hardly generate more study. These writers and thinkers, most famous for having lunch daily at the Algonquin Hotel, seem as weightless and thin as the fictional ones in The Moderns. Most luminous is Mrs. Parker (Jennifer Jason Leigh), whose passion for unhappiness is rarely interrupted. Leigh, in a performance that viewers seem to love or loathe, swirls "witty" dialogue with pure force and must be praised for keeping your interest in a life that was so dreary. The chief problem is not the performances (Campbell Scott is quite fun in a change-of-pace role); it's that the movie comes off as a taped show on stage: the characters are not real andit's all dress-up. Rudolph illustrates his main character's writing (donefar too seldom in writers' bios) by having Leigh speak Parker's poetrydirectly into the camera. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (21)

If One Has To Be A Voyeur, This Is The Way To Go
I won't argue with the reviewer who maintained that this film portrayed the players of the Algonquin circle in a stagy and unrealistic manner. It gives me smug satisfaction knowing the obvious hole in this criticism is that these ingredients can make a film great if done right. And done right it was in Mrs. Parker and The Vicious Circle. Each time I see this film, I experience the joy of watching the lives of luminous people through a peephole, a delicious voyeuristic journey into the unknowable literary past.

The thing about Jennifer Jason Leigh and her interpretation of Dorothy Parker's manner of speech? Did you ever sit through hours of Julia Child's famous cooking show and take note of the distinctive speech of this remarkable lady, also from New England? If Jennifer Jason Leigh were ever to star in a biography of Julia Child, she would either have to learn the idiosyncracies of Ms. Child's speech or not play the part.

Jennifer Jason Leigh is brilliant and almost became Dorothy Parker in the black and white scene where she recites a poem about all the things she shouldn't do and how she doesn't, after all, give a damn. That short scene was acting at the highest possible level achievement. Ms. Leigh recited the poem in characteristic Dorothy Parker style and conveyed the essence of the poem and the poet exclusively with her eyes.

I am proud that this pinnacle of dramatic performance was given by an American actor. So often, with all of the puerile bilge that pumps out of the filmmaking industry in this country, we forget that we have stunning talent to show the world.

Alan Rudollph temporarily back in form!
During the mid-eighties, Alan Rudolph was one of the enfants-terrible of filmmaking, along with John Hughes, Barry Levinson, Lucas and Spielberg. Then, for some reason, we lost him. After finishing off a trilogy that featured Keith Carradine and Genevieve Bujold, Rudolph proceeded to make ill-advised movies like "Made In Heaven", losing MY interest almost immediately. You'll remember, if you saw it, that this film featured Timothy Hutton and his then-wife, Debra Winger. Winger played God, if you can believe that.

Anyway, with "Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle", Herr Rudolph is back in form, going back to his "The Moderns" era, the 20s, but this time, taking a bead on the PSEUDO-bohemian life in flapper era New York, specifically the goings-on amongst the habitués of the Algonquin Round Table and various Condé Nast and New Yorker Magazine writers and editors.

Jennifer Jason Leigh is good as the acerbic Ms. Parker, but I can't help thinking that the somewhat well-known standup comic, Margaret Smith, would not have been a better choice. She has the mien, NATURAL speech pattern and delivery you would expect Dorothy Parker to have had, and her act consists of just the type of bromides and anecdotes you'd expect to come out of that droll lady's mouth. Leigh is just too cute and cuddly to portray such an acid-tongued, distaff reprobate!

However, some of the other actors portraying Algonquin luminaries were picked MUCH more carefully, specifically the two doing Alexander Wolcott and George S. Kauffmann. It is, however, almost disturbing that Campbell Scott, parlaying the famous Robert Benchley, bares not a WHIT of resemblance to HIS target, either in manner or appearance!

However, true to Rudolph form, the era is reproduced flawlessly, from the costuming to the set design and art direction. The writing is witty, esp. for the background male members of the Round Table. However, as good as Leigh is, you get the feeling that she is either trying to hard in the role of Parker, or is just about to nod off, her reading is so lethargic.

Don't get me wrong, I LIKE Jennifer Jason Leigh, I just think that the inimitable Ms. Margaret Smith would have been a much better choice.

Nonetheless, this is Rudolph again at his best....putting the microscope to an artistic microcosm and recreating the setting faithfully. Unlike any other director...Alan Rudolph is the undeniable KING of mood!

You could do much worse than rent or buy this highly atmospheric movie about a woman who is too often ignored in the world of cinema.

Mrs Parker vicious wit rules, okay!
The biting and caustic wit of Mrs Parker is bought superbly to life by the versatile actress Jennifer Jason Leigh who plays the brittle writer, critic and sometimes playwright to vulnerable perfection.

This is not an easy film to watch and I can understand why some people found it hard to get into. I mean the 1920s were supposedly a time of fun, jazz, speak easy booze and laughter all around, the Great War was over and life was back to normal.

However watching the desperation of Mrs Parker's generation, the bright young things drink themselves silly, take drugs and lash out at each other in a perpetual game of verbal cat-o-nine-tails makes you realise that perhaps everything was not as "normal" as most people hoped.

The film jumps back and forth through Mrs Parker's life, some of the best scenes are in black and white, and we are treated to subtle barbs, cruel wit and tasty treats in the guise of a crackingly good cast, with Mathew Broderick doing himself proud as the sweet talking but brutal rouge who abandons his pregnant lover (Mrs Parker), Andrew McCarthy as Mrs Parker's husband Eddie, fresh from war and addicted to morphine.

All in all this is a deliciously complex film that will you need to see more than once, well worth an evening in with a box of pop-corn and a friend to share the sarcasm, and the very satirical humour that runs through the film from beginning to end.

Could have been a great movie
I love the subject, I love Dorothy Parker, I adore Robert Benchley, I am really into the Algonquins at present. I've watched this film several times, but to no avail. If only I were not hearing-impaired, I might have understood more of what JJ Leigh is saying. As it is, I haven't a clue 93.7% of the time. I suppose closed-captioning would help, but for that I will need a newer television set. Did she have to be quite that slurry? The Benchley is well portrayed, but a bit too ideally. One is not prepared, from Campbell Scott's wholesome portrayal, for his cerebral hemorrhage from alcoholism as I was just turning one month old not far away. The sad fact is, Benchely was a teetotaler and pressed into drinking by his social set and film role stereotype. Anyone who has seen the real Benchley of the late thirties and early forties can see what it did to him.

Three stars, mostly for the other Algonquins.

this movie disrespects parker but still survives
Jennifer Jason Leigh is not the reason to watch this film. She shows no range in it what so ever. If you watch the black and white parts in the movie and the color parts of the movie, you'll see no change in Jennifer Jason Leigh's way of portraying Dorothy Parker. She's a depressed woman all the way threw, never light or happy. I thought the color sequence was supposed to be about Dorothy being a funny and witty writer with a personality that overshadowed her writing. At the table with her friends, she says nothing. As usual, Jennifer Jason Leigh slurs her words all the way threw the film. I think Jennifer Jason Leigh goes to work drunk because she did the same voice in "Dolores Claiborn" and "Hudsucker Proxy". She slurs her words in every movie except perhaps "Fast times at Ridgemount High" so don't say that the way she talked was a way of her trying to become Dorothy Parker. It wasn't, it was probably just a bad effect for all the boozing and pill popping Leigh has done in real life. Sorry to disappoint. What saves the film is Campbell Scott, who shows depth. He loves Dorothy and it shows but he respects her friendship too much to change it to romantic one because he perhaps he wants to look after her like a father does or perhaps because he's afraid of losing her friendship. He's the only person on this film who is amusing and brightens the entire film whenever he is in the scene. He outshines Dorothy and runs circles around her, she is certainly not the life of any party as she mopes around, slurring her words, acting like a old bag lady when she was supposed to be a engaging young woman with talent. The only time Dorothy is semi worth watching is when she is with Benchley. It is really sickening that Dorothy Parker was slandered by this film like this. The way they portray her husband, Alan in a black and white sequence is also sickening. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Surprise!
Ever rent or buy a movie for one reason, but end up having the film pleasantly surprise you for other reasons? That's what happened w/me when I bought FULL BODY MASSAGE.

Granted, the primary reason most people (like me!) are going to purchase this movie is the implication that Mimi Rogers is going to be naked thru most of it. Not to worry, the movie delivers in this aspect. I HATE it when some flicks have the promise of being saturated with nudity, but come to find out there is maybe a grand total of 5 seconds worth in the entire film. That's not the case with this movie.

Rogers has a unique, exotic elegance. Hers' is not the type of beauty that you will find on a bikini poster. Rather, her appearance has a much more serene and mysterious flavor to it. This, combined with the fact that she is middle-aged, give this production a nice mature (not in the sexual sense), almost sophisticated tenor.

The other major character is played by the Australian actor Bryan Brown. He doesn't seem to do too many roles, but he does pop up every now and again. He is a massage therapist who "sits in" for the normal therapist of Rogers' character. His accent is a nice touch, although I did get a bit tired of him pronouncing massage as "mAssage" (with a long A sound).

What is really refreshing about this film, however, is that it truly tells the story about both characters. It also delves into the various aspects, histories and techniques of massage therapy. Instead of being just a film for a male audience, I would argue that it is a borderline date movie. There's a lot more substance to it than you may think. The incidental music is also very fitting, giving the film an overall soft-jazz feel.

The only criticism I have is that Rogers' character only pays the masseuse $100 when its all over. Then, she is told, $100 is too much. That's an absurdly low cost. First, given all of the myriad techniques that he did, he must have been there for hours. I know that $100 won't even get you a HALF hour at some of the most respectable massage parlors. Second, it would cost a whole lot more than that for the masseuse to come & set up shop at your home (which was the case here). Third, given the fact that Roger's character lives in a bona-fide mansion & drives a brand new Mercedes, it is difficult to fathom her inviting bargain-basement massage therapists into her home.

All that aside, this is not just a good erotic movie, but is a genuinely good movie, period. If you're a fan of Mimi Rogers, Bryan Brown and / or full body massages, this one is a can't miss.

Mimi Rogers' most extensive film nudity
I'm not going to go into the normal aspects of film review for Full Body Massage here because I don't feel they apply. The reason this film is popular is because it contains Mimi Rogers' most extensive film nudity. That is the reason most people will seek it out, rent it, or buy it. Its also the reason the majority will like it. The plot is so confusing and the dialogue so boring and talkative that you may find yourself turning the sound off. Very quickly: Bryan Brown is a masseuse that fills in for rich Mimi's regular guy. The entire movie is one long massage session intercut with flashbacks by both characters concerning their previous relationships. I've told you too much. It simply doesn't matter. The nudity is excellent and Mimi has never done more. I read one review that said she looked "overweight". If that's overweight, keep up the good work. Mimi looks great and is on display throughout the film, that's all most need to know. Forget the plot & script, enjoy the view.

EROTICALLY SUBLIME
The best way 2 describe this movie: it's an erotic conversation piece! Mimi Rodgers is perfect in EVERY way, and Bryan Brown is simply charming. Eye have this movie on tape, and it's truly one of my personal favorites.

Bad beyond belief
Any way you look at this, it's a complete letdown. The plot is idiotic. The nudity is dull, poorly photographed and so unflattering that there isn't a single exciting moment.

What were they thinking?

Mimi's Nude, Ample Breasts Worth the Price of This Video
I've always wanted to see Mimi Rogers' ample breasts, and this movie delivers them in all their glory! Bryan Brown is one lucky guy when he gets to oil and massage them! I would have done it for nothing! The plot isn't so hot, but Mimi certainly is! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Paul Newman gives one of the defining performances of his career, and cemented his place as a beautiful-rebel screen icon playing the stubbornly tough and independent title character in Cool Hand Luke. And before he became familiar as a sidekick in 1970s disaster movies (Earthquake and the Airport movies), George Kennedy won an Oscar for playing Dragline, the brutal chain-gang boss who tries to beat loner Luke's cool out of him. It's a classic rebel-against-the-repressive-institution story in the line of One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest or The Shawshank Redemption. Certain moments have become classics--particularly the hardboiled egg-eating contest, and the immortal line (drooled by Strother Martin, as a sadistic redneck prison officer), "What we have here is a failure to communicate." And don't forget, Luke is also the source of the oft-quoted driving ditty, "I don't care if it rains or freezes, long as I have my plastic Jesus, right here on the dashboard of my car..." He is cool, all right. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (68)

My favorite movie of all time.
And I really mean it. They used to show this film often on the Superstation. When I was twelve, I watched it; the next time it came on, I taped it, and watched it probably more than 50 times over the next few years (I didn't know for a long time that the TV version has several scenes cut out for length, so getting it on video was a new revelation). What is it about "Cool Hand Luke" that is so moving? Well, it starts with Paul Newman's performance. Lucas Jackson is one of the most psychologically complex characters in the history of cinema, and Newman, criminally denied the Oscar for this film, makes him seem larger-than-life without saying much. Everything that comes out of his mouth is a revelation. The Christ allusions, which are fittingly done, heighten the sense of injustice that Luke is being slowly crucified by the lawmen, simply because he won't bend to their rules. On the surface, Luke seems self-destructive and ignorant, but in repeated watchings of the film, it becomes apparent that Luke is answering to a call that is bigger than the prison, bigger than the bosses, bigger than the law itself. I could go on and on about the myriad other ways in which this film is perfect, but why bother? I only get 1,000 words. Suffice it to say that this is the movie that makes George Kennedy, of all people, seem noble. YOU MUST SEE THIS FILM. The only flaw: I grew up in Georgia, and I can assure you that it is not filmed where it is set. Looks more like the Central Valley of California to me.

Just About Excellent
I cannot imagine why this film hasn't been more acclaimed. It is without a doubt one of the best of all time. I think the thing that appeals most of all to me is the unbelievable authenticity of all the characters. Except for Newman (because, hey, he's Paul Newman) nobody here appears to be acting. The guards are done just right--tough, good ol' boys who you don't wanna mess with. The prisoners meanwhile are a fairly diverse lot, some educated, some not, some with a whiff of femininity, but all have a refusal to be stripped of their dignity. Luke magnifies that element to the Nth degree.
The second best thing is the dialogue: Like "The Godfather", "Star Trek II", "Resoirovir Dogs", and "Jaws", Cool Hand Luke has several scenes which you'll easily memorize in their entirety.
Other elements: Boss Godfrey, The Man With No Eyes who doesn't say one word during the movie and who is one of the most chilling characters in a movie ever; Luke's mother, the car wash girl, the egg-eating contest, and Luke's excellent final monologue.
Luke's story has been compared to that of Jesus. When you look at it, you see that if Luke is a savior, he's a terribly flawed one, one who can't save himself. He's anti-authority, he's got nerve, and some major cojones, but he's got no aims, no goals, no beliefs. He's a Rebel Without A Clue. If he'd been born about 15-20 years later he could have made a good hippie. But this is still the early '50s and men who fail to conform end up exactly where he does. IMHO, this film accomplishes what One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest tried to do and does it much, much, better.

One final small note: The Lalo Schifrin score is great particularly during the "tarring the road" scene. Anyone who grew up in NYC in the 70s will instantly realize it as the theme to Channel 7 Eyewitness News!

An essential 60s movie - a touchstone for many
This is the perfect '60s movie. It is anti-authoritarian without being strident, a serious drama with whimsy, gritty and violent with a sexy side (who can forget the car wash scene?). Newman plays the "christ" figure and his prisoners as his disciples and believers (after he wins them over). The guards and the warden are the high priests and the Romans. And of course, they kill him in the end.

But we have some great fun along the way. Luke strips the heads off of a street of parking meters and gets a sentence far out of proportion to such a silly crime. To say that Luke chooses not to fit in is an understatement. It isn't that he takes on the system. Rather, his mere presence and indifference to the system causes it to change or to try and eliminate him as if he were some invading virus.

There are some wonderful and indelible scenes such as the egg eating, the fight with Dragline (George Kennedy), the race to the end of the road, the failure to communicate scene and the severe punishment Luke receives. It seems like you can sit around talking about scenes from this movie longer than the movie itself.

Paul Newman made Luke immortal, but George Kennedy as Dragline and Strother Martin as Captain are also essential to this movie's character and permanence.

Today's viewers might fine the pacing of the movie a bit slow and see some seams that those of us who love it might ignore, but so what? It is a classic and enjoyable film that is a touchstone for many who were young when they first saw it in 1967.

This film does NOT fail to communicate
This is the perfect '60s movie. It is anti-authoritarian without being strident, a serious drama with whimsy. It is gritty and violent and at the same time it has a sexy side (who can forget the car wash scene?). Newman plays the "christ" figure and his prisoners as his disciples and believers (after he wins them over). The guards and the warden are the high priests and the Romans. And of course, they kill him in the end.

But we have some great fun along the way. Luke strips the heads off of a street of parking meters and gets a sentence far out of proportion to such a silly crime. To say that Luke chooses not to fit in is an understatement. It isn't that he takes on the system. Rather, his mere presence and indifference to the system causes it to change or to try and eliminate him as if he were some invading virus.

There are some wonderful and indelible scenes such as the egg eating, the fight with Dragline (George Kennedy), the race to the end of the road, the failure to communicate scene and the severe punishment Luke receives. It seems like you can sit around talking about scenes from this movie longer than the movie itself.

Paul Newman made Luke immortal, but George Kennedy as Dragline and Strother Martin as Captain are also essential to this movie's character and permanence.

Today's viewers might fine the pacing of the movie a bit slow and see some seams that those of us who love it might ignore, but so what? It is a classic and enjoyable film that is a touchstone for many who were young when they first saw it in 1967.

Paul NewMan as Cool Hand Luke what a classic
newman (old blue eyes) stars as cool hand luke jackson, a war hero, who gets himself in trouble with the law, and is repeatedly beaten both mentally and physically savagely by the main boss of the prison he is in.

the main boss hates luke for several reasons: everyone likes luke. he is the typical rebel , yet he has a certain aura around that people love. even the people working in the prison like luke. the boss also hates luke, because he keeps escaping out of prison, which makes the prison's security and himself look bad. the movie from beginning to end, is one of the entertaining and powerful movies by newman. throughout the movie, we see luke's exploits including his status as "cool hand" which basically says that he can do anything. there is no better scene that shows this that luke's bet that can he eat 50 eggs in one hour. this scene is terrific and humorous to watch, time and time again. george kennedy plays greg dragline, luke's best friend and prison inmante. dragline's love of luke is evident through the whole movie. whenever, luke is mistreated dragline is there to try to pick up his spirits. whenever, luke is beaten severely for trying to escape the prison, dragline is one of the first friends that is there to pick him up and attend to him. then of course, this oscar worthy film has the memorable tunes and lines that all audiences all familiar with:

"what we got here is a familiar to communicate" is paul newman, legendary and household line that critics and audiences remember. this line has also been used in over a hundred, movies and tv shows including comedies, crime drama movies and much more. the line is a piece of cult phenomena and america which symobolizes a bad situation.

paul newman was nominated for best actor for this film, but didn't win. newman over his career has been nominated over 10 times for this aw ard: "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof" , "Malice", "Nobody's Fool", are several of the great movies that NewMan has been nominated for. "Cool Hand Luke" stands as one of the American movies ever made. It represents the abusive and mistreatment that a couple of prisons have. It also represents an intelligent and popular fellow who all through his life had one bad situation after another, yet like Greg points "Ah Luke, always had that great smile." Luke's character in a way is a reflection on individuals like himself, whose life have been filled with pain and aggravation yet people like these never give up. Taken from a novel by Donn Pearce and directed by Stuart Rosenberg this film is a bonified classic. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

I Love this movie!!!
I watch this movie when I need some good "mind candy" entertainment. Having just come back from vacation in Jamaica, it was even more of a joy to watch. Robin Williams is (as always) great fun to watch. Peter O'Toole is classic as the disdainful British expat. Jimmy Cliff is a bonus! Don't expect anything deep, just a bit of parody and fun!

Give it to me on DVD PLEASE!!!
The scene where Eugene Levy and Rick Moranis hit the beach is one of the funiest 5 minutes on film I've ever seen!

This movie HAS TO be rereleased on DVD. Will somebody PLEASE tell the studio that if Power Ranger Movies can be on DVD, why not a cult classic like Club Paradise?!!!

Wish you were on vacation feelgood perfection
There is something about the atmosphere of this movie that really sticks with me over the years. The music and the cinema really does take me on vacation... a vacation from work, the weather, everything. It's zany and non-sensical flick but still maintains that metal drum sand-in-the-shoes goodness.

Certainly, I couldn't call this movie without flaws but it is a perfect fit for those moments when you are harried at work, tired of TV and can't slip out for that vacation just yet. If you watch it in the winter months, I'll bet you'll find yourself wanting to see it again days after.

"Funny stuff" for SCTV, Caddy Shack, Animal House lovers
My title refers to Eugene Levy (if you saw most of SCTV, you know what I'm referring to) but Club Paradise has an interesting, if predictable, plot and enough "situations" to allow the all-star cast to ham it up.

Robin Williams, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis, Eugene Levy, Peter O'Toole, Joe Flaherty, Jimmy Cliff(!), Twiggy plays it straight a la Blues Brothers and is lovely.

Harold Ramis' direction, again, has the perfect touch.

Oh, did I mention the reggae soundtrack is terrific?

An 80's Masterpiece
I've always said that if I'm ever fortunate enough to meet either Rick Moranis or Eugene Levy, I'm going to surprise them by saying their finest comedic hour could very well be Barry Steinberg, Barry Neigh--smoke meats. So classic. Especially when under the influence of Johnny...ya know, Johnny, J's, joints... ... Read more

Amazon.com

This straight-to-video sequel to The Swan Princess concerns the kidnapping of Prince Derek's mother, a crime that lures the prince into danger himself. Princess Odette can save him--but only if she becomes a swan herself. Even given the lesser ambitions and budgets afforded direct-to-video sequels, it's hard to accept that this boxy, unexciting movie has the same director (Richard Rich) as the fine, first feature in the series. More like a Saturday-morning cartoon than a real film, this is a disappointment, though kids who couldn't care less about scale might get caught up in the story. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The Beautiful Swan returns
In the second of the three part series of "THE SWAN PRINCESS" "THE ESCAPE OF CASTLE MOUNTAIN" is a good movie, (in my opinion). Most sequals are a disapointment, but not this one, (and they keep the main cast from the 1st movie--which is a BIG PLUS). The singing is great and so are the songs, and the plot and acting is good as well. I think Queen Uberta is funny, (Do not mess with the Queen). Well, if you never seen this movie, I think you should, you will not be disapointed.

where's the plot!
All I can say is this is a pointless sequel! Most Sequels are crap manufactured on the market to make an extra buck!I'm sure most people loved it! Come on People Odette and Derek get married live happily ever after the End!

Great Movie!
I loved this movie! I haven't seen the prequel, but this was a very interesting movie and it kept me watching. The prince's mother is funny and it's a neat movie.

No Fear!
Like the others who have reviewed this video, I must admit that I rented this video entirely because I knew Douglas Sills (Tony-nominated as Best Actor in a Musical for his role as Percy in Frank Wildhorn's "The Scarlet Pimpernel") voiced Prince Derek. He does a great job with the role even though his character is a little two-dimensional, both physically as he is a cartoon and theoretically based on his actions and dialogue. It was, however, relatively difficult to look at the slightly homely Prince Derek and not think of how much more gorgeous Douglas in person is ;)! Michelle Nicastro as Odette has a surprisingly good singing voice (and she is a decent actress) but I agree that the styles for these songs are kind of off-beat. One minute you have a babbling French-accented frog singing in the classic Disney theatrical style (yes, I am aware this is not a Disney film - and I'm afraid to say that it often shows) and the next minute you have a Tiffany-like Princess crooning (minus the redheadedness), "That's what you do for a friend." The villain has an element of humor that was relatively undiscovered pre-Hades in Hercules with Disney films; he is not your basic cackle-rub-hands-together evil wizard (although he does do all these things). Pros: the film is incredibly humorous, the animation was as good as Disney's in its prime (the animation is IMHO better than all the films after The Lion King) and it has THE Sills' voice on it which is always a plus; Cons: the film lacked suspense for the most part, the music was too bubblegum pop when placed side-by-side with the classical score therefore was very misfitted, and Derek didn't have enough lines! :) Great to watch with your kids on a rainy day.

Buy it for Doug!
The movie itself is rather bizarre, including songs my friends and I have dubbed "Tchaikovsky Meets the Spice Girls" and "The Scary Rock-n-Roll Song," but the fast-paced animated video would be entertaining for younger children (4-10?). The true charm of the movie lies in the voice of Prince Derek--Tony Award nominee Douglas Sills! As Derek, he is, of course, wonderful, and it's a true delight to hear him in the "No Fear Rap"! The adorable frog Jean-Bob also affords much amusement to any age audience, though the turtle got on my nerves a bit with his monotonous droning. Princess Odette is the typical heroine of children's cartoon fairy-tales: brave, devoted, and beautiful (though technically she shouldn't be able to live with a waist that tiny). The bad guy and his henchman are amusing and lovable (to the degree bad guys are), while poor Derek is stuck with a shrill-voiced mother who entertains because of her petty concerns. Prince Derek is the true selfless and courageous hero, risking his life to save first his mother and then his princess bride, facing every danger with nerves of steel, a noble heart, ever-changing eye color, and a voice to top all. The Swan Princess II is worth popping into the VCR for the kids any day and will afford amusement to anyone passing the TV. Get it now!

(3 1/2 stars for the film, countless more for Derek/Douglas Sills, plus points for the amusing conversations that ensue from watching this film with your friends) ... Read more

Reviews (10)

More in common w/Joseph Campbell than Bob Hope
It's easy to overlook the societal importance of "Shakiest". Most academics consider it a vapid re-make of a "superior" Bob Hope film. However my consensus is that Hope's movie simply Overemphasized the comedic aspects of the story and downplayed the sociological importance and mythical underpinnings of it. I don't fault Hope since his comedic talents are such that only his fully grasping of the genre and paradigm in its epistomological sense would allow him the proper frame/reference to "dim" his comedic talents enough to let the nuances of the story's deeper meanings emerge. Not so with Don Knotts. His performance is neo-subtle in the sense that he draws attention to the pre-Scorsesian templates of story entwined with yet seperated from, meaning, by overexagerating Hope's performance to a Vonnegutian level. Example; his performance as Painless Jesse in the film's opening sequences underscore the relationship of Man the Creator with Man the Destroyer and Man the Dentist. In Barb Rhoades we see an equal but lesser voice representing tenets of Post-modern imperialism as well as Proto-Schwarzeneggerian grandiosity. Yet, it is Knotts, initially passive who redeems himself in the end, triumphing over Rhoades and all she symbolizes as well as echoing the pan-universal theme of the hero transformed by "plumbing" his own depths. This is shown particularily in the mine scene, where we read "mine" as "Subconscious Id". Simply put, not sense "The Incredible Mr. Limpett" has Knotts blended Transformational Mythology with Wellesian Cinematography and Jerrylewisian slapstick. BRAVO!

The Shakiest Gun In The West is classic Don Knotts comedy.
No one can shake like Don Knotts and he is at his shaky best in this movie. For those of us that like his brand of slapstick ( and there are many of us) this movie about a ninny dentist gone West is a real treat. The scene with the line "hands run in my family" makes this movie worth the price. Yeah it's corny...I say bring on the corn !!

Great re-make of Bob Hope film Paleface!
Re-makes are not always good, this one is great! First Bob Hope did this in Paleface, now Don Knotts takes over the roll with his own slant on the character.

Unless you own the Laserdisc or saw it at the theaters, this will be your first experience of the full impact of this WIDESCREEN movie. Pans and cuts seen on television, or the previous VHS tape, will be replaced with single shots that include everything from side to side.

THE GHOST AND MR.CHICKEN was Don's only other WIDESCREEN movie for Universal.

Great slap stick humor
I think this is a great Don Knotts film. He acts so utterly stupid and pathetic in this film but it's done in a way that's so utterly hillarious. I had lots of laughs all through the movie. Barbara Rhoades is the straight one in the pair and she does a great job as well. The looks on her face during the times she has to deal with Knotts are funny in themselves.

If you like silly slap stick humor I think you'll enjoy this movie.

Shakiest Gun in the West
Very funny and wholesome.
This is a must see for commedy and/or Don Knotts fans! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Noteworthy Entry for the Mission: Impossible Collector
THE CONTROLLERS is the first entry in Mission: Impossible's fourth season and features a semi-plausible plot and a somewhat larger cast than the previous seasons. In the two-part episode, the IMF must prevent a scientist from unleashing a mind-controlling drug. THE CONTROLLERS is a good edition to the post-Bain/Landau Mission: Impossible T.V. series, but there is a chemistry that seems to be missing. From a technical standpoint, the series stands out as the first appearance of Dina Merrill as Meredyth and a post-Star Trek Leonard Nimoy as Paris. An enjoyable edition to the series. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The Elvis formula was well in place by the time of 1964's Roustabout: a passel of undistinguished songs (anyone remember "Poison Ivy League"?), pretty girls, tight pants, a colorful setting, and a little bit of karate to prove that Elvis really had been studying his martial arts. With that understood, Roustabout is a better-than-average workout for the King--not as peppy as Viva Las Vegas, but a good deal livelier than the sleepwalking It Happened at the World's Fair. Elvis plays a bad-boy singer roaming the highways on his Japanese motorcycle; laid up after an accident, he joins a carnival owned by the feisty Barbara Stanwyck. ("This is not a circus, it's a carnival. There's a big difference.") The cast goes from high to low: both giant-sized future James Bond villain Richard Kiel and tiny Billy Barty are carny regulars, and Raquel Welch has a small role in the opening scene. Teri Garr is one of the carnival dancers behind Elvis. The legendary costume designer Edith Head puts Elvis in a series of snappy windbreakers, but thank goodness he's also in black leather a lot. As if that weren't enough to recommend it, the movie has a sequence involving Elvis riding a cycle inside the "Wall of Death," a huge wooden cylinder with high walls. This bit actually inspired an entire Irish film in 1986, Eat the Peach, in which friends build a similar contraption after they watch Roustabout on tape. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (11)

ROUSTABOUT--ELVIS' MOST ENTERTAINING FILM
Since "Roustabout" debuted in 1965, I've become an expert on it. The cast includes a screen legend as well as recognizable supporting actors. Besides Barbara Stanwyck, there is Pat Buttrum, Sue Ann Langdon, and Norman Grabowski as the cement-headed college student who tries to muss Elvis's hair. Joan Freeman is Elvis' romantic interest. She later co-starred with Don Knotts in "The Reluctant Astronaut". Imagine kissing Elvis in one movie and Don Knotts another. Well, I guess that's why they call it "acting". As for the story, it revolves around Elvis as a temporary carnival worker while aiming for the BIG time. There is a fistfight with Elvis nemesis Steve Brodie, Elvis riding his "bike", Elvis as the saviour of the carnival, and Elvis with a new girlfriend. What more could you ask for? If you can think for yourself, and not be content with "Blue Hawaii" as your favorite, then check out "Roustabout". It's more fun than a circus, "cheap at half the price" AND, you won't have to "bite any heads off chickens".

Can you believe it? A leather-clad drifting biker!
"Roustabout" has Elvis playing a karate-chopping, drifting motorcyclist who is picked up after an accident involving him being knocked off his bike by local carnival foreman Leif Erikson, with his daughter Joan Freeman and owner Barbara Stanwyck. After his bike and guitar are damaged, he is hired by Stanwyck to work as a roustabout in her carnival. Elvis, of course, soon falls for Joan Freeman who is a little reluctant at first. Over time the carnival becomes the local night spot around as Elvis attracts people for singing along the midway. In come the teenagers and crowds in droves. Rival carnivla owner Pat Buttram asks if Elvis is interested in joining his big carnival. He refuses. After some confrontation involving a stolen wallet Erikson is convicted of and Joan Freeman's unhappiness with Elvis, he quits Stanwyck's outfit. Then it's off to the Carver show. Elvis is a hit. Back at the other carnival, business is failing and troubles with the bank build. Joan Freeman tries to bring him back, but to no avail at first. Later Elvis decides to go back, pay off the debt, win Joan Freeman, and make the carnival a swinging place again. Quintessential!

Wheels On Your Heels!
I won't bore you with a plot synopsis or my opinion of the borderline interesting story - this movie IS WORTH SEEING for one jaw-dropping sequence: For the rockingest song in the movie, "Wheels On My Heels", Elvis is driving his own motorcycle on a real location road and lip-syncing at the same time - without a helmet! This is not some lame rear projection process and most of the time the entire bike is shown, so it's not being towed - I just found it amazing, no kidding. I mean, what if he lost his concentration...boom! Brain damage.
Oh and Leif Erickson will make you really uncomfortable in this movie - what a loser slime.

Roustabout
Elvis plays opposite Barbara Stanwyke (The Big Valley) this time out and is in awe of his co-star. It is reported he worked hard on this film to live up to Ms. Stanwyke's professional standards.
Unfortunately, the scriptwriters were less demanding of themselves, and the film suffers from banal dialogue and predictable plotting. Elvis stars as Charlie Rogers, a drifter with a chip on his shoulder who lands a job as a roustabout (handyman) with a down-and-out carnival operated by strong-willed Maggie Morgan, played by Stanwyke. When Charlie breaks into song on the midway one day, throngs of young people flock to hear him sing (which may be believable were they all penned by Lieber & Stoller). As news of his talent spreads, Maggie's carnival begins to turn a tidy profit. Charlie's good fortune continues as Cathy, a young and pretty carnival worker played by Joan Freeman, takes a romantic interest in him. However, after a misunderstanding involving a customer's missing wallet, Maggie and Cathy chide Charlie for his selfish attitudes. The embittered young Charlie quits Maggie's outfit to work for a rival carnival. When Maggie's carnival starts to go under, Charlie returns with enough money to ward off the creditors. His unselfish act wins Maggie's respect as well as Cathy's heart.

With a cast of big-name stars, including Barbara Stanwyke, Leif Erickson, and Jack Albertson, Roustabout was one of Elvis's better films from this period.

Elvis would later says that working with Stanwyke made him a better actor.

Starring Elvis and his amazing man-eating leather belt
Pleasant enough Elvis time-killer with a cotton candy soundtrack, pairing him with Hollywood veterans who should have known better. The story:

Elvis plays Charlie Rogers, a brooding loner (you can tell by his semi-comatose expression) eking out a living doing a bad impression of, well, himself at a dive called Mother's Tea House. (Look fast for Raquel Welch at one of the tables.) One night, he unwisely taunts some middle-aged college boys with a witty ditty called "Poison Ivy League," gets in a fight, loses his job and sputters off on his dinky motorbike. Happening upon a jeep, Charlie is run off the road by short-fused carny Joe Lean (Leif Erickson) for flirting with his virginal daughter Cathy (Joan Freeman, who, tellingly, later became a nun). Unhurt, Charlie signs on as a roustabout in their two-bit carnival, run by Barbara Stanwyck as Maggie Morgan, a woman of backbone and bite (sorry, wrong show), until his bike can be repaired. Maggie recognizes Charlie's teen appeal after his impromptu performance of "It's Carnival Time" causes a sensation on the midway. Soon Charlie is packin' 'em in, and the carnival begins to turn a profit. On top of the world, Charlie steps up his romancing of Cathy while fending off the advances of an amorous fortune teller (the usually fetching Sue Ane Langdon in a hideous black wig) until a fracas with a boorish customer causes him to get ants in his pants again. His cycle fixed, Charlie dons his outrageously tacky, must-be-compensating-for-something, foot-wide studded-leather belt and accepts the generous offer of the owner (Pat Buttram, the immortal flimflam man Mr. Haney from TV's "Green Acres") of a big-time rival carnival. In the flick's most excruciating sequence, Charlie sings "Little Egypt" to a bevy of skanky exotic dancers (one of whom might be Teri Garr). Meanwhile, with Charlie no longer there to pull in the crowds, Maggie's carnival is about to go belly up, and it's up to Cathy to lure him back. She does, of course. Charlie collects his loot from Mr. Haney and returns to Maggie's show just in time to pay off her creditors. Suddenly everybody loves Charlie, his macho belt and his money, even Joe, who forgets all about protecting his daughter's chastity and his former habit of beating the stuffing out of Charlie for no good reason. Roll credits. Please. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

This Movie Should be on DVD!
I have fond memories of watching Neil Simon's Max Dugan Returns on HBO with my niece and nephew sometime in the 80's and really thinking it was a cute enjoyable movie and that Matthew Broderick, Marsha Mason, Jason Robards and Donald Sutherland were all great! The movie is about a single mother played by Marsha Mason who is struggling to raise her teenage son (Matthew Broderick) on a limited income. Things get really complicated when her estranged father (Jason Robards) shows up showering them with gifts and that raises the suspicions of her police officer boyfriend (Donald Sutherland). This is a really nice movie and I would like to see it put on DVD in widescreen but even a DVD that has widescreen on one side and fullscreen on the flip side would be alright!

A Movie With A Wonderfully Unique Storyline
I have been watching Max Dugan Returns since I was a child. It was one of my all time favorite movies as a kid. I love the storyline of the movie. It is a wonderfully unique storyline, one that you don't see much of these days. I have never seen a more entertaining plot in a movie. I got quite a kick seeing Matthew Broderick at such a young age. Jason Robards is truly excellent. I hope this movie can live in the hearts of families for years to come. It is truly a classic.

Put this on DVD please
I watched this movie as a kid, and fell in love with it. I had forgotten about until last fall, when I seen the movie title on a cable channel....I just had to watch it again. I would love to have this on DVD.

seeking Max On DVD
My Husband loves this move, and I just love the Great dane in the movie. If only they put it on DVD it would be supurb.
The movie is one of my all time relax and laughs.

Great Pick Me Up Movie
This is the kind of movie you turn on when your stressed out about life or just want to relax and watch a good clean movie. This is one of those family/personal movies that everyone enjoys. If you haven't seen it then you need to see it. It has a funny story line, great script, and great actors. Although he is just 20 in this movie, this is Mattew Broderick's best and most lively performance. ... Read more

Description

Marlow is an ambitious and adventurous sailor who is employed by an English trading company and sent to an African colony. There he travels up the river, visiting the trading stations who barters for ivory with the natives. On his journey he is told about a man named Kurtz whose station is the one furthest up the river, deep in the African jungle. Some talk of him in awe, others in admiration, but they all seem to fear him. As Marlow gets closer and closer to Kurtz he understands that the man has gone insane and is now doing the most horrible and blasphemous deeds. Based on Joseph Conrad's classic novel about greed and insanity. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

A Close Interpretation of a Classic
Conrad's look at imperialism and the destruction of Africa was an allegory shown by the inner destruction of Kurtz. This film plays out the slow trip of the short novel -- as slow and monotonous as the trip up the river was for Conrad -- an ocean sailor. But the Kurtz character gets lost in the mystery -- and his dark machine-like ablilty to kill is shown only in the contrived yet riveting scene with a pet monkey. Even the skulls are downplayed. Here too Kurtz is allowed to die and be buried in his village by those who "love" him rather than having him die on the way back -- for affect? It is an uneven and, at times, a slow piece. We don't find out much about Marlowe as well. But we get a true sense of Marlowe wishing to spare Kurtz's lover with a lie -- just as those selling ivory chose to lie about the circumstances.

Even good acting can't save this dud. Don't bother.
Starring John Malkovich and Tim Roth, this video was made for an HBO television special. I was interested in it because I have always wanted to read the original Joseph Conrad novella, which was used as the basis of the very successful "Apocalypse Now". I thought this might be a substitute for reading the book. Well, it wasn't. And it might turn just me off to the book forever.

The story takes place in the late 19th century and Marlowe, played by Tim Roth, is an English merchant who is sent to Africa to look for Kurtz, played by John Malkovich, a merchant who has disappeared deep into the jungle and has also stopped the very profitable ivory trade. The tone of the video is morose and sad as Marlow travels further and further into the depths of the jungle and finds evil again and again, especially when he finally meets Kurtz.

I don't know why I continued to watch because I was totally bored throughout. It also was difficult to understand some of the dialog. I guess I was waiting for the inevitable meeting between Kurtz and Marlow. When it finally happened I just didn't care. The acting was good but the performances were wasted. My recommendation: Don't bother.

A rebound for Roeg
I was curious about this film when I heard about it years ago. I love Nicolas Roegs early work but saw that his later movies were weaker and it seemed Roeg had lost his magic. "Heart of Darkness" is a Nicolas Roeg film and it's quite nice to see the old boy has still got it in him. The subject matter suits his odd style of film making. A good film. DVD please!!!

Heart of Darkness
Lights! Camera! Action! These are the three words which cause the distinction between books and movies. When making a movie based on a book, there are additional factors to be taken into account, thus altering the movie from the book. However, usually these changes just serve as tools to enhance the story, making it more interesting to the audience it is targeting. The movie, "Heart of Darkness" is an excellent adaptation of the novel because everything matches up well with the descriptions used by the author, and it captures the true essence of the story on film.
Set in the wild depths of Africa, the tale slowly unravels as a determined seaman, Marlowe, sets out on a journey to Africa, and soon finds himself on a dangerous expedition in search of a missing ivory manufacturer, who has deceived many people waiting for their ivory. The fact that Africa is such an incredible place filled with fascinating cultures is clearly shown by the settings and casts chosen for the movie. The story is told from Marlowe's point of view, as he is telling the story to group of sailors on a boat. Although the time of day during which Marlowe told his tale was switched from evening to daytime, the same effect is produced because each scene in the movie is so vivid and engrossing, therefore each providing its own effects. The setting for each scene perfectly suits the events which take place. The setting has a very big impact on the plot of the story because one purpose of the story is to depict the true meaning of life in Africa, particularly the uncivilized nature of some of the people that live there, or that have been there too long.
The catchy music chosen to accompany each scene, and the simple, but realistic costumes chosen for each character, set the ideal mood that is necessary in conveying the tale. The music consists of rhythmic drumming mixed together with strange noises similar to those of a person gasping for air, or breathing loudly. The drumming fits in with the African theme and like a drum roll, it adds a hint of suspense and foreshadowing to each scene, which is also expressed by the book. An essential part of making of movie is choosing the ideal cast. Each character fits his/her description in the book, allowing for the vague images in one's mind while reading the book to actualize and come to life.
My favorite part of the movie was when Marlowe finally finds the place that Kurtz resides. When he arrives, a crazy guy, who has gone mad from being in the jungle, welcomes Marlowe to the area. I think that this scene is crucial to the plot of the story, because it is the point at which Marlowe finally finds Kurtz. Once he reaches Africa and found out about the unjust doings of the mysterious Kurtz, he makes it his mission to find him. Although the insane man standing at the entrance seems like a trivial character, I think that he actually represents one of the major themes conveyed in the book. This idea is that people can often go mad from living in the jungle too long, which is what happened to Kurtz. Kurtz finally reveals himself, much to Marlowe's relief. However, due to Kurtz's sickliness and insanity, it was difficult for Marlowe to communicate with him. During this scene, another important idea that is stressed is the uncivilized nature that is constantly shown throughout the book. An example of this is when Kurtz nonchalantly breaks the neck of an innocent pet monkey, while it was affectionately draped around Kurtz's shoulders. This part of the movie encompasses many ideas shown throughout the story, making it an important scene.
My favorite character from Heart of Darkness is Marlowe. I admire the determination he possessed when achieving his goals. He deals with many tribulations as he finds himself in the thick of the jungle. He becomes friends with an African man, Mutumbo, who soon suffers a painful death by a strange African tribe. Nevertheless, Marlowe maintains perseverance as he gains strength from every obstacle he is faced with. His bravery and fearlessness lead him to his ultimate goal of finding the mad ivory producer, Kurtz, and rectifying the ivory situation. However, it is interesting to see that Marlowe did change during his time spent in Africa. He completely went against his usual nature by lying to Kurtz's former fiancée about something that Kurtz never really said. I enjoyed seeing the story from Marlowe's point of view, and noting the good traits of Marlowe, that were somewhat tainted by his experience in Africa.
I highly recommend the movie Heart of Darkness to anybody who likes adventure, particularly someone who read the novel as well. The movie was adapted very well from the book, despite a few changes. Each change helped to make the story more realistic and suspenseful. The cast, the music, the costumes, and the setting, created an exceptional combination, perfectly fitting each description from the book. Many details in the story are difficult to visualize, therefore the movie is helpful and informative to watch. The themes are also more apparent and effective in the movie. Although they each tell the same story, the book and the movie work together to complement one another in conveying the underlying messages of the tale.

missing the plot...
There is an inherent difficulty in translating any novel into the film. Every reader's experience is unique and so, before the first film draft ever sees the light of the day, there already are thousands of movies in existence. To compete with them is often impossible. But, there are strategies some directors successfully use (see Milos Forman's version of One Flew Over The Cockoo's Nest). Unfortunately, Nicolas Roeq did not. While explaining/simplifying Conrad's masterpiece and repackaging it into a contemporary genre, he lost the plot. He neither remained close to the original text, nor moved away from it far enough to allow his own voice to be heard. As a result, we have ended up with a neither/nor situation that benefits no one. Rather than adding to our understanding of issues and concerns raised by Conrad over a hundred years ago ('the other', the parallels between the outer and inner worlds, the reciprocal impact of colonisation, actual or metaphorical...) Roeq's film, as other reviewer's efforts indicate, adds nothing, and thus falls short of its potential. ... Read more

Description

A down-on-his-luck golf pro struggles to find his game both on and off the golf course, since his long-suffering wife has just about had it. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Forget Tin Cup, this movie is much better!
It's an absolute shame that this movie is not out on DVD. Randy Quaid gives a great performance as an unfocused, over-partying bottom ranks PGA tour player whose marriage is on the rocks. This movie is a perfect blend of humor and drama. It is also as inspiring as Rudy and Hoosiers.

Attitude, women & winning . . .
Looking for an in depth study of the psychology of being good at something? Some insight into how women, male friends, helpers, sponsors and others play into that? You might like this. It's also a great lot of fun, and documents pretty accurately the golf scene of a few years ago. Frankly, it hasn't changed that much, they still don't let the women play with the men. But there are plenty of women playing with men in this movie.

I read the original Dan Jenkins novel some time back. It was great, but more complex, and I sort of got lost in the clever details and missed the main themes. But in the movie, which simplifies the novel for the sake of time, they come dramatically shining through.

The only complaint, other than it not being on DVD, is that there are one or two implausibilities, like Beverly getting up the day after surgery and going to a golf tournament. I believe that's a change from the book. But it's effective. Oh, and did I mention, there's a great music soundtrack too.

Why isn't this title on DVD? Best golf movie ever
Move over Dorf and forget all about TIN CUP. DEAD SOLID PERFECT is the best golf movie ever made. It's on the same level as CADDYSHACK, only more mature, so as not to scare away the conservative duffers. Randy Quaid and Jack Warden are wonderful and Corinne Bohrer is the cutest thing to ever grace the links this side of Annika Sorenstam.

It's criminal that DEAD SOLID PERFECT has not yet made an appearance on DVD. It's funny, it's got nice production values, great acting, drama, and Corinne Bohrer.

Funny, but weak.
Although not his biggest commercial success, 'Dead Solid Perfect' may be the funniest book written by one of this country's great talents, Dan Jenkins.

In the text, there is a combination of comedic genius, and a true love for the subject matter, the game of golf. Add 50 some years of experience reporting on the game, and Mr. Jenkins has just about every aspect of this story nailed, cold.

I know many who think one of his earlier books, Semi-Tough to be an exemplary piece of writing, I agree, but the film it produced turned out luke-warm as best.

This film is better, although it can not be described with the superlatives of Jenkins original. Sometimes it's just impossible to capture the essence of such multi-layered characters on film in 2 hours or less.

Not to knock Bobby Roth, or the two principals, Randy Quaid, and Jack Warden who both did good turns: Quaid as Kenny Lee, the talented but struggling tour golfer and Warden as "Bad-Hair' Wimberly, the cash-rich sponsor. For golf fans it's a good movie and certainly more honest and original than Tin Cup. For the rest I'd say only fair.

Quick-pic of life in the golf fast-lane
Randy Quaid plays a stereotypical golf/athlete who cannot grow up and out of his passion and lack of passion for the game. It is not only the precursor of Tin Cup, but it is a much better movie with certainly more comedy, and gets at the heart of a good walk spoiled. Certainly not a grade "A" movie by any standards, but a nice "B" look at the behind the scenes life of golf as evinced in Dan Jenkin's novel expose. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

An epic and extraordinary true story--or, at least, an extraordinary story based on a novel (Alan Burgess's The Small Woman) based on a true story. Gladys Aylward (an improbably mesmerizing Ingrid Bergman) is a British would-be missionary with an obsession about China. As she has no experience, the Missionary Society won't let her go, but she goes anyway, alone, to a remote northern province. She is hated, then loved; finally she becomes both a significant political figure and the heroine of a miraculous escape in which she shepherds 100 children to safety across the mountains just ahead of a Japanese invasion. Curt Jurgens is suitably stony as Lin Nan, the half-Dutch, half-Chinese military officer who falls in love with her, and a visibly ailing Robert Donat (who died before this, his final film, was released) is the wily local mandarin who sees and makes use of her extraordinary abilities. Directed by Mark Robson, The Inn of the Sixth Happiness is a sweeping, stirring tearjerker, a big tale told in a big landscape with acres of orchestrated strings by Malcolm Arnold. A beautiful and beautifully made film that's a classic of the "everyone said I couldn't but I did it anyway" genre. --Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Bergman shines in religious epic
Overlong but fairly engrossing bio of Gladys Aylward, an English-woman who, despite her lack of qualifications, becomes a missionary in China. The film is episodic and covers Aylward's brief career as a parlor maid (saving money for her trip to China), her journey to China, her work at the Inn of the Sixth Happiness and the Chinese-Japanese war which results in her guiding 100+ children in an arduous journey through the mountains to a safer village. I didn't find the film as moving as other reviewers but it is well mounted and nice to look at. Bergman is outstanding as are other supporting players, most notably Curt Jergens and Robert Donat. This was Donat's last film (he died before it was released) and his last screen words are prophetic - "We shall not see each other again, I think. Farewell."

What is most notable about this dvd release is the excellent commentary by Nick Redman, Aubrey Solomon and Donald Spoto. Redman talks about the real Gladys Aylward, Solomon talks about the film production and Spoto discusses Ingrid Bergman. There were many things changed for the film version and many of them are small and inexplicable. For example, Aylward's given Chinese name was Ai-weh-deh (not Jenai), an adopted child was actually named Ninepence (Sixpense in the movie), etc. Other changes were more larger in scope - Aylward's journey to China was quite harsh and she almost died several times. The inn-keeper, Jeanne Lawson (memorably played by Athene Seyler) was no as agreeable a woman as portrayed in the film - she was actually a cantankerous person prone to fits and thought to be quite mad by the villagers. Aylward herself was thought by many to be fanatical and to put it bluntly, off her rocker. Many other fascinating aspects about the film and the women (both Aylward and Bergman) are included.

A must for every video library ! An inspiring tear-jerker !!
One rainy afternoon I was channel surfing and came across this movie and fortunately for me it was very close to the beginning. I was so drawn into the story and captivated by Ingrid Bergman's performance that I forgot I was even watching television!! This is one of the most touching and moving stories I have ever seen and (I won't give this part of the movie away) when the Chinese gave "Gladys" a new name and what that translated to in English I thought I was going to go through a whole box of tissues right then and there. The storyline, scenery and acting are superb and the fact that it is based on a true story only makes it more inspiring. My cousin is 18 years old and wants to pursue a career in the mission field and I told her many times that she has to see this film. So I'm not only going to purchase one for MY video library but one for HER'S as well.

following God's call
This is a magnificent film in every aspect; the acting is brilliant, the landscapes beautiful, the drama intense. Based on the true story of Gladys Aylward, a house maid in England who was "not qualified" to be sent to China as a missionary, so went there on her own, saving every shilling earned for a ticket on the Trans-Siberian railroad. Taking place in the pre-WWII era, it's an adventure story of great spiritual courage, the chaos of war, and a romance between two independent people who never thought they would find love.

Ingrid Bergman is luminous as Gladys. It is one of her very best performances, and my personal favorite. Robert Donat, who passed away before the film was released, is also marvelous as the Mandarin of Yang Cheng, and Curt Jurgens as Captain Lin Nan is handsome and believable as the man who falls in love with Gladys. In a small but pivotal part, Athene Seyler is terrific as Jennie Lawson, the elderly missionary who helps Gladys in her early years, and Peter Chong is a delight as Yang the cook.
It is odd that the only Oscar nomination went to director Mark Robson; perhaps Bergman was overlooked because she had received a "Best Actress" for "Anastasia" two years earlier, but Bergman fans will give this film their own five-star award.

The fabulous location filming by Freddie Young was done in Snowdonia National Park, North Wales, a remarkable substitute for Shaanxi Province, in the heart of China. The village reproductions are very well done, and look incredibly similar to films I have seen shot in China. The lovely score by Malcolm Arnold adds much to the film, and Alan Burgess, whose book "The Small Woman" is the basis of the story, wrote the script, which is witty, wise and wonderful, with Isobel Lennart.
Many times I've laughed out loud , and many times I've cried watching this film; it's good for several viewings, as it is epic in scope, and the script has an intelligence that makes it a rare gem. total running time is 158 minutes.

In the film, Chinese tradition has five "Happiness" wishes: Wealth, longevity, good health, virtue, and a peaceful old age and death. "Each person must decide in their heart what the sixth happiness is".

Break out the Kleenex...
...for this manipulative, mawkish tear-jerker. The story feels superficial (you never get a feeling for Aylward's sense of spirituality, only the very ocassional bit of tacked-on religiosity), and it's all grossly sentimental. All those feel-good moments with singing kids and long hugs actually detract from the important message about selfless service by making self-sacrifice seem all too easy and romantic, even in the face of brutal Japanese invasion.

The casting choices will try your suspsension of disbelief, to say the least: a Swede as an Englishwoman, a hulking German as a half-Dutch/half-Chinese colonel, and an Englishman as a Chinese mandarin. That said, this is still a fun film if you take it for what it is. It boasts an unusual story and exotic setting, and Bergman is as radiant as ever (even if she overacts in a couple scenes). Donat and Jurgens are uqually winning, in their own way.

Hardly Bergman's best film, but certainly worth a watch if you're a fan.

Noah visits the baby Jesus
The Inn of the Sixth Happiness was filmed in Wales and the scenery is beautiful. Ingrid Bergman is in top form as Gladys Aylard would be missionary to China. One of my favorite scenes is when her assistant Yang, who has a fondness for Noah and his ark, is telling the diners at the inn that Noah came in his ark to visit the baby Jesus along with the wise men. When she gives him a disapproving look he goes on to explain that even though Noah was born long before Jesus people lived alot longer back then, so no one could say for sure that he couldn't have been there. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Indy finally gets it, but forgets it.
I thought, from reading the description, that this would be boring. But it wasn't, not by a long shot. It's probably the best "Young Indy".

The action is limited to the first five or so minutes, where Lieutenant De Fonz (aka Indy) disobeys his superior and tells the troops to advance instead of retreat. This results in victory, and a promotion to Captain, but also the Major holding a grudge. Naturally, Indy and the Major are then teamed up on a mission to retrieve some weapons.

The opening battle sequence was even more graphic then "Trenches of Hell", and when Indy grabs the machine gun and mows done countless men, we see just how far he's come (or fallen) in less than a year. I love this one for all the character developement Indy undergoes, especially in relation to the previous videos. It's good to keep in mind that it's now December of 1916, and just last February all Indy cared about was the prom, and driving a cool car to said event. More has happened to Indy in ten months than happens in real peoples' entire lives.

That's where he is at the start of "Oganga". By the end he's changed even more, due to all the slow death he's had to witness. "Onganga" is great just for the fact that Indy is more human in this than he's ever been. He gets feverish, delusionary, and downright depressed. He seems like a real 17-year-old who's in way over his head. This isn't your typical Indy.

While it's good to see Indy's interaction with Schweitzer, and how it changes his outlook on life, I can't help but note that Harrison Ford's Indy seems to have forgotten the whole thing. He's back to killing with nonchalance, and even glee. Perhaps the Young Indy writers should have tried to be more consistent with the already established future. But at least they are consistent within the series, because in the next video ("Hawkmen") Indy changes his approach to the war by joining the secret service.

Kudos to Sean Patrick Flanery, he's a great Indy, especially in this one.

A Gem
I bought Oganga, The Giver and Taker of Life for my younger son, who is enthralled with anything having to do with Indiana Jones, but I frequently find myself watching this and the other Young Indiana Jones videos with him. The series is simply superb.

George Lucas used some of the best writers, directors and acting talent available to him and filmed the series on location around the world. As a result, despite being made for television, they are gems. Ordinarily, I hate it when movies are used to send a message, but the messages in the series generally flow naturally from the plots without being overly heavy-handed.

In this installment, Indy is an officer serving in the Belgian army in Africa during the Great War who is sent on an important and dangerous mission. In the process, he learns much about leadership, European colonialism, death, and ultimately what is important in life. The series skillfully interweaves real-life people into the plot, and in this installment Indy meets Albert Schweitzer.

Parents should be advised that, while uplifting, this is a war movie and that death, from both battle and disease, is integral to the plot.

Pretty good
I have a friend who describes this one as boring. Not True! It's in the same line as Phantom Train and Daredevils. It's one of those episodes that teaches Young Indy about respecting life and people, but they're still great episodes, even if they are less exciting.

Action, but above all, Indy learns to care about life!
In the other movies, Indy never seemed to care about human life. In this he learns lots about life, feelings and points of view. This movie should be seen by everyone who can see it! It teaches valuable lessons and is still a classic Indiana Jones film.

I have always wanted to be a director and these movies have already taught me alot about the types of movies people like. I have used these and other George Lucas and Steven Spielberg films to use as exaples. Right now my friends and I are working on a film. We hope to have it completed by Jr. High.

Open minded people buy this!
This film lacks the cheesy comedy of the traditional indy videos. It explores philosophy and human nature. Indy has doubts about his involvment in the Belgian armys imperialist war in Africa. After speaking to an African native soldier about the war Indy learns that the Belgians will not leave Africa for the Africans but merely take it over from the Germans they are liberating it from. While it is action packed it also shows the political science of WWI. Get this! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Jerry Lewis, Tony Curtis.....What a pair!
Boy is this movie ever exciting. I am happy to say that I love Jerry Lewis, and Tony Curtis. This is one of my favorite movies because Jerry Lewis is not a total idiot and acts stupid all the way through. Usually he is making faces and talking stupid with silly vocies.He is funny at first but really after a while it gets old and annoying. This movies shows a different Jerry Lewis. He plays a Old buddy of tony Curtis's who happens ro have 3 pehoncas and they are all flight stewardess who attnd differnt airlines. When Jerry moves to Paris and moves in with Tony for a while. Only after the first day Tony's world comes crashing down. Jerry has to play cat and mouse. He can't remeber which one he suppose to take to dinner.As Tony and Jerry try their best to keep them apart.When one women walks in they change their mind about dinner. Or the girls get all in a tizy because they want to know why their is that kind of food. Jerry ends up falling for one of the girls. But Tony and Jerry are hilarious. Tony has to keep talking and switching rooms to keep the girls apart. While Jerry changes the pictures a