Reviews (17)

Honestly? Yeah, It's Good.
I've been a fan of this movie ever since it came out. It is hopelessly tacky and cheesy -- but that HAS to be it's intended charm... otherwise I could never explain Kristy Swanson's acting in here which appears to be cardboard on purpose. Basic premise is similar to the inferior original... Bavarian peasant girl is frozen by a sorcerer for 1000 years after attempting to marry a prince. She winds up in a Pennsylvania department store while "on tour" (she is her country's only source of international interest). While at this store, she is left in the care of an employee (William Ragsdale) who falls in love with her. Her home country of Hauptmann-Koenig sends an evil count (Terry Kiser) to watch after her to make sure nothing happens to the country's treasure because he intends to marry her someday. But, lo and behold... it seems that 1000 years has just passed! And it is discovered that if her necklace is removed, she can come to life! BUT WHO WILL THE MANNEQUIN FALL IN LOVE WITH? Tacky? Of course. It's fantastic fun. Of course, Meshach Taylor shows up to reprise his role of the flamboyantly gay, over-the-top Hollywood Montrose. If he hadn't signed on to do this role, they could never have done this movie.

The movie is not technically brilliant. This could never be deemed a critic's film. It's not a film, it's a movie. Considering that the fictional country of Hauptmann-Koenig spoke perfect American English in the 10th century proves that. It's an hour and a half of lighthearted, outrageous stupid fun that has held up pretty well over the course of a decade plus. Kristy Swanson's portrayal of the statue that looks like a mannequin, Jessie, is really quite brilliant and underrated as she adjusts to life in the 1990s, in which she cannot understand the concept of fashion circa 1991, stoplights and fire extinguishers. It includes the theme from the original, Starship's "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now", which oddly, won the original "Mannequin" an Oscar. Go figure.

This one's got it ALL!- action, comedy and romance!
This is a great film for all ages. It's the timeless tale of two star-crossed lovers destined to be together. Meshach Taylor returns as the hilariously sassy Hollywood Montrose. He brings an energy to every scene he is in. William Ragsdale and Kristy Swanson are great as the two star-crossed lovers. The movie has it all, comedy, action-adventure, and romance. It's a sassy, funny comedy; the perfect Friday night rental.

A different live mannequin
This sequel to 1987's MANNEQUIN was a flop. Nobody from the first film appears in this one. This film stars William Ragsdale who starred in 1985's FRIGHT NIGHT. Kristy Swanson is the mannequin. This film is somewhat memorable for me because Meshach Taylor of TV's Designing Women was part of the cast. The only recycling is Starship's recording NOTHING'S GONNA STOP US NOW which was played during the end credits like the first film. Swanson would later star in "Buffy The Vampire Slayer",that film later inspiring the TV series starring Sarah Michelle Gellar.

GET THE DIRT
I ALWAYS THINK THAT KRISTY SWANSON IS A BEAUTIFUL ACTRESS AND IN THIS MOVIE HER LOVER BOY FRIEND WANTS TO TREAT HER LIKE-A-QUEEN AND ALSO TO FIGHT FOR HER HONER SO THAT IS MORE LIKE GOING AFTER
A MAN WHO HAS NO KNOWLEDGE TO BE A HIT-MAN TO MAKE THINGS LOOK LIKE TAKING KRISTY HOSTAGE IN HIS HOT AIR BALLOON AND I THINK HE IS THREATING THE COUPLE OF LOVE AND FACING A FEAR IN TURNING INTO STONE IN A MAGIC SPELL SO HE'S TAKING A BIG DOSE OF HIS MEDICINE BY KINNAPPING THE PRINCESS.

A Great Movie--Please release on DVD!
I watched this movie when I was about nine or ten and I really liked it. It's a romantic comedy that's fun for the whole family. I hope it will come out on DVD sometime soon so I can cherish this gem forever. This sequel rocks! Granted, I haven't seen the first Mannequin but I'm sure it's good too. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Last of Sheila is one of the great underrated films of the '70s: a bitchyHollywood whodunit and a clever parlor game (cowritten by Anthony Perkins and Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim). Several celebrity chums are invited aboardprankster James Coburn's yacht for a cruel game of "guess the deep, dark secret." Everyone has one; but naturally some are more wicked than others. Richard Benjamin, James Mason, Dyan Cannon, Joan Hackett, Raquel Welch, and Ian McShane are the odd cast of participants. However, the stakes are unexpectedly raised when murder gets added to the not-so-fun agenda. Plenty of inside jokes and red herrings in this nasty and unforgettable film. It's just what you'd expect from the twisted minds of Perkins and Sondheim. --Bill Desowitz ... Read more

Reviews (26)

A Whodunit With Superb Black Humor
The Last of Sheila is an excellent mystery with a terrific performance by the late James Coburn as 'Clinton' the wicked Hollywood producer who invites a group of 'friends' aboard his yacht for a sun filled week of games.

The game however, is not what it seems and as the character of Clinton is fleshed out, along with the other members of the cast, Mason, Benjamin, Hackett and Welch; we ultimately find out that the beautiful people under the sunny skies, swimming in the warm waters on the South of France will go to the extremes to maintain their facades and their secrets.

The screenplay was written by the late actor Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim. This adult mystery is a satirical behind the scenes look at Hollywood and the pain it creates, intentionally and unintentionally. You'll laugh and you'll be riveted by the superb story that will keep you guessing until the very end. Please stay for the Bette Midler song, 'You Gotta Have Friends', every detail was thought out for this film and this last detail shouldn't be missed. Enjoy!

This movie is excellent - Where is the DVD? Hello, Earth to Warners...

Clever and Amusing, and Justice Really Triumphs
The Last of Sheila is a clever, witty, complicated murder mystery written by Stephen Sondheim and Anthony Perkins. A movie mogul's wife is killed in a hit-and-run accident. A year later he gathers six friends, one of whom he suspects of being the driver, for a Mediterranean week on his yacht. There'll be sun, fun, games to play and puzzles to solve. The payoff for the mogul will be the identification of his wife's killer. Unfortunately, the mogul is murdered shortly after the games begin.

If you enjoy murder, puzzles and clever writing, you'll enjoy this. If you're amused by Hollywood and its pretensions, you'll also like it. The guests include a mediocre film writer (Richard Benjamin) and his rich, alcoholic wife (Joan Hackett), a has-been director (James Mason), a loud agent (Dyan Cannon), and a voluputous and dim movie queen (Raquel Welch) with her tough, sycophant husband (Ian McShane). James Coburn plays the mogul.

Mason is excellent among an excellent cast. He's thoughtful, a little seedy, crafty. Cannon nails her role as the self-involved but funny agent. Coburn focuses the movie. He's charming, dynamic, nasty.

The DVD transfer is fine although I found the audio a little variable, especially at first. The commentary by Benjamin, Cannnon and Welch is interesting and helps sort out the clues.

Sondheim and Perkins play scrupulously fair with the audience. There are clues all over the place. Some clues identify the nastier aspects of the guests, some help with the games being played, some help guess the method of the murders (there're more than one), and some will lead you to the murderer. You need to stay alert.

What is particularly clever is the way the murderer gets justice.

A Tale of Two Versions?
The one star is for the dvd. This 'version' as I've read in the other reviews *IS NOT* the same as the VHS that I own. There is a HUGE flaw in Chapter 18 as the Michigan viewer stated. I am not entirely satisfied as others are with this mess.

I bought my VHS from Amazon two years ago and my tape *do not* have the Chapter 18 mistake in it. So, there must be two versions - one mastered correctly and the mess with the mistake in Chapter 18. Warners needs to re-do this dvd without the mistakes that currently exists in this DVD.

A great movie done an injustice.

A lost classic!!!
The Last of Sheila is a fun, if overrated film, that sports a great title, terrific cast, and beautiful locations. Written by Psycho Anthony Perkins himself, with help from wonderful Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, I was unfortunately overtaken by the hype and expected a little too much, therefore I was slightly disappointed upon first viewing. The more I thought about it though, the more I realized how much I liked it.

The plot is a unique rendition of Agatha Christie's Ten Little Indians, which deals with several entertainment industry insiders who are invited aboard the yacht of prankster James Coburn for a weekend of "fun & games." Unfortunately, Coburn has a secret about each and every member aboard. Apparently someone will go to great lengths to keep their secret just that...or is it for something else? Perhaps Coburn himself has taken the game too far. Or maybe we haven't heard the last of Sheila....

The Last of Sheila is a twisted little film that starts off slow but quickly picks up. Pay attention early on because the clues are everywhere and the killer could be anyone, including Sheila herself. It did what Scream did many years later with the "Everybody's a suspect" formula. There are so many twists and turns, it will be difficult to figure them all out, so don't even bother. It all works brilliantly for a chilling mystery that fits each and every scene into the puzzle, and even has a clue in the title!!!! How many mysteries can you say that about?

The cast is fantastic. Dyan Cannon is terrific as usual in her role of a loud, obnoxious casting agent who just lost 30 pounds. Rachel Welch is the sexpot actress, a role she has down to perfection, and James Coburn is creepy as the director who wants to make a movie about Sheila, or perhaps something a bit more. They are joined by Richard Benjamin, Joan Hackett, James Mason, Ian McShane, and Yvonne Romain, among others.

The Last of Sheila is recommended for mystery lovers, film buffs, or fans of the cast. Everyone else should give it a try too. Agatha Christie would have been proud! It's a lost classic that deserves to be seen!!!

Last of Shiela? Too bad!
Funny how the past sneaks up on one. Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water wearing bell bottoms, smoking cigarettes, here comes "The Last of Sheila." Put aside your squeemishness on such PC topics as homosexuality, child enticement, celebrity murder, and drunken driving.

Dive in, try to figure it out, and you are missing all of the fun. Dastardly deeds are only part of the thrill. The rest is all dinner theatre audience participation. Can you find your own self in the picture? This pic bests every who-done-it because the machinations are not what is important, what matters is that we all see ourselves somewhere here, if only in our grasping consumerism. What matters to US is that you will rewind time and again to find the clues. Are the clues important? Sure, keep a scorecard to check your own Fruedian influences.

Important fact: Stehpen Sondheim collaborated with underrated writer Anthony Hopkins (check Psycho and Sweeny Todd.) Not for kiddies. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The last film in the minifranchise goes to the dogs, literally, to keep the series' major gimmick intact--letting the audience hear the thoughts of the little newcomers in the Ubriacco family. The kids who were once babies in the two prior films can now babble for themselves, so the script finds the adult characters taking in two mutts who do a "Lady and the Tramp" thing while we listen in. Travolta (rescued a year later in 1994's Pulp Fiction) and Alley mark time while Danny De Vito and Diane Keaton provide the most entertainment performing the dogs' voices. Not awful, but not necessary either, and a long way from the small but real qualities of the first film. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (14)

I love this movie its 1 of my favorites in fact!
HI, This movie is soooo teriffic and funny!!!!!!!!! Its charming adventurus and romantic!Funny!It might be old but who cares this movie is awsome and it has dogs in it wow who would of thought of that!well the movie is about a boy named mikey and his sister Julie they each get a dog but mikeys dog is getting naughty the mother (Kristie Alley) tells them whatever one gets really bad goes! so then their dad (John Travolta) begs her to not give mikeys dog back!she doesnt listen! and gives him away!then while their dad is at work his kids want him to come home for christmas but he keeps on getting tricked and held back by this lady samantha!so now he cant get home! To find out the rest you have to watch the movie ! THIS IS A MUST SEE AND BUY!

it was cute
aw this movie was so cute i luved (loved) that they put david gallagher in he was so small and now he is all grown up still liveing his life with 7th heaven(my favorite tv show) i think it was really cute but i also have a big crush on david gallagher so i like all movies with him in them well i think any 1 should buy it u will luv it well g2g(got to go ) bu byez.!!!!

First Mikey,then Julie,now 2 dogs named Rocks and Daphne
LOOK WHO'S TALKING NOW! Two dogs named Rocks and Daphne. Mikey and his half-sister Julie are now talking on their own so there no provided voices for them like the previous two films. Rocks was found by James Ubriacco(John Travolta). He tries to convince his wife Mollie(Kirstie Alley) to let Rocks become part of the Ubriacco household otherwise he'll be euthanized. Rocks,voiced by Danny DeVito,finds a mate of his own. Her name is Daphne,voiced by Diane Keaton. Get a load of DeVito exclaiming "Schwing!" when Rocks eyeballs Daphne. The exclamatory word was inspired by the two Wayne's World movies and the Saturday Night Live skit that spun them off. James,now an airline pilot and no longer driving taxicabs,becomes involved in a scam orchestrated by a business associate of his. The scam is eventually thwarted. The associate(Lysette Anthony) even threatens to kill Rocks. She and James,alone in a cabin,are found by Rocks,Daphne,Mollie and the Ubriaccos' children. The deceptive associate is taken into police custody.

The greatest in the series
Look Who's Talking Now is my favorite in the series of Look Who's Talking Movies - Danny DeVito and Dianne Keaton are a real treat playing the dogs, the plot is very enjoyable, Kirstie Alley and John Travolta make this movie shine, i especially like the dream sequences between the two.
This movie is an underated must-see movie!

Forget the other 2
The first 2 films weren't that hot but this one is great.It is the pets that talk this time around. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

She's Not Your Everyday Girl Friday...
Voted one of the ten best Canadian films of all time, "I've Heard the Mermaids Singing" is an offbeat and gentle comedy that goes for the heart more than the funnybone.

Patricia Rozema's stunning 1987 directoral debut is clever and brings a level of visionary design to the work that so many "pro" directors have long abandoned in their quest not to look too "artsy" for Hollywood.

"Organizationally impaired" temp secretary Polly Vandersma gives a video diary confessional about her interactions with her newest employer, a woman Polly quickly comes to worship. Polly's video frames the flashback narrative that includes Polly's daydreams. Polly's daydreams lend an air of fantasy to her somewhat bittersweet story, and elements of fantasy, such as the illuminated paintings (so beautiful they appear only as a canvas made of light), creep into the "real" segments.

This is a film that will stay with you a long time. It's quirky, loveable, has an artistic flair, and the characters come alive with a surprising effectiveness and realism. Polly's observations ("Isn't life the strangest thing you've ever seen?"), further provide us with a look into her particular (and peculiar), point of view.

Released in full frame on VHS about 10-15 years ago, the film has been long out of print. "I've Heard the Mermaids Singing" was also a long time in coming to DVD, so enjoy it in all of its widescreen splendor. Although rated "R" in 1987 for "strong language," the language is actually tame by today's standards.

This is still one of the best foreign films out there, but not so foreign as to prevent all understanding. One viewing will have you hooked.

At last!
I have waited years for this to come out on DVD. One of my favourite films of all time (if not my favourite), I've only had a very poor copy I taped from the television years ago. When it was first shown at the Cannes film festival, the critics gave it a standing ovation (totally unheard of). A beautiful story, wonderfully acted and filmed. A truly magical experience, so why did we have to wait for so long? - second hand tapes have been changing hands for quite large sums, so its obvious there was a demand for it.
Slightly mysterious, but very grounded, the story is touching in many ways. The basics are spelt out in the other reviews below, so I won't repeat them. But I will repeat my praises for it- this is a MUST HAVE independant Canadian film, rarely seen at the Cinema anywhere, and surely one of the best films missed by most people.

BUY IT NOW.

Timeless
I first saw this movie on VHS 'way back in the 80's when it was on VHS. Finally out on DVD!

I've watched so many thousands of movies. Some are hated, some are loved, some just stab right through you. This is one of those.

After watching it the first time I had to have it, bought it from the rental store.

Can someone be defined as a 'loser' if they don't know or acknowledge it? The character of Polly Vandersma defines this. In today's PC environment she is might be defined as completely lacking the self-awareness we grasped in the 70's. Polly doesn't fit in, in the way we all want to. She doesn't fit in the working world at all, working as a clerical temp yet lacking the essential skills. Yet, here she is working for a small gallery selling abstract art. "A cute awareness" indeed!

The woman who owns the gallery appears to possess the qualities that Polly would want to admire and emulate. She is beautiful, graceful, educated and oh, so articulate. Trouble is, Polly discovers a past lesbian relationship when a young artist appears. The larcenous collaboration between these two becomes pivotal when Polly, in her childlike honey, confronts this.

Polly's hobby is photography, a form of self-expression for her, and again, she lacks the sophistication to realize the artistic value of her work. It has never appeared to her that her photos might be worth showing to others. This work appears as a revelation to her employer and her employer's lover in the end.

After seeing this movie dozens of times, the kind condescending attitude of her employer has changed my attitude toward her. I've come to find her a quite sad character. She knows enough to appreciate art, yet also is aware that she hasn't the talent to create what she appreciates. There is such a shock when she sees the body of Polly's work, when Polly doesn't grasp their signficance!

The character of Polly appeals to all of us in her awkwardness, in her lack of 'sophistication' by society's standards. She has an inherent honesty and goodness that are childlike, a frank admiration for her employer that is tragically destroyed. I think we all enjoy seeing the pomposity of others exposed, the 'emperor having no clothes'.

I wore out three VHS copies of this, loaning it out to people. I don't watch this movie too often, though I know every scene. One has to be in the right mood for it. It is perfect on a rainy day, for someone in a dreary mood. To describe it as unique seems inadequate. There truly is nothing else like it--it's an event. I've enjoyed watching people watching this movie, seeing their reactions. The character of Polly has so many universal traits; some people will laugh awkwardly, some will nod in recognition.

I am so very delighted that this movie has finally made it DVD where it will receive the permanence it deserves. There is a running commentary in the special features by Rozema that I wish I'd seen years before. Though this film is set in the late 80's it is contemporary enough that it doesn't seem dated. The performances are amazing, the casting flawless. This was Rozema's first film, and I still feel is her best. A keeper.

At Last!!!
I've been waiting years for this beautiful, charming, but sadly out-of-print film to be released on DVD. A small, intimate, delicate story, both quirky & poignant, it transports the viewer to the inner landscape of someone the rest of the world would quickly dismiss, if it notices her at all in the first place. And it reminds us of the riches that exist within the most ordinary looking, seemingly uninteresting people we pass by each day. Highly recommended!

FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, I've waited for years for this to come out on DVD, and it's finally happening. One of my all time faves!! Absolutely love it! Let's hope they're going to make a good transfer.

This is one of the most under-rated film that I've seen! See it, you won't be disappointed! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

An inevitable idea: a working man (Michael Keaton) who can't meet all his professional and family responsibilities has himself cloned. It works so well having one copy of himself to take charge of matters at the office that he makes another copy who takes care of the home front. Pretty soon, different aspects of Keaton's personality are emphasized in the different clones: the laborer becomes a macho creep and the domestic god becomes rather feminine. A third clone, struck from the duplicates instead of the original, becomes like a photocopy of a photocopy: inferior. This timely comedy should be better than it is, but special-effects requirements are so labor-intensive that most scenes feel stiff and leaden. Keaton is good in all four parts, and in certain gee-whiz effects scenes, where he even high-fives himself, he pulls off a minor miracle or two. (Of course, a kid did the same thing in Disney's 1998 remake of The Parent Trap.) The DVD release includes optional widescreen and standard formats and optional French and Spanish soundtracks. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (24)

KEATON'S BEST ROLE (X FOUR)!
This is a frequently funny movie with some improbable situations thrown around the central fact that Keaton is cloned repeatedly in an effort to do his job, help out with the housework and maybe, just maybe, get to drive a golf ball once in awhile. Andie MacDowell is simply beautiful and beautifully perplexed as his wife who, in one crazy night, gets ravished by all the clones breaking "rule #1", just one of many hilarious set pieces. Keaton is all over the place and, considering the premise, he does well here (his double-takes are classic) so the only question is, "Whatever happened to...Michael Keaton?" Our family's favorite!

Poses an interesting scenario
This is definitely an original premise for a film, and the casting was dead on in selecting Michael Keaton, as he puts his comedic talent to excellent use in Multiplicity. The movie presents an interesting perspective of cloning and what may occur in its aftermath. Utter hilarity ensues as each clone displays unique personality traits - one is a tough armchair-quarterback type, another a male Martha Stewart, and the fourth - a copy of a copy - needs to be seen to be believed. The film was co-written and directed by Harold Ramis, and as far as comedy is concerned you can't go wrong with most of his work. The script holds together pretty well considering that it was a four person collaboration. My favorite scene was probably the one where Andie MacDowell is in the mood and encounters each of the clones - that scene is worth the price of admission. This movie deserved more of a push than it received - it's worth checking out if you are a fan of any of the participants.

One times one is two. That's Multiplicity.
Seeking simplicity causes complexity in the movie Multiplicity. An over-worked construction contractor's life gets even more hectic when his homemaker wife decides to return to the workplace. He seeks relief by delegating his work and domestic duties to clones. But, a new brand of chaos ensues when the natural order is disturbed. The life lesson taught in the movie is captured in one line, "About quality time with your family? It's all quality time." Michael Keaton is superb in his four diverse roles: the macho workaholic, the sensitive husband and father, the mental deficient, and the original Doug Kinney. This is a must see comedy worthy of every star.

Stinker
I thought this movie was boring and when they do the 'clone of a clone' thing it was a cue for some jokes at the expense of the mentally impaired that really are in very, very poor taste.

Aren't comedies supposed to be funny?

Too Cute
Michael Keaton is truly funny in this. He never has enough time, so he decides to clone himslef..The clone then clones itself...It gets funnier with each clone! hahah "Hey Steve..I like Pizza" ... Read more

Reviews (44)

We have identified last night's dinner, it was veal...
"We are the C.I.T.s so pitious, The kids are brats the food is hideous..." so the song goes as Bill Murray and his helpful counselors sing at the end of this funny film. Bill Murray is at his best when he has a stooge who is seriously discussing something with him, like the reporter who asks why the camp costs so much. Also there is one great routine where Bill explains "It just doesn't matter..." This is a fun summer camp movie for just about any age of viewer. Also good Murray movies not to miss are "Kingpin," "Caddyshack," "Groundhog Day" and "What About Bob?" Chris Makepeace did a very good job in this debut movie and then did "My Bodyguard" and a few other lesser known movies including at least one vampire film. Tom Willett

The Kids are Brats, the Food is Hideous!
No, it's not about fat guys at an Italian restaurant. It's a lovable, low-budget flick about summer camp, shot in Canada. The camp counselors have sex, but no slasher comes out of the lake to chop them up. Instead, Bill Murray takes Chris Makepeace (that kid from "My Bodyguard") under his wing and teaches him how to belch and talk at the same time, which brings the little guy out of his shell and makes him the most popular camper in Camp Northstar history.

There are some obligatory heart-string tugs, but mostly this is just amiable, low-brow fun for the whole family. You'll find yourself chanting "Spaz! Spaz! Spaz!" anytime you watch someone attempt something moderately difficult. Try it on a friend, or your spouse- it's fun!

Classic Murray
I think there are two types of people in the world -- those who get Bill Murray and those who don't. For those of us who intrinsically get him, he simply has no peer when it comes to pulling off the kinds of comedic characters that he portrays. It's not so much about what he does, but who he is and how he presents the character that matters. As the head camp counselor "Tripper", Murray is funny but he is also so much more than funny: He gives the movie it's heart and humanity, without which, it would be nothing more than a series of sophomoric pranks. In my opinion, that is why this movie works when all of the others in the series are deplorable.

To be sure, this is one of the definitive "summer camp" movies of all time; just as Caddyshack is one of the greatest golf movies ever made. But for those who somehow just don't get Murray, there is little that can be said that will convince them to like either movie. Even with as much commercial success as he has had, I believe his comic genius is still way underrated. I have given this movie four stars because I reserve five star ratings exclussively for movies which I believe are exceptional, and because the transfer of this movie to DVD should have been handled with greater care. Otherwise, it's a solid movie with plenty of laughs and some tender moments as well.

Classic Murray
Bill Murray puts in a hilarious performance, reminiscent of Carl in Caddyshack, as a camp counsellor in this coming of age film. It takes place at a kids camp in Ontario and has all the ingrediants for hilarity, heartbreak, and friendship. There were many copies, but this was the original. If you haven't seen it I recommend you do.

Miss movies like these
These comedies are great. Great and fun humor. Yes, there was some toliet humor mixed in, but its so tame by today standards you don't even raise an eyebrow when you hear it. Bill Murray is one of my favorite comedians. When I was younger I saw this movie and then every movie after when I saw Murray I would say "Hey, its the guy from Meatballs." Even to this day I when I see him I remember Meatballs.

I with this movie would get a better treatment with the DVD. Its one of the best comedies ever. Actually, its a family comedy that you can watch with any age group. The adults will get the minor sex jokes, and the teenagers will too, but enjoy the rest. Kids will enjoy the fun of Bill Murray father like figure to one of the kids.

This is a must see comedy. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

" A Great Suspenseful Mystery"!!!
This is one mystery movie that will keep you "hooked" til the end.( no pun intended)
A young boy(played by Elijah Wood) holds the key to the murder of his father by seeing who did it but can't remember who it was. Only by the childrens' story of Peter Pan and Captain Hook (him being Peter Pan and the murderer as Captain Hook) is he to piece together with the help of a child psychologist(played by JoBeth Williams) the mystery of his father's murder. This movie also stars Darren McGavin (Kolchak,The Night Stalker)and Tom Skerritt(Picket Fences). Just a note of TV history for you. This isn't the only time Darren McGavin and Tom Skerritt acted together. If you recall back in 1974-75,Darren McGavin's series "Kolchak,The Night Stalker" episode: "The Devil's Platform" it starred Tom Skerritt as a politician who sold his soul to the devil to get wealth and fame and higher political offices and killed anyone who stood in his way of getting it. In that episode Tom Skerritt was the killer and Darren McGavin was the good guy and in this movie Tom Skerritt was the good guy and Darren McGavin was the killer.( I guess that only seems fair)

A suspenseful mystery that will keep you on the edge.
8-year-old Luke (Elijah Wood) is the only witness in his father's murder, but the horror of the event causes him to have delusions, relating the murder to the classic characters in "Peter Pan." He pictures himself as the forever-young hero, while the murderer is Captain Hook (since his father was indeed murdered with a cargo hook). This suspense mystery is exciting and thoughtful, a look into the mind of a frightened young boy and his therapist (JoBeth Willams), who tries to figure out exactly what he's trying to say. Definitely a movie worth watching, especially for Elijah Wood fans. ... Read more

Description

This hip and edgy thriller from the director of FROM DUSK TILL DAWN and the writer of SCREAM and SCREAM 2 sizzles with a hot young cast including Elijah Wood (DEEP IMPACT), Josh Hartnett (HALLOWEEN: H20), and R&B superstar Usher Raymond! When some very creepy things start happening around school, the kids at Herrington High make a chilling discovery that confirms their worst suspicions: their teachers really are from another planet! As mind-controlling parasites rapidly begin spreading from the faculty to the students' bodies, it's ultimately up to the few who are left -- an unlikely collection of loners, leaders, nerds, and jocks -- to save the world from alien domination! Also starring Robert Patrick (TERMINATOR 2), Famke Janssen (DEEP RISING), and Jon Stewart (PLAYING BY HEART) in a great cast -- don't miss the unstoppable excitement of this unpredictably smart and scary hit! ... Read more

Reviews (246)

"The Faculty" Review
Similiar in premise to Mark L. Lester's CLASS OF 1999 with an obvious ode to INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS, screenwriter Kevin Williamson joins forces with director Robert Rodriguez for a fast-moving "aliens take over our school" popcorn flick. With a director known best for Mexican gun battle movies and a writer known for wise-cracking parodies of slasher flicks, a movie about aliens taking over high school classrooms would not seem like an obvious choice.

A group of high school students led by super-senior Hartnett (in his debut role) are shocked to discover that their teachers are actually alien invaders. It's up to dweeby Elijah Wood, snobby Jordana Brewster, and a handful of jocks and outcasts to stop them. As it turns out, the beings that live inside their hosts have a fatal reaction to the ingredients in the class drug dealer's stash. Using the contraband as their weapon, the group heads to the high school where the teachers are ready and waiting.

While it does provide some tense moments, this movie seems to play it safe a little too often. Rather than sacrifice its more popular characters, it always seems to stick them in escapable situations and pander to what the audience would like to see happen with them. The kids, who are on a "Breakfast Club" tip very rarely seem to be in any authentic danger. This seems more like a kiddie-version of Heinlan's "Puppet Masters" than a real serious sci-fi thriller. For all its faults, at the very least, this film has fun with its cast which includes Robert Patrick, Jon Stewart, Famke Jannsen, Usher Raymond, Duane Martin, and a dressed-down Salma Hayek. Hartnett, in particular, has very rarely been as good. Williamson's always-overwritten characters aren't quite as obnoxious as they were in his "Scream" scripts though subsquently, Rodriguez's style feels just a little toned down. What many had assumed to be his trademark Mexican stand-off style mentality of directing is not quite the case here. He's moving in a different direction and while I am a fan of his other style, it is good to see him try something different. The collaborative efforts of both seem to combine for an entertaining if somewhat predictable and harmless new take on an old story.

Fun enough
I don't watch teen flicks in particular (don't like them) or many movies in general (can't afford it). But I found myself sort-of-enjoying this particular movie (borrowed it from the library) despite the gaping plot holes, weird special effects, and occasional unintentionally deadpan actor. It's nice if you wish to flip off your brain function before you hit "play."

Herrington High is the ordinary high school, in all its grubby, cruel, clique-ridden glory. We are introduced (via little name scribbles during freeze-frame, just in case we forget who they are) to several characters: We have Casey (Elijah Wood), a picked-on geek with a heart of gold, who has a unspoken crush on Delilah (Jordana Brewster), an acid-tongued cheerleader who is dating Stan (Shawn Hatosy) who plans to quit the football team and focus on his grades, and who is secretly longed-after by the black-clad antisocial loner Stokely (Clea DuVall), whom perky blonde new girl Marybeth (Laura Harris) is trying to befriend. Then, rounding out the cast is Zeke (Josh Harnett) as a drug-and-porn-dealing bad boy with a brilliant streak. (Confused? Don't worry, not so befuddling when you actually watch it)

The actual plot kicks into gear when Casey finds a strange insectlike creature on the football field -- it becomes a vaguely fishlike creature that reproduces asexually in a tank of water -- and has nasty little teeth. Suddenly strange things begin to happen: one of the teachers becomes bizarrely ill. Students begin behaving angelically. The coach becomes less of a jerk. There are huge amounts of bottled water being brought to the faculty lounge, and the teachers are drinking enormous amounts of it. And then Casey and Delilah catch a glimpse of the coach forcibly infecting the nurse with a strange alien creature. As they scrabble to find out what is happening and how they can stop it, this group of geeks, popular kids, and loners must band together.

I didn't come in expecting much, and I was not disappointed. The best words to describe "Faculty" are "fun enough." Pretty much everything is done in moderation. There are streaks of brilliance and streaks of cheeze, with okay acting and okay writing. The exception to that last is the conclusion about the alien "queen" -- the teens come to this conclusion with nothing but SF movies to back them up. My eyes were rolling so far, I thought they were going to stick.

Much ado is made about Josh Harnett, but he hardly registers here. He doesn't possess the pizazz to play a convincing bad boy, and comes across as a person pretending to be a bad boy. Jordana Brewster does a pretty good job, especially when called upon to be sinister, as did Laura Harris, who seamlessly shifts from one kind of acting to another. Clea DuVall did what she could with what she was given, which wasn't much. Shawn Hatosy is okay, nothing more.

Elijah Wood is the sole really outstanding performance in this film. Fans of his performance in "Lord of the Rings" may want to check this out, as there are some similarities between his performance in that film and the physically unimpressive, smart, pleasant, scared witless, unlikely hero Casey. (Though admittedly, Frodo Baggins never got slammed crotch-first into a flagpole) He manages to pull off some real groaner lines like "Maybe they're simply preparing us for what's to come" and "I don't think a person should run unless he's being chased" that a lesser actor could not have. He projects his emotions more vividly than any of the other actors; when we see Casey huddled on the ground with a look of misery on his face, the heart bleeds. Yet he's also the most driven and enthusiastic. He's the little geek who could.

Special effects depend. Some of it is cheese incarnate, especially when some of the teachers are stabbed or sprinkled with scat. Their physical responses are unabashedly dumb. The morphing thing is well done, as are the alien "goldfish" and the scene in the swimming pool.

Directing is actually pretty good. With the exception of some later scenes, where all subtlety is abandoned, the first eighty percent of the movie is quite suspenseful. Among the good ones: The football players enthusiastically playing their game -- and infecting the opposing team as they go. Casey being approached by an infected character on one side and a horde of ravening football players on the other. The tense, suspicion-laden scene where they have to take Zeke's stash of drugs to determine who is an alien; the part where Casey starts giggling uncontrollably, with a gun pointed at his head, is too funny to miss.

This is not a kids' movie, and some older teens can probably handle it. There's loads of profanity, very little of it necessary to the script; it seems like the f-word was used an average of once per sentence. There is also a lot of violence, but very little of it is realistic. Neither are the beasties, which are very well-done, CGI-wise, especially the shots in the swimming pool, and of the alien creatures in the tank. The deteriorating teacher was the scariest thing I saw. There is no dirty content, though there are many references, and one of the characters goes wandering around in the nude near the end, but you can't see any details.

I don't particularly care that it rips off "Bodysnatchers" or "The Thing." It's a nice piece of fluff entertainment, and a pleasant enough way to pass an afternoon.

Good Alien Fun
This movie may not be the most original thing to come out of teen flicks ( then again, name one teen flick that is original, especially when it concerns horror/thriller movies.) The point is, this movie is a fun way to spend a couple of hours. But, it can only be fun if you don't over analyse it. It does have a few story line flaws, but overal it is a really enjoyable experience. Kudos especially to Clea DuVall. She is probablly the only hot girl who you'd buy as a Trekkie. While some of the characters seemed a little too cliche (Jordana Brewsters character, for example) overall it was a bunch who you could safely get invested in. (ALthough Elijah would seemed to play the nerd with alot of personal experience. ALso, fantasticly fun performance by Jon Stewart. ALl the performances were good, and the movie is definatley a fun ride if you just go with it.

TEACHERS PETS?
If you're gonna rip off a classic like INVASION OF BODY SNATCHERS or PUPPET MASTERS, at least do it right...Robert Rodriguez did it right with this stylish and visceral thriller. Blessed with a very talented young cast and some venerable artists, THE FACULTY is fun, furious and frightening. There are some unexpected plot twists, and the terror of being "changed" ever prominent.
The best performances: Piper Laurie, fiercely understated; Shawn Hotosy (an intelligent and sensitive jock); Clea DuVall (Gothicly gorgeous); Robert Patrick (what a manly coach!); and Elijah Wood (destined to become the lord of the rings).
The good performances: Bebe Neuwirth as the red-taped principal; Josh Hartnett as the dropout back to save the day; and Famke Janssen as the sex-deprived teacher who does a remarkable makeover once possessed. Laura Harris (The Calling) is okay, but not great, in her role as newcomer Mary Beth.
The movie moves well and has some high moments of comedy, to boot. Credit to screenwriter Kevin Williamson for this delightfully different, if derivative, horror.

oh my god!!! aliens are in the school!!!
Robert Rodriquez(Director of The 3 Spy Kids movies, Desperado, El Mariachi, Once Upon A Time In Mexico and From Dusk Till Dawn) brings us into the lives of some high school students who find out that their teachers are from another planet, I mean literally. there's geeky Eljah Wood(Ash Wednesday, North), the bad boy Josh Hartnett(Hollywood Homicide, Blow Dry and The Faculty is his second motion ficture he stars in folks, for all you ladyfans out there), rebel girl Clea DuVall(Identity, 13 Conversations About The Same Thing), swimboy Shawn Hatosy(Outside Providence and Down To You), popular girl Jordana Brewster(the 60's), football player Usher Raymond(She's All That and Light IT Up) and the new girl(forgot her name but didnt forget that nude scene though). the teachers include Jon Stewart(Jay and Silent bob Strike Back), Bebe Neuwirth(Tv's Cheers and Fraiser), DAniel Von Bergen(Tv's Malcolm In The Middle), Robert Patrick(Tv's The X-Files, Eye See You), Famke Janssen(MAde and X-Men) and Salma Hayek(Desperado, Once Upon A Time In Mexico and From Dusk Till Dawn, I mean you name a Rodriquez movie she hasnt been in). some good performances, especially by Hartnett, Hatosy and Wood. good writing, but did we have to do that big alien thing at the end. I mean, jeez, but anyway it was a good ride and let me tell you Rodriquez knows how to give you a wild ride with his movies ... Read more

Reviews (245)

A bit of a letdown...
I've been meaning to write this review for weeks, but for one reason or another have not gotten around to it until now. What was lost in immediacy is now gained in perspective. As a result, I can judge the film more fairly.

Perhaps "film" is a misnomer, for within the opening credits, writer/director Robert Rodriguez makes it quite clear that none of what is about to transpire is to be taken seriously. Rather than use the standard tag, "A Robert Rodriguez Film," or perhaps, "A Film By Robert Rodriguez," the filmmaker chooses the much cheekier "A Robert Rodriguez Flick." The credits go one step further in setting the tone, when we find out that the movie was "chopped" instead of edited by Mr. Rodriguez.

"Once Upon A Time..." is billed as the final chapter in Rodriguez's now-legendary "El Mariachi" saga. It's strange then, that the star of the movie is not Antonio Banderas' El Mariachi, but instead is Johnny Depp in his second scene stealing turn in as many films (his last being Capt. Jack Sparrow in this summer's Pirates Of The Caribbean.)

Depp is masterful as the corrupt Agent Sands, a CIA operative who uses Mexico as if it were his personal playground, and delights in wearing the cheesiest of tacky t-shirts (Cleavage Inspection Agent anyone?)

The "flick" seems to have been written with the Sands character in mind, with the El Mariachi stuff added in afterwards to fill the gaps. The beautiful Salma Hayak is unforgivably underused, getting what amounts to a glorified cameo's worth of screen-time. Admittedly, the screen time is put to good use, as in one particularly thrilling scene in which Banderas and Hayak escape from would-be assassins while bound together by chains.

Overall, this was a fun picture, but I don't quite understand the four star ratings it's been getting in the press.

Run quick, save yourself.
This movie was such a waste of time. It gets a half star for having semi-decent shootouts and another for a great perfomance by Johnny Depp. Personally though, if you want gunfights you'd do better by renting a John Woo film. By the way whose idea was it to give Enrique a gun. With that said rent at your own risk.

TERRIBLE!!!!
The only reason I gave this movie 2 stars is because of Johnny Depp. As always he overshadows everyone else in the movie with his dark humor and personality, despite the All Star Cast (Banderas, Hayek, Ruben Blades,Enrique Iglesias,etc.).But this movie turned out to be just a confusing and senseless bloodbath.

Buy it only if you are a J.Depp fan. If you are looking for a fast paced fun action movie get Kill Bill Vol.1 or check out 2004's remake of "Dawn of the Dead", both are much better.

new your minute
this movie is was way better than new york minute. since this movie has bad acting.

better than freaky friday
yep this movie was way better than freaky friday. since the movie started to be corny after jamie and lindsay switched personalities. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Vanessa Redgrave fantastic in forgotten biopic
"Isadora", the ambitious movie bio of famed early 20th Century dancer Isadora Duncan, opened in 1968 to mixed reviews and poor boxoffice. In those days, the contractual right to a director's cut of a film was quite rare. The distributor, Universal Studios, quickly shortened the picture by 30 or so minutes. It later changed the title to "The Loves of Isadora". None of these efforts bore fruit, and the production soon faded from most people's memories. It did result in a much deserved Oscar nomination for its star, Vanessa Redgrave, who lost out to Barbara Streisand and Katherine Hepburn [tie vote].

Duncan was a remarkable woman who vowed never to get married [though she finally did] in an age where marriage was most women's singular goal. She may not have revolutionized The Dance, but she certainly had a strong influence on it. She openly had several lovers over the years. These ranged from a brilliant set decorator to the American heir to the Singer sewing machine fortune to a Russian Bolshevik poet. Her dance recitals enthralled audience in American and Europe. She founded several schools whose purpose was to educate children though art.

Redgrave is stunning as Isadora, and her inspired performance makes the movie well worth watching. Some viewers recommend the original version, which I own. It runs 157 minutes. I suspect, though, that this is a movie that actually benefits from some judicious editing. In the original, the Russian sequences go on and on and are filled with stereotypical views of Russian artists, performers and poets during the Bolshevik period. Up to that point, "Isadora" is quite fascinating. I feel the shorter version, which runs about 131 minutes, is more coherent. It maintains the great majority of Redgrave's amazing interpretation of Duncan.

Other memorable Redgrave movies include "Howard's End", "Julia" and "The Devils". Reisz did a wonderful directing job on "Saturday Night and Sunday Morning", "Morgan" and "The French Lieutenant's Woman".

A free spirit ahead of her time...
The legend of Isadora Duncan seems to be gradually fading with time. But when this film was made in the 1960's, she was still very much a bright memory and her free-spirited approach to both life and her art struck a definite chord with the Love Generation. Seen today, it's still a fascinating glimpse into what was undoubtedly an eccentric and frustrating yet brilliant character. As a dancer, Isadora was unique although hardly a pivotal figure in the history of dance.

The film is always beautiful to look at - the style seems to suggest that there were many similarities between the Twenties and the Sixties. I don't know about that, but the film has a splendid period feel. The gorgeous Croatian resort of Opatija was an inspired choice to represent the French Riviera of the Twenties. A lot of attention has been paid to all the detail. Too bad, therefore, that Maurice Jarre's music seems to reflect neither the era nor the character of Isadora. But visually the film is fantastic.

Director Karel Reisz deserves much praise for making the enigmatic character of Isadora as accessible as he does. The script tries hard to illuminate her by concentrating on key events in her life rather than making a conventional biopic for this very unconventional person. But it constantly and somewhat needlessly jumps back and forth in time which is occasionally confusing. The concentration on Isadora is so absolute that the other people come and go with barely a word of introduction or explanation. Much is made of Isadora's grief over the death of her children in a car accident. But no mention is made of her Russian husband's suicide. Our view of Isadora is more impression than insight.

Even so, Vanessa Redgrave treats us to a remarkable performance - making Isadora as credible as she was outrageous. She is also surprisingly good in the dance sequences, some of which are quite stunningly staged. Redgrave's American accent may wander a bit, but she holds nothing back in baring Isadora's soul to us. It is a powerful performance.

All the other actors are truly just "supporting". Cast against type, James Fox has a great time as the extravagent designer Gordon Craig. Jason Robards, by contrast, is permanently morose as millionaire Paris Singer. As the Russian poet who eventually marries Isadora, Ivan Tchenko is full of fire and vodka. Special mention should be made of John Fraser, who plays Isadora's long-suffering secretary Roger. Fraser was a wonderful actor in some significant films of the Sixties (El Cid, Repulsion, Tunes of Glory) yet stardom somehow eluded him. He gives the second best performance in Isadora - an expertly judged mixture of devotion and exasperation.

But the film really belongs to Vanessa Redgrave and Karel Reisz. Together, they create many memorable moments. The best of these is when Isadora is dancing for an audience of Russians in those dark days just after the Revolution. Suddenly, a power failure puts the lights out. Isadora is given a lantern and someone starts to sing. Soon, everyone is singing and dancing an impromptu and emotional version of "Kalinka". The scene captures Isadora's love of dance, the Russian soul, the universal appeal of art, and everything that is good about film. We are both touched and thrilled. It is too much to expect the film to be that good all the way through.

"BEWARE OF BOAS IN BUGATTIS"
Slightly irreverent, but apt, considering la Duncan's dramatic demise [if you don't know - it is quite a moment!].

Book-ended between Isadora's final days somewhere on the French Riviera, she's obsessed with a handsome stranger driving said Bugatti; it's a remarkable tale of early 20th century feminine liberation when corsets were still de rigueur. Vanessa Redgrave stuns with her beauty and talent as the pioneering Duncan - difficult sandals to fill! Perfect casting. Equally impressive are James Fox as Edward Gordon Craig, theatrical designer extraordinaire, and Jason Robards as sewing machine millionaire, Paris Singer [both fathering Duncan's tragic offspring].

Big budget sets and costumes are unfortunately not too visible in this format, at least we do have the complete version BUT we miss the superb camera work - constant movement until the end - the stillness of the ocean .........

Peppered with intentional patches of humor [the unsightly pianist Singer provides for Duncan] and moments of utter pathos [the tormented Russian poet, Sergei Essenin - who also exited rather spectacularly from life, we're spared that.] This is another treasure from the liberated days of 1968 in need of total DVD restoration.

Footnote: Ken Russell also paid homage to Ms. Duncan in the Omnibus series "Isadora Duncan, the World's Biggest Dancer" with Vivian Pickles. Rarely seen, but both versions well worth it!

A remix of Isadora
I was amazed when I received my copy of "Isadora" from Amazon, the miracle store, to discover a director's cut with scenes in it I had never seen before. A treasure with added bonuses and one of Vanessa Redgrave's finest moments. Thank you Amazon

Redgrave's performance is a triumph!
This is not a masterpiece, but it is a very qualified, very good movie. What makes the film, however, is Redgrave, the greatest actress of her generation. Her performance is a must-see for anyone who likes craft and artistry. ... Read more

Description

Set in America's heartland, this timeless musical tells the story of two young teens who find true love with the help of their fathers, a traveling carnival road show... and, of course, a little magic.This 1995 film was directed by Michael Ritchie and stars Joel Grey, Barnard Hughes, Jean Louisa Kelly, and Joe McIntyre.Based on the long-running off-off-Broadway musical by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt. ... Read more

Reviews (53)

An enchanting little film
I am one of the few people in the world who have never actually seen the stage play of "The Fantasticks". I loved this movie. This is a marvelous, magical, spellbinding story. I felt the casting was well done. Jean Louise Kelly makes an adorable Louisa while Joe McIntyre made a sweetly innocent Matt. Joel Grey was not in this movie near enough, but he pulls off a stellar performance with what he has to work with. I thought the dance segment with Jean Louise Kelly was especially touching. El Gallo portrayed by Jonathon Morris put the magical spin on this whole story. I loved El Gallo having this witty yet sexy side to him in addition to being the mystical and wise mastermind bringing these two naive teenagers together.

The extra scenes available on the DVD are terrific. If you watch the "directors comments" you can understand why a few of them were cut. Be sure and watch "It isn't easy to die". This should have been left in. Teller and Barnard Hughes are hilarious, as are Jonathon Morris' reactions to them.

The set design and surrounding scenery are breathtaking. This is a very surreal yet enchanting movie, making it easy to slip in and out of the singing segments. I only wish a soundtrack had been made. It would make a great addition to the other two that are available.

Beautifully done. Beautifully acted.

Charming, but flawed adaptation of a classic
The Fantasticks has a unique place in theatre history, being one of the most performed pieces, both in professional and amateur circuits. The simplicity of the story and orchestrations mask the truly philosophical nature of this piece. The challenge of bringing such a unique work to film, then, is to maintain the originals innocence and simplicity while expanding it to the level that can fill a screen. Michael Ritchie, helped along by the the original writer, has managed to do just that, making a piece that is expansive and beautiful, yet siginificantly more simplified that the original. This process was more evolutionary, than revolutionary, however, since the film production bears a tremendous similarity to the author's revised version toured the country starring Robert Goulet as El Gallo. For the Fantastiks purist, however, all is not lost, but available for viewing on the Bonus materials of the DVD. As with most films, looking at these "outtakes" shows how the thought process of editing brings about a better film. I will admit, however, that this film is an aquired taste, and those who have a pre-disposition to hating musicals should avoid it at all costs. I also fault the producers, somewhat, at their selection of Brad Sullivan as Hucklebee -- his portrayal is too gruff to be the father of Doe-eyed Matt and stands in too stark a contrast from the tone of the rest of the characters. Despite this small flaw, I find the film enchanting as ever and it helps to keep in mind that love is sweeter when it is earned.

My Nominee for worst movie musical of all time.
A complete and utter stinker. Totally lacking in charm. This show has only one good song: Try to Remember. The other songs are the worst show tunes you will ever hear. The clue should be titles like Plant A Radish and The Rape Song. The cast is dismal. Joe McIntyre has no appeal whatsoever. Where did they dig up this guy? I hope to NEVER see him again. There really isn't a plot: two fathers pretend to have a feud so that their children will get together romantically. The children get together but immediately begin fighting. Something vague happens to them and they wind up together. Huh? Boring! It is sad to see a talented performer like Joel Grey completely wasted in a production this pathetic. The Arizona scenery is kind of nice. Avoid this one like the plague.

P. S. This one deserves NO STARS!

Good, but requires an open mind
My friend and I watched this for no other reason than to get a sense of the play because our high school was doing a production of it. We ended up getting, respectively, Matt and El Gallo and when we had our read through, we saw the many differences between the play and the movie. In many regards, the contrast is very much like "Chicago" where the concept behind a very simplistic show was given a new aspect (in Chicago, the little dream sequences, and in this the carnival bit) in order to make the film work. Similar to "Chicago" (which I enjoyed, but remain a much bigger fan of the stage show), the movie works in a way that is different than what makes the play work. Outside of Joel Grey (I highly recommend listening to his performance of Amos Hart in the revival album of "Chicago" - I never want to hear anyone else sing "Mr. Cellophane"...ok, I did it once, but that's beside the point) who is just outstanding in anything he does and Jonathon Morris who made me want the role of El Gallo a thousand times more than I already had, I was not impressed with the cast. Honestly, I didn't care at all about the Matt or Luisa, and Hucklebee and Henry were majorly underacted. However, I also wasn't too impressed with Queen Latifah or John C. Reilly in "Chicago". I do think that this is a very interesting experience, and I actually recommend it, however one must bear in mind that this is not at all the stage version.

The kind of September, when grass was green...
This film version of the wildly popular musical was very nearly scrapped, but the intervention of Francis Ford Coppola gave it a limited release on the big screen followed by the video release. Is it any good? Well, yes and no.

The plot concerns the machinations of two next door neighbors who pretend to have a feud in the hopes that their children will fall in love (the lure forbidden fruit and all that). They enlist the help of a strange traveling circus to aid them in their plan. The first half of the movie is quite decent and somewhat sweet, and I enjoyed it very much. And then, for some reason, the movie completely derails, gets flat out bizarre (and earns its PG rating) before ending on a weird note.

If you are a die-hard fan of the original musical you will probably hate this movie, because the music has been basically butchered. The performances range from good (Joel Grey) to lame (Joe McIntyre) to inexplicable (Vegas magician Teller). But then there is Jonathan Morris. I've never seen him in anything else, but he has an incredible, mesmerizing presence. The script changes his character completely halfway through the film, which is annoying, but his performance continues to stay with me, especially his gentle rendition of "Try to Remember" (which, despite being the most famous song in the musical, is given about one minute of screen time. Grrr.). He made the movie worth seeing (once) for me, but all others beware.

It's really too bad; there was great potential here but the filmmakers muffed it. Maybe they'll try again someday, but until then you can check out the original Broadway soundtrack to see what all the fuss was about in the first place. I give this film version 2.5 stars, which I rounded down to two. Morris is really the only reason to catch this one.

Movie Grade: C/C- ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Steam Heat
I rated this film with four stars though on most measurable levels, it is worthy of maybe three. The plot is a montage, some say mish-mash of Faulkner's literary works. Still, the film works..... most of the time. Jerry Wald's production has 1950's sensibilities written all over it. A real strength of this film lies in the charismatic on-screen performance of young Paul Newman's Ben Quick and his incendiary relationship with Orson Welles' Will Varner. It is said the editing room had to re-do much of Welles' dialogue to make it intelligible for the audience. Whatever. I am fascinated by virtually every word uttered in Welles' quirky interpretation of a portly, gravelly voiced redneck hell-bent to leave his greasy thumbprint on all who would come under his influence. For 62 year old Varner to race about town in a Jeep as his personal conveyance of choice completes the picture of a man unbowed in the presence of all others. Eager to marry his daughter off to perpetuate his legacy, Will encouraged Ben anyway he could. In all things, he could be demanding and callous, yet in a rare display of affection, Will uncharacteristically and tenderly explained to his sensitive daughter Clara, (Joanne Woodward) "Sometimes the strong just rolls over the weak." Angela Lansbury played Minnie LittleJohn, a retired women of the evening. As an inevitable consequence of age, her world weariness and palpable sense of urgency that time was running out expedited a patient and sincere pursuit of Will for his hand in marriage. Richard Anderson portrayed Alan Stewart, Clara's long-time supposed suitor, an elegant, tasteful and honorable southern gentleman. Outed by an impatient Varner, and forced to declare his sexual orientation, he had to finally declare his unsuitability for Clara's hand in marriage. To me, the one miscast major actor in this film was Anthony Franciosa as Will's disaffected son, Jody. It was difficult for me to accept a dark and somewhat ethic Franciosa as a privileged son of the deep south, though Lee Remick positively shined as his highly desirable sexually charged wife Eula. The obvious on-screen chemistry shared of Newman and Woodward in "The Long, Hot Summer" is the stuff of Hollywood legend. Those were real sparks of passion arcing between them, the camera just documented the fireworks for posterity. Their highly charged scenes make the price of admission all the more reasonable and justification enough for me to rate this film with 4 stars.

A LONG HOT SIZZLER WITH EXTRAS TO BOOT
"The Long Hot Summer" was (for its time)a steamy study of sexual repression and sensual misbehavior. It starred Paul Newman as a drifter accused of barn burning who sets up house-keeping with the daughter (Joanne Woodward) of a rich plantation owner (Orson Welles). The on screen chemistry is certainly there and why not. This film just happened to be the catalyst for the real life romance between Newman and Woodward. Contextualizing the fact that the censors still reigned supreme during the time of its production, "The Long Hot Summer" still proved to be a smoldering, sexy drama fraught with tension and chaos.
THE TRANSFER: Fox has done a particularly nice job on remastering this movie. Yes, the flicker of scene changes (inherant in all early Cinemascope films)remains present and yes, color consistancy leaves something to be desired. But over all, colors are nicely balanced, if showing slight fading. Contrast and shadow levels are well represented. Pixelization, shimmering and edge enhancement, though all present, are kept to a bare minimum. The audio is Stereo surround and, even though considerably dated, still manages to have a hearty kick in all of the speakers.
EXTRAS: Very nice - the Backstory featurette that details the production of the film, a Paul Newman gallery, original movietone snippet and the film's theatrical trailer.
BOTTOM LINE: This is a nice presentation and a pretty good film besides. At the extremely economical price that Fox has advertised it at, "The Long Hot Summer" is guaranteed to burn up your DVD player.

Infinitely superior to the Don Johnson remake.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The TV-movie version of "The Long, Hot Summer" suffers from miscasting (Judith Ivey was passable, but just, and I can't decide if Don Johnson's attempt to fill Paul Newman's shoes represents touching bravery or misguided arrogance), dreadful accents, and jarring anachronisms.
This film, the 1958 original, leaves it in the dust. Newman and Woodward generate palpable heat, and Orson Welles--clammy, jowly, bullfrog-voiced, crudely vigorous--is unforgettable as a classically bullying, overbearing Southern patriarch. In contrast to the pallid TV remake, it features a top cast whose work transcends the sometimes creaky melodrama of the plot. Nearly every white Southern archetype is brought to life: the brutish, domineering, castrating patriarch; the arch, charming, coyly seductive belle with hot pants; the aging good-time girl, simultaneously randy and prim, with her eye on the prize of a rich widower; the hotheaded but weak son and heir, cuckolded by his wife and utterly dominated by his father, whom he both adores and despises; the sharp-tongued old maid, smoldering with repressed fire, who just needs a "real man" to take the place of her suspiciously lukewarm long-term suitor; and, of course, the roguish, charming, sexy, potentially dangerous outsider, spiritual heir to Rhett Butler, who gets both the community and the heroine in a lather. There's even a lynch mob--chasing a white man, for a change.
Skip the TV-movie remake, which at best is a clunky imitation, in favor of the classic--if for no other reason than to see Paul Newman, at the peak of his beauty, in an undershirt. If that's not inducement enough, it's also marvelously cast, scripted, acted, and directed, and it captures Southern family dynamics with humor, pathos, and wince-inducing accuracy. Florence King would be proud. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Action-packed film is entertaining and satisfying
55 Days at peking surprised me. Though not having the best of titles, I thought this was going to be a romance centered around the Boxer Rebellion. Instead, the film is more along the lines of Zulu, featuring constant large scale sieges and fast-paced action.

55 Days is not perfect by any means. The political talks drag a bit and at 2 and a half hours the film goes on a bit longer than it really needs to. The use of American actors as Chinese characters is also quite distracting and occasionally produces some unintentional laughter.

Still, the film is entertaining and absorbing. Charlton Heston, Ava Gardner, and David Niven all deliver good performance. The battle scenes are the film's most memorable aspects and they are very well made, especially for its time. The film was obviously made at a large budget so the film, in technical terms, is superior to a lot of similar action films of its time. Those looking for a companion piece to Zulu might find 55 Days worth watching.

A Well-Made But Biased & Politically-Dated Film
When I first saw this film as a child, I was offended by it, being an Asian-American of Filipino/Chinese descent. However, seeing it now, with the understanding that this film was made during the height of the Cold War & the beginnings of the War in Vietnam, I can understand why it was made (though I still don't agree with it's political point of view!)

First, for general viewers who just want to see a well made, big-budget war picture with hints of romance, then this movie does deliver on that level. Charleton Heston is excellent as a flawed, temperamental loner & professional soldier who falls for Eva Gardner, a "fallen woman" of Russian nobility, while the foreign "legations" in Peking (what we would today call "embassies") are under attack by the Boxer Rebels (I Ho Chuan Society) during the rebellion of 1900 in China. David Niven is likeable as the British ambassador, even though he does come off as a bit pompous. The sets & costumes are well-done (especially when you consider that this film, set during the last days of the Ching Dynasty in China, was actually shot in Spain!), & the battle sequences are realistically staged. (For martial-arts buffs, there's even a martial-arts demonstration during the birthday of the English Queen!) So, if all you're looking for is a fast-paced war picture with great costumes & macho action performances, then, on that level only, this film delivers.

If you're a history buff, however, then this film definately is not for you! For one thing, all of the major European characters, (whose point of view this movie favors) are fictional characters. The only real-life historical figures are the ruling Manchus (played by caucasian actors in "Asian-face!") & the Japanese Colonel Goro Shiba. (He & the other Japanese are played by real Asian actors. I guess during the Cold War, the Japanese were our allies against "the Red Menace", thus worthy of respect, while the Chinese, who were Communists, were not worthy of respect when portrayed on film. But then, this movie also features the Russians in a positive light, so go figure!) There is also a scene where the German minister is killed on the street by a mob of crazed Boxers, but in real life, the real German minister was shot by a Chinese officer (one man!) who was sympathetic to the Boxer cause. This film also carefully omits the subsequent rape & sacking of Peking after the defeat of the Boxers, though focusing heavily on the Boxer's depredations against Christians & foreigners. (True history is balanced, not one-sided.) Lastly, according to this film, the British & Americans were in charge of the relief efforts during the siege. Actually, the Germans, under von Waldersee, were the real leaders of the International Relief Force sent out to defeat the Boxers & rescue the besieged legations.

Finally, for Asian-americans & viewers interested in serious political debate, this film is also a no no! The most obviously offensive aspect of this movie is the white actors playing Chinese (though again, this was made in 1963), but the other offensive aspect is that this film favors the colonialists' point of view! (The basic point of 55 Days is, colonialism is good & whenever natives fight back, they deserve to be supressed! It's the same kind of thinking that got us involved in Vietnam.) This movie was made during the beginnings of our involvement in Southeast Asian politics & it's obvious that this "historical" drama is really a pro-Vietnam propaganda film disguised as an epic action-movie!

Okay, the "Boxers" (or I Ho Society) were not saints. They did murder a lot of innocent people in their anger over the semi-colonialism imposed by the West & Japan on China during the 19th Century. But this film shows only one point of view. (A bad story-telling style for a supposedly "realistic" war picture.) However, for viewers who want to get a balanced point of view in one film about the Boxer Rebellion, well, good luck! Chinese movies on the subject tend to do the exact extreme political opposite of 55 Days (which is just as bad!) And remember, though there are historical inaccuracies in 55 Days, Chinese movies (or more accurately, Hong Kong movies) can be just as inaccurate about their own culture! Check out any of the '70's Shaw Brothers kung-fu films if you don't believe me!

So in closing, personally, I would recommend watching this film, but only if you understand it's (many) flaws. For a truly balanced perspective on the subject, after watching 55 Days At Peking, check out The Boxer Rebellion/Bloody Avengers, a Shaw Brothers kung-fu flick about the Boxer Rebellion which exaggerates the Chinese p.o.v. at least as much (if not more) as 55 Days exaggerates the European/Japanese p.o.v. The real-truth lies right in-between these two films. Be sure you get the letter-boxed version of 55 Days, because the pan & scan really cuts out some important details (more so than other films.)

OK action film marred by some faults
"55 Days at Peking" is a decent action film for a war genre fan or maybe some one who wants to see a different time period in a film. The film is pretty decent as far as its genre goes, but there were some problems in the storyline that made me give it no higher than three stars.

The first problem I had with this film was the inclusion of the mandatory American hero. It seems quite often whenever some thing is set in a foreign land and involves foreign - and is made in America - there HAS to be an American lead. Most of the other nationalities play a mostly minor role save for David Niven's character, who feels like a historic individual. I'm not saying the Americans weren't at Peking, but Charleton Heston's character feels a tad too cliche.

The second problem I had was the love story. It takes up a good part of the film and slows it down...in fact it very nearly made me lose all interest in this movie. Doesn't really do much to the story and leaves some holes open. Even when Ava Gardner's character meets an unfortunate circumstance, I couldn't feel sorry for her. I didn't care too much since the whole thing felt like a typical forced movie romance.

Finally, there are some historical inaccuracies. The battle didn't quite happen as the movie portrays it. These mistakes are all fairly minor, I suppose, and some might just flat out ignore it since the battle (and war, really) isn't well known.

On the whole, it wasn't that bad. There are some great battle scenes including a charge up a ramp behind a wheeled defense, firing shots through sliding windows, and the climactic assault with a huge artillery tower - this last part is my personal favorite, and for what it's worth I thought it was a pretty cool scene.

If you're a fan of to-the-last-man movies like the (superior) "Zulu" then you'll probably like this movie. Yes, some might not have compassion for the defenders since them being rescued meant an end to China's real independance, but I guess you really can't like the Boxers for trying to annihilate a group that includes women and children. Even if the Imperialists were morally bad guys, I can't hold compassion to the Boxers for their terrorist tactics. But enough of this...if you like this type of film, rent this and check it out.

Exciting epic produced on the grand old scale
"55 days at Peking", has certainly in the years since it's release in 1963 come in for it's share of flack over its romantisizing of history, fictional characters and depiction of Chinese nationals. In reality however I feel you must look at this film first and foremost as the first class piece of entertainment based on historical events it was intended to be. I certainly appreciate