Reviews (7)

Hardbodies
My four star rating of Hardbodies should include a disclaimer for all those considering purchasing this movie. If you're looking for a deep, meaningful film with stellar acting, fascinating and complex characters, and brilliant writing, then save your money. Whoever wrote the script for this film certainly wasn't striving to make Citizen Kane or The Graduate.

My positive rating for this film is for those guys out there who want to see a bevy of beauties flaunting their breasts, mixed with a little bit of humor ... This film is pure 80's T&A, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. They certainly acquired some very beautiful "talent" for this film that is certainly worthy of wearing out the Pause button on your VCR.

The synopsis of the film is three middle aged men in mid-life crises rent a beach house and are having absolutely no success in scoring with the beautiful young women on the beach. So they acquire the help of a young stud to show them how to succeed with these hotties. But one of these guys turns into a jerk and puts the moves on the young stud's girlfriend. Eventually the jerk gets his [come]-uppance, and our hero(?) gets his girl back. Quite a fascinating storyline, huh? The only actor of any note whatsoever in this film is goofy looking redheaded Courtney Gaines, who also starred in Children Of The Corn and Can't Buy Me Love, and had a small part in Back To The Future. Also, there's an early appearence by girl rock group, Vixen, before they grew their hair out and had some success as a metal act in the late 80's!

Beautiful girls and their beautiful breasts are the selling point of this film. Look elsewhere if you want more.

IT'S PARTY TIME!!
"WE GONNA PARTY! IT'S PARTY TIME!!" TRUE WORDS SUNG LOUD AND CLEAR BY THE AWESOME ALL-GIRL BAND VIXEN IN THIS HILARIOUS LAFF-A MINUTE MOVIE. GREAT MUSIC AND GOOD TIMES FOR SURE!

80'S HAIR-METAL GODDESSES VIXEN MAKE SEVERAL ROCKIN' CAMEOS IN THIS CLASSIC 80'S FLICK ABOUT THREE MIDDLE-AGED GEEZERS WHO LEARN THE ROPES FROM BEACHBUM AND LOCAL SCAM ARTIST SCOTTY PALMER, WELL-PLAYED BY GRANT CRAMER. HE SHOWS THESE BORING BUSINESSMEN THE TRICKS NEEDED TO BED DOWN AS MANY NUBILES AS POSSIBLE DURING THEIR SUMMER VACATION. THERE IS A COOL LITTLE PLOT TWIST AND GREAT ACTING AND MUSIC FROM A FUN AND ATTRACTIVE CAST. A BLAST FROM START TO FINISH!!

Well worth the purchase it stands up well to repeated views every 3 months. A sequel was made but with an entirely different cast and plot. Don't buy the lousy sequel.

Totally Classic '80s Beach Movie!
It's movies like "Hardbodies" that made an evening out at the drive-in so much fun! I saw this movie back in 1984, and countless times on TV and still really enjoy it. I bought a VHS copy of this movie 2 years ago, and it's been replayed on a regular basis. The California sunshine, the beach, lots of bikinis and the funny characters make this a memorable movie. Basically the plot consists of 3 middle-aged men renting a beach house, and the local dude shows them how to "dialogue" bikini-clad babes known as "hardbodies" on the beach. It's not a serious movie, just lots of fun. It's a movie that you can watch over & over again which makes it a great choice for buying. If you are looking for some light entertainment, and you are a fan of '80s movies, then this one will not disappoint! I hope one of these days that it's released on DVD!

Hard 4 Bodies
Growing up 80's had to be the the greatest era of them all. Amongst movies like "Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Last American Virgin and Hollywood Knights, this movie had my motor rrrrrvn'!!! You could only appreciate it though if you grew up as an 80's teen film buff. Don't bother if your looking for serious acting. Grant Cramer will never be a household name. Between he and his "Carrot Top" look-alike side kick, they manage to convince you through enough "BS" to get you to
watch 3 over-the-hill, never-gonna-get-it, well-to-do, old men; rumble, stumble & bumble their way to more unforseeable lonely nights. Might I add, he gets pa-aid for it too...handsomely. Remember sitting up at night watching "Friday Night Videos"? Well afterwards, this was the kind of movie that kept you up until dawn. Hardbodies is only for the hard charging, nastalgic, hair band era (Prince & the Revolution, Bon Jovi). No acting skills necessary! Have busts, will travel! This movie is for you. Just Don't forget where you come from...Tom Hanks, not included.

I Love This Movie!
I got to tell you that this is the funniest movie after Life of Brian. I know the critics hate this movie but if you watch it with an open mind you will be cracking up and spitting milk through your nose. The jokes never stop and the Ragger gets laid. Can you imagine Rags with a set of 48 DD dugz? Does it get any better than that? Yes! The Ragger flipping off the beach geeks in 47 different languages. I agree the old BBD is the best part of this flick. I wonder what ever happened to the old dude that played "Southern Comfort" or the fat dude. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

What a disappointment!
This movie was a BIG disappointment! I bought it to show to my 4th grade class after we read the book Hatchet. Well, unfortunately this movie is not suitable for viewing in school. Although the book did not have any profanity in it - the movie definitely does!

It doesn't really deserve any stars.
Okay, I'm in the sixth grade, and we just read this book in class, and then watched the movie. I can't freaking believe that Gary Paulsen consented this, much less wrote the screenplay. It's a horrible movie, and does no justice to the book. I liked the book. For some reason it reminded me of Lord of the Flies, except it was less depressing, cuz there weren't a bunch of kids running around killing eachother. Brian had some character, and there was an intellectual side to the book, but the movie..urgh. It was a mockery.

People, Gary Paulsen wrote the screenplay
The reviewers below state that this movie is not worthy of the excellent Gary Paulsen novel. I hate to break this to you, guys, but Gary Paulsen was one of the two screenplay writers of this film. Of course it's not going to be better than the book; no movie ever is. However, it is a pretty good movie in itself. It can stand on its own, and follows the book pretty closely. The movie is about a twelve-year-old boy whose plane crashes in the Canadien wilderness when the pilot has a heart attack. He is the only survivor, and must fend for himself against the many dangers of the wilderness. In a 90-minute movie, there is not much time for character development, as there was in the hundreds of pages alotted for the book. The only thing that bothered me was why the DVD did not have a time counter. This is the only DVD I have ever viewed in which that was the case.

A travesty --- worse than a waste of time
This video is a travesty. It claims to be based on the excellent children's book _Hatchet_ by Gary Paulsen.
This video adds gratuitous profanity to the story, not in the book's text, which makes it unsuitable for many classrooms and age levels.
The video also butchers the plot of the book, and has Brian doing idiotic things which he doesn't do in the book. For instance, Brian uses the blade of his hatchet to mark days in stone. Brian wildly hacks at the lake's water with his hatchet to catch fish. And Brian adopts orphaned bear cubs, managing to catch enough fish for them to grow up on (which they seem to do in a day).
In one of his author tour appearances, Gary Paulsen himself said that he didn't like this film (I don't recall his exact words).
...
This video is not only a waste of time, but is seemingly written/directed by folks who were intentionally trying to wreck the feeling, sentiment and message of Paulsen's book. This is not a mere jazzing up, or telescoping of events to fit the movie time and format. This is really bad. Skip this piece of junk; get the _Hatchet_ unabridged audio book instead.

Hatchet Vs. A Cry in the Wild
As a professor of Reading Education, I use the book, Hatchet, and this video to demonstrate to teachers-in training that books and videos can both serve a purpose in the classroom. First we read the book. With undergraduates, I read the book to them, one chapter per day. With graduate students, they read the book on their own. After we've read the book, we do a "compare and contrast" comprehension activity. Students are expected to write notes about how the two media are similar and different. Using an "H" compare and contrast page (one leg of the H is for Hatchet, one for A Cry in the Wild -- the horizontal leg is used for common items in the book and movie). Once students see and hear Paulsen's talent for crafting words, the movie always is ranked as a distant second. The video also illustrates what Hollywood must do to command a person's attention. For the modest price of the video, it's an excellent way to demonstrate to students of all ages, the power of books over video. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

What a disappointment!
This movie was a BIG disappointment! I bought it to show to my 4th grade class after we read the book Hatchet. Well, unfortunately this movie is not suitable for viewing in school. Although the book did not have any profanity in it - the movie definitely does!

It doesn't really deserve any stars.
Okay, I'm in the sixth grade, and we just read this book in class, and then watched the movie. I can't freaking believe that Gary Paulsen consented this, much less wrote the screenplay. It's a horrible movie, and does no justice to the book. I liked the book. For some reason it reminded me of Lord of the Flies, except it was less depressing, cuz there weren't a bunch of kids running around killing eachother. Brian had some character, and there was an intellectual side to the book, but the movie..urgh. It was a mockery.

People, Gary Paulsen wrote the screenplay
The reviewers below state that this movie is not worthy of the excellent Gary Paulsen novel. I hate to break this to you, guys, but Gary Paulsen was one of the two screenplay writers of this film. Of course it's not going to be better than the book; no movie ever is. However, it is a pretty good movie in itself. It can stand on its own, and follows the book pretty closely. The movie is about a twelve-year-old boy whose plane crashes in the Canadien wilderness when the pilot has a heart attack. He is the only survivor, and must fend for himself against the many dangers of the wilderness. In a 90-minute movie, there is not much time for character development, as there was in the hundreds of pages alotted for the book. The only thing that bothered me was why the DVD did not have a time counter. This is the only DVD I have ever viewed in which that was the case.

A travesty --- worse than a waste of time
This video is a travesty. It claims to be based on the excellent children's book _Hatchet_ by Gary Paulsen.
This video adds gratuitous profanity to the story, not in the book's text, which makes it unsuitable for many classrooms and age levels.
The video also butchers the plot of the book, and has Brian doing idiotic things which he doesn't do in the book. For instance, Brian uses the blade of his hatchet to mark days in stone. Brian wildly hacks at the lake's water with his hatchet to catch fish. And Brian adopts orphaned bear cubs, managing to catch enough fish for them to grow up on (which they seem to do in a day).
In one of his author tour appearances, Gary Paulsen himself said that he didn't like this film (I don't recall his exact words).
...
This video is not only a waste of time, but is seemingly written/directed by folks who were intentionally trying to wreck the feeling, sentiment and message of Paulsen's book. This is not a mere jazzing up, or telescoping of events to fit the movie time and format. This is really bad. Skip this piece of junk; get the _Hatchet_ unabridged audio book instead.

Hatchet Vs. A Cry in the Wild
As a professor of Reading Education, I use the book, Hatchet, and this video to demonstrate to teachers-in training that books and videos can both serve a purpose in the classroom. First we read the book. With undergraduates, I read the book to them, one chapter per day. With graduate students, they read the book on their own. After we've read the book, we do a "compare and contrast" comprehension activity. Students are expected to write notes about how the two media are similar and different. Using an "H" compare and contrast page (one leg of the H is for Hatchet, one for A Cry in the Wild -- the horizontal leg is used for common items in the book and movie). Once students see and hear Paulsen's talent for crafting words, the movie always is ranked as a distant second. The video also illustrates what Hollywood must do to command a person's attention. For the modest price of the video, it's an excellent way to demonstrate to students of all ages, the power of books over video. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Final Proof that Kids Are Dumb and Tasteless.
Everyone should be forced to sit through this travesty as an adult at least once, especially if you loved it as a kid. That way you can realize what a dumb kid you were. At least I was. I loved Yor like every other kid that was between 5 and 10 years old in 1983. There isn't really any plot, per se, but our story goes a little like this...

Yor is a caveman type seeking to find the answer to the mystery of a strange medallion around his neck with his friends Ka-Laa and Pak. After a load of terrible editing, bad voice-overs (as though the characters were saying anything comprehensible anyway), and cheesy post apocalyptic fighting, Yor makes his way to an island where he learns that his parents and others are resisting the power mad Overlord! Will Yor and his people defeat Overlord and usher in a new age? Will he get into Ka-Laa's knickers? Hey, sit through it like I did and find out!

Now, we've all heard of lousy little movies that have a following simply because they are sooo bad, but this mother takes the cake. Watching it really is painful, mainly because it is for the viewer, as it is for Yor, a voyage of self discovery. You'll learn you had zero taste as a kid.

A must have!!!
I remember watching this movie when I was a kid, I thought it was funny then and I was only 11! So when I found it used I jumped at this great deal! This movie is actually a plot worth being redone with a budget over $10,000! But really folks its so funny, the theme song is just plain gut bursting good fun the effects are also great! Wigs that just make you smile, and acting that not often seen, well anywhere!!! I think Yor is really worth adding to your collection of classics! If your reading this chances are you already saw this movie but it was a long time ago, so i am telling you give it another try years later and have fun!!!!

i really wish mst3k had done this one
i couldn't decide whether to give this 1 or 5 stars. it's so bad, it's fun to watch. the soundtrack is hilarious. it sounds like queen gone horribly wrong. a must see if you like cheesy movies.

This is the movie to slit your wrists to!
Thank god i'm still alive after seeing this movie. the only worse movie in existence is perhaps "Legend" from 1985 starring Tom Cruise. This movie WILL cause you to have an obnoxious bowel movement right there in your seat. After you recover, and watch "spacehunter 3D", you'll likely be dead for sure.

BEST FILM OF 1983
This is probably the best film of the decade. The script is overpowering and emotional, the soundtrack is beyond incredible, and the performances are top-notch. Best Actor for Reb Brown. The direction is also masterful. Ground-breaking special effects. The guy who plays Overlord is an acting genius. A neglected gem that is worth seeing over and over again. 5 stars all the way. Best movie of the '80s. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

behind enemy lines
EXCELLENT MOVIE!!!!!!KEEPS YOUR INTEREST AND VERY EXCITING SCENES.DEFINITELY A MUST BUY FILM!

Ass Kicking Action
This was the best action movie I've seen in years. Stupid plot, lots of gore...the bad guys always lose. Worth buying definitely. The sleeper hit of the decade. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Good film but I may be biased!!
The reason I watched this film is because I have a connection with the real story. For me thats always what makes this film real and brings back many memories. Sadly I did think the acting at times was a little less than desirable and those english accents were poor at times, although the story behind the film will pull me back to watch it again and again. Actually quite funny for me seeing Carshalton portrayed as such an American town!! Its nothing like that in real life - our door numbers rarely go past the hundreds in England!! The DVD is better than the VHS purley due to the extras - Craig is 25 now and fit and well and its nice to hear him on the DVD. For anyone who liked the film Marion Shergold released a book many years back called 'a mothers story'. Thats a very good read and I would recommend it highly!!

Christian Movie Genre has gone Unnoticed. This is a Gem!
It's become apparent to me that the Christian Movie Genre has gone unnoticed by a great many Christians. This true story of this 8 year old boy should be seen by anyone who is looking for faith and hope. At first glance one might think that the story of a kid receiving over a million cards is nice, but not worth sitting through. Wrong on both counts! I put off seeing it for these reasons, and when I finally saw it I now put it up there among my favorite Christian movies. This is a well scripted, professionally filmed movie. The acting is superb. The story moves right along at a good clip and at the end - the hardest among us will probably have teary eyes and a feeling of love and caring that we never had before. Understanding this movie is sort of like flexing a muscle that has never been flexed before. And its done by suddenly realizing that God is there. He just doesn't flaunt it, and He is working in such a way that will benefit the most.

HATED IT! What an insult to God!
At first I thought this was going to be a good movie; someone turning to God to get through a difficult time in their life. But instead the mother in the film began to put her faith in the cards, and in her own obsession of collecting them for her son. She neglects others in her family in doing so. She was snippy and rude. In the end, when all goes well, she gives the credit to the cards and her own determination. She gave none of the credit to God. Wasn't the whole reason for the film supposed to be to give credit where credit is due? Shame Shame on her! My copy went straight into the trash. . . where it belongs! Joshua 24:15; Philippians 4:8

Strong, realistic acting & inspirational story
The acting begins on the solid footing of an adorable "poster child" eight-year boy who develops a deadly brain tumor. This boy's charm alone would have garnered the film three stars.

The mother and father could have been his real parents--they played their parts so naturally. Mom won't give up when treatment becomes more aggressive and less likely to succeed. Dad believes it is best to be realistic and make the boy's last days comfortable and peaceful. Additionally, the struggle over pursuing "the miracle in the cards" was most realistic.

The main physician, Dr. Middleton, proved a master at being a compassionate but professional medical man, while communicating with a mother who believes he is destined to save her apparently doomed child.

Richard Thomas may not conjur up an image of brain surgeon in most people's minds, but he did play the role of counseling the sick child and his parents well. Perhaps he came across more as a hospital chaplain than a surgeon. Nevertheless, the role worked, and rounded out the story smoothly.

Finally, there is Kirk Cameron as the skeptical "hard news" journalist assigned to a feature story. He seems most comfortable in the role of feature journalist--much more than his attempts at hard news, such as in the Left Behind movie. He does not pan out as much of a skeptic. Nevertheless, his role added a sweet touch, that closed the film nicely.

Concerning the plot, there is a fair amount of tension in this film--though it aims more to inspire than tease. Towards the end, I started to wonder if there was ever going to be an upward turn in this downward spiraling medical tale. Then, right at the end there is the abrupt medical update...one I will not divulge. My one complaint is that the ending came rather suddenly--though the actual story may have been the same.

The bottom line is that this is a sweet, inspirational tale of a rather unique miracle. The acting is realistic, and you will conclude your viewing with a smile.

Mmmm Peter Wingfield
I may be a bit biased, because the reason I turned it to PAX and watched this movie was because of my 'obscure welsh actor obsession'. I loved the movie, it was a cute story that makes you wonder... and Peter Wingfield is in it, what more could you want? ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Well...anyone who makes a movie like this SHOULD be alone!
Within the first five minutes, I was laughing so hard that my eyes were filling with tears. Of course, the problem is that "Heroes Stand Alone" isn't meant to be a comedy.

An American spy plane crashes in the jungles of San Pedro, a fictional Central American country. The US government sends in a team to retrieve the black box. Meanwhile, some Russian and Cuban guerillas are attempting to reach the crash site first. Can't you just feel the tension?!!

The sole special effect which the makers of this film could afford was pyrotechnics. That would be fine if there were such things as a plot or actual actors. Alas, those are nowhere to be found so the attempt is made to distract you with the occasional fireball. A plane crash? We see a series of fire spouts shooting up from the ground. A shoulder-launched missile? We're entertained with a few sparks and a puff of smoke which doesn't even cause minor injury to anyone within five feet of it. A dead body? Yup...they set it on fire!

Anything executive produced by Roger Corman usually has perilously low standards. This is no different. Anyone who couldn't make the cut to even be in the background of a McDonald's commercial has been signed up to have speaking roles in this little flick. They all spend too much time talking about nothing and a person can only take so much shooting blanks or blowing things up. The only thing heroic about this movie is you if you can sit through it all. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good movie!
This was a very good movie--no cuss words, no violence. It is a truly G movie! However, I do not think very young children should see this movie since there are sightings of a "ghost." It turns out to be a logical explanation, but it may scare them.
It is funny, clean and suspenseful-just like a Nancy Drew mystery! This is a good movie and a must-see for kids who like suspense and adventure. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

It is a very good movie, very entertaining.
Pato is wonderful in this movie. For once we actually had a true Native American Man interperting the role of a native american warrior. The only problem is that the costuming and make-up was alittle much. I agree with other reviews--Why is Pato's name left off top billing. He was the only reason I kept watching he captivated my attention. Please let's give credit where it is due. Starring Pato Hoffmann as Hawk. I believe Pato is a treasure. I am devoted fan of Pato Hoffmann.

cheyenne warrior
Like the other reviewers, I believe Pato Hoffman deserved top billing. His interaction with Kelly Preston created great chemistry. I believed they should have devoted more time in the movie toward the development of their relationship. Pato Hoffman's character development was great. He played a native american who displyed humor, kindness, great character as well as someone the viewer could relate to. I was disappointed that the people writing the script chose to take the "safe" way out & have Kelly Preston leave Hawk at the end. I think it should have ended with them staying together - unless they decide to do a sequel. In that case, they could have Hawk going to see her & renewing the relationship.

Why are there not more A.Native films on DVD?
This film is so exciting and the DVD is full of interesting details about the making of the film, where and how it is made and the details about the disputes over the script were fascinating-I would be giving it away if I told you what they were. Pato Hoffman was perfect as the vibrant cheyenne warrior chief Hawk, where has he been all my life ? Where is he acting now, as I cannot get Naturally Native and The Sentinel on DVD ? I have now bought Geronimo and Wild Bull to see him in action but it would be great to get more recent details of where he can be found as his fan website seems out of action.
This film is great value and has the sexiest actor I have seen in a long time.

Cheyenne Warrior - great movie
Just a quick note to say that I thought this was a wonderful movie. It was entertaining and believable at the same time. I admit I had to break out the tissues at the end.

I also really enjoyed the producers/directors' commentary on the DVD. Usually I find them boring, but this one held my attention and I found myself wanting to ask questions about some of their comments.

I have since either rented or purchased all of Pato Hoffmann's other works that I have been able to find.

Just an old-fashioned love story...
Cheyenne Warrior is a beautiful love story with humour and heart-stopping moments. Pato Hoffman is simply gorgeous and Kelly Preston, whilst struggling with some daft dialogue at times, can still manage to portray emotion in the right places most of the time. ( Note I put Mr Hoffman first - he deserves it!)
A feel-good film that I put on the TV on a grey, rainy day whilst snuggling down into a comfy sofa with a large glass of wine to alternately cry or sigh into! Knowing the ultimate, desperate fate that awaits the Cheyenne of this era there must surely be material there for a subsequent film on Hawk? Especially in this time of renewed interest in the injustices perpetrated against those people?
Buy this film and watch it when you're on your own and don't have to succumb to pressure to agree it's corny ... it's just an old-fashioned love story - enjoy!! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A great movie to use in a Spanish language classroom.
Not only is the storyline great but much can be learned about the culture of Peru and the history of the Inca. Kids, as well as adults, love following the boys as they make their way through Peru and get a good look at the country, geography, and people as well. The adventure keeps you in suspense. At the end of the video you'll be saying "Goooooood-byeeeee."

Not a great action flick, but scenery and Incan topic are ok
I use this film with my 6th grade students to show some of the scenery of Peru, along with some Incan traditions. The situation (a boy dragged along on a trip with his father and girlfriend) is something the students can relate to as well, since many kids today are from split families. The action and the acting in the movie are not topnotch, but acceptable. Again, the movie serves a purpose in my classroom, to give my students a better idea of what Peru is like. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

What a disappointment!
This movie was a BIG disappointment! I bought it to show to my 4th grade class after we read the book Hatchet. Well, unfortunately this movie is not suitable for viewing in school. Although the book did not have any profanity in it - the movie definitely does!

It doesn't really deserve any stars.
Okay, I'm in the sixth grade, and we just read this book in class, and then watched the movie. I can't freaking believe that Gary Paulsen consented this, much less wrote the screenplay. It's a horrible movie, and does no justice to the book. I liked the book. For some reason it reminded me of Lord of the Flies, except it was less depressing, cuz there weren't a bunch of kids running around killing eachother. Brian had some character, and there was an intellectual side to the book, but the movie..urgh. It was a mockery.

People, Gary Paulsen wrote the screenplay
The reviewers below state that this movie is not worthy of the excellent Gary Paulsen novel. I hate to break this to you, guys, but Gary Paulsen was one of the two screenplay writers of this film. Of course it's not going to be better than the book; no movie ever is. However, it is a pretty good movie in itself. It can stand on its own, and follows the book pretty closely. The movie is about a twelve-year-old boy whose plane crashes in the Canadien wilderness when the pilot has a heart attack. He is the only survivor, and must fend for himself against the many dangers of the wilderness. In a 90-minute movie, there is not much time for character development, as there was in the hundreds of pages alotted for the book. The only thing that bothered me was why the DVD did not have a time counter. This is the only DVD I have ever viewed in which that was the case.

A travesty --- worse than a waste of time
This video is a travesty. It claims to be based on the excellent children's book _Hatchet_ by Gary Paulsen.
This video adds gratuitous profanity to the story, not in the book's text, which makes it unsuitable for many classrooms and age levels.
The video also butchers the plot of the book, and has Brian doing idiotic things which he doesn't do in the book. For instance, Brian uses the blade of his hatchet to mark days in stone. Brian wildly hacks at the lake's water with his hatchet to catch fish. And Brian adopts orphaned bear cubs, managing to catch enough fish for them to grow up on (which they seem to do in a day).
In one of his author tour appearances, Gary Paulsen himself said that he didn't like this film (I don't recall his exact words).
...
This video is not only a waste of time, but is seemingly written/directed by folks who were intentionally trying to wreck the feeling, sentiment and message of Paulsen's book. This is not a mere jazzing up, or telescoping of events to fit the movie time and format. This is really bad. Skip this piece of junk; get the _Hatchet_ unabridged audio book instead.

Hatchet Vs. A Cry in the Wild
As a professor of Reading Education, I use the book, Hatchet, and this video to demonstrate to teachers-in training that books and videos can both serve a purpose in the classroom. First we read the book. With undergraduates, I read the book to them, one chapter per day. With graduate students, they read the book on their own. After we've read the book, we do a "compare and contrast" comprehension activity. Students are expected to write notes about how the two media are similar and different. Using an "H" compare and contrast page (one leg of the H is for Hatchet, one for A Cry in the Wild -- the horizontal leg is used for common items in the book and movie). Once students see and hear Paulsen's talent for crafting words, the movie always is ranked as a distant second. The video also illustrates what Hollywood must do to command a person's attention. For the modest price of the video, it's an excellent way to demonstrate to students of all ages, the power of books over video. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

ok for a normal night
absolutely nothing special, and non convincing at some moments. I cannot understand how could only one person be able to drive an old Russian tank and fire its gun at the same time.

astoundingly bad!
It's impossible to describe the level of absurdity this movie reaches. There is not a single thing right about it. It's incomprehensible that this thing was ever made; you've got to admire the insane levels of self-confidence necessary for letting this project go forward. The most vile assaults on logic accompany a tasteless script and mediocre acting. Every "twist" in this faux-psycho thriller/fighter-jock flick is telegraphed ten miles in advance, but you never believe they are willing to do something so obtuse.

Made in 1998, this movie makes Iron Eagle ('85) look positively clever and up to date. In fact the uber-low budget 'Tactical Assault' looks and feels like an awkward mid-80s clunker. Nothing is at all convincing, despite being utterly predictable. Military jargon is thrown around haplessly and the attempt to portray some kind of "war," that embarrassingly makes no sense whatsoever ("We've got a broken arrow situation here"). They try to pass F-4s off as MiGs, then have them combate F-16s ("He's on my tail. Get him off!!!") - pathetic. Whenever a decision has to be made by any of the characters, exactly the wrong choice is made. The characters, supposedly hot shot pilots, are merely insults to the gene pool. Nothing makes a lick of sense. There's no way and no point to listing this movie's inanities, but the tank scene alone (no security for parked tanks that are actually sitting loaded...) is priceless. We can only compliment it for the humorous lows it achieves.

TYPICAL B-MOVIE
Ok, as much as I hate to say it, this film is nothing special. I think Rutger Hauer is a phenomenal actor, but the movies he's been in over the past five years really stink. The film is bearable but don't expect too much. Special effects are minimal and the filming of flight scenes are not very convincing - poor version of Top Gun. If you are a Rutger Hauer fan stick to movies such as the Hitcher, Wanted Dead or Alive(VHS format only), and Blade Runner. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

It is a very good movie, very entertaining.
Pato is wonderful in this movie. For once we actually had a true Native American Man interperting the role of a native american warrior. The only problem is that the costuming and make-up was alittle much. I agree with other reviews--Why is Pato's name left off top billing. He was the only reason I kept watching he captivated my attention. Please let's give credit where it is due. Starring Pato Hoffmann as Hawk. I believe Pato is a treasure. I am devoted fan of Pato Hoffmann.

cheyenne warrior
Like the other reviewers, I believe Pato Hoffman deserved top billing. His interaction with Kelly Preston created great chemistry. I believed they should have devoted more time in the movie toward the development of their relationship. Pato Hoffman's character development was great. He played a native american who displyed humor, kindness, great character as well as someone the viewer could relate to. I was disappointed that the people writing the script chose to take the "safe" way out & have Kelly Preston leave Hawk at the end. I think it should have ended with them staying together - unless they decide to do a sequel. In that case, they could have Hawk going to see her & renewing the relationship.

Why are there not more A.Native films on DVD?
This film is so exciting and the DVD is full of interesting details about the making of the film, where and how it is made and the details about the disputes over the script were fascinating-I would be giving it away if I told you what they were. Pato Hoffman was perfect as the vibrant cheyenne warrior chief Hawk, where has he been all my life ? Where is he acting now, as I cannot get Naturally Native and The Sentinel on DVD ? I have now bought Geronimo and Wild Bull to see him in action but it would be great to get more recent details of where he can be found as his fan website seems out of action.
This film is great value and has the sexiest actor I have seen in a long time.

Cheyenne Warrior - great movie
Just a quick note to say that I thought this was a wonderful movie. It was entertaining and believable at the same time. I admit I had to break out the tissues at the end.

I also really enjoyed the producers/directors' commentary on the DVD. Usually I find them boring, but this one held my attention and I found myself wanting to ask questions about some of their comments.

I have since either rented or purchased all of Pato Hoffmann's other works that I have been able to find.

Just an old-fashioned love story...
Cheyenne Warrior is a beautiful love story with humour and heart-stopping moments. Pato Hoffman is simply gorgeous and Kelly Preston, whilst struggling with some daft dialogue at times, can still manage to portray emotion in the right places most of the time. ( Note I put Mr Hoffman first - he deserves it!)
A feel-good film that I put on the TV on a grey, rainy day whilst snuggling down into a comfy sofa with a large glass of wine to alternately cry or sigh into! Knowing the ultimate, desperate fate that awaits the Cheyenne of this era there must surely be material there for a subsequent film on Hawk? Especially in this time of renewed interest in the injustices perpetrated against those people?
Buy this film and watch it when you're on your own and don't have to succumb to pressure to agree it's corny ... it's just an old-fashioned love story - enjoy!! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

It is a very good movie, very entertaining.
Pato is wonderful in this movie. For once we actually had a true Native American Man interperting the role of a native american warrior. The only problem is that the costuming and make-up was alittle much. I agree with other reviews--Why is Pato's name left off top billing. He was the only reason I kept watching he captivated my attention. Please let's give credit where it is due. Starring Pato Hoffmann as Hawk. I believe Pato is a treasure. I am devoted fan of Pato Hoffmann.

cheyenne warrior
Like the other reviewers, I believe Pato Hoffman deserved top billing. His interaction with Kelly Preston created great chemistry. I believed they should have devoted more time in the movie toward the development of their relationship. Pato Hoffman's character development was great. He played a native american who displyed humor, kindness, great character as well as someone the viewer could relate to. I was disappointed that the people writing the script chose to take the "safe" way out & have Kelly Preston leave Hawk at the end. I think it should have ended with them staying together - unless they decide to do a sequel. In that case, they could have Hawk going to see her & renewing the relationship.

Why are there not more A.Native films on DVD?
This film is so exciting and the DVD is full of interesting details about the making of the film, where and how it is made and the details about the disputes over the script were fascinating-I would be giving it away if I told you what they were. Pato Hoffman was perfect as the vibrant cheyenne warrior chief Hawk, where has he been all my life ? Where is he acting now, as I cannot get Naturally Native and The Sentinel on DVD ? I have now bought Geronimo and Wild Bull to see him in action but it would be great to get more recent details of where he can be found as his fan website seems out of action.
This film is great value and has the sexiest actor I have seen in a long time.

Cheyenne Warrior - great movie
Just a quick note to say that I thought this was a wonderful movie. It was entertaining and believable at the same time. I admit I had to break out the tissues at the end.

I also really enjoyed the producers/directors' commentary on the DVD. Usually I find them boring, but this one held my attention and I found myself wanting to ask questions about some of their comments.

I have since either rented or purchased all of Pato Hoffmann's other works that I have been able to find.

Just an old-fashioned love story...
Cheyenne Warrior is a beautiful love story with humour and heart-stopping moments. Pato Hoffman is simply gorgeous and Kelly Preston, whilst struggling with some daft dialogue at times, can still manage to portray emotion in the right places most of the time. ( Note I put Mr Hoffman first - he deserves it!)
A feel-good film that I put on the TV on a grey, rainy day whilst snuggling down into a comfy sofa with a large glass of wine to alternately cry or sigh into! Knowing the ultimate, desperate fate that awaits the Cheyenne of this era there must surely be material there for a subsequent film on Hawk? Especially in this time of renewed interest in the injustices perpetrated against those people?
Buy this film and watch it when you're on your own and don't have to succumb to pressure to agree it's corny ... it's just an old-fashioned love story - enjoy!! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good movie!
This was a very good movie--no cuss words, no violence. It is a truly G movie! However, I do not think very young children should see this movie since there are sightings of a "ghost." It turns out to be a logical explanation, but it may scare them.
It is funny, clean and suspenseful-just like a Nancy Drew mystery! This is a good movie and a must-see for kids who like suspense and adventure. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

ok for a normal night
absolutely nothing special, and non convincing at some moments. I cannot understand how could only one person be able to drive an old Russian tank and fire its gun at the same time.

astoundingly bad!
It's impossible to describe the level of absurdity this movie reaches. There is not a single thing right about it. It's incomprehensible that this thing was ever made; you've got to admire the insane levels of self-confidence necessary for letting this project go forward. The most vile assaults on logic accompany a tasteless script and mediocre acting. Every "twist" in this faux-psycho thriller/fighter-jock flick is telegraphed ten miles in advance, but you never believe they are willing to do something so obtuse.

Made in 1998, this movie makes Iron Eagle ('85) look positively clever and up to date. In fact the uber-low budget 'Tactical Assault' looks and feels like an awkward mid-80s clunker. Nothing is at all convincing, despite being utterly predictable. Military jargon is thrown around haplessly and the attempt to portray some kind of "war," that embarrassingly makes no sense whatsoever ("We've got a broken arrow situation here"). They try to pass F-4s off as MiGs, then have them combate F-16s ("He's on my tail. Get him off!!!") - pathetic. Whenever a decision has to be made by any of the characters, exactly the wrong choice is made. The characters, supposedly hot shot pilots, are merely insults to the gene pool. Nothing makes a lick of sense. There's no way and no point to listing this movie's inanities, but the tank scene alone (no security for parked tanks that are actually sitting loaded...) is priceless. We can only compliment it for the humorous lows it achieves.

TYPICAL B-MOVIE
Ok, as much as I hate to say it, this film is nothing special. I think Rutger Hauer is a phenomenal actor, but the movies he's been in over the past five years really stink. The film is bearable but don't expect too much. Special effects are minimal and the filming of flight scenes are not very convincing - poor version of Top Gun. If you are a Rutger Hauer fan stick to movies such as the Hitcher, Wanted Dead or Alive(VHS format only), and Blade Runner. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

What a disappointment!
This movie was a BIG disappointment! I bought it to show to my 4th grade class after we read the book Hatchet. Well, unfortunately this movie is not suitable for viewing in school. Although the book did not have any profanity in it - the movie definitely does!

It doesn't really deserve any stars.
Okay, I'm in the sixth grade, and we just read this book in class, and then watched the movie. I can't freaking believe that Gary Paulsen consented this, much less wrote the screenplay. It's a horrible movie, and does no justice to the book. I liked the book. For some reason it reminded me of Lord of the Flies, except it was less depressing, cuz there weren't a bunch of kids running around killing eachother. Brian had some character, and there was an intellectual side to the book, but the movie..urgh. It was a mockery.

People, Gary Paulsen wrote the screenplay
The reviewers below state that this movie is not worthy of the excellent Gary Paulsen novel. I hate to break this to you, guys, but Gary Paulsen was one of the two screenplay writers of this film. Of course it's not going to be better than the book; no movie ever is. However, it is a pretty good movie in itself. It can stand on its own, and follows the book pretty closely. The movie is about a twelve-year-old boy whose plane crashes in the Canadien wilderness when the pilot has a heart attack. He is the only survivor, and must fend for himself against the many dangers of the wilderness. In a 90-minute movie, there is not much time for character development, as there was in the hundreds of pages alotted for the book. The only thing that bothered me was why the DVD did not have a time counter. This is the only DVD I have ever viewed in which that was the case.

A travesty --- worse than a waste of time
This video is a travesty. It claims to be based on the excellent children's book _Hatchet_ by Gary Paulsen.
This video adds gratuitous profanity to the story, not in the book's text, which makes it unsuitable for many classrooms and age levels.
The video also butchers the plot of the book, and has Brian doing idiotic things which he doesn't do in the book. For instance, Brian uses the blade of his hatchet to mark days in stone. Brian wildly hacks at the lake's water with his hatchet to catch fish. And Brian adopts orphaned bear cubs, managing to catch enough fish for them to grow up on (which they seem to do in a day).
In one of his author tour appearances, Gary Paulsen himself said that he didn't like this film (I don't recall his exact words).
...
This video is not only a waste of time, but is seemingly written/directed by folks who were intentionally trying to wreck the feeling, sentiment and message of Paulsen's book. This is not a mere jazzing up, or telescoping of events to fit the movie time and format. This is really bad. Skip this piece of junk; get the _Hatchet_ unabridged audio book instead.

Hatchet Vs. A Cry in the Wild
As a professor of Reading Education, I use the book, Hatchet, and this video to demonstrate to teachers-in training that books and videos can both serve a purpose in the classroom. First we read the book. With undergraduates, I read the book to them, one chapter per day. With graduate students, they read the book on their own. After we've read the book, we do a "compare and contrast" comprehension activity. Students are expected to write notes about how the two media are similar and different. Using an "H" compare and contrast page (one leg of the H is for Hatchet, one for A Cry in the Wild -- the horizontal leg is used for common items in the book and movie). Once students see and hear Paulsen's talent for crafting words, the movie always is ranked as a distant second. The video also illustrates what Hollywood must do to command a person's attention. For the modest price of the video, it's an excellent way to demonstrate to students of all ages, the power of books over video. ... Read more