Reviews (4)

Cheer for Gimme an F
I use to watch this movie so many times when I was a kid...I loved this movie because it was not only a cheezy 80's movie but it was also a funny movie,but I do like the fact that the underdogs get there act together at the end..(if you know what I mean)

Thanks

One of my guilty teenage pleasures--and still is!
One of my all-time favorites back in the intoxicating 80's when I was a prepubescent teen--and still is to this day, along with two other obscure ones, "The Wraith" and "Private Road." I enjoy watching these three films whenever I feel the need for a nostalgia trip. The other two were "serious" movies so I guess it's only natural I would love this ridiculous rubbish to balance it out. On the merits this deserves a 1; but for mindless entertainment and titillation value I give it a 4. About a myriad of high-school cheerleading teams who converge upon a remote camp for the big rah-rah annual competition and shows backstabbing and catfighting that supposedly goes on at these events in typical but hilariously campy fashion. A rivalry develops between the bitchy but bodacious and athletically adroit Falcons and The Ducks, an absolutely pathetic team with no sex appeal. Of course it wouldn't be the wonderfully tasteless sexploitation teen flick it is without the obligatory lust angle when the Ducks' cute and virginal captain Mary Ann attempts to poach their hot studly trainer Tommy (Stephen Shellen), stuck with the thankless and extremely challenging job of leading them toward victory! Other numerous libidinous episodes with other characters and the usual tired gags occur along the way, such as a food fight and the tried-and-true nasty trick of urine-balloon bombing unlucky victims, which is pathetic but hilariously side-splitting nonetheless! Guys and gals alike in the mood for lotsa eye candy and an inane time will be sure to enjoy this flick. The protracted and gratuitous scene of Shellen dancing sexy and doing gymnastics(!) in only his BVDs in a shower room elicited oohs and aahs from me and my young galpals, while our guyfriends groaned and rolled their eyes in dismay waiting for it to be over, but the bevy of beauties clad in outrageously sexy outfits shaking their goods made it up for them, but a warning--if you're looking for bare T&A you won't find any, something the males in our group complained of! About the only redeeming feature was the competition in the end where the rah-rahs do amazing moves which riveted me and made me understand why guys view cheerleaders as earth sex angels--obviously the bulk of the money of this B-movie was spent on that enjoyably long sequence, so sit back and enjoy! Oh--and have you guessed by now just what that F stands for?

Another Cheesy 80's Camp Movie
If you like cheesy eighties camp movies this is for you. This is one of those movies that I would watch over and over on HBO because I thought it was risque. It turns out I was just young. But after watching the first 20 minutes of this movie, you quickly figure out what the "F" is for. It's not the best movie, but it's not the worst.

This movie was really good and I would tell U to acqiure it
I watched this movie and would recommend it to anyone who wants to see a lot of beautiful women in great looking outfits. ... Read more

Description

Detroit, Michigan, 1959.Berry Gordy gathers the bestmusicians from the city's thriving jazz and blues scene for his newrecord company:Motown.For the next 14 years these players are theheartbeat on "My Girl," "Baby Love," "Ooo Baby Baby," "Bernadette," "IWas Made To Love Her," "I Heard It Through The Grapevine," "Dancing InThe Street," and every other hit from Motown's Detroit era.By the endof their phenomenal run, the unheralded group of musicians plays on moreNumber One hits than the Beach Boys, the Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley,and The Beatles combined, making them the greatest hit machine in thehistory of popular music.They call themselves the Funk Brothers. Butno one knows their names...this is their story. ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Motown and Hockey Town
So the other night I put on my Red Wings jersey and took my wife to see Standing in the Shadows of Motown, celebrating the Detroit I knew back in the early sixties and the music of my life. The documentary honors the Funk Brothers, mostly African - American, but a couple white guys, who played on all those Tempts, Smokey, 4 Tops and Supremes classics. I was in the 8th or 9th grade when My Guy and Please Mr. Postman launched it all. The relaxed reminiscences of those years from the surviving Funk Brothers, their tributes to each other and to the fellow players -- bassman James Jamerson first and foremost -- nicely recreate a time when Detroit had reason beyond the Red Wings to feel optimistic. Some period footage is a nice bonus, as is seeing the gorgeous Martha Reeves again. The music and the Funk Brothers playing are as powerful as ever. Ben Harper and Me'Shell NdegeOcello are particularly effective interpreters of the classics. Joan Osburne does pretty well also, but Chaka Khan is a really bizarre choice to sing What's Goin' On, and does it as poorly as you would expect. It is just about the only flaw in a richly entertaining and overdue tribute.

Breathtaking
I had searched for several years for information regarding the Funk Brothers, but, until now, so little was known or written about them. I had only heard them mentioned on TV twice -- once during an interview with Martha Reeves and again during a documentary on the history of rock and roll. Both times peaked my interest as I already appreciated that the Motown sound was really the musicians (taking absolutely NOTHING away from the great vocalists and performers). Recognition of these outstanding men was long overdue (and that's quite an understatement). The movie is highly personal and highly entertaining. Watching the fascinating story of the men who invented the Motown sound is akin to actually being there with them at the time they were creating history in "The Snake Pit." In a sense, you are given a very unique opportunity to travel back in time and feel the same emotion they did. Kudos to Martha Reeves for being part of the film. There are also cameos by Mary Wilson, Otis Williams, and Stevie Wonder. I only wish other Motown stars had been with them during filiming or available to comment on these men who were at the heart of their success. This DVD is truly indispensible for anyone who loves Motown and soul but, most espcially, for anyone who loves and appreciates popular music. PUT THIS ON YOUR SHELF!!

mesmerizing!
i loved this eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at the incredible musicians responsible for so many of those #1 Motown hits.
long overdue. it's too bad that some of the guys passed on before the film was made and hardly received the respect and glory while alive.

last, hardly least: joan osborne's version of "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" just may bring tears to your eyes.
(Having been a great fan of music for many years) i am ashamed/embarrassed to admit that until this movie i had no real idea how gifted a singer this woman truly is.

i sat in awe as she belted out this song and could not stop myself from playing it a few more times after the initial viewing of the film.

i guess there is no alternative for me, but to go out and buy a CD or two by this great talent.

see this DVD. it's a gem. thank you, funk brothers, for enriching our lives through your magical gifts!

Feeling the real sound of Motown
I have just view this DVD today and was totally blown away. Born and raised in Detroit area I grew up with Motown and loved everything connected with it. It is still one of my favorite music venues and brings back great memories. With all the stars up front like the Four Tops my (ultimate favorites) I was unaware of the backbone of Motown. Thank you for bringing me to light of the wonderful talent of the great Funk Band.

Tribute to the Funk Brothers
Sure, everyone's heard of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson, but what about the Funk Brothers? Never heard of them? It turns out that even if you've never heard of them, you've most likely heard this group of musicians before: it turns out they've played on more #1 hits than the Beatles, Elvis, Rolling Stones and the Beach Boys combined. Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a documentary that raises some debatable issues: someone in the film says that anybody could have sung the songs because it was the music (and the musicians) that was the key element in the song's success. Director Justman makes it seem like it was a gross miscarriage of justice the way that label head Berry Gordy didn't publicly acknowledge the Funk Brothers' contribution to the Motown sound. What fails to be kept in mind is that this oversight isn't unique. I mean, when kids listen to Christina Aguilera or Avril Lavigne today, how many actually stop to think about the backing musicians? The actual size of the Funk Brothers' contribution is never made completely clear here and none of the relevant people are interviewed (Berry Gordy, Diana Ross, etc.) so the tone remains decidedly one-sided. Even so, it's still an entertaining ride as the Funk Brothers liven up the proceedings with fascinating anecdotes and by reminiscing about Motown's heyday in the 60s which are much more vivid and memorable than director Justman's cringe-worthy use of reconstructions. Another touchy point is the fleeting, unnecessary mention of the Vietnam War and how the Motown sound apparently brought comfort to the soldiers: it seemed to have been included for sentimental value and didn't fit with the rest of the film and the reason why the soldiers listened to Motown was left unexplained. The many musical performances by the Funk Brothers and the guest singers are what make this film worth watching, even if it's a tad too long at 116 minutes. It's one thing to hear them say that the music was what made the song, not the singer, but the performances say so much more. Joan "What If God Was One Of Us" Osborne gives a powerful, touching rendition of "What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted" while Gerald Levert sounds every bit as good as Gloria Gaynor on "Reach Out I'll Be There". Even though Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a tribute to the Funk Brothers as musicians, it is the Funk Brothers as men that is really being honoured here: even with rumours that they were cheated out of royalties by Motown and the lack of public recognition, the Funk Brothers don't come across as bitter and vengeful at all, and this magnanimous attitude is what saves this documentary from being a humdrum VH1 special, despite director Justman's attempts to (over)lionize the Funk Brothers. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a must-see film for any fan ofthe Supremes, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, or any other classic Motownstars. This swinging documentary celebrates the Funk Brothers--the team ofstudio musicians who powered dozens and dozens of hit Motown songs--bycombining reminiscences, reenactments, and clips from a recent concertput on by the Funk Brothers, featuring singers like Chaka Khan, BenHarper, and Joan Osborne on classic tunes like "What's Going On," "Ain'tToo Proud to Beg," and "Heatwave." This crafty gang of elderly musicianswill charm your pants off with a slew of entertaining anecdotes. Though itseems that there's a lot of dirt they're declining to dish, the moviedeftly outlines the history of Motown, surely the most significant musiclabel in American history--the label that turned segregated "race music"into chart-topping success. A soulful delight. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Motown and Hockey Town
So the other night I put on my Red Wings jersey and took my wife to see Standing in the Shadows of Motown, celebrating the Detroit I knew back in the early sixties and the music of my life. The documentary honors the Funk Brothers, mostly African - American, but a couple white guys, who played on all those Tempts, Smokey, 4 Tops and Supremes classics. I was in the 8th or 9th grade when My Guy and Please Mr. Postman launched it all. The relaxed reminiscences of those years from the surviving Funk Brothers, their tributes to each other and to the fellow players -- bassman James Jamerson first and foremost -- nicely recreate a time when Detroit had reason beyond the Red Wings to feel optimistic. Some period footage is a nice bonus, as is seeing the gorgeous Martha Reeves again. The music and the Funk Brothers playing are as powerful as ever. Ben Harper and Me'Shell NdegeOcello are particularly effective interpreters of the classics. Joan Osburne does pretty well also, but Chaka Khan is a really bizarre choice to sing What's Goin' On, and does it as poorly as you would expect. It is just about the only flaw in a richly entertaining and overdue tribute.

Breathtaking
I had searched for several years for information regarding the Funk Brothers, but, until now, so little was known or written about them. I had only heard them mentioned on TV twice -- once during an interview with Martha Reeves and again during a documentary on the history of rock and roll. Both times peaked my interest as I already appreciated that the Motown sound was really the musicians (taking absolutely NOTHING away from the great vocalists and performers). Recognition of these outstanding men was long overdue (and that's quite an understatement). The movie is highly personal and highly entertaining. Watching the fascinating story of the men who invented the Motown sound is akin to actually being there with them at the time they were creating history in "The Snake Pit." In a sense, you are given a very unique opportunity to travel back in time and feel the same emotion they did. Kudos to Martha Reeves for being part of the film. There are also cameos by Mary Wilson, Otis Williams, and Stevie Wonder. I only wish other Motown stars had been with them during filiming or available to comment on these men who were at the heart of their success. This DVD is truly indispensible for anyone who loves Motown and soul but, most espcially, for anyone who loves and appreciates popular music. PUT THIS ON YOUR SHELF!!

mesmerizing!
i loved this eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at the incredible musicians responsible for so many of those #1 Motown hits.
long overdue. it's too bad that some of the guys passed on before the film was made and hardly received the respect and glory while alive.

last, hardly least: joan osborne's version of "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" just may bring tears to your eyes.
(Having been a great fan of music for many years) i am ashamed/embarrassed to admit that until this movie i had no real idea how gifted a singer this woman truly is.

i sat in awe as she belted out this song and could not stop myself from playing it a few more times after the initial viewing of the film.

i guess there is no alternative for me, but to go out and buy a CD or two by this great talent.

see this DVD. it's a gem. thank you, funk brothers, for enriching our lives through your magical gifts!

Feeling the real sound of Motown
I have just view this DVD today and was totally blown away. Born and raised in Detroit area I grew up with Motown and loved everything connected with it. It is still one of my favorite music venues and brings back great memories. With all the stars up front like the Four Tops my (ultimate favorites) I was unaware of the backbone of Motown. Thank you for bringing me to light of the wonderful talent of the great Funk Band.

Tribute to the Funk Brothers
Sure, everyone's heard of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson, but what about the Funk Brothers? Never heard of them? It turns out that even if you've never heard of them, you've most likely heard this group of musicians before: it turns out they've played on more #1 hits than the Beatles, Elvis, Rolling Stones and the Beach Boys combined. Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a documentary that raises some debatable issues: someone in the film says that anybody could have sung the songs because it was the music (and the musicians) that was the key element in the song's success. Director Justman makes it seem like it was a gross miscarriage of justice the way that label head Berry Gordy didn't publicly acknowledge the Funk Brothers' contribution to the Motown sound. What fails to be kept in mind is that this oversight isn't unique. I mean, when kids listen to Christina Aguilera or Avril Lavigne today, how many actually stop to think about the backing musicians? The actual size of the Funk Brothers' contribution is never made completely clear here and none of the relevant people are interviewed (Berry Gordy, Diana Ross, etc.) so the tone remains decidedly one-sided. Even so, it's still an entertaining ride as the Funk Brothers liven up the proceedings with fascinating anecdotes and by reminiscing about Motown's heyday in the 60s which are much more vivid and memorable than director Justman's cringe-worthy use of reconstructions. Another touchy point is the fleeting, unnecessary mention of the Vietnam War and how the Motown sound apparently brought comfort to the soldiers: it seemed to have been included for sentimental value and didn't fit with the rest of the film and the reason why the soldiers listened to Motown was left unexplained. The many musical performances by the Funk Brothers and the guest singers are what make this film worth watching, even if it's a tad too long at 116 minutes. It's one thing to hear them say that the music was what made the song, not the singer, but the performances say so much more. Joan "What If God Was One Of Us" Osborne gives a powerful, touching rendition of "What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted" while Gerald Levert sounds every bit as good as Gloria Gaynor on "Reach Out I'll Be There". Even though Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a tribute to the Funk Brothers as musicians, it is the Funk Brothers as men that is really being honoured here: even with rumours that they were cheated out of royalties by Motown and the lack of public recognition, the Funk Brothers don't come across as bitter and vengeful at all, and this magnanimous attitude is what saves this documentary from being a humdrum VH1 special, despite director Justman's attempts to (over)lionize the Funk Brothers. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A Revelation of Rock Music in a More Innocent Era
Any lack of polish in this production is pretty much due to the available video and film equipment of the day. That said, much of the old camerawork is quite creative and nicely done. In fact, I was riveted to this film from start to finish.

The onstage performances have a beautiful, timeless quality to them. The musicianship of the band comes across very nicely, this being a time before bands had stylists, directors, choreographers, and wardrobe masters.

Just amazing to see how, more than Morrison's charisma, more than any stoned-out vibe, the music itself was the true source of the Doors' power and energy. So seldom do we get to see excellent rock music performed without a lot of record company b***s***. Nobody told the band how to behave onstage, nobody but Jim dictated what he was going to wear, and so on. This footage was a revelation in that way.

To observe, on this DVD, Ray Manzarek hunched over his keyboards, fingering some amazing riffs, is to see a rather amazing illustration of rock performances that were all about THE MUSIC.

An absolute "must" for all Doors fans, and a real treat for fans of west coast rock. Recommended to anyone who has an interest in classic rock or sixties culture.

Would be 5 stars if not for some faults (mostly forgivable)
Contrary to some other reviews, the sound is okay. All the tracks came across clearly on my speakers without any audio adjustments. However, I've noticed on this DVD that the bass is pumped up and tends to overpower the vocals in certain spots.

As for the video quality, the B&W soundstage segments are bright and crisp and the Roundhouse show (also in B&W) isn't that bad. The extreme contrast between lights and darks makes the Roundhouse segments seem murky at times but you can still see all figures clearly. Plus, the camera work is definitely livelier than the famous Hollywood bowl show.

The audio and video flaws are easily overlooked, but the most annoying faults come at the end of the DVD. Because a Jefferson Airplane segment leads straight into "Five to One", the start of that track is cut. This last track "Alabama Song" is NOT shown in performance but rather laid over a Pere-Lachaise montage which, after Grace Slick's comments on Morrison, makes it seem like he expired at the end of the European tour! If not for this silliness, the DVD would rate 5/5.

Entertaining And Interesting.
The Doors were a great band and here we have some great film documentation of their performances during the 1968 European tour that captures the visceral energy Jim Morrison and the rest of the band captured on stage. The songs are great and on this DVD, they sound magnificent. Well, I was a bit disappointed that the performances of "Light My Fire," "Backdoor Man" and "Spanish Caravan" are a bit crudely recorded. They still work though. The best piece of film here is when the band performs "When The Music's Over." The performance captures the viewer with the intricate playing, provocative lyrics (as in "The End") and Morrison really comes off as an impressive rock artist. I especially loved it when he says, "We want the world and we want it now." "Unknown Soldier" and "Love Me Two Times" are also magnificently done. The fault of this DVD (and video for you VHS watchers) is that we really don't get THAT much information on the tour itself. Jefferson Airplane give a few interesting insights, but nothing very fascinating that keeps your attention. All we really get are the good performances, and that's it. Yes, The Doors are the greatest rock band of all time, but this film deserved a wee-bit more work.

TIMELESS MASTERPIECE
Even in the year 2500 the doors will be known and listened in all over the universe.

The most amazing band of all times.
There are not many words i can say about the greatest band of all times and this dvd.It's simply great and Jimbo& Doors are incredible.I am a huge Doors fan and if you send me a mail i'll definetly send you back... ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Motown and Hockey Town
So the other night I put on my Red Wings jersey and took my wife to see Standing in the Shadows of Motown, celebrating the Detroit I knew back in the early sixties and the music of my life. The documentary honors the Funk Brothers, mostly African - American, but a couple white guys, who played on all those Tempts, Smokey, 4 Tops and Supremes classics. I was in the 8th or 9th grade when My Guy and Please Mr. Postman launched it all. The relaxed reminiscences of those years from the surviving Funk Brothers, their tributes to each other and to the fellow players -- bassman James Jamerson first and foremost -- nicely recreate a time when Detroit had reason beyond the Red Wings to feel optimistic. Some period footage is a nice bonus, as is seeing the gorgeous Martha Reeves again. The music and the Funk Brothers playing are as powerful as ever. Ben Harper and Me'Shell NdegeOcello are particularly effective interpreters of the classics. Joan Osburne does pretty well also, but Chaka Khan is a really bizarre choice to sing What's Goin' On, and does it as poorly as you would expect. It is just about the only flaw in a richly entertaining and overdue tribute.

Breathtaking
I had searched for several years for information regarding the Funk Brothers, but, until now, so little was known or written about them. I had only heard them mentioned on TV twice -- once during an interview with Martha Reeves and again during a documentary on the history of rock and roll. Both times peaked my interest as I already appreciated that the Motown sound was really the musicians (taking absolutely NOTHING away from the great vocalists and performers). Recognition of these outstanding men was long overdue (and that's quite an understatement). The movie is highly personal and highly entertaining. Watching the fascinating story of the men who invented the Motown sound is akin to actually being there with them at the time they were creating history in "The Snake Pit." In a sense, you are given a very unique opportunity to travel back in time and feel the same emotion they did. Kudos to Martha Reeves for being part of the film. There are also cameos by Mary Wilson, Otis Williams, and Stevie Wonder. I only wish other Motown stars had been with them during filiming or available to comment on these men who were at the heart of their success. This DVD is truly indispensible for anyone who loves Motown and soul but, most espcially, for anyone who loves and appreciates popular music. PUT THIS ON YOUR SHELF!!

mesmerizing!
i loved this eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at the incredible musicians responsible for so many of those #1 Motown hits.
long overdue. it's too bad that some of the guys passed on before the film was made and hardly received the respect and glory while alive.

last, hardly least: joan osborne's version of "What Becomes of the Broken Hearted" just may bring tears to your eyes.
(Having been a great fan of music for many years) i am ashamed/embarrassed to admit that until this movie i had no real idea how gifted a singer this woman truly is.

i sat in awe as she belted out this song and could not stop myself from playing it a few more times after the initial viewing of the film.

i guess there is no alternative for me, but to go out and buy a CD or two by this great talent.

see this DVD. it's a gem. thank you, funk brothers, for enriching our lives through your magical gifts!

Feeling the real sound of Motown
I have just view this DVD today and was totally blown away. Born and raised in Detroit area I grew up with Motown and loved everything connected with it. It is still one of my favorite music venues and brings back great memories. With all the stars up front like the Four Tops my (ultimate favorites) I was unaware of the backbone of Motown. Thank you for bringing me to light of the wonderful talent of the great Funk Band.

Tribute to the Funk Brothers
Sure, everyone's heard of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson, but what about the Funk Brothers? Never heard of them? It turns out that even if you've never heard of them, you've most likely heard this group of musicians before: it turns out they've played on more #1 hits than the Beatles, Elvis, Rolling Stones and the Beach Boys combined. Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a documentary that raises some debatable issues: someone in the film says that anybody could have sung the songs because it was the music (and the musicians) that was the key element in the song's success. Director Justman makes it seem like it was a gross miscarriage of justice the way that label head Berry Gordy didn't publicly acknowledge the Funk Brothers' contribution to the Motown sound. What fails to be kept in mind is that this oversight isn't unique. I mean, when kids listen to Christina Aguilera or Avril Lavigne today, how many actually stop to think about the backing musicians? The actual size of the Funk Brothers' contribution is never made completely clear here and none of the relevant people are interviewed (Berry Gordy, Diana Ross, etc.) so the tone remains decidedly one-sided. Even so, it's still an entertaining ride as the Funk Brothers liven up the proceedings with fascinating anecdotes and by reminiscing about Motown's heyday in the 60s which are much more vivid and memorable than director Justman's cringe-worthy use of reconstructions. Another touchy point is the fleeting, unnecessary mention of the Vietnam War and how the Motown sound apparently brought comfort to the soldiers: it seemed to have been included for sentimental value and didn't fit with the rest of the film and the reason why the soldiers listened to Motown was left unexplained. The many musical performances by the Funk Brothers and the guest singers are what make this film worth watching, even if it's a tad too long at 116 minutes. It's one thing to hear them say that the music was what made the song, not the singer, but the performances say so much more. Joan "What If God Was One Of Us" Osborne gives a powerful, touching rendition of "What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted" while Gerald Levert sounds every bit as good as Gloria Gaynor on "Reach Out I'll Be There". Even though Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a tribute to the Funk Brothers as musicians, it is the Funk Brothers as men that is really being honoured here: even with rumours that they were cheated out of royalties by Motown and the lack of public recognition, the Funk Brothers don't come across as bitter and vengeful at all, and this magnanimous attitude is what saves this documentary from being a humdrum VH1 special, despite director Justman's attempts to (over)lionize the Funk Brothers. ... Read more