Reviews (4)

Without land, a man is nothing
UPDATE 3/5/04: DVD CAN BE FOUND ONLINE. AVOID IT. MISSING SCENES, LOUSY PICTURE.

The back of the "Duddy Kravitz" VHS box alleges that Duddy "uses the girl who loves him, forges checks, and lies but somehow still manages to work his way into our hearts." To describe the film this way misses its uniqueness by inverting its point. Richard Dreyfuss' charismatic, touching, and wildly comic performance (the key performance of his career, and little-seen), effortlessly and immediately batters its way into our hearts. The process by which he squanders those affections and the affections of those around him (perhaps most tragically Yvette's and Virgil's) is incremental, painful, and, we have no reason to suppose otherwise, irreversible. Only gradually does it become clear that he draws no distinction between people and objects - both are merely means to an end. The VHS blurb suggests a redemption, a feel-good experience that's nowhere to be found in this film. Duddy not only betrays other characters; he betrays the audience, truly and distressingly. Despite his energy and intelligence and charm, this punk manages to work his way out of our hearts.

The film daringly takes our "audience-identification figure" and pulls him out from under us, leaving us to ponder:

Does Duddy's devoted grandfather, kneading soil in a ghetto victory garden one morning, plant the seed of Duddy's undoing when he remarks, unequivocally, "Without land, a man is nothing"? The remark registers on the younger man's face unmistakably: the sole way to avoid being "Nothing" has just been revealed!

Is ethical business practice a luxury struggling immigrants budget for at their peril? One character is allowed, eloquently and at length, to say just that. There is no one present to raise an objection.

Do Yvette and Virgil, unbendingly loyal to the personable young opportunist, abet his crimes a little or a lot? Yvette smells a rat early on, Virgil takes longer to wise up. Time and again Duddy barters their love and trust for the only thing truly valuable in his world: the parcel of land that will save him from "Nothingness". Duddy's tragedy is that he might have won ALL the marbles if he'd been a different sort of man. But the apprentice intuitively grasps the lesson being imparted all around him: in order to win, others must lose. Both Yvette and Virgil are loath to cut Duddy dead until his betrayals reach the level of obscenity.

At what point does the viewer cut him dead? Or does Duddy continue (see review below) to seem "inspiring"? The film doesn't insist, to its credit, on any one answer to those questions. Along with the enormous amount of physical energy at his disposal, Duddy possesses a prodigious, caustic wit which he frequently unloads on those who would directly challenge him. The brilliance of the film is that these harangues are so sympathetically written and masterfully performed that viewers may not know what to make of them, other than to mistake them for ringing endorsements of Duddy's behavior; indeed, in these moments Dreyfuss dazzles even that viewer who may have already made up his mind about the disposition of Duddy's soul. Other viewers may excuse him under the "if you want to make an omelet, you have to break some eggs" rule (Virgil, paralyzed through Duddy's chicanery, may be unimpressed by this defense). The perceptive, skillful work of writer and actor allows us to see where Duddy's "coming from", even if we cringe at where he's headed. His bad side can seem as seductive as his good.

One can't shake the feeling that this earnest young man has not, will not, and cannot admit to himself that he's a con man. The story ends before Duddy can realize who he's been swindling, who has been the mark in his long con: Duddy Kravitz.

Where's the DVD?
I loved the film and I would like to see the DVD produced with tons of special features. please.

Excellent!
I agree with the first reviewer - This is an excellent movie. Duddy Kravitz (played by Richard Dreyfuss) fits the bill as a typical entrepreneur. Set in Montreal in 1948, Duddy Kravitz knows that he is going to be successful, just not at what. However, a chance opportunity during a picnic with his girlfriend Yvette (played by the beautiful Micheline Lanctot) gave him is dream and set in motion a series of events and necessities that allowed him to achieve his dream, but with some costs. This is a must see movie for (1) the budding entrepreneur, (2) the entrepreneur currently suffering some setbacks and in need of some inspiration, and (3) those who want to see a slice of life from Montreal back in the late 1940's (it was, still is and will always be, a great city to live in).

It's an EXCELLENT MOVIE!
An excellent movie! A 10! Dreyfuss gives an excellent performance as the young Jewish kid struggling to make ends meet.Dreyfuss should have at least been nominated for Best Actor.I highly recommend this movie.The highlight of this movie is also the beautiful cinematography of Montreal, Canada.Once you see it, you'll be swept away! I urge you, if you haven't seen this movie, go and see it and buy it later! Very realistic and true to life. The Apprentice of Duddy Kravitz is a winner! It'll make you very happy! A must-see! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Could have been More
Some people considered this as a good effort from Lundgren..i still prefer Pentathlon or Joshua Tree better then this one. This film can actually be a good one if it only has the right script..

It's a typical assasination story, where Dolph Lundgren as an american marshall was ordered to apprehend an assasin who want to assasinate a cuban ambassador. It lack the necessary twist to make it alive..maybe the directing is not sharp enough to capture, or even to elevate the mood. There are some dialogue and character that felt silly...like the comnmander that likes to boasting around and harassing his man if he consider it necessary to save his image, and well, i don't feel that the dialog wenth smooth...you can just feel it that it was made. Not alive enough..thus it doesn't shape the character deep enough. In this kind of movie, If you don't want to play with the character, then you would need to give a good plot on the story...like some 'existensialist' movie in 60's-70's that concern more about what happen instead of the character. The Day of the Jackall is a good example...there is a lot of suspense created from what the jackall did..the viewer is grasp on how the jackall would make his next step. Other good example is the Package..it's a trully high octane thriller and you just get very uptight watching Gene Hackman striving hard to save the president from being shot.

Other thing that annoyed me, the music score. Is really-really-really improper..it tries to create a fast and tense situation but what happen is you feel that the music doen't really go into the scene, like it was taken from some other movie and forcefully paste into this movie. It's just not there..

As for the action, Kotcheff did pretty well with a fast paced scene...the fighting scene in the wine cellar, the chasing on the train are good examples,the editing is fast and proper, the angle is just right. Although not exactly John Mc Tiernan, Kotcheff does have a chemistry on this kind of thing (considering his previous experience in movie such as First Blood, this isn't surprising). Too bad this chemistry isn't supported with a good script (or a good score for that matter).

Thanks for the proper directing on the action sequence, and the good background of Prague, this movie is still something that is watchable...and that's why i still tend to vote it for 3 star instead of 2.

The Shooter
Dolph decided he wanted to make the transistion from action hero to well respected movie star, so he dedicated himself to acting on broadway in an attempt to relearn his trade, this was his first film afterwards, and you can notice the change, Dolph makes the jump from bare chested shenigans to silk suits and his acting stands him at head and shoulders above the rest , this film has at all, set in the beautiful city of prague, it has great scenery, action scenes(including the traditional groping for a gun, while hanging off the edge of a building), love scenes(dolph manages to turn a lesbian onto men) and great cliches, buy it, you'll love it...

Cardboard Action that worked
This wasn't a bad cardboard action movie. Plenty of brawls, gun battles, and road chases. It wasn't a bad plot either. Even if the cardboard action doesn't hold your interest, watching Maruschka Detmers is worth the effort to spend 89 minutes with the film. Great location scenes. Dolph Lundgren is not Dirty Harry, but he comes off well as a Swedish souped-up Gary Cooper. I knocked off one star because of the .45. Hitting a bad guy with a .45 at 30+ yards was too much to swallow.

One of Lundgren's better efforts
This is actually a movie with a decent plot. Starts out with a bang and keeps on going just like the energizer rabbit. Lungren plays a US Marshall who goes with his mentor to Eastern Europe to abduct Maruska Detmer and bring her back to the US for trial. To be honest this movie has a better plot than Mission Impossible but not as flashy. I first caught it on cable but liked the movie enough to buy it on video tape.

Very good movie.
Well made movie. Fast paced and realistic ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Realistic Yet Fascinating
I loved this film. It always appealed to me each and every time I viewed it. If you're in the mood for getting in touch with all your emotions, this movie is a MUST! McGillis and Russell are brilliant actors; there's no question about that.

Underappreciated! Very interesting and compelling...
This was a very memorable, unusually compelling movie with outstanding performances by Kurt Russell and Kelly McGillis. What a great movie! Kurt Russell was absolutely fabulous... almost as good as in Tombstone.

Quiet film about give and take, forgiveness and love.
A period story set in the North Carolina hills in what appears to be a place right smack dab in the middle of the Hatfields and McCoys--this time Wrights and Campbells. A shy sensitive widowed clock maker, Wayland Jackson, played by Kurt Russell on his way through the mountains with his only daughter becomes stuck in a creek and ends up sticking around for longer than he bargained. There he meets the elusive Collie Wright (Kelly McGillis's character) who with her only son seems to be living alone off from the small town. Immediately you sense a spark between the two but as the story progresses you realize there is a dark looming secret which threatens both lives. It appears Ellie's family has an ancient hatred that runs deep for their neighbors and would shootem' just as look at'em. Enter dark loomy character which is the babe's father and he's from the other side of the mountain. He is the exact opposite of our shy clock maker and Ellie knows this. Perhaps when some see the performances as cheesy or over acted they've never actually met any mountain folk, and thusly are insistent that the histrionics are over played. If you have been to the mountains and can feel the spirit of them then I think you will love this picture. It is about the give and take, the act of forgiveness and of course true love.

Do you love mountains in the fall?
I really enjoyed this movie. Its setting in the mountains during the early 30's was quite entertaining. It's sort of like a 20th century version of red badge of courage. I would recommend it.

Under-rated film.
John Ehle is an excellent regional writer and "Winter People" is probably the best of his works. The movie adaptation holds true to the book and for the critical viewer tired of cliques, car chases, and shallow characters, this film is a rare luxury. There are no stock characters in this film. And the storyline is different ... holding you tight to your armchair to the very end. The acting is tremendous: Kurt Russell is finally challenged to a multi-part role befitting his talented depths. The symbolic uses of the clock and the bear-killing rite are intriguing elements in the film. "Winter People" is an under-rated film. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

..
Wow... I was in this movie when I was a little kid... I can't believe it's actually on websites.. Scary. Oh well. Uh, to the review... it's an ok movie, not one of my favorites, but hey.. It was more fun filming it.

Best of the 3 movies
This is the only "Family Of Cops" movie you really need. I wonder if the sequels were planned at this point, because the performances seem to have more juice here. The action scenes are pretty good, especially the one in the woods. Bronson's involved in a couple of shoot-outs, but they're practically identical to similar scenes in the other two movies. (-Notice in particular the shoot-out by his character's house; arms stretched out in trademark "Telefon" aiming position, shooting at a car.) Forget about the two uninvolving ones that followed, and stick with this one.

Ok Bronson Film
This Bronson film was ok, not his best work though, rent one of the Death Wish movies to see Bronson at his best. I used to Enjoy Bronson films quite a bit, but he needs to stop. The man is way to old, and its hard to believe that a man his age, would be running around shooting people. He Belongs in a wheel chair and a nursing home, not making movies anymore, sorry Mr. Bronson its time to Retire. Watch the movie if you absolutely love Charles Bronson! ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Fast paced action thriller set in the Pacific Northwest
First Blood is the story of a Special Forces Vietnam veteran John Rambo who returns home to America to find that he doesn't fit in. Hiking throught the Pacific Northwest Rambo finds out that his best freind from Nam has died from agent orange induced cancer. He wanders off and in a nearby town encounters a small town sheriff who first harasses him and then arrests him. Rambo busts out of jail using the skills that were taught to him in Nam. It turns out that Rambo was a member of an elite special forces group and that he is in essence a killing machine. Most of the movie revolves around Rambo taking to the woods with the local police and then the State Police and National Guard giving chase. Of course they are no match for Rambo who is able to demonstrate his fighting skills admirably. The action sequences in this film are excellent. Stallone is at his best as the crazed predator hunting down the inept police force. The film holds your attention and is interesting to the end. The only downside is the final speech given by Stallone which is so rambling and hard to understand that it could put the audience to sleep. Stalllone is best when he is not talking but attacking and this is what made this film 4 stars.

Watch the Movie-Then Go to Film School With David Morrell!
***Note-This is an update to my previous review***

The latest DVD version of the classic Stallone action flick provides several supplemental features, the most notable being the outstanding commentary by David Morrell who wrote the novel the film is based on. More on that in a moment.

First Blood is about a Vietnam vet named John Rambo who comes to a small Washington state town (actually British Columbia) to find the last surviving comrade from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he too is dead, Rambo makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being arrested by the hick local sheriff (Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by the locals but manages to escape sparking an all out manhunt.

This film has 55 minutes of action out of 96 total highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase. Jack Starrett is great as the cop that does most of the abusing while Davis Caruso is fine as the only deputy (among the surprisingly large local force) that seems to have a conscience. Dennehy is good as always and makes a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna is great as Rambo's former CO and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well. Even though he has limited speaking parts, this is probably one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the "Vietnam speech" near the end of the film.

The film is presented in digitally remastered widescreen 16:9, and is without a doubt the best video presentation of First Blood to date. The movie was shot in the temperate rain forest of BC and is quite dark at times. However, the darkest scenes have been enhanced here and are much improved over the various VHS versions some of which are terrible. Sound is Dolby 2.0 only but not bad considering. Also included are a cute trivia game (get all 10 right without a mistake to see a Rambo cartoon), production notes, and a teaser and trailer. The "featurette" is nothing more than a glorified trailer.

Now on to the best feature of this DVD, one that is worth the price of admission all by itself. If you are at all interested in how films are made and the behind the scenes tidbits about Hollywood, then RUN do not walk (or let your fingers do the walking online) to your local video store and get this disc. Why? For the outstanding commentary of writer David Morrell. This talented man begins to speak before the opening credits and does not stop for 96 minutes. When he does you will wish he could have continued for 96 more. You will find yourself listening again and again and picking up something new each time. This is without a doubt far and away the best commentary on any DVD.

Here is just a partial list of the things Morrell covers:

1. The many differences between his novel and the film-very fascinating stuff. 2. His experience when seeing First Blood the very first time. 3. The three act structure of films. 4. How he chose the name Rambo and other character names. 5. How First Blood set a number of precedents for the industry. 6. Why films were kept to 90 minutes in length for so long a time. 7. A touching story about his son and Stallone. 8. The story of how Kirk Douglas was scheduled to play Troutman and why Richard Crenna ended up with the role.

And that is only scratching the surface.

In conclusion, First Blood was a precedent setting film featuring top-flight actors and some of the best believable screen action. The wonderful commentary of David Morrell caps off a great experience.

A tremendous movie....
When Sylvester Stallone is involved....you know youre going to get terrific action. But the movies story and Stallones character of John Rambo are very interesting as well. The thing that appealed to me most of all in this movie is Rambo barely says 2 words througout the whole movie and at the end he just blows up. He explodes about the war, his buddies getting killed, etc. Its an explosive and dramatic moment....the topper of the whole movie.

Again, terrific movie, if youre into action/drama, take a look at this one, its great!!!

America missed the meaning of this movie
I remember seeing this movie for the first time on July 4, 1984. I know back then I was into long hair, and alot of 60's and 70's music. Didn't do acid, or any drugs as I was 16, and grew up in a police officer's house. I always knew police brutality existed, but after this movie I suddenly realized that men in short hair aren't always the good guys. I mean after all there are no pictures of the devil with long hair, or at least from what I've seen. I know watching this movie I've developed a intense prejudice of hick folks, and country bumpkins, and the such as I feel that they are self-righteous, and know it alls, and that they are God. I know that the only other people in movies that rubbed me the wrong way were Sherrif Buford T. Justice from "Smokey and the Bandit", and the corrupt sherrif who smacked around his deputy in the movie "Tank". However, don't get me wrong the same way that Sherrif Teasle, and crew are accountable so is Rambo. Rambo still is accountable for murdering an officer of the law even though it was self-defense. He'd have to go to court, and prove it as such. The Veitnam war no doubt has ruffled alot of feathers, and in my opinion while I understand why some ran away to Canada I also understand why some went there. I can only imagine what the soldiers went through there as I was only a baby when this was all going on. Like all veterans of all the wars the Veitnam Veterans should've been given dignity, and respect all along for fighting to keep our freedom. Mind you I'd have to start digging for the whole 30 year war over there, and why it impacted us so much. The same way I feel that the laws back here are to be respected, and a police officer should be given the same dignity, and respect as that of a soldier who went overseas to fight. I know one phrase was powerful when Teasle said "That if a prisoner is mistreated, by a deputy he brings it to him, and then Teasle(him) goes to the deputy, and that's how the law works", but what happens when the head vigilanty is your Sherrif? Overall this movie should've made America reflect on how we reacted, and treated these brave soldiers when they returned from Veitnam, and come to grips with our actions, and our attitudes. However, America missed the boat by glorifying Rambo for all the wrong reasons, and diffused the character, and the message. They made Rambo a gun toting vigilanty, and that was America's new superhero. Rambo wanted no war. He wanted to visit his friend, and became heartbroken when he found out his friend was dead. All Rambo wanted was a hot meal, and a chance to grieve before moving on; who knows Rambo may had found peace for once in Holidayland, but now it's citizens will never know as Prejudice was standing at the door when Rambo knocked. To me America is still acting that way, and it's time to forgive, and reconcile, and move on.

First Blood is still best of three Rambo movies
The first Rambo movie called First Blood was released in the fall of 1982. The movie was arguably Sylvester Stallone's best performance since Rocky II. First Blood is about a Vietnam veteran named John Rambo who comes to a small town in Washington the state(it was actually filmed in the dead of British Columbia, Canada's winter of 1981/82) to meet a fellow comrade/friend from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he died of cancer, Rambo sadly in disbelief makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being harassed and arrested by the hick local Sheriff Will Teasle(Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by Deputy Galt(Jack Starrett) and fellow sheriffs Ward and others but a flashback to being abused and tortured in a POW prison while being processed causes Rambo to snap and manages to escape jail by taking out five cops and sparking an all out manhunt between 200 people versus one Rambo. This film is a 96 minute action rollercoaster highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase and fighting with the national guard. Jack Starrett was great as the hillbilly cop that did all of the abusing while David Caruso was fine as the only deputy that had a conscience and a heart and did not abuse Rambo. Dennehy was superb and made a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna gave his best performance as Rambo's former Colonel Sam Trautman and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well(originally Kirk Douglas was to play Trautman but that fell through at the last minute). Despite the fact he had very limited speaking parts, First Blood was one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the Vietnam speech near the end of the film. (..). This DVD is well worth the money. ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Fast paced action thriller set in the Pacific Northwest
First Blood is the story of a Special Forces Vietnam veteran John Rambo who returns home to America to find that he doesn't fit in. Hiking throught the Pacific Northwest Rambo finds out that his best freind from Nam has died from agent orange induced cancer. He wanders off and in a nearby town encounters a small town sheriff who first harasses him and then arrests him. Rambo busts out of jail using the skills that were taught to him in Nam. It turns out that Rambo was a member of an elite special forces group and that he is in essence a killing machine. Most of the movie revolves around Rambo taking to the woods with the local police and then the State Police and National Guard giving chase. Of course they are no match for Rambo who is able to demonstrate his fighting skills admirably. The action sequences in this film are excellent. Stallone is at his best as the crazed predator hunting down the inept police force. The film holds your attention and is interesting to the end. The only downside is the final speech given by Stallone which is so rambling and hard to understand that it could put the audience to sleep. Stalllone is best when he is not talking but attacking and this is what made this film 4 stars.

Watch the Movie-Then Go to Film School With David Morrell!
***Note-This is an update to my previous review***

The latest DVD version of the classic Stallone action flick provides several supplemental features, the most notable being the outstanding commentary by David Morrell who wrote the novel the film is based on. More on that in a moment.

First Blood is about a Vietnam vet named John Rambo who comes to a small Washington state town (actually British Columbia) to find the last surviving comrade from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he too is dead, Rambo makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being arrested by the hick local sheriff (Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by the locals but manages to escape sparking an all out manhunt.

This film has 55 minutes of action out of 96 total highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase. Jack Starrett is great as the cop that does most of the abusing while Davis Caruso is fine as the only deputy (among the surprisingly large local force) that seems to have a conscience. Dennehy is good as always and makes a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna is great as Rambo's former CO and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well. Even though he has limited speaking parts, this is probably one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the "Vietnam speech" near the end of the film.

The film is presented in digitally remastered widescreen 16:9, and is without a doubt the best video presentation of First Blood to date. The movie was shot in the temperate rain forest of BC and is quite dark at times. However, the darkest scenes have been enhanced here and are much improved over the various VHS versions some of which are terrible. Sound is Dolby 2.0 only but not bad considering. Also included are a cute trivia game (get all 10 right without a mistake to see a Rambo cartoon), production notes, and a teaser and trailer. The "featurette" is nothing more than a glorified trailer.

Now on to the best feature of this DVD, one that is worth the price of admission all by itself. If you are at all interested in how films are made and the behind the scenes tidbits about Hollywood, then RUN do not walk (or let your fingers do the walking online) to your local video store and get this disc. Why? For the outstanding commentary of writer David Morrell. This talented man begins to speak before the opening credits and does not stop for 96 minutes. When he does you will wish he could have continued for 96 more. You will find yourself listening again and again and picking up something new each time. This is without a doubt far and away the best commentary on any DVD.

Here is just a partial list of the things Morrell covers:

1. The many differences between his novel and the film-very fascinating stuff. 2. His experience when seeing First Blood the very first time. 3. The three act structure of films. 4. How he chose the name Rambo and other character names. 5. How First Blood set a number of precedents for the industry. 6. Why films were kept to 90 minutes in length for so long a time. 7. A touching story about his son and Stallone. 8. The story of how Kirk Douglas was scheduled to play Troutman and why Richard Crenna ended up with the role.

And that is only scratching the surface.

In conclusion, First Blood was a precedent setting film featuring top-flight actors and some of the best believable screen action. The wonderful commentary of David Morrell caps off a great experience.

A tremendous movie....
When Sylvester Stallone is involved....you know youre going to get terrific action. But the movies story and Stallones character of John Rambo are very interesting as well. The thing that appealed to me most of all in this movie is Rambo barely says 2 words througout the whole movie and at the end he just blows up. He explodes about the war, his buddies getting killed, etc. Its an explosive and dramatic moment....the topper of the whole movie.

Again, terrific movie, if youre into action/drama, take a look at this one, its great!!!

America missed the meaning of this movie
I remember seeing this movie for the first time on July 4, 1984. I know back then I was into long hair, and alot of 60's and 70's music. Didn't do acid, or any drugs as I was 16, and grew up in a police officer's house. I always knew police brutality existed, but after this movie I suddenly realized that men in short hair aren't always the good guys. I mean after all there are no pictures of the devil with long hair, or at least from what I've seen. I know watching this movie I've developed a intense prejudice of hick folks, and country bumpkins, and the such as I feel that they are self-righteous, and know it alls, and that they are God. I know that the only other people in movies that rubbed me the wrong way were Sherrif Buford T. Justice from "Smokey and the Bandit", and the corrupt sherrif who smacked around his deputy in the movie "Tank". However, don't get me wrong the same way that Sherrif Teasle, and crew are accountable so is Rambo. Rambo still is accountable for murdering an officer of the law even though it was self-defense. He'd have to go to court, and prove it as such. The Veitnam war no doubt has ruffled alot of feathers, and in my opinion while I understand why some ran away to Canada I also understand why some went there. I can only imagine what the soldiers went through there as I was only a baby when this was all going on. Like all veterans of all the wars the Veitnam Veterans should've been given dignity, and respect all along for fighting to keep our freedom. Mind you I'd have to start digging for the whole 30 year war over there, and why it impacted us so much. The same way I feel that the laws back here are to be respected, and a police officer should be given the same dignity, and respect as that of a soldier who went overseas to fight. I know one phrase was powerful when Teasle said "That if a prisoner is mistreated, by a deputy he brings it to him, and then Teasle(him) goes to the deputy, and that's how the law works", but what happens when the head vigilanty is your Sherrif? Overall this movie should've made America reflect on how we reacted, and treated these brave soldiers when they returned from Veitnam, and come to grips with our actions, and our attitudes. However, America missed the boat by glorifying Rambo for all the wrong reasons, and diffused the character, and the message. They made Rambo a gun toting vigilanty, and that was America's new superhero. Rambo wanted no war. He wanted to visit his friend, and became heartbroken when he found out his friend was dead. All Rambo wanted was a hot meal, and a chance to grieve before moving on; who knows Rambo may had found peace for once in Holidayland, but now it's citizens will never know as Prejudice was standing at the door when Rambo knocked. To me America is still acting that way, and it's time to forgive, and reconcile, and move on.

First Blood is still best of three Rambo movies
The first Rambo movie called First Blood was released in the fall of 1982. The movie was arguably Sylvester Stallone's best performance since Rocky II. First Blood is about a Vietnam veteran named John Rambo who comes to a small town in Washington the state(it was actually filmed in the dead of British Columbia, Canada's winter of 1981/82) to meet a fellow comrade/friend from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he died of cancer, Rambo sadly in disbelief makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being harassed and arrested by the hick local Sheriff Will Teasle(Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by Deputy Galt(Jack Starrett) and fellow sheriffs Ward and others but a flashback to being abused and tortured in a POW prison while being processed causes Rambo to snap and manages to escape jail by taking out five cops and sparking an all out manhunt between 200 people versus one Rambo. This film is a 96 minute action rollercoaster highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase and fighting with the national guard. Jack Starrett was great as the hillbilly cop that did all of the abusing while David Caruso was fine as the only deputy that had a conscience and a heart and did not abuse Rambo. Dennehy was superb and made a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna gave his best performance as Rambo's former Colonel Sam Trautman and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well(originally Kirk Douglas was to play Trautman but that fell through at the last minute). Despite the fact he had very limited speaking parts, First Blood was one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the Vietnam speech near the end of the film. (..). This DVD is well worth the money. ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Fast paced action thriller set in the Pacific Northwest
First Blood is the story of a Special Forces Vietnam veteran John Rambo who returns home to America to find that he doesn't fit in. Hiking throught the Pacific Northwest Rambo finds out that his best freind from Nam has died from agent orange induced cancer. He wanders off and in a nearby town encounters a small town sheriff who first harasses him and then arrests him. Rambo busts out of jail using the skills that were taught to him in Nam. It turns out that Rambo was a member of an elite special forces group and that he is in essence a killing machine. Most of the movie revolves around Rambo taking to the woods with the local police and then the State Police and National Guard giving chase. Of course they are no match for Rambo who is able to demonstrate his fighting skills admirably. The action sequences in this film are excellent. Stallone is at his best as the crazed predator hunting down the inept police force. The film holds your attention and is interesting to the end. The only downside is the final speech given by Stallone which is so rambling and hard to understand that it could put the audience to sleep. Stalllone is best when he is not talking but attacking and this is what made this film 4 stars.

Watch the Movie-Then Go to Film School With David Morrell!
***Note-This is an update to my previous review***

The latest DVD version of the classic Stallone action flick provides several supplemental features, the most notable being the outstanding commentary by David Morrell who wrote the novel the film is based on. More on that in a moment.

First Blood is about a Vietnam vet named John Rambo who comes to a small Washington state town (actually British Columbia) to find the last surviving comrade from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he too is dead, Rambo makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being arrested by the hick local sheriff (Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by the locals but manages to escape sparking an all out manhunt.

This film has 55 minutes of action out of 96 total highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase. Jack Starrett is great as the cop that does most of the abusing while Davis Caruso is fine as the only deputy (among the surprisingly large local force) that seems to have a conscience. Dennehy is good as always and makes a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna is great as Rambo's former CO and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well. Even though he has limited speaking parts, this is probably one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the "Vietnam speech" near the end of the film.

The film is presented in digitally remastered widescreen 16:9, and is without a doubt the best video presentation of First Blood to date. The movie was shot in the temperate rain forest of BC and is quite dark at times. However, the darkest scenes have been enhanced here and are much improved over the various VHS versions some of which are terrible. Sound is Dolby 2.0 only but not bad considering. Also included are a cute trivia game (get all 10 right without a mistake to see a Rambo cartoon), production notes, and a teaser and trailer. The "featurette" is nothing more than a glorified trailer.

Now on to the best feature of this DVD, one that is worth the price of admission all by itself. If you are at all interested in how films are made and the behind the scenes tidbits about Hollywood, then RUN do not walk (or let your fingers do the walking online) to your local video store and get this disc. Why? For the outstanding commentary of writer David Morrell. This talented man begins to speak before the opening credits and does not stop for 96 minutes. When he does you will wish he could have continued for 96 more. You will find yourself listening again and again and picking up something new each time. This is without a doubt far and away the best commentary on any DVD.

Here is just a partial list of the things Morrell covers:

1. The many differences between his novel and the film-very fascinating stuff. 2. His experience when seeing First Blood the very first time. 3. The three act structure of films. 4. How he chose the name Rambo and other character names. 5. How First Blood set a number of precedents for the industry. 6. Why films were kept to 90 minutes in length for so long a time. 7. A touching story about his son and Stallone. 8. The story of how Kirk Douglas was scheduled to play Troutman and why Richard Crenna ended up with the role.

And that is only scratching the surface.

In conclusion, First Blood was a precedent setting film featuring top-flight actors and some of the best believable screen action. The wonderful commentary of David Morrell caps off a great experience.

A tremendous movie....
When Sylvester Stallone is involved....you know youre going to get terrific action. But the movies story and Stallones character of John Rambo are very interesting as well. The thing that appealed to me most of all in this movie is Rambo barely says 2 words througout the whole movie and at the end he just blows up. He explodes about the war, his buddies getting killed, etc. Its an explosive and dramatic moment....the topper of the whole movie.

Again, terrific movie, if youre into action/drama, take a look at this one, its great!!!

America missed the meaning of this movie
I remember seeing this movie for the first time on July 4, 1984. I know back then I was into long hair, and alot of 60's and 70's music. Didn't do acid, or any drugs as I was 16, and grew up in a police officer's house. I always knew police brutality existed, but after this movie I suddenly realized that men in short hair aren't always the good guys. I mean after all there are no pictures of the devil with long hair, or at least from what I've seen. I know watching this movie I've developed a intense prejudice of hick folks, and country bumpkins, and the such as I feel that they are self-righteous, and know it alls, and that they are God. I know that the only other people in movies that rubbed me the wrong way were Sherrif Buford T. Justice from "Smokey and the Bandit", and the corrupt sherrif who smacked around his deputy in the movie "Tank". However, don't get me wrong the same way that Sherrif Teasle, and crew are accountable so is Rambo. Rambo still is accountable for murdering an officer of the law even though it was self-defense. He'd have to go to court, and prove it as such. The Veitnam war no doubt has ruffled alot of feathers, and in my opinion while I understand why some ran away to Canada I also understand why some went there. I can only imagine what the soldiers went through there as I was only a baby when this was all going on. Like all veterans of all the wars the Veitnam Veterans should've been given dignity, and respect all along for fighting to keep our freedom. Mind you I'd have to start digging for the whole 30 year war over there, and why it impacted us so much. The same way I feel that the laws back here are to be respected, and a police officer should be given the same dignity, and respect as that of a soldier who went overseas to fight. I know one phrase was powerful when Teasle said "That if a prisoner is mistreated, by a deputy he brings it to him, and then Teasle(him) goes to the deputy, and that's how the law works", but what happens when the head vigilanty is your Sherrif? Overall this movie should've made America reflect on how we reacted, and treated these brave soldiers when they returned from Veitnam, and come to grips with our actions, and our attitudes. However, America missed the boat by glorifying Rambo for all the wrong reasons, and diffused the character, and the message. They made Rambo a gun toting vigilanty, and that was America's new superhero. Rambo wanted no war. He wanted to visit his friend, and became heartbroken when he found out his friend was dead. All Rambo wanted was a hot meal, and a chance to grieve before moving on; who knows Rambo may had found peace for once in Holidayland, but now it's citizens will never know as Prejudice was standing at the door when Rambo knocked. To me America is still acting that way, and it's time to forgive, and reconcile, and move on.

First Blood is still best of three Rambo movies
The first Rambo movie called First Blood was released in the fall of 1982. The movie was arguably Sylvester Stallone's best performance since Rocky II. First Blood is about a Vietnam veteran named John Rambo who comes to a small town in Washington the state(it was actually filmed in the dead of British Columbia, Canada's winter of 1981/82) to meet a fellow comrade/friend from his elite Green Beret unit. When he discovers that he died of cancer, Rambo sadly in disbelief makes his way into town for a bite to eat and instead winds up being harassed and arrested by the hick local Sheriff Will Teasle(Brian Dennehy). While in custody, Rambo is abused by Deputy Galt(Jack Starrett) and fellow sheriffs Ward and others but a flashback to being abused and tortured in a POW prison while being processed causes Rambo to snap and manages to escape jail by taking out five cops and sparking an all out manhunt between 200 people versus one Rambo. This film is a 96 minute action rollercoaster highlighted by the jail escape and subsequent chase and fighting with the national guard. Jack Starrett was great as the hillbilly cop that did all of the abusing while David Caruso was fine as the only deputy that had a conscience and a heart and did not abuse Rambo. Dennehy was superb and made a worthy opponent for Rambo. Richard Crenna gave his best performance as Rambo's former Colonel Sam Trautman and he and Dennehy play off one another quite well(originally Kirk Douglas was to play Trautman but that fell through at the last minute). Despite the fact he had very limited speaking parts, First Blood was one of Stallone's best performances highlighted by the Vietnam speech near the end of the film. (..). This DVD is well worth the money. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ingrid Bergman gives a virtuoso solo performance in this Jean Cocteau one-act. The plot of this hour-long piece is a simple one: a woman, devastated after her lover leaves her for someone else, speaks to him on the phone one last time. The piece is beautifully, perfectly written and performed--all of the little lies and desperate hopes of heartbreak are captured. Bergman’s performance is as brave as it is complex--she is willing to let her character crumble into an embarrassing weakness that few actresses would risk. Anyone who has ever nursed false hopes of salvaging a relationship will find this piece all too well done. See it, but not right after a breakup. --Ali Davis ... Read more

Reviews (13)

A Real Classic
This is a real classic movie. Don Ameche and Tom Selleck did a supurb job. As any movie it has its slow spots but keeps you laughing. Ive watched this flick a dozen times already and still laugh just as hard and times even harder. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who's looking for a warm comedy with lots of laughs. Now if it would only come out on DVD.

Folks Is One Of The Funniest Movies Out There!
I would recommend this title to everybody! It is one of the funniest movies that I have ever seen and I couldn't stop laughing the first time I saw it! This Video is a MUST GET for all movie lovers!!!

My uncle loves it!
I purchased this for my uncle to show at the VA Hospital. Alot of the veterans had not seen "Folks". THEY LOVED IT!

the worst movie ever
I'm sorry, but this is one of a few movies I've ever seen that I couldn't finish. It's that bad. Poor acting, poor script, poor everything. Only good for tormenting someone.

very funny
Totaly enjoyable, very funny. Tom Selleck is very good in this movie. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Without land, a man is nothing
UPDATE 3/5/04: DVD CAN BE FOUND ONLINE. AVOID IT. MISSING SCENES, LOUSY PICTURE.

The back of the "Duddy Kravitz" VHS box alleges that Duddy "uses the girl who loves him, forges checks, and lies but somehow still manages to work his way into our hearts." To describe the film this way misses its uniqueness by inverting its point. Richard Dreyfuss' charismatic, touching, and wildly comic performance (the key performance of his career, and little-seen), effortlessly and immediately batters its way into our hearts. The process by which he squanders those affections and the affections of those around him (perhaps most tragically Yvette's and Virgil's) is incremental, painful, and, we have no reason to suppose otherwise, irreversible. Only gradually does it become clear that he draws no distinction between people and objects - both are merely means to an end. The VHS blurb suggests a redemption, a feel-good experience that's nowhere to be found in this film. Duddy not only betrays other characters; he betrays the audience, truly and distressingly. Despite his energy and intelligence and charm, this punk manages to work his way out of our hearts.

The film daringly takes our "audience-identification figure" and pulls him out from under us, leaving us to ponder:

Does Duddy's devoted grandfather, kneading soil in a ghetto victory garden one morning, plant the seed of Duddy's undoing when he remarks, unequivocally, "Without land, a man is nothing"? The remark registers on the younger man's face unmistakably: the sole way to avoid being "Nothing" has just been revealed!

Is ethical business practice a luxury struggling immigrants budget for at their peril? One character is allowed, eloquently and at length, to say just that. There is no one present to raise an objection.

Do Yvette and Virgil, unbendingly loyal to the personable young opportunist, abet his crimes a little or a lot? Yvette smells a rat early on, Virgil takes longer to wise up. Time and again Duddy barters their love and trust for the only thing truly valuable in his world: the parcel of land that will save him from "Nothingness". Duddy's tragedy is that he might have won ALL the marbles if he'd been a different sort of man. But the apprentice intuitively grasps the lesson being imparted all around him: in order to win, others must lose. Both Yvette and Virgil are loath to cut Duddy dead until his betrayals reach the level of obscenity.

At what point does the viewer cut him dead? Or does Duddy continue (see review below) to seem "inspiring"? The film doesn't insist, to its credit, on any one answer to those questions. Along with the enormous amount of physical energy at his disposal, Duddy possesses a prodigious, caustic wit which he frequently unloads on those who would directly challenge him. The brilliance of the film is that these harangues are so sympathetically written and masterfully performed that viewers may not know what to make of them, other than to mistake them for ringing endorsements of Duddy's behavior; indeed, in these moments Dreyfuss dazzles even that viewer who may have already made up his mind about the disposition of Duddy's soul. Other viewers may excuse him under the "if you want to make an omelet, you have to break some eggs" rule (Virgil, paralyzed through Duddy's chicanery, may be unimpressed by this defense). The perceptive, skillful work of writer and actor allows us to see where Duddy's "coming from", even if we cringe at where he's headed. His bad side can seem as seductive as his good.

One can't shake the feeling that this earnest young man has not, will not, and cannot admit to himself that he's a con man. The story ends before Duddy can realize who he's been swindling, who has been the mark in his long con: Duddy Kravitz.

Where's the DVD?
I loved the film and I would like to see the DVD produced with tons of special features. please.

Excellent!
I agree with the first reviewer - This is an excellent movie. Duddy Kravitz (played by Richard Dreyfuss) fits the bill as a typical entrepreneur. Set in Montreal in 1948, Duddy Kravitz knows that he is going to be successful, just not at what. However, a chance opportunity during a picnic with his girlfriend Yvette (played by the beautiful Micheline Lanctot) gave him is dream and set in motion a series of events and necessities that allowed him to achieve his dream, but with some costs. This is a must see movie for (1) the budding entrepreneur, (2) the entrepreneur currently suffering some setbacks and in need of some inspiration, and (3) those who want to see a slice of life from Montreal back in the late 1940's (it was, still is and will always be, a great city to live in).

It's an EXCELLENT MOVIE!
An excellent movie! A 10! Dreyfuss gives an excellent performance as the young Jewish kid struggling to make ends meet.Dreyfuss should have at least been nominated for Best Actor.I highly recommend this movie.The highlight of this movie is also the beautiful cinematography of Montreal, Canada.Once you see it, you'll be swept away! I urge you, if you haven't seen this movie, go and see it and buy it later! Very realistic and true to life. The Apprentice of Duddy Kravitz is a winner! It'll make you very happy! A must-see! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Without land, a man is nothing
UPDATE 3/5/04: DVD CAN BE FOUND ONLINE. AVOID IT. MISSING SCENES, LOUSY PICTURE.

The back of the "Duddy Kravitz" VHS box alleges that Duddy "uses the girl who loves him, forges checks, and lies but somehow still manages to work his way into our hearts." To describe the film this way misses its uniqueness by inverting its point. Richard Dreyfuss' charismatic, touching, and wildly comic performance (the key performance of his career, and little-seen), effortlessly and immediately batters its way into our hearts. The process by which he squanders those affections and the affections of those around him (perhaps most tragically Yvette's and Virgil's) is incremental, painful, and, we have no reason to suppose otherwise, irreversible. Only gradually does it become clear that he draws no distinction between people and objects - both are merely means to an end. The VHS blurb suggests a redemption, a feel-good experience that's nowhere to be found in this film. Duddy not only betrays other characters; he betrays the audience, truly and distressingly. Despite his energy and intelligence and charm, this punk manages to work his way out of our hearts.

The film daringly takes our "audience-identification figure" and pulls him out from under us, leaving us to ponder:

Does Duddy's devoted grandfather, kneading soil in a ghetto victory garden one morning, plant the seed of Duddy's undoing when he remarks, unequivocally, "Without land, a man is nothing"? The remark registers on the younger man's face unmistakably: the sole way to avoid being "Nothing" has just been revealed!

Is ethical business practice a luxury struggling immigrants budget for at their peril? One character is allowed, eloquently and at length, to say just that. There is no one present to raise an objection.

Do Yvette and Virgil, unbendingly loyal to the personable young opportunist, abet his crimes a little or a lot? Yvette smells a rat early on, Virgil takes longer to wise up. Time and again Duddy barters their love and trust for the only thing truly valuable in his world: the parcel of land that will save him from "Nothingness". Duddy's tragedy is that he might have won ALL the marbles if he'd been a different sort of man. But the apprentice intuitively grasps the lesson being imparted all around him: in order to win, others must lose. Both Yvette and Virgil are loath to cut Duddy dead until his betrayals reach the level of obscenity.

At what point does the viewer cut him dead? Or does Duddy continue (see review below) to seem "inspiring"? The film doesn't insist, to its credit, on any one answer to those questions. Along with the enormous amount of physical energy at his disposal, Duddy possesses a prodigious, caustic wit which he frequently unloads on those who would directly challenge him. The brilliance of the film is that these harangues are so sympathetically written and masterfully performed that viewers may not know what to make of them, other than to mistake them for ringing endorsements of Duddy's behavior; indeed, in these moments Dreyfuss dazzles even that viewer who may have already made up his mind about the disposition of Duddy's soul. Other viewers may excuse him under the "if you want to make an omelet, you have to break some eggs" rule (Virgil, paralyzed through Duddy's chicanery, may be unimpressed by this defense). The perceptive, skillful work of writer and actor allows us to see where Duddy's "coming from", even if we cringe at where he's headed. His bad side can seem as seductive as his good.

One can't shake the feeling that this earnest young man has not, will not, and cannot admit to himself that he's a con man. The story ends before Duddy can realize who he's been swindling, who has been the mark in his long con: Duddy Kravitz.

Where's the DVD?
I loved the film and I would like to see the DVD produced with tons of special features. please.

Excellent!
I agree with the first reviewer - This is an excellent movie. Duddy Kravitz (played by Richard Dreyfuss) fits the bill as a typical entrepreneur. Set in Montreal in 1948, Duddy Kravitz knows that he is going to be successful, just not at what. However, a chance opportunity during a picnic with his girlfriend Yvette (played by the beautiful Micheline Lanctot) gave him is dream and set in motion a series of events and necessities that allowed him to achieve his dream, but with some costs. This is a must see movie for (1) the budding entrepreneur, (2) the entrepreneur currently suffering some setbacks and in need of some inspiration, and (3) those who want to see a slice of life from Montreal back in the late 1940's (it was, still is and will always be, a great city to live in).

It's an EXCELLENT MOVIE!
An excellent movie! A 10! Dreyfuss gives an excellent performance as the young Jewish kid struggling to make ends meet.Dreyfuss should have at least been nominated for Best Actor.I highly recommend this movie.The highlight of this movie is also the beautiful cinematography of Montreal, Canada.Once you see it, you'll be swept away! I urge you, if you haven't seen this movie, go and see it and buy it later! Very realistic and true to life. The Apprentice of Duddy Kravitz is a winner! It'll make you very happy! A must-see! ... Read more