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Bruce Willis's awful, 1991 vanity piece is an abuse of audience goodwill and a waste of a good cast and director (Michael Lehmann of Heathers). The story, cowritten by Willis, concerns a cat burglar pressured into stealing precious art, including some from the Vatican. But the script is just a convenience upon which Willis piles his vaguely boorish brand of hip irony, assuming his audience will stay with him every step of the way. Certain, self-congratulatory scenes induce cringing--Willis and Danny Aiello, for instance, sing "Side by Side" (to brassy accompaniment on the soundtrack) every time they're working a job--but the overall effect is more irritating and baffling. Keep a good thought for Willis (an underrated actor better than the summer junk we usually see him in) by checking out his superior work in Pulp Fiction and his small but memorable role in Billy Bathgate. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (93)

Almost Believed The Hype
My love of this movie began when I was home alone channel sufing. Stumbling across this film on UPN, I checked my Trusty TV Guide and found they only gave it one star. I decided to do a MST3K on this apparently rotten film. I Was unable to do so because there was one small problem. This film is the most convoluted, twisted, Hitchcokian piece of Funny stuff I've ever seen. Being of Fan of totally random stuff, I was over whelmed by the randomness of this film. A butler has Knives spring out of his Arms. Bruce willis ( as Hudson) and Danny Allieo time a burgarly with a rendition of "Swingin on a Star" The pope watches Mr. Ed. And THrough it all, Hudson just wants a coffee. You see the McGuffin of this film may be Da Vinci's Book of Fun & games, but the real driving force in this film is Hudson's coffee. This movie has many one-liners that I can say to my friends and they have absolutly no idea wher it comes from. Many other reviews talk about A Deus Ex Machina ending. I have no idea what tha is really, but the end, the beginning and yes eventhe middle are full of great stuff. Dont Listen to critics! in Some fashion. everyone should see a portion of this underated classic.

Ahead of It's Time
I, too, was one who saw this movie when it was first released (right after "Die Hard") and fell to the original disappointment. Recently, I decided I had to buy the DVD to add to my Bruce Willis movie collection because I knew it was an important movie to this artist (he created it, helped write it, etc) and I am such a fan of his talent. You can't imagine my surprise to find that watching it now, years later, I thought the movie was hilarious! It is the kind of movie that is best described as "just plain fun". My jaw hurt from laughing so hard for so long! The only explanation I have for not liking it when it first came out...but, loving it years later is that the type of humor that was in "Hudson Hawk" (Bruce Willis humor) was simply ahead of it's time! I am glad I finally caught up! Buy the DVD if possible and listen to the director's commentary to find hidden humor that surely passed by you unnoticed when you watched the movie. If you only like movie's that have twisted plots and make you think...then, this movie is not for you. But, If you like to kick back and just get lost in the fun...you'll enjoy this movie tremendously!

what the hell...
This is one of the worst movies ever made. The comedy can only be enjoyed by a preteen. An R-rated movie starring Bruce Willis with loney-toon style sound effects and all of the crappiest things you can think of. This movie is horrible. In order to like this movie you must have had a full lobotomy.

Classic film like no other!!!!
I remember really diggin the hell out of this at the theatre, despite the fact that it tanked and I was all of 12. What gets me is that- I understand why your average brainwashed zombified office drone wouldn't like this but the critics panned it too. Actually, that doesn't surprise me, given the heidi fleiss treatment they've lavished on the wretched 'Troy.' Anyway, Glad to see there's a little amazon cult of like-minded souls who appreciate the hilarious absurdity, one-off jokes, great performances, neat ideas and all around craziness this movie delivers.

Yeah, there are some plot problems and pacing is off-kilter, but heck, this film is so much fun from the first second til the end when Eddie finally gets his- no I won't ruin it... Give it a chance. I haven't perused the DVD but doubt it has much extra stuff. This isn't the kind of film the gets the redux.

If the thought of Danny Aiello, Bruce Willis, James Coburn, Sandra Bernhardt, Andie McDowell (no relation to Malcolm), a young David Caruso, and a handful of other dynamic character actors doesn't appeal to you then stop reading now. Moreover, if the thought of the world's greatest jewel thief stealing Da Vinci treasures, a Vatican spy agency, an over-the-top madman entrepreneur and his depraved wife aimed at destroying the world's economy, a corrupt CIA covert ops team called "The Candybars," doesn't pique your interest then go back to bed.

Some of the best one liners I've ever heard. They never get old. "I must speak with the dolphins now." "Just kill her- Darwin! This is supposed to be torture, not therapy." "Bettie Jo Baijarsky? I can get you an address on that." "Bunny?!? Ball Ball!!!"

If you like Bill Murray's everyman attitude in ghostbusters then this film's humor will appeal.

In summation- If you dug 'Ice Pirates,' "The Princess Bride," or any Terry Gilliam film you will probably dig this one.

ciao.

Oh, get over yourselves
I hate stupid movies. Mel Brooks annoys the hell out of me. But I like, nay, LOVE Hudson Hawk. One of the few movies not directed by David Lynch that constantly leaves you thinking "What the f___?" in the same way that "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" leaves you thinking "What the f___?" It's an acid-soaked Catholic caper with snappy dialogue and great Bond-esque one-liners. You just have to let go of sanity and roll with it. As for the all-knowing movie gods who panned this scategorical masterpiece, what do they call you, Ig and Ook? ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Film noir in Technicolour
Fallen Angels 1 has three film noir -stories, each half an hour long, all created in the style of the 40's films. I got this because of Rickman (of course), but wasn't disappointed in any of the other stories either.

The first story stars Peter Gallagher as a conman/cardplayer, and reminds very much of the cheap detective stories my father had. In this world nobody really works, everybody cons, even the nice old sweet couple Gallagher meets in a train and tries to win their money. Wrong move, of course, he gets thrown out in the middle of a desert and later picked up by a car driven by a newly married couple: a man who is a Bible printer and his gorgeous wife, Isabella Rossellini, who nags and nags until than man stops the car and.... Gallagher in is the middle of another plot. Unrealistically beautiful and dangerous women, sadistic killers, organized crime - the lot. A real 40's B-movie in 30 minutes.

'Murder, obliquely' is why I wanted to see this. Laura Dern gets invited to meet a friend of her friends, Dwight (Rickman), and immediately knows, this is her first and final love. Though the man doesn't seem to be interested. They get interrupted by Rickman's lover, a well built redhead - and her new husband. In Rickman's mind the thing isn't over, so newlyweds exit after the woman has thrown all Rickman's gifts on his face. And a bit later they are again, apparently, lovers. Until Dern's innocent remark about a canceled concert breaks everything.

'Murder, obliquely', directed by Cuaron, is different from the two other ones. Everything really happens somewhere else. What we see and hear are Dern's narrative and a couple of people reacting to hints. They are always inside, in doorways, half letting someone in but still keeping them out. Very little is said but Dern's narrative. I've never really liked Dern, but this time she was good. And Rickman... There's again that odd mix of soft, slow sensuality, cunning, cold, calculating intellect and a touch of vulnerability and sincerity (which may be even real). One starts thinking: "OK, he's not young and handsome (though I must admit I find his profile intriguing), but he probably could charm you before you realized what is happening, and kill you without anybody noticing you are dead - and he'd probably have a very good and justified reason for doing it, damn it!" So you don't wonder Dern's choice in the end, though you yourself start speculating: what then? is he serious? is he planning something else? Dern's way of repeating: "My first and final love" leaves a whole lot of options. And to me it reminds the end of Francis Iles' novel 'Before the fact', which I've always liked very much. Yes, this is a good buy for a Rickman-fan, though it doesn't give that many minutes of him.

The third one is again a more active story, moving from city to city, from real live celebrities to the mob. Tim Matheson is Howard Hughes - an odd choice - and Gary Busey the guy, who works for him and Michael Cohen, hyperactivelly played by James Woods. Busey, too, is an odd choise for the guy who seems to have a decent heart somewhere, but everybody works rather fine.
The story moves around a blond bombshell, whom both Hughes and Cohen want to find. But she isn't what she appears to be, though she worked as a prostitute. All the marks of a Bogart-type movie are here; the cynical lead character, criminals, mobsters, dead men turning up from all sorts of places, a beautiful, elusive woman, wanted by many and yet seemingly capable to take care of herself and have her own, cunning plans.

Well, I liked these. I've always liked film noir and even with these modern actors (which sometimes make the stories come very close to a parody) and brilliant colours they were well made and amazingly loyal. I even liked the order, with calm, hinting 'Murder,obliquely' placed in between Bogart-style stories. A well deserved 4 stars. ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Genius black comedy / Satire
This film personifies high school, classic 80's teen angst cult film. Right down to the cliques in high school. The one difference between Westburg High & my high school is nobody was killing the popular kids off. Christian Slater plays Jason Dean (JD) a sociopath new kid in school who is fed up with cliques and the everday sheep students trying to fit in with the cool kids. Winona Ryder plays Veronica an individual but hangs with the Heathers to make life in HS easier. She notices JD's individuality and they start dating. Everythings is great until he wants to kill off the Heather girls & popular students. So he manipulates Veronica to help him kill off her simple minded friends & make it look like suicides. At first she is repulsed but can't stand her friends so she gives in. If you look deeper into this film beyond the quirky comedy the message is scary the desensitized unemotional oblivious parents, the quirky teacher who still wants to be a student, the song "teenage suicide don't do it" set to a pop upbeat melody. It really reflects high school a bit exaggerated but still relatable. A very dark film about the lengths kids will go to fit in and be liked. One kids twisted view of how the world should be. The ending is great the little speech Christian Slater gives to Wynona Ryder after attempting to blow up the school listen to it makes you think about what he says long after viewing the film. One of my favorite films and essential to collection, a must see to anyone grew up in 80's cinema.

Darkly wonderful and peculiar gem of the 80s
This dark comedy is laced with satire, humor, and wit, much like many of my favorite novels. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater make the ideal duo - until she realizes she needs "cool guys like him out of her life."

Winona, here as Veronica Sawyer, was formerly the best gal pal of dorky yet insanely innocent and kind Betty Finn (both character names are derived from the Archie comic strip). Now, she's taken it up with three girls by the name of Heather. Duke and Chandler may or may not be genuinely evil, while McNamara is just plain pathetically insecure. The thing is, Veronica hates her new so-called friends. It's just their "job to be popular and s***," that's all.

Christian Slater, to my utter dismay, seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth since this booming debut. Here, his performance mimicks that of witty and humorous Jack Nicolson.

"Greetings and salutations." :)

J.D. and Veronica make the ideal couple. Both are witty, bright, and loathe the existence of the high school world. Only J.D. is insanely violent as well, and his actions are bringing about vast repercussions for not only himself, but for Veronica as well. And Veronica is beginning to wise up and realize that J.D., despite his charms and wit, isn't worth all his trouble(s) and excess baggage. Besides, he's got an unhealthy fascination with guns.

After the demise of the leading Heather - their doing through liquid bleach - a second Heather takes her place as leader, even more aggressive and bratty than her predecessor.

Veronica ponders what to do over old and new friendships and accidental deaths in her diary. She and hunky J.D. manage to kill a Heather and two dim-witted jocks but escape suspicion for murder because they leave behind suicide notes. Veronica can perfectly imitate handwriting styles, as we find out during the first 5 minutes of the film when the three Heathers coerce her into writing a love note to high school outcast Martha "Dumptruck" Dunstock and signing a popular jock's signature to it. She approaches him at his lunch table and uproarious laughter ensues.

Teenage suicide seems to be all the rage in the world of Westerburg High, despite the popularity of fictional band Big Fun's hit single, "Teenage Suicide (Don't Do It)." Even though Veronica has left J.D. behind, he still has conjured up his own evil plans concerning the future of Westerburg. And the Heather in control is abusing her privileges - Veronica knows she wants out.

HEATHERS is so much more than a screwball comedy. Since its release, no other film has managed to live up to the same wit and dark humor and charm found throughout, making this film a genuine benchmark in the history of movies - and the 80s, for that matter. HEATHERS takes one glimpse at the work of ultra-cool 80s director/writer John Hughes and laughs in his face, making his Molly Ringwald flicks look like garbage in comparison.

Could this be why Winona is still alive in Hollywood and Molly is not?

Perhaps.

The End of John Hughes Teen Dramas...
Don't get me wrong - Love John Hughes. But this is not Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles or even the Breakfast Club. If you're looking for the sugary sweetness of those happy endings - Heathers isn't for you. There are no scenes that are going to make you overly nostalgic for being a teen in this dark comedy.
The 3 Heathers rule the school of Westerburg High and Heather Chandler (#1) is the dominant red wearing queen. Veronica Sawyer (Ryder) her best friend is dressed mainly in blue - for truth? She is our perspective for the most part and her diary entries (where she pours out all her true feelings) are perfect. Heather Duke - dressed in green for envy of Heather Chandler's power. And Heather MacNamara dressed in yellow for her fear of - everything. They walk the halls of Westerburg secure in their popularity and the fear the instill in their peers.
Enter Jason Dean (Slater) the "black horse in the running". He attracts Veronica mainly because he's an outsider too cool for anyone else and she's sick of the Heathers. He is seen in black for a very good reason. He is ultimately the protagonist for the killings (which are all too believable)
The movie is great, showing without remorse the absolute solitude that HS can be. The stereotypes, while exaggerated are suspiciously close to the truth. Arrogent teachers, clueless parents, heartless peers... Ahhh High School.
Heathers is also has great quotes. BVS is the only other thing I can think of that perfected it's own slang so well. It makes the movie timeless.

"F*** me gently with a chainsaw. Do I look like mother Theresa?" - Heather C.
"I just killed my bestfriend." - Veronica "And your worst enemy." - JD "Same difference." - Veronica
"Did you have a brain-tumer for breakfast?" Heather C.

DARK AND OFTEN BIZARRE, BUT DAZZLING IN EVERY WAY
What a superbly crafted black comedy with an insider's view of highschool powerplays, teenage angst, clueless parents, twerpy faculty, etc etc. Could have easily gone down the beaten path and become one of the countless teen movies, but this is undoubtedly an under-rated gem!

As some reviewers lament, be prepared for parts that are dark and disturbing, but the film is also hilarious for the most part, and whatever your emotional reaction, the dialogue is never off-target. In fact the film's script and visual style are so clever that laughing at murder does not seem much of a guilty pleasure.

For all the talk of suicide, the underlying theme couches a universal and heartening meaning: that all people are created equal, the "in crowd" as well as the nerds.

You need your sense of humor in the right place, and if you've got it there, this movie comes highly recommended from me!

You will hate life more than life hates you...
"Our love is God... let's go get a slushie."

This film is actually smarter than it lets on. It knows its subject matter so well that you can't help but marvel at the relevance. The look, fashion and soundtrack might be dated, but the point sure isn't. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Needs to be revived from the graveyard
Good horror independent flick, was big in 1991 and then all of a sudden disappeared, i think because media home entertainment went out of business?? anyway it should be revived for a DVD release, i would purchase a copy of it on dvd!

Dabney Coleman is Ant Bee --oops! Aunt Bea
The full title of this movie is "Meet The Applegates." This is an ecological movie right up there with "Medicine Man" (1992) ASIN: 6305428506. Only this time the bugs are set on revenge or at least survival which means removing humans. The mission is to blow up a nuclear power plant. To do this they must look and act human. They start out statistically average. As they hold down the fort and wait the arrival of Aunt Bea, They learn more of the complexities of being human.

Ed Begley Jr. who played a misunderstood husband (bob) in "She-Devil" (1989) ASIN: 0792844726, plays a well understood husband in this movie. Stockard Channing who played Rizzo in "Grease" (1978) ASIN: 6300213668, Teaches us how to properly handle credit as the wife Jane Applegate. Dabney Coleman of "9 to 5" (1980) ASIN: 6300247236 fame plays a "queen" Aunt Bea.

Don't miss this or you will be bugged for the rest of your life.

Send up of Suburbanism
Although Michael Lehman and Denise di Novi's follow up to their brilliant satire Heathers is not as wicked, it is an equally bizarre slant on middle class American life. ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Genius black comedy / Satire
This film personifies high school, classic 80's teen angst cult film. Right down to the cliques in high school. The one difference between Westburg High & my high school is nobody was killing the popular kids off. Christian Slater plays Jason Dean (JD) a sociopath new kid in school who is fed up with cliques and the everday sheep students trying to fit in with the cool kids. Winona Ryder plays Veronica an individual but hangs with the Heathers to make life in HS easier. She notices JD's individuality and they start dating. Everythings is great until he wants to kill off the Heather girls & popular students. So he manipulates Veronica to help him kill off her simple minded friends & make it look like suicides. At first she is repulsed but can't stand her friends so she gives in. If you look deeper into this film beyond the quirky comedy the message is scary the desensitized unemotional oblivious parents, the quirky teacher who still wants to be a student, the song "teenage suicide don't do it" set to a pop upbeat melody. It really reflects high school a bit exaggerated but still relatable. A very dark film about the lengths kids will go to fit in and be liked. One kids twisted view of how the world should be. The ending is great the little speech Christian Slater gives to Wynona Ryder after attempting to blow up the school listen to it makes you think about what he says long after viewing the film. One of my favorite films and essential to collection, a must see to anyone grew up in 80's cinema.

Darkly wonderful and peculiar gem of the 80s
This dark comedy is laced with satire, humor, and wit, much like many of my favorite novels. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater make the ideal duo - until she realizes she needs "cool guys like him out of her life."

Winona, here as Veronica Sawyer, was formerly the best gal pal of dorky yet insanely innocent and kind Betty Finn (both character names are derived from the Archie comic strip). Now, she's taken it up with three girls by the name of Heather. Duke and Chandler may or may not be genuinely evil, while McNamara is just plain pathetically insecure. The thing is, Veronica hates her new so-called friends. It's just their "job to be popular and s***," that's all.

Christian Slater, to my utter dismay, seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth since this booming debut. Here, his performance mimicks that of witty and humorous Jack Nicolson.

"Greetings and salutations." :)

J.D. and Veronica make the ideal couple. Both are witty, bright, and loathe the existence of the high school world. Only J.D. is insanely violent as well, and his actions are bringing about vast repercussions for not only himself, but for Veronica as well. And Veronica is beginning to wise up and realize that J.D., despite his charms and wit, isn't worth all his trouble(s) and excess baggage. Besides, he's got an unhealthy fascination with guns.

After the demise of the leading Heather - their doing through liquid bleach - a second Heather takes her place as leader, even more aggressive and bratty than her predecessor.

Veronica ponders what to do over old and new friendships and accidental deaths in her diary. She and hunky J.D. manage to kill a Heather and two dim-witted jocks but escape suspicion for murder because they leave behind suicide notes. Veronica can perfectly imitate handwriting styles, as we find out during the first 5 minutes of the film when the three Heathers coerce her into writing a love note to high school outcast Martha "Dumptruck" Dunstock and signing a popular jock's signature to it. She approaches him at his lunch table and uproarious laughter ensues.

Teenage suicide seems to be all the rage in the world of Westerburg High, despite the popularity of fictional band Big Fun's hit single, "Teenage Suicide (Don't Do It)." Even though Veronica has left J.D. behind, he still has conjured up his own evil plans concerning the future of Westerburg. And the Heather in control is abusing her privileges - Veronica knows she wants out.

HEATHERS is so much more than a screwball comedy. Since its release, no other film has managed to live up to the same wit and dark humor and charm found throughout, making this film a genuine benchmark in the history of movies - and the 80s, for that matter. HEATHERS takes one glimpse at the work of ultra-cool 80s director/writer John Hughes and laughs in his face, making his Molly Ringwald flicks look like garbage in comparison.

Could this be why Winona is still alive in Hollywood and Molly is not?

Perhaps.

The End of John Hughes Teen Dramas...
Don't get me wrong - Love John Hughes. But this is not Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles or even the Breakfast Club. If you're looking for the sugary sweetness of those happy endings - Heathers isn't for you. There are no scenes that are going to make you overly nostalgic for being a teen in this dark comedy.
The 3 Heathers rule the school of Westerburg High and Heather Chandler (#1) is the dominant red wearing queen. Veronica Sawyer (Ryder) her best friend is dressed mainly in blue - for truth? She is our perspective for the most part and her diary entries (where she pours out all her true feelings) are perfect. Heather Duke - dressed in green for envy of Heather Chandler's power. And Heather MacNamara dressed in yellow for her fear of - everything. They walk the halls of Westerburg secure in their popularity and the fear the instill in their peers.
Enter Jason Dean (Slater) the "black horse in the running". He attracts Veronica mainly because he's an outsider too cool for anyone else and she's sick of the Heathers. He is seen in black for a very good reason. He is ultimately the protagonist for the killings (which are all too believable)
The movie is great, showing without remorse the absolute solitude that HS can be. The stereotypes, while exaggerated are suspiciously close to the truth. Arrogent teachers, clueless parents, heartless peers... Ahhh High School.
Heathers is also has great quotes. BVS is the only other thing I can think of that perfected it's own slang so well. It makes the movie timeless.

"F*** me gently with a chainsaw. Do I look like mother Theresa?" - Heather C.
"I just killed my bestfriend." - Veronica "And your worst enemy." - JD "Same difference." - Veronica
"Did you have a brain-tumer for breakfast?" Heather C.

DARK AND OFTEN BIZARRE, BUT DAZZLING IN EVERY WAY
What a superbly crafted black comedy with an insider's view of highschool powerplays, teenage angst, clueless parents, twerpy faculty, etc etc. Could have easily gone down the beaten path and become one of the countless teen movies, but this is undoubtedly an under-rated gem!

As some reviewers lament, be prepared for parts that are dark and disturbing, but the film is also hilarious for the most part, and whatever your emotional reaction, the dialogue is never off-target. In fact the film's script and visual style are so clever that laughing at murder does not seem much of a guilty pleasure.

For all the talk of suicide, the underlying theme couches a universal and heartening meaning: that all people are created equal, the "in crowd" as well as the nerds.

You need your sense of humor in the right place, and if you've got it there, this movie comes highly recommended from me!

You will hate life more than life hates you...
"Our love is God... let's go get a slushie."

This film is actually smarter than it lets on. It knows its subject matter so well that you can't help but marvel at the relevance. The look, fashion and soundtrack might be dated, but the point sure isn't. ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Genius black comedy / Satire
This film personifies high school, classic 80's teen angst cult film. Right down to the cliques in high school. The one difference between Westburg High & my high school is nobody was killing the popular kids off. Christian Slater plays Jason Dean (JD) a sociopath new kid in school who is fed up with cliques and the everday sheep students trying to fit in with the cool kids. Winona Ryder plays Veronica an individual but hangs with the Heathers to make life in HS easier. She notices JD's individuality and they start dating. Everythings is great until he wants to kill off the Heather girls & popular students. So he manipulates Veronica to help him kill off her simple minded friends & make it look like suicides. At first she is repulsed but can't stand her friends so she gives in. If you look deeper into this film beyond the quirky comedy the message is scary the desensitized unemotional oblivious parents, the quirky teacher who still wants to be a student, the song "teenage suicide don't do it" set to a pop upbeat melody. It really reflects high school a bit exaggerated but still relatable. A very dark film about the lengths kids will go to fit in and be liked. One kids twisted view of how the world should be. The ending is great the little speech Christian Slater gives to Wynona Ryder after attempting to blow up the school listen to it makes you think about what he says long after viewing the film. One of my favorite films and essential to collection, a must see to anyone grew up in 80's cinema.

Darkly wonderful and peculiar gem of the 80s
This dark comedy is laced with satire, humor, and wit, much like many of my favorite novels. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater make the ideal duo - until she realizes she needs "cool guys like him out of her life."

Winona, here as Veronica Sawyer, was formerly the best gal pal of dorky yet insanely innocent and kind Betty Finn (both character names are derived from the Archie comic strip). Now, she's taken it up with three girls by the name of Heather. Duke and Chandler may or may not be genuinely evil, while McNamara is just plain pathetically insecure. The thing is, Veronica hates her new so-called friends. It's just their "job to be popular and s***," that's all.

Christian Slater, to my utter dismay, seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth since this booming debut. Here, his performance mimicks that of witty and humorous Jack Nicolson.

"Greetings and salutations." :)

J.D. and Veronica make the ideal couple. Both are witty, bright, and loathe the existence of the high school world. Only J.D. is insanely violent as well, and his actions are bringing about vast repercussions for not only himself, but for Veronica as well. And Veronica is beginning to wise up and realize that J.D., despite his charms and wit, isn't worth all his trouble(s) and excess baggage. Besides, he's got an unhealthy fascination with guns.

After the demise of the leading Heather - their doing through liquid bleach - a second Heather takes her place as leader, even more aggressive and bratty than her predecessor.

Veronica ponders what to do over old and new friendships and accidental deaths in her diary. She and hunky J.D. manage to kill a Heather and two dim-witted jocks but escape suspicion for murder because they leave behind suicide notes. Veronica can perfectly imitate handwriting styles, as we find out during the first 5 minutes of the film when the three Heathers coerce her into writing a love note to high school outcast Martha "Dumptruck" Dunstock and signing a popular jock's signature to it. She approaches him at his lunch table and uproarious laughter ensues.

Teenage suicide seems to be all the rage in the world of Westerburg High, despite the popularity of fictional band Big Fun's hit single, "Teenage Suicide (Don't Do It)." Even though Veronica has left J.D. behind, he still has conjured up his own evil plans concerning the future of Westerburg. And the Heather in control is abusing her privileges - Veronica knows she wants out.

HEATHERS is so much more than a screwball comedy. Since its release, no other film has managed to live up to the same wit and dark humor and charm found throughout, making this film a genuine benchmark in the history of movies - and the 80s, for that matter. HEATHERS takes one glimpse at the work of ultra-cool 80s director/writer John Hughes and laughs in his face, making his Molly Ringwald flicks look like garbage in comparison.

Could this be why Winona is still alive in Hollywood and Molly is not?

Perhaps.

The End of John Hughes Teen Dramas...
Don't get me wrong - Love John Hughes. But this is not Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles or even the Breakfast Club. If you're looking for the sugary sweetness of those happy endings - Heathers isn't for you. There are no scenes that are going to make you overly nostalgic for being a teen in this dark comedy.
The 3 Heathers rule the school of Westerburg High and Heather Chandler (#1) is the dominant red wearing queen. Veronica Sawyer (Ryder) her best friend is dressed mainly in blue - for truth? She is our perspective for the most part and her diary entries (where she pours out all her true feelings) are perfect. Heather Duke - dressed in green for envy of Heather Chandler's power. And Heather MacNamara dressed in yellow for her fear of - everything. They walk the halls of Westerburg secure in their popularity and the fear the instill in their peers.
Enter Jason Dean (Slater) the "black horse in the running". He attracts Veronica mainly because he's an outsider too cool for anyone else and she's sick of the Heathers. He is seen in black for a very good reason. He is ultimately the protagonist for the killings (which are all too believable)
The movie is great, showing without remorse the absolute solitude that HS can be. The stereotypes, while exaggerated are suspiciously close to the truth. Arrogent teachers, clueless parents, heartless peers... Ahhh High School.
Heathers is also has great quotes. BVS is the only other thing I can think of that perfected it's own slang so well. It makes the movie timeless.

"F*** me gently with a chainsaw. Do I look like mother Theresa?" - Heather C.
"I just killed my bestfriend." - Veronica "And your worst enemy." - JD "Same difference." - Veronica
"Did you have a brain-tumer for breakfast?" Heather C.

DARK AND OFTEN BIZARRE, BUT DAZZLING IN EVERY WAY
What a superbly crafted black comedy with an insider's view of highschool powerplays, teenage angst, clueless parents, twerpy faculty, etc etc. Could have easily gone down the beaten path and become one of the countless teen movies, but this is undoubtedly an under-rated gem!

As some reviewers lament, be prepared for parts that are dark and disturbing, but the film is also hilarious for the most part, and whatever your emotional reaction, the dialogue is never off-target. In fact the film's script and visual style are so clever that laughing at murder does not seem much of a guilty pleasure.

For all the talk of suicide, the underlying theme couches a universal and heartening meaning: that all people are created equal, the "in crowd" as well as the nerds.

You need your sense of humor in the right place, and if you've got it there, this movie comes highly recommended from me!

You will hate life more than life hates you...
"Our love is God... let's go get a slushie."

This film is actually smarter than it lets on. It knows its subject matter so well that you can't help but marvel at the relevance. The look, fashion and soundtrack might be dated, but the point sure isn't. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

delightful little comedy
I'm not the biggest fan of these romantic comedies but I found this one very funny and entertaining. Garaffalo was great and uma was pretty good too. I especially liked the radio shows and the clever title. A good escape movie ... Read more

Reviews (93)

This was a cute film...
I really like Josh Hartnett, and I think he did a wonderful job in this film. It was definitely a nice change from all his recent war movies. This movie is basically about a guy named Matt who gives up sex for Lent, because it became meaningless for him after he broke up with his girlfriend. When he meets the perfect girl, he is really put to the test. Can he keep his vow? Well, I'm not gonna give that away, but I will tell you that the whole thing drives him almost completely insane! It is a really good movie, and I thought it was funny when Matt saw his brother (who is working to become a priest) kissing a nun. I also thought the scene where Matt was handcuffed to the bed was pretty funny, and the scene when he ate dinner at his parents' house. Though the film was somewhat degrading to women, I highly recommend it because it is very amusing.

Crude and vulgar
Think of 40 Days & 40 Nights as the adult and mature version of American Pie, except that it has more of a plot and character development than its teenage counterpart. The basic story is about Matt, a guy who have no problem getting laid every so often, but after his breakup with long time girlfriend Nicole, sex have become somewhat meaningless. So to get his life back on track, he decided to give up sex for Lent, and that includes no bodily intimacy of any kind with women. Unfortunately, he meets this incredible girl name Erica, and it becomes a test of will power for him to finish what he started.

For a movie that deals with sex and is very bold about it, expect a lot of jokes and dialogues surrounding that topic. Mix it up with some physical comedies and a great deal with sexual tension, that's pretty much what the film is about. Josh Hartnett did a passable job as the lead, kind of a let down after his brilliant performance in Black Hawk Down. Overall I got a few laughs from 40 Days & 40 Nights, but I thought the point of the movie (if there ever was one) sort of got lost towards the end. Ultimately it falls into the same pattern that defines romantic comedies which you've seen many times before, I found nothing special or memorable about this experience.

DONT RENT. DONT BUY. JUST BURN
Save yourself the 90-120 minutes and do something else with your life. Read a book, write a poem... or realize there is nothing funny about being raped. Just do not under any circumstances watch this film. It is a waste of perfectly good light and I believe it should never be encouraged.

Remember that they will stop making bad movies if we dont watch them.

Not the best, but better then I expected
Ok, I know that this movie will not go down as the best movie of anything, but we all know that. The reason why I love this film is because of the relationship between Josh And Shannyn. I like the story revalving around him finding a real women, letting go of his ex, and his struggle for redemption from pimping women. I think Josh did a great job showing how hard this vow of his was hitting him. You see when he's with Erica, hes really happy and isent in turmoil, but without her, you see him falling more and more. Not the best comedy, but pretty fair romantic story that makes up for it.

Too many jokes at the expense of the romance in this one
If irony is indeed the master trope of the universe, as I have been claiming for several decades, then you know that as soon as Matt Sullivan (Josh Hartnett) makes a vow to stay celibate for the "40 Days and 40 Nights" of Lent, that he is going to meet the love of his life. That would be Erica Sutton (Shannyn Sossamon), who fate throws him together with at the local laundry mat. Matt knows that he is being tested. The problem is that pretty much everyone he knows is in on the cosmic joke.

Matt takes his vow because his breakup with Nicole (Vinessa Shaw) has left him a wreck. He keeps bailing out on successful dates and is becoming obsessed with ceilings. He goes for comfort and advice from his brother who is studying to be a priest and practicing hearing confessions. When he sees the banners for Lent going up he takes it as a sign and swears off sex, including foreplay and self-gratification. Unfortunately, once his roommate Ryan (Paulo Costanzo) finds out the deals this becomes the prefect opportunity to use the internet to get a pool going on how long Matt can, uh, last.

Now, for the sake of argument we will assume that Matt has no discernable brain activity when he is asleep (despite scenes to the contrary), so that we can have the willing suspension of disbelief to go with the film's running gag that has the hero falling part as he goes longer and longer without relief. In the real world this guy would be able to keep his vow and wake up without any major problems. But writer Rob Perez and director Michael Lehmann ("The Truth About Cats & Dogs") want to milk this guy's discomfort for everything it is worth and, unfortunately, more.

It dawned on me that this movie has is clearly bifurcated into the "guy" parts and the "girl" parts and the biggest problem with "40 Days and 40 Nights" is that the two halves do not fit together (as compared to "50 First Dates," which overcomes a similar problem and combines comedy and sweetness). Matt's friends and co-workers treat his vow as a joke and/or money making opportunity. This allows for lots of jokes and some prosthetic humor that leads to the inevitable conclusion that all men are pigs.

Where this film had potential was with the idea that Matt would have to date a woman without having sex, both before and after she finds out about THE VOW. However, I find it hard to believe that finding out about such a thing would really be upsetting to a woman, especially if the guy knows how to handle a flower (and Matt really knows how to handle a flower; this film must have given lots of couples ideas for similar epsiodes of flower fun). But if you stop and think about it the idea that a couple could have a good time on a date with sex or any form of physical contact has to be against just about everything Hollywood stands for (assuming, of course, they are in an upright position).

I was planning on liking this 2002 comedy more, but then somebody bad does something really bad without consequences. No comeuppance. No joke at their expense. No sense of outraged expressed by another character. Nothing. I was so ticked off by that turn of events that when the film cobbled together the requisite happy ending I was not really in the mood to enjoy it. But the filmmakers do get props for coming up with a nice little gift as Matt's final act of contrition.

Final Note: "40 Days and 40 Nights" was certified for 11 year old in Sweden, 12 years old in the Netherlands and Portugal, 13 year olds in Spain, 14 years olds in Brazil and the cantons of Vaud and Geneva in Switzerland, 15 year olds in the United Kingdom, Finland and Norway, 16 year olds in Argentina and in the Swiss canon of Grisons. I have no idea what to make of these numbers but they sure are interesting and make me wonder what is up with those Swiss kids in Grisons (was it the sex or the vow part they are worried about?). ... Read more

Reviews (10)

...
After reading the reviews, I had to respond. I really enjoyed this movie. A lot of people seem to be missing the entire point of the movie (as well as the storyline). Apparently a movie with Billy Crystal must be all hilarity and no poignancy for people to enjoy it.

Maybe advertising is to blame, but I was lucky enough to not hear much about it when it was released. With no expectations in mind, I thought the movie was great -- and Billy Crystal does a decent job taking on a dramatic role. Muresan does surprisingly well with his role as well, concidering the horrible screen talents of other famous-sports-players-put-in-movie types. I would recommend this to anyone...as long as they don't expect Crystal in a stand-up-comedic routine.

Excellent!
My Giant is very funny! Billy Crystal is his usual self in this movie. The same comic personality like in all the rest of his movies. This is a wonderful movie. It also has drama. Very few movies possess the qualitites of making you laugh and cry, and making it work. This does though. If you are a Billy Crystal fan, you will love this!

Billy Crystal at his worst!
I love Billy Crystal! But I hated this movie! I will always hate it! How does a man so talented as a comedian go do a drama and expect to excell? It was a poor attempt at a movie!

Underrated comedy-drama
I think this movie suffered from a misleading ad campaign which made it look like a slapstick comedy. It's not.

It's adult comedy-drama, and a pretty good one. Crystal, the ultimate cynic, slowly becomes best friends with his giant, the ultimate innocent. And there are actually a fair amount of laughs along the way.

It helps to know that this picture was inspired by the late Andre the Giant, who worked with Crystal on "The Princess Bride." Giants' lives are never easy, and that's why this picture has to be serious as well as fun.

I have the feeling this picture may play better on video. If you like funny-sad pictures, check it out.

My Giant is more like a kids movie
I thought this movie sucked. Billy Crystal wasn't even funny. He tries to be funny in some scenes but the whole movie is just plain dumb. The only thing that I got excited about this movie was that tall guy. I heard he's 7'7 in real life. ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of the most memorably offbeat romantic comedies of the 1990s begins when a talk-radio veterinarian named Abby (Janeane Garofalo) takes a call from Brian (Ben Chaplin), the owner of a roller-skating Great Dane. Brian is intrigued by Abby's voice and asks if she'll agree to meet him. Insecure about her looks and her nonexistent love life, Abby agrees, but describes herself as a tall blonde, then begs her attractive neighbor Noelle (played by Uma Thurman) to meet with Brian in her place. The ensuing case of switched identity is complicated when Noelle takes a liking to Brian who, of course, thinks she is Abby. This confusion gains comedic momentum when Abby safely plays herself on the radio and in a long, hilariously seductive phone call with Brian, but by now the situation has grown hopelessly complex, and Abby has to find a way to reveal herself without disappointing Brian. Many viewers rightly complained that the movie relies on the assumption that Abby is unattractive, even though Garofalo is more attractive and appealing here than she'd been in several movies before and since. Still, this contemporary variation on Cyrano de Bergerac is a lightweight, good-natured surprise that values the quirks and foibles that make lovelorn romantics (including their pets) uniquely appealing. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Cute romantic formula
I didn't know why I liked this movie so much but I think I've figured it out. Janeane Garofalo has such presence on screen that she just shines. And I think that the movie goes to pains to present her as anything BUT unattractive.(She has a brilliant sense of humour, she is adorably cute, she manages to get the lead guy to like her for her conversation alone, she has a great intelligent job, she is a talented musician, she has a good heart and even though it hurts her, she sits back and reluctantly watches her friend take the guy she loves out of her reach) Actually, I got the idea that the movie tried to make Uma unattractive to compromise (she isn't particularly intelligent, picks bad men, doesn't get her dream job or guy and ends up taking the backseat to her shorter, more insecure friend) I think that is a very positive message to everyone - something that other romantic comedies don't do. All these romantic comedies nowadays have the dowdy heroine actually get a physical or social makeover to get the guy (eg. Pretty Woman, She's All That, Never Been Kissed) or are really gorgeous to begin with (Three to Tango, Notting Hill). This sweet, sugary (and genuinely funny) movie is a delight. Ben Chaplin is gorgeous in a nervous jittery way and completely suits the part of the sweet, naive lovestruck Brian. Janeane Garofalo and Uma Thurman as Abby and Noelle respectively complement each other perfectly and both have proved to be more than just ditsy romantic comedy love interests. And one adorable pooch steals the show. I would recommend it for anyone who actually wants a decent romantic viewing with a little emotional reality.

An utterly delightful romantic comedy
Every half decade or so, we get another remake of CYRANO DE BERGERAC. This one, luckily, is one of the very best. Now, I really love this movie, and have seen it with great delight on several occasions, but it is also quite disingenuous. The men who play Cyrano or the Cyrano type character are usually either unattractive or made to be quite unattractive (as in ROXANNE, where Steve Martin is given the prosthetic nose of the ages). But Janeane Garofalo is gorgeous, and has always been gorgeous. Short, perhaps (personally, I love short), and not razor thin like Uma Thurman, but absolutely no one with eyes would ever look at her and think anything but, "Wow!" And the cutest smile this side of Julia Roberts. So, in this sense, the movie cheats. Instead of an unattractive woman playing the Cyrano role, we have an extraordinarily cute one. It is a bit like some of Olivia de Havilland's films, in which she, a remarkably beautiful woman, is supposed to be playing a plain one.

That said, this is a completely endearing light comedy. Garofalo plays a woman who does a radio pet advice show, brought into contact over the air with Ben Chaplin, whose dog has a problem. A comedy of errors ensues, as Uma Thurman pretends to be the off air shy Garofalo. Part of the delight of the film is the way the two women manage to perpetuate the misunderstanding, and the way that Chaplin and Garofalo fall in lover over the phone. This is a formula film, in that you know just about everything that is going to happen in the film from the very beginning, but the film is so fresh and innovative in bringing everything to pass, that it never feels like a formula pic.

Slight correction to the editorial review. I believe that Henry the Dog is a Bull Mastiff, not a Great Dane. One of my best friends has a dog (Bella) who looks exactly like Henry, but who is most decidedly a Bull Mastiff. That's the truth about this particular dog.

A classic casual comedy
This is one of the best comedies i've ever seen, reverse roles, great actors and a perfectly plotted storyline. Romance, comedy, drama, this movie has it all, Uma thurman is great.

THE TRUTH
This with out a doubt has to be one of the best films I have ever seen. The only reason I first watched this was because Jamie Foxx was in it, but I was pleasentlly surprised to see such a good film. Michael Lehmann did a great job directing this film, the film was shot with perfection. Audrey Wells made a right move puting money [ececutive producer] and writing into this film [writer].

The casting for the film was great, all did great jobs on this movie. First off is Uma Thurman who did a great job as the beatifull typical blonde. She is very belivable in this roll, and very lovable at the same time. Next up is Janeane Garofalo who did an excellent job on this film as the typical everyday person. She might be the best person in this film all around, she did a great job. Next up is the very talanted Ben Chaplin, if any one out shines Janeane in this it would be him. I feel he did great in the roll of the missguided lover. He did a great job in this roll, he was perfect for it. Also is the reason I watched, Jamie Foxx delivers with a good performance but he is rarly on screen to deliver a full out classic performance.

The story follows Ben as he is drawn into Janeane threw her voice but when he wants to meet her she brings in Uma as her stand in. When she falls for him the games really begin. I'd rather you see for yourself.

Hilarious!!!!!
This movie truly touches the themes of how the society is focus on the beauty outside, when it's really what it is inside that counts. Janeane garofalo gives an outstanding performance as well as Uma Thurman, a great and funny romantic comedy, that will teach you about the real love, the story based on a radio dj in love with his fan is well done, that doesn't make you believe in one instance that it's unreal....great movie....funny times... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Spinal Tap it ain't, but Michael Lehmann's good-natured comedy of errors, about a garage band whose unannounced visit to a local radio station escalates into a hostage situation, is pleasant diversion with a fair share of laughs. Brendan Fraser plays the singer-songwriter of the unknown heavy metal band the Lone Rangers, a trio of socially challenged musicians rounded out by dimwitted but sweet bass player Adam Sandler and aging drummer/toy-store employee Steve Buscemi--who just happens to be packing a lifelike toy machine gun from work. Needless to say, the friendly visit is misinterpreted as a hostile takeover, but all the Lone Rangers want is to play their music on the air--and they sabotage themselves again by destroying their own demo tape! Joe Mantegna plays a burned-out deejay who tries to help the muddled metalheads as the media surrounds the building and asks the question on everyone's lips: "How can you be the Lone Rangers if you're always together?" --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (47)

Empty Headed Mis-fire.
Remember those innocuously awful Disney comedies of the 70's? That's what this mis-fire feels like even though you won't for a moment think it's a Disney film. A struggling group of friends who dream of being rock musicians hold a radio station hostage in order to get their demo-tape played.

It's kind of a Dog Day Afternoon meets Bill and Ted. They have an interesting premise and a cast that tries hard to be energetic and funny but the situations the writers invent quickly become like a bad situation comedy. The characters are all unrealistically dumb and there are very few funny lines. Worse it's all utterly predictable and lacks any kind of sharp satire or edges. It's not without some laughs thanks in large part to Michael McKean and Joe Mantegna but the comedy is often downright desperately unfunny at times. Brendan Fraser, Steve Buscemi, Adam Sandler , Michael Richards , Judd Nelson and Chris Farley play one note characters that wear out whatever welcome you are kind enough to give them way before the film is over. And it's one of those films that believes if it was funny the first time it will be funnier the second and third time.

There's a few laughs, but too few to waste your time on.

I'm wanna be a rockstar, but...on my own terms!
Finally I have my other favorite Rock and Roll comedy (the other being Spinal Tap, of course)! This movie is hilarious and depicts its characters, music genre, and attitudes in a hilarious but realistic way. Brendan Frasier, Steve Buscemi, and Adam Sandler are Chaz, Rex, and Pip aka "The Lone Rangers" (you can pluralize that?). Anyway they get fed up with never getting any airtime for their song "Degenerated", so they take the KPPX "Rebel Radio" station hostage with plastic uzis filled with hot sauce. I won't give away the rest but hilarity definitely ensues! The three stars are surrounded by hilarious co-stars like Chris Farley ("improvise"), Michael McKean (You can't smoke in here, babe.), Allen Covert (the guy in every Sandler movie!), Judd Nelson (we're making records), Ernie Hudson (a giant plastic baby bottle?), Joe Mantegna (Ian the Shark), Reg E. Cathey (Marcus with the wah wah pedal and afro!), Amy Locane (What the heck happened to my make-up?!), Nina Siemaszko (I like your hair), David Arquette (yall are like woo-hoo and ...), Michael Richards (I don't even have a home, I have a condo), Harold Ramis (Wrong, Lemmy is God!), Lemmy (Editor of the school magazine), Beavis & Butthead (voice only, ...)and others I may have missed!

The DVD is exceptional: Anamorphic Widescreen (1.85:1), Theatrical Trailer, Featurette (made up of clips and fake news coverage), TV Spots, Music Videos for "Born to Raise Hell" by Motorhead (featuring ICE T & Whitfield Crane) and "Feed the Gods" by White Zombie (also performed at a night club in the movie! so Bonus!), 19 Chapter selections, English and French Audio, and English and Spanish subtitles, not to mention a disc with the three AIRHEADS pictured on it! Highly recommended, especially for fans of the cast and pretty much anybody who liked Spinal Tap! Even better than naked pictures of Bea Arthur (I'm just assuming here)!

Clearing something up...
I really enjoyed the review written about Airheads which happens to be one of my favorite movies. But I just wanted to clear something up. In the review it says Sandler (Pip) is the Lone Rangers' bassist and Buscemi (Rex) is the drummer. It's the other way around. Rex plays bass and Pip plays drums. I dunno if someone else already noticed this but I just wanted to point it out anyways.

how can u pluralize 'lone ranger'?!
i still remember the first time i saw this movie, it was a regular boring saturday afternoon, and i had nothing to do so i decided to see if FOX was running a saturday afternoon movie, after all, thats how i saw 'Predator', 'Aliens', and 'Terminator 2' for the first time. anyways, i saw that this movie was called 'Airheads' and i thought to myself "what a stupid title" but then i acknowledged the likes of brendan fraser and adam sandler so then decided to watch it. and im glad that i did. this movie is hella funny! its my favorite comedy ever! and on top of that, its entertaining especially to fans of rock music. adam sandler is at the top of his game in this one. the chemistry between fraser, buscemi, and sandler is hilarious! my fav scene is the one when they make pip(sandler) go outside when the cop is standing out there, pure comedy genious. most of the movie i find myself laughing out loud, even when i watch it alone. so if u get the chance, i strongly recommend u get this movie, steal it from a friend if you have to. laterz

Born to raise hell
AIRHEADS is a funny comedy about an aspiring rock band called "The Lone Rangers" (not actually pluralized, isn't it?) who unwittingingly hold a radio station hostage with... get this, water guns! The band "just wants to play their demo". Theyre' pretty dumb huh? Anyway the film does please the audience with a funny cast including Brendan Fraser, Steve Buscemi, an early up and comer Adam Sandler, Chris Farley and "Spinal Tap" star Michael McKean. ... Read more

Reviews (127)

Genius black comedy / Satire
This film personifies high school, classic 80's teen angst cult film. Right down to the cliques in high school. The one difference between Westburg High & my high school is nobody was killing the popular kids off. Christian Slater plays Jason Dean (JD) a sociopath new kid in school who is fed up with cliques and the everday sheep students trying to fit in with the cool kids. Winona Ryder plays Veronica an individual but hangs with the Heathers to make life in HS easier. She notices JD's individuality and they start dating. Everythings is great until he wants to kill off the Heather girls & popular students. So he manipulates Veronica to help him kill off her simple minded friends & make it look like suicides. At first she is repulsed but can't stand her friends so she gives in. If you look deeper into this film beyond the quirky comedy the message is scary the desensitized unemotional oblivious parents, the quirky teacher who still wants to be a student, the song "teenage suicide don't do it" set to a pop upbeat melody. It really reflects high school a bit exaggerated but still relatable. A very dark film about the lengths kids will go to fit in and be liked. One kids twisted view of how the world should be. The ending is great the little speech Christian Slater gives to Wynona Ryder after attempting to blow up the school listen to it makes you think about what he says long after viewing the film. One of my favorite films and essential to collection, a must see to anyone grew up in 80's cinema.

Darkly wonderful and peculiar gem of the 80s
This dark comedy is laced with satire, humor, and wit, much like many of my favorite novels. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater make the ideal duo - until she realizes she needs "cool guys like him out of her life."

Winona, here as Veronica Sawyer, was formerly the best gal pal of dorky yet insanely innocent and kind Betty Finn (both character names are derived from the Archie comic strip). Now, she's taken it up with three girls by the name of Heather. Duke and Chandler may or may not be genuinely evil, while McNamara is just plain pathetically insecure. The thing is, Veronica hates her new so-called friends. It's just their "job to be popular and s***," that's all.

Christian Slater, to my utter dismay, seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth since this booming debut. Here, his performance mimicks that of witty and humorous Jack Nicolson.

"Greetings and salutations." :)

J.D. and Veronica make the ideal couple. Both are witty, bright, and loathe the existence of the high school world. Only J.D. is insanely violent as well, and his actions are bringing about vast repercussions for not only himself, but for Veronica as well. And Veronica is beginning to wise up and realize that J.D., despite his charms and wit, isn't worth all his trouble(s) and excess baggage. Besides, he's got an unhealthy fascination with guns.

After the demise of the leading Heather - their doing through liquid bleach - a second Heather takes her place as leader, even more aggressive and bratty than her predecessor.

Veronica ponders what to do over old and new friendships and accidental deaths in her diary. She and hunky J.D. manage to kill a Heather and two dim-witted jocks but escape suspicion for murder because they leave behind suicide notes. Veronica can perfectly imitate handwriting styles, as we find out during the first 5 minutes of the film when the three Heathers coerce her into writing a love note to high school outcast Martha "Dumptruck" Dunstock and signing a popular jock's signature to it. She approaches him at his lunch table and uproarious laughter ensues.

Teenage suicide seems to be all the rage in the world of Westerburg High, despite the popularity of fictional band Big Fun's hit single, "Teenage Suicide (Don't Do It)." Even though Veronica has left J.D. behind, he still has conjured up his own evil plans concerning the future of Westerburg. And the Heather in control is abusing her privileges - Veronica knows she wants out.

HEATHERS is so much more than a screwball comedy. Since its release, no other film has managed to live up to the same wit and dark humor and charm found throughout, making this film a genuine benchmark in the history of movies - and the 80s, for that matter. HEATHERS takes one glimpse at the work of ultra-cool 80s director/writer John Hughes and laughs in his face, making his Molly Ringwald flicks look like garbage in comparison.

Could this be why Winona is still alive in Hollywood and Molly is not?

Perhaps.

The End of John Hughes Teen Dramas...
Don't get me wrong - Love John Hughes. But this is not Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles or even the Breakfast Club. If you're looking for the sugary sweetness of those happy endings - Heathers isn't for you. There are no scenes that are going to make you overly nostalgic for being a teen in this dark comedy.
The 3 Heathers rule the school of Westerburg High and Heather Chandler (#1) is the dominant red wearing queen. Veronica Sawyer (Ryder) her best friend is dressed mainly in blue - for truth? She is our perspective for the most part and her diary entries (where she pours out all her true feelings) are perfect. Heather Duke - dressed in green for envy of Heather Chandler's power. And Heather MacNamara dressed in yellow for her fear of - everything. They walk the halls of Westerburg secure in their popularity and the fear the instill in their peers.
Enter Jason Dean (Slater) the "black horse in the running". He attracts Veronica mainly because he's an outsider too cool for anyone else and she's sick of the Heathers. He is seen in black for a very good reason. He is ultimately the protagonist for the killings (which are all too believable)
The movie is great, showing without remorse the absolute solitude that HS can be. The stereotypes, while exaggerated are suspiciously close to the truth. Arrogent teachers, clueless parents, heartless peers... Ahhh High School.
Heathers is also has great quotes. BVS is the only other thing I can think of that perfected it's own slang so well. It makes the movie timeless.

"F*** me gently with a chainsaw. Do I look like mother Theresa?" - Heather C.
"I just killed my bestfriend." - Veronica "And your worst enemy." - JD "Same difference." - Veronica
"Did you have a brain-tumer for breakfast?" Heather C.

DARK AND OFTEN BIZARRE, BUT DAZZLING IN EVERY WAY
What a superbly crafted black comedy with an insider's view of highschool powerplays, teenage angst, clueless parents, twerpy faculty, etc etc. Could have easily gone down the beaten path and become one of the countless teen movies, but this is undoubtedly an under-rated gem!

As some reviewers lament, be prepared for parts that are dark and disturbing, but the film is also hilarious for the most part, and whatever your emotional reaction, the dialogue is never off-target. In fact the film's script and visual style are so clever that laughing at murder does not seem much of a guilty pleasure.

For all the talk of suicide, the underlying theme couches a universal and heartening meaning: that all people are created equal, the "in crowd" as well as the nerds.

You need your sense of humor in the right place, and if you've got it there, this movie comes highly recommended from me!

You will hate life more than life hates you...
"Our love is God... let's go get a slushie."

This film is actually smarter than it lets on. It knows its subject matter so well that you can't help but marvel at the relevance. The look, fashion and soundtrack might be dated, but the point sure isn't. ... Read more

Reviews (270)

Absolutely wonderful filmmaking...
"City of Angels" isn't one of those movies in which you leave the theatre with a humungous smile on your face, laughing all the way to the car while popcorn residue falls from the front of your shirt. In fact, it's possible to really dislike this film right after you see it. I know I left the theatre saying, "They can't do that! They just can't do that!" But after about a week of sitting at stop lights drenched in seemingly eternal crimson and haggling over mountains of bills, certain images work their way into your consciousness, images from the film you saw a week ago, and you can almost feel an angel's hand on your shoulder as you stand in the ten items or less line at Lucky. The beauty of this film, for me, lies as much in the world it creates as well as the story it tells. Nicholas Cage and Meg Ryan create an amazing, if improbable, chemistry through which we feel every emotion in front of us; Dennis Franz gives an exceptional performance as the lovable fallen angel; And then there's Andre Braugher, who I believe is one of the finest actors anywhere, period. But the true credit for this film's stunning grace is deserved by director Brad Siberling. The world which he creates is one of angels and humans, but not a world in which those angels play baseball or are obsessed with death. "City of Angels" is about life, and Siberling's angels are appreciators of humans,doing so quietly, and yet with immense strength. The direction of their placement is perfect, and each action of theirs reminds us of an appreciation for humans (and life)that gives Cage's character all the more beauty, and credability in the closing scenes. Indeed, it is the nuances of "City of Angels" which make it so good. The supplemental material on this Special Edition DVD gives us insight into those nuances, and is just another example of why this format should be supported. "City of Angels" is a movie which becomes a part of you. It teaches how incredible the human experience really is. And when you believe that, you can almost feel an angel smiling right at you.

The best supernatural romance since "Ghost."
There is an offbeat sense of style and passion which sets "City of Angels" apart from most other romantic films, a sense that comes from the movie's refusal to cast flashy, young stars amidst a cliched plotline. Instead, the film enhances a highly original story through two very enticing leads, Meg Ryan and Nicolas Cage, who have a pulsating chemistry that is intrical to the overall effect of the film. Director Brad Silberling's visual style and an enigmatic soundtrack all converge to create one of the best romances of all time.

The story begins by introducing us to Seth, an angel who brings freshly dead souls to Heaven ("I always asked them what they liked best about life"). He is not alone on Earth: there are many other angels on the planet, circulating throughout the city of Los Angeles in black trenchcoats, making their way to the beach to watch the sunset... heck, their local hangout is the public library. We are witness to many different situations, deaths and one convenience store robbery, where the angels interact in order to instill their sense of calm over people.

Seth is a very complex character, his charming and calm attitude and his handsome looks making him an ideal angel. On his arrival to take a dead hospital patient to Heaven, he meets eyes with Maggie, or thinks he does (she can't see him), and he is immediately drawn to her beauty. He later learns that if he wants her to see him, then she will in her own time, which, fortunately for him, is sooner rather than later. Maggie does not believe in angels or God, so the many strange occurances that surround her meeting and her getting to know Seth will test her faith in her beliefs.

Of course, this big question is whether or not they will end up together in the end. This is something that the movie toys with immensely as it examines the relationship between Seth and Maggie, which is more fragile than you would think. Maggie's insecurities about her newfound love and Seth's naivety of the ways of human life provide some heartwarming and sometimes tear-jerking moments which further enhance the bond between them. And once Maggie finds out about his origins, the relationship takes an entirely different avenue, which I'll leave you to discover on your own.

There is a nice amount of chemistry between the two lead acting talents. Nicolas Cage is the perfect choice for Seth: his angelic looks and his sensitive demeanor evoke feelings of serenity and calmness while the audience is graced by his onscreen presence. His character is very complex when it comes to making new discoveries about life, and Cage brings out all of the confusion quite convincingly. Meg Ryan is outstanding, as always, in her role of Maggie, who is required to experience big shows of emotion. Ryan does this superbly, and one scene that comes to mind takes place in an empty hospital stairwell, where Maggie cries for her patient. This scene gives the actors a chance to show what they are really made of, while subtly bringing to life to budding chemistry between the two that will culminate later on.

Two supporting roles of this film also add to the movie's story. Dennis Franz plays a fallen angel who chose to leave his heavenly status for a woman he fell in love with, and once he meets Seth, he begins explaining his experiences to his new friend in order to help him get a grip on his feelings. Andre Braugher plays Seth's confidant angel, who helps him keep his head on his shoulders. Both of these characters offer interesting insight and element into the secret life of angels, which makes us think of what really does exist out there.

The overall sense of style and grace that the movie charms us with seems a bit more sophisticated than most romantic films. The images are easy on the eyes: we are given everything at a steady pace, which allows us to pay more attention to the love story. Silberling's brilliant shots tell the story in such intricate and enlightening ways. Tight shots of the actors bring us more into the emotion of the film, while beautiful beach shots of the sunrise as underwater filming are breathtaking. Seth's "fall" will certainly be talked about for its wonderful composition: there is such a momentus amount of intensity and awe in that moment, which makes it one of the film's defining turning points.

The soundtrack is also a major key element to the success of this film. Most of the music centers around the theme of loneliness, wanting someone back, and (what else?) angels. The most evocative song of the film is Sarah McLachlan's "Angel," which rings outs its haunting melodies and meaningful lyrics to a scene that practically melts my heart. The score for the film, done by Gabriel Yared, combines new age influences with modern beats that keep it interesting and emotional. The score certainly fits the film, as do the many songs.

I deeply enjoyed "City of Angels." This is a movie that I can sit through and not have to worry about bashing: it has all the classical elements of a romance with a new twist, which is carried out meticulously by superb acting and a tremendous directorial effort. This is the best supernatural romance since "Ghost."

Something about meg ryan! 26th june 2004.
No affense or anything, but i don't like meg ryan. Her films are entirely boring, i think she as ruined herself abit by her surgery, and i would feel sorry for any pretty actress who had the same. God bless mine hasn't had anything done.

One of the best modern romance films, one of Meg's greatest.
This film is soooo good. It makes you look at life in a whole other perspective. The performances in this film are phenomenal. Nicholas Cage, Meg Ryan, that dude from NYPD Blue, and the whole rest of the cast played fantastic roles. The story is both gripping and moving, and the script is awesome. The way the movie changes you is very spiritual. The cinematography, though subtle, is good. The score and the soundtrack is one of the most mournfull I have ever heard. Everything about this movie is surreal. See it. I highly reccomend this movie.

The Heavens over L.A.
Why is it that movies about angels and heaven and death intrigue us? Is it because it is something untangible? something we all believe in but are not sure what it actually looks like?

City of Angels is a remake of the German movie "Der Himmel über Berlin" (The heaven over Berlin). That movie starts with the angel sitting on a broken church (Gedächtniskirche) in Berlin. Nicolas Cage sits on a skyscraper, America's cathedral.

He tries to get alive so he can feel and love. He is helped by another fallen angel played by a magnificent Dennis Frantz. He gets his wish, gets the girl but then...

Meg Ryan is superb as ever. ... Read more