Description

The story of a young man?s amazing journey from a slave prison to the very inner sanctum of Egypt?s Pharaoh ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Gripping and accurate ...the ending will bring you to tears!
As a teacher of ancient history with a doctorate in Biblical theology, I can say--without hesitation, this account of the Joseph story is as good as it gets! Although some of the sexually explicit (though historically accurate) scenes should be screened from the very young, this film is an ideal platform from which teens can search out characteristics of moral uprightness in a character of whom the Bible has not one negative thing to say! Kingsley (as he did in 'Moses') steals the show, and Mercurio does an admirable job as Joseph. Especially capable are the actors portraying Joseph's wicked brothers, with Vincenzo Nicoli sterling is his performance as the wicked Simeon. Having watched the film dozens of times with adults--as well as with my middle-schoolers in the classroom, I can say that the greatest of Bible stories is captured in all its power, pathos, and glory. Although creating a few anachronistic vignettes (such as Joseph's 'foreshadowing' Christ's "My God, my God..." speech from the Egyptian prison), the film also captures all of the great ironies of the Joseph story. When Mercurio tenderly reveals himself as the second most powerful man in the ancient world--to the brothers who hated him as a youth, the words 'I am Joseph' will not fail to bring even the most calloused heart to tears. As my students synthesized the thirty or so characteristics of moral goodness extant in Joseph into an essay, one asked why no such heroes existed today. The question revealed both the effectiveness of this presentation, and the dearth of role models in our society. 'Joseph' is both gripping in narration, and brilliant its direction. It is faithful to Scripture and well-acted. It is THE finest of the TNT productions to date, of which only one ('Jacob') was a failure. Everyone will appreciate this wonderful story of forgiveness, but those those who are looking for the 'hidden things of Christ' cannot miss the poignant messianic threads which are so skillfully woven through the life of Joseph. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

"The Joseph story as it was meant to be told!"
This account of the Joseph story is as good as it gets! I teach ancient history and civilizations, and have an earned doctorate in theology. I say this only to lend perspective to this review.

This film is Biblically accurate, well-acted, and the producer and director are to be praised for the sound Biblical reasearch!

Although some of the sexually explicit (though historically accurate) scenes should be screened from the very young, this film is an ideal platform from which teens can search out characteristics of moral uprightness in a character of whom the Bible has not one negative thing to say!

Kingsley (as he did in 'Moses') steals the show, and Mercurio does an admirable job as Joseph. Only Leslie Ann Warren (Potipher's wife) seems to strain as an actor, nevertheless, her performance detracts little from the drama. Especially capable are the actors portraying Joseph's wicked brothers, with Vincenzo Nicoli sterling is his performance as the wicked Simeon.

Having watched the film dozens of times with adults--as well as with my middle-schoolers in the classroom, I can say that the greatest of Bible stories is captured in all its power, pathos, and glory. Although creating a few anachronistic vignettes (such as Joseph's 'foreshadowing' Christ's "My God, my God..." speech from the Egyptian prison), the film also captures all of the great ironies of the Joseph story.

When Mercurio tenderly reveals himself as the second most powerful man in the ancient world--to the brothers who hated him as a youth, the words 'I am Joseph' will not fail to bring even the most calloused heart to tears.

As my students synthesized the thirty or so characteristics of moral goodness extant in Joseph into an essay, one asked why no such heroes existed today. The question revealed both the effectiveness of this presentation, and the dearth of role models in our society.

'Joseph' is both gripping in narration, and brilliant its direction. It is faithful to Scripture and well-acted. It is THE finest of the TNT productions to date, of which only one ('Jacob') was a failure.

Everyone will appreciate this wonderful story of forgiveness, but those those who are looking for the 'hidden things of Christ' cannot miss the poignant messianic threads which are so skillfully woven through the life of Joseph. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

a man of character and faith
Though this interpretation of Joseph's life has been substantially embellished, the heart and soul of the story remain intact, and is ultimately quite faithful to the Biblical account covered in Genesis Ch. 33:18 through Ch. 46:30.
Much of the acting is marvelous, especially Ben Kingsley as Potiphar, whose part has thankfully been enlarged, because he is riveting in every scene he is in.
Martin Landau is also excellent as the patriarch Jacob, who mourns the apparent loss of his favorite son, Joseph.
Australian actor/dancer Paul Mercurio ("Strictly Ballroom") is good in the lead, and others in the cast include Leslie Ann Warren as Potiphar's lying wife, the always beautiful Dominique Sanda as Leah, and some fine character actors playing Joseph's brothers, notably Michael Attwell (Judah), and Vincenzo Nicoli (Simeon).

Included in this film, and intrinsic to Joseph's life are the stories of Tamar and Judah, and the horrific tale his sister Dinah, both done effectively.The only parts that are less than first-rate are the scenes in Pharoah's court; almost campy in costuming and acting, they can provide some amusement in the midst of all the drama. Stefano Dionisi is a most unlikely and modern looking Pharoah, and has the ultimate babe for a wife, the pulchritudinous Monica Bellucci. The entire film though, is always mentally and visually entertaining, and has much spiritual content. As with so much of the Old Testament, there are allegories that run through its narrative that point to the New Testament, and the story of Joseph has much of this symbolism.

Filmed in Quarzazate, Morocco, with its exotic ancient structures and landscapes, the cinematography by Rafaele Mertes is wonderful; this is a way above average production for television, and a film about a man who "does nothing against his conscience even on pain of death" is worth watching again and again.

Great Movie
I truly enjoyed this film. I think it was superbly done, however, I did not agree with the scene between Joseph and Potipher's wife. I think it was a bit too sexy and it was not necessary. This scene does not make it suitable for younger audiences and I think that is a shame because it is such a great movie. However, that was the only scene where I saw Hollywood getting carried away.

Excellent biblical account and well done!
Thoroughly enjoyed this depiction of the life of Joseph and learned much by viewing the movie! Even though I have read the biblical account, seeing it come to life in the movie filled in things in the story that I missed in the biblical account.

Sometimes it's nice to read the bible story first and then follow it up with seeing the movie.

Movie very well done! Highly recommend! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

"The best Exodus film to date...but not quite 'Joseph'....."
Ben Kingsley has to be one of the finest Hollywood--as well as biblical, character actors in the world today. His Moses spans the life of the hero from youth to the old man most people think of when the name of Moses is mentioned.

This film is the best version of the Exodus story to date. It is far superior to 'Ten Commandments', which stressed the spectacular at the expense of the accurate. This TNT version--while not quite as good as 'Joseph', is extremely accurate in its depiction of ancient Egyptian history. It stresses the Egyptian background of Moses' life, and doesn't just portray him as simply Hebrew alone.

How nice to see Moses pictured as a highly trained soldier (which he surely was) in growing up in the Pharaoh's court! Especially novel is the portrayal of Moses' lisp, which could be a very accurate interpretation of the Biblical narrative's 'slow of speech'. While a bit more emphasis could've been placed on the fact that the plagues were specific judgments upon Egyptian gods, the film does a fine job in nearly every other respect.

The next to last meeting between Moses and the Pharaoh ("MY name resounds in all the earth--and I let YOU live"!) is exceptionally well written, and the final meeting is wonderful. Moses speaks volumes in his silence! The parting of the Red Sea is pretty darn good (though the crossing is mysteriously speedy--even for an epic!), and the fact that the Hebrews crossed it 'on dry ground' is an excellent addition which most miss in the Bible, not to mention the film! Great job, here!

The 'pillars of fire' which hold back the Egyptians are depicted as lightning, and this part is a real highlight! The film assumes Ramases and Mernepta are the major Pharaohs of the period. This might cause a little confusion to more conservative believers who place the Exodus earlier (1445 BC), and the Pharaoh as Thutmoses III. It will be especially confusing to 'Prince of Egypt' admirers, since Ramases there is Moses' friend, instead of the Pharaoh-father.

All in all, this is a film well worth watching. Unlike 'Joseph' however, which never had a dull moment, 'Moses' is considerably less interesting after the crossing of the Red Sea. But it does fair justice to the Bible, and the acting is superb. One could hardly ask too much more from Hollywood!

Finally!
Finally...a film about Moses that is about as realistic as you will get. I LOVED this version. It so vividly portrayed the trials and tribulations of Moses and a nation of people who followed him to the Promised Land. I was very impressed with the reality of the stage settings, costumes and portrayal of the realities of day-to-day living in those times. I got a very real sense of how it must have been for Moses to lead a group of people who were afraid, insecure and homeless...people who constantly, doubted and challenged Moses' relationship with God.
Very accurate from a Biblical standpoint as well - the director did not take too many liberties with this film.
There are so many great things about this movie I can't put it all into words. I've seen several versions of the Exodus, but this one is the best yet! I originally saw this movie on the TBN cable channel and I loved it so much, I'm buying it for my personal library. I HIGHLY recommend this video!

the journey to the promised land
Though this television production doesn't have the epic grandeur of "The Ten Commandments", it is a marvelous telling of the story of Moses, with some superb acting; there are a few liberties taken to flesh out the script, but the heart of the Biblical account is intact, with a memorable portrayal by Ben Kingsley as the prophet who was "clumsy with words" but led his people to freedom.
Other terrific performances come from David Suchet as Aaron, Sonia Braga as Zipporah, and Philip Stone as Jethro, and as the "bad guys", Frank Langella, who with his sonorous voice makes an effective Pharaoh, and Maurice Roeves as Zerack, the man who is a continual kvetch.

Filmed in sub-saharan Quarzazate and Agadir, Morocco, it is visually beautiful, with the excellent cinematography by Raffaele Mertes; I like the neutral palette, and the artifacts and costuming that give it an authentic look of ancient times. Added to the atmosphere is the wonderful score by Marco Frisina.
The effects are good, from the parting of the sea to the tablets of the law, and other than a short sequence of violence (which includes a swift depiction of sacrificing an animal) after the golden calf incident, it is family friendly. Total running time is 184 minutes.
This is a film that stands up to a lot of repeated viewing; it is so full of eternal truths, and content that is applicable to our lives today.

My favorite Moses
I thought this was the best of films I've seen about Moses. I liked the way he was portrayed as an ordinary man who was chosen and called by God. He had to grow into greatness and he had to grow in his faith. I found his transition from ordinariness to greatness over the years and through many difficult circumstances and difficult choices to be inspirational.

Films I've seen in the past about Biblical characters have often tended to come across as a bit formal or contrived feeling. I thought the portrayal of how the people lived had a more natural look and feel to it, instead of looking more like actors simply trying to portray past ways of living.

The film gave me a better sense of what Moses and the people of Israel went through in their journey from slaves to free people reaching the Promised Land. There were many difficult choices to make and some chose unwisely. I was touched by the portrayal of Moses' grieving when the people rebelled and God dealt with them.

It brought tears to my eyes at the end when Moses, before he died, was standing on the top of the mountain looking down at the Promised Land. I thought it was an excellent portrayal of Moses and his fulfillment of God's destiny for him.

More complete, but less exciting
This film covers more of the Moses story than any other film I have seen. Although there are a few inaccuracies, they are few compared to most Hollywood films and generally don't make any substantive change to the Biblical text. One problem with the film is that the crowd scenes just don't do justice to the reality. Scholars estimate there were about 2.5 million Hebrews in Egypt who made the exodus. I doubt if there are any scenes in this film which show more than 50. The film could be greatly improved if they could add computer generated people to build the crowd scenes. This is one thing The 10 Commandments could do well. The second problem, is that the film just isn't as exciting as The 10 Commandments. Perhaps that comes from being more accurate. Overall, it is a good film which does an excellent job at covering the events. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Entertaining But Somewhat Uneven
LASSITER is a movie about a jewel thief in London during the years just before World War II. After an arrest he is pressured by British law enforcement and the FBI into attempting to steal a horde of gems from the German Embassy.

The film is a fairly entertaining romp but there are problems with the script and some of the actors seem to be miscast. The movie does have many excellent sets and Tom Selleck gives a strong performance as Lassiter. The supporting cast includes Jane Seymour, Laura Hutton and Bob Hoskins. Hoskins is particularly good in the role of Inspector John Becker.

Another movie that deserves a DVD release
This little known movie stars Tom Selleck as an American jewel cat thief in pre-World War II London. It's a great movie and has an incredible supporting cast including Bob Hoskins as a police officer doggedly on the title characters trail.
With OTT Nazi's as the villains this movie truly is a great ride and a DVD release is long overdue.

Lassiter
naive and childish but elegant and oh-so pleasing
bob hosckins - excellent scoundril ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A HOILDAY CLASSIC.......
Two of the beloved stars team up for a funny/romantic story (Since Victor/Victoria). Catherine (Julie Andrews) and Robert (James Garner) get stuck in a snowstorm in an cabin on Thanksgiving. I won't tell you the rest because I don't want to spoil the ending. Giving that this was the highest rating tv hoilday special the year it aired (1999 I think), you will see why it is a classic! This is a most have on dvd/vhs in you collection and you won't regret it.

Two Special Stars
This is absolutely one of my favourite films! It's really charming and touching. The two stars, Julie Andrews and James Garner are terrific together (as they've been earlier, both in The Americanization of Emily and Victor/Victoria). They have something special... Something that really show us what love really is about! One Special Night is a film I watch every holliday - just because of it's wonderful script and stars. See it! You won't be disapointed!!!

One of my favorite holiday movies
This is by far one of my favorite holiday movies! I just caught it again (for the third time) on Lifetime, on Thanksgiving night and it was a wonderful way to wind down Thanksgiving and begin the Christmas season, as the movie takes place on Thanksgiving and ends on Christmas morning. Julie Andrews has long been a favorite of mine and I was excited to see her reunited with James Garner. It is obvious that they have worked together previously and their chemistry is perfect as two "strangers in the night." It is charming without being overly sentimental and is just a pleasure to watch because it is so well written (you really get to know these characters within a 2-hour span)and it leaves you wanting to know more about them, more about their past and their future together. Do yourself a favor, make a cup of tea and sit down and enjoy this most enchanting holiday movie.

One Special Night
Julie Andrews and James Garner couldn't have been matched more perfectly for the roles they played in "One Special Night". It is by far one of the best holiday romance movies to come along in years. It has a special quality that can only be attributed to the charm of the actors.

I made a copy of the movie from one of the two different TV showings and have watched it over and over again, including most recently as a hint of the holidays start to ring throughout the air.

I recommend it as a wonderful movie to view and add to any collection.

Wonderful Entertainment
A wonderful tale in classical Julie Andrews style. Julie Andrews and James Garner make a great team in this heartwarming holiday tale about second chances in life. They're two unlikely people who get stranded overnight in a snowstorm and discover that love CAN come again. I taped it when it was on TV and have watched it many times since. The tape is a must-have part of anyone's holiday collection. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Though not as briskly exciting as the 2002 theatrical release, this earlier TV adaptation of Robert Ludlum's bestseller has distinct advantages over its big-screen counterpart. It's far more loyal to Ludlum's serpentine plot, boasts greater latitude of geography and character development (allowing Richard Chamberlain's fine performance in the title role), and rises above TV limitations to achieve a big-budget look and feel. Suffering from amnesia and forced to piece together his past as a world-class assassin, Jason Bourne (Chamberlain) enlists the aid of a Canadian economist (Jaclyn Smith), and this pairing of '80s miniseries mainstays remains consistently intelligent, well paced, and altogether respectable. Chamberlain and Smith have adequate chemistry (albeit somewhat shallow), and their dangerous adventure--and eventual romance--is played out against a dozen European locations. Incorporating more of Ludlum's interwoven subplots, this ambitious Bourne is a globetrotter's delight, with a spy-thriller identity all its own. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Bourne is a lot nicer than in the book.
This is an intriguing movie and it will hold your attention from beginning to end. The plot is well conceived and there are no holes to drive trucks through. They could not have picked better actors for the characters. They may not match the descriptions in the book; but this is not a book.

The Bourne in the movie is much nicer. You have to make allowances for the transformation to the screen. However he does a lot more borrowing instead of stealing and is not as vicious with people on his travels.

Unlike the movie [Three Days of the Condor ASIN: 6300216748 (see my review September 25, 2000)], They did not let director distort the story for his own agenda. Basic story is someone wakes up with amnesia and naturally must find out who he is and why someone wants to kill him? As with all the amnesia stories he could be good, bad, or (I'm not going to say ugly) the person he is seeking.

BOURNE to be re-make..........
I've seen this tv-miniseries version of Robert Ludlum's bestselling novel many times, that I can actually say the lines and the dialogue in most scenes. However, that doesnt stop me from buying the new dvd version -- one plus, is having a new cover with Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith. The first one that came out is just plain white cover and the second version is just an artwork. So, this cover version for one is worth collecting.

This version came out in 1988 and became a big hit worldwide in rental video and in some countries, it was released theatrically. Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith, I must say, did an excellent job in this movie. Jaclyn Smith was a revelation in this movie. Well, she and Richard Chamberlain are well known-as the King and Queen of the Miniseries genre, but this is Jaclyn's first foray to the action/thriller mold and she's very good at it. There's no high-popping special effects nor high-tech flying action scenes, but this movie delivers what an espionage thriller should be. It will hold you from start to finish. It's a non-stop gripping action thriller and the photography and the musical score are absolutely fantastic.

A big thumbs up and worth watching again and again!

Mostly true to Ludlum's novel
I saw the original movie when it aired on TV, and thought it was excellent - a great combination of suspense, intrigue, and romance. Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith (the King and Queen of the TV miniseries at that time) were both excellent in the starring roles and had great chemistry together. Inspired by the movie, I purchased the book and found the movie to be fairly true to the original. To the reviewer in New Jersey, I can only respond, have you read the book? In my opinion, at least, Richard Chamberlain was much more believable in the role of Jason Bourne than Matt Damon could ever be. From what I've seen so far, the new movie will probably pale in comparison to the original.

Bourne to Review....again!!!
After watching the dvd version of Matt Damon's version of "The Bourne Identity," I can't help myself but watch again(!) the tv miniseries version. The new version is the typical action movie of the current trend to suit the taste of today's movie lovers and I can't disagree with the new audience liking it(I enjoyed it!)and it's hard not to make a comparison but the main reason why this miniseries version is, I believe--and I know most fans will agree-- is the two stars, Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith. Both stars had a chemistry that Matt Damon and Franka Potente lack. Don't get me wrong, both Damon and Potente are good but the XXX factor doesn't click at all.

Anyway, it's great having both in my collection and maybe years from now, I'll do another review and make a comparison --just in case things changes......

Great Passion
When the new one came out with Matt Dameon I was excited to see it, but was sorely disappointed. There was just emptiness, the story was changed and chopped with the loss of any of the great passion of the TV Miniseries.
The miniseries doesn't have all the special effects, but it has passion from people that are believeable and not contrived as in the Dameon movie. Their characters are real and you understand what they are feeling, from love to frustration, from fear to grief, and from confusion to loyalty. Since the Movie changed the story, none of these aspects where even attempted to be shown, just a love affair with no substance. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Top-Notch Adaptation of Danielle Steel's Better Novel
When I was 13, I began reading Danielle Steel novels. Most follow the same path and offer few variations. So when Jewels was released, I did not buy it right away. Then I saw the miniseries on TV and knew it HAD to be part of my library, both video AND book library.

Why? For one, Anthony Andrews is the perfect fit for his role. For fans of Andrews, one only has to remember that he played King Edward VIII in The Woman He Loved and what an excellent job he did in that role. He was also stunning in The Scarlet Pimpernel and Ivanhoe, and period pieces seem to suit this well-trained actor. Annette O'Toole is also well-cast as the strong-willed American woman who falls in love with the man in line for the crown (granted, he is 13th in line for the throne).

The story provides all the Steel conventions, but it does not seem old-hand when staged in this movie. Even if you are not a fan of Steel's work, the story is compelling.

Other Danielle Steel adaptations pale in comparison to Jewels. This is by far the best adaptation of her work. The blossoming of love, the separation of war, the agony of loss, the trials and tribulations of parenthood, the reinvention of one's self, the survival of one family. Great entertainment!

A Great family story
I really enjoyed Jewels. This movie demonstrates courage, strength, and love. Jewels shows how a family can go through a rough time yet it can overcome any obstacle.

A Great Mini Series...
I will admit to having a fondness for the tv movies adapted from Danielle Steel's books. Jewels, in particular, is one of my favorites and I have only one question. When are these great stories coming out on DVD. I have quite a few of the videos but would gladly toss them over for DVD replacements. I heartily IMPLORE the powers that be to release all her movies on DVD format. And I wouldn't mind seeing more of her books adapted into movies. She writes such fun, adventurous love stories!

Bradley Cole
The Guiding Light star was great in his whole, ten or so, minutes of the movie. It was fun to see him as a "bad boy"

A wonderful story...So many decades, characters, events!
The amazing thing is my husband loved this one, too! We hated to see it end! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Script, Acting and Direction
This 1985 made-for-television movie holds up extremely well for today's audiences. It's not your average missing person story. Director Roger Young skillfully crafts a suspensful and heartwrenching story through the use of an excellent script and top-flight performances.

Honest, likeable, and repsonsible 19-year-old Brian Walker (Tate Donavan) just "falls off the map" while driving his van to college in Colorado from his home in Ottawa, Ontario.

Despite valiant efforts by his mother and brother (Ellen Burstyn and Sam Robards), no one in the law enforcement community has the time or inclination to thoroughly investigate one of the thousand missing kid cases. This leads to Burstyn and Robards teaming up with a private investigator (Robert Prosky) to finally find Brian's van, and ultimately Brian.

Burstyn, Prosky, Robards, Patricia Smith (as Prosky's wife), and even Donovan (with limited screen time) are all magnificent. John Dennis Johnston is especially creepy as the man who kidnaps Brian.

Although we all know what the ultimate outcome will be, the suspense and heartbreak are still palpable every step of the way - particularly in the last 15 minutes of the film.

This is a top notch TV movie.

don't go vaning alone in Nebraska
This 1985 TV movie is compelling due more to the path leading to the find of a 19 year old Canadian student who heads off from Ottawa alone in a van to drive to Colorado but goes missing in Nebraska, than the sledgehammer direction of Roger Young. Although this story is said to be true, credit must go to writer George Rubino, particularly in downplaying and omitting most of the cliches of the genre. There is the ubiquitious drama about someone wearing an article of the missing boy's clothes, but thankfully it is skimmed over quickly. As the boy's mother, Ellen Burstyn has 2 good scenes, one where she has an angry outburst at a police station, recalling Shirley MacLaine's hospital scene in Terms of Endearment ("Give her the shot!"), and the second when she emits animal noises on discovery of her son's trashed van. Also good is Sam Robards as her other son, and Robert Prosky as a private investigator Burstyn hires. The treatment comments on the "jurisdictional complexities" which unnecesarily burden missing person investigations, and makes out that the police and FBI were blundering incompetents in this case. There is also a postscript that tells us hundreds of teenagers go missing every year without trace, a bleak and dour note to end on, though perhaps in line with the fate of the boy. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Sometimes deep, sometimes boring but always easy to watch...
...is this movie about two yuppies Cole and Peterson searching for the sense of life. The story is quickly told: Jeff and Marty leave their families behind to go on a trip to a beautiful island where they fall in love with the same woman who is played by the amazingly sexy Sheryl Lee. Although "Kiss The Sky" goes on for too long itÂ's never really hard to watch since there are beautiful locations and a nice supporting cast which includes Terence Stamp ("Bliss"), Patricia Charbonneau ("CallMe") and Season Hubley ("Hardcore"). The three leading actors are great, too - although I wasnÂ't completely convinced by PetersonÂ's performance (but maybe thatÂ's my fault since I just know him as a tough cop in "Manhunter" and "To Live and Die in L.A.").

Another positive aspect of "Kiss The Sky" is the nice soundtrack by Leonard Cohen (I especially like "Dance Me To The End Of Love").

Not everyoneÂ's taste, but if you like the actors you might also like "Kiss The Sky

Kiss the sky is an interesting movie
Ok, I admit it. Put Billy Petersen in a movie and I am hooked. The movie is interesting. Jeff (William Petersen) and Marty (Gary Cole) decide they need a change from the pressures of their everyday life. The two best buddies head off on a working vacation and wind up in an opium den where they hear a man talking of an island where you can kiss the sky. Longing for the days when they were young and free, the two head out to this paradise and wind up falling in love with the same woman. She goes from Jeff to Marty and then spends a night with both of them, which makes for the interesting part of the movie. Between romps in the sack, Marty and Jeff decide to build a haven for others like themselves that need a place to go, a place to be free. Fighting the language barrier, slow arrival of materials, and the coming monsoon season, Jeff and Marty take their friendship to the edge. The ending was a surprise but appropriate.
This movie made me long for my wild and free days and envy Marty and Jeff (and espically Sheryl Lee).

Would not recommend
This movie was awful. I kept watching it because I thought eventually it was going to get better but it never did. The plot: two men abandon their wives and children to find themselves, but really all they are doing is chasing young women in the tropics. They carry on a "three-some" relationship with one woman. One guy continues travelling, the other finally goes home to his family but in all his arrogance suggests to his wife she's lucky to have him home for as long as he stays. Do not waste your time - you will wish you had the two hours of your life back.

Believable
A movie like this stands on its own as a rare, once-in-a-while gamble. It's always surprising that such movies are made because they are not the typical Hollywood ilk; they take genuine risks and do not play to the least common denominator.

I was shocked to read some very negative reviews concerning this film. Yes, the film's tone and feeling are awkward and jumbled but I interpret this optimistically as an existential statement about these two mens' lives. It is as if--awoken from a decades' long, Los Angeles coma--they recall what it was to have been truly alive and full of hope for the future. They have fallen and they know it. From young adulthood in Northern California to a waning middle age in Southern California, they have made a journey downwards. To remedy the fall, they escape... by going far to the side, neither East nor West. Once there, they realize what has happened with their lives; in the words of Gary Cole's character: "That's what I thought, this is all just a mistake." Their interpretation of life as delusion and suffering feels true, though the stumbling attempt to address this realization leaves one reeling. The epiphany recalls Kafka's frightening story, In the Penal Colony. The comprehension of your 'crime' always comes too late, but just in time for you to recognize its meaning and truly understand the horror of it all.

The characters are sympathetic but not necessarily likable. They are self-indulgent. Just as their forgetfulness of the important things led them into a life of quiet misery, so their practiced art allows them to forget the sacred duties that they have haplessly committed themselves to: marriage and parenthood.

In contrast to other reviewers, I found the characters well-cast. Terrence Stamp steals the show as an itinerant Dutch monk who shows an artful degree of compassion for his American friends. His insights are neither cliché nor pretentious but always pithy and well-timed.

The true highlight of this film is its haunting music. Rarely has a movie been so nicely accompanied. The Leonard Cohen lyrics are sung by a deep, lingering voice that seems to echo the tired spirits of these washed-up men.

Puerile and embarassing
It can't be the worst movie I have ever seen, because I have seen so many bad ones. But it's close. Pompous, ridiculous, self important dialogue that goes on and on and makes no sense. Phony, insincere performances that make the phrase "stilted" a compliment. Everyone is painfully miscast. I suspect that participation in this flick by cast and crew was obtained because everybody got a neat, free trip to the beautiful Phillipines, although that being said, the cinematography is weak and doesn't do it justice.

The worst stuff is the "erotic' material, i.e., a couple of pg-rated sex scenes, including a three way between the two men and Sheryl Lee (the prime reason my husband rented it I guess), which was so awkward that it performs the odd, moraliistic job of making kinky sex look BORING. And the actors look painfully embarassed all during. I felt sorry for them. If I were in this mess, my goal would be the make enough money to buy up all the copies and the master print and have it destroyed. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The premise for Disney's A Knight in Camelot is an intriguing one. What if we could go back in time, with the wisdom and knowledge of our present day, and improve history? In this made-for-television comedy inspired by Mark Twain's fable A Connecticut Yankee at King Arthur's Court Whoopi Goldberg plays Dr. Vivien Morgan, a computer research scientist studying gravitational pull. Through a programming malfunction, she gets zapped into the land of Camelot, 589 A.D., while still toting her laptop and boombox. Unimpressed with the whole sword-in-the-stone gig, she brings her 20th-century impudence into King Arthur's court, where she begins to wreak Whoopi-style havoc. After she feigns magic, King Arthur (Michael York) elevates her to knighthood, where, as "Sir Boss," she uses her influence to make changes in the kingdom, from introducing hygiene and plumbing in the castle to insisting on fair labor practices for the peasants. Entanglements with Sir Lancelot, Queen Guinevere, and Merlin provide moments of high drama and colorful jousts, but the film remains largely uneven as it tries to be believable and find its tone--should it be philosophical ("Can a society live without progress? Without justice?" Goldberg's character asks at one point) or outrageously silly? It accomplishes the latter too well, and, methinks, will tire all but truly committed Whoopi fans. What remains is a cute, predictable, forgettable family film, but not Disney's best, nor Whoopi's. --Lynn Gibson ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Values courage, honor, respect
Captivating and enchanting story for children and families to share. Beautifully produced. It accurately portrays medieval England's culture and social structure. Shows great role models that exhibit courage, honor, equality and respect (with a touch of humor thrown in). Our kid reviewers were riveted. They commented: "I would love to travel back in time." "I noticed that the Nobles were unkind to the Serfs, but that's how it really was." "I want to read the Mark Twain book that the story is based on." "The castle was awesome." We found that 8 to 12-year-olds liked this best.

Whoopi is fantastic!
This movie is mor funny than some comedies that come to theaters! I almost died laughing! Vivian Morgan is a scientist and just as she is about to prove the existance of a graviton particle, she is blasted back in timeto the 6th century! Confused as a troll for her dreadlocks, skin color, and tennis shoes, she is sentinced to be burned at the stake. But when a total eclips happens, she claims to be a wizard more powerful than Merlin. They release her and she is knighted. She does good things such as helping King Arthur see that the slaves should be free, but when she tries to make things like a steam engine far to early, how messed up will the 6th century turn? and how will she ever get back to the 20th century?

Excellent
This film is really good. I think its a great film but rather for childs. Its funny to hear the 'Sir boss' nickname Whoopy asks for. The story is about a scientist (Whoopy) who accidentelly travels through time and lands in the time of king Arthur. After having the kings trust, she will try to civilisaze the region by stopping slavery, inventing steam machines... She will then go for a adventure to see how England is. And will be captured by slavers... She will be delivired and it turns out Merlin is a real magicien and that he has the power to bring her home.

I am sure I saw it on TV and tape recorded it , but is miss
As above it is missing.

If it is the same I saw it on TV back in April or May of 1999. Found it funny and refreshing and seeing Whoopi at her comedy best. I would like to see it again but the price is to high at the moment. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Script, Acting and Direction
This 1985 made-for-television movie holds up extremely well for today's audiences. It's not your average missing person story. Director Roger Young skillfully crafts a suspensful and heartwrenching story through the use of an excellent script and top-flight performances.

Honest, likeable, and repsonsible 19-year-old Brian Walker (Tate Donavan) just "falls off the map" while driving his van to college in Colorado from his home in Ottawa, Ontario.

Despite valiant efforts by his mother and brother (Ellen Burstyn and Sam Robards), no one in the law enforcement community has the time or inclination to thoroughly investigate one of the thousand missing kid cases. This leads to Burstyn and Robards teaming up with a private investigator (Robert Prosky) to finally find Brian's van, and ultimately Brian.

Burstyn, Prosky, Robards, Patricia Smith (as Prosky's wife), and even Donovan (with limited screen time) are all magnificent. John Dennis Johnston is especially creepy as the man who kidnaps Brian.

Although we all know what the ultimate outcome will be, the suspense and heartbreak are still palpable every step of the way - particularly in the last 15 minutes of the film.

This is a top notch TV movie.

don't go vaning alone in Nebraska
This 1985 TV movie is compelling due more to the path leading to the find of a 19 year old Canadian student who heads off from Ottawa alone in a van to drive to Colorado but goes missing in Nebraska, than the sledgehammer direction of Roger Young. Although this story is said to be true, credit must go to writer George Rubino, particularly in downplaying and omitting most of the cliches of the genre. There is the ubiquitious drama about someone wearing an article of the missing boy's clothes, but thankfully it is skimmed over quickly. As the boy's mother, Ellen Burstyn has 2 good scenes, one where she has an angry outburst at a police station, recalling Shirley MacLaine's hospital scene in Terms of Endearment ("Give her the shot!"), and the second when she emits animal noises on discovery of her son's trashed van. Also good is Sam Robards as her other son, and Robert Prosky as a private investigator Burstyn hires. The treatment comments on the "jurisdictional complexities" which unnecesarily burden missing person investigations, and makes out that the police and FBI were blundering incompetents in this case. There is also a postscript that tells us hundreds of teenagers go missing every year without trace, a bleak and dour note to end on, though perhaps in line with the fate of the boy. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Bourne is a lot nicer than in the book.
This is an intriguing movie and it will hold your attention from beginning to end. The plot is well conceived and there are no holes to drive trucks through. They could not have picked better actors for the characters. They may not match the descriptions in the book; but this is not a book.

The Bourne in the movie is much nicer. You have to make allowances for the transformation to the screen. However he does a lot more borrowing instead of stealing and is not as vicious with people on his travels.

Unlike the movie [Three Days of the Condor ASIN: 6300216748 (see my review September 25, 2000)], They did not let director distort the story for his own agenda. Basic story is someone wakes up with amnesia and naturally must find out who he is and why someone wants to kill him? As with all the amnesia stories he could be good, bad, or (I'm not going to say ugly) the person he is seeking.

BOURNE to be re-make..........
I've seen this tv-miniseries version of Robert Ludlum's bestselling novel many times, that I can actually say the lines and the dialogue in most scenes. However, that doesnt stop me from buying the new dvd version -- one plus, is having a new cover with Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith. The first one that came out is just plain white cover and the second version is just an artwork. So, this cover version for one is worth collecting.

This version came out in 1988 and became a big hit worldwide in rental video and in some countries, it was released theatrically. Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith, I must say, did an excellent job in this movie. Jaclyn Smith was a revelation in this movie. Well, she and Richard Chamberlain are well known-as the King and Queen of the Miniseries genre, but this is Jaclyn's first foray to the action/thriller mold and she's very good at it. There's no high-popping special effects nor high-tech flying action scenes, but this movie delivers what an espionage thriller should be. It will hold you from start to finish. It's a non-stop gripping action thriller and the photography and the musical score are absolutely fantastic.

A big thumbs up and worth watching again and again!

Mostly true to Ludlum's novel
I saw the original movie when it aired on TV, and thought it was excellent - a great combination of suspense, intrigue, and romance. Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith (the King and Queen of the TV miniseries at that time) were both excellent in the starring roles and had great chemistry together. Inspired by the movie, I purchased the book and found the movie to be fairly true to the original. To the reviewer in New Jersey, I can only respond, have you read the book? In my opinion, at least, Richard Chamberlain was much more believable in the role of Jason Bourne than Matt Damon could ever be. From what I've seen so far, the new movie will probably pale in comparison to the original.

Bourne to Review....again!!!
After watching the dvd version of Matt Damon's version of "The Bourne Identity," I can't help myself but watch again(!) the tv miniseries version. The new version is the typical action movie of the current trend to suit the taste of today's movie lovers and I can't disagree with the new audience liking it(I enjoyed it!)and it's hard not to make a comparison but the main reason why this miniseries version is, I believe--and I know most fans will agree-- is the two stars, Richard Chamberlain and Jaclyn Smith. Both stars had a chemistry that Matt Damon and Franka Potente lack. Don't get me wrong, both Damon and Potente are good but the XXX factor doesn't click at all.

Anyway, it's great having both in my collection and maybe years from now, I'll do another review and make a comparison --just in case things changes......

Great Passion
When the new one came out with Matt Dameon I was excited to see it, but was sorely disappointed. There was just emptiness, the story was changed and chopped with the loss of any of the great passion of the TV Miniseries.
The miniseries doesn't have all the special effects, but it has passion from people that are believeable and not contrived as in the Dameon movie. Their characters are real and you understand what they are feeling, from love to frustration, from fear to grief, and from confusion to loyalty. Since the Movie changed the story, none of these aspects where even attempted to be shown, just a love affair with no substance. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Tackling the story of Jesus for film is bound to incur controversy. Yet, in a bold move, CBS produced the television miniseries Jesus, which not only retells the biblical story, but takes a look at the more human side of the man. Jeremy Sisto stars, and although it takes a little while for him to gather enough momentum to have us believing him in this role, overall he is surprisingly convincing. While the movie does stray from strict scripture--Jesus is shown feeling conflicted over his feelings for Lazarus's sister Mary; Satan, portrayed by Jeroen Krabbé, works hard at convincing Jesus to stray from his path--most of the plot will be familiar to viewers. Beginning with an adult Jesus, who works with his father as a carpenter, the program traces his life and death through resurrection. The strong supporting cast, including Jacqueline Bisset as Mary, Gary Oldman as Pontius Pilate, and Debra Messing as Mary Magdalene, lends to the credibility of the miniseries. This is a satisfying retelling of the life of Jesus and will please those who want new ways to explore biblical stories, as Jesus not only reinforces the ideals of the New Testament but shows Jesus as a complex individual. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (124)

A different point of view
This movie is not your average portrayal of the gospels. Christ's human side is brought out more, and I think it really reflects how much he really loved everyone. He's not portryed so much as a holy figure, but a man who is warm and caring and fun. However, I think they took a little too many liberties. The Jesus in this film acts like he has no idea what is going on, and it's his mother who is instructing him on what to do, not God. Some times he even acts like a happy-go-lucky, fun-loving guy...he's even giddy at times. But, other than that, I think the way Christ is portrayed gives us a better view on his human side. Sisto's acting is pretty good, although at times it sounds like he's reading his lines right off of a script. The movie is accurate in the crucifixion, however, and shows some scenes that aren't showed in other Jesus films, like him walking on the water or the wedding, where he turned water in to wine. Another brilliant point, I think, is how they showed the conflict of Christ in the garden with Satan, and Satan is trying to convince Christ not to go through the crucifixion. It really brings out his uncertainty and fear of what he has to go through. I think this is a very good Jesus movie for this millenium, and is very worthwhile to watch.

Enticing but Lacking in Character
Who can pass up any movie with the title "Jesus"? Sisto is less then adequate at his role as Christ. Im not sure if its his voice or his blase boring acting...or maybe because I remember him from the movie Clueless, but he just did not make me believe that I was really watching Jesus. Rather it was very obvious from the first 15 minutes, that it was Sisto reading lines pretending to be Jesus. In a way it was very liturgical and dogmatic and...well boring. But I watched it anyway because I love all movies portraying the most fabulous spiritual masters of all time. I will say that Messing, surprinsingly enough acted very well in her role as Mary Magdalene...in fact she was the only convincing actor in the movie. I will also say that I loved the idea of how they portrayed Satan. All too often Jesus movies leave out the temptation story...yet it is a wonderful and highly symbolic of Jesus the man...turning into Jesus the Christ by resisting the lower self. So any library needs this movie just for the sake of having it. Beyond that, if you want quality Jesus movie with a quality character portrayal of Christ please, I urge you to buy "Mary, the Mother of Jesus." Christian Bale portrays Jesus...what an actor! He has a strong energy about him that made me believe it was Jesus not Bale. Very powerful actor.

A STRANGE PORTRAYAL
The CBS film called Jesus that was released in 2000 begins with a Joan of Ark figure being burned at the stake and couples it with a scene out of WWII where soldiers are shown fleeing from the enemy. This dramatic introduction to the film is all part of a dream from which Jesus wakes up. The film then explores a supposed romance between Jesus and Mary, sister of Martha, in which he confesses to his father Joseph that he loves her but cannot be with her. Joseph, Jesus, and Mary are then confronted with Matthew, the tax collector, who breaks into their home to take taxes. That evening, Joseph bemoans the suffering of the Jews, and Jesus is offended by the assertion that he is the expected Messiah who can relieve the present suffering. Jesus then storms out of the room. After Joseph's death, as Jesus is mourning, Jesus says that he has only one father and that is Joseph. Jesus is then prompted by Mary to go on his mission, and he visits John to be baptized. John does not view Jesus as the Messiah but calls him a sinner who needs to repent of his sins. Soon after, Jesus is baptized, then he (Jesus) becomes the Messiah and confronts Satan in a bizarre interpretation of his temptations.
Jesus is first confronted by Satan in the form of woman with a red sash. The woman is then transformed into only the flowing sash. The Devil is then transformed into what is best described as a businessman with a really nice Armani suit. The Devil takes Jesus to a poverty-stricken South American village filled with starving victims, and then Jesus is magically removed from the area. Jesus is then taken to the Temple in Jerusalem, Satan is turned back into the woman with the red sash, and Jesus is shown the entire world from outer space. Jesus and the satanic businessman are soon back in the desert setting where it is decided that Jesus has passed the temptations. The devil will have to bide his time.
.... Jesus' ministry finally begins. He collects his disciples, and Mary tells him the story about their Egypt experiences. In a flashback, Mary recalls the situation in which Jesus and a few friends accidentally kill a bird and Jesus resurrects it. Jesus is depicted as living in Egypt at five to six years of age. Did Herod die in 4 B.C. or didn't he? If Herod was dead, why did the family stay in Egypt? Jesus and the disciples then attend the wedding at Cana, and Jesus apologizes to the Disciple Andrew because the disciple expected Jesus to defeat the Romans. The final insult in this film is the depiction of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus, prior to his address to the crowd, tells his disciples he has nothing to say. Luckily for us all, he comes up with something.

Can I Smell Some Hollywood Sleeze Behind This Production?...
this film is obviously a film to question as to 'why was this made?'

first, look at the poster. the dvd case. the advertisement. the ads for this movie. is it at all disrespectful to leave the J in Jesus lower case? that's an obvious sign that there's a lack of respect for Jesus.

second, Debra Messing's role portrayal is a far cry from a las vegas prostitute, but come on, what part of the Bible describes Mary like that? it's like a hollywoodized assumption.. and isn't this the Debra Messing who stars in "Will & Grace", the comedy sitcom about hetero- and homo-sexual relationships?? if i remember corectly, God doesnt find much comedy about homosexuality, and actually condemns it. so that's odd that she'd make a movie about God's Son.

third, Gary Oldman, Jeremy Sisto, and others, these are all stars who make a living off of playing quite a handful of blasphemous roles in their resume list. not that it's a bad thing to play those roles, but seriously, they arent exactly signing onto this movie because theyre passionate about the Good News Delivery, more so that they want the name 'Jesus' added to their resume.

forth, do the producers even believe that Christ is the Messiah? most hollywood producers are either Aithiest or Jewish, and they would not be too inclined to change their perspectives breifly for a movie production.

dont get me wrong, its nice that they made this movie. but it completely lacks the heart and soul needed to make a respectful accout of Jesus' life.

"Jesus of Nazareth", "Passion of the Christ", are a few of those films that DID have the gusto needed to respect Jesus Christ and accuracy with the Gospels.

Jesus Christ Never Existed.
'Jesus' made in 2000 is a famous film some people have seen or at least heard about. Most people fail to realize all of that doesn't matter because Jesus Christ never existed!! Jesus Christ is a mythological figure the church has exploited for hundreds of years and now the film industry has for almost a hundred years. There is absolutely no archeological or historical evidence that Jesus Christ existed. Even if he did exist, it would be highly unlikely he would have received that kind of punishment.
It is a shame that con artists like these filmmakers are using this mythological figure to make millions of dollars. People have to start swaying away from the manipulations of the church and the filmmaking industry and start looking at the hard facts. Jesus Christ and his crucifixion never happened. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

More Truth Than You Can Handle
More than just a movie, Double Crossed is a primer for those who wonder just how serious our government is on the war on drugs.The main players of this true story do not come to light untill 10 years later. Who was Attorney General for Dade County where Barry was first arrested and recruited into DEA? Who was Governor of Arkansas, the destination for the cocaine shipments? How much did they know, and how did they use that knowledge to further their carrers. Other players in this story include Ronald Reagan, Ollie North, and George Bush. Truly a story of strange bedfellows.

I concur
Based on a true story,Barry Seal was the man who brought down the druglords in South America. He also paid for it with his life,at the hands of the US Government. You really want to see how the Gov does business? Check it out!

Buy it, you'll like it!
Having seen this movie on HBO several years ago, I have searched to rent or buy it. Hopper is incredible as Barry Seal, fearless and overflowing with confidence as he negotiates his way through precarious situations on every side. Men will envy his guts, much like Al Pacino. I'm ordering it. It's worth the price of four or five rentals-really. ... Read more

Amazon.com

King Solomon led a grand life, thus rating this epic movie told intwo parts, averaging 86 minutes apiece. Director Roger Young chronicles the king's rise from the weakling mama's boy of Bathsheba to a ruler known forhis wisdom, international alliances, construction of the Jewish temple, and oh yes, those thousand wives--concubines included. Part 1 spends the firsthour tracing the rivalry of Solomon (Ben Cross) with half-brother Adonijah, before and after the death of their father King David (Max Von Sydow in abrief appearance). It then makes a 10-year leap to dramatize hisfamous method of divining the true mother of a contested infant. In Part 2, the filmmakers embrace the legend that Solomon and the Queen of Sheba (Vivica A. Fox) had a romantic as well as political alliance, suggesting thatthey were the star-crossed loves of each other's life and introducing somesoft-focus nudity. With the queen's departure, Solomon descends intomaterialism and idolatry. The performances are strong and the script, penned by Bradley Winter, artfully weaves in background information to give theviewer helpful historical context. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (16)

3 out of 4 are Excellent; Those 3 are worth the price alone!
Three out of these four DVDs are excellent! This is probably the nicest series of Bible stories available. The photography is beautiful, as well as the costumes, props and sets; the acting of the main characters is superb, likeable and believable; and the scripts usually stay very close to the actual Bible verses.

Genesis is the only stinker in this set. It is nothing like the other 3. The Genesis DVD has nice photography, but it does NOT act out the Bible scenes like the other three movies do! Genesis just narrates a reading of the book of Genesis, while showing contemporary desert people going about their daily lives.

If you are undecided about buying the whole set, then I would suggest buying at least one of these separately. "Jeremiah" is my favorite, and it really captures the attitude of a humble prophet being persecuted by the wayward Israelites. "Esther" is probably the most accurately told of these three good movies. It is a pretty clear storytelling, where the other movies sometimes change the order of events (but still portray the overall message accurately). "Solomon" covers the biggest chunk of Scripture, retelling many scenes of the life of Solomon and what Solomon wrote in the Bible.

I would rate the Genesis movie with 1 star, for being so misleading as to its content. But the other 3 films, Esther, Solomon, and Jeremiah are all 5 star movies! Even with the useless Genesis, the price of this DVD set is still a bit cheaper to buy the three good movies here, at one price, than to buy them one at a time.

It's ok
I just recently purchased this movie from Amazon.com, and they flashed up a message that the NTSC format may not be playable in Australia. Well, it is playable! All modern VCR's sold in Australia can play (and some can record) NTSC tapes. I have found this very useful as 'Solomon' and the other movies in this series have never been released in Australia.
'Solomon' is a solid, well acted drama (what do you expect, with Ben Cross taking the leading part). I found the first part of the movie quite entertaining, with plenty of action, as old King David's reign comes to an end and two brothers compete for the throne.
With the sequences dealing with the building of the Temple, I felt that little respect was paid to the holiness of the dwelling place of God, or of the Ark of the Covenant. Solomon treated the Holy of Holies with triviality. The inside of the temple walls were covered with gold, so the makers of the set should have paid more attention to detail.
Overall, the movie is well done, with a bit of laid back humour, especially when Solomon greets all his children after a hard day at the 'office'. If you like Biblical dramas, this is worth getting, provided you allow for a bit of 'licence'.

Fabulous Bible movies
Now I have to say that 3 of these movies are absolutly great, but the genesis one is a stinker! Esther, Jeremiah and Soloman are all dramatisations of the Biblical stories with great actors who put in brilliant performances. Genesis is a bunch of weird looking guys just walking around with a boring narration. And the narration does not even match what is on screen half the time. If Ed Wood did a Biblical epic it would look like Genesis!

Ok, glad I got that off my chest. Buy the box set, use Genesis for a frisbee!

God made him strong, women made him weak
A romanticized but quite accurate account of what is written in I Kings and II Chronicles, this made-for-television film is exceptional and boasts a brilliant international cast and fabulous settings.
Filmed in Quarzazate, Morocco, the landscapes are wonderful, and the buildings and set decoration, in warm amber shades, are a visual delight, enhanced by the cinematography of Raffaele Mertes. The terrific score by Patrick Williams also adds much to the atmosphere.

The section devoted to the Queen of Sheba has been embelished, but Viveca A. Fox is ravishing as the queen, and it makes for great drama.
The emphasis on this part is to show Solomon's destructive tendencies; women were his weakness, and the rationalizations for his behavior his undoing. From Adam to modern history, it's a common story, but in the case of Solomon, what he gave up for his weakness was God's mighty blessing, and the inheritance he would leave his heirs.

Ben Cross ("Chariots of Fire") as this complex character is marvelous, and he is surrounded by a superb supporting cast. Though it's hard to take the nordic air from Max von Sydow (who in 1965 played Jesus in "The Greatest Story Ever Told"), he is nevertheless an aging giant of a man as King David, and France's great Anouk Aimee plays Solomon's mother Bathsheba with vigor, as she holds on to the reins of power with tenacity.
Other notable performances come from David Suchet (who was so good in the 1998 "The Perfect Murder") as Joab, Ivan Kaye as Solomon's half-brother Adonijah, and Richard Dillane as the laborer who ultimately rules ten of the twelve tribes, Jeroboam. Even the smallest parts are believable, which reflects on the excellent direction by Roger Young.
This is a Bible epic well worth owning for repeated viewing; some of it is poetic, some of it action-packed, often inspiring and thought provoking, and always fascinating.

Accurate
Overall these are very accurate. I would like to point out, that many biblical scholars believe that Solomon did in fact marry the queen of Sheba. This is based on the history of the nation of Sheba (aka Ethiopia) and although the Bible dosen't explicitly say that they were married, there is nothing in Scripture that would contradict it. In fact the people of the Ethiopian nation were followers of the Jewish faith, that is why the Ethiopian enuch in Acts is reading from the Old Testament. According to the history of that country Solomon and the queen had a son and he sent priests and Levites to train him in the faith. This isn't somthing that the films makers made up.

Esther and Jeremiah are also very accurate, but I thought that Genesis was a little slow. It is mainly narative. After the story of the Creation it could have been acted out. ... Read more

Description

A grandfather and grandson forge a one-of-a-kind bond with laughter, love and a little golf. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great movie
The story is wonderful, as is the acting. Uplifting and wholesome. It will warm everyone in your home.

this is a favorite of mine...
This movie is fantastic. George Burns plays the part of lonely old man waiting to die, until his grandson, a 21 y/o who is mentally handicapped, teaches him that he has something to live for. Nollie (the boy) is torn apart by his parents: his father thinks he should grow up and be a man, and his mother wants him to stay a boy forever. When Nollie's mother decides to leave her husband and move away, Nollie steals her car and takes out his grandfather. It's wonderful, trust me.

Warm and Heart Rendering
I found this tale of coming of age for a mentally challenged boy and his grandfather absoultely captivating. George Burns and Robbie Benson were great! An absolute must see for anyone who has a special needs child. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

recommended to fans of the British gangster flick
Chronologically sitting between Get Carter & The Long Good Friday this is something of a lost classic British gangster / heist film containing all the tough , gritty realism of its better known peers - with Stacy Keach ( for some reason ) cast as an alcoholic ex-London cop . Highly recommended to fans of the genre - bit dated otherwise but still stands up against more recent films.

Grit and nastiness
Don't confuse this movie with the Michael Keaton one.
This has Stacey Keach, David Hemmings, Freddie Starr, Edward Fox et al and Stephen Boyd as a particularly nasty villain.
Apted piles on the grotesquery and the squalor, and the bank job gone wrong ending is superb.

You ask yourself . . .
THE SQUEEZE causes you to ask yourself . . . "Hey! I've been watching this for 25 minutes. Are they writing the script as they go along?" It is almost as if the director conceded that since we're not getting any laughs, let's make this into a mystery. Failing that route, it ended up trying to make the kids happy with a lot of special effects. Yes, Keaton tried to play the comic, but only manages to play a misfit-in-society figure. I give three stars to this movie only because I did not fall asleep; and also because Rae Dawn Chong worked very hard to act out her role, whatever that was supposed to be. I saw this movie again after a spell of ten years hoping that I'd find something in it after that time lapse. I think that I did detect a New Yorker's joke about New Jersey on the second time around.

The worst movie I've ever seen in my life.
This was a dreadful picture I saw in a "Dollar Movie" back in college. I felt that I had wasted my dollar! Michael Keaton is so much better than this that frankly,