Reviews (408)

The Perfect Storm The Perfect Movie on dvd
Directed by Wolfgang Peterson who has a career
for making great films like the "The NeverEnding Story", "The Perfect Storm" was another great film into Mr. Peterson's resume.

The perfect storm, is based on the book written by Sebastian Unger. It's the true account of a group of fisherman who , in October 1991, died in the worst storm in the century, sacrificing their lives because they were doing their duties
and trying to put food on the table for their families.

There are many reasons I liked this movie:
1) The characters are real and genuine
2) The movie has a lot of heart, action, drama and suspense
3) The movie does have a certain mystique and aura around it, due to the fact that these are very special people whom if you met them you've probably wouldn't forget.

The cast and crew is made up of Billy Tyne
(George Clooney), captain of the Andrea Gail, Bobby Shatford (Mark Wahlberg) ,a beloved
fisherman in Gloucester, Mike "Bugsy" Moran
(John Hawkes), Dale Murphy (John C. Reilly) , David "Sully" Sullivan (William Fichtner). All these characters were loved in their community.

To feed their loved ones, the fisherman go to the Great banks to catch as many fish as possible but they don't see that a huge Hurricane named " Grace" is headed their way, a deadly storm in fact. The fisherman's boss though, Mr. McNally I believe is his name, pays them very little and makes even fishing a hassle for them. The men though still go out to see despite this because of their great love for the see.

One of the characters that are shown
at the beginning is Christine Cotter (Diane
Lane), Bobby's girlfriend, who has an undying love for him, even though she knows that fishing in rough waters can be dangerous.

Making the characters more realistic and with a real storyline the movie shows the mixed hate/love relationship, the crew has with Captain Billy (Clooney). It's debatable whether Tyne might
have been at fault over the dealth of his shipmates. During one scene Tyne, gets a message about the upcoming storm, however, he doesn't immediately make the crew think about how dangerous it is. He instead just leaves the decision in their hands, but another Captain might have taken control and said the hell with the trip.

Each characters has a story to them, it's not just that these guys were average joes and they worked a crummy job, no, they were very much by everyone and the extras on the dvd prove that with all the interviews by people in the community.

The visual effects for the movie are outstanding, it is a very big budget production loaded with great sets and great models..

The movie was a box office hit, and received
praise for all the actors in it like Clooney and Walhberg.

The effects were done by award winning special effects ma Stan Winston and ILM , the same group who gave us the effects for "Terminator 2",
and "Jurassic Park" to give two examples.

The Dvd for the movie comes with many extras:

*Three Documentaries one by HBO called
"Creating the Storm" which has interviews with Bobby Shatford's family,i former Captains of the Andrea Gail, and interviews with local fisherman who know all about the characters involved. Then other documentary on the dvd is called "Witnessing the Storm" which has photos from the storm in 1991 and many interviews on it

Next is the commentary. The commentary
is actually split differently during one
commentary I believe you have Wolfgang
Petersen talking about the film. The other
commentary has Sebastian Unger who talks
about how afraid he was if his book on
the storm would fail,and then how great he felt when the families of the fisherman told
him how good a job he did with it.

With all visual effects, story, good acting
and great directing by Wolfgang "Perfect
Storm" is a very good movie, by a guy
who hasn't really done bad movies.
In fact Wolfgang's next movie is "Troy"
with Brad Pitt. So check that out and check
out this one.

Fantastic Special Effects!!!
The Perfect Storm has some really great special-effects. The movie starts out a little slow describing all the characters and their relationships but then moves along at a breathless pace. You get so caught up with the crew in the middle of this greatest storm in recorded history that you can't take your eyes away from the screen. This storm occurred in the Atlantic Ocean in October 1991, a true story. You feel like your on the ocean with the crew it is so realistic. It even made me feel seasick at times. George Clooney & Mark Wahlberg did a wonderful job as the two main characters. There are a lot of surprises in this film. You get a good feel for the life & people involved in this tough fishing port of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

I only had one problem with this movie, and it was the soundtrack. I felt the music was really appropriate and well-done, but it should have been toned down a little. It overpowered the actors words to the point where you couldn't tell what they were saying. At least during the storm it would have been better to have no music at all and just the natural sounds. Other than that it's a great movie that I will definitely watch again. The special features & documentaries are great on this DVD version, that explain how the film was made. Really quite interesting

lukewarm
I really wanted to like this movie but it came off as a bland viewing experience. A lot of it had to do with poor casting...Clooney (IMO) is not a good actor so without a strong lead, the rest of the ensemble faltered. I don't remember much of a soundtrack-a good musical score would of greatly improved this film.
As a New Englander, I find it quite tiresome to listen to ridiculous interpretations of the local dialects. Obviously most of the actors could not speak it, so the few who tried, looked even more stupid. I would of been happy if they had spoken in their natural accents (even if by fluke, someone was from the South, per se)-at least a viewer can justify it by interpreting the character as a transplant; a horrible rendition of a dialect is just that...horrible, and it is very distracting. The hollywood adaptation of New England locals always strikes me as an insult. It seems fair to state that these filmmakers from the west coast don't know enough about the people and culture of New England either.

No suspense whatsoever
It's hard to get psyched for a movie when you basically know the ending. How can you sustain any kind of tension or suspense? That's a key problem with most movies which are deemed "historical". What most great historical films have done is examine the aspects of the history and demonstrate how the forces came together to create that ending. Think of GLORY or THE LONGEST DAY. They don't even have to be war stories. Think of A NIGHT TO REMEMBER or SEABISCUIT, for that matter.

The problem with THE PERFECT STORM is that there is no suspense, essentially. We know the crew ignored or were deprived the information that things were going to get a little rough in the North Atlantic, and its boat got walloped. I don't know how Wolfgang Petersen or the script writers could have created the suspense, and it's not a reviewer's job to make recommendations. But as it is, I found myself increasing impatient during the first half of the film. Let's just get to the F/X and get it over with, I thought.

The performances, I have to say in all fairness, are good, considering what the actors had to work with. The F/X were great, of course. But I still left this film with an empty feeling. Pass on this one.

Very depressing, but still a good movie.
This film truely has some great special effects, good acting, heart, but the one thing that it lacks is that positive ending that even the saddest films have. The film was very depressing in every sense. George Clooney, Mark Whallberg, and the rest of the cast all did a great job. The cinematography was brilliant. All in all the film is something you need to follow up with a happier movie. If you are in the mood to be crushed stay away. I reccomend this film to people who love special effects films. Two sad thumbs up. ... Read more

Reviews (284)

Face Off DVD
The DVD of FACE OFF is one of the best, and a must-buy on the format. John Woo, uber director of The Killer (1989), Hard Boiled (1992) and Broken Arrow (1996) proves that even after the move to Hollywood, he still knows how to create fantastic action and Face Off is no exception. Building on the good but not great BROKEN ARROW, this one is a fantastic action ride. The film stars Nicholas Cage as Castor Troy, a villain, and John Travolta as agent Sean Archer, the only man who can stop Castor from unleashing a nuclear device.
Woo's trademarks are all present here: slow-mo gunfights, explosive action and those perennial doves. And both Nic Cage and Travolta are brilliant, especially Cage, whose eccentric performance is one of his most unrestrained and outstanding. One of the best (If not THE best) action films ever made. Excellent.
The DVD extras are sparse, with only a trailer. One hopes a future re-release will come soon...

Face/Off
Director John Woo's famous big-budget action-packed flick.This is the film that put John Woo on the map in America.Packed with guns, bullets, bombs, explosions and action scenes that are so original there choreographed like a ballet or a dance routine.

FBI agent Sean Archer (John Travolta)has been trying to apprehend terrorist, Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) ever since he murdered Sean's son six years ago.Sean apprehend's Castor during a violent shoot-out in an airport and as a result of this puts Castor into a deep comma.Sean then undergoes new surgery involving swapping faces with Troy.He does this to try and find out where Castor has planted a deadly bomb hidden somewhere in L.A.Castor awakes from his comma, with Sean's identidy and takes over his life.Sean(really Castor) disarms the bomb which he planted and becomes an instant hero.Meanwhile Castor (really Sean) is a high-tech prison trying to find information about the bomb from Castor's brother, Pollux (Alessandro Nivola).Since Sean(Castor) has destroyed all evidence about the surgical swap, Castor has to try and break out of prison.Not only does he have to fight for himself but for wife Eve (Joan Allen) and daughter Jamie.

This is a superb film with enough plot to become a series.It does sound far-fethced in places but John Woo makes it believable and real.Great performances all around including the two main stars, Joan Allen and the sexy tough female Gina Gershon.

face off
he best movie in the ear 1997 it is perfect action good and adventure good nice acting for john travolta and nice acting for nicolas cage

One of my all-time favorite action films!
Place this modern action classic up there with DIE HARD, SPEED, and THE NEGOTIATOR as one of my personal favorite action films.

Before watching FACE/OFF completely, I had taken a look at one of director John Woo's Hong Kong action epics, THE KILLER. I must say, I prefer FACE/OFF better. Sure, both films have that same over-the-top operatic style, but at least FACE/OFF isn't as shamelessly sentimental as THE KILLER was. In THE KILLER, Woo's main characters both demolished hundreds of extras in graphically bloody style, and towards the end it got a bit too much even for me. In FACE/OFF, the gore isn't quite as graphic, and while the body count is still pretty high, it never got to the point that I was disgusted.

I'm not a knee-jerk admirer of John Woo as some people are. That slow-motion technique of his can become wince-inducingly excessive, especially now that many lesser action directors have started to rip off his style. In this case, though, one is too engrossed in the plot and in awe of the high-energy action staging to notice.

Of course, most people probably already have an idea of what the plot is about: criminal Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) dies, but he has planted a bomb somewhere in LA, so obsessive detective Sean Archer (John Travolta) literally swaps identities with his arch-nemesis to go undercover at a high-tech prison to find out where that bomb is. Obviously, this situation leads to various complications as Troy wakes up from his coma, takes Archer's face, kills the doctors who performed the operation, and then tries to find Archer. It's the typical body-switch, and I would be remiss to mention that Troy is responsible for the death of Archer's son many years ago, and thus Archer has a vendetta against him that explains his obsessiveness.

It's a potentially laughable premise, but the actors and director make you buy it. Travolta and Cage are both convincing and have a lot of fun playing each others' characters, and the supporting cast is just as believable. The script, by Mike Werb and Michael Colleary, may have its bum dialogue lines here and there, but it's filled with ingenuity, plot-wise, as Troy tries to fit in with Archer's family and Archer tries to function in a prison. And of course the script gives director Woo plenty of leeway to go all-out with action scenes, and Woo does not disappoint, giving us plenty of stylish gunplay and loud explosions for about three action films, and even an audacious soundbite of "Over the Rainbow" as characters blow each other away. Woo sure lets his inventiveness run free here.

So okay, the film may be a little overlong, and that final gun battle at a church is perhaps too reminiscent of a similar battle in THE KILLER, right down to the flying pigeons motif. But all its flaws are forgivable in this case, since the movie is so thrilling matters of logic fall by the wayside. FACE/OFF may not be Woo's best film ever (I haven't seen HARD-BOILED yet), but it's pretty close to it, and in comparison to other modern action films, it stands pretty high there too. It'll ceratinly forever be one of my favorites. Recommended.

Action as Art
While the plot of this movie is relatively interesting, this movie is really about two things:
First, the lead actors get to do the characters they do best as fully as they know how. Cage is his typical, neurotic, repressed, and emotionally conflicted self. Travolta hams it up in the outlandish, larger-than-life way that he often does. Despite what could be seen as overacting by both the leads, the almost absurd disparity between them is one of central things that makes this movie work.

Second, this movie has the most beautiful action sequences of any action movie I have ever seen (excluding epic-type movies, i.e. LOTR, Star Wars, Braveheart, etc.). This is a film that knows it's an action movie and revels in it. The cinematography in the fight scenes simultaneously displays the nature of the characters and the intensity of the battle between them. There are so many moments when you will just delight at the visual art that is every action sequence in this film. Needless to say, this movie has all the gunfights, fistfights, chases, and large explosions that one would expect in a serious action film.
If you like action movies, this is the first one I would recommend. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

This is the REAL thing. Accept no imitations.
In order to appreciate this film fully, you hafta turn yourself back in time to 1982, an' try an' remember the political an' social mindset of the day. Then imagine watching '48 HRS.' an unabashed an' raucous cop thriller that breaks the very foundation of political correctness. Now how does that make you feel? If you say, sick to your stomach, then maybe you needa loosen your jock strap an' try it again. E'ybody knows the plot, the hard-drinkin', chain-smokin' San Francisco cop Jack Cates, played by Nick Nolte (who looks almost TOO comfortable in the role of a wasted, burn-out), is lookin' to put two recent prison escapees an' vicious cop killers away after he tried an' failed to apprehend them. In going over the case he comes across several members of their old gang an' decides to go talk to one'a the incarcerated ones. Here's where Eddie Murphy comes in. Reggie Hammond is the smooth an' dapper, fast-talking convict who convinces Cates to get him out of jail an' on the street to help him solve this case. Cates reluctantly does so, an' from there is' jus' the two of them together goin' from place to place, crook to crook, bar to bar, lead to lead, tryin' to keep from killing each other in the process. Cates is a rough-edged, semi-bigot with an apparent vendetta toward these crooks (though apparently jus' for stealing his gun), Reggie is the charming, jive-talking criminal, with a more obvious vendetta toward the crooks (they dropped the dime on him, got him locked up, an' are now tryin' to steal a half a million dollars of his hard-earned, er, um, hard-stolen cash). Both are on the same mission, but with two TOTALLY different personalities an' when they mix it up, oh, is' gunpowder. E'ybody talks about the scene with Murphy in the country-western bar playin' cop ("Alright listen up. I don't like white people. An' I HATE rednecks. You people're rednecks. That means I'm enjoyin' this s---.") an' although it is funny, my favorite scene comes right after they question the two ladies who were s'posedly in cahoots with the killers, when Nolte an' Murphy finally drop the trash-talkin' an' jus' have a drunken brawl in the street only to be broken up by two cops on the beat.

This is the original buddy cop flick. With two guys who're ironically ANYTHING but buddies. Depending on the way you've come up watching movies, this one will either be a wonderfully offensive cop thriller, or a horribly offensive cop thriller. Of course, no matter how you look at it, '48 HRS.' will forever be a hallmark, because it was one'a the first movies of its kind: a rough-edged, blatant politically-incorrect film centering on characters that are so sleazy at times you hafta force yourself to like them, an' revolving around racial stereotypes an' sexist banter thas' thrown around like it's nothing, not to mention some brutal violence. Now it'd be much harder to overlook all the coldness if it wasn't for the charm an' appeal of Eddie Murphy, in his film debut. He is the main reason to watch the flick, although Nolte's character also provides the perfect counterbalance. Directed by Walter Hill, '48 HRS.' set a new standard for the way action flicks were to be played for the rest of the 1980s. With laughs, wit, chemistry, an' a not-so-serious attitude set against a very serious backdrop.

Fun cop buddy flick
Eddie Murphy made his debut in this Walter Hill film, and he is really the star here, even though Nick Nolte gets top billing. Nolte does a fine job, but his part is not as showy, and one's eyes are not drawn to him as much as Murphy, at his best in the country-western bar scene.

You probably know the story, but I'll summarize it here by saying that this is simply a buddy movie with an antagonistic twist. Murphy is the con, in for three years with six months left. Nolte is the cop on a search for James Remar, who stole a lot of money with Murphy long ago.

The story is set up as a mystery, with the pair questioning several possible connections, but the story doesn't really matter. The main attraction is the relationship between Murphy and Nolte and the slow growth towards friendship.

One complaint is that since this was filmed in 1982, they had a different idea of gritty police drama than today. The police department's atmosphere is incredibly tame compared to shows like NYPD Blue. Nolte does his best, chain-smoking and nipping from a flask (I read once you could tell an '80's movie by how much they smoked), but he still doesn't come across as jaded as any scene with Andy Sipowicz.

It's still fun and good entertainment, especially if you are looking for a film with an American Indian character that dresses like a '50's relic.

Wonderful
This is Eddie Murphy in is prime, when he was at the height of his acting career. He is so wonderful in this movie. He steals the show from Nick Nolte.

Worth Owning on DVD
At less than $15, this movie should be flying off the shelves. Both Nolte and Murphy are great. Their characters are are perfectly scripted to each actor's abilities and personality. Murphy plays a loudmouth penny ante punk. Nolte plays a grumpy, rascist tough guy. They, of course, learn to respect and like each other as they chase down the bad guys. The story isn't bad either. The soundtrack is good and 48 Hrs is set all over San Francisco. If your a fan of either or of comedy action or movies set in SF, you can't go wrong. My favorite Eddie Murphy movie.

Murphy's best is his first
Some of the best 1-liners ever reside in this film. Simply put, its a great comedy with a flare for drama, and in the cop buddy genre. Lots of cursing, some nudity, but ultimately, a great flick. It kicks today's cop buddy flicks in the Mother F-ing Aholes Mother F-ers! ... Read more

Reviews (499)

Move over Buffy
Wesley Snipes is every vampire's worst nightmare in the fantastic comic book actioner "Blade". Legendary "Day-Walker" Blade (Wesley Snipes) uses his lethal skills in his quest to exterminate the vampire underworld from the face of the earth. When the rogue vampire Deacon Frost (Stephen Dorff) plots a vampire uprising against all humans, humanity's only hope for survival lies in the tortured vampire hunter Blade. Based on the Marvel Comics hero, "Blade" is an exciting, action-packed comic book film that contains extreme action and rich characters. The storyline moves quite fast and the action sequences are fierce and quite dazzling. Wesley Snipes and Stephen Dorff deliver some wildly effective performances. The cast also includes N'Bushe Wright, Donal Logue, Udo Keir, Traci Lords and Kris Kristofferson.

New Line gives "Blade" an outstanding "Platinum Edition" presentation. The film is presented in its original 2.35:1 widescreen format. The DVD has a fine video transfer with rich colors and excellent sharpness. The 5.1 Dolby Digital sound is truly clear with amazing surround effects. Its supplemental features include a detailed audio commentary by cast and crew, deleted scenes, behind-the-scene featurettes, production designs and DVD-ROM extras. With such winning presentation and great supplements, "Blade" earns a solid "B+".

Blade kicks butt
Finally a mainstream vampire flick that is cool and delivers the action. Right away it is established that this is going to be different from every other vamp. movie you've seen before. I don't mind big budget Hollywood productions as long as they are somewhat creative with the storyline, don't bore me with endless dialog/build up and provide lots of action and fun. Blade was a real surprise, as I wasn't expecting much but it really blew me away with spectacular visuals, chase scenes that get your heart racing, a badass hero (Snipes' character Blade), stunning action and an overall ultra sleek feel with tight pacing and a real lack of dullness (how refreshing). The gory death scenes are a nice treat as well, this is the advantage with cg effects: you can do pretty much anything if you can imagine it. Villains are sliced to pieces and spray geysers of blood similar to Shogun Assassin (another cool movie people should check out).

Wesley Snipes is not one of my favorite actors but he did a great job playing the role of a dark and mysterious warrior, he is almost bounty hunter like. Blade is a major vampire hunter, and has a really deadly arsenal of weapons, mainly consisting of a big sword that he uses to slash vamps. Blade prowls the city streets and underworld at night seeking the growing number of vampires that are planning to rule the earth. His strength and skills are heightened because of his genetics- he is part vampire. This idea works well for me, you have to be able to explain how he is able to be so successful as a hunter, how he can identify the vamps and over power them.
Blade's strength is also his weakness though, he must take a syrum that controls his thirst for blood. This is gonna tie into the story for a nice little twist toward the end. Anyone who liked Interview With the Vampire will enjoy it.

Along with a new found female companion, Blade is lured into the final confrontation that will determine the fate of the world. Nothing new here, but the big showdown is well done and holds your attention till' the cliffhanger climax. When these vampires die they puff up and explode,
spraying blood and guts into the air. This alone is worth seeing the film.

I've seen a few vampire movies, and I would have to say that Blade easily beats "John Carpenter's Vampires" and "Fright Night" which are two of the most popular ones, but it's not a fair fight since Blade is more action than horror.

Blade is a movie that oozes coolness, I would describe it as a mix of the Batman films, The Matrix, Highlander, Fist of the North Star, and From Dusk Till Dawn. I highly recommend it.

Marvel was still in bankruptcy proceedings..
In 1998, when Amen Ra (Wesley's production company) and New Line agreed to do this first Marvel Movie, they had limited budget, resources, and time to do it. So the whole thing was shot in Europe and from start to finish, it'a a very cheap looking movie. Lots of fake CGi effects, guns going off everywhere, and somewhere there is supposed to be a plot here (but there isn't). I don't think it even had a script. They only made two sequals to this movie because each film cost only $1.98 to produce. Marvel and New Line do not mix.

From The Comics to The Screen -- Vampires Beware!
This is a pretty good film but is not as good as the Buffy television series.

The world is secretly under the control of vampires (much like in the Vampirella stories). Blade was born of a woman who was dying from vampire bite. Thus he has many of the vampire advantages without the limitations. He has teamed up with Kris Kristofferson who was also a vampire hunter and has weapon making skills. Together they are waging a war against the vampires.

The vampires are led by a council of vampire family heads. There are two types of vampires: those born as vampires and those turned from humans by a bite. The leader of the made vampires is tired of ruling from behind the scenes and is pushing for vampires to take overt control. The ancient leaders are very wary of such actions. But the made vampire has a plan for vampiric triumph.

Some ancient vampire texts hold amazing secrets but the secret of translation has been lost long ago. Computers have made it possible to learn these secrets a la Jennie Calendar. The text reveals the existence of an ancient vampire device that can bring about the Blood God. It is to this end that the head of the made vampires is striving. With the sacrifice of the heads of the ancient vampire houses, he can become indestructible. His plans are carried out and Blade must find a way to defeat him.

While this movie has the trappings of vampires and vampire slayers, it is really an action flick with the emphasis on Blade's fighting style. There really are some very good moves here. The rest of the film is pretty good but not excellent.

I am usually pretty indifferent to most of Snipe's movies but he seems to be well-cast in this role. There are many good reasons to see this film but it is on the violent and gory side so be warned.

Nice!
This is the greatest comic adaptation ever made. It has action, great actors, sript, and well made plot. A must see for all action fans and comic book fans! ... Read more

Reviews (54)

A movie that seemed to have a script
UNDERCOVER BLUES was a movie that seemed to have a script; flawed script as it was. I bought this movie to watch the likes of Bacalique Kathleen Turner and that movie star, Quaid. I saw them--with a baby to tend-- try to stage a spy-comedy story, but strangely the outcome reminded me of 101 Dalmations. REALLY! Lucky for an audience was this comic character, Stanley Tucci, who stole the show. Otherwise, Turner and Quaid--CIA Undercover--were too, too suave for spy characters. Their James Bond quip comedy lines just didn't work. Here is another movie that couldn't make up its' mind: is it a comedy, drama, suspense, mystery, n'importe quoi kind of story. Nevertheless, for all of its' flaws, UNDERCOVER moves along and keeps your attention. You are going to laugh somewhere along the line. And keep your eye out for Cruella. She's there with her sort of funny bad guys.

Undercover Excellence
I have rented this movie on more than one occassion and have loved it every time. I am fixing to buy my own copy from Amazon within the hour. I would definitely have this film on the top of my list of recommended movies. It's funny, romantic, full of good ol' fashioned action, and it's something anybody can watch. There's really only one word of profanity in the entire movie. The cast is incredible and I don't think you could find that kind of chemistry in just any movie. Quaid and Turner are fantastic together, and Tucci makes the most of a character that most people would blow off. I don't think the original critic watched the same movie I'm praising (the couple has an 11 month old girl, not a one year old boy, for clarification). Definitely one of the best and one of my absolute favorites!

I Got a Right to Sing the Blues
I love this movie, and it is with great reluctance that I'm rating the DVD with fewer than five stars. However, it seems that little work was done digitally mastering the film: there's a lot of grain and artifacting on the DVD (to be fair, the VHS doesn't look great either, but the blur of the tape reduces the grain in the image; on the DVD you get nice, crisp speckles and blotches). Basically this is a 5-star movie with 2-star production values, split the difference and round up, you get four stars.

The plot provides a so-so post-Cold War backdrop for the actors to do their thing. There hasn't been such a breezy, fun-loving, crime-fighting couple since Nick and Nora Charles. Dennis Quaid's dazzling smile and cheeky attitude brighten up the film, and Kathleen Turner provides a street- and book-smart turn as the brains of the operation. Add in Larry Miller's supporting role as the lisping, soft-spoken Detective Sgt. Halsey (that'th eth-ee-why, not eth-why), Stanley Tucci's shrieking tough guy, Muerte, and Fiona Shaw's devilish Paulina Novacek and you've got ninety minutes of comedic gold.

Unfortunately, along with the straight-from-video transfer, no expense was spent in providing extras on the DVD. There are a handful of trailers and that's about it. The menu screens look good, but if you go to a restaurant and the best thing you can say about it is "nice menus," odds are you won't be eating there very often. That's a shame really, because this is a good movie that's getting a raw deal from poor packaging and a lousy transfer.

If a remastered version of this disc comes out - with or without all the bells and whistles in the bonus department - swoop on it without delay. In the meantime, VHS is actually your best bet: the film's flaws aren't as noticeable and you've been making allowances for such things for years now anyway.

glad it's finally on DVD!
Wow, this is one of my favorite funny movies, no matter what the critics say!! It's obvious that other viewers feel the same. I've watched it many times since the first time I saw it 9 years ago, and always laugh 'till my sides hurt. The way Turner and Quaid interact is great, and I love the people they meet throughout the movie (such as Morty I mean Muerte). The music is great, and I like the New Orleans scenery.

I'm always quoting these lines:
"That's funny"
"Funny ha-ha or funny strange?"

Buy it and enjoy!!

I love this film. Stanley Tucci plays a great loser!
I happened across this film on a cable network that will remain anonymous. I saw that Kathleen Turner and Dennis Quaid were in it, and it was a comedy, so I watched it. All I can say is....I laughed my butt off! I was shocked because I had never heard of this film. It must have been made and send directly to video, although that's no indication of it's quality.

"My name...is Muerte!" The supposedly streetwise thug played by Tucci says when he mugs his victims. Morty, as Quaid calls him, meets his match when he meets ex-CIA, ex-FBI agent Jeff (played by Quaid).

On vacation after the birth of their first child, Quaid and Turner go to New Orleans to enjoy some good food and music, but end up getting pulled back into service of the government when a terrorist organization is trying to buy up a lot of an experimental high explosive.

The action is good, and the comedy even better. There is no adult humor in this film, so it's suitable for even younger children, although the fight scenes might be a bit much for very young kids.

If you like any of the actors in this film, or just like comedy, you should pick this up, it's one of the best comedies out there. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Demanding, brilliant and not an easy one to watch.
A disturbing, yet deeply moving film. It struck me as very like watching a cinematic outpouring of images from the collective unconscious, with all the beauty and horror and mystery we see in dreams -- and nightmares. A journey of transformation and pain, and an indictment of European imperialism, as well as the cruelty of the missionary zeal of the Catholic Church. I felt I was watching an average human being undergo loss of ordinary self, thus opening him to a wider and deeper experience of life. It is worth watching, and perhaps employing as a means of searching one's own moral position in regard to life and one's reflection in relation to other, and thus unfamiliar human experience.

Captures the Essence of the Account
I don't normally address other reviewers in my reviews, but in this instance I believe the reviewer from Arizona who gave this movie a one star rating to be totally off base. That, and the fact that he posted two one-star reviews to bring the totals down for an international award winning film. I've read de Vaca's account, and it is indeed a great tale, which is why I was so looking forward to this movie's measuring up to the original narrative. I was not disppointed in the slightest, although naturally the movie doesn't portray all the passages from the account.

It's evident from every frame of this film that the filmmakers invested a great deal of love, energy and artistry to their task. Director Echevarria gets the utmost out of his outstanding cast. The Spaniards and the Native Americans are entirely believable, and the film depicts one of the most authentic representaions of Native American cultures I've seen on screen. The only film that comes close is Last of the Mohicans. It's definitely a case of the good, the bad and the ugly. The clash of cultures couldn't be represented any better.

Juan Diego as de Vaca is a revelation. He should have been up for an Oscar for his performance. The dwarfish villager who first vividly menaces and later befriends de Vaca has to be one of the most memorable characters in recent cinema. The same can be said for the village Shaman, also an exceptional performance.

From the credits, it is evident that the Mexican Government had a hand in funding the filming of this movie. It is well that they should have, as this has to be something of a national treasure.

Definitely disregard any negative comments about Cabeza de Vaca. It's a great film about an amazing man, whose courage and fortitude may have been unmatched in the annals of European exploreration of the New World. This is decidedly a must-see.

BEK

A Must See!
Buy it, rent it, borrow it... but watch it. Any bad reviews come from small minds and I am amazed that this movie is not more recognized than it warrants. Absolutely outstanding movie!!!!

Could have been SOOOOO much better...
I agree with the last guy. This movie could've been great. Indeed, it WANTS to be great, what with the cinematics and what all. But it's not great. It's politically-correct history revision. God forbid PC Fascists should ever stay true to the original story and keep a positive picture Christianity in it! Oh no, don't do that. Twist up truth to fit your New Age Fascist needs.

Why i give a low score to a great movie?
I agree whit all the good reviews, is not a good movie, is one of the best movies I have ever see, great in any aspect, but, Yes here comes the problems! The DVD is just a bad copy, whit the subtitles built in, no menues and the worst, Huuuu! This just make me sick! No 16:4 How can that be posible? Is a great movie, So why is not realised like a movie? I just hope this get to the person that is responsible of those mistakes, and even if there is no menu at least take off the subtitles and put it on whide screen the way is sopese to be. ... Read more

Reviews (172)

Good sequel saves the series...
Val Kilmer is Batman in this third entry into the successful series. The Riddler is wreaking havoc on Gotham City and it's up to Batman to save the day. Chris O'Donnell plays Robin and joins a reluctant Batman in bringing down Riddler and Two-Face. Director Joel Schumacher makes "Batman Forever" a bright, stylized comic-book movie and succeeds for the most part. Tommy Lee Jones is silly as Two-Face and Jim Carrey is goofily over-the-top as the Riddler. Hold on to your bat-seats, fans. This is a good one!

Third Chapter Lightens Things Up A Bit
Joel Schumacher took over Tim Burton's director's chair for the first time in this mystical and visually stunning third installment in the BATMAN film series (Burton produced). His rather campy and flamboyant style is apparent throughout the film, which lightens things up a bit, but nowhere as severe as in his follow-up BATMAN & ROBIN. Val Kilmer does his best to play things straight (no homoerotic puns intended) as Batman this time while fighting Two-Face (Tommy Lee Jones) and The Riddler (Jim Carrey). In fact Jim Carrey manages to steal almost every scene he appears in, which kind of makes you route more for him than for the heroes. Robin is also introduced in this episode, played rather well (and sympathetically) by Chris O'Donnell. The only thing that really didn't work here was the under-development of Two-Face (we see a brief and rather cheesy televised glimpse of him in court as DA Harvey Dent as he gets acid thrown face, while Batman tries to save him). There was roughly an hour of footage cut from this film (sheesh!), which may account for some of the loopholes in character development and why things may seem a little too rushed at times.

F.Y.I there is a new BATMAN DVD set coming out sometime later this year (or early 2002). This film and the first film will be restored with extra footage. I for one am curious to see what else may have been left out, however that would make this movie over 3 hours long!

Tommy Deserved Better
This film has a suitable "Two-Face" style reaction for me. On the one hand it is a relief after the nasty darkness of 'Batman Returns' it is also a disappointment in terms of character development and overall Feel. Val Kilmer's Batman is a pouty, emotionally stunted wet blanket(not his fault but the director's), Nicole Kidman's character is a slut, Chris O'Donnel's Robin spends the entire movie acting like a punk, and Jim Carrey plays Ace Ventura, I mean the Mask, uhh.. Riddler.

The thing that really makes me mad though is taking a Great Actor, Tommy Lee Jones, Cast him as a Great Character, Two-Face, and Making him perform him like he was the Joker and under-develop him to the point that he plays second fiddle, no pun intended, to JIM CARREY! CURSE YOU SHUMACHER!

If the film had centered around Two-Face and Bruce's guilt for not being fast enough to help him, it would have been great! But that is almost an after thought in the actual film. Blaming Two-Face for the Death of Robin's parents sets him up to be a "Robin" villain, Something more suitable for Riddler or the Penguin.

All this ranting aside, Tommy is the only Main Character who is actually convincing in the film. It's too bad he wasn't able to work with Tim Burton and Michael Keaton on a film that was worthwhile.

Elliot Goldenthal Wrote the music but it pales in comparison with Elfman's work on the first two films.

I was hoping there would be deleted scenes on the DVD but there aren't any. Most of Tommy's Scenes are in the movie, but some juicier moments were cut. Oh well.

Batman Forever
Batman Forever is the third installment in the highly successful Batman series.This movie is good in many aspects, and not so great in other ways.It is certainly no where near as good as the first two, but it is still a fun and impressive film.The new characters ;Riddler and Two Face are great.Tommy Lee Jones and Jim Carry aren't that bad; but at first I wasn't that sure how they were going to do.I also liked how they brought in Robin.The movie has an awesome cast; they did for the most part a good job.Nicole Kidman was in this one, but this film definetly wasn't one of her best pictures;not that she didn,t do a good job.The riddles also weren't to bad.Now some of them were easy, but added up well.ASnother thing I liked was Gotham City; it looks best in B2 though.The special effects were an improvement from the first two.Now that we are through with the good let's go to the bad.I hated so much how there was a new Batman; no offence to Val Kilmer, but he just shouldn't have done this.Also the new director.It wasn't the same without Tim Burton and Michael Keaton.Besides that the film was good and I would recommend it.

The third installment in the "Batman" series. Here the Caped Crusader must once again contend with two strange-looking, personality-impaired villains. First, there's maniacal ex-DA Harvey Two-Face, so named because half his countenance has been horribly disfigured by acid. Then there's the wise-cracking, hyperactive Riddler, whose alter-ego Edward Nygma is a nerdy, highly disgruntled ex-employee of Bruce Wayne. Together, these two masterminds plan to conquer the world with a device that not only mesmerizes users with 3-D television images, but also transports the viewer's thoughts into the Riddler's mind.Batman also has to contend with two other new people in his life. One is lovely psychiatrist Chase Meridian, who has fallen in love with Batman AND Bruce Wayne. Then there's Dick Grayson, a young, orphaned acrobat who desperately wants to become Batman's crime-fighting sidekick in order to get revenge on the man responsible for his parents' death: Harvey Two-Face.(7/10)

"Not as dark as its predecessor but still a great visual feast"
-- Stefan Birgir Stefansson, SBS.IS

terrible
this may have been said before, but these last 2 sequels are like gay disco batman movies. joel shummacher even decided to put in rubber nipples for the last flick to add some homoerotic tone for the whole family, so if that's your cup of tea you will probably think this waste of plastic is just peachy. ... Read more

Reviews (363)

Break it down, Angels!
My sisters and I loved the original "Charlie's Angels" TV series when we were kids, so I was curious about the contemporary movie inspired by the show. Well, the film blew me away: it's a terrific blend of action and humor, pulled off with great fun by an excellent ensemble cast.

John Forsythe returns from the original series as the voice of "Charlie," the unseen head of a detective agency. His "Angels" are three gorgeous but lethal women who do the detective work. Along for the ride is Charlie's assistant, Bosley (Bill Murray).

Drew Barrymore (as tough chick Dylan), Lucy Liu (as cool, elegant Alex) and Cameron Diaz (as brainy but goofy Natalie) have great chemistry as the Angels. The plot involves computers and revenge. Throughout the film there are awesome stunts, cool high-tech gadgetry, hilarious comic bits, and multiple undercover disguises. Musical cues are cleverly woven into the film; much of the film has a James Bond-meets-MTV feel.

"Charlie's Angels" is a tremendously fun piece of escapist entertainment, with a nice female-empowerment-and-bonding vibe. The film successfully straddles the line between spoofiness and serious adventure. Congratulations to the filmmakers for bringing back the "Angels."

Good morning, Charlie!
Having never seen the sitcom a la 1970s, I went into this movie not knowing what to expect. In a nutshell, Charlie's Angels is a fun girl power flick that never pretends to be the high class artistic film it isn't. Director McG's sense of color and pop culture really help to bring this picture into the new millenium. Since each has her own distinct personality, all three angels shine, although my personal opinion is that Bill Murray deserved more screen time as Bosley. Because the story line was relatively simple, McG "pumped up" several other elements. This is made evident in the DVD supplementary material. Among them were the music (each song perfectly fitting, making for an excellent soundtrack), the costuming (who could forget Cameron Diaz' Spider Man underwear or Lucy Liu's black leather ensemble?), and the special effects (fight scenes and explosions abound).

For a genuine fun time, rent this DVD with a few girlfriends (guy friends?)and turn on the surround sound. Speaking of which, taking note of certain costumes (or lack therof), one wonders who McG intends the audience to be. Nevertheless, Charlie's Angels is a sugar sweet, happy fun movie whose anthem should be "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun."

Great xtra's. 22nd june 2004.
Far better than the video, and cheap in some places to buy. The featurettes are ace especcially the martialarts one. The film is unmissable and i can't get enofe of either of them. I love it.

Sexy images dont cut it for me
If your some kind of perv, or a kid who isnt old enough to buy porn yet, then watching these chicks wearing sexy clothing is probably gonnah distract you from the fact that there is pretty pethetic acting and not much of a plot going on at all!

But if your like me, and see through that BS of there idea that "sex image" sells, then this movie is a worthless waste of time!

Even tho Drew Barrymore said, the reason for it is because she is against guns and dosent want to use them.... it dosent mean that [breasts] and bikinis are going to make it all better, and give it a new twist in a plot, because I didnt see much of one ... and when i see 5 star reviews to this garbage, i straigh away know it's a guy whose reveiwing with somthing other thats not his head!

Hollywood need to drop this idea of making action movies with woman wearing next to nothing, and make a decent action film with woman who are respectable for there performace, and most of all, ACT!

Great updated tribute to the Angels
In 2000, media rumblings had Charlie's Angels: the Movie set to tank like Waterworld. Reports of Bill Murray and Lucy Liu refusing to work with each other, rapidly inflating budget, and former angels declining cameos had many folks apprehensive about the film's success. But the finished product was refreshing and worth waiting for. Ironically, in persevering with the film,
the three young stars and co-producers, Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Liu followed the Angels' creed of never giving up and believing in yourself.

From the familiar opening strains of the TV show's music to the end, the movie remains true to the original series, yet is modern and updated. Barry is cute, Liu is tough, and Diaz simply dazzles. Lots of humor and action make this film a must-see. There is one especially hilarious scene that makes fun of engineers. Two of the angels dress up as men, and Liu dons a black leather miniskirt to distract the men. It works very well as the engineers are all falling out of their seats and looking at her in awe as she works the "dominatrix" role.

And it is great to have John Forsythe back as the voice of Charlie. At least he was a good sport about it; a true gentleman like Charlie! ... Read more

Description

Get set for more action, more vampires and more Wesley Snipes in this second monster-hit installment in the Blade franchise. ... Read more

Reviews (314)

Arguably the Best Action Movie of 2002
Wesley Snipes and Kris Kristofferson return to battle the undead in what will probably be the best action movie of 2002. With a whole slew of fight scenes, great costumes, great weapons, great scenes, and great soundtrack music, Blade II rocks.

Blade (Snipes) is enlisted by the Vampires to help destroy a genetic nightmare-being called the Reapers, which even have the Vampires themselves on the run. Assisting Blade is a re-juvinated Whistler (Kristofferson) and the Bloodpack, an elite group of Vampires trained to hunt Blade led by the lovely Leonor Varela and Ron Perlman. Blade is now the leader of the Bloodpack as they must try to defeat the Reapers.

Two hours later, you're going to have to catch your breath outside of the theater. Del Toro's direction is incredible, as you are right in the thick of the action. All the stops are pulled out for this sequel. However, the only drawback is the lack of a solid plot, but you pretty much forget about that after you get taken in my all the action sequences. The computer effects are equally dazzling, and adds to the gore of the film (which is definately a factor).

Everything is just right in "Blade II". The film is casted well, everything is shiny and glossy with a kick-butt attitude towards it. Camera shots and frame rate are queued with perfection, and the fight scenes during the film are what makes this production top-notch. A must see and a definate buy when released.

Claret has never looked better!!
If Guillermo del Toro set out to translate the language of comics to the silver screen, than he more than achieved his goal with the visually astounding Blade II. With the exception of the two returning characters of Whistler and Blade, this 'sequel' couldn't be more removed from the original if it tried. From atmosphere and colour coded lighting to whip crack pace and even more gore, Blade II is relentless in it's attempt to leave you gasping by the time the blood drenched credits roll. Foregoing any real semblance of plot (that would only slow things down after all), the film tends to feel like one long fight scene but it's all executed so impressively that the final impression left is one not unlike riding a rollercoaster. Not a bad thing and an even better thing if that's what the director set out to do. Guillermo himself is unapologetic in his honesty that he was simply intended to fashion a 'kick ...' movie that while different from Stephen Norrington's original, retains the similar style and wit that made the first so special. Acting wise, Blade is a role Wesley Snipes could probably play in his sleep so while he is predictably fantastic in bringing the character to believable life, all eyes settle on newcomer Luke Goss (he of Bros fame) and he doesn't dissapoint as the ruthless (and perhaps somewhat tragic) reaper Gerrad Nomak. From his appearance onscreen, Goss gives a captivating performance, somehow even investing a real humanity in a character that is more animalistic than human and that is testament to Goss' talents. Smartly avoiding overkill in the make up department, it's Goss' physical presence that is the most unsettling aspect of the villian. With two such formidable actors grounding the insanity that ensures in it's running run, the film is left to throw body parts up at the screen haphazardly. That it is crafted all so professionally allows you to simply be whisked away for the horrific ride. While not as acomplished as the first, Blade II remains startling good viewing. All action genres are pandered to, the horror fans get what they are after and when all is said and done, some might find themselves surprised how addictive the film continues to be, requesting if not demanding repeated viewings. A great horror and action film that deserves more of an accolade than simply 'sequel' and more a title in it's own right.

BEST MOVIE EVER
After the first installment in the Blade series, I was really looking forward to the sequel - and I wasn't dissapointed. This far surpasses Blade and just hightens the suspense for Blade: Trinity (out Dec 10). Wesley Snipes is his usual great self in a fast-paced, suspense action movie. Kris Kristofferson is brilliant as Whistler once again (as are the rest of the cast). If you liked the first then you will definetly like this - and hopefully like me you cant wait for Blade: Trinity !

Blade I Retains M. Wolfman Touch....
....Blade II does not.

What's the Marv Wolfman Touch you may ask. Wolfman and Gene Colan of course was the original Marvel comics team which created Blade from a subplot in their most popular horror comic Tomb of Dracula in the 1970s. Those dudes pretty much knew they were creating comic books stories and never, never took themselves 100% too seriously.

Blade II loses the light touch--as much as fables of vampirous goings on could indeed have a light touch--and goes for the jugular, pun intended. I found myself wishing for one of those campy, talky Vincent Price death scenes since most of the creatures here explode in a special effects blast into dust and immediately into oblivion type of thing when killed. The crew of offending vampires creepily open the flesh on their cheek, jaws and upper neck to--bite yer neck and suck yer blaad! Yeesh! And Snipes smiles sadistiaclly thru-out the entire thing. It was a chore to look at it 'cuz it is busy, so many of those vamp things disintergate and no one is having that much fun. I'll watch a video featuring Sesame Street's Count any day insteada this mess.

Pulse-Pounding!!!!
When the world is threatned by a new and deadlier breed of super vampire the legendary Blade and his mentor Whistler must join forces with the Bloodpack, an elite team of vampire warriors made up of his sworn enemies. In order to stop the carnage these ravenous fiends must be destroyed at all costs. In this high-voltage adventure, exploding with spectular effects and martial arts action. The electrifying Snipes reprises his role from the original cult classic Blade. I thought this was a hell of alot better than the original. I thought the sequel had a better plot, great acting, excellent fight scenes, and nonstop action. If you liked the original, you'll love the sequel. I loved the sequel, alot more than I liked the original. ENJOY!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (47)

Ace Action
This movie made me drool at the cinema. The action scenes are incredible and this movie is very well made. The bouncing, shaking, wobbling camera was very impressive on the big screen. And the music was just totally awesome too. Randy Quaid and Morgan Freeman were very good in this film although I don't think Minnie Driver was good at an American accent.

Don't be to hard on this film. It wasn't made to move CITIZEN KANE off its throne. Christopher Young's score is hugely action packed and very loud throughout the film.

The film was originally called THE FLOOD and had numerous other characters in it and had many daylight scenes. But because of an abundance of disaster movies at the time it was reshot as an action movie that was set totally at night. And practically in real time too.

The DVD is in Dolby 5.1 and is letterboxed at 2.30:1.

Twisted plot, but still a good movie
Hard Rain might have a twisted plot, pitting an armored truck guard against some robbers who are trying to steal 3 million dollars, but that doesn't really make it a bad movie. All the while, they're surrounded by a massive flood as their main obstacle. Hard Rain has some of the best actors such as Morgan Freeman and Randy Quaid playing the leading roles and they all do great jobs. Hard Rain also has some good action sequences and a lot of suspense throughout the film. It's like a wet and wild goosechase with everybody trying to catch Christian Slater in order to get the money. The special effects with all the water and rain couldn't have been done much better. Hard Rain is just another usual action movie until Morgan Freeman joins Christian Slater and they both team up and try to survive against the other robbers. That's when this movie gets a lot better with all the suspense and action.

If you like good action movies with some suspense added in, you will probably like Hard Rain. The only drawback is the twisted plot, sometimes you might wonder what the movie is really about. But watch it and you'll figure it out without a problem.

Quite Entertaining Nonsense
It's set, entirely at night, in the small Indiana town of Huntingburg which is being evacuated as a serious flood develops. But there are a few folk still around: Christian Slater and Edward Asner, the drivers of an armoured truck with $3M in the back; Morgan Freeman, the leader of a small gang of thieves with their sights set on the same 3M, Randy Quaid, a sheriff with some unappealing character traits; Minnie Driver, a churchwarden who has lingered rashly to protect her beloved stained glass windows; Richard Dysart and Betty White, an elderly couple stubbornly refusing to leave for fear of looters, thrown in for comic relief. Slater escapes from Freeman and his pals with the money which he hides in a cemetery. They pursue him on jet skis... Everyone gets very wet. Explosions. Gunfights. Hair's breadth escapes by lead characters trapped in rising floodwater. General mayhem. Credulity strained to breaking point. Significantly above average American action movie. More original than most. Quite good fun. Nothing special. But worth a look if you like this sort of thing.

TERRIBLE
Absolutely awful. Poor script, plot and acting was stagey. It looked more like a Jr. High School play rather than a full length feature film. Christian and Morgan are two great actors but you couldn't tell in this chaotic mess. Skip it and save your money.

a wet ride
begins good put the end with Quaid is sorta a letdown but all throughtout its a hell of a ride with Slater running back and forth being chased by Freeman and his 3 henchmen after his uncle got killed(Edward Asner) and then he has to deal with Driver's safety and then Quaid and his pals and they all want the same thing. the bags full of money. the flood sequences are the best with all the rising water and the fires and the gunplay. Solomon directs a nice flood thriller. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Play on, Mariachi
"El Mariachi" is probably the most visual film that I've ever seen. By "visual", I mean that all of the fancy and amazing camerawork used here combines with the story to make a truly unique film.

Director Robert Rodriguez, making his first feature film here, takes action to a unique level in this straightforward and, sometimes, jaw-dropping movie, which is full of so much that moviegoers love, it's almost impossible not to like it.

Carlos Gallardo plays a young man who wants to earn a name for himself as a mariachi, a beloved, legendary kind of guitar player. He walks into a town hoping for luck. But, instead is mistaken for a brutal killer by the hired hands of a local crime lord.

At a tightly-wound 81 minutes, "Mariachi" starts up the steam and never lets up. The action scenes are loaded with energy and the story complements them with good characters and good actors that make it all work.

The sequel, "Desperado", missed the mark and is not very memorable. It missed all of the elements that made "Mariachi" so good and so much fun to watch.

Stick with this film for all it's ingenuity and brilliance, it is a film that should not be ignored.

Play on, Mariachi
"El Mariachi" works because of so many elements: great direction (especially the fast-paced camerawork), good acting, awesome action sequences, and a fast-paced story, that completes the brilliance of the film. Director Robert Rodriguez films his first feature film, this fast-paced action thriller, with so much energy, you're going to want to see it again and again just because of the camerawork.

Carlos Gallardo (very convincing in his role) plays a mariachi looking to make a name for himself. But, things start getting out of control when a crime lord mistakes him for a brutal killer.

The camerawork, which is done entirely by Rodriguez with one camera, is so involving and amazing to watch. It adds to the suspense and tension that Mariachi feels as he tries to outrun the bad guys. The movie is very tight at a slim 81 minutes, but it doesn't matter. The film has a cool, little story about mistaken identity kicked up with great elements.

The sequel, "Desperado", is okay, but it never complemented "Mariachi" because it missed out on all of the elements that made it so good.

Stick with this one. It's the best.

I like it, yet it's very overrated
Well let me start by saying that I liked El Mariachi, It had a good likeable cast (Carlos Gallardo was good as El Mariachi), good script, and it knows how to keep the viewer interested. Like Roger Ebert once said, "A good movie doesn't rely on how much money is spent on it" and I totally agree with that. So many would say that El Mariachi is the total package right? Wrong! As a John Woo and Quentin Tarantino lover I expected this to be somewhat more action packed and was left somewhat empty handed. It suprised me how so many people said the action was beautifully done, and I thought I was going to agree with them since I saw Desperado before this. Yet the action is a let down, heck the budget was so low in this movie we don't even see any type of bullets flying or even explosives going off in the actors chests. For the man who has been called the Hispanic John Woo I would think that his action sequences would be more stylized (I have seen really cheesy Mexican shoot-out movies that had an even lower budget yet managed to show better action sequences than this.) But I guess I realize that Robert Rodriguez intention wasn't to make a great action film rather to make a good movie. And a good movie it's. If you are an action fan that can accept this drawback, then go for it.

Great Action Movie!
Even though this movie was made on 7,000 it is just as entertaining as these million dollar movies out there! This movie to me was more entertaining than Titanic ever could be! And the action sequences a great! Anyway if you are looking for a good action movie this is your movie!!

Crazy Action
The first film by Robert Rodríguez, who went on to do Desperado and From Dusk Till Dawn, among other, if you can get past de spanish languaje it is still a great low budget action film, even comparable with some big time movies, the action scenes are some of the best, specialy because of budget contraints. A very original and funny movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez captured the world's attention with this little 1992 film, made for only $7,500 (not counting the cost of a little prerelease polish) and originally destined for the Spanish- language video market. An enterprising studio executive saw the enormous Spielbergian talent in Rodriguez's work and decided to get El Mariachi out to the international public. A tight, inventive, highly entertaining movie from start to finish, the story concerns a guitarist mistaken for a hired killer and forced to fight a local crime boss and his army of goons. Rodriguez makes clever use of every available prop, from guitar cases to a beat-up bus to a funny-looking dog. But his promise as a director--he went on to make Desperado and From Dusk till Dawn--is evident in every scene.--Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Play on, Mariachi
"El Mariachi" is probably the most visual film that I've ever seen. By "visual", I mean that all of the fancy and amazing camerawork used here combines with the story to make a truly unique film.

Director Robert Rodriguez, making his first feature film here, takes action to a unique level in this straightforward and, sometimes, jaw-dropping movie, which is full of so much that moviegoers love, it's almost impossible not to like it.

Carlos Gallardo plays a young man who wants to earn a name for himself as a mariachi, a beloved, legendary kind of guitar player. He walks into a town hoping for luck. But, instead is mistaken for a brutal killer by the hired hands of a local crime lord.

At a tightly-wound 81 minutes, "Mariachi" starts up the steam and never lets up. The action scenes are loaded with energy and the story complements them with good characters and good actors that make it all work.

The sequel, "Desperado", missed the mark and is not very memorable. It missed all of the elements that made "Mariachi" so good and so much fun to watch.

Stick with this film for all it's ingenuity and brilliance, it is a film that should not be ignored.

Play on, Mariachi
"El Mariachi" works because of so many elements: great direction (especially the fast-paced camerawork), good acting, awesome action sequences, and a fast-paced story, that completes the brilliance of the film. Director Robert Rodriguez films his first feature film, this fast-paced action thriller, with so much energy, you're going to want to see it again and again just because of the camerawork.

Carlos Gallardo (very convincing in his role) plays a mariachi looking to make a name for himself. But, things start getting out of control when a crime lord mistakes him for a brutal killer.

The camerawork, which is done entirely by Rodriguez with one camera, is so involving and amazing to watch. It adds to the suspense and tension that Mariachi feels as he tries to outrun the bad guys. The movie is very tight at a slim 81 minutes, but it doesn't matter. The film has a cool, little story about mistaken identity kicked up with great elements.

The sequel, "Desperado", is okay, but it never complemented "Mariachi" because it missed out on all of the elements that made it so good.

Stick with this one. It's the best.

I like it, yet it's very overrated
Well let me start by saying that I liked El Mariachi, It had a good likeable cast (Carlos Gallardo was good as El Mariachi), good script, and it knows how to keep the viewer interested. Like Roger Ebert once said, "A good movie doesn't rely on how much money is spent on it" and I totally agree with that. So many would say that El Mariachi is the total package right? Wrong! As a John Woo and Quentin Tarantino lover I expected this to be somewhat more action packed and was left somewhat empty handed. It suprised me how so many people said the action was beautifully done, and I thought I was going to agree with them since I saw Desperado before this. Yet the action is a let down, heck the budget was so low in this movie we don't even see any type of bullets flying or even explosives going off in the actors chests. For the man who has been called the Hispanic John Woo I would think that his action sequences would be more stylized (I have seen really cheesy Mexican shoot-out movies that had an even lower budget yet managed to show better action sequences than this.) But I guess I realize that Robert Rodriguez intention wasn't to make a great action film rather to make a good movie. And a good movie it's. If you are an action fan that can accept this drawback, then go for it.

Great Action Movie!
Even though this movie was made on 7,000 it is just as entertaining as these million dollar movies out there! This movie to me was more entertaining than Titanic ever could be! And the action sequences a great! Anyway if you are looking for a good action movie this is your movie!!

Crazy Action
The first film by Robert Rodríguez, who went on to do Desperado and From Dusk Till Dawn, among other, if you can get past de spanish languaje it is still a great low budget action film, even comparable with some big time movies, the action scenes are some of the best, specialy because of budget contraints. A very original and funny movie. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Under Siege
Casey Ryback is an ex-navey seal. He's now a cook on a battle ship. The captain loves his cooking and treats him kindly. Commander Krill (Busey) on the other half hates Ryback and Ryback hates him. Casey is put in the meat locker by Commander Krill. Its the captain's birthday and they have ordered a surprise group of singers, dancers, caterers and even a stripper. But what they don't know is that commander Krill is bad and knows the pary guys. Infact the party guys are an international group of terrorists lead by Bill Strannix (Jones) and they are ready to take over the ship and blow up the U.S.A. Only Casey Ryback can stop them. An excellent action movie. Great performance by Steven Seagal, Tommy Lee Jones and Gary Busey! Definately one to add to your collection. Be sure to see it soon
RATED R FOR STRONG NON-STOP ACTION VIOLENCE, LANGUAGE AND NUDITY!

An amazing edge of your seat thriller
Steven Seagal (Above the Law, Under Siege 2:Dark Territory, On Deadly Ground, Fire Down Below, Out for Justice, Hard to Kill, Executive Decision) stars in this awesome action thriller directed by Andrew Davis (Above the Law, Chain Reaction, Collateral Damage) along with Tommy Lee Jones (Men in Black, Space Cowboys, Batman Forever) and Gary Busey (Lethal Weapon) As all fans know, when you see Seagal on the cover, you will get yourself a definite bloody action movie with a lot of dying and killing as well as martial arts, guns, and knives.

The story is quite simple: Steven Seagal is a cook on a military ship that is transporting missiles. He has several other helpers and friends but there is one person he hates: Gary Busey. They always get into fights for no absolute reason. Anyway, the army men and guards call for concerts and entertainment but they have made one mistake: the music company they picked are not musicians and singers, they are international terrorists led by Jones. Busey finally reveals himself as a terrorists and helps take off some guards. Soon, these terrorists brutally kill all the guards and the captain. Holding over 160 people hostage, the villains demand money and say that if the government makes one attempt to stop them, they will use the missiles on the ship to shoot them down and bomb the U.S.A! But between the midst of all that, we see that Steven Seagal has not been captured......and now it's up to him to save everyone! What, of course, follows is a gigantic barrage of guns, guts, blood, knives, bombs, grenades, martial arts, and a little nudity.

If you are a real action fan, I recommend this. I hope to see the second but I heard it wasn't so good. A good film would be Above the Law, in which Seagal and Davis work for the first time. That film also features Sharon Stone and Pam Grier. I suggest you go rent this to see if you like it but trust me: IT IS BLOODY!

Rated R for strong violence, language, and very very very brief nudity.

Pure Stupidity
This is the worst action movie ever made, with the destroying of good actors like Gary Busey & Tommy Lee Jones who usual great actors in movies but they come off as lame, this rediculous action movie, where Steven Seagal doesn't get injured, it's just bufoon going doing killing that has no plot & even worst acting,it's more like a comdedy than an action movie if you think hard enough about it

Merely average DIE HARD retread
This may be Steven Seagal's best film, but as an action film UNDER SIEGE is very average. It borrows its basic plot structure from the vastly superior DIE HARD, but while DIE HARD had a believably human and vulnerable hero in Bruce Willis' John McClane, UNDER SIEGE simply has the wooden Steven Seagal as the near-invincible Casey Ryback, the cook onboard the USS Missouri who happens to be a former Navy SEAL who has a lot of weapons expertise and the like. While McClane spent most of DIE HARD trying to get in and out of trouble with terrorists, Ryback basically spends a good majority of UNDER SIEGE simply killing them one by one in various "cool" ways. You never feel that Ryback's life is truly threatened by the bad guys---he's just a killing machine, and only head baddie William Stranix (Tommy Lee Jones, in a highly entertaining performance that brings slightly more interest than this movie deserves) truly matches up to him---and thus you never really get involved in the hero or this movie like you do in DIE HARD. You simply watch Ryback cut his path of righteous destruction in a brain-dead, gaga state (and occasionally laugh at some of Se