Description

Carlos Saura's (Cria!, Carmen) first commercial success in Spain, Peppermint Frappe radiates the influence of Surrealist director Luis Buñuel.The eerie story of a bachelor obsessed with his friend's wife explores the fierce conflict between repressive religious upbringing and sexual desire.Julian, a respected doctor devoted to the Catholic Church, and Pablo, a free spirit caught up in the modern ways quickly engulfing traditional Spain, are distinct opposites.When Julian meets Pablo's bride Elena, he imagines that she is the mysterious woman he had seen beating a drum at a Holy Week ritual, then attempts to transform his nurse Ana into a second Elena.This mesmerizing mixture of reality, illusion, and memories stars Jose Luis Lopez Vazquez (The Garden of Delights) as Julian and Geraldine Chaplin (Cria!) as both the temptress Elena and the shy Ana. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Peppermint Frappe
This movie has one of the all-time best scenes in film history. I have viewed this particular scene at least 30 times and each time I love it even more. The scene could easily stand alone with a 5-star star rating, but it's not necessary because the entire film is well worth watching. It is unique in content and has a tension and tone that keeps you wondering where the film is leading you. I highly recommend it. Great soundtrack, too! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Spanish Language - Barney's Exercise Circus/Parade of Number
I ordered this video in Spanish. The sound was of very poor quality, as was the picture. I kept adjusting the tracking and the volume, but in the end I ended up throwing the video away. It was a waste of money. Other Spanish language videos have been okay, but not Barney's.

Barney's exercise circus
I really loved this very active video. My children really got into it. We all got up and sang and danced. I am going to get it for my sister's kids for Christmas. We watch it almost every day. ... Read more

Reviews (79)

a real class act
DANGEROUS LIAISONS is a fantastic character study of the twisted and obsessed. The classic novel translates perfectly to the screen in this adaptation by Christopher Hampton which was taken from his acclaimed stage play.

Glenn Close is mesmerising as the seductive and manipulative woman who challenges the cruel Valmont (John Malkovich) to seduce her naive niece (Uma Thurman). However, Valmont also wishes to seduce and disgrace a remote beauty (Michelle Pfeiffer), totally uncaring and unaware of the tragic outcome that will envelope them both.

The stellar cast also includes Keanu Reeves (THE MATRIX, PARENTHOOD), Swoosie Kurtz (LITTLE GIRLS IN PRETTY BOXES, REALITY BITES) and veteran Mildred Natwick (THE TROUBLE WITH HARRY).

The DVD transfer is gorgeous and has a dynamic 5.1 sound mix that shows off the beautifully dramatic score by George Fenton.

Remade as VALMONT (starring Colin Firth and Fairuza Balk) and CRUEL INTENTIONS (starring Ryan Phillippe).

The Game as You have never seen it....
You wouldn't necessarily think that an adaptation of an albeit famous 17th century French novel would make a relevant and fascinating piece of cinema... but it does.

The first thing that strikes you is how well the film is lit and shot. The period locations and costumes are visually sumptuous and perfect. Better yet, the acting entirely matches the skill of the direction that takes its method from the theatre - emotions are conveyed by expression and not dialogue. Glenn Close gives her best performance on celluloid as the scheming Madame de Merteuil, amorally hellbent on bending everyone to her will, no matter the method or the cost, and John Malkovitch is her perfect foil as the cynical hedonistic but world-weary Valmont. Michelle Pfeiffer engages our empathy as the tortured and manipulated target of Malkovitch's desire and Close's plotting.

The film is basically a morality tale, but one that fascinates in its exposure of ego, vanity, intrigue and the war between the genders, subjects that are timeless in their relevance, despite the period setting. The storyline, which sticks faithfully to the original novel, remains compelling throughout as we watch deceits within deceits take their tragic course. Whole-heartedly recommended - take your time over it, and enjoy.

A wonderful film
Dangerous Liaisons is a lush and lavish glimpse into the lives of the 18th century French aristocracy. The Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont used to be lovers and are now close friends, a powerful but restrained attraction still simmering between them. They are both twisted people who enjoy manipulating everyone around them, but the foundation of their demise is laid when they make a bet - if Valmont can seduce the virtuous Madame de Tourvel, a married woman of unimpeachable morals, the Marquise will give herself to him for one whole night of romance. What neither anticipates is that Valmont will fall in love with Tourvel, and that the Marquise will become victim to a destructive jealousy.

Glenn Close is marvelous as the depraved Marquise, and ever so subtly reveals to us the insecurities behind the noblewoman's coldly smiling facade. Malkovich proves that a man does not need to be conventionally handsome in order to be seductive; he exudes serpentine charm and masterfully acts out the Vicomte's slow and astonishing change of heart. The dialogue is witty and stirring, and the costumes are candy for the eyes. This was a thoroughly enjoyable film.

Dangerous Liaisons
Some reviewers spoke of the poor dvd quality. I was too young to see this film in the theaters when it came out, but is it possible that it could have been made to look like that? Sometimes a special filter is used on the camera to give the picture a specific look. I thought the haziness and soft, pastel colors presented in the movie mirrored the rococo style of the period perfectly.

This is my favorite John Malkovich movie. His looks are irrelevent to his portrayal of the Viccomte. Malkovich completely embodied the sinister and seductive Valmont, and every time I watch this film, I fall under his spell, too.

Fabulous
From an earlier review...

"Great Potential Ruined By Mediocre Actors"

Oh, now THIS is rich...

THREE Oscar-nominated performances, and one of those is an example of "mediocre" acting? Gimme a break.

This is without doubt a fine film... Wicked, delightful, and delicious even for this guy's guy (forget that "chick flick" nonsense, any man who doesn't wish to take Malkovich's place in "educating" a very young Ms. Thurman is delusional). Five stars, a modern classic.

Superb cinematography, acting, costumes, dialogue, etc. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

powerful and gut-wrenching
In an almost documentary style, Victor Gavina has created a remarkable film of life at the bottom in Medellin. Oppressed, disappeared, beaten, or killed by police, these children of the streets have little to do but rob for a living, [destroy] for sport or defense, drink beer and take drugs to pass the time. Rodrigo wants more, and imagines himself a drummer in a punk band. He spends much time throughout the film in a heart-breaking search for drumsticks and music lessons so he can pursue his dream.

Gavina employed many actual street children in his powerful film and informs us, in a final twist to the gut, that five of them were killed before its release. One can only wonder how many have died since. It is all the more important, therefore, that Gavina has bestowed upon them a humanity, humor, posterity, and grace that life did not.

"Rodrigo D" is one of the great little films of all time. It should be lovingly transferred to DVD so all can see, and take to heart its important message.

Excelent Movie
This movie is one of the best Colombian movies I have ever seen. You may find this movie interesting because it shows how the people who lives in the poor neighbourhoods around Medellin had to look for a life in the past dark years where the drugs played an important role. In fact, the movie tells the story of some guys that get related with that crude violence, becoming "sicarios" (people who work killing people) and how they fight just to survive in an small world which is governed by the money of the drug lords. Furthermore, it is important to notice, that Victor Gaviria, the director, had been kill because of this movie.
However, as I am from Medellin, Colombia, (where the movie was made), I can tell that Rodrigo D: No Future, as all movies, has bits of non-true facts which can be misunderstood by people. As a colombian I can tell you, that this is NOT a true description about the colombian life style, and does not completely describe how is Colombia and of course Medellin. If your are interested to know our life style, I suggest to look up for the movie "Golpe de estadio".
Nevertheless, this movie is really well done, and I am sure you will enjoy it.

Incredible inside view of life in the suburbios of Medellin.
I saw this video at a friend's house. I hadn't expected much. He told me it was some documentary about Columbia. I was surprised at the shocking movie that followed. The movie is an inside look at the chaotic life in Medellin, a city awash in drugs, guns and unseen foreign influences. The story follows the lives of young men who know little about how to live their lives productively. Violence is a way of life. Robbery is common. The scary part of the video is that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish who is acting and who is just living their life. According to the credits at the end of the film, about four or five of the "actors" in the film had died in real life. If you have never been to Medellin, this movie is probably as close as you will want to get. Most of all, the movie is sad because you can really get a sense of the unseen influences that undermine life for many in Columbia.

This movie will make you think more than any other movies, with the possible exception of Baraka. You may not feel comfortable with the movie, but that is because it displays a reality that most North Americans could not concieve. I place this movie in my 10 time favorites. ... Read more

Reviews (104)

Dark at "Midnight"
The echoes of Southern Gothic don't come much more gothic than "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," Clint Eastwood's flawed adaptation of the bestselling true crime book. While the movie only dips briefly into the genteel decadence of the upper-crust South, and the general air of Savannah, it does have its fun moments and good acting.

John Kelso (John Cusack) has come to Georgia to cover the famous Christmas party of the wealthy James Williams (Kevin Spacey). As well as Williams, Kelso ends up befriending a bevy of eccentrics, including some happy-go-lucky partygoers and the Lady Chablis (played by... the Lady Chablis), a drag queen with a mischievous sense of humor.

But things go wrong after the party. Williams' employee/boyfriend Billy Carl Hanson (Jude Law) is found dead after a fight with Williams -- and Williams seems like the most likely suspect. As a not-so-pleasant trial begins, Kelso sets out to unravel the mystery of what really went on that night, and what the truth behind Hanson's death is.

The biggest flaw of "Midnight" is that it is way too short for the material it stems from -- several years and multiple trials are compressed into a matter of weeks, and many of the endearingly freaky people of Savannah are given short shrift. Only the Lady Chablis gets enough time -- the guy with the flies and poison, for example, is touched on but never dealt with.

But as far as execution goes, much of "Midnight" is quite charming -- warm, sleepy and a little overgrown, much like the vision of Savannah it shows. Even a midnight voodoo session doesn't break the mood. And Eastwood manages to give us a charming view of the eccentricities of "Gone With the Wind on mescaline." (Exhibit A: The guy walking an invisible, deceased dog)

Both Cusack and Spacey do an excellent job bringing their characters to life: Cusack always seems a little out of the current, a realistic outsider, while Spacey exudes grace, charm and a sort of apologetic pride. Jude Law, for the brief time we see him, does a good job as the redneck hellraiser. And who can forget the Lady Chablis? Chablis is pretty clearly having a wonderful time (playing herself, no less). The one cast flaw is Alison Eastwood, who doesn't seem to bother acting.

While "Midnight of Good and Evil" fails to live up to its promise, it is a charming and funny look at the deep South. Well-acted but patchily adapted, this is an amusing movie if you don't expect it to stick too closely to the book.

A timeless piece of eccentric south
I have lived in the south all my life. Watching this movie reminded me of how beautiful and special this place is. Clint Eastwood's interpretation of John Berendt's piece of literary art was splendid in its own right. It reminded me of how rich our heritage is. The music, the superb casting (no one can deny the talent of the great Kevin Spacey) and the seemingly endless parade of characters kept me enthralled from the beginning. It's not often a film can pull at my heartstrings, teach me something about tolerance and history, reveal such beauty and amuse me at the same time. The movie so moved me that I read the book. Although somewhat different, each form was intriguing. I have just returned from Savannah. I was constantly reminded of the story of Jim Williams as I walked the squares and felt the history therein. This filmed turned attention once again to a wonderful magical place, the South.

I liked this movie...
...back when it was called "The Great Gatsby!" This movie (and book) is a thinly-veiled rip-off of The Great Gatsby.

One of Eastwood's best and funniest movies
For years I put off watching this movie because of lukewarm reviews, but when I finally rented it I was delighted by its surrealistic regional irony. In fact, I was laughing out loud through much of the movie. Granted, social satire tends to rely on exaggeration and stereotype for effect, but its humor succeeds most when it portrays characters in a sympathetic rather than derisive light. This movie succeeds admirably in that regard.

One complaint is that, as with many Ron Howard or Steven Spielberg movies, a bit of sentimental shmaltz creeps in at times, for example with the voodoo priestess character. Thank heaven at least they didn't cast Whoopi Goldberg in the role.

If movies such as "Fargo", "Best in Show", and "Eyes Wide Shut" left you more puzzled than tickled, then this movie may seem as slow and inactive as some critics accuse. Other critics bemoan that it doesn't do the book justice: I have not read the book, but I do feel that the movie stands well on its own. So much so, in fact, that I immediately went to Amazon afterwards and purchased it. For me, anyway, this movie is a keeper.

Not what I expected
I read the book when it first appeared on the bestseller list, and waited for the movie, holding my breath. The book was simply wonderful and deserved it's place as number one, but sadly, the movie was lacking. But there were some good points. Part of the fun of watching this movie is sorting out the real characters from the actors. John Cusack's role as a writer for an upscale magazine was an understandable, even essential fabrication to tie the events together with some dramatic continuity. How many people noticed Cusack's sister Ann in a brief walk-on appearance? One character that stands out, and I mean really stands out is Lady Chablis. If you watch this movie for no other reason, watch it to witness this highly unusual and sometimes hilarious real life personality who as a local entertainer still resided in the Savannah, Georgia area at the time of the DVD release. Again, for such a wonderul book, the movie didn't do it justice. One can only hope that McCrae's book, "Bark of the Dogwood--A Tour of Southern Homes and Gardens" does not suffer the same fate. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

There is greatness in film that can be discussed, dissected, and talked about late into the night. Then there is genius that is right in front of our faces--we smile at the spell it puts us into and are refreshed, and nary a word needs to be spoken. This kind of entertainment is what they used to call "movie magic," and there is loads of it in this irresistible computer animation feature. Just a picture of these bright toys on the cover of Toy Story looks intriguing, reawakening the kid in us. Filmmaker John Lasseter's shorts (namely Knickknack and Tin Toy, which can be found on the Pixar video Tiny Toy Stories) illustrate not only a technical brilliance but also a great sense of humor--one in which the pun is always intended. Lasseter thinks of himself as a storyteller first and an animator second, much like another film innovator, Walt Disney.

Lasseter's story is universal and magical: what do toys do when they're not played with? Cowboy Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks), Andy's favorite bedroom toy, tries to calm the other toys (some original, some classic) during a wrenching time of year--the birthday party, when newer toys may replace them. Sure enough, Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) is the new toy that takes over the throne. Buzz has a crucial flaw, though--he believes he's the real Buzz Lightyear, not a toy. Bright and cheerful, Toy Story is much more than a 90-minute commercial for the inevitable bonanza of Woody and Buzz toys. Lasseter further scores with perfect voice casting, including Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head and Wallace Shawn as a meek dinosaur. The director-animator won a special Oscar for "the development and inspired application of techniques that have made possible the first feature-length computer-animated film." In other words, the movie is great. --Doug Thomas

... Read more

Reviews (81)

Toy Story
1995's "Toy Story" was the first feature length film generated entirely by computers, and Pixar's first dive into theatrical films. The movie opens as young Andy turns 7. The undisputed leader of Andy's toys, a 50's cowboy doll named Woody (Tom Hanks), finds himself challenged by the new toy on the block, "space ranger" Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen). When Woody's plan to get rid of Buzz backfires, the two find themselves lost in the suburbs. Woody and Buzz relize they have to work together to get back to Andy's, and they eventually become the best of friends. The humor and animation is terrific, and a great start for Pixar. This lead to several other successes, such as A Bug's Life and Finding Nemo.

Now on to "the vaults". Disney is trying to squeeze every last penny out of the cash cow, and have the two Toy Story films under lock and key, no doubt so they can sell millions of "Special Editions" in five years. Once again, Disney appalls me with their unmatched corperate greed. In conclusion, Toy Story is an excellent film and a true must-see.

The Secret Lives of Toys Revealed
"Toy Story" is a modern fairy tale created with appropriately modern computer animation. Its snappy dialougue will appeal to adult viewers, the spectacle of fantastic toys coming to life will appeal to children, and adults may wax nostalgic about the toys they enjoyed as children, several of which are featured in this movie.
The story revolves around a cowboy doll named Woody, and his imminent replacement as the favorite toy of his owner, Andy, by Andy's new Buzz Lightyear doll, a multigadgeted gift that Andy receives for his birthday.
Tom Hanks'personality shines through in the persona of Woody, and Tim Allen's voice lends the right amount of charisma to Buzz.
In the process of forming an eventual friendship, the characters go through a lot of antagonism and a lot of other real human emotions. As they prepare for life in a new home, they are imperiled by the sadistic kid next door named Sid, into whose clutches they fall by accident.
It's entertaining to watch the toys interact with each other.
Buzz gradually learns that he is simply a child's plaything and not the noble space crusader he fancied himself to be in the beginning, and Woody learns to share his special place in Andy's heart. A great supporting cast including Annie Potts as Woody's sweetheart, Bo Peep, Don Rickles as Mr. Potato Head, Jim Varney as Slinky, Wallace Shawn as Rex, John Ratzenburger as Ham, and Laurie Metcalfe as Andy's mother help fuel this tale.
Seeing this innovative film made me want to buy dolls of Woody and Buzz as collector's items. But I am content with just a copy of this movie. The second installment of the "Toy Story" saga is an enhancement of the first one, and just like the first, nothing short of delightful.

Original and fun for the whole family!
This movie took me by storm when I saw it back in the summer of 1995 at the theatres and let me tell you, this movie is still one of the best computer animated movies of all time. In fact this movie shattered new grounds back in 1995 by not using drawing cel animation and instead this movie is the first of an unbroken chain of computer generated animated movies that has continued to date with "Finding Nemo".

The plot is absolutely joyful and stunningly original. The story revolves around the quiet family home of a quiet town where a boy owns numerous toys with his toddler sister. The toys however, are almost like beings of their own and are 'living' as well but stop 'moving' when the boy comes back into his room. However, a cowboy named Tim is the most popular 'toy' in the boys bedroom and is kept by the pillow almost every night until on his birthday, he gets a fancy astronaut toy named Buzz Lightyear who has many 'gizmos' and in time takes over the toy cowboys place as the most popular toy and Tim gets enormously jealous of this. However, after a botched attempt to remove Buzz, the cowboy himself along with Buzz end up in the hands of a punk teenager who takes joy in blowing up toys with firecrackers and or other means like burning, breaking, or smashing them and/or even taking them apart and re-assembling their parts to create 'mutant' toys and now the clock is ticking for Tim and Buzz to escape from the boys house before they end up being blown to molecules.

This movie is absolutely fun and original even by 1995 standards. The computer generated special effects are innovative and unbelievable especially considereing the fact that this movie came out nearly a whole decade ago. The whole tone of the movie is just fun and charming and is for the entire family. Not only that but this was what put the then newcomers Pixas right into the front seat of movie animation and would be the start of an unbroken streak of excellent movies from this dynamite team.

Computer animation wow. 16th april 2004.
The toys are great, the graphics and scenery is too. The collectables are boys mostly but the film is ace for anyone. The 3D toys look real, the colors are excellent[like finding nemo]. The talking toys are all friends, and they live with their owner andy.

Hit Me With Another One!
Give me another Toy Story and while your at it lets go for a 5th. Wow lets see...Tom Hanks and Tim Alan...Pixar and Disney...Go get it or miss out! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The thin line between obcession and madness
True to Luis Bunuel's perfected artform of surreal film making, "El" is yet another twisted trip through one man's living nightmares. A successful business man is trapped in the madness of religious rituals, deriving a strange satisfaction from repeated observance of such rituals as the washing of the feet of perishoners by priests. Persuing an attractive young woman who eventually agrees to marriage, the around-the-clock obsessive visions and sounds get worse. Imagining that others are talking about him, hearing them laugh and making derogatory gestures, seem to drive the man into madness.

The film goes on, having the viewer firmly believe that the main character is unjustly accusing his wife of infidelity. The final scene is the ultimate twist, negating all possible "theories" one may have had up to that point. Stunning!

This is the original Spanish language version with effective English subtitles. The film has obvious flaws of wear, with snaps, crackles and pops, along with frequent visual damage to the print. Although these are clearly due to wear and tear of some 50 years time, it is almost asthough intentional, to increase the haunting effect, leaving the viewer absolutley spellbound. Anyone who is new to Bunuel and his work will gain respect for the master by making this their first sampling. "El" is among the very best films of its kind. Highly recommended!*****

Obsession-The shadow of a high-heel.
This early black and white film from Luis Bunuel is a masterpiece.

"El: This Strange Obsession" is the story of respectable, wealthy, middle-aged Francisco Galvan de Montemayor (Arturo de Cordova) who catches a glimpse of a woman's foot while in church. He is mesmerized by her high heels and laddered stockings, and follows her when she leaves. Unfortunately, the young woman, Gloria, is already engaged to Pablo, a casual acquaintance of Francisco's. But Francisco is determined to make Gloria his, and so he invites Pablo--along with his fiancee--to dinner at his beautiful--and yet somehow eerie--home. Gloria really doesn't not what hit her when Francisco turns on the old romance. But Francisco doesn't love Gloria in any sort of normal fashion, and his quaint old-fashioned courtship soon turns to jealous obsession.

Francisco's need to control Gloria's sexuality is quite evident. All of the hallmarks of the classic abusive relationship are there. Francisco frequently baits Gloria, and then punishes her when she responds, and soon their relationship becomes extremely dangerous.

One of Bunuel's favourite themes is sexual obsession, and in his films sexual obsession often reaches an almost religious level. Note that Francisco spies Gloria for the first time in a church. His obsession and his religious devotion meet and mingle in this earthly relationship. Francisco suffers from the classic Madonna/Whore complex, and this drives him to insanity. As with many other Bunuel films, surreal elements abound, and the ending of "EL" is superb. The acting was splendid, and Delia Garces as Gloria was marvelous--weakening with pity for her insane husband. Arturo de Cordova played the role of the jealous husband well, and he is very believable as a man who tries desperately to control the violent urges within his mind. The condition of the film itself was a bit of a problem. In the early part of the film, I could actually see folds on the film, and there were even little holes. Often the subtitles were difficult to read against the black and white background. It's a shame that the film can only be viewed in this less-than-perfect condition. "Belle de Jour" will always be my favourite Bunuel film, but the same skill is evident in "El," and Bunuel fans should make a point of trying to see this--displacedhuman

Perfecta
Esta es una pelicula perfecta en todos los sentidos. No trata de mostrar mas de lo que muestra y esta dirigida de una manera impecable. No es la mejor pelicula de Buñuel porque no daba para tanto el guión y no lo quizo forzar el propio Buñuel. El tema es el del marido celoso y neurotico, tratado de manera muy refrescante. Muy recomendable si se quiere aprender a hacer cine y si se quiere disfrutar una palicula bien hecha

Not just a modernized Othello; the ending will amaze you!
As I watched this 1952 Mexican film by Luis Bunuel, I thought it was just an updated version of Shakespeare's Othello, albeit an excellent version of Othello. But Bunuel is too great an artist to be ordinary. The acting of Arturo De Cordova, who is the perfect picture of jealousy gone mad, and the rest of the cast is excellent. I strongly recommend this film to Bunuel fans, as well as lovers of foreign film. The surrealistic ending alone is worth the price of admission. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

LUIS MIGUEL "THE BEST IN THE WORLD"
I really like this video, I think all technology that they used in it was wonderful, he looks as always, fantastic and natural, congratulations for this excellent job. If somebody could tell me about how I can buy his cd in ITALIAN please let me know, I am really interested.

A must for those studying Hispanic Culture
The quality of Luis Miguel's singing is unsurpassed and this video proves it. His voice stands alone as one of the best singers of all time in any language.

Guapo!
Excellent videography adds a 3rd dimension to the voice and still photographs we've all heard and seen of Luis Miguel, a Latin class act down to his platinum cufflinks! This upclose concert seat frequently superimposes his image over the crowd and gives you a superb personal view of his many exciting physical nuances. He "moves" and is very energetic on stage, but does not dance. Even so, watching this video makes you want the first ticket available to a concert in your area!

A total experience
Luis Miguel is definately underated in the USA. His Spanish is flawless (Of course I mean his diction and pronunciation) his passionate singing and choice of musical styles is astounding. How does so much talent wind up in just one person!

Simply the Best!
This video of Luis Miguel's concert is just incredible! His incomparable voice is perfect for all the many types of music he performs - boleros, mariachi, and dance/pop. It's too bad that so few people here in the U.S. know about him. Enrique Iglesias and Ricky Martin are great, but they pale in comparison to "Luis MiRey."

My only wish is that he would come and tour the U.S. soon! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Kids rule Barney is the best
I also thought that the whole video was kind of slow not the average fun Barney delivers, but my kids watched it 5 times the first day and it was difficult to keep them away from the tv, still is, so I think if they like it, its good.

I think they don't mind about some things being not so scientifically acurate.

Good buy

Not the best of the Barneys, but okay
This video is not bad by Barney standards, but I don't think it holds up to the other Barneys. The highlight is a special visit from a real astronaut. A lot of misinformation about outer space. Songs and dance numbers are not up to speed with other Barney videos like Imagination Island. ... Read more

Description

Zoinks! Two years after a clash of egos forced Mystery Inc. to close it's doors, Scooby-Doo and his clever crime-solving cohorts Fred (FREDDIE PRINZE JR.), Daphne (SARAH MICHELLE GELLAR), Shaggy (MATTHEW LILLARD) and Velma (LINDA CARDELLINI) are individually summoned to Spooky Island to investigate a series of paranormal incidents at the ultra-hip Spring Break hot spot. Concerned that his frightfully popular resort might truly be haunted, Spooky Island owner Emile Mondavarious (ROWAN ATKINSON) tries to reunite those notoriously meddling detectives to solve the mystery before his supernatural secret scares away the college crowds. Scooby and the gang will have to overcome their personal differences and forget everything they think they know about fake ghouls and phony creatures to crack the case, save themselves and possibly...the world! Ruh-roh! ... Read more

Reviews (295)

Zoinks!! Its Scooby Doo!!
This movie is based on the highly successful Hanna-Barbara cartoon series. It stars Freddie Prinze Jr. as Fred, Sarah Michelle Gellar as Daphne, Matthew Lillard as Shaggy, and Linda Cardellini as Velma. The plot revolves around the group's mystery solving team, Mystery Inc. The group has split up after differences among the members surfaced. However, two years later, each receives a letter from the owner of Spooky Island, a hot spring break resort. Apparently, some supernatural forces have been at work on the island, and the group has been summoned to see if they can help. However, each does not know that anyone else has been invited, so its a shock when everyone arrives at the airport and discovers that they're all going to the same place. Will everyone be able to put their differences aside and solve the mystery?

I thought the acting in the movie was pretty good overall. However, I thought Fred's character was too preppy and self-involved. Sarah Michelle Gellar does a good job as Daphnie, and Linda Cardellini makes a perfect Velma, but this movie belongs to Matthew Lillard. His portyayal of Shaggy is top notch. He even sounds like the old Saturday morning character that we grew up with. His relationship with Scooby is just like I remember as a child. The computer animation is well done, and Scooby Doo seems almost life-like. This is a fun movie and brings back a lot of childhood memories.

Fun and Funny movie
Before I saw the movie, I was skeptical of the cast selections of Freddie Prinze Jr and Sarah Michele Geller, but after seeing it, I think they did a great job. Linda Cardellini made Velma more than a brain and Matthew Lillard IS Shaggy. The entire cast did an incredible job of bringing to life some beloved cartoon characters.

The movie itself was like a longer, live-action, episode of the classic cartoons. Some people would say that some of the action was predictable, but when have you watched the cartoon and not known when the gang was going to split up, or Shaggy and Scooby were going to run away from a ghost, etc? The cartoons followed a formula, and the movie doesn't change it.

And it was funny. Though the kids and adults in the audience had different degrees of laughter at different jokes, they were all laughing.

A lot of people have made a big to-do about the "in jokes" of Scooby Doo. When I was a kid watching the show, the only thing I understood that was never said was that Fred and Daphne were boyfriend/girlfriend. And that's all I got from the movie. Maybe I wasn't looking hard enough, or I didn't want to see anything else. In any case, I'm glad the movie makers kept the spirit of the cartoons unchanged.

The only negative thing I can say about this movie is that I was somewhat disappointed by the ending. I won't give it away, and I'm sure some fans of the show will cheer at it, but I thought it was a little out of spirit.

When I was in elementary school, I knew a girl who had nightmares from the cartoon. I think the movie could have the same affect on littler kids. I would compare the scariness to the green minions in Anastasia (I thought those would be quite scary to a little kid, but I don't have kids so who knows what they think is scary these days).

So, to sum up, go see it, take your kids (if they don't scare easily), and be ready to laugh.

Okay at best, but it doesn't beat the original series
"Scooby-Doo" is okay. It's not that great of a film and it's not that bad. As much as I despise him, I have to say that Matthew Lillard does an excellent job as Shaggy. He's the best character in this flick. Linda Cardellini is good as Velma, but she has a couple of lines(ex. "Let's get jinky with it") that are just atrocious. Freddie Prinze, Jr. wasn't necessarily miscast as Fred, but the character was portrayed in a way that doesn't really reflect the character from the original show. Sarah Michelle Gellar was annoying as Daphne. Nevermind the fact that she pulled out the old kung-fu ala "Buffy," she's just not convincing enough in this role. The CGI Scooby was just that, a CGI Scooby. He looks fake, but dogs can't talk either, so I'm okay with that. His character is actually pretty good.

The best part of this film is the opening scene with the Luna ghost. It looked as if it were straight out of the old series. Everything heads south from there. The characters, excepting Shaggy and Scooby, are weightless. The nasties are just plain silly and the jokes resort to sophomoric humor. I'm sure every thirteen year-old boy in the crowd got a laugh from the farting contest between Shaggy and Scooby. A few cuss words were thrown around, and Daphne puts a whipping on a wrestler-type baddie.

Overall, this film works well with kids between the ages of eleven and sixteen. Younger kids MIGHT get scared by the bad guys, and the language can get a little rough for the really young'uns. For us older folks who grew up with the series, it's nice to see Scooby and the gang in a live-action format. However, I feel that this movie tries too hard to make itself appeal to all age groups. I also think that the director should have decided on whether he was making a nostalgic flick, a spoof, or an updated version using potty humor.

It's watchable and somewhat funny, but you might want to rent this one before laying any money down for it.

Scooby Dooby Doooooo!
After a classic Scooby Doo mystery being solved, Velma gets tired of Fred always taking the credit for her work and quits the gang. Fred and Daphne follow suite and the now lonely duo of Shaggy and Scooby go off on their own.

About a year or so later, they meet up again at the airport where, unbeknownst to them, they are all invited to the newly opened Spooky Island theme park to solve a mystery. Each person vows to solve the mystery on their own, but once they get to their destination, they realize that they must work together once again to solve the mystery of what is changing the vacationing college students from normal teenagers into zombie type strangers.

Shaggy meets a girl who becomes a sort of love interest and sort of casts Scooby off for his new interest. When Scooby realizes there is more to Shaggy's new friend than meets the eye, Shaggy refuses to listen and causes Scooby to become a willing, but unknown participant in the evil doer's plan to take over the world.

Loaded with great special effects, computer animation and a great cameo starring the puppy everyone loves to hate, Scrappy Doo, this movie is great. The characters all kept the same aspects that made the cartoon great. However, there are some things that kept me from giving this movie 5 stars. In the cartoon, Velma never seemed resentful of Fred always taking the credit, Daphne was more than a spoiled selfish brat, Fred did not act stupid even in the least.

If you enjoyed the old cartoon series, you will surly like this live action movie.

A Failure
First of all, my apologies, as this review is based entirely on my personal hopes of what this movie was going to deliver. Other viewers may have found lots of their expectations realised on the screen, but sadly, mine weren't.

The makers of the Scooby Doo movie didn't really have to get a lot of things right to make this film a real laugh, yet they managed to do everything wrong. I was really looking forward to seeing my favourite cartoon come to life, but they messed up on all the basic rules of this classic show. First off, the main characters all only have one set of clothes, but the costume designers for the film couldn't even stick to the simple designs of the cartoon, instead they went for hopeless approximations that just look ill-fitting and careless. Worst offender is Daphne, done up in all sorts of lurid fashions and hairdos, looking nothing like the animated original. Same goes for poor Velma with that odd long lanky brown wig and shapeless sweater. Even Fred had several changes of costume and the wrong hairdo. Only Shaggy came across as the real deal, which is probably more of a tribute to Matthew Lillard's dedication rather than the designers.
Next rule: There must always be a chase down a never-ending hallway with the same scenery going past over and over again. I think there were some chases in the movie, but nothing that brought this much loved (and much lampooned in the past) feature to the forefront where it should have been (Unless it was during a sequence when I dozed off).
Next rule: The monsters must be dumb and easily fooled. Most monsters in the cartoon just went "Graaagghh!" and swiped their arms in thin air as Scooby and co. slipped away from them just in time. The movie monsters are actually quite frightening demons that fly through the air, taking possession of innocent holidaymakers. Frightening is good, but it doesn't belong in this context.

Another thing that spoils the mood is surrounding the characters with hundreds of extras and other actors. It just shows up the implausibility of the whole gang ever passing for real people. This could have worked hilariously as a parody (a device that worked beautifully for the Brady Bunch Movie), but here it just makes the characters look thoroughly underdeveloped. They can't possibly interact with naturalistic "real-life" characters, only with similarly 2-dimensional ciphers like cackling crones, disgruntled sherrifs or sinister butlers.
Next up, the characterisation. Again, Matthew Lillard steals the show as Shaggy, and truly breathes life into the part. Fred and Velma are boring and under developed, but that kind of reflects the cartoon, so no big deal there, although Velma could have been given more to get her teeth into. Worst of all, again, is Daphne, demonstrated by the insertion of the blatantly inappropriate "Daphne does martial arts" sequence. If Sarah Michelle Gellar can't stay away from playing Buffy, she shouldn't be considered for other movies. She certainly shouldn't bring the character with her. A huge mistake. Finally, Scooby Doo himself. Considering the possible options for bringing a talking dog to life, the movie version is actually quite successful. I thought the interplay between Scooby and the human mambers of the gang worked pretty well, and his character really came through. Shame that the animators decided to give him those bizarre big, bright, human style eyes which the cartoon version never sported. Weird and a bit creepy.

As the the plot, its just far too busy. Anything and everything is thrown in making it clear that the makers could not decide what angle they were going for. They dabble in playing it true to the cartoon (very, very briefly), playing it for modern (Animal House-type) laughs, playing it as a parody, and playing it as a "what if the characters went in this direction?" kind of update. Too many styles, no substance and no chance for the audience to engage with any one mood. A real mess.
As I said at the start, this is only my personal disappointment. I can't tell if other moviegoers had a similar experience, and lots of people seem to have found the film to be a riot. But as far as I'm concerned, it's a serious letdown and a huge wasted opportunity. I'm now waiting to see the second one to see if any of this gets put right...I really hope it does. ... Read more

Reviews (505)

Very Good, but not quite great...
I hesitate to heap tremendous amounts of praise on this film. Its strongest point is clearly the exceptional characters. They make all the difference. The PLOT is, well, I don't know how to describe it. A bit disjointed I suppose, but still strong enough to pull you in. This movie isn't really about a story, it's about people being affected by the drug trade in North America.

Soderbergh's direction is excellent. The scenes in Mexico just LOOK hot because of that grainy yellow tinting. And living in San Antonio, near the border, I can certify that yes, that's genuinely how it feels down here. Often. The lack of steadycam shots gives it a "newsreel" feel to it. It will draw you in if you let it.

Now onto the characters. My favorite was Del Toro's. I just think the guy can act and he shows it to you here. His character faces the trials of loyalty, friendship and ultimately the choices between doing good and doing for yourself. Catherine Zeta Jones character was also captivating in her descent into the drug game. The characters I least liked involved the Michael Douglas storyline. While they were genuine and somewhat interesting, I found myself waiting for their scenes to end so that I could get back to the more intriguing developments. Also, I'm not quite ready to buy how easily it wrapped up near the end. A hint of optimism is good, but that was a little too much sunshine after a mostly cloudy set up.

Overall, it's a good film, and Soderbergh's Oscar for direction isn't a bad choice (though I still think it probably took more skill for Ang Lee to make people FLY). Watch it for the characters and the perspective on the drug "war."

A bleak look at the war on drugs
TRAFFIC is a great film. It showcases from many angles the world of the drug user and trafficker. Director Steven Soderburgh uses a wonderful cast, many different camera types, and many intriguing subplots that all somehow link to make this film great. If you enjoy fine acting, great directors, views from many locations, and just great films in general, buy TRAFFIC today.

TRAFFIC bases around the installation of a new drug czar, superbly played by Michael Douglas. How can he fight a war on drugs when his daughter is a user? This is the question the character seems plagued by throughout the film. This makes for interesting discussion. Meanwhile, two Mexican police officers are swept into helping ward off cartels in Tijuana. Benecio Del Toro is excellent in the role. There are other plots which call for wonderful performances from the likes of Don Cheadle, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Albert Finney. All in all, this film is well scripted and acted.

TRAFFIC, like any film, has flaws. It is tedious at certain points, sometimes the language is too excessive, and it seems to offer a negative message to youth. However, for its few flaws, it is still a wonderfully crafted and shot film. It was lauded because of that fact. If you need a great film to watch, I urge you to buy TRAFFIC today!

Flat out, lousy movie-making
This is a frustrating film for many reasons. Firstly the schizophrenia of the plotlines is poorly done and distracting. It merely further hindered me from actually gaining any sort of emotional connection to the characters (and that's counting the headstart the dialogue had given).

The themes of the movie are so apparent that they become oppressive. A previous reviewer encapsulated the film with the phrase: Drugs R bad, and while I can appreciate a noble premise like this, the way Soderbergh badgers the audience with the futility of the "war on drugs" and the affect that drugs have on addicts is devoid of tact and feels contrived to the point of nausea.

The characters are not well-developed either. Their actions are completely obvious. While this is not usually a just complaint about a movie, the lack of intrigue in the plot, the often cheesy dialogue, and the general lack of subtlety makes for an obnoxiously assuming film. It comes across not only snobbish to the layperson, but boring to the average movie-goer.

This movie really drags. This is an in-escapable fact. There were too many trifling scenes in this movie.

But that's just how it rubbed me. Although, I can see how many a pseudo-intellectual film buff could trick himself into gushing about how thought-provoking and "original" this film was, I can also see how many critics and sincere film-goers would like it as well. The message is certainly an important point of discussion regardless of how you feel on the issue, and the conclusions leave much to be debated (although, not about the film)

My main point is this: Unless you're interested in grinding your way through a movie with a plot that can be summarized in the political/humanitarian issue of the film, it's not worth seeing. If you're interested in drug-related issues, do yourself a favor and simply walk, don't run to your nearest bookstore and sift through the myriad of books on the matter. Heck, why not (since you're online anyway) look through one of the lists here at Amazon.com?!

Traffic, not your typical Half Baked
this movie ruled. the shaky camera and grittyness is awesome. but instead of some review on how it is an academy award brilliant film of substance abuse,etc i will tell you how cool it is, even if those cool parts glorify drug dealers.
i like the part where that girl is at the party and the kid topher grace from that 70s show is talking all philosophically cause hes so stoned. and the kid on the other couch is like 'im so high' and he passes out and they drop him off at the ER and the cop comes and he yells the F word. ya i cant say it cause of amazon.com policies. its also funny when he has to get that girl messed up in a seedy hotel downtown to get with her. and theyre like doing trashy drugs too, whats up with that? since when do private school seniors do heroin through their foot? man i thought it was all about coors light and weed. guess not.
the movie starts out cool too when benicio del toro is in the mexican desert with his highway patrol giant sunglasses waiting for this plane to go over them thats traffiking cocaine. hes such a mexican badass. and his buddy cop next to him is playing game boy. thats the first noise you here in this 3 hour plus long drug war epic: mario jumping over a green tube. i love it.
another great part is when don cheadle and that funny peurto rican guy luiz something shoot that drug dealer in a san diego chuck e. cheese place. and the clown gets scared and goes back into the kitchen.
o ya when michael douglas takes topher grace out of spanish class and the teachers like where are you going and hes like im taking seth on a field trip and he takes him to the ghetto to find his prostitute heroin junkie 17 year old daughter.
traffic is a great movie cause it has moments like this. stephen s. the director is a badass who makes movies like the limey and this and the writer is good too. hes like 21 and he got the oscar for best adapted screenplay. this movie rules for stoners, concerned parents and politicians alike.

Interesting look at drugs
"TRAFFIC" is three interwoven stories about the drug trade and its impact on people. It attempts toshows how drugs can affect everybody connected to the drug dealers and pushers eg. family. It works in a way, but not enough to make me feel empathy for the characters.

It's fast moving and engaging, but something is missing from this film. Big names like Zeta Jones and Douglas aren't enough to make the film great.

If you really want to see a film that tackles the subject really well but in a different light, may I suggest "Requiem for a Dream". The devastation of drugs is well told in this film. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Light Fun+
I thought this movie to be charming and witty. Though it would appear to be very light, you look deeper and pay attention to how the characters roll around each other, it becomes somewhat of a fun, tangled web-much like our own lives would be seen if we could view them from a third person. Happy and sad, it's a great flick for a rainy Sunday afternoon. As an added bonus who knew Jeanne Tripplehorn could do slightly, slapstick humor the way she does, hats off to her. Add tacky, tasteless and yes, tired Sarah Jessica Parker and its great!!

Awesome movie
This is a really great movie which is hard to find these days.
Yes, it's a "chick flick", but it doesn't have the sex, nudity and unneeded scenes in alot of movies out there.
It's a classic romance but it also makes us think about life in the big picture and how everything relates to everything else in the world.

So bad- you have to watch it- again and again.
I actually did look forward to the release of this film due to the premise of the plot and being a sucker for a good romantic comedy. An added bonus was that Scott Winant of "thirtysomething" fame (my all-time favorite television show) was the director/producer. Simple plot- two people meet briefly throughout their lives on parallel courses until their lives become involved with the future of an old apartment building slated for demolition. The Fates enlighten them with the realization that they are soulmates destined to meet and fall in love. Well, I was a sucker- for going to see this movie! I can't think of another movie that got yanked out of my local cinema faster than this one was (less than a week). I can't think of another movie in recent memory that I checked my watch as many times as I did during this flick. It was more exciting to look at my watch dial than the movie screen.

While the story did have brief flashes of brillance in some of the dialog pertaining to life philosophies, they were few and far between. Dylan McDermott, always a good actor, absolutely flubs here. Sarah Jessica Parker, never one of my favorite actresses, looks so bad in this film to me that I was afraid my eyes were going to bleed... I guess I couldn't look away every time she was on the screen for that reason. Jean Tripplehorn's attempts at physical comedy left me gasping. Everytime she was hit with something or knocked down or fell, I wanted to jump into the movie and yell at the director (or call PETA) for torturing this poor woman that way. At least Jennifer Aniston and Ken Olin had the good sense to save their careers by appearing only briefly in minor supporting roles.

The self-angsting dialogue on "thirtysomething" worked incredibly well and bonded you to the characters. In this movie, listening to the characters bemoan their life circumstances you finally say, "Enough is enough!" and hope they all get hit by a bus so they stop talking. The plot flows along very disjointedly and at a very slow pace. I felt no chemistry between the two main characters, who are destined to meet and fall in love. The finale takes a sudden awkward jump a few years later when the couple are married and putting their child to bed. How the plot/premise went from "A" to "B" (how this couple fell in love and decided to make a life commitment) was left unanswered by the film and made the ending very unsatisifying, disappointing, and unbelievable.

Whoever the hair stylist was for this film should never work again. Mr. McDermott has a great head of hair. His greased look in this film- not a "successful architect style", that's for sure- terrible and very distracting! Ms. Parker's hair style?? My nightmares as a 5 year old were not as scary as this disaster on her head!

In all fairness, I will say some one good thing about this film. The cinematography is wonderful, especially around the apartment complex. You always see this dust, fuzz, or pussy willow type stuff floating in the air in the building's courtyard. I'm still trying to figure out the symbolism intended by the director of this effect. There are quite a few recognizable name actors in this film, but remember "Mars Attacks"? The film is such a flub, it is one of those movies you will want to watch more than once because the acting and dialogue are so bad.... like a horrible car wreck with blood, gore, and screams of agony- you can't take your eyes away! (heh heh) I always put this movie on when I'm in a masochistic mood and feel the need to be punished by Hollywood.

Worst movie I have ever seen
This movie is stunningly bad. It is hard to say which is worse: the plot, the screenplay, or the acting. If I had to pick, it would be the acting. Dylan McDermott as an architect? If you believe that, you would believe Keenau Reeves as a brain surgeon. And if you wonder why the fake-Sandra Bullock lead female hasn't become a household name, well, wonder no more. She is awful. The fact that there are some good reviews of this movie only proves that there are some people who like every movie, no matter how bad it is. It is bad beyond belief. The other reviewer is right, that even Sarah Parker is rendered into something awful by the director. You know how some movies "transport" you into another world? Well, this one transports you into an awful world of dismal movies that should not have been made. There is nothing redeeming about this film. Save yourself two hours by avoiding it.

YUCK
There are so many things wrong with this movie it is hard to know where to start. The sub-plot where the characters are attempting to preserve the historic apartment complex is resolved in the most unsatisfying way possible. The heroine's parents' story is also cringe worthy. The movie seems to be both promoting and simultaneously mocking the notion of a "one true love" that makes everything else meaningless. It does not pull it off and instead seems merely ridiculous. Run if you see this movie coming! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Solid drama about family and spiritual turmoil
What makes this movie work is that the character who receives the strongest "preaching to" is a clergy-candidate. Many viewers are put off when the super-righteous spiritual persons speaks down to the ignorant sinner. The hero, Jeremiah, is torn with guilt over an incident that took place when he was 14. His twin brother was under attack and he froze. The guilt has scarred his life ever since. Mercy Street's primary story is Jeremiah's journey through this guilt to true reconciliation with the episode, with his brother, and with God.

The frame for the story involves a criminal counterfeiting scam. Even the unsavory Rome, the chief "counterfeiter," gets to preach at Jeremiah. The plot does offer suspense on this level, but also much light-hearted humor.

Bottom-line: This is a solid drama that should lead to interesting discussion. It garners four-stars as an excellent film, with a strong "Made For TV" feel.

Unexpectedly Entertaining
While perusing the shelves at the video rental store, not in a mood to see the same films I've seen a dozen times before, I came across this diamond in the rough. Not knowing what exactly to expect, I took a chance and rented it. I must say that I was pleasently surprised. Although a Christian movie, it didn't feel like I was listening to a sermon/homily or even sitting in Sunday school. It is inviting, engaging, and thoughtful. If you ever crave an original film with a familiar storyline (criminals vs. law-abiding citizens - twins switch identities) but long for a bit of variety, definitly invest. I've since bought the movie myself.

Message of Redemption Wrapped Up in Action Flick
Pretty good show. Yes, it sounds cliche`... the whole long lost twin coming back and assuming your life. But I actually found this story fresh. There are few films that address issues of faith and guilt and accepting forgiveness without being vaguely warm-fuzzy-feel-good or over-the-top-evangelical-preachy.

I liked that the main character was both a minister (or about to be) and had serious spiritual and relationship struggles. And that the other main character was a rough-edged criminal with just as valid a faith.

The other characters fleshed the story out. Noone served the "typical" side-kick role. There was the friend, the girlfriend, and the priests who served as mentors. But they each had their own fresh personality, not the standard cookie-cuts. Even the criminal mastermind fellow was not a stereotype.

There was violence and the ending was weaker than I had hope for. But this is the only movie I have ever paused to get a piece of paper and write down a quote. The story will live in my head for a long time as a parable of accepting God's forgiveness and pressing myself to forgive others.

Solid drama with "made for TV" feel
This tale of two brothers mixes drama, comedy, and spirituality into a sweet story with a touch of suspense. Twin brothers take radically different paths--one to the priesthood, the other to prison. The priest is wracked with guilt over a childhood tragedy, while the convict is wracked with bitterness and some jealousy. The focus is more on the brothers' psychological and social inner battles, than on the actual action and drama that surrounds them, giving the movie a light-hearted feel.

Bottom-line: This is a feel-good movie, safe and enjoyable for the whole family, and an excellent religious conversation-starter.

Good movie
I really liked this movie. I don't like most movies that I watch. It's a great movie wether you are saved or unsaved. I think it would be a great movie to buy and then invite friends who are not Christian over to watch. It might get them asking questions. Thumbs Up! ... Read more

Reviews (177)

The Depths Of Depp
Johnny Depp plays George Jung, your every day man turned multi-millionaire drug dealer. The amazing journey starts with just a bit of weed going to people on the beach, soon he and his friends are working their way to Mexico in major exports. After a brief stop in jail Depp changes from marijuana to cocaine. Soon Depp has so much money he can't fit anymore in his house. It is in this time he meets his wife-to-be decently played by Penelope Cruz. A mishap with his wife later and he is in jail again. The part about this film that sets it apart from most drug movies is that it shows the highlights of the illegal exchange business but it also shows the bottoming out. The other thing it has is a connection with the characters. You actually begin to feel for Depp as he is separated from the one thing that he loves in his life, his daughter. Franka Potente (Run Lola Run) and Paul Rubin (Pee Wee Herman) also have roles in this film that has heart and substance(s).

Strong Powder
BLOW is based on the true story of George Jung (Johnny Depp). In the 70s and 80s, Jung was the single largest importer of Columbian cocaine, to the United States. Therefore, he alone, changed America, and helped to create the "drug culture" in this nation. At the film's center is the partnership between Jung and Pablo Escobar, (Cliff Curtis) and how they operated, with and against each other. It really is true what others have said about Depp's performance in the film. He doesn't let this highly complex role intimidate him. He pulls it off brilliantly. He scenes with Penelope Cruz are pure magic. Directed by the late Ted Demme, BLOW offers viewers an inside look into how some people got very rich off of other people's addiction to drugs. Even though some have blasted the film because, in their opinion, it glorifies drug use, I see it more as an anti drug film. Having said that, dont expect an overt anti-drug message in the movie either. My take on it is that the "message" hides as a subtext as an implied theme. If the film does have any connection to any indictment against drugs, that comes from the fact that Demme died last year from apparently using the stuff himself.

The DVD is part of New Line Cinema's Infinifilm series. Like all other discs in the series, it is packed with extras, allowing viewers to have more of an interactive experience, while watching the film. Hearing Demme talk about drugs on the commentary track with Jung, may unsettle some, given what happened to him, but there really isn't much of that on the track. The deleted scenes don't really add much to the film and were properly edited out of the picture. The Ted Demme Production Diary is cool because it takes us through how movies are made (I always enjoy that stuff). Rounding out the standard features are trailers, filmographies, and a Nikka Costa Music Video. The disc also has a few DVD-ROM extras. The Infinifilm extras include interviews with Jung conducted by Demme, a trivia track, among others. Use of the Infinifilm mode gives you access to these features for a unique look at BLOW.

Thanks to powerful performances and solid, well produced extras, BLOW is a Highly Recommended film/DVD **** and a half stars.

Blow is about the life of Mr. George Jung from childhood to
his final drug bust for which he is still serving time. Johnny Depp carries this movie very well, like all movies about gangs or drugs or anything crime related, this movie starts off with everything going well and then everything starting to go downhill again, it is a true story, obviously with quite a bit of Hollywood fabrication but none the less, it inspires sympathy for the characters, I for one am someone who isn't really a very emotional person when it comes to movies, at least I don't think so, but this movie brought a tear or two to my eye, especially the ending, where Depp recited a poem written by Jung and it is the saddest thing, the special features are quite amazing, I would recommend this movie to people over 14 because it does have an R rating which is due to a lot of language, drug content, extremely brief nudity and some violence here and there. Enjoy.

extras no good
I rated this movie 5 stars, until I got a load of the DVD extras. These extras actually serve to drag down the enjoyment of the movie. First, there are the "character outtakes" whatever that term is supposed to mean. These consist of various characters being interviewed about George Jung - the character, not the real person. They say poorly thought out and inarticulate things like, "This guy... he's like... this guy don't care what anybody thinks, you know?" My impression was that the actors just got in front of a camera "in character" and extemporized. The results are pretty ghastly. Also, there is the jailhouse interview that director Ted Demme makes of George Jung, the real person. This is also pretty disedifying, consisting at the end of Demme sitting next to Jung on a bench and saying similarly inarticulate and poorly thought out things, like, "Yeah, its like schoolteachers make minimum wage and there's truckdrivers making hundreds of thousands of dollars a year..." Now, I am an ex-schoolteacher and though I did not make a mint at my job I certainly did not make "minimum wage" and I worked for one of the most underfunded school districts in the country. One has the impression of being a witness to a guy blowing his mouth off on the balcony of somebody's post-college get-together. Not pretty. How Demme ever got people to trust him with millions of dollars remains a mystery: the man is simply not preposessing intellectually. Also, his world is morally vague and equivocal. He tells Jung he takes a non-judgemental stance to his crimes and then says that he himself has skeletons in the closet, its just that his are not so well known. Now, I kind of doubt that Ted Demme is himself a serious criminal who has simply evaded discovery. But that is what he is in effect implying, in bad faith to George Jung - a hardcore criminal. The real implication is that any degree of malfeasance is equivalent to any other. If one man has smuggled enormous quantities of drugs, and another man has left the cap off his toothpaste well, they're pretty much the same: we all do bad things. Interestingly, the stance that Demme takes is NOT that what Jung did was not morally wrong. His stance is that, though it was wrong, so what? I can respect and perhaps agree with someone who says that smuggling drugs, though illegal, is not immoral. I can understand the argument that by and large it is an utter liberal myth that anybody is forced to use drugs by anybody else. Peer pressure? One gravitates to "peers" with similar interests. If you get into drugs and your friends don't, you find new friends: druggie friends. This happened in my circle of friends and I have seen it happen first-hand. I had many druggie and non druggie friends and I never saw anybody use drugs who did not want to. And there is simply no substance so addictive that it turns a straight arrow into a degenerate against the straight arrow's will and inclination. Drugs simply help you along in the direction you are inclined.
All this being said, I can agree with someone who does not morally judge George Jung. Personally I am morally indifferent to his actions. But this is not the same thing as saying that what he did was wrong but so what we all do bad things. If I once ignored a parking ticket, is this the same thing as being a murderer? I suspect that Demme's thus cozying up to Jung actually lowered him in Jung's regard.

Luff ist der drug
Let me be clear, this is a great film. It actually reassures me that all movies are not garbage. But for me the best part of the movie is Franka Potente's performance as Barbara, a comely stew who, so far as I can tell, is not supposed to be German. It is a special pleasure for me to watch Franka Potente, with her thick Cherrrmann accent, ya? trying to speak in a vey zat iss recognizeable as chust typical yanqui American dialect. I also thrilled to her performance in The Bourne Identity, hearing her deliver such lines as, "But he vas chust shining us all on" like the Munchen-frau she is. Yeah, I'll get all liquored up on Spaten Premium, or maybe even brave the forbidding slopes of the Optimator, then I'll hunker down for a triple-bill of Run Lola Run, Bourne Identity, and Blow. Its like my own private Oktoberfest that I chust by myself heff got going on, ya?
unt ich bein auss. ... Read more

Reviews (54)

"You okay?" "I'm gonna be..."
That's the exchange that always stands out every time I see this movie. "Sleeping with the Enemy" is an excellent thriller about a woman, Julia Roberts, who fakes her own death to escape her obsessive and abusive husband, Patrick Bergin. Befriended by a neighbor, charmingly played by Kevin Anderson, she starts to rebuild her life slowly letting go of the fear. To go on would reveal too much, but I can say that not everything that haunts you is a ghost. Even though it creeps me out, every time this movie plays I am compelled to watch it. The characters quickly gain your sympathy (or in the case of Bergin your hatred) and draw you in to this subtle triumph of spirit.

Scissor-Cut Look at Abuse
With the beginning scene in "Sleeping With the Enemy" of a nice, handsome husband and a beautiful, smiling wife living in a lovely, rich house, this movie soon breaks the stereotype perception of an abusive relationship by showing that everything that glitters is not necessarily gold.

Julia Roberts, with a combination of a sense of planning and cleverness, fear and hope, and a desperate will to survive, does the only thing she can - she leaves while faking her own death. (Any abused man or woman will probably be mesmerized by some of the scenes and the feelings evoked in this intense movie.)

The new lifestyle she slowly, but surely creates for herself, against the backdrop of her husband piecing together her escape and his savage determination to find her creates a savvy suspense thriller that could be a classic in anyone's home movie library.

One major blooper...
Unless she knew that her husband was going to force her to go on a boat or that she set up something with the guy who owned the boat why would she be taking swimming lessons?

I liked the movie, glad I rented it - but wouldn't own it.

Husband From Hell!
Julia Roberts plays a battered wife who is reaching her breaking point with her obsessive, controlling , and abusive husband. So she fakes her death during a storm on a sail boat and runs away. She changes her identity and settles down in a small, peaceful town. Trying to forget about her husband and her past, she starts dating her neighbor and begins enjoying her new life of freedom! But little does she know that her psychotic husband is hot on her trail. And is ready to get serious revenge on her. But little does he know that things can always backfire. And a person can only be pushed so far before they give you a taste of your own medacine. Full of action- packed thrills and super suspense! A classic along the lines of "Enough", "Dolores Claiborne" and "Fatal Attraction"!

Good Old Berlioz!
Julia Roberts quickly established herself as one of the most luminescent stars in Hollywood. She has a face which, much like
Garbo's, the camera just never tires of viewing. She can use that face to express pensive worry, both spirited and icy determination, and, of course, her smile can melt glaciers. She also has a talent for rising above middling to mediocre material, so you never blame her the artistic shortcomings of the films she's in. Unfort