Description

You've got nine months to prepare for the challenge of your life. Use every minute!

The Perfect Pregnancy Workout will:
-improve your mood
-reduce lower back pain
-develop mental discipline to control labor pain
-tone your lower body to handle the demands of labor and birth
-make it easier to lose weight after your baby is born
-strengthen your upper body to lift and hold your baby
-help eliminate or avoid incontinence and hemorroids

Karyne Steben, a world-class acrobat formerly with Cirque du Soleil, leads us through the sculpting workout, combining strength moves with graceful flexibility.

First time exercisers can feel at ease; Karyne illustrates exercise techniques and explains the dos and don'ts of exercise during pregnancy in a clear, easy-to-understand twelve-minute instructional section.

With options to make it fun for beginners and challenging for advanced exercisers, anyone can do The Perfect Pregnancy Workout!

The Perfect Pregnancy Workout video is a 43 minute pregnancy exercise video: 5 minute warm-up, 33 minute workout, 5 minute cool down. There is also a 12 minute instructional section explaining proper technique for pregnancy exercise.

*The Perfect Pregnancy Workout includes exercise variations for women with diastasis recti.* ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Perfect Pregnancy Workout
I really enjoy this tape. It is the perfect length (@ 40 min.) and it covers all areas you need to work on. I like the soft spoken instructor and three levels of intensity. I highly recommend it!

truly awesome!!!
This tape is truly awesome!!! My husband can't believe how much better I look after doing this tape for just a few weeks. The workout works EVERY muscle, and makes me feel fantastic. The exercises are brilliantly explained. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Jane Austen's classic novel of 1813, Pride and Prejudice, still winsthe hearts of countless schoolgirls with its romantic story of Elizabeth Bennet and her Mr. Darcy. Now, the 1996 BBC miniseries is winning over adults, with its faithful adaptation, gorgeous scenery, and superb acting.

The essence of the story is the antagonism between Mr. Darcy, a wealthy single man who believes Elizabeth to be beneath him, and Elizabeth, who upon being insulted at a dance by the aloof Darcy refuses to associate with him in any manner. Austen evokes incredible tension with the wit and flirtation of the two characters, and director Simon Langton (who also directed Upstairs Downstairs) successfully translates the repartee and conflict in this six-hour miniseries. Dialogue, for the most part, is painstakingly replicated, except when fleshing out and smoothing for modern sensibilities was necessary. Darcy, for instance, is drawn out, giving his personality significantly more depth. The acting sweeps you away to Regency England: Jennifer Ehle (of Wilde) is convincing as the obstinate Elizabeth, who, despite her mother's attempts to marry her off, spurs the attentions of Darcy. And Colin Firth (of The English Patient) will have women everywhere longing for a Mr. Darcy of their own.

For those who have been on an Austen binge--enjoying such excellent recent adaptations as Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion--this miniseries will round out the ultimate Austen video library. For those new to these romantic period pieces, this version of Pride and Prejudice will have you hooked and longing for more. One caveat, however: plan to watch it in an entire day, because very few have the self-control to not watch all six hours in a single sitting. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (233)

Wow!
Before watching this movie, I couldn't stand BBC productions. I don't feel that way anymore. The plot stays true to the book more so than any other version I've seen. My favorite scene of the entire show happens when Elizabeth, accompanied by her aunt and uncle visit Pemberley, Mr. Darcy's estate. Mr. Darcy comes home earlier than expected, and oh! I'd say more, but it would ruin that scene for you. The actress who portrays Elizabeth's mother is exceptional! She does a wonderful job of interpreting her character, as does everyone else. If you don't have the time to watch this version, I recommend the Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier one. Though some things are not included in that screenplay, the same beautiful story is told. Laughs galore included. Schedule a time slot for this movie in a day when everything and everyone in the world seem against you, or a time when your life couldn't possibly be better. You have to see this!!!!!

It takes the time to tell the story properly- EXCELLENT
I'm a huge Jane Austen fan, both book and movie versions of her work. My two favorite movies are Emma and Sense and Sensibility, which are sweet and romantic but not necessarily true to the book. This movie surpasses both of them! I watched it twice, then the next day I watched certain scenes, and then the whole thing again! It's that good.

I could repeat the same praise other readers have shared, because the characters are perfectly right, the settings and costumes are lush and the script is just a delight. I especially liked the embarrassing, fickle Mrs. Bennett and the bowing, stupid Mr. Collins. Every sister was instantly recognizable as someone you knew! Lydia was well done as a giggling, boy-crazy apple-of-her-mother's-eye. And Mr. Bennet had the best wry sense of humour. He was teasing his high-strung wife constantly, but it went over her head every time.

But the best part of this adaption, I believe, was the tender way the director allowed the story to unfold, slowly. There were whole dances, not just 10 seconds. The sexual tension of the Lizzy-Darcy relationship was brought out carefully. At first I didn't like Darcy at all. It was only through a series of conversations, lingering looks, even flashbacks, that the main characters' hearts were revealed. I think the casting director picked these two gems (Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle) not just for their acting but also because of their ("fine") eyes...demure and curious in Elizabeth, brooding and expressive in Darcy. In the end I'd fallen in love with both of them myself!

A second viewing showed details you won't get with a 2 hour movie. For example, Darcy makes a passing remark about well-read women (as a small compliment to Lizzy, who's of course a bookworm). In a few minutes, the snobbish Caroline Lucas is seen parading around in front of the group, trying in vain to get interested in a book in her hands. Finally she throws it aside and goes back to her favorite past-time, cutting people down. Excellently done!

The 6 hours will just fly by! Have an Austen-a-thon this week-end and put this in line as the finale.

intelligent yet accessible first-rate costume drama
I'm very picky and selective about what I like when it comes to period dramas, and I usually got for the late 19th c. or early 1900s stuff rather than the 1840s Jane Austen stuff. But I must admit I was deeply captivated by this mini-series, it succeeded with me where others may have failed. The witty, cultured dialogue was very enjoyable to listen to, yet accessible. I understood everything. I loved the story, especially the relationship between the pretty and likeable Elizabeth and the handsome, proud Mr. Darcy kept me guessing all the time if his good qualities would shine through after he started falling for her and if she would soften up to him or not as I was hoping they would end up together after all. I was not disappointed.

David Rehak
author of "Love and Madness"

My Favorite Mini -Series of All Time...
I have watched "Pride and Prejudice" at LEAST 10 times over the last 8 years. It is truly one of the BEST adaptations of a novel and Sue Birtwhistle deserves such credit for her brilliant production.

I do not believe that I have EVER seen a better suited cast than in "Pride and Prejudice." Typically, in every movie - you always find that several roles have not coincided with your image of who you imagine the character as being portrayed. Not so with "Pride and Prejudice."

Especially brilliant is Colin Firth (will he EVER have a better role?) and Jennifer Ehle. These two title roles were SUPERBLY cast. Jennifer Ehle was magnificent in this movie.

What makes ALL of the acting so amazing is that the language was so different and yet it was so believable. The costumes were lovely; the dancing was historically accurate AND interesting; the countryside and houses were magnificent.

EVERYONE involved in this movie should feel rewarded. I believe that even 50 years from now, it will still be viewed as one of the greatest classics.

A great adaptation of a classic story
I did things a little backward seeing this video series first, and then going on to read Jane Austen's book. But that's how much I loved it! When it was over I wanted more details on Elizabeth and Darcy and the book filled in those details. The video series is very true to the book and I found much of the dialogue is taken right from the pages of Jane Austen's novel. I thought that Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth were wonderful as Lizzie and Darcy. It's amazing to watch Colin Firth do some incredible acting without ever opening his mouth! He did a fabulous job acting a role that must have been incredibly difficult since he said so little yet expressed so much! This is truly my favorite film of all time. If you like it half as much as I did, you'll love it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Diana Ross stars as legendary blues singer Billie Holiday in this biopic that chronicles her rise and fall. It begins with her late childhood, a stint as a prostitute, those early days as a blues singer, her marriages, and her drug addiction. Overly glossy and lacking depth, this is worth seeing only for the performances. Diana Ross was nominated for an Oscar for her acting debut. A dynamo with sparkling screen presence, she realistically conveys the confusion and unhappiness that caused Holiday so much grief. Her performance is almost matched by romantic interest Billy Dee Williams. Watch for Richard Pryor, who is most powerful in a dramatic supporting role as the piano player in a brothel. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Awesome story, even better acting and producing!!!
I have always been a huge fan of Diana Ross and Lady Day, but putting that aside this movie is truly worth every penny, every minute you spend watching. The Billie Holiday story stands by itself as an incredible testimony to what it was like to be black in 1930's America, but add to that Diana's vulnerability and beautiful voice and you have one of the best stories ever put on film!!!! I just can't wait until it is put on DVD with 5.0 dolby digital sound..........does anyone out there know when that might happen????? :) Buy the movie, you will not regret it.

Not Billie's real story, but I give Diana props
I'm not a Diana Ross fan, but in this movie, she was excellent and convincing as Lady Day. Dynamic performances by Billy Dee Williams and Richard Pryor as well. My only fault with this movie that it was not Billie Holiday's real story. It was filled with inaccuracies and purely fictional situations. Even Berry Gordy, Ross' one-time lover and mentor, admitted that the script was bogus, but it still was very riveting. This was Ross' first film and even though she never took a drama lesson in her life, she pulled this off with no problem. Definitely worth checking out.

Not only is the film historically inaccurate,
but it's an absolute DISGRACE to the memory and legacy of the real Lady Day. Diana was a decent (solo) to great(Supremes) soul singer, but she's no great actor. She's simply competent ... watching Mahogany proves that beyond a shadow of a doubt. To do the story of Billie Holiday, easily one of the most influential and lasting jazz/torch singers of the 20th century, and not cast a known quantity was a serious mistake on Gordy and Motown's part. Not only didn't Ross look the part, she certainly didn't act it, and her voice is nothing like Billie's;it's far weaker and devoid of the "body" Lady Day had. The only bright spot in this was Rochard Pryor's part, even though, again, it was 99% fiction. Save your time, save your money. Buy a Billie Holiday CD, her autobiography, and enjoy the real thing. Maybe one day someone will make a REAL film bio of the Lady.

Inaccurate, but the performances are powerful
The complex life of jazz singer Billie Holiday cannot be summed up in a two-and-a-half hour film unless it's a documentary. Therefore, LADY SINGS THE BLUES misses the boat in portraying Billie's life, but hits the target in casting Diana Ross, Billy Dee Williams and Richard Pryor. The chemistry between these three thespians are a joy to behold. And Ms. Ross sings Billie's songs very well without resorting to imitating the jazz legend.

MINUS 2 STARS FOR INACCURACY...
But a STRONG 3 stars for Diana's acting and rendering of Billie's tunes (I got chills when she sang "Strange Fruit"). This story doesn't represent the life of Billie Holiday AT ALL, but it was a nice fantasy. I must admit that Billie Dee Williams' over-the-top performance was really annoying, hokey and downright laughable. Richard Pryor added a lovable and humorous spark to the flick that was unforgettable! I'm hoping the reason it's taking so long for this movie to come out on DVD is that they are going to make it fabulous with all sorts of extra features and whatnot. Otherwise:

WHAT'S TAKING SO LONG FOR THIS MOVIE TO COMING OUT ON DVD?!?!?!?! ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you spliced Charles Addams, Dr. Seuss, Charles Dickens, Edward Gorey, and Roald Dahl into a Tim Burtonesque landscape, you'd surely come up with something like Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. Many critics (in mostly mixed reviews) wondered why Burton didn't direct this comically morbid adaptation of the first three books in the popular series by Daniel Handler (a.k.a. "Lemony Snicket," played here by Jude Law and seen only in silhouette) instead of TV and Casper veteran Brad Silberling, but there's still plenty to recommend the playfully bleak scenario, in which three resourceful orphans thwart their wicked, maliciously greedy relative Count Olaf (Jim Carrey), who subjects them to... well, a series of unfortunate events. Along the way they encounter a herpetologist uncle (Billy Connolly), an anxious aunt (Meryl Streep) who's afraid of everything, and a variety of fantastical hazards and mysterious clues, some of which remain unresolved. Given endless wonders of art direction, costume design, and cinematography, Silberling's direction is surprisingly uninspired (in other words, the books are better), but when you add a throwaway cameo by Dustin Hoffman, Law's amusing narration, and Carrey's over-the-top antics, the first Lemony movie suggests a promising franchise in the making. --Jeff Shannon

DVD features
Packed into the two-disc special edition of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events is over two hours of serious behind-the-scenes features, deleted scenes, and interviews with the production staff. The most generous of these is A Woeful World, an in-depth overview of the production design with extensive commentary from Oscar-nominated production designer Rick Heinrichs. Kids who've read the books will enjoy seeing how creative minds transform the world of the books into a movie. "Costumes and Other Suspicious Disguises" is one of the most fun extras with footage of Jim Carrey comically ad-libbing as his different characters during the on-screen costume tests. The special features contained on the single-disc editions are also quite good, but most fans will find it worth it to pay the few extra dollars for this edition because of the insights it gives into the production. --Dan Vancini

A Message from Count Olaf

Dear Adoring Fan of Count Olaf,

Count Olaf

*Count Olaf will not be held liable or accept blame in any way for any and all liability, loss, damage, or personal injury (including death), without limit and without regard once Aunt Josephine is thrown in, due to the unpredictable behavior of hungry leeches.

Stills from Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events (Click to Enlarge)

Violet, Count Olaf, and Klaus	Aunt Josephine	Count Olaf and Aunt Josephine	Directing Jim Carrey
Klaus, Mr. Poe, Sunny, and Violet	Count Olaf	Olaf Ascending	The Baudelaire Orphans

All Things Snicket

See a complete list of all Lemony Snicket's creations, including books from the Series of Unfortunate Events, calendars, and more.

The Essential Lemony Snicket Books

A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Ominous Omnibus, Books 1-3	The Situation Worsens: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 4-6	The Dilemma Deepens: A Box of Unfortunate Events, Books 7-9
The Slippery Slope: A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 10	The Grim Grotto: A Series of Unfortunate Events, Book 11	A Library of Unfortunate Events, Books 1-10
Behind the Scenes with Count Olaf: A Series of Unfortunate Events Movie Book	Lemony Snicket: The Unauthorized Autobiography	The Puzzling Puzzles Activity Book

More from the Movie

Original Movie Poster

Soundtrack

Wall Poster

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events Computer & Video Games

For PS2

For PC

For Xbox

For GameCube

... Read more

Reviews (254)

Well Done, Witty
This is a VERY witty, whimsical, and surprisingly dark film. I don't see very many similarities between this and Harry Potter, like everyone says. The only Harry Potter that is remotely similar is Prisoner of Azkaban.
I really enjoyed this movie, you will too.

Lemony Snicket
I love his books!They are so facinating!Sometimes I just can't put them down! I first started reading them in 6th grade then I just couldn't stop.Then I decided to get my own copies of all of the books.I like Lemony's sense of humor, especially in Book 1, on page 94.Authough I wish he would continue with the series by writing books 12 and 13 because I would really like to find out if the Baudilares will really defeat Count Olaf an his troupe for good.One more thing:In the movie they pronounce Klaus as (Kl-aW-se) and Olaf as(O-lav).I prefer to pronouce the names (clause)for Klaus and (Ol-if)for Olaf. It is ok if you don't but my preferances would make more sense.
Thanks
P.S. My favorite is Violet, authough you may have a different favorite.You should read the books....I have a feeling you would love them.

.... GOOD ART direction doth naught a moving picture maketh
'SOMEONE' should REALLY have a frank discussion with Mr. Carrey ~ [a super talent - really] about these artistic career choices that lead to cul-de-cat-in-the-sacks ?????

REALLY a dreadfully, boring little feature, showing lots of $$$ on screen, but Oh My - the Horror! The Horror!

Meryl Streep with a REALLY bad wig, check the hairline .... ditto Jim's eyebrows ...... and the Count Costume [Goodness is he ?? over? Andy Kaufman?] but do check 'Heartbeeps' the lost Kaufman movie with Bernadette Peters - and compare the costume[s].

.....pity ....[and was that a tribute to Robin William's 'Popeye'?]

Good but the books are better!!
When I got this I thought I would like the books better and well I was right. Don't get me wrong it was good but it was hard to follow if you didn't read the books. Defintely read the books before watching.

Why Lemony, why?
How could Lemony Snicket allow Hollywood to do this to his great books? Lemony Snicket wrote 11 books of "A Series of Unfortunate Events.I have only the first 9 but that doesn't mean I can't bash this trash.
Let's talk about the story: Three children who have this really big house with a library and everything lose the house and their parents in a fire.The children now become orphans and have to live with their third cousin four times removed (or was it fourth cousin three times removed?) named Count Olaf (Jim Carrey).Olaf is a mean greedy man who intends to have the three orphans killed in order to get a hold of their tremendous fortune their parents left behind before the fire.
That's also the story of the first book.What the movie does is it tries to get cute and funny (far more than the books).The books were hardly ever cute and funny.They were serious and (as the title tells you) unfortunate.They were describing the pain and misery that the three children had to go through in their lives.The movie turns them into kids you couldn't give a crap about.
Another thing I hate about this movie is that they started out with the first book and went to the second one without having the first one end the way it did in the book.Then they skipped a bunch of parts in the second and third book.Instead of going to the fourth book, the movie actually ends the same way the first book did (just thought that those of you who have read the books ought to know that before you witness this cheesy adaptation).
Those of you who have not read the books nor seen the movie, OK, you could give this movie a try but you would probably find the books more interesting and more serious.
Those of you who have not read the books but have seen the movie and you're viewing this review just so you can say, "Oh, what a jerk.This movie is excellent", well, read a book, wait for them to make movie out of it, and then you'll know how that "jerk" felt. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Billed as the "future of fitness" and hawked by numerous celebrities, Billy Blanks's Tae-Bo actually deserves much of the hype it's receiving. A mixture of boxing punches and martial arts kicks, Tae-Bo is fun and easy. One of the best elements of this four-tape set is that the first tape (which is 40 minutes long), Tae-Bo: Instructional, lays out the movements you need to successfully complete a workout. Once you've mastered the steps, you won't have to fast-forward through half the tape to get to the workout, nor will your workout be slowed down by the repeated lessons. After you feel comfortable with the movements (and they're really quite easy to follow; nothing too complicated to trip you up), you're ready to move on to Tae-Bo: Basics, a 27-minute workout (5 minutes of warm-up, 18 minutes of Tae-Bo, and 4 minutes of cool-down) that will have your heart pounding and your body sweating. Next comes Advanced, a 57-minute workout that will have your heart racing, pulse pounding, and sweat glands working overtime. There's razzmatazz on the moves, with slightly more complicated combinations that should be fairly easy to master if you've completed the first two tapes. This video seriously raises the bar on the difficulty factor.

In addition to the short warm-up, the cool-down, and the 30 minutes of Tae-Bo, Advanced Tae-Bo also includes 18 minutes of muscle-crunching floor work. You know you're in trouble when even the guys in the tape have trouble keeping up. Make sure you have truly mastered the first two tapes before attempting this one. The 8-Minute Workout is a highly compacted workout (actually 14 minutes long when you include warm-up and cool-down) for those days when you're too short on time for Basic or Advanced. While the 8-minute idea is compelling, it's not an adequate substitute for the longer workouts. Blanks, a seven-time World Martial Arts champion, is a superb instructor, providing encouragement and careful instruction (if you don't know by the end of the tape to hold in your stomach, that's no one's fault but your own). The only downside to these tapes is the less-than-exciting music. Not only is Tae-Bo great exercise for all levels, but the punches and kicks are wonderful for working out stress and aggression. This is the aerobics exercise video for people who are bored by aerobics. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (182)

Literally
Living in New England, my running routine has somewhat gone down the tubes due to the frigid weather. Plus my class schedule has so many 8-5 days in it that I don't have time to hit the gym. SO, I decided just after Thanksgiving to start doing a workout tape regime that would kill less time and still keep me in shape.

My first tape...Callanetics. Great sculpting workout, but no cardio. The immediate first thought...Tae Bo. I have a lot of friends who sang the praises of Billy Blanks, but I had yet to see myself what cardio kickboxing was all about. I bought the DVD version (1) because it was actually cheaper than the tapes and (2) had all the tapes rolled up into one slim package that would probably last longer anyway.

I did what the instructions told me and did the introductory workout first. This teaches you the basics of the moves he likes to incorporate into the routines. Although I feel that he could have explained some of the positions better (i.e., when you do the roundhouse kicks, turn the foot you're standing on OUT...it will help twist your hips down so you can lift your leg as high as possible while working out your gluteal muscles...he doesn't emphasize this, just tells you to keep your hand on your hip and kick to the side), you find out his workout is relatively simple in technique. However, he warns you that he CAN and WILL make it more PHYSICALLY difficult as you progress.

I then advanced to the basics workout. Being an avid runner and gym rat, I found this to be a pretty decent workout. Built up a respectable sweat and felt empowered...just pictured kicking ex-boyfriends in the face. :) Plus, I surprised myself with how fierce I can feel...really lets out stress and remains fun.

The advanced workout...whoa. Not for the faint of heart. 45 minutes of cardio with many many many fast sequences of kicks and jabs that will make you feel like a puppet being yanked in eight different directions...it's great. :) Then, the floor work...you probably have never done so many doggy-lifts in your life! Killer! :) I highly recommend this DVD!

Taebo will get you going!
I have been doing power yoga, jump roping, running, power walking, some martial arts (at studios) and a little weight lifting and I couldn't even get toned. I was still getting slightly depressed and I felt my motivation go down. BUT then I luckily found Taebo. Billy Blanks is this incredible motivator that really gets you going. Before I got to an advanced level I started to see stomach muscle tone and overall lean muscle tone--it's really amazing. Yes, you should spend an extra 15 min of stretching prior and after each workout, but if Billy Blanks were to have included a stretch out in the videos than it would have been boring. Yes, the music [is bad]. However, you can get over those petty concerns if you take your fitness goals seriously. Don't whine, get off your seat and just do it! I'm now doing Taebo 5X a week and cardio 1X a week--despite the fact that I have recently recieved radiation treatment for Grave's disease (and will require a life time of meds). You can transcend any emotional pain in your life by your pure determinism!

They could have picked better music!!!
I love TaeBo, but it's a little difficult to get pumped up to elevator hiphop! Please! Overall, the workout is awesome. I saw results in 2 weeks, and it makes me feel strong, sexy, and empowered (I just picture kicking and punching my ex-husband in the face when I need that extra boost! LOL). This is worth the money. Maybe when you get the moves down, you could crank up some real music to kick-butt to!

ordered and e-bay cancel
I order this DVd for $20 two days later E-bay cancel my order an
said they had no more. Now I look on e-bay they have the same
taebo DVD at a higher cost???Is this a rip off or what?

Yes, It Really Works
I have had to work to control my weight since puberty. I have been working out since I was 16 yrs. old and of all the things I have tried, I have never gotten into shape as fast as I did with Tae-Bo. About a month and a half after I began the workout, people were asking me what I was doing. I was so pleased with the results! And not only do you lose weight quick, but you feel so much better! Strong and energized. I thought what I payed was pretty inexpensive after seeing what it did for me. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

It's hard to know who thought it would be a good idea to make a live-action version of Disney's animated classic. The one bright notion anyone had was casting Glenn Close as Disney über-villainess Cruella de Vil; her flashing eyes and angular features are a perfect match and do credit to what is one of the most indelible animated characters Disney has ever created. The story remains essentially the same, focusing on Cruella's plot to kidnap the puppies of a young married couple (Jeff Daniels and Jolie Richardson) and make them into a coat. But the dreaded John Hughes, who wrote this script, fills it with sadistic slapstick and far too few genuine laughs. The human actors work hard, but to little avail; thankfully, there's a passel of puppies to regularly steal scenes when the going gets dreary--although there are only so many laughs to be had from inappropriate dog puddles. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Delightful story with puppies that will steal your heart
It was a stroke of genius for the legendary Disney Studio to decide to remake their classic 1961 animated feature "101 Dalmatians", as a live action feature. Never a great fan of remakes, I feel this story is a natural for a live action version and on first viewing it totally won me over. It has so much to offer viewers of all ages, whether it be its 99 gorgeous Dalmatian puppies that would melt the heart of any dog lover, a top class production with terrific sets, locations and stunts or a wonderfully wicked villianess in the incomparable Cruella De Vil played to perfection by gifted actress Glenn Close.

The film follows closely the original story and tells the tale of London couple Roger and Anita who meet through a Dalmatian dog mixup in a London Park and fall in love, marry and find themselves the happy "parents" of 15 beautiful Dalmatian puppies when their Dalmatians Pongo and Perdita begin a family of their own. Their happiness is short lived however when Anita's boss the dastardly Cruella De Vil spots the puppies and immediately makes plans to have the puppies kidnapped so that she can turn their pelts into the extravagant spotted fur coat she has always dreamed of having. What ensures is a comical tale full of laughs, great stunts and hilarious situations of the "boo the villian, cheer the dogs" variety. The Dalmatian parents, with the aid of many assorted members of the animal kingdom from woodpeckers, squirrels, and assorted sheep pigs, and dogs not only succeed in tracking down the missing puppies in their hideout but also outwit Cruella and her incompetent accomplices at every turn. The animals revenge on Cruella and her accomplices makes for most of the humour as they find themselves being dumped through falling roofs, landing in tubs of gooey molasses and being smelled out by skunks!

No expense was spared on this production and indeed all the live action characters bare an amazing resemblance to their cartoon counterparts. Gleen Close towers over the whole production in her performance as Disney Studios most famous villianess the totally over the top Cruella De Vil. Her makeup, hair styles and clothing is everything you would imagine Cruella to be. It is to the credit of Glenn Close that she succeeds totally in bringing to life such a well known and "loved" cartoon villianess. A supremely talented actress as seen in such diverse roles as those in "Fatal Attraction", "Dangerous Liaisons", "Meeting Venus", and "Paradise Road" among others, she is a total riot as the bizzare fashion designer with an extreme fur fetish. It is she who makes "101 Dalmatians" such memorable viewing and her encounters with the animals in the second half of the film will have you laughing for ages. The sight of Cruella rising out of the tub of molasses where she has been unceremoniously dumped by the animal brigade will bring fits of laughter to the viewer. The film also boasts the great talents of Jeff Daniels and the lovely Joely Richardson as Roger and Anita the loving couple drawn to each other by their fondness for Dalmatians, and the gifted Joan Plowright as Anita's former Nanny who finds herself performing the role again but this time for the 15 puppies in the house. Much of the comedy stems from the great playing by Hugh Laurie and Mark Williams as the wacky Jasper and Horace employed by Cruella who's job it is to steal the puppies for Cruella. They receive the main brunt of the animals "revenge" to great comic effect as does John Shrapnel in the role of the sinister scarred Skinner who is employed to turn the puppies coats into Cruella's new coat. The animal stunts performed in this film will have you gasping as the animals seem top take on human personalities of their own to brilliant effect. The location photography around London and in the snow scenes at Cruella's hideaway also create a very pleasing look to the film.

I never fail to watch "101 Dalmatians" without finding a smile appearing on my face. It is a totally delightful film that is just as much for adults as it is children which is a real credit to the Disney Studios. Glenn Close really makes the film a viewing experience with her over the top playing here but if you are in anyway a dog lover you can't help but be totally captivated by these delightful 101 spotted creatures charming the audience in "101 Dalmatians". Enjoy!

"101 Dalmatians"
Having watched both the live-action and the animated versions of "101 Dalmatians," I find the live-action version to be vastly superior. This updated classic has a fresh, fun storyline. The actors who play the characters seem perfectly suited for their roles. Glenn Close is particularly good as Cruella De Vil. The movie was filmed in England and each scene is beautifully crafted. The director has done a remarkable job of giving the dogs respected status as emotion-feeling, three dimensional characters without resorting to the silly and mundane method of giving them human voices. Being a dog trainer myself, the thing I most enjoy about the movie is the absolutely phenomenal job done by the dog handlers. Not only are the trained behaviors remarkable, but the handlers have elicited responses from the dogs that readily convey understandable "emotions" to the audience. The ONE glaring fault of this movie is the final scene where all of the dogs have been allowed to breed ad infinitum. I find that totally irresponsible and the reason this movie gets 4 stars instead of 5.

CORNY!
One of the WORST films by Disney is this "101 Dalmations", which is a live-action version of the original cartoon movie & is nowhere near as good. All it was is just a retelling of the story obviously, but very little excitement and fun, bad acting and cheesy, cheesy, cheesy special effects. (not to mention the jokes sucked!) It is also TOO short! They could've added in more and it would've been better but it all ended too soon. Disney is really going downhill with these sequels and remakes and I suggest that they STOP now!! How anybody could like this film is beyond me! This is the stupidest, crappiest movie remake ever! Save your money and buy the original cartoon version instead cause it's 100% better than this smelly pile of dog crap! Your kids will also like it more.

A dog's life
Don't expect this type of overacting Disney movie that can be a sweet movie. It was pretty funny. It will be better than the second movie 102 Dalmatians.

Calling all dogs, we must find the puppies!
We purchased the cartoon version at our first opportunity, and this has been a heavily watched movie by our kids, especially when they were pre-kindergarten. This is still my 6 year old daughters favorite movie and the family voted it #8 of 41. Not quite up to the production standards of other Disney movies, this one was popular with all 5 children and is very watchable with repeat viewings. It narrowly beat out Fox and the hound for the 8th spot.

Cruella De Vil sees the 15 puppies of Pongo and Perdita and decides that she needs to make a polka dot Dalmatian coat with their fur. Her henchmen kidnap 86 puppies from around London and with these 15 she has 101. Pongo and Perdita call upon their doggie friend to search for the lost pups in hopes of engineering a rescue.
We had a lot of fun by gathering the family together to rank the 41 Disney movies we have that include some cartoon work. All the kids, ages 6 to 27, participated along with mother and dad. Peter Pan is no Codfish, we rank it #2. Lion King was selected number 1 of the 41 as the family favorite, but narrowly. Peter Pan was 2. Pete's Dragon 3, Beauty & the beast 4, Sleeping Beauty 5, Snow White 6 and Robin hood 7. These 7 movies all received a 5 star rating from us and complete our magnificent 7. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Not much jazz spoken in this 1980 version of the Jolson classic, directed by Richard Fleischer(The Vikings) and starring a very tentative Neil Diamond as a cantor's son who would rather sing commercially than in a synagogue. The soundtrack is tedious, the portrait of L.A.'s music industry preposterous, and Diamond (despite his talents as a singer-songwriter in the real world) can't help but look like a speck on the wall in the presence of Laurence Olivier, who plays his father. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Diamond's Music, Olivier's Presence, OH MAMMY!
This review refers to the VHS(1989 paramount) edition of this film....
At the 1927-1928 (First) Academy Awards Presentation "The Jazz Singer" starring Al Jolsen picked up a special award for pioneering the "Talkies". Obviously sound has come alooooong way since then and this 1980 modern day remake makes good use of it.
Jess Robinovitch(Neil Diamond)is a 5th generation Jewish cantor,tied to his role in the temple in the lower east side of New York. . His voice is phenominal(of course),he writes his own music, ballads mostly and has a chance to strike out on his own in Los Angeles.
He leaves for L.A. against the wishes of father, the 4th generation cantor(Laurence Olivier), and his wife, who likes things just the way they are.
It will take a while to achieve super stardom(at least a month!), but with the help of his new manager Molly(Lucie Arnaz),it is accomplished!The problem is his family is unhappy with the situation, his wife liked life when it was just them, his father is torn up about his son going against tradtion.Jess is having trouble coming to terms with the downfall of his relationship with his father. Molly feels responsible for the rift. Get your Kleenex ready as they work this out.
Diamond's soundtrack is wonderful. It includes "Love on the Rocks" and "Hello Again".Sir Olivier has not lost his touch, He is still the master. The British legend plays the Jewish cantor steeped in tradtion like he was born to the part, his performance alone is worth the watch.
The VHS is in hi-fi stereo, Dolby Surround, which enhances this musical.
Need a nice cry? This is the one!.......Laurie

For Diamond Music Fans Only
If you are a fan of Neil Diamond's music, then you will no doubt enjoy this movie.

Purely as a movie, however, this isn't very good. Cliched and schmaltzy, most of the scenes seem strung together as an excuse to fill time between musical numbers. The story, as borrowed from the original Jolson film: son of a cantor wants to sing popular music instead of following in his father's footsteps.

Neither Diamond nor Arnaz are going to win Oscars anytime soon -- in fact, Diamond demonstrates that, as an actor, he's a heck of a singer. The only shining performance in this movie is that of the incomparable Olivier, who proves that he can play any role given to him impeccably, no matter how dopey the surroundings.

If you are expecting any meat or substance to this movie, forget it. The music IS good enough to sit through once, which is why it gets two stars from me, but the only reason I own it is because my wife simply adores Diamond's music.

Buy the soundtrack, if you like it, but I would avoid the film itself. The DVD, meanwhile, is nothing special; the print is average at best, and there are no extra features worth discussing.

Luci Arnaz- remove this from your resume
Ugh. Poor plot development and cardboard characters. For example, he loves his wife sooooo much and discards her sooooo easily? Not likely. Lucie Arnaz, a wonderful personality and normally "good" actress is a cartoon character. Who could fall in love with Neil Diamond with all his angst and schmaltzy whining? Not I, that's for sure.

a bad movie with great music
This is not a great adaptation of the Jazz singer,the acting is mediocre,the progress of the plot is unrealistic,but Neil Diamond`s great music makes it worth watching.I used to have the soundtrack to this movie,i enjoyed it a great deal.

WONDERFUL!
I can't understand why this movie was so poorly accepted. It was a well acted, well directed film. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

"SPRINGTIME, LOVETIME, MAY"
So ends the haunting refrain of Sigmund Romberg's lovely "Will You Remember?"--the signature song of his wartime hit "Maytime." Otherwise known as the Sweetheart song ("Sweetheart, sweetheart, sweetheart..."), this song of songs is the recuring theme of this 1937 MGM musical masterpiece.

The screens own singing sweethearts, Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy were at the peak of their vocal powers and this opulent film was their crowning victory. Miss MacDonald claimed this as her own personal favorite.

Marcia (Jeanette), an American opera singer in Paris, and Paul (Nelson), an American voice student, fall hopelessly in love in a chance meeting followed by an enchanting outing at the Maytime festival. Unfortunately it is too late, for she has just accepted the proposal of her egocentric voice teacher, Nicolai, (marvelously played by John Barrymore). Separated for years, the sweethearts are finally reunited as Paul now has an international career of his own. They are paired for "Czaritza", an original MGM confection skillfully using Tchaikovsky's infectious Fifth Symphony", but Nicolai's jealousy ultimately leads to tragedy.

As the film opened with the aging Marcia Mornay reflecting back on her illustrious career and upon her unfulfilled love for Paul, so does it end. Life slips peacefully from her frail body as her spirit is once again united with her lifelong love, who had gone before her, and the two of them stroll longingly down their celestial lane as apple blossoms fall blushingly to the ground. This is one of the most poignant scenes in cinematic history. The music is glorious--almost beyond description. The costumes and sets are lavish in style and detail. "Will you remember?" Indeed you will! This is a joyous reminder of the nostalgia and happiness we feel each year in "Springtime, Lovetime, May."

A MUST SEE FOR MAC & EDDY FANS!
Maytime is the best movie this duo ever made. Unlike some other movies of theirs together this one isn't cheesy. The plot line is great, the romance is beautiful, the acting fantastic, and the music gorgeous! Plus it's a great tear-jerker. Watching the love bloom between Marcia (Mac) and Paul (Eddy) is as entertaining and romantic as ever. John Barrymore does a superb job as Marcias obsessed voice teacher. He definately makes you hate him. And no matter what anyone says the ending makes the whole movie! It wouldn't be Maytime without it. And even if you don't like the ending, the movie is worth watching just to see Nelson Eddy sing "Ham and Eggs" or the Prima Donna song. It's such a shame that Hollywood doesn't make good movies like this anymore.

My Favorite Movie
For many years, I would watch this movie on TV every May 1st.I would wake up in the middle of the night to feel the emotion and joy of Marcia and Paul in love. Now that I have it on VHS, I can watch it as often as I wish.
They do not make love stories, nor musicals like this any more.It is a classic. It moves me every time I watch it. And when they sing at the fair "Sweetheart" I get very tearful.
Thank you Jeanette and Nelson, for making this beautiful film.

More than happy
When I bought this vhs, I was not expecting such a quality in sounds and clearness. This film was made in the 30 after all. And what made me happier is that the story keep us awakened from the beginnig till the end. The lovely voice of Jeanette MacDonald is an enchantment in all the opera'a arias she sings. Nelson Eddy is also good, but not enough to be the opera singer they expected from him. But what a story! And, woudl it be only for Jeanette lyrics and her fascinating eyes, it is worted more than the price I paid for it. Three times BRAVO!

THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST MUSICALS I'VE EVER SEEN!!!
Though usually I don't like to watch anything of this sort I enjoyed the thrilling plot. It was wonderfully acted and is one of the best videos I've seen from the 1930's. ... Read more

Reviews (142)

A sumptuous Renaissance feast!
Franco Zefirrelli's 1967 film was revolutionary in using teenaged actors to play the two most famous lovers of all literature. Olivia Hussey is heartbreakingly beautiful, a vulnerable and courageous Juliet, while Leonard Whiting's poetic good looks make him a sensitive and appealing Romeo. Zefirrelli's career as an opera director is put to spectacular use here--each scene is meticulously crafted to be an exact replica of the Renaissance. Stunningly beautiful clothing, jewels, furniture, food, glass, sculpture--it is an overwhelming feast for the eyes. The preserved medieval towns of Tuscany, and the lovely Borghese palace where the balcony scene is set, give the film the look of an animated Renaissance painting. Zefirrelli took some liberties with Shakespeare's original script for the sake of brevity, but unless you are a die-hard purist, this is a minor flaw. I saw this film a dozen times in the theater, and never without the sound of girls weeping by the end--I was often one of them. Leslie Howard was a better actor, and Leonardo DiCaprio/Clare Danes more modern, but if you love beauty, this is THE quintessential Romeo and Juliet on film. END

Zeffirelli's Quintessential Version! Every Aspect Excellent!
This is THE must see version of Romeo and Juliet. Zeffirelli's 1968 masterpiece stars 17-year-old Leonard Whiting and 15-year-old Olivia Hussey with great music by Nino Rota. Filmed "on location" in Italy this version also has the fingerprints of the 1960s all over it, from moddish long hair, the debut of Michael York as Tybalt, John McEnery as Mercutio, the lush balcony scenes, the nude scene, and an emotional intensity throughout. McEnery brings just the right comic touch to the comi-tragedy and screenwriters Franco Brusati, Maestro D'Amico, and Zeffirelli keep true to Shakespeare with a take on the story that's easily accessible to a wide audience, thereby making this one of the most popular films of the '60s.

Especially effective is the ambiguity of intent of the Tybalt-Mercutio duel, and the overall editing of dialogue just enough to keep it succinct and believable yet retain the poetic and philosophical virtuosity of the playwright's playwright. The music is used effectively and as it rises during the love scenes it's a manipulation that's an enhancement to rather than distraction from the emotion--a rare successful pull-off of this. And that balcony scene is extraordinary, the lush dark atmosphere, Romeo's giddiness, Juliet's beauty...I believed it.

Milo O'Shea (who later played the Judge in "The Verdict") does a believable Friar Laurence and Robert Stephens (I)(with a long list of Shakespearian roles to his name) an intensely serious Prince of Verona. It's hard not to fall in love with Olivia (watch for her new film role as Mother Theresa).

Some bits of trivia: Before 1968 Romeo and Juliet was not generally taught in US high schools and this film's popularity changed all that as most of you reading this had it in high school. Michael York turned down the role of Oliver in Love Story--one may read into this he felt it was a poor man's Romeo and Juliet...just a thought. Also Olivia Hussey briefly dated Prince Charles. And here's the clincher: Paul McCartney got the original offer to play Romeo. I'm glad he turned it down, as Whiting is perfect here. And for those who wonder, the story did not originate in historical fact, though one may wish it so. The story came from mythical legend starting in 5th century Greece, later evolving into "The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet" translated into English in 1562 by Arthur Brooke and originally written about 1530 by Luigi da Porto., 'til Shakespeare got a hold of it (circa 1594) and breathed into it the life that will last as long as humanity does most probably.

This towers over the 1st film version with a 34-year-old Norma Shearer and a 43-year-old Leslie Howard, and as for the 1996 mess sorry guys; American accents, present day gang violence, over-the-top overacting, LA locales, and Leonard DiCaprio do not great Shakespearean tragedy make. This 1968 one is the one to see over and over.

Excellent movie...Great actors
Watching this as part of a highschool assignment, the teacher only allowed us to watch about 15 minutes of it. When I saw it playing on cable, I sat down to finish it. This, I must say, is the best version of Romeo and Juliet. In the '68 version The actors are young and even though it was made in '68, you can relate to them in this day. The acting is superb, no one better could have been picked for the parts. It was a real tearjerker. Not to mention the soundtrack...the songs were just amazing to hear. Just watch the movie once, you'll fall in love with it.

The Defintive R & J
I could watch this version of Romeo and Juliet over, and over, and over. The performances are dead on, especially John McEnry's turn as Mercutio (you understand the reason why he's killed off: people would have cared more about him than about the tragic heroes if he'd been around too much longer!). I would advise teachers, however, that this is not the first version they show students of the show. While most ninth graders read this play, the giggling that can abound in a classroom watching Romeo in tights often distracts from the meaning of the film.
So, for with the exception of ninth graders, this is the Romeo and Juliet to see.

Zeffirelli and Shakespeare: A Perfect Match
There is nothing worse than bad Shakespeare but not to worry here-- Franco Zeffirelli and Shakespeare come together here in a lavish, opulent production of ROMEO AND JULIET, just when we thought there was nothing fresh to say about them. Zeffirelli has broken new ground by casting Leonard Whiting, who is 17, and Olivia Hussey, who is all of 15 but looks even younger, in this timeless classic story about "star-crossed" lovers. With the possible exception of some parts of the musical score-- although much of it soars-- this film is as good today as it was when first released in 1968. (The musical theme was beautiful the first 50 times I heard it on the radio. Then it became trite.)

There are no bad actors here. In addition to the two lovers, Michael York as Tybalt and Pat Heywood as the nurse give outstanding performances, just to name two. My only negative comment about the acting is that Romeo always seems to run to and from an event or meeting; he never walks. Perhaps that is what a seventeen-year-old, testosterone-laden lad does, however. On the other hand, Romeo and Juliet's tragic story is completely believable and will put chills on your spine. Additionally, the dance scenes and duel scenes are quite wonderful. The wardrobe department got everything right as well.

A word about the language-- it goes without saying that Mr. Shakespeare is and ever shall be the greatest writer in English. Hearing his words again is a transcendent experience. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

My review of The Magic School Bus: For lunch
Let me begin by saying that this is all a fantasy. Or pretty much everything in this video. But maybe again, this all could be not true. First of all shrinking a bus. Now if your teacher let you stay behind while the rest of your class goes on a field trip, would you be happy, and then get suspicious about your teacher letting you stay behind. When The Magic School Bus begins, Arnold (voiced by Danny Tamberlli) is helping Wanda (Lisa Yamanaka) break a record to get two free tickets to action mountain, and to get to get the free tickets, you have to chew gum for over 6 hours. Wanda could have done the chewing, but she got a new filling. But Arnold shallows the gump when Wanda hits, him, she gets kinda mad with him. Then Arnold's teacher Ms. Frizzle (Lilly Tomlin) announces that they are heading for a field trip, and then Ms. Frizzle lets Arnold stay back, but while Arnold enjoys his favorite snack (cheezie wheezies), little does he know that Ms. Frizzle has shrunk the bus and the rest of Arnold's classmates in the bus and the bus goes into Arnold's mouth. Which in real life, could never happen. The class goes really fast though Arnold's digestion system (but it takes over 10 hours to digest). But please remember this is a 30 minute show, and they had to make them go though it really fast. If you or your kids love The Magic School Bus, get this tape, or this would be good to watch if you ever wanted to learn about the digestive system, this would be another good reason to watch, but if you wanted to learn more about the other systems in the body, then you have to find something else to watch or take a trip to learn more about the body.

Our 4 Year Old Loves This Video!
We have purchased this and all other available MSB videos. This one is one of my child's favourites. It focuses on the human digestive system. He has been watching this video since he was 2 and can tell you all about the digestive tract, villi, and the rest. I highly recommend this video and most in this series.

It Was Interesting
It helps me see what's inside you. Sometimes it made me laugh. I recommend for parents to buy it for their kids.

What a ride!
Imagine going for a wild ride from a mouth on down! Thats just what a bus load of kids did! What better way for kids to learn where all that food goes! There is suspense for the adults too! Just how is the producer going to handle the subject of the bitter end? All I can say is they always have the best way of explaning things to kids!

A wonderful introduction to the digestive system
This is a wonderful video for young children. My 4 and 6 year old loved it. It is a descriptive and fun adventure inside the digestive system, showing the process food goes through as it enters our mouth. It is fun and entertaining and the children learn a great deal about digestion. I am a nutritionist and food scientist myself and I recommend this video to all parents. I think this is a great introduction for the children. ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Love it! Love it! Love it!
I have always been self-conscious of my abs, always wanting them to be more defined, tighter, looking better. I have an AbsWork machine and a Body Blade and have been using those for 3+ years now. I would procrastinate doing those workouts, so I decided to give this video a try (mainly for the price), and I love it! It is quick, to the point and YOU FEEL IT BURN! The eight minutes go by quick and after two weeks my husband and I both notice a difference. I try to work out at least five times a week and it does not matter how much I use this video, I feel the burn! I recommend this to anyone who wants fast results and a great routine at that! Jaime is great at keeping you motivated and reminding you of the correct way to do the exercises. The bonus Arms are a plus and I use the soup cans! Better than going to the gym! My daughter (3 years old) even likes to do the workouts with me!

nice surprise
I am not a workout tape junky but decided to give this one a try due to it's minimal time requirement. I am a new mom and free time is hard to come by. I did the tape for the first time today and I plan on keeping it in the VCR so that all I have to do is press play whenever I get a few minutes. I found the on screen 8 minute count down helpful and I like that they let you go at your own pace. You don't need any equipment although it is optional for the arms, they actually use soup cans! The instructor is lowkey and positive and there aren't a bunch of sweaty models posing for the camera. I definately felt the burn in my abs but next time I think I will use the soup cans for the arms. I am actually looking forward to doing this tomorrow!

AB-solutely fabulous!
This is an oldie but a goodie!

The "8 Minute" series is a good compliment to a healthy, active lifestyle. 16 minutes a day, at a minimum of 5 days a week, and you will see and feel results in your abs and arms. If you want to maximize your results, combine the workout with a balanced diet and cardio exercise. Keep With It!

Both the Ab and Arm workouts are targeted, with small movements. Easy to do in any small room! After a couple of weeks the moves become so repetitive that it is easy to do the ab workout even without the video. Great when I travel!

Do not expect dramatic weight loss with this video. However, you will feel stronger and build lean muscle. Can't beat that for 16 minutes a day!!

Oh Baby!
This is one of those Change-Your-Life videos...
Right up there with the best of them like
"New Sex Now" guide to life's ultimate pleasure
and the CD "Voice Lessons To Go"

Don't be afraid to love your life even more!

The best ab workout ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been doing the ab workout for 3 months and the results are amazing. My abs have never been so hard and so defined. For all of you who previously wrote that you do not see results, you are obviously doing something wrong! Maybe you need to lose some weight first, you can't expect to exercise and not diet and then see results. Trust me, this ab workout DOES work. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Sick? MSB to the rescue!
Ms. Frizzles team of reporter kids is going to get the "inside story". Ralphie is sick with a sore throat and the bus is going in! They see bacteria destroying Ralphie's throat cells. They see white blood cells marking the bacteria with antibodies and consuming them! It is a war worth watching! And when the "backup support" (medicine) arrives the battle is being won! An exiting way for kids to understand what happens in there when they get sick!

A Magic School Bus trip through the body of a child
This video teaches young children about the inner workings of the human body in an entertaining and informative format. It is suitable for pre-schoolers through lower elementary grades. The video is approximately 30 min. in length. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The third workout video in the Sweatin' to the Oldies series follows the winning format of a lively, beginners' workout with Richard Simmons and a cheerful roomful of enthusiastic friends--many large sized--dancing to blasts from the past with a live band. This time the venue is a theme park, and the music includes get-up- and-dance favorites such as "Gimme Some Lovin'," "Louie, Louie," "Rockin' Robin," "Born to be Wild," "The Name Game," and "Do You Want to Dance?" The choreography is aimed at beginners: simple moves like knee lifts and cha-cha steps, always light intensity and low impact. Besides the motivating music, what makes this and all of the Sweatin' to the Oldies videos special is how much fun everyone on screen is having. You can't help but catch their dancing fever! (36 minutes of aerobics plus warm-up, cool down, and stretch, total 58 minutes.) --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Fun stuff!
You get a good workout with Richard whether it's in person or on a tape. Beginners and Intermediates will find a lot to love in this tape: great music, fun routines, lots of inspiration. This video has the sexiest moves of any of his tapes, so I'd recommend staying away from it if you're offended by that kind of thing. This one is fun, long, and not as easy as it looks. But there are plenty of people to watch as examples of how to either tone down the routine or jazz it up. The setting is like a carnival, and the routine has as much energy as a carnival ride. Great fun!

Sweating to the Oldies 3 changed my life.
This sounds so american pie, but Sweating to The Oldies 3 really did change my life. I lost 30 pounds doing it, and became alot closer to my brother as well. If you saw a picture of me, you'd probably think I was the last person to do a Richard Simmons workout, let alone excersize. I have tried other workouts, but they were all too boring for me. Once I tried this video, I seriously couldn't stop! I was brought up on the oldies, and now listen to goth, punk, techno & ska, but doing this made me feel like a kid again ;o) This probably sounds completely fabricated, but I assure you, its true ;o)

Awesome!
I haven't done the first or second one but I do know that this one was great. It is alot of dancing but it really makes you sweat.The songs are great and they just keep you going. I highly recommend this video!

Fun! But too cute in parts for me
I like this video. I do it every other day, alternating with STTO 2. I started 3 months ago, as a complete beginner (at 49) at this sort of thing but thought I might prefer this type of exercise over walking (and walking and walking) as part of the program reccomended by my doctor to lower my blood pressure and help reduce the cholesterol count. It wasn't difficult to learn the routines , though there are still parts where I get caught out, but mostly I catch up pretty quickly. A couple of things irritate me about both, they each have one song with a routine that I loathe, mostly because I can't do part of it. In STTO 2 its Jailhouse Rock , the first part is almost impossible for me to do on a carpet, in 3 its The Name Game which has a lot of redundant hand and arm gestures and the whole thing is just a bit silly. Having said that, I get round it by doing my own thing , picking up the routine again when its gets more worthwhile. I think I prefer 3 despite this, its fast and fun and it has certainly helped me to lose (with diet) 33lbs.

Wonderful music and a great workout!
I bought this tape on a whim because when i was in HS gym class we used to do this tape. Boy was I in for a suprise when I first did this tape! It is a great workout that really gets your heart pumping. Plus the music is very fun to dance to. Richard Simmons is an inspiration to us all. He knows what it is like to be in a situation where you are at rock bottom, and he brings us out of it. The beat is great, the songs are great and the workout is great. The only problem I found with it was that Richard doesn't explain what the target heart rate is. That is important to you when you are exercising. Otherwise put on your dancing shoes and get to sweating! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This 1990 production has been getting good words on Web parentingmessage boards and for good reason: it works. Dr. Thomas Phelan, a clinicalpsychologist, developed the program for his own children when they were young and in the thralls of hyperactivity and sibling rivalry. The two-hour show features his explanation of the program interspersed with dramatic scenarios and parent testimonials. The corny vignettes and repetitivetestimonials are somewhat extraneous, but the nut of the information isinvaluable. Phelan urges parents to get away from explaining everything to kids,who aren't listening to you anyway, he says, but he's not a spanking advocateeither. His approach is rational and simple: counting and then time-out.You've done that, you say? Well, watch the tape and see what you're doingwrong. His method has been honed by parents and teachers who have come back to him with refinements. These include ways to encourage kids to start good behaviors once the bad behaviors are under control. Phelan is personable anddryly funny (think parents as wild-animal trainers), and the absence of a hard- sell tone makes watching this production a pleasant experience. --KimberlyHeinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (7)

New Stress Reliever- 1-2-3 Magic!
I'm a 34 year old, stay at home Mom, trying to raise a 6 year old daughter. She's a very demanding,stubborn,and mature child. I'm also raising a 16 year old with Down's Syndrome,and my husband is away alot with work. Before I saw the video of 1-2-3 Magic,I was at my wits end with my little tyrant,who was definitely running my home. Every supper time was horendous,getting out the door in the morning was the same. She was upsetting the whole family and I'd basically tried everything. She didn't like what was put before her for supper,and never finished it. Her focus was on dessert. Getting up for school and out the door in the morning was just as bad. She didn't have anything to wear and what she did have was stupid,according to her. I tried punishing her with the usual things like "time out",I yelled at her when my patience was gone,I took away her privileges,nothing worked. When I was asked to view this video 1-2-3 Magic,I was skepticle,but agreed anyway. After just a few minutes,I grabbed a pen and paper and started making notes. It was as if Dr.Phlen actually knew me and my child personally. That same day after watching the video,I waited patiently for my beloved 6 year old to come home,and I sat her down and explained briefly,the way things were going to be around here. I picked some things out of the video that was applicable to my child,and instantly started incorporating them. She was appalled that she had to start "paying me" for doing "her" chores,only if "she" refused to do them herself of course. She has also started making her bed before going to school in the morning,and getting better at the supper table. I would definitely incourage all par