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Michael Caine and the knockout Julie Walters deliver a pair of wonderful performances in this endearingly bittersweet tale of a boozily burnt-out professor's tutoring of (and subsequent tutoring by) a free-spirited cockney hairdresser determined to improve her lot in life.The basic plot won't exactly surprise anyone who's ever seen a movie before, but the ace cast (particularly Caine, who's rarely this subtle) continually finds new directions to spin off from the rather rote path. Although the end result is perhaps just a little too convinced of its own adorability to attain classic status, this remains a rarity in the genre--a feel-good film that earns its emotions honestly.A nice change of pace for director Lewis Gilbert, who is perhaps better known for his contributions to the James Bond series.--Andrew Wright ... Read more

Reviews (31)

One of the greatest love stories ever filmed
Lewis Gilbert's 1983 masterpiece, a sensitive and emotionally-satisfying adaptation of Willy Russel's intelligent and insightful two-character play. Gilbert and Russel would team up again for the wonderful "Shirley Valentine," but their work in this film remains unparalleled. Michael Caine gives one of the most memorable performances in an illustrious career, disappearing into his Frank character, and Julie Walters is magnificent as Rita/Susan. The music by David Hentschel is perfectly appropriate, the cinematography by Frank Watts is inspired, the script is both touching and honest, but the magic of this film is in the interplay between the two main characters. This film captures the journey towards self-awareness embodied in education, as the Rita/Susan character develops from hairdresser to student, intellectual, dilitante, and finally into someone very different than at the start of the film yet still undeniably and uniquely "Rita." The greatest gift one person can give another is the love of learning, and thus I feel this is among the greatest love stories ever committed to celluloid. The ending might be "as inevitable as tragedy," in the words of Willy Russel, but the relationship between Frank and Rita made their emotional journey worthwhile, and we are all the richer for their trip.

Good Reason To Love This Film
One of my all-time favourite films, "Educating Rita" is absolutely brilliant rich in truth, feeling, terrific acting and a wonderfully written script which well-draws the two protagonists together. Julie Walters is excellent as the jaunty yet unfulfilled Liverpudlian hairdresser who desperately yearns for an educated mind and the somewhat underrated actor Michael Caine also gives a good performance as her depressed English tutor who wollows in his own self-pity. In eachother, they find a new lease of life and stike a special friendship which eventually benefits the pair of them. And I simply loved the fact that the writer, Willy Russell, didn't take advantage of the fact that they were good friends of the opposite sex and make them a couple and the way in which we see Rita gradually develop and find herself. Terrific stuff.

An underappreciated gem
Julie Walters and Michael Caine are brilliant in this timeless comedy. The plot avoids the all too easy romantic angle to show the empowering aspect of education in a woman's life. Referring to her future, Rita emphasizes her freedom from anyone else's ability to rule her life, whether husband or teacher, emphasizing, "I'll choose." I wish this was on DVD. The soundtrack by Tangerine Dream is the only thing that really dates it.

Because of this film, I'll never view Mrs. Weasley in Harry Potter the same again. Julie Walters is one of the great masters of character development.

Bittersweet and fuuuneeee!
No one can play a world-weary, boozy burnout as well as Michael Caine. Well, maybe Michael Douglas (Wonder Boys) is sneaking up on him, but still. In Educating Rita, Caine has his hands full with Julie Walters, playing a Cockney hairdresser who is dead set on getting "an edjacation." She's a gum-chewing, short-skirted, sassy-mouthed trollop, and he's a...well, he's mostly out of his depth when in her presence.
It's a feel-good movie that lives up to its expectations and has managed to stand the test of time.

How i discovered this movie
I am a GCSE student at Great Marlow School, and we started reading Educating Rita (the play), and our teacher said the school had a copy of the video if we wished to watch it. I was a bit sceptical at first, but after awhile i got into it and kept asking my teacher if we could watch some more.
This movie is great, i reccomend it to anybody who loves a good laugh! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The era of Molly Ringwald's profitable collaboration with writer-producer-director John Hughes (Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club) was at its peak with this 1986 film (directed by Howard Deutch but in every sense part of the developing Hughes empire). Ringwald plays a high school girl on the budget side of the tracks, living with her warm and loving father (Harry Dean Stanton) and usually accompanied by her insecure best friend (Jon Cryer). When a wealthy but well-meaning boy (Andrew McCarthy) asks her out, her perspective is overturned and Cryer's character is threatened. As was the case in the mid-'80s, Hughes (who wrote the script and produced the film) brought his special feel for the cross-currents of adolescent life to this story. In its very commercial way, it is an honest, entertaining piece about growing pains. The attractive supporting cast (many of whom are much better known now) does a terrific job, and Ringwald and Cryer have excellent chemistry. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (68)

John Hughes At His Best
Movies like this are what make one want to cry over the media-provoked labeling and fall of "The Brat Pack". The stars of the 1980s teen films were expected to form the next generation of great actors until Hollywood tore them apart and sent them scraping for whatever cable-movie parts they could get their hands on. Though Pretty in Pink was more-or-less the swan song of John Hughes'-masterminded films, to this day it continues to bring in fans to the genre with it's sweet and simple poor girl/rich guy romance and the social issues therein. Though star Molly Ringwald is occaisonally over-emotional in her portrayal of the girl from the wrong side of the tracks, it is not unfitting with her strong but somewhat neurotic character, Andie. Andrew McCarthy, though of greater acting capability than he displays here, still plays his rich but insecure Romeo (Blane) to a T, and is cute enough to make any teenage girl fall in love with him-despite the wierd eye thing. Annie Potts and Harry Dean Stanton are both memorable in their roles of somewhat bizzare parental-type figures, as is a young James Spader as Blane's perfectly condescending best friend. However it is Jon Cryer, as Andie's best and besotted friend Phil "Duckie" Dale who truly steals the show with what is surely one of the top performances of Cryer's varied career. Though on the outside this movie may appear to be pure teen fluff, the story has an endearing quality that will continually find it back in the VCR on any all night movie fest.

A girl from the wrong side of the tracks and her life
This movie set in the mid 80s era of brat-prack movies is a unique shining star. Molly Ringwald is Andie a girl from the wrong sides of the tracks who has romantic intrests from both sides of the spectrum; Duckie (Jon Cryer) who's puppy-dog love for her is both sweet and endearing to watch, and Blane (Andrew McCarthy) the rich guy who has everything going for him. What follows is Andie having to deal with this, the bitchy cheerleader type girls at school, her loving but dishonest father (Harry Dean Stanton) and through all this will she get an invatation to the prom? This is a great film, with both Blane, and Andie having to deal with their friends disagreeeing with their relationship. Steff (James Spader at one of his very best) Blane's best friend, who tries to make Blane try to decide between Andie and himself, when really he just wants his finger in the pie. Annie Potts as Iona, Andie's quirky older best friend is excellent and her weird and orginal costume changes throughout the movie are a highpoint. This is a emotionally raw film a rareity at the time it was made. If you ask me this should have swept the Oscar nominations with Molly Ringwald getting Best Actress, but hey regardless of the miss of Oscars watch this, it is a powerful film and a great piece of film making

Watch 16 Candles or The Breakfast Club, instead
Pretty in Pink is truly one of the worst bratpack movies ever made. Whiny Molly Ringwald has by this time thoroughly worn out her welcome; her perpetual pout, her eye-rolling and her generally sour disposition are extremely grating, all the moreso because she is in virtually every scene! The only interesting thing about Ringwald's "performance" is her ever-changing haircolor (throughout the movie, her hair goes from strawberry blonde to dark auburn to nearly chartreuse back to strawberry blonde, and so on. At least SOMETHING changed; her expression never did!).

Andrew McCarthy is the wimpiest "romantic hero" ever, and, like Molly, his expression never changes. "Must remain bland" was surely his mantra throughout filming.

Jon Cryer plays "Ducky" (did YOU go to high school with anybody who had a nickname like that???) like a spastic goofball. James Spader is wasted in a one-note role as "The Mean Snobby Guy." There's no end to the talent wasted in this film: Annie Potts and Harry Dean Stanton are also squandered in thankless, my-character-only-exists-to-showcase-Molly-Ringwald roles.

As if all that's not annoying enough, Molly's character is the richest "poor girl" ever, with her own lilac-colored Kharman Ghia, an endless supply of funky vintage dresses, petticoats, sweaters, granny boots, and hats (if you think she picked all that swag up at Salvation Army, you're crazy), and her own phone complete with answering machine (no big deal now, but it was in the '80s).

The cherry on top is the fact that the dress Molly cobbles together and "triumphantly" wears to Prom is ugly. Ugly, ugly, UGLY. That's not just my opinion, either: I saw this dog in the theater, and people LAUGHED when she made her entrance.

Bottom line: if you're in the mood for a bratpack movie, watch 16 Candles or Breakfast Club, instead.

One of the better Brat Pack movies.
Molly Ringwald did an good job in this film. The movie wasn't the best brat pack movie, but it is enjoyable. The supporting cast is okay, and the romance you are able to relate to. All, in all good, and heartfelt. See it, if you love teen romance movies.

Pretty good 80's movie
This isn't really my favorite movie that John Hughes made, Sixteen Candles is my favorite, but this one is also pretty good..besides the ending. Molly Ringwald was SO much better with Duckie. Duckie is the best character in this, he's so funny. The part at the end when he's at the dance and he looks at you through the camera, it's priceless!! You got to check this movie out, it's a good one. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

A Great Adaptation
This is another film that's been secreted away in the MGM vaults that just cries out to be adequately transferred to DVD.

Talent abounds here. Start with a great director in Tony Richardson (Tom Jones, A Delicate Balance, The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, The Entertainer, etc) who is the perfect choice for such a project. Have Christopher Isherwood and Terry Southern adapt the screenplay from a wonderful Evelyn Waugh novel. Assemble a perfect cast, including James Coburn and Dana Andrews, Milton Berle, Tab Hunter, Roddy McDowall, Margaret Leighton and Liberace (unforgettably!) in cameo roles. Feature the likes of Rod Steiger (why didn't he try more comedy? He's brilliant here!), John Gielgud, Jonathan Winters in memorable supporting roles and top it off with excellent leads in Robert Morse and Anjanette Comer (both relative unknowns at the time, but perfect for the roles).
How could the movie not be memorable?

Suffice it to say it holds up amazingly well after almost 40 years. It has to rank as one of the great classic comedies of the sixties.

The plot revolves around a young English twit named Dennis Barlow (Morse) who shows up at his uncle's (Gielgud's) doorstep, having won his air passage to LAX through some absurd stroke of luck. He has no money and his gregarious uncle takes him in and introduces him to the expatriated Brits that inhabit LA. Chief among these is the snobbish Sir Ambrose Abercrombe (Morley) who takes an instant dislike to Barlow, whom he feels doesn't adequately represent the proper English gentleman (and he doesn't). In short order, Uncle Francis is canned by his crass Hollywood Studio boss (McDowall), in spite of the fact that he has been a faithful employee for 30 years. Unwilling to face the future at his advanced age, Uncle Francis hangs himself beside the decrepit pool that represents his sagging fortunes.

It's at this stage that the movie shifts satirical gears and the humor gets darker and darker. Waugh's study of American mores and materialistic mindset as represented by the funeral industry is brilliantly captured by the screnwriters, director and cast. It's a great ensemble effort from a once in a lifetime creative team. THE LOVED ONE deserves a broad DVD release, hopefully in the not too distant future.

BK

Strange comedy, not for all tastes
MY RATING: 6.4

I've watched this one last night on tv, and I must say its's quite an odd mov. It's a comedy, a black comedy as many say, yet it's not for all tastes since cause it contains an amount of strange characters and situations. Some good points for the presentation of the eternal rest of the loved ones and that horrid mother of Rod Steiger, who is probably the best character on the film. Also starring Robert Morse as the brit who has just arrived from London, John Gielgud as his gay uncle, a dual role for Jonathan Winters, Roddy McDowall, Robert Morley and the irritating voice of Anjanet Comer.
Really an mov with some importance in the 60's, but nothing special now.

I haven't forgotten
I just order a VHS copy and look forward to seeing this unforgettable movie again. (There are just)Too much brilliant characterizations and scenic situations! But above all, one scene:

Dennis Barlow{Robert Morse},
Mr. Joyboy's mother{Ayllene Gibbons},
a roasted turkey in the refrigerator.

Nothing Much to Add...
In a parallel universe this is a flick that's as well known as Strangelove or The Producers. Yes, Steiger should have done more comedy--he's incredible in this movie.

I write this with the hope that someone out there is adding up the votes for a DVD release. I'll also add that the long out of print "Catalogue of Cool" dubbed 1962 " The Last Good Year." After that...well, we lost a lot of our wit, charm, whimsy, humanity, and creativity to Viet Nam, Watergate, and all the other dreariness--from Reaganism to Political Correctness--that led up to this uniquely ugly moment in history. There were a lot of sharp films made in the late Fifties to early Sixties that had qualities sadly lacking since--check out Wilder's "One, Two, Three" or "Inherit the Wind." One reviewer notes that "The Loved One" is black comedy without the nihilism. I agree and that's kind of what I mean. This era of film deserves a re-examination and we could all probably learn a lot from it.

Black Humor At It's Best
As many have already stated, this is one dark, funny movie. The casting is perfect. It is on my top ten list. It has been since I saw it as a youngster. It is a film to see over and over. This really needs to be on DVD. SOON! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bernard Slade's smart, funny, and touching play about an adulterous couple who meet one weekend a year for 26 years is nicely adapted for the screen by Robert Mulligan (To Kill a Mockingbird) in this 1978 film. The two-person story stars Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn, both of whom are outstanding at conveying a rainbow of emotions over a quarter-century as life gives and takes away, and the world convulses with change. Mulligan brings taste and honesty to the film, and Alda and Burstyn give full, living performances. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Superb Film.....
...as is the chemistry between leads Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn who make an extremly convincing couple in this film which is sympathetically inclined to some cases of adultery.

Two guests at a travel inn, the nuerotic and somewhat manic George and the clever, clear-headed Doris, both married and parents, meet and fall instantly in love. After that night, they end up spending the whole week-end together and eventually decide to meet up there every year.

Although their relationship is not conducted in the ideal situation, they are certainly likeable and interesting as both individuals and a couple and that's thanks to good writing, acting and direction.

As they grow over the years and tackle the unpredictability of life head-on the film progresses at a nice, even pace and is an utter joy to watch. Even the cliche scene where Doris is pregnant can be forgiven.

Having started as a stage play I only became acquainted with this flick via the television but I have seen the sequal performed at the theatre and that is a joy as well. And, just in case you were wondering, the write of this play says he writes from imagination. I believe him, thousands wouldn't......

Very good indeed.

Well written, well acted . . .
This is one of those rare gems -- a movie based on a stage play that is true to the original.

The premise is simple: a man and a woman happen to meet at a romantic Pacific coast inn in the 1950s, spend a night together, and discover that they're both married -- with children, no less! How do they deal with it? Well, after getting past the initial shock and guilt (she yells into a towel, he lies about his wife's name and the number of children he has), they agree to meet every year, same weekend, same place. We, the audience, are allowed to observe every 5th meeting in the same room.

We see the changes in the relationship, the changes in each of the participants, the changing times. We get to know Doris and George through these slices of time, laugh with them, cry with them, always with the question -- will they ever leave their respective partners and follow their hearts? It's definitely a relationship based more on mutual respect and friendship, despite its extra-marital foundation. You get the feeling that these two individuals are truly soul-mates who just happened to meet.

Alan Alda gives an amazing performance, beginning as a guilt-ridden rather milk-toast-ish accountant. Without giving away the plot twists, he goes through many changes and personal crises, and still manages to stay a reasonably likable, vulnerable man.

Ellen Burstyn, as Doris, enters into this as a rather ditzy young wife on her way to a Catholic retreat with the nuns, who manages to grow up over the years. It's a treat to see the changes in these characters with each change of scene.

Bernard Slade's original two-person play with its witty dialogue is preserved almost intact, with only one new character in the movie that isn't in the play ("old Mr. Chalmers"). If anything, the movie improves the original through the music and photo montages that separate the scenes (the entre-acte song, "The Last Time I Felt Like This" was nominated for an Academy Award).

This is definitely worth seeing for the superb performances of Alda and Burstyn.

Although the story may be compelling, it's still adultery
The story and characters may draw us in emotionally, and we may find ourselves caring for them on some level, but it is imperative that the thinking viewer always remember that the film is about adultery, betraying the fidelity of marriage, and the "glossing" of this subject. I was especially saddened by the previous reviewer who described living out such a situation, having time once a year for the tryst, the rest of the year for the respective spouses. This was a real-life example of the rationalization of adultery under the guise of romance and love, as shown in the film, with the very odd and ludicrous idea that one can break one's marriage vows once in a while, yet still live with oneself. Fidelity is challenging, yes-why not have a film that portrays fidelity successfully, and holds *that* up for admiration? If one believes marriage is a life-long, committed, faithful relationship, then one cannot "lower the barriers" as the reviewer requested, any more than one should "lower the barriers" for another film depicting another morally deplorable act. This major and fatal flaw destroys any worth the film might otherwise have had.

Better Than Ever in DVD!
My husband and I have watched this film many times over the years, but we were pleasantly surprised at the clarity of the picture on the new DVD release. We saw things we had never seen before! The scenery of California's Mendocino Coast is beautiful, and one can almost feel the wind blowing. The story affects us differently as we also age. We tend to identify with the characters (not surprisingly!)when they are our own ages. Having been born in the late 40s, their first encounters were in our childhood, but we remember many of the cars, hair and dress styles. The historical data between the "acts" challenges us to identify the persons and events related. Is there a list of that anywhere?

The film is a definite must-see for all who like a good romantic film, even with the wrong basic premise. It could almost make adultery popular!

Stunningly Realistic and Powerful
This movie brilliantly explores the concept of the stable and sustainable affair, built by two people so responsible and so "nice" they would never seek such a thing, and once there never want harm to their spouses - but who find their new love as compelling as their first and as impossible to leave. The origin of the affair here is almost an afterthought - the real focus is on the maturing of the new relationship across a huge span of years.

This movie resonates with me because it is my story - after finding one who would have been the love of my life more than 20 years ago but who was then engaged, I did the "proper" thing and let her go but never stopped loving her. Meeting again several years ago, we realized the mistake and despite both being married with children we began to meet once a year at a college reunion, holding that time aside for us while the rest of the year belonged to our spouses. The affair was not destined to mirror STNY (how did they ever keep it secret? We couldn't...) but the feelings haven't changed - I just don't have the annual weekend to look forward to anymore...!!

The message of this movie that resonates so strongly is that it is possible to love two people deeply and romantically - and to sustain such feelings - and responsibilities - over a very long period. A moral minefield? Of course - but far from the typical Hollywood fantasy that filmgoers have difficulty identifying with.

The movie for me was a study of a situation that I have lived with for a long time - and I would wager that there are many like me who find understanding and solace in this film. However, it is not only for those who can identify with the message - it brilliantly challenges your assumptions and world view as the best movies tend to do.

I cannot watch this film without crying at the ending - you are brought along in caring about the characters so strongly that their love becomes something that matters to you too.

Having worn out more than one copy of the VHS movie, I have desperately waited for its DVD release - and am absolutely thrilled tonight. I will be pre-ordering it immediately (maybe a couple copies...)

This movie may not be wonderful for those who dismiss adultery as immoral without question - but if you are willing to lower the barriers for two hours to at least hear out another side to the story, you will be richly rewarded.

Highly recommended.... ... Read more

Description

Critically acclaimed as one of the best films of the year -- Miramax Home Entertainment is proud to present SMOKE SIGNALS -- a distinguished winner at the Sundance Film Festival! Though Victor and Thomas have lived their entire young lives in the same tiny town, they couldn't have less in common! But when Victor is urgently called away, it's Thomas who comes up with the money to pay for his trip. There's just one thing Victor has to do: take Thomas along for the ride! You're in for a rare and entertaining comic treat as this most unlikely pair leave home on what becomes an unexpectedly unforgettable adventure of friendship and discovery! ... Read more

Reviews (128)

great road trip movie!
One of the greatest underrated movies ever made!

Most of the emotional bite is taken from Sherman Alexie's "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven" leaving a great yet simple story about two Indians (Alexie himself dislikes the label "Native American") on the road from the upper Northwest to Arizona. The mission: collect the remains of the father of Victor Joseph-- played with great complexity by Adam Beach. Along for the ride is Thomas, the local reservation geek who brings along with him a vast array of stories from the past mixed with humor and pain played with resilence by Evan Adams, to the constant annoyance of Victor who has no time for stories or memories, only "truth" and the present tense.

This movie is a series of vignettes as the two travel off the reservation ("You're leavin' the Rez and going into a whole different country cousin." "But it's the United States." "Damn right it is, that's as foreign as it gets!") and into the wilderness of forgotten memories and rough landscape. Mixed in with the ponderings of what it means to be indeginous in America and who makes the best fry-bread is a great soundtrack which includes Dar Williams and Ulali.

This movie does not try to be more than it is: the story of two young men trying to find their place in the world with humor and anger. Director Chris Eyre keeps the story and the settings simple and the flashbacks flow fluidly from one iteration to the next.

I would highly recommend this movie to anyone!

A Great Movie About the Stories We Tell Ourselves
Thomas Builds-the-Fire (Evan Adams) tells stories. Anyone who has ever had a father, or a father figure should listen. Smoke Signals is a movie about the stories we tell, about growing up sane in an insane world, and about learning to find the truth in the fiction we create for ourselves.

Based on short stories from Sherman Alexie's brilliant collection of wit, irony and tragic comedy, The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven, this film shows a sure hand and a light touch. Sherman Alexie knows how to write with irony, wit and subtle humor, and in this screenplay he captures perfectly, as he does in his book, the angst that is uniquely 20th century American Indian. As our two protagonists prepare leave the reservation to claim Victor's (Adam Beach) dead father's truck, a woman who drives backward around the reservation all day in her Chevy tells them to be careful. When they tell her they're only going to Arizona (they live on the Coeur d'Alene reservation in Washington State), she replies, "Unh . . . America, huh? That's about as foreign as it gets."

It is that bemused sense of being an outsider in your own land that drives this independent film and gives it a genuine feel, rather than the typical over-romanticized "Dances with Wolves" version of Indian-ness. Victor, in fact, takes vicious delight in both perpetuating and defying Indian stereotypes, as he leads a chorus of "John Wayne's Teeth" and councils Thomas, who wears thick glasses and his long hair in braids, to look more fierce, "like you just got back from killin' a buffalo or somthin."

It is Beach's performance which seems the most stilted and amateurish, unfortunately, as one of the major characters. But he almost makes it work for him by internalizing Victor's anger and creating another mask, however thin. Another problem is the romance that almost develops between Victor and his dead father's neighbor (Irene Bedard). Perhaps it was a choice between staying with the major theme of the movie and "going Hollywood" on both the casting and the plot in this case. There is real heat when the two are on screen, but it goes nowhere.

These are two very minor irritations with an otherwise delightful movie. The universality of this coming of age story, combined with its unique characters and point of view, make this a video you're going to want to see again and again. Buy it.

It's a Good Day to Be Indigenous....
I want to start out by saying Sherman Alexie is probably one of the greatest writers of our time. When I say "greatest writers" I don't mean "greatest NATIVE writers" or "greatest writers of COLOR," I mean Greatest Writers. Mr. Alexie manages to capture the most universal emotions (grief, joy, heartbreak, anguish) and make the excessible to all, yet he also brings his own unique flavor, style and ironic wit to the mix so we are never bored. I can honestly say that Smoke Signals is one of those films that is really dear to my heart for many reasons, and the screenplay by Alexie definitely is one of the contributing factors.

For starters, there are so many classic lines in this film. The first being that line I used as the subject for this review. "It is a good day to be Indigenous." I don't think we hear that everyday! The negative view of native people even today is really disturbing, and I think when people regardless of background see the portrayal of indigenous people in films, television shows, literature and education it continues to horrify and astound us all.

Secondly, the story is a wonderful and important one that I think everyone can relate to. It touches on the theme of fathers and the relationship with their children. Victor (Adam Beach) is an bitter, angry and distrustful young man who grew up on the Coeur D'Alene "Rez" with his bespectacled friend/nemesis Thomas Builds-the-Fire (Evan Adams). These young men are growing up in a culture separate from mainstream white culture--a culture they eventually leave when they go to retrieve the ashes of Victor's deceased father. What starts out as a road trip turns into something more significant than either of them could've imagined. It becomes ceremonial, and a real opportunity for maturity that changes their relationships with each other and themselves.

Finally, the acting is wonderful. The lead actors are engaging, believable and sympathetic. The supporting cast is strong and they really capture the essence of Alexie's novels. When I read TONTO AND LONE RANGER FISTFIGHT IN HEAVEN (specifically the short story, "This is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona," which the film was based on), the way I envisioned the characters (how they would look, how they would talk, etc) matched the image exactly!

Take it from me, a Sherman Alexie fan and self-proclaimed "culture vulture".....this film is all that and a stack of fry bread!

Modern day literary and commercial success!
As a college English professor, I am now showing this movie along with a study of the work "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven" upon which "Smoke Signals" is based, as the final assignment in my American Lit II class. The movie is excellent, with numerous themes including the abandonment by fathers and its effect on children, the reality of the modern day reservation, stereotypical characterization, among others. This is an excellent movie and I highly recommend it, along with all the other writings of Sherman Alexie. He is young and already a prolific writer and I think we will be seeing more great work from him in the future and that his work will withstand the test of time. Look to see him included in college textbooks soon!

"It's rough all over, Pony Boy"
Please excuse my Outsider's approximate quotation, but it seems to apply to this movie. At first you are dropped into a new landscape of the modern Native American reservation. The locale seems charming with it's quirky customs - people who drive backwards, a radio station based out of an RV. However, as the story unfolds, you realize that themes emerge that we can all relate to - pain, abandonment, disappointment, anger, loneliness. Well-done, especially if you appreciate slow-paced, dialog-driven films. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

An Early Solo Classic from Jerry Lewis
Long before "Mr. Mom" or "Kramer vs. Kramer", Jerry Lewis made a great argument for fathers to have as much say in the raising and nurturing of their children as mothers. This delightful comedy (with just enough drama added in for good measure) is about a man who goes beyond expectation to care for three baby girls who are left at his doorstep.

Moreover, this is not merely a comedy, but a musical, with songs that deserve the right to be as well remembered as any from "The Wizard of Oz" or "The Sound of Music".

This, among other Jerry Lewis classics, should be issued on DVD, but until they are VHS still looks pretty good.

Excellent and I'm not even a big Jerry Lewis fan!
This is one of my all-time favorite movies and I'm not even a big Jerry Lewis fan. My children and I laugh until we're crying every time we watch this movie.

From the other reviews you know it's about a guy trying to take care of baby triplets on his own. It's an EXCELLENT family movie with a sweet story as Clayton Poole (Jerry Lewis) does everything in his power to take care of these little girls. Sure, it's hilarious but it also has a strong family theme as the Clayton, the babies' aunt and grandfather do whatever they can to do what's best for the babies. Even the mother realizes in the end that the babies are what's most important.

There is definitely something for everyone in this movie.

Why, oh why don't they put it on DVD???

Ohhhh!, Baby!
It's tough to choose which Jerry Lewis movies is my favorite, but I have to start with this one. It's sweet, darlin' and romantic all rolled up into one. It's about Clayton Poole (Jerry Lewis) a bumbling TV repairman, who by surprise becomes an adopted father to triplet baby girls. Clayton's former girlfriend turned movie star, Carla Naples (Marilyn Maxwell) springs the surprise when she leaves them on his doorstep. Noble Clayton tries to keep everything a secret but all mayhem cuts loose. And Clayton's other love interest Sandy Naples (Connie Stevens) helps Clayton out of his dilemma and from the suspicions of their father Gigi (Salvatore Baccaloni). I'll leave the ending for you to see. If you love the wacky antics of Jerry Lewis and romantic comedy by all means go for it!

Jerry is funny!
My children and I love this movie! Jerry is funny and adorable. This is definatly one of his best (it's so hard to pick a favorite!)In the movie Gerry is left to raise tripplet girls who are babies until there mother finishes shooting a film in which she star's. In the funny and famous style that only Jerry can do he makes it heaps of fun that you never get tired of watching. A good clean, funny movie for everyone.

Whoa Baby!
This video is awesome. My kids love to watch it and laugh hilariously. It is great for all ages (even me). It is about a man (Jerry Lewis) who is stuck helping raise 3 babies and it is really funny. If you buy this video, you won't be sorry. ... Read more

Reviews (42)

This one deserves more stars!!
This is one of my all-time musical favorites and in my opinion, the best MGM musical made outside the Freed unit, with a top of the tops score by Cole Porter, my all-time favorite composer.

Grayson and Keel are in top form, their on-screen chemistry at its best moment, in such numbers as "We Open in Venice", the wonderful "Wunderbar", and the wondrous, lyrical and evocative "So In Love", one of the best romantic songs ever written by Porter.

Also in the cast, Ann Miller in excellent tap-dance form, in such show-stoppers as "Too Darn Hot", "Tom, Dick and Harry" (accompanied by Tommy Rall, Bobby Van, and Bob Fosse), but especially "From This Moment On", a number which features the aforementioned male dancers, plus Carol Haney and Jeannie Coyne, which is stolen by Fosse and Haney, in an unforgettable jazz-oriented pairing, as the french say: "la creme de la creme".

And last but not least, the funny couple of Keenan Wynn and James Whitmore, are thrown in for good measure and lots of laughs, getting also their chance at showbiz with "Brush Up Your Shakespeare".

I had longed for this dvd release, and after buying it I can say that I am satisfied with it.

If you are musical film-buff, buy it, it has an excellent score, sophisticated lyrics, very good singing, excellent numbers, expert dancing and some very funny moments indeed!!

KISS ME KATE A JOY TO WATCH
I saw this film for the first time in it's initial release in 3-D and loved it so much that I returned to see it twenty times or more. Anytime it is shown on the big screen in retrospect showings, I try to attend. To me, it is my most favorite MGM musical next to "SINGIN IN THE RAIN." Howard Keel and Kathryn Grayson are outstanding in their roles and do justice to the Cole Porter tunes, even if MGM saw fit to clean them up a bit. Kathryn Grayson's rendition of "I HATE MEN!" sets the standard for all others to follow. Ann Miller is finally showcased in songs and dances where her true talent shines. The male dancers Tommy Rall, Bobby Van and an-oh-so-young but talented Bob Fosse are spectacular to watch, especially in the "FROM THIS MOMENT ON" number where Fosse dances with Carol Haney and his style just burns up the stage. Keenan Wynn and James Whitmore shine in their gangster-hood roles and do a nice soft shoe as well. I cannot say enough good things about this entertaining play-within-a-play musical filled with great Cole Porter tunes.
I have bought this on both vhs and laser disc and sure wish that MGM would get off their proverbial butts and release this on DVD soon.

Should have included a Field Sequential 3-D version!
Not that many people are aware of the Field Field Sequential 3-D .
This is a 3-D TV system that uses special shutter glasses that can be purchased here through Amazon in a set that includes 3 DVD's using this process. This system Is the only way to view a 3-D film effectively on TV to date. The result is about 90% close to the effect you will see in a theatre showing.. like IMAX and Disney and Universal.
These glasses are made of sturdy plastic and clear not these cardboard red and blue pieces of garbage, so you can view the film without constricted to seeing red and blue colors and with this system you will see more actual 3-D depth with the films true colors.. It's really amazing!
For some add reason the big studios haven't adapted to include a separate version of a 3-D title in this great format.
Films like:
"House of Wax","Kiss Me Kate","Friday the 13th Part 3", "Robot Monster, "Cat Woman on the Moon", "Creature from the Black Lagoon" and "Jaws 3" are all now in 2-D DVD, but were originally shown in 3-D and could have been included using the Field Seqential 3-D system on the same disc with the 2-D version.
In Japan in the late 80's there were a few 3-D titles released using Field Sequential 3-D and can be found on e-bay converted to DVD and VHS.
Why aren't the studios producing these now!
I boycott any film DVD release that was originally intended to be seen in 3-D that's only presented in a 2-D version or anaglyph (Red and Blue Glasses).

The studios should really be awaken to this great 3-D system.

How to Win Back Your Wife
I write this review in honor of Howard Keel's 85th birthday.
"Kiss Me, Kate" is a lively, albeit dated musical with a slightly chauvenistic streak. It takes liberties with Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew", but is more fun than reading the actual play.
The estranged couple Fred Graham and Lilly Vanessi (Howard Keel and Kathryn Grayson), have been divorced for a year at the time they take the lead roles in the Cole Porter musical. Based loosely on Alfred Lunt and his wife Lynn Fontaine, their behind-the-scenes bickering gets a little out of hand and occasionally, resulting in a well-defined lack of professional courtesy as they occassionally humiliate each other in full view of an audience.
But they also have their glorious moments, such as a reminiscence that leads to the number, "Wunderbar".As did their first number, "So In Love", this number reveals a certain wistfulness at their estrangement from each other at the end.
The subplot is the realationship between the play's secondary couple, Lois Lane(Ann Miller) and Bill Calhoun (Tommy Rall), a compulsive gambler who signs Fred Graham's name to an IOU.
The play begins. The number,"Another Opening, Another Show" is heard only as an instrumental piece beforehand. But the numbers, "We Open In Venice" and "Tom, Dick or Harry" kick the show off magnificently. As a big fan of the late Ann Miller's dance numbers,the latter is probably my favorite. As Gremio and Hortensio, Bobby Van and Bob Fosse thrill us with their trademark moves.
Keel sings a sumptuous ballad as his ex discovers that the flowers she thought were intended for her were intended for Lois. Through it all, Howard Keel is characteristically confident, uttering lines of unadulturated sarcasm as his ego occassionally gets the better of him. After being slapped by Lilly, he proves to be even more of a drama queen than any actress.Perhaps the sexiest scene in the film is when Graham removes the sausage links his ex-wife hides against her poitrine during one scne in the play.

Kathryn Grayson, with her porcelain skin and heart-shaped mouth, is a living Madame Alexander Doll in the part of Lilly/Kate. She is comically, firey and able to stand up to her ex-husband and to the thugs that he uses to keep her onstage(Keenan Wynn and James Whitmore) when she threatens to leave after Fred humiliates her. Lippy and Slug appear to collect they debt they believe Graham owes them, and while not althogether academically inclined, they display some knowledege of the Bard and his works, although they look ridiculous in their onstage costumes.
Willard Parks, as Tex Callahan offers Lilly a possible escape from her life in the theatre. But ultimately she is won back not by Fred's threats or humilation, but by the simple admission that he was wrong. While some may find the end to be disappointing, it should be remembered that it was Lilly who ultimately chose whether or not to give Fred a second chance, and Graham's beam of triumph and the twinkle in his eye at the end are worth more than any words-even those by the Bard himself-can say.

Keel is keen!
Grayson is good, but Howard Keel steals this show. He shines in the role of the egomaniacal stage ham. His voice and his presence are perfect for the role. Ann Miller and Tommy Rall provide all the dance moves you could ask for in a great musical. If you are a fan of musicals, this is a must for your collection. The DVD also provides some fun behind the scenes information. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Structured as a star vehicle for country singer turned actor Kenny Rogers, Six Pack is an amiable little film that aims low but showcases the pleasant and easygoing charm of its star. Rogers (The Gambler) plays a down on his luck race car driver saddled with a half dozen delinquents. As he tries to resurrect his fledgling career, he bonds with the little waifs and they form a sort of family, even as they are pursued by a corrupt sheriff who wants to send the kids to an orphanage and ruin Rogers' comeback. A blatant knockoff of films like Smokey and the Bandit, this family-oriented movie works best as a breezy comedy of errors, with the hapless racer contending with his unruly brood as they stay one step ahead of the law. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Enjoyable and Entertaining!
I remember watching Six Pack with my mother who is a Kenny Rogers fan and I thought it was a very cute movie and Kenny Roger's is just as good an actor as he is a singer! Roger's plays former racecar driver who is attempting to make a comeback and one day he catches six orphans who are trying to strip his car and after that rough first meeting the kids latch on to him and they all develop a warm relationship but a crooked sherrif and his thugs are out to make troube for all. Not only was Kenny Rogers good but so was Erin Grey (Silver Spoons) as the love interest and the kids especially Anthony Michael Hall (The Breakfast Club) and (Diane Lane (Under the Tuscan Sun) and I recommend this movie and I hope they put it out on DVD (Widescreen).

Six Pack
This was one of my favorite movies growing up . I just recently purchased a copy of this movie for my family and now my kids love it as well . Kenny Rogers was terrific in this simple role and who doesn't love Erin Gray . Some how we all were able to relate to these kids in some way . I give this movie 4 stars for plain simple enjoyable fun .

Six Packed with Fun
The only objection I have heard to this movie, that was halfway objective, was that the attitude of the kids and language could be improved. Now I understand that judgement, but either you need to get eye surgery or or be realistic about your outlook. When I first saw this movie when it was released I fell in love with it. I'm no kid either, in fact I'm now 52. This movie is realistic and has some great acting and comedy. So if you're concerned about how it will affect kids, why don't you sit down and watch it with them. Everyone should have a laugh.

It is sad to me that funny family movies like this have not come out on DVD when there is so much junk that has come out on DVD. I don't know who is keeping this from coming out on DVD but I for one will buy it when it does. I went ahead and ordered this on VHS because there is no indication that it will be on DVD anytime soon.

This movie is bad, but it was filmed in my hometown.
Once upon a time in the '80s, when I was in elementary school, a film crew and Kenny Rogers invaded Buford, filming scenes of SIX PACK. I thought it was cool at the time, for I watched Erin Gray, the love interest in the film, on "Silver Spoons" and "Buck Rogers." (Little did I realize that the coolest person in the film would turn out to be Diane Lane, who would go on to get an Oscar nomination in 2003. Of course, her biggest claim-to-fame then was "A Little Romance.")

When it came out months later, everyone crowded the theater to see how the whole thing came out. And it was bad. To give you an example of how bad the film was, it has a character in it named Breezy, and it's about unruly children and NASCAR racing.

But the town was recognizable, so that's something interesting. I can say I've walked past the same Western Auto that Diane Lane did in that rain scene.

(To see more films made in my hometown, rent Steve Martin's A SIMPLE TWIST OF FATE, which was a modern version of "Silas Marner." It bombed at the box office like this one, though the reason it bombed is because "Silas Marner" is awful.)

Anyway, SIX PACK is bad.

Six Pack rules.
When I was a boy I loved this movie. I would watch it everyday. Play, rewind. Play rewind. My friend Alisa would come over to my house and we would hold hands and watch the movie. We loved being together to watch the cinematic masterpiece that is Six Pack! Diane Lane is fantastic as the innocent looking vixen. See her in 'Unfaithful'. Good movie with a lot of explict adult situations. Schwing! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This direct-to-video feature, which serves as a lead-in to the upcoming Disney animated TV series, continues the adventures of Buzz Lightyear from the Toy Story films--and introduces the new supporting cast. Buzz battles the evil Emperor Zurg, who steals the "Unimind," a device that enables three-eyed aliens to function as a single intellect. The aliens, referred to as "LGMs" (little green men), form the support crew that keep Star Command running, but as individual thinkers, they're inept. During the course of this tongue-in-cheek adventure, Buzz acquires the sidekicks who form Team Lightyear: Booster, an oversized, overeager alien; XR (short for "Experimental Ranger"), one of the aliens' less successful robot inventions; and the inevitable spunky girl, Princess Mira Nova of the planet Tangeah. The two-dimensional, hand-drawn figure of the three-dimensional, computer-generated Buzz recalls the animated versions of live performers who populated Saturday morning TV during the 1980s. This adventure is typical of current kidvid: it has more special effects and sight gags than the cartoons of 20 years ago did, but the violence-free battles feel very tame. Buzz Lightyear may engage kids who play with the toys, but it won't appeal to the adults who flocked to the brilliant Toy Story features. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (80)

Nice Direct-to-Video Works of Two Levels
On the surface, "Buzz Lightyear" looks like a Pokemon-style Saturday morning cartoon. It is certainly that, but it actually has some wit and cleverness about it, too. Firstly, there's the all-too-brief Pixar computer animated intro (about 4 mins.) featuring Buzz, Woody, Jessie, and the rest of Andy's toys (Buzz, Woody, and Rex are the only ones who speak, though). We watch as Andy's toys insert this cartoon into the VCR. Then, we go smoothly into the animated Buzz's world. Thus, on a different level, this is a wry video that combines great sci-fi action with the clever twist of showing the viewer how Buzz became popular with his own TV series in the fictional world of the "Toy Story" movies. As with most of Disney's quality products, the video succeeds both ways--like the two "Toy Story" films, this 70 minute video is funny and smart at once. Plus, another reason to purchase this is to have the great song (over the closing credits) "To Infinity and Beyond" performed by William Shatner and the "Star Command Chorus". A true gem in itself. Overall, this an hour worth of entertainment you'll want to enjoy several times.

To Infinity and Beyond!
The DVD more than met both my son's (he's 7 and a half) and my expectations. For those expecting computer animation in the style of Toy Story obviously didn't pay attention to the trailers. The story is about the "real" Buzz Lightyear and not the toy in Toy Story. The characters are imbued with a lot of cleverness and imagination. XR is a great sidekick. I like Mira Nova's special powers. Booster is well played too. The people who are complaining about violence seem to have a distorted view of reality. Nobody dies or seriously injured in the movie. There are a lot of positive messages here too. Just to name two: good guys come in all shapes and sizes; you can do more working with others than you can by yourself - that applies to Buzz's new partners and to the LGM.

The bonus material is good too. One of the games gives you a hint of who the villains will be in the TV series. The digital comic book is a nice touch, especially with the effects added in when you opt to have the story read to you.

The song at the end by William Shatner and the Star Command Chorus was also a nice surprise.

My two year old loves it
My two year old loves this video since it stars Buzz, his hero from the Toy Story movies. As other people have noted, this is not animated the same way as Toy Story 1 and 2; it is a straight-forward cartoon. That said, it is still a lot of fun. We've watched this together many times (many, many times...parents, you know what I mean) and I still haven't gotten tired of it. The script is funny and well written with lots of great one-liners, especially from Zurg. There are plenty of laser blasts and action, but it is pretty tame any my two year old didn't find any part of it scary. I wish they had done this in wide-screen, but that is a minor complaint (from me, not my son). I am looking forward to the next one.

I LOVE BUZZ LIGHTYEAR!!!!!!! HE'S THE COOLEST TOY EVER!!!!!!
When I was a little kid, I use to love collecting Buzz Lightyear action figures! I even love the Toy Story films and Finding Nemo! I even loved the picture of Buzz Lightyear lying at the dentist's office in Finding Nemo.

This movie was like one of the coolest films! I would think it's better than the original Toy Story and I would place it to a tie with Toy Story 2. I might have to decide that!

I had seen this film 2 years ago and I loved it! I should think about getting the DVD some day! Buzz Lightyear action figures are like the best action figures ever!

If you loved all Toy Story films, then you'll love this one, too! After Finding Nemo 2, Pixar should come up with another Toy Story film, because they do well with all movies. Pixar made it's first 2-D Animated Feature, but they really do so cool with 3D Animation!

no story, a lot of violence
My 3y old kid loves toy story, and especially Buzz

So what a disappointment:
First of all this is cartoon-like, not animation type.
Second of all there is no story at all, except the usual simple plot: "good guy searches for bad guy, and eventually gets him"

Apart from a couple of scenes like the first one, there is no humor neither (nothing like the real toy story). On the other hand, there are endless (and unexplained) scenes of laser fighting, explosions, etc... Violence at its best, that is without justification, and going on and on...

From my son's own words: "it is a bad movie" (to him, it means that it is a violent/scarry movie and not fun to watch)

Definitely a bad experience. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Frank Capra's 1938 populist spin on the George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart play about a family of happy eccentrics is a great deal of fun, though it significantly rewrites the original work and doesn't represent Capra (Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington) at his best. Jean Arthur plays a member of the blissful Vanderhof household who falls in love with a rich man's son (James Stewart) and brings him into her nutty home. Lionel Barrymore, who played such a bad guy eight years later in Capra's It's a Wonderful Life, is the wonderful Grandpa Vanderhof, who addresses God during the dinner prayer as "sir" and speaks plainly and beautifully of why it's good to be alive. Capra took this opportunity to rail against big business and champion the common man, but the overall tone of the film--typical for the director's comedies--is buoyant and snappy. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (37)

Frank Capra + Moss Hart & George Kauffman = ??
A fine Frank Capra comedy featuring Jimmy Stewart at his most boyish and gangly, and Jean Arthur as the girl of his dreams. It's a comedy of mismatched lovers: Stewart plays the son of a cold-hearted business tycoon (Edward Arnold) who looks forward to the coming world war as a way to make a killing on the stock market. In the path of Dad's capitalistic machinations lies a family of carefree bohemian kooks, whose open, life-affirming attitude holds together the neighborhood where Arnold hopes to build his next munitions factory. And guess what? Surprise...!! Jean Arthur's character also just happens to be the object of his son's affections. Into this "Dharma & Greg"-like scenario, add Lionel Barrymore as her saintly, eccentric father, who was once a businessman but then dropped out and now spends his days smiling at life, following his passions, and encouraging others to do the same.

In all honesty, although the film is charming, it isn't Capra's best work -- adapted from a stage play by George Kauffman and Moss Hart, it shouts out its kookiness, and has the feel of an off-Broadway production gone awry. The scenes that are meant to show how wacky her family is often play out too broadly, with shouting and grand gestures and a flurry of chaotic action -- dancing, xylophone playing, cooking, painting, newspaper rustling, fireworks going off -- and all of it happening at once. It's too obvious and dramatically weak... Plus, Stewart really hasn't found his feet yet as a star actor. On the other hand, both Barrymore and Arnold give delightfully strong performances, and Jean Arthur is *always* easy on the eyes. Even when slightly muddled, Capra is still better than practically anything coming out comedywise from Hollywood today. A charming 'Thirties comedy.

Classic Capra Comedy!
The rich young son of an esteemed banker (Jimmy Stewart) falls in love with his secretary (Jean Arthur). His family disapproves, but graciously agree to meet with his girlfriend's family. Jean Arthur wishes to plan the meeting as an elegant dinner with her family's eccentricities somewhat constrained. When her boyfriend and his parents show up on the wrong day, all hell breaks loose. Jean Arthur's wise grandfather and patriarch of the family (Lionel Barrymore) helps sets things aright with his harmonica and a little sound advice. This hilarious classic pits an eccentric middle class family against their snobbish upper-crust potential in-laws. You'll roll on the floor laughing at Stewart's "scream" scene, the Russian ballet teacher, the jail-cell and courtroom sequence and more. One of Frank Capra's best!

Great film, Poor DVD
First of all, this film is great, and deserves to be owned by any classic movie fan. It has some of the greatest stars that have ever been on-screen, together! This is easily a favourite of mine, with Jimmy Stewart, Jean Arthur, Lionel Barrymore AND Frank Capra, you cant go wrong with watching this.

This film easily deserves the 5 stars, but I take one away because of this very disappointing release from Columbia on DVD. Many of Columbia's releases of classic movies on DVD have been poor ('Awful Truth' comes straight to mind) while others have great releases ('It Happened One Night' for an example).

I will start with the picture quality. It is full of scratching, throughout the film, and in all honesty, it does kind of look like a video. Still, saying this, it is actually watchable, but what a poor effort.

Now for the sound. Ok, this is the real problem. The sound is really quite bad. It is full of hissing, and becomes annoying. Its listenable, but oh, they could have done a lot better here.

The extras. Well, there isnt much to say really, is there? There are nothing for you on this disc.

This DVD is worth getting, but I only say this because of the film itself. What a poor release for such a wonderful film. Hopefully, Columbia will re-release this soon, with a better print, better sound, and some decent extras. If only this could have been more like their release of Capra's other classic, 'It Happened One Night'.

Dont avoid this DVD, but just dont expect much.

PLEASE NOTE: Since I am in England, I own the Region 2 release. It appears to be no different to this Region 1 release though.

very good movie
I'm playing a character in the play that this movie is based on, and so I watched this DVD to get a hint of what it could look like. First, the story is excellent! Do what you want in life; don't work your whole life doing something you hate! That is basically the Sycamore family's philosophy. But when the younger daughter in this household falls in love with the son of the wealthy Kirby family, trouble brews, landing the Kirbys and Sycamores both in jail! In the end, Kirby Sr. learns that maybe the Sycamores have something and gives the young couple his blessing, leaving everybody happy. The play is a little different from the movie, but with the addition of a simple harmonica, the movie is able to give the viewer a wonderful feeling in the end and reinforces the fact that everyone should do what makes him or her happy in life! I will say that the quality of the movie is not the greatest at times, but that's to be expected since it is an older movie. Other than that, it's great!

Warm & Wonderful
This is a gem of a movie. It's all madness & mayhem on the surface, and warm & cozy underneath. Like most of Frank Capra's movies, this is a morality play. The filmaker continues his favorite theme, downplaying the materalistic and embracing the things that really matter, love, both romantic & platonic, friends & family. This type of material might be a preachy bore in the hands of a person less skilled than Frank Capra, but he makes it work. Not only does it work, but the movie is hilarious. The cast is excellent, starring Lionel Barrymore, I would say at his best, but I never saw anything he was in where he wasn't great. Jimmy Stewart plays one of his nice guys here to the max & is terrific also. The rest of the cast is excellent as well. I especially loved the "mad Russian" played by Mischa Auer. Eddie Anderson steals every scene he's in whether he's speaking or not.
All in all, it's a fine ensemble cast, everyone is very good. Do yourself a favor, if you have an opportunity to see this, please do! ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The history of film comedy would have been much altered if Peter Ustinov had stayed in the role of Jacques Clouseau, the bumbling French police inspector in The Pink Panther. But Ustinov dropped out, the role went to Peter Sellers, and a classic character was born: suspicious, blundering, with a pompous little mustache and a sometimes impenetrable accent, Clouseau was always one step behind everybody else in the room. The Pink Panther introduced Clouseau hot on the trail of a famous jewel thief (David Niven), who may be planning to make off with an expensive gem known as the Pink Panther. Set in a European ski resort, this bubbly comedy is a wonderful dose of '60s style, from the famous Henry Mancini theme music to the presence of two of Europe's top sex symbols of the era, Claudia Cardinale and Capucine. The film also introduced the popular cartoon Pink Panther, slinking around to Mancini's music in an animated credits sequence. The film's success brought a follow-up, A Shot in the Dark, also released in 1964; after 11 years, Sellers and top comedy director Blake Edwards (10) returned with three more sequels. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (38)

My Favorite Panther
Which Pink Panther/ Inspector Clouseau film is your favorite? I can't really decide between THE PINK PANTHER and A SHOT IN THE DARK. My heart is really with THE PINK PANTHER because I saw that in the theatre first. THE PINK PANTHER was really an event for me. It was such an 'in' film at the time. To me David Niven is really the main character of this film and he brings a lot of himself to the role, which elevates the distinction of the film quite a bit. Niven is the personification of class. The great cast also includes Robert Wagner, Capucine, Claudia Cardinale, Brenda de Banzie and Fran Jeffries (with choreography by Hermes Pan). Besides the cast I also did like the score composed by Henry Mancini. The Pink Panther Theme will live forever. Mancini was a true professional. Plus it has beautiful great outdoor scenery, photography and elegant sets, which makes it very likable and memorable in a way strangely akin to Hitchcock's TO CATCH A THIEF. The costume ball (costumes by Yves Saint-Laurent) was a real showstopper and is one of the most memorable scenes of all time. This is a highly visual told film. For me this is the best Pink Panther film.

Oh my, who was she?
agree with the last reviewer on the scene in the alpine lodge. The girl was indeed beautiful and the scene was perhaps the one I remember the most and the one I look forward to seeing over and over again(and the one I always replay at least once). However, the object of this review would have to be the movie itself.

This was perhaps the only movie that I enjoyed with Peter Sellers as Clouseau. His depiction as the bumbling inspector in Pink Panther was superb. It's unfortunate that he decided to change his style with subsequent Panther movies.

As usual, David Niven was equally magnificent as the "cat burgler" with Capucine and Robert Wagner equally enjoyable in their roles. For those who have not seen this movie, it centers around the eventual attempted theft of the Pink Panther - a jewel of immense value. It belongs to a Princess (portrayed by Claudia Cardinale) who obviously comes from some ficticious Muslim country whose enemies of her regime wishes the bauble be returned to the people. The acting is first-rate as is the cast of this fantastic comedy. It is one of those movies I enjoy over and over again and never tire of it's showing. Of course, I will always enjoy the scene in the alpine lodge, as well as the young lady who performed so magnificently and one who I have had a crush on for far too many years.

No! Not The Stradivarius!
This, the first of the exquisite Pink Panther series, is an amazing film. To know that originally Peter Ustinov was cast to play Jacques Clouseau as a straight, inept French detective is a sobering thought. After Ustinov dropped out, of course, Peter Sellers got the role and after consultation with Blake Edwards, decided to make him not only inept, but also bumbling and accident prone, a characterization that defines how we think of Clouseau today. This film is interesting in that since it is the first of the series it is interesting to see the origins of the character, and how different he is here than in later 'Panther' films. Here is clumsy and prone to pratfalls, but is less flamboyantly slapstick than in the later films.

The film also stars the wonderful David Niven, who plays the perfect suave English thief, and a very young Robert Wagner as his equally debonair nephew. Female stars are the beautiful Claudia Cardinale and Capucine, two of the top European actresses and models from the era.

The movie is a bit more sedate than the later films in the series, but still is one of the funniest movies of the sixties. 'A Shot In The Dark', also released in 1964, as the first sequel, began the transformation to the later formulas with additions such as the wonderful Herbert Lom. 'The Pink Panther' does introduce the animated 'Pink Panther' short for the first time, as well as the often imitated, never duplicated title theme. Other viewers will have their own favorite scenes, and the costume party is surely one of the highlights of the film, but for my money the best scenes in the film revolve around Clouseau trying to woo his wife by playing his Stradivarius violin, over many protestations. The look of pain on David Niven's face during his playing is worth the price of the film alone

If I were doing it today, I would buy this DVD as part of the multi DVD 'Pink Panther' set, where it also includes a few interesting bonuses such as a 'trivia track', which adds great tidbits about the film.

Peter Sellers was a comic genius, and the world still waits for another genius of his stature. I think we will be waiting a long, long time.

Not what i remember.
David Niven, (Sir Charles Lytton) and Peter Sellers (Inspector Jacques Clouseau) star in the Pink Panther, the first in a pretty successful but flawed series.

I was really looking forward to seeing this when I popped it in my dvd player, I have good memories of the bumbling Clousea but wasn't aware that his character didn't really take shape till the next film "A shot in the dark", subsequently I did not enjoy this one and found it rather boring and unfunny. I will give the sequel a chance however as, from what other reviewers have said on here, they are far funnier and contain the Clouseau that I remember.

As far as this one goes, it was boring. The scene with Niven and the princess in his room went on forever, I ended up hitting eject soon after and watched the excellent Wuthering Heights instead.

Thanks for reading, but give the next couple a chance as I will do.

Better as a self-contained movie
Than as the start of the Panther series. Too many questions arise:

1)Where is Chief Inspector Dreyfuss in all this?

2)How is Clouseau ever going to be a cop again if he was convicted of diamond theft?

3)Where is the former Mrs. Clouseau in Return of the Pink Panther?

4)Where is Cato in this film?

And many others. Too uneven. ... Read more

Description

In 1979, Gilda Radner threw a sommerlong party and Broadway's Winter Garden Theatre. Share the fun as Gilda's Saturday Night Live alter-egos take on new comedy material not even the Not Ready for Prime Time Players were quite ready for. Among the many highlights: Emily Litella substituting for a Bedford-Stuyvesant teacher who's been the unfortunate victim of a "stubbing". Lisa Hoopner whining through "The Way We Were". Roseanne Roseannadanna grossing out grads at the Columbia School of Journalism. And joining in for even more hip happiness are several of Gilda's SNL cohorts. Paul Schaffer (Late Night with David Letterman) plays straight man and plays up a musical storm. Father Guido Sarducci, rock critic and gossip columnist for the Vatican's L'Osservatore Romano, reveals the astonishing "Kennedy/Lincoln Coincidenza" and poses a new model for higher education: the five-minute university. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

hilarious as well as touching
This video is great for the SNL fans and will remind you of all of Gilda's wonderful characters from the show, along with special appearances from Paul Shaeffer and Don Novello (Father Guido). The other great thing about this taping is that it also captures all the excitement of the "live" show production itself. The cameras follow Gilda as she runs off for costume changes and often cuts to backstage during segway sketches. As for the material itself, Gilda is a pure student of "Truth in Comedy" (probably from her Second City roots). Much of the humor is in her portrayal of common characters and moments in ones' life. This show brings fond memories and clever comedy writing. Her ending piece of "touch me with our clothes on" and her story of cuddling up to Carl Reiner records always brings a tear to my eye, even though the lyrics are also very funny in itself. Although there is some "dirty words" to animals, the comedy is not really "blue"...the censored version often shown on TV is still just as funny. This show is a great rememberance of the beautiful and funny woman the late Gilda Radner was.

RADNER + NICHOLS = GENIUS
How I remember the summer of 1979... Senior in High School, passing the Winter Garden Theater in NY, wishing I was lucky enough to have tickets to see "Gilda Radner, Live From New York".

Saturday Night Live was a huge hit with a phenomenal blend of innovative talent. One of the best of course, Gilda Radner. Thanks to Mike Nichols, this production was brought to the screen for all to enjoy.

Here, Gilda showcases all of her most famous characters. Everyone from Emily "Nevermind" Litella to Rosanne "It's ALWAYS SOMETHING" Rosannadanna. The film is made up of several skits separated by the craziness of Don "Father Guido Sarducci" Novello. Though all the material is somewhat dated, It comes across well, but may be hard to understand by viewers under 30. Mike Nichols even takes us backstage in "real time" to show us how a Broadway show really works.

Great musical parodies including "Let's Talk Dirty To The Animals" and "Goodbye Saccharine" sung by Gilda as "Rhonda Weiss" complete with 60's like backups "The Rhondettes"(Rouge). Ironic that before Gilda sings, she exclaims (re: the FDA banning saccharine from the market) that, "Statistics prove, that most guys... prefer skinny girls with cancer... over healthy girls with bulging thighs..." Poor Gilda, how I only wish you were the latter...

Legacy Of Gilda
Gilda Radner was hands down the funniest woman in history. From her comedic roles on the big screen, to the timeless characters she portrayed on the small screen. In my mind, Gilda will live forever. From the funny, chubby girl from Detroit, to the skinny, outrageous comedic. Not to be overlooked, this video was made at the height of her popularity on Saturday Night Live. All her classic characters are portrayed, from Emily, to Lisa, to Roseanne! Although Gilda's life was cut short, her spirit and laughter will live forever! LA DOLCE GILDA!!!!

Gone But Not Forgotten
This video is a loving tribute to Gilda. Why is this video not on DVD. Gilda is gone, but not forgotten, at least not by me. It's time to move Gilda out of the video age and into the digital age, before even DVDs are obsolete.
The characters Gilda plays are so funny. Tragic she had to die. She was so full of humor and warmth.
Ohhh!, Well, never mind.

It just doesn't get any better than Gilda Radner.
We all lost a friend in 1989. I know that's how I feel. Gilda was one of those RARE people whose heart and kindness penetrated through to her audience during performances. You felt like you KNEW her.

Fans of Gilda and "Saturday Night Live" will thoroughly enjoy this video. "Gilda Live" includes almost all of the comedienne's most beloved characters. Lisa Loopner, Judy Miller, Roseanne Roseanna-danna, Emily Litella and Candy Slice and the Slicers are all featured. The segment where Roseanne Roseanna-danna is a featured speaker at a college graduation will have you howling with laughter. She's also brilliant here playing Emily Litella as a substitute teacher. You see, Emily has been called in because the regular instructor was involved in a "stubbing." The hilarity ensues after that. Finally, my favorite part of the show is when Lisa Loopner sings "The Way We Were." It's a trifle sad since we know what happens to Gilda and I was moved to tears, but that in itself shows how beautifully the segment is/was done. Powerful. The only main character of Gilda's that I can think of that you WILL NOT see is Baba Wawa.

Father Guido Sarducci does several comedic pieces in this film basically to give Gilda time to take a breath and get into costume for the next skit. I've never found Father Guido very funny and some of his material here drags on. I couldn't wait for Gilda to return to the stage. Guido's last diatribe in the movie about how sinners must pay God (literally with cash) for each of their sins is pretty funny. The rest of his stuff I could have done without.

You'll also see a very young Paul Shaffer. I never knew Paul had hair! *laugh*

If you're a Gilda Radner fan, this is a must for your collection. You'll laugh. You'll cry. Most importantly, you'll remember that Gilda Radner was a great performer and a better person. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Shakespeare in Hollywood.
Let me begin by saying that the 5 star rating is purely subjective. As y