Amazon.com

If there was a universal collective, albeit repressed, dream, it would probably be to become a successful singer. People would take that singing in the car, singing in the shower, and even singing in the rain, and have it be their life's love and work. The Thing Called Love uses this popular aspiration as its setting and examines the lives of four young people hoping to make it in the country music universe.At the center is earnest Miranda Presley--no relation--(Samantha Mathis), the pretty but untalented Linda Lue (Sandra Bullock), the intense and talented James (River Phoenix), and the sweet and prolific Kyle (Dermont Mulroney). Popular country stars make appearances:K.T. Oslin (as Lucy, the owner of the Bluebell, where open-mike auditions are held), Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Katy Moffatt, Jo-El Sonnier, Pam Tillis, Kevin Welch, and even Trisha Yearwood. The film's not merely focused on the rich musical milieu and its talented cast. It also carefully examines the dynamic between friends who are also competitors, as well as a realistic love triangle between the leads. The Thing Called Love is primarily knownas one of River Phoenix's last performances, but even if curiosity alone brings audiences to the movie, they'll soon be drawn into the fresh tale of four young people pursuing their dreams. --N.F. Mendoza ... Read more

Reviews (30)

NASHVILLE, HERE I AM....
Nasville, TN is a city with more musical talent per capita than anywhere else on earth. And if that's not enough, the buses drop off a fresh new load for the grinder every day. This excellent movie is about 4 of these young, country music wannabees, discovering the real price that must be paid if Nashville's gonna let them stay around for more than a brief visit. River Phoenix plays James, a most believable, very talented musician who is beginning to be noticed, and who probably has the chops and determination to make it. Samantha Mathis is a jewel as Miranda, the epitome of the one who can never quit, even when they think they already have. Young versions of Sandra Bullock and Dermont Mulroney provide serious and comedic counterpoint and love rivals for James and Miranda, whose relationship seems to constantly ask, is love or career success more important, or is the appearance of love itself just a career success. This movie wins on several levels, and appeals even if country music is not your favorite musical genre.

My Absolute Favorite
If you already love country music you will adore this film; if you don't love country music, you just might when this film is through. I fell into the latter category when I first watched it after hearing it starred River Phoenix. Of course it also has some fabulous acting by Samantha Mathis, a younger Sandra Bullock ("Speed") and Dermont Mulroney ("My Best Friend's Wedding"). Unlike some of their other older works, this one is fantastic.

The story takes us into the lives of these four young people trying to make it big in country music, trying to find love and trying to find themselves along the way. You'll get caught up in their crazy antics, love triangle and doing anything (breaking into celebrity's car, lying...) to make it in country music.

A funny and heartwarming movie, this is the most warnout tape in my collection.

Fluff with heart
As a lonely teenager I was so obsessed with this movie that I made tapes of the songs and listened to them over and over.

Sure it's a fluffy little movie, and probably one of Pheonix's greatest flops, but it's fluff with heart. Samantha Mathis is the tough-talking New Yorker determined to make it in the country music capital of the world. She doesn't take any BS but she's strangely attracted to Pheonix's country boy with a drawl.

This is also one Sandra Bullock's early efforts, before the bus that propelled her to fame in Speed. Believe it or not she's supposed to be the plain Jane to Mathis' lead. The chemistry between the two of them is cute, and we also get an early Dermot Mulroney as the sweet cowboy. Plus it's loaded with cameos of country music stars - most of whom I didn't recognise then and still don't, but they're there, I swear.

There's lots of schmaltzy country music and tons of cliches (club owner with a heart of gold, bad boy with a heart of gold, cynical New Yorker with a heart of gold... you get the picture.)

But still, it's an interesting little movie and strays from the formula or most romantic comedies (it's not just happily ever after.) It might even convert you to liking country - I know I developed a taste for some of the classic stuff after this flick.

Plus it was River Pheonix's last picture before his death, which almost makes it worthwhile for cultural value alone. While some might argue that this wasn't Pheonix's most memorable movie I would totally disagree.

If you're heartbroken, down on your luck or are living out any other cliche that might be featured in a country music song, this is definitely worth checking out.

Want it on DVD!!
This movie includes every element of growing up, bitter and sweet, and is one of my favorites. I really want it on DVD, especially for the scenes where Phoenix is really singing. I am totally smitten with his sweet voice though not a country music fan at all.

Fantastic Movie!!
This movie is really good, I mean the talent is excellent and you know sometimes watching this show is hard knowing that this is practically the last movie that River was known for!! but hearing all the actors really sing in the movie was also really cool, I just wish the soundtrack would have included their own recordings of the songs but it didn't!! I definately recommend this movie to any country music lover, romantic or even just a River lover!! ... Read more

Reviews (39)

What Goes Around.....Comes Around...in Spades!
This gorgeous film is the concluding story of Jean de Florette. That the two films aren't boxed together is ridiculous, because although they stand alone, taken together they become an unforgettable film experience and a devastating masterpiece.

In this film, the little daughter of Jean de Florette, who knows what was done to her father and by whom, has grown to become a stunningly beautiful young woman (Emmanuelle Beart). She is a free spirit, a shephardess, and so achingly gorgeous that one of the participants in her father's tragic downfall (Daniel Auteuil) can't help but fall hopelessly in love with her (no mystery there!). That his love is hopeless and will ruin him is just the begining of the reverberations from the sins commited in the first film that will befall the sinners in this concluding second film.

The other is what happens to the character played by Yves Montand. I will not spoil it for you, but what comes back on this cruelly calculating old man is something to behold. Montand capped a wonderful career with his brilliant and nuanced portrayal of this man. The role, which spans both films, is a beautifully deep performance, and you will be surprised by your different emotions about this character. It is a full-range performance, and shouldn't be missed by anyone who loves great acting.

Although each film is complete unto itself, it is together that the full artistry and power of the story is experienced. So if you get one, by all means get the other.

Directed with care and photographed beautifully in the countryside of Provence, this is a visual and emotional treat. A terrific story of human passions, each is a 4 star film, together they are a 5 star masterpiece.

Second film of a two part story.....
I love this film. Emmanuelle Beart made her debut in this film and she is breathtakingly beautiful. Her husband Daniel Auteuil also starred in the film. I don't know if they met on the set or not but it was certainly made at the beginning of their careers in film.

The story of Manon (Beart) continues in this film. In JEAN DE FLORETTE she was a little girl, who accompanied her parents to Provence where her father took up the cultivation of Carnations on the old family farm. Uncle (Yves Montand) and cousin (Daniel Auteuil) next door objected as there was only enough water to supply one farm. The result was a water war.

In MANON, the young Manon has grown into a young woman. She lives a relatively wild life on the old homestead, raising goats who follow her everywhere like children. Cousin (Auteuil) realizes one day that he is in love with her. But a dark secret hangs over his head and if Manon knew the secret she might hate him (has to do with water).

The rest of the plot consists of the resolution of problems, tensions, difficulties set up in JEAN DE FLORETTE. I can't imagine anyone buying one film and not the other. I am buying both DVDs. They are a set. The cinematography is wonderful, the actors are superb. If you love Provence you will want to own these DVDs so you can watch them on those cold rainy days when you aren't in France.

The sweet smell of revenge
In the first part of this sequel, Jean de Florette, there has been a murder. So remeber Emerson statement: Commit a crime , and the world is made of glass.
Emmanuelle Béart is one of the most beautiful actress in the world, his charm is so arresting that gives us the perfect role for this work. She made her debut in the screen in this one.
She knows more than Daniel Auteil believes, he falls in love with her but...
The second part of this work is extraordinary. You can miss the absence of Depardieu, that's why the director makes a clever less lineal with more surprises and even satirical approach. Remember the miracle water, for instance.
Yves Montand may well have done the best achievement of his long career in this role.
Watch this enjoyable film, and remember this is the second part of the story.

Make sure you see Jean de Florette first
This is the second part of a two part series, and picks up where Jean de Florette leaves off. If you do not see Jean de Florette, then you will be missing much of the background of this movie, and the context is important. For example, without viewing the first movie, the viewer will not know Manons background, what happened to her father, and their farm. The viewer will also not know the full relationship she has with the Soubeyran clan.

The quality of the DVD picture is avarage. The picture is fairly clean and clear.

Good film !
American friends,I am agree with you about Manon of the spring("Manon des sources" in french) so I can only add one thing.Because the action of the film is set in the south-east of France,the actors speak with the lovely accent of this part of the country.That contribute to "add sun" in the film. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Writer William Nicholson's (Shadowlands) directorial debut is a surprisingly refreshing art house drama. Even though Firelight has grandstanding elements of forbidden love, a bodice-ripping tryst, and the moody English countryside, the film is never trite or dreary. It's 1838 and Charles, an earnest sheep breeder (Stephen Dillane), wants an heir, but his wife is an invalid. He hires the penniless Elisabeth (Sophie Marceau, ravishing again) as surrogate mother and hopes a weekend of passionless sex will bring him a baby. The D.H. Lawrence-like love nest brings a surprise or two, as does the bulk of film that takes place seven years later. Whereas many a period drama would focus on potential scandal, Nicholson is squarely looking at love between mother and child, and the unmentioned love between Charles and Elisabeth. Miscast in nearly every film since her breakout performance in Braveheart, Marceau is wonderful here. She keeps her smoldering air, but her character is more hopeful than downbeat. Nicholson's casting of Dillane (think of a British Ed Harris) instead of some gorgeous hunk was box-office poison, but makes for a far more satisfying picture--and they are a very appealing couple. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Don't overlook this one!
I went to see "Firelight" because it was a costumer and the review I read mentioned something about "Jane Eyre with sex". Was I in for a surprise-- and a very pleasant one at that.

This film is not your typical "young-governess-goes-to-the-mysterious-mansion" story. There're enough plot twists to keep the viewer on his/her toes (yes, men will enjoy it too). The acting, cinematography, settings and music combine to make this a lovely viewing experience. I became an even bigger fan of Stephen Dillane (check him out in "Welcome to Sarajevo") and Sophie Marceau (why waste her in something as silly as "Lost & found"?) after seeing this. The smaller roles are also well done; I was particularily impressed with Kevin Anderson as an American sheep farmer.

Hats off to William Nicholson et al. for this jewel. I hope the video price drops quickly; I'd love to own a copy of this beautiful film.

Rich, romantic, and beautiful to look at
I saw Firelight last year during its all too brief big-screen run and was stunned.

But even though it is a visually perfect film, the two lovers are more than simply exquisite - they have breadth and depth. They actually take on dimension and draw us into their world and time: we share their fears, denials, passions, and the joy they ultimately find in their love.

In addition, the scenery (bleak outdoors, lush in) and weather (winter) were mesmerising because they were deeply a part of the context. Even the ancillary characters (Connie and Lord Godwin especially), were well-played and endearing. Real.

This is absolutely one of my favorite movies. It is a definite MUST HAVE for every lover of romantic period films. Particularly if you like them sensual and erotic without coarseness.

Firelight is a kiss from William Nicholson that touches and warms the skin beneath the lace.

Not for period purists
This film is strictly a modern romance with people dressed in period clothes. As such it works. But it's not for viewers who want any kind of historic accuracy.

The entire plot hinges on a Victorian man with a wife in a years-long coma who wants an heir. He hires a woman he doesn't know as a surrogate mother. In reality there was always _someone_, some nephew or cousin, legally in line to be the heir. Many Victorians were satisfied with maintaining an avuncular relationship without formal adoption. However, when a Victorian couple did want to formally adopt an heir--which was sometimes the case--there was usually some relative with several children who was willing to give one child the considerable financial and social advantages provided by such adoption. Unless disreputable, the parents were allowed to maintain contact with the child.

However, adoption was the resort of a married couple who had entirely given up hope of normal procreation. A man who was unmarried, or whose wife seemed likely to die, would generally prefer to marry or remarry and would anticipate children from that marriage. Victorian medical technology was, as far as I know, incapapable of sustaining someone in a coma for years. In reality, the wife in _Firelight_ would soon die and her husband would be able to remarry.

And, the heir in the film was female. An heir had to be male to inherit a title or an entailed estate, and was always male by preference anyway. Wealthy couples who produced only one daughter--or several in a row--would keep on trying for a son.

Other problems included a man with a mistress bringing her openly to a house/Christmas party attended by "respectable" women and couples. Women known to be courtesans, kept mistresses, or adulteresses were not invited to "nice" private homes or permitted to associate with respectable women and children. A lack of morals was viewed as somehow contagious. Everybody--even respectable women--knew that some men had mistresses, saw noted courtesans at the opera, and saw prostitutes working the streets. But what Victorians did, and what they admitted to, were two different things.

Maybe I'm being particular. But for anyone whose enjoyment of a film would be spoiled by the unbelieveableness of its basic premise and some less important details--well, I'm warning you.

A Modern Version of the Classic
The story might be remininscent of Jane Austen, particularly so when the setting was England in 1840. Yet other than the setting and costume, everything else is modern, the theme and the plot and the rhythm, everything. The main theme here is about desire and obligation or duty or the conflict between the soul and lust. As such, one just fails to see any connotation with DH Lawerence. It would rather remind us of Dr Zhivago instead.

We have everything we possibly could expect from any movie: sound, sight, drama, everything. We have an excellent cast plus exquisite acting, including spendrift Lord, the good natured sister-in-law and even the stubborn and wayward 8 years old Louisa, not just the hero and the heroine. And the dialogues and the language including the dramatic ironies are just intriguing. As the story unfolds itself, it was clear that it was not simply a deal for money. The penniless girl, whose mother died at her birth and was raised up by her father, and she was trying to save her beloved father who was sent to jail because of a debt. It was because of her duty to her father.

The softest spot of all would rather be Charles' wife: back in 1840 there was no way that a human vegetable could be so decently maintained, the least of would be the look of her eyes which were so crytal clear. This perhaps is due the artistic requirements of the movie as a whole.But this is a very small point indeed. Yet, who can possibly blame the husband who had been mourning the virtual death of his wife for 10 whole years, when his love and attention had turned to his own lively daughter? His own worldly father says his is "abnomral" being so dutiful. If anybody ever says the turn is not convincing, he obviously has not known life yet.

Sophie had given life to her part in a most remarkable way here (and so did the young girl and her father). I have seen Sophie in another movie, shot quite a number of years back, which was not eqaully impressing as this.

All in all, we can't ask for more from this movie. It is almost as good as the Polish movies like Blue, Red and White. What puzzles me is, why isn't this released on DVD in US yet? Fortunately enough, we do have it in Asia.

good but is it...
this is a good movie and good acting... [warning: movie spoiler ahead...] but it feels like Jane Eyre modified... the acting is great. hm, the part when the daughter knew that she is her mom is kind of cliche... not very deep. but good movie overall. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

From the moment the young Kunta Kinte (LeVar Burton) is stolen from his life and ancestral home in 18th-century Africa and brought under inhumane conditions to be auctioned as a slave in America, a line is begun that leads from this most shameful chapter in U.S. history to the 20th-century author Alex Haley, a Kinte descendant. The late Haley's acclaimed book Roots was adapted into this six-volume television miniseries, which was a widely watched phenomenon in 1977. The programs cover several generations in the antebellum South and end with the story of "Chicken" George, a freed slave played by Ben Vereen whose family feels the agony of entrenched racism and learns to fight it. Between the lives of Kunta and George, we meet a number of memorable characters, black and white, and learn much about the emotional and physical torments of slavery, from beatings and rapes to the forced separation of spouses and families. Nothing like this had ever confronted so many mainstream Americans when the series was originally broadcast, and the extent to which the country was nudged a degree or two toward enlightenment was instantly obvious. Roots still has that ability to open one's eyes, and engage an audience in a sweeping, memorable drama at the same time. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (57)

The spirit and the Spirituals
Two days ago, I finished watching "Roots" ( the re-edited DVD version) , a series I scarcely remembered from my adolescent years. I remembered I had liked it. That was just about it.
Well.....now I'm 40, a musician (choral conductor and educator) and a profound lover of Spirituals and Gospel music. So....let me tell you that "Roots" moved the very bottom of my heart. I cried every episode, deeply touched by the sadness of the story but also by the invincible courage that has led African Americans through a hard history in the U.S. From my knowledge of Spirituals I've always admired this courage, this strength of the spirit reflected throughout all the melodic and rhythmic richness, ( "Hush...hush... Somebody's calling my name") the spiritual and physical beauty of a race, the deep and sincere approach to Christianity!
I think and I do hope that, someday, those "in power" all around the world will open their eyes and finally come to understand that racism, and all forms of discrimination, belong to the darkest and the most ignorant side of the human heart!
Just one last question: Is it possible to buy the printed Screenplay?
Santiago Zuleta. (Bogotá, Colombia)

The Roots of Roots
Warner Brothers has done a wonderful job in bringing David Wolper's 1977 television classic to DVD. This 3 DVD box set comes in an attractive tri-fold insert with an extensive chapter list and summary of each episode of the 573 minute production. The picture is colorful and sharp and the audio is a satifactory digital mono. The box claims "feature-length" audio commentary. Although commentary is extensive and entertaining, it does not run through the entire feature, constantly. There are also video commentaries on each disc from various people who worked on the film, which show highlights from the film as the actors speak on their memories. Some of actors have not aged well. There is also a behind-the-scenes documentary. My only quip is that one can not switch back and forth between the film's audio track and the commentary track at whim. One has to go to the main menu and switch to the commentary feature, much like Warner Brothers's release of Ben Hur, a mild irritation. There is a Spanish language track and English, French, Spanish subtitles. It is interesting to read the subtitles to study subtle nuances of the dialog. It is a pleasure to finally discard my 6 bulky, cumbersome tapes and replace them with 3 thin discs that I can access any portion instantly. If you love the story, you'll want to own this boxset.

Really sad!
All though i only saw first part of these mini-series it's really sad.How kuntah kinte and some other blacks were forced to be in a slaver,get sold to plantation owners and such.And its really heartwrenching when they abuse the slaves and hit them with their whips,anyways this is a cool series.You sometimes think how can other people have treated other people in the past like this.5/5!

Funny & Dramatic
I liked the movie. I mean, I'm kind of young but I really liked the movie. It was funny too. In the way it was funny was when like, they talk in these Southern accents when they come from New York, or something like that. The dramatic part is when they get raped and stuff like that. It's really sad to know that my people was treated like that. You know what I mean? Not the white people's people just the black peoples' people, you know. I think it was a good show. My favorite character was Kizzy my least favorite character was the overseers. You know, the slavemasters. Well, I liked the movie and I can't wait to see the Next Generation.

Great educational series
This is truly one of the great epic mini-series of all time. This series caused me to do research of my own. Everything told in this story happened at various places and times in the United States (both North and South) and some things even worse. One of the glaring things that was left out (that relates to modern times ) was the fact that many of the Africans were sold to Christian White European Slavers or their Black agents by conquering Arabic and Black Moslems (selling people who wouldn't convert to Islam) who were crusading through Africa (and still are). Why would the Whites want to risk getting hurt or killed when they had lots of people willing to gather this "Human" harvest for them? This program of Slavery continues today in Africa and Asia. While you can take my word or not this series should challenge people to find out the truth for themselves. Discover the true "Roots" of the modern world, not just America. Alex Haley did it, but be prepared...Alex didn't tell everything...he was being kind and politically correct. Ask yourself why Mr. Haley didn't become Moslem himself when he had many good friends (he was a very open minded man) who were Moslems. Could it be that he found the idea of converting to a religion that sold his ancestors into slavery unappealing. Buying this DVD and reading the book is a GREAT place to start, but don't stop at the PG version. ... Read more

Reviews (55)

Brilliant, And Bittersweet
Sergeant York is one of the great films of all time. Justly heralded for the performances -- especially the superb Gary Cooper -- and writing, direction, Max Steiner's score, etc. What isn't often mentioned is how bittersweet is the ending. Prior to going to war, Alvin York had been too poor to purchase a piece of bottom land for farming. Called to war, he resisted. He was a pacifist, against killing. However, in a stunning scene on a mountain ledge, York finally agrees to fight the German enemy. He single-handedly captures 132 prisoners, and kills dozens of others. For this, he is hailed a hero and becomes America's most-decoarated WW I soldier. And finally gets his bottom land. However, he has only earned this bottom land because he went against his pacifist beliefs -- "thou shall not kill". The land is given to him for the very act of killing. How ironic and bittersweet. How apt is Cooper's closing line: "The Lord sure does move in mysterious ways." Don't miss this film.

A great classic movie!!
This movie is based on a real life story about a man who is saved by Jesus Christ and then goes off to war. Unlike the war movies made today, the plot revolves around the man's faith in God, (which might be why they never show this movie on the networks, although its a classic).

Sergeant York gets saved in a church after being struck by lightening, and after he is saved he is drafted, and spends time reconciling doing what Christ commands with killing people during time of war. (This isn't an easy thing to reconcile, and perhaps especially for a newly saved person, even if most movies act like its nothing.)

After reading the bible however, York finds the answer, and goes to war, becoming one of America's great heroes, and in the end, he and his future wife are greatly blessed by God.

If all this sounds too heavy, it isn't. Sergeant York is from Tennessee and the movie is actually quite light hearted. I also enjoyed hearing the hymn 'Give me that Old Time Religion'.

One of my favorite movies, and worth getting if you are tired of the trash they put on tv, and want some films with Christians in them.

As Good As It Gets
Next to "Red River" this is Howard Hawks' greatest achievement, which is to say one of the greatest American films ever made. A relatively true-to-life depiction of the Tennessee hill farmer who found himself caught up in the nightmare of WWI, it would be memorable enough just for its wonderful re-creation of the the back-country life and dialect. Gary Cooper and Walter Brennan never surpassed the performances they gave here as Alvin York and his neighbor and pastor Rosier Pile, and the rest of the cast shines just as brightly, particularly Margaret Wycherly as York's mother, and George Tobias as his comrade in arms. York won international fame when he accepted the surrender of more than 100 German soldiers about a month before the end of the war. Although York showed amazing heroism and marksmanship in the encounter, both he and Hawks knew full well that the German army was played out by that point and in many areas was surrendering en masse. Some sense of that is built into the project, to everyone's credit, and the picture's finest moment comes when Cooper says firmly "I'm not proud of what when on over there." Both Howard Koch of "Casablanca" fame and John Huston worked on the script.

Mom and Apple pie
Don't judge this movie by millennium standards; this was a simple movie from a simpler time. Sgt York was a hero. The film is missing some spots. I remember a particular scene during training when York's backpack was filled with bricks, while the other men had loaded theirs up with straw (don't laugh I've known Marines who actually load their rucks up with heavy gear). But overall, it's a good representation of early genre. Please note that a War Movie used to also include the home coming, the fiancée or wife or mom back home pining away with worry and doubt. It's all here, too. Great entertainment? Not really, it's more in line with a historical review of early cinema.

I'm not an American and still think this Movie is the best.
I think this is the best Movie I have ever seen! I watch it all the time when I'm bored and it never fails to lift me. I shed tears of joy at the morals of the man. I think Gary Cooper was one of the best actors from the black & white period and own this and other movies made by him. I cry, I laugh, I think, what more can a movie do for you?
Absolutely Brilliant.
PS I live up in the outback on mountains too!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

I personanlly think it's better Than Twister!
Night of the Twisters a made for cable movie is a great movie and in my personal opinion it is better than Twister which was shown in movie theaters, I just think Night of the Twisters had a better plot and I liked the special effects better too and I really like all the actors but especially John Schneider. I haven't read the book that this movie was based on and I really didn't even know there was a book and all I know is that I just really liked the movie and I recommend it and I wish it would be put on DVD.

Brilliant!
Night of the Twisters is one of the best films I've ever seen. The performance from the lovely Devon Sawa (Dan Hatch) is fantastic. My dad's not really one to actually sit and watch any film all the way through, but he did with this film which made my day! It's basically about a boy called Dan and his best friend Arthur (Amos Crawley) who get trapped inside Dan's house during a horrific tornado storm, and have to get Dan's baby brother and themselves to the safety of the basement. After the twister's over, Dan and Arthur set out on a journey to find Arthur's sisters and Dan's step-father, Jack (John Schneider), grandma and mother, and try and all get to the safety of a medical centre in the town before they get hit by another twister. If you can't buy this film, then I recommend you rent it a few times, cos this is one film with indredible effects which are worth seeing!

The night of the fricken Twisters
The movie is awesome. I really enjoyed the ending where the family is in there 1980 dodge minivan and they are driving 200mph and just happen to always stay right ahead of the tornadoes.

Good!
The night of the twisters is a very good movie, even for all ages. My mom and dad liked it, my kids liked it and, my wife and I liked it. It has many turns and twists, and is unperdictable like a tornado. This movie has plenty of suspence and has tons of action. This was a remarkable movie and that's why I give it 5 stars.

Good...Very Good.
We watched this movie on TV one night when we couldn't find any thing else we wanted to watch so when someone changed the channels and came across Night of the Twisters I was at first reluctant to watch it because we had rented the theatrically released Twister when it came out on video and I just didn't like that movie at all and thought all the hype was not worth it and it just wasn't what it was all cracked up to be. I enjoyed Night of The Twisters though and thought it was way better, the special effects are just as good if even better and I have to agree that the story and dialogue are better in Night of the Twisters. I got this movie on video a few years and it is a used copy and a little worn out so I definitely have to agree that the movie would be best on DVD and I would very gladly replace my video with a sturdier DVD that will last longer and won't wear out as easily as a tape. Plus I just really recommend this movie, I like disater movies and Night of the Twisters is one of my favorites along with The Poseidon Adventure, The Towering Inferno and Earthquake. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The satirical sensibilities of writer Peter Shaffer and director Milos Forman (One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest) were ideally matched in this Oscar-winning movie adaptation of Shaffer's hit play about the rivalry between two composers in the court of Austrian Emperor Joseph II--official royal composer Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham), and the younger but superior prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce). The conceit is absolutely delicious: Salieri secretly loathes Mozart's crude and bratty personality, but is astounded by the beauty of his music. That's the heart of Salieri's torment--although he's in a unique position to recognize and cultivate both Mozart's talent and career, he's also consumed with envy and insecurity in the face of such genius. That such magnificent music should come from such a vulgar little creature strikes Salieri as one of God's cruelest jokes, and it drives him insane. Amadeus creates peculiar and delightful contrasts between the impeccably re-created details of its lavish period setting and the jarring (but humorously refreshing and unstuffy) modern tone of its dialogue and performances--all of which serve to remind us that these were people before they became enshrined in historical and artistic legend. Jeffrey Jones, best-known as Ferris Bueller's principal, is particularly wonderful as the bumbling emperor (with the voice of a modern midlevel businessman). The film's eight Oscars include statuettes for Best Director Forman, Best Actor Abraham (Hulce was also nominated), Best Screenplay, and Best Picture. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (363)

Rock Me Amadeus
Milos Forman's Amadeus is a hugely entertaining adaptation of Peter Shaffer's play. The movie is told in flashback style from the memory of Antonio Salieri. Salieri was a successful and popular composer who was a rival of Mozart's. History has speculated on the death of Mozart and some people are of the opinion that Salieri had a hand in his death (possibly even murdered him). The film explores this angle of the legend. Salieri is consumed by his jealousy and hatred of the infantile Mozart. Mozart is a musical genius, but a wild spending and is always looking for the next good time. His operas are utterly brilliant, but are unsuccessful. He is in constant debt. Salieri concocts a plan for Mozart to compose a requiem. This work is actually planned as Mozart's own requiem. Mozart is shown as slowly going mad and at the end of the film, Salieri helps him by writing the musical score down for a very weak Mozart. The morning after Mozart and Salieri work together, Mozart is found dead and we are left speculating whether he died through natural causes or if Salieri did something to him. F. Murray Abrham is absolutely amazing as Salieri. He brings across the jealousy and hatred, but doesn't make Salieri a fiend. He has major respect for Mozart's musical talents, but doesn't understand why God would give them to such an obvious heathen. Tom Hulce is equally as good as Mozart. He plays him with a reckless abandon and in an over the top fashion that is perfectly suited for the role. The film took home the 1984 Best Picture Oscar, Mr. Forman won Best Director and Mr. Abrham beat out Mr. Hulce for Best Actor. This was a case where a tie would have been more than appropriate. The new director's cut adds 20 minutes of footage, but the real standout is the remastered sound. The Dolby 5.1 version brings alive the sounds of Mozart in brilliant detail.

Memorable cinematic achievement gets a new look
I was way too young to have seen AMADEUS in its original cinematic release (unfortunately), but it's not hard to see why it not only took home the Best Picture Oscar, but caused a rebirth of "Mozart mania". The story, although fictionalized, is an intriguing one. Salieri, the pious man who prayed to God to be given sublime musical talent, has to face the fact that God has given it to Mozart, who is exuberant, childish, and bawdy. Salieri's subsequent jealousy drives the entire movie. You can see his character becoming more and more consumed by his extremely negative feelings. The character of Mozart, on the other hand, is fun, even though the real Mozart wasn't really that over-the-top. I might add, however, that the distinguishing giggle is actually historically accurate. Listen to the commentary on the DVD and Peter Shaffer himself even mentions something to that effect. Although it was delightful to see the film in its entirety, I could see why some of the scenes were deleted. They simply weren't that strong or they distracted the viewer from the main focus. The only real complaint I had was that there weren't more extras. It does have the commentary, the original trailer, and the short featurette which consists of various people looking back at making the film, but I would have liked to have seen an actual "making of" documentary from around the time the film was being made. Overall, though, a worthy addition to any movie collection.

a mythical, fabulous portrait of genius
Peter Shaffer wrote the "Amadeus" screenplay based on his play, which is a quirky, fanciful vision of Mozart and Salieri, and how God gave Mozart the gift of musical genius despite his character flaws, but bypassed Salieri, who tried to strike a deal with the Almighty, vowing pious devotion, if He would only grant him brilliance and fame.
F. Murray Abraham is marvelous portraying Salieri's pride and envy, and having to suffer the indignity of mediocrity; the part garnered him a Best Actor Oscar and a Golden Globe, among other awards, and as Mozart, Tom Hulce is stupendous, with his high pitched raucous giggle, fluffy wigs, and energetic appeal.
Others in the cast of note are Elizabeth Berridge, excellent as Mozart's wife Constanza, and Roy Dotrice as his stern father Leopold.

The biggest star of the film however, is the music...the glorious sounds of Mozart's operas, and his magnificent Requiem. Many of my favorite scenes are depicted, from the ballet music from "The Marriage of Figaro", to "Don Giovanni a cenar teco", as well as portions of "The Marriage of Figaro", "The Magic Flute", and much more.
Some of the great voices heard are Samuel Ramey (Figaro), Richard Stilwell (Count Almaviva / Don Giovanni), June Anderson (Queen of the Night), Brian Kay (Papageno) and Gillian Fisher (Papagena), though the parts on screen are played by actors, and not those singing.

Twyla Tharp's choreography is fresh and exhilarating, Miroslav Ondricek's cinematography is exquisite, and Milos Forman's direction imaginative and well paced.
As well as Best Actor, the Academy bestowed Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Art Direction/Set Decoration, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup, Best Sound, all well deserved.
Total running time is 160 minutes.

As close to "perfect' as a movie can get
When I saw this movie in its original release in 1984, it was only due to the fact that I was dragged to the theatre. (A movie about Mozart -- BORING!!) I have never been so quick to change my mind. From the opening moments, hearing F. Murray Abraham shout out the word "MOZART" I was hooked, and my eyes never waivered from the screen. I anxiously awaited the release of this Director's Cut, due primarly to the extras that were purported to be included. The extras more than deliver on their promise.

Not only did I get the joy of watching once again one of the best movies to have ever been released -- to remember how enthralled I was by the performances of Tom Hulce, F. Murray Abraham and Elizabeth Berridge (unfortunately, most reviewers tend to exclude her contribution to this movie, but her performance as Constanza, Mozart's wife, is as powerful as the others) -- but the extras (behind the scenes, the commentaries) added to my delight.

I truly find it hard to put into words how wonderful this movie is. I have spent the last 20 years telling people "Trust me, just watch it, and you will understand what I am talking about." It is more than just a grand journey through the worlds of these two men (yes, granted, told from a "movie" point-of-view). The entire package, from the scenery, the costumes, the story and THE MUSIC, THE MUSIC, THE MUSIC!!! shows you how a movie should and can be produced. Even if you can't stand classical music, you will adore the wonder that is Mozart.

Please -- I'm begging you -- WATCH THIS MOVIE. You will NOT be disappointed!!!

Love it, warts and all
I loved "Amadeus" the first time I saw it and every time thereafter, on tape, DVD and now in this DVD package. It is a very great film, exceptionally worthy of its Oscars, and the role of a lifetime for Tom Hulse. The operatic and musical scenes in this film succeed on a scale never seen before. The finale of "Don Giovanni" is better in this movie than in the two live performances I've seen and the performance Herbert von Karajan led that was shown on PBS in 1990. The direction, acting, script and locations are all sumptuous. It apparently does not follow the play on which it is based, but artistic difference is the basis of enjoyment. Having said all this, I would caution viewers not to judge the real-life Mozart by the portrayal of Hulse in this film. The real Mozart, I have read, was a prudish workaholic that would never go out drinking with his buddies. He also played by the rules of the day and adored Salieri, respecting his role as the musical director in Vienna. Still, it's fair to set history aside in a work of art this fine. Anyone that likes great music or great movies will enjoy this. ... Read more

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Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (255)

Dead Poet Society
The title of the film is "Dead Poet Society" It mainly takes place in preparatory school,in the East Coast of the U.S.A.One of the main character is John Keating played by Robin Williams.He is an English teacher.Other main characters are Neil,Todd,Knox and Charlie. Mr Keating moved to Welton Academy. He said "Carpe Diem"(in English,Seize The Day") The boys made the club,Dead Poets Society. They read poetry in cave in the evening. Neil wanted to act in a play,but his father forced him study,so he couldn't obey the order,and at the end of the film,certain tragedy happen...Knox fell in love with Chris who had already her boyfriend.But he got a chance to watch the play with her.Charlie didn't obey shool rules,and the headmaster expelled him.

We particularly likeed the last scene because the students opposed Mr.Nolan,and stood up on their desks in the last scene.It gave us deep impression. We like Charlie.He was daredevil but he always had his will and did as he liked.

The main massage is Seize The Day means to be active and live fully.The themes of this film are education,friendship,freedom and relationship with parents.

The film made us courageous by Mr.Keating's words. We were moved by the last scene.We learned many things.When you become tired of your school life,teacher or friend,We recommend you to see this film.

We learned to Seize The Day.

Question life. Oppose mass-thinking. Carpe Diem
"Live life to the fullest. Leave your mark during the very short term you exist. There's so much to explore, and so much to be. Look at life from all aspects."

I'm normally not a Robin Williams fan, but after having seen this movie, I feel almost obliged to rent/buy a few other movies starring him. Williams simply excels in this movie, along with Robert Sean Leonard (Swing Kids (Which, if you never saw it is a MUST-SEE)) and Ethan Hawk (Gattaca (See this one too!)).

At a private boy's school, a new english teacher, John Keating (Williams) is introduced. His form of teaching completely opposes everything the high-class school stands for (ripping pages out of books, standing on desks, and developing one's own walk). Naturally, the school's administration is less-than-happy with it, but the students love it.

They find out Keating was once part of a secret society: The Dead Poets Society". They quickly form their own, and learn to appreciate the great masters from there. English made from something boring into something great.

Between the lines, the viewer is asked to think out of the box. Don't accept what you're being offered; question it. Why would you settle for anything less than you yourself desire?

You hold the key. Unlock the world today...

Super!! Echt ganz toll!!
Robin Williams takes his 1st stap at a dramtic role with fairly positive results. It's an suggestion to one's inteligence to see these film. More over to see Robin Williams( Mr. Keating) like a doctor in English, when he teaches his class. He doesn't teach normaly. He makes his own thing. I think it is good what he make. This is a film that really does challenge us to live, and move us to seize the moment. The story and the setting of this movie are amazing. I like the atmosphere in the school. It is dark and mysterious like Harry Potter in the castle. The Film have a lot of features. A little bit of romance, action and mystery.
Briefly said: very good film

Dead Poets Society
Dead Poets Society is about a group of boys at Welton Acadamy, a boarding school for boys. The guideline of the school is based on: tradition, honour, excellene and perfection. Everything changed when the English teacher John Keating arrived. He is against the stiffed and one-sided visibility of the school and inspirid the boys to seize the day and to make most of their lives. The resurrecting of the Dead Poets Society, a club where John Keating was in at student, brings about that the boys defy the school, their parents and their present view of life.
In my opinion the film is very dramatically and tangent. On a very impressive way it shows how difficult it is to be faithful to yourself and to stand up for one's beflief. It's marvelous how it is demonstrated that pressure doesn't help to find who you really are. Through the different but also classic characters of the movie you can realize that every individual reacts on a different way to influences. Thereby it shows that everybody needs support and enough freedom to follow his own dreams and to find his own way of living.

CARPE DIEM - SEEZE THE DAY
"Dead Poets Society" was shown in my German English lesson as a teaching device for transcendentalism.

Though I do not believe wholeheartedly in the ideas of transcendentalism, I found "Dead Poets Society" to be one of the most moving films that I have ever seen. As a student, I know what it is like to feel pressure to academically succeed, and through my classmates, I have seen the strain that pressure can put on a parent-child relationship.

"Dead Poets Society" logs the effect of one inspiring teacher on upon a group of boys that have never been given the chance to think for themselves.

One boy, Neal, realizes his dreams to be more than becoming a doctor, but also an actor. His struggle with his father brings him to drastic measures, but he is an admirable character for overcoming his ability to overcome his fear of standing up to his father. Other boys experience trouble and triumph with authority, love, and fear. Their stories are classic, but also portrayed beautifully.

Robin Williams plays Mr. John Keating, the English teacher that inspires the boys of Wellton Academy to think on their own and to seize the day. They re-initiate the Dead Poets Society, a group that Keating was in as a student at Wellton. Through their club, the boys discover the magic of poetry and the power of words. Keating uses famous quotes from Whitman, Thoreau, and other classical thinkers to motivate his students. His charisma and optimistic view of life is uplifting and leaves one inspired for days. Perhaps his outstanding performance is best portrayed in his line, "Life is a play and you may contribute one verse. What will it be?"

The film is well acted and revives memories of one's first experience in standing up for one's own beliefs. I recommend this movie to anyone who finds inspiration in literature, and to every person who wants to make the most of his life. It is teachers like Keating that breed our future philosophers and geniuses. This film is a thank you to every teacher who has unknowingly inspired his or her students to do great things. The final scene when the boys pay tribute to their teacher who is punished for influencing them is enchanting! ... Read more

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Based on Robert Harling's play, this comedy-drama directed by Herbert Ross (The Turning Point) follows several years in the lives of women who regularly see one another at a beauty shop in their small Louisiana town. The story deepens as Julia Roberts, playing a serious diabetic and the daughter of Sally Field, goes downhill in her health. But as an ensemble piece, this is one of those enjoyably lumpy tearjerkers with many years' worth of stored truths suddenly being shared between the characters, lots of grievances aired, that sort of thing. Daryl Hannah and Shirley MacLaine assume the most eccentric roles, Dolly Parton the most fun, and Olympia Dukakis the most dignified, while Sally Field essentially provides the moral and emotional center of the movie. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (108)

What are Steel Magnolias?
A pleasant mix of comedy and tear-jerking drama, Steel Magnolias is a heartwarming movie with a strong message, no matter what happens life goes on and the strong can survive almost anything. This movie takes place 1980s Louisiana and features a small town gaggle of women who congregate at Truvy's Beauty Spot to laugh, cry gossip and generally experience life. Each women has their own strong personality and brings something unique to the film. Steel Magnolias is adapted from the play of the same name by Robert Harling. The movie flashes through several milestones in the lives of six women. M'lynn Eatenton played by Sally Field is the mother of Shelby Eatenton (Julia Roberts). And the two seem to be the main focus of the movie. Strong M'lynn and caring but naive Shelby make the perfect mother-daughter team. The movie begins with the wedding day of Shelby, and after a nail polish crisis the two head to Truvy's beauty parlor to gossip and laugh. Dolly Parton plays a caring and hopelessly romantic "southern belle," named Truvy Jones; who is constantly trying to elicit some romance from her husband, Spud (Sam Shepard). Providing a scapegoat of sorts is nervous newcomer, Annelle (Daryl Hannah) who soon finds out the gossipy nature of the group when she announces she "isn't sure" if she is married or not. And of course, no clique would be complete without the sarcastic pessimist. Shirley MacClaine slips artfully into the role of Ouiser Boudreaux. The rich seemingly nasty woman who is rarely seen without a floppy straw hat and a huge slobbering dog. Providing the perfect compliment to Ouisers acrid personality is best friend Clariee (Olympia Dukasis). Miss Clairee is always ready with gossip or a playful insult of Ouiser. Ouiser, Truvy and Clairee are the main suppliers of the quirky, well timed one-liners that add spice to the movie as a whole. Being a real "chick flick" Steel Magnolias contains a few, underdeveloped male characters who are regarded more as scenery than actual characters. Drum Eatenton, played by Tom Skerritt is M'lynns husband who spends half of his screen time shooting pigeons from trees and the other half grinning blankly or snarling at Ouiser. Shelby's husband, Jackson Latcherie (Dylan McDermott) is upstaged in most of his scenes and then forgotten about completely. Annelle's boyfriend, Sammy Desoto (Kevin J. O'Connor) really only has one poorly executed, pointless scene before he too is forgotten; only to reappear at the end wearing a bunny suit. And who could forget Truvy's Husband Spud, probably everyone as his few scenes involve him reclining on a bed, drinking beer, watching television and being grumpy. Despite the appearance that these women are dippy southern women, several tragedies call them all to action, where each shows they are more than meets the eye. The character and will of the six is gradually introduced as the viewer moves from one milestone to another. The true acting brilliance of Sally Field is presented in one poignant scene, where M'lynn, hysterically asks God why. The captivating tear-jerking scene complete with Fields signature locked jaw distant eyes is broken only by a lame attempt at comedic relief. In which M'lynn switches from pissed to amused in a matter of seconds. With one motion the scene goes from classically emotional to pathetic and back again. Steel Magnolias is quite possibly the funniest movie that will also make you cry. These six witty southern belles show their strength and character time and again, proving they are true Steel Magnolias. Steel Magnolias was directed by Herbert Ross, written by Robert Harling is a TriStar Pictures production. Steel Magnolias received a 1990 Oscar nomination for Julia Roberts as best supporting actress and a 1990 Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture-Sally Field. And in 1990 Julia Roberts won a Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for her work in Steel Magnolias. With an award like 1990s Peoples Choice Awards-Favorite Dramatic Motion Picture is it any wonder that Steel Magnolias comes highly recommended.

#1 favorite movie of all time!...
Steel Magnolias, which is based on the play by Robert Harling (who plays the pastor) revolves around a group of friends down in Louisiana. Julia Roberts plays Shelby, the center character. Shelby is a diabetic determined to have a baby, despite doctor's warnings that she "shouldn't." Even though this plot line would seem emotional, this movie is actually charming and witty without getting too sappy.

My favorite character is the caring and stylish Truvy Jones (played by Dolly Parton). Her beauty salon, known as The Beauty Spot serves as the gathering place for their gossip. Well, that and the local Presbyterian church. Olympia Dukakis, Daryl Hannah, Shirley MacLaine and Sally Field all have terrific roles as well. The whole cast is extraordinary.

Read the play too. Unlike the movie, every scene takes place in Truvy's beauty salon, and it gives the movie a new perspective.

Usually worried
I'm usually worried when I hear that Hollywood is going to make a movie out of some great book or play. So many have been botched in the process and few have been made better. My current fear is what they'll do to "A Confederacy of Dunces" or "The Bark of the Dogwood" when those books go into script form. But for some reason, seeing "Steel Magnolias" when I did in New York all these many years ago, I had no fear. The play lends itself expertly to a movie script (This is actually a good thing), and of course, the cast they chose was/is stellar. This is one of my favorite all-time movies and if you're not moved by it, please, get yourself to an emergency room so they can check your pulse.

One of the best stage to screen movies I have ever seen.
Steel Magnolias is a movie that is timeless. You cannot beat it. I know I am in a minority in saying that it is better than Terms of Endearment and Fried Green Tomatoes but in my opinion it really is. The love between the characters is more real and heartfelt and isn't as dismal to watch as in the previous two films. The acting is awesome, as well as the score and plot. The movie will rip your heart out. I highly reccomend it.

Shut Up You Old Bag
So let me get this straight - a bunch of old ladies and Julia Roberts in the south trying to be funny, heartwarming, poignant, dramatic and important? I'm out. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

SO CLOSE TO ELVIS, ITS SCARY!
Kurt Russell was the next best thing to Elvis! His imitation was so exact, every movement as well as his vocal imitation. Well done film! Bring back this movie for sale!!

This Is The Best ELVIS Movie Ever Made!!!
The first time I saw this this movie was around 1980. I thought it was the best ELVIS Movie Made Then....And still do today. Although the movie industry has tried to make movies and a TV Series based on THE KING OF ROCK and ROLL, Dick Clark Productions has by far done the best job. I have seen a Movie (name forgotten) with Don Johnson as ELVIS and it was not that good. A TV mini-movie (ELVIS and ME) with Dale Midkiff as ELVIS was much better than Don Johnson but still no comparison to Kurt Russell as ELVIS. Kurt Russell was far more believable as ELVIS than the others. The TV series "ELVIS-The Early Years" only lasted a season, if that long. The lead in that (can't remember the name) was even an ELVIS look-alike! and the series never made it. I have been trying to get a full-length (157 min.) version of ELVIS-the Movie since "85" but have been unsuccesful. I try to catch the movie on network tv (as little as it turns up) every time I notice it in the tv guide listings. I have even rented the edited (117 min.) version from the video store several times. I really would like to own the Full-Length Version of this Movie. This movie should be released for sale to the public in it's (157 min.)entirety. This movie should be available to the public however the industry seems fit, be it VHS, DVD, LASER, whatever possible way to get it to the public as soon as possible. BECAUSE THIS IS THE BEST ACTED MOVIE OF ELVIS THAT YOU WILL EVER SEE.....BAR NONE. It starts with his life as a little boy in Tupelo Miss, his move to Memphis and his troubled H.S. years. The beginnings at Sun Records and the rest of his life and career with Col. Tom Parker, until his death.

Kurt is King
I bought this recently and remember it well from it's many viewings on TV. Kurt Russell is very, very good as Elvis, no-one has ever really bettered this performance. However, it is his performance that has really made this a cult classic. The script seems to be just a collection of Elvis quotes made over the years and a lot of scenes are out of sequence to true events. Elvis's first girlfriend was not Bonnie, he didn't get up on stage and perform in Germany and so on, but I guess it had to be done for dramatic reasons. Season Hubley as Priscilla is terrible, wooden and stilted. Shelley Winters is excellent as Gladys Presley although poor old Vernon only gets about 2 lines in the whole movie. Charlie Hodge makes an appearance as himself and does a good job (how could he go wrong?!). Although Kurt Russell has made many movies since, he has never quite hit the highs promised with this performance.

It's worth buying if you're an Elvis fan, however beware as there are many lengths of the movie ranging from 120 min up to 200 min. It would be worth putting out on DVD as there are many fans out there and this the best of the Elvis bios. DVD would also clean up the picture and the sound would be better. I'm surprised it hasn't been done before now.

where the dvd????
we would like the dvd, but the original version of this movie the whole thing uncut....looking forward to the dvd..

The One And Only King Of Elvis Presley KURT RUSSELL
I Have Seen The Reviews On Elvis The Move And I Seen That One Of The Reviews Wanted To Own The Original 157 Minit Virsion Of Elvis The Move Well Your In More Luck Now Than You Think So This Is For You Only And Anyone Else That's Interested I Have 9 Virsions Of This VHS And The Original VHS Is 175 Minits You Might Not Beleave That But I Know Everything About Videos And Elvis Presley Aspecialy Elvis Videos I Have 2000 Videos Of Elvis Infact Every Video Listed Under Elvis's Name I Have Even More Elvis Videos Than Most Elvis Fans But I'm A Meger Elvis Fan The Hardust Elvis VHS I Found Hard To Get Was Elvis The Alternate Aloha Concert But Now I Have Every Virsion Made All 19 Of Them And Elvis The Move If You Would Like A Copey Of The VHS I Wold Be Most Happy To Do A Copey For You Because I Know How Hard It Is To Get Hold Of Elvis Videos If You Want To Get Back To Me Give Us A Call On My Mobile 07867561090 Plese I'll Look Forwood To Your Call , Clint. ... Read more

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After their brilliant collaborations on Howards End and The Remains of the Day, director James Ivory and Anthony Hopkins reunited (along with producer Ismail Merchant and screenwriter Ruth Prawer Jhabvala) for this controversial film about the life and loves of the great artist Pablo Picasso. Hopkins is outstanding in the title role, portraying Picasso as a brilliant, manipulative egotist who used his power over women to fuel his artistic impulse and voracious sexual appetite.

But Surviving Picasso is not intended to be a screen biography and, as many critics noted in mixed reviews, this 1996 film fails to provide any substantial insight into Picasso's complex personality. It's more about Françoise Gilot (Natascha McElhone), the aspiring artist who was one of the few women to "survive" Picasso's love and emerge as a stronger, more confident person with a life of her own outside of Picasso's often destructive sphere of influence. McElhone is impressive in this breakthrough role, conveying the seductive effect Picasso had on women, but also holding her own against the artist's unpredictable temperament.

Surviving Picasso was based on the unflattering book Picasso: Creator and Destroyer by Arianna Huffington, so the Merchant-Ivory team did not have the cooperation of Picasso's estate. The result is a film that shifts its focus away from the artist and onto his positive and negative effect on those who entered his inner circle. It's a fascinating portrait of a fascinating man and his equally passionate lovers, fueled by excellent performances. Even though you know you're not getting the whole story of Picasso's best and worst behavior, the movie grabs and holds your attention. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Enduring Picasso
I find Anthony Hopkins to be a master at becoming whatever he intends to create. He was just as believable as President Nixon in "Nixon", as he was a madman in "Silence Of The Lambs". Here again, he does not dissapoint me. The movie is dark, and I would tend not to agree with the accuracy of the historical aspects of the film, but I did find Hopkins to be a compelling Picasso. And, yes once again, I found myself watching Pablo Picasso. I enjoy biographies of painters and creative souls, and I would be hard pressed to find a biography that is uplifting and has a happy ending. I found the same in "Surviving Picasso". It is a little long in the tooth, but I found the cinematography to be beautiful and again, Sir Anthony Hopkins' performance is beautiful. I would reccomend this for any Hopkins lover.

No me gusta all that mucho
While Anthony Hopkins is a good actor, you know, he's really not like Lon Chaney, Man of a Thousand Faces. By which I mean, there's a limit to his versatility, and "Surviving Picasso" is a case in point. I really didn't believe him as the Spaniard painter. He sort of reminded me of Otto Preminger's Mr. Freeze from Batman rather than the most famous painter of the 20th century. Try it for yourself to see if you survive to the end; I almost didn't.

Is there anybody better than Anthony?
If you love Anthony Hopkins and you love stories based on real (and very interesting) people, you will love this movie. Its a movie with a story of a man that has it all and wants more, he loves hard and paints beautifully, and Anthony Hopkins pulls it off beautifully playing Picasso. I was amazed at his ability to be romantic and seductive one moment, playful the next, and suddenly turn to a madman. It was beautiful.

MOSTLY A GREAT ARTIST
It's a common fact that great artists often make poor human beings, unable to connect with real life in a decent way.It was certainly the case with PABLO PICASSO and we knew that before this movie was made.The film seems to say that he only loved women for the sake of his art.Being SPANISH, he was a latin man with a deep inclinaison towards his own ego.His control over the people he knew really destroy them in many ways.While it is a work of fiction, the performances keeps it interesting ,even if we don't have to take it all too seriously.

Intriguing
I've watched this movie many times because I'm fascinated by the man, especially hoping to get a better understanding of what his life was like. The more I learn about him though, the more this movie is so one dimensional and inaccurate. It was based on the harshest biography of Picasso which is unfortunate because it gives a false impression of what he was really like. I would still buy it because the scenes are filled with his studios and artwork, however it would have been one of my all-time faves if it focused more on his work and his passion. ... Read more

Reviews (105)

A Wonderful, magical movie about the power of love.
I recently saw "The Notebook" and am so glad I did. This is my new favorite movie. I've never seen another like it. It's a wonderful adaptation of the book by Nicholas Sparks. It's cinematography is beautiful as well as the script and the acting is unforgettable. Ryan Gossling and Rachel McAddams are wonderful in this and give tour de force performances as the young lovers. They have a great chemistry together that electrifies the screen. Let us not forget James Garner and Gena Rowlands they are wonderfully cast as the older lovers. Sam Sherpard and Joan Allen also turn in wonderful performances in their roles. I cannot recommend this movie enough. It is moving and poignant, there wasn't a dry eye in the theatre when the movie ended. I think it is rare to see a movie that can be that affecting. GO SEE THIS MOVIE!!!!!!! You will not regret it in fact you'll probably want to see it again.

Sweet, Sappy, Romantic, Beautiful
I got to see the sneak preview of this movie this past Saturday (6/12/04) and I absolutely loved it. I've seen Ryan Gosling on television before (Breaker High), but I hadn't seen Rachel McAdams until now. Their characters were so real and so believable. Even though the end may be predictable, this film lacks the typical structure of most romantic movies I've seen. It was interesting to see how the characters evolved and came together.

The film begins with James Garner reading pages out of a notebook to alzheimer(?) patient Gena Rowlands. As the story unfolds, we meet Allie and Noah. Allie comes from a wealthy Southern family. Noah works in the lumber yard. We see their joys as well as their struggles. Though they seem like complete opposites, they fall in love only to be torn apart when Noah leaves for World War 2 and Allie becomes engaged to another man.

I won't spoil the ending, but the two lovers reunite and Allie is faced with the decision of whether to keep her promise to her fiance or to go back to the man she left behind.

my fav. movie of all time
I loved the movie The Notebook. After I saw it for the first time I immediately felt the need to see it again, I ended up going to see it 5 more times that week even though the prices were so high. I havent seen a movie this good in a long time. I laughed, I cryed, and so much more. I felt as if I was experiancing the same things I wanted to be Ali, I wanted to be there. I even fell in love with the cast every 1 that played the roles were perfect. It was just a great movie.

Excellent!!!!
I thought this movie was exellent! I rate it five stars because I don't cry much in films and this was a tissue grabbing type of movie! It had three generations of girls in my family crying all at one time!

Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling were fabulous together I thought. They had great chemistry on screen. I love the true fairytale type romance and this was def. a movie that made people wish they were the lead role! I also enjoyed the hints of humor in the movie, even if it was a serious part they made it enjoyable! I think this is a def. buyer! To anyone out there who hasn't seen it, go, you won't be dissapointed! Also, check out Nicholas Spark's books. Nicholas Sparks also wrote the book A Walk to Remember which is now a film as well with Mandy Moore as the lead actress.

The actors were incredible
The plot was mediocre, I won't lie about that, but the one ingredient that saved this movie from being just a disastrous chick-flic was the acting. Rachael McAdams, Gena Rowlands, and James Garner were moving and the movie was remarkably poignant. Ryan Gosling was convincing, to say the least, but I prefer to see him in more intense roles, like The Believer.

If romances are your type of movies, go for it. Chances are you will enjoy it. Bring tissues if you're a crier. Actually, bring them even if you aren't. I've been described as "unsensitive" and I cried for the last 30 minutes. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

They call it Giant because everything in this picture is big, from the generous running time (more than 200 minutes) to the sprawling ranch location (a horizon-to-horizon plain with a lonely, modest mansion dropped in the middle) to the high-powered stars. Stocky Rock Hudson stars as the confident, stubborn young ranch baron Bick Benedict, who woos and wins the hand of Southern belle Elizabeth Taylor, a seemingly demure young beauty who proves to be Hudson's match after she settles into the family homestead. For many the film is chiefly remembered for James Dean's final performance, as poor former ranch hand Jett Rink, who strikes oil and transforms himself into a flamboyant millionaire playboy. Director George Stevens won his second Oscar for this ambitious, grandly realized (if sometimes slow moving) epic of the changing socioeconomic (and physical) landscape of modern Texas, based on Edna Ferber's bestselling novel. The talented supporting cast includes Mercedes McCambridge as Bick's frustrated sister, put out by the new "woman of the house"; Chill Wills as the Benedicts' garrulous rancher neighbor; Carroll Baker and Dennis Hopper as the Benedicts' rebellious children; and Earl Holliman and Sal Mineo as dedicated ranch hands. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (62)

The quintessential Texas epic loaded with stars!
This 202-minute slow-paced drama exemplifies the lives of three generations of cattlemen on a grandiose west Texas cattle ranch at the onset of the oil boom. Being a native Texan with relatives living close to the area near Marfa, Tx where GIANT was filmed, I LOVE this movie for the sheer drama and myth of our state. (and yes, there ARE some exaggerations) But it's also a well-crafted movie with exemplary performances by Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and a very young Dennis Hopper! Viewers seeking a fast-action adrenaline-pumping film