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Ranked 34 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 Greatest American Films, To Kill a Mockingbird is quite simply one of the finest family-oriented dramas ever made. A beautiful and deeply affecting adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Harper Lee, the film retains a timeless quality that transcends its historically dated subject matter (racism in the Depression-era South) and remains powerfully resonant in present-day America with its advocacy of tolerance, justice, integrity, and loving, responsible parenthood. It's tempting to call this an important "message" movie that should be required viewing for children and adults alike, but this riveting courtroom drama is anything but stodgy or pedantic. As Atticus Finch, the small-town Alabama lawyer and widower father of two, Gregory Peck gives one of his finest performances with his impassioned defense of a black man (Brock Peters) wrongfully accused of the rape and assault of a young white woman. While his children, Scout (Mary Badham) and Jem (Philip Alford), learn the realities of racial prejudice and irrational hatred, they also learn to overcome their fear of the unknown as personified by their mysterious, mostly unseen neighbor Boo Radley (Robert Duvall, in his brilliant, almost completely nonverbal screen debut). What emerges from this evocative, exquisitely filmed drama is a pure distillation of the themes of Harper Lee's enduring novel, a showcase for some of the finest American acting ever assembled in one film, and a rare quality of humanitarian artistry (including Horton Foote's splendid screenplay and Elmer Bernstein's outstanding score) that seems all but lost in the chaotic morass of modern cinema. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (220)

EVERYONE SHOULD SEE THIS MOVIE
Truman Capote's influence is felt everywhere in both the book and film versions of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, Harper Lee's classic, beautifully haunting story of childhood, innocence lost, and of the cruelty that exists in people everywhere. Yes, Gregory Peck is Atticus Finch, and all of the players here inhabit their roles with grace, humor and gravity, but it is Mary Badham as Scout who steals the show, as it should be. The simplicity of a father's touch, of a rapist's grimace, of the wind gently blowing through the trees at dusk -- everything in this movie evokes, from Scout's point of view, a time we each have in our lives that transforms us into adults. There comes with it an aching sadness -- as if saying goodbye to a comforting old friend -- but the revelation carries with it a profound joy. Elmer Bernstein's score realizes each emotional chord of the film, and transports us without ever lambasting us -- it is the best kind of movie score. You will be hooked from the opening credits, which are creatively brilliant -- those crayons, the haunting and beguiling theme softly begins on the piano -- through to the closing credits, at which point there will be well-earned tears softly falling down your cheek.

The Summer We Discovered Life
Every so often, as surely as night follows day, a film comes along that manages to transport us from our everyday lives and into a time and place that is recalled through memories of better and in a reversal of fortunes, turbulent times. To Kill A Mockingbird is such a film.

In a Pulitzer Prize winning novel by Harper Lee, the small town of Macomb, Alabama is portrayed in the summer of 1932, during the deepest depression that the United States had ever experienced. Over the course of the next year and a half, events will burrow inside this sleepy southern town and the lives of its residents will be transported by actions, ideas, perceptions and convictions that will influence one and all in ways that will ring true for years to come.

Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck) is a lawyer and widower, raising two small children, Scout (Mary Badham) and her older brother Jem (Phillip Alford). Into their lives enters a visitor, Dill (John Megna) from Meridian, Mississippi, come to spend two weeks with his Aunt Stephanie (Alice Ghostley). Macomb is a town with nothing to do and if there were, no money to spend on it. The stage is being set for a life shattering episode that will not go quietly into that good night.

Childhood holds its fascinations, its myths, its coming of age and through the eyes of the three children, the audience is allowed to peer into the adult world around them as perceived through the minds and souls of innocence that will be all too easily shattered as time whistles down the track. One of the stories woven so masterfully within its covers is the local urban legend of bogeyman, Boo Radley (Robert Duval), who lives on the same block as the Finch family. In a narration, rather like playing telephone, his persona takes on all the familiar attributes of a raving lunatic, a monster out for blood. His aura becomes the end all for Scout, Jem and Dill as they seek to master the mystery surrounding Boo and the ability to live to tell the tale!

Into this world of innocence, a shattering crescendo of complexity wraps itself in the lives of the townspeople in the form of an alleged rape of a white woman, Mayella Violet Ewell (Collin Wilcox) by a black man, Tom Robinson (Brock Peters). Atticus Finch is called upon to act as counsel for Robinson and in doing so, the stage has been set for a dance with race relations and the exemplary lengths that are gone to in order to allow justice to prevail in the face of malcontent.

The performances throughout To Kill A Mockingbird are stunning. Gregory Peck, as the gentleman lawyer, mired in small town attitudes and thoughts that were so representational in the southern gothic sphere, has collected and held a restrained order to his character, and in the process, he has allowed us all to be on the receiving end of hate as conveyed through the actions of small minds and small people. The children, especially Mary Badham, are siblings of more than a movie making venture. They show the absence of preconceived notions, and the guile of beings before the actions of adults can render their world as lost and gone with the shedding of time.

James Anderson as Tom Ewell is the complete representation of oily slime as Mayella's father. He embodies all of the hate and prejudice that continues to be harboured to this day in the souls of those who would attempt to wield their vision of the way things should and ought to be. He has a foul baseness that lingers like a bad rash as he attempts to invoke his arguments through drunken bullying and hatred. Collin Willcox as Mayella is excruciatingly convincing as the bored, housebound white woman who tries to tempt Tom Robinson into kissing her and through her actions sets in motion a rollercoaster of tragedy to come. Her speech to the assembled courtroom is superb and as the audience, you feel her anger and resentment at having to be put in such a position, having to lie to save face and what little position she has in the town. Brock Peters as the aforementioned Robinson is equally sure in the allotted time he spends on the screen. There is a noble demeanor to his bearing, and yet we are aware of the restrictions that blacks were held to in their relationships with whites at the time.

Robert Mulligan, the director and Horton Foote, the screenwriter, have presented us with a look into our pasts and faithfully etched a portrait of quiet and artfully rendered proportions that draw us into the canvas and the lives of those assembled. We have walked a mile in their shoes and been under their skin. Foote worried about being able to do justice to Lee's novel, but he worried for nothing. He has completely evoked an era that now rests behind clouds of dust, blown by the winds of time into oblivion.

The cinematography by Russell Harlan and the set decoration by Oliver Emert carry us back through the courtesy of black and white to a depiction seen only in old photographs and clouding memories of those who lived in those precarious times. Black and white films seem to have had a curse thrust upon them by the younger generation today, as boring and tedious, but through the courtesies extended by Harlan and Emert, we are richer for those perceptions that would harken back throughout the pages of history.

Elmer Bernstein's film score carries us like an old friend and helps us to make our acquaintances with the characters held within this framework. He has achieved much with a simple theme and persuades us that said simplicity is fulfilled with less rather than more.

To Kill A Mockingbird is beautifully haunting and having been made in the 60's, at the height of the Civil Rights movement, it garners our attention to stop and take the time to truly 'see' what the human race is all about and what it can and should be, if taken over the bumps in the road and onto a path of sincere honesty and purpose. No special effects were needed, no huge Hollywood budget, no splashing of a story that had a happy ending for everyone involved. It is an open book into the realities of a world tilting temporarily off its axis, and being brought back on track through the goodness that sits in the hearts, minds and souls of mankind, if given half a chance.

See it and be amazed at what real moviemaking is all about.

Destruction of the innocent by the evils of the society
Destruction of the innocent by the evils of the society
Kuldip Kumar Garhwal

"Mockingbirds don't do one thing but... sing their heart out for us. That's why it is a sin to kill a mockingbird." The movie 'To kill a mockingbird' depicts the destruction of the innocent by the evils of the society. Mockingbird is a symbol of innocence, characterized by Tom Robinson and Arthur Radley (Boo) where racial prejudice and ignorance are the symbol of evils in the society.

Tom Robinson, an African-American is accused by Mayela, a white woman, of sexual molestation. Atticus, a prominent lawyer of the town Maycomb, has proved that Tom Robinson is innocent but still the "all-white jury" convicts Robinson of the guilt. Tom Robinson, a "quite humble respectable Negro", becomes the victim of racial prejudice. Arthur Radley (Boo) has been emotionally destroyed by his father, as his father did not let him step outside the house. Boo is one of the "mockingbirds" in the story, who is the victim of ignorance; evil of the society which is trying to kill the good. Boo had a deep affection for children, which is later displayed in the story, when Boo saves Jim and Scout from Bob Ewells.

"There are some men in the world who are born to do unpleasant jobs for us; your father is one of them", said Maudie to Jim after his father (Atticus) lost the case of Tom Robinson. Atticus helped his children to learn values of life and he showed them how to live life by the values; preaching by practicing. Atticus allowed his children to call him by his name instead of 'father'. He wanted his children to explore freedom, but also taught them to stay in limits. Jim is brave, intelligent, and caring. He learns courage, dignity, and value of life from his father. He is transforming into adulthood.

Scout is still a kid; she does not know anything about the existence of evil in the society. She is learning about evils from the real life example of the victims (Tom and Boo) of the evils in the society. By the end of the story Scout's perspective on life develops from that of an innocent child into that of a near grown up. "Mr. Tate was right", said Scout to Atticus, after Mr. Tate, the town Sheriff explained Atticus indirectly that whatever Boo did was correct and he is not supposed to be punished for that. "It would be like shooting the mockingbird, wouldn't it." Scout shows a high level of ability to comprehend at the age of five, and understands the whole situation and judges what is right and what is wrong.

The Music Director of the movie has done an excellent job. Music plays an important role in the movie, by setting the mood for what is been screened. The movie starts with a musical note, which seems like it is played by a kid, one note at a time. The movie also has gothic music to create the horrifying or thrilling environment, when Jim and Scout were walking home after the Halloween Party and they had an encounter with Bob Ewells. Most of the places the movie has melancholy music to produce the feeling of thoughtful sadness. The pleasant arrangements of musical notes in the movie create an atmosphere where we feel that we are a part of the movie, and we go back into our nostalgic memories and look back into our childhood. The movie itself seems like a mockingbird song.

My favorite scene in the movie is when Atticus is walking out of the courtroom after the trial is over and all the "colored" people sitting in the balcony stands up to pay respect to Atticus, a white man, who tried his level best to save a "Negro." The Reverend says to Scout who was sitting, "Stand up Jean Louise. Your father is passing." The scene says it all, there is not much dialogue but the expressions on the faces of the black people was marvelous, with a slow melancholy music at the background. As it this situation there is nothing left to say, because everyone knows in the courtroom that Tom Robinson is not guilty but still the jury has convicted him of the rape, just because of racial prejudice.

_____________________________________________

Kuldip Kumar Garhwal(...)

To Kill a Mockingbird is like a sin
'To Kill A Mockingbird' is of course the movie adaptation of Harper Lee's movie with the same title. Gregory Peck is a lawyer in rural Mississippi who is asked to defend a black man accused of raping a white woman.

The movie starts however with a seemingly unrelated event, the lives of Atticus Finch's two children. His daughter is a tomboy and his son is trying to keep her from getting into more trouble. The stumble upon some strange items and look at the house of a strange man called Boo Radley.

Then the movie goes into the court case. It is of course very obvious that the black man is innocent, but this is 1930's South with an all white jury...

Then the two parts of the movie come back together again...

The acting in this movie (in black and white) is superb. I recall that Gregory Pecks perfomance was voted the best of the century. Even the little girl is superb, she even got a nominatation for an oscar. Boo Radley is played by Robert Duvall, though he says next to nothing and is only in the movie for a few minutes. He of course 10 years later would play Tom Hayden in The Godfather. For Star Trek fans: Tom Robinson, the black man accused, is Sisko's Father of DS9

Its children¿s world that evolves with racial prejudice
We shall say "To kill a mockingbird" is a classic of the century that unfolds reality into film with profound simplicity. Its character development along with the approach of realism supersedes many contemporary works of literature and film. The historic flavor of the film creates an impression of a southern community of America during the great depression. Apparently the quintessential theme of the movie is the social stigma and prejudice. We see conflicts between the blacks and whites in the same community where justice has upheld my one of the central character called atticus.

Tom Robinson, a black guy living in the same town called Mayconb was one of the central characters in the movie has been accused of raping a white woman. However, eventually he was convicted as guilty of charge and subjected to unfair justice system by the ignorant majority that have taken part in the jury. But there were other themes that also have significance to its crafts also. Its amazing reality of children's life that is so universal. It created a reality of vividing contention that helps the viewers to understand how the children see and think about the world. It also calls into attention of the activities that children by their vary nature involve in a family. For instance, Scout and Jem who are the central characters have enormous interests in scary yet joyful venture to Boo Radly's house even after being forbidden by their father. It was also important to observe how the children have collected gifts from the tree given by a isolated guy who they never been acquainted with.

The phenomenal curiosity of children is almost inescapable from the viewer's notice in the movie. They were inquisitive in every detail of what has been happening around them. That gives us the idea of their emotional reopens to the world and family relationships. As you will see, if you watch the movie, their father atticuls who has been a significant moral authority to them. He has great influence on how they develop the ideas of people and differences of good and evil that remain in their fantasy world.

The story of the movie has a unique way to tell you about a community and what is going on to its families. It takes us to the journey to reflect on our own childhood fantasy world and the adventures that still remains in our mind a thrill. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Reel History: Johnny Tremain
Nostalgia compelled me to rent Disney's 1957 adaptation of Johnny Tremain. I remember seeing the film in grade school and indeed, some of the visuals from those early screenings left an imprint on my mind whenever I heard the terms "colonial life" and "Revolutionary War." Part of that, I think, is because Johnny Tremain (the movie, not the book) makes the era (1773-1775) seem like a great place for a 10-year old boy to seek adventure and take potshots at the villainous Redcoats. It's a glossed over (some would say "dumbed down) version of Esther Forbe's classic book, and unfortunately, the film, and not the book, is often what many educators choose to incorporate as part of their curriculum when teaching students about the origins of the Revolutonary War.
Aside from that, the film is classic in the Disney sense. Ever notice how 1950s and 60s Disney movies have a distinctive "look" all their own? As a "History Lite" lesson, I suppose the film works on some level. Most of the actors are fine, and some of the set pieces are also nice. The Lexington sequence near the end of the film is probably where young people will begin to pay more attention. Teachers for 6th grade and up might do well to consider Esther Forbe's book over the film, or perhaps "April Morning" by Howard Fast. PS - It's interesting to look at Johnny Tremain and consider that it was made in 1957 with the Cold War in full swing. The Cold War is something that most kids today cannot fully relate to. In the 1950s, Disney no doubt had the current political climate in mind when Johnny Tremain was produced. Youth, freedom, political principles and ideology are recurrent themes throughout the film, and the Revolution serves as a metaphor, ever so subtle, for the struggle against the Reds as well as the Redcoats.

An enjoyable Disney rendition of the cause of the Revolution
This is an enjoyable Disney rendition of the causes of the American Resolution. No, it may not be faithful to the novel, and some of the historical events may not ring true to how they actually happened, however I am sure Disney did not intend them to be. This movie was made in 1957, the same time frame that Davey Crockett played by Fess Parker was made, America was caught up in patriotic fever and Disney was more than happy to serve this up to the viewing public. I did enjoy this movie, and the overall theme it was trying to portray, such as freedom from tyranny, the rights of every man from the wealthy to the silversmiths apprentice. This may not be a movie to analyze the Revolutionary War with, however it is a great starting point to discuss the Revolution with young ones, and those who do not know very much about the American Revolution. An enjoyable film that is recommended to those who like Disney and "light history".

Very Good Movie!!!!
This movie was different than the book for sure, but it was very good. My sister and I bought this movie and we were very satisfied. Excellent casts, great history. This movie deserves five stars, but don't expect it to be like the book.

Weak link
the movie stunk. First of all the movie had all the details mixed up and how could u not have the Famous John hancock or laviinia Lye as a character.In stead of Dove there id some guy named caleb. talk ABout disney making movies they cant meake anything true. i REGRET I BOUGHT IT. 50% OF THE MOVIE WAS ALL mixed up stuff, totaly differnt from the book and the other 30% was bad quality effects even for an old video released.

not good...for shame*tisk**tisk*
I wasn't even a fan of the book, but I know that this movie is terrible. This movie has no elements from the book and this movie hardly deserves a star
My I.Q. (117) plummeted to room temperature....*tisk* ... Read more

Reviews (56)

Superlative!
This is a film that will appeal to children of all ages. A definite MUST, and this is no exaggeration. Secrets and hidden passages abound in Misselthwaite Manor, where orphaned Mary Lennox is to live after coming from India (her parents were killed in a great Indian earthquake which happened a few months earlier in the storyline.) Adding to the depth of the story is an almost absent uncle who lives in the shadow of a tragic past. There is also her sickly cousin of a brat, who just can't stand the sunlight and fresh air. Put in too, impatient Mrs. Medlock, who is your "perfect" housekeeper. And top these with The Secret Garden, a sanctuary where the story finds its turning point from dark and despair to one of life, healing and hope. It is a place where things begin, and not without the efforts of the children, to grow.

There are moral lessons to boot all throughout the story. And for sure, the photography deserves praise. Suberb! Overall a perfect film that deserves a place in a collection. Frances Hodgson Burnett would not have been ashamed to see this film version of her classic novel were she alive today. Don't miss out on this one.

A lovely, wonderfully done film
There are so many wonderful things about this vivid, affecting film: mesmerizing cinmetography, a captivating story, a pretty good script, a very good music score, wonderful acting, even gorgeous flowers! Agneiska Holland does a wonderful job of bringing out all the subtle little points and lavish details of Frances Hosgson Burnett's classic story, and also in getting great performances out of her child actors, particularly from Kate Maberly as Mary, who at the age of ten succeeds remarkably in carrying the whole film. At her most effective when biterly recalling her parents and angrily confronting Colin, also played well by Heydn Prowse, she also makes a believeable transformation into a good, caring little girl as she tends a lovely hidden garden. Maggie Smith also delivers as Mrs. Medlock, the housekeeper who seems to be mean but really is only doing what she thinks best, even if it means locking Mary up and attempting to control Colin's every move. There is not a dud performance to be found here, but those mentioned are the best. The magical qualities in the garden are very apparent here, and wonderfully demonstrated. There are many good film versions of this great book, and some that aren't so good. If you want to own only one, my vote would go to this one, the best of the bunch.

Beautifuly done but "creative" with the plot
This is a beautiful film, there is absolutely no denying that. It is also exceptionally well cast: Mary's transformation from sour little brat to glowing wee lass is completely believable, and the bratty, dour Colin makes a perfect "to the manor born" invalid. My only problem is the liberties taken with the plot.

Having the parents die in an earthquake while Mary is watching is a needless, though minor liberty (though it does mean that the touching line about "there's no one left to come" must be left out). But there was no need to change the plot to make the housekeeper (a wasted Maggie Smith) evil, and the chanting around the campfire is just weird.

The movie is worth watching for the scenery alone, but make sure that you read the book first. It is much better.

Nice Try
I didnt like it. It was not true to the book wich is wonderful.They left out when Mary was in India completely and they interpret the magic Mary and Colin are always talking about all wrong. Also Mary didnt get locked in her room at all. It was a poor job and a great disapointment.

looks like I'll have to explain the part about the chanting
The point of the Indian chanting is the sharing of the culture. Which is one of the things I love about this movie. The message is for all the people to see the difference of culture and ACCEPT it. If you have a certain religious belief and don't agree with it. Just think about your opposite: someone who don't believe in your religion and watches something that has its element. For example someone who isn't a Christian watching " the Crucible" how do you think they feel??? the only thing I don't like about this movie is that it didn't win ANY Oscars. This proves the Oscars are sooo ignorant of its visual beauty and music. screw them!!!! ... Read more

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Produced in 1982, Savannah Smiles tells the story of Savannah, a girl of privilege who runs away from home. She ends up in the company of Boots and Alvie, two ex-convicts on the run. This bumbling duo soon realizes who Savannah is and that a large reward has been offered for her return. They try to give her back, but instead of the parents being grateful, they accuse the two of kidnapping. Boots and Alvie have no choice but to go underground with Savannah, and the three soon become a family whose days are filled with kite flying, home-cooked meals, bedtime stories, and a puppy. But Boots and Alvie know in their hearts they must do the right thing and return Savannah to her parents. For its time, this is a sweet movie filled with innocence and fun. However, in a time when children are told never to go off with strangers, it is hard to justify a movie that glorifies that very thing, no matter how goodhearted the two felons are. (Ages 6 and older) --Peggy Maltby-Etra ... Read more

Reviews (112)

Laughs, Tears and A Lasting Memory
I recommend this movie to anyone who hasn't seen it. It will make you laugh and even cry. Bridgette Andersen portrays Savannah, a child who runs away from home and ends up in the back seat of two criminals' car. Although she seemed to be neglected at home, after she is found by these men she learns to love them and they learn to love her. For two people who didn't do anything honest, they both loved and cared for her as her parents should have. They love her so much, that they must give her back. A wonderful film with a wonderful story and cast!!

When Savannah Smiles I hear The World Saying Hey Loser You W
This is so heartwarming. You'll laugh and cry and just want to snuggle with the kids. Your kids will want to snuggle with you. It's just one of the great films of the 80's. I had seen it, as a child loved it had to find it as an adult to show to my girls. I searched far a wide for a copy and I'm pleased to see they've re-released it. It took me a long time to acquire it but so happy with it. You can get for 17.99 on Amazon. I paid close to 40 dollars for it before the re-release and I'd pay that much for a used copy again in a heart beat. It's just that good. Fall in love with Bootsie, Alvie, and of course Savannah.

Wonderful!
This movie is a must see for everyone. It is an incredibly touching story. I saw this movie when I was 10 years old (I am now 30)and it has remained a favorite.

Savannah Smiles on PFE
I bought this movie because I loved it as a kid and now have 4 girls, I read that the Pacific video was awful, it was certainly not DVD quality but it was like a good VHS video and the sound was kind of low thank Goodness for Bose.... All in all I still cried at the end and I would recommend this video to anyone with a heart....

Not bad guys
The review I just read made it sound as if Savannah just bumped into and left with Boots and Alvie, but she didn't. She was hiding in the back seat of their car, and these two(who are rather short on brains) don't know what to do with her. So in my opinion this isn't suggesting to children that it's o.k. to go off with strangers. Also, kids need to be taught that what happens in movies and in real life are 2 entirely DIFFERENT things!!! ... Read more

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As one of the most respected American independent filmmakers, John Sayles has created a body of work as distinguished in its diversity as for its consistent quality and inspiring originality. He's never been one to march to the commercial beat, but chooses instead to follow his creative impulse wherever it leads him. The Secret of Roan Inish led Sayles to the beautiful and moody West Coast of Ireland; it is a tale of a girl who discovers that her family has been touched by myth and magic throughout the years. Following the death of her mother, young Fiona (Jeni Courtney) is sent to live with her grandparents on the Irish coast across from Roan Inish, the island where her family once lived. She's told stories about the selkies--seals that can turn into humans--who have been connected with Fiona's family over the ages. At first she's not sure if the selkies are real or mythological, but she later realizes that they hold the key to reclaiming her family heritage.

What's remarkable about this film (which Sayles adapted from Rosalie Fry's novel Secret of the Ron Mor Skerry) is that it's not told as a cute fantasy for children, but as a straightforward, unsentimental story of a young girl's family history. That gives the film--which was beautifully photographed by master cinematographer Haskell Wexler--an understated charm that is completely absorbing in its atmosphere and subtle tone. There's magic as well, to be sure--you could almost swear that the seals and seagulls in the film took direction from Sayles as well as any human actor! --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (70)

Magical Irish Tale
The Secret of Roan Innish is a movie unlike any other I have seen. Truly enchanting, haunting, moving, and inspiring, I recommend this movie to anyone who has not lost their sense of childlike wonder, and who remembers fairy tales read on a rainy day.

Roan Innish means Seal Island in Celtic. The story is of a young, orphaned Irish girl determined to uncover her family's secret. Her brother has been missing, and is never mentioned by her traditional and loving grandparents, who are raising her. The intrepid girl uses her detective skills, perseverance, hard work, and all the resources at hand to uncover a mystery greater than she or her grandparents ever imagined.

This is a movie for adults more than children, as the heavy Irish brouge is a bit difficult to translate at first, and the beautiful filmography may seem slow-moving to children. Amazing acting will transport you to a place you have never been and will never forget.

Fiona solves the mystery of the island of Roan Inish
The family of young Fiona (Jeni Courtney) has been touched by tragedy. Her mother has died and no one wants to talk about when her baby brother Jimmy drifted off to sea in his cradle. Fiona is sent to live with her grandfather (Mick Lally) and grandmother (Eileen Colgan) on the coast across from the family's former home on the island of Roan Inish. Everyone from her grandfather to the people she meets in towns have stories to tell young Fiona, about Roan Inish and the selkies, "ceils" who assume human form and can be captured if you but get their skins away from them. Bit by bit Fiona puts the stories of her family and the local legends together until she and her cousin Eamon (Richard Sheridan) finally learn the secret of Roan Inish.

Director John Sayles and cinematographer Haskell Wexler have crafted a simple story, told in leisure about a young girl who believes in her heart long before she has evidence for her eyes. Besides any film that involves a young man having to be tied between two cows for warmth after the sea refuses to drown him is obviously a film worth seeing. Then there all those lilting Irish accents and their wonderful way of coming up with a phrase to describe each situation. Add to this the wonderful soundtrack of Irish music and the captivating mystery and I do not think you will have to worry that the relatively slow pace of the film will lose the interest of your children. They too will want to learn if their suspicions about the island's secret are correct. "The Secret of Roan Inish" is a delightful family film, of the sort we will all agree they simply do not make enough of any more.

Magic!
An absolutely beautiful story building on legends from the west coast and the islands. Captures the magic of the legends better than anything has since my storytimes with an old West Kerry grand uncle.
Beautifully acted by an excellent cast despite the distraction of Judi Courtney's northern accent when the rest of the family have southern accents.
The Selkie is well played by Susan Lynch who has been in many other films including Ned Devine

What a beautiful film
This film was so gorgeous...the scenery was breathtaking. Though I was a bit confused at times about the plot (now I understand it more), overall it was a spectacular piece of cinema. Lovely.

The Secret of Roan Inish
The movie made me want to GO to Ireland - to go to Inishmore (the island off the west coast).
It's a good movie - if someone is interested in Irish folklore, by all means get it!
Oh, I FINALLY did go to Ireland, and Inishmore a few weeks ago, and saw the seals playing on the beach! It's just as beautiful (and mysterious) as the movie! ... Read more

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When a mistreated beagle pup follows 11-year-old Marty Preston (BlakeHeron) home one day, it sparks a passion in the boy that leads him into aweb of moral and emotional turmoil. Marty knows the dog belongs to hisirascible neighbor, Judd Travers (a spittin' mean performance by ScottWilson); he also knows Judd breaks local gaming laws and abuses hishounds. But Marty's father (Michael Moriarty) is a stickler for the firstrule of pet ownership: he who owns the pet rules the pet. Marty seeksadvice from the wise Doc Wallace (Rod Steiger), who tells the boy abouthis own struggle to claim legal guardianship over his granddaughterfollowing her parents' death. The story inspires Marty to fight for thecreature he has come to love. With a believable blend of nerve,conviction, and a hint of fear, Marty works every angle to beg, buy, or(finally) strike a trade with Travers to save Shiloh. While its pace runsa bit slow, the film provides a thoughtful lesson in weighing right andwrong and should appeal to families with children under 12. Based on theNewbery Award-winning book Shiloh, by PhyllisReynolds Naylor. --Liane Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Very good but doesn't follow book
We loved the movie very much...my 9 and 5 year old girls loved it, especially the ending. We didn't find it too scary at all.

However, both my 9 year old and I enjoyed the book far more...it gave such a deeper insight into Marty's heart, and into the world of a boy and his dog. We were both very affected by the book; it made an impression on us that the movie did not.

I especially did not like the addition of another child, a girl, into the story. It seemed Hollywood wanted to add a little childhood flirting to make the movie more sellable. That just served as a distraction from this fine story. There were many differences from the book, but this was the one that irked me.

It still was a very good movie with a heartwarming ending. If you haven't read the book, you'll like it even more cause you won't be comparing differences.

This is a dog-lover's story - I love beagles!
The movie is good and kept the class of 3rd graders attention and interest. However, we were all disappointed with the movie not following the book...characters, some storyline, and ending is so very different. The book was an Newberry Award winning book - wish Hollywood would not have made the changes.

Good family film but not true to the Newbery winning book!!!
Although the film is not true to the book, it is still a wonderful family film. I recommend that you read the book before watching this video. We all loved the book and were surprised with the changes made in the film, especially the ending.
The book was great as written and feel that the changes made in the film detracted from the story.

If you are looking for a good family film and have not read the book you will not be disappointed.

Cruel. 15th april 2004.
A loving story about a boy who finds a young beagle pup on the shiloh bridge. The first thing he says to him is to go back home, but when he sees the mark on his eye he starts to wonder who is been terribly cruel to him. He decides on shiloh for his name cos he found him on the shiloh bridge. He tries to work round his dad to let him keep him, but he ie determined to give him back to judd travers. The boy becomes attached to the dog so he is doing everything he can to keep him. A LOVING STORY.

Shiloh without a soul
As I watched this movie, I felt like somebody explained the plot to the film producers, but they never read the book. The movie is missing everything that made the book special: the sense of ruralness and poverty (it looks like middle class or higher), the childhood innocence, and most important, the insights into human nature. I don't want to spoil it, but the lesson learned in the movie is unrelated to the lesson in the book, and possibly contradictory. If you love the book, the movie will disappoint you. Having said that, my 7-year-old enjoyed both. Adults may not enjoy it so much. I was sad that they wasted such a good book. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Shirley Temple's First, and Best
Most of Shirley Temple's films are so corny, you wonder how one release kept leading to yet another. "Little Miss Marker", which was remade many times over the years, is the easy answer. It was Shirley's first movie and, yes, she's an orphan from the very start. But thanks to Damon Runyan, a wonderful cast led by Adolph Menjou, and a very original story line (again, thank you Mr. Runyan), the start of the Shirley Temple series is a comical, off-beat delight that surpasses the distilled maple syrup of her later efforts, enjoyable though they may be. Only in the early thirties would you find such a movie as this, and in no other film does the neat and dapper Adolph Menjou play such an unrepentant, but soft-hearted, slob (seeing this alone is worth the price of the movie). It would be great if Hollywood had not lost the knack for making films like this. If you don't like Shirley Temple that much, but you'd like to know what all the noise was about, you'll like this one.

VINTAGE TEMPLE
While making this film, Adolphe Menjou remarked about Shirley: "She's Ethel Barrymore at six! This heartwarming story stars Temple as the title character, who is left with bookie Sorrowful Jones (Menjou) as the IOU for a gambling debt. When her father doesn't return, it's up to Jones and his racetrack cronies to make a home for the wee tyke. The Damon Runyon story is cute and clever with the actors even portraying characters out of King Arthur to pacify Shirley; children from the ages of 5-105 will be tempted to watch these expertly COLORIZED Temple films which are still appealing to all who are young at heart! The now - forgotten Dorothy Dell had in this her best role; she had a promising future in the movies until she tragically met her death via a car accident later in the year.

Too Cute !!!!
This is a great movie for all Shirley Temple fans . Shirley plays a curly topped orphan who starts out as a sweet little girl who loves fairies and King Arthur and turns into a little mug and says things like "lay off me" and "that would be somethin'." The only thing that would keep you from buying this movie is Shirley does not tap dance or do much singing in the movie. The only song she does is " Son of a Gun." Still she is very cute in this movie and it shows one of her earlier roles.

Poor Little Rich Girl
This movie is the type of movie that children should be watching today. It had some educational back ground in it. Where Shirley was presued by a man and wanting her to go with him to buy candy. If the parents are watching this movie with the children they can point out what was wrong when she started to go with him. Other than that the movie was fun to watch and a delight to see a movie without swearing. As in all of her movies she can light up your day and at the same time make you cry.

Shirley Shines
What a fun movie!!! Shirley plays a precocious little girl who wins the hearts of a bunch of gamblers. You laugh and you cry. It is heartwarming and fun! She wins your heart from the beginning! I just LOVE this movie! ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1935, an 8-year-old orphaned boy is sent to live in the Tennessee mountains with his grandparents. He doesn't yet know that he is half Cherokee, on his grandmother's side. As he learns about life and the Cherokee "way" from his grandparents, Little Tree's sensitivity to nature and to others grows.

At first it might seem easy to dismiss this movie as hokey, especially when Little Tree's Scottish grandfather teaches him to make whiskey and he befriends a dog. But the film gains emotional power when Little Tree becomes close to an older Cherokee who tells him about the Trail of Tears. When the government places Little Tree in an Indian school, where he is abused physically and psychologically, the tough issue of the forced assimilation of Native Americans isn't glossed over. Excellent performances and a gripping story make this well worth watching with children ages 8 and up.

An interesting side note: Forrest Carter, who wrote the book the movie is based on, was a one-time KKK member and speechwriter for George Wallace. It's hard to imagine how a former white supremacist could write such a moving tale about racism. Despite the controversy surrounding Carter, this sensitive film deserves to be taken on its own terms. --Elisabeth Keating ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Tale Of Lost Opportunity
Like another movie I recently watched and commented upon, "The Education Of Little Tree", is not a five star film, but it becomes one when its message is included. James Cromwell, Tantoo Cardinal, Joseph Ashton, Mika Boorem, and Graham Greene all give wonderful performances. Joseph and Mika are both young children, so their performances are all the more worthy of praise.

The Native Americans that are included in this film are The Cherokee People, and their story, including, "The Trail Of Tears", play a prominent role. Like other Native Americans, The Cherokee lived without destroying the land and the wildlife they coexisted with. They only used what they needed, greed did not drive them to exploit nature and destroy her, as we and our ancestors have, and continue to do.

The movie is beautifully filmed in the mountains of Tennessee, and the director took the time to capture the natural beauty that European settlers were to exploit and ruin. It's true some of this beauty still exists, but is largely because it has become national parkland, rather than having been left unmolested out of respect for its intrinsic value. Poignant moments are frequent in this film, and one is certainly when a young boy who is half Cherokee is sent off to a Dickensian nightmare of a school to be abused because of his, "Indian Blood". Upon his arrival he is stripped of his Native American name and given an, "American replacement", Joshua. It appears that biblical names were originally written for re-naming true Americans.

Graham Greene is a familiar face to many moviegoers and he is a pleasure to watch in this film. Tantoo Cardinal who plays the role of the young boy's Cherokee grandmother is also wonderful.

The movie does not resolve its tale on a completely happy note, nor one of complete despair. As it has in real life, time has shown all that was lost when Genocide was carried out against Native Americans as federal government policy. Had good judgment, and lack of stupefying greed worked to integrate the newcomers to this country with the natives that were here, I have little doubt our country would be better for it, and the facts of the country's history would not include the genocide of those people we deemed to be in our way.

Inspiring
I fell in love with the Smokies as a child when we'd go to Virginia every summer to visit my dad's family. I've been back to Tennessee numerous times as an adult and never tire of the beautiful scenery. The movie dealt with things dearest to my heart: The Smokies, the old ways, spirituality. I'm inspired by it, and as someone else said, I've watched the movie twice since I rented it and plan to watch it with another loved one tomorrow. It's the kind of movie you want to share with the people closest to you because, like Little Tree's grandma said in the movie, when you come on something good in life you gotta share it with someone else so the good can just keep on going.

Charming and Simple
I loved the mountains in this movie. I don't know if it was filmed in the Appalacian mountains or somewhere else, but I want to go there. To have a grandma and grandpa so loving and spiritual would be such joy for any child. Little Tree has Indian blood in him from his grandma and White blood from his grandpa. His parents die and he lives with them in the mountains. They educate him with love and wisdom. The simplicity of truth. I felt awestruck by such simple honesty and the beauty of nature. It seems Little Tree kept his grandparents with him throughout his life, holding him in his spirit as they held him within theirs. Looking at the Dog Star and knowing, really knowing that he could be heard. What a feeling of saftey. This movie weaves that safe warmth as you view it.

Lisa Nary

Insight of orphaned natives
I loved this movie because my Hopi grandfather had a similar story but had nobody to raise him, and in desperation he asked an immigrant farmer in Phoenix to raise him. He ran away from the indian boarding school or orphanage because of the abuse. This movie is so moving and beautiful that it is a must have if you have can or cannot relate.

A Movie With Heart
As a Native American I am well aware of all the blatant stereotyping out there. What I like about this movie is the underlayment of good values. Yes, there is the moonshining, and it was illegal and booze has definitely had a detrimental effect on all races of people. However, this just showed that people during those times were really scrapping to keep their lives going. The Grandparents were not sitting around drinking. As with Casinos, they were selling their product to Dominant culture people. No, I am not a drinker and I teach abstinance.A perfect moment if parents are watching with their kids(as they should), to field children's thoughts about it. Do some teaching.
I wonder how many people know that during the Depression when other races of people were just hungry and homeless, Indian peoples across America- some people literally starved to death. On the bottom economically. Only 75 years ago! In our country?

The connection of the people to the land and nature was very evident, but, understated, and they were not stereotyped as turning into mystical beings, but, rather, being one with the beauty around them- poor but rooted there. My humble Grandparents also took me to rock ledges and the woods to pray. Showed reverence for all living things.

Someone has mentioned that characters were stereotyped as typical of mountain people. I would like to say that one of the reasons I like this movie is that I was very moved by the way a filmmaker set down scenes and family interractions that I experienced. There are people still alive who I have known well, who are good nurturing souls like the Grandparents and John Willow. Even now, in Hollers and on country cowpaths, there are folks like these, believe me. So much hurt and antifamily abuse came out of so many Indians going off to Indian boarding schools. But, here and there, and where I am from, there are pockets of country Indians, registered tribal people, living in harmony. Holding us together.

Could have been my grandma's cabin,inside and out, or my adopted Dad and Mom. There was much good said in this movie, and implied, about traditional values of kindness and caring. About family, friends, and how if an Indian child does not have relatives, they are given relatives and taken care of. The Ongoing, the future of the community. Closeness to the land.

I marvel that the author of the book from which this movie is loosely adapted, had dubious racial ties. I do not support the KKK in anyway, but, the movie reflects the moviemakers,not the book author, and I do not believe that people like American Indian stars Tantoo Cardinal and Graham Greene would have supported a movie that they did not find worthy. Blessings and Balance. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A lyrical and nostalgic film from director Robert Redford (Quiz Show, Ordinary People), based on the popular autobiographical novel by Norman MacLean, A River Runs Through It shows the best that modern filmmaking has to offer. The film chronicles two brothers coming of age in early-20th-century Missoula, Montana, under the stern tutelage of their minister father, played by Tom Skerritt (Top Gun). Their father instills in them a love of fly fishing, which for one brother (Brad Pitt) becomes a lifelong passion even as he sets out to become a newspaperman and struggles with his addiction to gambling. The other brother, Norman (Craig Sheffer), dreams of exploring the world outside of Missoula as he falls in love with a local girl (Emily Lloyd) who also dreams of broader horizons. Soon one brother must discover the true meaning of family loyalty when the other finds himself in deeper trouble than ever before. Redford, who also narrates the film, does a masterful job in re-creating the period and in drawing out affecting performances from his young cast. An Oscar winner for Philippe Rousselot's luminescent cinematography, this is a poignant and special film. --Robert Lane ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Another Directorial Accomplishment
Robert Redford won an Oscar for his direction of, "Ordinary People", in 1980. He has since directed films like, "Quiz Show", and this film, "A River Runs Through It", with consummate skill. He also founded The Sundance Film Festival which now routinely introduces new talent in all aspects of the making of movies on an annual basis.

His only direct presence is the narration he does at various times during this movie. It also does not take a great deal of imagination to see in the actor Brad Pitt, of 11 years ago, a man that bears a remarkable resemblance to Redford himself. This story of the zeal with which aficionados dedicate themselves to the art of fly fishing is a beautiful film to watch. Redford puts Montana on the screen in such a way as to make virtually anyone desirous of having a home amongst the mountains.

The story is much more than a feast for the eyes as the story of a minister's two sons, who are strictly raised, ultimately have such divergent lives, both in type and length. This is not a very happy story, although it has moments of pure joy that balance tragedy as well as tragedy can hope to be balanced. One of the best examples is when Brad Pitt as Paul does battle with a prize catch in one of their favorite rivers. To say he almost fights the fish in its world as opposed to his own is not much of a stretch, and it is wonderfully filmed.

Robert Redford has made his place amongst the legends of the film industry, and he has done this by not only appearing in front of the camera, but behind it as well.

Cinematic Poetry.
I don't think anybody who has ever visited the American West, particularly the north-western states of Montana and Wyoming, hasn't come away deeply impressed with the majestic beauty of their mountains, rivers, streams, endless skies, prairies and meadows. Many probably went home to find that the photos they took, trying to immortalize their impressions, just didn't seem to do justice to the real thing, and wishing they possessed the craft to adequately capture the region's beauty in images, whether literary or visual. Robert Redford has succeeded to combine words and pictures in this stunning adaptation of Norman Maclean's 1976 autobiographical novella "A River Runs Through It."

Set in early 20th century rural Montana, this is the coming-of-age story of the author and his brother Paul, sons of a Scottish Presbyterian minister who raised them with both love and sternness and instilled in them, more than anything else, an understanding for the divine beauty of their land, symbolized by and culminating in a fly fisherman's skill in casting his rod, and his ability to become one with the river in which he fishes. For, in Norman Maclean's words, in their family "there was no clear line between religion and fly fishing;" and growing up, the brothers came to believe quite naturally that Jesus's disciples themselves must have been fly fishermen, too; and that consequently every good fly fisherman is closer to the divine than any other human.

But while they were united by their love for their native land and its rivers and fish, the brothers couldn't have been any more different on a personal level. And thus, this is also a story of brotherly (and parental) love and loss, of the inability to communicate, and of dreams and aspirations nurtured and fatally disappointed. While disciplined, sensible Norman (Craig Sheffer) left Montana for a six-year college education at Dartmouth and ultimately - after having temporarily returned home and taken a bride - to assume a teaching position at the University of Chicago, rebellious Paul (Brad Pitt in a truly career-defining role) knew that he would never leave his home state and "the fish he had not yet caught;" and opted for a journalist's life instead. But ultimately he wasn't able to fight the demons that possessed him; and his parents and brother had to stand by and helplessly watch him embark on a path of self-destruction, reduced to comments on symbolic matters like Paul's decision to change the spelling of their last name by capitalizing the "L" ("Now everybody will think we are Lowland Scots," scorned their father), where to open topicalize their concerns would have destroyed the careful equilibrium of mutual respect, love, hope, caution and guardedness characterizing their relationship. And so, only after Paul's death could his father tell a hesitant Norman that he knew more about his brother than the fact that Paul had been a fine fisherman: "He was beautiful" - and mourn in a sermon, even later, that all too frequently, when looking at a loved one in need, "either we don't know what part of ourselves to give or, more often than not, the part we have to give is not wanted. And so it is those we live with and should know who elude us. But we can still love them. We can love completely, without complete understanding."

Craig Sheffer and Brad Pitt are perfectly cast as the earnest, reasonable Norman and his maverick brother Paul, who relies on his innate toughness in his fateful attempt to take life to its limits and still beat the devil, but who also turns the casting of a fishing line into an art form that makes a rainbow rise from the water, and who with his greatest-ever catch stands before his father and brother "suspended above the earth, free from all its laws, like a work of art." Moreover, this movie reunited Robert Redford with Tom Skerritt, with whom he had first shared the screen in the 1962 Korean war drama "War Hunt" (both actors' big-screen debut), and who gives a finely-tuned, sensitive performance as the Reverend Maclean. Notable are also the appearances of Brenda Blethyn as Mrs. Maclean and Emily Lloyd as Norman's bride-to-be Jessie. But the movie's true star is Montana itself, particularly its rivers and streams; every frame of Philippe Rousselot's Academy Award-winning cinematography and every sweep of the camera over Montana's magnificent landscape, and along the silver bands of its rivers with their gurgling cataracts and waves curling softly against their banks, powerful testimony to Robert Redford's genuine love and respect for the West and for nature in general; the causes closest to his heart and matched in importance only by his efforts to promote a movie scene outside of Hollywood. And Redford himself assumes the (uncredited) role of the narrator, thus bringing to the screen Norman Maclean's lyrical language and uniting words and pictures in an audiovisual sonnet, subtly accentuated by Mark Isham's gentle score.

Both movie and novella end with the lines that have given the story its title: "[I]n the half-light of the canyon, all existence fades to a being with my soul; and memories, and the sounds of the Big Blackfoot River, and a four-count rhythm, and the hope that a fish will rise. Eventually, all things merge into one; and a river runs through it. The river was cut by the world's great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some of the rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words, and some of the words are theirs" - those of Norman Maclean's now-lost loved ones; those he "loved and did not understand in [his] youth." As we have had to learn, it is not only human life that is terminal; even nature itself (including, incidentally, the Macleans' beloved Big Blackfoot River) is not immune to destruction by human carelessness. This movie is a powerful plea to all of us not to wait until it has become too late.

The ONLY Movie I Have Ever Cried To !
A River Runs Through It is a stunning accomplishment for Robert Redford. The story is captivating, and yet one of the saddest movies I've ever seen.

This movie will produce feelings that will linger with you long after the ending credits !

Transendentalism (sp.?)
Way back in English Lit, University of Oregon, 25 years ago, I remember one idea that that once something achieves perfection in anything, it self distructs, always. A near perfect chair exists, a near perfect painting, a near perfect poem, a near pefect fly fisherman. But none of these exist in a perfect form. There is only one perfection and to attempt to mimimic it assures distruction.

This movie portrays that notion, just fine.

Beautiful cinema
This movie has some amazing cinematography. I've only been to Montana as a kid for very little time, but I wish I could visit again. The movie is about two different brothers brought up in Montana their father plays an important role in the movie also. There are scenes of fly fishing in this movie that are worth the price of admission. Also this film is well narrated by Robert Redford, it never distracted me and that's hard to do with a star that has such a familar voice, but it fits in so well. A gem, that may not be for all action film fans but a drama that will please many. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Steve Zaillian, the Oscar-winning screenwriter ofSchindler's List, made his directorial debut with this critically acclaimed but little-seen drama based on thenonfiction book by Fred Waitzkin, about a father (Joe Mantegna) who discovers that his seven-year-old son (Max Pomeranc) is a genius at playing chess. The boy plays chess for fun, but when he's tutored by a former champion (Ben Kingsley) and entered into high-pressure competitions, an enjoyable pastime becomes a source of tension and resentment, forcing the father to reconsider his parental priorities. A poignant study of the difference between parental idealism and proper parenting, the movie is also an observantly witty portrait of a precocious child who is still, after all, a child, and still eager for the joyful discoveries of youth. While offering a fascinating look into the world of competitive chess, the movie's dramatically engrossing and extremely well-acted by a brilliant cast that also includes David Paymer, William H. Macy, and Dan Hedaya in memorable supporting roles. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (61)

Check Mate
This is one of the most touching movies ever written. It has so many special undertones and hidden messages, making for a very pleasurable movie-watching experience.

Joe Mantegna discovers his seven year-old son, Josh played by Max Pomeranc, has a gift for playing chess. He sees his son's talent, and the enter the world of chess tournaments, behind the guidance of tutor, Ben Kingsley. Before long, he becomes the number one child chess player, and is seemingly unstoppable. Conversely, Josh merely wants to be a "normal" boy and just wants to have the love and admiration of his family instead of countless trophies, so he soon loses his edge for the chess world.

The cast is astonishing. Lawrence Fishburn, one of the most underated actors of our time, plays a wonderful "street smarts" chess player. Add in cameos by Dan Hedaya, David Paymer, and William H. Macy, who I can't watch on the silver screen without saying "Ah, Gees," and you have one entertaining film.

This is a truly wonderful movies, with lots of depth. It is not so much about chess as it is about finding one's inner strength and character in the face of adversity and high-pressure challanges. The acting is superb, and the chess tournament scenes are, in fact, riveting. This film is a can't miss.

A film for the whole family
A heart-warming, feel good movie that introduces you to Josh Waitskin (Max Pomeranc), a 7-year-old chess enthusiast. Not only is he enthusiastic, he is a brilliant player that uses combinations that only the most advanced players would dare to try. The best part is Josh is just an everyday kid with a good heart. He has never been schooled in the techniques of the advanced rules of competition that accompany the game. Josh lacks the "killer instinct", and he finds himself up against kids whose lives are warped by their obsession for the game.

Ben Kingsley plays the chess teacher hired by his dad to coach him in the ways of this competitive world where many of the moves are based on games played by such greats as Bobby Fischer. Laurence Fishburn's role introduces the flip side of the spectrum, a street player who plays for money in Washington Square, and shoots from the hip. Conflict is bound to ensue when oil meets water and it certainly does.

Director Steven Zallian, interlaces live footage of Bobby Fischer's genius which Josh narrates, adding an interesting aspect to the possibilities and incredible vigor behind the competition that these kids are up against. Based on a true story, this was a great movie for the whole family, with life lessons to be learned. I highly recommend it. Kelsana 6/19/02

chess at it's best
A classic movie that will inspire any level of chess player

This film blows chunks!
Awful film that is totally pretentious. I mean this rich parents are SO New York its disgusting. Nothing but the best for their kid. First of all as of today Josh is not even rated in the top 2000 players in the world and Judit Polgar can kick his butt all over the chessboard. But the scenes in this film are God-awful and ben kingsley acts like Ghandi in this one- like hes reprising his Ghandi role here with that bull accent of his. Pass on this mess of a film thats so bad even cable wont show it anymore.

a good movie about a good thing
This movie is really good. It got me interested in chess when I first saw it, and now I am one of the top scholastic chess players in my state. It has really good music and really good actors, and the story is good. I also read the book about the real thing, and the movie is pretty close to the book. Overall it is a super good movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When her father is declared missing in action during World War I, Elsie Wrigth (Florence Hoath) goes to live in England with her cousin Frances Griffiths (Elizabeth Earl) for whom the topic of fairies is forbidden. Immediately, the girls discover the winged creatures in the garden and photograph them for Frances's startled parents. This leads to another kind of adventure for the girls. They become the toasts of London as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Peter O'Toole) and Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel), who have seen the photographs, escort them around town. Mildly villainous reporters chase the girls and curious spectators invade their garden after the pictures are printed publicly.

Although fairies are the visible subjects, the enchanting video is really about faith. Frances's parents (Phoebe Nicholls and Paul McGann) recently lost their son, Joseph, who had originally discovered the fairies and would like to think he may be an angel. Sir Arthur also lost his son and is courted by clairvoyants who claim they can talk to the boy. Elsie waits patiently for her father to come home, although it appears hopeless that he will. Harry Houdini is an illusionist but acts against the fraudulent claims of greedy mediums and the like. They are all touched by a need to truly believe in what remains hidden. The story is very loosely based on an early 20th-century controversy involving the real Frances and Elsie who faked pictures of fairies similar to the ones in the video. The real girls never confessed, but the video suggests the manner in which the real life photos may have been produced. --Margaret Griffis ... Read more

Reviews (36)

"If You Believe in Fairies...Clap Your Hands!"
I saw "Fairy Tale - A True Story", when it had it's theatrical release and I was utterly charmed and moved by this wonderful movie. I am so glad that it has finally been released to the DVD format.The story is based upon the true life events surrounding the famous and sensational 'Cottingly fairies photographs'.The film takes place during the dark days of WWI Britain. A young Elsie Wright (Florence Hoath) is sent off to live with relatives, because her father is 'missing in action'.Elsie becomes fast friends with her twelve year old, cousin, Frances (Elizebeth Earl) both of whom seem to have a playful fascination with the subject of fairies. One day the girls borrow an old camera and go off to a local brook to take pictures. When the photographs are later developed, they show images of what seem to be real, live fairies!Through a series of events the photographs fall into the famous hands of Sherlock Holmes Writer, Sir Author Conan Doyle (Pete O'Toole) and Magician & Escape Artist, Harry Houdini (Harvey Keitel). Doyle publishes the photographs in a national magazine and causes a sensation throughout the country.Are the pictures real or did these two young girls pull off the hoax of the century? The movie puts it's own twist on the facts and attempts to come up with some very interesting answers.Director, Charles Sturridge and Screen Writer, Ernie Contreras have created a magical and moving film about the subject of faith. Sometimes if you believe in something hard enough, maby it can come true. This is found throughout the film. It applies to everything from the belief in the unseen (such as fairies, spirits of love ones), the return of a father, or even the faith needed to win a brutal war.The acting in this movie is splendid.I especially like the casting of the two girls (Florence Hoath & Elizebeth Earl). Even in the unusual situations, that occur, they both act like normal, everyday, children. Not a false note in their performances.The film's special effects are also great. They are well done and realistic (flying miniature fairies), yet do not overwhelm the story.This is greatly aided by cinematographer , Michael Coulter's beautiful photography, which highlights both the colors found in nature (the woods and brook) and the light and darkness of urban, Victorian England. All these elements come together to make a wonderful fantasy film, which I highly recommend!

"Fairytale:A True Story" absolutely wonderful-A MUST SEE!
For young and old alike,this delightful film has it all! Based on the true story of two young girls who claim to have seen fairies in England during WW1,"Fairytale:A True Story" features superb acting throughout,especially Elizabeth Earl and Florence Hoath as Francis Griffiths and Elsie Wright, whose fairy sightings stir up quite a bit of controversy throughout wartime England. Among the people caught up in the excitement are Sir Arthur Conan Doyle,brilliantly portrayed by Peter O"Toole and Harry Houdini,featuring Harvey Keitel in one of his finest performances. Paul McGann and Phobe Nicols are also wonderful as Elsie's parents. I really can't say enough about this film. Brilliantly cast and beautifully photographed,it is enchanting entertainment from beginning to end. The film score is even well worth the price if you can still find the CD! This film is not your average children's movie and I have read alot of reviews that ask weather this film was aimed at children or adults.This could very well be why it was not more of a commercial success.A pity, because I believe this film offers something for all ages.I also regret that I have not seen Florence Hoath in many other roles,save for "The Governess" and I haven't seen Elizabeth Earl at all-they deserve more recognition!

Don't Let This One Pass By
This amazing film is about two little girls who, with no photographic experience, take photos of Fairies. Kodak examines the photos and says they are untouched, but refuses to acknowledge the existance if these little sprites. In come two of my personal heroes, Sherlock Holmes, because he believes the girls, and Harry Houdini, because he dosn't believe them.
But, reguardless, if you believe, you will be facinated. If you do not believe, you might, just for a moment, question that belief.
Either way, do NOT miss this film!

HORRIBLE
if youre getting this movie for your kid, or any kid, save them the misery. i remember seeing this movie the day it came out, and it was so awful i fell asleep, along with about 5 other kids in the theater. it was by far the WORST movie i have ever seen in my entire life, even worse than that planet of the apes movie. and trust me, i have seen almost every movie that comes out. spare your kids the pain and spare yourself some money. DONT get this movie for them.

Charming little movie
This movie is a gentle story, one that the whole family can watch. Doesn't have much in the way of action, vulgarity or even scimpily dressed faires. The fairies are not a huge part of this story anyway. The story is about two young cousins who concoct a tale about some fairy sightings. This "true" story happened during WWI in England. The story also shows what happens to a small country town when they receive some unwanted publicity after the girls' photos are anonymously published in a leading magazine. It is an interesting tale, charming and cute. People who like trashy, faster movies won't like this one. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A great movie for kids who like seals
I remember watching this movie back when it first premiered on television, and now, years later, I watched it again. I enjoyed it both times. A family decides to take in a seal as a pet once they find it on the verge of death. Two people in the family, the father and the youngest kid, get attached to the seal, but they both know that the seal, named Andre, cannot stay there forever.

"Andre" is one of the best family movies that I've seen in awhile. Andre is a smart seal that can be both entertaining and hilarious at the same time. I'm not a kid anymore, but I can see where "Andre" is best suited for kids. A little girl is the one that mainly takes care of and hangs around Andre, so when kids watch it, they'll probably be imagining themselves raising a seal. As a matter of fact, you shouldn't be surprised if they ask for a seal or if they want to go to the zoo right after they watch this movie.

If you have any kids that like seals, or if you just need a great family movie that you can sit down and watch over and over with your kids, niece, nephew, etc., I recommend getting "Andre."

A great movie for kids who like seals
I remember watching this movie back when it first premiered on television, and now, years later, I watched it again. I enjoyed it both times. A family decides to take in a seal as a pet once they find it on the verge of death. Two people in the family, the father and the youngest kid, get attached to the seal, but they both know that the seal, named Andre, cannot stay there forever.

"Andre" is one of the best family movies that I've seen in awhile. Andre is a smart seal that can be both entertaining and hilarious at the same time. I'm not a kid anymore, but I can see where "Andre" is best suited for kids. A little girl is the one that mainly takes care of and hangs around Andre, so when kids watch it, they'll probably be imagining themselves raising a seal. As a matter of fact, you shouldn't be surprised if they ask for a seal or if they want to go to the zoo right after they watch this movie.

If you have any kids that like seals, or if you just need a great family movie that you can sit down and watch over and over with your kids, niece, nephew, etc., I recommend getting "Andre."

Wild about Harry
The movie is captivating, and the acting is good, but nobody seems to be able to imitate the coastal Maine accent right, and Andre was a wild Harbor seal, not a trained sea lion. I lived near Boston in the 70s, and Andre was quite the celebrity every October when he arrived at the New England Aquarium, and every TV news station tracked his progress when he left in the spring, based on eyewitness reports. He was a real charmer who knew how to work a crowd. He was a wild seal, but his heart belonged to Harry, and his love for Harry always took him back to Rockport year after year. I saw Andre perform 3 times, including his last performance, when he half-heartedly did a few tricks then raced out to sea for the last time. For me, the movie wasn't as good as the real thing. But if you never saw Andre, and you want a well-done, funny, heartwarming family movie, this is it. Enjoy!

Great Kids Film
Andre is the story of a girl and her pet SEAL! The story is fresh and alive, starring Tina Majorino(Alice In Wonderland,Waterworld) as Andre's owner...owner? More like friend. This film is reminiscient of Free Willy, but made for a younger audience. However, as a family film, if you watch it pass the kleenex, as the last third of the movie rolls. I like this movie, and so do my kids.

andre-i thought it would be good, but no
andre more like bad. i mean come on that scene where the cow flew that was totally fake. and that one part where the dog made that dunk, come on, and when the guy shot ghandi that was totally unfair

yes i realize these are parts from twister, air bud, and ghandi
but when rolled into one you get this movie, Andre, i would rather jump off of the grand canyon than watch this one. my recomendation----NO WAY ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The best SANTA I ever did see
This is the best Santa Claus I have ever seen. Are you sure Mr. Seidelman didn't go to North Pole and hire the real one?

Rediscover Christmas..
This movie explores the Christmas spirt and unconditional love through the eyes of a child, as he tries to get the one present that he truely wnts for Christmas.

hfd
100 ... Read more

Amazon.com

When his beloved grandfather passes away, fifth-grade Catholic schoolboy Joshua (Joseph Cross) has a crisis of faith. He asks both the nuns and his parents (Denis Leary and Dana Delany) difficult questions as he sets out on a mission: to find God and make sure his grandfather is OK. As if that weren't enough, he also has to contend with schoolyard bullies, the sudden appeal of girls, needy schoolmates, and the recklessness of his best friend David (Timothy Reifsnyder). Though the precociousness of the children is a little hard to believe, there's a genuine feeling and a surprising complexity of thought about faith that makes Wide Awake unexpectedly affecting. Despite the largeness of the theme, the movie is made up of small images and gentle humor, which keep it grounded in reality and consistently engaging. The strong supporting cast includes Julia Stiles (10 Things I Hate About You), Camryn Mannheim (Happiness, TV's The Practice), and Rosie O'Donnell (A League of Their Own, The Flintstones, Harriet the Spy), as a nun who explains the Bible with sports metaphors. A pleasantly subtle comedy from M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense). --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (39)

A great movie about God and the innonence of childhood...
...it was a wonder why Wide Awake was not more popular in the box office. This is one of the most beautiful movies I have ever seen! Joshua is a ten year old boy who has just lost his grandfather and is doubting the existence of God. In his mission to find God in order to ask about his grandfather, Joshua learns about the lessons of life and how to become a better human being. Finally, when all hope is lost, Joshua finds God in the last place he ever expected to look. Joseph Cross gives and excellent performance as Joshua and Rosie O' Donnell is as brilliant as always. If society were more intertested in movies like these, instead of action movies with special effects, we would all try to look for the good in people and maybe find ourselves as Joshua did. END

"I'm wide awake now,"
M. Night Shyamalan directed this comedic effort. Who knew? What a far cry from his popular and critically acclaimed SIXTH SENSE! Or perhaps not. The two films may seem drastically different, but look closely. Shyamalan is quite adept when it comes to seeing through the eyes of a child. This skill certainly materialized when THE SIXTH SENSE introduced us to young Cole Sear. Now, in WIDE AWAKE, we see the same sort of materialization with young Joshua (Joseph Cross).

Joshua, despite being a mere 10 years old, is amidst a faith crisis shortly after the death of his beloved grandfather. Throughout the movie, we see many flashbacks of the time spent between Joseph and his grandfather prior to his death, so Shyamalan allows his audience to come to understand how strong their relationship truly is.

Unfortunately, his grandfather's death has affected Joseph in negative ways. He's confused over the existence of God and he's searching for his faith. Also, he's lost much of his independence. We see this every morning when he wakes up and goes to his private school - he can't get up on his own and brush his teeth and dress himself - his parents must help him.

Joshua just wants to contact God to see how his grandfather is faring up in heaven, yet prayer and the Cardinal have been to no avail.

During his religious search, we are introduced to Waldron Academy, his all-boys private school. To some of the public school population, this might seem like a different world.

"Kids in uniforms don't smile much," Joshua says. He narrates the film from beginning to end.

Waldron Academy was an actual school. Now, it is known as Waldron Mercy Academy and has since gone coed. How do I know? I graduated there in the year 2002. Shyamalan is another alumni - he attended when it was all-boys. So, I thought, perhaps some of Joshua's experiences were derived from his own. When filming took place, many Waldron students received the opportunity to be cast as extras.

Some people are surprised this movie didn't do as well in the box office. But you've got to consider the fact that WIDE AWAKE is an independent film - it was released only in certain theatres, very few, actually. I received tickets through my school to see it at the Ritz in downtown Philadelphia.

Joseph Cross does indeed deliver a strong performance, but WIDE AWAKE also has a strong supporting cast. Julia Stiles, then unknown, plays his older sister. Rosie O'Donnell gives a nice, 3-dimensional comedic performance as a nun school teacher at Waldron. Dana Delaney plays his mother, Mrs. Beal. She seems the ideal candidate for that particular role.

WIDE AWAKE is an independent gem. And, unlike some films, it is the type of movie that gets better after each watch, not tedious. It finds the perfect balance between comedy and all-out seriousness during a young boy's journey in the world of faith. He comes out more self-aware, more mature, than the boy he was in the beginning. Audiences will enjoy watching as he undergoes this tranformation.

However, if you hate the idea of religion, are athiest, disregard Jesus, etc., you might find this a bore. Not that you need to be a fundamentalist Christian to enjoy it, either. Religion has evidently played a pivotal role in Shyamalan's life, that's all. This movie speaks volumes of how God has effected him and that, perhaps, in turn can effect audiences.

DIFFICULT QUESTIONS, SIMPLE ANSWERS: ENCHANTING FILM
You know when you catch a late night movie on a film channel and it hooks you on, then you keep watching it, laugh, cry and just purely enjoy it and feel good that you flicked on the channel at the right time? This is one of those movies.

I am not sure why some reviewers lament that it's a pretentious theme. Sure, it's not anything that'd be seen rocking boxoffice records or winning grand prizes, it even has some necessary contrivances. But it moved me, impelled me to think, and impressed me with a number of brilliant moments that are sensitive and engaging without becoming cloying.

Shyamalan is now a familiar name, so I approached his debut effort with high expectations, and while it could be sappy in bits for some people, I'm guilty of having clung on until the very last shot. The writing is taut and the production values are all-round immaculate. I was not disappointed one bit!

If you have kids, this is a fantastic movie to watch because of the sweet yet universal messages it couches. Plus, the kids in the movie are not freckled 10-year old brats, they have thoughts deeper than what you and I give them credit for.

The script is by no stretch of imagination an overly ambitious one, but I highly recommend this underrated gem for its thoughtful dialogue and crisp direction.

The most sensitive, thought-provoking, in my library!
What a perfectly beautiful movie for all ages! I have many VHS & DVD movies, but NOTHING has touched me as much as "Wide Awake". I constantly recommend it to others & have never heard anyone disappointed from having watched it.

I Love This Movie!
Wide awake is my all time favorite movie ever! It Rocks I garentie you will like this movie. All thoe Joshua is looking for god to see if his grandpa is ok up in Heaven, The movie easnt souly (thats not a pun) bassed on the fact that hes looking for god. Its also about Joshua growing up and leaving his childhood behind. And discuvering that theres more to life then just waching cartoons and playing with cars. He also discovers a slytlie scary thing best friend and discovers girls. The movie has something in it that once it ends you will be surprised. Its funny seryus and Loving all at the same time. I urg every one to see this movie. ... Read more

Reviews (49)

A Child's Storytelling Perspective
First of all, this is a story told from a child's perspective. Please also be aware of the audience the story is being told to...Mike's (Tom Hanks) own children. For them to get the point of the story, Mike tells it in a way that children will understand..."How the story is told." The story does not make light of child abuse (as many reviewers have pointed out), it presents it in the way the two brothers dealt with it at the time and their support system (each other and Shane the dog). This is a wonderful story of how the two brothers deal with life's harsher side and how their family (each other and their mother) and their dog meant the world to them. It also presents the brothers' compassion and hope through adversity and physical and emotional pain. A story about how all of us at times, no matter what age, have to make tough decisions. This is tough subject matter to convey in a childrens' story, but this movie accomplishes it in an effective heartfelt way. It does it while preserving, not destroying, hope. Watch this movie with a child's eye and check your adult cynicism at the door. If you find yourself trying to analyze every scene, you're missing the point.

a different view on the ending
I have read many reviews on Radio Flyer, most concerned with the ambiguity of the ending. I saw the movie for the first time a few weeks ago. After watching it, I decided that it had, in fact, been a good movie. It was able to depict many aspects of child abuse, emotionally and physcially, along with the unstableness of the family. However, this alone does not even scratch the surface of the movie's depth. Like I said, after watching the movie, I had decided that it was good. However, if Mike's brother Bobby had flown off and never returned, then where did the turtle in the end come from? The same turtle that they boys had found when they were little, and the same turtle that Bobby took with him on his flight. After this perplexing detail was brought to my attention, I realized that Mike (tom hanks) at the beginning of the movie had said "History is all in the mind of the teller; truth is in the teller". The story recounted by Mike being told to his children was his version of what actually happened to him, and him alone, as a child. After considering this, other facts seemed to make sense. Why had only Bobby been abused? Why hadn't Bobby's flyer ever seem to fail? and for that matter, why hadn't Bobby ever come back? Because Bobby had never existed. In an attempt to escape his own childhood dilemas and tragedies, Mike created an outlet to disguard all his pain. The new idea of this ending made the movie so much better than I had originally perceived it. I'd definitely recommend it, even if it's just to get your own view on the ending :).

deserves one word - WOW
This movie just completely blows me away. It even made my mom tear up. Elijah Wood and Joseph Mazello do an amazing job, and especially at such a young age. And to think that Elijah grew up to do more amazing films like the Lord of the Rings trilogy. But this movie really is superb. Wonderful yet sad story, and by the end it makes you want to call up one of those hotlines for physically abused children and help out. If I could, I'd give it 10 stars.

PLEASE PUT RADIO FLYER ON DVD!!!!!!!
I've been waiting years for Radio Flyer to be released on DVD!!!!! i know many others who want this great story on DVD too... this is a CLASSIC and greatly deserves to be preserved in the newest form of portable video!!!!!

Great movie, don't want my kids to see it
Hey its PG 13. Well everyone else gave away the end. Call me a idiot. I believed he flew away in the wagon. Why (...) would Tom Hanks spend 2 hours at the airport waiting for his brother to show up. Or maybe he was about to go to therapy as the other viewers suggest. The movie is great ... Read more

Amazon.com

Based on the real-life story of disabled soap box derby champion Justin Yoder, this Disney bio-pic manages the difficult trick of balancing earnestness with wit, action with family drama. Frankie Muniz (TV's Malcolm in the Middle) plays Justin, a 12-year-old who accepts the limitations of his spina bifida but still wants to win a trophy like his athlete brother. Rick Rossovich and Molly Hagan are note perfect as his thoroughly likable but flawed parents, and Patrick Levis deftly portrays the difficulties of being a loving older brother who gets fed up always having to play second fiddle to his brother and his disease. Frequent trips into Justin's avid imagination, which provide humor and context, help the film avoid the sentimentality that usually accompanies triumph-over-adversity movies. (For instance, God is a race car driver who wears a T-shirt proclaiming "I don't make mistakes.") The smart script is cheerfully candid about Justin's problems (such as vomiting and lack of bladder control) and honest about the strain a disability puts on a family, but it's packed with enough action to sate the sports-minded viewer. (Ages 6 and older) --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Miracle In Lane 2
Miracle In Lane 2 stars "Malcolm In The Middle's" Frankie Muniz. This is a true story about a boy named Justin Yoder who has to be handicapped for his whole life. Justin Yoder (Frankie Muniz) wants to be like his older brother and play all the kinds of sports. One day Justin (Frankie Muniz) was helping his brother and his brother's friends deliver newspapers when he came across a paper that was talk about the Soap Box derby. Justin asks his parents and his parents don't think it was a good idea because of Justin's condition. The Yoders neighbor helped Justin and his dad build a soapbox car. This is after Justin's parents decide Justin can race. One day while Justin was racing he had to go to the hospital because of an accident when he passed out. The other boy that was racing Justin had to drop out so then Justin got to go to the finals. Once Justin found out that he was going to the finals his brother didn't want Justin to go because he thought Justin would have another accident. Once Justin competes against the last person his family members and his neighbor cheer Justin on while at the end of the race they see that Justin won. That day Justin was excited because he won the soapbox derby and won a trophie just like his older brother.

A very realistic look at diabilities for families everywhere
MIRACLE IN LANE 2 stars Frankie Muniz (Malcolm on TV's "Malcolm In The Middle") and Patrick Levis (Jack on TV's "So Weird"). It's about a young boy named Justin (Frankie Muniz) who is paralyized from the waist down. He has a rare heart defect, and wants nothing more in life than to fit in with his other peers. Seth (Patrick Levis) is his older brother who worries about his brother and, at the same time, angry at his parents for always concentrating on Justin's needs and do not seem to care about him.

But Justin really wants to be like Seth, and so he wants to win a trophy because Seth is really good at sports. So he decides to start racing in soap box derby races. Seth doesn't really think it's a good idea for Justin to be doing something like that, but their parents start supporting Justin because they think it's a great idea. With a lot of heart and faith and hard work, Justin manages to make his dreams come true!

Frankie Muniz portrays his character wonderfully, as usual. By the way, Frankie Muniz earned a 2001 Golden Globes nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy Series and he recently earned a 2001 Emmy Award nomination also for Best Actor in a Comedy Series. Patrick Levis is a terrific young actor, too. And the rest of the supporting cast is superb as well!

This movie is based on a true story. I am seventeen years old and I think this is a wonderful film. I don't think that just because I'm a teenager then I shouldn't be watching the Disney Channel. I actually enjoy watching the Disney Channel and Disney films. If a teenager like me can enjoy this film, then anybody can enjoy MIRACLE IN LANE 2. Remember, that it's Disney and they couldn't be TOO realistic or serious - they had to make it so kids would understand and enjoy it, too. All, in all, MIRACLE IN LANE 2 is a must own.

good film making
disney did a good thing shooting a movie about a wheel chair bound boy named Justin Yoder(based on a true story). I also like the scenes when they are in the court room deciding whether Justin should play baseball or not I like how the mom always defends him because hes handicapped and should have the right to play. this is a good movie.

Miracle In Lane 20- A heartwarming story
I loved this movie. I dont' know what more there is to say. It's a story about a boy, Justin Yoder, who goes of for soapbox racing from a wheelchair. Two thumbs up!

D Vance
This is a wonderful movie "inspired by the life of" Justin Ross Yoder and his soap box derby racing. Justin was 10 years old when I first met him in Akron in 1997. I visited with him in L.A. during the filming of the movie in February 2000 and again in Akron in 2001. The movie has brought so many new racers to the derby and that's really great. Justin is a true soap box derby hero as he paved the way for other children with his "Justin Brake" and winning spirit. I want to clarify that the movie was greatly inspired by the life of Justin. It's not a documentary. I was in the movie too, along with my husband and my daughter, Dolline, the 1997 Super Stock World Champion (the kind of car Justin raced early in the movie). We had a great time on the set and learned alot about making movies! ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's not hard to see what attracted director Marshall Herskovitz (TV's thirtysomething) and writer Steve Zaillian (Schindler'sList) to this tragicomic story of a widower trying to keep life together for his two young sons. And Danny DeVito gives them a surprisingly sympathetic and low-key performance that capably blends pathos and humor. But the story--about Jack's attempts to get his drinking under control, even while holding down a job as a late-night TV horror-movie host--descends into bathos. Then it gets downright weird and scary when the family's strange neo-Nazi neighbor (a popeyed Gary Sinise) takes an unhealthy interest in one of the children. Jack the Bear sat on the shelffor a couple of years while Herskovitz reworked it, but it was like changing the tires on a car with a broken drive-train. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (12)

See it for the first time all over again.
I was eleven when I first saw Jack the Bear, and at the time I didn't think too much of it and I would have rather been watching some action movie. It is only now that I realize how good this movie really is. Danny De Vito plays widow John Leary, a late night TV show horror clown whose wife was killed in a car accident. Robert J. Steinmiller Jr. plays Jack Leary and a young Miko Hughes plays Jack's brother Dylan. The movie tells the story of this family and how they cope with the loss of John's wife, Jack's newfound interest in girls (especially young Reese Witherspoon), and the man of corruption who lives next door (played by a very frightening Gary Sinise). The movie is funny, dramatic, heartwarming, and is one of the most realistic portrayals of a family's love for one another. Danny De Vito's performance is phenomenal, adding just enough humor to his dramatic roll. Robert Steinmiller is exellent and Miko Hughes shows just how talanted he is, even at the very early age of seven. This movie is one not to be missed by anyone who has ever known the importance of family.

Brings back a great era in time
Where is the DVD ??? As a kid growning up in the 70's the music brings me right back to where I was at that time in my life. Mr. De Vito, get with who ever you need to get with and pump out this DVD real soon. The movie makes you laugh, cry, frightens you and makes you just love family. All the performances in this movie are awesome and would love to see where some of those actors are now these days .... I'd be the first in line to get this movie ....

I love this movie!
i remember watching this movie years ago and it mad me teary an it still makes me teary eyed in scenes! its about danny devito playing a horror host of a tv show raising his two young sons the best way he knows how. the scenes that got to me was where danny devito missed taking his son to school so his older brother took him. when danny goes a few hours later to check on him the look on the kids face just breaks your heart! this movie is so powerful. i had never heard of it and a friend recommended it. i am so glad because this movie is excellant!

The Best film you've never heard of
This film had a gigantic impact on my life. It introduced me to the dark side of human nature. It showed me that "Monsters are Real". It got me started writnig dark fiction, at that time mostly bad copies of the events in this film, but I was very young, and very sheltered. I contemplated watching this film again before I reviewed it, but I don't want to. I'm afraid that if I watch it again I won't like it as much as I did then. You shoulld see my copy, I bought it new and now it looks like a rental. Where is the DVD? I can remember watching it only to rewind it and watch all over again. I can't tell you exactly what it is that resonated so strongly with me. The performances are great, I don't know if Danny Devito did a serious role ever again. It'a worth watching just for that. Not to mention Gary Sinise's un-nerving performance. After watching this film I became obsessed with everything in it: the A's, the soundtrack, finding the book. I found it years and years later, the book is almost as beat up as the VHS. I saw the film "Unstrung Heroes" not to long after I saw this film, besides having Julia Louise Dreyfuss (?) in common, it also has the same meloncholy appeal. Maybe that's just it, not only did "Jack the Bear" teach me about the existence of monsters, it may also have taught me about what makes real drama. Whatever the reason, the fact remains that it stirs my soul, and isn't that what all good films do?

Very Underated, Hard to find, Yet so good
I thought this movie was one of the best works of cinema I've ever seen. Danny Devito shines in his serious yet humerous role. Gary Senise is the creepy kidnapping bad guy and Resse Wittherspoon is so adorable as Karen, Jack's love interest. I felt so bad for Dylan when Jack put him down by the dogs, I was blown away by this toddlers performance. The plot was good lots of twists and turns, yet totally beliavable. This movie took ever thing you look for in a movie and put in one convient package. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

a story of love
the story is so beautiful, but really sad. it's about a young girl who raises a baby seal, but you know the whole time she isn't going to be able to keep it when it's grown, which is mentioned all through the movie. so you're always aware it's going to be sad when she releases it. the whole plot is about her becoming increasingly attached to the seal, only to have to release it. it's a story of love, but is also about how fragile the relations in life are, and how anything you love is eventually taken away. the final shot, during the ending credits, is of the seal, all alone, looking into the distance with a hopeful look in its big eyes. it is now free, but all alone. it would have been better to have her keep the seal, and love it during its whole life. and make the point that love is point of the story.

A touching film
I first saw this film many years ago as part of the PBS Wonderworks television series for children. While I recognized at the time that parts of the film were a little corny or even manipulative, I recognized a certain heart and earnestness in the film. Briefly, this is a film about a young orphan is goes to live with her aunt when her parents are killed in an accident. At first, the girl is bitter and remorseful, but we begin to see a change in her as she begins to explore her new home and environs. One day, she adopts an orphan baby seal, and in caring for it, begins her metamorphosis for the better. I find that in many ways, this film is similar in theme and feel to Anna Paquin's "Fly Away Home." If you enjoyed that film, then you will enjoy "Seal Morning" as well. It is a great film for the family and is quite touching. I recommend it!

Great family video....holds interest of both young and old.
This appealing tale of the relationship between a girl and an orphaned seal will win your heart. It is one of those classic videos that you will want to view again and again. An orphaned girl who is placed in the care of her maiden aunt finds her new life cheerless and bleak. It appears her grief will overwhelm her until another orphaned creature, a baby seal, comes into her life. You will laugh, sympathize, cheer and perhaps even cry as you view the relationship of girl and seal develop to its climax. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Wonderful
I bought this movie right after renting it long time ago. I found it touching an heartwarming. Only movie in my collection it would compeate for tops is Dark Horse. This Movie shows not everything is like it seems an even handicaps can go though life an come in the top

One of the best horse movies I have seen!
Primo Baby is very realistic! I have a horse called Black Jack who is blind in his left eye and is missing his right eye. I enter him in jumping competitions and we almost always get first or second place. My little sister who is only 4 rides him in younger child's classes and wins! Jack is just as good (maybe better) than any horse that can see perfectly! I ride him in my riding lessons. Only one thing really scares him and that is when other horses sneak up on him. He always has to be at the back of the line because of this.

Terrible Script and Bad Bad Bad Acting
I rarely write this type of commentary but this movie is so bad, maybe I can steer a few people away from wasting their money. I love horse and horseracing movies even the not so great ones. But this made my list of all time worst movies of any genre. Predictable story line and terrible acting all the way around. However, if you are interested in listening to the constant whiney bantering of a bunch of geeky teenagers, then this movie is for you.

Want a great horse movie? Check out "King of the Wind", 5+ stars!

A Very True Movie
I think the movie Primo Baby is very real. I own a blind mare and before i bought her the previous owner wanted to put her to sleep. after i bought her nobody believed she could be entered in a three day event because she was fully blind. we practiced all summer and i entered her in the fall. she did so well and won a first place! the movie Primo Baby was ver realistic and true. a lot of people put a horse/ animal down because they are blind. i think that is totally wrong because people aren't put down just because they are disabled!

Even a blind horse is useful
This is a great movie and it really hit home as we have a 15 year old blind Arabian mare. Even though she is blind she is smart, a great trail horse and mother. She has the courage to prove not all blind horses are worthless. She will never be sold and has found a loving home with us. Though she has been banned from riding competition due to her blindness she is taken on long trail rides, and loves to go. She is great and we love her. If you watch this movie it will help you see that not all people are cruel. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

A mixed bag
Don't get me wrong - this version of The Secret Garden isn't the Worst Movie of All Time - but it has serious problems having mostly to do with the ending.

I usually hate spoiler reviews that give away the ending of a movie, but I am going to do that here, for reasons I hope you'll understand, as the epilogue affects the whole spirit of the film.
(SPOILERS AHEAD)

Frances Hodgson Burnett, the author of the original classic novel, cut the story off before the three main characters grew up - a wise decision that let the readers make up their own minds about what happened next. Unlike other versions, this movie includes an epilogue that reveals what happened to them - always a dangerous decision when one doesn't have the last words from the author herself, but here disasterous.

Years later, we meet up with an engaged-to-be-married Mary and Colin. To deal with the somewhat reasonable notion that this might be a bit unlikely with Dickon around, our Yorkshire Angel has been killed off in World War Two. Anyone who knows the story and what Dickon represents understands how outrageous this is. Apparently Hodgson Burnett knew what she was doing the first time around.

Stick with either the 1993 or 1940 versions, preferably in that order, unless you're a Secret Garden fanatic who wants all three versions.

A True Classic
Little spoiled Mary Lennox is orphaned in India and sent to live with a distant relative. Alone and scared she has to learn the English way of life. Martha her maid teaches her how to dress herself, and gives her a jump rope opening up a whole new world to Mary. The gardens of the 100 room mansion. Here she meets the head gardener and learns of the Secret Garden. Mary also finds that there are many other secrets in this house, her hunchback caretaker that seems so sad, and the crying at night.

The setting of Yorkshire England and the rich cast of characters including the maid Martha, Dicken, Martha's brother, and many others make this a wonderful book for all ages. I have read the secret garden hundreds of times and each time I get something new out of the book. It's a true classic.

Disappointing Turn/Otherwise Good Production
Although Hallmark makes outstanding movies, and I know this movie won an award, I cannot embrace this version because of the liberties the producers took with the storyline. One of the most integral parts of the story, the fact that Colin & Mary are cousins, was changed so that they could have Colin propose to Mary at the end of the movie. I also didn't like what they did with the Dickon character in this "future" scene. I think most of us always imagined that Dickon & Mary would get together eventually based on the words that Burnett wrote. Dickon & Mary were kindred spirits, but Colin & Mary were like siblings in the real story. I gave this movie away at a yard sale because I was so unhappy with the way the story was handled.

The Secret Garden has always been one of my favourite stories and I have an extensive collection of movie presentations. My two favourite ones are the classic MGM version with Margaret O'Brien & Dean Stockwell, and the 1984 BBC production (the most true to the novel) with Sarah Hollis Andrews & David Patterson. The 1993 Warner Brothers production also takes liberties, but is preferable to this Hallmark version in my opinion. It's too bad the producers did decide to change this detail in the Hallmark version, making the purists like myself unhappy, because otherwise they did a good job of it.

A magnificent array of hope!
An excellent story made especially for those of you who dream. This version may differ a bit from the book, but it is still a must see. You will not be dissapointed!

A Wonderful Childhood Memory
This movie (granted, not on dvd) was not only the first Secret Garden movie I ever saw, but my first exposure to The Secret Garden, period. It wasn't until later that I read the book.

I don't know how fairly I can review this, because just thinking about I find myself thinking about a million other parts of my childhood. This movie was so important to me that it means childhood, and it takes a good movie to do that.

I love the cast. The actress who plays Mary is a bit stiff, but it fits well with her character. Derek Jacobi is wonderful, tragic, and when necessary, frightening as Archibald. The soundtrack is haunting, and I occasionally find myself humming it, even though I haven't seen the movie in at least a year and a half.

The movie follows the tone of the book, even with the occasional added scene. I don't know what devotees of the book would think of the frame with Mary as an adult, but since I knew the movie long before I ever read the book I love it. It doesn't take away from what the book has, and I think it contributes something to it. Plus it has Colin Firth in it, and who can argue with that? ... Read more