Amazon.com

Talk about your tween fantasies: Jumping Ship traps knee-weakeners Joseph, Andrew, and Matthew Lawrence (TV's Brotherly Love) in the Tropics after their charter boat falls prey to a trio of troublemaking Aussie pirates. A Spanish galleon full of bare-chested male bonding ensues; while moneybags Michael (Joseph) gets schooled in humility by loner Jake (Andrew), his kid cousin Tommy comes to terms with the loss of his dad. In between, they tackle coconut cracking, raft assembly, and some sorry attempts at spear fishing. Once high-stakes dangerous-rescue time rolls around, the fellas' foibles are all figured out, something we saw coming a nautical mile away. Though a gee-whiz-nice quality beats beneath Jumping Ship's perfect-pecs surface, if suspense is your thing, skip it--the pinup boys are all that's keeping this featherweight Disney made-for-TV flick afloat. --Tammy La Gorce ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Excellent!
There was so much more to this movie than just three guys shipwrecked! There were lessons on the value of friends and family... and just how valuable material objects are. But it's just like Disney to add a moral to a story... thank goodness! This is the reason I feel comfortable turning on the Disney channel when our family sits down to watch a movie together.

I really liked to see all the Lawrence brothers together, as well. I still can't decide which is my favorite. The movie had action, adventure, and drama all rolled into one. Though the plot seemed unbelievable, it didn't seem completely impossible either... and usually I watch a movie for its entertainment value, not necessarily it's realistic possibilities. Anyways, this is an excellent movie, the whole family will enjoy!

Great light hearted family fun
Although slightly implausible, "Jumping Ship" is a good all round family entertainer - ideal for those lazy summer afternoons, when you need something fun and light to entertain the kids. Certainly worth watching. There are no Oscar winning performances from the young cast, however, its pace is at a comfortable jog and worth sticking though all the clichés. The director left a couple of "bloopers" in the final version that are a nice touch.

Jumping Brothers
When the Sequel to Horse Sence I was steaming mad cause I didn't like it. When I saw it it became a really cool movie to watch. All three Lawrece brothers are in it making it even better. Its a gotta see

Great scenery, ok plot
Joey and Matthew Lawrence are impossibly gorgeous -- you can't look directly at them, or you fall into a catatonic stupor. (Andy needs another few years of bulking up.) Putting them together in a movie set on a tropical island, where they wear as little as possible, is a risky proposition -- who's going to pay attention to the plot?

Ok, I didn't. There's some minor character-building and relationship problems with pat Disney-esque solutions. Joey bonds with Andy. Pirates attack. Andy bonds with Matt. Pirates kidnap Andy. Matt bonds with Joey. Etc. The conclusion is fairly touching, with the trio deciding to stay together even after their rescue -- I think they go into business together, but I'm not sure. I was just coming out of the catatonic stupor.

Better than Expected
Too often, movie critics don't take Disney Channel Movies seriously enough. This is another example of that. This is a really good movie for the age-group it is made for (pre-teens). It's really nice seeing a clean-cut movie out there for all to enjoy (even adults will enjoy this one). I personally love it. ... Read more

Reviews (59)

Elegant and Powerful Communist Propaganda
This movie is a visual feast. The Chinese government spared no expense in creating it; all-star director Yimou Zhang apparently had everything at his disposal: a super star (Jet Li), an excellent supporting cast, unlimited costume expenses, and the full array of Hollywood digital imagery. More than just action and elegant Chinese cultural imagery, this film is a bold statement to the world: China is once again its cultural center.

Unfortunately, money does not always buy happiness. Despite the beautiful imagery, the story is brazenly unoriginal, taking its principle technique from Kurasawa's 1950 breakout film Rashomon, and much of its wuxia energy from Ang Lee's Taiwanese sensation of 2000, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. To the simple-minded, I think it fails as an action picture, and to the sophisticated, its moral push is far from certainly digestible. Neither do any of the actors succeed in endearing themselves to us. Its greatest strength is its beautiful imagery.

I recently watched Alexander Nevsky, the famous Soviet propaganda film. Viewed today, its intent is obvious and clumsily applied. I watched Ying Xiong, or "Hero", well into the second hour before I realized that I was watching a modern version of that same old communist template. What are the messages here?
A) Look Out: China is bigger than life and is ready to take its rightful place as the center of the world.
B) All under Heaven: union is not bad, it is in fact noble and unselfish, supporting the common good (Cantonese Hong Kong and Mandarin Taiwan take note).
C) The National Government is working for the common good: "They call me a tyrant", the emperor says scornfully, as he laments the fact they ignore the burdens he must bear for their own good.
The film tries to appeal to the values of common decency in order to support these latter two points: killing is wrong, selfish grudges are wrong, excessive resentment is wrong, etc. It seems to accept and mildly promote individualism, although not allowing it to trump collectivism.

I admit that even as an American, I cannot quickly digest these complex moral questions and make an immediate assessment as to their worthiness. For a Chinese person, I assume this film has been even more powerful. The pride evoked from its bold nationalist statement may further push them towards accord. Hence its value as propaganda has probably been quite strong. I think that ultimately the value of this film as a classic will be decided by the prevalent answer to these moral questions, and my suspicion is that history will not look favorably on the direction in which it pushes viewers to think.

An intimate epic
"Hero" is a very ambitious film, attempting to combine quiet introspective philosophy with visually stunning action and pageantry. It is like an intimate epic. The scope is grand to say the least, with full armies on the march as well as intense and magical personal duels, all of which serves as decoration to the Buddhist philosophy being put forward.

It is very beautiful, and this is probably the first thing to be noticed. The various elements, actors, scenery and colors all combine to create a visual splendor. It is a very painterly movie, a feast for the eyes. Specifically, color is used to create moods and to differentiate the various storylines. If the visuals are painterly, then the Martial Arts are dancerly, along the same line as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," to which inevitable comparisons must be drawn. The actors are equally beautiful as well, and "Hero, truly a feast for the eyes, could probably be enjoyed in this manner, without any dialog.

Storywise, it is a variation on the familiar "Rashomon" theme of "what is the truth?" The same story is told and re-told, each time moving closer to the purity of truth, and with truth comes enlightenment. This is an intimate tale, a quiet verbal duel between an Emperor, so fearsome and lonely than no human can approach within one hundred paces of him, and a nameless subject, who might just be a true hero. Between them, a story is told of epic engagements, artists and warriors, and what is actually worth fighting and dying for.

I won't spoil too much of the story, as part of "Hero's" strength and insight lies in discovery. That is not to say that it is full of surprises and twist endings, but rather that, like all Buddhist insight, the answer of the movies riddle lies as much in the viewer as in the actors.

rebuttal to JUSTAREADER & Other Naysayers
Western movie studios like to spoonfeed the story to the audience and have an ending that provides closure. Asian movies tend to be more ambigious & leave the conclusion more open-ended to allow the audience to walk away "thinking" about the consequences of the actions of the movie characters.

The wire kung fu is meant to be an expression of the inner turmoils that play within the character's heart and mind. Suspending your belief in reality would have to take place to accept the incredibly artistic fight scenes in this movie or just about every other action movie ever made like Spiderman or ID4. At least enjoy the beautiful camera work and use of colors in this movie instead of thinking about "too many pretentious but self-indulgent thought-to-be poetically beautified scenes".

The "peking opera styled slow talking dialogue" is used effectively in my opinion. JUSTAREADER may not be a fan of this type of dialog but everybody has their own opinion.

Zhang Yimou used the story of the Qin Emperor only as an outlet much like Passions of the Christ. Many will not agree with the portrayal of the Qin Emperor in Hero or the portrayal of Christ in Passions but it made its point.

I agree that the Qin Emperor is not as "benevolent" as Hero suggests but this is a fictional story meant to convey the conflicts of the characters - the sacrifices made for self and country and the eternal question "does the ends justify the means"?

Boring movies don't move the audience and just passes 2 hours of their lives. It's the reaction I get after attempting to watch Dreamcatcher, Road Trip, or Day After Tommorrow.

Great movies provoke a reaction from the audience. This is a great movie with great visuals and cinematography. It got a reaction out of the "love it" and "hate it" camp! It wasn't a simple "love it" or "hate it" review.

Some of the best movies and music are derivatives of others. Example: Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith just borrowed from the blues and garage rock; Hero borrows from Rashomon; the list can go on and on forever. So to call Hero an unoriginal movie is an oxymoron because every movie copies from earlier movies.

Not all westerners are "simple-minded". People who just want simple Kung Fu movie or action movie with no plot will be bored to death and will find the movie "too complicated for westerners." For those of us who want something more than movies like Garfield or Starsky & Hutch will more than likely enjoy Hero.

Must see
This is a truly beautiful film. I own the import version and this film delivers on all scores. Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung give outstanding performances as the two lovers Flying Snow and Broken Sword. Jet Li is fantastic as Nameless.
If you love Hong Kong cinema this is a must see

too poetically unfocused, too complicated for the westerners
this is a very dark but also very pretentiously directed and performed swordsmanship movie. the chinese philosophy would put off mucho western viewers, 'cause the values in the orient and what we got in the west are totally different, i.e., the ends justify the means, or the means justify the ends. to not to assassin a tyrant and allow him a great opportunity to conquer all the other small feudal warlords and unify the whole china, in a larger vision, might save more peoples' lives than letting all the warlords killing each other and their subjects year after year....so what's the choice of the way-too-deep philosophic assassin in the last second and to face a doomed consequence? the director has tried too hard to express his own montage philosophy, his own interpretation of what should be done and only by himself in such genre to surpass the crappy oscar winning crouching tiger had achieved only one thing: a somehow and somewhat boring staged show instead of an exciting movie, with too many slow motion scenes, too many wired suspension, too many pretentious but self-indulgent thought-to-be poetically beautified scenes, with a too narrow minded and one-sided chinese philosophy delivered in a peking opera styled slow talking dialogue to grandize the butchering tyrant of all time in ancient china who later became the only role model of the modern time chairman mao, conquered all the warlords and took the advantage of generalismo chiang kai-shek's enduring war against the invading japanese of the world war II, and later the pathetic and horrible cultrual revolution in china, the rude-awakening of the chinese holocaust.
this is somewhat a mediocre and even a quite lousy film made and should not be made by the legendary chang yi-mou. ... Read more

Description

The must-own sequel of the year! Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan team up again in this record-breaking box-office smash hit. ... Read more

Reviews (219)

rush hour 2
Rush Hour 2 is an unbelievably hilarious, action packed, better-than-the first sequel to Rush Hour. I strongly recommend that you rent and watch the first one before you go see Rush Hour 2 because much of the humor and jokes are based on the original one, however, this is not necessary because you will catch on quickly and only miss a couple of the related jokes. Rush Hour 2 begins exactly where the first movie leaves off. If you watch both movies in order it will just seem like one long movie. This is a nice feature because it makes the movie easier to follow and understand.
Rush Hour 2 is about two detectives, Detective Lee (Jackie Chan) and Detective Carter (Chris Tucker). While on their vacation to Hong Kong Lee and Carter are called back to duty to investigate and bust an international counterfeiting ring. This is no easy task, however, as they soon find out. Carter and Lee find themselves locations around the world such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas and even Tokyo.
Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker give a perfect and encore performance doing what they do best. Jackie Chan plays the serious logical and skilled martial artist Detective Lee. Chris Tucker portrays the never serious, ego boosted LAPD officer, Detective Carter. I don't believe that this movie would have had the same punch without these talented actors working together in this fabulous duo.
The action in this movie is spectacular. As always, Jackie Chan performs unbelievable stunts during his fighting rendezvous. At one point in the movie he jumps and dives through a very tight slot, much like one at a cashiers cage. On the other hand
Chris Tucker, let's just say... is not very good at Kung Fu, but nevertheless great comical relief.
The humor in this movie is absolutely bladder busting. Ethnic and personality differences between Carter and Lee create humorous situations. For instance: Carter speaks his own version of Chinese. Obviously, he just says a bunch of random gibberish and makes himself look like a total idiot in front of a rather large group of Chinese people. Carter is quick to the tongue and is always bashing on the Chinese culture. Lee is just simply funny while acting so serious and straight-faced: A perfect contradiction.
I recommend that you go see this movie or rent it when it comes out in January 2002 It will be worth your time and money, and because it stars Jackie Chan, you will get to watch the comical, and quite painful out-takes at the end of the film during the credits. You'll laugh your way through Rush Hour 2 with its wonderful blend of action and comedy.

Feel the Rush...
A sequel that exceeds its predecessor. That in itself is an anomaly these days, but Rush Hour 2 packs enough wallop for both movies. How about some of the best lines in an action comedy in recent years? From one liners to the chemistry that has evolved between Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, this movie will make you pause the scenes until you finish laughing. Hit play again and you'll be slapped with more humor. Carter runs through downtown Hong Kong, where no one knows what he is saying, yelling, "Get outta the way! L.A.P.D!" There's a moment in Hong Kong where Carter meets up with a chicken vendor and the laughs keep coming. Rush Hour 2 opts for a more sexy approach with the Chinese massage parlor scene, and the 2 main female characters who are sure to boggle the eyes of the male population. As for action, there's plenty of it to support the clever dialogue. The movie is so realistic and unrealistic at the same time, you'll be bringing the first movie back out and panting for Rush Hour 3. I can't leave out the fact that a story goes with this and it's told quite well, and for what this movie is, it doesn't burden the high-jinks, but supports it. Simply put, Inspector Lee has an old vendetta with the man who killed his father and Carter is pulled along from Hong Kong to L.A. A few plates need to be found from a counterfeit ring using them to make a "Superbill," which is identical to a real bill. Not quite an original story, right? Well, it's all in the way you tell it and Rush Hour 2 pulls off a good time and that's what we wanted to see.

Robert Eldridge (...)

Funnier Then The First...
Slick, chaotic, and decently entertaining sequel picks up where the first movie left off. LAPD Detective James Carter (Chris Tucker) is on vacation in Hong Kong with his friend, Detective Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan). Carter just wants to relax, have fun, get some "mu shu", but Lee can't stop doing his job even for a minute. This time, he's hot on the trail of gangster Ricky Tan (John Lone), who may have been behind an Embassy bombing.

More-of-the-same in terms of content AND style, but still pretty engaging, with lots of action and thrills. Chan and Tucker still share the same chemistry, and overall there are some good laughs. (Worth it just to see Tucker perform Michael Jackson's "Don't Stop Til You Get Enough"...) For me, one of the perks of this sequel is watching "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" beauty Zhang Ziyi as a very fetching and lethal assassin.

Terrific High energy sequel is GREEN!
Not satisfied to just build on the personalities and chemistry created in Rush Hour -RH1, this action movie delivers an inventive script and great action. I would have given 5 stars but I down grade for language.

Chris Tucker delivers another high energy, comedic performance. Since Chris first caught my attention in the Bruce Willis vehicle, Fifth Element. He has proven himself to be a real comedy - action star. This movie might have worked with a different actor playing chans part, but jackie chan is the genious that created these incredible films and may now be our top action star.

Highly recommended, but only partially family friendly.

Better than the first, alot better!
Take peoples word for it when they tell you this is better than the first Rush Hour movie, even Chris Tucker is much funnier in this one. The movie is funny, not amazingly funny but you can expect for laughs than the first one. Though there's alot of stupid things in this movie it wasn't made to be serious, now really two guys fighting off 10 guys at once on several different occasions. The ending was not bad, it was a pretty cliche ending but it wasn't as bad as it could have been. After watching it, I am looking forward to a possibly Rush Hour 3 and I hope they make one, if you're into action/comedies this is a must watch. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

At his best, director John Woo turns action movies into ballets of blood and bullets grounded in character drama. Face/Off marks Woo's first American film to reach the pitched level of his best Hong Kong work (Hard-Boiled). He takes a patently absurd premise--hero and villain exchange identities by literally swapping faces in science-fiction plastic surgery--and creates a double-barreled revenge film driven by the split psyches of its newly redefined characters. FBI agent Sean Archer (John Travolta) must play the villain to move through the underworld while psychotic terrorist Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) becomes a perversely paternal family man while using every tool at his disposal to destroy his nemesis. Travolta vamps Cage's tics and flamboyant excess with the grace of a dancer after his transformation from cop to criminal, while Cage plays the sullen, bottled-up agent excruciatingly trapped behind the face of the man who killed his son. His attempts to live up to the terrorist's reputation become cathartic explosions of violence that both thrill and terrify him. This is merely icing on the cake for action fans, the dramatic backbone for some of the most visceral action thrills ever. Woo fills the screen with one show-stopping set piece after another, bringing a poetic grace to the action freakout with sweeping camerawork and sophisticated editing. This marriage of melodrama and mayhem ups the ante from cops-and-robbers clichés to a conflict of near-mythic levels. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (284)

Face Off DVD
The DVD of FACE OFF is one of the best, and a must-buy on the format. John Woo, uber director of The Killer (1989), Hard Boiled (1992) and Broken Arrow (1996) proves that even after the move to Hollywood, he still knows how to create fantastic action and Face Off is no exception. Building on the good but not great BROKEN ARROW, this one is a fantastic action ride. The film stars Nicholas Cage as Castor Troy, a villain, and John Travolta as agent Sean Archer, the only man who can stop Castor from unleashing a nuclear device.
Woo's trademarks are all present here: slow-mo gunfights, explosive action and those perennial doves. And both Nic Cage and Travolta are brilliant, especially Cage, whose eccentric performance is one of his most unrestrained and outstanding. One of the best (If not THE best) action films ever made. Excellent.
The DVD extras are sparse, with only a trailer. One hopes a future re-release will come soon...

Face/Off
Director John Woo's famous big-budget action-packed flick.This is the film that put John Woo on the map in America.Packed with guns, bullets, bombs, explosions and action scenes that are so original there choreographed like a ballet or a dance routine.

FBI agent Sean Archer (John Travolta)has been trying to apprehend terrorist, Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) ever since he murdered Sean's son six years ago.Sean apprehend's Castor during a violent shoot-out in an airport and as a result of this puts Castor into a deep comma.Sean then undergoes new surgery involving swapping faces with Troy.He does this to try and find out where Castor has planted a deadly bomb hidden somewhere in L.A.Castor awakes from his comma, with Sean's identidy and takes over his life.Sean(really Castor) disarms the bomb which he planted and becomes an instant hero.Meanwhile Castor (really Sean) is a high-tech prison trying to find information about the bomb from Castor's brother, Pollux (Alessandro Nivola).Since Sean(Castor) has destroyed all evidence about the surgical swap, Castor has to try and break out of prison.Not only does he have to fight for himself but for wife Eve (Joan Allen) and daughter Jamie.

This is a superb film with enough plot to become a series.It does sound far-fethced in places but John Woo makes it believable and real.Great performances all around including the two main stars, Joan Allen and the sexy tough female Gina Gershon.

face off
he best movie in the ear 1997 it is perfect action good and adventure good nice acting for john travolta and nice acting for nicolas cage

One of my all-time favorite action films!
Place this modern action classic up there with DIE HARD, SPEED, and THE NEGOTIATOR as one of my personal favorite action films.

Before watching FACE/OFF completely, I had taken a look at one of director John Woo's Hong Kong action epics, THE KILLER. I must say, I prefer FACE/OFF better. Sure, both films have that same over-the-top operatic style, but at least FACE/OFF isn't as shamelessly sentimental as THE KILLER was. In THE KILLER, Woo's main characters both demolished hundreds of extras in graphically bloody style, and towards the end it got a bit too much even for me. In FACE/OFF, the gore isn't quite as graphic, and while the body count is still pretty high, it never got to the point that I was disgusted.

I'm not a knee-jerk admirer of John Woo as some people are. That slow-motion technique of his can become wince-inducingly excessive, especially now that many lesser action directors have started to rip off his style. In this case, though, one is too engrossed in the plot and in awe of the high-energy action staging to notice.

Of course, most people probably already have an idea of what the plot is about: criminal Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) dies, but he has planted a bomb somewhere in LA, so obsessive detective Sean Archer (John Travolta) literally swaps identities with his arch-nemesis to go undercover at a high-tech prison to find out where that bomb is. Obviously, this situation leads to various complications as Troy wakes up from his coma, takes Archer's face, kills the doctors who performed the operation, and then tries to find Archer. It's the typical body-switch, and I would be remiss to mention that Troy is responsible for the death of Archer's son many years ago, and thus Archer has a vendetta against him that explains his obsessiveness.

It's a potentially laughable premise, but the actors and director make you buy it. Travolta and Cage are both convincing and have a lot of fun playing each others' characters, and the supporting cast is just as believable. The script, by Mike Werb and Michael Colleary, may have its bum dialogue lines here and there, but it's filled with ingenuity, plot-wise, as Troy tries to fit in with Archer's family and Archer tries to function in a prison. And of course the script gives director Woo plenty of leeway to go all-out with action scenes, and Woo does not disappoint, giving us plenty of stylish gunplay and loud explosions for about three action films, and even an audacious soundbite of "Over the Rainbow" as characters blow each other away. Woo sure lets his inventiveness run free here.

So okay, the film may be a little overlong, and that final gun battle at a church is perhaps too reminiscent of a similar battle in THE KILLER, right down to the flying pigeons motif. But all its flaws are forgivable in this case, since the movie is so thrilling matters of logic fall by the wayside. FACE/OFF may not be Woo's best film ever (I haven't seen HARD-BOILED yet), but it's pretty close to it, and in comparison to other modern action films, it stands pretty high there too. It'll ceratinly forever be one of my favorites. Recommended.

Action as Art
While the plot of this movie is relatively interesting, this movie is really about two things:
First, the lead actors get to do the characters they do best as fully as they know how. Cage is his typical, neurotic, repressed, and emotionally conflicted self. Travolta hams it up in the outlandish, larger-than-life way that he often does. Despite what could be seen as overacting by both the leads, the almost absurd disparity between them is one of central things that makes this movie work.

Second, this movie has the most beautiful action sequences of any action movie I have ever seen (excluding epic-type movies, i.e. LOTR, Star Wars, Braveheart, etc.). This is a film that knows it's an action movie and revels in it. The cinematography in the fight scenes simultaneously displays the nature of the characters and the intensity of the battle between them. There are so many moments when you will just delight at the visual art that is every action sequence in this film. Needless to say, this movie has all the gunfights, fistfights, chases, and large explosions that one would expect in a serious action film.
If you like action movies, this is the first one I would recommend. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The plotline may sound familiar: Two mismatched cops are assigned as reluctant partners to solve a crime. Culturally they are complete opposites, and they quickly realize they can't stand each other. One (Jackie Chan) believes in doing things by the book. He is a man with integrity and nerves of steel. The other (Chris Tucker) is an amiable rebel who can't stand authority figures. He's a man who has to do everything on his own, much to the displeasure of his superior officer, who in turn thinks this cop is a loose cannon but tolerates him because he gets the job done. Directed by Brett Ratner, Rush Hour doesn't break any new ground in terms of story, stunts, or direction. It rehashes just about every "buddy" movie ever made--in fact, it makes films such as Tango and Cash seem utterly original and clever by comparison. So, why did this uninspired movie make over $120 million at the box office? Was the whole world suffering from temporary insanity? Hardly. The explanation for the success of Rush Hour is quite simple: chemistry. The casting of veteran action maestro Jackie Chan with the charming and often hilarious Chris Tucker was a serendipitous stroke of genius. Fans of Jackie Chan may be slightly disappointed by the lack of action set pieces that emphasize his kung-fu craft. On the other hand, those who know the history of this seasoned Hong Kong actor will be able to appreciate that Rush Hour was the mainstream breakthrough that Chan had deserved for years. Coupled with the charismatic scene-stealer Tucker, Chan gets to flex his comic muscles to great effect. From their first scenes together to the trademark Chan outtakes during the end credits, their ability to play off of one another is a joy to behold, and this mischievous interaction is what saves the film from slipping into the depths of pitiful mediocrity. --Jeremy Storey ... Read more

Reviews (265)

An excellent DVD.
The Movie:

Chris Tucker is the funniest man in the world, in my opinion. It's too bad that the movies he acts in are always running to try and hopelessly catch up with him. One of the funniest things in cinema and some of the most enjoyable comic moments in the past few years have come from watching Tucker's performances. You can almost see his mind working in overtime trying to think up what to say next; and you never know what he'll say next. He takes the best of what Eddie Murphy used to be and just speeds it up a few hundred....thousand notches. It's just his looks of mock anger that always make me laugh. Never has anger been so funny.

He's joined by action star Jackie Chan in this film, which, although it's very funny at times, never really moves above the level of average, forgetable entertainment. Chan has done better "stunt-orientated" films like "Supercop" and "Rumble In The Bronx". In those films, he really shined with his mix of good humor and quick action. Here he's made to be more in the shape of the plot's need for humor and dialogue over stunts...not to say that there aren't any stunts; there are. It's just that they are a little few and far between.

The story revolves around a Chinese Console member who's daughter is kidnapped. Chan is brought in by the console member. The only problem is that the FBI wants to solve this case itself, and Chan's detective is not welcome. Some of the funniest scenes in the movie are watching Tucker's detective come to the realization that all he's called on to do is babysit Chan's detective. So, we start into the age old buddy cop flick.

Thankfully, this one isn't too bad. A nice script, some very good moments also from Chris Tucker when he's allowed to just improv his performance. Thank god Tucker and Chan liven up the proceedings; Chan has his usual array of incredible stunts, running up and down the sides of everything, kicking, doing it all; Tucker's mouth and Chan's quick feet make a nice balance of opposites. It's unfortunate that the direction is average, the plot is something you've seen all before, but it's through the performances of Tucker and Chan who make "Rush Hour" worth watching. It's nothing new, but when it works, "Rush Hour" is a whole lot of fun.

The DVD: Picture Quality: New Line has done a phenomenal job with the transfer of "Rush Hour". The colors of Los Angeles are incredibly vivid and just pop on this disc. Look at the reds in the Chinatown scenes or the colors of the neon at night. The color saturation is wonderful and there is no bleeding in the colors; the light from a neon sign looks perfectly sharp and clear. Speaking of sharpness, the images themselves are perfectly clear and sharp throughout the disc. There are a few instances where there is a small shimmering problem, but compared to a lot of the other discs I've seen lately, the shimmering in this disc isn't worth mentioning. Again, images are razor sharp throughout, there aren't any other problems at all with this disc. There are a lot more pros to talk about, though. Skin tones are 100% perfect. There is definitely no pixelization in the disc whatsoever, even in the low-light scenes or in the backgrounds. Black level in the picture is fantastic and contrast is wonderful. Shadow level is excellent and overall, this is a nice continuation of the New Line tradition of replicating the theatrical experience at home. There's occasionally a problem with otherwise great discs such as shimmering or what not and it takes you out of the experience. There's nothing on this disc that's problematic enough to take the viewer out of the experience of the movie and that's a sign of the very best DVDs. The 2.35:1 image is excellent. Excellent job, New Line.

Audio Quality: Impressive sound quality on this disc, emphasizing the sounds that added to the tone of fun on this disc and that's Lalo Schifrin's fun, urban and light score melding old R&B hits and current rap along with other wonderful bits and pieces of fun music to make an enjoyable score. The score fills the room and sounds full and clear. Dialogue also has that "same room" impression, recorded with clarity. There's a lot of impressive sound on this disc like the gunfire(director Ratner talks on the commentary about how he wanted to make the gunfire loud and emphasize it to make it "exciting"), which sounds great. The explosions also fill the room with great impact and force.

Extras:Now here's where this disc really shines: Commentary: There's an outstanding commentary with director Brett Ratner(who sounds at times sort of like Quentin Tarantino), who talks in depth wonderfully about the details of the production and working with Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. It goes into the detail of working with the screenplay and building the stunt scenes. This is a commentary that really is exactly what I want to hear in a commentary: it tells the story of exactly what it took to get the story to screen, not just what's happening on the screen. This is a fascinating commentary and I recommend it as one of the best commentaries out there. There is also an isolated score(and it's a fantastic score) with commentary by the great composer Lalo Schifrin.

Documentary: Again, it's what I want to see in a documentary. The box calls it a "featurette", but "A Piece Of The Action: Behind The Scenes Of Rush Hour" is something I would consider a full documentary. There's a lot of fun going on in the interviews with the cast and crew, and it doesn't seem like a usual studio promotional documentary. A lot of the camera work is hand-held and it just seems like it was all done in fun and the fun that the cast and crew has carries over to the viewer. The documentary runs about 40 minutes and the last chapter is more in the way of the hilarious outtakes that ended the film.

Deleted Scenes: A short reel of deleted scenes that at the most, are about 1 minute. Nothing earth-shaking, but interesting to see. The reel is a few minutes in length.

Short film: Director Brett Ratner's very strange short film from when he was a student at NYU, "What Ever Happened To Mason Reese?". The film starts off with an intro from the director and commentary from the director is also available. The film itself....well, it's just strange, but it's nice to have on the disc.

Trailer: Of course, the trailer.(letterboxed at 2.35:1)

Cast/Crew: Very nice biographies of the cast/crew.

Music Videos: 2 music videos.

DVD-ROM: The screenplay, an interactive game and web links(available only to Windows DVD-ROM computer users)

MENUS: Sharp animated menus that start with a very funny piece of dialogue from Chris Tucker.

Grades: The Movie:A- Picture Quality:A- Sound Quality:A- Extras:A Menus:A Overall:A
This review was originally posted at the website "A Guide To Current Film/DVD".

Lots of laughs in oddball 'buddy' movie
Jackie Chan, the great Chinese action star, plays a Hong Kong detective at the time of China's taking control of the city. A friend of his is dispatched to Los Angeles in a consulate position, and Chan is summoned soon thereafter when his buddy's daughter is kidnapped by gangsters. The FBI, not wanting any interference in the case, arranges to pair him with one of the wildest cops in LA history. As played by Chris Tucker, he is also the loudest. This ploy to get Chan away from the investigation doesn't work, of course. As always, the FBI agents are made to look like they are sharing a brain. You've already guess that the two policemen get along at first like cats and dogs, but by the end of the picture, they are best buddies. Along the way, they solve the case.

As a comedy team, Chan and Tucker work well together. The quiet, low-keyed Chan plays straight man to the brash, outrageous Tucker. There are the usual ongoing jokes about cultural differences, but at least in this case, pairing a Chinese character with an Afro-American does create a lot of opportunity for humor. Opposing tastes in food is a good topic, as is the language barrier. There is also a running joke about our obsession with hand guns. Jackie Chan is hard not to like, while Chris Tucker has much in common with W. C. Fields, Jerry Lewis and Jim Carrey. People either love him or hate him.

As is the rule in action comedy, the plot makes no sense. What carries the movie is the teaming of two actors whose personalities work well together. The special effects don't hurt either. There's an explosion every three minutes.

Lalo Schifin delivers a fine musical score. The set design is appropriately garish. A special thanks goes to Rush Hour's editors, who made sure it was short and to the point.

While Rush Hour is often entertaining, it does not measure up to a couple of similarly themed comedies - 48 Hours and Beverly Hills Cop - that were big hits when I was younger. Or is my memory playing tricks on me?

Jackie Chan needs to retire
This is not bad considering that most of Jackie Chan's movies are pretty much the same. That aside, story wasn't bad and there was some decent action scenes. Chris Tucker, however, does nothing but gets on your nerves with his irritating voice, bad acting and an IQ of a chimpanzee. In the outtakes, they show a scene that requires Chris Tucker to say two words in Chinese and he would blow it every single time. Talk about a dimwit

Rush Hour has great combos!
The idea of combining Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker in one movie was a great idea! Jackie Chan does the main action while Chris Tuckers does the main comedy. Together they did a good job! The plot was good and the movie was so funny. I give it 5 stars for awesome action and nonstop laughs!

Great Entertainment - Funny & Exciting.
Rush Hour revitalized the buddy action flicks of the 80's and has become a modern classic. It is a movie in the tradition of 48 Hrs and Lethal Weapon, and like those two movies, it has perfect casting. Chris Tucker is hysterical in his best performance since Friday, Jackie Chan is in top form, complete with incredible stunts, cool martial arts and hilarious broken English.

The story is well-written and full of funny situations for both Tucker and Chan. Look for the scenes where Chan is in a predominantly black pool hall and Tucker buys some Chinese food from a cart. The chemistry between the two leads is probably what makes this movie so great. Great individually, but even better together. All this makes Rush Hour a guaranteed good time. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

incerdible
i like this video so much because you don't learn how to defend yourself only, but how to speak with emotions. one request if someone could help me i need to see the video again. bomby1551@yahoo.com. thank you.

A classic piece to have for all Bruce Lee fans
I really enjoyed the interview, however it was just too short. The tape finished just as I was getting warmed up. But overall it is a piece of video I surely like to have as a collection of Bruce Lee.

This short video served as an appetizer for knowing more about Bruce Lee. It led me to ordering a few more videos.

this interview to teatch you self divance
If any one want to know the rote of marchil arts as fight not as sport than you must see this video tape.

This was a great video.
Definitaly a must see for any Bruce Lee fan. This was a great video ... Read more

Reviews (19)

3.5 stars
I've been a Jackie Chan fan for twenty years and have seen most of his movies. Around the World in 80 Days has some clever ideas and good fight scenes. I liked how Jackie's character got his name and how they worked the story out to sort of make sense.

Similar to Shanghai Knights, this is a campy farce, but I still have a hard time with people not acting appropriate for the period. I don't mean racial or gender stereotyping; I mean people are acting with modern ideas and speaking English all over the world. For example, one scene shows our heroes in a Turkish hot tub (bath) as though it was California. Speaking of California, the Governor's role is rather offensive. Overall, I recommend this movie for Chan fans and fans of the Jules Verne story.

Viewing trailer harmed my experience
Unfortunately, since this movie joined the likes of Treasure Planet as a Disney box office bomb, you might expect to see this movie on your DVD shelf within 80 days. After seeing the preview, I had high expectations for this film, but couldn't attend for a week or two after its release due to a cold. I was disappointed and puzzled when I heard that the movie failed to make even a small splash on the box office top ten, but perhaps now that I've seen it, I can understand why.

Professor Phileas Fogg (Steve Coogan) is an inventor in the late 1800's England, with lots of ideas and dreams. He is somewhat scorned, however, by his "fellow" scientists at the London Royal Academy of Science. He also has trouble securing good assistants since he somehow manages to shock, scorch, or otherwise injure them. Enter Passapartout (Jackie Chan), a Chinese bank robber in the guise of a Frenchman in order to escape the police. He jumps at the chance to serve Mr. Fogg, and is even more eager when Fogg accepts the wager from the head of the Academy of Sciences, Lord Kelvin, who dares Fogg that he cannot circumvent the globe in the allotted time. Passapartout knows this path will take him back to his native village in China, but conceals this from Fogg. Fogg and Passapartout (hint: it's pronounced Passpartou) depart on their mission. They counter numerous civilizations, manage to dodge the Black Scorpion (a group determined to recover a jade Buddha, the object that Passapartout robbed the bank for to begin with) and pick up a third companion, Monique LaRouge (Cecile de France).

GOOD: Fogg is devoted to the betterment of mankind through his inventions, even though he is ridiculed by his peers. He doesn't accept the bet because of the large sum of money but because he would win Lord Kelvin's position as head of the Royal Academy, which would give him more freedom for bettering humanity. Passapartout robbed the bank, but only to recover the jade Buddha, which he believes protects his village. He displays loyalty to Fogg, although leaving him deceived as long as he can. He also dives through a window (nearly losing his chance for escape in the process) to save a sleeping mother and child from a fire. Monique helps inspire Fogg to look beyond facts and figures to realize dreams, goals, and aspirations. Overall, the characters display generally positive character attributes of devotion, friendship, and love.

BAD: I don't count this as bad myself, but there is a good deal of stylized, non-bloody battles, the kind I understand Jackie Chan is famous for. In the general tradition of Bugs Bunny and Wile E. Coyote, everyone gets beat up a little, but few are seriously harmed in the end. Knives are thrown by assassins, quills are thrown by an angry Lord Kelvin (both of which stick in peoples' skin), and punches and kicks are exchanged between Passapartout, sword-wielding Black Scorpion members, and other karate fighters. There are a few rather unnecessary swear words (H- and D-words), and some drinking. Arnold Schwartzenigger, perhaps in nod to his womanizing nature, requests humorously that Monique stays with him to be his seventh wife. Fogg stares once at part of Monique's exposed legs (1800's standard modesty, it's just above her ankles) and becomes flustered when she catches him staring. There's also the Buddha statue which Passapartout (or Lau Xing, as he is know to his people) steals to return to his village because he and his people believe it will protect their village. Upon returning it, all the villagers, and even Monique, bow reverently before the statue. I list these attributes under "bad" for any concerned parents. I didn't find any of them to be exceedingly objectionable to the point that children should not see it.

THOUGHTS: The key word when referring to Jules Verne here is "loosely" based. An inventor, and his assistant set out to prove man can travel the world in eighty days are the only points where the two stories agree. As for the movie itself, well ... I believe the preview (I based most of my expectations, which I admit were quite high, on the preview) promised a little more than the movie delivered. While most previews pick just a sampling of movie moments, I think the preview chose MOST of the good moments in Around the World in 80 Days, which left you with few surprises in the end. And in fact, there were few surprises in the movie at all, whether you've read the book or not. There were quite a few laughs to be had, but very little character development. Once the movie begins, it continues on a slam-bang course that doesn't slow down or give any pause for meaningful character interaction until about 45 minutes into the movie. I felt like I was seeing an extended trailer, not the real movie. The graphics were...pretty good. For country-to-country transitions, it was obvious the graphics were supposed to come off as fanciful, but still came off rather poorly.

Overall, while not quite living up to my expectations (and to be fair, perhaps such epic thrillers as Lord of the Rings have set an impossibly high standard), the movie is still enjoyable, and I'd recommend it for all ages. I hope we can expect better from Walden Media in the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia series.

Fun family movie
It's a silly, fun movie. There's a little romance, but the young kids can handle it. There are lots of cameos, but it can be amusing to try and catch them all. No one gets seriously hurt or killed in this movie, except for one person, which is too bad, really (don't want to give it away).

Why? WHY? WHHHHYYYY?!?
From the "Mystery Science Theater 3000" episode "The Touch of Satan":
Girl in movie: "I'm possessed by the devil."
Tom Servo: "Michael Eisner?"

It's hard to decide what I hate most about this new "Around the World in 80 Days." From changing Phileas Fogg into a goofy inventor and outcast from his social club (the wager was never about "never inventing again"), to the appalling special effects, to the horrid cameos... it's a very close call! Oh now I know! Dave Stewart singing a particularly nauseating version of "All Around the World" -- "Everybody from every nation, everybody join the celebration..." ARRRHHGHHHH! Afterwards I had to listen to Lipps Inc's "Funkytown" for three hours just to get that bleedin' tune out of my head. When that didn't do the trick I tried Michael Sembello's "Maniac", but still no luck. Only sweet, sweet mead could soothe the pain caused by this latest Disney excretion. Oh, sweet, tasty mead, shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate, more exquisite and more pleasant, more divine and more balmy -- all in all the smoothest, and best tasting Ren Fest wine ever made! Long has this fine concoction been unavailable to aficionados in many parts of the country -- especially here in dreary old Atlanta -- but fear not, for the Bargetto online winery is here for the rescue, ready to deliver delicious Chaucer's Mead to your home at the touch of a button. To paraphrase the Bard, the delivery is swift, and flies with a swallow's wings. It's not just for peasants anymore!

Anyway, I think my point is pretty obvious: Avoid this film at all costs!

A Must See
Really loved this movie. It was fast paced action and had comedy throughout the story. I would recommend it for all ages. It was one of our favorites this summer. ... Read more

Description

It's the battle everyone's been DYING to see! Teenagers find themselves caught in the middle of a battle between two legendary boogeymen: Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger.Who will win in the bloodiest and goriest showdown in history? ... Read more

Reviews (540)

"Welcome to my Nightmare"
Freddy Vs. Jason started out on a fairly ok note. It brought back that old 80s horror movie feeling. The setup of Jason and Freddy fighting each other is very clever and an imaginitive idea. The acting is well-delivered from some of the actors, but there are lots of flaws in this movie: 1. It is not horror! It is simply not suspenseful, only includes a few genuinely scary moments, and focuses WAY too much on blood and gore instead of thrills and chills. 2. It is a self-parody, instead of a truly original piece of work. The movie is obviously supposed to spoof Freddy and Jason's routes, but couldn't they have thought of more original ways to do it? 3. Typical characters, with not a whole lot of psychological depth. When I watch a movie, any kind of movie, I like to be intrigued with the characters because of their psychological depth and their problems in life, their ups and downs. But, from what I recall, these characters are basically derived from the old 80s slasher movies. 4. The reslotion could've been a little bit more shocking and mysterious. 5. Unbelievable. A movie is only scary when it's believable, and this is just way too over-the top.
All in all, this movie is somewhat entertaining, and it is what I expected: A silly self-parody action film, instead of what it should be: A true horror classic. If you want horror, I suggest you see the original "Nightmare on Elm Street" (still ubelievable, and too gory, but much scarier) or "Friday the Thirteenth" (Which is somewhat scary), or even "Scream" (A clever self-parody that mixes comedy and genuinely scary moments) or "The Silence of the Lambs" (Terrifying and haunting). The list of smart horror movies goes on, and this movie, in my own personal opinion, is not an addition to that list. The fact that this ridiculous movie could be made and brought to screen and actually praised by so many should be saddening to me, since I am a young movie-maker. But, it's not. It's inspiring. If THIS can be praised, then the movie I'm making should be praised! If THIS could be made, there are a lot of things that could be made. Still, don't get your hopes up, filmakers out there. It's not as easy as it may seem.

CLASH OF THE TERROR TITANS!!!
It was inevitable. Two of the biggest horror icons of our time finally meet in a terrifying clash that will satisfy fans of both title characters. In this modern Frankenstein meets the Wolf Man, Freddy is trapped in hell, his once fearsome name all but forgotten completely. He ressurrects Jason to kill a few kids on Elm Street so people will start to fear that Freddy is back: thus giving Freddy the power to return. However, Jason goes wild, and isn't leaving Freddy his share of victims. So, Freddy drags Jason to the dream world for a duel to the "death". The second battle takes place at Crysal Lake, giving each monster a home-court advantage. Both are evenly matched; the real advantage depends on where they fight.
This was a fun movie to watch. The fights are great, and there are plenty of scares. Enjoy, and welcome to MY NIGHTMARE!!!!!

Cool as heck!!!
I TOTALLY love this movie. I think it just rocks. If you like scary action packed movies, you will just love this one. so
please, please, please, buy it...

"2 OR MORE THUMBS UP."

eh...
not scary, it was funny, and a little cool, but not the best I've seen I'm afraid to say.

Entertaining Spin-Off of the Nightmare/Friday films.
Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) is been dead for years in the Real and in the Dream Wolrd. Since Freddy is Literally and Forgetten in Hell, Freddy has a plan to bring back Crystal Lake Serial Killer-Jason Voorhees (Ken Kirzinger) to Life in the Real World. Freddy thinks by bringing Jason back to life to bring Fear on Elm Street Kids and making Teenagers remember Freddy again. Since Jason is an Instant Killer Machine, He isn't willing to Step Aside. Now with a Terrified Town in the Middle, Freddy has to find a way to kill Jason by going his dreams before Jason takes the Elm Street Kids over. A Scared Teenager (Monica Keena) finds a way to bring Freddy to Reality from her dreams, So Freddy and Jason enter into a Horrific and Bloody Showdown.

Directed by Ronny Yu (Bride with White Hair, Bride of Chucky, Formula 51) made an entertaining Spin-Off to the "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Friday the 13th" Series. Englund, who played Freddy Krueger for the 8th Time seems that he had a Blast Making this Film. Kirzinger replaced Kane Hodder, which Hodder Originally Played Jason Voorhees in the last Four Friday the 13th Series. Kirzinger is Good as the New Voorhees. Sean S. Cunnigham, who produced the Original "Friday the 13th" is back producing this film. The film also stars:Jason Ritter (Which Jason's Father-The Late:John Ritter also worked with director-Yu on Bride of Chucky), Kelly Rowland (R&B Singer from the Group-Destiny's Child), Lochlyn Murno (Scary Movie) & Katharine Isabelle (Ginger Snaps Trilogy).

DVD has an Sharp Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1) transfer (also in Pan & Scan) and an Superb-Dolby Digital 5.1 Expanded Surround Sound. DVD has an engaining Commentary Track by the director-Yu and actors:Englund & Kirzinger. Disc Two has Deleted Scenes with/without Commentary by the Director and Executive Producer-Douglas Curtis, Many Behind the Scenes Feautrettes, Music Video, DVD-ROM Content and More. This film has an Strong Music Score by Graeme Revell (The Crow) that pays Tribute to the "A Nightmare on Elm Street" and "Friday the 13th" Series. The film ended up being a Profitable Hit for New Line Cinema. Extremely Entertaining for the Fans of the Freddy and Jason Films. Watch for New Line Topper:Robert Shaye in a Cameo, which he's One of the Executive Producers of the Film (Which Shaye was Involved with Every Nightmare Film). Great Gory Fun all the Way. Super 35. Grade:A-. ... Read more

Reviews (188)

Great movie to end the series,
I like all the Lethal Weapon movies, and this one is no exception. I don't see why anybody wouldn't like "Lethal Weapon 4" because it's everything most people would expect it to be. It has a lot of fast paced action, good special effects, and a lot of laughs. What made "Lethal Weapon 4" one of the best two of the series in my opinion is the comedy that's in the movie. Without a doubt, it has more comedy in it than the other three movies in the series by far. Some of the funniest parts are when Joe Pesci makes friends with a shark, and the laughing gas scene at the dentist's office. Like always, Mel Gibson and Danny Glover put on great performances, and Joe Pesci is hilarious. I'm not crazy about Chris Rock's stand up comedy show, but he was actually pretty good in this movie. Jet-Li also shows off some of his awesome fighting moves at times in the movie.

If you like movies with a lot of action and a lot of comedy, I recommend getting "Lethal Weapon 4."

Not too old for this- well, you know...
I've always been an avid fan of the Lethal Weapon films, and after my first viewing of Lethal Weapon 4, it instantly became my favorite of the series. It's rumored to be the last one, and if that's the case, I doubt there could have been a better way to end it than with this outing.

Initially, I didn't think the addition of Chris Rock as Detective Butters to the Lethal fold was a good idea. Although I love his standup acts and some of his efforts on Saturday Night Live, he's always played what I believe are the most annoying characters in feature films, none of whom I particularly cared for. His performance in number 4 was no exception, but this time it worked fairly well, especially during the moments he crossed paths with Joe Pesci's character Leo Getz. Their first meeting was one of the movie's great comedic moments. But their best pairing was the 'Cell Phone Riff' scene, a new take on Leo's 'What they do to you at the drive-thru' gripe from LW2. Chris even had a good ensemble moment with Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Murtaugh (Danny Glover) when they visited a Chinese Mob boss at his dentist's office and questioned him with nitrous oxide 'laughing gas'.

I also caught my first look at Jet Li in this movie, and after viewing many of his other screen performances since my first look at LW4, he's become my favorite martial arts action movie star... well, my favorite living one anyway. His quiet-but-formidable bad-guy role was best displayed when he faced off against both Riggs and Murtaugh in the climactic fight scene which has become my all-time favorite battle royal. Even two-on-one, the odds still looked to be in the bad guy's favor. Could the Lethal pair really be too old for this (stuff)? You'll just have to see for yourself...

Although I consider this 'Weapon to be the most lethal, there's one thing that irks me about the DVD. Cut scenes from the first three flicks are included as part of the Special Features. I don't understand why these scenes weren't restored in DVD releases of Lethal 1-3, like they were for the VHS Director's Cut releases. Maybe one day they will, but until then...

Bad acting, bad action
I only saw this to see Jet Li and was very disappointed. The acting was bad, and the story sketchy.

Not allowed to watch it, but loved it!!
I'm not allowed to watch any of the Lethal Weapon movies because they are all rated R, but the fourth movie is the best of all the other Lethal Weapon movies heck it gave me a different perspective of the first three as an excellent movie.
It's great for adults and it's the best Lethal Weapon movie I guarantee you that.

So do you like my review... or not??

Liberal crybabys with guns
Rehash, rehash and more rehash. The powers that be who put this movie together must all worship at the alter of useless political correctness on one hand and anything for a buck on the other. Plot is a bore. They get their liberal dig in on the NRA while using handguns to blow the snot out of everything that moves. Glover can not act. If thats not bad enough Joe P. plays the same wimp he did last installment. I could go into detail but the fact you can buy this movie used for, 4 bucks all day long says it all. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Hong Kong wuxia films, or martial arts fantasies, traditionally squeeze poor acting, slapstick humor, and silly story lines between elaborate fight scenes in which characters can literally fly. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon has no shortage of breathtaking battles, but it also has the dramatic soul of a Greek tragedy and the sweep of an epic romance. This is the work of director Ang Lee, who fell in love with movies while watching wuxia films as a youngster and made Crouching Tiger as a tribute to the form. To elevate the genre above its B-movie roots and broaden its appeal, Lee did two important things. First, he assembled an all-star lineup of talent, joining the famous Asian actors Chow Yun-fat and Michelle Yeoh with the striking, charismatic newcomer Zhang Ziyi. Behind the scenes, Lee called upon cinematographer Peter Pau (The Killer, The Bride with White Hair) and legendary fight choreographer Yuen Wo-ping, best known outside Asia for his work on The Matrix. Second, in adapting the story from a Chinese pulp-fiction novel written by Wang Du Lu, Lee focused not on the pursuit of a legendary sword known as "The Green Destiny," but instead on the struggles of his female leads against social obligation. In his hands, the requisite fight scenes become another means of expressing the individual spirits of his characters and their conflicts with society and each other.

The filming required an immense effort from all involved. Chow and Yeoh had to learn to speak Mandarin, which Lee insisted on using instead of Cantonese to achieve a more classic, lyrical feel. The astonishing battles between Jen (Zhang) and Yu Shu Lien (Yeoh) on the rooftops and Jen and Li Mu Bai (Chow) atop the branches of bamboo trees required weeks of excruciating wire and harness work (which in turn required meticulous "digital wire removal"). But the result is a seamless blend of action, romance, and social commentary in a populist film that, like its young star Zhang, soars with balletic grace and dignity. --Eugene Wei ... Read more

Reviews (982)

A Masterpiece
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is simply a masterpiece. A brilliant film with great performances by its stars, Michelle Yeoh, Chow yun fat, and especially Zhang Ziyi. Director Ang Lee along with his choreographer tell this epic story in a stunning and creative visual way that makes this film one of the greatest ever made. The action scenes in this film are jaw dropping, and are unmatched by any action film ever made. Along with the action, is a great story and great characters that reflect influences from Lord of the Rings, and parallel the Jedi of the Star Wars trilogy, but remain consistent with the eastern culture and philosophy which permeates throughout the story. In fact, the main characters, especially Jen, portrayed by the talented Zhang Ziyi , seem to question that philosophy and culture throughout the film, almost rebelling against it. This is foreshadowed in the beginning of the film when Yun-fat's character describes how his meditation leads him to a place of sorrow instead of enlightenment. In a later scene, Yeoh 's character questions the buddhist teaching of Fat's character in relation to their suppressed love, pointing out the touch of her hand is real,not an illusion, even though it is of this world. However it is also the discipline of this eastern spirituality that gives these knights their power. the main character Jen, abuses this power, along with the power given to her when she posesses the Green Destiny, a magical and powerful sword, owned by the wizard -like, or jedi- like, character portrayed by Chow Yun-Fat. The Green Destiny, much like the ring of power in lord of the rings, or the force in Star Wars, becomes a power that threatens to consume Jen. Throughout the film , Jen rebels against the traditions of the easten culture and philosophy. Even during the action scenes, as Chow Yun-Fat's character scolds her, she responds by telling him to stop talking like a monk and fight. Her rebellion is also reflected in her love for a barbarian that lives in the desert. Jen's rebellion is an extreme one, however, that leads to such deep despair, that it leaves the viewer to question if even the true love she found in the desert can save her. This movie has everything one wants in an epic, great story, acting, cinematography, directing, score. This film should win an Oscar for Best Picture... Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon is truly a great film.

Deserved the Academy Award for "Best Picture"
When "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" first hit theatres in Asia in the summer of 2000, audiences were beyond pleased - because for the first time, what could be considered a kung-fu film included within itself a moving story. This film manages to be so philosophically deep that it subconsciously stirs emotion and feeling within the audience - without ever being corny. Not to mention that this is probably the best film ever that features the geography of China. Shots were absolutely stunning. Music was also beautiful, with one of the best cello performances given by Yo-Yo-Ma, and a smash hit song by Coco Lee - "A Love Before Time."

The film consists of various types of relationships - everything from forced-hidden love, children to parents, and disciple to a kung-fu master. Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Chang Chen, and Zhang Zi-Yi together made the best acting performances seen for years.

Cinematography was impressing. Each shot was meticulously perfected - exactly why "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" took two years for world-famous director, Ang Lee, to shoot. One shot of the rooftops for the film's previews itself took five months. The original version is much better than the dubbed, so take the time to read subtitles - it can't be that hard.

Get ready for flying kicks, tears, and beauty. Get "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" today. (Original version.) - Priscilla

Chic flick on speed or sublime flight of the imagination?
Call it what you will--archetypal fable with a feminist twist, exquisitely choreographed martial arts movie, balletic spectacle balancing image, action, poetry and music--"Crouching Tiger" is a distinctive variation on familiar genres. The words "ballet," "choreography," "Eastern" exotic myth don't quite do justice in describing the film. For one, the action sequences are lightning swift--reminiscent of American silent comedies and more suggestive of music than of formal dance. And certainly the tempo of this music and the pace of the film seem more Western than Eastern (as does the throbbing romantic cello of YoYo Ma). Some will single out the three female leads in this rite-of-passage archetypal story as the film's most distinctive twist. But even more novel is the way the form foregrounds allegory and approaches the theme of teaching and learning. Film is a medium that is normally "relentless" in his representation of the physical world, satisfying viewers' expectations of actions that are at least humanly plausible. But by making his characters fly all over the frame, director Lee keeps reminding the spectator that if you try to respond this film as another action movie you will not only miss the point entirely but be thoroughly disappointed. Sword play, flying, and fighting are metaphors for living, learning and loving. All of the 5 principals in the story are learners--and all are failures to greater and lesser degrees. In fact, the alleged villain, Jade Fox, is in some respects the most sympathetic of all the characters. She had access to the most masterful swordsman of all but not to his teaching because of her status as a woman. At one point sword play is compared with word play, or writing (through the picture-grams of Mandarese script). Whether the instrument is a sword, a pen, or a brush, the viewer of this enchanting parable is finally enjoined to fashion a personal narrative that rejects pride and selfishness in favor of a life sufficiently disciplined to give itself over to love.

One of the best -- ever
CTHD combines an exciting story, great stunts, beautiful cinematography, lovely women, and a complex story that is by turns mysterious, suggestive, and incomprehensible. Michelle Yeoh is a good actress in addition to her physical talents as a martial artist. Zhang Zi Yi is a sexy vixen. Chow Yun Fat is an aging warrior who seems to be going through a mid-life crisis. He loves Michelle Yeoh, but can't get around to telling her, and is attracted to Zhang. The unanswered question posed by Zhang is, "Did you want me or my sword?" The two women dominate this movie; their martial arts scenes are spectacular; Yo Yo Ma's cello is sad and fetching; the scenery is spectacular; the fate of Chow and Michelle is heart-rending; the fate of Zhang is puzzling and ambiguous. Great movie!

good and classy
ive seen this movie three times.the 1st time it was spoken in chinese with no words at the bottom.the 2nd was the same deal but with the english translation at the bottom.the 3rd was in normal english.thank god!in it,a thief steals a relic and some people go to get it back.it has breathtaking backgrounds like lord of the rings.beatiful music like amadeus and martial arts effects like a pre-matrix but similar.the kids could watch it.theres only one bad part.it is definately a artsy and classy type film.ang lee is the director.he also did the hulk.the hulk is better.it is not emotional per say but more inspirational.there are some chicks but they are not portrayed in a sexual way.one guy,in the less than apropriate part gets his hand down ones pants.i dont care what anyone says,if you get this in english,it is one of the best movies youll ever see.the special effects are cool.the fighting is outstanding! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

I love that film.
Yes, I am aware of it's imperfections, but still I love that film. It's miles above the majority of kiddie productions.

My son has a collection of action figures from movies and video games and the Roos are the best. Their design is so strikingly unexpected!

The action sequences are shot very artfully - all these leaves floating in the streams of Power, the resolved fighting of these who HAVE to fight, the total absence of JackyChanesque "funny" grimaces.

My son and nephew were obsessed by the movie for days, confronting each other with these - You came uninvited! - - Come on and pla-ay!!!- phrases, having their try at the art of flying kicks.

The film is kind, the baddies are redempted at the end but all that with the minimal level of saccharine preaching.

I want to thank the Law brothers and Ronny Yu, stuntmen and designers, who made the miracle happen. I've bought the VHS and later the DVD, recommended the film to all my friends who have sons - I want to let the people behind that film know that their effort is very much appreciated.

excellent movie
I read all the comments about this movie, and I started to watch this movie with low expectations, everyone was saying that this movie sucks. But then at half the movie, I realized that the suckers were the ones writting the reviews. Let me tell you that at the end of the movie I wished that it had not one but several sequels with the same quality in general. The producers really created something imaginative, the director just rocks with this movie, the acting is real good. This movie is way up there, and even better in some aspects, with Matrix and Blade, the story even though it is not truly original in itself, it delivers the goods. The action and martial arts, and the conveyance of the feelings and emotions, is for all ages not just for kids. Do not believe the fools that say this movie is awful. Please watch this movie if you want to see something spectacular and emotive. This movie deserves a double ten out of nine!!.

Anyone seen "Tank Girl" (1995)
They used those EXACT SAME kangaroo-people costumes from that movie, in this movie.

great movie
I first watch in the theater, with my first child(a girl)and husband, in 1997, rented it when it came out, and just recently found it in the library and check it out. It's amazing how after 6 years my husband and I still enjoyed it. And now not only do I and my husband enjoy it, but our four children enjoy it. My son loves it so much, that he wants us to find it and buy it.

Imagination
I have seen this movie several times, and I still rewatch it. After seeing it the first time rented; I immediately went ut and bought it. This movie is not for some because it takes an imagination to truly enjoy. If you truly enjoy fantasy and a movie that makes you think about the message, this may be one for you. ... Read more

Description

Get set for more action, more vampires and more Wesley Snipes in this second monster-hit installment in the Blade franchise. ... Read more

Reviews (314)

Arguably the Best Action Movie of 2002
Wesley Snipes and Kris Kristofferson return to battle the undead in what will probably be the best action movie of 2002. With a whole slew of fight scenes, great costumes, great weapons, great scenes, and great soundtrack music, Blade II rocks.

Blade (Snipes) is enlisted by the Vampires to help destroy a genetic nightmare-being called the Reapers, which even have the Vampires themselves on the run. Assisting Blade is a re-juvinated Whistler (Kristofferson) and the Bloodpack, an elite group of Vampires trained to hunt Blade led by the lovely Leonor Varela and Ron Perlman. Blade is now the leader of the Bloodpack as they must try to defeat the Reapers.

Two hours later, you're going to have to catch your breath outside of the theater. Del Toro's direction is incredible, as you are right in the thick of the action. All the stops are pulled out for this sequel. However, the only drawback is the lack of a solid plot, but you pretty much forget about that after you get taken in my all the action sequences. The computer effects are equally dazzling, and adds to the gore of the film (which is definately a factor).

Everything is just right in "Blade II". The film is casted well, everything is shiny and glossy with a kick-butt attitude towards it. Camera shots and frame rate are queued with perfection, and the fight scenes during the film are what makes this production top-notch. A must see and a definate buy when released.

Claret has never looked better!!
If Guillermo del Toro set out to translate the language of comics to the silver screen, than he more than achieved his goal with the visually astounding Blade II. With the exception of the two returning characters of Whistler and Blade, this 'sequel' couldn't be more removed from the original if it tried. From atmosphere and colour coded lighting to whip crack pace and even more gore, Blade II is relentless in it's attempt to leave you gasping by the time the blood drenched credits roll. Foregoing any real semblance of plot (that would only slow things down after all), the film tends to feel like one long fight scene but it's all executed so impressively that the final impression left is one not unlike riding a rollercoaster. Not a bad thing and an even better thing if that's what the director set out to do. Guillermo himself is unapologetic in his honesty that he was simply intended to fashion a 'kick ...' movie that while different from Stephen Norrington's original, retains the similar style and wit that made the first so special. Acting wise, Blade is a role Wesley Snipes could probably play in his sleep so while he is predictably fantastic in bringing the character to believable life, all eyes settle on newcomer Luke Goss (he of Bros fame) and he doesn't dissapoint as the ruthless (and perhaps somewhat tragic) reaper Gerrad Nomak. From his appearance onscreen, Goss gives a captivating performance, somehow even investing a real humanity in a character that is more animalistic than human and that is testament to Goss' talents. Smartly avoiding overkill in the make up department, it's Goss' physical presence that is the most unsettling aspect of the villian. With two such formidable actors grounding the insanity that ensures in it's running run, the film is left to throw body parts up at the screen haphazardly. That it is crafted all so professionally allows you to simply be whisked away for the horrific ride. While not as acomplished as the