Storytelling

A movie that never flinches
Todd Solondz's funny and controversial films examine sordid suburbia. They are witty, satirical stories but also unflinching in their use of controversial subjects like rape, pedophilia and other "uncomfortable" subjects that most mainstream films would never have the nerve to address, much less use in a comedic context. So, you either love his films or hate them (as the other reviews here will attest.) I happen to love his films.

It might be best to watch his previous film, "Happiness", before watching "Storytelling" as "Storytelling" seems (to me) to be the film maker's personal response to the criticisms that his other films have elicited. "Storytelling" is composed of two, separate stories titled "Fiction" and "Non Fiction". "Non Fiction" features a documentary film maker (clearly representing Solondz)who's a downtrodden geek, accused of exploiting his subjects.

His films make you laugh but also uncomfortable about laughing. I think he's an exciting voice in American...

He's an acquired taste but I love his films.
Todd Solodnz is not everyone's cup of tea. To enjoy his films, one must have a jet-black sense of humor and be comfortable with having your buttons pushed. He's definitely an acquired taste, but I love his movies. And, this one is no exception. It reminded me of Woody Allen's "Deconstructing Harry" in that it seems to be Solondz's response to his crticis. Indeed, it's a good film, but it's even better if you've already seen his other films ("Welcome to the Dollhouse," "Fear, Anxiety, & Depression," and "Happiness"). Solodnz dwells on subjects that most people would rather pretend don't exist (oh, but they do, they do). He makes you squirm and think and usually laugh at what you're seeing even though you may feel guilty about it afterwards. But, that's the point of a Todd Solondz film - anyone seeking lighthearted escapist fare will run screaming from the exits. But, for those who can "take it" and appreciate something different and intelligent, there are many rewards to be...

Everyone always has a story to tell.
Todd Solondz's `Welcome to the Dollhouse' showed comic/absurd promise; his masturbation scene in `Happiness' overstepped the boundary of film taste but got everyone's attention. While I didn't enjoy "Storytelling" as much as I did the Director's two previous films, "Happiness" and "Welcome to The Dollhouse," Solondz continues to amaze with his depictions of just how awkward true life really is. As always, he masterfully shows the oft times tactless, cynical, transparent motivations of everyday suburban life and combines them with outrageous situations, giving a humorous view into the myriad of interesting quirky characters he creates. As with Happiness, Storytelling has no background characters. Each character gets fully explored in a way that no matter how familiar or foreign a specific character's behavior might be to you, you can't help but understand their motivations. Solondz can develop over 10 characters in 88 minutes while most conventional Hollywood films fail to portray just...

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Vampire Dog

Family Friendly Fare That Lacks Much Bite: A Cute Premise That's Never Fully Explored
I guess I need to be wary of movies that use the word "dog" in their titles, it just might represent truth in advertising! What do you think about when you hear "Vampire Dog?" Right away, I conjured dozens of wacky sight gags, silly puns, and ridiculous spoofs. Just the notion of this dog having vampiric tendencies (even comical ones) opens up a myriad of mental images and potentially humorous situations. The problem with "Vampire Dog" is that its screenplay is so lazy, it never makes a convincing argument that Fang (the doggie in question, voiced by Norm MacDonald) is supernatural or even special. It cracks wise, to be sure, but is never particularly funny. What makes it a vampire exactly? Apparently it's very old, comes from Transylvania, moves like lightning, and consumes red jelly (this is actually Jello, but I guess they couldn't afford brand royalties). That's the back story of Fang in a nutshell.

Fang is taken in by an awkward youth (Collin MacKechnie). The primary...

Fun movie!
I have an 8-year-old who just loves this movie. It's entertaining and funny in an age-appropriate way. No blood or violence. The "vampire" dog needs cherry jelly to survive! Cute.

Nothing Original
The title was unique. I will give someone credit for that much. However once the movie starts its the same story we have all seen before, a by the number children's movie without an original bone in its body.

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From Russia With Love

Come For The Movie, Stay For The Extras
From Russia With Love, the second James Bond film, is one of the best (in my view, second only to Goldfinger). Unlike the later films in the series, From Russia With Love is extremely faithful to the Ian Fleming novel with only slight variations on the story. In order to obtain a Russian decoding machine, 007 must travel to Istanbul, Turkey to aid a beautiful Russian defector ... even though he and the British Secret Service know it's probably a trap. But unbeknownst to Bond SPECTRE is playing the Russians and the British against each other. This is the most realistic of the Bond films with a story that could probably happen in the real world of espionage. The film does contain a gadget -- a trick briefcase (also in the Fleming novel) that contains throwing knives, ammunition, a folding sniper's rifle, 50 gold sovereigns and a tear gas cartridge that explodes when the case is opened improperly. The film, however, takes a very realistic approach to the story with none of the cartoon...

Easily one of the greatest in the James Bond series
Most James Bond fans have their personal favorites among all the films in this forty-year series: FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE is mine. In many ways, this was actually the first film with the full James Bond formula in tact. DR. NO was enjoyable, but Sean Connery's Bond was very different in that film than in the subsequent films. In DR. NO, Bond was a serious, unironic, humorless secret agent, very much like the character in the Ian Fleming novels. In FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE, Bond departed from the character in the novels, and became witty, ironic, and very much tongue-in-cheek. In short, he became the Bond we all know and love. This is also the first film in which Desmond Llewelyn appeared as Q, who went on to play in all the remaining films (excepting Sean Connery's comeback with a different studio). Q provides Bond with his trick attaché case, the first of the many gimmicks we associate with Bond. The story is a great improvement as well. On top of this, the villains in...

A great movie---even better at 1080P
I love the movie "From Russia with Love"---end of story. This review is about the Blu-Ray edition. By way of comparison, I also own the recently upgraded DVD version of this film that was included in the James Bond Ultimate Edition set. That movie (the DVD) was restored to a sensational level of quality. In fact, I doubted it could be visually improved upon. I was wrong. The Blu-Ray edition looks even more sensational than the most recent DVD edition that was included in the Ultimate Edition set. In fact, it was clearly restored from a master print, with an almost indescribable level of visual detail included. This Blu-Ray edition is so good that it's like watching a brand new movie. Watching it with my family I repeatedly heard the comment "wow. Look at that. I never noticed that before . . ." The studio did a first rate job of restoring the movie for the Blu-Ray edition. And, after all . . . it's a James Bond film. I'll be getting the other Blu-Ray Bond films; if the...

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Twist of Faith

Holy Toledo?
As an adolescent, Tony Comes of Toledo, Ohio, was molested by a Roman Catholic priest. Tony is now a fireman, with a wife and 2 children, one of whom is soon to take First Communion. Through a cruel Twist of Fate, they discover that the Dream Home into which they have recently moved is only 5 doors down from Tony's former abuser - the unrepentant former priest, shown in his video deposition
Q: Why did you decide to go into the seminary?
A: I decided that it would be a good life if I was a priest.
Good for whom?
Church Ladies will not approve of Tony's "firehall" language - but then, they probably won't be watching. The scandal of serial abusive priests should be enough to P off the Pope. But one of the saddest things is, it's not. Too many priests and parishioners are in denial. This unflinching HBO documentary is not about the shameful statistics but the horrific and traumatic toll on actual lives of an abused altar boy and the "ripple effect."...

A Movie That's Tough To Watch
Think you've had problems in your life? Meet Tony Comes. I thought the sex crimes committed by the priest were horrible, but the crime committed by the local diocese was even worse. There is no amount of money that can take away the pain and hurt that was inflicted on Tony, but an honest admission of guilt and willingness to repair the damage would have been a good place to start. The movie was informative and real - too real at times. I think God has reserved a special place in hell for people who use their "ministry" to perpetrate these criminal acts, and for the people who know about it and do nothing but lie and cover it up.
The movie is almost embarrasingly personal at times, showing scenes of human anguish that resonate long after the credits roll. I found myself thinking about it for weeks afterward, almost haunted by the evil that masqueraded as a servant of God. Tough to watch - impossible to forget.

A revealing story of religion gone bad
Tony Comes is a firefighter in Toledo, Ohio. As a teenager attending Central Catholic High School in the 1980's, he and others were repeatedly molested by priest and religion teacher Dennis Gray. Later in life when Tony, his wife, and 2 children move to a nice suburban neighborhood in Toledo, they're shocked to find that the serial child molester Dennis Gray now lives only 5 houses away from them on the same street.

In June of 2002, Tony met with Toledo diocese bishop James Hoffman to relate his story of sexual abuse. The bishop lied to Tony and stated that Dennis Gray had molested only him. Subsequent news reports attested to 6 additional men who reported they were molested by Dennis Gray at the same high school in the same time frame. Several of these victims are interviewed in this program. In September, Tony filed a lawsuit against the Catholic Church and in December he contacted the media.

The Catholic Church is shown to be very uncooperative with the...

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The Holy Roller

What a novel way....
I sat and watched this DVD wondering why on earth I ever spent the money I did on it and why, at the time, I was spending any time watching it. It took a while, but I discovered the "novel" characters and plot of this movie were strange, a little weird, off-track, human in oh, so many ways and interesting ...all rolled into one.

This is not the typical DVD that I'd normally watch. But, I am so glad I did. I stepped out of my box and learned about my faith, other's faith and perceptions and dogmas, and world views.

It's not a master-piece but it sure is worth watching several times, every so often. I do indeed like this movie.





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Diamonds Are Forever

Extras put DVD over the top
Although Diamonds Are Forever is a fairly weak entry in the James Bond series, the special edition DVD of this movie must rank among the best of all the 007 releases. The half-hour Inside Diamonds Are Forever documentary is both outstanding and informative, featuring such items as the background story behind Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd (including recent interviews with actors Bruce Glover and Putter Smith), and a fascinating revelation by Jimmy Dean, who admitted to some discomfort in portraying a thinly-disguised Howard Hughes-type character when his real life boss at the time was, in fact, Howard Hughes. The 45-minute biography of Cubby Broccoli is almost worth the price of the DVD alone, and the inclusion of four deleted scenes nicely pieces together what was originally an editing nightmare for this film, especially Plenty's mysterious appearance in Tiffany's pool. One final note: the Bond filmmakers have always prided themselves in delivering sanitized sex scenes without resorting to...

TIFFANY CASE, THATS QUITE A NICE LITTLE NOTHING YOU'RE ALMOST WEARING.....I APPROVE.
This Bond movie has it ALL. No doubt one of my favorites in the whole 007 empire. Tiffany Case is probably my favorite BOND girl, because she is no doubt the bad girl of BOND girls. The action in this movie only stops to let the clevage show, in short there is never a dull moment in this 007.
Sean Connery flirts with ALL the chicks, if he had class in the original handful of movies, well he completely did away with that in this venture. He's a wise cracker in this one, which adds a lot of wit to this. Quirky, clever dialouge all around...
"Which do yo prefer, blondes or brunettes?"
"Either, as long as the collars match the cuffs."
Then theres Plenty O'Toole (ha hah) also a very attractive little chick, even though she gets drowned somewhat early on in the film.. oh well, it left more room for Tiffany Case to run around half naked for the rest of the time.... Outstanding rump shot while she's switching the cassette tape inside the laborotary. "Showing a little more...

Diamonds Are Forever (And For Fun)
Extremely stylish James Bond film, which ushered in the "just for fun era" that didn't end (but was interrupted by For Your Eyes only) until Roger Moore's retirement in 1985. However, this one has several qualities which most of those others don't. First, Sean Connery's back and gives his most complete acting performance in a Bond film. I personally enjoy him more in this film than in any of his other Bonds. It was, for my money, his most relaxed and confident performance. And his less than perfect appearance, though shocking to some, made his portrayal of the world-weary Bond all the more appropriate. Second, the dialogue here is masterful and, for once, truly funny in an ultra-sophisticated sort of way; the witicisms are incredible clever, maybe more so than in any Bond before or since. You have to watch this one over and over just to catch all the ingenious banter. I also really enjoyed all the supporting characters performances as well. While he might have...

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Hellraiser V: Inferno

It's a Wonderful Death.
Jaw-droppingly good in comparison to every film to come since the original HELLRAISER, it was with great trepidation that I dropped this one into the DVD player. Just having suffered through Part 4: BLOODLINE a few weeks back, my expectations for INFERNO were about as low as they could be.

An inspired, twisted take on films like IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, HELLRAISER: INFERNO brings quality back to the franchise. It also brings decent acting, impressive direction, great effects, and, believe it or not, genuine chills and scares. Consistently maintaining the sense of dread created in films like JACOB'S LADDER or LOST HIGHWAY, INFERNO abandons previous sequels' use of Pinhead as little more than a soundbite-spouting slasher and focuses on the sins of man, in particular a dirty detective impressively played by Craig Sheffer. Fear not, fans - there are cenobites a'plenty, and they're far scarier than any of the sad, sad jokes found in Parts 3 or 4. Director Scott Derrickson wisely follows...

Good horror thriller
After having watched all four Hellraiser movies, I think Hellraiser Inferno is completely different. Well, I have got the feeling that a lot of true Hellraiser fans won't like this chapter. The protagonist of this movie isn't very sympathic and friendly: he takes drugs, sleeps with hookers(even though he has got a beautiful wife) and denounces his partner at the police station. A lot of people will despise this character and turn off the tv. However I stayed with this broken character and it is quite interesting to see how he unleashes the horrors of the box. His evil character traits are essential for the end of movie. Another flaw is that Pinhead only appears for two or three minutes on the screen. Nonetheless the movie deals with the desperate search of the protagonist for a mysterious person called the Engineer, who is connected with the box. If you accept the fact that this Hellraiser movie is completely different from the other parts, you'll enjoy a great and dark horror...

Hercule Pinhead
If you pay close attention, you'll notice that the opening credits of HELLRAISER: INFERNO are missing the words "Clive Barker." In its place are a couple guys whose last names are Weinstein. That's a clue right there: this movie isn't interested in building on the Hellraiser mythos.

It IS interested in clues, though. Craig Sheffer (of One Tree Hill) narrates the film as Detective Joseph Thorne. Joe is a good cop ("I'm good with puzzles" he growls) but not a good man. He wishes he was good, but can't be bothered to do much more than wish. Not until people he knows start dying.

Along for the ride is Joe's hapless partner, Detective Nenonen (played by John Turturro's youngest brother, Nick). Together the two stumble onto a case involving sadistic deaths, a strange puzzle box, and a criminal mastermind known only as...

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The Legend of God's Gun

The Legend of God's Gun
"Will someone with a gun shut this preacher up?" Viewers need saddle up for this wild, hallucinogenic gallop through Leoni's classics! In "The Legend of God's Gun," a lone preacher in the godless town of Playa Diablo seeks retribution for his lost love, murdered at the hands of venom-sucking bandito, El Sobero. In the process, the town of plagued villagers is purged of its demonic ills in this twisted rendition of good versus evil. Conceived by madman and composer Kirpatrick Thomas (the evil, El Sobero), the film is a visual and auditory tribute to the spaghetti western- exploded and deconstructed for your postmodern palette. Shot, edited, and directed by Mike Bruce (the less than honorable sheriff of Playa Diablo), "The Legend of God's Gun," is a visceral collage that is sure to become a cult phenomenon.

With a ridiculously low budget, a production team (including cast) of about 100, and over three years in the making, the film is a miraculous incarnation by all...

Defining a cult classic.
The Legend of Gods Gun. Some production notes:
1, Mike Bruce's first feature film. He went on to direct FIVE, count em' 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 of Noel Gallagher's (Yep, Oasis) High Flyin' Birds videos. Plus, has since released his next feature, Treasure of the Black Jaguar.
2. The music from this film has gone on to be used by Quentin Tarantino, East Bound & Down, Californication, and the films DUST UP(Amber Benson) and El Gringo(Christian Slater).
3.This film was the genesis of creating the Psychedelic Spaghetti Western movement in Joshua Tree, CA. Prompting the Clean Air Clear Stars Festival. The Soundtrack was released by TeePee Records.
4. It was literally premiered as a DRIVE-IN Grindhouse style movie in Joshua Tree, CA at Pioneertown. Popcorn and all in May 2008.
5. There were no actors involved in the making of this film. All were MUSICIANS. That includes Director, Editor, Gaffer, Location Scouts, and all other "Cast".
6. Yes, they were "busted" filming...

Psychadelic western at its best
Some parts with bad acting, but a rad overall movie with an awesome soundtrack. This movie is easy watch and stay awake to with constant wtf? or rofl moments

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Gerhard Richter Painting

looking at the creative process, with limitations
Gerhard Richter Painting
this dvd is an attempt to explore the inner workings of the creative process of a great contemporary artist. what is highlighted in the inexpressible process of the artist's thinking and feeling as he works on his paintings until the "moment" of achievement is met. richter admits to not knowing from the get go what he is intending to achieve. his large size squeegees create transformations of the initial hand made painting, and the mechanical process offers him the opportunity for the painting to have a life of it's own. in watching this, the viewer is fascinated, puzzled, bored, and transfixed looking at an artist, but not quite seeing into his inner psyche. richter is often both self deprecating and humorous about the "unknowable" in mulling over the creative process. the film tends to be rather slow moving and at times lumbering, but it is none-the-less, a wonderful inside view of...

Moving Paint
An intimate visit with the artist in his studio. It was a joy to watch him engaged in his creative process, and to see his paintings unfold. He's very adept with both brush and squeegee. It was delicious to watch.

Well filmed and very inspiring
Just seeing how he manipulates his colors and respects the media makes me hungry to produce more work as an artist. Great production.

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The Wonderful Ice Cream Suit

Magical, musically entertaining, amusing and clean!!
The premise of this movie is quite unusual, five men pool their last few dollars to purchase a brilliant "ice cream" white suit that will empower them. Humorous, heartful, musical, silliness and action!

The men, Bien Azul, Martinez, Dominguez, Gomez and Daminos schedule the suit for an hour on the first night. Each takes his turn at wearing the suit, and reluctantly share it with the very filthy, smelly street urchin, as he contributed also.

They take extreme pride in the suit and the urchin must be bathed, hair cut, and he needs specific instructions: He is not to fall down, no standing under trees with birds in it, no drinking wine, no smoking, don't eat juicy tacos. One other request: don't go to the Red Rooster where the fat one, Ruby Escadrillo is because she would sit on his lap and crush the suit, put powder and lipstick on it and most of all she has a mean boyfriend "El Toro", the monster.

Well, the fun begins when he goes to the Red Rooster and does everything they...

A Celebration of Life!
I refuse to even contemplate living in a world in which Ray Bradbury does not exist. For within Bradbury's mind resides an entire universe filled with metaphor and dreams; galaxies teeming with life and love and poetry, with tales told and untold of such things as this world has never known and would never know, except for that magic that flows from his heart, through his brain and out through his fingertips, where they are born on the keys of his typewriter. And within that very same, ever fertile imagination, that wellspring of creativity, the words were formed, in a rush! and a swirl!, then tempered on Bradbury's mental forge of the fantastic, that ultimately came together and burst! forth as "The Wonderful Ice Cream Suit," a transporting film directed by Stuart Gordon.

Gomez (Joe Mantegna) lives in the barrio; a poor man, except in spirit, for Gomez has dreams, ah, such dreams! of something better, of a better life, of the magic that can happen if you but want it badly enough...

tasty and full of flavor!!!/sabroso y de buen gusto!!!
This is one of those films that you could enjoy with your children, with your friends or on a date. I know, some of you guys might be thinking, "Why would I want to watch a film about a suit made out of ice cream?" Well, first of all, the suit isn't actually made of ice cream. It is so perfectly white y bien suave (smooth) looking that it is comparable to vanilla ice cream. Also, this suit possesses magical powers. Whoever wears it, their deepest dreams will be realized. First, five men, who are definitely not made of money must pool their funds ($20 each) to purchase it from the clothing shop. Little do they know, how their luck can change in only a day's time!!!!! Also, they must share it--each only allowed to wear it for a short time.

This film has a wonderful musical score, the acting is strong and it is great to see a movie with such a positive and triumphant spirit. Also, the lead characters are all well known and well respected Latino actors. How wonderful...

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Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron

INCREDIBLE MOVIE!!!!
I took my 4 year old, and four 7 year olds to see this movie, and it made an impact on all of us. This movie is original. It is not Disney-ish and while I've appreciation for Disney, this movie did not have the "cutesy" factor of a Disney movie. Spirit captured my children's hearts and imaginations. This movie took the children through a full spectrum of emotions. They were elated at Spirit's courage, angry about his treatment, sad when he was sad and Rain was injured, and again thrilled when he was finally free! Isn't this what movies are for...to entertain our emotions? This movie beautifully depicted strength and courage. The animation was phenomenal and the music...Bryan Adams, what more can I say!!! My four year old was deeply impacted by this movie. She says it changed her life. When she went to get shots, she told me, "I will not cry, I will be brave like Spirit" and she didn't shed a tear! I highly recommend this beautiful and unique movie to anyone who wants to see or have...

Wonderful and uplifting family film...
I went to see this film in sneak preview with my 8 year old cousin.

I thought that it was incredible! It's the story of a wild stallion who's captured, first by US soldiers, and then by a young Native American... All through out though, Spirit's heart is with his herd, running the hills of the untamed west!

Since the horses didn't speak in the film, except for narration by Matt Damon as the voice of Spirit, the horses facial expressions became central, so they had some really fun to watch "conversations". This movie had one of the most touching mother/son relationships since Bambi, in my book, even without a word spoken between them!

It's a movie about being you are, and about never accepting defeat, and about soaring on wings of eagles... We can all stand to have a little of that untamed majesty beating in our hearts every now and then, so go see it, and let your self be taken away!

Marie

Unique and Breathtaking
After watching this movie, I have got to say that this is truly a unique theatrical experience. This is one of the many movies I have been wanting to see for a very long time, and I wasn't dissapointed. The presentation of Spirit is something to hold on to. The Brilliant Score of Hans Zimmer, the Exceptional Songs of Bryan Adams and the Superb Narration from Matt Damon is very Dazzaling. I can't say nothing bad about this movie because there really isn't anything to say.

For a 15 year old guy, like me, I was very Satisfied to see that Dreamworks also thought of the Adults, with the story being strong, as it is, but also giving us the normal humor that we expect from a kids film.

From the Opening Scene to the Final Jump, Spirit is a film that Everyone should go out and see, because it will bring people closer together. For sure Spirit will be getting an Award for the Excellent work that each individual did on this movie. I can't wait to get this on DVD!

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Recess: Taking The 5th Grade

A Disappointing Finale For An Out Of This World TV Series
If you have bought "Recess: Miracle on Third Street" and/or "Recess: All Growed Down" and wondered what was up with the whole flashback thing...and why Disney is giving substandard and disappointing DVDs..

It's because usually Disney gives any cartoon series a 65 production limit (even if it's a huge sucess [like Recess] or a horrible failure) but since Recess was SO popular Disney hesitantly accepted for 13 new episodes to be made and they are being put into DVDs or they were shown after the Recess: School's Out movie (I think only 4 were shown on TV: Terrifying Tales of Recess, Lost Leader, Kurst the Not So Bad, and Mundy, Mundy) Sadly instead of Disney continuing to make NEW episodes, that still has a potential gold mine of profit, Disney believes that kids won't know any better and believe showing the same 65 episodes again for syndication will make them think it's still new. But my younger cousins (8-12 years old), and I know other kids are smarter than that...and can tell...

awesome recess
Recess Taking The Fifth Grade is awesome.This video movie is based on the Recess series and theatrical movie. This review contains spoilers. This movie isn't just one story it's three stories into one movie about T.J and his gangs' misadventures in fifth grade. In the first story T.J and his gang go to their first day in fifth grade expecting it to be the best first day ever, but instead they find out thatMiss Finster is the new teacher. The food is disgusting,and the playground gets taken away from everyone in the school. T.J makes a protest to make everything back to normal. Mr White makes an unexpected appearance,but don't worry it has a good ending. In the second story the gang goes to meet the new king Larry of the playground, who T.J thinks will give him a reward for the protest, but instead shows the gang to the secret fifth and six graders club. But when the gang finds out Mikey and Gus are making fun of the little kids the gang decides unexpectantly to ask a kid to help them...

A PRETTY GOOD DVD
I have to say I am a HUGE Recess fan and when I heard the news of this DVD and the Kindergarten one, I was very excited! I of course went and bought them the first chance I had and I was very dissapointed, mostly because of the boring Kindergarten one.... but Neways Taking the Fifth Grade is pretty darn good considering it is made up of 3 NEW episodes. They don't exactly all focus on fifth grade but they are just as great as the orignals, but I just can't help how annyoing TJ's voice is! It sounds NOTHING like the original TJ who went through puberty and was too deep so they cast some boy who sounds like a teenage girl!

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Shadowzone

shadowzone
Fullmoon Pictures is a company that makes B horror movies. The best of the lot is the subspecies series. The worst is head of the family and The Creeps. Shadowzone falls in as one of the better ones. A group of scientists are doing dream-state researsh. One subject falls into a deep sleep that opens a third dimension releasing a monster that can change size and form at will. The monster can read peoples minds and comes to them as there deepest fears. The movie has an Alien feel to it. Dark corridors, space suits and lots of gore. The acting is very good for a B movie. At times it's scary and the special effects are good. I would recommend this film for a viewing on a dark stormy night. I have the DVD and it says its widesceen but it is not. It is fullscreen so be aware of this. There is also no videozone on this fill which is usually always on the fullmoon videos. All in all a good, scary well acted movie. Enjoy!

Low budget cheapie with genuine suspense.
Shadowzone is a cheaply made sci-fi movie which, conveniently, isolates its B-movie cast (veterans Louise Flecther and James Hong, Shawn Weatherly from "Baywatch" and David Beecroft from "Falcon Crest")in an underground facility and predictably are trapped when they are menaced by an unseen force. The movie makes the best of these circumstances and actually builds tension that gets you into it. Cast is knocked off one-by-one, but it it extremely well made for its budget and squeezes its cast and effects for all their worth. If you like suspense, sci-fi, horror, thrillers or just the wierd, you'll enjoy this.

shadowzone
Fullmoon Pictures is a company that makes B horror movies. The best of the lot is the subspecies series. The worst is head of the family and The Creeps. Shadowzone falls in as one of the better ones. A group of scientists are doing dream-state researsh. One subject falls into a deep sleep that opens a third dimension releasing a monster that can change size and form at will. The monster can read peoples minds and comes to them as there deepest fears. The movie has an Alien feel to it. Dark corridors, space suits and lots of gore. The acting is very good for a B movie. At times it's scary and the special effects are good. I would recommend this film for a viewing on a dark stormy night. I have the DVD and it says its widesceen but it is not. It is fullscreen so be aware of this. There is also no videozone on this fill which is usually always on the fullmoon videos. All in all a good, scary well acted movie. Enjoy!

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Battleground

The Original Band of Brothers
Of the dozen or so films that use the Battle of the Bulge as a backdrop, BATTLEGROUND stands out as one of the best. Starring Van Johnson and John Hodiac, look for other young and upcoming stars of screen and television tube such as Marshall Thompson, Ricardo Montalban, James Arness and Richard Jaeckel.

The date is December 1944. The place is Bastogne, Belgium. The Germans have just unleashed their last major offensive in the west and the US 101st Airborne is rushed in to stem the tide. The film focuses on one platoon of airborne troopers and their actions outside of Bastogne.

If you thought the Bastogne sets for HBO'S BAND OF BROTHER'S were fantastic, get a glimpse of the equally fantastic sets for BATTLEGROUND. The story is presented from the GI point of view, so there are few opportunities to see the German soldiers up close.

In terms of historical accuracy, BATTLEGROUND was so well researched that even the weather conditions are matched with...

Best War Film From the G.I. Perspective.
Of all the films to emerge from World War II, "Battleground" best portrays basic survival from an infantryman's perspective. Even the battle scenes illustrate the closed-in battlefield and confusion experienced by the individual G.I. For example, the scene of the pre-dawn attack by German infantry when the American private takes the initiative to fire his M-1 rifle into the darkness at sounds rather than a visible target, thus spurring the other men in his squad to begin firing accurately portrays the confusion and fear oftentimes emminating from the foxhole. Several times in the film, the theme of officers and NCOs removing badges of rank in order to not expose themselves to enemy snipers is not often shown in other films of this genre. Even Captain Miller (Tom Hanks) in "Saving Private Ryan" boldly wore his Captain's bars on his helmet throughout the entire film (as did also his platoon Sergeant wear his stripes on the outside of his combat jacket). The ethnic...

Tribute to the World War II Veteran
I love this World War II movie about the Battle of the Bulge. I like this film because it focuses on the ordinary infantryman and is told in a very gritty fashion for its time (1949). Producer Dore Schary had the good sense to let director William Wellman (World War I veteran) film this movie in a more realistic style than a major Hollywood studio would normally have done. Robert Pirosh's competent and honest script breathes reality into the life and death daily existence of these soldiers through their turgid dialog. Paul C. Vogel's black & white cinematography is bleak and adds a sense of anxiety that puts the viewer directly into the story. Van Johnson, John Hodiak, Ricardo Montalban, George Murphy, James Whitmore, Richard Jaeckel and Marshall Thompson are all excellent in their roles. This move is a tribute to the ordinary guy that had to leave home, go out and defend our freedoms.

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Hellraiser IV: Bloodline

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The Journey of Natty Gann

Great Movie Given A Shabby DVD Transfer treatment
What could have been the usual predictable Disney film, turns out to be a truly remarkable experience the whole family can enjoy. The story of a young girl who travels across country to find her father during the depression, is played perfectly by Meredith Salenger. The supporting cast is just as excellent, with John Cusack playing a drifter she meets along the way, and Jed who plays Wolf, her companion for much of the journey. During her trip, we have a first hand look at the desparation many people suffered through during the depression. The scenery is gorgeous, and the score is terrific. This should be a Disney classic and it's too bad the people at Disney don't realize it, which brings me to the bad part of this review.
Apperently there isn't anyone at Disney who ever thought this movie would be or could be this great. It was released on VHS, but was out of print and unavailable for a long time, unless of course you wanted to spend mega-bucks for it on Ebay. I would...

Teriffic! Tremendous! Stupendous! wtF?! OOOPS??!!
Great Movie. Crummy DVD. I saw it in theatres when I was a kid, I bought the VHS when 1st available; I was overjoyed to the point of near misty-eyed-ness when I recieved the DVD from my wife. TjoNG is one of the reasons I fell in love with wolves & learned to overcome my American cultural ignorance of them. The movie is the reason I listened more closely to my grandparents tales of the depression; why I stopped thinking depression meant an emotional state & recognized it as an economic problem. You & your kids can *LEARN* something from this movie, you can enjoy watching it, again & again; there's a marvelous emotional hurrah! throughout the entire story, Disney at it's finest without the clubbed-over-the-head forced-spoon-fed social & morality message & commentary. The scenery is breathtaking, you kinda think I wish I could go back to then & live in that incredible world. The music is perfect, nudging & reinforcing without interrupting or annoying. This is also one of Scatman...

Great Movie... terrible DVD...
First off, this is one of the best family Disney films of all time. Great story, good acting, epic in scale.
However, this DVD edition [bad]. Image quality [bad]. And it's not in widescreen, which is just a sin if you remember the scope of the film.
Obviously, Disney's trying to find ways to cut corners these days and shell out low quality merchandise.

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Midnight Madness

"Fagabeefy?" Or Quintessential early '80's romp
OK, in terms of absolute merit, I'll be the first to admit that this is not a 5-star movie. However, in terms of sheer, nostalgic fun and late-night silliness, Midnight Madness is a classic--as the numerous, heartfelt reviews here show.

The plot is simple: a mastermind, Leon, stages a Los Angeles-wide scavenger hunt, inviting five captains and their teams to play for everlasting glory. Heralding in the class-consciousness of later '80's movies, there are the White Team (nerds on mopeds); the Green Team (jocks in Meat Machine convertible); Red Team (sorority gals); Blue Team (outcasts in super-van with computer--TRS-80?); and Yellow Team (the good guys). Any bets on the winners?

It's low-brow, slapstick, often cheesy and utterly improbable stuff. Yet in its own twisted universe, it _works_. The best thing HBO ever did in its youth was airing this movie practically every day. I don't think I ever watched it from start to finish, but I watched segments so many times that it...

It was fun!
Having appeared in this film - on the white "nerd" team - I never thought it would achieve almost "cult" status. I had just finished appearing in a "serious" play, and while I did have fun filming, it was quite a let down for me. Although I thought the finished movie was an light diversion, upon the films release it was blasted by the critics and - I thought- destined to oblivion. But a "cable classic"? What a pleasant surprise. Unknown at the time, Michael J. Fox was nice and friendly to work with...and who knew? For me the film is now a guilty pleasure. Enjoy.

Catch Midnight Madness
I first saw Midnight Madness on HBO late one night as a child, and I remember staying up late everytime it was on just to watch it again and again. Now that it's out on video, I can watch it whenever I want (even though it seems to be best enjoyed in the wee small hours of the morning). Midnight Madness is an absolute laugh riot and a must for any fans of comedies, 1980's movies, or just about anyone with a sense of humor, for that matter. I have yet to meet one person who's seen this film and didn't enjoy. It's just a fun movie, and, as a bonus, it's the first ever big screen appearance of Michael J. Fox. I would have to highly recommend this movie to anyone interested in simply having a good time.

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A Conversation on the Caesar's Messiah Thesis

Such a powerful presentation of who invented Jesus
Having been a follower of religion my entire life questions would always come up as to the New Testament and how it was rather kind to the Romans. This never really seemed correct historically and now I know why. Joseph Atwill and others involved in this work on typology and the Flavian Signature really make sense and has answered as many questions as it raises.

Hopefully more work will be done to show more details as to how Rome invented Christianity and finally give people the information needed to realize exactly what they are following and being taught in church is simply Roman propaganda that has taken hold of the minds of some people. Damn those Romans really did a job on humanity. Their Empire fell but the damage they did is still reverberating throughout history to this day.

Worth watching after watching "Caesar's Messiah: The Roman Conspiracy to Invent Jesus "
Thought provoking, although I would love to see him debate and official from the Catholic church. I did re-read Josephus' works, and would love to see a movie made explaining how Jesus was an amalgamation of the people Josephus was fighting against.

Was the rebellious Jesus in Josephus account the same one from the Bible? Perhaps he was his nephew? Maybe it was Josephus feeling guilt which made him request for his 3 friends on the cross to be brought down...was it the same rebellious Jesus leader of fishermen? There needs to be more scholarly work...but it's quite interesting and a great watch.

Very informative.
I enjoyed very much and learned a lot. I am looking at aother DVD's that would also interest me too.

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Broadway Serenade

It's a long way to Busby!
The film is over-long, sometimes boring and a typically over-produced, shiny, uninspired MGM picture. But because of Jeannette MacDonald it is ok. One has to wait long until the eccentric Busby Berkeley finale. It is one of his lesser known works but his genius triumphs even at MGM! It is a must for all Berkeley fans and I highly recommend the film because of this few minutes!

Forgotton treasure !
Broadway Serenade is a film I have not come across before.However it is a great film with marvelous musical numbers and great dramatic content. Jeanette fans will love it as it gives her the opportunity to act with other great stars from the MGM stable.
The story line is nothing special,but is still pleasing and has a happy ending,so what's not to love.
Thoroughly recommended.

Bad picture for Jeanette.
Making this one was a very sad & trying time for her. Too bad that Tyrant Mayer could'nt see that thru the dollar signs.

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D2: The Mighty Ducks

Today it's Wheaties boxes. Tomorrow it's video games and action figures. The sky's the limit!
It happens very seldom that a sequel doesn't flop and disappear in comparison to its predecessor.

D2, however is one of the few that hold strong with the original Mighty Ducks film. Most of the young stars return in this film, and those who do not are replaced by much more interesting team members, including a bash brother and a hog-tying cowboy.

Emilio Estevez returns as hockey coach Gordon Bombay who's returned to the Ducks after an injury in the minor leagues which has prevented a future in the NHL, although he is quickly back on his feet when he is asked to be the coach for the USA team in the Goodwill games. With the infusion of a few new players, some exciting new drills and a lot of hard work the ducks are back in action and ready to kick some Iceland butt!

A little more silly then the first, but still packs in a lot of fun!

Greatest Movie Ever
D2..The Mighty Ducks are back is the best movie ever. Emilio Estevez gives a performance that is Oscar worthy. His portrayal of the determined Gordon Bombay is nothing short of breath-taking. Emilio completely becomes Gordon Bombay in his most convincing role to date. Aside from Emilio, a young Joshua Jackon (aka Pacey from Dawson's Creek) shows glimpses of superstardom in his role as the young, caring Charlie Conway. When Charlie is willing to give up his role on the Ducks for the teams good, you WILL Have goosebumps. There is a little bit of Charlie Conway in each and every one of us. This movie also has loads of comedy. First off- The opening scene when they rollerblade through the Mall of America is..in a word..hilarious. Also- A young Kenan (of Nickelodeon fame) introduces the Knuckle Puck in this movie! The action and the laughs never stop in this movie which in a nutshell defined the 1990's and set the standard for all movies.

Pretty good
I thought that D2 was a good movie, although some of the parts seemed to be unrealistic, and some main characters from The Mighty Ducks were missing. I missed Hans, though I did really like his "replacement". One of the bigger missing characters, I thought, was Ms. Conway, Charlie's mother. I think that if you're going to introduce a sort-of-main character in the first movie, you should stick with it in the second.
In D2, the Ducks get accepted into the Goodwill Olymipic Games. They get some new players who they aren't getting along with to well in the beginning, but who they sort their differences out with. In the Olympics, they go up against teams from all over the world, but with none are they so competetive than with the favored-to-win team, Iceland.
The coach of the Iceland team is sort of like Coach Riley in D1, but is, I think, more extreme. Coach Bombay has kind of the same "screw up" that he had in D1, but another old man, who is...

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