James and the Giant Peach (Special Edition)

Amazon.com essential video

Roald Dahl's modern classic for children becomes a delightful combination of live action and stop-motion animation by the team that made The Nightmare Before Christmas: director Henry Selick and producers Tim Burton (Batman) and Denise Di Novi. The story concerns young James (played for real and through voice-overs by Paul Terry), who is orphaned and left in the charge of two cruel aunts (Miriam Margolyes, Joanna Lumley). Rescued by a mysterious fellow (Pete Postlethwaite), James ends up inside a giant peach, drifting over the Atlantic Ocean in the company of a gentleman grasshopper (voiced by Simon Callow), a fast-talking centipede (Richard Dreyfuss), an anxious earthworm (David Thewlis), a matronly ladybug (Jane Leeves), and a sexy spider (Susan Sarandon). The collection of actors and their creepy-crawly alter egos are a delight, especially when some of the song-and-dance numbers (tunes are written by Randy Newman) get everyone going. --Tom Keogh

Description

Take a bite out of Disney's delicious Special Edition of JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the popular children's book by Roald Dahl that inspired this imaginative film. This amazing mix of live-action, stop-motion animation and computer-generated special effects includes bonus materials never before available. When young James spills some magic crocodile tongues, a giant peach grows as huge as a house. Climbing inside, he embarks on a thrilling and magical odyssey that only the creative team from TIM BURTON'S THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS could bring you. Along the way you'll discover the famous star voices of Richard Dreyfuss and Susan Sarandon, Jane Leeves (FRASIER), and Simon Callow (SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE), plus the inspired music of Randy Newman. Enjoy -- it's a peach of a journey!

Customer Reviews:

Childhood memory.......2007-07-28

I remembered this movie from when I was a kid and deciced to hunt it down. I'm glad I did. It's not the same as when I was a kid but still a pretty good movie. I work in a learning center and the afterschool kids love it too. Good stuff.

GREAT SONGS AND VISUALS MAKE THIS TIM BURTONS BEST ANIMATED FILM.......2007-03-31

I love this movie! The visual may not be a macabre as Nightmare Before Christmas or Corpse's Bride, but the joyful songs by Randy Newman and the story pacing make this a big winner! This is a great film for the family,but there are some scary moments for the younger kids so beware! The DVD transfer is very good.

YOU'RE NOT EVEN A REAL RHINO!.......2007-03-16

James and the Giant Peach...one of the most beloved stories out there. I remember when I first read it back in fifth grade, all the way back in 1995. Our class had been introduced to Roald Dahl's stories, and we couldn't get enough. Going through nearly everything he wrote for kids and young adults, James and the Giant Peach always stood out. Not too long after reading a few dozen Dahl books, word got out that James and the Giant Peach was getting a movie. Talk about ironic, eh? The fact that it was done in the same puppet format as The Nightmare Before Christmas caught my attention (yes, I saw NBC in theaters before the current mall goth trend), and I couldn't wait to see it. Seeing it back then, I loved it. Seeing it again 5 years ago, it still ruled. Just the other night? Yeah, it still manages to hold up. And like the other two main puppet stop motion movies from the past decade, NBC and Corpse Bride, James went under appreciated. I don't remember it doing too hot in box office receipts, and there wasn't much merchandise for it. Heck, all I have is my 15" Grasshopper. And James' release on dvd is anything but "special", as the box would lead you to believe claiming this as the special edition. That's a shame too, because I'm sure if it were released today, it'd do a bit better. James and the Giant Peach is one of the best family movies I've seen, and the fact that I can still enjoy it at almost 22 years old (especially given how harsh I can be on things like this) really says something. And hey, the differences between the book and movie aren't much, so no book-purists are going to be knocking this one much!

If you read the book, you can skip this paragraph, but if not, here's how the story goes: James lived as a normal young boy with a great mom and dad. Unfortunately, they were eaten by a mad rhino one day. This caused James to live with his horrid aunts, Spiker and Sponge. They abuse him, underfeed him (his dinner is usually fish heads, uncooked), make him do all the chores, and yell at him if he questions them. Granted, James is a pretty annoying kid, but at his age, he shouldn't be treated like that. One day, an old man encounters him outside the house, and offers James a bag of neon green crocodile tongues. They're actually just little bugs that glow and hop around, and are full of magic. He gives them to James, but the kid trips and they go flying everywhere, going into the ground. Soon enough, Spiker and Sponge notice a peach growing on a dead tree. It continues to grow until it's probably a good 20 feet around. They charge people all across England to see it, and make some good money. But one night, James goes out to check the peach, and ends up going inside. After unknowingly ingesting one of the crocodile tongues, James completely changes in appearance, and comes across a group of huge talking bugs within the peach. He befriends them, they get outta Spiker and Sponge's grasp, and head towards New York, a place where James' parents were going to take him before their untimely demise. James and crew embark on quite a journey while making way to America, including fighting a huge mechanical shark, skeleton pirates, and fighting things like hunger and distrust.

Ok, I gotta get the so-called "plot holes" out of the way first. Yes, there's a mechanical shark that is never once explained. It appears out of the ocean, and goes to attack the peach. That's its purpose- peril for the gang. But when you see that the fish it consumes end up being the fish heads that James gets for dinner, I guess it makes a little sense. There are a few others that are around later in the movie, but none of them should bother you too much. If anything, the movie's more of a visual treat, seeing how amazing the puppet work was back in that era. The movie took 3 years to make, which is longer than most would care to put into movie, especially a stop motion one where you have to work hard just for one second of film. The grasshopper, centipede, spider, earthworm and ladybug puppets all look fantastic, and are full of character. The glow worm puppet looks like a robot fused with an old lady, but is barely seen. Some have complained that the crew of bugs is too stereotypical in that the grasshopper represents an English gentleman, the spider a French cafe dweller, the centipede a New York cabbie, and the ladybug a motherly figure. Given that none of them go too far into the stereotypes (the grasshopper breaks this several times just before the pirate scene), it's not a big concern, and if you're complaining about bug stereotypes, you take movies too seriously. The whole thing was a blast to watch, and I look forward to watching it with my daughter when she grows up. Sure, there are some potentially scary images, mostly of the rhino storm cloud, and one whole "bad" word (they even say "god" here! GASP!), but this is a straight up family movie, and if you have to shield your child's eyes and ears for things like that, you have my prayers. Besides, if anything, you should be shielding their eyes from Sponge in the bikini top when her and Spiker are tanning.

The picture transfer got an ok treatment. I saw a bit of grain, but nothing too serious. The movie was presented in full screen as well, and I know for a fact that some stuff is missing. It's obvious when you get group shots of the bugs and half of one is missing from the shot. I forget if that's how it was in theaters, but I wouldn't imagine so. The audio gets better treatment, making good use of surround sound on several occasions. The action sequences amazingly use the 5.1 track. It could still use a bit of cleaning though.

I seem to be having bad luck with special features and family movies these days, as James and the Giant Peach only has one worth mentioning. In addition to the usual trailers, song/music video and promotional materials, there's only one featurette, and it is the standard "it was great working on this movie!" fare...for under 5 minutes. Yep, that's all. You see a few voice actors, the director, and some behind the scenes footage, and it's done. Some special edition huh? The movie came out 10 years ago, so there went any hope of a 10th anniversary edition with more features. I guess we're stuck with this as the only release unless an HD-DVD or Blu-Ray one gets more, but I don't see that happening.

I really do love this movie, even if the kid that plays James is just barely less annoying than the one who played Charlie in the remake of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. When he's in puppet-form, he's more tolerable, but not by much. This movie's all about puppets though, so animation fans will absolutely love this one. Most of the acting is solid, the songs are fairly good (not NBC standards, however), and it doesn't drag on in any places. I'd say that's all you need for a family movie. If Roald were alive at the time of its release, I'm sure he wouldn't have hated it like he did Willy Wonka. At least this thing has a lot of views from a child in it, and keeps things simple, the way it was intended. Besides, there are some great one-liners like the earthworm mentioning how his brother was cut in half, and how he now has two half-brothers. Here's hoping we get another stop motion movie sometime this decade. We need more people putting hard work into these things and less of the standard pampered animal ends up in the wild fare!

My all time favorite.......2007-01-17

This is one of my all time favorite movies. That is why I purchased it. Enjoyed watching it over and over again.

James entertains all ages.......2007-01-10

I love this movie, my kids love this movie, my grandkids love this movie. It is a movie for all ages. Very entertaining and provides a strong positive message.

Spawn - The Director's Cut (New Line Platinum Series)

Average customer rating:

President Bartlett can't save film from the horrid clown demon.
Excellent Movie; Stop the RACIST HATE.
pixelated photos on the cover art box
A Super Hero brother with Attitude. Need I say more?
I own Spawn on VHS - now purchasing DVD because I loved it!!!

Spawn - The Director's Cut (New Line Platinum Series)
Starring: Michael Jai White , John Leguizamo , Martin Sheen , Theresa Randle , and Nicol Williamson
Director: Mark A.Z. Dippé
Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

Computer Animation | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

Feature Films | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

New Line Platinum Series | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

ASIN: 6304712499
Release Date: 1998-01-06

Amazon.com

After being murdered for quitting his role as a ruthless yet moral government assassin, Al Simmons (Michael Jai White) is sent to Hell, where he makes a pact with the demon Malebolgia--if Simmons is allowed see his lover, Wanda, again, he will agree to lead the demon's armies to storm the gates of Heaven. Transformed into a superhuman entity with shape-shifting powers and quick regeneration capabilities, Simmons (soon to be dubbed "Spawn" by Malebolgia's crony, The Violator) returns to Earth and attempts to reunite with Wanda, not knowing that five years have passed. He also seeks revenge on his former boss and killer, Jason Wynn (Martin Sheen), who has made a deal with The Violator to develop a lethal virus to take over the world, where Wynn is promised to be king.

Spawn wages an inner battle between good and evil as he tries to come to terms with selling his soul and what it could mean for humankind. Despite excellent effects and great potential, Spawn seems to come up short. While White certainly displays verve in his characterization of the twisted hero, he cannot overcome some forced dialogue. On the flip side, the usually engaging John Leguizamo portrays the sinister Violator--an evil monster masquerading as a rotund, weird-looking clown--as an irritating lackey who spews overbearing sarcasm and incessantly banal one-liners. Admitted, many of Spawn's action sequences are fun, and the transitions effectively brisk, but more could have been done to explore how Simmons grapples with his humanity in these daunting circumstances. But if you want sizzling action sequences and digital effects, this film should keep you happy. --Bryan Reesman

Customer Reviews:

President Bartlett can't save film from the horrid clown demon........2007-07-22

Spawn used to have street 'cred when it was the coolest comic book series out there and then came the obligatory big screen version with Martin Sheen in an odd roll, terrible dialogue and an antagonist that is an annoying clown demon in the mold of DeVito's penguin - only not nearly as fun [which is pretty darn sad]. That run-on sentence sums up the horrific carnage in this forgettable action flop. It has nothing to do with the ethnicity of the main character; the movie just blows badly. It should have been/ could have been Blade meets Darkman. Instead, it is Little Nicky meets Batman and Robin - and perhaps not quite up to either of those films. Don't bother, it isn't worth it.

Excellent Movie; Stop the RACIST HATE........2007-07-20

This is an excellent movie but it was and unfortunately still is before its time. Race obviously played an all important view in the negative ratings as there are many whom hate and can not accept the concept of a BLACK SUPERHERO even in HELL; how sad. GROW UP HATERS or you will end up in HELL like spawn.

pixelated photos on the cover art box.......2007-07-02

Just received this dvd from amazon, and I wanted to point out that all the pictures in the cover box are pixelated!!! I just found this strange and wanted to share it with anybody that is considering in buying this product.

A Super Hero brother with Attitude. Need I say more?.......2007-04-06

Gotta support the brother. I think Michael Jai White is a great fighting and is wonderful in this movie. I also love the character of Spawn. A black superhero with an attitude. Wish we had more. Love it.

I own Spawn on VHS - now purchasing DVD because I loved it!!!.......2007-04-03

I decided to express my view on the Spawn movie, VHS, after I read some pathetic reviews posted here; one compared it to Spiderman, YUCH! {First let me say the Spiderman movie sucked. I found it too cartoonish and juvenile with exposed cow-teats from the get-go to sexually arouse and harass children, adolescents and immature adults.]

Now on to Spawn. I loved Spawn, VHS. I found the CGI, bluescreen {whatever) to be well done BUT NOT OVERDONE. I found the movie content to be mature and comical. I also enjoyed seeing an African American in the title role of a quality film; which is certainly not the norm.

Summarizing, I DO NOT enjoy seeing women expose their private parts for sexual harassment [that's what ADULT saloons and burlesque is for] and I do not enjoy cartoonish film [animated]; I prefer action movies to be REAL ACTION, Ala Daniel Craig in Casino Royale, WELL DONE!

Average customer rating:

The High Priestess Of Heavy Metal
Great music. Video editing is awful
Nightwish : "End Of An Era"
Just...wow...
FIN

End of an Era
Starring: Nightwish
Manufacturer: Nuclear Blast Americ
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000PKG7TI
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Customer Reviews:

The High Priestess Of Heavy Metal.......2007-09-12

END OF AN ERA by Nightwish may very well be the greatest Heavy Metal concert video ever made! This even tops Manowar's THE ABSOLUTE POWER (sorry Joey!) and Iron Maiden's DANCE OF DEATH. The band is tight and the performances electric. But it's the incredibly beautiful Tarja Turunen who makes this concert more than just another video. This one is a true treasure.
All Metal fans know that Manowar are the Kings of Metal and that Doro (Pesch) is the Queen of Metal. But, in my humble opinion, Tarja Turunen is the undisputed "High Priestess of Metal." Her voice is just incredible and her performance in this video is so powerful and energetic, enhancing the gothic feel of the band.
It's very sad to note that Nightwish has parted ways with Tarja. The whole affair with the posting of the letter by the band on the website was, in my opinion, nasty! Such problems should be kept private, not put on display for the whole world to see. This is a tragic blow for Heavy Metal music and for Tarja's zillions of fans (why are the fans ALWAYS the biggest losers?). We finally get a Metal band with class and rare beauty only to have it cruelly taken away. I can't say what Nightwish will be like with Annette but I hope they can retain some of the magic that Tarja brought to us all. So, in conclusion, END OF AN ERA is Nightwish at it's best. But every time I watch it, I feel like Heavy Metal, the greatest form of music in the world, has taken a cold, brutal slap in the face due to the breakup.
To Tarja, I just want to say that I met you at Prog Power a few years ago and had my picture made with you. It was my wish to personally thank you for the touch of class that you had brought to my music and that's just what I did. You were quite gracious and appreciative of my words. I will admire you and love you forever and the photo we took is something I will treasure as long as I live!! Thank you so much!!
Metal Rules!!! So does Metal's "High Priestess!!"

Great music. Video editing is awful.......2007-09-07

I am a fan of this excellent band. Music is great in both performance and quality of audio.
Compared to the previous DVD "From Wishes to Eternity" in this one they did a better job in synchronizing audio to video, now it looks like Tarja is really singing.
However, I give the worst rating to the video editing because on fast songs they change the camera angle/image every 2 seconds which becomes very annoying. They tried to do something fun or creative but maybe they were on drugs or just had too much caffeine. The fast change in images gets your eyes tired so you might as well turn off the TV and just listen to the audio.

Nightwish : "End Of An Era".......2007-08-22

First off, I'm not the biggest fan of Nightwish. Speaking in general, I can do without all of the "operatic approach" to their music. I'm much more of a METALHEAD so to speak, and I don't usually listen to bands that base their music around that "welcome to the opera" feel like Nightwish...

That being said, it was very difficult for me to get into Nightwish upon first listen a couple of years back. I was already a very big Lacuna Coil fan at the tinme, but these are two totally different bands, with different sounds / styles / and all around talents. You simply can't / shouldn't compare the two. Needless to say, I found Nightwish to be too opera oriented for my everyday listening....

Now onto this review....

I was completely blown away with this live performance. Nightwish is without question one of the tightest, most impressive live acts I've seen on DVD in quite some time. These are extremely complex songs to perform, and I couldn't have been more impressed with this purchace....

I was never a big Nightwish fan, but after seeing this incredible live performance, I have a lot more respect for this band. They are truly something special in a live setting, and even if you're like me and don't care for the opera feel to the music, I'm sure you'll still embrace "End Of An Era" with open arms after watching it for yourself....

5 STAR PERFORMANCE / BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!!!!

Just...wow..........2007-08-08

To tell the truth, I had already seen most of the videos from this DVD on youtube, but I still wanted to own the entire DVD. When I saw that it had finally come out for NTSC format, I almost couldn't believe my eyes. And the price is a steal! Anyway, so I bought it, thinking worst case scenario, I wouldn't be able to watch it on our TV. Well, I had no reason to worry...so anyone who's holding out on purchasing this because they're worried about it playing on NTSC, there's no need to fear!
On to the video itself. The concert footage is excellent. It's obvious that Nightwish puts on a great show...or at least they did with Tarja (we have yet to see how they do with Anette). The sound is very clear, their performance itself was spectacular, the picture is perfect. Just watching the concert alone makes it worth the price, which is good because the special features aren't all that great.
The set includes a documentary, which was horribly boring because either it doesn't come with subtitles, or I'm just not smart enough to find them. Either way, most of the documentary was in Finnish or Spanish...I could pick out words here and there, but that's about it.
It does have concert pics on it though, and that's pretty cool. LOTS of them, too!
I'm not a big fan of live CD's, so I haven't really listened to them a whole lot, but they're pretty good from what I DID hear of them.
I'd highly recommend this to any Nightwish fan. It makes a great addition to my Nightwish collection!

FIN.......2007-06-25

This is it. The last Nightwish concert with Tarja. Includes 2 CDS and 1 DVD. A real deal considering the $17.99 pre-order. A steal. I guess it was going to happen sooner or later with Tarja having two careers. I don't think her career will be the same after Nightwish. She sings opera and I own a lot of it and she doesn't have the voice to be a front line opera singer. I don't think either side will be the same in this breakup. Sad to see it end this way. This concert and CD set is our last great memory of them.FIN!!!

Average customer rating:

Weird, but very captivating little film.
Playing House
Creepy, gets under your skin.
Jodie Foster Shines in this role
Thats what little girls are made of (spoiler warning)

The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane
Starring: Jodie Foster , Martin Sheen , Alexis Smith , Mort Shuman , and Scott Jacoby
Director: Nicolas Gessner
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( L ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000ALM4MQ
Release Date: 2005-10-04

Description

Some little girls can be murder! Thirteen-year-old Rynn (Foster) is a gifted prodigy who lives in a big old house with her reclusive father...all alone. Or does she? When Rynn's nosy landlady and a lecherous neighbor (Sheen) begin to susupect that this little girl is hiding a dark and dangerous secret, Rynn is determined to preserve her isolated existence at any cost - and stop those vicious rumors dead in their tracks!

Customer Reviews:

Weird, but very captivating little film........2007-08-26

Like has been said, not a horror picture, but a good one...whatever it was.

The weird 14 year old genius orphan of a poet child, her crippled Italian magician boyfriend, and the animal hating child molester and his a-hole mom they must do battle with.. It's just really out of left field, but some how it was pulled off and didn't seem totally ridiculous, great cult film type of feel.

Some good tense scenes, some fine acting by young Jodi Foster, and hey watching the film you would think martin sheen really was a child molester irl!

A good pick up in my book.

OH, I almost forgot the sound track... for shame. It sounds like it was wrenched from a cheezy 70 porno flick. When the tension hook comes in the form of "waka-chicka-waka-chicka" you know something has gone terribly awry. Try to cringe through it.

Playing House.......2007-06-02

This 1976 Jodie Foster thriller was advertised as a horror film when it came out, but there's hardly any horror at all in it: it's more like a mystery, with the viewer waiting to find out why Foster's 13 year-old character (bizarrely named "Rynn") seems to live all alone in a large Cape Cod rented house, what she doesn't want anyone to see in her cellar, and why her father never seems to be in when neighbors come to visit. And come they do, again and again; even though Rynn is supposed to be a child genius (she studies Hebrew privately, read Emily Dickinson, and becomes the master of all sorts of outlandish skills central to the mystery), she never seems to get it into her head to lock her front door. Among her unwelcome guests include Alexis Smith as the bossy and anti-Semitic grande dame of the nearby town and Martin Sheen (!) as her loathsome son, a child moesltor who takes a fancy to Rynn and who devises a most repugnant (and absurd) way of killing Foster's pet hamster. More welcome is the very likeable Scott Jacoby as a handicapped teenage magician who comes to help Rynn with her quest to be left alone.

Some people remember this movie very fondly, and it's hard to figure out why. Even setting aside such strange period touches -- Rynn's horrible hairdo, the Moroccan caftan she likes to lounge about the house in, and the odd use of Quinn/Martin-styled electronic background scoring,-- the film is impossibly and fatally stagey, with 90% of the film's action taking place in Rynn's living room. Laird Koenig, who adapted the screenplay from his own novel, is not very graceful with dialogue, and the cast, despite their considerable talents, seem to be tripping all over their awkward repetitive accusatory lines. Foster is very appealing, despite this, and the role does make good use of her intelligent oddball qualities.

Creepy, gets under your skin. .......2007-05-12

I never forgot this movie the first time I saw it as a preteen. It was CREEPY in a psychological way. How smart she was for such a young girl. Her calm demeanor, the way she could outwit adults by words, alone.

And to this day, whenever I see almond cookies or almond tea..I think of this movie, lol.

Unforgettable, chilling, a classic. Jody Foster was incredibly mature at that age to pull the character off, like that. THAT'S TALENT!

Jodie Foster Shines in this role.......2006-12-20

I just watched this movie on TCM a few minutes ago, in the early a.m. hours. Like a lot of the other reviewers, I saw this movie many years ago, and never forgot it. When I watched it this morning, I was still astonished with Jodie Foster's acting ability at such a young age.

It may be a long stretch, a thirteen year old living in a huge house in the country, with her poet father who may, or may not be, living with her. But as the story enfolds, we understand why she is not in school. Thirty years after the movie was made, I got rather frustrated about Alexis Smith's role. I mean, the rent was paid for three years, what's the beef? Too much overacting on her part. And Martin Sheen -- well, he was creepiness personified. A known pedophile in a small town! C'mon. Oh well, it is only a movie!

Great performances from everyone. The town is beautiful, filmed in Canada. About the ending -- what is she going to do now?

Thats what little girls are made of (spoiler warning).......2006-12-07

This was an excellent movie. Jodie Foster gives an impressive performance for someone her age (her character was equal parts annoy and clever). Martin Sheen was equally as good as a vile and sadistic pedophile. Basically an all around good cast. The story was so good that it kept me interested despite the plot holes. I agree with other reviewers that the story tried to deliver the right message about independence and not letting others change you into what they want you to be. But lets face it, in real life a 13 year old living on her own is not a wise idea. At the end her character even admits that they thought of everything except for loneliness and the need for human companionship. I also felt that the 13 year old carrying on a sexual relationship, let alone with someone who was obviously older than her was disturbing. It seems as if the movie was presenting some kind of double standard: Martin Sheen is disgusting for going after young Jodie but "Mario" isn't because he's her hero and within 10 years of her age.

Average customer rating:

Maybe the funnest thing EVER!
Funny as ever
Pryor at His Absolute Best
Richard Pryor - Master Storyteller
His best stand-up...ever

Richard Pryor - Live in Concert
Starring: Richard Pryor , Jennifer Lee , and Patti LaBelle
Director: Jeff Margolis
Manufacturer: Hbo Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000FL7CBE
Release Date: 2006-08-01

Amazon.com

Watching Pryor go from imitating a drinking deer to a woman debating about going in the woods gives just a hint of the comedic genius of the man. Crude, foul, and real, this is the first and best of his concert films. Pryor does dead-on impersonations of the respective races, cussing, trying to act tough, getting kicked in personal spots. But it's his imagination that elevates him to a different level. He gives his impressions of what animals think, from his own animals (a monkey, a Doberman) to police dogs, and it seems so exact, so prescient. Not to mention the fact that he is self-deprecating in the extreme, and has as much fun skewering himself as any other subject. Still vibrant, still funny. --Keith Simanton

Description

Crude. Foul. Real. In a word, that?s Richard Pryor: Live in Concert. In this, the funnyman?s first and best concert film, Pryor does dead-on impersonations of the respective races, cussing, trying to act tough, getting kicked in privates. But it's his imagination that elevates him to a different level and hints at the comedic genius of the man. He gives his impressions of what animals think, from his own animals (a monkey, a Doberman) to police dogs, and it seems so exact, so precise. Not to mention the fact that he is at his self-deprecating best, skewering himself as much as any other subject.

Customer Reviews:

Maybe the funnest thing EVER!.......2007-08-07

When asked for an example of something to "hot" to be included in the National Recording Registry, Gene DeAnna, the director of the recorded sound division at the Library of Congress, immediately replied: "The example that comes to mind, to me, is a Richard Pryor record." He continued, "I think out of context, the language and often edgy, racial overtones of the recording could be put against the library and it could hurt feelings." Given a chance to see "Richard Pryor - Live in Concert", you'll be laughing to hard to find your feelings hurt!

According to Former Kennedy Center President Lawrence J. Wilker, "Richard Pryor was selected as the first recipient of the new Mark Twain Prize because as a stand-up comic, writer, and actor, he struck a chord, and a nerve, with America, forcing it to look at large social questions of race and the more tragicomic aspects of the human condition. Though uncompromising in his wit, Pryor, like Twain, projects a generosity of spirit that unites us. They were both trenchant social critics who spoke the truth, however outrageous." To get an impression of the wide ranging scope of his talent, search out a biography and note the list of performers and writers that he worked for and with - it's truly amazing!

Richard Pryor is possibly the funniest person ever, and this is a masterpiece. His storytelling at it's best, and the improvisational banter with the audience is incredible. A must-have for anyone (everyone!) who enjoys a thought provoking, mind expanding, belly laugh!

Funny as ever.......2007-03-15

it was funny then and more than 20 years later its still funny

Pryor at His Absolute Best.......2006-10-21

Released in 1979, Richard Pryor's first concert film is a landmark of comic brilliance that he never could surpass -- though "Live on the Sunset Strip" certainly has its moments. Pryor sets the Long Beach theater ablaze with a rapid-fire array of personal and social observations that made him one of America's most incisive humorists. "Live in Concert" remains the ideal showcase for his unique talents and the best way to remember him.

Richard Pryor - Master Storyteller.......2006-09-30

You know it kind of bothers me when folks label others. Especially when the label minimizes a person's worth. Ask just about anyone to describe Richard Pryor and most likely you'll hear - he was a funny dude, a comedian. While of course both are very true it's also an incomplete and unfair assessment of Richard Pryor because he was much more than that.

Along with being the quintessential stand up comedian, he was an incredibly talented writer, actor, cultural scribe and comedic visionary. But, one of Mr. Pryor's most overlooked talents was that of Master Storyteller.

When Richard Pryor talked about events from childhood through adulthood or shared an observation it was more than just a bunch of funny anecdotes strung together. He carefully, skillfully recreated the moment, the mood, the scene and the context of that story. You weren't just hearing a simple recollection of his experience; he actually took you there and was almost able to witness it firsthand. Richard Pryor tells his stories by bringing together special elements and ingredients and expertly mixing all into an amazing experience. You can say it's like watching a tapestry being made - all the parts big and small, no matter how inconsequential that they may appear to be individually, combined with a master's touch you have a fine work of art.

This 1979 release of Richard Pryor in Concert is a wonderful film that illustrates those talents and more. Seeing this movie again made me realize how nice it was to have someone so talented as Richard Pryor to entertain us and make us laugh until we wet ourselves, but yet sad that he's gone and there will probably never be someone as talented or as remarkable again.

His best stand-up...ever.......2006-02-17

If you've never seen Richard Pryor's stand up, then watch this one...it's the best he's ever done.

Average customer rating:

Believing is not necessarily enough
Great movie!
Pleasant love story
Shadyac, take it from me and TLC, don't go chasing waterfalls.
Dragonfly

Dragonfly (Fullscreen)
Starring: Kevin Costner , Susanna Thompson , Joe Morton , Ron Rifkin , and Kathy Bates
Director: Tom Shadyac
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Suspense | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

Mystery | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

DTS | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video

( D ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

ASIN: B0000687EY
Release Date: 2002-07-30

Amazon.com

"Belief gets us there," explains nun Linda Hunt to grieving widower Kevin Costner, an emergency room doctor whose ordered world is startled by "messages" from his dead wife. She's talking about the journey from life to death, but it describes the doctor's road from fact to faith equally well as he puzzles out the otherworldly events of his life. Costner's mourning comes off less lost and sad than simply emotionless and inert, but he finds good support from Kathy Bates as his sassy neighbor. Her appearances, along with a few startling horror-movie-type shocks, energize a film otherwise shrouded in loss, grief, and the hushed mood of supernatural spookiness. It's like a fusing of Ghost, The Sixth Sense, and The Mothman Prophecies, a New Age melodrama in a sentimental key that works through a rather contrived mystic mystery to a glowing climax. This is less a ghost story than a modern twist on the old-fashioned miracle. --Sean Axmaker

Customer Reviews:

Believing is not necessarily enough.......2007-09-05

An amazing thriller that goes against any kind of logic. Everything is wrong, resolutely wrong. A pregnant woman, a doctor mind you, decides to take a bunch of kids to the jungle deep in Venezuela on an adventurous sabbatical. An accident throws the school bus down into a river. No survivors. The husband, another doctor, is then the victim of visions, hallucinations, seizures of some kind that he very quickly interprets as signs from her trying to speak to him from where she is. He believes and thus is led to going back to where she died and to the village of Indians living at the foot of the waterfall where she met her fate. I won't reveal the end. The film is not interesting because of the thrilling suspense, nor because of the rather sentimental ending. It is interesting because of the way it describes the reactions of normal people in front of something, or someone that does not satisfy their expectations of what they call sanity. Anything or anyone that looks suspiciously insane in our society is at once rejected, becomes suspicious, and is supposed to be pushed aside into some kind of social sabbatical, or even worse is hassled by the guardians of normality in our social order, i.e. priests, and cops, and doctors. The point is that the story that supports this fact is so hectic and farfetched that it gets the true fact down the chute along with the unbelievable elements in the story. Believing is essential, provided what is believed is believable. Otherwise the film becomes pure entertainment, and it is too somber to be pure entertainment.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU, University Paris Dauphine, University Paris 1 Pantheon Sorbonne & University Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines

Great movie!.......2007-07-16

I can't say enough good things about this movie. Kevin Costner is outstanding in this role. It's a great story from beginning to end with a beautiful message. A truly intense believable thriller! I have watched this movie several times and still look forward to seeing it again. Highly recommended!

Pleasant love story.......2007-06-21

First, I do have to say I like Kevin Costner is just about any movie, but this brought out a very gentle side of Costner.
The movie is part spiritual, mystery, thriller, romance and love. It is definitely, "what would and how far would you go to unearth a mystery and give your love and life for the one you were meant to be with."
I really like the movie-I own the movie (B)

Shadyac, take it from me and TLC, don't go chasing waterfalls........2007-05-19

The concept of death surrounds me recently. Not that friends and/or family or passing away, but with the films and television programs that I have been watching recently, it seems to be a common occurrence. I am in the middle of viewing full seasons of "The 4400" which deals with the death of some to cause a "ripple effect" that would heal the world, "Monk" - which in each episode someone dies and it is up to Shalhoub to solve the mystery of the dead person, and surprisingly I am trying to figure out "Lost", which is teetering on the exploration of the possible death/purgatory of its central characters. So, with all this "death" surrounding me, why not pick up a film that may give me a chuckle (due to the director's prior comedic turns) as well as give me a new insight on the unknown explanation of the death phenomenon. One would hope that this would be the case with "Dragonfly", but upon a second viewing - as well as the voice of director Shadyac informing us that he didn't enjoy the final cut of this film - it was only discovered that Kevin Costner cannot paint us a picture of death - nor should we ever ask him to.

To be utterly up front with anyone reading this review, I am not going to paint a pretty picture of what I witnessed with this outing. There was nothing, I repeat, nothing of value with this film that tried to blend the teary eye of Costner with that of "The Sixth Sense". First time drama director Shadyac (who would be better known as the founder of "Ace Ventura"), cannot seem to grasp this film as he continually combines cliché elements from other films, random occurrences that never quite link us to the ending, and a complete waste of actual talent. He has the blocks to build the story, but instead he just tosses them into a waterfall hoping that they will land upright. Was this a supernatural thriller, was it a romantic drama, or was it just another venue for Kevin Costner to attempt to apply his "leading man" status to? For me, I couldn't quite see where Shadyac was going or what genre he was interacting with. The trouble begins with the story, of which couples with soul-mates, dragonflies, and coming back from the dead, as well as what a popular majority thinks. Listening to the commentary, Shadyac explains that his cut of the film wasn't as received as the final cut because too many people knew the ending prior to it happening. In my eyes - that is worthwhile if the story continues to attract us - but in "Dragonfly" that is not the case. The story is trite and quite dull, leading to an ending that surprises mainly because you don't care any further. Joe Darrow lost his wife, cannot cope even months later, and begins to think that she is contacting him from the dead - but for what reason? If you weren't pulled in by my synopsis, then I do not suggest viewing this film because in 22 words, I have probably told you everything.

The acting is atrocious, possibly the worst roles created for two very talented actors. I am speaking of both Costner and that unknown talent that normally reverberates from Kathy Bates, but seemed to be missing this time. Perhaps it is the tone, the vague symbolism, or just the fact that these two needed paychecks that soured this film, but instances were not connecting. By the big "surprise" at the end, we are either so tired of the events or have (in my case) forgotten them, that there is no "gasp" or shock, merely just excitement to have a finale to this horrid broadcast. Shadyac has talent as a director, I even find myself laughing at "Bruce Almighty", but drama is not his cup of tea. This film was too dark without any signs of light, which can be a good thing for skilled directors, but not for first-time Shadyac. He needed a blend of comic with the eerie unknown, which would have offset the disaster this train was headed towards. Costner couldn't carry Shadyac's work, and became murky and muddled through the middle. He had no central focus, so we - as audience members - didn't know who he was. Was he crazy or just in love? How come we never saw his love for his wife? Unanswered questions that Shadyac and Costner never allowed anyone to answer.

To add to my disgust was the filming overall of this movie. Just as I was confused as to the real ending to the film, I am sure that those involved were equally as confused. We move, rather quickly, from children seeing the dead, to dragonflies, to white water rafting, all the way back to some native tribe in South America. It just seemed like we were jumping rather quickly, but in the wrong direction. Without giving it away, I had forgotten the main element to the ending when we got to it because we were muddled with so many other un-needed moments that the ending just seemed watered down and dull. Honestly, I was bored with this movie because it lead us down one path, somehow jumped to another, and tried to make it back to that original path that was already lost and forgotten. The music didn't match with the actions or emotions of the characters, the hints were hidden and expected, there was no moment of self-discovery. There wasn't a scene in the film where I suddenly went, "oh, I get it" -- and that is sad. "Dragonfly" had the potential, I just felt that Shadyac was behind the wheel of a vehicle that he couldn't control, and as you listen to the commentary, you can sense (and at times hear) that he didn't want to be behind the wheel at all.

"Dragonfly" is a pointless corporate film driven to bring in more money while capitalizing on the income produced by "The Sixth Sense". There are borrowed elements that Shadyac cannot control as well as actors that walk through their scenes wondering when the paycheck will arrive at their doorstep. This is the worst film to see Kathy Bates perform, and Costner continues to dig himself a bigger hole. As you listen to the commentary, this film underwent quite a bit of changes due to viewer issues and response, which I think is the worst way to edit a film. Shadyac has no problems saying that he edited this wrong, and that he didn't like "x" scene, and that he felt this was completely amateurish - which only helps solidify a inner feeling of disappointment with the film. He selflessly promotes "Bruce Almighty" during this film, which drove the nail further into the already built "Dragonfly" coffin. I do not suggest this film to anyone unless you like your water from the tap, meaning that if you don't mind drinking muddled, tainted, and possibly poisoned liquid - than "Dragonfly" will be the film for you. It was that bad.

Shadyac, take it from me and TLC, don't go chasing waterfalls.

Grade: * out of *****

Dragonfly.......2007-05-08

Very good movie. Most interesting as it starts as sorta very sad when the doctor loses his wife while she was on a missionary trip. Couple of weird and a little scary movie until the end which is a heartfelt surprise. The doctor (Kevin Costner) wins something most beautiful. It's definately worth watching.

Average customer rating:

Chris Adler for president !
Powerful Metal
A spectacular documentary.
AWSOME
LOG Rules

Lamb of God - Killadelphia
Starring: Lamb of God
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Death Metal | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( L ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B00092ZM0W
Release Date: 2005-06-21

Amazon.com

They may sound like the angel of death breaking down one's front door, but behind the scenes thrash-metal band Lamb of God turn out to be a wine-drinking, practical joke-playing, wife-loving bunch with a penchant for worldly debates and such healthy thrills as sky diving. Part concert footage, part fly-on-the-wall video documentary of the ups and downs of a road tour, Lamb of God: Killadelphia could easily entertain the most stubborn of metal haters with its lively peek at the band at work and play between shows. Whether dealing with rental truck breakdowns, show delays, radio interviews, in-store appearances, late arrivals of equipment, or dazzled fans, the members of Lamb of God and their handful of assistants keep their cool with fluent wit, easygoing camaraderie, and unabashed romanticism (meeting up with band members' spouses is one of the highlights of Killadelphia). Meanwhile, Lamb of God's grinding, apocalyptic wall of sound, especially singer Randy Blythe's croaking, monster vocals, whip a Philadelphia crowd into a hellbound fury. Special features include three music videos, including an uncensored "Now You've Got Something to Die For." --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

Chris Adler for president !.......2007-08-23

I am based in India,and I sincerely think you yankees should get adler as your next president.Anybody who can drum like the way he does HAS to be divine.Anyways,about the DVD - its a lot on the lines of Pantera's vulgar vids,but a lot lot better.My grouse with that dvd was that it focussed too much on the revelry to do justice to the musical genius of Pantera.This DVD has its fair share of drinking,smokin up,chicks,brawls ( some major drama there )and more,but it never strays from the 1 reason why anybody would buy a LOG dvd in the first place - THE MUSIC.The boys rip through a brilliant setlist and position themselves as worthy successors to Pantera as the new thrash metal titans. to Adler and Morton.The extra's are super cool too.All in all - A must have for thrash metal fans...

Powerful Metal.......2007-04-04

Lamb of God is one of the best metal/hardcore bands around. Not only do they play heavy music, but they put on killer live shows. I've been lucky enough to attend a concert of theirs, and it was unbelieveable. Of course, Killadelphia is not comparable attending a LOG concert, but this DVD captures the heaviness that is LOG. The concert footage is great, and definitely shows viewers how powerful this band is. I've always had nothing but the utmost respect for Mark Morton and Willie Adler, but watching this made me appreciate Chris Adler and John Campbell as well for they are incredible musicians. This DVD is highly recommended, if you are a LOG fan.

A spectacular documentary........2007-03-25

The details that Amazon.com has on display for this DVD has several mistakes in it. Their list of the running time being "120 minutes" with "30 minutes of exclusive behind-the-scenes on the road footage," is completely incorrect. The DVD package clearly lists the running time for this documentary at 180 minutes, or 3 hours. Yes, this DVD does contain "Bonus Features", but Amazon.com didn't correctly list them in their description of this DVD. The bonus features are hidden easter eggs that lead to additional out-takes and deleted scenes, band and director commentary, "Soundcheck" segments, out-takes, and 3 music videos. This DVD does NOT include the CD with all of the songs that Lamb of God was filmed performing for this DVD. That is available for purchase separately, but I don't recommend buying it because the CD only contains live versions of songs from "Ashes of The Wake" and several of Lamb of God's previous CDs. So, you really can skip the live CD altogether. This DVD is all you need.

"Killadelphia" was produced by High Roller Studios, NOT Sony. However, it is manufactured by and distributed by Epic Music Video (A division of Sony/BMG Music Entertainment). "killadelphia" was directed by Doug Spangenberg, who is under contract with High Roller Studios. He also directed the documentary "The Making of Sacrament", which is the bonus disc included in the "Deluxe Edition" of Lamb of God's current CD, "Sacrament". Another very good documentary that you should check out.

"Killadelphia" can be viewed two (2) different ways. You can choose to watch ONLY the concert footage by itself or you can watch the feature documentary movie "Killadelphia", which is a combination of behind the scenes footage of the band while their out on tour promoting the CD "Ashes of The Wake" and doing a lot of other stuff during the tour and between gigs. There are numerous informal and semi-formal interviews with band members, the tour manager, and members of the road crew. There are also some very good examples of "Direct Cinema" style documentary filmmaking in several scenes. However, this documentary would was actually mostly filmed in a "Cinéma Verité" style.

(Filmmakers, film students, and film nerds will know what the terms "Direct Cinema" and "Cinéma Verité" mean. If you don't know what they mean, but you want to, please look them up.)

I highly recommend this DVD to all Lamb of God fans, heavy metal lovers everywhere, and aspiring documentary filmmakers too. The director, Doug Spangenberg, is a good director and he did very good job with this documentary. This is one of my favorite DVDs in my ever-growing DVD collection.

AWSOME.......2007-03-16

ANother great release by lamb of god any fan will want to snatch this up with their collection i did and glad. lots of out takes and behind the scenes.

LOG Rules.......2006-12-13

When I first see this DVD, I already know that LOG is not just a heavy metal band but a metal band that will stay a very long time. With songs like Vigil, Hourglass, Something to Die For and Ruin...this DVD along with Machine Heads 'Elegies' and Arch Enemy's 'Live Apocalypse' is a must to have if you want to see bands perform at thier best....

Go and Buy this or miss something.......LOG rule

Average customer rating:

Innocent or Guilty
Great Performance - Worth a Look
Going the Wrong Way
Excellent Drama
"Get your paws off! I soil easy!"

I Want to Live!
Starring: Susan Hayward , Simon Oakland , Virginia Vincent , Theodore Bikel , and Wesley Lau
Director: Robert Wise
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Crime & Criminals | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Classics | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( I ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000062XEZ
Release Date: 2002-05-07

Amazon.com

Susan Hayward won an Academy Award® for her performance in the compelling 1958 classic I Want to Live! Hayward plays Barbara Graham, a "good-time girl" with a heart of gold and absolutely no instincts about when to drop a bad association. After bouncing in and out of the prison system for a series of petty crimes, Graham suddenly finds herself framed for murder and facing the death penalty. Hayward is simply marvelous, giving a wrenching, complex performance without ever becoming maudlin. Director Robert Wise ratchets the tension up to a nearly unbearable level, making Barbara's moments of hope as agonizing as those of her despair. The film is based on the story of the real-life Barbara Graham, taken from her letters and interviews with reporter Ed Montgomery. Montgomery himself appears as a character, and the film is surprisingly evenhanded about condemning his own role in Graham's conviction. This is definitely a must-see for Hayward fans. --Ali Davis

Description

Prostitute, party girl, perjurer, bad-check passer, petty criminal. She's all this and more...but is she a murderer? Susan Hayward won 1958's Best Actress Academy AwardÂ(r) for her "sensational, nerve-shattering performance" (Los Angeles Times) in this harrowing, "must-see" (The Motion Picture Guide) tale that will leave you breathless with suspense. Arrested for fatally beating an elderly widow, Barbara Graham (Hayward) at first goads the police, refusing to answer their questions. But when an alleged accomplice turns state's evidence, Graham insists that she's innocent. Condemned by the press and the public, Graham is found guilty of murder and sentenced to die in the gas chamber. But as her execution date nears, Graham desperately attempts to expose the truth and save her life against all odds.

Customer Reviews:

Innocent or Guilty.......2007-09-09

When this movie was released, I was a senior in High School. After going to see the movie in a theatre, I went to the library and looked up the articles pertaining to Barbara Graham. I still think she was innocent. The movie was great and I will never forget this story.

Great Performance - Worth a Look.......2007-08-22

Susan Hayward gives a dazzling performance in this dark film and is supported by an outstanding cast. A must for all Film Noir fans! Definitely worth seeing.

Going the Wrong Way.......2007-01-07

This film is based on a factual story from Ed Montgomery, a reporter for the `San Francisco Chronicle'. It shows a jazz club, later a vice cop shows up and arrests Babs. We see Babs dancing at a party, later she agrees to provide an alibi for two crooks; This leads to a perjury conviction. She is given good advice to correct her behavior; but she doesn't listen. Babs tries to live a normal life, but her husband used drugs and things go bad. Babs hooks up with her old buddies. [The film skips over the Monahan murder; was Babs a decoy?] The police trail Babs and catch the two murderers. Barbara Graham acts tough and hard-boiled, and refuses to cooperate with the police when offered a deal. She is indicted along with the others for the murder of Mrs. Monahan. A lawyer advises her about the forthcoming trial, she needs an alibi. Babs foolishly trusts another inmate, a friendly stranger, to arrange an alibi. In desperation she agrees to cooperate with this stranger. [No warning about Miranda.]

The state's witness was part of the gang, but he will testify against the others and then be released for his testimony. That stranger turns out to be an undercover policeman; Babs' goose is cooked. Babs' letter to her husband was intercepted; he is no help. They are all convicted and sentenced to death. Barbara is sent to the woman's prison, "the campus". A psychiatrist evaluates Babs, and thinks she did not commit the murder. (Babs is left-handed and could not have struck the victim with her right hand.) He advises Ed Montgomery to write stories that will present Babs in a better light. Babs' appeal is turned down. Her hope is raised by a Supreme Court appeal, but that is rejected. Babs' case sells a lot of newspapers, win or lose.

Babs is transported to San Quentin for execution of her sentence. She is prepared for death. Her lawyer files another petition, and keeps trying. The preparation of the gas chamber begins. Babs will go first, followed by the two men. Tension mounts as the Governor grants a stay to let her lawyer make his appeal. But it is not allowed. The witnesses gather around the gas chamber. Then its time. Babs last request is for a mask; she doesn't want to see the strangers there. The film shows the graphic details of her death.

Susan Hayward deservedly won the highest Hollywood award for her acting in this drama. The undertones of this story is to question the death penalty as it was applied to Babs. The improvements in scientific testing and other reforms might have saved Babs today (if she was not involved). Do newspapers and broadcast media still present a one-sided view of a suspect? Even after the Supreme Court ruling on "Shepard vs. Ohio"? Newspapers are no longer a locally operated business today. The warning in this film is to be careful of who you hang out with. Those who need this advice will ignore it.

Excellent Drama.......2006-11-03

Susan Hayward's work in "I want to Live!" is outstanding. Robert Wise did an excellent job in directing and telling Barbara Graham's story.

"Get your paws off! I soil easy!".......2006-06-15

So says fifties "Goodtime Girl" Barbara Graham to one of her sleazy male companions in this true story of Graham's ultimate frame-up and execution for a murder she didn't commit. Susan Hayward won an Oscar for her brilliant portrayal of of party girl Graham. Here we see film noir, the marginalized fifties' film genre, enter into the Hollywood mainstream. Director Robert Wise uses harrowing black and white cinematography and a jagged, jazz-oriented musical score to emphasize Graham's isolation from the larger society. Graham was a petty criminal and an assertive, tough woman who had to fend for herself. When one of her accomplices asks her, "whaddayado?" she answers truthfully--"I do what I have to." This 1958 film, which calls into question the "justice" in the criminal justice system, looks ahead to the social upheaval of the sixties when the both the antiwar and the civil rights movement would put America on the carpet. The film also, in the figure of reporter Ed Montgomery, shows how her case became a media juggernaut that became impossible to stop, even when her innocence became evident. Graham's absolute powerlessness in the film reminds reminds us how little power women had in the male-dominated postwar era. Hayward was an amazingly talented, instinctual actress--and perfect for this role. Graham wasn't an introspective woman and Hayward wasn't an introspective actress. Hayward was on Graham's wavelength, so to speak, and her performance here is uncanny. This film is definitely an American classic.

Average customer rating:

Lovely movie
You'll want to see this film before showing it to very young.
Wonderful movie for young children
Racing Stripes
Fun Movie

Racing Stripes (Full Screen Edition)
Starring: Bruce Greenwood , Hayden Panettiere , Caspar Poyck , Gary Bullock , and Wendie Malick
Director: Frederik Du Chau
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Animals | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Animation | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

Feature Films | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0007Z0NY6
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Amazon.com

When you start watching Racing Stripes, you may not be prepared for how unbelievably cute a young zebra is. A travelling circus accidently abandons an adorably helpless zebra in the middle of Kentucky on a stormy night. Fortunately, the wee zebra is found by Nolan Walsh (Bruce Greenwood, The Sweet Hereafter), a brilliant horse trainer who's given up his calling after a riding accident that killed his wife. His daughter Channing (Hayden Panettiere, Raising Helen) names the zebra Stripes and, before you know it, Stripes has grown to young adulthood and is aching to race at a nearby track. Thus begins a fairly formulaic triumph-over-adversity tale combined with talking animals--but Racing Stripes understands its formula and executes it without any pretensions. It doesn't hit the bullseye struck by Babe (an earlier triumph-over-adversity tale combined with talking animals), and there are bad puns and gags aplenty, but Greenwood's solid presence gives the movie an unexpected emotional fullness. Featuring a bizarre assortment of voices for the animals, including Whoopi Goldberg, Dustin Hoffman, Frankie Muniz, Mandy Moore, Joe Pantoliano (as a Mafioso pelican), Steve Harvey, David Spade, and Snoop Dogg. --Bret Fetzer

Description

A zebra raised on a farm in Kentucky dreams of becoming a racehorse in this heartwarming tale that combines live action and computer animation. Featuring the voices of Frankie Muniz, Mandy Moore, Michael Clarke Duncan, Jeff Foxworthy, Joe Pantoliano, David Spade, Snoop Dogg, Dustin Hoffman and Whoopi Goldberg

DVD Features:
Additional Scenes
Alternate endings
Audio Commentary:with director
Challenges:Buzz & Scuzz's Flyin' Fiasco Interactive Comic Book
Documentaries:How to Make Animals Talk Animal Acting 101 The Music of Racing Stripes
Easter Eggs:Curb Your Distribution
Featurette:The Music of Racing Stripes with Sting and Bryan Adams
Outtakes
Theatrical Trailer

Customer Reviews:

Lovely movie.......2007-09-16

My daughter absolutely loved it. She is six and like me has a passion for horses and horseback riding. One could say that it is full of cliches -the mean rich horse track owner, the somber father, the arrogant race horses, happy ending, etc... but this is a movie for kids, it is cute and I truly enjoyed hearing my daughter laugh and enjoy every moment of it.

You'll want to see this film before showing it to very young........2007-09-02

It was recommended to me by family members. I think it is a very good film but I think it is best for children over 5 or 6 who might understand implicitly the death of a parent.

Wonderful movie for young children.......2007-07-05

My 4 year old and 18 month old adore this movie. I like it because I get the adult humor (not inappropriate for the kids). This movie has animals that are adorable, humans that are realistic and a tender story where hard work and determination win in the end. It is a movie that you can feel comfortable letting your children watch alone or one that you will enjoy watching with them. We have watched this movie every day for a month and I can still sit through it! Not since Babe, have I found a movie that my children want to watch over and over again.

Racing Stripes .......2007-06-13

Racing Stripes
Stripes is a zebra that wants to compete in the Kentucky outlaw horse race. With his young jockey, Channing Walsh they compete to run in the horse race. Stripes gets made fun of because of his short legs and Mohawk. Will this young girl and her zebra surprise all the other contestants? Or will her father tell her she can't race because if the recent death of her mother for jumping horses?
This is one of my favorite movies. Frankie Muniz as the voice of Stripes just makes the movie so funny and Hayden Panettiere as Channing Walsh is such an amazing actress. Hayden has played in Bring It On All or Nothing and Ice Princess. I think her best movie would be Ice Princess. She was a great actress in Racing Stripes but it wasn't her best. Be ready to ride this movie, it's very exciting and entertaining.
This movie is great for all ages and its funny. Kids will love all the talking animals like Reggie the roster, Franny the goat, Tucker the old yet wise miniature horse, Stripes the zebra that thinks he's a horse, Sandy the white filly and Buzz and Scuzz the brother flies. You have got to see this wonderful movie of 2004.
This movies rating id PG, its 1 hr 42mins long and was produced by David Eggby.

Fun Movie.......2007-05-21

This is a must movie for the whole family from Great Grandpa down to the newest great grandkid to watch. We all enjoyed it very much.

Average customer rating:

Very uneven acting, slow plot, but has its enjoyable moments
It was more like "One Day at a Time" than "Alice."
Excellent Film
The end of the fairytale world over the rainbow...
Exceptional Film

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore
Starring: Ellen Burstyn , Kris Kristofferson , Billy Green Bush , Diane Ladd , and Lelia Goldoni
Director: Martin Scorsese
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video