American History X

Product Description

Edward Norton's Academy Award nominated role as a White Supremist who sees the error of his ways while jailed for murder. Unfortunately, he leaves prison to find his brother (Edward Furlong) heading down the same path.

Amazon.com

Perhaps the highest compliment you can pay to Edward Norton is that his Oscar-nominated performance in American History X nearly convinces you that there is a shred of logic in the tenets of white supremacy. If that statement doesn't horrify you, it should; Norton is so fully immersed in his role as a neo-Nazi skinhead that his character's eloquent defense of racism is disturbingly persuasive--at least on the surface. Looking lean and mean with a swastika tattoo and a mind full of hate, Derek Vinyard (Norton) has inherited racism from his father, and that learning has been intensified through his service to Cameron (Stacy Keach), a grown-up thug playing tyrant and teacher to a growing band of disenfranchised teens from Venice Beach, California, all hungry for an ideology that fuels their brooding alienation.

The film's basic message--that hate is learned and can be unlearned--is expressed through Derek's kid brother, Danny (Edward Furlong), whose sibling hero-worship increases after Derek is imprisoned (or, in Danny's mind, martyred) for the killing of two black men. Lacking Derek's gift of rebel rhetoric, Danny is easily swayed into the violent, hateful lifestyle that Derek disowns during his thoughtful time in prison. Once released, Derek struggles to save his brother from a violent fate, and American History X partially suffers from a mix of intense emotions, awkward sentiment, and predictably inevitable plotting. And yet British director Tony Kaye (who would later protest against Norton's creative intervention during post-production) manages to juggle these qualities--and a compelling clash of visual styles--to considerable effect. No matter how strained their collaboration may have been, both Kaye and Norton can be proud to have created a film that addresses the issue of racism with dramatically forceful impact. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Revolutionary filmmaking that grabs you and never lets you go..........2007-07-12

Fueled by a powerfully convincing Oscar worthy performance, `American History X' is probably my favorite movie of the given year. It's an intense portrayal of hatred and racism and the causes behind it as well as the horrible consequences that spawn from it. In its gritty black and white sequences it establishes an air of hostility and vindictive fervor, but what's strangely enamoring about this film is that, with all it's shocking violence and hate filled propaganda, it raises a level of sympathetic understanding that you'd never expect to find nestled underneath it's repelling shell. Through the eyes of Derek Vinyard we begin to realize his struggle and understand his viewpoints, no matter how wrong they really are. The reasoning behind his hatred is explained with such conviction and assurance that he begins to sell the audience. This is important because Derek is a man we're supposed to connect with and sympathize with, and without understanding him that becomes impossible and he remains a monster to us.

So then, much praise must be heaped upon the amazing Edward Norton who completely devours his role here. His performance is one of the most impressive and earth shattering portrayals of the human heart I've seen in years, perhaps forever. His control over his character is incredible. His conviction, his determination, his grip on his characters reality is so strong it's engrossing and absorbing. Derek Vinyard is a revelation. As the film shifts from present time, with Derek being released from prison and trying to put his family back together, to past tense, where in that gritty black and white we see the rise and fall of Derek's Nazi days, we are invited into this mans world, and effortlessly we see Norton shift from a man determined to hate to a man determined to fix the mess he started.

The film focuses mainly on the relationship between Derek and his younger brother Danny, played brilliantly by Edward Furlong. Upon arriving home from prison Derek sees that Danny has now fallen just as deep into the race hating ways he was once privy to and he realizes he has his work cut out for him. Having been reformed while behind bars Derek is now a much different man than he once was and he begins to try and reason with his brother, prove to him that the life they are leading is one only destined for failure and doom. Unfortunately Danny has fallen into ties with Cameron, the leader of a group of Neo-Nazi tyrants who once worshiped the ground Derek walked on. Breaking Danny of this pact would not only result in Derek's segregation but could result in his death.

Tony Kaye does a fantastic job directing this film, creating an unsteady air about the scenes that adds layers to the message behind this film. The film is forceful and blunt but it manages to invest itself so deeply in the audience that we become invested in the film and thus and compelled to keep watching despite the at times very harsh sequences of events. `American History X' may not be the easiest film to sit through, but it's easily one of the most important films to ever address the bounds of racism. Highly superior to the Oscar winning `Crash', `American History X' sets a profound statement that not only rationalizes with the villain but breaks down his barrier and exposes the scared little child growing within him. Thanks in large part to the Oscar robbed Edward Norton, this is one of those films that will move you to rethink everything you think you know about the ones you think you understand and realize that maybe, just maybe, you don't know as much as you give yourself credit for.

American History X.......2007-07-11

Tony Kaye's hard-hitting, frighteningly credible look at racism and aggrieved adolescence smoothes over nothing in its depiction of angry working-class California youth who find pride and camaraderie under the aegis of a White Power demagogue (Stacy Keach). But "X" owes its extraordinary power to the super-charged, Oscar-nominated performance by Norton, beefed up and seething with monstrous hatred in the film's many flashbacks. With Norton so convincing in balancing Derek's obvious intelligence and charisma with his more noxious Nazi persona, "American History X" is a raw, engrossing tale of a pained conscience turned inside out.

Painfully searing and thought provoking.......2007-06-27

I really can't remember a more emotionally charged movie. American X will make you feel angry, frightened, uncomfortable, shocked, sad, and hopefully introspective. It plunges deep into the heart of racism and ultimately exposes the ignorance that fuels it.

Edward Norton is scary. He received an oscar nomination as he became fully immersed in this role as Derek, an angry white supremist.

One of the scenes I found most profound was a glimpse of his upbringing. He is having a conversation with his father, explaining his admiration and respect for his school teacher, who happens to be a black man with two Phds. His dad drops subtle little hints and discriminatory remarks to discredit the man, and his son takes it to heart.

That's really the point of this whole movie, that nobody is born with hatred. Sadly, sometimes it is learned.

This movie is filled with intense moments where the rage and racism are much more blatant. Derek's hatred for all minorities keeps growing, even though he doesn't bother to get to know any of them. Until he goes to prison, and his work partner shows him the error of his ways.

Although this plot development is predictable and Derek's complete change of heart unfortunately seemed a little forced, this still is an exceptional movie. There are so many human frailties exposed and subjective topics examined. It is an obvious message film with high aspirations.

What king of response it triggers depends on you.

Wow... Just Wow.......2007-06-22

A good friend of mine suggested this film, and I really didnt know what to expect going in, but after this film was over, I sat in stunned silence. I knew that racism was horrible, but I found through this film that it does not come without a terrible price..the loss of love, friends, family...and the realization that everything that you believed to be true isnt always the way things are. Edward Norton's performance takes the viewer through this journey, and its not a pretty one. He goes from an bright young man, to a vengeful bigot, to a remorseful excon with a brothers life in jeopardy, and you feel as though you are looking in on someones life in the course of 2 hrs. All of the acting in this film is first rate, and the ending wasnt quite as predictable as others might have you believe...it is quite shocking, as is much of the film. It causes quite a debate on the way people view others whos skin color is not the same. As Dr. King said, judge me not on the color of my skin, but on the content of my character. I live with racism, because I am a black man living in America...it exists, but if we educate ourselves like the main character in AHX, it wont stay around for much longer.

Makes you think!.......2007-06-10

I was skeptical when I first heard about this movie, as I was originally mis-informed as to what it was really about! I am definetly glad I finally sat down and watched this film.

After seeing this film, it has quickly become one of my favorite films that I have ever seen. As others have said, Edward Norton plays his role so well, you may actually find yourself partly agreeing with what he says. The message of the film is very well done, and the ending is one of the most shocking I have seen.

Excellent acting, directing, and story-telling. This is a film to own, and a film that has become a classic within the world of movie-making!

Average customer rating:

Real Genius is smart and fun. It's a no brainer.
Loved the gags!
Real Genius
Pretty Good Movie...
Floating, sir...

Real Genius
Starring: Val Kilmer , Gabriel Jarret , Michelle Meyrink , William Atherton , and Jon Gries
Director: Martha Coolidge
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
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ASIN: B000065U1Q
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Amazon.com

An underrated little picture, Real Genius offers a rare college comedy that doesn't rely on gross-out humor--and a look at Val Kilmer before he turned into a star. A high school whiz kid (Gabriel Jarret) arrives at a brainy college, where the crème de la crème of the science students are marshaled under an ambitious professor (expert villain William Atherton). Unbeknownst to them, the kids are working on a weapons system that the prof plans on selling to the government. The star student, and chief rabble-rouser, is played by Kilmer, in good early form as a cocky genius who hasn't lost touch with his goofy side. The director is Martha Coolidge, whose Valley Girl was one of the brightest (and most unexpected) of '80s comedies; she keeps the movie perking along and never worries about dumbing down a film that just happens to be about smart people. --Robert Horton

Customer Reviews:

Real Genius is smart and fun. It's a no brainer........2007-09-04

Real Genius, staring Val Kilmer, William Atherton, and Gabriel Jarret, is stock and trade of many films to emerge during the 1980's. It questions not only the power structures of government and wealth which direct them, but also the innocent and deluded world view often prevailing in scientific circles. Along with War Games, and other such classics of the 1980's, Real Genius is unlikely to age.

Chris Knight (Val Kilmer) is a young man of rare and unusual gifts in mathematics and physics. He welcomes a new wonder kid named Mitch Taylor (Gabe Jarret) to show him the ropes and act as an unofficial mentor, and party central. The dynamics of academic politics are played as the typical coming of age story of independence and self discovery against the brooding darkness of Professor Jerry Hathaway (William Atherton), who is under pressure to delver a ray machine to the United States military. On one side are the indolent aphorisms and excesses of Kilmer, and on the other are the demands to produce or fail by academia, which is a willing pawn of Orwellian power figures.

This pressure to get results ends up in a wake up call for all its central characters, when they discover the intended use of their invention. In the modern world it seems virtually impossible to be innocent. This film succeeds largely based on the merits of its fine script written by Neal Israel, and strong direction by Martha Coolidge. The performances are all very good. Atherton, in particular, should be singled out as delivering a very fine performance. Where so many other films from this period are already dated and lose their power to entertain, this offers its viewer issues that belong to any generation.

Loved the gags!.......2007-09-02

My own background is heavy in the arts and sciences, even coming out of college. This film is for those of us who can equate to the technical mind set and that type of journey through life.

This film is light hearted with its premise. Even the scene in the dorm where they fill the hallways with ice, so they can "body slide" the halls on the ice, reminds me of some of the things done at my college dorm so long ago.

If you think the pranks done in this movie don't happen in college, here are some examples of things I saw in my own college days while living on campus. One day someone put a vaseline slick on the carpet, so if you came running down the hallway, you'd be sliding down the length of hallway on your butt. (lol) On another occasion, I passed a trash barrel full of water vicariously and precisely balanced up against someone's door so that when they opened the door, the barrel would fall on them saturating them in water.

Then there was that one morning I woke to use the central bathroom down the hall and could not get out of my dorm room. I simply could not make the door knob turn, as though it were locked. Neither could my room mate. So I climbed out on the window ledge, two stories up no less on the narrow ledge, and got in through someone elses window, whose door was operating. As I stepped into the hallway, I could hear all the door knobs turning as each person was trying to get out of their room. What I learned was that some engineer had stuck pennies inbetween each door and door lip creating enough pressure so that the door knob would not turn. As I freed each person from each dorm, using a kitchen knife to pop out the pennies, I discovered that some doors were three penny doors, some were six penny doors; some were in betweeners. I couldn't stop laughing. I think I made about 45 cents that morning for my trouble and eventually got to use the bathroom when everyone else was done. This happened in just my freshman year.

In my senior year, while living with three other guys sharing an off campus apartment, one of my room mates decided to play a prank on me. One of our teaches kept a life size Marylyn Monroe manikin in his office. My friend Jym had come to me proposing I join him and a few others in sneaking into the office and steal the manikin. I turned him down on that offer and when I didn't join him, by the weekend, when I came in from classes one Friday evening, and climbed the stairs to the two level apartment we shared, to my bedroom, I found Marylyn; lying in my bed in a seductive pose, with my desk light covered in a red gel to mimic the red light district. (lol)

At the time I didn't find it funny. Jym and his buddies could not stop laughing. After awhile I did laugh and suggested we send a ransom note and if our demands were not met, we would take the pieces apart and send the teacher on a treasure hunt to find all the parts. In short, I have my own college prank stories to tell and all of them are good memories 30 years later. I've tried my whole life not to take life too seriously. Afterall, none us are getting out of it alive anyway.

I suppose if any of us had thought of it, we would have filled the hallways with ice, like they showed in this movie. The scene at the end of the film, showing the giant "Jiffy Pop" corn popper is a classic gag. Maybe U.S. leaders should learn from this scene when it comes to dealing with people like Sedom Hussain for instance. Instead of skud missling the enemy, maybe U.S. forces should have sent a heat ray into his home, after sending him a giant Jiffy Pop popper via International carrier and laid him out with a ton of Jiffy pop popcorn! You have to see the movie to appreciate what I'm talking about. I could not stop laughing when I first saw the gag done with the first viewing of this film.

The Amazon summary pretty well gives you the story. I'm just filling in some of the movie's highlights. Overall its a fun 80's film to watch. Val Kilmer was cute when this was made; so are the young college gals during the party scene. Makes me wish I was young again. Reminds me of all the fun times I had in college pursuing my technical studies.

So if you like a light hearted, fun story and a good laugh, then this film is for you. I certainly enjoyed it very much.

Real Genius.......2007-05-24

Yet another 80's classic. The ending credits which play "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," by Tears for Fears brought me back to my childhood. If you love 80's movies, you will love this movie.

Pretty Good Movie..........2007-05-17

This is one of Val Kilmer's first movies and a pretty worthy effort on his part. He plays a hot shot physics (or something) student who is a little bit on the eccentric side. He is teamed up with a 15 year old hot shot and wackiness ensues.

the scene at the end of this movie is classic as are some of the lines used.

Floating, sir..........2007-04-18

I will not waste anymore time with this; the movie was, is and will always be a great cult/80s classic. Val Kilmer is brilliant as Chris Knight. The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is that there are no deleted scenes; specifically... "Knight!!! What the hell are you doing?" "Floating, sir"...

Average customer rating:

The Agony and the Ecstasy
The Agony and the Ecstasy
Historical Art
WOW
Man for all Seasons

The Agony and the Ecstasy
Starring: Charlton Heston , Rex Harrison , Diane Cilento , Harry Andrews , and Alberto Lupo
Director: Carol Reed
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0006GANX2
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Amazon.com essential video

Carol Reed (The Third Man) directed this 1965 portrait of the relationship between Michelangelo (Charlton Heston) and Pope Julius II (Rex Harrison), who commissioned the artist to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Based on a novel by Irving Stone, the script plods along, juggling the dynamics between the two men along with a somewhat perfunctory love story and distracting battle sequences. Reed seems more attuned to the nuances and great pains of the artistic process, as seen in sequences of Michelangelo working. But the overall focus of the film is unfortunately fuzzy. --Tom Keogh

Description

Charlton Heston and Rex Harrison portray two of the Renaissance's most colorful figures in this historical drama based on Irving Stone's best-seller set in the early 16th century. When Pope Julius ll (Harrison) commissions Michelangelo (Heston) to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, the artist initially refuses. Virtually forced to do the job by Julius, he later destroys his own work and flees to Rome. Eventually resumed, the project becomes a battle of wills fueled by artistic and temperamental differences that form the core of this movie. Nominated for an Oscar® Cinematography and named one of the year's best films by the National Board of Review.

Customer Reviews:

The Agony and the Ecstasy.......2007-08-24

Beautifully done film about Michaelangelo's Sistine Chappel. I enjoyed the film, the humorous relationship between Michaelangelo and the Pope, and the inspiration his determination gave me. It was also quite informative. I learned much about the entire process of mural painting of that era.

The Agony and the Ecstasy.......2007-08-16

I purchased it after visiting the Sistine Chapel and wanted to see Hollywood's idea of how Michaelangelo painted the ceiling. It seemed very accurate and also reminded the viewer that in the Renaissance, the Pope was as much a war lord as he was the Holy Father. Charlton Heston and Rex Harrison were matched perfectly for this film, lots of subtle humor showing how subborn both of the characters were. Into history? Art? I'd add this film to my collection.

Historical Art.......2007-05-26

The complicated relationship between the pope and the artist is fascinating to watch. It is well done as the dialog between the two personalities span the complete range of emotions... humor was used sparingly, but very effectively. I also enjoyed watching Rex Harrison's (pope)communicate his unspoken desire to share his pride in the artwork on the ceiling of the Sistine chapel with his church members. The photography during and after the ceiling was finished was very good and added to the viewing pleasure.

WOW.......2007-05-12

I loved this movie it shows beautiful art work along with a history lesson and the actors at at there very best in this movie. If you love art history like I do get this movie.

Man for all Seasons.......2007-05-10

This was my first encounter of buying on-line. It proved to be a costly lesson, that you don't buy DVD from out side your own country As I have 4 DVD that i Can't play.
Br Robert Cottam

Average customer rating:

One of my favorite not so famous Disney's classic
Thirty years ago today...
Rescued from the VHS Wasteland
Poor Graphics - Difficult Topic for Children
Heads-Up for Adoptive Families

The Rescuers
Starring: Bob Newhart , Eva Gabor , Geraldine Page , Joe Flynn , and Jeanette Nolan
Director: John Lounsbery , Wolfgang Reitherman , and Art Stevens
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000096IAI
Release Date: 2003-05-20

Amazon.com

What can two little mice possibly do to save an orphan girl who's fallen into evil hands? With a little cooperation and faith in oneself, anything is possible! As members of the mouse-run International Rescue Aid Society, Bernard and Miss Bianca respond to orphan Penny's call for help. The two mice search for clues and, with the help of an old cat named Rufus, track Penny to the clutches of the evil Madame Medusa in a dilapidated ship in Devil's Bayou. It turns out that Medusa is using Penny to locate and retrieve the Devil's Eye Diamond--a stone she'll stop at nothing to possess. With a cunning plan, courageous acts, cooperation from local animal life, and lots of faith, Bernard and Miss Bianca help Penny find the diamond and escape from Medusa. The result of their adventure is that Bernard and Miss Bianca become close friends and Penny gets adopted. This somewhat dark, classic 1977 animated Disney film is based on Margery Sharp's The Rescuers and Miss Bianca, and features the Academy Award-nominated song "Someone's Waiting for You." Voice talents include Eva Gabor as Miss Bianca, Bob Newhart as Bernard, Geraldine Page as Madame Medusa, and Jim Jordan (radio's Fibber McGee) as Orville Albatross. Followed by the sequel The Rescuers Down Under. (Ages 5 to 11) --Tami Horiuchi

Description

From Walt Disney's original team of legendary master animators who brought you THE JUNGLE BOOK comes a thrilling adventure and timeless tale overflowing with action, suspense, and extraordinary little heroes you can't help but love! Join the shy but brave mouse Bernard and his glamorous partner Miss Bianca -- two tiny heroes on a great big mission to save a young girl named Penny who has sent an urgent call for help! Taking off on the wings of their trusted albatross friend Orville, Bernard and Bianca soar to the marshy swamp of Devil's Bayou. There, they find themselves on the riverboat hideout of the hilariously evil Madame Medusa, who needs Penny to retrieve the world's largest diamond! But before Bernard and Bianca can bring Penny safely home, they'll have to enlist the help of some spirited local swamp critters in order to outwit Medusa ... and outrun her pet crocodiles Nero and Brutus. Featuring the unforgettable voice talents of Bob Newhart and Eva Gabor, as well as Oscar(R)-nominated music, THE RESCUERS is high-flying fun you'll want to share with your family again and again!

Customer Reviews:

One of my favorite not so famous Disney's classic.......2007-08-02

I watch this movie when I was a kid and after 30 years I still love this movie, the little girl character is simply adorable, and Bernard and Bianca are lovely too.it's full of adventures and fun. A must own for disney collectors

Thirty years ago today..........2007-06-22

It is hard to believe that Disney movies age, for most of them seem to be timeless classics, but there is a date on which this classic Disney animated masterpiece was first brought out to delight countless children and adults: June 22nd, 1977. The film has continued to be a winner for the thirty years that followed, and no doubt it'll continue to be a timeless classic animation for many more years to come. "The Rescuers" is right at the top among Disney's most dramatic, touching and even darker films. That's right, don't let the usual description about "two little mice" fool you, this film is anything but a happy, politically correct, kiddie movie about cute rodents, it tells a deep, serious story that may be overshadowed by that vague description and hides many elements some adults would likely frown upon when it is time to share them with children.

Based on two light-hearted children's novels by Margery Sharp ("The Rescuers" and "Miss Bianca"), "The Rescuers" tells the story of a little orphaned girl named Penny (voiced by Michelle Stacy). The girl had been kidnapped and taken away into a dark, gloomy riverboat in Devil's Bayou, in an uncharted island (No, it's not Louisianna as some want to insist). The girl sends out messages in bottles, one of which arrives in New York City, at the Rescue Aid Society in the basement of the United Nations building. The Rescue Aid Society is a mouse-run organization imitating the United Nations which sends out help for anyone in need, human, mouse or cat. After reading the heartfelt note inside the bottle, Hungary delegate Miss Bianca (voiced by Eva Gabor) volunteers to take on the mission, and with the condition that she will take along a male companion, Mr. Chairman (voiced by Bernard Fox) agrees to let her go; Miss Bianca chooses the shy janitor mouse Bernard (voiced by Bob Newhart). On their way, the two mice visit Morningside Orphanage and meet an old cat named Rufus who sends them on the trail of someone named Madame Medusa (voiced by Geraldine Page). Madame Medusa works at a pawn shop, which the two mice visit, and when the wicked woman receives a call from her partner Mr. Snoops (voiced by Joe Flynn), Miss Bianca and Bernard discover that she is indeed responsible for the disappearance of Penny and that she is looking for a great big diamond. Miss Bianca and Bernard must race to Devil's Bayou with the help of Orville the albatross, Ellie Mae and Luke, the muskrats and Evinrude, a dragonfly as well as other bayou critters, to meet and face the wicked Madame Medusa and her two ferocious aligators, Brutus and Nero and bring Penny safely home. Before doing that however, Penny, Miss Bianca and Bernard will have to survive underground inside a horrid pirate's cave where they must find the Devil's Eye, the world's largest diamond, before the tide rises drowning them all.

As an adaptation of Margery Sharp's classic novels, Disney's "The Rescuers" is sometimes criticized for not being a faithful adaptation of any particular Margery Sharp work about the brave Miss Bianca, still, the film manages to be true to the many elements that made the original works so wonderful. Simplicity, charm, sophistication... Disney's "The Rescuers" blends the real with the surreal, starting with a real-world place like New York City and a fictional non-existant uncharted island named Devil's Bayou, blending orphaned little girls with tales of valuable pirate treasure or using for setting a gloomy, dark place that might just be in its own world, since it often gives the feeling of being far from civilization. The characters are sophisticated and developed, without any particular greatness they often find themselves lost, such as when Bernard says "What can two little mice do?", just like we real humans feel sometimes, it's characters like these that are most indearing and have an easier time touching hearts. Madame Medusa is a human being, no supernatural powers and no real human strength, she's the perfect antagonist for an orphaned girl, a pair of mice and their critter friends. The story told here is simplistic, without pushing out any real moral (though you'll find plenty of morals and lessons throughout the film) or without relying on anything too elaborate to work. The simplicity of the characters and the story is what made both Margery Sharp's novels and Disney's film work, but in reality, both are anything but simplistic.

Fans of "The Rescuers" are to be saddened, at least so far, by Disney's neglect of the film. As of now, the only way to enjoy The Rescuers without the "restored pirate version" roaming the internet is with the 2003 DVD, which frankly leaves lots and lots to be desired (The same can be said about the pathetic sequel/rip-off produced somewhere in the early 90's). Lack of bonus features aside, "The Rescuers" is poorly presented with washed out, too-vivid colors, a miss-match of brightness and contrast, leaving a very dark picture that leaves out too many details. Rough lines, grain, dirt and all sorts of artifacts completely spoil the picture quality, leaving us with no more than less-than-decent picture and average sound quality. Definitely a thumbs up for an upcoming Masterpiece Edition, which we all hope will be seen soon.

Happy 30th Anniversary!

Rescued from the VHS Wasteland.......2007-06-16

The rescuers are top-secret agent mice Miss Bianca (voiced by Eva Gabor) and Bernard (voiced by Bob Newhart) who are called into action when orphaned Penny (voiced by Michelle Stacy) falls into the clutches of the treacherous treasure hunter Madame Medusa (voiced by Geraldine Page) and her henchman, Mr. Snoops (voiced by Joe Flynn). The baddies plan to use the little girl as a diversion when they steal the world's most valuable diamond, The Devil's Eye. But the minuscule mice have big plans to rescue Penny before that can happen.

This was always one of my favorite movies as a kid, so it's great that's it is available on DVD finally - it'll teach a whole new generation of young ones that mice speak with Hungarian accents!

Poor Graphics - Difficult Topic for Children.......2007-06-01

The graphics on this are very poor. The story of "abusive" treatment of a young child is probably not the type of story you want young childern to see.

Heads-Up for Adoptive Families.......2007-04-09

I didn't know what this movie was about until we sat down to watch it with our 3-year-old son, who was adopted from Russia. I didn't know it would involve an orphan girl, an orphanage, adoption, etc. This isn't the central theme of the movie, but it does exist. For my son's age, it ended up being appropriate and fine. In fact, we talked a little about the little girl wanting a Mommy and Daddy - and that she wanted to be adopted. So that was a good topic for us to talk about.

However, I didn't like the topic of other children being adopted because they were prettier or whatever... it makes it sound like a child's worth is only based on their specific qualities, instead of an unconditional love that a parent has for a child. And the orphanage topic could be disturbing for some children who did spend time in an orphanage. But in the end, the little girl was adopted and got a Mommy and Daddy! It made me want to cry. :)

Aside from these more serious details... it was a great story! :)

Average customer rating:

tom selleck rides again
Last Stand at Saber River
Last Stand at Saber River
The first of Tom Selleck's excellent TNT Westerns
Well I'll Bow!....

Last Stand at Saber River
Starring: Tom Selleck , Suzy Amis , Rachel Duncan , Haley Joel Osment , and Keith Carradine
Director: Dick Lowry
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0007OY2OE
Release Date: 2005-05-17

Amazon.com

Tom Selleck shows a harder side of his persona as a disillusioned Confederate who returns home in the waning days of the Civil War in this adaptation of the Elmore Leonard novel. His wife, Suzy Amis, isn't ready to forgive him for leaving his family behind for the "adventure" of war, and his children hardly remember him. Haunted by his actions in the war and caught in a power struggle in the Arizona territory, Selleck's soul-scarred survivor makes a last stand to protect the only thing left that matters to him--his homestead and his family. The film has its share of gunfights, showdowns, conspiracies, and Civil War rivalries, and even a runaway stagecoach, but its power lies in the somber exploration of how misunderstandings and conflicts tear at a marriage during such a volatile time, when ideals are set against duty to family. Director Dick Lowry's lean style makes the most of the gorgeous landscapes, and he creates a strong dramatic tension in the bubbling undercurrent between Selleck, who leaves behind the jovial character of his Louis L'Amour Westerns for a man hardened and embittered by war, and Amis, an excellent actress who brings to life a woman who shoots, speaks her mind, and harbors resentment just as well as any brooding male hero. Keith and David Carradine costar as Union wranglers who hold a grudge against the Confederate veteran. One of the most mature TV Westerns ever made. --Sean Axmaker

Description

Tom Selleck rides into Western adventure in grand, gritty style as Paul Cable in Last Stand at Saber River, from the novel by Elmore Leonard (Get Shorty, Out of Sight Customer Reviews:

tom selleck rides again.......2007-06-19

my husband a big western lover really liked this film. in typical tom selleck fashion he leaves the civil war after witnessing a massacar of innocents. the resulting story will please ater fans.

Last Stand at Saber River.......2007-05-12

It is an outstanding movie. It goes back to what we grew up with. A hero who is fighting against odds, but wins out in the end. Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott are the top western "story tellers" of our time. You can tell they love it.

Last Stand at Saber River.......2007-02-14

The movie was excellent and is typical of a Tom Selleck Western. It's to bad he is type-cast as Magnum PI, because he is a great portrayer of the Westerns and I would love to see him star in more of them.

The first of Tom Selleck's excellent TNT Westerns.......2006-11-04

"Last Stand at Saber River" was the first of three excellent Westerns that Tom Selleck made for TNT between 1997 and 2003 (and I'm still hoping there'll be at least a fourth one some day). Selleck has starred in five made-for-TV Westerns total, three of which are based on Louis L'Amour stories. This one, however, is based on a book by Elmore Leonard, and the difference is obvious in both the lack of idealism and in the extreme violence.

Selleck is Paul Cable, a Confederate cavalryman who has come home from the Civil War (only slightly) early. He knows the war is lost for the South, he is worn out, and he only wants to take his family back to their homestead in Arizona to live a normal life. His wife, who was told that he was dead, is less than thrilled to have him back home because she is resentful that he left to fight in the war in the first place. Suzy Amis does an excellent job as Martha Cable. She is not the stereotypical beauty who runs around in a bustle under fancy dresses. She is a tough frontierswoman who has experienced many hardships and gets her husband out of some tight spots as the movie progresses.

While the majority of the movie is good at depicting the divisions between North and South that caused the Civil War and which the Civil War then exacerbated, the subplot of the inner struggles that Paul and Martha Cable face is far more interesting. It's a great movie until the end, when we get the additional time-worn subplot of a Confederate soldier who just can't give up the Lost Cause. No, it's not Selleck's character who has this problem, but Selleck already had covered this territory in 1982's "The Shadow Riders" (though it wasn't his character who wanted to keep fighting in that movie either); John Wayne's "The Undefeated" is another well-known film with the Lost Cause plotline.

In spite of the needlessly melodramatic ending, this is a strong Western. Selleck and TNT kept getting better and better with "Crossfire Trail" and "Monte Walsh". Check out all three, and you'll join me in wishing for number four.

Well I'll Bow!...........2006-06-26

Tom Selleck takes on a serious role in this made for TV western. He stars as Confederate soldier Paul Cable, realizing the war is lost, returning to find his wife and family...hoping to pick up the pieces of a life he left behind. His wife Martha(Suzy Amis) isn't so happy to see him..she had thought him long dead..and was trying to get on with her life. With family, daughter Clare and son Davis(Haley Joel Osment), they leave Martha's father(Harry Carey Jr.) in Texas and head for Arizona and their ranch home. Upon arriving in Arizona, they find that the Union sympathizers(Keith and David Carradine) have confiscated their land..everyone still thinking he was dead. This requires them to fight for their home and for their acceptance in the rebuilding of life after the Civil War.

This is a well put together movie with good continuity. Not only does it have the western action but it also effectively shows the rebuilding of the marriage relationship between Cable and his wife. Susy Amis does a great job in portraying a wife that is ready to make her stand for family and home. Selleck puts in one of his better performances and shows that he can seriously act. Well worth adding to any western collection.

Average customer rating:

Beautifully integrated work of art.
"A definite enjoyable product!"
Excellent treatment
A Changed Life
This is THE one to own!

Jesus of Nazareth
Starring: Robert Powell , Anne Bancroft , Ernest Borgnine , Claudia Cardinale , and Valentina Cortese
Director: Franco Zeffirelli
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0000633QW
Release Date: 2002-03-01

Amazon.com essential video

Originally made for TV in 1977, this in-depth (six hours plus) version of Jesus' life is so thorough that the first hour is devoted solely to the story of his birth. The film doesn't skimp on some of the other landmark events of this famous story either. Director Franco Zeffirelli gives more than 12 minutes screen time each to the Last Supper and the Crucifixion. Passages of the Bible are quoted verbatim, the locations have a Palestine-like authenticity, and, aside from some of the principals (Robert Powell as Jesus, Olivia Hussey as Mary, and Stacy Keach as Barabbas), many of the non-Roman characters are actually played by Semitic-looking actors. Zeffirelli diligently provides the sociopolitical background that gave rise to Jesus' following and the crisis in belief it caused for the people of Israel (and one or two Romans). While not graphic by today's standards, some of the scenes--baby boys being ripped from their mothers' arms and slaughtered, nails being driven into Jesus' hands--may disturb young and/or sensitive children. --Kimberly Heinrichs

Customer Reviews:

Beautifully integrated work of art........2007-09-01

The cast, writers, composer and musicians, costumers, and other technicians/laborers really pulled together a superb miniseries, originally for British television (six hours, two DVDs), under the direction of Franco Zeffirelli, who apparently got a papal request (from Paul VI) to pull the project together.

Owing to the fact that the work was done in 1977, some technical aspects of the film and soundtrack are noticeably from another era, which won't thrill videophiles with the latest high-end equipment; but for me the vintage accounts for much of what's best here.

I'm a musician/ journalist by trade, so I'll make one specific notation: Last night as I again viewed (and listened to) the second three hours, I was particularly taken with an extended segment in which a delicious cello solo perfectly synched with the dramatic context. How many contemporary feature soundtracks stand on a lengthy cello solo for the lion's share of an entire scene? The dynamics, timbres, and consonance/dissonance absolutely (dare I say it) nailed everything together. Overall, the score--by Maurice Jarre, a three-time Academy Award "Oscar" winner (Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, Passage To India)--evokes the moods with diverse textures/orchestrations which never dominate but complement or reinforce (Jarre also used silence where he felt that music might be extraneous or distracting.)

Robert Powell carries the toughest acting assignment I can imagine with measured intensity, majesty, and humanity. He had plenty of reserve fire to to be almost frightening in the temple/moneychangers scene. Powell's natural visage and carrriage are hauntingly J-esque. (Could Powell be the time traveler who posed for the Shroud?)

The striking beauty of Olivia Hussey (Mother Mary) is featured in some unforgettable ethereal vignettes. James Farentino admirably portrays the volatile, all-too-human apostle Peter. Michael York is the wild and Spirit-filled John the Baptist.

There were plenty of international notables in the cast. James Mason is great as Joseph of Arimathea. Christopher Plummer is whiney and wily as Herod Antipas. Peter Ustinov plays Herod the Great as the heartless (but very entertaining) cynic. Anthony Quinn does a steely Caiphas. Sir Laurence Olivier is the pensive, open-minded Nicodemus. Anne Bancroft is Mary Magdalene. There are many more in other supporting roles and cameos.

I'll begin my close by saying that I would vote an award to the writers and actor (Yorgo Voyagis) who worked out and carried the necessarily speculative character of Joseph. We get to see much more of Jesus' stepfather in this film than in any other I've viewed (featured from the film's opening through his death-bed scene, when Jesus is just beginnning his public ministry. He nobly handles his betrothed's obviously rounding tummy, even before a heavenly messenger explains the situation. He instructs his older natural sons (and the young Jesus) in his trade, and in their heritage as Jews. It was all very believable even if one regards the Virgin Birth as fiction.

(I was thinking that I'd like to add a scene or two with stories from non-canonized Gnostic sources that would have fit right into the material that shows Joseph tutoring his sons. Since much of the early Jesus material was centered around Joseph teaching his sons his (and their future) trade. One story is about Jesus performing a modest miracle in which he lengthens a piece of wood that they really needed to fill one customer's order. I figure Jesus had to learn slowly how to use his power, and that this story might be real (it's nearly as old as any of the official Gospels).

After thirty years, this magnum opus really should be given all the benefits that modern technology can lend it. Remastering, and extending to three disks (perhaps cramming all that data onto two dvds accounts for the "soft-focus" look, or maybe something else can sharpen it up. And maybe there's some choice material that didn't make the 1977 final cut that can be added or offered as a "bonus feature," along with some retrospective interviews with a few of the principles. And please, a much better case libretto. (I mean, I combed three times through the beginning and end credits and the whimpy flyer inside the case, and I couldn't find out who wrote the score. No trouble finding the caterer's credit; but no Maurice Jarre, anywhere but in outside sources.) I would enthusiastically invest in a much-deserved remastering/repackaging, which could ultimately be a four-dvd box set.

I could go on with more praise, and sure, I could look for other things to point out as shortcomings, but in toto this really is a masterwork, except for the factors cited, which have nothing to do with the artists, and everything to do wiith "the suits" at Artisan, I assume. Accordingly, I would have shaved the fifth star (by one-third to one-half) if that option were available, but I just couldn't cut a full star for something the artists couldn't control.
--Richard Gartner

"A definite enjoyable product!".......2007-08-29

This is really a fine product in which I purchased from a very reliable seller. It is in excellent condition and it arrived quickly! It is a great movie and plays fantastic. This film is unquestionably suitable for an entire family viewing. Thanks a million!

Kenneth Palmer

Excellent treatment.......2007-08-19

This is an over 6 hour treatment on the life of Jesus. The motive seems to be to bring to life the stories in the Gospel and nothing else. They're not trying to advance far-fetched alternative theories (Last Temptation of Christ, DaVinci Code, etc) and this is refreshing. When there's dialogue not in the Gospels, it's to support not to contradict what's in the Gospels. It's very well acted, especially by Powell in the lead role. Ernest Borgnine is just great in a small supporting role as a Roman Centurion- he does more with facial expressions than most actors can do with 10 pages of dialogue. This is something that is exctremely long but well worth the time.

A Changed Life.......2007-08-14

I was 14 when I first watched this amazing movie. (43 now) All I can say is that it has changed my life forever. The image of Jesus was burned into my memory and the sudden realization, in those tender teenage years, was that Jesus loved ME, and died for ME! I was overwhelmed by it all and the tears flowed. From that very moment I knew that there was more to life, and I began to fervantly read the Bible, in a quest to learn more about this Jesus. As I look back, now almost 30 years later, I see that watching this film was a real pivitol moment in my life, that has brought me into a personal relationship with the One who freely gave himself for me; and that relationship has grew and deepened over the years. So, to make a long story short, I suggest that if there's anyone who is looking for real meaning and purpose to their life... watch "Jesus of Nazareth"! You won't regret it. :-)

This is THE one to own!.......2007-08-10

I've watched virually every movie and mini-series that has tried to capture Jesus' life ... or "God" in general. As much as I love "The Ten Commandments", and the "Passion of the Christ" is great in its own way, "Jesus of Nazareth" can't be beaten in 2 ways. It hits all the major life events you would expect in a story of Jesus' life, and it's supporting cast is unmatched. James Farentino as Simon Peter. Anne Bancroft as Mary Magdelene. James Earl Jones. Laurence Olivier. Ernest Borgnine. Stacey Keach. James Mason. Anthony Quinn. Christopher Plummer. And Robert Powell as Jesus actually drew a tear or two when relaying life messages we're all familiar with fron The Bible. This is a great addition to any collection, and if you plan on only owning 1 movie about the life of Jesus, you can't go wrong with "Jesus of Nazareth"!!!

Average customer rating:

He must save
You can slash this ^_^
Shanghai Noon
great concept and execution
Shanghai Noon DVD

Shanghai Noon
Starring: Rafael Baez , Xander R. Berkeley , Eric Chen , Jason Connery , and Walt Goggins
Director: Tom Dey
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00003CXJ1
Release Date: 2000-10-10

Amazon.com

Story? What story? All a movie like Shanghai Noon needs is the amazing stunt set pieces featuring kung fu superstar Jackie Chan and the drolly caffeinated ramblings of Owen Wilson (and to be sure, that's all it gets). It's a buddy comedy about Roy O'Bannon (Wilson), a minor, borderline incompetent desperado, and Chon Wang (Chan)--Roy thinks he hears (and scoffs at) the name "John Wayne"--a member of the Chinese Imperial Guard searching for a kidnapped princess (Lucy Liu). They become reluctant partners in the Old West (Roy, who considers Chon his sidekick, is hurt to discover that the bounty on Wang's head is more than his own), brawling, drinking, bathing, and bonding and in general having mildly amusing adventures together, while eluding a posse and other random enemies.

There's not a lot of focus to the plot or much motivation for characters to turn up where and when they do--just what was achieved by the much-discussed trek to Carson City, anyway? But Chan's inventively staged battle sequences (particularly an early one in which he uses flexible, resilient trees to best some Crow Indians) are predictable highlights. You'll wish there were more to some of them, but as with his many of other films, you'll want them on video to watch in slow-motion to see how he pulls them off. And in a potentially star- making role, Wilson's loquacious, hyper-self-conscious meanderings--he's funny even when his lines aren't--make him seem less like a character than a very amusing deconstruction of one. Chan and Wilson are entertaining together, even though they're both off in their own little worlds. Think of it as Butch Cassidy and the Shanghai Kid, and you won't be too far off. --David Kronke

Description

Two cultures collide in SHANGHAI NOON, a wildly hilarious, stunt-filled action-adventure comedy starring the death-defying action hero Jackie Chan (RUSH HOUR 2), Owen Wilson (ARMAGEDDON, THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS), and Lucy Liu (PAYBACK, CHARLIE'S ANGELS). Chan plays Chinese Imperial Guard Chon Wang (say it out loud) who hightails it to the wild and woolly West to rescue the beautiful kidnapped Princess Pei Pei (Liu). When he meets up with the laid-back outlaw cowboy dude Roy O'Bannon (Wilson), they form the best mismatch ever made in the rough and tumble Old West -- the two face jail, brawls, bordellos, and the vilest villains this side of the Great Wall! Spectacular stunts, outrageous irreverence, and epic vistas reign as East meets West in a battle for honor, royalty, and a fortune in gold! It's a real kick!

Customer Reviews:

He must save .......2007-06-22

Princess Pee Pee, she was kidnapped in China. He makes a friend along the way, and he gets married too. Funny movie

You can slash this ^_^.......2007-06-01

Funny with great action scenes. I know its weird to slash this but they get into a tub naked together, how could I not?! ^_^; Not many fics but their good.

-ksha2222

Shanghai Noon.......2007-03-10

The DVD was a gift for my sister and the first DVD sent to her was defective. Half way through playing, it stopped and went back to the beginning. I contacted Amazon and the DVD was replaced free of charge. I was very very pleased with how the whole thing was handled. Amazon even reimbursed me for the shipping I paid to return the first DVD. The second DVD plays fine and my sister is very pleased. Thank You Again

great concept and execution.......2007-01-31

Jackie says he'd had the idea for this movie for years. I think it wasn't until he came to the US that he could do it justice. Yeah, Jackie's biggest fans usually prefer his Hong Kong films, but you gotta admit that this is a movie that would've been hard to make in Asia.

Jackie's sidekick in Shanghai Noon is a great comedian. He has a look and a voice quality that is very unique. Perfect casting for the part. The jail house scene between the two is priceless.

I also really like the music right from the beginning. The music sets the mood and really supports the action.

The settings are also quite interesting. The Forbidden City scenes, though brief are really cool (I'd like to know where they really filmed that), and the outdoor mountain scenes are inspiring.

Two thumbs up!

Shanghai Noon DVD.......2007-01-04

What a great movie! We love this one. It is a great addition to our DVD collection. I only wish they would have included the song "I Wanna Be A Cowboy" rather than this Uncle Kracker song on here. Great buy, I highly recommend it!

Average customer rating:

Excellent production of an amazing book
Unsustainable hypothesis
Jared Diamond is the Best!!!
5 mins of brilliant profound insight stretched into 3 hours
smashing western hubris

Guns, Germs, and Steel
Starring: Braden Doane , Mason Graham , and Katy Kastner
Director: Stacy Blunt , and Santa Clause
Manufacturer: National Geographic Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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