Samurai Jack: Season 4

Description

After an evil wizard named Aku conquers his land, Jack is sent away as a young boy to train as a samurai and save his people. When Jack is banished to the bleak future, his physical discipline and stoic nature make him a timeless hero to citizens of all worlds. Jack fights diligently in his quest to rid the world of Aku's curse while also searching for the time portal that will finally take him home.

DVD Features:
Featurette
Other

Customer Reviews:

Some of the best visuals from the series.......2007-09-11

This was a fantastic last season for the cartoon Samurai Jack. Some of these episodes seemed the most artistic of the series, from the fight between "Jack versus the Ninja", or the very retro-Japanese movie feel of "Robo-Samurai vs Mondo-Bot," not to mention the shifting of focus from our main samurai friend to "The Four Seasons of Death" or "The Tale of X-9." And lastly, a great two-part episode including the Scotsman (who... outside the main characters of Samurai Jack and Aku, is the best recurring character you could ask for).

If you're unfamiliar with Samurai Jack in general then you'd be in for a visual treat with any of the box sets. The cartoon includes some fantastic action sequences mixed with a grand movie feel.

The last piece of the puzzle is still waiting to be put together, a final feature film to give the series an ending it deserves.

"He who runs with aggression walks without dignity.".......2007-09-03

Unpredictable. Illogical. Impossible. He is THE ONE! Samurai Jack--defender of truth, freedom, and talking dogs--is back for a fourth and final season of futuristic hacking and slashing. Set 4's two discs come in a cardboard slipcase, tastefully decorated in a gold honeycomb pattern with Aku's hideous likeness prominently featured on the front (unless your fold-out disc-holder is upside-down and backwards, as mine was). Disc 2 includes a nice selection of extras like promos, deleted scenes, and a very interesting visit with the show's creators entitled, `Genndy's Roundtable.'

Among these thirteen stellar episodes is the hilarious two-parter, `The Scotsman Saves Jack,' in which we meet a goofy guy in a red jacket by the name of Brent Worthington, who just happens to look exactly like Jack. In episode XLII, Jack encounters a hip-hoppin', jive-talkin' "Sam-u-rai," and teaches him that, "You can never defeat another if you know not how to defeat yourself."

In XLI, Jack traverses the devastated streets of Andromeda and is attacked by the awesome Mondo-bot. The frightened robotic Andromedan citizens lead the wandering samurai warrior to a Gundam-like mobile suit and Jack attacks the Mondo-bot Voltron style.

Episode XLIII begins with yet another battle with the fiendish Aku. But this time, Aku calls the fight off early because he's afflicted with a nasty cold virus. Unfortunately, before leaving, the shape-shifting villain coughs up a piece of himself...a piece which Jack accidentally swallows! Our hero is slowly but surely possessed by the evil black spirit of all-enshrouding Akuness, and so he must travel to the watery temple of the lizard-monks for help.

XLVII is an obvious homage to 'Star Wars,' featuring the butterfly-like Prince Astor and Princess Verbina of Alepidopterans. The insectoid siblings (along with their golden assistant, Chitron 6) are relentlessly pursued by Squoomian gunships as they leave their home on Chrysalis to search for their royal navy. They crash-land in Samurai Jack's world and are quickly captured by Aku's demonic minions.

Episode L introduces an emotional robot hit man in a black trench coat and wingtip shoes who's pining for his little lost dog, Lulu, a.k.a. "sweet thing." The merciless Aku is holding Lulu hostage in order to coax her mechanized owner out of retirement. Aku wants Samurai Jack terminated, and the twin pistol-wielding dog-lover is more than willing to do the job...as soon as the rain stops.

So, at long last, all of Jack's adventures are available on DVD. But, it is a bit disappointing to learn that, like `Lost in Space,' this spectacular series does not have a satisfactory finale. Genndy Tartakovsky says there might be a Samurai Jack movie someday. Let's hope that day comes very soon. In the meantime, the screaming baby episode will have to do.

THERE ARE NO WORDS...........2007-08-30

I just got the set today and started watching immediately... it only took a few minutes to realize this show completely exceeds all expecations and totally blows you away. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS SHOW!!! What spectacular visuals, stories, and fighting scenes. I can't begin to describe just how well done the episodes are. This is truly the cream of the crop. I will watch this dozens of times more and never tire... If you are a fan of any sort of action or anime, pick this up!! Truly one of the best of all time.

The Final Jack-down.......2007-08-24

You knew this day would come eventually. It's the fourth, and sadly last, season of one of the greatest action series that has ever graced the airwaves of Cartoon Network: Samurai Jack. The series created by Genndy Tartakofsky (Of Clone Wars and Dexter's Lab fame) may have reached its end, but Jack's quest still continues nonetheless. As long as he has his powerful sword and his vengeance toward Aku, the story will never end.

And now, here's my very last top five episodes from season four. Here goes.

5. "Jack and the Baby" - Jack discovers a infant boy and takes the child along with him. Now he must find the baby's mother and fast.

4. "Jack and the Four Seasons of Death" - Jack faces the dangers of winter, spring, summer, and autumn. And by dangers I mean the perils that each season spawns.

3. "The Aku Infection" - An unwell Aku sneezes on Jack and pretty soon, Aku's evil has taken over Jack's body.

2. "The Scotsman Saves Jack" (parts 1 & 2) - The Scotsman, one of Jack's allies, attempts to rescue Jack who has lost his memory. After rescuing his friend, the Scotsman and the Samurai challenge each other to see who's the best.

1. "Jack vs. Aku" - It's the ultimate showdown as Jack and Aku go one-on-one with each other.

Honorable mention: "Robo-Samurai vs. Mondo-Bot" - Jack has been proclaimed the "Chosen One" in a new city. He then enters the body of the Robo-Samurai and attempts to defeat the evil Mondo-Bot destroying the city.

Don't forget to check out a couple of special features which include a commentary with the creators of the show and exclusive promos plus never-before-seen footage.

Well, they say that all good things must come to an end. And a series as good as Samurai Jack might as well end, too. Jack's adventures still continue in Cartoon Network Action Pack comic books, but those won't compare to the brilliant award-winning series that won the hearts of many viewers. (And as weird as it seems, there was an episode of "Duck Dodgers" that was totally inspired by this series.)

Either way, have faith in the Samurai. No matter what.

it's out!.......2007-08-22

don't know why amazon still has samurai jack listed as "pre-order" It's Aug. 22 and I got Samurai Jack, season 4 at Hastings today. Great animation!!! Assigned to us by our animation teacher as an example of how great imagination and a good story always beats out high tech 2 and 3-D animation any day. Doesn't matter how old you are you will enjoy these stories. If you like Samurai Jack, check out Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends...done by staff related to SJ. Also check out the beautiful art and story-telling in the comic books by Stan Sakai, Usagi Yojimbo....the samurai bunny....similar themes of honorable self-effacing samurai helping the downtrodden.

Average customer rating:

beautiful movie in HD
True HD
Great quality, under-rated movie
Amazing picture quailty
Surprise, surprise

The Last Samurai [Blu-ray]
Starring: William Atherton , Sr. Ray Godshall , Tony Goldwyn , Togo Igawa , and Shane Kosugi
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: Blu-ray

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ASIN: B000JUB7LW
Release Date: 2006-11-14

Product Description

Warner Brothers The Last Samurai (Blu-ray)
Epic Action Drama. Set in Japan during the 1870s, The Last Samurai tells the story of Capt. Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise),a respected American military officer hired by the Emperor of Japan to train the country's first army in the art of modern warfare. As the Emperor attempts to eradicate the ancient Imperial Samurai warriors in preparation for more Westernized and trade-friendly government policies, Algren finds himself unexpectedly impressed and influenced by his encounters with the Samurai, which places him at the center of a struggle between two eras and two worlds, with only his own sense of honor to guide him.

Customer Reviews:

beautiful movie in HD.......2007-03-25

warner made another beautiful HD transfer. I can't find another wrong, no grain anywhere. Just a perfect crystal clear image from start to finish. The cinematography will blow you away. Would give this 6 stars if i could. So far I find warner is the only studio willing to give HD addicts the best video quality possible. Some studios just throw a title on blu-ray and expect us to say, thank you for releasing it.

True HD.......2007-02-15

Frankly i purchased this item just to know how a BD differ from a DVD on my HDTV using my newly purchased PS3. i chose this product cause it has a lot of natural & colorful scenes. the result was really amazing, visualy, blu-ray movies really surpasses DVD. i couldnt test the audio difference, cuz i only have 5.1 Sony decoder. the movie per say is a must see for all those who like action titles.

Great quality, under-rated movie.......2007-02-02

Although not a box-office hit and factually inaccurate, I love this movie and would definitely put it in my top 10 favorites of all time. My wife just bought me a PS3 and I had to pick up a blu-ray disk to see the difference for myself. With SO MANY terrible, terrible movies available on blu-ray (Flyboys, Stealth, and Reign of Fire - the movie i consider to be one of the worst of all time - just to name a few), I decided to pick this up even though I already owned it on DVD. I had seen the movie in HD on DirecTV before, so there were no surprises regarding quality, but I was still really impressed when switching between this and the 480p picture produced by my DVD player. The colors are much more vibrant, the clarity is remarkable and it serves to submerse you in a movie that was already great as it was. As a huge fan of the movie as well as of HD picture quality, I was happy to pick this up at Best Buy for $25, but I probably wouldn't recommend getting this if you have it on DVD already unless you're a big fan. Now, if they could just get the Lord of the Rings Trilogy on Blu-Ray...

Amazing picture quailty.......2007-02-01

Well we already know about the movie so i am not going to comment on it. The most noticable thing about this Blu Ray release is the picture quality, its sharp, vivid colors, simply amazing. :) If you are looking for something to run as a demo on your new HDTV, this is the one. :)

I played it on my PS3 in 720p, its just great.

Surprise, surprise.......2007-01-24

Whoa! This is a surprisingly good movie! Though based on a mishmash of actual events, the mishmash presented here works well. No, an American soldier was not sent to Japan to train the emperor's soldiers so that they could better fight the remaining samurai loyal to the dying Tokugawa regime. The man that Cruise's character is based on actually went to China, not Japan, or so I'm told (read The Devil Soldier by Caleb Carr). However, when the emperor took over Japan, after 264 years of the Tokugawa, shogunate-controlled Japan, there really were samurai that refused to abandon their way of life and philosophy. The samurai were not only warriors, but owners of a rich and complex philosophy and way of life that has been shunned by many modern Japanese (and picked up by Japanese mafia to some extent!) Many refer to the shogunate control of Japan as short-lived, which is interesting considering that the Tokugawa government lasted longer that America has so far! The Last Samurai is a surprisingly rich film, containing accurate portrayals of sword technique, mixed with hand-to-hand jiu jitsu, which is a martial art that real samurai practiced. The show is almost stolen by Hiroyuki Sanada, a Japanese actor who was one of Sonny Chiba's protégés. He was the star of Twilight Samurai, which is simply one of the greatest samurai films of all time. Sanada and Cruise have a slight rivalry going on, and the scene in which they confront each other with wooden swords (kendo swords) is one of the high points of the entire film. Watch and enjoy this heart-breaking film about a dying way of life. If you like it, then also check out When the Last Sword is Drawn, which is a Japanese film about the same events, made the very same year as The Last Samurai!

Seven Samurai - Criterion Collection - 3-Disc Remastered Edition

Average customer rating:

Perfection!
Essential cinema: Kurosawa's 'Shichinin no samurai.'
A Classic Movie
spectacular and incomparable.....
A must see

Seven Samurai - Criterion Collection - 3-Disc Remastered Edition
Starring: Takashi Shimura , Toshirô Mifune , Yoshio Inaba , Seiji Miyaguchi , and Minoru Chiaki
Director: Akira Kurosawa
Manufacturer: Criterion
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000G8NXYG
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Amazon.com essential video

Hailed as the greatest film in the history of Japanese cinema, Seven Samurai is director Akira Kurosawa's undisputed masterpiece. Arguably the greatest of all jidai-gecki (or historical swordplay films), Kurosawa's classic 1954 action drama has never been surpassed in terms of sheer power of emotion, kinetic energy, and dynamic character development. The story is set during the civil unrest of 16th-century Japan, as the cowering residents of a small farming village are seeking protection against seasonal attacks by a band of marauding bandits. Offering mere handfuls of rice as payment, they hire seven unemployed "ronin" (masterless samurai), including a boastful swordsman (Toshiro Mifune) who is actually a peasant farmer's son, desperately seeking glory, acceptance, and revenge against those who destroyed his family. Led by the calmly strategic Kambei (Takashi Shimura, star of Kurosawa's previous classic, Ikiru), the samurai form mutual bonds of honor and respect, but remain distant from the villagers, knowing that their assignment may prove to be fatal.

Kurosawa masterfully composed his shots to emphasize these group dynamics, and Seven Samurai is a textbook study of the director's signature techniques, including extensive use of telephoto lenses to compress action, delineate character relationships, and intensify motion. While the climactic battle against raiding thieves remains one of the most breathtaking sequences ever filmed, Seven Samurai is most triumphant as a peerless example of character development, requiring all of its 2-hour, 37-minute running time to illuminate every essential detail of villagers and samurai alike, including an abundance of humor as Kambei's defense plan unfolds. In terms of its overall impact, Seven Samurai spawned dozens of copycat films (notably the American Western remake The Magnificent Seven) and cannot be adequately summarized by even the most comprehensive synopsis; it must be seen to be fully appreciated, and the Criterion Collection's 2006 DVD reissue is an essential addition to any definitive home-video library. --Jeff Shannon

On the DVDs
According to the accompanying booklet, "the picture has been slightly window-boxed (in correct original 1.33:1 aspect ratio) to ensure that the maximum image is visible on all monitors." The two-disc format was necessary "to maintain optimal image quality throughout the compression process," with dual-layered DVD-9's encoded "at the highest possible bit rate for the quantity of material included." The picture and sound quality are simply amazing compared to Criterion's one-disc release from 1998. The all-new, fully restored high-definition digital transfer takes full advantage of HD's clarity and crispness, resulting in picture detail far surpassing the previous DVD. This also applies to the soundtrack, presented in optional Dolby surround in addition to the remastered original mono track. The new transfer "was mastered in 2k resolution from a duplicate negative created with wetgate processing from the original fine-grain master positive" (the film's original negative is no longer available), and "several different digital hardware and software solutions were utilized for flicker, instability, dirt, scratch, and grain management."

The complete 207-minute film is accompanied by two full-length commentary tracks, including a new track combining the critical insights of film scholars David Desser, Joan Mellen, Stephen Price (author of The Warrior's Camera: The Cinema of Akira Kurosawa), Tony Rayns, and the dean of Japanese film experts, Donald Richie (author of The Films of Akira Kurosawa). Each scholar is given approximately 40 minutes of film-time, and their commentaries represent a unique opportunity to appreciate Seven Samurai from distinct yet complementary critical perspectives. The commentary by Japanese film expert Michael Jeck (from Criterion's original 1988 laserdisc release) remains useful as a thorough analysis of Seven Samurai, primarily in terms of visual composition.

The 50-minute "making of" documentary, from Japan's 2002 Toho Masterworks TV series Akira Kurosawa: It Is Wonderful to Create emphasizes Kurosawa's collaboration with co-screenwriters Shinobu Hashimoto and Hideo Oguni, including production footage, crewmember interviews, and a reverent visit to the rural inn where Seven Samurai was written over a six-week period of intense seclusion. The two-hour "My Life in Cinema" interview with Kurosawa was recorded in 1993, with fellow filmmaker Nagisa Oshima serving as a gentle admirer, colleague, and well-informed historian of Kurosawa's career. "Seven Samurai: Origins and Influences" is a richly informative documentary that places Kurosawa's classic in both historical and cinematic context, examining its place in the jidai-gecki (swordplay) genre, its accurate depiction of samurai codes and traditions, and its stature as the prototype for many films that followed. The lavishly illustrated 58-page booklet includes eight brief essays on various aspects of Seven Samurai, each written by noted film scholars or film directors (including Arthur Penn and Sidney Lumet). Also included is a reminiscence by the great actor Toshiro Mifune, excerpted from a conversation recorded in 1993. Taken as a whole, the remastered three-disc Seven Samurai ranks as one of the finest DVD sets ever released. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Perfection!.......2007-08-24

What more can I say about this film that nobody else has said. This film is an ultimate masterpiece! This was the 2nd one of Kurosawa's work that I saw, RAN being the first and both are just spectacular. This is an epic film that has a little bit of everything to offer. The thing that makes Kurosawa so gret is that he's a master storyteller. This film is over 3 hours in length but it moves at a brisk pace. The first half builds the charachters and sets the situation while the 2nd half is pure action. This movie is so detailed and there's alot of small notes that end up paying off in a huge way. Some of my favorite scenes are by Toshiro Mifune as I instanly had to see anything he was in especially work by Kurosawa. I love films and this is my favorite of alltime. Forget about the black and white, forget that it's over 40 years old, forget about the 3 plus hours. Even if you're not into foreign films I highly reccomend viewing this masterpiece at least once. This is how films were meant to be because it takes you through all the emotions without being over the top. Take into perspective that there's no special effects and that's a huge plus. There's actually a scene where a man gets trampled by a horse, there's the beautifuly shot duel between the master swordsman, and there's the raw emotion by Mifune! All in all, this is a good as movie can get. There are wonderful extras on this disc as it comes in a 3 disc package. Tons of extra insight behind the man, the legend. Thanks for your time!

Essential cinema: Kurosawa's 'Shichinin no samurai.'.......2007-07-22

Considered one of the greatest films ever made, Akira Kurosawa 's (1910-1998) Seven Samurai ("Shichinin no samurai") (1954) tells the story of a village of Japanese farmers under threat of attack by a gang of forty bandits in the late 16th century (possibly around 1587/1588). The farmers hold a meeting, and decide to fight back by hiring samurai to defend their village. Some are concerned that samurai are expensive and are known to lust after young farm women. A village elder tells them to find "hungry samurai" who will work for the village's best food (handfuls of rice). An aging warrior, Kambei, assists the farmers in finding five other masterless samurai ("rônin") to fight with him, together with a sixth clownish "samurai," Kikuchiyo. The samurai construct defenses to fortify the village, and train the villagers to fight. Meanwhile, the youngest samurai, Katsushirô, begins a love affair with the daughter of one of the villagers, who has been masquerading as a boy. The second half of the film chronicles the battle between the samurai-led village militia and the bandits. Katsushirô's affair is revealed, providing comic relief. The battle is ultimately won by the villagers, leaving three surviving samurai, who are left to observe the villagers planting their next rice crop.

Seven Samurai influenced later Hollywood westerns, science fiction, and martial arts films including The Magnificent Seven, Star Wars Episode III, Ocean's Eleven, and A Bug's Life. It is perhaps the first film to depict action scenes in slow motion. Kurosawa was a perfectionist and had a distinctive cinematic technique. He used multiple cameras to shoot the action from different angles, and telephoto lenses to compress the action. Rich in human insights and emotion, Seven Samurai is among my all-time personal film favorites, and it consistently ranks in critical top-ten movie lists. The three-disc Criterion edition offers an amazing, high-definition digital transfer of the complete 207-minute film, with a clear soundtrack presented in optional Dolby surround sound in addition to the remastered original mono track. Several different digital hardware and software solutions were utilized for flicker, instability, dirt, scratch, and grain management. This remastered three-disc edition is one of the finest DVD sets ever released by Criterion.

G. Merritt

A Classic Movie.......2007-07-05

This is a good classic movie. The battle action scene was all right. I expected more action but was satisfied by few scenes. I wish the movie could be all put on one disk so that I don't have to reload the second half. This is good for my classic library collection.

spectacular and incomparable............2007-06-30

I finally did it. I watched SEVEN SAMURAI, directed by Akira Kurosawa. The first thing that came to my mind after viewing the film was, "Why did I wait so long?" For me, I have no argument with any of the past critics (Pauline Kael, Siskel & Ebert, or the slew of consumers on Amazon). There is a reason that this magnificent film, by Kurosawa, has been given such high praise, dating all the way back to its release in 1954, when it rightfully received the Venice Film Festival Silver Lion, and was later voted One of the Top Ten Best Films of All Time in the 1992 Sight and Sound International Film Directors' Poll. Gene Siskel calls it "One of the greatest films ever made. The film that was transformed into the popular western The Magnificent Seven." [That's another film I have waited far too long to watch!]

SEVEN SAMURAI truly has something for everyone, and in its full 208 minutes of glory, the scenes fly by way too quickly. This remarkable story, based on Japanese history, depicts 16th century Japan, in the wake of a very turbulent chapter in the nation's past. Peasants and farmers are starving at the hand of ruthless bandits, who are raping and pillaging their rice fields (as well as their people). Who can save them, but a group of seven bold men [the title's samurai] leading a group of locals into battle, to take on these evil men. There are moments that are laugh out loud hilarious, followed by great dramatic and action-packed scenes (yes, this is a violent film--but, I am sure, judging from the title, that doesn't surprise you), and even some romance. The dazzling cast includes Kurosawa regular Toshiro Mifune (YOJIMBO), as well as Takashi Shimura (IKIRU).

What makes this film stand out so much (aside from the wonderful acting and engaging story) is the innovation in cinematography that was incredibly progressive for the time that it was made (the 1950s). This includes bold use of slow motion, a rapid moving camera and long-lens photography. When my mom was looking over my shoulder, ever so often, she remarked that she could have sworn that this film was shot in color. I can see why she thought that. The beautiful attention to light and shadow make you feel the color that the actors and crew must have seen, when they made this. I saw shades of gold, blue, and red (what with all the bloodshed) as I was watching this. You just have to watch the film to understand what I'm talking about. I really don't want to ruin the experience for you. I hope to see the DVD transfer of this, because I have heard it is far superior to the VHS version. That's hard to even imagine, for me, because this film sparkles on videotape! Please watch this and don't wait as long as I did to enjoy SEVEN SAMURAI for the exceptional film that it is. [As a note to all people weary of subtitles: You won't even notice them! This film will make you feel like you understand Japanese, almost. Visually, this is a film that has the power to transcend all cultural and language boundaries.]

A must see.......2007-06-27

Personally, I'm not a fan of b&w films, but this one is by far one of my favorites. Though it is long, it's well worth the time spent watching it, in my humble opinion.

Average customer rating:

poor sound
HD DVD PQ
DANCES WITH WOLVES IN JAPAN
Last Samurai is a solid HD-DVD
Great Movie but poor Sound

The Last Samurai [HD DVD]
Starring: Ken Watanabe , Tom Cruise , William Atherton , Chad Lindberg , and Ray Godshall Sr.
Director: Edward Zwick
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: HD DVD

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Product Features:

Actors: Ken Watanabe, Tom Cruise, William Atherton
Format: Anamorphic, CC, Dolby, Subtitled, Widescreen, NTSC
Deleted Scenes With Commentary
Audio Tracks: English/French (Dolby Digital 5.1)

ASIN: B000E5KJDO
Release Date: 2006-04-18

Product Description

Actors: Ken Watanabe, Tom Cruise, William Atherton, Chad Lindberg, Ray Godshall Sr., See more

Directors: Edward Zwick

Format: Anamorphic, Closed-captioned, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, Subtitled, Widescreen, NTSC

Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats.)

Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1

Number of discs: 2

Rating

Studio: Warner Home Video

DVD Release Date: May 4, 2004

Run Time: 154 minutes

Average Customer Review: based on 618 reviews. (Write a review.)

DVD Features:

Available Subtitles: English, Spanish, French

Available Audio Tracks: English (Dolby Digital 5.1), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)

Disc One

Theatrical Film With Commentary by director Edward Zwick

Disc Two

Deleted Scenes with commentary

History vs. Hollywood: The Last Samurai {History Channel Documentary

Tom Cruise: A Warrior's Journey

Edward Zwick: Director's Video Journal

Making an Epic: A Conversation with Edward Zwick and Tom Cruise

A World of Detail: Production Design with Lilly Kilvert

Silk and Armor: Costume Design with Ngila Dickson

Imperial Army Basic Training

From Soldier to Samurai: The Weapons

Japan Premieres {Tokyo & Kyoto red carpet)

Theatrical Trailer

Customer Reviews:

poor sound.......2007-08-04

i have last samurai HD DVD and BLU-ray..the HD has a poor sound but the BLU-ray has a great sound...the picture quality is the same for Blu-ray and HD DVD and there`s no much diffrent from regular DVD

HD DVD PQ.......2007-05-02

I only review the picture and sound quality of this HD DVD here.
First of all people who claim there is no difference between this and the SD DVD is either blind, or have bad equipment issues. While it is a definitive step up from the SD DVD I would agree that this isn't among the best I've seen. There is nothing particularly wrong with the transfer, but it lacks that "3d" look that some of the best HD DVD titles offer.The goods are very accurate colors and contrast level, black level is also good with ample shadow detail.Film grain is at minimal, and don't see any edge enhancement.Sharpness is where the problem lies, and so is detail is lacking a bit. This movie didn't have the typical big action picture sound, though it had a sweeping score, and some battle related sound, but it won't be your new demo disc. The Dolby Digital+ sound does as much as it can with the source, and it's by no means is bad, it's just not all that great. All in all it's an above then average discs, and if you like the movie then this is the best it looks right now on home video.

DANCES WITH WOLVES IN JAPAN.......2007-04-10

Tom C's best movie - I am not a big Tom C. fan but this is his best movie. Good pace, good acting, great soundtrack it has it all -

Last Samurai is a solid HD-DVD.......2007-01-20

Alot of people are writing saying this is a real stinker. With poor quality Picture and sound...

They are all wrong. I watched this on my 50" Panasonic Plasma, and whilst i agree it's no King Kong, it's a HUGE difference upon comparison with the SD DVD, which is what it should be compared to.

Clarity of image on HD-DVD is a HUGE improvement over the SD disc, with richer colours, sharper detail. ie. just look at the BG detail.

Clarity of Sound is good, but is mastered at quite a low volume around 10-15db), but is still great.

Don't believe what others have said. This disc truelly shines, and if you're a fan and want the the BEST possible transfer for home viewing,
you won't be dissapointed.

-zallapo

Great Movie but poor Sound.......2007-01-19

Maybe you have already seen this Movie on DVD so you know what I'm talking about. I`ve you're interest in Historic Movie's like Patriot or Bravehearth you will like this Movie. But beware, the Picture looks not real HD, only like a Medium DVD Tranfer. If you have seen King Kong on HD you will be disappointed because the Picture never seems to be real sharp. The same with the Sound - The DD5.1 Downmix is very poor...you must turn the Sound up at near 30% higher as Miami Vice or King Kong to have the same Sound Level...What's up Warner?
But don't understand me wrong, I love this Movie...it has Bookmarks and a good Extras "Setup" - so maybe this is only the beginning for the "Real HD Experience" ;-)

Average customer rating:

I have a bad feeling about this...
the long awaited...
A treat for kids and grown-ups
The Animation is best here
Samurai Jack Season 3

Samurai Jack - Season 3
Starring: Mako , Rob Paulsen , Sab Shimono , Jeff Bennett , and Lauren Tom
Director: Robert Alvarez (II) , Randy Myers , Genndy Tartakovsky , and Robert Renzetti
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
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Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000EGDAFC
Release Date: 2006-05-23

Amazon.com

Series creator Genndy Tartakovsky has said, "The third season is always the toughest in television production," but episodes 27 through 39 of Samurai Jack show no signs of flagging imagination. To the contrary, the Season 3 collection includes some of Jack's best adventures. In the outrageous episode 28, Aku turns teenagers into destructive zombies with rock music. Incongruously clad in hip-hop threads, Jack crashes a rave and defeats the sinister DJ in a wonderfully anachronistic mixture of break-dancing and martial arts kata. Tartakovsky and his artists won a well-deserved Emmy for the two-part "Birth of Evil," that traces the origins of Aku to a primordial, destructive cloud that Odin, Rama, and Ra destroyed. The same gods forged Jack's enchanted sword from human righteousness. The more dramatic stories are balanced against sillier tales: in episode 27, Jack gets turned into a chicken by an irritable wizard, and in episode 33, he has to deal with giant blue teddy bear-like creature, who has an unexpectedly nasty side.

The extras include storyboard artist/martial artist Brian Andrews explaining how the crew stylized Chinese Whu Shu and Wing Chun techniques for Jack's combat moves, a gallery of preliminary sketches, and a commentary on "Birth of Evil." It all adds up to a winning package. (Unrated, suitable for ages 10 and older: stylized violence, minor gross humor, grotesque imagery) --Charles Solomon

Description

From Genndy Tartakovsky, creator of Star Wars: Clone Wars, comes the tale of a young samurai cast far into the future by the evil shape-shifting wizard Aku. Join Samurai Jack on his quest to return to the past and undo the destruction that Aku has wrought upon the land. With award-winning artwork and action-packed plots, the journeys of Samurai Jack are a must for any fan's collection.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary:A special "Birth of Evil" Episode Commentary.
Other:The Martial Arts of Samurai Jack, Lost Artwork,

Customer Reviews:

I have a bad feeling about this..........2007-07-25

The Third Season of Samurai Jack is full of action, adventure, humor and themes of friendship and courage. A well balanced season that really shows off the skill and craft of the writers, artists and other people behind the show. For example, in episode 39 where Jack is being chased on an old fashion Western-Style train by two bounty hunters Quick Draw McGraw and Baba Looey make a brief appearance as passengers. Also, the male bounty hunter's voice is done by John DiMaggio. The same actor who did Bender on Futurama!
And episode 30, in a graveyard, reminds me very much of the Evil Dead movies, right down to a spirit screaming - I will eat your soul! And does just that when it takes over his sword. The best episodes, The Birth of Evil Part One and Two, also have commentary. The show really reaches new heights yet also still keeps the basics of Jack helping the helpless, fight evil and trying to find a way back to his own time and place.

the long awaited..........2007-03-13

As a Jack collector this has been long awaited!! Jack is getting himself closer and closer to his goal, however it remains just out of his grasp.. meaning that there is always the potential for season 4. The usual dramatic art direction makes this a much loved addition to my collection. Thank heavens for 3d surround sound!!!

A treat for kids and grown-ups.......2007-02-27

I am not a devotee of animation by any stretch of the animation. Nothing is going to win me over simply because it is animation. Samurai Jack does not win me over because it is animation - because it is so much more than that.

You cannot really go wrong with any season of Samurai Jack. You can easily get away with jumping into the series at any point. So don't feel like you have to start with season 1 and work your way up from there.

I grew up with the old Warner Brothers cartoons that could entertain kids and adults alike. There were jokes that could appeal to various ages with the kids not quite getting the jokes aimed at the adults.

I now have three sons of my own all under the age of 8 and I enjoy watching Samurai Jack with them. It amazes me what they absorb from the series. Of course, there is the high testosterone appeal of the sword fighting. But would you be surprised to hear that Samurai Jack has helped my boys understand the concepts of determination, oppression, empathy,working hard to achieve goals and honor? Just to name a few.

My boys get that good old Jack is good at what he does because he works hard at it. They see Jack try to talk his way out of problems when he can. They see him being sympathetic to others who are hurt or in trouble. They see him standing up against things that are unfair, cruel or just plain nasty.

The conversations I have with my boys during and after an episode of Samurai Jack are amazing. So, while you might just be looking for something to entertain the overgrown kid in your home, don't overlook the kids that are still acting their age.

The Animation is best here.......2007-01-29

Just because the animation is very stylized, don't assume it's a cheap shot like "South Park". This animation is as refined an artwork as the best paintings in the Louve, a work of a fanaticly dedicated team to make the best they possibly can. IMHO, it's worth it for all the movie tributes alone, though the storytelling is excellent and the artwork of course fantastic. Furthermore, the art has a "Retro" feel, like the 50's, the beatnicks, "Postmodern Impressionism" I think.

My favs are the "Samurai Jack at the Rave" episode, a parody of the early "Evils of Rock Music brainwashing our kids" fictions. And the "Haunted House" one with the tip of the hat to "The Ring" involving Jack fighting an ancient Oni who hasn't fought a samurai in aeons and when it seems to win it forgets a critical thing about samurai. (How far into the future is this? The mystery is better than any specific date.) The best IMHO is the story that starts slow, but has great visuals (like a mountain range tribute to YES) and ends up with an intense fight with a Van Diesel like warrior.

Samurai Jack Season 3.......2007-01-23

I have always been a fan of the Samurai Jack series for many reasons. It's very entertaining series and it is (in my opinion) kid friendly. Jack finds himself in many fights and battles, the majority of which he is defending the poor and/or oppressed or he is fighting for his cause. (Find a way back to his time to stop the evil Aku from taking over the world). The enemies Jack destroys are always robots or of a supernatural force, I have never seen him kill any living person. He is humble and patient and exudes many qualities I would want in any rolemodel my children would have. Even as an adult I find this series fun and I really enjoy watching Jack on his many misadventures.

The Last Samurai (Two-Disc Special Edition)

Average customer rating:

Good Movie
My bro loves it
Very Good Movie
One of my favourites
My thoughts of why this movie was not popular in the US

The Last Samurai (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Starring: Ken Watanabe , Tom Cruise , William Atherton , Chad Lindberg , and Ray Godshall Sr.
Director: Edward Zwick
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0001JXOVC
Release Date: 2004-05-04

Product Description

Epic Action Drama. Set in Japan during the 1870s, The Last Samurai tells the story of Capt. Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise), a respected American military officer hired by the Emperor of Japan to train the country's first army in the art of modern warfare. As the Emperor attempts to eradicate the ancient Imperial Samurai warriors in preparation for more Westernized and trade-friendly government policies, Algren finds himself unexpectedly impressed and influenced by his encounters with the Samurai, which places him at the center of a struggle between two eras and two worlds, with only his own sense of honor to guide him.
Running Time: 154 min.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

While Japan undergoes tumultuous transition to a more Westernized society in 1876-77, The Last Samurai gives epic sweep to an intimate story of cultures at a crossroads. In America, tormented Civil War veteran Capt. Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise) is coerced by a mercenary officer (Tony Goldwyn) to train the Japanese Emperor's troops in the use of modern weaponry. Opposing this "progress" is a rebellion of samurai warriors, holding fast to their traditions of honor despite strategic disadvantage. As a captive of the samurai leader (Ken Watanabe), Algren learns, appreciates, and adopts the samurai code, switching sides for a climactic battle that will put everyone's honor to the ultimate test. All of which makes director Edward Zwick's noble epic eminently worthwhile, even if its Hollywood trappings (including an all-too-conventional ending) prevent it from being the masterpiece that Zwick and screenwriter John Logan clearly wanted it to be. Instead, The Last Samurai is an elegant mainstream adventure, impressive in all aspects of its production. It may not engage the emotions as effectively as Logan's script for Gladiator, but like Cruise's character, it finds its own quality of honor. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Good Movie.......2007-09-01

I am not a Tom Cruise fan. In fact I think he is a bit of a nut. But...after saying that this is a good performance for him. While the plot is fairly predictable I think it is an interesting look into a historical time period. A transition from an ancient tradition in Japan into the modern age. I would recommend the film to anyone who loves history.

My bro loves it.......2007-07-28

My brother thinks of this as one of the best movies ever. I thought it was pretty good, but I sent it to him for a what the heck gift, and it was worth it to make him happy.

Very Good Movie.......2007-06-27

Something you'll want to watch a few times. Story of a civil war hero, fighting his own demons,(Tom Cruise) recruited to train the Emperors Army. He is forced to confront those demons and...A lot of similarites to "THE KING AND I". I primarily enjoyed the evolution of the main character brought on by...Lots of action. Lots of personal interaction of a philisophical nature. A somewhat "deep" movie. Hope I didn't spoil it for you!

One of my favourites.......2007-06-05

I don't care what the negative reviewers think, it's just a story, make-believe! Fiction doesn't have to be absolutely perfect, nor absolutely accurate either. You'd be hard-pressed to find any fictional films/stories that are.

And if a few liberties were taken with the historical element well, that's nothing new where Hollywood is concerned is it, and the film isn't meant to be historical in that sense anyway, just uses that period as a backdrop really. Poetic licence.

A number of people have likened it to 'Dances with Wolves'. Sorry but no. 'Dances with Wolves' bored me to tears. But 'The Last Samurai' is a lovely film, very emotive and with a nice soundtrack, and some great perfomances from all concerned. The themes were ones we could all do with being reminded of.

The only things about it that I didn't like were:

1. It didn't go on for as long as I would have liked it to.

2. The battle at the end seemed just a touch not right.

I've lost count how many times I have watched this film.

My thoughts of why this movie was not popular in the US.......2007-05-11

My profile 43 yo no qualifications as a movie critic

Browsing through the reviews (there is just too many), I stopped after finding out one reviewer who reflected on why this movie was not that popular in the US and why it it was almost not mentioned in the Oscar (that was my impression at least).. Well, the reviewer said something about the view of the "whiteman's burden" made have caused unpleasant reactions.. that could be part of the reason, but my opinion is, the movie was released at a bad political timing and was censored by Hollywood as part of the "Patriot" canpaign designed at getting moral support to the invasion of Irak

Now you may label me now as a "conspiracy paranoid", but let me deliniate some aspects too see if they are not logical.. in the movie, americans go to Japan as mercenaries with a agenda of opening the big arms trade with imperial Japan.. to make matters worse, an ethical crisis occurs to the character of Tom Cruise.. an actor who is still remembered as a patriotic pilot who shot down those dreaded MICs in "Top Gun" ( a movie destined to make the public feel good at their defense expenditure)... talk about a bad timing to reflect and see that your goverment; not only sends you to genocide the american indians, now its time to continue somewhere else!! and what's even worse, he joins the other side!!, not exactly the kind of attitude you need on the troop morale sent to invade Irak under weak grounds.. hell, was it not enough the catharsis done by all those Vietnam movies? (where Tom Cruise did a Nam veteran).. well that was then this is now... lets face it.. why such an epic movie, a superb production and what I consider Cruise's pass to inmortality in the world of true films, was given a "foreign movie" treatment??!!

Perhaps after the dust settles and a new peace period begins, this movie can be seen in its proper context..

Average customer rating:

THE BEST!
Great Anime Fusion
An average show that is vastly overrated
THE BEST DVD ANIME FOR 2007
Afro-tastic!

Afro Samurai (Director's Cut)
Starring: Samuel L. Jackson , Kelly Hu , Ron Perlman , Crystal Scales , and John Kassir
Director: Fuminori Kizaki
Manufacturer: Funimation Prod
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000LP5FWC
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Amazon.com

The violent five-part adventure Afro Samurai marks both the increasing confluence of American and Japanese pop culture and the shift in Japanese depictions of African-Americans. The popularity of hip-hop in Japan has led to more positive images of blacks, including Takashi Okazaki's original manga. The "Director's Cut" contains an additional 15 minutes of footage, and is even gorier than the broadcast version on Spike TV. As a boy, Afro Samurai saw his father beheaded by the maniacal Justice. The murderer sought an ancient headband that marks the wearer as the #1 warrior in the world. As an adult, Afro seeks only revenge, cutting down anyone who blocks his path to Justice. Afro Samurai depicts a oddly anachronistic world that infuses cell phones, cigarette lighters, and cyber technology into traditional Japanese culture. The elongated character designs recall Peter Chung's Aeon Flux, and much of the series is rendered in moody grays, accented by gobbets of scarlet blood. Afro is such a taciturn figure, most of the dialogue goes to his motor-mouth comrade Ninja Ninja. This big budget production features an eclectic score by Wu-Tang Clan co-founder RZA and an A-list vocal cast that includes Samuel L. Jackson and Ron Perlman. But for all its elaborate production values and over-the-top fights, Afro Samurai suffers from a weakness at its core: Afro is so monosyllabic and cold-blooded, he's not very interesting. His inevitable duel-to-the-death with Justice lacks the emotional punch of Spike's face-off against Vicious in Cowboy Bebop or Kenshin's one-on-one with Shishio in Rurouni Kenshin. This extremely violent series is not for the faint of stomach. (Rated TV MA, suitable for ages 17 and older: graphic violence, profanity, sexual activity, grotesque imagery, nudity, risqué humor, alcohol and tobacco use) --Charles Solomon

Studio description

"Required Watching" - Stuff Magazine

Afro Samurai (voiced by Academy Award® nominated Samuel L. Jackson) is an epic tale of a black samurai's hunt for Justice (voiced by Ron Perlman: Hellboy, Alien Resurrection ) who murdered his father. With music score by The RZA ( Kill Bill , Wu Tang Clan) Afro Samurai blends traditional Japanese culture, funky technology and hip hop to create a brutally fresh entertainment experience.

Director's Cut features:

15 minutes of never-before-seen footage
Exclusive Manga art from Afro Samurai creator Takashi Okazaki
Interview with Takashi Okazaki
RZA music production tour
In the booth: voice talent of Afro Samurai and Animation Production--GONZO Studios; Japan
Character commentary by Eric Calderon, North American producer

Director's Cut edition of Afro Samurai is a 2-disc set - 125 minutes - awesome packaging!

More from Studio Gonzo

Origin: Spirits of the Past
Trinity Blood
Solty Rei

Stills from Afro Samurai (click for larger image)

More Samuel L. Jackson

Snakes on a Plane
Shaft
Pulp Fiction

More Stills (click for larger image)

Customer Reviews:

THE BEST!.......2007-09-14

I liked the fact that the author kept it real. I loved the imaginary friend who kept him going to avenge the death of his father. Samuel L Jackson once again proved his acting worth! He is awesume!

Great Anime Fusion.......2007-09-07

Several genre's rolled in to an action packed animated film. Inspiration touches on Blacksploitaion Films, Standard Eastern Anime and Japanese culture. Good film I enjoyed it. Visuals are exceptional. Animation is amazing. Story is simple. Revenge, 'nuff said.
Be prepared for blood, and lots of it; think Kill Bill blood spray, and you'll be right on.
Good film overall, I didnt rate it as a five because the plot was pretty standard and can grow thin in spots since its very cyclical. Afro gets into a fight flashes back to childhood then kills every thing in sight. I understand that this was made for television and is best watched in small chunks. Watching in one shot can feel repetitive and eventually you grow very tired of Afro's side kick Ninja ninja. HOWEVER the visuals and animation are so excellent that you cant look away. If you are an anime fan you will want this in your colection. It is beautiful to watch.

An average show that is vastly overrated.......2007-08-17

I'm kind of surprised with the rave reviews this show is getting. I'm leaning towards believing most of these reviews are from rap, r&b, and Sam Jackson fans. Well I like the three things I mentioned but I love anime alot more. And as an anime, this is average at best.

Overall I didn't really like this for a number of reasons. Characters. Afro spoke so little and had so little charisma, I really didn't get to like him. The second main character Ninja Ninja. Is easily one of the most annoying characters I have ever seen in this or anything else. His voice was annoying to include his dialogue. Others were killed off so quick, before I can give a dam about 'em. The corniest weapon had to be the crossbow grenade launcher. Oh please.The plot moved at a snails pace and was non existent for the most part. The story is just stupid to me. The whole thing with the headbands is ridiculous.

The animation and the action scenes are the only reason to check this out. The action scenes are dam good. I can't take that away. My problem is, I just dont feel hip hop in a samurai environment. To me it just doesn't mix. Oh yeh, I hated Samurai Champloo so much I didn't get past the first 2 episodes. Had to point that out for the Afro Samurai review police.

If your a rap and Sam Jackson fan, you will most likely love this. After watching this with my people, I just don't believe most real anime fans will eat this up. Well 3 stars is not bad, I gave it credit where it shined at for me. But I can never watch this again.

I should have realized something when the dude who told me this is the greatest animation ever. Doesn't own any anime at all but has about 400 rap albums and every single Samuel L. Jackson movie. That was a dead give away on this show receiving more praise then what it should have.

THE BEST DVD ANIME FOR 2007.......2007-08-13

THIS IS REALLY CORE, REALLY FUN, IT IS A REALLY NICE MADE DVD STORY BY THE GUYS FROM GONZO. WORDLESS, JUST GOOD AS IT IS. THATS ALL

Afro-tastic!.......2007-08-13

Afro Samurai: If you're sold absolutely to whatever I am talking about from just this name alone, I am among your company, and you need not read any further. Just click that add to cart button and work your magic. For the intrigued but hesitant, I offer this guide.

The very first thing anyone should know about Afro Samurai is that it is exceptionally violent. Blood spews from every sword slash, eyes are gouged, and heads are literally placed at children's feet. That should take care of most of the hesitant crowd, but for the rest, I offer this review.

This is anime at its finest visually. The figures are detailed and well crafted and all their moves are fluid. The battle is some of the finest duel footage available. The story follows Afro on a quest for revenge. He holds the No. 2 headband, mythical and important, because only its wearer can challenge No. 1. And the prize for No. 1? Attaining godhead. To avenge his father, Afro must retake the No. 1 headband, and it is the sole factor that pushes him forward. However, it is not just No. 1 he needs to worry about--every assassin and fighter in the land can challenge him for that No. 2--and they do.

Through flashbacks the back story of Afro is fleshed out; the dojo that took him in as an orphan, the sacrifices he has made, and the moral decisions that defined him are explored. Accompanying him on his journey, and handling all the vocal duties, is a sidekick whose reality is not so clear--but as Afro makes it clear, he has only one goal and will continue to move forward.

Sadly, this myopic drive of the main character is probably the series biggest weakness. Afro speaks for about a total of 30 words. Don't watch this if you're hoping for something awesome from Samuel L. Jackson, his presence makes no difference--still cool to have support for this, however. It just makes it difficult to empathize, or really care, with Afro's plight because it's very clear he is a static character and he is never challenged any more than physically.

The dialogue is also a bit silly. I know it's supposed to be hip, but look at these characters who are speaking, the random warriors and monks! Something needs to be said for decorum--when it's ignored it's unduly distracting.

But let's be honest--these are not the main reasons one watches this show. The action is incredible and the headband legend is a captivating mythos that does hammer home the burden of Afro's quest--and the tragedy.

If anime is what you like, duels are your thing, and blood does not make you squirm, then Afro Samurai will not disappoint. It is visually visceral and beautiful.

Average customer rating:

great cartoon
Crazy Awesome
It isn't the Premier Movie
Samurai Jack...a man of few words living in a cartoon world
Who doesn't like Samurai Jack?

Samurai Jack - Seasons 1-3
Starring: Mako , Rob Paulsen , Sab Shimono , Jeff Bennett , and Lauren Tom
Director: Robert Alvarez (II) , Randy Myers , Genndy Tartakovsky , and Robert Renzetti
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000EGDAFM
Release Date: 2006-05-23

Description

3-Pack of Samurai Jack: The Complete Seasons 1-3.

Customer Reviews:

great cartoon.......2007-09-02

this is one of the best cartoons ever produced, and the best "action" cartoon ever produced, and session 1-3 hav got to be some of the best episodes, i highly recommend this for any fan of the show or any cartoon fan.

Crazy Awesome.......2007-05-13

These are totally cool cartoons. They have a pretty unique storyline told in a great visual style. I actually got them without ever seeing it on TV before but I liked Genndy Tartakovsky's "Clone Wars" series. This is a crazy awesome series.

It isn't the Premier Movie.......2007-05-06

Samurai Jack is great, and for various reasons didn't get around to buying the DVD seasons until this set was released. I'd had the Premier Movie (not available anymore), and THAT spoiled me:

One reviewer said Samurak Jack was like a movie, and in the PM it WAS--the opening song was played once, and all the little title cards were cut, and a good chunk of the first season was strung together smoothly. Samurai Jack movie. Ooooo.

Getting these DVDs, I was annoyed that I had to sit through the opening song between every episode (Take the hint from the Spongebob DVD releases, please). I cannot even skip them--I have to fast forward!

Is this worth buying? Yes. I enjoy the series and feel the content great. The series drops off my got-to-watch list because of delivery failure. I won't be buying more.

Samurai Jack...a man of few words living in a cartoon world.......2007-03-08

I remember watching the series on Cartoon Network and finding myself intrigued with how the elements worked together as a whole. Using the influence of literati painting and early martial arts movies, it was able to create a world where the real and the unreal coexist harmoniously. I especially like how it simulates the use of special camera angles and sequences. It was a work that I just had to have in my collection.

Who doesn't like Samurai Jack?.......2007-01-20

How could you NOT like Samurai Jack? Few shows can evoke such powerful feelings in its viewer. Despite the cartoon format of the show, its intelligent, interesting, full of everything good you would want - and would want your kids - to learn and do in life. How to defend, when to defend, When to fight, what is worth fighting for, how to persevere, how inner strength is the key to a peaceful life. All things great from the traditions of Japanese culture, which I find interesting anyway.

But it's not all seriousness and solemn. The Scotsman, anyone? Jack as a Chicken? Learning to "Jump Good?" Great entertainment is great entertainment.

Average customer rating:

Jarmusch's garbage is better than typical top movies
Minimalist Action Film
Great acting
Another fully-formed invetion from the singularly creative mind of Jim Jarmusch
Great show! Well worth five stars!

Ghost Dog - The Way of the Samurai
Starring: Forest Whitaker , John Tormey , Cliff Gorman , Dennis Liu , and Frank Minucci
Director: Jim Jarmusch
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B00005QCVX
Release Date: 2001-08-14

Amazon.com

Forest Whitaker makes an unlikely modern samurai with his laser-sighted pistols, shabby street clothes, and oddly graceful gait--but then Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai is an unusual film. Quirky, contemplative, and at times absurd, it's just the kind offbeat vision we've come to expect from the fiercely independent Jim Jarmusch (Stranger than Paradise, Dead Man). Whitaker is Ghost Dog, a mysterious New York hit man who lives simply on a tenement rooftop and follows a code of behavior outlined in Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai (passages of this book are interspersed throughout the film). When the local mob marks him for death in a complicated code of Mafiosi-style honor, Ghost Dog sends a cryptic message to his foes. "That's poetry. The poetry of war," remarks mobster Henry Silva, with sudden respect upon reading the verse. He could be describing the ethereal beauty of Jarmusch's vision, full of wonderful imagery (a night drive across town seems to float in time) and off-center humor. Though it briefly stalls in a series of assassinations (Jarmusch is no action director), it settles back into character-driven drama in a quietly epic showdown, equal parts samurai adventure, spaghetti western, and existential crime movie. The film is likely too unconventional and offbeat for general audiences, but cult-movie buffs and Jarmusch fans will appreciate his idiosyncratic vision. He finds a strange sense of honor in the clash of Old World traditions, and salutes his heroes with a skewed but sincere respect. --Sean Axmaker

Customer Reviews:

Jarmusch's garbage is better than typical top movies.......2007-09-16

Upon attaining popular acceptance, many directors seem to feel the need to make a film in their own style. This film is Jim Jarmusch making a "Jim Jarmusch" film. He affects and overplays his traditional quirkiness to excess. Jarmusch could have cut a few of the side stories and focussed on the main character's ethical struggle. The movie ends up a bit confused.

That being said, a 2-star Jarmusch movie is much more worth one's time and attention than the latest Nicholas Cage shoot-em-up chase scene tender chick flick.

This movie is worth a look merely for the moods Jarmusch creates. He creates a setting that a movie viewer can sit in front of for hours. The movie falls apart 2/3 the way through, and will have one rolling one's eyes by the end.

Minimalist Action Film.......2007-08-09

This film is truly unique and worth viewing. It has great character development and possesses a fitting sense of irony. The movie touches on the theme of loyalty more than any other film of recent memory and does so without preaching to the audience. While the film does tend to drag at certain points for the most part it is all part of a philosophical lecture on how society has become more comfortable with the absurd and thoughtless, and does not allow common sense to prevail. Not only a good drama/action film, but a movie that makes you think.

Great acting.......2007-07-24

Eastern and Western cultures and philosophies intersect in this comic drama from acclaimed director Jim Jarmusch. Ghost Dog (Forest Whitaker) is a silent modern-day warrior who lives on a rooftop shack. He spends his days breeding pigeons and playing chess in the park with his best friend, Raymond (Isaach de Bankolé), a French-speaking ice-cream man. At night he goes to work as a hit man, performing his tasks stealthily and invisibly, abiding by the codes established by HAGAKURE: THE BOOK OF THE SAMURAI, an 18th-century text.

One night, while on his latest hit, Ghost Dog encounters a mob boss's beautiful daughter, Louise (Tricia Vessey). Although Ghost Dog leaves her unharmed, her father nonetheless orders Ghost Dog's execution, to the dismay of Louie (John Tormey), his loyal retainer. As the mobsters struggle to locate the mysteriously untraceable Ghost Dog, he must find a way to protect himself while remaining loyal to Louie and the ancient codes that define him as an individual.

Jarmusch successfully tackles a variety of genres with GHOST DOG, including mob movies and spiritual samurai films. Fusing all of this with the RZA's thumping, atmospheric score, GHOST DOG remains another lighthearted, entertaining addition to Jarmusch's impressive filmography

Another fully-formed invetion from the singularly creative mind of Jim Jarmusch.......2007-07-21

"Ghost Dog" is another fully-formed invention from the singularly creative mind of Jim Jarmusch. In the 'making of' featurette, Jarmusch remarks that he envisioned Forest Whitaker as Ghost Dog because Whitaker had the presence, authority and serenity (words to that effect) to pull it off (after all, Jarmusch is asking us to like and pull for a contract killer). That choice seems prescient on Jarmusch's part - seven years after "Ghost Dog," Whitaker's acting skills, wise role-picking and genial personality landed him at the top of the heap with his justly-rewarded portrayal of Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland (Widescreen Edition).

Much of the tone of "Ghost Dog" is set by the score, drafted entirely by Wu-Tang Clan leader The RZA (who also makes a cameo appearance in the film - he's the guy in camouflage who greets Ghost Dog on the sidewalk towards the end). RZA's presence isn't an afterthought - Jarmusch says he had in mind from the start a film with RZA as an equal collaborator.

Isaach De Bankolé is a delightful presence as ice cream truck driver Raymond. Also of note: the scenes featuring a slightly younger version of Ghost Dog are, in fact, filmed with Forest Whitaker's younger brother Damon (thank you, IMDB).

Great show! Well worth five stars!.......2007-06-18

There isn't anything I didn't like about this film. Good old Forrest comes through with another superb performance and makes his character very believable. He portrays Ghost Dog - a very intelligent and thoughtful fellow - in such a way that this individual could be a very likely manifestation within the environment the story takes place in.
Equally, there is no wild and absurd special effects to mar the flow or the potential realism; no fancy super-duper martial arts moves to turn what you're watching into a farce. Ghost Dog is careful. He's deliberate. He consciously regulates his behavior and tries to adhere to the code of the Samurai. He comes across as being quite human - a person who has developed a psychological mechanism to allow him to cope and survive within a depressing and dangerous environment.
There's some humor in this movie too, as well as some telling symbolism. The scenes generating the "feel" of the show are quiet, seedy, gritty, and earthy, and when all these elements are combined with the performance of the cast it makes for a very well-done production.
Too bad there isn't more of this type of show and less of the mindless, ultra-violent, formula-type [....] that is spewed out by the cocain-sniffing hacks in Hollywood year after year.

Average customer rating:

AKU!!!!!
Jack kicks ....
This is great
You cant go wrong with Samuari Jack
The best season!

Samurai Jack - Season 1
Starring: Mako , Rob Paulsen , Sab Shimono , Jeff Bennett , and Lauren Tom
Director: Robert Alvarez (II) , Randy Myers , Genndy Tartakovsky , and Robert Renzetti
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0001HAI0E
Release Date: 2004-05-04

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When Samurai Jack burst onto the small screen in 2001, it introduced a boldly imaginative visual style to the often dreary realm of television animation. Other series have tried to imitate the flattened, angular graphics pioneered by the UPA studio during early '50s. Samurai Jack succeeds in recapturing the essence of the UPA shorts because creator Genndy Tartakovsky and his artists understand that these highly stylized visuals require equally stylized movements.

The ongoing battle between heroic Jack and the evil shape-shifter Aku simultaneously evokes and spoofs the conventions of anime and Western live-action film. Long ago, Jack nearly destroyed Aku in a duel; in desperation, the wizard hurled the samurai far into the future, where Aku's word is law. Jack fights robots, monsters, bounty hunters, etc. as he seeks to return to his own time, so he can prevent Aku's rise to supremacy.

The writing is sometimes uneven, but even when the material feels weak, the visual imagination never falters, from the flamboyant character designs to the use of split-screen. The filmmakers stage the quiet moments as skillfully as the action sequences, and Samurai Jack offers more exciting storytelling than many big-budget animated features. (Unrated: suitable for ages 10 and older: stylized violence, occasional profanity) --Charles Solomon

Description

From Genndy Tartakovsky, creator of Dexter's Laboratory, comes the tale of a young samurai cast far into the future by the evil shape-shifting wizard Aku. Join Samurai Jack on his quest to return to the past and undo the destruction that Aku has wrought upon the land. With award-winning artwork and intricate, action-packed plots, the many journeys of Samurai Jack are a must for any fan's collection. DISC 1: Episode I - When Aku is reborn to set forth his reign of terror, a young samurai attempts to slay him with a mighty sword. But Aku banishes the warrior to the future. Episode II - After landing in the future, the samurai, now named Jack, begins his quest for Aku. Episode III - Jack attempts to beat back Aku's army and save a race of canine archaeologists. Episode IV - Jack helps free the Woolies from the tyrannical Chritchellites. Episode V - Jack and a group of scientists join forces to try and escape the wrath of Aku. Episode VI - A mysterious warrior woman joins Jack in his quest, but is she really an ally? Episode VII - Jack must get past three mysterious archers to reach an all-powerful wishing well. DISC 2 Episode VIII - Jack must do battle with his darker self, Mad Jack. Episode IX - Jack has an underwater adventure while hunting for an ancient time portal. Episode X - Jack survives a cave full of challenges before doing battle with a feared lava monster. Episode XI - When Jack and a Scotsman meet on a never-ending bridge, they end up shackled together and on the run from bounty hunters. Episode XII - Jack hooks up with some Chicago gangsters to try and get close to Aku. Episode XIII - Aku tells three fairy tales, with a decidedly skewed point of view, to the children in order to win them over to his side.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary
Documentaries
Interviews

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