Description

Inspired by atrue story and the classic 1974 film. A group of teenagers take a detour from a road trip and what happens next is beyond anyone?s darkest fears and raw nightmares. ... Read more

Reviews (500)

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
I saw the sneak preview of the movie tonight. All I have to say is it was fantastic. I also rented the original TCM after i saw the sneak preview. I also enjoyed the original. Tobe Hooper made a terrifying horror film that turned into a cult classic and it doesn't even have that much gore. It's in the style of Halloween where you imagine what happens to the victims instead of seeing on screen. However, I think the title scares some people away... but I love the title. Marcus Nispel, the director of TCM 2003, is even more creative in that he brought out the things you didn't particularly want to see. Not in a bad way... he did it tastefully... like the shower scene in Psycho... you are watching her get stabbed but your not flinching. If you go to the movies official website: www.texaschainsawmovie.com you will find interviews and trailers. Marcus Nispel clearly states the plot was changed and twisted (still same general plot but twisted) so that you would be surprised. The ending, beginning, and murders are different. He also states that he did not make a slasher movie... his only intention was to scare the audience. John Carpenter also said that about Halloween 1... look how that turned out... GREAT! I also recommend that you do not watch the original TCM sequals because they trash the series. Good luck and go see this movie on October 17th when it is released... I know I will.

She said they were all going to die and she wasn't lying
Well, this 2003 remake of "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" creeped me out. Of course I waited until late at night to watch it, which is what you were supposed to do with a horror movie, because lately even when a horror film has a good start, such as "Jeepers Creepers," they almost always end up being laughable. Now, I will not go so far as to saw this is a great horror film, and I am not suggesting that it replace the raw power of Tobe Hooper's original in any one's mind, but it sure creeped me out more than anything I have seen in a while (except for last month when I watched "The Exorcist" again).

What does this remake have working in its favor? Well, first the film is selective in what it takes from the original. We have the same beginning with the grainy film and the same narration talking about "one of the most bizarre crimes in the annals of American history" (again narrated by a now considerably more famous John Larroquette), and we have the same basic idea that a group of teenagers in 1973 make the mistake of running into Leatherface and his kin. But in terms of the specifics the screenplay by Scott Kosar does not treat the original like gospel: the hook is still there, but we lose the bizarre dinner scene where the original really lost me.

I was also surprised to see that cinematographer Daniel Pearl is back to show what he has learned since 1974, which is apparently a note. Maybe the music video sensibilities of director Marcus Nispel have something to do with this at well, but this horror film looks the way that horror films are supposed to look. You know that things are going well when you are getting the wiggins and the sun has not yet set in the film. There are plenty of bad things to see in this film, but the camera does not wallow on them the way so many splatter flicks do.

Maybe part of the effectiveness of this remake is that for those of us who watched the original we know the basics of what is going to happen so that there is a sense of anticipation that no matter what is happening on screen something really bad is about to happen. But if I were going to point to something else beyond the cinematography it would be the fact that this time Leatherface (Andrew Bryniarski) is not the really scary one. No, the honor goes to R. Lee Ermey who brings his drill sergeant from hell to the character of Sheriff Hoyt. Even before Leatherface shows up these teenagers are in way over their heads.

Ripe for the slaughter are good girl Erin (Jessica Biel), her boy friend Kemper (Eric Balfour), young stud Andy (Mike Vogel), the friendly hitchhiker Pepper (Erica Leerhsen), and for comic relief stoner Morgan (Jonathan Tucker). They are driving through Texas to get to a concert when they almost run over a disoriented and frightened girl walking along the road. They try to help, but she is beyond help and so, as she plainly tells them, are they.

Biel, still trying to put her good girl image from "7th Heaven" behind her, manages to play a scream queen without going off the deep end like she did in "Gear" (even in a freezing meat locker). Often these films come down to the good girl character trying to survive the maniac with their weapon of choice and in that regard Biel is one of the better to come along. Yeah, she is smart and sexy, but for once when she gets to the part where she has to fight back you actually believe she might pull it off.

This is a grim and relentless film that assaults its audience as much as it does its characters. After so many horror films that fail on that score perhaps the biggest shock is any film could get this far doing what it is supposed to be doing and if you come here expecting a cathartic ending abandon hope on that score right now. Also, when you decide to watch it late at night, remember not to turn all the light out.

For a remake, it's not half bad!!
I am a huge fan of the original, and I'm not a fan of remakes in general. With that said, I'm not about to insult anybody by trying to put the original and this 2003 remake in the same category. I do think, however, that this movie is pretty good. What makes it work is that the two movies are very different. There are similarities to be sure, but you don't feel like you're watching a blow-by-blow replay of the 1973 classic. I saw the remake in a theater and expected to spend two hours laughing at a lame attempt to capture the classic's low-key horror. Instead, I found myself wrapped up in the new story because it strayed enough from the original to catch and, more importantly, keep my attention. There are a lot of extras on these two discs, including an interesting plot device that never made its way into the movie. Also, the commentary reveals some interesting facts. Overall, I think anyone who likes scary movies will like this movie. I definitely think people who haven't seen the original will enjoy it because they have no reference to compare it to. However, do yourself a favor and see the original too; you won't be disappointed.

Texas Chainsaw Masscre
This movie is a must have. It's a remake of the original,but it's better.Even though it's a remake it still scares you in better ways.This movie is AMAZING!!!

Leatherface has ME hooked!
Where was the canabalism? Why did they spend so much money on a score for the movie when it worked so well to not have one in the first on? The other half leg was obviously sticking in the piano! I give it 4 stars in comparison to ANYTHING else that has come out since 1990. I am often bored by horror movies nowadays that have maybe one scene that is interesting. I am not including horror/thrillers like Silence of the Lambs. Leatherfaces sisters should have been axed. Terrible, annoying, and could have been much cooler. Not as unpredictable as the first, and the main "hook" scene was drawn out, he should have saved the screen time to lengthen the Pepper death scene. No movie in recent time has been scarier. Although, they could top it with a Prequel. How the girls family gets it...I mean we aren't talking about 5 people where 4 barely know eachother. We'd be talking about the girls mother, father, younger brother, and the fact that she is pregnant. I think that would make for a great, insanely scary horror movie. ... Read more

Description

Jay Trotter has waited a lifetime for this day. He's got a hot tip on a horse everyone thinks is ready for the glue factory. But, as track aficionados say, "Even when you know, you never know." One thing you can be certain be sure of is that with Richard Dreyfuss, David Johansen, Teri Garr and more, this is a winning comedy. So put it in your VCR and Let It Ride. Its characters give new meaning to "the odds." And its heart will touch everyone who's wondered: "If every dog has his day, why can't every person have one?" ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Not in this lifetime........PERFECT!
Those were the words that Jay Trotter(Dreyfus)read aloud from the Daily Racing Form about the winning chances of a horse named Charity. This is a been-there-and-you'll-laugh-yourself-silly movie if there ever was one. Go to the racetrack for a day, and you'll see every one of the characters portrayed in this movie, from Cheeseburger, the Hawaiian shirted gambler who knows nothing about handicapping and bets inside tips, to the bookie Lufkin, there collecting money from deadbeats and doctors alike. Based on the book "Good Vibes", this is a non-stop, always entertaining comedy that gives every track goer the incentive to try it one more time. Dreyfus portrays Jay Trotter, a down on his luck cab driver that has given up gambling in order to keep his perilous relationship with his wife (Terri Garr) together. His buddy Looney, also a cab driver played by David Johanssen, is prominent in this film as a born loser who records a conversation taking place in the back seat of his cab stating "The only way Charity can lose is if she's struck by lightning in the starting gate." Jennifer Tilly shows up in all her splendor and beauty as ditzy arm candy for a gambling, middle-aged, business owner who raises the price on the envelopes he sells according to the success he's had at the track that particular week. Tilly's character describes him best, "Herbie is rich." Add to the cast Michelle Phillips as a man-chasing soon to be widow, and run of luck that Trotter can't explain and you have the ingredients of a comedy that you won't soon forget. Get the video, already!

When a Loser can't stop Winning
I'd heard there were problems with the making of this comedy and it slipped in and out of theatres without much notice. I remember seeing the trailer and thinking that the movie looked terrible.
Then I saw it was based on a Jay Cronley novel.

If you've never read a Jay Cronley novel, find one: he has a hilarious writing style that can't be transferred to a movie screen. He wrote FUNNY FARM (made into the Chevy Chase movie) and QUICK CHANGE (with Bill Murray). The perfect John Candy role can be found in WALKING PAPERS but, sadly, John's gone. And then there's GOOD VIBES, which became LET IT RIDE.

This is a funny, funny movie. It takes the seedy setting of a horse track and fills it with hilarious characters all trying to make that winning bet. Richard Dreyfus gives an energetic performance as Jay Trotter, a loser who, for one day, just can't stop winning.

Give this underrated gem a shot. If you connect with it, then it's a winning bet.

We love the longshots
Is it possible that no one rated this film less than five stars? If you watch this movie, you'll see why. LET IT RIDE is one of those quiet sleepers that, at first, attracted a very narrow audience. When it premiered, and when it was released on video, no one I had asked had known of the film's existence. Now, more and more people are asking me if I have. I smugly say, "You bet!" (Bad pun intended.) This is one of those tightly-scripted, perfectly-acted, beautifully paced comedies that make you wish more like this were made. Put your money on the right pony and pick this one up. Sorry, Smarty Jones.

Let It Ride
If you like a punt- this is a must see. It has been surpassed by no other punting video ever made.

Wonderful !!
An amusing, funny film about a guy who is "having a very good day" ! You will not regret picking this DVD up, it's a great Sunday afternoon, laying on the couch film. It will put a few smiles on your face...:+) ... Read more

Reviews (93)

Farmers vs. Ranchers
Shane is the title of the movie and the main character of this well-made Western. Alan Ladd plays the stranger who arrives in a Western community where a range war between farmers and ranchers is about to play out. The farmers' leader is Joe Starrett, played by tough, reliable Van Heflin. He wants the farmers to stay, to stand up to rancher Rufe Riker and his hired hands.

Riker tries to buy Starrett out, but Starrett won't go. Then Riker hires a gunman - Wilson - played by Jack Palance. He's as mean as they come and he verbally goads one of the farmers into trying to "draw" on him. Wilson(Palance) kills the farmer without blinking.

The farmers are about ready to give up. But when Riker sets fire to a farmer's home as the community gathers to bury its dead, the farmers vow to "play one more hand." Riker sends men to Starrett's ranch to tell him that Riker wants to see him. But Shane stops Starrett by physically knocking him out. He knows that he must go into town to "talk" to Riker.

Civilization is fast approaching on the Western range. And Shane is going to hasten that change by going into battle against Riker.

Western Classic
Shane might well be the greatest western ever made and a true American classic. Recently in a New York Times article, Woody Allen of all people considered it the best American film of all time. The movie is about a mysterious stranger who unexpectently comes into a homestead family's life and helps in their battle against a greedy landowner who is threatening them to move off their land. Alan Ladd stars in the title role and he exudes an air of calm control and dark mystery. Shane is an expert gunman and a skilled fighter, but he doesn't want any trouble. He tries hard to avoid a fight in the local saloon, but no matter how hard he tries, trouble finds him. The homestead family is played by Van Heflin, Jean Arthur and the young Brandon De Wilde. Mr. De Wilde is excellent as a wild-eyed youngster who grows to idolize Shane. Mr. Heflin plays the strong, defiant landowner, but also loving husband to his devoted wife, played tenderly by Ms. Arthur, and his son. He stands by his new friend Shane, when the other homesteaders want him to leave when they feel he's stirring up trouble. A young Jack Palance is menacing as an icy hired gun hired to drive the homesteaders off their land. The showdown between him and Shane is a tense and taut showdown. Director George Stevens captures the breathtaking beauty of the American Old West. Shane was nominated for several Academy Awards, but failed to win any. Despite that fact, it remains a brilliant film worth repeated viewings.

Revisionist History as Entertainment
A lone rider approaches a family ranch. He observes a gang riding up to order the owner off his land. There is an economic conflict between a big land owner and small ranchers who are bringing in Jersey cows and working the land for agriculture. The big land owner wants to eliminate competition from small businesses; his government contract shows his political connections. The film shows the use of barbed wire, the invention that put an end to the open range. The settlers go into town for supplies. A barroom brawl occurs when Shane is attacked; Joe Starrett joins in to help his hired hand. Tavern owner Riker sends to Cheyenne for a hired gun, Jack Wilson, for a final solution to the homesteader problem.

The settlers gather for a July 4th celebration. They hear of Riker's hired gunfighter. That evening Riker show up to make a final offer to Starrett: join him for a good price, and abandon the other small ranchers. This offer is refused. The next day the gunfighter insults Torrey to force a duel, and kills him. Joe Starrett announces he will go into town next, without waiting for the other settlers. The question is: shall the people be oppressed and swindled by a rich powerful landowner? (Most of the large ranches were owned by corporations from back East.) Some of the small ranchers decide to abandon their claims. Yet they have the right to settle and farm the land. "This country wasn't made for just one man." The burning of one home makes the settlers decide to hang on for a while.

Riker makes an offer to draw Starret to his place (for an ambush). Calloway turns up to warn Shane of this trick. Starrett's wife argues for giving up and moving out now. (Credible?). Shane tries to stop Starrett, and they fight in the dark (to hide their body doubles?). Shane wins and leaves to keep the appointment, and force a final showdown. Shane successfully resolves the problem of Jack Wilson, then Riker, and moves on to new territory. [This avoids any retribution by Riker's allies.) {This film uses the dime-novel fantasy of a "fast-draw", which did not occur in historical records.]

This story is loosely based on the Powder River war. In reality, the settler's militia drove off the armed gang hired by the large landowners. The large ranchers tried to get rid of small ranchers by passing a law that gave them sole rights to all cattle in the state! Read the chapter in William Weir's "Written With Lead" for more details. "Unhappy are the people who want a hero."

Two stars. One for each time it put me to sleep.
Don't get me wrong, folks ,I am A HUGE fan of classic Westerns! This one, it just doesn't make it for me. Don't even get me started about Alan Ladd's "tough but gentle" potrayal of Shane. Ladd is unconvincing to this reviewer not only in the tough guy category, but his dramatic side is very, very "Ward Cleaver." AND THAT KID!!! That blasted kid. Joey, played by Brandon De Wilde. Good gawd, if he wasn't the most annoying little snot that came out of Hollywood. (before the debut of Pauly Shore) "Shane, are you gonna shoot that man? "Shane, are you gonna let me look through your Playboys?" I spent half the film (before I fell asleep) hoping Shane would say, "Come here, Joey, and help me change the wheel on this stagecoach" and have a little "accident." Joey's absence from the second half of this movie MAY have kept me awake. (but I doubt it.)

miscast but still legendary
SHANE is among the most renowned westerns in motion picture history, inspite of the miscasting of Alan Ladd in the title role. many other more accomplished actors come to mind of whom could have assumed the role, and many of these were offered the role. however it was Alan Ladd who was awarded the role.

Ladd was a formidable actor and delivered a fine performance inspite of the other more accomplished actors who may have given better performances.

regardless of Ladd in the role of SHANE, the movie was legendary and considered a true classic to this day. the other actors, which include: Van Heflin, Jean Arthur, Brandon De Wilde, Emile Meyer and Jack Palance all gave stellar performances. however it was George Stevens, a director whose name is synonymous with great filmmaking who was solely responsible for the renowned success of this truly legendary western classic. a true masterpiece. ... Read more

Reviews (71)

Lon Chaney stars in the first great American horror film
It is a shame that in the popular imagination the classic 1925 silent version of "The Phantom of the Opera" has been reduced to the scene where Christine (Mary Philbin) unmasks the Phantom and reveals Lon Chaney's stunning make-up job. Because there is much more to this film than that sequence and the camera being out of focus as the Phantom moves towards Christine really bugs me. The visuals in this film are stunning, from the cavernous world below the Paris Opera house to the Phantom's entrance as the Red Death during the Masqurade Ball (filmed in Technicolor). For me the most memorable moment and Chaney's best scene comes at the end, when the Phantom is able to hold the mob that has hunted him down at bay because of the threat of what he holds in his hand. Then he starts to laugh at the fools, finally opening his hand to show it is empty and giving himself over to the violence of the mob. The scene is not in Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, which relates how the bones of Erik were found years after the events told in this story, but it is a worthy addition to the tale. In regards to the famous unmasking scene, I do want to add that Rupert Julian's staging of the scene is really as impressive as the make-up, because the audience gets to see the face of the Phantom before Christine is presented with that horrible visage. I have always thought that Chaney's performance was so indelible that it was the reason that the Claude Reins and Herbert Lom remakes concocted an entirely new story, although it does make sense that when you add sound to the Phantom that you would take full advantage of the opera setting. Final note: When I got to see Michael Crawford perform as the Phantom in the Lloyd-Webber musical, I was not surprised that his outfit as the Red Death was clearly modeled on what Chaney wore in this film.

Very Good Restoration
The IMAGE entertainment restoration of the 1929 "Phantom of the Opera" starring Lon Chaney is a bit hit. The two-disk set is definately the definitive choice to own by all serious collectors. The clarity is better than any version I've seen to date, and for the first time, the correct running speed has been instituted here. The tradeoff however, is that the motion is somewhat choppy from too few frames. The characters move in proper real-time, and for the first time, you can see naturalistic movement in such scenes as the opening ballet sequence.

True fans need look no further than this two-disk Masterpiece Collection set from IMAGE. This is definately the one to own! The film is tinted and comes in a selection of three seperate sound tracks to choose from: a terrific new orchestrated score, the original sound score from the 30s, and a voice-over commentary track, which is insightful.

The second disk contains the original 1925 film, which few people have ever seen today. The quality is poor, but there are many scenes that are different from the version that we're all familiar with. It's worth watching.

But you cannot beat the restoration of the 1929 version on disk one of this set. It isn't quite the job that KINO put into Fritz Lang's "Metropolis" last year, but is terrific nonetheless. Thank you IMAGE. Great DVD!

One of the best
This is a beautiful (an absolutely beautiful) movie, one of the best I've ever seen. Lon Chaney, Sr. does a wonderfully dramatic performance as the tortured Phantom, who kidnapps an opera singer because he loves her. Unfortunately, she doesn't return the love, which drives him to madness.
The only thing that I disliked in the film was that Christine acts a little weird most of the time.
The dialogue is superb, and the Masked Ball scene is only one of the most memorable scenes in this movie

1925 Better than 1929
I am greatly disappointed with the 1929 version of the film. I thought it was going to be better than the silent one because it had sound, but I was wrong. The 1925 version is better than the restored one. Even though the restored version has sound, it takes the orginal and rearranges everything. They took the beginning of the 1925 and put it after Christine sings in the 1929 version. The person who plays Carlotta in the 1925 version is now Carlotta's mother and the Carlotta is different. The four stars is given to the silent 1925, the restored one is given 1 star.

Milestone version is the best!
Over the years, I have just about bought every version of the silent PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. In my opinion, the Milestone version is THE BEST. The elements have been cleaned up and the image is crisp, clear with good contrast for 90% of the film. This two disc set has both the 1929 and hybrid 1925 original. Actually the film is cleaner and better looking in this version than a lot of the official Universal thirties classic that have come out.
It has an excellent commentary by Scott MacQueen and a real treat is hearing the music originally composed for the sound version accompanying the action from original sound elements.
The Technicolor sequences are the nicest I have seen and through proper use of the colorization process, other scenes originally in color, are presented and match the actual color stuff very well.
This version has been made from the initial Photoplay restoration which also includes Carl Davis' original stereo score for those that must have modern stereo for their films, however, I prefer the mood and music of the original '30 soundtrack. There are a plethora of extras, and I don't think it is false hype to say this is the ULTIMATE EDITION of this classic film.
That's my two cents..... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful film finally available...
In this film we have: The alcoholic son; the homosexual son who is trying to be heterosexual to please himself and his family; the overlooked daughter and her husband with marital issues; the ultra conservative, emotionally unavailable father who is extremely hard on his children; and the mother who cares WAY too much what other people think and would rather hide behind a lie she has known for quite sometime. Not to mention the poor girl who thinks her fiance is straight, has to face her own pain in finding otherwise.
For a TV movie, this film is great. This is about a dysfunctional family. It is not only a "coming out" story, but also about an alcoholic son portrayed by Jim Carrey, who, along with the daughter's husband, seem to be the only people who can see how screwed up the family really is. The gay son, who on this occasion, brings home his new fiance, is forced to come out of the closet. He is so used to trying to put a pretty face on everything and not showing things for what they really are...which he seems to get from his parents. Basically, all at one time the s--t hits the fan, so to speak. It is definitely not an uplifting film, but shows how a dyfunctional family who hides their secrets and refuse to come to terms with their problems, will eventually fall apart and have to find a way to rebuild again, on different terms, through unconditional love and support. This is a wonderful film to show teenage children the dangers of alcoholism, and how important it is to love and support your children unconditionally regardless of their issues and sexual orientation. It can show the catastrophic results that can and usually will occur when people don't face their problems. What should parents care more about, their family image or their children? This would be great to show Jr. High, High School, and College students. I saw it when I was in high school and it helped me tremendously. I then showed it to a friend in college struggling with his sexuality and his religious parents who would not accept him. He came to terms with it as did his parents. They now accept him for who he is. Just goes to show how facing your problems and trying to understand an issue, will only help you and your loved ones in the future.

woah
i just bought a bootleg tape of this a couple weeks ago and now i kind of regret it. ill just say that this movie is surprisingly great for a tv movie and its one of jim carrey's best performances. cant wait to see what special features come with it.

what the... hmmm... now will you lookie at that...
this 1992 made-for-tv movie was excellent, but, who really ever expected to see it anywhere but bootlegged on ebay? i hope to see more details soon, specifically what extras are going to be included. william mcnamara and jim carey (yep, "the" face) were both very good in this dramatic coming-out story. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea
20,000 Leagues Underthe Sea gets a dose of On the Beach in Irwin Allen's visuallyimpressive but scientifically silly Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea.While the Seaview, the world's most advanced experimental submarine,maneuvers under the North Pole, the Van Allen radiation belt catches fire,giving the concept "global warming" an entirely new dimension. As the Earthbroils in temperatures approaching 170 degrees F, Walter Pidgeon'smaniacally driven Admiral Nelson hijacks the Seaview and plays tag withthe world's combined naval forces on a race to the South Pacific, where he plansto extinguish the interstellar fire with a well-placed nuclear missile. Butfirst he has to fight a mutinous crew, an alarmingly effective saboteur, not onebut two giant squid attacks, and a host of design flaws that nearly cripple themission (note to Nelson: think backup generators). Barbara Eden shimmies toFrankie Avalon's trumpet solos in the most formfitting naval uniform you've everseen, fish-loving Peter Lorre plays in the shark tank, gloomy religious fanaticMichael Ansara preaches Armageddon, and Joan Fontaine looks very uncomfortableplaying an armchair psychoanalyst. It's all pretty absurd, but Allen pumps it upwith larger-than-life spectacle and lovely miniature work. --SeanAxmaker

Fantastic Voyage
2001: A Space Odyssey took the world ona mind-bending trip to outer space, but Fantastic Voyage is the originalpsychedelic inner-space adventure. When a brilliant scientist falls into a comawith an inoperable blood clot in the brain, a surgical team embarks on atop-secret journey to the center of the mind in a high-tech military submarineshrunk to microbial dimensions. Stephen Boyd stars as a colorless commander sentto keep an eye on things (though his eyes stay mostly on shapely medicalassistant Raquel Welch), while Donald Pleasance is suitably twitchy as theclaustrophobic medical consultant. The science is shaky at best, but theimaginative spectacle is marvelous: scuba-diving surgeons battle white bloodcells, tap the lungs to replenish the oxygen supply, and shoot the aorta likedaredevil surfers. The film took home a well-deserved Oscar for Best VisualEffects. Director Richard Fleischer, who turned Disney's 1954 20,000 LeaguesUnder the Sea into one of the most riveting submarine adventures of alltime, creates a picture so taut with cold-war tensions and cloak-and-daggersecrecy that niggling scientific contradictions (such as, how do miniaturizedhumans breathe full-sized air molecules?) seem moot. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Two Voyages to the Top of Cheap, Fun Entertainment!
If you love sci-fi even a little bit, and especially if you came of age in the 60's and 70's, how could you possibly go wrong getting both of these movies in widescreen format for the price of a few espresso beverages?

Sure, the science is nutty, and the effects are dated, but it's about being entertained! The effects are enjoyable and pleasing in their own retro kind of way.

My one complaint regarding "Voyage..." is that there is no ambient "ship noise", like the deep, barely perceptable humming of engines. That would have made it seem much more like a submarine than a bunch of sets.

To me, the greating single reason to watch "Voyage.." is to see Walter Pidgeon play a character so very similar to the mad scientist he played on Forbidden Planet. This time he's a "mad admiral", and he drives most everyone else mad too.

And that's only half the DVD! You also get Fantastic Voyage. I remember when this movie was first released. It made quite an impact, and it spawned a Saturday morning animated series of the same name that was one of my favorite morning cartoons.

This DVD has more "bang for the buck" than most any other single DVD I know of.

One classic, one not-so-classic
As is often the case with double-feature DVDs, there is usually one decent movie and one lousy one, the B-side being a movie which probably would not sell well on its own. In this case, Fantastic Voyage is the good movie and Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea the weak flip side.

In Fantastic Voyage, several people are reduced to cellular size to heal a man from the inside. The science may be flimsy (Isaac Asimov had enough problems with the ending to rewrite it in his novelization), but the tale itself is good and the special effects are nice. The human body comes off as a surrealistic dreamworld, far from reality but neat to look at.

Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, however, is a seriously flawed movie. The science is below par even for a movie like this (in one scene, we see ice sinking in water!), and the story and characters are nothing very spectacular either. Even the effects are not very great, although there are a couple scenes that do look nice.

Fantastic Voyage is a four star flick, VTTBOTS just two stars. As a pair of movies, this is okay, but if you only watch the former film, you will still get your money's worth.

Barbara Eden and Frankie Avalon
Barbara Eden is the Best actress and is Great.The best scene is with Barbara Eden dancing and Frankie Avalon playing the trumpet in the movie.Frankie Avalon sings the theme song of the movie.Buy this DVD if you Love Barbara Eden and Frankie Avalon.

One of the top ten sci fi pictures any time
Fantastic voyage is a real imaginative picture. A group of scientists will make a weird voyage , in the deep of the human body . They have just a hour to win in this dramatic mission.
They are sent through the blood current and they will have to minimize and destroy a serious damage in the brain of an eminent personality.
This film sooner or later will be remade . I don't have any doubt about.
But the challenge to win this original film is hard to reach. The script , the dramatic tension along this tour de force , the amazing inside locations around the lungs , heart brain and optycal nervous are first rate! plus the incredible cast: Artur O Donell , Edmund O'brien , Stephen Boyd , Donald Pleasence and the unforgettable and seductive beauty Raquel Welch give this film of Richard Fleisher two thumbs up about the top ten gem sci fi pictures , because he would make five years after Soylent Green another must in your collection.
Watch this movie .
A permanent triumph and a gorgeous visual experience!.

Great Quality reproduction
As I've viewed more DVD's I have found that there is a lot of quality difference, especially when porting old movies.

This DVD, although burned on both sides, has fine quality and produces a good viewing experience.

There aren't a lot of extras, which is disappointing, but there are some trailers for other classics such as all four The Fly movies (that is the two with Vincent Price, the one with Gena Davis, and the other one ;)

The movies themselves are Irwin Allen classics. Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea features Peter Lorre in one of his last movies, and a close up of young Barbara Eden's rear end doing some version of the twist. Global Warming, 60s style! This movie launched a TV series with the same name but with different actors. Good adventure yarn.

Fantastic Voyage is a little more substantial offering. I believe THE Issac Asimov was the technical advisor/script consultant. I remember when this came out the special effects were considered fantastic. They still hold up pretty well, although the computers and electronics are dated. It's sort of a proto-nanotechnology exploration. Raquel Welch is the babe in this one. They shrink some scientists and a submarine down to molecule size and inject them into a VIP's bloodstream to cure him from injuries he received from an assasin. In many ways it was ahead of its time conceptually. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The whole world is watching--literally--every time Truman Burbank makes the slightest move. Unbeknownst to him, in this hauntingly funny film by Peter Weir, his entire life has been an unending soap opera for consumption by the rest of the world. And everyone he knows--including his mother, his wife, and his best friend--is really an actor, paid to be part of his life. In this intriguing and surprisingly touching 1998 film, writer Andrew Niccol imagines an ultimate kind of celebrity, then sees it brought to life with comic intensity and emotional honesty by Jim Carrey in what may be the performance of his career. Carrey has exceptional support from Laura Linney and Ed Harris, but it's his show, in a portrayal that demonstrates just what kind of range Carrey is capable of. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (401)

Best Film of 1998-Forget Shakespeare in Love!
Nobody will ever accuse the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences of having common sense or good taste. I'm still scratching my head trying to figure out why this film was beat out by "Shakespeare in Love", and why Jim Carey, who turned in the best performance of his career in "The Truman Show", wasn't even nominated for best actor.

The plot of this movie is simple enough-Jim Carey plays a young man whose entire life has been entertainment for the rest of the world. He dares to reach beyond the giant bubble which is his universe to see what's out there, only to be foiled.

Of particular note is the scene toward the end of the film where Truman reaches the end of the dome shaped studio and is told by Christoph (Ed Harris) about his world. This stands out as one of the most magical scenes in an extraordinary motion picture.

I realize that this movie isn't for everyone (my wife, for one, didn't particularly like it), but Carey's performance alone justifies the purchase of this video. He displays a vulnerability and childlike fascination that is unlike anything I've ever seen. A very good supporting cast includes the shamefully overlooked Ed Harris, as well as Laura Linney.

"The Truman Show" is one of the most brilliant and overlooked motion pictures ever made. The ersatz "Ed TV", which followed a similar plot, doesn't begin to approach the craftsmanship of "The Truman Show". Hopefully, the Academy will make up for their slight of Jim Carey with "Man on the Moon, which appears to be his second acting tour de force.

oustanding!
Imagine that your whole life is a lie, everyone is watching you everywhere, and the people who you love and with whom you've been sharing your life, including your best friend and your beloved and always funny wife are just actors. The Truman Show's basic idea carries an undoubtful cruel and sad felling, but in the hands of Peter Weir, a talented filmmaker who believes in the humanity and in hope, the film turns out to be an interesting, funny, and entertaining masterpiece, although it has an undeniable sad context. Truman is played to perfection by an actor who I've never thought that he could actually act, Jim Carrey. In this dramatic, powerful and blessed hole, Carrey delivers an excellent job! certainly he deserved the Golden Globe for this breakthrough performance. Carrey builds an ingenuous, good and honest man, making impossible for the audience stop caring and loving him. And during the whole running time of the film, you will find yourself laughing, having a great time and sometimes crying for Truman at each curve his fate takes. The supporting performances stand out for their quality, Laura Linney (from Congo, a great flick about explorers who are hunted down by killer gorillas in a mountain, available at Amazon) offers an unforgetable interpretation, playing with ear-to-ear smiles a cold and cruel actress. It's beyond me the reason why she didn't receive any Oscar nomination, but it's said that Paramount, Truman's studio, tried to nominate her in the Best Actresses Category but the year's other main performances (Cate Blanchet, Fernanda Montenegro) were more applauded, but had they took the Supporting Category, she would be a tough contestant for the Oscar. Ed Harris' Christof is one of those characters that will live forever in the hearts of the audience, and Truman, well, Truman is perhaps the most upright, honest and sweet hero that Hollywood ever conceived. The technical aspects count with curious, never-seen-before camera movements, intelligent and different ways of shooting the scenes and a strong direction by Weir. The Truman Show is available at Amazon, the DVD and VHS include the original trailers and interviews with the cast and director. Own this masterpiece! And don't forget to take a look at Congo.

My expectations were too high
I really like Jim Carey and the word of mouth about this movie was very good. It sounded like such an interesting premise. I watched it and was not entertained.

1984, Brave New World, Lord of the Flies, Truman Show!
Who would have thought that 'The Truman Show' would be entered among the great literary and movie classics ever made. Where 1984 gives a bleak look at a government who looks at everything and Brave New World about cloning, The Truman show is the premierve movie about the most horrible of all television rages in the last 10 years: Reality-TV.

But in this case Truman does not it. The awful outside world has made him into an item of fun, a person used for the amusement of others.

Are we all watchers or maybe in a way all Trumans? Trying to get out if this spectacle called life?

Deep, great, wonderfullly acted and a seminal movie.

Hollywood's view of the fall of man
It amazes me that so few people notice that this is a religious allegory. Sure, on the surface this is about how the media have invaded every square inch of our lives, and it is a prescient take on reality television, but more than that, the story is about the fall of man and the end of innocence. If you've seen this before, watch it again and notice the parallels to Genesis, especially near the end where Christof (How obvious the name!) talks to Truman (true man) from the clouds. He even addresses himself as "the creator."

Jim Carrey gives what is still his best performance to date. And the screenplay gives you a great deal to think about. Watch this and "Pleasantville" back to back and notice the theological similarities. The Truman Show is definitely one of the best movies of the decade. And I think years from now, when people really begin to appreciate the depth of the screenplay, they will come to recognize it as the masterpiece that it is. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Babs is a great actress
These scenes are so well written - credit to the genius of arthur laurents - that any one of them could be taken out of context and make a great scene for an acting student.

The movie is shot beautifully and the score is a classic. (If a little repetitive at times)

The main reason to see this movie is for the great acting of Streisand and Redford. They are incredible.

Barbara has so many great moments in this - probably the "phone scene" is her best but so hard to choose. She is just great in this movie.

Redford is perfect - saying much more when he is silent than any actor does with dialogue.

The ending scene is a classic of american cinema - so sad and perfect. The most classic goodbye scene since CASABLANCA.

The documentary on this DVD is awesome. The interviews with Barbra, Pollack, the Bergmans, Hamlisch are great. The only disapointment is no Redford. The deleted scenes in this documentary are great and worth seeing.

I highly recommend this DVD.

DVD is Well Done - Looks & Sounds Better Than Ever
Finally! THE WAY WE WERE in widescreen! I think it really makes a difference. I've only seen pan and scan versions on video. It is especially noticeable in the opening credits where names/credits appear on one side of the screen and action takes place on the other side. For the first time we get to see Katie at her typewriter and Katie talking to her teacher.

The rest of the dvd is done just as well. The picture and sound are pristine. The menu screens are classy and easy to use. The bonus trailers from FOR PETE'S SAKE and Streisand's later films are fun to see.

The hour-long documentary featuring interviews with Sydney Pollack and Streisand is very revealing. Pollack seems humble and grateful about the film. Streisand is relaxed and beautiful - again, reflective and humble about the experience as Pollack is. There is even a segment with Marvin Hamlisch on piano playing the different versions of THE WAY WE WERE theme. And Alan & Marilyn Bergman are a hilarious couple!

Sydney Pollack's comments on the extra audio channel are interesting as well. I haven't gotten through the whole movie yet, but so far so good!

The dvd is definitely a must-have for Streisand fans. But even fans of this classic romance will find much to like about the dvd as well.

A classic! A tearjerker! Two treats in one!
I've seen this movie many, many times. I can be brought to tears by watching JUST the last scene. This movie is a true visceral experience.

Characters that could have been stereotyped are incredibly complex and true. And that's a big part of the story. We go through life and label people, yet we just don't know what might truly lie beneath.

Katie and Hubble see what lies beneath. How we don't know. Two soul mates who come into each other's lives but cannot stay. I know all of this sounds sentimental but this is a truly sentimental favorite.

Watch this movie!!

"Katie, it was never uncomplicated."
As stated many times before, THE WAY WE WERE is one of only a handful of romantic blockbusters to actually feature an intelligent script and complex characters. Writer Arthur Luarents' based his screenplay (and subsequent novel) on girl he knew in college, who fought for liberal (and sometimes communist) causes. The film was a surprise box office smash when originally released, and became the fifth-highest grossing film of 1973 and an instant classic. Katie Morosky is a character that Barbra Streisand born play, and she delivers on all accounts. Fierce and determined, yet vulnerable and self-conscious, Katie is a tricky character and Streisand inhabits her so deeply that she seems nothing less than completely believable. Justifiably nominated for a Best Actress Oscar, she was unfortunately robbed of the award.

Redford, who actually turned down the role twice before director and friend Sydney Pollack talked him into taking the part, displays some of the best reflective acting ever seen on the big screen and definitely deserved a nomination as well (he was, however, nominated for Best Actor that year for his light comedic performance in THE STING). The film's enduring popular success with the mass audience is due to the magnetic chemistry between Streisand and Redford and the gorgeous visuals and strong directorial hand supplied by Pollack, however it is the complexity of the romance with politics and the strong characterizations by both leads that continues to make THE WAY WE WERE the best love story for adults.

About the DVD: The picture quality is beautiful, quite possibly the best the film has ever looked. The sound quality is also vastly improved. Pollack's commentary track is interesting, but the 60-minute documentary is the best extra on the disc. Featuring insightful interviews from Pollack, Streisand, and Laurents (as well as composer Marvin Hamlisch and lyricists Alan and Marilyn Bergman) the documentary is well-produced and entertaining, and it was great to finally see those much-debated deleted scenes.

For such a great film, the dvd should have been much more!
I, like many thousands of others love this movie and could watch it over and over again. What should have been a 25th Aniversary spectacular is a very lack luster. My major complaint is with the 60 minute documentary.
1.Great, we get to see some scenes that were cut that really SHOULD have been put in the film in the first place. How about the rest of the cut scenes? Legend has it that there is much more.
2.Barbara's commentary is good but I really think she could have added a lot more. What about the screen play she supposedly was interested in that was, in essence, a part two of this movie entitled "the way we are"?
3.Redford is absent on the disc because of "scheduling" problems? Or so I have heard....Gee, nobody could have waited even to get 3-4 minutes of commentary from him? Something isnt right.

I also dont think the transfer of this movie came out too well. Not exactly great quality for such an icon. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Wayans Brothers return with another horror-flick parody, this one taking shots at The Exorcist, Hannibal, and House on Haunted Hill, along with non-horror fare like Charlie's Angels. In addition to gags (and I do mean gag) about innumerable bodily functions, there are slyer jabs at Thomas Jefferson and Raging Bull. As in Scary Movie, the strongest humor comes from making fun of the inane behavior of characters in horror movies. Assisting Shawn and Marlon Wayans are Anna Faris, Kathleen Robertson (in the Carmen Electra role, providing the T&A), and David Cross, as well as Tori Spelling, Chris Elliott, James Woods (as an exorcist with bowel trouble), Andy Richter, and poor Tim Curry, who probably never thought his career would come to this. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (303)

Weak

This is pretty bad movie. The first scene where the spoof "The Exorcist" is admittedly extremely funny, if you enjoyed the original "Scary Movie". However it all goes downhill from there, with a weak, disjointed plot and [bad] jokes. Also the movie was extremely short, I was out of the theatre an hour and a half after the showtime, and that's including 4 or 5 trailers and a couple of ads. However, the movie's shortness is more merciful than anything.

The plot, such as it is, has the same cast from "Scary Movie" staying at a haunted house over a weekend. This is all set up by Tim Curry, playing an evil college professor whose motives are not really explained. Suffice it to say that some spooky things happen and there are parodies of The Exorcist, Poltergeist, Hannibal, The Haunting and Charlie's Angels, among others. The plot is much more disjointed than "Scary Movie", which is, in and of itself, kind of scary.

I'm writing this as someone who really enjoyed "Scary Movie" and who was very disappointed seeing "Scary Movie 2" on opening night. Don't bother seeing this in the theatre. If you enjoyed "Scary Movie", you might like renting it for a few scenes, but the laughs are few and far between. 2 stars is a fair rating, it's very weak, but there are a few good laughs.

A bit forced, with Anna Faris looking like Courtney Cox
If you're gonna get this movie, get it dead cheap, cos otherwise you'll be moaning about your loss of money. The first Scary Movie promised no sequel, and at the time of writing, the third one is already at the cinemas, so we'll soon see which is worse.

Nearly all the characters return from the first one, except those ones who were very obviously killed off. Anna Faris is gonna be known as "that chick from the Scary Movie trilogy", which could be something she'll live to regret - she could be known as Erica, the girl who's baby was given to Monica and Chandler in the last series of Friends. Shawn and Marlon Wayans return, as do Brenda Meeks, who's boyfriend Ray, is still as confused about his sexuality - although there was more focus on this in the first one. Thankfully! For some strange reason, they're joined by Tim Curry (no doubt the 'highlight' of his career), in a role which is neither funny, or up to his usual menacing standards. There's lot of cheap laughs at people in wheelchairs (played brilliantly by the 'balding' David Cross)

The whole film is mainly a spoof of House On Haunted Hill, just with no Catherine Zeta Jones or Owen Wilson. (Boo) Other films that have been spoofed, are Charlie's Angels, Mission: Impossible II, The Exorcist (very funny opening scene), Hannibal, Save The Last Dance and many more - how many can you spot? (There's also a character called Megan Voorhees) The Save The Last Dance spoof (where Shorty is teaching Cindy to act 'ghetto') is quite funny, as is the Exorcist spoof. Although sickening, the projectile vomiting incident is quite funny. And he tongue used in the spoof of The Exorcist is the tongue used in the original Exorcist movie. Strange but true. The film falls slightly flat after the opening scene, although the scene with the basketball, and them all acting up to the camera, is quite good.

Something extremely ridiculous that happened was the fact that Marlon Brando was originally supposed to appear as one of the priests in the opening scene (I can't quite see it somehow.) He was paid $1 million to play Father McFeely. He TOOK the money and accepted the role, but got pneumonia a few days before shooting his scenes. Therefore, he was no longer in the film. Let that be a lesson: always pay them afterwards! :)

If you liked the original, you'll probably like this one too on the first watch. Just not re-watchable.

The Plot... isn't Very Good
The first and third scary movies were spoofs off of real scary movies. This movie has it's own plot... and isn't really incredibly funny. There are funny characters and funny parts... but overall the movie isn't hilarious. It wasn't absolutely horrible, but certainly could've been much better. I suppose there were'nt enough real scary movies to make spoofs. The movie would've been 0 stars if it wasn't for the actors. Rent this, that way you can get rid of it if you hate it. Buy it if you like it. This movie is kind of gross... which makes it funny in some parts... weird in others... and just stupid in others...

This movie is about a group of college students going to a haunted house to do research. Here they find weird things happening... and a ghost is acting strange. Will they make it out alive?

This movie has it's funny parts, but there aren't as many as one would hope. See this one before the other two and get it out of the way.

Other than the
part with James Woods, which is truly ill but hilarious, the rest of this movie falls flat compared to #1. Everything is just too forced and stretched. Rent it, or catch the first 10 minutes on Cable.

I love it.
I don't know why so many people don't like this movie. It's so funny. There are jokes from everything from Amittyville Horror to mission imposible. In my opinion the 1st scary movie was ok, the 2nd was the best and the 3rd was the weakest. These are spoofs so i'm not judging on acting(though it's pretty good in the 1st 2) I got many a laughs. So loosen up, It's a comedy and some have no sense of humor so you should find another genre. ... Read more

Reviews (156)

Fascinating ......they're after the same rainbow end
I love this film.From the first scene when the yellow cab stopped with Holly alighting,having her breakfast in front of Tiffany's to the very last scene when Holly & Paul reconciled and kissed in the rain...

Simply marvellous piece of work. With the flawless performance from Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard. The unique mood of the movie.And my fave song "Moon River". Who can forget the part when Holly sitting by her window plucking the guitar strings and singing...."Moooonnn River...." Great adaption from Truman Cropte's book with many magical touches and refinements. It's about a free-spirit girl Holly's struggle in Life,her fear of Love and commitment, she didn't even think she own her nameless 'cat'. Paul is a struggling writer who actually a 'kept-man' by a rich lady. Fate brought them together,first as neighbours to friends and eventually lovers. They were soul mates who needed each other and are made of each other....they are after the same rainbow end.

The idea was refreshing....esp.doing things that each have never done:- Strolling down New York street in the morning, stealing, visiting the Library and of course Tiffany's. Simply amazing, fantastic and romantic .

The best part about it was both Holly and Paul were practical people with dark secrets and not really perfect human beings and it make the story more realistic but not losing the romantic fairy tale feel.

This film is one of the best in movie history. It touches my heart my soul with scenes with the perfect combo of laughter,sadness,ironic,truth,secrets,romance,life,etc....... Timeless and Unforgettable......

Fascinating¿They are after the same rainbow end!
I love this movie. From the first scene when Holly(Audrey Hepburn) alighted from the yellow cab to have breakfast in front of Tiffany to the very last scene when Holly and Paul(George Peppard) reunited and kissing in the rain.

Mesmerizing film, shine in all departments. Excellent adaptation from Truman Capote's same name novel. Skillful directing by Blake Edwards and flawless performances from both the leads and not forgetting great supporting casts. This role was made for Audrey Hepburn, she was graceful, witty, charismatic and totally awesome. One of her best performance ever!

The story was about a free spirited and helpless Holly Golightly who lived with a nameless 'Cat', didn't want to own anything and afraid of love and commitments. Life pretty much socializing because holly's goal in life to marry one of the richest man under 50. Things take a twist with Paul Varjak moved into the apartment below hers. Paul was a struggling writer who actually a kept man by a rich lady. They became neighbour to friends then soul mate and eventually lovers.

This is not the usual romance story, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" is a timeless classic, showed sincerity, sensibility and class.

I also love the song of this movie "Moon River". Who can forget the part when Holly plucking the strings of the guitar and singing it "moonnn----riv---ver"......

This movie touch my heart with memorable characters, song, etc and I've watched it from time to time because each time I watch it, I renewed the feeling. Marvellous vintage classic.Simply divine!

One of the best chick flicks ever
I loved Breakfast at TIffany's. I had read about it from all of the gossip girl books and eventually became curious about the movie. I figured the movie would be good but I didn't expect to fall in love with it as much as I did. It is one of the best romantic comedy, chick flicks I have ever seen.

Good for ALL ages!
Because of the fact that I'm only 17 years old, I just got around to watching this movie. I'd always heard about it but I never knew what it was about. And, to be quite honest, I didn't even think about watching it because I thought it was in black and white! (Eh, I didn't know when it was made!)

My dad made me watch it this past weekend and I fell in love with it! Unlike most romantic comedies made today, both main characters are broke. It doesn't follow the mold of: poor/average girl falls for rich guy blah blah blah or the other way around. It was funny (Mickey Rooney's character was HILARIOUS!) and sad (when Holly finds out about Fred) and sappy (the last 20 minutes) all at the same time.

This movie is great for anyone, whether you saw it the first time around or you're a "late viewer" like me.

my fav movie!
i love this movie so much!
it is a love story but its not sappy it is so fun to watch

it is not an earlier version of pretty woman at all (as another review stated) audrey hepburn does not play a prostitute really she just has a lot of suitors. Anyway i completely recommend it so worth the $ ... Read more

Amazon.com

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang is one of the toughest and most uncompromising movies to evercome out of Hollywood. Paul Muni stars as a regular Joe, just back from World War I, who is unjustly convicted of a crime and sentenced to 10 years of bruisingly unfair treatment on a chain gang. Even a successful escape can't shake the spectre of the chains, nor the amazingly fatalistic twists the screenplay has in store. This picture could only have been made at Warner Bros., where social-justice movies flourished in the 1930s and criticism of judicial systems and prisons was sanctioned. Muni's weird acting style (he was recently off Scarface) somehow fits the film's furious tone, and director Mervyn LeRoy--as in his earlier Little Caesar--was dexterous enough to build the action to an unforgettable ending. It's a film that filters the American Dream through Depression realities and noirish pessimism (with a streak of pre-Code sexual frankness--note the one-night "friend" Muni makes the night of his escape). This one holds up, folks; it's a stunner. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Effective Thirties Diatribe About Penal Abuse
"I Am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang" can be forgiven for lapses of melodrama and some plot contrivances because this film has a point of view and it conveys what it wants to say about abuses in the penal system very effectively.Essentially the question this film raises is if the correction system is designed to rehabilitate the offender or punish them for their alleged crimes against society.Another question this film raises is that does this very same system create criminals out of individuals who are not predisposed to crime.Interesting questions that we are still debating to this day which ultimately make this film timeless.Credit director Mervyn LeRoy and writer Robert Burns for concocting an entertainment that also provides food for thought.The film also benefits from a solid performance by Paul Muni as the returning World War I veteran who gets trapped in the hellish prison camp through unfortunate circumstance.The film pulls no punches and the depiction of the camps is harrowing.A must see.

True Story & Great Example of 1930s Social Conscience Films.
"I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang" is one of the most respected Depression-era "social conscience" pictures. The story was adapted from Robert Burns' autobiography "I Am a Fugitive from a Georgia Chain Gang", and Burns was an advisor on the film even though he was a wanted man at the time it was made. The film was released to great popular success less than a year after Burns' book was published. The story is essentially true, although some details have been changed. The real Robert Burns was perhaps a little less a victim than his character, James Allen, in the movie, and he was a magazine editor, not an engineer. Allen is a man who is consistently wronged in spite of trying to do right, and Depression-era audiences identified with his victimhood. Robert Burns was a crusader against the inhumanities of chain gangs, on which he was twice forced to serve. Instead of confining its themes to one cause, filmmakers made "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang" into a platform for a host of social issues of the time, including unemployment, veterans' rights, the penal system, and the criminal justice system. Although most of the events of the film take place in the 1920s, the economic circumstances depicted in the film have been altered to reflect the hardships of the 1930s, when the film was made.

James Allen (Paul Muni) is a World War I veteran returning home with high hopes of putting the engineering skills he learned in the Army to civilian use. He takes a factory job, but is reluctant to replace the routine of the military with that of the factory. So he travels the country in search of construction work but has trouble making ends meet. One evening, he accompanies an acquaintance to a lunch wagon for a hamburger. His friend tries to rob the proprietor, and James is sentenced to 10 years hard labor on a chain gang as his accomplice. On the chain gang. prisoners are beaten, starved, and sleep deprived, and James makes a successful escape. He ends up in Chicago, where his landlady, Marie (Glenda Farrell), blackmails him into marrying her with threats of exposure. But James works his way up from a laborer on a bridge project all the way to engineer and becomes a honored and affluent citizen of the city. When he threatens the free-spending and philandering Marie with divorce, she exposes James to the police. And things begin to repeat themselves.

The social agenda of "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang" is heavy-handed, but there is no denying the film's impact on audiences in 1932. And this film isn't nearly as political as some of the New Deal movies that would follow later in the decade, as it was made during the Hoover administration. It's just a very good example of "social conscience" filmmaking of the 1930s, made all the more interesting because the story is essentially true. Paul Muni gives a sympathetic performance as a bright, hardworking man who is trying to build America into a better nation as America keeps tearing him down. I have to mention Edward Ellis, a wonderful character actor of the 1930s who is memorable here as James' friend on the chain gang, Bomber. "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang" was critically acclaimed, popular, and timely in the 1930s. It's also a very good film that fans of 1930s cinema won't want to miss.

The DVD ( Warner Brothers 2005 release): This is a good print of the film, but it does not appear to be a restored print. There is an occasional white speck on the image, but picture and sound quality are basically good. Bonus features include a short film, a theatrical trailer, and an audio commentary. The short film is "20,000 Cheers for the Chain Gang" (20 minutes), which is a comedic spoof of "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang". A zany group of convicts escape the chain gang only to try to return because the conditions have become luxurious in preparation for a review by the Governor's Committee. The audio commentary is by USC film professor RichardB. Jewell. Jewell talks about the actors, making the film, the film's reception, and compares the life of the real Robert Burns to his fictional counterpart in the film. This is an informative, generally well-organized commentary that I recommend if you enjoyed the film. Subtitles of the film are available in English, French, and Spanish.

Stark And Compelling View Into Our Quite Recent History,
I always find a viewing of "I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang" a soul wrenching experience and it never fails to leave me stunned and slightly uneasy that man could be so incredibly cruel to their fellow man.

The film without a doubt is one of the most significant and brutally honest depictions of life on the chain gangs of the 1920's and 1930's. I'm glad the film was made by Warner Bros in the early thirties bacause not only was the topic still fresh but Warners were expert at portraying gritty and emotional situations with all the surface verneer stripped off. Indeed "I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang" never glamourises the story of one man wrongly convited of a crime he didn't commit and who finds himself sentenced to the living hell of life in one of America's notorious chain gangs. Not only the lack of justice offered is explored but also the almost unspeakable brutality that all the prisoners are subjected to. The film never flinches from displaying the soul destroying and totally degrading de- personalisation that the men go through in the course of their backbreaking work on the mountains and highways they are clearing.

Paul Muni is nothing short of brilliant in the lead role of James Allen the man wrongly accused on a petty crime who experiences the unendurable nightmare of life on the gangs and who seeks to escape, seeing any existence as better than that he is living. Rarely has Muni been more suited to a role and his progression from naive innocent to a hardened member of the chain gang is both compelling and brilliantly portrayed. Muni had a way of actually getting under the skin of most of the characters that he played and here he expertly conveys the anguish of a man wrongly accused who seeks proper justice only to find that system betray him and sentence him to a second term on the gangs.

There are so many memorable and thought provoking moments in "I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang". Notable scenes include the muster first thing in the morning of all the prisoners, the miserable rotten food they are forced to eat, the back breaking work that they perform day in day out, the ongoing cruelty by the guards towards the men, and the scenes during Muni's illfated attempts to escape and make a new life for himself.

So many other performers also shine in this production as well. Notable among them are Glanda Farrell as Marie who plays the conniving wife of Muni who eventually betrays him to the authorities after he has built a new life for himself. Hers is a vicious and despicable performance and indeed was one of the best Farrell ever did. Allen Jenkins also shines in the role of Muni's elderly pal on the chain gang Barney, a character that has seen it all and has basically resigned himself to a life time of suffering. His performance is tragic yet brutally honest at the same time and his eventual death is a heart wrenching experience to witness on screen.

As stated previously the movie has a harsh and gritty look and feel to it. Any sentiment is stripped to the bone and the production benefits greatly from the terrific on location photography that was employed, in particular in the scenes of the chain gangs working on the highways and on sides of mountains. It gives the film a dull and honest feel, as though we were almost there with the men. Theawe inspiring scope of the story really fills the viewer with a feeling of the awesome sense of hopelessness that these unfortunate men must have experienced.

I often wonder if such a confronting film as this released at the time it was did any good in getting the running of these gangs reviewed. One would certainly hope so as it shows quite clearly that it only brulaised men and didn't help to reform them and send them back to society as useful citizens.

I cannot recommend "I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang" highly enough. It is a splendid motion picture that really makes you think and stuns with its superb central performance by Paul Muni. It is one of the very best social justice films of the 1930's or of any decade for that matter.For Paul Muni's work alone in this film, of which he is the heart and soul, it is worth having in your film collection and it deserves multiple viewings.

The Cruel Hand of Fate
You will never see a more powerful film in American cinema than "I Am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang." Nor will you find a more effective performance than Paul Muni's as James Allen. Mervin Leroy was given a chance to direct by WB Vitaphone and proved himself more than capable. This film is as fresh and powerful today as it was in 1932, thanks in part to the pre-Hay's office frankness of its subject matter. It is a film about the role destiny and fate play in our lives. You will never look at the life you have in the same way after seeing this film.

James Allen, returns from WWI a changed man. Working as an engineer in the military has given him dreams for something more than his brother expects from him. Only his mother understands and gives him her blessing to go out into the world and find himself. So he sets off to work in construction to build, traveling all across the country from job to job.

Times are lean in the depression and when Preston Foster offers to mooch a hamburger for him he can not refuse. But Foster pulls a gun and forces Allen to help him rob the diner. He is killed during the robbery by the police and Allen is unjustly sentenced to 10 years in the chain gangs of the deep south. The brutality and demoralization of the human spirit is more than he can bear and with a little help from his friend (nicely played by Edward Ellis) he plans a successful escape. He manages to avoid the police and changes his name to Allen James.

In her brief screen time, Noel Francis as Linda, a speakeasy girl, gives a touching performance, offering a little humanity and love back to James. He seems to have a fresh start and slowly works his way up in consruction to become a prominent and respected member of the community, helping Chicago become a great city.

But fate forms a dark cloud once more in the form of Marie (Glenda Farrel), a self absorbed girl who blackmails him into marriage when she accidently learns his secret. Her hard drinking and free spending lifestyle and her free loving ways are only made bearable when he meets the wonderful Helen, played nicely by the lovely Helen Vinson. In Helen, he finds the love that has been missing in his life and asks for a divorce so they can be together. He calls Marie's bluff only to find it was not a bluff.

His prominence in the community keeps him from jail for a time and he lashes out publicly against the brutality of the chain gangs of the deep south. This film changed public opinion about the chain gangs and was the impetus for its demise in the deep south.

James finally strikes a deal where he will return for 90 days and then receive a pardon. He accepts so he and Helen can live free from the cloud that has been hanging over him. But the state reneges on its deal and offers one year as a model prisoner before his release.

He has no choice but to accept and it is a quietly powerful scene when that deal also is taken away after the year is up and it breaks Allen's spirit. He plans another escape from the chain gang and is once more successful, but his friend is killed this time. Allen's last stint in the chain gang has changed him, however, and he must now live a life on the run, barren of love and devoid of humanity.

Robert E. Burns wrote this powerful story and Paul Muni gives an unforgettable performance. The final scene is as powerful as any you will ever see, as he hunts down his beloved Helen just to see her one last time and say goodbye. Her desperate words as they embrace embody this entire film: "It was all going to be so different." As Allen backs away into the darkness and she asks him how he survives, you will never forget Muni's heartbreaking response.

Don't be turned off by this film, thinking it is just a prison movie from the past. It is about fate and destiny, and our own humanity. You will not see anything else like it in American cinema. A Must Own.

Tough Social Drama
Paul Muni is terrific in this story of a returned WWI soldier unable to find the kind of work he wants to do.When he is accidentally mixed up in a hold-up, he ends up being sentenced to ten years in a brutal chain gang.He escapes and starts a new life for himself, but can the hunted man ever really escape his past?There are a number of reasons for recommending this fine film.Muni, not always the most subtle of actors, really delivers with this performance.His wordless response to finding out he will not be pardoned is unforgettable.The story and dialogue are presented in a very frank way, not attempting to gloss over anything.The scenes in the chain gang and prison camp are riveting and disturbing.This is not a feel-good movie, but a tough social drama and character study that will involve you every step of the way.Muni is an Everyman, trapped by circumstance and driven by necessity, and his struggle is not one you will soon forget. ... Read more

Reviews (30)

A very silly but lovely 1950s soap opera
There are some wonderful reasons to add the newly released-on-DVD "The Best of Everything" to your film library. For one, it is a glittering and colorful glimpse into New York City circa 1959. Fox certainly has done a commendable job with the DVD--the picture quality and sound are both crystal clear. Cinemascope has rarely been this fun to watch, because now one can see it digitally mastered in widescreen with vivid color photography by Deluxe brought to sparkling life.

The film is very, very lush. From the beginning, when the screen fills with a sunny view of the Manhattan skyline to the sounds of Johnny Mathis crooning the Oscar-nominated theme song, you know you are in