Amazon.com

Geoffrey Rush is in bravura form in his shape-shifting performance as one of the cinema's great chameleons:Peter Sellers. This higgledy-piggledy biopic races across the high and low points of Sellers's adult life, pretty much sticking to the standard explanation (endorsed by Sellers himself) that his genius for mimickry and impersonation was the result of lacking a personality of his own. Sellers's monstrous treatment of wives and colleagues is balanced by his childlike enthusiasms, all nicely captured by Rush. As for the re-creations of Sellers routines from The Goon Show or Dr. Strangelove, Rush gives it a game and sometimes inspired go. Other characters are as incidental as they seem to have been to Sellers himself, with Miriam Margolyes (as Peter's grasping, goading mother) and Emily Watson (patient first wife) especially good. Charlize Theron is Britt Ekland, with little more to do than adopt a Swedish accent. The events chosen to illustrate Sellers's neuroses seem random--from a drawn-out infatuation with Sophia Loren to his feud with Blake Edwards--and the film piles up until Sellers's heart finally gives out. This middling life story could have made, and deserves, a great documentary. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Funny bio-pic
Genre: Bio-pic, Comedy, Drama

Genre Grade: C+

Final Grade: B-

This movie didn't keep me interested very well, I kept wishing it would hurry up and end. After the first half of the film you hate who Peter Sellers was so much that you just hope he'll have a heart attack and die. The film redeems itself somewhat in the end, but not enough to leave a lasting effect on me. The film, however, was very well made and the screenplay was excellently written, though on the boring side.

Geoffrey Rush does an excellent job at capturing the character of Peter Sellers - during some moments of the film (such as the Dr. Strangelove re-enactments) you truly think you're watching footage straight from the original.

I did enjoy finding out what kind of horrible man Peter Sellers really was (I won't go into details as not to ruin it). It makes me respect him as an actor much less, but it seems the awards knew about his true self as well because he only won one major award in his life, and that was very early in his career. For me, I will just have to remember him as his four characters from Dr. Strangelove and Inspector Jacques Clouseau from The Pink Panther.

The Many Faces of Peter Sellers.
The Life and Death of Peter Sellers is a captivating biopic of a legendary actor who had been able to play many memorable characters in film, but have lost his own character in life. Peter Sellers is brilliantly portrayed by Oscar-winning Geoffrey Rush(Shine), who had turned in a multilayered and powerful performance. It's amazing that he could do so many impersonations. This film chronicles the family life, relationships, and career of Sellers.

Peter Sellers worked in radio before making his transition to acting in films in Britain. His first wife Anne is played by multiple Oscar-nominated Emily Watson(Breaking The Waves, Hilary and Jackie), who managed to steal some scenes, and appeared in mostly the first half hour. Sellers is an emotionally unstable man, and his relationship with his family is quite volatile. His overwhelming passion for acting made him neglectful towards his family, and he divorced his wife when he tried to pursued his co-star Sophia Loren(Sonia Aquino, who is a total SL look alike).

He eventually make his crossover from Britain to Hollywood, and he was a sensation with his debut film The Pink Panther in which he played a supporting role that allowed him to steal the movie. During his rise in Hollywood, he takes the advice of psychic Maurice Woodruff(Stephen Fry) and pursued a bombshell actress Brit Ekland(Charlize Theron), who would become his second wife. Their marriage didn't last long dued to personality differences.

At the peak of his career, he worked with famous directors including Blake Edwards(John Edwards) and Stanley Kubrick(Stanley Tucci). His last sentimental dramedy Being There garnered him an Oscar nomination.His personal life was a disaster, and he emotionally abandoned his unconditionally loving mother Peg(Miriam Margolyes). He was did cocain and hadcasual sex with many women. We also get see a lot of his on set filming experiences.

Even though I am not familiar Peter Sellers' work, because his films were made in '60s and '70s, but after seeing this movie, I am probably going to check out some of his best movies.

Rush Shines as Sellers
Peter Sellers is my all-time favorite screen comedian.I'm familiar with his early Ealing work to "Being There".I approached this film with great skepticism because I did not think it possible to recreate his unique genius.Geoffrey Rush would not appear to be the ideal choice to play Sellers.He neither looks or has the vocal patterns of Sellers.During the initial stages of this film it's hard to overlook this but as the film progresses Rush slowly morphs into your mind that he is Peter Sellers.It's not so much in the recreation of Sellers' famed film roles but in his depiction of his personal life.To those unfamiliar with Sellers he was a manic-depressive.Sellers creativity was unfortunately fueled by his insecurity and self-loathing.Where I think this is an important film is not so much as biography of Sellers but as a vehicle to shed light on the personal hell that life is for the clinically depressed, where, in this case, you happen to be the world's most famous comedian.Though this film is essentially a showcase for Rush, the supporting cast is uniformly superb.Where do I begin?Kudos to Emily Watson, Charlize Theron, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Miriam Margulyes, and Stephen Fry.Director Stephen Hopkins directs this film stylishly but I do quibble with some of the film's continuity problems.Some of the events are chronologically out of order.For instance, "The Pink Panther" was made after "Dr. Strangelove".Also, a scene attributed to "The Pink Panther" was actually from "A Shot in the Dark".They also utilize The Clash's "Should I Stay or Should I Go", a song that came out two years after Sellers' death.

"Life is being someone else"
In order to dutifully engage in this arty, surrealistic biography it probably helps if the viewer has some prior knowledge of Peter Seller's acting and the contributions that he made to screen comedy. Because without this knowledge the film could well seem overly opaque and unclear as it tends to rely on a patch network of events that are well paced, but that sometimes come across as being rather obscure, and hard to follow.

The Life and Death of Peter Sellers manages to sustain interest most of the way, mostly due to the remarkable performances, but the combination of an unsympathetic central figure and a strange, eccentric narrative style, makes for an ambitiously told life story that doesn't really cut it. The movie paints a complex, intelligent, and artistically ambitious portrait, which centers so deeply in Sellers' mind that it really only paints, half the picture.

The annoying inclusion of movie scenes within movie scenes, where Geoffrey Rush as Sellers breaks character to become Sellers' mum, dad, or even Anne, his wife commenting on Sellers, all draws too much attention to itself and becomes a sort of distraction from the main story.

The movie begins as Sellers (Rush) is shifting into film after radio's The Goon Show, moving from wacky costar to leading man. His ambitious, dictatorial mother Peg (a terrific Miriam Margolyes) won't stand for him settling for second best, and certainly won't allow him to stay at home looking after the children, which she views as "women's work."

Peg deliberately pushes Peter into the movies with the rest of the story covering his roller- coaster career, from the making of Dr Strangelove, and the Pink Panther movies, to his aborted attempt at James Bond, and his unbridled passion to make Being There. Throughout, we manage to get a glimpse of his working relationships with Blake Edwards (John Lithgow) and Stanley Kubrick (Stanley Tucci). The story also covers his physical problems, his emotional dysfunctions, and his troubled domestic life, involving his marriage and children with Anne (a stunning Emily Watson) and Britt Ekland (an equally stunning Charlize Theron).

This is a masterful performance by Rush who interprets Sellers as a kind of perpetual, selfish child. He gives us a portrait of a tortured, and physically and emotionally abusive genius, who was so deeply immersed into his characters that he virtually disappeared; a man so obsessed with his identity that he found it impossible to relate to those around him. Severely spoilt and mollycoddled by his Mother, Sellers expected women to unadulteratingly fawn over him. But he just can't handle hearing the truth, and when Sophia Loren (Sonia Aquino) tells him to "go home to his wife" he reacts with a strange mixture of sexual rebellion and juvenile violence.

The colours and textures of the 50s, 60s and 70s, are inventively captured and a good job is done of recreating scenes from Sellers' movies along with constant references and sight gags. But the insertion of the fantasy sequences, while impressively showing Sellers gradual slipping grip on reality don't always work, such as when his mother is forced to have lunch, not with her son, but with Dr Strangelove.

Watson and Theron are absolutely sensational as Sellers' troubled, abused wives (Theron is almost unrecognizable as Ekland, and she proves that Monster was definitely no fluke). Most of the best scenes are when Rush effectively plays off both actresses.

This is a funny, romantic and ultimately tragic story that feels a little stretched, episodic, and ultimately overly ambitious in its artistic intentions. The movie is clever enough to let the characters grow on us, but as it goes on it all comes kind of exhausting and just little too much to handle in a 2 hour film. Mike Leonard May 05.

Who is Peter Sellers and Why is Acting Like That?
Paraphrasing a famous line serves as a summation to this excellent study of Peter Sellers, one of Hollywood'smost popular and beloved comedians: for all the public masks there were many more private ones that until now never seemed so cogent.

Peter Sellers (a brilliant Geoffrey Rush who is such a fine actor that he doesn't try to impersonate Sellers, rather interpret him) was one strange man.His foibles in life are more interesting than the fascinating characters he created on film, characters that are still being imitated by such actors as Steve Martin, etc.He was a disturbed man, with a more than bizarre relationship with his mother (Miriam Margolyes), his directors Stanley Kubrick (Stanley Tucci) and Blake Edwards (John Lithgow) and abusive relationship with his wife Anne (the always superb Emily Watson) and his tryst with Britt Ekland (Charlize Theron).

At times in this rather cumbersome script the film loses focus with a too heavily weighted angst that besmirched Sellers life.His abominable behavior patterns and generally inappropriate responses to those who would make him a star, while expertly crafted by Geoffrey Rush into complete credibility, are not relieved by sufficient moments of comedy, moments that made this actor famous in the first place.

The acting is uniformly excellent, far better than the script would suggest, and the glamour of the 1960s excesses is well captured though degenerate to see again.But for all that, this is a well-done look at the life of a comedic genius whose screen presence was probably the only real thing about him.Grady Harp, May 05 ... Read more

Amazon.com

After more than a decade of false starts and several potential directors, the popular Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical finally made it to the big screen with Alan Parker (The Commitments) at the helm and Madonna in the coveted title role of Argentina's first lady, Eva Perón. A triumph of production design, costuming, cinematography, and epic-scale pageantry, the film follows the rise of Eva Perón to the level of supreme social and political celebrity in the 1940s.Like Madonna, Perón was a material girl (she was only 33 when she died); she was instrumental in the political success of her husband, Juan Perón (Jonathan Pryce). But Eva was also a supremely tragic figure whose life was essentially hollow at its core despite the lavish benefits of her nearly goddess-like status. The film has a similar quality--it's visually astonishing but emotionally distant, and benefits greatly from the singing commentary of Ché (Antonia Banderas), who serves as a passionate chorus to guide the viewer through the elaborate parade of history. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (168)

A great adaptation of the stage musical
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber's and Tim Rice's musical telling of the life of Eva Peron successfully makes the leap from stage to screen. Alan Parker ably directs a fine cast, which includes Antonio Banderas as Ché, Jonathan Pryce as Juan Peron, and Madonna as Eva Peron. The acting and the voice work are very good, and Madonna surprises you with her talent.

The music is equally wonderful, keeping the rock opera feel of the original stage show. Also, the new song "You Must Love Me," written by Sir Andrew and Tim Rice, flows nicely with the original music and won a deserved Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Costumes, acting, sets, visuals and music all combine to create a great movie experience. A note of caution to some, though: this is sung through with very little spoken dialoque. I remember seeing this in the theater and listening to some people complain about it and walk out of the movie. Stick with it, and you will definitely enjoy it!!

Flawed, but still excellent, adaptation.
Watching the movie of Evita was my first real experience with the musical, and that puts it in a different light for me, I suppose, than with many others. The points I make, though, I still think are valid.

The casting of this movie was quite good...the stars of the show pulled off their roles magnificently. Antonio Banderas, in the lead as the narrator, Ché, sung surprisingly well. He also acted out the part superbly. While he's no Colm Wilkinson, there's an undeniable charm to his portrayal. Even with the abbreviated material he's given to work with, he pulls it off with style, which says something for a role with magnificent performances by Colm and by David Essex. He's not vocally better than either, but he plays the part to a T, and his songs seem HONEST. Also, he's a better Ché than Mandy Patinkin, but I suppose anybody who tried to actually play the part would be.

Madonna is the surprise of this movie. She sings quite well, and given the rock feel of the show, is fairly appropriate for the part of Eva Peron. She's also visually very similar to photographs of Eva, and looks very convincing after the scenes where she is supposed to be young. However...the point of the musical is that Eva Peron is a manipulative (rhymes with witch). Madonna scared me here by seeming VERY sympathetic to her character. Still, her performance is excellent, if not up to Antonio Banderas's. Jonathan Pryce put in an outstanding performance as Peron, too.

A caveat emptor: the musical was actually made less harsh for the movie version, so that it could be filmed in Argentina. It was very nearly worth it...not entirely, mind you, and the addition of "You Must Love Me" seemed entirely out of place in a musical about a man and a woman who mutually USE each other. Still, her "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" was manipulative to the audience just as the speech was meant to be to the crowd. And the two Ché tours de force, "Oh What a Circus" and "High Flying, Adored" are more or less in tact, and done wonderfully. The re-adaptation of "The Lady's Got Potential" was excellent, and "And the Money Kept Rolling In" was toned down a lot, but Banderas had a LOT of fun in the number.

The movie's worth seeing if you like Evita, or are thinking you might be getting into it. Don't watch for Madonna's big numbers, watch for her and Banderas performing, for once, like they really mean it.

Madonna did fine...admit it!
Don't Cry for me Argintina was the song that got me into musicals and so I have always loved Evita. In my opinion Madonna did quite an excellent job playing Eva. Most of you have a problem with her because she is Madonna. I am not a fan of what she does outside this movie, but I will defend her performance in this movie. She was not off-key at all and I have never heard Elaine Paige or anyone else sing "Don't Cry for me Argintina" with such emotion and clearness. She was Eva standing up singing that song. "You must Love Me" was another beautiful song that I have never heard been done better. When I heard Elaine Paige wailing these two songs on PBS I had to shut it off, she wasn't bad and she is a good singer, but when it comes to Evita no one can top Madonna. This movie was unfotunately hammered by critics and got a bad wrap.

Don't Cry For Us at the Ocars
Now first let me state that this one of my favorite movies. I have also researched into the life of Eva Peron. The movie is about 95% true. Madonna stars in movie as the title role of Evita. This movie is the story of Argentina's former first lady, Eva Peron. This film starts from the end and then goes from beginning to end. It shows how she went to Buenos Aires with a tango singer. It shows hows Eva took on lovers to get jobs, and even helped her husband, who is played by Jonathan Pryce, get the presidency for 2 terms. She and her husband did have 2 weddings, one was in a church and one was a civil ceremony. Eva also traveled while she was first lady. She got woman the right to vote. She also did start a foundation. She did help build houses, hopitals, and schools. When her husband went for his 2nd term as president, the people rallied for her to be vice-president. Eva Peron did had many Christain Dior, over 100 furs, and a jewelry collection comparable to Cleopatra's. Sadly, Evita died when she was just 33, of uterine cancer. This movie won some Acadmeny awards and a gloden globe, I believe

Wonderful to watch but unfulfilling
One of the interesting sidelights to this movie is the fact that Oliver Stone wrote part of the screenplay. While watching it I kept wondering what part? Stone, whose edgy, over the top indictments of oppression, corruption and especially military stupidity, wouldn't seem to be one to celebrate the elevation of Eva Peron to something close to sainthood, which is what this movie does. Maybe all his work ended up on the cutting room floor. Or maybe it was obscured by Andrew Lloyd Webber's music. Certainly we do not see the decamisados (Peron's version of his friend Mussolini's Blackshirts) torturing anyone, and although the "disappeared" are mentioned in passing, there is no retrospective that allows us to see just how widespread and horrific were the murders committed by the Peronists.

Anyway, Madonna, who certainly fits the part like a glove, stars as Evita, and she gives the performance of her life. Yet somehow it is unconvincing, or I should say, somehow the film doesn't really get to the essence of the woman who rose from poverty to the pinnacle of power in Argentina, a woman extravagantly loved by the common people of Argentina even while she was a party to the fascist oppression. I don't think this is Madonna's fault. Her voice is good, not great, of course, but her dramatic skills are very much in evidence, skills that have always been underrated, although I'm not sure why. If you watch her in this and in Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) you can see that she has a range easily exceeding that of most actresses. I think that ironically it is the very quality of common origin and common appeal that the Argentines so loved in Evita that the critics hold against Madonna.

Antonio Banderas plays Che, who narrates and attempts to objectify the events while symbolizing both Evita's alter-ego and the man who would really be her proper mate were it not for her rapacious political appetite. Che's character and his dramatic role (from the play by Tim Rice) is perhaps the most important artistic achievement of the musical after Webber's beautiful and inspiring music. Banderas is winning and enormously vivid in the part, and he sings well and expressively.

Jonathan Pryce plays Peron with more dignity and humanity than history might allow. His sensitivity as an actor combined with a modest demeanor seemed to me so unrealistic as to be almost a miscasting. Yet he is perhaps as compelling as anyone on the screen and he certainly looked the part. Interesting is Jimmy Nail as the cabaret singer Magaldi. He combines sleazy good looks with a kind of vulnerable persona that seems exactly right.

Well, what can be said about the music except that it is one of Webber's great triumphs and so very typical of his work. It is beautiful, stirring, moving, enchanting and memorable. Who can forget the haunting, plaintive refrain of "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina" or the gorgeous simplicity of "You Must Love Me"? While Madonna's voice would not fill up a concert hall or take her by itself to the Broadway stage, she does an outstanding job with Webber's songs. A natural performer (Madonna's key talent), her expressive interpretations range from the ordinary to the transfixing. I very much enjoyed her efforts and predict that critics in the future will be kinder to her than today's critics.

The ending seemed too drawn out and then when the screen faded to black and the credits began to run it seemed almost abrupt and without resolution. I also did not like the way that Madonna (38 at the time) seemed no younger in the earlier scenes with her hair dyed pitch black. I think director Alan Parker should have given us more of an illusion of youth, perhaps spared her some of the closeups and fuzzed out the lines under her eyes. Strange how the golden blonde hair and exquisitely applied makeup in the remainder of the film made her look younger. All directors should know what Madonna learned many years ago: blonde hair usually makes a woman look younger because those with naturally light-colored hair are their blondest as children. Like big eyes and relatively big heads, blonde hair is a signal of youth that arrests our eyes.

Despite the flaws this is an engrossing cinematic experience, and for Madonna fans, Banderas fans, and in particular fans of Andrew Lloyd Webber, it is a film not to be missed. ... Read more

Description

A retiring cop and his replacement track a psychotic killer who's using the seven deadly sins as a guide. Starring Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman and Gwyneth Paltrow. ... Read more

Reviews (453)

A worthy addition to DVD Format
I love DVD's! Not only is the format superior to VHS, but it allows me to enjoy movies on multiple levels. Now, in the spirit of the Criterion Collection, we have 'SE7EN - New Line Platinum Series Edition' added to the ever expanding library of DVD's to choose from. (If you have not heard of the Criterion Collection, please search for titles that include this designation - you will not be disapointed!) Seven is a great film with superb writing, acting, direction, the whole shebang and I am not going to bore you with those details. This review centers entirely on the Platinum DVD Release - and I can honestly say that it is VERY worth the money you spend on it. The commentary by David Fincher is awesome, and the commentaries by Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt expand the understanding of their characters. Beyond this, the professionals who work behind the scenes have their two cents to share with you as well, and they are quite informative. Exlporing the Title Sequence is invigorating, as are the animated story boards. But the true value of this DVD is in the animated Notebook of John Doe's writings. Talk about a glimpse into the mouth of madness! It illustrates the mind of the killer, played marvelously by Kevin Spacey, and blows your mind. Talk about over the top DVD extras! This two disk set will keep you busy for quite a while, and I highly recommend it.

Brilliant...and Disturbing.
I wish more movies like Se7en were made, and not because I'm into only creepy, unsettling films. Se7en simply doesn't pull any punches. The excellent characters, script, music, and atmosphere all work together to create the perfect canvas to paint this brutal tale of a serial killer that tortures and kills specific people in accordance with the seven deadly sins. Everything in Se7en has been tweaked to perfection. The movie captures your attention so completely that you can't look away, even at some of the truly morbid scenes. And let's not forget the acting! Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kevin Spacey are all simply outstanding. Every word they utter seems real, unlike most Hollywood films where the characters are contrived and simply not believeable. The ending is shocking and depressing, more than equaling the rest of the film.

As if Se7en wasn't awesome enough, the DVD is simply loaded!! This is one of those rare cases when a movie DESERVES to be stocked full of extras! Obviously, this movie is not for the squeamish or weak of heart, but anyone who can handle this kind of a movie will discover one of the best films of the 90's.

Morgan Freeman Is A Genius....
Robin Williams...Russell Crowe...Marisa Tomei...Angelina Jolie...Cher...How come these "actors"(& I use the term lightly)have an Oscar & Freeman doesn't? Between SE7EN & NURSE BETTY, 2 of the best performances of all time, there is something seriously wrong.. Watch this powerful film with a lead performance to match to cure any doubts...........

The Best of it's Kind
A series of freak murders. A detective ready to retire and a new detective make this film one of the best in the drama genre. Will keep you on your feet till the very end. A very similar idea as other inteligent murder mystery thrillers like "Kiss the Girls" and "The Bone Collector" but this is the best of the lot.

Terrible movie
I'm obviously in a minority here. But IMO the movie just sucked. The thing that irritated me throughout the movie was the darkness and by that I mean the absense of light. The lighting is artificially dimmed for effect and it just doesn't work. Nobody works and lives in such poor light. The black and white film noirs work beautifully, but this movie seems stage-managed. Amongst contemporary movies, the lighting in "Dark City" was very natural and fit in well with the theme of the movie. This is a one gimmick movie and it got old within the first 5 minutes. I count this, along with "Absolute Power" and "Behind Enemy Lines" as amongst the worst 10 movies I have seen. ... Read more

Reviews (1484)

Great Action Film
"Gladiator" is a film that should suit all tastes. It is an expertly mounted and eye-filling event; the blood and gore, delivered in split-second imagery (allowing your head to fill in the rest) should satisfy the most blood-thirsty movie goer; and the story is a superb tale of good vs. evil, power vs. honor, and "Might for Right". I was reminded of "Camelot" many times during this film, especially by the almost unrecognizable appearance of Richard Harris as the wise and noble Marcus Aurelis. Joaquin Phoenix gives a bone-chilling performance as the evil and cowardly Commodus, who inherits the title of emperor upon his father's death. But the sole weight of this overwhelming piece rests on the shoulders of the magnificent Russell Crowe. If one doesn't believe in him, then one doesn't believe in this epic costume drama. Kudos to the rest of the cast as well, and hand over heart for the late Oliver Reed. But back to Crowe--he is an actor to contend with. His work in "Gladiator" is a tour de force performance; he very nearly sprays testosterone from the screen. It's what was exactly demanded from him in this role, and he exceeds expectations in that regard.

Gladiator ROCKS!!!
I completely dug this film from beginning to end,and every aspect of it,from the breathtaking cinamatography,the expertly staged battle sequences,and exqusite set-design,to the stellar performances of a top-notch cast,rang true.The film starts with a stunning battle and doesen't let up from the time Maximus says"on my mark,unleash Hell". Do they ever.Russell Crowe is perfect in the lead role,as an expert warrior with a grieving soul and a deep sense of honor and loyalty.It's a true star-making turn,and he oozes rugged charisma from every pore.Equally impressive,but in the exact opposite way,is Juaquin Phoenix as the conniving,decadent,deeply evil Emperor.Also great support from Richard Harris and the late,great Oliver Reed.Director Ridley Scott uses his gift for composition and visual flair to great effect,giving each scene a painterly burnish and unforgettable depth,whether it's the after-life of Maximus' dreams,the bustling,grand sprawl of Rome,the rip-roaring battles of the Coluseum,or the sinister twinkle in the Emporer's eyes.At one point Maximus admonishes the bloodthirsty crowd:"Is this not what you wanted? Are you not entertained?" Indeed we are Russell,very much so.What a great film.

okay
this is a three star movie with a five star dvd. one of the biggest problems with the movie was the first battle. i was expecting braveheart quality but ended with a battle less entertaining than the one in dragonheart. the blurry camera and closeups made it impossible to tell what was happening. if you want to see a movie like this but better, see the last samurai or braveheart.

A Modern Classic of an Old Age
I seldom write reviews for anything, but for a movie like 'Gladiator' I'm willing to make an exception, and gosh if it's worth doing it!!
The movie, by far the best of the year 2000, is not only an award-winning production, but it is also one of the few that I personally enjoy watching again and again and again. Not because it is flawless (at times the storyline is quite predictable) but because it portrays life and death in the Roman Empire in such a way that it really bring those old buildings we all know since childhood (the Coliseum, the Forum, Via Appia, etc) back to life.
And yet it does so not at the expense of the story but through it, from the characters, to the script (they're so many quotables lines from Maximus and Commudus alone to make a CD)...in fact everything in the movie, from the battle in Germanica to the last fight at the Coliseum, is portrayed with realism plus an amazing score lacking in so many movies these days.
The movie of course is not to be seen as "history" in the academic sense but rather as an historical exercise, Holywood style, of one of the most facinating and complex periods of Western History. The attention to the detail is amazing, especially in the opening scene (the battle in Germanica) and the gladiatorial fights. Even most deleted scenes are great in the sense that they allow us to understand the characters a little bit more (Commudus' sword smashing of his father's marble bust is a most see), although they neither add nor take of the story. The casting is superb, with Russell Crow in the main role, Joaquin Phoenix as the Emperor Commudus, along with such legends as Oliver Reed as the freedman slaveholder and Richard Harris as the great Marcus Aurelius.
I'll recomend strongly that anyone who sees this movie shoudl do his/her homework and do a little of reading about Rome, both as a Republic and after, and the huge importance of the entertaining business in her late everyday life (an importance unreached until recent times).
Overall, a classic epic of an scope and ambition not seen since 'Ben Hur'; full of action, drama... and yes, more action.
As the Romans themselves said, Faber est quisque fortunae suae... each one is the architect of his own fortune. Feliciter!

Decent story, captivating effect
Ridley Scott's movie, "Gladiator" is one based on fiction of a General in the times of Marcus Aurelius. It tracks the life of a general who is effective in battle and is to rewarded by the emperor with the crown of Rome until it can be handed back to the senate. The movie won 5 oscars and is compared to Ben-Hur, which is ludicrous. For starters, Ben-Hur had William Wyler as the director who went to Gore Vidal to fix the screenplay. This movie will imaginative has so many historical inaccuracies, it is funny that it can be even thought to be in the same league.

Some of the actors did a decent job, these include Richard Harris as Marcus Aurelius and his daughter, Lucilla. I had problems with Russell Crowe's acting. He is unmistakably patrician, however, and physically very like Richard Burton, with Burton's battered face and gravel-voiced machismo. But Crowe's Maximus is no Mark Antony; there is no destructive love interest in the picture. Maximus is sweetly devoted to his late wife; though it turns out he once had a bit of an unbuckling thing going in his backstory for Commodus's lovely sister Lucilla (Connie Nielsen). I did not think that he deserved the best actor oscar. He has a very limited repertoire of actions and emotions. Crowe is no Tom Hanks or Geoffrey Rush in acting, he does not have depth and breadth of acting.

This movie cannot stand the test of time, it does not have great screenplay and historical integrity. It will gradually ebb away from the minds of the people. To stand out from the other movies, it has to have a new paradigm, either in acting or story or screenplay, none of which are depicted. Another one of those movies that do not deserve the best picture oscars. It is OK to watch this once. If you compare this director with Ang Lee, who did "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", "Eat, Drink, Man, Woman", and "Sense and Sensibility" you can see the difference in directing talent. See them and judge for yourself. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In paying simple tribute to firefighters, Ladder 49 gets to the heart of those who risk their lives for a living. Director Jay Russell brought similar sincerity to his memorable family favorite My Dog Skip, and despite the banalities of an ultra-conventional screenplay by Lewis Colick, Ladder 49 generates so much goodwill toward its Baltimore firemen that you may find yourself unexpectedly overcome with emotional appreciation for guys like Jack (Joaquin Phoenix), a firefighter whose career, courtship, marriage, and fatherhood are viewed in flashback as he struggles to survive in the present-day framing scenes, cut off from his fellow firemen in the fiery guts of a collapsing 20-floor building. There are no surprises in the familiar scenes of male bonding, dangerous rescues, injury and death, and the supportive concern of Jack's wife (Jacinda Barrett), but by focusing on the simple integrity of Jack's personal and professional commitment, the movie gives Phoenix a showcase for unselfish virtue, while John Travolta provides dignified support as Jack's mentor and devoted firehouse captain. Ladder 49 is routine in most respects, but it's a much-deserved valentine to working-class heroes. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (143)

Good production values but blah story
This DVD looked and sounded great; the surround sound put you right in the middle of the fire scenes. Unfortunately, I couldn't get involved in the very simplistic story. The only thing different about the film was the non-linear timeline. Everything else was by the numbers, including the performances. But, if you have a good home theater system, it would be worth a rental.

Poor plot, poorly executed storyline
I didn't feel any sense of brotherhood between these men.And the plot and entire movie just fell flat for me.It was a cliched portrayel of the profession, cliched life of a man (becomes rookie firefighter, marries immediately, has a boy, then a girl, bbq's with other firefighters at his house etc.).Just a boring salute to firefighting.
Firefighting gentlemen, deserved BETTER.A better screenplay would have been a good start.A more tragic or moving death would be have been good.One that made me care more than an ounce.You could see this truck coming a mile away.

Please read this.
http://www.usfa.fema.gov/safety/
http://www.firekills.gov.uk/home/04.htm
http://www.firesafety.gov/
http://www.dos.state.ny.us/kidsroom/firesafe/firesafe.html
http://www.nfpa.org/sparky/
Unfortunately most people don't understand the seriousness of a fire. They light candles indoors, they smoke cigarettes in bed, they leave the kitchen with the stove on... things we do everday, no big deal right? Unfortunately to find out the error of our ways it sometimes costs us our lives,the lives of those we love most, and sometimes the family next door.
It can happen to any of us at any moment. I listed some websites here because I know what it's like to lose relatives to a fire and BELIEVE me it is most certainly worth spending an hour of your life to read the important information on these websites. Educate your children. Don't even keep candles in the house. Keep matches out of reach of children. Make sure you have working smoke detectors.
I cried during this movie because I know how important a firefighters job is and what they risk running into burning buildings that could have been prevented with just a little education and a little caution.
I just hope it does more than entertain but also encourages people to do the best firefighting job one can do and prevent the fire from starting in the first place.
Even a tiny spark can turn completely out of control in a matter of seconds, please arm yourself and your family with a reasonable amount of fear of fire.

UNINSPIRED AND UNCREATIVE
This movie is sort of a flag waving movie for firefighters, which is ok in principle, but it's not very well done.Most of all it has no real story or momentum.A review of the main character's life is the sole "story".This is a sharp contrast to the much more engaging and dramatic "Backdraft".

The fire scenes are fine, but again they were probably more interesting in Backdraft.

It's time to get on the ladder!
This is what you call an honest-to-goodness description of what goes on in the lives of brave firefighters. The movie contains no Soap Opera material or love triangle nonsense. There are no invincible, James Bond type firemen running around putting out infernos all by themselves.Rather, the plot centers around the daily struggles of people in the firefighting business;both in their professional as well as their personal lives.

Joaquin Phoenix proves that he is up to the task of playing a very likable character. Unlike most of the characters portrayed by John Travolta, the captain of the firehouse is only slightly nuts (as opposed to completely nuts!). The acting is splendid all-around & I did not notice any weaknesses in that department.

While there are some spectacular scenes in LADDER 49, I liked the fact that the filmmakers did not try to get TOO extreme and caught up in making far-fetched heroic scenes. I would think that every episode depicted in the film would have a counterpart mirrored in real-life.For once, there is a movie about courage that is not "Hollywoodized" beyond belief.

Another nice touch is that the story takes place in Baltimore.As most movies of this type take place in either New York, Chicago or LA, it was good to see a different American city portrayed on film.Even better, in the Special Features the DVD contains interviews and commentary with real Baltimore firemen & their families. Nicely done.

I readily admit that I am not a fireman myself.However, I can't help but think that this movie speaks for a great many firemen across the country.I would be mortified to find out that firemen could not relate to at least some aspects of this story.I can't think of a higher compliment to pay this movie than that.

So, here is the bottom line. If you enjoy movies about firemen and / or heroism, pick up this DVD. If, on the other hand you dislike movies about firefighters, then pick up this movie. ... Read more

Reviews (262)

Merman! Merman!
Zoolander, the second film written and directed by Ben Stiller, is a very ridiculous and silly film. Ben Stiller plays Derek Zoolander, an absurdly foolish male model at the top of the business. He's in the best position, career wise, when Hansel [Owen Wilson] enters the industry and steals Zoolander's place as male model of the year--an award that Zoolander had the honor of holding for three years, almost four, in a row. When asked in his acceptance speech whom he admires, Hansel answers, "Sting...Sting would be another person who's my hero. The music that he's made over the years--I don't really listen to it---but the fact that he's making it...I respect that." Owen Wilson is the one that really makes this movie funny. He's funnier than is Ben Stiller--he's a better actor, too. Zoolander is Ben Stiller's and Owen Wilson's funniest movie together--their senses of humor are perfectly harmonized with one another. Though it is funny, there are still some parts of the film that go beyond humor into sheer idiocy--what with the assassination of the prime minister of Malaysia and all. Though the film is often cited as stupid and pointless, I thought it was really cool that David Bowie made a cameo. Zoolander and Hansel are obviously sexually ambiguous--they are male models, yes?--and Bowie is known for his feminine masculinity. Anyhow, I thought that a very commendable and intelligent thing to be added. Overall, Zoolander is a funny movie. Not meant to be taken too seriously, at least Stiller and Wilson know what it takes to make people laugh--stupid brainwashed male models mispronouncing words and stuff.

3% BODY FAT. 1% BRAIN ACTIVITY. 100% FUNNY!
The Ben Stiller film 'Zoolander' took the year 2001 by storm. It quickly became one of the funniest and greatest comedic accomplishments of the year. So what makes a film about a vacuous male model that has trouble turning left such an amusing film?

The answer is simple; finally a modern comedy that actually works. Great cast fabulous characters, good story line, hilarious cameos and the continuous dissing of male modeling.

Derek Zoolander (Stiller) VH1 male model of the year 3 times running life is turned upside down when his is usurped by the young and 'hot' model Hansel (Owen Wilson). Derek goes on a journey to find himself in a world that doesn't make sense to him. When he is brainwashed to assassinate the Prime Minister of Malaysia by the evil Jakob Mugatu (Will Ferrel) who is upset as garment prices will rise due to the elimination of child slavery in Malaysia. Derek is forced to deal with both his homicidal tendencies when he hears the song 'Relax' as well as his superstition by Hansel. The result is pure comedy.

Sure the film essentially has a one running joke basis (That of making fun of the fashion world and male models) but it seems that the jokes don't remain stale. When the audience finally get tired of seeing 50 'looks' from Derek all exactly the same we suddenly see a petrol fight between a group of models set to 'Wake me up before you go, go' by Wham. The result of this constant changing of mood and comedy leads to the same jokes being fresh when they are initiated again.

In many cases having a lead star direct his/her own comedy film doesn't really work. Of course there are exceptions to the rule, namely Kevin Smith's films. But in Stiller's directorial debut who'd of thunk he would pull off the two roles so well. It's so very easy to see the intentions trying to be brought out by both Stiller and Wilson due to the fact they are real life best friends and thus it's easy to see the onstage repore they have and the directing supports this.

Some of the film's funniest moments stem from the cameos by recognized stars. David Duchovney plays a hand model from yesteryear who guides Zoolander through the world of assassination and intrigue that stems from the male model lifestyle. Billy Zane plays Derek's stalwart friend in the party scene and it's simply hilarious to here Zoolander say 'Stay out of it Billy Zane'. I was simply howling with laughter when low and behold David Bowie appears to judge the walk-off in which Hansel decides to be daring and 'go monk'. Also the use of Maury Ballstein (Jerry Stiller- Ben's father) of 'Seinfeld' fame is hilarious and this father and son dichotomy works brilliantly in the context of the film.

The DVD is feature packed for a single disc. Deleted and extended scenes are actually very funny; some memorable scenes include dialogue between Hansel and Winona Ryder that was cut from the film. Sound and picture and both very good, the vibrant colors transfer perfectly to the DVD format and the exaggerated 80's soundtrack sounds great though a home theatre system. Not to be forgotten is the amazing menu screens that are only rivaled by 'This is Spinal Tap' in which Derek puts in his own two cents about each button.

'Zoolander' is a comedy success. For a film that came from nowhere and immediately became a box office hit the film is amazing. A Stiller directorial debut is great and we can only hope he decides to do more base comedy like 'Zoolander' in the future.

Sublimely ridiculous satire
Beneath its ridiculous surface, "Zoolander" is a whip-smart look at one of the stupidest parts of our increasingly stupid culture, namely the world of fashion. Taking a break from his now-standard neurotic-nerd persona, Ben Stiller mugs furiously and often as legendary male model Derek Zoolander, who's sure to go down as one of the most indelible movie characters of the past few years. Derek has a repertoire of looks that have different names but all appear the same, and he's so stupid and shallow that he mangles almost any word with more than two syllables and thinks bulimia is the ability to read minds. The movie sees him searching for some meaning in his life beyond being "really, really good-looking," a search that's interrupted when he unwittingly becomes involved in a top-secret fashion-industry plot to assassinate the prime minister of Malaysia. If you think all this sounds bizarre, that's because it is. But that doesn't mean it's not funny.

Given its subject matter, it makes sense for "Zoolander" to be heavy on stupid humor, and it doesn't disappoint. "Zoolander" starts out over the top, and stays there. This movie throws everything it can think of at you, and some of it sticks, and some doesn't. It's that simple. Everything here is calculated for maximum absurdity, be it Stiller's near-microscopic phone, the ultra-lame '80's soundtrack, or the hairdos and outfits worn by just about everybody (most notably Will Ferrell and Jerry Stiller). Among the more inspired ideas are a "walk-off" between Zoolander and his rival Hansel; a surprisingly intelligent bit that takes off on the Stanley Kubrick classic "2001;" and of course the Derek Zoolander Center for Kids Who Can't Read Good. All in all, this movie has a more than ample supply of laughs crammed into its 89 minutes. While too many movies these days seem to be unaware of their stupidity, "Zoolander" positively revels in it, and even for that reason alone it would be worth watching.

One star because there is no negative 5 option
In a word, innane. In two words, sophomoric and stupid. Don't bother. Between over the top portrayals and no perceivable plot, this is a waste by any standard.

better than expected
Several minutes into this film, I worried that it was going to be a bust, but by the end, it was better than expected. This movie plays out a lot like Austin Powers-similiar in style featuring a dumb male model instead of the secret agent.

I liked the soundtrack of this movie a lot and it was worth watching just for that. Owen Wilson is not too bad either...

My main complaint with this movie is that it was flat. David Bowie was in it (always a pleasure to see him) but he wasn't utilized much. The art direction was competant, but it could of (and should of) been more pronounced. A lot of this film's success depended on the comic tone and the scenery was a bit too bland to carry the story along.
The plot was dull and uninspired however this wasn't an issue for me because the story is about a dull and uninspired model anyway. For the most part, all the elements needed to make a reasonable film were there and it was in balance, but there was a need for a little more "oomf". ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Critics? HA!
Go figure..if you pay attention to "editorial reviews" for this little movie, a person would never waste a dime to see it.....but this is AMERICA and we ignore critics!!!! (Read the other customer reviews, they couldn't be any more opposite the opinion of our "critics". Hundreds of times they've hated a movie and it's been terrific, whether at the box office or when it hit video)

Perhaps there's not enough here for these two to bite into, but Mr. Maltin and Mr. Keogh should be less nasty and critical of this film and criticize something else....Patton, Full Metal Jacket, Platoon, whatever....you can leave this little movie alone...It's for kids, guys. Amusing, while not too heavy except some violence regarding the apartment building with some smashing and burning, which of course is repaired by the "little guys". Small flying saucers, "little guys" as Jessica refers to them, zoom all over New York secretly repairing "stuff" that's not perfect......silly yes, but who cares? It's a fantasy..... Go with it for goodness sake. Hume Cronyn (Frank Riley) and real life wife, Jessica Tandy (Faye Riley) act together in too few a number of films (Cocoon and its sequel, are a couple). Each character in the movie has his/her problems, each prays for a little help and gets it in this most curious way, feeling God answered them in this way.

It's a fantasy....don't be expecting oscar performances from anyone. Jessica thinks the local fire bombing hood, Carlos, is her deceased son, who was in a car wreck years before. She suffers from altzheimers and so doesn't remember he's dead. Referring to Carlos, as Bobby; all the while he's trying to burn their building to ashes. Elizabeth Pena, (Marissa) is a very pregnant, single female trying to exist day to day with hoodlums harassing her every coming and going at the building. She finds her knight in shining armor, Mason, a not too productive resident painter, and he ends up with our lonely Marissa. It's predictable, but OK.

Frank McRae, ex-boxer, has been punched one too many times while professionally boxing, yet somehow manages to title the movie during one of his only speaking lines.....figure that one, but that's how the movie got its name, they planned it that way!

This film may not one win any oscars, but 95% of the movies I'd bother to review, I own; this is one of them and I like a good feeling when I finish a movie.

Cute Film
When you think about it, there aren't too many movies with a premise like this one. I mean, robot aliens who resemble UFOs that can procreate, raise families, and repair anything at super speed? Pretty unusual.

Something else unusual is that the plot doesn't focus on the robots but the humans who are each trying to hang on to their little piece of home. The robots offer assistance to the main characters and add some comic relief, but the story centers on the human element. The story is well-told and unfolds at the right pace. I thought the acting was also pretty good.

There's one last thing worth mentioning. I notice that the video quality has an odd fuzziness to it. It's barely noticeable and not terribly distracting but potential viewers should be made aware of it. Personally it did nothing to detract from my enjoyment of the movie.

This film was made in 1987 so don't expect the special effects to be impressive by today's standards. Remember that, suspend disbelief, and you'll find *Batteries Not Included to be an entertaining experience.

Not Enough Batteries Could Power This Lame Film
Another film produced by Spielberg in the vain of "Disney-esque" family fare (i.e. HARRY AND THE HENDERSONS, GOONIES). "Close Encounters" is shrunk down to cute little "tonka toys". The gimmick in *BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED is that the aliens' spaceships (of various shapes for degree of personality) are the characters. You don't see the aliens inside controlling the flying saucers (just like you couldn't see the truck driver in Spielbergs' DUEL). The plot is as old as an OUR GANG short. An evil landlord is about to evict a diverse group of stereotypical poor residences from his tenement slum and the mini-aliens arrive in time to save the day to fight the landlord and his evil henchmen. The actors are then directed to act bewildered, angry, awe-inspired, laugh, cry, and hug each other, around the special effects-laden-E.T. spaceships...(yaaawwwnnn...zzz...zzz!). The title of this movie should be renamed to *ORIGINALITY NOT INCLUDED...or...*ACTING NOT INCLUDED...or...*DIRECTION NOT INCLUDED...or...*BRAINS NOT INCLUDED..or...!

Belongs in every children's collection
... whether or not you have kids. It has some moments that might make a four-year-old cling to an adult, but every kid I know likes it. No guns, no bloody fights, no chases, and it still holds their interest.

There's plenty here for an adult - "dotty grandma" isn't a completely comic character here. She's not just a tragic figure of senility, either, though she's some of both. Mostly, she's just making her way through each day the best she can, and better than people seem willing to believe. Most of the other characters are similarly on the edge but muddling by well enough, with a little help from their friends.

I honestly can't call this a science fiction movie, despite its SF elements. It's sweet (almost sappy) and funny, the poor-but-honest folk win out over the thugs and evil corporations, and they all live happily ever after. Well, for now, at least.

If there's ever a list of "most under-rated movies", this one gets my vote. I like it.

A sentimental little beauty from Spielberg
This 1987 little sentimental ditty was utterly irresistible to the public, even as critics panned it as too schmaltzy. It concerns a squadron of little UFOs who arrive on the room of a NY apartment building, one which is about to be razed as soon as the owners can manage to evict the quirky bunch of tenants. The tenants include Hume Cronin and Jessica Tandy (always and forever a winning pair) as well as a guy who plays a mentally (or emotionally - or maybe both) disabled man who speaks only in set phrases from commercials or TV jingles or product tags, such as that of the title: Batteries Not Included. As the tenants band together to save the lives of the little aliens, including a spine-tingling scene in which one gives birth, the aliens come to the rescue of the folks in danger of eviction - and the tenants, previously a disparate bunch, come together to form a community.
Heartwarming. Great family entertainment ... Read more

Reviews (68)

John Hughes At His Best
Movies like this are what make one want to cry over the media-provoked labeling and fall of "The Brat Pack". The stars of the 1980s teen films were expected to form the next generation of great actors until Hollywood tore them apart and sent them scraping for whatever cable-movie parts they could get their hands on. Though Pretty in Pink was more-or-less the swan song of John Hughes'-masterminded films, to this day it continues to bring in fans to the genre with it's sweet and simple poor girl/rich guy romance and the social issues therein. Though star Molly Ringwald is occaisonally over-emotional in her portrayal of the girl from the wrong side of the tracks, it is not unfitting with her strong but somewhat neurotic character, Andie. Andrew McCarthy, though of greater acting capability than he displays here, still plays his rich but insecure Romeo (Blane) to a T, and is cute enough to make any teenage girl fall in love with him-despite the wierd eye thing. Annie Potts and Harry Dean Stanton are both memorable in their roles of somewhat bizzare parental-type figures, as is a young James Spader as Blane's perfectly condescending best friend. However it is Jon Cryer, as Andie's best and besotted friend Phil "Duckie" Dale who truly steals the show with what is surely one of the top performances of Cryer's varied career. Though on the outside this movie may appear to be pure teen fluff, the story has an endearing quality that will continually find it back in the VCR on any all night movie fest.

A girl from the wrong side of the tracks and her life
This movie set in the mid 80s era of brat-prack movies is a unique shining star. Molly Ringwald is Andie a girl from the wrong sides of the tracks who has romantic intrests from both sides of the spectrum; Duckie (Jon Cryer) who's puppy-dog love for her is both sweet and endearing to watch, and Blane (Andrew McCarthy) the rich guy who has everything going for him. What follows is Andie having to deal with this, the bitchy cheerleader type girls at school, her loving but dishonest father (Harry Dean Stanton) and through all this will she get an invatation to the prom? This is a great film, with both Blane, and Andie having to deal with their friends disagreeeing with their relationship. Steff (James Spader at one of his very best) Blane's best friend, who tries to make Blane try to decide between Andie and himself, when really he just wants his finger in the pie. Annie Potts as Iona, Andie's quirky older best friend is excellent and her weird and orginal costume changes throughout the movie are a highpoint. This is a emotionally raw film a rareity at the time it was made. If you ask me this should have swept the Oscar nominations with Molly Ringwald getting Best Actress, but hey regardless of the miss of Oscars watch this, it is a powerful film and a great piece of film making

Watch 16 Candles or The Breakfast Club, instead
Pretty in Pink is truly one of the worst bratpack movies ever made. Whiny Molly Ringwald has by this time thoroughly worn out her welcome; her perpetual pout, her eye-rolling and her generally sour disposition are extremely grating, all the moreso because she is in virtually every scene! The only interesting thing about Ringwald's "performance" is her ever-changing haircolor (throughout the movie, her hair goes from strawberry blonde to dark auburn to nearly chartreuse back to strawberry blonde, and so on. At least SOMETHING changed; her expression never did!).

Andrew McCarthy is the wimpiest "romantic hero" ever, and, like Molly, his expression never changes. "Must remain bland" was surely his mantra throughout filming.

Jon Cryer plays "Ducky" (did YOU go to high school with anybody who had a nickname like that???) like a spastic goofball. James Spader is wasted in a one-note role as "The Mean Snobby Guy." There's no end to the talent wasted in this film: Annie Potts and Harry Dean Stanton are also squandered in thankless, my-character-only-exists-to-showcase-Molly-Ringwald roles.

As if all that's not annoying enough, Molly's character is the richest "poor girl" ever, with her own lilac-colored Kharman Ghia, an endless supply of funky vintage dresses, petticoats, sweaters, granny boots, and hats (if you think she picked all that swag up at Salvation Army, you're crazy), and her own phone complete with answering machine (no big deal now, but it was in the '80s).

The cherry on top is the fact that the dress Molly cobbles together and "triumphantly" wears to Prom is ugly. Ugly, ugly, UGLY. That's not just my opinion, either: I saw this dog in the theater, and people LAUGHED when she made her entrance.

Bottom line: if you're in the mood for a bratpack movie, watch 16 Candles or Breakfast Club, instead.

One of the better Brat Pack movies.
Molly Ringwald did an good job in this film. The movie wasn't the best brat pack movie, but it is enjoyable. The supporting cast is okay, and the romance you are able to relate to. All, in all good, and heartfelt. See it, if you love teen romance movies.

Pretty good 80's movie
This isn't really my favorite movie that John Hughes made, Sixteen Candles is my favorite, but this one is also pretty good..besides the ending. Molly Ringwald was SO much better with Duckie. Duckie is the best character in this, he's so funny. The part at the end when he's at the dance and he looks at you through the camera, it's priceless!! You got to check this movie out, it's a good one. ... Read more

Reviews (50)

A Wonderful Family Masterpiece
I can't express how much Parenthood is a great film. It's a beautifully crafted story with comedy and drama all woven together in a perfect movie gem. The film centers around a large family who are just going through the trials and tribulations of life. Kids, sex, jobs, relationships, divorce. You name it. Steve Martin headlines this film that has an undoubtedly brilliant unsemble cast. Dianne Wiest stands out in a hilarious and yet, very real performance. She has trouble adjusting to son in law Keanu Reeves. She has a few classic scenes that are undeniably funny and brilliant. The legendary Jason Robards is on hand as the family patriarch. He is solid and wonderful. The remaining cast is outstanding: Mary Steenburgen, Rick Moranis, Martha Plimpton, Joaquin Phoenix, Tom Hulce. You can't go wrong with any of them. Director Ron Howard is a master at putting this film, with different story arcs, together. This is his best work. Steve Martin also shows at how good he can do dramatic parts. If he is deserving of an Oscar, then he should've been recognized for this. Parenthood is a stylish, clever, funny, and teriffic film on family life. See this movie and you'll feel good in the end.

Will have you alternately laughing and crying!
Steve Martin is top billed in this film and he is excellent but the rest of the cast is just as good. This movie is actually divided into four separate parts-four different branch off's of the same family (the father, his kids and their families)-that allows this fine ensemble to portray all the ups and downs of family life. It is a film that teaches without preaching and it's lesson is clearly understood: in life, you can't have the peaks without the valleys. And because of it every character comes to stark realizations about themselves and their relationships with other people. All the characters, that is, except the one played by Tom Hulce. But even that character is correctly written; it just simply isn't the right time for him to realize.The interactions between the father (Jason Robards) and his two sons (Hulce and Martin) tell us much about all three characters' past, present and future. Unfortunately there isn't any interaction between the father and the two daughters, played by Martha Plimpton and Dianne Wiest, but with so many characters to deal with and so many ties to bind, there simply wasn't time. But the time the writers have is well spent indeed. Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel have taken a very basic idea and expanded on it in a realistic and original way. It's no wonder that all the characters are tied together so perfectly in the end.Ron Howard has taken that script and directed these tremendous performers to superlative work. Very seldom have any of them been better. Martin shines in an everyman IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE portrayal of the father of three and the second oldest child of the four earlier mentioned. Not since ROXANNE had he given a performance of such range and depth. Dianne Wiest as his older sister won another Oscar nomination and is just as good as she was in HANNAH AND HER SISTERS. Martha Plimpton as the next oldest child is fine as a mother torn between her high-tech-education-supporter-husband (Moranis, his best work since LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS) and her young childhood deprived daughter. Tom Hulce is the youngest of Jason Robards' four kids and has the toughest role to play. He wasn't given the one-liners the others have. His character isn't likeable. His father obviously favors him at first, which is hard for the rest of the family as well as the audience to understand. But he portrays the character as it should be played-a wanderer with unstoppable dreams who is also to be pitied. Robards' portrayal of the father is one of his best and should have garnered him another Oscar nomination. Through Robards' father character we see how his kids turned out the way they did. And we see him growing and learning as he finds you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. Joaquin Phoenix, here billed as Leaf (River's kid brother as Wiest's youngest) and Helen Shaw as Grandma, the matriarch of the family are also excellent. Keanu Reeves (Wiest's son-in-law) and Mary Steenburgen (Martin's wife) round out the cast beautifully. Randy Newman's score is perfect and the song "I Love to See You Smile" is very infectious.Pulling everything together for a production is not an easy thing. When you couple that with the fact that in this movie, comedy and drama are blended together seemlessly, Howard and his cast and crew have created a true treasure. Being a perfect parent is not easy. Being a perfect person is impossible. If you are anything less, see this movie.

Very Good now
When I first saw this movie about 7 years ago I did not like it. I did not get why it was so funny back then and thought it all rather sad.
But I tried and it was worth it! It is sometimes very gripping in what happens in the lives of people, though it is sometimes a little exaggerated, like in an Irving book.

It is also funny. The things that happen in itself are hilarious, and sometimes also there are some funny things interspersed ("Take Grandma away from the Nintendo").

The part of Keanu Reeves is also interesting. He plays a dumb guy like in Bill and Ted's excellent adventure. There is a touching scene where he talks to his wife's mother about her son's masturbation ("That's why little dude's do"). Even though he is the stupidest, he has the best advice.

Tom Hulce is brilliant as the youngest gambler son. The dad, useless in the beginning, now finally realized what he has to do.

It is a funny movie and sometimes touching. One of the better Steve Martin movies.

Overpriced, no-frills DVD of a wonderful movie
This is a wonderful, heartwarming film that always manages to make me laugh AND cry....that's why I wanted to own a copy. Unfortunately, the DVD lacks any special features to enhance it (especially frustrating since it's a comparatively expensive one!). How tough would it have been for Ron Howard, Steve Martin or any of the supporting cast to offer a commentary track?

That's why I'd recommend it as a rental only. Dianne Wiest and Helen Shaw deliver exceptional performances...Steve Martin's at his most charming...the child actors are superior and it's one of Mary Steenburgen's best performances.

"No widescreen", "NO SALE"!!!!!
This is such a good film that ranks in the top five of Steve Martin films, with such a great supporting cast and a truly original and funny screenplay for them to work with, it just seems a shame that we the consumer had to wait more than a decade for a "Pan-Scan" DVD release of this great family film, I'm sure alot of people would agree with me that it's like watching 1/2 of the original movie. I hope the distributer of this DVD gets copies of all these reviews and then thinks twice about the next movie he "butchers" by releasing it in a "Pan-Scan" format on a DVD because he just lost a lot of sales due to the lack of a widescreen version of this DVD and "I am sad to say I'm one of those lost sales". ... Read more

Reviews (188)

It's about time
It may not be one of the best films ever made, but I love it anyway. The scenery and costumes are beautiful...not to mention the beautiful Jane Seymour & Christopher Reeve. But what's fascinating about the movie is element of time travel. It's not that Richard (Christopher Reeves) falls in love with the woman in the picture (Jane Seymour); rather, the picture stirs a remembrance within him. Not realizing what it is at first, Richard seeks answers through research which eventually leads him to the belief that...he was there. Thus the obsession with time travel and the quest to return.

Watch for the details and the glimpses of things in the present and see the connection when he's in the past. For instance, watch his relationship with Arthur.

There are all kinds of details that I appreciate about the movie. Notice the view from Miss McKenna's room at the beginning of the movie and compare that with the view from Mr. Collier's room at the end. Notice the use of camera angle, lighting and furniture (namely the fabric) to transition Richard from the present to the past.

Probably the most disappointing thing about the movie is the ending. But as a hopeless romantic, it's none-the-less a favorite movie.

A Love throughout Time
Somewhere in Time is an excellent film that combines Time Travel with romance, using an interesting and unique idea involving hypnotizing your mind to believe you are actually in that moment in history. If you can avoid analyzing the rationality of time travel and suspend your disbelief, this film will be very enjoyable for you. The idea of travelling back through time to find your soulmate is something both men and women can believe in. It is to the credit of the performances of the leads, Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, that the viewer believes that such a thing is possible. Reeve and Seymour also look well together and have obvious chemistry, making their love affair entirely believable. Especially with their first kiss, there is a deep and passionate love that seems entirely real. The third element is the acting of Christopher Plummer, who is always excellent and quite effective here as the overprotective manager of Seymour's character. But, there are two more elements that contributes greatly to the atmposhere of the film - the moving music composed by John Barry, and the Grand Hotel where most of the movie is set. The handsome and expressive Reeve, the calm beauty of Seymour, the brooding and calculating Plummer, the romantic and moving music and the timeless presence of the Grand Hotel combine into a magical film for the hopeless romantic.

DVD Comments: Compared to reference DVDs the video and audio quality are average, with slight graininess at times. However, this can be forgiven because of the excellent quality of the film. Those who have only seen Pan Scan versions on Cable and VHS will enjoy the widescreen presentation. The extras include a Behind the Scenes Special, Trailer, Fan Club Information, Bios and Production Photos. All are excellent and welcome additons. Of note, I found the Behind the Scenes Special added to the film experience. You will learn interesting tidbits about the making of the movie, with comments by the director, Reeve, Seymour and other players. It becomes readily apparent that the actors and crew loved making this film and hold it in a special place in their hearts. To see Reeve, who suffered a horseback-riding accident that left him paralyzed years after making the film, lends to the heartbreaking experience of seeing the film again. His comments about the final scenes of the film are very interesting and insightful to his own tragic life experience. The production photos are excellent, especially the stills of Seymour with her incredibly beautiful face and long, flowing hair. It is easy to relate and believe that Reeve's character would fall so hopelessly in love with her picture alone. The events that occur in the film, the time travel and events that happen at the end of the film are believable because of Seymour's beauty and acting ability. All of the actors, the setting, and the music are important aspects of the film, but Seymour makes the movie. Therefore, if you are a hopeless romantic, or a fan of Reeve or Seymour, I highly recommend this DVD to you.

Get the Ben & Jerry's and settle in...
At times this movie does put the "suspension of disbelief" to the test... it is far-fetched, but enjoyable if you allow yourself to accept the story as it's presented. The acting is ok, the music beautiful and haunting.

This is a great movie for those times when you feel the need to have an emotional outlet. There are some scenes where you can almost think it's a comedy, and then the mood changes to something more serious. The end seemed a little awkward, and is a real tear-jerker if you've let yourself get sucked into the story. With a pint of Ben & Jerry's and a few tissues (and some friends, if you're into sharing tears with them), it's worth the time if you're in the mood.

In a Class by Itself
As other reviewers have said, this movie seems to transcend all of its faults and strike a a very personal chord in the romantics among us. Its intense romanticism prompts us to break the rules in judging what makes a good movie, much as Christopher Reeve's love for Jane Seymour allows him break the rules of time. And, the movie is even more poignant today, since it's about going back into the past, and it reminds us of the past physical vibrance of Christopher Reeve, not as Superman, but as the healthy young man he was.

In many ways, this is Reeve's movie. He almost ruins it with his occasional lapses into Clark-Kentish oafishness, but he also injects into the film its dreamy sweetness, with his hungering eyes and his boyish awe of Miss Seymour. Speaking of her, I think she is one of the most beautiful and competent screen actresses in films and I have no idea why she never really became a huge movie star.

Christopher Plummer adds the right notes of meanness, thinly-veiled jealousy, lurking menace, and his own inner hurt as the blunt end of a love triangle. He also embodies reality, reminding us, by his dissapproving presence, of the vulnerability of the fragile love affair between Reeves and Seymour.

The special segment on the making of the film (in the collector's edition DVD) is a good one. It convincingly shows that the director, crew, and cast loved making this film and had high hopes for it. It also provides some interesting insights into how the novel was adapted for the screen and the choices, sometimes painful, that had to be made in the process. It's gratifying that this segment, which is low-key and refreshingly sincere, features the three principal stars of the film, the director, the composer, the author, and other players and crew members. Only the composer, John Barry, seems a bit taken with himself.

Somewhere In Time was nominated for the American Film Institute's list of the 100 most romantic movies of all time, but it didn't make it. As far as I'm concerned, it should have topped the list.

Somewhere in Time
I really didn't care for this movie that much.I guess it's just not my genre.The film seemed very boring.The plot is extremely deep and intellect which is probably the only reason it got such a good grade.The dialogue is your usual love/romance dialogue.Everything is just so much like a fantasy that I felt stupid.If this was a book it was probably really well written and this would have been a good adaption, but this just isn't my type of film.I think I would have liked it better with a different cast.Christopher Reeve did a good job ;though.The setting is also nice.That and some of the plot is mainly the only reason it gets a 6.It lies on border line of fresh/rotten.Only check this one out if your a fan of the genre.

"Come back to me." These were the strange words uttered by aged actress Elise McKenna to playwright Richard Collier, and they have haunted him ever since. When he hears that Elise has died, an irresistible impulse leads him to travel to the historic hotel where she lived. There he discovers an old photograph of Elise and realizes, to his amazement, that in another life he was once her lover.
Richard wills himself into the past and meets Elise again, now young and beautiful and acclaimed. Their romance blossoms anew, but not even true love can defeat the power of time... ... Read more

Reviews (125)

Finally on DVD!!!
You're not likely to find a more sweet, affectionately drawn portrait of a time and era than this film. The last great one before this was "American Graffiti." Tom Hanks takes a very easy-going hand with the direction of this excellent movie, which is one of the film's strong points. It moves at a fast, yet leisurely pace and has a good story to tell about one of the millions of one hit wonder band that crop up, have a hit or two, and then just when they are about to become the hugest group in the world, disappear into oblivion. The group in this movie, therefore is, aptly called the "Wonders." (The original spelling of their name, the "One-ders" has to be changed because people kept pronouncing it "Oh needers".) This movie is a very light, fun musical comedy/drama with a bouncy, authentic-sounding score, highlighted by the excellent title number and some other faux-60s pop hits, and delightful performances from an exuberant cast. Hanks even has a small part as their manager, in a very downplayed, tasteful performance. This movie is wise to never take itself or its plot too seriously, acknowledging throughout, even during the breakup, that the "Wonders" was really a whim more than anything else throughout their shortlived history. Many clever set pieces compare the "Wonders" to parts of Beatle history, the difference being that the Beatles had more than one or two hit singles. All in all, this movie is a fun, vibrantly colorful look at the 60s music industry, that gently and subtly parodies the era while celebrating it simulaneously. P.S. Look for a fabulous cameo by Rita Wilson, Hanks' real-life wife as a cocktail waitress.

"...like I wonder what happen to the O-NE-DERS?" Lenny
Those words spoken by Lenny just kill me...Zahn plays the part of Lenny, the smart-talking and wild member of the group. This movie takes place in 1964, just as Vietnam was beginning to re-focus a carefree America. Along comes a "one-time wonder" with a hit song which climbs the Billboard Chart in record time...The chemistry that Zahn, Schaech, Scott, and Embry have, combine to form an exciting and comical band who go from obscurity to nationwide fame in a few weeks' time. Each member of the group handles the group's rising success in a different way. That aspect alone is unique! Tom Hanks plays the manager-part very realistically, but adds a twist of humanity when it comes to dealing with Scott's character. Liv Tyler, who plays Jimmy's girlfriend Faye, does a wonderful job of playing the part of the loyal girlfriend (though Jimmy burns her in the end). Tom Everett Scott does a fantastic job as the main character whose drums bring the Wonders to life through his playing. The plot is simple but could've been more developed. The soundtrack is a must if you purchase the movie. The album notes are fictional but add insights to other characters in the movie. Hanks did a wonderful job directing this movie and writing many of the songs involved in the movie. Overall, this ranks as one of my family's favorite movies...

"We can use the 'Wonders' with an 'O' 'N' 'E'"
This is one of Tom Hanks' best!
Written, directed, and starring Tom Hanks, 'That Thing You Do!' tells the charming story of a small town band hitting the big times. It starts with the find of a perfect drum player and ends in a wonder.
Guy Patterson is helping run the family appliance store, something h