Reviews (9)

Not as good as I remembered
I saw this on cable a few years back and I really enjoyed it. I like Michael Caine in about anything. I couldn't wait for it to be released on DVD and I was a bit disappointed on second viewing. I think there is something to be said about expectations. It wasn't bad on second viewing, but I loved it the first time.

Punchy stinging black comedy of the workplace
Here's where Michael Caine shines, as a corporate exec who gets passed over for the promotion he's so feverishly expecting he'll get in favor of a young Turk--well played by Peter Reigert--who lords it over Caine's character in subtle (and not so subtle) ways. Caine's wife, also well played by Swoosie Kurtz, one of the great unknown American stage and film actresses, is a serious [problem] to him. So he has two people in his life who are supremely annoying.

What does he do? Well, let's just say that his solution to these two problems ends in the population of the world changing, shall we?

The dialogue in this very smart blackly comic thriller is sharp as a razor; it's a lot of fun to watch Mr. Caine give us his best as a put upon exec who's more than capable of flying into a rage at the drop of a hat and of executing his very sneaky and well thought out plans for revenge. Also on hand is Elizabeth Perkins, an equally intelligent office colleague who attracts Caine in more ways than one, but does not suspect him of any wrongdoing at all. That is, until...

One of the best office comedies around, A Shock to the System is a stinging portrait of greed and selfishness in America--for my money, far better than the somewhat overblown Wall Street. This is a movie that gives you a great evening's entertainment and part of the reason for that may be to secretly exact vengeance upon those corporate bigwigs who've prevented you from getting a job for so long, given this miserable economy.

Great job. Highly recommended.

Play Naughty; Win Big
Michael Caine is marvelous when playing a happy villain. He was impossibly beautiful as a young man, but middle aged Michael with serious bags under his eyes and a slight weight problem has an air of wounded vanity, as if he can't quite understand how things went wrong.

Caine, as Graham Marshall, is a fairly successful marketing director with an expensive home, an expensive and slightly boring wife, and is desperately anticipating a promotion for his many years of diligence. He is stunned when he is passed over for a young, brash associate. Graham has an epiphany when a particularly smarmy panhandler enrages him, and Graham impulsively shoves him off the subway platform in the path of an oncoming train. No one has seen him and Graham muses on his "magical" powers. He quickly and cleverly dispatches the wife and the business rival, gets rid of his white elephant of a house in the suburbs, boards the pets and gets a tasteful apartment in Manhattan. Though homicide Lt. Laker (Will Patton with a splendid Long Island accent) is suspicious, nothing can be proved. Graham not only gets the promotion, he has his eye on taking over the company, dispatching his rivals on his upward climb.

What keeps the tension intact is the victims are not cartoon-like villains. The wife is irritating, but not evil. The youngster who beat him out for the promotion is vulgar, but it is clear he is clever and competent. We just cannot help but cheer Graham on his nefarious way. Michael Caine's glee and satisfaction are catching.

There is more than a whiff of Alec Guinness's "Kind Hearts and Coronets" in Caine's performance, but Michael Caine has a knack for villainy all his own. "Shock to the System" may be a trifle of a movie, but it is a highly enjoyable trifle. ....

Michael Caine is brilliant in this black comedy.
You're here so you're probably a Michael Caine fan. So, the crux of the issue is; Is this a performance you need to see? The answer is yes. If you're a fan of Michael Caine's you HAVE to buy this film. He is absolutely brilliant in it. No other actor could have pulled this off. The wicked, sly, dark humor, the subtlety, killing people and making you believe it, laugh
about it, and actually root for him. Caine nails it. If you're a Caine fan, you're not looking for some big obvious slap-stick comedy, you're looking for something a little more off-beat and
original. You found it. Enjoy.

Defines black humor
This is a witty, morbidly funny movie. It's weak in spots, andthe occult "magician" comments in Michael Caine's voice-over narration is perhaps a little misplaced. But it is an original movie, and entertaining, and as Michael Caine said when making it, "The thing is, this guy is murdering people, BUT YOU ARE ON HIS SIDE." After seeing this movie, you might find yourself looking at conniving rats in your life and thinking back to this movie! Even though Michael Caine plays an Englishman, it takes place in New York, and is a VERY American piece, in that it shows the absolute subtext of all American life is that you MUST be a success. I've seen this movie a number of times. The humor is twisted. But good... ... Read more

Reviews (193)

The Ultimate Struggle for Survival Under Siege
The story begins with the Zulu army fresh from their stunning massacre of 1300 British soldiers at Isandhlwana. This force of over 5000 seasoned warriors then turns their attention to a small outpost called Rorke's drift. Only one hundred men, many sick and some malingerers man this camp in the middle of South African wilderness. Two lieutenants, one, engineer, and one the son of an English aristocrat are in command. These young officers are not battle tested but must quickly prepare for the fight of their lives. Fortunately, they are supported by efforts of the quintessential sergeant major that hardly breaks a sweat as he fights the fierce adversaries while maintaining proper British manners and discipline. By the use of military tactics and shear resolve, the two officers galvanize their small force against nearly insurmountable odds. This film is full of breathtaking sequences, exciting heroics and slackers becoming heroes. A scene where the Zulus attack the hospital is particularly brimming with action. Zulu also has its fair share of honor and humanity. Stanley Baker and Michael Caine turn in fine performances as the commanders of Rorke's Drift. Cy Endfield directs one of the most exciting movies ever made about the tenacity of the British soldier.

Outstanding re-telling of the 1879 battle at Rorke's Drift
In January, 1879, a column of British soldiers comprised primarily of the 24th Regiment of Foot, South Wales Borderers, was wiped out at the base of the mountain, Isandhlwana, in Natal, South Africa. A large contingent of 4,000 Zulu warriors then moved on to the undermanned expedition base at Rorke's Drift. This movie tells the incredible true story of the subsequent battle, and of the victory of the 90 some British soldiers, many of them sick, who held their post in the face of overwhelming odds. See Donald Morris' definitive book, _The Washing of the Spears_, against which this film account compares most favorably.

This neglected classic was filmed at a time when it was still just possible to associate the word "glory" with military victory-- without a sneer. The makers of the film avoid preaching and just let the battle tell the tale of the men of both sides. The British soldiers are not the "good guys" nor are the Zulus "bad guys," and the lone derogatory comment about the fighting ability of the Zulus is instantly rebuffed by a tough Boer cavalryman who says, "And just who do you think is coming to wipe out your little garrison, the Grenadier Guards?" This is a soldier's story about a soldier's fight.

Did the Welsh really sing "Men of Harlach" as they manned their mealie-bag barricades?

Did the Zulus really render a warrior's salute as they broke off the action on the second day of the battle?

It doesn't matter. The film is accurate in the historical basics that really count.

Beautifully filmed on location, with an outstanding, stirring score by John Barry, this film features solid but appropriately understated performances by Stanley Baker, Michael Caine, and Jack Hawkins.

I hesitate to mention the hideous, politically correct pre-quel, _Zulu Dawn_ which was released almost 25 years after _Zulu_, but any viewer who has the unhappy experience of seeing _Zulu Dawn_ should not be put off from seeing _Zulu_, which shines in comparison.

Whether one is interested in military history or a "movie for men who like movies," _Zulu_ is a worthy addition to a film library. From first to last, it is a compelling, superior film.

So where's Zulu Dawn?
Trying to find this movie and it's only available in Region 2. What gives?

Is it coming to the US soon?

Basically an Anti-War Movie
Zulu is basically more of an antiwar movie than an action adventure flick. War is not glamorized in Zulu and it is shown in all its horrific repulsiveness. Nor for that matter are there any heroes in Zulu for nobody acts heroically. The officers and soldiers know that its likely that they will die defending their isolated frontier outpost against the Zulu hordes and they are bitterly resentful of that fact.

This makes Zulu an original and different movie. However, the quality of the acting is generally low, although Michael Caine delivers a splendid performance. The script, direction and special effects are also deficient. Zulu was made on a low budget and it shows.

Zulu is an example of how a great idea does not necessarlily result in a great movie.

Girls can love this movie too!
I have always enjoyed this movie since I was a little girl. At 27 I love it even more. The gentleman behavior of the English, the breathtaking battle sequences and the fantastic score are spectacular. I have my favorite characters that just send shivers up my back and tears to my eyes at times for their heroism. If you don't take my word for how great this movie is you can refer to Lord of the Rings Two Towers extras. Peter Jackson was inspired by a few of the scenes from Zulu for the beginning of the battle at Helm's Deep. ... Read more

Description

Irwin Allen's doomsday epic pits an all-star cast against a North American invasion of killer bees! ... Read more

Reviews (19)

DVD release just about everything you could want.
Warner Brothers DVD release of Irwin Allen's cult classic bomb The Swarm features a beautifully rendered widescreen transfer (which is the only format to truly appreciate this movie), the theatrical trailer, and a straight faced and rather serious sounding behind the scenes documentary that looks to have been made for televsion airing for the film's summer time hype (it contains easy to see commercial break segues). Sadly the promised Michael Caine commentary and Big Bug trivia did not come through, though there is a biography for the late Master of Disaster in the Cast and Crew section (it is also the only one offered). As we all know, mutant killer bees threaten Texas and Michael Caine and a whole lot of back-up stars have to stop them, or else. The movie remains a goofy, silly disaster movie that is incredibly hard to dislike. If you love so bad they're good movies, then this disc is a must have. An essential for any schlock fan.

SO CHEESY IT'S A BLAST!
For sheer audacity, this is another classic howler from Irwin Allen`s epic disaster back catalogue! Michael Caine and Katharine Ross get all the unintentionally hilarious lines(CAINE: I never dreamed it would turn out to be the bees. They've always been our friends.) And these bees begin the movie by showing who really rules the skies by invading a nuclear missile silo and attacking the launch crew. They proceed to cause helicopter crashes(yes, that is in the plot!), attack a picnicking all-American family(yeeaahhh) and invade a town during its annual flower festival, causing many victims to run around like penguins trying to fly and fall all over the place looking utter idiots. As the military and scientists' attempts to wipe out the bees are miserable failures, the deadly swarm cause a spectacular train crash(special effects by the local model train shop), and much more mayhem. Then they head for (gulp!) HOUSTON! Can the all-star cast save the day??? We know the outcome, but if you would like an absolute laugh riot(I want to see the extended version myself!) and like to watch well-known names try to deadpan their way through some of the most unintentionally hilarious dialogue ever written for the screen, then this is the cheesy 1970s classic for you! The novel, by Arthur Herzog, incidentally, is much better.

A laugh riot!
Remember the days of Irwin Allen? During the 1970s, this director ruled Hollywood with several all-star, action packed disaster films. There was "The Towering Inferno" with Paul Newman and Steve McQueen. "The Poseidon Adventure" with Gene Hackman and Shelley Winters. The only one he wasn't associated with, I think, was "Earthquake" with Charlton Heston and George Kennedy. A cast of stars both major and minor populated constellation Irwin Allen. He could do no wrong-his films weren't masterpieces of cinematic art, but they drew in audiences willing to spend money to watch these epics. Then Allen made "The Swarm," and a horribly swift silence descended over Hollywood. The 1978 film about a pack of civilization threatening killer bees should receive cult classic status from lovers of crud cinema. Where else are you going to see Henry Fonda inject himself with bee venom? Or Richard Widmark going down for the count while trying to stave off bees with a flamethrower? Say what you will about this film, and you could say plenty of terrible things about it, but it definitely falls under the "so bad it's good" category and thus deserves are attention.

Something's amiss at a missile silo somewhere in Texas. The military sends in a crack team of orange suited soldiers to discover what went wrong. It turns out a swarm of killer bees attacked the installation and killed all the personnel. General Slater (Widmark) arrives on the scene to supervise only to find Dr. Brad Crane (Michael Caine) strolling around the silo. Crane claims a swarm of deadly bees did the damage, a statement confirmed by a radar operator noticing something moving away at seven (!) miles an hour. A chopper sent up crashes when the bees attack (!!). Once the military defines the problem, Crane receives the go ahead from the president to take charge of the situation. He brings in all sorts of specialists, including world-renowned immunologist Dr. Krim (Henry Fonda) and the cranky Dr. Hubbard (Richard Chamberlain). Crane ramps up the hysteria by claiming that the bees will attack anyone in sight, including population centers. Sure enough, the focus jumps to a family picnic where we see Mom and Dad collapse under the weight of a thousand bee stings. Back at central control, Crane and Krim discover that a single bee sting is enough to kill a human being.

The situation rapidly deteriorates. The bees swarm through a town, ravaging the locals at will. A train full of evacuees derails as the killer insects attack with abandon. Hundreds die as Crane and an Air Force officer named Helena Anderson (Katharine Ross) try to find a solution out in the field. More problems emerge as the bees wipe out a nuclear power plant run by Dr. Andrews (Jose Ferrar) before moving on to Houston. Every solution the military attempts fails, including an effort to use flamethrowers to burn the bees out of the city. As Houston burns in the background, as ambulances crash through windows and blow up with the force of atomic bombs, Slater worries whether history will condemn him to the ash heap for what he has done. Crane offers one final idea, an idea that, if it works, could finally destroy the swarm once and for all. Barely escaping from the flaming wreck that is Houston, Crane and Anderson execute an intricate plot involving sound and helicopters. Fortunately, science again triumphs over the evil forces of nature. And not a moment too soon, I say.

Nothing works in "The Swarm." Plot holes abound, so many that it is impossible to mention them all here. How did the bees get into an underground bunker and back out again without leaving any trace of their passing? If the swarm is such a threat, how come only one immunologist is working on finding a cure? Could bees really cause a train to derail? Questions without answers will constantly sidetrack your attention as you watch this film. Moreover, the performances from big name stars achieve a level of ridiculousness that is simply delicious to watch. Caine sleepwalks as Brad Crane, Ross looks like she's in a coma, and Widmark chews scenery without a thought to his future career. Allen throws in a bunch of ineffective and clichéd subplots, including a three way geriatric love triangle between Olivia de Havilland, Fred MacMurray, and Ben Johnson that ends in tragedy. Then there's the obligatory pregnant lady about to give birth (Patty Duke), and the altruistic self-sacrifice of Dr. Krim. Fonda's melodramatic final minutes are a marvel of hammy acting. Best line here? His vital signs are "swinging from the norm to really spooky levels." Another personal favorite occurred when de Havilland's character, a school principal, witnesses a bunch of kids falling prey to the bees outside a building. She utters a hilarious groan of agony as she turns away from the window in horror. The movie, for some reason, shows this in slow motion. Are we supposed to be laughing this hard, Mr. Allen?

I could go on and on and on again about the hammy and ridiculous levels "The Swarm" achieves during its nearly three-hour runtime. I loved every minute of it, and am thinking about buying a copy of the film soon so I can roar with derision at my leisure. Sadly, the DVD doesn't have a lot in the way of extras. There is a short television style documentary about some of the stunt work in the film that in its own right is hilarious. You get to see Henry Fonda earnestly lecture the public on the real threat of killer bees, thereby implying that the over the top stuff in the movie could "really happen." Pshaw, Henry! You ought to know better than that. Of course, I should have known better than to try and take this film seriously. A comedy classic!

Magnificent "Disasterpiece"
Great Movie! But why are the bees referred to as "The Africans" - reference to Zu Lu??? Sir Michael - can you explain??

The Swarm
The Swarm was a very realistic movie about the attack of the Afraican Bee's. It shows realism and what we can face in the future ahead of us. It was a really intersting plot.Micheal Caine was at top notch performance, also Irwin Allan did a fantastic directing job. the last 20 minutes was a great the best 20 mintues in the ending ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Pulling the leg of Hollywood movie making
Alan Alda plays Michael a history teacher and author of the book "Sweet Liberty" which is meant to bring American history to a broader audience. Holllywood is now making a movie based on the novel shooting on the original scene of an important battlefield of the Independance War next to Michael's home town. But Michael's material is turned into a comedy completely ignoring the historical details. He ist told that to make a movie sell at the box office you need to show three things: rebellion, destruction of property and people taking their clothes off.

Michal tries to save his novel by trying to gain the confidence of the leading lady (Michelle Pfeiffer) and the leading man (Michael Caine) by a) making love to the former and b) practicing fencing with the latter. Embeded into the subplot of Michael's family affairs the story ends in a hillarious reenacting of the historical battle including Michael and the villagers acting as extras. And they give the Hollywood people what they asked for: rebellion, destruction of property and people taking their clothes off.

This movie is a must for everybody who likes Alan Alda. Unfortunately he is not often the leading man - but here we can enjoy his acting to extend. The fencing scenes with Michael Caine are simply wonderful!

If you want to see how Hollywood REALLY treats history...
This movie made Alan Alda the patron saint of living historians and re-enactors of the American Revolution. It shows, quite clearly, how Hollywood distorts reality and factual information to create and sell what is simply a product like any other. The humor is subtle, the give-and-take in the dialog is quick and usually very witty. The bottom line of the film is that, to Hollywood, history means entertainment and if the facts have to be changed or embellished to make what they might consider to be a more entertaining product, then so be it. If you want to learn about history, watch the History Channel. If you want to be entertained by "history", watch "The Last of the Mohicans", "Braveheart", and "The Patriot". If you want to watch an entertaining, humorous version of how Hollywood treats history, watch and enjoy "Sweet Liberty".

Really Hopeless Film
Alan Alda really missed the mark with this film where he plays a history teacher whose book is being turned into a brainless comedy by a no talent film maker.Michael Caine's performace is also below average here. If you want to see Alan Alda's better work as an actor/director, watch MASH.

Idea is worthy, but movie goes nowhere
Overblown comedy about movie studio arriving in a small town to shoot a film there based on the local university professor's book on the American Revolution. A terrific cast tries their best with the flat and predictable script. Just plain unfunny.

Going back to Korea
Though now an obvious companion piece to THE PATRIOT, I think SWEET LIBERTY was really Alda's chance to revisit M*A*S*H. It must've occurred to him during the production of M*A*S*H that he often took "sweet liberties" with the history of the Korean War in order to get a laugh, and I think the collective guilt of his many affronts to history must finally have caught up with him. Sure, SWEET LIBERTY is set in South Carolina, but really I think it's about Korea. And maybe that's one of the reasons it's not as funny as it might've been. It's allegory, when Alda probably had something more direct on his mind. ... Read more

Amazon.com

James Spader looks like the hardest-working man in show business as the busy,comic-romantic lead in this enjoyable "film blanc" (a tongue-in-cheek phrasecoined by film critic Andrew Sarris to describe that genre of moviesfeaturing ghosts in love). Spader plays Stevenson Lowe, heir to ahighly respected publishing firm that has recently been purchased by a giantmedia corporation. Though Stevenson has deluded himself into believing thenew owners will allow him to maintain creative control over his family's bookline, he soon discovers the unpleasant truth. A ludicrous executive (funnywork by Buck Henry) is pushing no-brainer tomes about cats and the female fatcell into the spring list, pushing poor Stevenson into the margins of his owncompany.

His helplessness has a way of resonating with other mushy areas of his life.Having purchased an expensive townhouse for himself alone, Stevenson severelydisappoints his long-suffering girlfriend (Polly Walker in a rare comicouting), who thought they were going to get married. The hero's dithering onthis sore subject gets more complicated when he discovers a pair of Jazz Ageghosts (Michael Caine and Maggie Smith) occupying his new home and dispensingunwanted advice about love. Directed by Peter Yates (Breaking Away),Curtain Call has a low-key charm kept alive by the considerable skillsof its admirable cast (including Sam Shepard, Marcia Gay Harden, and FrankWhaley), while a handful of memorable, screwball scenes deliver solid sightgags. Not a masterpiece, but a real treat. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great Cast, Mediocre Film
I wanted so much to love this film. Maggie Smith & Michael Caine together again (first time: "California Suite")was a big reason I sought this one out. The story idea is pleasasnt enough, but too often the scenes seem to just ramble on. There are bright spots, usually when Smith and Caine are around. The dialogue needed much more sparkle to make this film more memorable. A bit of better editing might have also improved the whole piece. An enjoyable, but rather disappointing experience.

Beetlejuice it isn't but still funny in a sophisticated way
I have watched this movie many times. Michael Caine and Maggie Smith are wonderful, I wish they would do another one like the Topper series. James Spader is great also, sort of Cary Grant similar. I don't remeber Polly Walker very well, the weak link? You also get Buck Henry and Sam Shepard! The music is wonderful also, very beautiful movie. I am delighted with many small production company movies, Kill the Man was a strained comedy but at least it was a true comedy instead of some of the movies big production companies try to pass off as comedies.

A well-acted comedy romance
There are actually two romances going on here, although the younger couple, which consists of Stevenson Lowe (James Spader), a young and successful 4th generation publisher, and his girlfriend Julia have quite a time of it just trying to come together! She wants him to marry her, but the old home he has just purchased has a few resident ghosts whom he needs to deal with first. Because to some degree they have contributed to his rift with Julia, (she says several times "I just don't want this" in confronting Stevenson's seeming inability to commit himself) the ghost couple also go to great lengths to bring the two of them together. However, there is another woman in the picture, one which Stevenson likes but not romantically and, well, things gets good and complicated down this path. Meanwhile, the ghosts, Max and Lily Gale, stage performers in their previous lives, dead as they are, have much to work on in mending their own age old romance. The acting is superb. The customes are posh if adequate. The story is original and thoughtful, and warm, it feels real, in spite of the infighting spirits. And -- a big plus -- the language is clean. It's a feel good movie. It's a great movie, bound to become a classic.

Curtain Call
A delightful romantic comedy with the talented James Spader, Michael Caine, Maggie Smith, and even Sam Sheppard, it is set in Manhattan, with a lovely old home furnished in fabulous antiques, including two ghosts who were famous theatrical personalities in life. Spader inspires giggles with another of his always surprising comedic presentations, especially in his "fright" when the ghosts appear. The music is warm and the characters are rich. The dialogue is bright. The film offers a beautiful fantasy escape to upper class New York and a look into the publishing business - enjoy it with a glass or two of wine, and it will seem very believable.

NICE STORY, TOO BAD IT'S UNINTERESTING
The premise sounds interesting for a romantic comedy: successful commitment-phobic man loses successful girlfriend after saying the wrong thing once too often, man discovers house he just bought is haunted by a former husband-and-wife vaudeville team who constantly bicker, man asks the ghosts for help in repairing his relationship, and everything wraps up nice and neat within 94 minutes. Unfortunately, it's boring to the point where you just don't care. I really wanted to like this movie, but it just didn't happen. What was probably a good idea on paper didn't translate well to the screen. The acting is good, and some of the dialogue (especially between the bickering ghosts) is funny, but the whole thing lacks energy and seems forced at times. This is the second video from Square Dog Pictures that I've suffered through, the first being a very unfunny low-budget comedy titled "Kill The Man". Based on what I've seen so far (and the quality of the previews for their other films), it's best to leave their productions on the shelves. Definitely not worth purchasing unless you enjoy making yourself miserable. Maybe worth a rental if there's really nothing else available. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Recommended visually stunning epic drama with good acting.
"The Last Valley" is a visually stunning film. Set during the 30 years war in Europe during the 17th century the film depicts the brutality of the era and the distasterous consequences of religious intolerance. Author James Clavell makes a brave and ambitous directorial debut. Michael Caine gives an outstanding but underplayed performance. I find the movie gets better with each viewing. A number of people I know are pleased they made the effort to watch it and the reaction is always the same - how come they'd never heard of it before? It is well worth seeing - an undiscovered gem.

We Killed God at Magdaberg.
The film directed by James Clavel and based on his book is a dark and brooding peace depicting the world savage and cruel of the thirty years war. Michael Caine plays the Captain the leader of a band of mercenaries who come across a valley free from the ravages of war, plague and pestilence. Omar Sherif plays Vogel a teacher and traveller who too has in adversity stumbled across a promised land. The story that follows is a study of politics, love, war and religious dogma. Caine gives an excellent performance as a realist who understands only too well the nature of the latter, though finding solace and mutual education with the teacher Vogal. The films closing battle scenes could have been taken from a period woodcut of the time apocalyptic and hellish in there vision, the film stands today as worthy example of expressive rather than decorative historical drama.

Omar Sharif
Great movie. Well worth viewing. The theme reminds me of other movies and of course, reality. I was glad the priest got it, though it should have been before Erica. It's like all of mankind can never learn from its mistakes, we're only doomed to repeat them over and over, all in the name of a god.

Surprisingly Good
Another little known sword and battle picture, gets the DVD makeover and will no doubt ride in on the shirt tails of new releases like Troy. Don't be put off however, this is a very good and polished piece of filmaking, which deals (quite graphically for the year of production) with the savage and often futile 30 years War that raged across 17th Century Europe. This is not a typical story though, and interestingly deals with an uncomfortable but workable peace pact between, Michael Caine as the warring Captain (and mercenary army) and Omar Sharif as a local peasant. As this wafer thin respite gradually succumbs to the vagaries of the marauding soldiers, the story kicks up a notch with some good action sequences and thought provoking scenarios. Caine is superb throughout, and is something of an island of drama amidst what would otherwise be a plodding script, despite the pedigree of writer James Clavell (of Shogun fame). Overall a good solid war style movies that is more than a little different. Enjoy

Good Story Comes Short
James Clavell (author of Shogun)wrote this story specifically for this movie. The Thirty Years War presents a unique setting for a movie and showing how religious fanaticism with political ruthlessness brings out the worst in people. The Thirty Years War is by far one of the bleakest conflicts to have touched Europe prior to the world wars of the 20th Century. The war brought utter misery and devastation across a vast stretch of Europe during the early 17th Century; mostly fought by mercenaries who had about as much religious ethos as their petty patron kings.

The story follows the story of Vogel (Sharif), a scholar who flees the horrors of the war and comes upon a secluded and pristine valley untouched by the war and populated by Catholics. At the same time, a band of mercenaries led by their captain (Caine) fighting for the Protestants arrive at the same time wrek havoc. With blood about to spill and his life at risk, Vogel acts as an intermediary and is soon appreciated by the Machiavellic captain who sees the valley as a valuable base of operation. The pristine beauty and prosperity of the valley acts as a sharp contrast to the outside world wrought with pestilence and war. The mercenaries decide to an uneasy truce with the villagers to hold out for the oncoming winter. Tempers boil and rivalries begin to flare in all sectors.

Great plot development but the casting of Sharif as a German scholar leaves much to be desired. Caine plays his role quite well as the Captain and even keeps up a good German accent. The script could have been a little more refined. The music seemed more like it was made for a T.V. show as opposed to a feature film. The special effects and props were also rather poor and seemed more like something for the stage. Worth watching at least once but I personally regret having purchased it: it makes a better rental. ... Read more

Description

In this hilarious crime comedy, Peter Sellers stars as Pearly Gates, the cockney kingpin of London's most efficient gang of thieves, organizing spectacular robberies from behind the front of a haute-coutrre dress salon.Everything goes well until the police start appearing after every job to confiscate the loot. The astute Pearly realizes there's a traitor in his gan, and no one is above suspicion - not even his enticing girlfriend Valerie. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Sparkling English Comedy
"The Wrong Arm of the Law" is one of the last British comedies from a period that many consider to be a "golden age" for the genre. It gave Peter Sellers another wonderful role as Cockney gang-leader, Pearly Gates, who often masquerades as "Monsieur Jules", haute couturier to rich and very gullible ladies. Of course, Pearly's real career is organizing robberies for his gang, none of whom seem to have the IQ of a potato ! Lately, however, Pearly and other London-area crooks are having a problem--they successfully pull off a heist, only to be ambushed by a trio of "policemen" who are more interested in the stolen goods than making arrests. Of course, these "bobbies" are crooks themselves.

It takes a while for Pearly and the other gang leaders to figure out what's going on, not to mention an embarrassed Scotland Yard, who put scene-stealing Lionel Jeffries on the case. Sellers and Jeffries decide to declare a "truce", and agree to cooperate in trying to catch these interlopers. Is nothing sacred ? Can a thief not make a dishonest living any more ? Can the police not trust a "man in uniform" ?

The film is blessed with a witty script and many amusing sequences. Other British character actors add to the fun. Bernard Cribbins is "Nervous", another gang leader. Can you imagine a less-likely gangster than Mr. Cribbins ? No--that's what makes him so hilarious. John LeMesurier is on hand as Scotland Yard's incredulous chief, unsure as to whether Sellers or Jeffries pose the greater threat to London ! Look out for the scene where all the crooks have a "union meeting" to become organized--that's Dennis Price in a wonderful cameo as "Educated", the intellectual crook. I should not forget the lovely Nanette Newman--her role turns out to be more important than mere "eye candy" !

The black and white picture is excellent for a forty year old film--the sound is mono. This is a "no frills" DVD--there are no extras. This movie is fun all the way--if you are a Sellers fan, or a fan of classic British comedy in general, ask our friends at Amazon for a copy. You won't be sorry !

Great Peter Sellers
I have often felt that Peter Sellers is best seen when playing in the company of these supporting players. I think they inspire each other. Bernie Cribbins is hilarious. Sellers is great and unselfconscious. All of the members of the cast are great in this movie - even if they only have a line or two. It is a true ensemble effort and completely enjoyable from beginning to end. In my opinion, people have not seen Lionel Jeffreys unless they have seen him in this and "Two Way Stretch." (Another collaboration with Peter Sellers and members of this ensemble cast.) True comedy.

Sellers in Quintessence
Sellers seems to relish playing underworld kingpin Pearly Gates (pure Cockney) and his "legit" alter ego Mssr. Jules (a pre-Clouseau Frenchman). Strong support from Lionel Jeffries (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) and Bernard Cribbins (a fussy Fawlty Towers guest) as rival gangs unite with the coppers to catch a new group that's muscling in on everyone's territory. They don't make 'em like this any more, sadly. Highly recommended!

Sellars at his best!
One of the great Ealing comedies. Sellars is brilliant ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Italian Job (2003)
Though it bears little resemblance to the original 1969 thriller starring Michael Caine, the 2003 remake of The Italian Job stands on its own as a caper comedy that's well above average. The title's a misnomer--this time it's actually a Los Angeles job--but the action's just as exciting as it propels a breezy tale of honor and dishonor among competing thieves. Inheriting Caine's role as ace heist-planner Charlie Croker, Mark Wahlberg plays straight-man to a well-cast team of accomplices, including Mos Def, Jason Statham, and scene-stealer Seth Green in a variation of the role originally played by Noel Coward. As the daughter of Croker's ill-fated mentor (Donald Sutherland), Charlize Theron is recruited to double-cross a double-crosser (Edward Norton in oily villain mode), and once again, speedily versatile Mini Coopers play a pivotal role in director F. Gary Gray's exhilarating car-chase climax. It's perhaps the greatest product placement in movie history, and just as fun the second time around. --Jeff Shannon

The Italian Job (1969)
This little-known cult caper is about as depraved as they come. Michael Caine, ever the enterprising swinger and swindler, has an ingenious plan to steal a huge cache of Chinese gold to be shipped to Turin as collateral for a new Fiat plant. Since the Italy-Great Britain soccer match is being played at the same time, Caine wants to create a diversion in the form of a monumental traffic jam. For financing, he turns to Noel Coward, who directs British criminal enterprises from his jail cell. A motley crew is assembled, including Benny Hill as a computer expert with a fetish for large-breasted women. It's all a nasty and fun parody, with the most memorable robbery-chase sequence in the history of the caper genre. --Bill Desowitz ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Exceptional combo
With a common deminator of Morris Minors these two movies reflect the entertainment of their day. The original, starring a ridiculously young Michael Caine, remains fresh despite its age. Filled with irepressible Cockney humor it moves between the comic moments to the final 'cliffhanger' leaving us all hanging. With appearance by Noel Coward, Benny Hill (in true form)
The new version is much more a thriller of today. superbly fast paced, a truly rotten villain (a great performace as always from Edward Norton) and some brilliant heist scenes this ranks up there with the Rock, Con Air and the like for excitement. Mark Whalberg shines and Charlize Theron is so much more than joyous eye candy here.

Two Very Different Movies with minis
One cannot compare the two movies because they are only somewhat similar.
I love Michael Caine. He's always at his best. The movie seems to be the spoof of the newest one.
The American version has more action, suspence, great lines, and some fab actors. Jason Statham is one hot actor, who can say anything and it is so well done.

THE ONLY QUESTION IS WHICH ONE I LIKE MORE.
This is the right way to make a remake: fun, clever, and full of great stunts (as opposed to unbelievable CGI effects a la Charlie's Angels).
The old version is pretty good too, I bought it without having seeing it before and it didn't dissapoint. It doesn't always make sense (just what the heck did the Minis climb that huge roof for ?) but then again, who cares ?!?
Great movies which make your DVD player a great reason to exist!

Brill Film
If your a Italian Job fan of not get this this is one of the best films i've ever seen much better than 1969 version so BUY IT NOW

Just get the 1969 version...another remake "letdown"!
All that hype?..not only has the story changed from the original, that itself not necessarily a bad thing, but there really are some slow and boring bits that modern technology doesn't make up for. The stars of this NOT ALL THAT BAD movie are the the cars themselves and the all too brief appearance of Donald Sutherland. Get the original 1969 Michael Caine version only to keep...you'll watch that much more than once for sure, storyline, the setting, the cast of actors AND all the classic cars put on a much better show. Five stars for 1969 movie!..subtract two for the "remake". ... Read more

Description

From the best-selling Jack Higgins novel comes this suspenseful thriller about a German officer who takes over a small town as part of a plot to assassinate Winston Churchill. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Non-stop espionage & adventure to please WWII buffs........
At long last, one of my favourite "fictional" World War II films is finally out on DVD and the transfer is excellent all round.

The 1970's was a period where war movies were filled with mercenaries, commando's and full steam ahead action....and "The Eagle has Landed" is no exception, but a better told tale than many others !

John Sturges shows once again why he is one sharpest action / suspense film directors around with this exciting filming of the very popular Jack Higgins novel. What makes this film so enjoyable, and able to withstand repeated viewings is the talented cast at the centre of this twisting tale of spies and espionage. Kurt Steiner (Michael Caine) is the disgraced leader of a group of crack German paratroopers that have been exiled to operate an MTB boat in the English Channel. Opportuntity comes their way in the form of Colonel Radl (Robert Duvall), with an incredible plot to secretly parachute into England and kidnap Winston Churchill from a country retreat. Donald Pleasance turns in a chilling performance as SS leader, Heinrich Himmler...Donald Sutherland in fine form as the IRA ally, Liam Devlin...Larry Hagman is the pompous and foolhardy Colonel Pitts and Treat Willians (in his first movie role) as the wiser and more wary American Ranger, Captain Clark. Jenny Agutter contributes the love interest as Molly Prior, and Jean Marsh puts in a cold blooded display as the Nazi sympathasier, Joanna Grey.

"The Eagle has Landed" has some great twists and turns and never lets the viewer relax as the story holds a keen balance between action, suspense, romance and tragedy. Highly recommended for those who like intrigue and adventure in their WWII movies !!

A highly entertaining and different WWII film that stands out from the rest.

Great Film, Non-Anamorphic and Grainy Transfer
This movie is a first rate action film. It's high adventure and great story telling all the way. My only disappointment is that Amazon says it is "Anamorphic Widescreen" and it is NOT. The picture is grainy and not clean. Sound quality is good, however. It would be a five star DVD otherwise.

My worst DVD in a collection of 200 DVD's
This is the worst DVD ever produced- the visual quality is beyond poor- its blurry grainy awful to watch and the sound sucks also.
To top all of that off the movie is terrible, really really bad, and the acting stinks. This was probably pulled from the theatres the week it was released- I bought this as part of the 2-pack with Hamburger Hill, but this movie sucks and I gave it away the next day.

Above average adaptation of Jack Higgins's book
This version of the Jack Higgins book isn't bad. Fine performances by a varied cast: including, a steely-eyed Michael Caine; a cocky Donald Sutherland; a mysterious Robert Duvall, and the alway eerie Donald Pleasance, as well as a "nasty" turn by Jean Marsh, as a sympathetic villager. Judy Geeson and Jenny Agutter provide a little beauty amongst the "beasts", i.e., the Germans. The "American style" salutes seem out of place, by those playing Germans, e.g., Caine, as opposed to the "heil" salutes. [My tape was marred a little by some "garbled" sound at the end, I'll have to see if there is a DVD version.] I would say that it wasn't bad. There's also an interesting turn by Larry Hagman, of all people, as a "gung ho" American who's attempt to "see action" before he goes home to a "desk job" only gets him killed.

Classic Adventure Film
In spite of an all start cast giving excellent performances, this fanciful, classic WW2 adventure pales in comparison with the book upon which it is based. Having read the novel first, I admit I was sorely disappointed by the film version. However, if you've only seen (and enjoyed) the movie, you will be in for a treat when you read the book! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The 1980s weren't too kind to John Frankenheimer, but this film standsout as a top-notch spy thriller. A Nazi pact to steal a fortune from the Third Reich to aid Holocaust survivors results in a bizarre inheritance 40 years later, with architect Michael Caine having to come to terms with his father's past and the terrifying prospects of a Fourth Reich. The whole thing becomes a metaphor for a witches' covenant. It's exciting and well-paced and full of precious little moments (though Caine and Victoria Tennant fall short of being interesting characters). Supporting actors Mario Adorf, Michael Lonsdale, and Bernard Hepton really shine. The film wasbased on Robert Ludlum's bestseller and coscripted by George Axelrod (The Manchurian Candidate). Terrific audio commentary by the director provides valuable insight--for instance, allowing Lonsdale to carry a long exposition scene through his commanding presence. --Bill Desowitz ... Read more

Reviews (8)

The Director's Edition
Ok, rent the DVD and watch the movie straight through. Then watch it again with John Frankenheimer's audio commentary. It's the only way you can figure this thing out. He explains the plot, which is not Ludlum's complete story. And Ludlum was a very entertaining author, although I think he got paid by the word. In fact, since great chunks of the novel are missing (the ending is completely invented by the screen writers), you need the director giving you notes as you watch. I was surprised that there were 3 writerss credited with the screenplay. That's usually a bad sign to begin with.

The movie is a heck of a lot more interesting to watch with the director's notes, but it doesn't help the plot or pacing, which are deathly dull. Far too much chit-chat, and exposition, exposition, exposition.

Some of the scenes were played in a certain location simply because Frankenheimer found real locations that appealed to him and he just changed the script to accomodate his choice, even if it didn't make a darn bit of sense to the story-line. For example, the scene of the sexual carnival was added simply because Frankenheimer wanted to make a statement about the decadence of Berlin in the '20s and '30s, and for no other reason. The carnival, I learned, was Frankenheimer's total invention; it doesn't actually exist.

The scene of Caine riding a horse is there simply because Frankheimer found a restaurant in Germany with a riding area attached. The scene, however, was set in London, so London buses had to be brought in to convince you that it was London.

The scene where Michael caine says he doesn't drive wasn't in the original script. It was added to cover the fact that Michael Caine doesn't drive and never has. Does knowing this little tid-bit help you enjoy the story? Not for a second. This is sub-rate Frankenheimer.

Only Michael Caine Had Any Class (But Not Much)
It is hard to imagine how any film that stars Michael Caine and is directed by John Frankenheimer could go so wrong in so many ways. There is nothing wrong with any plot that suggests the fall of the Third Reich could lay the seeds for a future resurgent Fourth Reich, but the problem with THE HOLCROFT COVENANT is that things went fuzzy from the start. A Nazi general in Berlin in April of 1945 arranges for billions of US dollars to be used ostensibly to compensate for the atrocities of Hitler's wars of conquest and genocide. He realizes that decades must pass before his son (Caine) would grow to maturity to carry out his grand design. The film suggests, however, that the real purpose of all these billions is not philanthropic at all. There is more than a hint that this general merely used verbal chicanery in his death note to propagate a new Reich. Now if this money were truly intended to spark a new Reich, then the result would have been logical, and hence believable. It is not until the very last two minutes of the film that director Frankenheimer, with no warning, pulls a switch about the true purpose of the legacy.

Caine, of course, tries hard to pull things together, but he gives what is probably the worst performance of an otherwise glittering career. Compare his fumbling Holcroft with the sureness of his recent THE QUIET AMERICAN. It is strange to see and hear Caine look like a bumbling fool who can neither drive a car nor shoot a gun. By the end, however, he somehow matures enough to figure out a convoluted plot and clearly wants his character to be seen as suave, confident, and in control. When he tells the audience how he manages to figure this all out, his explanation makes no more sense than the rest of the plot. On a technical note, the sound track was hard to hear, and the scenes of nudity were thrown in to make sure your attention does not wander, which it did. Rent this only if you are a die-hard Caine fan.

My copy of the DVD was defective,
The DVD lacked some chunks of the movie. There was no viewer menu, no ability to navigate the scenes.

As for the show, it was pretty good. For some reason, however, the bad guys had to prove they were evil by engaging in incest. I guess Hollywood couldn't expect an audience to understand killing for money as a bad thing. The plot is somewhat corny and ripe for satire, but the movie has good production values. Michael Caine plays his role perfectly, of course.

O
I rented John Frankenheimer's "The Holcroft Covenant" back in the late-1980s when I was a big fan of Michael Caine spy movies. This movie is a disappointment.

"The Holcroft Covenant" is one of the very worst films of both actor Michael Caine and director John Frankenheimer. I couldn't make much sense out of the story. The screenplay is absolutely ludicrous. At times, the movie can't seem decide whether it wants to be a bizarre satire or a spy thriller. The superior Caine is absolutely wasted in this picture.

John Frankenheimer simply forgot how to make great movies. As a Frankenheimer film, "The Holcroft Covenant" is even worse than "Dead Bang" and "99 and 44/100% Dead." I am disappointed that the director of the unforgettable "The Manchurian Candidate" made this piece of nonsense. I don't understand why efforts were made to transfer such an inferior Frankenheimer movie from videotape to DVD when the director's vastly superior "The Iceman Cometh" hasn't yet been released to home video in ANY form.

"The Holcroft Covenant" is a failure. For a great Michael Caine spy movie, see "The Ipcress File."

Stank
This film was one confusing blob of a mess. One of the worst films I've ever seen. It made me never want to read a Ludlum novel, since that's what it was based on. When I heard an audiotape of Ludlum's memoirs, and he said how he LIKED this film, it REALLY made me never want to read one of his books. Even Michael Caine in his autobiography says that when he got on the set, he read the script more closely, only then to realize it didn't make any sense. But he was stuck, and had to film the darn thing. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A tightly directed and acted thriller
QUICKSAND is a terrific action drama that wears a good script well acted by a strong cast headed by Michael Keaton and Michael Caine and well directed by fully in-control Director John Mackenzie. The topic of money laundering is particularly timely at this point in our history so gathering information about the ins and outs of this type of scam is apropos. Michael Keaton is an obsessive-compulsive American investigator sent to France in his role as investigator and ends up being setup as an accused assassin. He is forced into escape and into hiding until he uncovers the truth about the company under investigation (actually a porn industry) and with the help of a has-been actor (played superlatively by Michael Caine) finds a way out. The mechanisms for this good guy-bad guy chase and intrigue make for edge-of-the seat suspense. Not a great movie but certainly one of the better intrigue films greatly enhanced by a strong cast of supporting actors in excellent cameo roles. Recommended.

Nice Change Of Pace For Two Great Stars!
Thoroughly enjoyable film, great soundtrack, locations and story.
Miichael Keaton is well-cast as a mild-mannered excecutive whose life is sent into turmoil when he goes to investigate shady deals being made through his company. Michael Caine as always is superb and really has fun with his role as Movie Star Jake Mellows. The supporting cast is great and the plot is well written.
Note: Watch the featurette after you see the film. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's a good thing Sandra Bullock knows her strengths and weaknesses, because without Bullock as star and producer, Miss Congeniality would be an insufferable mess as opposed to being a mildly enjoyable trifle that is custom-made for Bullock's established screen persona. Only Bullock's fans could really appreciate this fluff (even then they'll wish its ripe premise had been more intelligently handled), but it's not without some highlights to accompany Bullock's reliable charms. Here she plays clumsy, nerdy FBI agent Gracie Hart, who is given the horrific pseudonym Gracie Lou Freebush (one example of the movie's juvenile tendencies) when assigned to infiltrate a beauty pageant to investigate threats of a terrorist attack.

Transforming Bullock from frumpy to stunning is a piece of cake (although she gives pageant coach Michael Caine a run for his money), so the movie's premise is trivial at best. More enjoyable is her character's uncouth disdain for pageant contestants and her mistaken perception that they're all a bunch of bimbos. The movie nicely charts Gracie's realization that her own pageant makeover provides a much-needed ego boost. In addition to Caine's effortless scene-stealing, pageant host William Shatner and organizer Candice Bergen are smart choices for comedic support (Shatner's a perfect Bert Parks wannabe), but the movie desperately needs a credible foundation for its comedy to really pay off. Bullock's bureau boss (Benjamin Bratt) is an unconvincing dimwit, and none of the plotting is as smart as say Beverly Hills Cop in combining procedure with laughs. That leaves Bullock to carry the burden of a comedy that just barely works in her favor. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (323)

MINDLESS MERRIMENT
Most reviewers seem to agree that if you suspend your credibility expectations and enjoy this frothy romp for what it is, then MISS CONGENIALITY is okay.I enjoyed watching the film, but didn't laugh as much as I would have expected.Sandra Bullock is a competent actress, smart enough to know what she does well and what her fan base wants from her.Going from the rather unfeminine workaholic nerd to the potentially sophisticated beauty, Bullock works her part heartily and seems to be having a good time.The fellow pageant hopefuls are fun at times, but Cheryl's stupidity (When William Shatner asks her about her ideal "perfect date," she comes up with something like "April 21.") is sometimes too broad.Shatner is fun as the Bert Parks wannabe and Candice Bergen is a scene stealer as the pageant's director with a dark underlying agenda.The movie tries to elevate the necessity for these cattle calls by focusing on the scholarship potential, but MISS CONGENIALITY does little to justify their existence.A fun if forgettable flick!

I LOVETHIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GREAT MOVIE! RECCOMEND IT! ALL THE ACTORS AND ACTRESSES WERE GREAT. THAT= AWESOME!

amuzing
this was funny but, it just wasnt that good i mean it wasnt bad, but it was sooo predictable.And if you think abut it the plot is really stupid

Turn off your brain and let yourself be entertained.
This film has a really horrible reputation, but it's actually not that bad. Once you turn off your brain and stop thinking about the story, it's actually quite good entertainment.

If you hate Sandra Bullock, this film will probably do nothing to change your mind, but I watched it with very low expectations, and got a really positive surprise.

Oh, and the scene with the talent show, at which she's wearing a tyrolean style dress and making the glasses sing - it's just worth the entire movie. I laughed so much I thought I might never stop.

Does it merit a sequel?
Sandra Bullock is fabulous in the role of a tomboyish, gritty, somewhat klutzy FBI agent Gracie Hart. The story is almost a "Pygmalion" or "My Fair Lady" as an urbane Englishman (played by Michael Caine) seeks to transform Gracie into a lady. The reason is that there has been a coded warning that the Miss United States Beauty pageant is going to be victimized by a terrorist attack. Gracie, is needed for the purpose of going undercover, thus she is transformed into "Miss New Jersey."

In addition to the My Fair Lady similarity, there is also an element of "Rooster Cogburn." In that movie, John Wayne is a Marshall who has his badge taken away due to screw ups but, alas, he is recruited back when he is needed to solve a crime. So too, Gracie has just been assigned to desk duty after she has screwed up an operation but, after an exhaustive search for someone to go underecover, she is reactivated when she emerges as the only possible agent for the job. She is reluctant to take on this role but, predictably enough, is cajoled into it. Also, predictably enough, she views her fellow pageant competitors as bubble heads and has a rather disdainful attitude towards them but,as she gets to know them and form relationships, her estimation of them rises as she enters into genuine friendships.

Candace Bergen is well cast as a former pageant winner who is now the director of it. She is sweet and proper on the outside but, has a dark and calculating underside. Given both this portrayal and her physical resemblence, she would be perfect if they ever have to cast someone to play Martha Stewart!!

This movie, despite its predictability, is genuinely entertaining. Now that there is a sequel, the question is whether this has been played out to the point where none is merited. Perhaps, I will ultimately see "Miss Congeiality 2" and give my opinion in a later review. But, standing on its own, this DVD is fun entertainment and I enjoyed it. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Making a game out of real murder...and making it fun.
The idea of a movie with only two actors in it may not sound overly exciting, but when you watch "Sleuth" for the first time, you realize that it couldn't have worked any other way. For many years, "Sleuth" has been one of my favorite movies, and remains so to this day. It is cleverly written and superbly acted by both Michael Caine (my all time favorite actor) and Sir Laurence Olivier.

The tag line "Think of the perfect crime...then go one step further" describes exactly what the movie is all about. Olivier plays Andrew Wyke, an eccentric and revered mystery writer invites Milo Tindle (Caine) over to his mansion over a weekend in order to discuss the terms of his affair with his wife. Wyke is known as a lover of toys, games, and deviously cunning games of trickery that he plays on people. Wyke has known for some time that Tindle has been having an affair with his wife, and that he intends to marry her. Wyke sees an opportunity to unload his wife, without the possibility of her coming back and getting deeper into his pocketbook. Knowing him to be broke, Wyke proposes to Tindle a robbery scheme that will solve both of their problems. Things got a bit awry. What happens next would be criminal to give away, but it is one of the most brilliantly crafted farces I have ever seen in a movie.

"Sleuth" was adapted from the stage play by Anthony Shaffer, and it plays out very much like the play itself. There is one setting, two actors, and lots of dialogue. It works very well, because it wasn't overdone in production. I cannot see how this could have worked with a more elaborate setting or cast. What carries the movie are the performances by Caine and Olivier, which ranks among their personal best (and picking ones from such distinguished careers is hard). Their interaction between each other is riveting, since their characters are so cunning. "Sleuth" was made in 1971, and 30 years on, every aspect of the movie has aged well. It is one of those movies that makes time stand still, and you are unaware that 2 hours has gone by at the end of it. That is the token of a great movie.

The Anchor Bay DVD boasts the best transfer and sound quality of "Sleuth" so far, though the previous versions were also very good (including the VHS, which is rare for older movies). The main supplement is the 20 minute featurette "A Sleuthian Journey with Anthony Shaffer", in which the famous playwright is interviewed on his experiences with the play, the making of the movie, and his interactions with the filmmakers. He is jovial and gives plenty of fun anecdotes throughout the interview. Aside from that, there are talent bios and the usual trailers and TV spots. Considering the age and modest budget, not much in the way of extras should be expected.

"Sleuth" is a rare movie that I can watch over and over again, and I am pleased to see that Anchor Bay did justice to the movie with this excellent (and modestly priced) DVD. An easy purchase for any movie fan.

LABYRINTH MAN
Adapted for the screen by Anthony Schaffer, the author of the play, and directed by one of the legends of Hollywood, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, SLEUTH is the perfect movie for you if you like excellent actors, Laurence Olivier and Michaël Caine for instance, a subtle plot with unexpected twists and a superior cinematography.

I was amazed by the admirable production design of the movie. Laurence Olivier's mansion is a dream come true, every objects appearing on the screen seem to have a priceless value and the rooms, including the cellar, are little museums. Joseph L. Mankiewicz had to nail the audience in some way because SLEUTH is not a play with a lot of characters and could have discouraged the viewer if the director hadn't been such a talent. Another (innocent) trick of Mankiewicz is to film the puppets or the masks as if they were alive, you always have the feeling that the characters are not alone in the mansion.

One can regret that the Anchor Bay DVD presents only a scene access and no english subtitles. The image quality was, in my opinion, rather good, without black or white spots. Sound, on the contrary, could have been better.

A DVD for the smart ones.

"Be sure and tell 'em... it was just...a bloody game."
"Sleuth" stars Michael Caine as the young hair-dresser "Milo Tindle" and Laurence Olivier as an upper-crust mystery writer "Andrew Wyke".

Michael Caine is having an affair with the wife of Andrew Wyke. Wyke invites Milo to his country manor to discuss a plan whereby Milo would "rob" Wyke of some expensive jewels, sell them to a pre-arranged fence in Amsterdam, and get enough money to afford Wyke's wife, thus freeing up Wyke to live with his own mistress (and get the insurance money for the stolen jewels.)

Wyke outlines the complexities of the plan, which involve Milo dressing in different clothes, breaking into the house, blowing up a safe, etc, to make it appear to be a legitimate robbery.

There are many appealing aspects to the movie. First is the character of Andrew Wyke, a famous writer of a series of detective-fiction wherein the main character, Lord Merridew, always outwits the rather bumbling police force to solve the crime. Second is Wyke's hobbies, which run the gamut from an ancient chess-like board game, a jigsaw puzzle that is only a white rectangle, and various assorted collectibles such as a full-sized animated sailor dummy. Wyke's gameplaying attitude is extended to the plan of the fake robbery. The third compelling aspect of the movie is the witty, sparring dialogue between Wyke and Tindle.

Although at first, the two characters try to maintain a slightly forced friendly rivaly, but as the robbery unfolds, it becomes clear that Wyke in fact resents Milo and his wife's affair, and is actually setting up Milo to be killed as a burglar. In a series of plot twists I won't reveal, Wyke humiliates Tindle and sends him away. However, Tindle gets the last laugh, literally, in the end.

A long-time favorite movie of mine, it earned best actor nominations for both Olivier and Caine, and a nomination for director Mankiewicz. The DVD has a 23 minute "interview" by playwright Anthony Shaffer, chapters and a trailer.

St. John Lord Merridew's "Death by Double Fault"
Sleuth is Anthony Schaffer's play of mystery and murder brought to the screen. If you are an Oxford scholar you will have no problem with this film. Others may require a dictionary as this is a very erudite work. You also cannot blink, cough, or let your mind wander for a moment or you will lose your place as to what is happening. I say these things because they are true and because it is one of the most intelligent scripts ever brought to the screen. I can only compare the "Brideshead Revisited" script that was done by John Mortimer to match this production from 1972. Michael Caine was at his best, and although Oliver's performance on screen seems top notch, if you have read anything on the making of this film it was reported that he had trouble learning his lines among other distractions. The SETS on this film are memorable! VERY EXPENSIVE and CUSTOM games are everywhere.The music is VERY atmospheric, from the harpsichord improvs to the old Cole Porter tunes. Unusual in that it features only two men without the mandatory love interest that pervades every American picture but their duels do concern a love relationship with women of mutual acquaintance. Oliver is a mystery writer who has a character, St. John Lord Merridew solve all the plots ala' Hercule Poirot. The play and film are tributes to the classic detective fiction of the golden age of the 1930's. "Where every cabinet minister had a thriller by his beside and all detectives were titled." He uses his talent in mystery to entice and trap Michael Caine (his wife's current lover) in a series of games of death within the mansion meant to scorn and ridicule by upper class methods and put a trumped up pantry boy in his place! Caine turns the tables as Inspector Doppler drops by and makes Oliver believe he is going to jail for murder. Eventually the duels lead Oliver to crack under insults to his manhood and he performs the ultimate deed at the untimely arrival of the real police and sees his world that he created of games end in real life tragedy.

Fun & Games With Two Fine Actors
1972's Sleuth is literally a two-man show, with Olivier and Caine matching each other scene for scene in this lengthy 2-hour, 18-minute story revolving around some rather unusual parlor games.

It's a pleasure to watch these two actors at work (or is it "play"?). I've never enjoyed Mr. Caine more.

It's quite unusual to see a movie with the entire cast comprising just two people! And each of them does a bloody good job of holding our interest till the end.

I would certainly recommend this top-notch tongue-in-cheek murder mystery. ... Read more