Amazon.com

Half of the characters in this 1988 John Landis potboiler seem to be played either by Eddie Murphy or costar Arsenio Hall, swaddled in elaborate Rick Baker makeup appliances that render them unrecognizable but also weirdly immobile. As a pampered African prince who journeys incognito to Queens, New York, to find a bride who will love him just for himself, Murphy manages to look smug and naive at the same time. There are enjoyable sequences of Murphy's Prince Akeem applying his lordly manner to his new job in a fast-food emporium, and falling for the boss's spirited daughter (Shari Headley), who teaches him how to party down, American style. But the fish-out-water premise is never fully exploited. Star spotters will have a field day locating Cuba Gooding Jr., Donna Summer, Louie Anderson, Vondie Curtis Hall, E.R.'s Eriq La Salle, and Samuel L. Jackson in their minuscule supporting roles. --David Chute ... Read more

Reviews (68)

Hilarious classic that will live in our hearts forever!!!
This is one of my all time-favorite African-American movies. First of all, Eddie Murphy is hilarious (in all of his roles). Arsenio Hall is a perfect foil for Eddie's hijinks. Eddie let his full range of talent show in this film; he played an innocent person who grows into a mature adult right in front of our eyes and realizes that there is a price to pay for love; whether or not you are born into royalty. This is one of those movies that a person watches over and over again and ends up reciting the lines as the movies is playing. James Earl Jones and Madge Sinclair are wonderful in this movie as well as the King and Queen. Madge Sinclair was one of the world's best actresses and I miss her greatly. She tells James Earl Jones "put a sock in it, Geoffrey, the boy is in love." Nobody can deliver that line to a black king, except a black queen. John Amos, (whom I have loved since Good Times), is a great actor as well. He plays the part of a black businessman so well, and as a father he takes no stuff off of the King. He tells James Earl Jones, "I will break my foot off in your royal _____); now that's a ghetto father for you. James Earl Jones knew where to draw the line with Cleo McDowell.

I also like the fact that the Kingdom of Zamunda was filled with kindness, and the people were happy, the royal family was truly wealthy and had everything. You know, this movie is truly a fantasy and helps us escape from our everyday lives. Just to see the Queen and King eating breakfast and talking to their son on a "speaker phone" because the table is so long, is funny. The King and Queen taking their entourage to Queens when they received the telegram to send $1 million to Semmi who had spent up all his pocket change is one of my favorite scenes. That music that is playing during the sequence when the entourage arrives in Queens is so wonderful, moving and swirling, I am buying the soundtrack just to get that song. When I get married, I would like that song to play as my "court" walks down the aisle before me.

All the cameos in this movie are great as well. Nobody can play a doped-up thug like Samuel L. Jackson; Samuel is a natural at playing a killer. Also, Louie Anderson was funny, so was Eriq LaSalle, and Alison Dean.

Now the guys in the barbershop have to be taken from classic characters in the black community. In all the black neighborhoods I have been in during my whole life; there has got to be a black barbershop full of men eating, talking stuff, and cutting hair. When "Clarence" says that Martin Luther King, Jr. ran up to him and hit him in the chest, I just crack up, cause Martin Luther King, Jr. was a prophet of non-violence. And, Eddie Murphy playing a white man is too funny, and a Jewish white man on top of that. Now, that takes creativity; and comic genuis, and Eddie's got it. And, Arsenio's portrayal of Rev. Brown is right on target, there is always some country preacher in the neighborhood that comes to every event, eats up the food, and blesses the weddings, blesses the children, and buries the dead.

One of my favorite parts is when Lisa tells Prince Akeem, she cannot marry him; because he lied to her about his identity. That made Akeem grow up very fast, and learn that nobody; no matter who he is, can buy love.

The clothes in this movie are also wonderful. Deborah Nadoolman did a great job showing how royalty would dress in a foreign country where it is warm, Also, how they would dress in Queens during the winter; those fur coats Madge Sinclair had on were fantastic and so were the suits worn by the King himself. His coat of an entire lion's skin was dramatic and the diamond eyes on that lion's head were cool.

The ending this cinderella story was great, love did really win out in the end.

Well, I could go on and on about how much I liked this movie but, I am going to stop now. Get this movie and keep it in your video collection so you can watch it and laugh over and over.

FUNNY !
This is a feel good movie with the main players being Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall. Young Prince Akeem is about to be wed to a beautiful woman, but the problem is he does not love this women. He decides he will travel to Queens, NY In America and find his true love. Now how does a pampered Africian Prince
survive in Queens. Soon he falls in love with his bosses daughter and the story takes you through a tender courtship.
I loved her father, and the King and Queen were priceless!
This was a really fun movie! The wedding scenes at the end were beautiful and my favorite part. Well worth your time to watch!
Qute enjoyable!

F U N N Y
I love this movie. There is nothing I can complain about. This is Eddie Murphy at his Best. This is when Eddie and Arsenio was the BOMB. Every scene makes you laugh. Do you see Samuel Jackson in one of his early roles? Also, ER's Eric LaSalle in his Jeri Curl. This movie is wonderful. I can watch it over and over and over again and laugh at the Soul Glow commercials, because everyone in my area wore a Jerri Curl that looked that nasty. This is a must own.

Fun Relaxed Comedy
Coming to America cheerfully pokes fun at everything. There isn't really a meanspirited moment in the movie. A spoiled Afican Prince comes to Queens, NYC to live a normal life & find his true love. Queens for a future king, get it? The humor isn't exactly highbrow but its constant and Arsenio Hall is hilarious.

Five star cast in a hilariously funny film "fit for royalty"
Coming to America is truly the creme de la creme of the comedic genre. I have watched this movie many times, and never can resist throwing my head back and laughing out loud in total glee. Sometimes I even admit to falling right off the couch in fits of laughter!

Murphy's principal role in the movie is that of Prince Akeem, with Arsenio Hall as his sidekick and personal servant Semi (though both play numerous other minor roles with the help of elaborate makeup to disguise the fact). Promised in marriage to a beautiful woman raised from birth to please him, Akeem finds himself dissatisfied with the very idea of an arranged marriage. He wants to select a wife with a mind of her own who loves him for himself.

Hence Akeem's decision to leave the kingdom of Zamunda to travel to America. Unaware of his son's true purpose for the trip, King Jaffre Jafur decrees that Akeem simply needs to take a trip to "sow his royal oats." James Earl Jones as the King, and Madge Sinclair as the Queen are hilarious in their roles as Akeem's parents.

Akeem and Semi leave their luxurious lifestyle in the palace behind and end up in Queens, NY, posing as "average Americn students." They secure jobs at a knockoff of McDonald's, owned by Mr. McDowell (engagingly portrayed to hilarious effect by John Amos) and his daughters Lisa and Patrice. Falling hard for the eldest daughter Lisa (Shari Headley), Akeem competes with her boyfriend, Darrell(Eric LaSalle), the arrogant, smooth talking heir to the "Soul Glo" hair product fortune, for her affections. The numerous conflicts and silly situations that stem from this will keep you in stitches.

Blessed with an EXCELLENT cast who each make the utmost of their roles (those mentioned previously, plus Samuel L.Jackson, Louie Anderson, Don Ameche and others), truly funny material, witty dialogue, and a delightful feel-good ending, Coming to America is a movie not to be missed. I hope you enjoy this frothy funfilled comedy as much as I did! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Think of it as a male version of Waiting to Exhale. The Brothers similarly features four good friends who offer each other advice and support as they navigate the strange and treacherous waters of romantic relationships. Jackson (Morris Chestnut) is a doctor with serious commitment problems; he has dreams about a woman in a bridal gown aiming a gun at him. Brian (Bill Bellamy) is a lawyer with a caustic view of the opposite sex, inspired in large part by his untrusting and unaffectionate mother; he also has commitment problems. Upwardly mobile professional Terry (Shemar Moore) is a well-muscled womanizer who's finally decided to settle down, but as the wedding draws close it becomes clear that he, too, has commitment problems. Fortunately, the fourth member of the quartet, Derrick (D.L. Hughley), is married and devoted to his family--except that his wife refuses to engage in anything but straight missionary sex, which Derrick sees as manipulative. The Brothers depicts a glamorous world in which everyone is good-looking and well dressed; the number of characters makes it hard to delve into anyone's life with any depth, but the actors are engaging and the script makes an effort to look at the "battle of the sexes" from both sides. The immensely charming Gabrielle Union (from Bring It On) plays the girl who just might convince Jackson to give up his single ways. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (45)

impressed
This movie is about true friendship triumphing over a number of impositions. The friendship first between the four main characters, the brothers get over their own self pride, to realise that friendship is support, not just giving your own opinion. Morris Chestnut who plays his role extremely well is just an average man with the fears every man has, he is afraid to commit to any woman, or when he does it always seems to turn bad for him because he just doesnt give it his all. Until the ever so talented and beautiful Gabrielle Union(Denise), comes into his life. He makes it obvious that he is not interested in a relationship. This doesnt last long as sex drags its arse into it, to find out the rest u would have to watch it, you will not be disappointed, this movie is definetly for everyone. 5 thumbs up. Enjoy.

Oh brother.....what a disappointment this movie is.
The Brothers tries to copy Waiting to Exhale. However that film adaptation made the same mistake this film makes: The four men do not become characters who tell their own stories; they become caricatures of types of black men we all know. These stereotypes include the misogynist, the womanizer, the family man and the nice guy who finishes last. If these are the good brothers then I'm worried. Most of these guys only cared about money, clothes, cars and sex. I wanted some dimension to their personalities that would make them into real people onscreen.
There was a great story here sadly, the writer couldn't tell it because the shallow producers decided to show pretty pictures of handsome actors wearing expensive designer clothes driving nice cars living in the lap of luxury. I wondered where the character development was. The relationships the Brothers have with the each other seemed contrived. These actors never bonded like "Brothers." There was no chemistry between them; the only thing they had in common was the paycheck they got for this film. "Brother" means someone you're very close to; I didn't get that feeling watching these four guys onscreen.
The relationships these "Brothers" have with the women in their lives seemed convoluted as well. Falling in love in this film happens overnight; there is no natural progression to the romance. Morris Chestnut's character meets Gabrielle Union in the park, in one frame they meet and the next they're in bed and in another they're in love. Their big conflict: She used to date his Father-come on! Shemar Moore's character is saying he's a reformed womanizer and is getting married after having a two-month relationship! He gets cold feet and his jilted lover comes back to attack him with a gun in the climax of the film. DL Hughley says he wants to divorce his wife for not orally pleasuring him. Bill Bellamy's character is a misogynist because his mother treated him badly. I kept waiting for the stories of these brothers to get interesting but they went nowhere at all.
I found a surprising amount of misogyny in the undertones of this movie. Why were all the women dressed in low-cut belly baring shirts? Why did the DL Hughley character feel he should divorce his wife because he wanted oral sex? Why were all the girlfriends dressed so sexy in most of the scenes? Where was the respect for the sisters? I'd like to have seen some balance in this film; show us some positive images of strong black women standing next to the images of positive black men.
I hate to give this film a bad review. I know everyone who worked on it was trying to create a positive message about responsible black men. However the whole movie comes off as shallow and half-hearted. I give props to DL Hughley, Shemar Moore Morris Chestnut, Bill Bellamy, Gabrielle Union, Tamala Jones, Marla Gibbs and the rest of the cast for their work on this film, but I really expected the writer, producers and director to do a better job with this film. Rent if you really have to see it.

Male version of Waiting to Exhale
Okay the movie is not fantastic, but I liked it anyway. 4 men in different stages of their relationships. I pretty much thought of the movie as a Male version of Waiting to Exhale. Jackson (Morris Chestnut) has major commitment problems. Brian (Bill Bellamy) you will eventually figure out his relationship woes are due to the relationship he had with his mom giving him his jaded views on love. Terry (Shemar Moore) finally decides to settle down, and right before the big day, he let's his commitment phobia shine through. Derrick (D.L. Hughley), is married and devoted to his family. His problem? His wife refuses to have oral sex with him, and it's causing serious isses with their relationship. The movie has some funny moment and the acting though not academy award winning was decent. I happen to love the movie and I've watched my copy a few times.

I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!
Why? Because it was great to finally see a movie with some brothers who weren't gang bangers, had jobs, and discuss their relationships and fears/frustrations the same way women do. I only hope that black hollywood can keep churning out movies like this because it is needed.

Morris Chestnut does a great job as usual, looking fine as ever. Shemar Moore, Bill Bellamy and DL Hughley (who is funnier here than on his own show) are fantastic as well. I'm sure you have seen/read the reviews and know the plot--so what are you waiting for? Go buy the damm DVD and check it out!

Didn't like it too much
I tried to get into this movie, but it just didn't click with me mainly because I don't like Gabrielle Union. She's just not a good actress to me. She's alright when she's playing the antagonist role to the main character because I don't have to like her, but when she's playing the lead role and I'm forced to cheer for her, it just doesn't work for me. But besides my dislike for Miss Union, I still didn't get into this film I guess because it was like the male version of Waiting to Exhale and being a woman I couldn't relate. Also another thing that bothered me was that the male leads didn't really mesh well together as best friends, it was like they were just forced together. Don't get me wrong I love all of the male leads, but together they just didn't click. ... Read more

Reviews (207)

Superb
A fantastically well-written T.V mini seires that explores the troubled lives of each of The Temptations and their rise and fall on the music scene. The Temptations were one of Motowns hottest and most versatile acts with their carefully planned chorography on stage and their diverse ranmge of shimmering harmonies on record. An interesting aspect of the series early sequences are when they are first introduced to Motown Records and its fun to see portrayals of the great Motown legends such as Diana Ross, Martha Reeves, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson. Interestingly enough Diana Ross' daughter, Rhonda Ross makes an apperance in the film playing the troubled Paul Williams wife. The sequences where the group are seen performing Papa Was A Rolling Stone and Paul Williams is about to shoot himself are moving and the funeral is sure to get a lump in your throat (where Smokey Robinson himself appears). The film also carefully chronicles David Ruffins fall from grace as he steadily declined into cocaine addiction andalso continually mentally and physically tortued his wife, Tammi Terrell. The ending sees the grop reunirted when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.
The performances are excellent, the 60's ambience such as the nightclubs and drug culture are superbly evoked and the stage performances are mastered to perfection. Recommended.

Engrossing, enl;ightening, bittersweet...The Temptations
The Temptations on VHS or DVD (we recommend DVD becasue of its great advantages and special features) is one of the better made for TV miniseries to come along in a long time.

Although its 3-hour length still leaves many unanswered questions, the spectacular songs (of which all on stage performances except for "My Girl" and "Cloud Nine" were sung by the actors) and excellent perfomances by the actors make this movie one that you can enjoy time and time again.

The actors who portray Paul Williams, Eddie K., David Ruffin, Melvin Franklin and Otis Williams have all done their homework and then some. The DVD is only $13.99, cheaper than the video, so opt for the DVD.

This film highlights the life of the Temps from the eyes of its founder, Otis, and from the very beginning,when Otis meets Al (Eldridge Bryant--one of the first Temps prior to his dismissal)at a hop in Detroit, the movie kicks off in high gear. Excellent performances by "The Cadillacs,' ("Some people call me Speedo"), Leon (Johnson) of "Cool Runnings" Fame, Christan Payton and an unforgettable performance by Eddie Kendricks--so well done it seems like the real Kendricks--means you will this DVD watch again and again. Our favorite parts include the Copacabana scenes, "My Girl," auditioning for Berry at Motown's Hitsville USA, the whole Ruffin performance by Leon, "Just My Imagination," "Papa Was A Rolling Stone," Otis & The Distants at St. Stevens Hall with the Primes and the Primettes (Paul, Eddie and the soon to be Supremes) and a great performance by Smokey - both the actor and the real life Smokey himself in a special song at the Melvin Franklin Funeral. Buy this DVD. It will be the best $14 you'll ever spend on a movie. Fun for the WHOLE Family!!!

an amazing movie
i have to be honest i really wasn't all that interested in the movie,at first anyway...i first saw the movie while i was in the wonderful city of detroit, michigan... i went to hitsville, usa,(the motown museum), i found the location where paul williams shot himself, where david ruffin was buried, where all five the the classic five lived, and basically roamed their old stomping grounds. this was an amazing experience for me, probably the most interesting... during all of this chaos of me getting all exited about everything there is to see in detroit, i had the honor of speaking with one of david ruffin's children, david ruffin jr. well that topped it all off...this was all before i watched the movie, so of course i didn't know how truly amazing it was standing in studio a where they recorded until i watched the movie... i was bawling by the end, it was an amazing movie although it isn't all completely true, like on the new years scene al really sent paul to the hospital, and melvin really passed on in a hospital in los angeles, it was the best movie i've seen... so to all the actors who where in this movie, you really gave me a completely different look at motown, thank you otis, and everyone who produced the movie... and i have to say, Leon, you were wonderful in the five heart beats, little richard, i have watched your movies, you're an amazing actor and i hope to see you in more movies in the future...

History in the making! To be enjoyed for generations.
This is one of the greatest movies of all times! The characters come alive. As I watch it, I have to remind myself that the characters on the television are not the real Temptations. It is spooky, but I get a selfish satisfaction knowing that I can experience the beauty and the sadness of the Temptations whenever I choose. My ten-year-old is even hooked on it. We watch it at least once a week and he swears that he sings like Eddie and Paul! In fact, he does. Go figure! It gives me comfort to know that the genius of The Temptations has been integrated into another, younger generation.

What makes this movie so wonderful is that it takes us back to the times when music really meant something and touched us on a deeper level. Each time that I watch it I am transported to a time when the melody of a voice could melt away the pains of a troubled society. Don't get me wrong, there were problems with segregation and wars, but there was an innocence that I long to return to. I hope that Paul, David, Eddie, and Melvin are resting in peace. Their music changed the face of entertainment and now their stories have truly changed my perception of the world.

I say all of this to say that this movie is a must have for Temptations fans as well as for those who want a break from all of the ugliness in the world.

I can't resist this temptation!!!!
I love this movie! I can watch it over and over and over again, especially the performances. ... Read more

Description

Nicole Taylor (Renee Goldsberry) postpones law school to be withRobbie, the love of her life. Ambitious, intelligent, successful and irresistible… he waseverything a woman wanted. Until one night at a party celebrating Robbie’s success, shepainfully discovers that she was just a pit stop on his roadmap through life. She leavesLos Angeles to start a new life in San Francisco, where she moves in with her best friendLisa (LisaRaye) and gets a job waiting tables at Toomies, a jazz supper club. Nicole’scaught by surprise when Lisa leaves for a month, subletting her room to Brian (TerronBrooks), Robbie’s estranged younger brother. Brian has wandered the globe the past fewyears escaping the pressures of his family name and all that comes with it.Forced toshare living and work spaces, Nicole and Brian can’t avoid each other. As their attractiongrows, they are also forced to deal with their painful pasts to open themselves to anotherchance at love… ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Get it today!
Man! I loved this movie. I have had this movie for about a month and I've watched it at least 10 times - maybe more. This is like the black version of "When Harry Met Sally" - only better. A struggling, but extremely talented singer and a misguided law school dropout become roommates. But the catch is the singer, Terron Brooks, is the brother of the former law student's (Rene' Goldsberry) ex-boyfriend. These two characters find out that they have more in common than they think, and in the meantime fall in love with each other.

If you like love stories, and you are hungry to see black people portrayed in a way that is hardly ever seen on film, you will love this movie. Brooks' and Goldsberry's performances are fresh and witty. And the music is off the chain!

I have to own this movie!!!
I rented this from Blockbuster, and I have to tell you, I enjoyed this movie tremendously!! The acting is superb (Terron Brooks, who was great as Eddie Kendricks in the Temptations movie is a fantastic singer and actor)! I would say that this is the type of love story where you are rooting for these two people to definitely get together. The only drawback is that the deleted scene "one year later", should have been added to the movie.

I wish there was a soundtrack to this because as another reviewer said, the music is very relaxing..."Quiet Storm" music if there can be another word to describe.

I recommend this movie wholeheartedly.

Wonderful, Uplifting and not just a chick flick
This movie was a very pleasant surprise. And totally refreshing. I will have no problem recommending it to my parents, friends, co-workers and letting my teenager watch it. The story grabbed me immediately and I think I loved it so much because I could relate to the characters. And the music!!!! After viewing the movie, I got the soundtrack and haven't stopped listening to it. This one is a keeper and everyone should have it in their collection.

The hope that I needed!!!!
This was such a pleasant movie to watch and I never expected it to touch me as much as it did when I found out I'd had so much in common with the character of Nicki. Without giving away the story, I will have to own this one to watch again. It's very positive and hopeful....and perfectly timed in my case.
I hope to find love like that someday.

Wonderful love story!!!!
I really enjoyed this movie. This was such a sweet love story Nicole is in love with Robbie who is planning on a future without her. She is distraught, and moves to another city to get a fresh start. Her roommate Lisa informs her that she had to sublet the apartment, and her new roommate will be her ex's brother. Nicole is not pleased, and begs her to tell Brian that he can't have the apartment. Brian does not get the message, and he shows up at the apartment. She tries to avoid him, but eventually she warms up to him. There is an attraction, but she is really scared about allowing herself to be so vulnerable, but she can't deny the attraction. They both have issues to resolve. Her issue is dealing with her ex who is pursuing her now that she has left. Her other issue is realizing that someone her ex told her was only a college friend is actually his ex fiancé. The movie has a GREAT cast. The chemistry between Nicole and Brian was really great!! Rockmond Dunbar has a part in this movie, but his part in the movie did not totally make sense to me. I guess he was just the rebound guy, but that was never established. The songs in the movie were really great also. You will laugh, and there are scenes that really touch your hear. I enjoyed this movie so much I plan to buy it. If you are looking for a good love story with a great cast, then you have to see this movie!!! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Good Movie
This is a good movie. I never even heard of Matty Rich, and was unaware of the movie altogether until stumbled across it this year. I was thoroughly impressed with the performances of Larenz Tate and Jada Pinkett Smith.

As an aspiring writer myself, I look forward to hearing a lot more from Mr. Rich in the nearing future. I thought the film was well developed, with a believable plot, and excellent development of character. I also enjoyed the fact that the character in which Mr. Tate was sheltered about a lot of things that in today's society is considered the norm for some minorities. I appreciated that because in a society of where today's youth are so bombarded with so many different things, and it is progressively getting worse as of this writing, it is good to have African Americans portrayed in roles that are less than the norm.

I applaud Mr.Rich for his creativity and for gleaning on events that somehow magnificently pulled this incredible movie together.

Summer of '76
The comparisions to "Summer of '42" are inevitable. But aside from the coming of age story of both films, they are completely different. The "Inkwell" is essentially a Shaggy Dog tale that flows nicely from beginning to end. Give credit for Matty Rich's abililty to create an authentic '70's atmoshphere with the use of very little of that era's well known music ("Dancing Machine" and "Let's Get It On" are the only two). ...

What Hostile Reviews!
How often dow we see movies about a teenage brother's coming of age that aren't violent or gang-related? Matty Rich(whatever he's doing now) did a superb job directing this film about an awkward teen vacationing with his parents in Martha's Vineyard visiting his well-to-do relatives.
He falls for the snot-nose Lauren who uses him to get back at her boyfriend who dropped her. Meanwhile he is also looking out for a married woman whose husband is cheating on her with other women.
It's a movie about growing up and what it means to be a person. Do all black movies have to be based on gang warfare and lewed sexual conduct?

I liked it
This was an interesting little flick about a troubled teen who escapes with his feuding parents to Martha's vineyard for a
mini-vacation after he nearly burns down the house. "The Inkwell" is the Black section of Martha's Vineyard. Set in the '70s,
this is a retro film that evokes a real sense of the period.

Granted, this movie does have its weak points, but I thought the overall product was not bad. Larenz Tate has proven himself
to be a chameleon morphing from a psychopath killer in "Menace to Society" to this odd character and then later becomes a
suave wordsmith in 1997's "Love Jones." He does well in this coming-of-age flick that explores a little shown facet of black life -- the upper middle class. Though the relatives who owned the house on the Vineyard seemed a little pretentious at first (Glynn Turman and Vanessa Bell Calloway), we see that they honestly love their family. Even the brother-in-laws with the conflicting political views (Republican Vs Black Panther) manage to make peace with each other in the end.

Drew (Larenz Tate) really was a weird character, but at least the role was a departure from the black male stereotype of the
cool thug. At least Matty Rich was not afraid to take a chance here with a different type of lead character. Jada Pinkett was
very good here as the spoiled rich girl who wraps the poor, socially-inept Drew around her little finger. And although his role was minor, Morris Chestnut was a convincing (and foine!) philanderer.

My one major complaint is with the mother daughter conflict. Although the two make up in the end, you never really knew what
they were beefing about. That could have been fleshed out a little more, but I liked that this movie was about a family trying to reconnect with each other. And I also liked that the characters were not total stereotypes. If only more Black filmmakers would take risks instead of giving us the same tired story again and again.

Not bad period flavor, but YECHHH!
Being that I was 12 during the Summer of 1976 when this film took place, I'll agree that they got some of the period flavor of the era correct (outrageously fake afros aside), but this movie stinks to high heaven as a whole. Not only for the atrocious acting and meandering story, but for the ending with the father (Glynn Turman)congratulating his young teenaged son for bedding down a GROWN MARRIED WOMAN!? What kind of MESS is that to show in this day and age? This one needs to be outta here like "London After Midnight!" ... Read more

Reviews (12)

"Oh no! It's Bebe's kids!"
First of all, allow me to clear the air about something: I don't know what bootleg video store the reviewer from Walluby,WA visits, but there is no scene where the kids gun down the pizza guy. That's absolutely ridiculous!
Anyway, this movie is based on the stand-up comedy of the late Robin Harris. For those interested in the film, I think a good way to think of this movie might be "The Problem Child" time three - only funnier! Faizon Love did an excellent job as Robin, but the most memorable (and most hillarious!) voice casting was Tone Loc as the baby Pee Wee. Also, the voice of Kahill (the son of Robin's love interest) was performed by Marques Houston of the group Immature.
This film offers a commentary on a disintegrating society's effect on the younger generation and emphasizes the importance of role models in childrens' lives. But enough of that....SEE THIS MOVIE!

TEST TUBE BABY
If you know someone with bad.. kids, babysit bad kids, or have any, you'll LOVE THIS MOVIE. No doubt about it. Of course if you were a bad kid, you'll love it also. It might bring back memories.

The movie starts at funeral. Robin meets the lovely Jamika. While Jamika drives home Robin, she picks up her loving and respectable son, Leon from the babysiter. They all become fast friends. Robin asked Jamika on a date on Friday night. Jamika says " If you wanna get better acquainted with me and my son, you should take us somewhere fitting like FUNWORLD" Robins response? "No problem. I'll pick you up Saturday at 10:00".

Robin goes to Jamika's house and learns she must take three bad ... kids that she babysits for her friend BeBe, also. Their names are LaShawn ( a hood rat chick), Kahlil (a trouble making young boy) and PeeWee (a deep voice baby with a pamper followed by flies). Bebe left $20 to get her kids in Funworld while she goes downtown to handle some things. Robins day couldnt be worse when he learns his ex-wife Dorothea is at Funworld also with her non-stop eating friend, Vivian spying on Robin and Jamika's every move while they are free from the 4 kids.

I've seen this movie 1000 times and I love it. The youngest a child should be to see this movie is 10. IT HAS NAUGHTY LANGUAGE. Besides that, The movie is CRAZY funny.

Bad Hotlen Kids
I think BeBe Kids is a loveable movie and its so funny because
everytime I watch it It cracks me up. And one thing about
Robbins old girlfriend she needs to stop harassing Robbin
she needs to find he own boyfriend and leave him alone.
Them bad,rude,kids need to sit they tells down and listen to
what Robbin needs to say,and they also need to stop picking on
Leon, because Leon is a good boy until he got rude and bad to.
You know what? what gets on my nerves is them three kids moma
should of stayed home like she was apose to. I think she never
did raise her kids right. You know what they are they are SPOILD
thats what they are JUST SPOILD, And then ant got no food and no
money. What kind of mess is that.

The best animated comedy ever!
I never laughed as hard as I did the first time I saw this movie. It is hilarious! I highly recommend it.

A Slick well made animated film, which is more for adults.
When a man named Robin Harris (Voiced by Faizon Love) dates a beautiful woman (Voiced by Vanessa Belle Calloway), while he`s bringing his date and her child (Voiced by Wayne Collins Jr) but it`s worse, when he agress to babysit also his new girlfriend three kids (Voiced by Jonell Green, Marques Huston and Tone Loc), which they are very troublemaking kids but it gets even more worse, when they go in a Theme Park and all hell breaks loose.

Directed by Bruce W. Smith made a entertaining anamation film, which is The Simpsons meets Alvin and the Chipmunks. This film is a Tribute to Robin Harris brand of sense of humor. This has become a Cult Hit on Video than it did in Theaters. A well made film, which is more for the adults than children. Grade:B+. ... Read more

Description

The life of a successful novelist (played by Vanessa Bell Calloway) begins to unravel when the IRS threatens her with the possibility of serving jail time for tax evasion.She seeks refuge with family and friends and tries to get her life back on track, but soon finds that the fame and fortune of her public life now causes her to do things she never suspected she was capable of doing. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

ANOTHER GREAT MOVIE FROM BET
THIS MOVIE IS JUST ONE OF MANY THAT I HAVE PURCHASED AND ENJOYED BY BET. AS ALWAYS,THE MOVIE IS WELL PRODUCED. THE ACTING AND CAST ARE SUPERB AND IT IS WORTH PURCHASING.

BET Films Finally Gets Something Right!
I recently bought this DVD and I really enjoyed it. I always loved Vanessa Bell Calloway. She's a great actress who's been underrated for way too long. I was happy to see her in a starring role. It's been a while.

The film starts off with Nikita Harrell, a famous novelist whose life begins to fall flat once she realizes she could be put in prison for not paying taxes. From that point on, the brilliant yet self-absorbed and mean-spirited Nikita steps on everyone who gets in her way in order to fix her own problems. One night when she's struggling with her latest manuscript she comes to a revelation: she wants to travel to Africa to see the motherland and find herself again. Nikita learns that a trip is not the only answer and turns her attitude around.

This film was lovely and hit close to home because I am an author myself. Nikita was a very selfish woman who learned the hard way that a bad life doesn't give you the right to treat people wrong. She learns to lean on the people who love her instead of running away from them. This is a beautiful family drama. I laughed and cried. My only complaint was that the film wasn't longer. I am not a big fan of BET film adaptations because the ones I've seen were not impressive. A Private Affair is the only BET film I would recommend to anyone. It's light-hearted yet dramatic and just plain fun. Vanessa Bell Calloway has chemstry with everyone she encounters and she convinced me of her part completely. Fans of intelligent black films should definitely get this movie. It's a movie no Vanessa Bell Calloway fan should miss.

Dramatic
I enjoyed this movie. I was it could have continued a little longer. Another good BET Movie. Way to go BET. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This echo of 1970s disaster films stars Sylvester Stallone as the disgraced former head of NewYork City's Emergency Medical Services, a loser who is nevertheless a compulsive rescuer of people in danger. When the Holland Tunnel is sealed off after a fiery explosion and car passengers are trapped within, he goes inside and leads a group of survivors (a mixed group allegorically representing America's diversity) through all manner of pestilence toward safety. Directed by the imaginative Rob Cohen (Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story), Daylight finds Stallone outrageously (and to almostcampy effect) pushing the envelope of his martyr persona to near-religious levels. He throws himself, quite literally, into this part, and between that entertainment factor and the unnervingly convincing effects, this is a pretty watchable film. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (32)

'Daylight' Is a Breakthrough for Stallone
It's been a long time since I've given a Sylvester Stallone flick a positive review, maybe not since First Blood which was released thirteen years prior. But Daylight is maybe his best action movie, a disaster film that'll make you think twice before driving through a tunnel ever again. Sly plays an EMS chief whose been disgraced after losing a team while looking for survivors in a collapsed building. And when an explosion closes the tunnel connection Mannhattan and New Jersey on both ends he offers to go in after any survivors. He's seeking redemption which Stallone plays with subtle grace, giving his best performace since Rocky. The supporting characters are equally well acted and includes Amy Brenneman (Judging Amy), Viggo Mortensen (The Perfect Murder) and Dan Hedaya (A Civil Action). I don't want to make this sound like your typical dumb popcorn movie but Daylight will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense and once the action gets started don't be expecting a chance to catch your breath because it's not coming. The DVD is fabulous, you'll never knew you're not in the tunnel yourself with the creaking walls and splashing water filling every one of your six speakers (if you're so lucky). If not the picture is crystal clear and with special features like this it's hard not to recommend it to everybody.

A collector¿s edition in DVD that is worth every penny!
Here is a disaster flick that puts the audience into a real life situation, which is unique and quite different from the typical action and adventure films. The movie, Daylight, is based on a real life occurrence of a tunnel accident in the late 1940s at the Holland and Lincoln tunnels under the Hudson River. Directed by Rob Cohen, the movie is a visionary masterpiece of a tunnel explosion that brought the whole character set to work together and risk their lives on this horrible disaster situation with the elements of nature involved. The character set is where the true inner beauty of the movie rests. It is one that I describe as not too well known to the public with a notable exception of Sylvester Stalone, who played the lead part. Here, Stalone played a sympathetic character, who brought the survivors to daylight. Although he has the persona of Rocky and Rambo, Stallone was, in the movie, an ordinary citizen who blends perfectly well with the others in the set without putting emphasis on muscles or action. Amy Brenneman (NYPD Blue) plays the female lead. She adds a freshness and excitement in the film. The presence of Viggo Mortenssen (Crimson Tide) was also exceptional who played a role as a sports celebrity. The family role models of Steven & Sarah and their daughter Ashley and an older couple put emphasis on values of caring and loving in a disastrous situation. The juvenile offenders were also terrific. Stalone's son in real life, Sage Stalone, especially gave some good highlights in the movie. The tunnel cop, George, played by Stan Shaw was a symbol of sheer humanity and warmth as he put the survivors together. Lastly, the worthwhile appearances of medical-relief workers, firemen and engineers have given their dedication for making this movie so believable for the audience to like it.

Besides the good casting, this film is appraised for its outstanding cinema production as far as visual effects are concern. The filming of an explosion at the tunnel is one of a kind. What really amazes me here is the long fire ball sequence that takes the audience into this journey, for the first time, of looking inside the horrible flame that is rolling as it impacts every object in its path, melting and burning down vehicles. The DTS sound quality of the DVD is amazing here. Also, there is a lot of stunt work involved here, of course, in order to make it believable. Stalone's stunt work in the fan sequence was a thrill portion to see. Feeling the power of the water reaping through the ceiling, turbulent tremors and explosions, and the tile cracks are all formidable forces that alert the audience to join the character set to express true fear and is really amazing. The blowout was the climatic scene between Stallone and Brennemen for their last chance to escape. This blowout scene is very original and is enriched with animated graphics and stunt work, which is beautifully accomplished.

One thing to comment is the excellent musical score. The musical effects present in disaster films like Daylight have the essence of thrill, fear, escape and hope. In Daylight, the musical score is one that depicts on heroism, failure and triumph of the human spirit over fear. In the introduction of the movie title itself, it has a speedily haunting sound, as it travels with the audience through a laser journey through a tunnel at night and at fast speed, which really prompts the audience to be prepared for that unthinkable situation that is about to happen.

As a huge fan and collector of disaster films, the movie, Daylight, is a great flick. The DVD Collector's Edition is packed with bonus materials. It includes this film in anamorphic widescreen, a special "making of" and behind the scene track, feature commentary, production notes, cast & filmakers, theatrical trailers, a featurette and even a music video of the movie love theme "Whenever There Is Love" performed by Donna Summer. All of this in one DVD, it is definitely a movie to own.

The best part is watching the cliches fight for dominance
This movie goes way off the unintentional comedy scale. A rag-tag group of survivors, containing every possible patented Hollywood character, from the dignified elderly to the know-it-all WASP and the fiesty token minority, are subjected to a truly hilarious disaster that makes the Poseidon Adventure look like Citizen Kane. My favorite part of this film is the invincible dog. You can always tell a Hollywood hackjob by the invincible dog, which always survives everything and is, gosh, just so darn *cute* that you're supposed to get all weepy with relief when it survives through to the credits. A classic example is the golden retriever in Independence Day that, in an awe-inspiring display of poor blue screening, somehow jumps out of the way of a fireball that just destroyed Los Angeles..and of course just at the last moment. A cousin of that redoubtable pup is found here, where it actually disappears for half the movie and then suddenly comes paddling out of nowhere in a moment that is clearly intended to be triumphant, but is just flat out funny. It's long been known that people watching a movie react far more emotionally to injuries to dogs than to people, but you've stooped pretty darn low when you have to fall back on that as a plot device.

not the best film, but the special effects are mindblowing!
This movie has a good but not great plot element to it. The acting was also not the best, but the special effects for the tunnel explosion are some of the most incredible I have ever seen!

I didn't really like this movie ia a favorie but I bought the DVD - just for the explosion scene alone. I watch it frame by frame on my dvd player.

The filmmakers even said that they wanted the fire to have a plasma like look to it and they did a really good job at it! In my opinion, the special effects in that scene are one of the best pyrotechnics displays in cinematic history!

Introduction to some new Stars
I liked this film. I own this film. Yes, it "stars" Sylvester Stallone of Rocky and Rambo fame. He did a very fine job - a nice switch from the beat-'em-up movies he's been type-casted into.

But what I like best about this film is that it "quietly" includes two individuals who are now big hits in Hollywood ... Viggo Mortensen of the recent trilogy Lord Of The Rings and Amy Brenneman of the current TV hit, "Judging Amy."

I like both of these actors so I have a special appreciation for "Daylight." It was one of Amy's first films, but it was just one of many for Viggo. Viggo has worked a long time in film, quietly in the background, offering wonderfully crafted supporting roles. I'm excited that Viggo is now being casted as a Leading Star. Good for him. He is a fantastic actor. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A good film thats filled with laughs
The Cherokee Kid is a fun film from start to finish. I truly enjoyed the movie all the way through. The plot is simple, its your classic revenge story where Sinbad's parents where killed and vows revenge the man that killed his parents. The fun part is how he transforms for the young child with no real skills to survive in the west to one of the "Greatest Gun Slingers of All Time". If you have a little time and want to see a Sinbad film with decent acting and fun plot, then this is your film.

The Cherokee Kid
This is an excellant comedy/western in which Sinbad, who plays the main character Isiah Turner/Cherokee Kid, develops from a wet nosed runt to a true cowboy. Along his way Sinbad meets many people that help him avenge his parents deaths. His path leads him to many obstacles, among which is a showdown with his long lost brother. The two brothers then take down the men who killed their parents. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

'Daylight' Is a Breakthrough for Stallone
It's been a long time since I've given a Sylvester Stallone flick a positive review, maybe not since First Blood which was released thirteen years prior. But Daylight is maybe his best action movie, a disaster film that'll make you think twice before driving through a tunnel ever again. Sly plays an EMS chief whose been disgraced after losing a team while looking for survivors in a collapsed building. And when an explosion closes the tunnel connection Mannhattan and New Jersey on both ends he offers to go in after any survivors. He's seeking redemption which Stallone plays with subtle grace, giving his best performace since Rocky. The supporting characters are equally well acted and includes Amy Brenneman (Judging Amy), Viggo Mortensen (The Perfect Murder) and Dan Hedaya (A Civil Action). I don't want to make this sound like your typical dumb popcorn movie but Daylight will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense and once the action gets started don't be expecting a chance to catch your breath because it's not coming. The DVD is fabulous, you'll never knew you're not in the tunnel yourself with the creaking walls and splashing water filling every one of your six speakers (if you're so lucky). If not the picture is crystal clear and with special features like this it's hard not to recommend it to everybody.

A collector¿s edition in DVD that is worth every penny!
Here is a disaster flick that puts the audience into a real life situation, which is unique and quite different from the typical action and adventure films. The movie, Daylight, is based on a real life occurrence of a tunnel accident in the late 1940s at the Holland and Lincoln tunnels under the Hudson River. Directed by Rob Cohen, the movie is a visionary masterpiece of a tunnel explosion that brought the whole character set to work together and risk their lives on this horrible disaster situation with the elements of nature involved. The character set is where the true inner beauty of the movie rests. It is one that I describe as not too well known to the public with a notable exception of Sylvester Stalone, who played the lead part. Here, Stalone played a sympathetic character, who brought the survivors to daylight. Although he has the persona of Rocky and Rambo, Stallone was, in the movie, an ordinary citizen who blends perfectly well with the others in the set without putting emphasis on muscles or action. Amy Brenneman (NYPD Blue) plays the female lead. She adds a freshness and excitement in the film. The presence of Viggo Mortenssen (Crimson Tide) was also exceptional who played a role as a sports celebrity. The family role models of Steven & Sarah and their daughter Ashley and an older couple put emphasis on values of caring and loving in a disastrous situation. The juvenile offenders were also terrific. Stalone's son in real life, Sage Stalone, especially gave some good highlights in the movie. The tunnel cop, George, played by Stan Shaw was a symbol of sheer humanity and warmth as he put the survivors together. Lastly, the worthwhile appearances of medical-relief workers, firemen and engineers have given their dedication for making this movie so believable for the audience to like it.

Besides the good casting, this film is appraised for its outstanding cinema production as far as visual effects are concern. The filming of an explosion at the tunnel is one of a kind. What really amazes me here is the long fire ball sequence that takes the audience into this journey, for the first time, of looking inside the horrible flame that is rolling as it impacts every object in its path, melting and burning down vehicles. The DTS sound quality of the DVD is amazing here. Also, there is a lot of stunt work involved here, of course, in order to make it believable. Stalone's stunt work in the fan sequence was a thrill portion to see. Feeling the power of the water reaping through the ceiling, turbulent tremors and explosions, and the tile cracks are all formidable forces that alert the audience to join the character set to express true fear and is really amazing. The blowout was the climatic scene between Stallone and Brennemen for their last chance to escape. This blowout scene is very original and is enriched with animated graphics and stunt work, which is beautifully accomplished.

One thing to comment is the excellent musical score. The musical effects present in disaster films like Daylight have the essence of thrill, fear, escape and hope. In Daylight, the musical score is one that depicts on heroism, failure and triumph of the human spirit over fear. In the introduction of the movie title itself, it has a speedily haunting sound, as it travels with the audience through a laser journey through a tunnel at night and at fast speed, which really prompts the audience to be prepared for that unthinkable situation that is about to happen.

As a huge fan and collector of disaster films, the movie, Daylight, is a great flick. The DVD Collector's Edition is packed with bonus materials. It includes this film in anamorphic widescreen, a special "making of" and behind the scene track, feature commentary, production notes, cast & filmakers, theatrical trailers, a featurette and even a music video of the movie love theme "Whenever There Is Love" performed by Donna Summer. All of this in one DVD, it is definitely a movie to own.

The best part is watching the cliches fight for dominance
This movie goes way off the unintentional comedy scale. A rag-tag group of survivors, containing every possible patented Hollywood character, from the dignified elderly to the know-it-all WASP and the fiesty token minority, are subjected to a truly hilarious disaster that makes the Poseidon Adventure look like Citizen Kane. My favorite part of this film is the invincible dog. You can always tell a Hollywood hackjob by the invincible dog, which always survives everything and is, gosh, just so darn *cute* that you're supposed to get all weepy with relief when it survives through to the credits. A classic example is the golden retriever in Independence Day that, in an awe-inspiring display of poor blue screening, somehow jumps out of the way of a fireball that just destroyed Los Angeles..and of course just at the last moment. A cousin of that redoubtable pup is found here, where it actually disappears for half the movie and then suddenly comes paddling out of nowhere in a moment that is clearly intended to be triumphant, but is just flat out funny. It's long been known that people watching a movie react far more emotionally to injuries to dogs than to people, but you've stooped pretty darn low when you have to fall back on that as a plot device.

not the best film, but the special effects are mindblowing!
This movie has a good but not great plot element to it. The acting was also not the best, but the special effects for the tunnel explosion are some of the most incredible I have ever seen!

I didn't really like this movie ia a favorie but I bought the DVD - just for the explosion scene alone. I watch it frame by frame on my dvd player.

The filmmakers even said that they wanted the fire to have a plasma like look to it and they did a really good job at it! In my opinion, the special effects in that scene are one of the best pyrotechnics displays in cinematic history!

Introduction to some new Stars
I liked this film. I own this film. Yes, it "stars" Sylvester Stallone of Rocky and Rambo fame. He did a very fine job - a nice switch from the beat-'em-up movies he's been type-casted into.

But what I like best about this film is that it "quietly" includes two individuals who are now big hits in Hollywood ... Viggo Mortensen of the recent trilogy Lord Of The Rings and Amy Brenneman of the current TV hit, "Judging Amy."

I like both of these actors so I have a special appreciation for "Daylight." It was one of Amy's first films, but it was just one of many for Viggo. Viggo has worked a long time in film, quietly in the background, offering wonderfully crafted supporting roles. I'm excited that Viggo is now being casted as a Leading Star. Good for him. He is a fantastic actor. ... Read more

Description

Reggie Reynolds wants to be a basketball superstar and when the neighborhood junkman sells him a magical pair of sneakers, his dreams come true. But his future is threatened by a shady sport shoe manufacturer. ... Read more

Description

Doug is a Dawg, right down to the license plate on his sports car. He's cool, he's carefree, and he loves women - plenty of women. They love him too, until the day he disappears in a cloud of exhaust. But all that changes the day Anna comes along. Anna is about to change Doug's life with news of an inheritance that can be his on one condition: He must track down the women he has betrayed and get them to say "I forgive you." Doug is game - but will they be? Anna and the women in Doug's life are about to try and teach this dog some new tricks. And they don't start with the phrase "lie down." ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not as good as I had hoped. DOUBLE WHAMMY is much better.
*DAWG* The chemistry just isn't as good in DAWG as it is in DOUBLE WHAMMY(which also stars Denis Leary and Elizabeth Hurley). In DAWG they're way too opposite with conflicting agendas that they never made that love connection like I kept expecting. It just left a bad taste in my mouth at the end of the movie. I must admit there's a pretty good twist that I didn't see coming. But, looking back, it's kind of obvious. I just wasn't looking for it, I kept thinking they would fall in love or something like that. Sometimes a good twist can save a movie, for me, but it didn't warrant enough bite for me to appreciate the entire movie.
Anyway, it's not a horrible movie, it's just not as good as DOUBLE WHAMMY. Perhaps, if I'd seen DAWG first, I may have liked it better. But I doubt it, seeing DOUBLE WHAMMY 2nd would have simply persuaded me back to this original conclusion anyway. I wouldn't recommend it unless you get it at a deep-discounted price.

A fun movie...
This is a fun movie with a great acting duo between Dennis Leary and the beautiful Elizabeth Hurley... Leary plays this womanizing male chauvinist who has to track down 12 of his former 'kills' and get them to say 'I forgive you' in order to collect on his dead grandmothers inheritance of $1,000,000. Liz Hurley plays his grandmothers lawyer who tags along to witness the 'I forgive you's.

The movie blends a nice mix of comedy with a few touches of sappy moments.

Gals- You'll probably like this movie, but I don't think it's a 'crying' movie

Guys- No, it's not that much of a chick flick. It's got Dennis Leary in it- do you really think he'd do a chick flick??? Besides- if you get bored with the plot Liz Hurley makes for some mighty nice scenery to focus on for awhile... ... Read more

Amazon.com

Conceived as a television miniseries, this portrait of theepochal Motown vocal group scores as one of the most detailed re-creations ofthe '60s pop milieu ever filmed. Told largely through the eyes of founding member Otis Williams (Charles Malik Whitfield), The Temptations portrays its protagonists as soul Everymen whose early triumphs closely followed, and helped expand, Motown Records' emergence as "the Sound ofYoung America," providing an inspirational fable for black Americans.

Inevitably, of course, the story is also a cautionary tale about theprice of success for both the Temps and their mentor, Motown founder BerryGordy (Obba Babatunde). With hit records and tours, Williams and his partners grapple with drugs, alcohol, depression, jealousy, and delusions of grandeur. In particular, the galvanic lead singer David Ruffin (Leon) serves as both a focal strength and potential destroyer for the group,as his ego combines with a mounting cocaine habit to create a monster. At the same time, Gordy's eventual decision to leave his and the label'shome, Detroit, for Los Angeles marks a loss of innocence for the group and their label-mates. The film provides ample insider detail about how the former Ford assembly-line worker created and controlled his unique hitfactory.

Based on the biography coauthored by Williams and former manager Shelly Berger, the project gets a vital boost from behind the camera, thanksto executive producer Suzanne DePasse, herself a former Motown exec, and director Allan Arkush (Rock 'n' Roll High School). That lineage probably pulls some punches in terms of individual characters andGordy's machinations, but it also affords The Temptations its convincing detail, as does the generous running time--a mixed blessing, due to the original two-part broadcast, which might have benefited from tighteningfor this video version. Giving the show its greatest kick are the group'soriginal hits, performed and choreographed convincingly in lip-synchedsequences. --Sam Sutherland ... Read more

Reviews (207)

Superb
A fantastically well-written T.V mini seires that explores the troubled lives of each of The Temptations and their rise and fall on the music scene. The Temptations were one of Motowns hottest and most versatile acts with their carefully planned chorography on stage and their diverse ranmge of shimmering harmonies on record. An interesting aspect of the series early sequences are when they are first introduced to Motown Records and its fun to see portrayals of the great Motown legends such as Diana Ross, Martha Reeves, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson. Interestingly enough Diana Ross' daughter, Rhonda Ross makes an apperance in the film playing the troubled Paul Williams wife. The sequences where the group are seen performing Papa Was A Rolling Stone and Paul Williams is about to shoot himself are moving and the funeral is sure to get a lump in your throat (where Smokey Robinson himself appears). The film also carefully chronicles David Ruffins fall from grace as he steadily declined into cocaine addiction andalso continually mentally and physically tortued his wife, Tammi Terrell. The ending sees the grop reunirted when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.
The performances are excellent, the 60's ambience such as the nightclubs and drug culture are superbly evoked and the stage performances are mastered to perfection. Recommended.

Engrossing, enl;ightening, bittersweet...The Temptations
The Temptations on VHS or DVD (we recommend DVD becasue of its great advantages and special features) is one of the better made for TV miniseries to come along in a long time.

Although its 3-hour length still leaves many unanswered questions, the spectacular songs (of which all on stage performances except for "My Girl" and "Cloud Nine" were sung by the actors) and excellent perfomances by the actors make this movie one that you can enjoy time and time again.

The actors who portray Paul Williams, Eddie K., David Ruffin, Melvin Franklin and Otis Williams have all done their homework and then some. The DVD is only $13.99, cheaper than the video, so opt for the DVD.

This film highlights the life of the Temps from the eyes of its founder, Otis, and from the very beginning,when Otis meets Al (Eldridge Bryant--one of the first Temps prior to his dismissal)at a hop in Detroit, the movie kicks off in high gear. Excellent performances by "The Cadillacs,' ("Some people call me Speedo"), Leon (Johnson) of "Cool Runnings" Fame, Christan Payton and an unforgettable performance by Eddie Kendricks--so well done it seems like the real Kendricks--means you will this DVD watch again and again. Our favorite parts include the Copacabana scenes, "My Girl," auditioning for Berry at Motown's Hitsville USA, the whole Ruffin performance by Leon, "Just My Imagination," "Papa Was A Rolling Stone," Otis & The Distants at St. Stevens Hall with the Primes and the Primettes (Paul, Eddie and the soon to be Supremes) and a great performance by Smokey - both the actor and the real life Smokey himself in a special song at the Melvin Franklin Funeral. Buy this DVD. It will be the best $14 you'll ever spend on a movie. Fun for the WHOLE Family!!!

an amazing movie
i have to be honest i really wasn't all that interested in the movie,at first anyway...i first saw the movie while i was in the wonderful city of detroit, michigan... i went to hitsville, usa,(the motown museum), i found the location where paul williams shot himself, where david ruffin was buried, where all five the the classic five lived, and basically roamed their old stomping grounds. this was an amazing experience for me, probably the most interesting... during all of this chaos of me getting all exited about everything there is to see in detroit, i had the honor of speaking with one of david ruffin's children, david ruffin jr. well that topped it all off...this was all before i watched the movie, so of course i didn't know how truly amazing it was standing in studio a where they recorded until i watched the movie... i was bawling by the end, it was an amazing movie although it isn't all completely true, like on the new years scene al really sent paul to the hospital, and melvin really passed on in a hospital in los angeles, it was the best movie i've seen... so to all the actors who where in this movie, you really gave me a completely different look at motown, thank you otis, and everyone who produced the movie... and i have to say, Leon, you were wonderful in the five heart beats, little richard, i have watched your movies, you're an amazing actor and i hope to see you in more movies in the future...

History in the making! To be enjoyed for generations.
This is one of the greatest movies of all times! The characters come alive. As I watch it, I have to remind myself that the characters on the television are not the real Temptations. It is spooky, but I get a selfish satisfaction knowing that I can experience the beauty and the sadness of the Temptations whenever I choose. My ten-year-old is even hooked on it. We watch it at least once a week and he swears that he sings like Eddie and Paul! In fact, he does. Go figure! It gives me comfort to know that the genius of The Temptations has been integrated into another, younger generation.

What makes this movie so wonderful is that it takes us back to the times when music really meant something and touched us on a deeper level. Each time that I watch it I am transported to a time when the melody of a voice could melt away the pains of a troubled society. Don't get me wrong, there were problems with segregation and wars, but there was an innocence that I long to return to. I hope that Paul, David, Eddie, and Melvin are resting in peace. Their music changed the face of entertainment and now their stories have truly changed my perception of the world.

I say all of this to say that this movie is a must have for Temptations fans as well as for those who want a break from all of the ugliness in the world.

I can't resist this temptation!!!!
I love this movie! I can watch it over and over and over again, especially the performances. ... Read more