Reviews (11)

Straight From the Heart
I LOVED THE MOVIE! I saw it last evening for the first time with my husband. Yes, he actually sat through it. It was wonderfully acted. A great love story from start to finish. Great acting by Andrew McCarthy and Teri Polo.

Straight From The Heart
Wonderfully tender, yet funny - cute but serious - everything it takes to make a movie enthusiastically wonderful to watch. Andrew McCarthy is my dream man and Teri Polo did a wonderful job as well. Super movie. Everyone should see it!!

Amazing
Andrew McCarthy has matured as an actor and he is still so gorgeous after all these years. This was such a great movie, and I am so glad that I bought it instead of just renting it. He is just so beautiful and still has some of the same acting characteristics that he had when he was in pretty in pink. It is a classic love story and I wouldn't have changed a scene in the entre movie...you should definitely buy it.

Absolutely Heartwarming
This movie is one of the best purchases that I have ever made. It's good to see Andrew McCarthy back in action again. Both he and Teri Polo are excellent in playing their roles. This movie has humour, sadness, thoughtfulness and romance. The scenery is breathtaking and the filming was excellent. BUY this movie, it's a keeper. I've had it 6 weeks and watched it 12 times.

Straight from the Heart
One of the best movies I have ever owned. We watch it as a family all the time. Great stars/story/music etc. Thank you Hallmark Channel and Amazon for making it available to us. ... Read more

Reviews (219)

Satisfyingly Chilling
Well...Looks like they made better chillers and thrillers twenty years ago than they do nowadays. The Changeling is a big hunk of a slice of intelligent psychodrama and supernatural spine tingling mystery.

The story isn't fed to the viewer like present day movies, and we're treated to a guessing game of mystery and sadness and fear and murder, all thrown against the backdrop of the still innocent 1980. How comforting the decor and architecture of the end of the 1970's, contrasting against the stark empty spaces of the wonderfully spooky and atmospheric grand empty house.

Is there anything more comforting than seeing 70's urban environments and then to be returned to the great big olde house from a century before, now worn and neglected and up for rent?

This film is a batch of home made soup, all the better for a nights' maturation. It'll tingle and nudge at your spine with pleasure and spice, and won't leave you feeling empty half an hour later.

Feel the fear and the nostalgia of that age of innocence, and all with a measure of intelligence that'll delight and scare you in equal measure. A real estate adventure in unexplored rooms that kicks modern hollywood thrills and chills into orbit.

Classy, stylish, and utterly terrifying
This has got to be the most shamefully underrated horror movie ever made. Everything good that other users have said about this film is true. Changeling pulls off the task of scaring the hell out of you without the use of gore or excessive violence. It's also surprisingly beautifully filmed--taking full advantage of the natural and architectural beauty of Seattle and the American Northwest. You also couldn't ask for a better story-line, or more capable actors. I've watched and appreciated this movie many times since it was first released, and it still gives me the willies.

If you want to have a really enjoyable time being scared, don't miss seeing The Changeling. Just don't watch it in a big house all alone.

A Great Adult Horror Movie
George C. Scott gives yet another memorable performance in this truly great, adult, haunted house, horror film. It starts slow and builds and builds until you're totally engulfed in it. It's also one of those movies wherein you just HAVE TO and WANT TO see it again and again. It's very refreshing to find a horror movie with no slashers or bloodshed. It's all suspense and a truly scary ghost. I'd recommend this movie to all horror fans, especially if you're an adult and want something more than gore. This haunted house story is great!

Too scary to watch straight through!
This is one of those wonderfully suspenseful movies that's more suspense than horror. It's SO suspenseful that when it was initially released theatrically, I stayed to watch the lecture hall scene, then left. I'm in that scene, you see. It, and much of the campus stuff, was filmed at the University of Washington in Seattle. Now I'll have to get the DVD just to have that one scene.

A perfect ghost story.
If you can't stand stupid horror flicks like "Scream, While You Watch This Movie" or "I Don't Care What You Did Last Summer" then you will love this flick. George C. Scott stars as recently widowed man who moves into an old house inhabited by spirit of a child. No knife wielding lunatics here, just a good mystery involving who the ghost was and why he bangs around in that old house. Also, check out the aptly titled "Ghost Story" to see what a really good horror movie looks like. ... Read more

Reviews (279)

not the best by james cameron
but quite the adventure for sure. it isn't james cameron's best work. i don't think it deserves five stars just because it played too much on the cold war, which just ended after the movie came out. that's all.

Incredible movie, fantastic Special Effects, Excellent Story
This was and is an excellent movie. The special effects are absolutely fantastic. Several plot lines weave together to make this movie riveting, surprising, and fast paced. Its only drawback is the length, it is over 3 hours. If you have the time then spend it on this movie, it is just well worth the investment.

Better ending, better movie
The Abyss fell into the Abyss because it was chopped to fit the time length of movie theaters, making it another ho-hum trapped-under-the-sea flick, with some aliens.

When you finally see that the world is on the verge of nuclear destruction and that the ocean-bottom aliens are fed up, that the movie makes sense and takes on an entirely epic meaning. Now it becomes a GREAT movie.

There are 2 scenes in the movie that are noteworthy, one belongs as one of Hollywood's single most powerfullest, perhaps it is THE most powerful single scene ever filmed.

That is when Mary E. M drowns herself to save her husband played by Ed Harris and he wills her back to life in a flood of tears. This scene alone, even if the rest of the movie is truncated, makes it worthwhile.

But the director's cut then shows why later on when Harris dives into the Abyss--a metaphor on life----to deactivate a nuclear bomb with no chance of getting back before his air runs out, this is the second most powerful scene.

As Harris descends, deeper, deeper, Mary E. M in tears says goodbye to her husband.

The Aliens see this unselfish courage and love and decide to give mankind a second chance. I second the motion. Real people do such things in real life.

They call of their imminent destruction by tidal waves etc.

Buy the director's cut, watch the film as it should be seen and enjoy.

Deep Sea Adventure for True Romantics
James Cameron has developed a reputation for turning out first rate action films. OK, on one level, he does that. However, if one examines his total output, it becomes obvious that the man likes love stories. I haven't been able to find one of his films that does not fit that description.

Case in point: THE ABYSS. The movie opens as a nuclear submarine is caught in the wake of an object moving at incredible speed through the water. The sub regains navigational capabilities too late to prevent disaster. Since a hurricane is on the way (Mr. Cameron does lay it on pretty thick), timely rescue from the surface is impossible, so an underwater drilling rig is dispatched to provide assistance. The crew of the rig is to be under the supervision of Navy SEALs.

Sounds like a pretty good premise for an action movie so far, doesn't it? Well, the SEALs arrive with the soon-to-be ex-wife of the drilling rig commander and the story takes a turn from that point.

I won't give away too much. Just know that I don't shed too many tears in action films as a rule. This is an exception. Get it. You won't be sorry.

When will the special editions stop?
James Cameron is clearly the Werner Herzog of today's modern action film. He never does things halfway and weather you like his films or not you have to respect his courage. I personally love "The Abyss". It's my favorite Cameron film because it typifies his work. The acting is top notch and all out heart. You never hesitate for two seconds when Ed Harris or Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio step onto the screen. That's because Cameron creates the most realistic environment for his actors to work in. If your characters supposed to be stressed then he's gonna make sure to do something that reflects that on the screen. He dosen't pull any punches and I think that's why he's such a love him or hate him kind of filmmaker. In the case of "The Abyss" I got both sides. The original film is offered on the first disc. It's a great movie about and underground oil facility that has to rescue a downed American sub. The military gets involved and like most movies that's when things go wrong. I won't go any further than to say that the film does enter "E.T." terrain. The performances are outstanding and the cinematography and effects are Cameron's typically brillant standard. The second film....well, here's the delima. Every time a special edition comes out you get a taste of the good and the bad. A lot of times the extra footage is great, but there's always that one scene that just dosen't fit and you think to yourself "That should've stayed on the cutting room floor!" With the special edition of "The Abyss" I thought I had finally found the perfect special edition. That was until the end. I won't tell you what happens but it angered me so much that I hated the rest of this film. I will say this. The last guy I need telling me that we are a waring race and that peace is the only way possible is James Cameron. This is the guy who made "True Lies" and "The Terminator". He's killed more men than Cecil B. DeMille. I know I shouldn't be angry when someone offers hope and peace to the world but I can't help but wish it wasn't Cameron. Also, like the thumbs up at the end of "T2" this was just way too sappy for me. ... Read more

Description

Tyrus Raymond Cobb played baseball like a man charging a machine-gun nest. He gave no quarter, took no prisoners. And when his Hall of Fame career was over, Ty Cobb attacked life the same way. Tommy Lee Jones portrays the legendary - and equally cheered and detested - Georgia Peach in this acclaimed film from writer/director Ron Shelton (Bull Durham, Dark Blue), also starring Robert Wuhl and Lolita Davidovich. From its recapturing of the outfielder's playing days (Roger Clemens portrays a rival pitcher) to its recreation of a 1961 Hall of Fame banquet, Cobb is a movie grand slam. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Not your typical "HERO" movie
To me, this movie is a dark comedy. Ty Cobb is obviously a racist, abusive mean spirited human being who also happens to be a baseball legend. This movie is about Cobb off the field during his last days as he plans an autobiography on his baseball career. Throughout the movie, he is verbally and physically abusive to those around him. Tommy Lee Jones manages to make his character, at times, sympathetic towards the end of the film as he gets sicker and sicker from one of his many illnesses. This does not change the fact that Ty Cobb was a vicious human being and writer/director Ron Shelton writes the character in a way that makes him funny in some ways. I can't imagine this movie being what it is without Tommy Lee Jones. Jones tends to play arogant know-it-all characters in movies and this one tops them all. This movie was not a hit because of limited release(40 theaters instead of the planned 400 according to Shelton's commentary) but it is easily one of the best movies made about baseball and the people who play the game. Without a doubt Tommy Lee Jones' best performance. Worth taking the time to watch despite the wretched character he portrays in the movie.

Not a well know movie, but worth viewing!
First off I want to say that although this movie revolves around Ty Cobb, it is not only about baseball. This movie probes deep into a very driven and disturbed ballplayer and husband. While watching the movie you go through what the director is hoping to convey to the viewer...first you hate Cobb, then you start to think that he may not be the monster he has been made out to be.

The acting of Tommy Lee Jones is stellar! One of his finest performances of his well established career. This movie is hard to find on store shelves due to it was not very popular and still isnt, however that should not impeed you from seeing this 5-star film. There are many lines that are quotable for the rest of your life in this film. Cobb's view on the world in general is very entertaining. I laughed out loud many times during his frequent outbursts. My wife, who doesnt like baseball all that well, recommended this film to her grandparents, and they loved it.
So in closing, take two and a half hours and watch a film that will become a sought after movie for your own personal collection!

Up with The Natural/Major Leagues in baseball greatness
Tyrus Raymond Cobb was unbeieveable on the diamond and as we learn in this masterpiece off the diamond as well. This movie cronicals the last few years of Cobb's life from his violent personality to his love on fine and hot women to his fued with his daughter. Tryus hires Al Stupp (played wonderfully by that guy from Arli$) to write a book about him. However, Cobb wants to be remebered as a nice friendly person not the SOB jagbag he really was(I assume he was, I wasn't around to ever see Cobb play, but i was at the Cubs/Sox game on 5/5/98 when Brant Michael Brown hit a homerun in the 12th inning to beat those jabronis on the South SIde 6-5) Anyway Cobb sees that Arli$ is secruetly writting notes about what a Jagbag he is so Cobb goes nuts and nearly kills Arli$.
Cobb does not kill Arli$ but we do see Cobb as he goes crazy on a nurse and guzles pills with booze.
There are some great lines like when Arlis and his jpurnlists buddies are at the bar and they ask each other who was the greatest babeball player that ever lived and they all say: Ty Cobb, except one guy who says Babe Ruth and they give him some Chit, not Sugar.
Also when Cobb is drunk and tired and Mickey Lolich doesnt want to talk to him Cobb tells Arliss "Carry me back to Georgia"
If your looking for a movie that focuses on Cobb's days w/ the Detroit Tugers then this isnt the movie for you, but if your looking beef, nudity, swears, car chases, Rajaah Clemens (F-Houston, Go Cubdom!!), pills, booze, a deer that gets shots and a scene of a mosaleum then this is the movie for you. I was looking for all those things so thats why I loved this movie.
T-Lee does a great job as Tryus Raymond Cobb. The only other person that could have pulled off this role was Ben(jamin) Geza Affleck, but T-Lee is supurb.
Keep in mind that the VHS/DVD covers differ. The VHS has a great shot of Cobb smoking a cigar while the DVD has Cobb playing baseball, personally i like the VHS cover better but there are some good special feautrues.
Rated R for violence, language, nudity and the killing of a deer.
Great movie to buy or obtain through Inter-library loan but you'll want a copy of this dousie.
Thank you T-Lee, Warner Bros. and Cobb
F-Houston, Bob Pulford and the cancalation of the XFL
I have reiceved 94% helpful votes so I am a trustworty source.

How about a movie called...
How about if the film industry makes a movie called 'The Hammer'? Gee, they made 'Cobb, 'The Babe', 'Eight Men Out', 'Field of Dreams', 'The Pride of the Yankees', 'The Natural', and '61*'. Well, how about making a movie about Henry Aaron, Josh Gibson, Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, or even Jackie Robinson? Oh, I forgot, baseball will never allow it...

The supposedly "real" story of a baseball legend
Ty Cobb was called "the greatest baseball player of all time" and he enjoyed the spotlight. He was also known as "difficult person" to put it mildly. He drank hard, was prone to violence, insulted everybody, beat his wife, alienated his children, was a racist, beat a man to death and was accused of fixing games. In 1960 he had his biography written by a sportswriter named Al Stump. At the time Al Stump wrote a flattering portrait. Later, Stump wrote another book, telling the "real" story about Cobb. And this 1994 film is based on this second book.

The film is set in 1960 when Cobb, then 72 years old, engages Al Stump to write his biography. Stump's a young sportswriter who's flattered by the assignment. At first he hates the arrogant Cobb, but later finds himself admiring him for his "bigger than life" personality. And so he winds up being Cobb's only friend, traveling with him, drinking with him and playing nursemaid to his wild rages and need for constant medication.

Tommy Lee Jones is cast as Cobb, in a larger-than-life performance that humanizes the aging Cobb in spite of his raging racism and generally obnoxious behavior. Robert Wuhl is cast as Al Stump and his performance is equally good as we see him starting to have sympathy for the aging man. Lolita Davidovich is cast as a Reno cigarette girl who is pursued by both Al Stump and Cobb. She gives a good performance but I think the main reason she's in the film is to liven it up with a bit of flesh. There's also a small role played by Roger Clemens, the real-life pitcher in a scene of a baseball game played around 1916. Wisely, the camera doesn't stay too long on Tommy Lee Jones for this scene because he just can't look like a very young man.

The screenplay was ambitious but it lacked something. It was overlong and tended to be boring. Once the general situation was set, there was just one kind of outrageous behavior after another to prove the point that Cobb was difficult and that Stump was starting to admire the old man. In my opinion, the whole film could have been condensed to a one-hour television movie. As I'm interested in baseball, I did enjoy the film. But it certainly isn't one that I can highly recommend. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Best Stallone Movie Ever Made!
Stop or My Mom Will Shoot is one of the best movies that Stallone has Ever Made. It is about a cop whose life isn't going so good. When his mother comes to visit she changes everything for the good.His mother witneses a murder and she has to stay to help find the killer.With Sylvester Stallone, Estelle Getty, and JoBeth Williams you couldn't ask for a better cast. I highly recomend this movie.

Stallone is the Ultimate Superstar!
I can not tell you how much this movie has changed my life. Just when my life couldn't get any worse, I saw "Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot". Sylvester Stallone is the savior for mankind. When you think armageddon is upon us, just watch Stallone in this uplifting, spiritual movie. The relationship with his mother is unbelievable and touching. This motion picture deserves to be recognized and to be viewed by the world. Universal Pictures needs to release this movie on DVD, not for me, but for the human race.

some funny parts,some boring parts
this movie's worth a rent.it is i admit kinda boring but it is also very funny at times.mostly action and comedy combined together since it is a sylvester stallone movie

A classic that excretes patriotism from every orifice
In an era inspired by the likes of Pat Tillman, John McCain and Ryan Seacrest, Sylvester Stallone's 1992 Gulf War opus "Stop! or My Mom Will Shoot!" is still as powerful during today's troubled global situation as it was during the senior Bush's initial campaign to liberate the noble god-fearing folks of Kuwait.

Inspired by her son's decision to enlist in the military to eliminate the obvious nuclear threat residing in Iraq, Tutti Bomowski (Estelle Getty) decides to re-enlist herself. Having been the first female Navy Seal in U.S. history, and a decorated war hero in Korea, the one condition of her military service is to be assigned to the same elite fighting squadron as her son Joe (Stallone). Their top-secret operation carries them right into the fringes of Baghdad where they uncover Saddam's diabolical plan to blow up the ocean. Despite their combined lethal skills, one of them won't make it out alive.

Teeming with realistic wartime violence, this is not everyone's cup of tea. However, if you're a fan of Sam Peckinpah's bloody cinematic ballet, you will find much to appreciate in Stallone's work. In fact, as a moving tribute to the motherly tone of this epic, Stallone was assisted by Peckinpah's 93-year old mother Myrtle in helping choreograph many of the action sequences, most notably the legendary bungee-jumping battle scenes.

Sly showed that he's a master of many crafts in "Stop! or My Mom Will Shoot!" Not only did he write, produce, direct, and star in this film, but he also wrote and performed the amazing musical score as well. "Over The Top" and "Cobra" may have introduced the world to the possible talents that Stallone possesses, but it was this film that truly made him a legend that will live on for several weeks to come.

NO STARS!
i remember seeing this movie a long long time ago...
this is quite possibly the worst movie i have ever seen. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Time has been kind to Flight of the Intruder, a rousing aviation-action adventure that looks better now than it did to critics who panned it in 1991. Perhaps they were expecting a Tom Clancy-ish blockbuster (producer Mace Neufeld oversaw the Jack Ryan franchise), but director John (Conan the Barbarian) Milius had something potentially more substantial in mind. The first 75 minutes are pure Milius: Macho bluster, male bonding among ill-fated pilots and Naval bombardiers, and a Big Wednesday-like passion for dangerous fun. But Milius's favorite topics have sharper teeth here: He's made a scathing anti-Vietnam film that still honors the bravery of soldiers who do their job even when the job itself seems pointless. That's why ace Brad Johnson (why didn't he become a huge star?) and maverick bombardier Willem Dafoe plot a renegade mission, bombing a Hanoi arms depot with their low-altitude A-6 Intruder in the movie's pyrotechnical climax. Fringe benefits abound, including early roles for Tom Sizemore, Ving Rhames, and David Schwimmer in his big-screen debut, three years before Friends and looking like the dweeby grandchild of his Band of Brothers martinet. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (35)

Not totally disappointing but could have been much better...
Jake Grafton (Brad Johnson) and Virgil Cole (Willem Dafoe) are Navy A-6 Intruder bomber pilots in the Vietnam war. After repeatedly bombing useless targets determined by questionable military intelligence and political considerations that have led to needless deaths of their fellow pilots by shootdowns, they decide to take matters into their own hands.

Choosing to fly behind enemy lines and deep into Hanoi to destroy a surface to air missle depot, they accompish the task at the expense of being subjected to the military justice system and a possible court martial for their actions.

Flight of the Intruder happens to be a dismal adaptation from Stephen Coont's book of the same name. Apart from making comparisons, this movie redeems itself in the few aspects of good aerial photography, some decent action scenes of war sequences in the jungle, and slightly above average acting performances by Willem Dafoe, Danny Glover, Tom Sizemore, and Brad Johnson.

The DVD content itself is anorexic to put it mildly. You won't find any extras here beyond the usual fare of a good digital 5.1 soundtrack, widescreen presentation, and subtitles. If you're a fan of war movies, this probably isn't a great addition to a DVD collection but I'd recommend renting it if you like the genre of film.

5 star Movie/Action/Cast/16:9Widescreen,4 Star Pix qualit,y!
The A-6 was the United States Navy's Medium (A) Attack bomber during the Vietnam conflict. It flew at tree-top level in any weather at night and alone. The A-6 had NO defensive weapons. It was called - The INTRUDER.

That is the opening statement to an outstanding action movie. The thought of flying unarmed over hostile territory circa 1972 presents a very exciting war tale indeed.

Danny Glover, Willem Dafoe and Brad Johnson are a great ensemble cast.

The "Flight of the Intruder" based on Stephen Coonts (former Naval Aviator) novel of the same name. Coonts has written an entire fictionalized series based on Jake Grafton (played by Brad Johnson) exciting Naval career. The "Flight of the Intruder" was the first in that series.

Summary: Young Naval Aviator Lt. Jake Grafton pilots the infamous A (Attack) - 6 Intruder over 1972 Vietnam. You get to experience lots of great aerial photography, plenty of action and the unbelievable daring of these A-6 Naval pilots. This includes low level (200 feet) bombing missions (dodging all kinds of enemy fire). "Iron Hand" the art of an Armed A-6 versus' SAM (Surface to Air Missles). They shoot first up to 4 missles before you can attack them!!! Great stuff!!!!

Paramount's WideScreen DVD Collection presents the viewer with some OUTSTANDING MOVIES at an economical price. The only short fall one Extra is the trailer and the Enhanced 16:9 WideScreen HDTV is some what grainy on my 55" Home Theatre Screen. The sound is outstanding!

Overall this is a great war movie for the collector!! This DVD is worth the price of admission. Enjoy

Will get your blood pressure higher if you love aviation
Yeah, yeah... I agree with many other viewers. The movie storyline is not as good as in the book in two areas: 1. the in-depth description of its characters -I guess it's just too hard a job to explore the complexity of human personalities within 90mn; 2. the ending which, in the book, is a bit more in line with the actual war in Vietnam.

And also, that's true that the special effects are somewhat dated now...

But boy, being a professional of aviation, living, breathing, dreaming of it every day of my life, I can't applaude enough to the fact of being able to watch a movie that DOES feature combat aircraft! Just count the number of good action movies that actually show these machines, and I bet you'll be able to count them on the fingers of, say, 2 hands. That's just to stay on the optimistic side of things.

Flight of the Intruder is a real cool movie in terms of aircraft footage. You are "behind the wheel", at times you are literally in control of the aircraft. Your heart pumps faster when this ugly looking -and sounding- SAM detection signal flashes to and screams at the crew. And watch these unforgettable scenes with the A-1 Skyraiders, the famous "Sandys" at the end of the film! The shots, the sounds... Everything contributes to raising the hair of your neck with passion!

The movie itself is pretty well documented too, if only a bit too simplified. Looks like the film was technically supported by both the Navy and the Air Force. The pilots' jargon is accurate, and so is the overall A-6 bombing philosophy.

And after viewing it, you'll sit back and start reflecting on it, and I'm pretty sure that you'll end telling yourself: "These fly-boys in Vietnam... They sure had real guts". Hats and heads down, ladies and gentlemen, and respect for courage!

Better then Top Gun
This movie should have been better then Top Gun.
In everyones mind though we all want the speed and cockyness of
a fighter pilot.
But, as the line states,"Fighter pukes make movies, bomber pilots make history."
I believe that because this movie wasn't as big as Top Gun is
because there was a little love story in Intruder, that was not
as big Top Guns steamy love scenes.
This movie to me was better then Top Gun because of the absence
of a steamy romance, just a hint.
This movie, should be considered a classic.

Good Action, Some Truth
Because my dad was a A-6 Bombadier/Navigator in Vietnam, I have a bias regarding this movie. It is highly entertaining and action-packed, however, the truth of the story lies somewhere in the middle and there's not much of it in this screenplay.
I'm sure that many of the Navy's aviators in Vietnam grew weary of hitting "suspected" truck parks, oil refineries and missle sites, but I have yet to hear tales from my dad or his buddies about anyone who decided to fight their own war and fly through downtown Hanoi in order to destroy a SAM (surface-to-air missle) storage area all on their own.
Guys got shot down alot during the war, yes, but they were mostly Air Force guys (that's meant to be a dig!), and rarely a Navy A-6. In this movie, we see several from one squadron on the same cruise go down. Not too realistic. The quickly referred to "Operation Linebacker" was a real mission (proud to say that my dad was in the first plane over N Vietnam on that mission) and followed up by Linebacker II later on. It was not, however, inspired because of what the two lead characters in this movie did.
The flying is pretty realistic though and it is nice to see the not-as-sexy-as-a-fighter-jet Grumman A-6 Intruder in a movie; I give it three stars for that. Still...I would rather listen to real bomber pilots and b/n's relate their adventures in 'Nam and aboard ship.
If you want a real Vietnam movie, stick with "Apocalypse Now", "Full Metal Jacket" and "Platoon". ... Read more

Amazon.com

One might reasonably expect Tomcats to be the Porky's of 2001: after all, it concerns a group of young, sexist morons and their fears and fantasies about young women. But Tomcats isn't quite as brain-dead as that, though it is phenomenally more neurotic. Jerry O'Connell plays one of two remaining bachelors within a group of wealthy pals who set aside a cash reward, years before, earmarked for the last among them to get married. O'Connell needs the money to pay off a gambling debt, but his problem is that the other bachelor is a horrendous pig (Jake Busey) unlikely ever to land a gal. A general mean-spiritedness flows through this wearying comedy, manifest in such ugly moments as watching someone's girlfriend run over by a golf cart and an excised, cancerous testicle kicked around hospital hallways. If you're looking for female flesh, however, forget it: Tomcats is far more driven to explore male nudity, while making equally naked today's masculine fears of impotence, mothers, and lesbians. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Three Little Words
Unfortunately, this movie came out at a time when a lot of very funny comedies were on the horizon (Heartbreakers, American Pie 2, Freddy Got Fingered, etc.), so, it didn't review as well as it would have. While it was not as over-the-top as American Pie 2, it does rank right up there. I didn't give it five stars because at times it seems to drag. All editorial and press reviews aside, this was a very good movie. At times, I would find myself almost coughing from laughing so hard.

Here's a synopsis: The movie begins with a group of friends who are very disillusioned, they are afraid of commitment and want to remain "Tomcats" forever. They all place money into a high-yield mutual fund in the mid-90's and thinking that it wouldn't be that big of deal leave it there to collect interest. Flash-forward to present day, the pot is now almost half a million dollars and there are only two unmarried guys left, Kyle (Gary Busey) and Michael (Jerry O'Connell). While at their friend's wedding in Las Vegas, Michael gets in trouble at the craps table to the tune over 50 thousand dollars. He hatches a plan to fix up Kyle (who is filthy rich and pretty much has a different girl every night), with a former bridesmaid at his friend's wedding all those years ago, Natalie (played hilariously by Shannon Elizabeth). What follows are some of the most disgusting, degrading, and downright depraved scenes that I've seen to date (...). See this movie if you're a fan of gross-out comedy, or if you're just looking for a good laugh.

Wretched In Every Possible Way
This movie fails in every possible way a comedy can:

The characters are so repellent and unfunny that you don't care what happens to them.
The story barely exists after 20 minutes.
The "gags" are torturously lame, especially the scene involving a hospital cafeteria and David Ogden Stiers.

Growing up in the 80's, we sat through a lot of horrible comedies aimed at the all-important teen male audience only to hear, "Well, that sucked but at least we got to see (hot actress name here) naked."
TOMCATS doesn't even deliver on that.

What's the point?

Um, anyone for balls?
No matter how many times I watch this movie, it never gets "tiring"!

A pretty good storyline features a host of hilarious moments .... if you ask me, this movie is about typical guys, their dislike of marriage, and the need for cash! In amongst this are some moments, you will never forget .... chasing the testical, throwing the dice, and well, I have to say it - the chick in the back seat of the car and Kyle ..... this is hilariously funny (maybe to the point of disgusting?) ... and of course the 'pretty' funny bachelors party scene ... also deserves a mention!

This is one of the best comedies I have seen in ages and ages, and for all you girls out there, this is not only for the guys! It should be taken in the "tone" that it's set in (it's a comedy and not serious) .... and you should sit back and enjoy the ride! ...... and, if you can't find it funny then it will at least gross you out in parts - enough that you will have to laugh anyways (not so bad if you ask me)!

Either way, you definitely shouldn't miss this one!

3 words
Rude Crude Funny

If you don't like raunchy comedies, than don't bother. However, if you like movies such as There's Something About Mary or American Wedding, than you will like this movie.

This guy has such bad luck with every female he meets.
A group of male pals are at the wedding of a friend. When he gets married, Jerry O'Connell, (as "Michael") and the rest of the men agree to never get married, be single and be a "Tomcat". Horatio Sanz (as "Steve") agrees too, but the next thing they know, he gets married too. Michael and Steve are still friends. Everytime Michael meets a woman, bad luck happens and he gets in trouble with thugs or the law. He's a innocent as can be. Horatio Sanz (NBC's Saturday Night Live) is hilarious and a delight in this film. Billy Hufsey plays a "Pit Boss". ... Read more

Reviews (279)

THIS is why you should own a DVD player!
Few other "Special Edition" discs get you as intimately familiar with a film and the film-making process as this new DVD does, though the laser disc collector's edition of TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY comes awful close. Now you fortunate DVD-player owners can get for about $30-$40 dollars what we laser disc owners shelled out $100 for years ago, plus more. A heart-pounding movie, beautifully and intricately shot under nearly impossible circumstances (it wasn't nicknamed "The toughest shoot in film history" for nothing). Part military action thriller, part love story, and all impressive, THE ABYSS SPECIAL EDITION on DVD gives you both the theatrical version and expanded version of the movie (even the laser disc only had a one-version option), documentaries (the longer one is not to be missed), and enough bonus features to monopolize your entire day. It can really take the whole afternoon and evening to see it ALL. Granted, at 171 minutes the expanded version is a bit cumbersome at times, but by then you are so engrossed you don't mind. We've all seen good-looking special effects movies undermined by a so-so script or lame acting. But THE ABYSS delivers where it counts -- solid performances and an often tense script. This is the version to own. All other versions and formats of this film pale in comparison - even the expensive laser disc version. For what you'll pay for this disc you get much more than your money's worth. This collection sets a new standard for discs with bonus features. And if you enjoyed THE MATRIX for how it took full advantage of your surround-sound system, this disc will also please. Make sure your subwoofer is turned on.

"The Abyss"
The Abyss (PG-13) 5/5
Ed Harris, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Michael Biehn, Leo Burmester, Todd Graff.
Directed by James Cameron.
Synopsis: A deep sea oil rig crew is recruited to investigate a submarine crash, but something unknown resides in the abyss.
Special Features: Original Theatrical and Extended Versions of the Film, Feature Length Commentary for Both Versions, Filmographies.
Review: One of my all time favorite films. An oil rig crew is joined by a military team to investigate a mysteriously downed sub. As they descend into the abyss they begin to realize they may be the only humans down there, but they are not alone. Sci-fi has never been better this deep social commentary was originally cut by hack producers thus again proving they know jack about films. Know it is restored in its originally intended glory. Ed Harris is as always fantastic, Mastrantonio is great, and Biehn has fun with his bad guy role. The rest of the crew excels too. Cameron is in his staple genre and he directs to perfection. As for the DVD? Should've bought the 5-star collection. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! This is a solid disc, but really this is one film worth the extra cash.

What is this digipak version?
This digipak edition DVD does NOT have a 5.1 soundtrack. The picture remains letterboxed, not anamorphic, and it still carries the THX certification, though it is not marked so on the box. If you can, obtain the original Special Edition release in plastic case with black cover, it has the 5.1 soundtrack. If, like me, you are still waiting for the proper anamorphic release of The Abyss, this is NOT IT, it is simply an inferior repackaging.

Beautifully made, a little dramatic
I always had The Abyss on my to-see list and now I finally have. I was not dissapointed for it feels a little like an underwater 'Close Encounters'. The effects are great, the water space aliens are wonderful and the first time view of the underwater city is breathtaking.

The morale of the movie is bad. Americans and Russians are screwing up the world so the aliens try to prevent it. 'Can't we all just get along!?' is what they want for us, then things will turn to better.

Industrial Light and magic did a great job again in this 1989 movie, it's worth seeing for SF fans.

False Advertising
The Abyss single disc edition is a cool movie, but the actual movie is not in Dolby 5.0 as Amazon.com or Dolby 5.1 as the DVD jacket would have us believe, but only in Dolby 2.0 (2 channel) English or French. I tried both the theatrical and the special edition cut, same result.

Buyer beware. ... Read more

Reviews (279)

not the best by james cameron
but quite the adventure for sure. it isn't james cameron's best work. i don't think it deserves five stars just because it played too much on the cold war, which just ended after the movie came out. that's all.

Incredible movie, fantastic Special Effects, Excellent Story
This was and is an excellent movie. The special effects are absolutely fantastic. Several plot lines weave together to make this movie riveting, surprising, and fast paced. Its only drawback is the length, it is over 3 hours. If you have the time then spend it on this movie, it is just well worth the investment.

Better ending, better movie
The Abyss fell into the Abyss because it was chopped to fit the time length of movie theaters, making it another ho-hum trapped-under-the-sea flick, with some aliens.

When you finally see that the world is on the verge of nuclear destruction and that the ocean-bottom aliens are fed up, that the movie makes sense and takes on an entirely epic meaning. Now it becomes a GREAT movie.

There are 2 scenes in the movie that are noteworthy, one belongs as one of Hollywood's single most powerfullest, perhaps it is THE most powerful single scene ever filmed.

That is when Mary E. M drowns herself to save her husband played by Ed Harris and he wills her back to life in a flood of tears. This scene alone, even if the rest of the movie is truncated, makes it worthwhile.

But the director's cut then shows why later on when Harris dives into the Abyss--a metaphor on life----to deactivate a nuclear bomb with no chance of getting back before his air runs out, this is the second most powerful scene.

As Harris descends, deeper, deeper, Mary E. M in tears says goodbye to her husband.

The Aliens see this unselfish courage and love and decide to give mankind a second chance. I second the motion. Real people do such things in real life.

They call of their imminent destruction by tidal waves etc.

Buy the director's cut, watch the film as it should be seen and enjoy.

Deep Sea Adventure for True Romantics
James Cameron has developed a reputation for turning out first rate action films. OK, on one level, he does that. However, if one examines his total output, it becomes obvious that the man likes love stories. I haven't been able to find one of his films that does not fit that description.

Case in point: THE ABYSS. The movie opens as a nuclear submarine is caught in the wake of an object moving at incredible speed through the water. The sub regains navigational capabilities too late to prevent disaster. Since a hurricane is on the way (Mr. Cameron does lay it on pretty thick), timely rescue from the surface is impossible, so an underwater drilling rig is dispatched to provide assistance. The crew of the rig is to be under the supervision of Navy SEALs.

Sounds like a pretty good premise for an action movie so far, doesn't it? Well, the SEALs arrive with the soon-to-be ex-wife of the drilling rig commander and the story takes a turn from that point.

I won't give away too much. Just know that I don't shed too many tears in action films as a rule. This is an exception. Get it. You won't be sorry.

When will the special editions stop?
James Cameron is clearly the Werner Herzog of today's modern action film. He never does things halfway and weather you like his films or not you have to respect his courage. I personally love "The Abyss". It's my favorite Cameron film because it typifies his work. The acting is top notch and all out heart. You never hesitate for two seconds when Ed Harris or Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio step onto the screen. That's because Cameron creates the most realistic environment for his actors to work in. If your characters supposed to be stressed then he's gonna make sure to do something that reflects that on the screen. He dosen't pull any punches and I think that's why he's such a love him or hate him kind of filmmaker. In the case of "The Abyss" I got both sides. The original film is offered on the first disc. It's a great movie about and underground oil facility that has to rescue a downed American sub. The military gets involved and like most movies that's when things go wrong. I won't go any further than to say that the film does enter "E.T." terrain. The performances are outstanding and the cinematography and effects are Cameron's typically brillant standard. The second film....well, here's the delima. Every time a special edition comes out you get a taste of the good and the bad. A lot of times the extra footage is great, but there's always that one scene that just dosen't fit and you think to yourself "That should've stayed on the cutting room floor!" With the special edition of "The Abyss" I thought I had finally found the perfect special edition. That was until the end. I won't tell you what happens but it angered me so much that I hated the rest of this film. I will say this. The last guy I need telling me that we are a waring race and that peace is the only way possible is James Cameron. This is the guy who made "True Lies" and "The Terminator". He's killed more men than Cecil B. DeMille. I know I shouldn't be angry when someone offers hope and peace to the world but I can't help but wish it wasn't Cameron. Also, like the thumbs up at the end of "T2" this was just way too sappy for me. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Following the success of Traffic, this similar 1990 miniseries isbeing released in movie form. Based on the true story of the kidnappingand murder of a DEA agent named Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, Drug Wars: TheCamarena Story depicts how Camarena's success burning down a hugefield of marijuana in the Mexican desert led to his disappearance--whichin turn set off an escalating series of confrontations between drugtraffickers, the DEA, and the corrupt Mexican police. Despite lowproduction values, a melodramatic script, and clumsy direction, DrugWars does paint a complex picture of the political posturing and powerstruggles among agencies in the U.S., as well as the intricate web ofcorruption in Mexico, that have turned the drug war into a disastrousmess. Featuring Benicio Del Toro (as a Mexican drug lord), Steven Bauer,Craig T. Nelson, Mel Ferrer, Treat Williams, and Elizabeth Peña. --BretFetzer ... Read more

Amazon.com

This chaotic and gratuitously violent movie deservedly took a nosedive when released in 1996.It belongs in the same category of air-disaster movies as Con Air and Air Force One, but those films could be considered masterpieces in comparison to this schlock. Ray Liotta gives an over-the-top performance as the so-called Lonely Hearts Killer, who seizes control of a 747 during mid-flight and proceeds to wreak havoc. He kills just about everyone, but Lauren Holly survives as the flight attendant who eventually has to land the damaged airliner while the pilot of another 747 (Ben Cross) talks her through the landing procedure. Sound familiar? It ought to--Turbulence is another grab bag of thriller clichés. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Jay Bulworth is your typical senator going through a nervous breakdown. The empty speeches, lies, money, and pressure have led him to plan his own assassination on a weekend trip home to California just before the election. However, a cord snaps in him and like Jim Carrey's rambling lawyer in Liar, Liar, Bulworth can only tell the truth. This new freedom turns Bulworth on and he spews the ugly truth about politics: he tells mass media they are as corrupt as insurance companies; lambastes a black church for not having leaders; and riles the Jewish power elite of Hollywood. He enters South Central running away from advisors (including a bemused Oliver Platt) and mixing it up with a potential new girlfriend (Halle Berry) and a local boss (Don Cheadle). He offends acrossthe board, even developing an inherent knack to rap his speeches. And the public loves it. The weekend becomes a clarifying point for Bulworth: he finds a reason to live.

Beatty's rude and relevant comedy is a one-joke movie, but the joke is pretty good. It's a courageous film that is always sharp even though it loses narrative focus. Beatty's hilarious raps are so inspired they deserve repeated viewings. As usual, Beatty surrounds himself with a great crew, Ennio Morricone's music and Vittorio Storaro's cinematography being especially noteworthy. Beatty and Storaro even have the audacity to imitate two very famous photographs in the film's final seconds. The script by Beatty and Jeremy Pikser won the L.A. Film Critics award and was nominated for an Oscar. --Doug Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (131)

A sincere movie with no target demographic.
A politician has nothing left to lose -- so why not speak the truth? Warren Beatty's Senator Jay Bulworth lays down the smack: the reason the working man (in this movie, the working class is cleverly disguised as hip-hop mavens) doesn't have a voice, is he doesn't have the sway or monetary bullocks to *buy* a voice. Words aren't worth a penny unless you're worth billions. And of course, from the first instant, this divine fool's failure is certain and imminent: Big Business, what with its grimy fingers perpetually immersed in the U.S. Government's proverbial tub of crunchy Jif, would never allow a politician like Bulworth to succeed, at the risk of the working class' newfound capacity to leech the power from the insurance companies and tire manufacturers.

But here's the best part: this poor movie didn't stand a chance of finding a target demographic, just as we know from the first instant Bulworth doesn't stand a chance, either. The movie's occasionally bawdy humor is poised to captivate, paradoxically, *my* demographic (19-year olds who appreciate taboos about racial tension), while its sad, sad message is better suited to working class families who "get it," rather than to, say, people who rent movies all the time, or play the stock market, or capitalize on apathy. In that respect, Bulworth is a sad story, indeed.

Original, daring, and funny, one of the best movies ever.
Here is a movie that you will either love or hate but it certainly won't leave you indifferent.If you dislike Bulworth you most likely either can't stomach the film's left-wing political ideology or you find some aspect of the film offensive.But the willingness of the film to offend is the very thing that makes it so compelling to others.If you don't hate the movie for the above reasons you'll be able to appreciate the just how risky and original this movie is.As Bulworth campaigns,offending everyone and their mother while telling it like it is,you can't help but share in his giddy exhileration and you'll laugh your behind off at the same time.This is the essential theme of the movie and,just to keep things livly,Beatty introduces a variation as Bulworth begins to rap.On these scenes alone the film succeeds as a comedy though there are other very funny scenes(often involving Bulworth's campaign aids).Generaly I'm not a fan of rap but the film's music sets the tone nicely. The cast is universaly excellent,everyone seems to fit their part perfectly and Nina (Halle Berry) looks absolutely gorgeous.At one point, Bulworth is dancing with Nina in a Compton after hours club and,to roughly quote an internet reviewer,"this must be the most erotic scene involving two vertical people in all of cinima."What works in Bulworth works so well that the holes and improbableties inherent in the storyline seem beside the point.They certainly don't detract from the overall effect of the movie.I'm every bit as liberal a Warren Beatty and there is no doubt that your politics play a role in how you respond to the movie but I recomend this movie to everyone,you just might find it enligtening.

What were they thinking?
What were they thinking? Nevermind, it's actually pretty obvious.

Far from being the deft parody of modern civics that the producers obviously intended, this is an extremely silly movie that trivializes major problems, and frequently borders on being racist, classist, and anti-semitic.

One problem is that this was Warren Beatty's attempt at being "hip" and reaching out to a whole new generation. Well, I'm part of that generation and let me tell you that it just came out as being creepy and pathetic. Warren Beatty and Halley Berry? "Ew" on so many different levels. Warren Beatty being accepted as some sort of "brothah"? You've got to be kidding me. Warren Beatty rapping? Please, just kill me.

The other problem is that this movie attempts to address "problems" in a way that does nothing but rehash old stereotypes. This "inner city" was obviously dreamed up by an elderly woman from the midwest who has never actually met a black person, but has read books where she learned that some of them have hearts of gold and everyone else is a dangerous criminal intent on selling crack to five year olds.

There is a definate generation gap in who likes this movie and who does not. The young, socially aware people that I know think that this movie is paternalistic, insulting, and stupid: and that Warren Beatty should just deal with the fact that he is no longer Hollywood's #1 Heart-throb. My parents and their friends thought it was great and that Warren still has his old spark. Though even they admited that Warren and Halley was pretty "ew."

racist, socialist nonsense
This is one of the worst movies I've ever seen. Beatty, a wealthy playboy, tries to paint all whites as willingly racist and stepping on the poor, while at the same time demonstrating anti-semitism. Nice divisive garbage, Beatty. Not funny. Not relevant or at all honest.

Ghetto Senator
This movie is about a Senator who gets fed up with lying to the people. However it is a movie that is a matter of taste. If you are sensitive regarding racial issues this is certainly not the picture for you. If you like racially laced humor and politics you will probably like this movie, if not fall in love with it. Warren Beatty is excellent in his role as senator Bulworth and Oliver Platt is a riot as Bulworth's campaign manager. Halle Berry is still the most beautiful women in the world...showing that she can make even a totally straight laced senator turn ghetto. It's got it's ups and downs and craziness...some humor and even some surprises. I thought the ending was somewhat surprising. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Solid gold
Ulee Jackson (played by Peter Fonda) is a reclusive beekeeper who lives in a rustic home in a tiny Florida town, where he raises his two granddaughters. As the victim of past hardships, he also is now the eldest member of a dysfunctional family; his son Jimmy is in prison, his daughter-in-law Helen is a runaway drug addict, his oldest granddaughter Casey is a rebellious teen, and her little sister Penny is a lonely young girl. Ulee is a loner, refusing the help and camaraderie of the local townsfolk. But one day, Jimmy calls Ulee and asks for a favor regarding Helen. Ulee then discovers that, by mustering up tremendous lost courage, he must bring his shattered family together and keep them safe from a pair of thugs.

Directed by Victor Nunez, this critically-acclaimed film wasn't seen much upon its 1997 release. "Ulee's Gold" is a very quiet film, and its unhurried pace and frequent dialogue will probably try the patience of just about anyone who watches it. It takes its time before diving into the storyline, and the viewer doesn't really get involved with the film until after the first half-hour. However, "Ulee's Gold" is ultimately a powerful and effective human drama that moves the soul in its own subtle way.

The film's greatest strength lies in the stirring performances, particularly that of Peter Fonda as the aloof but strong-willed Ulee. At first the viewer thinks of Ulee as just an estranged man who cares about nothing but his beekeeping business; but the character slowly works his way into the viewer's heart as the film progresses. Soon we get to realize how much the man cares for his family, and by the end of the film we are really cheering for him. Christine Dunford also gives a superb performance as Helen, and Patricia Richardson (of "Home Improvement" fame) is also convincing as Ulee's neighbor, the one townsperson whom he allows in on his situation.

Additionally, much of the plot of "Ulee's Gold" lies in the script, rather than through on-screen action; thus the viewer is never presented with overcalculated brutality. Even the tensest of scenes are played out like they would be in an everyday rural or suburban society, without big explosions or fistfights. The drawn-out dialogue gets a little tedious at times, but it makes the characters all the more believable. Throughout the film, these characters go through a lot of changes, especially Ulee. In the end, it is Ulee who has changed the most, having discovered that his "gold" is not just his rare Tupelo honey, but the even-more-precious family that he has fought so hard to protect.

"Ulee's Gold" may not be quite as involving as the more recent "In the Bedroom", but it's a great film for anyone who likes solidly told dramas. It was not aimed at a teenage audience, so anyone my age who happens to be reading this review will probably find it somewhat boring; however, there's a lot of good material in this film that shows profound thought in Nunez's part. See it if it interests you in any way.

Peter Fonda's Best Work
Ulee's Gold is probably one of the most believable films of late it had all the elements of a good movie and put them all together and made a wonderful film. The story is that this man Ulee (Peter Fonda) is a beekeeper and his son who is in jail was married to a woman named Helen (Christine Dunford) who he must find and take care of however one of her biggest flaws is that she is drug addicted and her eldest daughter does not want to see her. Ulee had been taking care of Penny (Vanessa Zima) and Casey (Jessica Biel) since they were young but not into time for Casey to not be scared forever. Can this broken family ever be the loving family that they once were or are they all forever scared. I would recommend this movie to everyone over the age of twelve because it does have a lot of language, drug content, and some violence other than that it is fine. I hope that this review has helped you in making a decision about this film.

Good honey-bee drama...slow as molasses
This is a very low-key movie about a honey-bee farmer named "Ulee" (Ulysses) who is a widower and finds himself having to unite his dysfunctional family. His family includes a son in prison for bank robbery, a drugged out daughter-in-law who spills the beans about the location of the long-lost stolen money to the other accomplices who give Ulee trouble, and two grandaughters, aged about 11 and rebellious 15. There is a helpful neighbor nurse and local sheriff, as well. The End.

Peter Fonda garnered much acclaim for his acting, and in fact all the players did a good job including Jessica Biel and Vanessa Zima as the kids, Patricia Richardson as the neighbor, and Tom Wood as the son.

I found the actual bee-keeping business pretty interesting, but it looks to be a tedious and labor-intensive job, at least on the small-scale shown here.

This story will only appeal to older audiences as there is little "action", even in the action portion. The ending may be a bit more upbeat than the circumstances might dictate, but it could go that way. This is more of a character study, and on that level is quite good.

No DVD extras beyond the usual language/subtitle options and trailer

Superb!
All the players are outstanding in this drama about what really matters in a family. Masterfully directed and compelling.

Highly recommended.

The Bees' Knees or a Classic Film
Watching "Ulee's Gold" again 6 years after it was released reminded me of how great a movie this is. Victor Nunez is an independent filmmaker who usually sets his films in Florida and sits on the board of the Sundance Film Festival. His excellent eye for talent is demonstrated by the introduction of Ashley Judd in 1993's "Ruby in Paradise." Being an independent feature explains why so much of this cast is actors from television. Not to diminish the sterling performance of Peter Fonda, this is an ensemble work that Nunez has directed. Each member of the cast is essential to its success; and it does succeed.

As Ulee Jackson, Peter Fonda gives an amazingly understated but strong performance. You can see the storm of emotions that fly within the character as evidenced by the one scene where he lets his feelings fly as he tells off his daughter-in-law Helen with anger and venom. That edge or spark underlies all of the other well-controlled scenes so that even though Ulee may be quiet, he is always focused, always tense.

The supporting cast is also excellent. TV's "Home Improvement" Patricia Richardson is excellent as the neighbor nurse who tries to help without intruding and winds up attracted to Ulee. That interesting relationship allows the mind to conjure up Ulee 2: The Sequel to see how things develop after this crisis point.

Jessica Biel, the bad girl who posed nude for a magazine and got booted from TV's "7th Heaven" delivers another blockbuster performance as the young adult/late adolescent who wants to be a kid but who fights with her responsibilities to her family and loves them even as she sasses them. I probably won't select to see her in the upcoming "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" because it's not my kind of film, but she certainly shows the potential of an accomplished actress.

The other supporting players are also excellent. Christine Dunford who has worked in TV (Ally McBeal, Law & Order) shows great range as the drug-addicted mother who is dragged out of her habit, and clings to her con hubby. Steven Flynn who also has worked in TV (Ally McBeal, NYPD Blue) as the big brain con Eddie Flowers is sufficiently creepy to keep our interest. His horny sidekick Ferris Dooley is played well by Dewey Weber. Ulee's son Jimmy in prison is played by Tom Wood ("The Fugitive," "Appollo 13") with an edgy performance, conflicting the loose morals that landed him in prison with his love for his wife and kids. Even little Vanessa Zima ("Zoe") as the younger daughter Penny does a good job of being sufficiently innocent.

Nunez has created a marvelous ensemble piece. One could almost see this adapted for a compelling stage play. I was particularly struck by the metaphor of being calm amid the bees which paralells the tense human situation and Ulee's calmness in the face of possible tragedy. The film holds up well and will remain a classic film. Enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

TEACHER PET
MURDER 101 written and directed by Bill Condon (who would later grab an Oscar for GODS AND MONSTERS) is a great little movie that I had never heard of. Suffice to say, Condon's neat little script gives us two big surprises at the end. The murderer is hard to spot and the ending is just "Wow, did I just see what I think I saw?"
At any rate, Pierce Brosnan in his pre Bond days stars as a best-selling crime writer who teaches a class in how to write the perfect crime novel. Brosnan gained famed writing a true crime thriller that sent his friend to prison for murdering his wife. Brosnan returns to teaching, to meet his estranged wife, played sweetly by Dey Young, who has taken up with another professor, played smarmily by Mark L. Taylor (Fangs). Another friend of his is Detective Mike Dowley (played with a surly masculinity by Antoni Carone). Soon, though, things take a demonic twist when Pierce is set up for murder by one of his students. Rachel Sbarge in a crafty performance seems to be the one who is setting him up.
The pace is good; the script witty and inventive; and overall, a tidy, surprising mystery.

Nothing But Praise For Brosnan's Performance
I really enjoyed this 1991 t.v thriller starring Pierce Brosnan, before stepping into the role of suave secret agent James Bond, Brosnan was College professior Charles Lattimore returning back after a leave of absence due to writing his novel. No sooner when he gets back he tries to ignite his relationship with his ex-wife but she is with someone else. As well he's back into teaching. His first assigment he has for his students is to plan the perfect murder, no sooner one of his students is murdered and he comes under fire from the local autothies. Be prepared for the surpirse ending is nothing you would expect. This film does examine that even people of high moral integrity can still fall for the usual mind games inoving love and passion. Pierce Brosnan in this role has all the crediabillty and durabilty for the viewer to sustain beief. It is indeed a well made film.

It is one of the best
I can't believe i have finally seen this movie. I saw the movie like 13 years ago but i never new the title and did not know any of the actors.(i was just 9). So i did not know anything. Then later,i saw Mrs. Doubtfire and i was like hey i know this guy(this was like 1994). Yesterday i just saw one of my notes where i had written the story down and i said "oh yeah" i always wanted to see the movie. so i got on the internet and started searching. You can imagine going thru all of pierce Brosnans movies and reading the reviews and storyline. bcos i did not know the title. but ihave found it after such a long time. i am soo happy. So ihope yu get a copy of this movie. It is one of the best.

nice little mystery flick
This is a good little mystery movie set on a college campus with none other than Pierce Brosnan playing a prof who has his class try to write the perfect murder. Considering the low price, this movie is definitely worth a look. You won't be disappointed, and if you like Brosnan anyway, you'll probably fall in love with this one.

A Surprisingly good little mystery
With another actor I may have given this 3 stars for me... as in a good little mystery. With brosnan in it i give 4 stars. ... Read more

Reviews (279)

THIS is why you should own a DVD player!
Few other "Special Edition" discs get you as intimately familiar with a film and the film-making process as this new DVD does, though the laser disc collector's edition of TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY comes awful close. Now you fortunate DVD-player owners can get for about $30-$40 dollars what we laser disc owners shelled out $100 for years ago, plus more. A heart-pounding movie, beautifully and intricately shot under nearly impossible circumstances (it wasn't nicknamed "The toughest shoot in film history" for nothing). Part military action thriller, part love story, and all impressive, THE ABYSS SPECIAL EDITION on DVD gives you both the theatrical version and expanded version of the movie (even the laser disc only had a one-version option), documentaries (the longer one is not to be missed), and enough bonus features to monopolize your entire day. It can really take the whole afternoon and evening to see it ALL. Granted, at 171 minutes the expanded version is a bit cumbersome at times, but by then you are so engrossed you don't mind. We've all seen good-looking special effects movies undermined by a so-so script or lame acting. But THE ABYSS delivers where it counts -- solid performances and an often tense script. This is the version to own. All other versions and formats of this film pale in comparison - even the expensive laser disc version. For what you'll pay for this disc you get much more than your money's worth. This collection sets a new standard for discs with bonus features. And if you enjoyed THE MATRIX for how it took full advantage of your surround-sound system, this disc will also please. Make sure your subwoofer is turned on.

"The Abyss"
The Abyss (PG-13) 5/5
Ed Harris, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Michael Biehn, Leo Burmester, Todd Graff.
Directed by James Cameron.
Synopsis: A deep sea oil rig crew is recruited to investigate a submarine crash, but something unknown resides in the abyss.
Special Features: Original Theatrical and Extended Versions of the Film, Feature Length Commentary for Both Versions, Filmographies.
Review: One of my all time favorite films. An oil rig crew is joined by a military team to investigate a mysteriously downed sub. As they descend into the abyss they begin to realize they may be the only humans down there, but they are not alone. Sci-fi has never been better this deep social commentary was originally cut by hack producers thus again proving they know jack about films. Know it is restored in its originally intended glory. Ed Harris is as always fantastic, Mastrantonio is great, and Biehn has fun with his bad guy role. The rest of the crew excels too. Cameron is in his staple genre and he directs to perfection. As for the DVD? Should've bought the 5-star collection. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! This is a solid disc, but really this is one film worth the extra cash.

What is this digipak version?
This digipak edition DVD does NOT have a 5.1 soundtrack. The picture remains letterboxed, not anamorphic, and it still carries the THX certification,