Description

Lara inspires lechery in Komarovsky (her mother's lover who is a master at surviving whoever runs Russia) and can't compete with passion for the revolution of the man she marries, Pasha. Her true love is Zhivago who also loves his wife. Lara is the one who inspires poetry. The story is narrated by Zhivago's half brother Yevgraf, who has made his career in the Soviet Army. At the beginning of the film he is about to meet a young woman he believes may be the long lost daughter of Lara and Zhivago. ... Read more

Reviews (132)

Doctor Zhivago with Omar Sharif
Doctor Zhivago is David Lean 's measured and beautiful adaptation of Boris Pasternak 1958-acclaimed novel. Made in 1965 and winner of five Academy Awards, starring Omar Sharif and Julie Christie, Doctor Zhivago is a cinematic masterpiece, a visually stunning and expressively powerful love story set in the foreground of life in Russia during the latter days of Czarist Russia and the turmoil of the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917.

The film features gorgeous landscape and romantic scenes set to Maurice Jarre's haunting music. Lean uses Panavision cinematography to boast his landscapes that are often remote and cold is contrasted with the emotional fires burning within Zhivago and Lara -- a romanticized version of an illicit relationship without moral dilemmas or conflicts. The romance is amid the opulence of Russia before the war and the violent social upheaval that followed. Like many Russians, Zhivago's life is swept away with the radical currents of the Revolution.

A stunning Russian love epic of grand proportions.
This is the film that set off a fashion trend at my high school when it was released in a 30th Anniversary edition. This film is a grand scale drama about a Russian poet/doctor who dearly loves his sensitive wife yet wants this other woman named Lara. The backdrop is Russia during the Revolution around 1916, or something like that. Zhivago and his family are swept up in these fleeting events that put him in self-conflict between his wife and adulterous lover. His final choices concerning her and his family forever alter his remaining years. Based on the Nobel-Prize winning novel, it won 5 Academy Awards in 1965--Best Screenplay Adaptation, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, and Best Music Score, which introduced the hit tune "Lara's Theme" a.k.a. "Somewhere My Love." It was also a Best Picture nominee. Omar Sharif won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Zhivago. Julie Christie and Geraldine Chaplin also star. Christie won the Oscar that same year for Best Actress in the film "Darling", which I also reviewed. Not rated upon its release, but the anniversary edition denotes a PG-13 rating for mature themes and situations. This is one of my favorite films ever and is one of the films listed on AFI's Top 100 Films of All Time. The acting is great, costumes exquisitely detailed, gorgeous photography, lavish sets, and a famous score all add up to one of the greatest films of this century.

Doctor Zhivago Was An Adulterous Slime!!
Folks, get the romantic stars out of your eyes. Doctor Zhivago was cheating on his pregnant wife with (...) Lara, who started out in the world by having an affair with a MARRIED MAN! She seems to like the married ones. Commitment phobic?

Yes, it had a soaring score and gorgeous landscapes, but the morals of these characters made me sick. For Zhivago to leave his pregnant wife with an old man in the middle of nowhere in a Russian winter was reprehensible. I found it poetic justice when Zhivago's raging hormones led him back to the town where Lara was and he was caught by the army and inducted as military surgeon. He deserved the misery he put upon himself! That's the plot in a nutshell!

great film
This dvd format of "Doctor Zivago," is excellent a great documentary and much extra special and footage and a trailer. This is well worth getting and excelent film, one of the best ever. Great packaging and wonderful acting. A must see movie.

An epic that lasts...
David Lean, creator of the also epically great Lawrence of Arabia, has taken Boris Pasternak's novel and created a very good film with it. Having not read the book, I cannot comment and will not on whether it matches the book, but I can say the movie itself is very near excellent. This movie is really almost a historical film in disguise, since it highlights the lives of many, but especially Yuri and Lara, the main characters, and their attempts to live during and after the early nineteen hundreds Russian revolution. Like the movie To Live did for China, Dr. Zhivago helps one understand the daily sufferings before and after the revolution. These sufferings, or sufferers, are laced with almost hope as they live and love one another and try to thrive. This movie, although long, should interest almost anyone. It will also touch the mind and remind themselves of other culture's and their historical changes. ... Read more

Reviews (136)

John Ford's gentle and loving salute to Ireland.......
From all reports "The Quiet Man" was a very personal and passionate undertaking from director John Ford, and his company of players (most of Irish ancestry)....and what sweet fruit their passion bore...

This is a film of such warmth, tenderness, humour and beauty that it just sparkles from beginning to end.

Irish-born, American boxer Sean Thornton (John Wayne) returns to his place of birth after accidently killing another man in the ring. Seeking to find peace and happiness in the lush green country side, Sean is enraptured with the fiery Mary Kate Danaher (Maureen O'Hara in a wonderful performance) but incurs the wrath of her bully of a brother Red Will Danaher (Victor McLaglen) because of Thornton's purchase of local land. Failing to abide by the customs of Irish courtship as advised by resident matchmaker Michaleen Flynn (Barry Fitzgerald) and Father Peter Lonergan (Ward Bond)...it's not long before the whole county is in a spin about this big Yank in their midst !!

Amidst the lopsided courtship and Red Will's refusal to pay the dowry, Thornton & Danaher square off in what must be the most entertaining and longest on screen fights in cinema history...much to the amusement of the entire town that turned out to watch !!

"The Quiet Man" is such a wonderfully enchanting film, that it is as enjoyable for all ages today, as it was nearly 50 years ago. Truly, a film for those young at heart and those who can appreciate such a warm hearted and lovingly prepared ode to the magic of Ireland.

A Movie You'll Watch Over And Over
A true masterpiece, this movie captures the heart and soul of Ireland. That said, not only the Irish will love it. It tells the story of an American, coming home to his mother's beloved Irland. There he meets and falls in love with a beautiful colleen, only to find that her brother is against the affair and basically, out to get him. Shot on location in Ireland, the view is gorgeous, and the plot has everything from exciting fights to tender love scenes. ( My favourite scene is their famous first kiss, when he kisses her in the storm and then she slaps him. Btw, Maureen O'Hara fractured her wrist doing that!)

"The Quiet Man" was John Ford's favourite film, and also his most personal one. He cast his favourite actors in it, and it shows. John wayne is just great -whoever thinks he only played himself in every role should see his performance here. For his love interest we have Ford's kind of a woman, the breathtakingly beautiful Maureen O'Hara.She gives a magnificent performance as Mary Kate, and in my opinion should have won the Oscar for it. (She Wasn't even nominated!) Sparks flew when this couple met on screen, and the result is out there for you to witness.

Don't wait till the next St. Patrick's Day -see this film now. I promise you won't regret it.

A romance almost out of time and place - wonderful cast
Anyway, the story is an idyll that is really out of time and place. Apparently it takes place in the early 20th century in Ireland. It seems to be after the Irish Revolution, but before the First World War. I say before the war because the movie never references the awful loss of life that traumatized every European nation that experienced it. Any later than that and you would wonder where the planes and cars would be.

It is a good love story, but the whole concept of dowry and the stubborn character shown by the whole Danaher clan would be mysterious to the younger American generation, as would the purpose of a matchmaker and the formal courting rituals that the movie sends up.

John Wayne is quite fine in this role as is the whole cast. It is a very enjoyable film with a lot to recommend it for the family. It will certainly spark some discussion with the kids that might be helpful and broaden their cultural horizons.

One of the great classics of world cinema
Everything about this film is first rate. The storyline, cast, the directing, the cinematography. You can't go wrong with this one.

Restored ? Huh !
I'm going to keep this short. The Quiet Man is a classic, so why treat it like crap. I have VHS copies of old Disney Afternoon cartoons that are a million times better than this. The transfer is so bad I finally just messed with the color on my set and decided it would be better in black and white.
Theatrical Trailers? That's what the box says, but there are only three "trailers" on the disc, and none are theatrical. they are all commercials for other Artisan discs, which makes no sense as anyone who sees what a terrible job they did to this classic will be very wary before they ever pick up another Artisan disc. Can you imagine the outcry if they did this to Wizard of Oz or any ohter film classics. ... Read more

Reviews (52)

One of the few movies that the whole family really can enjoy
Oh why cant they make movies like this anymore? This is a wonderful movie and really does deserve to be called a movie that "the whole family can enjoy". This one has it all, comedy, drama, chills, suspence, singing, the whole shebang and not one wisecracking kid to be found. Not only does it feature a young suave Sean Connery but also the beautiful Janet Munro in one of the few films that she made. This movie is filled with myths and legends of Ireland and the special effects stand up to anything being made today and this one was filmed over 40 years ago! You will love this one!

Darby O'Gill and the Little People
Great Disney flick. Its a hoot seeing Sean Connery in his twenties. Nice family movie. I love the old Irish legends, especially the Banshee and the Coach d'Bower. Albert Sharpe does a great job as Darby. The cinematography is beautiful. My grand kids love this movie. They are 9 and 3. Its something they can watch together.

Full screen but not a total loss...
It is true that this release will be "full screen", however I believe it is an open matte full screen vs. a pan-and-scan, meaning you will get the full image as seen in theaters, plus a little extra top and bottom. It is also quite possible the director framed his shots with the full-frame in mind, knowing it would be exhibited that way in some venues. More importantly, the TV Special "I Captured the King of the Lephrecauns" is listed as an extra feature. Whether we'll be getting the show in its entirety or merely some clips is yet to be seen, but this show was just as entertaining and important as the feature it supports and I hope they have the common sense to include the full hour program.

I love this movie...
...and I generally dislike Disney films!

This dates from the time when Disney wasn't afraid to be dark and eerie. The story balances whimsy with supernatural terrors and is appropriate for both Halloween and St. Patrick's Day.

This film lovingly depicts an Ireland of times gone by, and perhaps an Ireland that never truly was. Nevertheless, the culture is saturated in fairy-tales and ghost stories, and everyone seems to believe.

A love letter to simple village life, and to the power of storytelling, and the Emerald Isle's vibrant and exuberant folklore. Well-acted (except for Janet Munro, who seems to always be reading cue cards), lushly photographed, and the special effects hold up VERY well in these days of overly obvious CGI. If you're Irish, or just enjoy a good fairy tale, or a good ghost story, then this is for you. Not to be missed!

Classic Live-Action Disney Mutilation!
Alas, one of Walt Disney's most personal pet projects, and I might add one of the best special effects motion pictures ever made without cheesy CGI assistance, Disney has chosen to "Blackbeard" another brilliant live-action Disney classic. Disney has chosen to maliciously release this wonderful film in Full Screen Format robbing the viewer the beautiful verdant scenery of Ireland. Why Disney continues to torture the consumer is completely illogical. Why an enjoyable but mediocre release of "Now You See Him, Now You Don't" receives an OAR release over "Darby" is beyond comprehension. Just keep boycotting these releases until Eisner is history. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Director William Friedkin was a hot ticket in Hollywood after the success of The French Connection, and he turned heads (in more ways than one) when he decided to make The Exorcist as his follow-up film. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his controversial bestseller, this shocking 1973 thriller set an intense and often-copied milestone for screen terror with its unflinching depiction of a young girl (Linda Blair) who is possessed by an evil spirit. Jason Miller and Max von Sydow are perfectly cast as the priests who risk their sanity and their lives to administer the rites of demonic exorcism, and Ellen Burstyn plays Blair's mother, who can only stand by in horror as her daughter's body is wracked by satanic disfiguration. One of the most frightening films ever made with a soundtrack that's guaranteed to curl your blood, The Exorcist was mysteriously plagued by troubles during production, and the years have not diminished its capacity to disturb even the most stoical viewers. Don't say you weren't warned! --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (640)

4.5 out of 5
Thirty years after it's release, THE EXORCIST remains the scariest film of all-time. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his own novel, this legendary horror flick follows the difficulties of a mother (Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old girl (Linda Blair, in her biggest performance) becomes possessed by the devil, and how the mother discovers that the only way to save her daughter is an exorcism. There is frightening directing by William Friedkin (THE FRENCH CONNECTION), a very short by haunting score by Jack Nitzsche, and great performances by Burstyn, Blair, Jason Miller, Lee J. Cobb and Max von Sydow. To add to that, there's horrifyingly realistic special effects (by Marcel Vercoutere) and eerie cinematography (by Owen Roizman). Now we also have "The Version You've Never Seen" - which, hopefully you have seen, because it includes ten minutes of new, terrifying footage. Once you've seen, the film's hundreds of ghastly images will never leave your mind. Simply put, THE EXORCIST will live on to horrify us for generations to come.

The best horror movie ever made!
The Exorcist is one of those rare finds. It is a superbly crafted film with a great story and top-notch acting and it also manages to scare the "you know what" right out of you. The thought of the demonic posession of a pre-teen girl is too much for most people to ponder rationally. Yet somehow, William Friedkin (making the movie from the gripping page-turner written by William Peter Blatty) presents this tale in a straight forward manner that doesn't flinch in it's ability to deal with this horrifying subject matter. Contrary to what some people have mentioned the special effects are NOT dated. They are still some of the best effects created in Hollywood. (Perhaps minimalist by todays standards which make them even more incredible).
Highlights of the DVD are the soundtrack, which you'll be scrambling to turn down if you have a home theater system, and the documentary about the making of the film which highlights the many challenges the crew encountered and some of the eerie things that took place during the filming. Look for the infamous "Spider Walk" scene which was left cut on the editor's floor.
Some people I know still refuse to watch this film on its reputation alone. Don't be one of them. You'll be missing one of the best films made in the 70's and without a doubt the greatest horror movie of all time.

The Best and Original
This is probably the best horror film to date, still an excellent movies even though the effects are dated. It destroyed (Linda Blair's) the little girl's career as an actress because people were never able to disassociate her with the possesed girl. She was only 15 when she made the movie.

Still packs a punch
It is easy to banter around a movie as being the scariest ever made. Buy this movie actually lives up to the billing and should give shivers up one's spine unless one is already dead. The soundtrack is outstanding in setting the mood of the scenes. I saw the original movie when it first came out (amidst the tremendous controversy) and found it gripping. Of the added scenes, I will agree that the change to the ending was unnecessary. In the years since it was made, it has lost none of it's punch and is a very powerful and well crafted movie. My first DVD had to be replaced (it contained blank portions while the sound continued)and the replacement sometimes did not want to load. But once the movie started, it is one of the best to put one on edge. Sometimes, the medical scenes were more chilling than the possession scenes.
The cardboard DVD case, however, merits a thumbs down from me.

Misplaced images on the walls.
A great artistic masterpiece, with acting and scenery so sincere and genuine it all feels documentary.

The only good about the "Version You've Never Seen" is the added spider-walk scene which is very creepy; although it may be so strong that it attracts too much attention to itself, causing some unbalance in the film.
The added images on the walls I can't understand why they did. Demon manifestations don't live a life by themselves, they are primarily inner states of a person that are then projected and manifested without for the person. (I have had my own experience of this through a harrowing experience, when a cat which I was unable to help died a painful death before me; afterwards a demon visage appeared in the light from a candle, that was shining and reflecting through a glass, forming a picture onto the table before me. Looking into its eyes and raging mouth I stared right into the Abyss. It was no imagined thing, since I consciously noticed that it had the correct anatomy of an actual head.)
Furthermore these images on the walls, which are really only for the audience's eyes alone and not relating to the actors in the movie, make me think of the interactive computor-games of our modern age, where the viewer is part of the events on the screen. Such added new visual cosmetics really doesn't belong in a 1970s movie.

I recommend the 25th Anniversary Edition, which is the original version. It is also better paced. Another added scene in "The Version You've Never Seen" is of Regan's first visit to the hospital for tests; it comes too abruptly, and Regan being in her mother's bed, telling her that she couldn't sleep because her own bed was shaking, doesn't really seem to warrant it. ... Read more

Reviews (60)

First Class Entertainment
I first watched this film on the television at Christmas in about 1982 (under the title "Dance Of The Vampires"), and even then, as a 12 year-old, was impressed by this superior vampire 'caper'. The film starts with a beautifully haunting score (by the late Christopher Komeda) and the arrival of a pair of intrepid vampire killers to a Transylvanian Inn. Throughout the film, the viewer is treated to a visual and musical feast, enhanced by brilliant acting from the likes of Ferdy Mayne, Jack MacGowran, Alfie Bass, and of course, Iain Quarrier as the token gay vampire! The enchanting qualities of Sharon Tate as the inn-keeper's young daughter, Sara, add to the overall enjoyment of the film; which, in my opinion, is easily the best vampire and/or Polanski movie to date.

A Comedic Rendition of Bram Stoker's "Dracula"
"The Fearless Vampire Killers" is producer/director/screenwriter/actor Roman Polanski's comedic rendition of Bram Stoker's "Dracula" legend. The bumbling Professor and his timid assistant Alfred (played by Roman Polanski) travel to Transylvania to study vampires. The Professor and Alfred rest at an inn festooned with garlic. That evening, the innkeeper's daughter (played by the *stunningly beautiful* Sharon Tate) is kidnapped by the Count (played with a characterization combining elements of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing). The distraught innkeeper (played with a Zero Mostel characterization) runs out into the night to rescue his kidnapped daughter and never returns alive. The Professor and Alfred seek the Count's castle. The Count invites the Professor and Alfred to stay at his castle and to study in his library. The Professor and Alfred agree, they learn that the Count and his flock are planning a formal dress ball, and the real fun begins ...

This film's scenic vistas and its theatrical sets are impressive -- they are complex, ornate, and convey a somber atmosphere. And Sharon Tate's beauty is impressive -- previously an unknown actress, this film gave general public recognition to Sharon Tate. Roman Polanski was involved in *all* aspects of this film's production, and his quality touch is visible throughout the film.

It is ironic that this film's plot revolves around Sharon Tate's kidnapping by the Count and his flock. After this film was released, Sharon Tate and her real life friends were murdered in their home by members of the Charles Manson family.

Not his best
... when u compare it with Rosemary`s Baby, Repulsion and Frantic. But it DOES have its moments... What really saves this film is the music by Komeda, choreography by Norwegian Tutte Lemkow, the scenary, the make-up, the off-key characters, Sharon Tate and the costumes... Too often u find yourself wondering what-the-heck this is all about and why doesn`t Polanski move a bit faster into the action??? Still; it`s watchable and I`m glad that so many have found it to their hearts:-)

A Timeless Classic
This is one of my all-time favorite films. I first saw this movie as a young girl and never forgot it. I was thrilled when I found it on VHS years later and am now excited about owning the DVD. This film is a mixture of an early silent film and a Laurel & Hardy-type comedy. Our "fearless vampire killers" keep getting themselves into tight spots and then must work to get themselves out again. The sets are terrific, especially the castle. You can get wrapped up in this film, it won't bore you for a minute. It's a subtle spoof of a vampire movie keeping the thrills while adding comic relief. A must-see and a must-have.

A Vampire Classic
Late one night many years ago I had the pleasure of watching the great Roman Polanski vampire film. Now, many years later, I have added the complete and uncut edition to my collection.

This tongue-in-cheek begins with Professor Abronsius and his assistant (Polanski) arriving in Transylvania. The professor, who has one of the silliest mustaches of all time, is researching the legends of vampires. He is convinced that they really exist and that he can eliminate them. Shortly after their arrival it becomes apparent that there are indeed strange creatures about. All of the evidence convinces the professor that his suspicions are correct.

When the inn they are staying in is hit by a vampire the two journey to a bleak castle. There they encounter the local lord, who is a vampire. The lord and the professor hit it off quite well as both are men (ahem) of learning. During the day the professor and his assistant search for the vampires tomb. They find it but are unable to dispatch the creatures and wind up losing all of their tools in the process. Then night falls.

With the fall of night the two become targets and must avoid their vampiric hosts. then they make a startling discovery. There are more vampires in the castle than just the lord and his son. There is a graveyard filled with generations of bloodsuckers. As the vampires hold an annual ball at which they will feast on a number of locals, the professor and his protégée manage to make off with one of the victims and successfully flee into the night pursued by a hunchback sledding in a coffin.

The film then ends with a very dark note. The woman they have saved makes the complete transition to vampire while they are fleeing and she bites the young assistant. It is in this way that the bumbling Professor Abronsius enabled vampirism to spread out of Transylvania into the rest of the world.

This edition restores the twenty minutes that were cut out when the film was first released in America. This is an unusual film in that much is communicated through action. The dialogue is rather sparse throughout. But with the almost exaggerated actions of a silent film combined with a haunting score result in a richer movie than had it been full of dialogue. The special effects, what few there are, are quite effective and possibly more effective than current effects. In one scene the vampire killers and the woman they are trying to rescue are leading a dance at the ball. The procession advances towards a mirror and only the three are reflected although dozens are in direct line. Spectacular. The rest of the film uses small dashes of comedy to season an otherwise dark story. This is a true classic among vampire films. If you have not seen it you should. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Director William Friedkin was a hot ticket in Hollywood after the success of The French Connection, and he turned heads (in more ways than one) when he decided to make The Exorcist as his follow-up film. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his controversial bestseller, this shocking 1973 thriller set an intense and often-copied milestone for screen terror with its unflinching depiction of a young girl (Linda Blair) who is possessed by an evil spirit. Jason Miller and Max von Sydow are perfectly cast as the priests who risk their sanity and their lives to administer the rites of demonic exorcism. Ellen Burstyn plays Blair's mother, who can only stand by in horror as her daughter's body is wracked by Satanic disfiguration. One of the most frightening films ever made, The Exorcist was mysteriously plagued by trouble during production, and the years since have not diminished its capacity to disturb even the most stoic viewers. The film is presented in letterbox format on digital video disc, with a remastered soundtrack that's guaranteed to curdle your blood. The 25th-anniversary Special Edition DVD of The Exorcist is packed with bonus features, including a 74-minute documentary titled The Fear of God: The Making of The Exorcist, which includes interviews with cast and crew, audio commentary by William Friedkin and author William Peter Blatty, a special introduction by Friedkin, theatrical trailers and TV spots, and DVD-exclusive coverage of the film's storyboards and production design. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (640)

4.5 out of 5
Thirty years after it's release, THE EXORCIST remains the scariest film of all-time. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his own novel, this legendary horror flick follows the difficulties of a mother (Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old girl (Linda Blair, in her biggest performance) becomes possessed by the devil, and how the mother discovers that the only way to save her daughter is an exorcism. There is frightening directing by William Friedkin (THE FRENCH CONNECTION), a very short by haunting score by Jack Nitzsche, and great performances by Burstyn, Blair, Jason Miller, Lee J. Cobb and Max von Sydow. To add to that, there's horrifyingly realistic special effects (by Marcel Vercoutere) and eerie cinematography (by Owen Roizman). Now we also have "The Version You've Never Seen" - which, hopefully you have seen, because it includes ten minutes of new, terrifying footage. Once you've seen, the film's hundreds of ghastly images will never leave your mind. Simply put, THE EXORCIST will live on to horrify us for generations to come.

The best horror movie ever made!
The Exorcist is one of those rare finds. It is a superbly crafted film with a great story and top-notch acting and it also manages to scare the "you know what" right out of you. The thought of the demonic posession of a pre-teen girl is too much for most people to ponder rationally. Yet somehow, William Friedkin (making the movie from the gripping page-turner written by William Peter Blatty) presents this tale in a straight forward manner that doesn't flinch in it's ability to deal with this horrifying subject matter. Contrary to what some people have mentioned the special effects are NOT dated. They are still some of the best effects created in Hollywood. (Perhaps minimalist by todays standards which make them even more incredible).
Highlights of the DVD are the soundtrack, which you'll be scrambling to turn down if you have a home theater system, and the documentary about the making of the film which highlights the many challenges the crew encountered and some of the eerie things that took place during the filming. Look for the infamous "Spider Walk" scene which was left cut on the editor's floor.
Some people I know still refuse to watch this film on its reputation alone. Don't be one of them. You'll be missing one of the best films made in the 70's and without a doubt the greatest horror movie of all time.

The Best and Original
This is probably the best horror film to date, still an excellent movies even though the effects are dated. It destroyed (Linda Blair's) the little girl's career as an actress because people were never able to disassociate her with the possesed girl. She was only 15 when she made the movie.

Still packs a punch
It is easy to banter around a movie as being the scariest ever made. Buy this movie actually lives up to the billing and should give shivers up one's spine unless one is already dead. The soundtrack is outstanding in setting the mood of the scenes. I saw the original movie when it first came out (amidst the tremendous controversy) and found it gripping. Of the added scenes, I will agree that the change to the ending was unnecessary. In the years since it was made, it has lost none of it's punch and is a very powerful and well crafted movie. My first DVD had to be replaced (it contained blank portions while the sound continued)and the replacement sometimes did not want to load. But once the movie started, it is one of the best to put one on edge. Sometimes, the medical scenes were more chilling than the possession scenes.
The cardboard DVD case, however, merits a thumbs down from me.

Misplaced images on the walls.
A great artistic masterpiece, with acting and scenery so sincere and genuine it all feels documentary.

The only good about the "Version You've Never Seen" is the added spider-walk scene which is very creepy; although it may be so strong that it attracts too much attention to itself, causing some unbalance in the film.
The added images on the walls I can't understand why they did. Demon manifestations don't live a life by themselves, they are primarily inner states of a person that are then projected and manifested without for the person. (I have had my own experience of this through a harrowing experience, when a cat which I was unable to help died a painful death before me; afterwards a demon visage appeared in the light from a candle, that was shining and reflecting through a glass, forming a picture onto the table before me. Looking into its eyes and raging mouth I stared right into the Abyss. It was no imagined thing, since I consciously noticed that it had the correct anatomy of an actual head.)
Furthermore these images on the walls, which are really only for the audience's eyes alone and not relating to the actors in the movie, make me think of the interactive computor-games of our modern age, where the viewer is part of the events on the screen. Such added new visual cosmetics really doesn't belong in a 1970s movie.

I recommend the 25th Anniversary Edition, which is the original version. It is also better paced. Another added scene in "The Version You've Never Seen" is of Regan's first visit to the hospital for tests; it comes too abruptly, and Regan being in her mother's bed, telling her that she couldn't sleep because her own bed was shaking, doesn't really seem to warrant it. ... Read more

Description

Gene Wilder and Donald Sutherland star as two sets of twins mixed up at birth -- one raised as an aristocrat, and the other as a peasant. They meet 30 years later on the eve of the French Revolution, where their mistaken identities create mass confusion. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Gene Wilder at his very best!
If you enjoy Gene Wilder in the Mel Brooks films, then this movie is right up your alley. It is truly one of the funniest ever made.

The story involves two sets of twins - with one brother in each set switched at birth. One set is raised as aristocrats; the other as peasant revolutionaries. The time - 1779. (When you see the movie, you'll know how funny that line just was!)

Donald Sutherland and Gene Wilder are hilarious as the mismatched brothers, with the peasant-raised set rather normal if a bit cowardly, and the aristos just this side of psychotic. (Ok, maybe they are on the other side...).

Throw in a misunderstood Louis XVI betrayed by everybody and his brother, a Marie Antoinette who could give Messalina a run for her money and, of course, the sinister minister, D'Escargot, and you have the most outrageously funny Gene Wilder movie ever.

Should be..." later that night 1789"
Without a doubt one of the funnier movies ever made. A nobleman is on his way to Paris in the mid 1700 with his pregnant wife...she cant make it the city before the birth and has twin sons in an inn along side the road...in the next room is a peasant woman who also has twin sons at the same time.

The doctor cant remember which twins go with which parent so he gives each parents one from each set...hence Gene Wilder and Donald Southerland grow up as twin brothers as peasants in Paris and as the infamous De CiCi brothers the "scrounge of Corsica".."thats scourge you ignorant peasant".

The movie is a parade of hilarious scenes, mistaken identies and set ups..."I thought it was a coustume ball" as the French Revolution is told in that will have you never looking at history again...

"I didnt know you wanted to do the monk and the choir boy, you told me you wanted to do the shepardess and the farmer, how many outfits do you think I can pack?

Cant wait for it to be on DVD...I think the out takes from this would have to be a riot.

Always funnier each time you watch
I have loved this movie from the first time I saw it and repeated viewings over the years have not diminished it at all. In fact, it seems funnier every time I watch it. The DVD presentation is good and the commentary soundtrack by Wilder, Sutherland and Yorkin is worth hearing for any fan of the film. As funny as anything produced by Monty Python, Mel Brooks or Mystery Science Theater, the comedy is dense and unending. Every opportunity for humor is used to great extent, visually, verbally, and physically. The supporting cast is strong (Billie Whitelaw, Hugh Griffith and more greats) and there are many LOL (laugh out loud) scenes. Thank goodness you can watch this DVD, so it's always "still 1789"!

One of the funniest movies I have seen!!!
I saw this movie about five years ago, and I still love it. I have seen it millions and millions of times, and it is still as funny as the first. If you are in for a good laugh, this is your movie!!! The only thing that I have against it is the tiny bit of nudity.

P.S. I like your shoes!!! (Watch the movie to get the joke)

Well.....
I love this movie. I think that it is hysterical. I do not own it, but I have rented the DVD. The DVD falls very short. Almost no special features, except for a commentary track. Also, the film itself was injured. The aspect ratio used for the DVD is a matted format, while the film itself was shot in anamorphic. There is an anamorphic version shown on AMC, but why this was not used for the DVD escapes me. I still love this movie though, and I hope plans are made to correct this problem. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Three years after Lawrence of Arabia, the largely impressive Lord Jim (1965) finds Peter O'Toole again essaying a self-doubting but remarkable, white Englishman who leads a foreign people against their oppressor. Based on the Joseph Conrad novel, Lord Jim is the story of a British maritime officer, Jim (O'Toole), who takes a brief post on a tramp steamer and flees in terror during a storm at sea. Dogged by a reputation for cowardice, Jim attempts to reinvent himself in his own eyes, commanding an attack against a feudal warlord (Eli Wallach) in a distant, Southeast Asian village and basking in god-like glory afterward. A sinister plot by a gentleman pirate (James Mason) sets the stage for Jim's confrontation with his true destiny. Simplified and adapted by writer-director Richard Brooks (In Cold Blood), Lord Jim sometimes feels rushed and obvious, but O'Toole's golden performance and legendary cinematographer Freddie Young's 70mm footage are outstanding. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Literary Classic transformed on the silver screen
Richard Brooks adaptation of Joseph Conrad's fascinating work Lord Jim, was received in 1965 to mixed reviews.

The movie is an attempt at recasting Conrad's work in the action adventure genre. What is perhaps one of the most compelling works of character in English literature losses its power in the process. What it then becomes is lavishly told, ploddingly paced action adventure fare. And in this category it suffers greatly by comparison to the more recent Indiana Jones series of movies.

The novel presents numerous challenges to the lead actor and director: the structure is complex, Jim speaks infrequently, and (most importantly) it deals with the inner substance of Jim's character. Bringing this together in a well told visual tale is an overwhelming challenge.

Richard Brooks and Peter O'toole should be congratulated for their effort, but the results earned them only a plodding "B" movie.

ANOTHER DVD RELEASE, PLEASE!
LORD JIM is a great film. It really surprised me how a great movie could be adapted from a bad novel! The movie is AWESOME! A great film for the collection. This film screams DVD Release! Please do so. PULEASE!!Grade: A

A Uniquely Thoughtful Adventure Epic
If you favor the David Lean approach to grand scale epic film-making, you mustn't miss a wide screen viewing of this gem. It is too thoughtful, intelligent, even philosophic to move at a pace which would suit devotees of todays thrill-a-minute offerings, yet it offers so many rewards which are seldom found these days. Amidst lushly photographed, exotic settings and loaded with fabulous performances by some of the screen's all-time finest actors, "Lord Jim" dares to mix action adventure with a penetrating examination of moral issues like courage and honor and integrity. The visual production is wondrous and makes a quality widescreen edition intensely desireable and long overdue.

Great and Powerful Movie
Lord Jim expresses the ups and downs of a sailors life and how every port was his home. To me that is the best type of plot for any movie or novel. I give this move two thumbs up but PLEASE RELEASE ONTO DVD!!!!!!!!

great film
one of the top ten movies i've seen, and i've seen alot. starts off slow but wait until the movie truly accumulates. toug to watch without choking up, a truly powerful movie. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

period piece worth the trip
An earlier reviewer called this a period piece, and I think that's exactly the right spirit needed to enjoy the film.

For those of us too young to remember 1969, this is a rather remarkable time capsule of values and social relationships. Most striking is the sense that the film seems to have been made by young people with really no idea of how older people live their lives. That wouldn't be a great problem, except that the film itself takes the generation gap as its central feature: how an older man living a boring, empty, unfulfilling life glimpses (but cannot participate in) the colorful, uninhibited, sensual lives of younger people.

On the other hand, while the film is clearly enamored with the hip glamor of youth and beauty, it also suggests that young people bridge the gender gap principally to have sex with each other. Otherwise, they don't have much to say. Strange! I remember getting that same sense from The Graduate (not to compare the two).

Anyway, I think the dvd is recommendable. Good picture, good music (of course), very good extras, and an interesting snapshot of a time and place.

-

A Mod,Mod,Mod Movie!!
This mod,mod,mod 1968 movie has superb musical scores by the Beatles George Harrison.Also,Jef Films Inc. should aggressively pursue the never been video release of Pat Boone's many great movie musicals made during the 50's and 60's that might prove to be very profitable.I mean Elvis as great as he was should'nt get all the glory!!

Wonderwall? It's a Trip!
The recent demise of George Harrison has prompted renewed interest in his work.

This movie, originally released in England in 1968, was more notable in it's release for George Harrison's sondtrack than for the movie itself.

The soundtrack demonstrated that despite his interest in Indian music and Hindu religion, George had not lost his touch in the writing of songs. His expanding musical tastes are well illustrated here with most of the tracks using indian instruments. There are also aspects of the bizarre with the honky tonk piano of one track being speeded up and the track with the heavy metal riff played by Eric Clapton.

Readers might think it strange that a review of the DVD should focus so much on the music but my rationale in doing so lies more in my perception of George Harrison. Allow me to explain. A lot of the movies of the period were smitten with the sex, drugs and rock'n'roll of the sixties. A number of cinematographers were themselves users of mind altering chemicals and it shows. It is easy to characterise Wonderwall as another Magical Mystery Tour, especially given that one particular person was involved in both ventures but I believe that perception to be wrong.

George Harrison, the Quiet One (sorry George) was known to have a quick wit, which endeared him so much to Lennon, and a sharp sense of humour. This, for me at least, is the key. Wonderwall is a quirky, semi-psychedelic comedy which explains Harrison's involvement. The music reflects his perceptions as it changes scenes. It is easy to be reminded of MMT but it also reminds me of Barabarella. Set in the context of British comedy at the time one can see the influences of the Goons, Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, the alternative comedy which was to evolve into Monty Python and Not the Nine O'Clock News and Do Not Adjust Your Set.

Perceived at this level it shows that the original perception of the movie is lost on modern audiences that is Wonderwall has not stood the test of time. Put in the context of the life of the Dark Horse, this movie marks an early stage in his interests in film making and gives us an insight into what made him laugh.

A "period piece" for all times
Unlike similar "psychedelic" films of the 60s, Wonderwall is one of the few to successfully capture the look and feel of what now appears to be a mythic time when creativity and freedom in cinema was not only new and exciting - but mainstream. Wonderwall will not be for everyone, but it will appeal to those who can appreciate the off-beat and provocative. It will challenge you but also reward you with brilliant performances and one of the best-ever soundtracks (by the late George Harrison). Psychedelic? You bet. But that term does not do justice to what is simply a charming "period piece" that still resonates today for those who like intelligent cinema. A must-have.

You have to be very forgiving....
...if you're going to get any pleasure out of this movie. Forgiving of a script and a plot that function mainly as a excuse to show off Jane Birkin's ample features to maximum effect. Forgiving of camerawork with a lens that was apparently smeared with Vaseline throughout each take and sound recording which defies every attempt to make the dialogue understandable (probably a good thing!). Otherwise, you might just as well get a copy of George Harrison's interesting music for this movie (if you can find it) and save yourself the ordeal of sitting through the movie itself. You'll be happier, trust me! ... Read more

Reviews (136)

Original was Great but ......
The original movie (Black & White) was great but this is a prime example of why "colorization" should be made illegal. The DVD quality is poor at best and the colorization (both DVD & VHS) is so poor that your attention is distracted from the wonderful story line & fine acting. We the buying/viewing public should demand a quality black & white version !

A Movie You'll Watch Over And Over
A true masterpiece, this movie captures the heart and soul of Ireland. That said, not only the Irish will love it. It tells the story of an American, coming home to his mother's beloved Irland. There he meets and falls in love with a beautiful colleen, only to find that her brother is against the affair and basically, out to get him. Shot on location in Ireland, the view is gorgeous, and the plot has everything from exciting fights to tender love scenes. ( My favourite scene is their famous first kiss, when he kisses her in the storm and then she slaps him. Btw, Maureen O'Hara fractured her wrist doing that!)

"The Quiet Man" was John Ford's favourite film, and also his most personal one. He cast his favourite actors in it, and it shows. John wayne is just great -whoever thinks he only played himself in every role should see his performance here. For his love interest we have Ford's kind of a woman, the breathtakingly beautiful Maureen O'Hara.She gives a magnificent performance as Mary Kate, and in my opinion should have won the Oscar for it. (She Wasn't even nominated!) Sparks flew when this couple met on screen, and the result is out there for you to witness.

Don't wait till the next St. Patrick's Day -see this film now. I promise you won't regret it.

Wonderful
I was named after Maureen O'Hara in this movie. (Mary Kathleen) And this is one of my all time favorites, wheather people think the acting is bad or the screenplay is bad, look past that and see what a feel good movie it is.

Its all True
I suppose everything thats been said about this film is true for " That" particular viewer.

I Firmly belive that one must catch at least 5 other Ford films to really get whats going on here.Its an Irish celebration of sorts. With love and care from John Ford.

If you dont get goose bumps when you see the finale with Wayne and O,Hara running off ..well you missed something simple but in a way profound. CP

Classic film, but a poor DVD transfer
Quiet Man is one of my all time favorites, but the DVD version left alot to be desired. The film quality is closer to VHS, if even that good. The only 'feature' was a "The Making of..." special, which is also available on the VHS version.

A great film, but a very disappointing DVD entry. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Brilliant, dark satire on the darkest of subjects.
Richard Lester created in "How I Won the War" a film that simply cannot be categorized.

Symbolism abounds in the film, and in alternating instances, its overtness and its subtlety can prove confusing. For this reason, the film needs to be viewed more than once.

The blatant attack on the military mindset is brilliantly executed. In swift strokes he makes a mockery of military officers and warmongers; one scene in particular has two British officers exchanging bubble gum cards of war scenes, with one insisting in a haughty accent "I want school bombing ... I do."

Michael Crawford and John Lennon are joined by an excellent supporting cast, including Victor Spinetti the brilliant (but unfortunately "late") Leo McKern. Crawford plays the role with just the right amount of smarminess, egoism and overt stupidity that it calls for. Lennon and McKern's innocence causes the closing segment to be doubly powerful.

Overall ... a fine film worth seeing, especially for any fans of social commentary.

Not Chuffed, Mate
Richard Lester has directed great movies, and Three Musketeers (Michael York) is on my ten favorite action movie list. "How I Won the War" is not one of his best.

The problem with the movie is it is English humor with a capital "E." The movies consists of a melange of British Butlin's holiday camp farce and insider public school jokes shot in rapid fire. The lead character is an irritatingly eager chipmunk of an officer who is impossible to connect with. I didn't like him and quickly wished to see him capped by the equally incompetent Germans. The movie would have definitely fed George Patton's biased stereotype of British officers as fawning twits.

Oh, and John Lennon? He doesn't occupy much of this film, and when he speaks, it's rapid-fire one line blitzkreig Liverpudlian. Had trouble understanding "Magical Mystery Tour?" This will really be a stumper.

A historical artifact, only, if harmless.

Surrealistic Anti-War Movie
HOW I WON THE WAR was filmed in Spain in late 1966. The movie features John Lennon and Michael Crawford of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA fame. Richard Lester is the director. The movie is a surrealistic anti-war movie.

The surrealism will turn off many viewers. There is no standard plot structure. This movie can almost be seen as experimental and avante-garde. These qualities drew Lennon to the project. But they are bound to draw viewers away.

HOW I WON THE WAR is akin to REVOLUTION 9 on THE WHITE ALBUM or WHAT'S THE NEW MARY JANE from ANTHOLOGY 3. This movie is cutting edge and pushes the envelope. It is unconventional and approaches psychedelia. Not surprisingly, Lennon composed STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER while making this movie.

The movie suffers from not having songs or compositions by Lennon on the soundtrack. Both Lennon and Crawford are singers, but there are no songs in the movie. John Lennon's character Gripweed is a supporting character in the movie.

The movie, moreover, has an anti-war theme by showing the absurdity, banality, and hollowness of all war. There is no good war. The movie shows how "winning" a war really occurs. The movie, thus, lacks a feelgood perspective. It leaves the viewer disgusted with war by showing that war is not glorious and noble, but the opposite.

Viewers should realize that this movie is surrealistic and experimental. In other words, it is not a commercial movie. It is a satirical look at war. It is a unique movie unlike any other Beatles movie. It is closest to MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR in that it is not a traditional movie. It is a very different war movie. Obviously such a surrealistic movie will not appeal to many. Nevertheless, it is a unique movie experience, not the usual formula movie.

Don't expect to be laughing the whole movie
First off, don't expect a fun M*A*S*H or Hard Day's Night romp. this is a dark movie, and it's supposed to be. but you can't judge it because you want to see a lighthearted Lennon. it's dark and sad and very well filmed. as a war movie, this is one of the best (in my opinion). the last scene with lennon is almost otherworldly, guaranteed to depress. True, the cover is really rather irritating, lennon is only on for a bit. But the cast is top-notch, the writing crisp, and the overall feeling one of amazement. which is, after all, the point of a movie to begin with.

Beatles fans be forewarned
If you're seeking this movie out as a Beatles fan there are a few things you ought to know. First of all, despite John Lennon's handsome mug being prominately featured on the cover of this videotape, he only features in about 15 minutes of this film. (It is NOT how John Lennon's character Gripweed won the war - as the artwork on this tape might lead you to believe - but rather how Michael Crawford's character won the war). Secondly, John does not have much of an opportunity to act silly when he IS featured on camera so if you are expecting another performance like "A Hard Days Night" you will be disappointed. Thirdly, John's last scene in this movie is somewhat uncomfortable to watch given the tragic way in which he died (John's character is mortally wounded in combat and he addresses the camera one final time lying dazed and bleeding). Some of the British humor and the accents in particular are hard to interpret but not any more so than "A Hard Days Night" or "Help". Being that it's a Richard Lester film some of the same actors seen in "Help!" are featured here but this is by no means a vehicle for Lennon's acting career. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Director William Friedkin was a hot ticket in Hollywood after the success of The French Connection, and he turned heads (in more ways than one) when he decided to make The Exorcist as his follow-up film. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his controversial bestseller, this shocking 1973 thriller set an intense and often-copied milestone for screen terror with its unflinching depiction of a young girl (Linda Blair) who is possessed by an evil spirit. Jason Miller and Max von Sydow are perfectly cast as the priests who risk their sanity and their lives to administer the rites of demonic exorcism, and Ellen Burstyn plays Blair's mother, who can only stand by in horror as her daughter's body is wracked by satanic disfiguration. One of the most frightening films ever made, The Exorcist was mysteriously plagued by troubles during production, and the years have not diminished its capacity to disturb even the most stoical viewers. The film is presented in letterbox format on digital video disc, with a soundtrack that's guaranteed to curdle your blood. Don't say you weren't warned! --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (640)

4.5 out of 5
Thirty years after it's release, THE EXORCIST remains the scariest film of all-time. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his own novel, this legendary horror flick follows the difficulties of a mother (Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old girl (Linda Blair, in her biggest performance) becomes possessed by the devil, and how the mother discovers that the only way to save her daughter is an exorcism. There is frightening directing by William Friedkin (THE FRENCH CONNECTION), a very short by haunting score by Jack Nitzsche, and great performances by Burstyn, Blair, Jason Miller, Lee J. Cobb and Max von Sydow. To add to that, there's horrifyingly realistic special effects (by Marcel Vercoutere) and eerie cinematography (by Owen Roizman). Now we also have "The Version You've Never Seen" - which, hopefully you have seen, because it includes ten minutes of new, terrifying footage. Once you've seen, the film's hundreds of ghastly images will never leave your mind. Simply put, THE EXORCIST will live on to horrify us for generations to come.

The best horror movie ever made!
The Exorcist is one of those rare finds. It is a superbly crafted film with a great story and top-notch acting and it also manages to scare the "you know what" right out of you. The thought of the demonic posession of a pre-teen girl is too much for most people to ponder rationally. Yet somehow, William Friedkin (making the movie from the gripping page-turner written by William Peter Blatty) presents this tale in a straight forward manner that doesn't flinch in it's ability to deal with this horrifying subject matter. Contrary to what some people have mentioned the special effects are NOT dated. They are still some of the best effects created in Hollywood. (Perhaps minimalist by todays standards which make them even more incredible).
Highlights of the DVD are the soundtrack, which you'll be scrambling to turn down if you have a home theater system, and the documentary about the making of the film which highlights the many challenges the crew encountered and some of the eerie things that took place during the filming. Look for the infamous "Spider Walk" scene which was left cut on the editor's floor.
Some people I know still refuse to watch this film on its reputation alone. Don't be one of them. You'll be missing one of the best films made in the 70's and without a doubt the greatest horror movie of all time.

The Best and Original
This is probably the best horror film to date, still an excellent movies even though the effects are dated. It destroyed (Linda Blair's) the little girl's career as an actress because people were never able to disassociate her with the possesed girl. She was only 15 when she made the movie.

Still packs a punch
It is easy to banter around a movie as being the scariest ever made. Buy this movie actually lives up to the billing and should give shivers up one's spine unless one is already dead. The soundtrack is outstanding in setting the mood of the scenes. I saw the original movie when it first came out (amidst the tremendous controversy) and found it gripping. Of the added scenes, I will agree that the change to the ending was unnecessary. In the years since it was made, it has lost none of it's punch and is a very powerful and well crafted movie. My first DVD had to be replaced (it contained blank portions while the sound continued)and the replacement sometimes did not want to load. But once the movie started, it is one of the best to put one on edge. Sometimes, the medical scenes were more chilling than the possession scenes.
The cardboard DVD case, however, merits a thumbs down from me.

Misplaced images on the walls.
A great artistic masterpiece, with acting and scenery so sincere and genuine it all feels documentary.

The only good about the "Version You've Never Seen" is the added spider-walk scene which is very creepy; although it may be so strong that it attracts too much attention to itself, causing some unbalance in the film.
The added images on the walls I can't understand why they did. Demon manifestations don't live a life by themselves, they are primarily inner states of a person that are then projected and manifested without for the person. (I have had my own experience of this through a harrowing experience, when a cat which I was unable to help died a painful death before me; afterwards a demon visage appeared in the light from a candle, that was shining and reflecting through a glass, forming a picture onto the table before me. Looking into its eyes and raging mouth I stared right into the Abyss. It was no imagined thing, since I consciously noticed that it had the correct anatomy of an actual head.)
Furthermore these images on the walls, which are really only for the audience's eyes alone and not relating to the actors in the movie, make me think of the interactive computor-games of our modern age, where the viewer is part of the events on the screen. Such added new visual cosmetics really doesn't belong in a 1970s movie.

I recommend the 25th Anniversary Edition, which is the original version. It is also better paced. Another added scene in "The Version You've Never Seen" is of Regan's first visit to the hospital for tests; it comes too abruptly, and Regan being in her mother's bed, telling her that she couldn't sleep because her own bed was shaking, doesn't really seem to warrant it. ... Read more

Reviews (640)

4.5 out of 5
Thirty years after it's release, THE EXORCIST remains the scariest film of all-time. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his own novel, this legendary horror flick follows the difficulties of a mother (Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old girl (Linda Blair, in her biggest performance) becomes possessed by the devil, and how the mother discovers that the only way to save her daughter is an exorcism. There is frightening directing by William Friedkin (THE FRENCH CONNECTION), a very short by haunting score by Jack Nitzsche, and great performances by Burstyn, Blair, Jason Miller, Lee J. Cobb and Max von Sydow. To add to that, there's horrifyingly realistic special effects (by Marcel Vercoutere) and eerie cinematography (by Owen Roizman). Now we also have "The Version You've Never Seen" - which, hopefully you have seen, because it includes ten minutes of new, terrifying footage. Once you've seen, the film's hundreds of ghastly images will never leave your mind. Simply put, THE EXORCIST will live on to horrify us for generations to come.

The best horror movie ever made!
The Exorcist is one of those rare finds. It is a superbly crafted film with a great story and top-notch acting and it also manages to scare the "you know what" right out of you. The thought of the demonic posession of a pre-teen girl is too much for most people to ponder rationally. Yet somehow, William Friedkin (making the movie from the gripping page-turner written by William Peter Blatty) presents this tale in a straight forward manner that doesn't flinch in it's ability to deal with this horrifying subject matter. Contrary to what some people have mentioned the special effects are NOT dated. They are still some of the best effects created in Hollywood. (Perhaps minimalist by todays standards which make them even more incredible).
Highlights of the DVD are the soundtrack, which you'll be scrambling to turn down if you have a home theater system, and the documentary about the making of the film which highlights the many challenges the crew encountered and some of the eerie things that took place during the filming. Look for the infamous "Spider Walk" scene which was left cut on the editor's floor.
Some people I know still refuse to watch this film on its reputation alone. Don't be one of them. You'll be missing one of the best films made in the 70's and without a doubt the greatest horror movie of all time.

The Best and Original
This is probably the best horror film to date, still an excellent movies even though the effects are dated. It destroyed (Linda Blair's) the little girl's career as an actress because people were never able to disassociate her with the possesed girl. She was only 15 when she made the movie.

Still packs a punch
It is easy to banter around a movie as being the scariest ever made. Buy this movie actually lives up to the billing and should give shivers up one's spine unless one is already dead. The soundtrack is outstanding in setting the mood of the scenes. I saw the original movie when it first came out (amidst the tremendous controversy) and found it gripping. Of the added scenes, I will agree that the change to the ending was unnecessary. In the years since it was made, it has lost none of it's punch and is a very powerful and well crafted movie. My first DVD had to be replaced (it contained blank portions while the sound continued)and the replacement sometimes did not want to load. But once the movie started, it is one of the best to put one on edge. Sometimes, the medical scenes were more chilling than the possession scenes.
The cardboard DVD case, however, merits a thumbs down from me.

Misplaced images on the walls.
A great artistic masterpiece, with acting and scenery so sincere and genuine it all feels documentary.

The only good about the "Version You've Never Seen" is the added spider-walk scene which is very creepy; although it may be so strong that it attracts too much attention to itself, causing some unbalance in the film.
The added images on the walls I can't understand why they did. Demon manifestations don't live a life by themselves, they are primarily inner states of a person that are then projected and manifested without for the person. (I have had my own experience of this through a harrowing experience, when a cat which I was unable to help died a painful death before me; afterwards a demon visage appeared in the light from a candle, that was shining and reflecting through a glass, forming a picture onto the table before me. Looking into its eyes and raging mouth I stared right into the Abyss. It was no imagined thing, since I consciously noticed that it had the correct anatomy of an actual head.)
Furthermore these images on the walls, which are really only for the audience's eyes alone and not relating to the actors in the movie, make me think of the interactive computor-games of our modern age, where the viewer is part of the events on the screen. Such added new visual cosmetics really doesn't belong in a 1970s movie.

I recommend the 25th Anniversary Edition, which is the original version. It is also better paced. Another added scene in "The Version You've Never Seen" is of Regan's first visit to the hospital for tests; it comes too abruptly, and Regan being in her mother's bed, telling her that she couldn't sleep because her own bed was shaking, doesn't really seem to warrant it. ... Read more

Description

Is a sensitive and mysterious poet really an IRA gunman in hiding? Set in a Dublin tenement in the 1920's, The Shadow of a Gunman was the first part of Sean O'Casey's celebrated "Dublin Trilogy." Equal parts comedy and tragedy, this classic play is brilliantly performed by a stellar cast including Frank Converse, and Academy Award-winner Richard Dreyfuss (Jaws, Mr. Holland's Opus). ... Read more