Description

Too many kooks spoil the comedy soup? Not when BARBRA STREISAND and RYAN O'NEAL lead a madcap cast (including screen-debuting MADELINE KAHN) on a zany quest that's like a classic screwball comedy - only screwier! ... Read more

Reviews (93)

As comfortable as cashmere...
When a comedy is done right on screen, it often has a very long life beyond its initial release. Such is the case with this wonderful movie. From the moment at the beginning when Streisand hums and sighs and launches into a blazing version of Cole Porter's "You're the Top", the film is a funny, frenetic, comfortable delight that is as cozy as a pair of flannel pajamas. Everyone here is working at the top of their form, and the fact that it looks effortless shows just how accomplished and talented they all are. Barbra looks slim, tan, loose, and very sexy; Ryan O'Neal is perfect as Cary Grant in "Bringing Up Baby", and Madeline Kahn is just perfect. There are so many moments that are memorable, it's hard to name them all. Peter Bogdanovich brought it all together so beautifully, with such style, verve, and loud-out-loud humor, you'll be in heaven for 90 minutes. Hollywood romantic comedy doesn't get any better than this. The DVD picture is bright, crisp, and letterboxed. What a treat for us all!

A gem of a film!!
I remember seeing "What's Up, Doc?" as a kid in a drive-in theatre and laughing uproariously. Later, as an adult, I bought the video and wore it out; the movie still hasn't lost it's charm. I've also introduced many of my friends to the film, but one consequence of that is that my tape is now faded and fuzzy. God bless whoever got this movie onto DVD!!

If you've somehow missed this film ... stop reading, turn off your computer, go to the store and buy it. (Don't rent it; you'll want to watch it more than once.) I mean it. Go now!

I'm not a Streisand fan, but I sure make an exception in this film. She's fantastic! Her zany energy just pours off the screen, her timing and delivery are top notch, and her chemistry with Ryan O'Neal is simply unbelievable. And O'Neal ... is awesome. You might not think of him as an actor who could so ably take on the role of the boring, distracted, absent-minded professor, but man! he owns the role. From his opening shot straight through to the end of the film, he's simply wonderful. And if Streisand's cheerful nuttiness and O'Neal's goofy, sweet seriousness aren't enough for you, there's the inimitable Madeline Kahn in her first role, owning every scene she's in ... 'til Liam Dunn shows up as the judge at the end, that is.

The dialogue sparkles; why aren't more people writing dialogue like this these days? There should be a law. The comedic timing is impeccable. The story is lunacy, but it's sold whole-heartedly ... and the lack of a score (other than Streisand's rendition of "You're the Top" to open and close the film, along with a brief snippet of "As Time Goes By" during the film) makes the whole thing seem almost believable, somehow.

This movie is a gem; I can watch it over and over. The DVD is crisp and clean, looking like it was filmed last week ... a rarity for some early '70's films. The sound quality is excellent; nuances that were lost on my video tape are restored here. Streisand's commentary is generally unilluminating, but Bogdanovich provides some wonderful thoughts and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. All in all, an excellent release.

One minor, tiny little flaw: at the very end of the film, with Howard and Judy on the plane, my VHS version shows Judy batting her eyes, then a cut to Howard ... a cut back to Judy for a lovely pregnant pause ... and finally the return to Howard, who delivers his deadly comeback. The timing on that, as with the rest of the movie, is perfection. But in my DVD, Judy batts her eyes, and we cut to Howard ... who delivers his line after only a short pause. There's a missing bit there in the middle. YES, it's a terribly minor quibble ... but when you monkey with a classic and throw off the comedic timing, a guy has to wonder who would do such a thing.

That's really my only quibble. 5 stars anyway. (Have you bought this DVD yet?! Get going!!)

Great Fireballs of Screwiness, Doc!
Genuine screwball comedy may be one of the toughest cinematic feats to pull off. Alot of directors, including Speilberg, have tried and screwed up, but very few have achieved genuine anarchic, screwball style; Bogdanovich does it ecstatically with Doc. Perhaps one of the reasons films of the seventies are considered so extraordinary is that titles such as Godfather, Exorcist and Chinatown, etc, achieved the high water mark for their respective genres. So it can be said of What's Up, Doc, which not only holds up beautifully but seems even funnier with the passage of years. Do we dare say classic? Yup.

"I can't breathe, is it possible to break a lung?"
The first screwball comedy to be a box office blockbuster since the early forties, WHAT'S UP, DOC? fills it's 94 minute runtime with so many terrific one-liners, double innuendoes, and visual puns that the average viewer will probably have to watch the film a couple of times before he or she catches all of the jokes! Apparently the film inspired repeat viewing even during it's initial release - Doc was the third-highest grossing film of 1972 (right behind THE GODFATHER and THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE). In all honesty, I think this film has a higher laugh-per-second ratio than any film before or since.

This film was the perfect (and surprising) way for director Peter Bogdanovich to follow-up his cinematic landmark THE LAST PICTURE SHOW, and he keeps the film's momentum running right at the perfect speed. He also knows how to cast a film flawlessly. Buck Henry's marvelous screenplay contains many scenes with overlapping dialogue and double reverses, and the entire cast never misses a beat. Barbra Streisand literally radiates with magnetism throughout the entire film! Anyone who still wonders why she was the highest grossing actress of the seventies definitely needs to see this film; Streisand's performance in DOC is what being a movie star is all about. Many critics complained that Ryan O'Neal was miscast when the film was originally released, and those critics obviously missed out on the joke. The fact that O'Neal was considered a heartthrob at the time was all part of the fun in seeing him cast as complete goof; and I don't think anyone can deny the fact that he throws himself into the role completely.

As most viewers already know, Madeline Kahn has her finest screen role in Doc, and steals nearly every scene she's in (and she wisely knows just how far to push the characterization without going over the edge). The rest DOC'S supporting cast also could not be improved upon, Kenneth Mars, Austin Pendlrton, and Liam Dunn give just three of the standout performances in this perfect supporting ensemble. As with most comedies, DOC was snubbed at the Academy Awards (Bogdanovich, Streisand, and Kahn all deserved nominations in the respective categories in my opinion), but time has been good to DOC and remains far more popular than many of the films that did get Oscar noms in 1972. Arguably, the best comedy of all time.

About the DVD: The picture quality is very good - a tad soft at times, but very natural and true to the film's original look. The sound is mono, but it's well-rendered. It's great to have the trailer and vintage featurette preserved on disc, and while Streisand's brief commentary isn't very illumenating, Bogdanovich's full-length track is very informative and entertaining.

Use Your Charm.....
This is unquestionably one of my all time favorite films. All of the actors are in top form. Streisand turns in a masterful comedic performance which I would describe as "understated zany". O'Neil is stoic yet endearing. Madeline Kahn (in her movie debut, which makes the film noteworthy if for NO other reason) gives a perfect performance as O'Neil's overbearing fiance. The supporting cast including Kenneth Mars, Austin Pendleton and Liam Dunn are top notch. Brilliant writing (Buck Henry, et.al.) and directing (Peter Bogdanovich) combine with the cast to make this film one of the rare Hollywood productions that appeals to young and old alike. Don't miss this one, it is truly a classic. ... Read more

Album Details

The soundtrack to the 1970 tear-jerking, box-office smash film 'Love Story', starring Ryan O'Neal and Ali McGraw. Features the official theme (in three parts) by French composer Francis Lai, Mozart's 'Sonata in F Major', Bach's 'Concerto No. 3 in D Major' and nine more. ... Read more

Reviews (54)

MY ALL TIME FAVORITE MOVIE!
I've seen this video countless times. More times, than any other movie. And every time I watch it, it moves me to tears. To experience a love so true and so deep is a miracle and to lose it... it's beyond me. But to even experience it and see a glimpse of it (from this movie) is a wonder enough. The love story between rich Harvard hockey-player Oliver Barrett IV (played by Ryan O'Neal) and smart-mouthed Radcliffe gal Jennifer Cavilleri (played by Ali McGraw) is one of those once-in-a-lifetime love stories... captured on film. These two star-crossed lovers who are from the opposite ends of the socio-economic ladder overcome all obstacles (disapproving parents, near poverty and Harvard Law School) to make their love work. The only thing going for them was their love and devotion to each other. And just when things were finally looking up... tragedy strikes.

The book written by Eric Segal is even more moving but to see the movie, is just as a great experience. It's not just a tearjerker! It's truly a masterpiece! I LOVE THIS MOVIE! It's my ALL TIME favorite movie.

Does anyone know if they plan to release this on DVD?

Something You Should Spend Some Time On It.
The major reason makes me interest in this book and DVD was my Dad. This movie
was shot before I was born. When I was a little girl, I saw Dad watching this movie every time when it was shown on TV. My Dad is kinds of the action movie type. I was surprised why he loved watching this movie. So, when I was in the video store one day, I decided to rent the DVD to see what made my Dad to watch a love drama. Just like my father. I am totally devoted to the movie. I bought both "Oliver's Story" and "Love Story" and finished reading in one afternoon. For me, I like the Love Story more than Oliver's Story. The 3/4 part of the Love Story was a pleasant story. Both of them loved each other very much and would like to sacrifice for each other. For Oliver's story, it's all sad and how Oliver couldn't forget Jenny. Love Story is very well written. I highly recommend you to read it.

That was really a nice one
After reading the book "Love Story" and sobbing about the ending of the of the book when Jenny dies, I wasn't quite normal for a few days, the story just stuck in my mind. I knew that there was a movie based on the book out there and about a month after reading the book I saw the movie. To be brutally honest the movie didn't have the punch and the emotion that the book had had on me. It just seemed kind of choppy, like somebody was going scissor happy in the editing room in 1970. I am not going to say anything about the acting because who am I to give acting directions. I just want to say that we should feel that way the actors portraying the characters feel, and obviously I did because I felt totally disconnected with the characters.{okay, after seeing th movie I found out that Erich Segal had actually written the screen play before actually writing the book} I don't feel that it would be an insult to say that there should be a remake of the movie "Love Story" because with the technology and the acting skills of today's actors, producers and directors and what not, it could be great. I watched "Love Story" because my dad said it was his favorite movie of all time and that it's the only movie he's ever went to the theatre to watch twice, so I thought that it really had to be a good movie. I did like "Love Story," even though I wouldn't call it one of my favorite movies of all time....I'm more the action, sci-fi, comedy, and horror movie type.
"Love Story" is good because it seems realistic, just like two normal people who are real different from each other might act in a real life relationship. Ryan O'Neal and Ali MacGraw brought their acting skills and used them in this love story of a movie. If you like love stories, I recommend purchasing "Love Story."

To be honest, it could have been better
After reading the book "Love Story" and sobbing about the ending of the of the book when Jenny dies, I wasn't quite normal for a few days, the story just stuck in my mind. I knew that there was a movie based on the book out there and about a month after reading the book I saw the movie. To be brutally honest the movie didn't have the punch and the emotion that the book had had on me. It just seemed kind of choppy, like somebody was going scissor happy in the editing room in 1970. I am not going to say anything about the acting because who am I to give acting directions. I just want to say that we should feel that way the actors portraying the characters feel, and obviously I did because I felt totally disconnected with the characters.{okay, after seeing th movie I found out that Erich Segal had actually written the screen play before actually writing the book} I don't feel that it would be an insult to say that there should be a remake of the movie "Love Story" because with the technology and the acting skills of today's actors, producers and directors and what not, it could be great.

A sad film. 4th may 2004.
Most sad films make me cry, this didn't really. Although it was sad when jenny died. It might not be everyone's type of film but for me i quite liked it. I wouldn't say it was excellent to keep watching over and over again, but it was still a good film. The music at the end was sad too, can't remember how it goes but every time i hear it it makes you feel sad. He had known her and he was going to marry her until she found out that she had got cancer and then she died, Heartbreaking story. ... Read more

Reviews (136)

Excellent Film -- Historically Accurate.
In my opinion, the best war movie ever made -- a notch better than "Saving Private Ryan," which contains certain historical inaccuracies. "A Bridge Too Far" masterfully adapts Cornelius Ryan's meticulously-researched book of the same title. More importantly, with the exception of the German tanks and armored personnel carriers depicted in the failed attempt to capture the northern end of the Arnhem bridge, the uniforms, machine guns, rifles, tanks, landscape, etc. depicted in the film are accurate -- unlike the vast majority of war films that cut corners, film off location, fail to research key facts, etc. The "second Omaha Beach" crossing of the Waal River by the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division -- filmed on loaction -- is the most riveting scene in the movie. Also spectacular is the reenactment of the dropping of hundreds of paratroopers over Holland from C-47 Dakotas. The only negative is that the movie can be quite confusing to one who is not familiar with the intricacies of Operation Market Garden. I urge anyone considering viewing the film to first read "Arnhem 1944" by Martin Middlebrook or Cornelius Ryan's above-mentioned book. Some research will help put this complicated military operation into perspective. After you've seen the movie, and if you have the time, money and inclination, take a battlefield tour of Nijmegen and Arnhem (both just an hour-or-so drive from Amsterdam) so you can truly appreciate the sacrifices made by the British, American, and Polish paratroopers depicted in the film nearly 55 years ago.

Gripping account of Operation Market Garden
A Bridge Too Far is one of my favorite war movies, and books of all time. The book is a classic, which you should read if you have not done so before watching the film.

The film is long (almost 3 hours), but well worth it. I have seen it more than a few times, and always enjoy watching it. I particularly like the Airborne drop and combat scenes. All which leave me wondering how they actually filmed some of them. The cast is full of all-stars with the likes of Anthony Hopkins, Robert Redford, Sean Connery, James Caan. The list of great actors just goes on and on.

The film does a good job of telling the tragic tale of Operation Market Garden, the largest Airborne operation ever. The plan is bold, which is a surprise in itself since General Montgomery was considered to be one of the more conservative well known commanders from WWII. As you watch the movie, you start to wonder how could they have been so wrong. Of course, hindsight is 20/20, and you have to realize that this operation was to be the final punch to put Germany out of the war. Unfortunately, things did not go as planned. And, in the end, the goal of reaching the Arnhem bridge is never achieved, and the British Airborne Division pays the ultimate price for the plan's failure.

The book does a better job telling the stories of individual soldiers involved in the battle. But, the movie does an excellnet job of keeping the viewer in the action, and aware of what happened when, during the fight. Especially considering, the action took place at three different areas all at the same time.

I highly recommend this movie to anyone interested in WWII, war movies, combat leadership, or airborne operations. I also recommend watching the movie on a large screen TV if you can.

Great Battles, Dialogue, Characters Make A Great Movie.
I liked this film very much. It's not overly patriotic like Saving Private Ryan. It doesn't go for the happy, crowd pleasing ending. It doesn't pick out heros & bad guys for easy watching and it doesn't oversimplify.

This is well-paced, collage-style film about human fallibility and what happens when large wartime operations break down.

The dialogue is superb. There are 10+ characters interlocked in various relationships at all levels inside the army. These were the top actors in the world at the time, each with a role to play and an independent fate in the battle. All these guys are in their 60's now and seeing them so young is a surprise. Look for John Ratzenberger (Cliff Claven of Cheers) in Robert Redford's paratrooper platoon.

The production values were also excellent, on par with the best of WWII movies. There were many very realistic battle scenes and all the scenery and soldiers, equipment, etc. one could imagine. To the untrained eye it was 100% authentic.

This is not a happy movie or much fun. It's more real than that. Unfortunately it's also not especially harrowing - you know that things are not going to work out. It's just thoughtful and well-paced and very watcheable. If you like WWII movies this one is certainly worthwhile.

You need the Australian 2-disc set!
Personally I found this so-called classic a total bore. But if you're one of those dusty old f*rts who collects war memorabillia and gets off on these true-to-life war epics, get yourself a multizone player and buy the Region 4 Two-disc set which also includes: "Heroes From The Sky" featurette, "A Distant Battle: Memories of Operation Market Garden" featurette, "Richard Attenborough: A Filmmaker Remembers" featurette, (These featurettes are quite long...some go for nearly an hour) Photo Gallery, Trailer, Audio Commentary and Trivia Track. This is the way classic movies on DVD should be presented. Tons of information and a great price. Ezydvd.com

Excellent Adaptation of a Classic War Book
The movie version of Cornelius Ryan's book A Bridge Too Far is a fully faithful adaptation of a war classic. As such, it is a classic in its own right. The movie includes the planning and execution of the flawed Operation Market Garden, the largest Allied airborne operation of World War II. It also includes several of the human interest vignettes from Ryan's book. The movie is consistently interesting throughout and is never boring.

A true classic. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1975 the world was at Stanley Kubrick's feet. His films Dr. Strangelove, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and A Clockwork Orange, released in the previous dozen years, had provoked rapture and consternation--not merely in the film community, but in the culture at large. On the basis of that smashing hat trick, Kubrick was almost certainly the most famous film director of his generation, and absolutely the one most likely to rewire the collective mind of the movie audience. And what did this radical, at-least-20-years-ahead-of-his-time filmmaker give the world in 1975? A stately, three-hour costume drama based on an obscure Thackeray novel from 1844. A picaresque story about an Irish lad (Ryan O'Neal, then a major star) who climbs his way into high society, Barry Lyndon bewildered some critics (Pauline Kael called it "an ice-pack of a movie") and did only middling business with patient audiences. The film was clearly a technical advance, with its unique camerawork (incorporating the use of prototype Zeiss lenses capable of filming by actual candlelight) and sumptuous production design. But its hero is a distinctly underwhelming, even unsympathetic fellow, and Kubrick does not try to engage the audience's emotions in anything like the usual way.

Why, then, is Barry Lyndon a masterpiece? Because it uncannily captures the shape and rhythm of a human life in a way few other films have; because Kubrick's command of design and landscape is never decorative but always apiece with his hero's journey; and because every last detail counts. Even the film's chilly style is thawed by the warm narration of the great English actor Michael Hordern and the Irish songs of the Chieftains. Poor Barry's life doesn't matter much in the end, yet the care Kubrick brings to the telling of it is perhaps the director's most compassionate gesture toward that most peculiar species of animal called man. And the final, wry title card provides the perfect Kubrickian sendoff--a sentiment that is even more poignant since Kubrick's premature death. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (107)

not kubrick's best work
First let me say that Stanley Kubrick is one of my favorite filmmakers. Only Hitchcock, Welles, David Fincher and a few others can compare with him. But that doesn't mean that every movie he made was great (anyone see Eyes Wide Shut?). Barry Lyndon is not a great movie. It's a period piece, and it seems well researched. The costumes are great. The sets are magnificant. And the photography is beautiful. I heard somewhere that it was like watching a painting move. And that is pretty accurate. Kubrick paid very close attention to detail, and it is a very beautiful picture to watch. The problem is that the characters are one dimensional, Lord Bullingdon being the one exception. The acting is wooden. The story moves at such a slow pace. The movie feels like it goes on for hours and hours. It's hard to believe that the same guy who made A Clockwork Orange and Full Metal Jacket is the same filmmaker who made this movie. It's just plain boring. If you are a serious film student or a hard core fan of Kubrick, I'd say watch it once, just so you can say you did. Otherwise, rewatch A Clockwork Orange.

Gordon Gekko in 1767
Barry Lyndon is traditionally seen as Stanley Kubrick's weakest film. Yet a certain number of newer reviewers - and Martin Scorsese - are only now beginning to see that this film has been terribly underrated.

When I first saw this movie I sided very much with those who believed the film to be pointless eye candy. I couldn't see any point to this movie, which seemed to consist of more or less random events with no real beginning or end, and nothing worth remarking on in between.

Of course, years later I began having flashbacks of this movie, and was sorely tempted to buy the DVD, a purchase I finally made (the DVD is very good).

"Barry Lyndon" is as much a Greek tragedy as Godfather Part II or the second half of Gone with the Wind. Here Barry Lyndon is trapped by fate, after a series of events set off by aspects of his own character. His very attempts to make himself still richer, towards the end of the film results in an awful mess that is suspiciously reminiscent of Gone with the Wind. I think Margaret Mitchell may possibly have read the novel.(*spoiler!* Hmm, where have I seen a child falling off a horse before?)

Barry Lyndon, as a nouveau riche social climber desperately trying to find what we would call "the American Dream" is strangely modern as a figure. The story of his rise and fall is like that of any modern, money-hungry social climber, and is quite relevant to our present world.

At any rate, the film is also a masterpiece of atmosphere and style. The care with which the film was made was clearly excruciating, with scenes as carefully plotted out and filmed as any oil painting. Despite Kubrick's reputation as a rather emotionless director, there are plenty of funny scenes. My favourite scenes in this regard are the scenes showing the Chevalier de Balibari playiong cards - the innocent look on his face as he cheats his opponents gets funnier every time you see it.
Of course, there is the famous Schubert Trio scene, where Redmond Barry seduces Lady Lyndon in an incredibly long, slow, but well-timed scene. The movements of eighteenth century aristocrats through their ritualised world is truly as absorbing to watch, as the incredibly slow space pod scenes in Space Odyssey.

Of course, there is no Star Gate here; no profundity of theme or mysticism; no deep truths. Barry Lyndon does not try to be as deep as Clockwork Orange, in the same way that Scorsese's Age of Innocence did not aspire to the depth of Taxi Driver. That is not the point. The film could be said to be more style than substance; but in that case it could be said to join Citizen Kane and Blade Runner. It's still damn fine filmmaking.

The original novel frankly bears little resemblance to the finished film. (I am reading it now). The novel Barry Lyndon is truly a picaresque novel with a rascally, lively narrator far removed from Ryan O'Neal's very understated portrayal; and in fact the general atmosphere of the book reminded me much more of Oliver Twist or Gulliver's travels than the stately and classy environment of the film. In this respect Kubrick has taken the skeleton of plot from the novel, and laced it with copious amounts of Kubrickian flesh.

I never tire of watching it
When director Stanley Kubrick lensed a film based on William Makepeace Thackeray's novel "Barry Lyndon," many fans wondered why. Why would a man who made the science fiction classic "2001: A Space Odyssey," a film set in the future about man's move into outer space, go so far into the past to film a story about a guy social climbing his way through the nineteenth century English aristocracy? Good question. Fortunately, the answer, if there is one, isn't nearly as important as the fact that Kubrick made the film. "Barry Lyndon" may well rank as the finest piece of cinematic art made in the last thirty years. I personally love watching period piece films, and this movie ranks at the very apogee of the pictures from the genre that are often made but rarely successful. The only other film I have seen that matches Kubrick's eye for detail and flair for style is Eric Rohmer's "The Marquise of O," another film lifted from the pages of an early nineteenth century writer. Both of these men, but especially Kubrick, seemed to realize that the only way we can understand the distant past is to look closely at the things they left behind. Therefore, "Barry Lyndon" borrows heavily from paintings, letters, and accounts of the era. It's very difficult to spot an anachronism in this film. The movie has a timeless, ageless feel most other period pictures fail to capture.

The story follows the trials and travails of an Irishman named Redmond Barry (Ryan O'Neal). Born into poverty on a small farm, Barry first runs into trouble during his teens when he falls in love with his cousin. The family seeks to remove young Redmond from the picture because an English officer, a Captain Quinn, has taken a shine to the girl. If they allow the cousins to marry, the family will not take part in the officer's considerable wealth. Barry refuses to play along, challenging the Englishman to a duel whereupon he promptly puts a bullet through the officer's chest. Whisked away from the scene by family members concerned about the duel, our hero joins the English army as a way to escape from his bleak future. Then comes war, with England fighting nearly everyone else on the continent. Barry, unimpressed with the idea of dying for his king, deserts but soon falls into the hands of the enemy. Faced with the threat of execution, Redmond agrees to join the Prussian Army, which turns out to be worse than his stint with the English. Fortune smiles when the Irishman saves the life of an officer, an officer with connections to the ministry of information. A plot is hatched whereby Redmond Barry will act as a confidante of the Chevalier de Balibari (Patrick Magee), a French diplomat suspected of espionage.

De Balibari is actually an Irishman living in exile, a fact that causes Redmond Barry to confess his true identity to the man. The Chevalier, impressed with such honesty, promptly takes his fellow countryman into his confidence. The two form a plan that allows them both to sneak out of the country, whereupon they take up lives as confidence men and swindlers on the continent. It is during his tenure as a card shark that Barry meets Lady Lyndon (Marisa Berenson), a beautiful and extremely wealthy woman married to the ancient, crotchety Sir Charles Lyndon (Frank Middlemass). Redmond ingratiates himself into Lady Lyndon's graces to the point that when her husband dies, the good lady marries our hero. Redmond Barry disappears, replaced by Barry Lyndon, a wealthy man with property, money, and connections. Lyndon knows his success depends on his wife, so he spends enormous sums to curry favor with the court. He hopes to acquire his own title, which would translate into his own property and money deeded him by the Crown. Life isn't all roses, as Barry Lyndon must cope with Lord Bullingdon (Leon Vitali), Lady Lyndon's sullen and hateful son as well as his wife's suspicious assistant Reverend Samuel Runt. Lyndon thinks he's got it made when his wife gives birth to a child, Bryan, who carries the precious noble blood. What goes up must invariably come down, however, as a series of massive tragedies rock the Lyndon household.

"Barry Lyndon" is an intriguing film. One wonders why Kubrick made it. Perhaps the director liked the idea of an underclass individual scheming his way into the rigid upper classes of the time. Perhaps the movie is a morality tale about a ruthless scalawag eventually getting what he deserves. If the answer is the latter, I don't think it works. If Barry Lyndon were truly ruthless, he would have seen to it that Lord Bullingdon pulled a disappearing act. Doing so would have assured his child's role as heir of the Lyndon title. Whatever the reasons behind this film, you don't have to worry about it too much to enjoy Kubrick's work. The set pieces and costumes are phenomenal, the acting wonderful, the photography breathtaking. Especially developed for this film was a special camera lens that could work by candlelight. The musical score consists of Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, Schubert, and Handel.

Arguably the best element of the film is the way Kubrick places his characters in a way that resemble paintings of the period. Pay attention to the scenes that take place in the garden where Barry meets Lady Lyndon or the confrontation between Bullingdon and Barry at the gentleman's club. You can literally see characters move into position and pose as though for a portrait. And that final duel! I could watch that scene a million times-and probably have. A wonderful film, "Barry Lyndon" on DVD contains only a trailer as an extra. I'm not complaining too much, though. The movie is more than enough reason to buy the DVD. Watch it and wonder.

Stunning Cinematography For a Subtle Tragedy
_Barry Lyndon_ is absolutely stunning to watch. Kubrick's masterful hand at orchestrating sweeping views of naturally lit countryside transports the audience into the 18th century and alongside our characters. Some complain that Kubrick, while commanding the visual aspects of the film, allows the acting to fall by the wayside. Ryan O'Neill does not do an adequate job as Lyndon, it is claimed, failing to capture the character's motivation and nature. I disagree most strongly on this point. Kubrick and O'Neill have managed to capture a human being, one who defies the trend of most Hollywood films and popular fiction. Lyndon is not the loveable character-his rise to power is not paved with nobility and honor, nor is his downfall laced with a deep sense of tragedy. Yet, I still feel for Lyndon's character in the declining stages of his life. Just as he is not completely approachable, he is not repulsive either. By allowing this level of subtlety to emerge from the character, Kubrick and O'Neill have managed to create a tragedy more along the lines of Shakespeare's _Coriolanus_ than some sentimental special on the Hallmark channel.

_Barry Lyndon_ clocks in at just over three hours, breaking once in the middle for an intermission. For its visual appeal, it is worthy every penny, though it may leave some members of the audience wishing for quicker pacing and a plotline that is easier to digest. If you have the time and are a fan of Kubrick's masterpieces, I could not recommend this film more highly-just make some popcorn during the intermission and stretch your legs.

A Worthy Masterpiece
If you appreciate good filmmaking you must watch this film! This is an artistic masterpiece for those who appreciation the visual arts. Some reviewers might complain as to the lack of character development, which I agree with, but I don't think it was in Kubrick's interest to have the viewer identify with Ryan O'neal, that focus would do a disservice to the viewer in that it would make him ignore the films more aesthetic qualities. Like a great masterpiece Barry Lyndon's magic does not lie with a single character but with the work itself. Barry Lyndon's strengths lie in the totality of the film and in the immense beauty that is found in every scene. This film is grandeur immortalized, a picturesque view of 18th century Europe. This is a delightful film, and cannot be measured in terms of success and mass appeal, this film is well beyond that. ... Read more

Description

Adapted from the novel "Addie Pray" by Joe David Brown, PAPER MOON is set in the Midwest during the Great Depression, and follows the story of Moses Pray (Ryan O’Neal), a happy-go-lucky con artist who travels through the Midwest on a mission to swindle money out of innocent widows.While attending a friend’s funeral, Pray is called upon by two elderly ladies to deliver the daughter of the deceased, Addie (Tatum O’Neal), to her aunt in Missouri.Soon learning that the 9-year-old is almost as mischievous and manipulative as he is, Pray and Addie develop a father and daughter routine that increases their credibility as well as their income.Now, the devious duo set out on a series of misadventures involving crooked cops, bootleggers, grieving widows and a Carney dancer named Miss Trixie Delight (Kahn) who adds a little spice to their routine. ... Read more

Reviews (40)

It's Only A Paper Moon Sailing Over A Cardboard Sea...
Adapted from the matchless novel "Addie Pray" by Joe David Brown, Paper Moon is set in the Midwest/dustbowl during the Great Depression/Roosevelt era. One-of-a-kind directing by Peter Bogdanovich, beautiful black & white cinematography, a great musical score with snippets of old time radio shows like Fibber McGee & Molly, Jack Benny and a host of others.

Real-life father & daughter duo, Ryan & Tatum O'Neil team up in this gem of a movie.

Ryan plays Moses Pray. A slick, sliver-tongued, gold toothed, travelling huckster & who always has a new con to turn up his sleeve such as door to door Bible selling to recently widowed women, bootlegging, short changing, and a "car swappin' wrasslin' match" between Moses and a very young Randy Quaid. Tatum plays Addie and garnered the coveted Oscar for her performance at the tender age of 10. Addie decides to get in on many of the cons and becomes quite a prolific short change artist. Addie decides on her own to take Moses' last name and travel with him under the guise as his daughter. In one of the best scenes in the movie they deal with whether or not Addie is Moses' illegitimate daughter. That scene is set in a diner while drinking NeHi's and eating Coney Islands. Addie is sure that Moses is, indeed, her father as she states, "We got the SAME jaw!" Moses responds and says, "I know a lady who has the jaw of a bullfrog but that doesn't mean that she's the damn things mother!" Addie asks Moses, "You meet my mamma in a barroom?" (implying that her mamma was a prostitute). Moses comes right back asking Addie, "You think that just because a man meets a woman in a barroom means that they get a baby?" Ryan and Tatum's bantering repartee is natural, hilarious and touching all at the same time.

The Prays fall "prey" to a con played on them (well, Moses anyway) as the film progesses, by a hootchie-cootchie sideshow carnival dancer/prostitute named Miss Trixie Delight, adeptly played by Madelyn Kahn who was also nominated for an Oscar. The sneaky and a little jealous Addie deals with Miss Trixie in her own time and also helps out Miss Trixie's maid, Imogene and gives her money to return back to her family.

This is a great family movie with a touching father/daughter story to share. No nudity, few "cuss" words, and an all-around crowd pleaser whether you are 6 or 106. I don't mind telling you that this is my favorite movie of all time and I have viewed it upwards of 100 times. I still laugh, cry, and go through a multitude of emotions no matter how many times a watch the film. Certainly, a hallmark of a great cinematic masterpiece! Happy Watching!

A perfect movie?
It is hard to find any fault in this movie. Filmed in black-and-white, is uses great depth of field so everything, including the Kansas landscape and people in the deep background, is in focus. Many scenes are in one shot, and go for minutes without a cut.

Tatum O'Neal earned her best supporting actress Oscar as a "mature" youngster who ends up on an adventurous road trip to a relative's house, driven by a cheap con-man played by Tatum's father, Ryan O'Neal.

A few other notable actors make an appearance - namely Randy Quaid (briefly) and John Hillerman (several key scenes). Madeline Kahn was nominated for best supporting actress as well.

The DVD has a great picture quality, some nice behind-the-scenes stuff, and a commentary by director Peter Bogdanovich.

It's rated PG for some (funny) language.

It's not my favorite all-time movie, but could be in my top-10.

An easy 5 stars.

Quiet, subtle, excellent and funny
What a great and fun movie! Tatum O'Neal steals the show here; she definitely deserved the Oscar for her great portrayal of the way-too street smart for her age orphan (maybe) Addie Pray (Loggins). Adults and kids can enjoy this together without much fear of the admittedly seedy subject matter -- con artistry, prostitution, racial exploitation, the corruption of youth, etc. You can't help but root for Addie all the while knowing that Moses will never be a good father, role model or successful "businessman."

The black and white cinematography recalls classic Margaret Bourke-White Depression-era photos as well as "The Grapes of Wrath," but without the need for Prozac or counseling. The soundtrack is comprised of Thirties pop radio standards that fit perfectly without calling too much attention to themselves.

Madeline Kahn is a scream as Miss Trixie Delight, John Hillerman excels in two roles: a sheriff and his brother, a local bootleggar, and P.J. Johnson is great as Trixie's maid, Imogene.

I loved it when I first saw it as a 12-year-old. I still love it now. So will you.

How could anyone not love this movie?
Paper Moon is without a doubt Ryan O'Neal's best performance. His daughter Tatum absolutely STEALS the show. The Academy Award says it all. Back then the Oscar meant something, now the whole thing's become a joke. But Paper Moon will always be one of my favorites. You really get the feel of the Depression era Midwest. All the sets, costumes, and music authenticate this. I've never gotten that "Grapes of Wrath" feel from any other movie that's been produced since the forties, and that's not just because it's shot in B&W. This movie also will keep you in stitches as Moses (O'Neal) slowly discovers how clever a little con artist Addie (Tatum) really is. Her wit and sarcasm would make this movie equally entertaining if you turned off the picture and merely LISTENED to it. It's that good. I also adore Madeline Khan and Trixie Delight IS a delight. This movie is in my top twenty and I recommend it as a "must own."

tatum oneal as addie
ive read a few people comment on how tatum isnt a great actress but you have to keep in mind that tatum oneal was very young in this movie.
in all this movies been one of my top 3 movies since i was a small child. if your a big fan of Paper Moon id suggest seeing matchstick men. it just came out.. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Favorite Movie Ever
I love this movie, it is the best movie ever. I like it so much I have become obssesed with it. I'm dying ot buy it but I don't find it anywhere because it's too old. Robert Downey Jr looks so cute in that movie I could just eat him up. I desperately need this movie in my stock. I'm totally in love with it. I've been asking my sister to get for me and she can't find it anywhere! That is so rude! I think they should sell more of the movie in shopping stores, I least they would make a lot of monw\ey with me trying to buy that movie! Well, Bye!

"Chances Are" You'll love this movie
I love this movie, I would definately reccomend this movie to any Robert Downey Jr. Fan. Robert Downey Jr.'s character is overtaken by the spirit of Sybil Shepards husban that died before their daughter was born. Robert Downey Jr. is involved with the daughter and is visiting her home when he is visited by her fathers spirit which does not leave until the end of the movie. This is a great, cute movie.

Almost Perfect
I love Robert Downey Jr. and there is no doubt that he brings such a strong presence to any movie. In Chances Are he played his character well, and the rest of the cast were pretty good too. But I was still disapointed in the end results. When you first sit down to watch it you easily adapt to the characters, and you can't wait to find out what Robert's character Louie will discover next. He dies, comes back as a new soul, but accidently is left with his former life's memories. The story is great until the end! It kind of ruined it for me. But Robert is halarious, and his chemistry with Sybill Shepherd is perfect. Go rent it and find out for yourself. Either way it goes, it's an unique story and a ton of laughs, so it's still worth the watch!

Most disturbing movie I have ever seen
This is the most disturbing movie I have ever seen.
It is even more disturbing that it is meant/produced as a very light comedy.
It is the story to be disturbing. A man dies. In heaven there is a memory-wash and souls are routinely reincarnated memory-less.
A husband is reincarnated in a baby. When he grows up to be a boy of about 20, he goes and look for his wife. Finally, after tons of difficulties, he manages to convince his wife-widow that it is truly him, the deceased husband. At that point, in heaven they figure out that they made a mistake and forgot to memory-wash him; so they just give him a last minute memory-wash. Result: he marries his own daughter. The wife says "oh well, I'll just marry someone else" and everybody lives happily ever after.
I find this very, very offensive. Basically, in this movie there is
1. Incest. Even if the guy has been memory-washed by the time he marries his own daughter (so he does not know that he is her father); still he remembered to be her father up to 5 minutes before. It still disturbs me. People trained in Philosophy, will recognize the question "but is he really her father, now that he has lost his memory?". The movie has NONE of this subtlety, it just assumes it is not anymore and does on
2. Life is treated as worthless. In heaven, they do whatever they want. If they have to rectify a mistake 20 years later, they just squash all the emotions and life-story that happened in those 20 years. All emotions, aspirations, joy and sorrow of the husband for his wife are deleted without afterthought - just an annoyance that mistakes happen.
3. The wife-widow is the most appalling character. She is finally convinced that the boy is indeed her deceased husband in reincarnated form. Nonetheless, when his memory is "miraculously" washed (and he forgets to be his husband from the previous life), she gets over it extremely quickly, and does not ask herself too many questions at all. She marries in all speed a friend of her husband she had an eye on for long, and has no qualms about the fact that the boy now marries her daughter.
Now, most of the movie is spent in scenes with the husband trying to convince the wife it is really him. If I were the wife, and I were convinced (after so much effort) he is truly my husband, and then "miraculously" he does not recall that at all anymore, (and even assuming that I could get over it pretty quickly - which I would not) I would still have HUGE qualms with him marrying my daughter.

All this is meant and is treated as the lightest of Hollywood comedies.

It definitely qualifies as the most disturbing movie I have ever seen.

briefest of thrills
this is a trifle,with nary a redeeming thing to offer. Ryan
O'Neal,Robert Downey, and Cybil try to save this thinly
plotted farce, but alas, not to be done. This dog waffles
on forever,but pays back little except Cybil in a slip,
which come to think of it,is probably worthwhile for those
of you with freezeframe. Elsewise, be forwarned:this dog
won't hunt. The premise of Chances Are, couldn't be sold
to the point of suspenion of disbelief for even a glimmer.
An acting exercise, no more.All of the principals have
done far better. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Malibu's Most Wanted stars Jamie Kennedy (Scream) as a white boy named Brad (or, as he prefers it, B-Rad) from the beach community north of L.A. who thinks he's a hip-hop star on the verge of discovery. His wannabe rap star persona is an embarrassment to his father's political campaign, so his father's handlers hire two actors (Anthony Anderson and Taye Diggs) to pretend to be ghetto gangsters, kidnap B-Rad, and "scare the black out of him." The movie's main source of comedy is that these prissy actors are no more street than B-Rad, so they're posing even more than he is. Malibu's Most Wanted isn't the Scary Movie-style lampoon you might expect; it's actually a surprisingly earnest character comedy about the cultural behaviors people use to identify themselves. This approach may get in the way of some potential laughs, but it also gives the movie some heart. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (37)

Very Funny!!!
I was pleasantly surprised by "Malibu's Most Wanted"! It actually turned out to be a very funny movie. I was a little skeptical at first, but I can't deny that there were moments where I was laughing very hard.

The story revolves around Brad (a.k.a. B-rad), a rich kid from Malibu, who has completely taken on the thug lifestyle. Although he's never really left Malibu and gone to the real "streets" of L.A., he still feels that he's from the hood. Brad seems to be hurting his father's campaign to become governor, so two actors are hired to scare Brad "white". What happens to Brad, the actors, and an ambitious young lady will have you rolling!

Not only was Jamie Kennedy very good in his role as Brad, but I especially liked Taye Diggs' and Anthony Anderson's portrayals as actors trying to find their motivation for acting like thugs, which was very hard for the classically-trained characters.

Although the critics have been somewhat harsh while reviewing this movie, I would definitely suggest it. It's a cute movie that you can see when you want to have a good laugh. See for yourself!!![.]

This Sistah Loves Jamie Kennedy!
Jamie Kennedy is the bomb! Malibu's Most Wanted could have used some work but Kennedy plays the lead character with style and keeps you laughing when the film gets its worse. I've always liked Jamie since Scream because of his unique comedic style. He never ceases to amaze. In Malibu's Most Wanted Jamie gives the audience a lot to think about AND laugh at.

B-Rad ( Kennedy ) becomes the subject of a brutal joke. His father ( Ryan O'Neal ) inlists his campaign manager ( Blair Underwood ) to help him deal with his son. The problem is O'Neal's running for office and B-Rad's hip-hop antics are costing him votes. Thus, the kidnap plot of the year begins. And may I say it was a very funny and unique plot. We present Anthony Anderson and Taye Diggs ( two of the most popular black actors today ) playing actors. They know as much about the 'hood as B-Rad does so when they are hired to play gangstas and kidnap B-Rad the comedy really starts. They bring in a sistah, Shondra ( Regina Hall )to tempt B-Rad and she does just that. He ends up falling head over heels in love with her. Shondra finds herself attracted to him as well and why not? Jamie's hot whether he's white or black. I thought the transformation Anderson and Diggs did from actors to criminals was one of the funniest in the film but stands behind B-Rad hands down. Jamie rocked the house and though the film was cliched and stereotypical, you get a lot of laughs. I was hoping the film would stay original but it ended up being another Bringing Down The House, except Malibu's Most Wanted had more intelligence when it came to its audience. It didn't try to insult by having a bunch of black people do stupid things. What it did was educate in its own way showing that hip hop can truly be a culture of many flavors and can be used to bring people together. It may seem sappy but in the end you get a nice, multicultural comedy filled with interracial romance, rap stars, talking rats, bumping and grinding and all around fun. In the end B-Rad learns more about himself than he thought he would and so do we.

I think this film is worth a look and believe me, I love intelligent films. This film may not be the calibur of Hamlet but it wasn't supposed to be. I think people forget that this was a COMEDY, a film to watch to have a good time. You don't always have to have a film that's socially and politically correct. I'm a black woman and nothing in this film offended me. I appreciated the effort and loved the fresh spin on how blacks and whites relate to hip hop. This may not be your cup of tea and that's fine. But as Jamie Kennedy says in the film " Don't be hatin' " which is a fine line if you think about it. Especially if you haven't given the movie a true chance. I'd just watch it all over again for Jamie if nothing else. He is so fine. Give the film a chance and draw your own conclusions.

Malibutay
That is all there to say about B-RAD G(Jaime Kennedy) does a great job as a poser and believe me I hate posers that act like thugs and are not but he is very good.The police are afraid to go to his malls,everyone is strapped with a 9(9 Holes) and
other funny stuff.This movie is not racist infact it is anti white rappers.But B-Rad ends up shooting the place up in South Central.This movie thanks to B-Rad G and Governor hopefull Bill Gluckman who thanks for B-Rad is down for the B****S and the

H**S this movie is guarenteed to make yo laugh best of 03
Acting 10 Story 10 Direction 7 Action 9 Entertainment 10
Overall=46/50 This album gets a definant 4.5 stars very nice

Also recomended Steve Martin in Bringing down the house
This was a surprisingly great movie from Jamie Kennedy-Thank U

Extremely racist
Talk about taking a stereotype to the extreme! And someone please tell Anthony Anderson he cannot act is even less funny. Go away please.

Just barely three stars
Why would I watch a film like this? Well I have a teenage son and he and his friends think it's a crack up and have watched it many times over. I try and keep abreast on what they watch and like and so I gladly sat through this one twice.
I wouldn't own it, but my kids do and it's not all that bad of a flick. It's mostly a coming of age morality tale and the message it sends is mostly good and wholesome. It's probably not a good movie for the real young, but for most teens it's got nothing too bad and it's entertaining enough. ... Read more

Description

Hip-Hop Comedy. Malibu's most wanted rapper, Brad "B-Rad" Gluckman, maintains a hip-hop lifestyle that is seriously hindering his father's bid for governor. When his dad's campaign manager tries to neutralize the "problem" and teach him a lesson about what gangsta life is really like, B-Rad proves to the player-haters that he's for real and wins the affection of a business-savvy South Central hottie. ... Read more

Reviews (37)

Very Funny!!!
I was pleasantly surprised by "Malibu's Most Wanted"! It actually turned out to be a very funny movie. I was a little skeptical at first, but I can't deny that there were moments where I was laughing very hard.

The story revolves around Brad (a.k.a. B-rad), a rich kid from Malibu, who has completely taken on the thug lifestyle. Although he's never really left Malibu and gone to the real "streets" of L.A., he still feels that he's from the hood. Brad seems to be hurting his father's campaign to become governor, so two actors are hired to scare Brad "white". What happens to Brad, the actors, and an ambitious young lady will have you rolling!

Not only was Jamie Kennedy very good in his role as Brad, but I especially liked Taye Diggs' and Anthony Anderson's portrayals as actors trying to find their motivation for acting like thugs, which was very hard for the classically-trained characters.

Although the critics have been somewhat harsh while reviewing this movie, I would definitely suggest it. It's a cute movie that you can see when you want to have a good laugh. See for yourself!!![.]

This Sistah Loves Jamie Kennedy!
Jamie Kennedy is the bomb! Malibu's Most Wanted could have used some work but Kennedy plays the lead character with style and keeps you laughing when the film gets its worse. I've always liked Jamie since Scream because of his unique comedic style. He never ceases to amaze. In Malibu's Most Wanted Jamie gives the audience a lot to think about AND laugh at.

B-Rad ( Kennedy ) becomes the subject of a brutal joke. His father ( Ryan O'Neal ) inlists his campaign manager ( Blair Underwood ) to help him deal with his son. The problem is O'Neal's running for office and B-Rad's hip-hop antics are costing him votes. Thus, the kidnap plot of the year begins. And may I say it was a very funny and unique plot. We present Anthony Anderson and Taye Diggs ( two of the most popular black actors today ) playing actors. They know as much about the 'hood as B-Rad does so when they are hired to play gangstas and kidnap B-Rad the comedy really starts. They bring in a sistah, Shondra ( Regina Hall )to tempt B-Rad and she does just that. He ends up falling head over heels in love with her. Shondra finds herself attracted to him as well and why not? Jamie's hot whether he's white or black. I thought the transformation Anderson and Diggs did from actors to criminals was one of the funniest in the film but stands behind B-Rad hands down. Jamie rocked the house and though the film was cliched and stereotypical, you get a lot of laughs. I was hoping the film would stay original but it ended up being another Bringing Down The House, except Malibu's Most Wanted had more intelligence when it came to its audience. It didn't try to insult by having a bunch of black people do stupid things. What it did was educate in its own way showing that hip hop can truly be a culture of many flavors and can be used to bring people together. It may seem sappy but in the end you get a nice, multicultural comedy filled with interracial romance, rap stars, talking rats, bumping and grinding and all around fun. In the end B-Rad learns more about himself than he thought he would and so do we.

I think this film is worth a look and believe me, I love intelligent films. This film may not be the calibur of Hamlet but it wasn't supposed to be. I think people forget that this was a COMEDY, a film to watch to have a good time. You don't always have to have a film that's socially and politically correct. I'm a black woman and nothing in this film offended me. I appreciated the effort and loved the fresh spin on how blacks and whites relate to hip hop. This may not be your cup of tea and that's fine. But as Jamie Kennedy says in the film " Don't be hatin' " which is a fine line if you think about it. Especially if you haven't given the movie a true chance. I'd just watch it all over again for Jamie if nothing else. He is so fine. Give the film a chance and draw your own conclusions.

Malibutay
That is all there to say about B-RAD G(Jaime Kennedy) does a great job as a poser and believe me I hate posers that act like thugs and are not but he is very good.The police are afraid to go to his malls,everyone is strapped with a 9(9 Holes) and
other funny stuff.This movie is not racist infact it is anti white rappers.But B-Rad ends up shooting the place up in South Central.This movie thanks to B-Rad G and Governor hopefull Bill Gluckman who thanks for B-Rad is down for the B****S and the

H**S this movie is guarenteed to make yo laugh best of 03
Acting 10 Story 10 Direction 7 Action 9 Entertainment 10
Overall=46/50 This album gets a definant 4.5 stars very nice

Also recomended Steve Martin in Bringing down the house
This was a surprisingly great movie from Jamie Kennedy-Thank U

Extremely racist
Talk about taking a stereotype to the extreme! And someone please tell Anthony Anderson he cannot act is even less funny. Go away please.

Just barely three stars
Why would I watch a film like this? Well I have a teenage son and he and his friends think it's a crack up and have watched it many times over. I try and keep abreast on what they watch and like and so I gladly sat through this one twice.
I wouldn't own it, but my kids do and it's not all that bad of a flick. It's mostly a coming of age morality tale and the message it sends is mostly good and wholesome. It's probably not a good movie for the real young, but for most teens it's got nothing too bad and it's entertaining enough. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Zero Effect follows private investigator Daryl Zero and Steve Arlo, his reluctant representative, through one particularly tangled case involving blackmail, murder, revenge, and a set of lost keys. Zero is the world's best private investigator, suave and totally in control while on a case, but socially inept when off the job. The diversely talented and prolific Bill Pullman is excellently cast as Zero, switching seamlessly from one persona to the next, and the ever-charming Ben Stiller is his perfect sidekick. In a deadpan description of his method, or the "Zero Effect," Zero details his brilliance for Sherlock Holmes-like deductions, based on his strict adherence to objectivity and observation, or, in Zero parlance, "the obs." Somewhat predictably the obs falter when the case of the missing keys brings Zero to Gloria Sullivan, a winsome and mysterious paramedic played by Kim Dickens. Thankfully, writer-director Jake Kasdan is no less brilliant than the Zero he creates, and the potential corniness of the developing romance is balanced by a razor-sharp wit and the nail-biting suspense of the unfolding plot. --Laska Jimsen ... Read more

Reviews (59)

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND DR. WATSON / VERSION 1998
The least one can say about ZERO EFFECT is that the script is very intelligent and reveals the work of a genuine writer. Jake Kasdan has certainly read the adventures of Conan Doyle's super detective Sherlock Holmes with great delight. Like Holmes, bill Pullman likes to teake drugs (amphetamines for Bill, heroin for Sherlock) and to play music (guitar while Holmes had a predilection for violin) when he's out of work. Like Holmes, Bill stays away from women who could deconcentrate him and loves to surprise his audience with his wonderful sense of observation and the amazing logic of his deductions. His only problem : Watson isn't a Doctor but a lawyer who will not (ungrateful Ben Stiller !) write the story of the numerous cases he has solved during his career. So he has to open his PC and do the job himself. The scene in which Bill Pullman tries to find keys in Ryan O'Neal's office is undoubtedly an homage to E. A. POE's detective Auguste Dupin in THE PURLOINED LETTER (1845 !). In fact, nothing new under the sun ! But these references are discreetly hidden in this movie and demands a constant attention in order to appreciate them. ZERO EFFECT is the first movie of Jake Kasdan and I look forward for his next films with great impatience. A DVD to buy and to add to your collection of " unknown great movies "

Zero Effect
Daryl Zero (Bill Pullman) is the greatest private investigator in the world, but he's an eccentric mess when he's not working.
This movie is about a particular case which he and his "representative" Steve Arlo (Ben Stiller) get involved in.
I felt that this movie was well directed. The opening scene, switching between Arlo describing Daryl Zero to a potential client and describing him to a drinking buddy, is perfect.
The "P.I. work" aspect of this movie is handled well. If you enjoy watching amazing feats of knowlege and deduction you will enjoy this movie. Also very well done, is the comedic aspect. Daryl Zero has some very funny moments, especially when he's narrating the memoir of his investigatory technique, which he is writing. These things take center stage over the actual mystery and surprises.
Although I am a fan of Ben Stiller his character in this movie was nothing spectacular. It seems, to me, he only shines when he's playing an over-the-top character such as in "Heavy Weights" or "Zoolander". When he's playing a 'normal' character he can be rather boring in my opinion. Daryl seems to be the only character who has much depth until Gloria Sullivan (Kim Dickens) enters the picture. Some might think the romance between Daryl and Gloria (whom he investigates) detracted from the movie. Usually I dislike romance in movies, because its shallow and corny. In this movie I actually found it worked well and did not succumb to either of the aforementioned flaws. Perhaps it was because I found the two characters likable and real. It did, however, slow the movie down some and there may be those who would not appreciate it.

Zero Effect
The name says it all doesn't it. It had Zero Effect on me and my two buddies who watched it with me. I hope Ben stiller and Bill Pullman gave what they earned to charity. At least that way their time would have been waisted for a good cause. If only I had given the five euro rental charge to charity instead of the rental shop. I would have save myself a major BARF session. I'm giving this one five thumbs up, my lowest rating yet! The time I put into Zero Effect could have been spent talking to this babe I like.

Quirky but contrived
Yes, it's quirky and offbeat. The characterizations are well-done (I really enjoyed Stiller's portrayal of the "sidekick").

But the plot itself is a bit contrived; plot developments tend to appear out of thin air, rather than as a result of the actions of the protagonists, and some of them feel clumsy.

The pacing is irregular, dragging through characterizations then spurting forward with developments, and then repeating the cycle (which, admittedly, isn't necessarily a detraction from a movie, but I noticed it and didn't like it in this one).

All in all, it was a pleasant enough diversion, especially if you like the lead actors, but ultimately forgettable.

The best of everything
Humor, suspence, wit ,plot,actors, I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!!
It just sparkles. You just can't go wrong with this movie!
Your first intro to the mysterious Mr. Zero is so unforgetable.
And the flip flop of Ben Stiller describing his boss to a client, cut in with him describing him to a friend is hysterical. And with all this, its got heart! and some great music!
YES YES YES!!!
Very refreshing. ... Read more

Description

An executive awakens one morning to find that her accountant has stolen all her money and fled the country. The only asset she has left is a boxer she purchased as a tax write-off. The executive then goads the boxer into re-starting his career. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

"I've got the same two words for you!"
I would actually give this film three-and-a-half stars. This film was a major hit upon release in the summer of '79, but it has since been written off by many as one of Streisand's weakest film efforts. As for myself, I could go about reviewing the film in two ways. I could say that the THE MAIN EVENT is a perfect example of a worn out premise given the by-the-book treatment, with no attempt to disguise how derivative and predictable the whole thing is. However, I could also say that THE MAIN EVENT manages to be likable, funny, and entertaining.

Both of these statements have a lot of merit, but I think I'm going to go with my second opinion. Even though we've seen the same story a thousand times before, THE MAIN EVENT is quite enjoyable while it's playing. The scenes are set up well, the one-liners are mostly funny ("I said celebrate, not fornicate!"), and Streisand and O'Neal give off a strong sexual charge between them onscreen. It may not be meaningful, or even original, but THE MAIN EVENT is a pretty good timewaster.

About the DVD: The picture quality is great, and the mono sound is fine as well. It's great to have the original trailer and the 19-minute television special, titled GETTING IN SHAPE FOR THE MAIN EVENT, preserved on disc, although Streisand's brief audio commentary is slightly disappointing.

"I've got the same two words for you!"
I would give this film three-and-a-half stars. This film was a major hit upon release in the summer of '79, but it has since been written off by many as one of Streisand's weakest film efforts. As for myself, I could go about reviewing the film in two ways. I could say that the THE MAIN EVENT is a perfect example of a worn out premise given the by-the-book treatment, with no attempt to disguise how derivative and predictable the whole thing is. However, I could also say that THE MAIN EVENT manages to be likable, funny, and entertaining.

Both of these statements have a lot of merit, but I think I'm going to go with my second opinion. Even though we've seen the same story a thousand times before, THE MAIN EVENT is quite enjoyable while it's playing. The scenes are set up well, the one-liners are mostly funny ("I said celebrate, not fornicate!"), and Streisand and O'Neal give off a strong sexual charge between them onscreen. It may not be meaningful, or even original, but THE MAIN EVENT is a pretty good timewaster.

About the DVD: The picture quality is great, and the mono sound is fine as well. It's great to have the original trailer and the 19-minute television special, titled GETTING IN SHAPE FOR THE MAIN EVENT, preserved on disc, although Streisand's brief audio commentary is slightly disappointing.

She cant make a bad movie.
It has been quite a while since i have actually seen The Main Event but i have been trying to find it in the stores on video for quite a long time. I can remember loving the movie. There was a lot of screeming and yelling...but isnt that what boxers do. I thought the way they pick on each other is cute. I thought Barbra was precious. It is one of those movies that you come out feeling good which is hard to find these days.

Good movie, but a PG rating?????
I liked the movie, it's fun and funny but what really surprised and shocked me was: PG RATING? Come on! 1. They show two butts in the movie, there is a lot of adult talk, and a lot of hintings to sexuality? It is a good movie, but I mean one would think more about the point of view of watching it depending on the rating of the movie.
All in all, this is a quite good movie which I like
Recommended, it's a lot of fun

Funny, Entertaining but I've seen better
The Main Event was the first Streisand picture I ever saw. I loved it at the theaters. But since then I've seen many more of her movies on VHS. I have to say it's a good film but not her best. I liked "Yentl" or "Owl & Pussycat" or "A Star Is Born" much better. Her acting is superb, so is Ryan's. But the storyline is a little weak compared to other movies she is in. I reccommend it its just not her very best movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Al Pacino shambles about in pure weary Late Pacino form in People I Know, a 1970s-style paranoid number with a political tinge to it. Pacino plays an old-school publicist, once a friend to Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King, who's now down to his last big client, a vaguely dangerous movie star (nice turn by Ryan O'Neal). As Pacino tries to keep his client's indiscretions out of the papers, he's dragged into an intriguing drugs-murder-politics conspiracy. There are juicy possibilities in Jon Robin Baitz's script, and with a topnotch director and a little more oomph they might have blossomed. As it is, despite a couple of nifty gotchas, the movie never quite gets into full stride. Tea Leoni shines as an addicted actress with a flinty vocabulary, but Kim Basinger is less lucky with her plot-device role. Pacino looks as though he's about to draw his last breath in every shot, which is precisely how he should look. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (5)

How Could Al Pacino Work in such a Terrible Film
I bought this movie primarily because Al Pacino was in it. However, I learned today that casting an excellent actor is not sufficient in creating a memorable movie. This movie lacked many important attributes -- character development, a plot, a good script (people don't actually speak the way they do in the film), and characters one can care about. This movie failed every attribute imaginable, and yet it had fairly good actors in it. All the creative designers of this movie ought to be fired and promptly banned from the film industry.

Don't be so sad Mister Pacino!....
I've been admiring Al Pacino for years, and though i must admit this film could had been better than it is... it's always an extraordinary lesson for us to go and see such an amazing actor playing like that!! in many scenes, the despear he gives us sounds like if he was playing his own life!!!
The character is not an actor here, (or should i say a "movie-star"??) but there is such an evidence between what he plays and what we can easily suppose he must endure as an actor too, that we are sometimes more than
deeply touched by this sudden broken voice he has....
It's difficult to me as a french to express very well what i exactally felt after that.... but it reminds me this famous sentence of Maria Rilke, that i heard it once Pacino used to like too: "Who speaks of triumph? Endure is everything"...

In Spite of Its Worthy Cause, the Film Is Too Slow and Slack
Al Pacino is a New York publicist Eli Wurman, who, you'll soon notice, has been in this business too long, perhaps. Haggard-looking, always popping pills in his mouth, Eli knows it's time for him to leave the city forever with his understanding love Victoria played by Kim Basinger, but not before his dream is realized -- one dinner party to unite the two powers of the city.

Al Pacino, one of the greatest actors of America, gives his strong performance again, and you also get good supporting players -- besides Baisinger, Ryan O'Neil, Tea Leoni, Richaed Shiff, Bill Nunn, MArk Webber, and Robert Klein. The camera is by Peter Deming ("Mulholland Drive"), and the film is executive produced by Robert Redford.

However, though "People I Know" presents some incisive moments revealing the insider knowledge of PR agents, and the complex politics of the city, the film does not reach the height I expect from this cast. Let me be honest here -- it was dull. The story is monotonous, not knowing what to do with the main character Eli, who just wanders in the streets. The director Daniel Algrant is content with showing the materials which themselves are good, but he does not know how to raise our interest in the people I actually want to know, but couldn't.

I know the word "low-key," and Al's performance is suitably so, but if you portray a man whose life is out of control, and who knows that, and who still wants to get back some dignity back to his life, you have to let this guy show some merits or sparkling moments to shine as a human. The film, however, only allows Eli to get drunk and roam, so this guy looks too disheveled to accomplish the honorable job he was trying to do. The conclusion of the dinner party scene is incredible, and I don't know why Kim Baisinger's character has to care him so much.

And there are also incredible things here -- there is a secret party in the fashion of "Eyes Wide Shut" for instance -- and the supprting players are mostly wasted; Ms. Baisnger's fans will find her role is too small, and you might miss beautiful Polina Porizkova if you blink.

Excuse me for my negative review, but I cannot stand watching these good actors in a badly made film. I respect the intention of the filmmakers, but I am not the only one who think, "If Sidney Lumet had helmed the film." We need his skills which must have made this film a much tighter and definitely better one.

A reality beyond the eyes can see
It is very difficult to show something that is hidden and in front of our faces. Sometimes this matter takes a sensionality show like a playing game, other times the director can not transmit the real and invisible world. However this is not the case of this film. It is very precise and perfect in the message.

This film shows us what we can not see with our common eyes. Another level of what is real. Everything may be programmed and exactly directed to a certain target.

We normally see the effects and not the cause.

People that enjoyed Eyes Wide Shut, Kubrick, American Psycho will certainly enjoy this excellent movie.

A waste of Al Pacino's acting ability
There are so many faults in this movie, it's hard to know where to begin. The story makes no sense, there are many holes in the plot. Pacino has a terrible southern accent (I saw the movie in Italy where it has already been released and was reading the subtitles at first because I couldn't tell he was speaking English). The relationship between the characters is never made clear. The motivation for why they are doing what they are doing is unclear and totally unbelievable in some situations. At the end of the movie you will be asking yourself, besides why did I waste my time watching this, what happened? ... Read more

Description

The story of a wealthy woman who teams up for revenge with the hitman her husband has hired to kill her. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

"FAITHLESS"
THIS IS THE ONLY CHER MOVIE THAT I ONLY SAW ONCE. CERTAINLY,NOT HER BEST. SHE LOOKED LIKE SHE WAS SLEEPWALKING THROUGH THE ROLE & THE MATERIAL WAS LACKLUSTER. I REALLY DIDN'T WANT TO SEE HER SITTING IN A CHAIR THROUGH THE WHOLE MOVIE. SHE NEEDS A WIDE ARENA TO SHINE & THIS MOVIE DIDN'T PROVIDE IT.

FAITHLESS? NO! FAITHFULLY ENJOYABLE
I would love to rate this 5 stars but I'm an equal opportunity Cher fan. To begin with as other reviewers have remarked, this film - originally produced off Broadway by Palmienteri (who at the time was hot from "The Usual Suspects") does not translate as well to the screen. The wordy script, however, gives Cher some great lines and she really carries the film. It is a very interestingly written screenplay (it varies drastically from the original show) and once again there were rumours of trouble on the set between Cher and Mazursky, the director. The ending and last shot is so obviously stapled on - something Cher was so angry about you can actually see her seething in the scene while she is in the car. And she has good reason - the film reaches a crescendo and then BOOM just falls flat. Cher's performance is wonderful and emotive; unfortunately her recently "touched up lips" shall I say - are hard to ignore