Description

Episodes: "Judgment Night" (Ep. 10, December 4, 1959) - In 1942, a German (Nehemiah Persoff) wonders why he's on the deck of a British steamship, with no memory of how he got there, and an overwhelming sense of impending doom. "The Purple Testament" (Ep. 19, January 12, 1960) - Lt. Fitzgerald has found his own special wartime hell. Looking into the faces of his men prior to battle, he has the disquieting ability to see who is about to die. "The Obsolete Man" (Ep. 65, June 2, 1961) - In a future state where religion and books have been banned, a librarian (Burgess Meredith) is judged obsolete by the Chancellor (Fritz Weaver) and sentenced to death. "A Quality of Mercy" (Ep. 80, December 29, 1961) - A soldier (Dean Stockwell) gets a new perspective on war when he is forced to experience it from the enemy's point of view. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

extraordinary thought provoking episodes
Four episode that are exceptionally well acted, superbly written and brought to life by some of the most brilliant actors of the period, with the best episode ever filmed: THE PURPLE TESTIMENT stars the underrated and gorgeous William Reynolds (The Gallent Men, FBI) and Dick York. Reynolds suddenly has acquired the unwanted ability to see look in a man's face and tell when he is going to die. JUDGMENT NIGHT stars the great Nehemiah Persoff as a man trapped on a ship doomed to be torpedoed, with no one listening to his warnings. (A very young James Fransicus, of Longstreet fame, appears at the end with a terrible German accent!). In the OBOSETE MAN you have the powerhouse pairing of the great actors Bergess Meredith and Fritz Weaver in a contest of willS where books have been banned and it is against the law to have them, with Meredith refusing to give them up. The last one QUALITY OF MERCY has super Dean Stockwell as a soldier who is suddenly forced to face the war from the body of the enemy.

CBS put out these episode at 4 per tape at nearly twice the price, so getting them on DVD at this low cost is a value no Twilight Zone Fan can pass up.

Good episodes with eventually well known actors
Three of the four stories in this DVD deal with war... and the one that doesn't is the best of all. In "Judgement Night" (Season 1) a passenger on a war-time ship has a premonition that the boat will sink at certain hour (cast includes James Franciscus). "A Quality of Mercy" (Season 3) is a powerful story about the horrors of the war, where a young liuetenant (Dean Stockwell) suddenly finds himself as a soldier on the enemy side, looking at things with a whole new perspective (the episode also features Leonard Nimoy). "The Obsolete Man" (Season 2) stars Burgess Merdith as a librarian in a society of the future that considers him obsolete - a great episode -. Finally "The Purple Testament", another war story, shows us an officer with the peculiar ability to know who is going to die in battle (this chapter could be a reference for "Clyde Bruckman's Final Repose", one of the best episodes in another Sci-Fi Classic TV Series, "The X-Files"). ... Read more

Reviews (1)

oh, tootsie don't cry
This is a great find. it has five episodes, The loaded goat, the great filling station robbery, Andy Discovers America, Aunt Bee's Medicine Man, and The Darlings are coming. Five great episodes, a couple do not have the origional music, but show from begining to end. I know some of the others cut out the intro and outro, these are fully intact. Higly Recomended!! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highly recommended.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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"Static"
Dean Jagger turns in a finely tuned performance as an aging curmudgeon who eschews the picture tube for the old-time radio. But the radio in question tunes in only to the past, where Jagger might make amends for lost opportunities. The fact that Rod Serling repeatedly revisited this subject matter in episodes like this one and "A Stop at Willoughby" suggests a deep-seated penchant for romanticism--or that he was greatly overworked. One of only six episodes shot on videotape, the downgrade in visual quality lends a chamber-drama quality to theepisode's return-to-simpler-times theme.

"Four O'Clock"
A lone bigot holed up in his little apartment with a vast card catalog of "subversives" has come up with the answer to all the "evil" people in the world: At four o'clock he will make them all two feet tall! Only--as so often happens on TZ--the biter gets bitten and comes upa little short himself. Theodore Bikel plays the paranoiac with relish.

"The Parallel"
Bearing a striking resemblance to the classic 1969 film Journey to the FarSide of the Sun this is one TZ episode that deals strictly with science fiction, in this case the possibility of parallel universes. Steve Forrest plays an astronaut returning from a space mission only to find himself in a world askew, where everything looks the same but small differences keep cropping up (JFK isn't president, for example). Space exploration and the depths of the unknown make familiar bedfellows in this hour-long piece from the fourth season that earns every minute of screen time. --Jim Gay ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Dean Jagger in the classic Twilight Zone episode "Static"
One classic episode of "The Twilight Zone" is included on Volume 35 of the DVD series. Dean Jagger turns in a wonderful performance as Ed Lindsay in "Static," written by Charles Beaumont and based on an unpublished story by OCee Ritch. Lindsay cannot stand television and retrieves his old radio set from the basement of his boarding house. He discovers that he can receive radio programs from the past--but only when he is alone. Vinnie Broun, an old maid who was once engaged to Lindsay, thinks he is losing his mind. "Static" represents nostagia with a Twilight Zone twist. "Four O'Clock," written by Rod Serling and based on Price Day's short story, stars Theodore Bikel as Oliver Crangle, a hateful little man who keeps files on people that he considers evil. Somehow, Crangle has decided that at Four O'Clock he will shrink every evil person in the world down to two inches tall. Want to guess how this one ends? Bikel's performance is wasted on Crangle, an over simplified caricature who gets his just deserts. Finally we have "The Parallel," an hour-long Zone written by Serling. Robert Gaines (Steve Forrest) is orbiting the Earth when his space capsule suddenly disappears. Gaines wakes up in the hospital, told his capsule landed 46-miles from where it lifted off for space. Although it looks like he has returned home, Gaines discovers that things are not the same and becomes convinced something is terribly wrong. An interesting premise, but like most of the Zones from the fourth season, "The Parallel" simply drags on too long. So what we end with is one classic episode of "The Twilight Zone" and a couple of lesser efforts. Sure looks like a marketing ploy to me.

STATIC Deserved Better
Six episodes of the "Twilight Zone" were recorded directly onto videotape instead of film. STATIC is one of those episodes. It was written by Charles Beaumont and directed by Buzz Kulik. It starred veteran character actor Dean Jagger as a cantankerous old man tired of the mundane quality of television. Confined to a boarding house full of idly comfortable couch potatoes, he longed for the simplistic days of his beloved radio broadcasts and for a fellow boarder whom he once loved but was never able to express his feelings for. This is one of the best episodes of the "Twilight Zone" and is a companion piece to KICK THE CAN. Because it was recorded direct to videotape it suffers from the technical shortcomings from that era and loses all its dramatic impact. I never realized how good this episode was until I watched this DVD. STATIC should have been the classic episode it was meant to be right up there with WALKING DISTANCE. I recommend this one from the heart.

FOUR O'CLOCK is a tour de force for actor Theodore Bikel as a man bent on exposing all evil at 4 o'clock. I believe that this is Rod Serling's commentary on the McCarthy era. This is a very memorable and important episode.

THE PARALLEL is a fourth season hour episode written by Rod Serling. Steve Forrest gives a very good performance as a returning astronaut whose life seems to contain very subtle changes. I read some criticism about Steve Forrest's "wooden performance." On the contrary, Steve Forrest is the professional United States Marine pilot who remains cool headed and objective while trying to analyze the dilemma he is now in. This is a good episode. ... Read more

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The four episodes included on The Twilight Zone, Vol. 26focus on characters who inevitably pay a price for their tragic flaws. In "TheBig Tall Wish," an aging boxer (Ivan Dixon, later to costar in TV's Hogan'sHeroes) can't comprehend the influence of a little boy's magical wish thatbrought him a surprise victory--a victory that's sacrificed to the fighter's owncynicism. (The twist is nothing new for TZ fans, but the episode's mostlyblack cast was a noteworthy breakthrough for 1960 television.) "Showdown withRance McGrew" is an amusing send-up of pampered actors, in this case amilquetoast TV cowboy whose comeuppance arrives in the form of the real JesseJames--in a real Western town--whose attitude toward phony cowboys is anythingbut tolerant.

Fine performances by Barry Morse and Joan Hackett highlight "A Piano in theHouse," in which a sadistic critic uses a magical player piano to expose thehidden truths of several party guests, only to be himself revealed as morepathetic than any of his victims. "Night Call" is a classic episode combiningterror and human weakness in the story of an elderly woman (Gladys Cooper) whoreceives phone calls from beyond the grave, realizing too late that the callermight have brought happiness to her final days. When viewed together, these fourepisodes demonstrate how The Twilight Zone often recycled themes andbasic plots with admirable ingenuity, thus defining the series' overall missionas set forth by Rod Serling. Some episodes work better than others, but they allilluminate the complex faults, foibles, and grand ambitions that makeTwilight Zone characters so timelessly appealing. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The best of the Twilight Zone dvds.
I have most of the TZ dvds and plan on getting them all. This one marks the 30th I've bought and I have to say it's the best so far. All four episodes are strong and good, and there's something for everyone. For the fun-lovers, there's "Rance McGrew" - a light-hearted TZ episode that's really funny in certain parts. For the child in all of us, there's "The Big Tall Wish", which tells us to never stop believing in the magic. For the more serious-minded traditional TZ lovers, there's two excellent episodes in "Piano in the House" and "Night Call" - both excellent in every way! While most TZ dvds suffer from a slow episode or two thrown in with a few strong ones, this dvd has nothing but goodies on here. A great one to start your collection with!

Four tales on the ways of magic in "The Twilight Zone"
Magic makes its presence known in the four episodes from "The Twilight Zone" collected in Volume 26 of this DVD series. Ivan Dixon has a nice role as Bolie Jackson in "The Big Tall Wish," written by Rod Serling. Just about washed up as a prizefighter, Jackson wins his fight because little Henry (Steven Perry), used magic to help. But Jackson refuses to believe in the magic. In "Showdown with Rance McGrew," written by Serling and based on an idea by Frederic Louis Fox, temperamental television cowboy star McGrew (Larry Blyden) suddenly finds himself in the real Old West where the real Jesse James (Arch Johnson) has a complaint about the way he and his fellow outlaws are portrayed on television. "A Piano in the House," written by Earl Hamner, Jr., stars Barry Morse as Fitzgerald Fortune, a cynical theater critic who uses a magical piano player to get his party guests to reveal hidden truths about themselves. Fortune is an unpleasant man who meets a deservedly unpleasant fate. Gladys Cooper makes a return visit to the Zone as Miss Elva Keene in "Night Call," written by Richard Matheson and based on his short story "Long Distance Call." Miss Elva, who is crippled, keeps getting strange phone calls with a man's voice saying, "Where are you? I want to talk to you." She is already scared, but when she learns the phone calls are coming from a fallen wire lying atop the grave of her long-dead fiance Brian, who was killed in the car crash that crippled her. This episode is another minor masterpiece from Matheson. This is an above-average volume in the series, which just happens to have three of my favorite "non-classic" episodes of the Zone.

"Night Call" Makes it All Worthwhile!
"Night Call" is one of the top 2 or 3 creepiest Twilight Zone episodes ever!! Superbly written script with excellent plot development (it gets more than the allowable number of "stars")! A great acting performance, and gradually mounting tension throughout! The other episodes are much less effective although "Piano in the House" is actually a very good script-- Unfortunately, superficial character development diminishes some admirable acting performances--It gets "2 1/2 stars" but the remaining two episodes are below average (by Twilight Zone standards). By today's standards, they are above average!

One for the fans
Although I write this under one particular DVD in the series, these comments apply to each and every one of the DVD releases.

Twilight Zone? On DVD? In Black and White? What were they thinking of?

They were thinking of me and others just like me who loved this classic old science fiction program and longed to have the entire collection in a compact, guaranteed to last collection.

Although the entire set is not yet released (they are up to volume 31 at the moment), I'm sure it will be -- not many more episodes are left to do and the sales appear to be good.

This show is the 1950's anthology that started it all. Began as an experiment in the late 50's by Rod Serling, it has become a classic and is still enjoyable 40 years later.

The DVD collection is crisp and clear both for audio and video, and thankfully still in the original black and white. Each DVD features three or four of the original uncut television programs plus a history of the Twilight Zone and a short bio on Rod. Treasures and More Treasures of the TZ also include an interview by Mike Wallace (quality of this is only so-so due to technology of the time) and the orgininal marketing trailer made by Rod to sell his brain child to potential sponsers.

The series itself is being released in what seems to be no particular order (talking about the episodes here), with each DVD containing either four 1/2-hour shows or 2 1/2-hour episodes and one of the fourth season hour-long programs. This collection also includes the installments which were not syndicated and are almost impossible to find on broadcast television.

This is a 'must have' for anyone who enjoyed the program while growing up -- or for anyone of any age who appreciates a good SF show. Naturally some episodes are better than others, but most will agree that the overall quality of the series clearly stands out.

Take one for a test drive -- then order them all. You'll be glad you did.

~P~

Twilight Zone Rules!
This tape was excellent, especially "A Piano in the House." The whole tape was spooky and creepy, but it makes you think, too. These are certainly some of Rod Serling's Best. Volume 25 was super as well. Everybody should own the Twilight Zone! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Good star chemistry in a diverting thriller
Sidney Poitier and Michael Caine are on the run in a tense political chase adventure that somehow has gone unnoticed over the years. The story is strictly one-dimensional and is about a black South African freedom fighter who is aided by a British engineer in escaping from the government's agents who are hoping Shack Twala will lead them to the resistance movement's leader and organizer. The film has a great performance by Nicol Williamson as the evil, wily and determined South African state security agent on the trail of Twala and accomplice Keogh. A young Rutger Hauer appears as an oily and unreliable pilot who is obliged to lend his services to the wanted men and his own ex-wife. The only flaw in the movie is the rear-projection footage that spoils an otherwise well-made film. The dialogue is sprinkled with racist comments and there is also breathtaking footage of the Kenyan countryside as seen when a small aircraft is pursued by South African fighter jets as Twala and Keogh race for safety.

Caine or Poitier enthusiasts may see something more here
Based on Peter Driscoll's 1972 novel, this film is set in apartheid 1970-ish South Africa during the origins of anti-apartheid groups like the Black Congress movement, seeking to overthrow the government to achieve self-determination for the country's 18 million blacks (versus 3 million ruling whites).

One always has to wonder about films where the viewpoint is so one-sided with few shades of grey. This film treads a fine line indeed between politically correct propaganda and a wheels-within-wheels conspiracy thriller. This reviewer's initial fears that the propaganda element would overwhelm other considerations diminished when the plot took some unexpected twists and ended with a flourish.

Sidney Poitier is moderately successful in his characterization of a black who has been subdued and imprisoned by the contemptuous and repressive apartheid regime. Years of forced subservience (and his survival of them) have made his external persona almost stoic. Yet behind this apparent stoicism, he seethes with hatred and works for the total destruction of the apartheid system. Opening the film, the authorities mysteriously release him from prison. The mystery compounds when the authorities fail to re-arrest him despite any number of infractions (trumped-up or otherwise), choosing rather to follow him.

A young Michael Caine plays - Michael Caine, dragged in by accident for the ride and implicated by events. The other performances are routine excepting Major Horn (Nicol Williamson) and his side-kick Van Heerden (Ryl De Gooyer), as the arrogant, menacing and sadistic pursuing agents from the Bureau of State Security. These two never miss an opportunity to threaten and denigrate those who either cross their path or try to frustrate their curious agenda. Despite their limited screen time, Wiliamson and De Gooyer nevertheless bring something extra to their portrayals.

The original 1974 cinematography was apparently quite good, as the (Kenya) scenery is beautiful. The DVD picture is sufficient for enjoying the film; but purists will notice that it is fuzzy and the colors are washed out, so no re-mastering or other significant picture restoration was attempted. Sound is in the same category. The DVD keep case is fine. Be advised the film is mostly for Caine or Poitier collectors. For others it is little more than a couple hours' entertainment.

Wilby Conspiracy - Only Too True!!
Regretfully, the actions depicted by the South African secret police in the Wilby Conspiracy were only too true.

Via overt racist laws and covert actions, they were given a free hand to maintain the racist status quo and kill whoever tried to stop them, which several have admitted to having done.

One Of the Best Pre-80's Anti-Appartheid Film!!
It amazes me that so little attention has been paid to this witty adventure-drama. Created and made long before anti-apartheid struggle bacame "vogue" in the mainstream culture in mid-80's, it was rare insight that gave us the sinister faces of the dreaded South African sercret service, the "BOSS". Remember this was made long before "New South Africa". Long before the release of Nelson Mandela. Before Soweto and Biko murder!! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "The Passerby" (Ep. 69, October 6, 1961) - On the road home from the Civil War, a Confederate soldier stops at a house. He and the owner, a recent widow, soon realize that all who pass are dead. Including them! "The Grave" (Ep. 72, October 27, 1961) - Before he died, notorious badman Pinto Sykes put a curse on hired-gun Conny Miller (Lee Marvin). If Miller ever sets foot on his grave, he will kill him--a threat Sykes carries out! "Death's Head Revisited" (Ep. 74, November 10, 1961) - A former Nazi SS Captain returns to the ruins of a concentration camp to re-live the good old days--until his long-dead victims appear to deliver overdue justice! "The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank" (Ep. 88, February 23, 1962) - Ever since he came back to life at his own funeral, Jeff hasn't been the same! The townspeople want him out of town, but Jeff says they have no reason to fear him. Or do they? ... Read more

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Marisa Tomei releases her inner spitfire in The Perez Family.Dottie Perez (Tomei) comes to the U.S. from Cuba, along with a mixed lotof criminals, lunatics, and political prisoners--including Juan Perez(Alfred Molina), who hopes to be reunited with his wife after 20 years. Towork around the bureaucratic politics of the refugee camps, Dottiepersuades Juan to pretend that they're married, and drafts a few otherPerezes to create a family. Meanwhile, Juan's wife Carmella believes thatJuan never arrived and is finally letting go of his memory, helped by theattentions of a Miami police detective (Chazz Palmintieri). Tomei's sexypassion sometimes spills over into silliness and the story unfoldserratically, but the examination of how love grows and how love fades issincere and affecting. The actors are charismatic, the music's fantastic,and Tomei wears many skimpy outfits. Directed by Mira Nair (MonsoonWedding). --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A sexy, energetic, lighthearted, romantic comedy. Loved it!
Dottie Perez (Marisa Tomei) shines in this highly entertaining film. Both Juan Perez (Alfred Molina) and Dottie (strangers to one another) leave Cuba in a boatlift to come to the USA. Though they have separate agendas, they both become entangled in a creative plot that would convince immigration to boost their names to the top of the list for families to be sponsored. In the meantime, Juan searches for his wife and child who he hasn't seen for 20 years. Dottie, on the other hand, floats around with naivety about life in the Americas. Unaware that her beloved movie star is dead, she lights up with the anticipation of finally seeing John Wayne after she spots a sign for Hollywood some miles away. I was almost rolling on the floor when both Dottie and Juan realized the status of Elvis Presley and John Wayne.

I like that the film catches sincere moments; for instance, we see Tomei heating up the screen in her sexy dresses and unshaved underarm, and Juan even expresses that he's been in prison so long, his teeth are no good to kiss his beloved wife. All the characters add warmth and humor to this highly charged movie. Definitely a keeper. Don't miss it!

One of the most enjoyable movies I have seen!
Marisa Tomei does a fantastic job on this one. This is a must see. I was surprised to note that this was another Mira Nair (of Monsoon Wedding fame) film. She weaves a sensitive and delicate plot with fire and passion and humor.

Excellent Cast, Brilliant Acting!
Rarely does a film move me to actual expressions of emotion, but this one did. The conditions under which the Cuban immigrants lived in this film broke my heart. Alfred Molina and Marisa Tomei were excellent in their portrayals of Cuban immigrants who were simply trying to flee oppression and make better lives for themselves. (I must confess, I didn't have much respect for Marisa Tomei as an actress until I saw her in this film.) There is one scene in particular that I found to be especially heartwrenching: Tomei's character, freshly arrived from Cuba and still living in a refugee facility, meets a police officer. The man takes an interest in her and asks her out on a date. Feeling excited and elated, she accepts, believing the man to be a decent man who will treat her well. On the night of the date, however, the man tries to force himself on her, even offering her money. She manages to get away from him and flees his apartment, in tears.
There are moments of tragedy and triumph in this film. You will laugh and cry many times before the final credits roll. (For example, I laughed out loud at the "grandfather" who repeatedly continued to wander off in the nude.) Anyone who appreciates a finely crafted film that will make them think should watch this film.
My only complaint is that the ending seemed a bit too "Hollywood" for my taste. But that is a minor point. We all need a dose of "happily ever after" every now and then, I suppose.

My applause to all those who were involved in the making of this film. The DVD, which has thankfully been released now, has been made a permanent part of my film library.

An Excellent Movie By Mira Nair!
It's a shame this movie never did very well at the box office, because it's a movie with great performances by Marisa Tomei and Alfred Molina. It's also directed by one of the least recognized and gifted directors of our time, Mira Nair.

Nair is best known for movies dealing with Indian culture like "Mississippi Masala" and last year's "Monsoon Wedding," but here she strays from her normal interests and makes a movie about Cubans who come to the United States seeking political asylum. Specifically, the movie centers around Dottie Perez (Tomei) and Juan Raul Perez (Molina), who are of no relation to each other except for the fact that they come to the United States with a heart full of dreams which are quickly shattered. Dottie is smitten by John Wayne and comes with the hopes of someday sleeping with him. Juan was incarcerated in a Cuban prison for 20 years and comes hoping to find the wife and daughter he has not seen in that time. They both come to Miami on the same boat, and circumstances force them to act as if they were a "family". This arrangement soon becomes more than just a strategic plan, as they quickly develop romantic feelings for each other.

The acting in this movie is surprisingly good. I had gotten so used to seeing Marisa Tomei doing her New York accent in "My Cousin Vinny" that I didn't think she'd be able to be convincing as a Cuban refugee. I was pleasantly surprised. Alfred Molina was also very good, and so was Anjelica Huston who played his estranged wife. I also thought the movie had a great musical score.

I would have given this movie five stars if it wasn't for the fact that I wasn't really satisfied with the way the movie ended. Though I won't give away the ending, I'll say that it was entirely too simplistic. Though, that's just a minor flaw. This movie is definitely worth watching.

Where's the DVD
This is one of the best movies I've ever seen. It is as good as "Cool Hand Luck" and "The Sweet Hereafter." It's hard to believe the DVD doesn't exist. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Best laid plans go horribly astray in "The Twilight Zone"
The best laid plans of mice and men in invariably go astray in "The Twilight Zone" as evidenced by the trio of episodes collected on Volume 36 of the DVD series. Love potions do not work well in the Zone, as Roger Shackleforth (George Grizzard) learns in "The Chaser," written by Robert Presnell, Jr. and based on the short story by John Collier. Roger is desperately in love with Leila (Patricia Barry), and purchases a love potion from a professor named "A. Daemon." The potion works so well that after six months of marriage Roger is back looking for something a bit more deadly. In "The Rip Van Winkle Caper," written by Rod Serling, four men steal a million dollars worth of gold bars off of a train from Fort Knox. To get away with their crime, Farwell (Oscar Beregi) has created a gas that will put them in suspended animation. They awake 100 years later, but it seems one of them, DeCruz (Simon Oakland), is greedy enough not to want to share any of the stolen gold. "The New Exhibit," written by Jerry Sohl, is set in Ferugson's Wax Museum, where attendance has been poor. Ferguson has sold the place, which will be demolished and replaced by a supermarket. But Martin Lombard Senescu (Martin Balsam), who has worked there for 30 years, can not stand the idea since five of the figures, notorious murderers such as Jack the Ripper and Albert W. Hicks, have become almost like friends to him. Reluctantly, Ferguson agrees to let Martin take the figures to his own basement, in hopes that someday he can start his own museum. Martin's wife Emma does not like the fact that they are starving while the electricity runs all night to preserve the wax figures. But when she goes down there one night to pull the plug, Martin finds here dead the next morning with her blood on Jack the Ripper's knife. This is one of the better hour-long episodes from the Zone's sub-par fourth season. While none of these episodes are classics the last two are certainly well above average, so we will round up to 5 stars for this one. What stands out on this DVD are not so much the stories but the performances by Balsam, Oakland and Beregi. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Despite Carol Burnett, a below-average set of Zones
Volume 40 in "The Twilight Zone" DVD collection certainly offers an assortment of episodes from the classic television series, although none of them comes close to qualifying as a classic Zone. Carol Burnett is klutzy usherette Agnes Grep in "Cavender Is Coming," written by Rod Serling, who loses her job and meets Cavender (Jesse White), a bungling angel. Cavender gives Agnes a fortune and a mansion, but the catch is that none of her old friends remember her and they no longer adore her. Serling wrote this episode specifically for Burnett, although the story is obviously borrowed from "Mr. Bevis," which was a failed attempt at a pilot. However, surprisingly, the script handicaps the comedienne way too much and this is just not as funny as it should be. "Passage on the Lady Anne," written by Charles Beaumont, finds ambitious Allan Ransome (Lee Philips) having to go to Europe on business. In a last-ditch effort to save their marriage, his wife Eileen (Joyce Van Patten), demands to go on the trip and to be allowed to pick the form of transportation. She picks the Lady Anne, the slowest ship afloat. However, the couple soon agree to divorce, which devastates Eileen. But the Lady Anne was one a ship reserved for lovers and all the other passengers are 75 years old taking a final cruise on the ship, and they decide to help the young couple. The supporting cast of elderly actors including Wilfrid Hyde-White, Cecil Kellaway, Gladys Cooper and Alan Napier are joys to see and make this one of the few tolerable hour-long Zone episodes. Finally, Serling's "The Brain Center at Whipple's" finds callous factory owner Wallace V. Whipple (Richard Deacon) has completely automated his factory, putting thousands out of work. Of course, since this is the Zone, irony will come calling on Whipple. A rather predictable outting. Although I like "Passage on the Lady Anne," this is a below average collection of Zone episodes.

A good Mixture of Episodes
CAVENDER IS COMING seems to have some inspiration from Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life" as angel Jesse White must earn his wings by aiding a screwball human played by Carol Burnett. This is one of the few episodes that I saw for the first time ever on this DVD. My original expectations were low, but I was pleasantly surprised by some innovative photography, stunts and Burnett's excellent performance. Rod Serling actually wrote a very good comic episode from which the viewer can actually make parallels to real life situations thanks in part to Burnett's energetic approach to her part. Greatly underrated. PASSAGE ON THE LADY ANNE credited to writer Charles Beaumont from the 4th Season is an interesting story of a troubled couple's (Joyce Van Patten and Lee Phillips) attempt to rekindle their marriage aboard an antiquated ocean liner the Lady Anne. However, the antiquated ship's passengers consist solely of the elderly. The cast really makes this an enjoyable episode. It includes Wilfred Hyde-White, Gladys Cooper, Cecil Kellaway and Alan Napier. THE BRAIN CENTER AT WHIPPLE'S written by Rod Serling for the 5th Season seems to tread familiar territory which had been previously visited and done much better. It focuses on industry, man and machines. It features Richard Deacon, Paul Newlan, Ted DeCorsia and Burt Conroy. I never met an episode of the "Twilight Zone" that I didn't like. I just like some more than others. I am sure that for some people this episode holds some endearment. And that is the magic of the "Twilight Zone." ... Read more

Reviews (13)

The Best Colorized film I have ever seen
Many people here have covered the actual film content, I just wanted to mention that I have seen many colorized films over the years and have not been very pleased with the results until I saw this new version of Woman in Green, it's The Best Colorized film I have ever seen, stunning natural color that I feel really adds to the viewing pleasure of the film, I watched this on my 7ft screen projected from a dlp projector, and it was fantastic quality, I hope there will be more of these classic old movies released in both original black and white for the purists, but also in these wonderful colorized versions, well done to all the technicians involved in this disk.

A Hypnotic Mystery!!
+++++

(Note that this review is for the DVD "The Woman in Green" that was released by "Delta Music" in 2004.)

This movie is not based on a story written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859 to 1930) but is just based on the characters created by him.

In this movie, Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone) with his sidekick Dr. Watson (Nigel Bruce) come to the rescue as Scotland Yard is stumped by the unusual crimes of a blackmailing murder ring.Holmes also encounters his arch nemesis Professor Moriarty (Henry Daniell) and a "women in green" (Hilary Brooke) who subdue their victims through hypnosis.

Rathbone captures the essence of the famous gumshoe in his performance.Bruce as his bumbling aid also gives a good performance.As well, Daniell as Holmes' archenemy and Brooke as the mysterious lady give convincing performances.

This movie is like a time capsule of 1940s London.As well, the background music adds to each scene.

The only problem I had with this movie was with the story.As indicated above, this movie is not based on a Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story and it shows. I felt that the story was a bit
too unrealistic.

Finally, extras include two original Sherlock Holmes radio broadcasts.I found these interesting.

In conclusion, this is a fun movie that every Sherlock Holmes fan should own!!

(1945; 70 min; black and white; full screen)

+++++

Scotland Yard calls in Holmes to solve a murder spree
While The Woman in Green is not based on any of the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, it does manage to place Sherlock Holmes in his element, trying to figure out the diabolical plot behind a series of gruesome murders.Scotland Yard, despite investigators' best efforts, is clueless, so Inspector Gregson sucks up his pride and seeks the help of the inhabitant of 221B Baker Street when a fourth young lady falls victim to the gruesome killer.Each of the victims has had her right forefinger removed, and there seems to be nothing else linking the victims.Holmes just so happened to see Sir George Fenwick in the company of a young lady when he first spoke with Gregson.When Fenwick becomes a related victim in the murder spree, Holmes' mental gears begin turning, and he soon comes to believe that none other than Professor Moriarty, his arch nemesis (who was supposedly hanged the previous year) is behind the murders.Blackmail and hypnotism lie at the heart of the plot, and Holmes is determined to bring Moriarty to justice - to succeed, he will have to parry the wiles of a femme fatale (who is certainly no Irene Adler, I must say).

While this story lacks the inner complexity and authentic aura of a Conan Doyle original, it is a satisfying, enjoyable adventure.Basil Rathbone carries the air of Holmes throughout the film, Hillary Brooke makes a formidable female challenger in the form of Lydia Marlowe, and Henry Daniell turns in an impressive performance as Professor Moriarty.I can't help but have mixed feelings about Nigel Bruce's performance as John Watson here.One hates to see Dr. Watson portrayed as such a bumbling old dodder, but at the same time one can't help but be entertained by his comical demeanor in this film.He is constantly mumbling underneath his breath, and his continued disparagement of the science of hypnosis earns him a moment of public embarrassment.The comical element culminates in a truly classic exchange with the great detective in the film's final moments.

The Sherlock Holmes films of the 1940s starring Basil Rathbone are essentially a Holmesian subgenre of their own.The Woman in Green's story doesn't have the bite of an actual Conan Doyle creation, but this is a pretty appealing substitute for the real thing.Likewise, it showcases Basil Rathbone's performance as the great detective - until the advent of Jeremy Brett, Rathbone was the face of Sherlock Holmes to many.

Henry Daniell as Professor Moriarty
The title of this Sherlock Holmes adventure, "Woman in Green," refers to the character played by Hillary Brooke (who previously had a minor supporting role in "Voice of Terror"), but the star villain is actually Holmes' arch-nemesis, the diabolical Professor Moriarty. The last time he clashed with the great detective in "Secret Weapon," the greatest criminal mastermind in all of fiction plunged to his death in an elevator shaft. And yet his resurrection here, never explained, doesn't really feel like a cheat, certainly not with the great Henry Daniell in the role. Few actors could convey evil as effectively, and he makes you believe Moriarty could survive anything. In his autobiography, Basil Rathbone praised Daniell's Moriarty as the best, high praise indeed when one considers his competition includes both George Zucco and Lionel Atwill.

Daniell's presence is the one element that elevates this otherwise standard Holmes thriller to a position near the top of the heap. Still, the standard was pretty high with this series thanks to the superb direction of Roy William Neill and the always electrifying performance of Basil Rathbone. Less appealing this time around is Nigel Bruce's Dr. Watson who bumbles more than ever and, in an amusing yet somehow cruel scene, is publicly humiliated when he's hypnotized for laughsafter protesting that anyone with even an "ounce of character" could never be put under a spell. By this time in the series, one wishes the good doctor was shown a bit more respect.

A nail biter
Dead women are missing fingers all over London.Inspector Gregson of Scotland Yard (Matthew Boulton) is baffled, as there is no pattern to the madness.Sherlock Holms (Basil Rathbone) on the other hand knows that it is the alleged to be dead Professor Moriarty (Henry Daniell) and the fingers point to a more sinister crime. ... Read more

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At least one of the episodes collected on volume 15 of The Twilight Zone DVDofferings is an all-time classic--if by classic we mean the kind of showthat still produces a shudder of recognition years after viewing. This is"The Midnight Sun," an apocalyptic tale in which a cosmic event has hurledthe earth toward the sun, sending the thermometer to 120 degrees and thepopulation into despair. Aside from the twist ending and the attractivesweating of Lois Nettleton, what's likely to be remembered from this episode, is the haunting image of an oil painting melting with the heat. Other episodes in this collection, all scripted by series creator RodSerling, emphasize bravura acting. In "Escape Clause," gracefully directed by Hollywood pro Mitchell Leisen, the whimsical David Wayne plays ahypochondriac whose anxious life is changed by the arrival of Death (veteran heavy Thomas Gomez). Soon the indestructible hero is courting exotic ways ofdestroying himself, just to alleviate his boredom: "Let's give the electric chair a little whirl," drawls the blithely curious Wayne. The claustrophobic"Nervous Man in a Four Dollar Room" takes on technical challenges typical of The Twilight Zone. It never leaves the confines of a tiny, shabby hotel room andleading man Joe Mantell plays much of the dialogue with a mirror image ofhimself. The point of the episode is somewhat monotonous, but Mantell'sperformance, as a loser facing his last chance at decency, is fully juiced. "A Kind of Stopwatch" shows what happens when a loudmouth pest (RichardErdman, the annoying personification of the can-do man with ideas) comes into possession of a watch that can stop the whole world in mid-motion. Justice eventually is meted out, per the usual scales of The Twilight Zone. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Pretty Average DVD
Midnight Sun is the best Zone episode on this DVD. The rest are okay but not all that special.

Four stories of desperate people in "The Twilight Zone"
Desperate people in desperate situations abound in Rod Serling's four scripts presented in Volume 15 of "The Twilight Zone" DVD series. In "Escape Clause, " David Wayne stars at hypochondriac Walter Bedecker, who strikes a deal with Mr. Cadwallader (Thomas Gomez), a.k.a. the Devil, to receive immortality and indestructibility in exchange for his soul. Of course, Bedecker soon realizes he has gotten a raw deal. "Nervous Man in a Four Dollar Room" features Joe Mantell as Jackie Rhodes, who has been ordered by a gangster to murder the owner of bar. Knowing he does not have the guts to refuse the order and that he will be caught if he commits the crime, Jackie looks in the mirror and discovers looking back at him a DIFFERENT Jackie Rhodes, who is the better man he could have been and who now wants out into the real world. Lois Nettleton turns in a wonderful performance in "The Midnight Sun" as Norma, who is trying to survive in her New York City apartment as the Earth moves closer and closer to the sun. Of course, there is an ironic twist at the end of this tale as well. Finally, there is Patrick Thomas McNulty (Richard Erdman), a man who does not know when to shut up in "A Kind of a Stopwatch," based on an unpublished story by Michael D. Rosenthal. The whims of fate, in the presence of a strange little man named Potts (Leon Belasco), give McNulty a remarkable stopwatch. Press the button and time stops for everybody in the world except him. Unfortunately, the man is not the equal of the gift. One of the better theme discs in this series, these are all above average episodes of the Zone.

The "Superb Zone" Volume 15
This volume is by far one of the best available today. The episodes "Nervous Man in a Four Dollar Room" and "A Kind of Stopwatch" are worthy episode done in the typical Zonie fashion. While "Escape Clause," starring: David Wayne (well-known for playing the Mad Hatter on the 60's television comedy: "Batman") plays a hypochondriac, who sells his soul for immortality. The episode offers a bit of twisted humor that only "The Twilight Zone" could pull-off tastefully. However; it is episode "The Midnight Sun" that steals the show! Timeless situation about two women who are faced within a hopeless situation. The Earth has changed its orbit, and is drifting closer to the sun. Knowing the inevitable is soon at hand, the two depend on each other for survival. How long can they survive? How long can they remain sane? This episode makes you think: "what if this really happened? " Also: for you fans of Lois Nettleton, the scenes of her sweating in her under-garments is very sexy; it is worth buying the dvd just for that. Out of all the volumes I want to own, I bought this one first! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "What You Need" (Ep. 12, December 25, 1959) - A two-bit thug thinks he's found the key to a better life in an old sidewalk salesman who has the uncanny ability to tell people what they need the most. "What's in the Box" (Ep. 144, March 13, 1964) - Joe Britt (William Demarest) sees his secret revealed and its horrible consequences on his just-repaired TV set. He frantically tries to alter his fate by confronting his wife (Joan Blondell). "The Mirror" (Ep. 71, October 20, 1961) - After a poor, but ambitious Central American farm worker (Peter Falk) overthrows his country's tyrannical leader, he believes he sees assassins everywhere. A look in the mirror reveals his most dangerous enemy. "The Old Man in the Cave" (Ep. 127, November 8, 1963) - A mysterious guardian helps a tiny community survive after the Bomb destroys much of the earth. But spurred on by the bullying outsider Major French (James Coburn), the townspeople become an angry mob bent on learning the secret of "The Old Man in the Cave." ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Unpleasant people meeting unpleasant ends in the Zone
The common thread for the four episodes offered in Volume 17 of "The Twilight Zone" DVD series would be disagreeable people meeting get their just deserts. In "What You Need," adapted by Rod Serling from the short story by Lewis Padgett (a.k.a. Henry Kuttner and C. L. Moore), has cheap thug Fred Renard (Steve Cox) encounter a sidewalk salesman named Pedott (Ernest Truex), who has the unusual gift of knowing exactly what people needed before they need it. When Pedott gives Renard a pair of scissors that end up saving his life, the petty little criminal sees an opportunity to take advantage of Pedott's gift. "What's in the Box," written by Martin M. Goldsmith, offers William Demarest and Joan Blondell as Joe and Phyllis Britt, a most unhappily married couple. After Joe insults a mysterious TV Repairman (Sterling Holloway), he discovers his set now picks up Channel 10, which shows him having an affair and murdering his wife. These are not very happy people and they do not meet happy fates in the Twilight Zone.

Peter Falk plays Castro-clone Ramos Clemente in Serling's "The Mirror." When he takes control of his Central American nation, Clemente is told by the deposed dictator that there is a magic mirror in his office which reveals the face of your assassin. Soon, Clemente is seeing assassins everywhere. Apart from the obvious references to Castro, there is really nothing to recommend this episode. "The Old Man in the Cave," adapted by Serling from Henry Slesar's short story "The Old Man," is set 10 years after a nuclear war when a community has survived because Mr. Goldsmith (John Anderson) has been relaying instructions from the title character. But when a gang of soldiers commanded by Major French (James Coburn) shows up and takes over the town, distributing food and drink that "the Old Man" denied them because he claimed there were contaminated, the townspeople become determined to learn the truth, to their eternal regret. So far Volume 17 is the weakest collection in "The Twilight Zone" series.

The Real Castro
I read one review from someone who thought it did not show dictator Castro very good. I saw this video and I think it showed him like he must be. I think the rest also show how people should think before they do anything to hurt others they don't understand and not act like a mob in a riot in the cave episode.

A bad one
This is one of the worst. "What's in the box" is terrible. You can laugh at the end. "The Mirror" is terrible, it's their impression on Castro, "What you Need" is good. And "The Old Man in the cave" is good. This one has two bad ones and two good ones. Which ones do you like better? Take your pick..... ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "And When the Sky Was Opened" (Ep. 11, December 11, 1959) - Col. Clegg Forbes (Rod Taylor) and two fellow astronauts have returned from their first space flight. They soon discover that no one remembers them--as if they never existed. "In His Image" (Ep. 103, January 3, 1963, 50 min.) - Alan Talbot doesn't understand why his hometown seems so unfamiliar; why is he driven to kill and what are those strange noises in his head? He's about to get some answers when he comes face to face with his double. "The Last Night of a Jockey" (Ep. 125, October 25, 1963) - Mickey Rooney is Grady, a former jockey, banned from horse racing and down on his luck. When he gets one wish, he grows to over eight-feet tall--which, he'll find out, can be too big. ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "The Mighty Casey" (Episode 35, June 17, 1960) - A broken-down baseball team soars when a new player, a human-looking robot, pitches shut-out after shut-out. He must be altered to become more human, but how will this affect his superhuman skills? "Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up" (Episode 64, May 26, 1961) - State troopers follow tracks from an unidentified flying object to a diner where they try to determine which of the seven bus passengers stranded inside is really a Martian. "The Changing of the Guard" (Episode 102, June 1, 1962) - Donald Pleasence is Professor Ellis Fowler, forced to retire after 51 years of teaching. Feeling his life was worthless, Fowler is startled by the ghostly appearance of former students. "Come Wander with Me" (Episode 154, May 22, 1964) - A singer (Gary Crosby) journeys to the backwoods to find authentic folk songs. He hears a great ballad...a timeless tune that will have a very personal meaning for him. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A mixed bag of episodes from "The Twilight Zone"
The performance of Donald Pleasance stands out in the four episodes from "The Twilight Zone" collected on Volume 41 of this DVD series. Robert Sorrells plays "The Mighty Casey," a robot that becomes the star pitcher of the last place Hoboken Zephyrs in this episode written by Rod Serling. However, when it is discovered Casey is a robot, it is ruled that he cannot play baseball unless he has a heart and it is up to his inventor, Dr. Stillman (Abraham Sofaer) to give him one. Jack Warden plays Manager Mouth McGarry, after Serling personally paid to have scenes reshot when the original actor died of a heart attack shortly after production. "The Might Casey" is a mildly amusing episode. "Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up" by Serling finds State Troopers following tracks from a U.F.O. to a diner. Now all they have to do is figure out which of the seven bus passengers inside is really a Martian. This is an above-average Zone with references to science fiction writers and cliches, as well as nice performances by John Hoyt, Barney Phillips and Jack Elam. Serling even throws in one of his better twists at the end. Donald Pleasance turns in a surprisingly different performance as Professor Ellis Fowler in Serling's "The Changing of the Guard." A saintly English professor, Fowler is being forcibly retired and contemplates suicide, thinking he has accomplished nothing in his teaching career. But in his classroom for the final time the ghosts of his former students try to convince him otherwise. On the written page the dialogue looks looks rather cliched, but not when Pleasance delivers it. Finally, "Come Wander With Me," written by Anthony Wilson, is the story of Floyd Burney (Gary Crosby), "the Rockabilly Boy," who travels the backwoods looking for authentic folk songs. When he hears a haunted ballad being hummed by the lovely Mary Rachel (Bonnie Beecher), he knows he has found what he was looking for, but he fails to notice the tombstone with his name on it. There are so many twists in this one that by the time it is over you will have no idea what was really going on. So the four episodes on Volume 41 would grade out, in order, as D, C, B, F, which grades out as a C overall (can you tell school is back in session?).

If only we could hand pick our episodes ...
The (not so) Mighty Casey: 1 star This is a first season ep. and is surprisingly lacking in many ways. The sound effects are campy (even for 1960), the humor is off, and Jack Wardens perfomance is plain poor and over blown. He turned in one of the best performances EVER for the Zone in "The Lonely" but here, I suppose, the material he had to work with was sub-par. "Casey" himself is not even likeable, none of the characters are. A Formality Episode.

Will The Real Martian Please Stand Up: 3 stars A decent ep. that seems to be a fan favorite but for me "the old giggling man" is pretty annoying. Most will recognise a Trek doctor here and he turns in a fine performance. The ending is classic, sans for the silly makeup.

The Changing Of The Guard: 3.5 stars Pleasance is great in this episode. Even greater is the meaning behind it all. Whether we know it or WE ALL MATTER. Whether you teach or not your existance at some point WILL influence another in a positive way. Thats the meaning I got from it. A touching episode.

Come Wander With Me: 4.5 stars This ep. is great because the song is haunting and it also has a rather strange ending and meaning. I really love how "Floyd Burney" kept running around this Zone proclaiming for God and Country, "I'M FLOYD BURNEY!" As though it mattered to these people. A Caution for you ego-maniacs: it doesn't matter who you are, but WHO KNOWS YOU!

Again, there is no paperwork (inserts, like every other dvd has!) for the Zones which is unusually cheap (though they are all this way). The navigation is abnormally slow, but the picture is terrific! Also, I found no isolated music tracks.

Come Wander with Me and find Hidden EASTER EGGS
Volume 41 of "The Twilight Zone" contains 'Easter Eggs.' 'Easter Eggs' are hidden extras on the DVD which are not listed on the cover or even mentioned in the main menu. They have their own menu page and you have to navigate around until you find them! 'COME WANDER WITH ME' for instance contains an isolated music track. Many people complained about the reissue of 'THE ENCOUNTER' on DVD in Vol. 33. However, it was reissued because it contains an 'Easter Egg.' 'THE ENCOUNTER' contains an isolated music track! Now, on to the main review!

'COME WANDER WITH ME' has been a long-overlooked episode which first aired on May 22, 1964. It is a very strange and enigmatic tale written by Anthony Wilson and directed by Richard Donner. It stars Gary Crosby as a folk singer who ventures into the backwoods in search of his next hit song. He's a con man who steals authentic folk ballads by using a tape recorder and Gary Crosby is brilliant in this role. Crosby brings a real facade of charisma that the role demanded and he makes this episode work. This is a very atmospheric episode that does not hit you right away. You may not even like it. But its haunting images and singular tune may linger with you and you may just revisit this one again and again (that's a little hint about the story). I have done so many times and this one of my favorite episodes right up there with 'WALKING DISTANCE' and 'NIGHTMARE AT 20,000 FEET.' I highly recommend 'COME WANDER WITH ME.' 'THE MIGHTY CASEY' is an enjoyable little episode written by Rod Serling about a down and out baseball team that gets a little help from a robot named Casey. The very dependable Jack Warden as usual turns in a good performance. 'A PIANO IN THE HOUSE' which first aired on February 16, 1962 shows the cruelty that lies beneath the surface of some people. Barry Morse is at his best as he uses a player piano to make his guests reveal their innermost feelings and desires in a most vicious fashion. The late Joan Hackett is very good as she underplays her role as his abused wife. Earl Hamner, Jr. wrote a brilliant and memorable script for this episode as he chose a different tune to reveal each character as it was played on the piano. As for being memorable, 'WILL THE REAL MARTIAN PLEASE STAND UP' is one of the most remembered and identified episodes. Written by Rod Serling with an original airdate of May 26, 1961 it is the story that takes place in a diner where passengers of a bus trip are stranded. There's only one problem: one of the passengers may be an alien in disguise! You get a good sampling of episodes on this disc showing the diversity of themes and stories which contain that one cohesive element for the viewer: YOU HAVE JUST ENTERED THE TWILIGHT ZONE. ... Read more