Reviews (31)

HYGIENE HORRORS
Anyone who has always harbored a fear of the dentist will certainly cringe at the goings on in this over the top, but effective, horror thriller. Corbin Bernsen sinks his teeth (no pun intended?) into the role of Dr. Alan Feinstone, a dentist who seemingly has it all, including a beautiful wife messing around with the hunky poolboy; an IRS man on his tail; and a history of some kind of mental distress. Once he discovers his wife's cheating (on their anniversary, no less), Feinstone goes off his bean, and takes revenge not only on his wife, but on anyone who happens to cross his path, including his staff.
Brian Yuzna directs with a keen eye on the gore, punctuating it with the sound of drills and teeth crashing, etc., etc. Bernsen is perfect for the role, and so good it spawned a sequel which I've yet to see. Notice talented actor Mark Ruffalo (You Can Count on Me) as the studly advertising man paired with the delightfully inane April Reign.
Although a low budget film, it carries itself with dignity and a fine sense of tongue in cheek. It is bloody and disturbing, so be warned. And get out the Ipana now!!!

One of the BEST (and scariest!) horror movies of the 90s...
WOW! I remember the first time I saw this movie back in the 8th grade. It was on network television and CUT! (Therefore meaning that some of the gore may have been left out of the T.V. version) Nevertheless, it STILL scared the hell out of me! Two years later, I watched it again on HBO as a midnight cinema event. It was UNCUT and scared me even more!

Corbin Bernsen ("Major League") plays Dr. Allan Finestone, a man who's got it all; a beautiful wife (Linda Hoffman), a luxurious estate, and a fine practice as the Beverly Hills Dentist. However, after catching his wife cheating on him, Finestone goes over the edge and begins a day treating (or should I say TORTURING?) his patients in numerous bloody ways. Eventually, he gets even with his love as well, by pulling out all her teeth WITHOUT NOVACAINE! (Here's where things REALLY get freaky!) Next in line for an appointment... a snobbish IRS agent, two picky dental assistants, and the poolman! Each one met with their own unique ways of demise for a horror flick. Low-budget has never been THIS good!

(WARNING: This movie contains shocking material of blood and gore involving dentistry and may be too scary for minors. Do NOT see this movie before you go to the Dentist or you may be diagnosed with dentaphobia! However, if you are a gore hound, this is definately the one to own in your horror library! But remember, YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!)

All actors (especially Bernsen) and actresses did an excellent job with their roles and it all almost seems and feels so realistic as if this could really happen! The music is also very stylish and creepy and fits quite well with this very rare gem. Every time I watch that one scene with the little boy though, I start to shudder by the experience of how even a normal appointment can be a nightmare! That's why I thought it was good and original that the filmakers chose the dental category in order to make a horror movie, considering that most of us are afraid to go to the Dentist as it already is!

OVERALL: I GIVE IT A 10/10 FOR THE NIGHTMARISH AND GROSTESQUE ATMOSPHERE SEEN THROUGH THE EYES OF YOUR EVERYDAY DENTIST. (Not to mention the clever plot) You want a movie that will frighten you and keep you up all night trembling in fear, watch this film alone! (I DARE you!) I also reccomend it's sequel, "The Dentist 2: Brace Yourself" while not being as good as the first, it makes a fine addition for a good sequel. And remember, "Brush three times a day and no candy!"

Gonna make an appointment anytime soon?
OMG! This has got to be the most disturbing movie I have seen in a LONG time. I love it!

Alan Phinestone is teetering on the edge of insanity. But after he catches his gorgeous wife Brooke messing around with the pool guy, it pushes him over the edge. He cuts his wife's tongue out, yanks out all of her teeth (with no painkillers, OUCH) and then starts in on his regular patients, in particular the cute little preteen who has been waiting for a long time to get her braces taken off.

I refused to even THINK about going to a dentist for about 7 years after seeing this and there is still a few parts of it that I cannot watch to this day.

Excellent!

Fairly decent
This is a mediocre, low-grade attempt at a horror flick, but it does pretty well. Perhaps worth the rent.
But the acting and plot are both very thin, weak and poor.

You haven't been brushing, have you?
Out of all the horror movies made in the last twenty to thirty years, I suspect that "The Dentist" is one of the few films capable of hitting a viewer where it hurts. Think about it for a second. How many horror films go completely over the top, completely into the realms of bizarre fantasy, to deliver the shocks? Quite a few. Let's face it; the chances that a killer in a hockey mask will bury a hatchet in your head are probably significantly worse than winning the lottery. When was the last time a pack of bloodthirsty demons from the netherworld accosted you and yours? Or a fairy tale creature-a leprechaun, for the sake of argument-appeared on your doorstep to wreak havoc because he thinks you stole his gold? There's nothing wrong with fantastical horror movies; fans of the genre eagerly suspend disbelief as a matter of course. Unfortunately, you'll have a tougher time getting the unpleasant "The Dentist" out of your head. Here's a horror movie that hits too close to home. Everyone goes to the dentist, or at least has once in their life, so the idea of a practitioner in the fine art of arresting tooth decay going completely insane should scare the bejeezus out of anyone. And it will. "The Dentist" comes from the wonderfully warped minds of Stuart Gordon and Brian Yuzna, they of such classics as "The Re-Animator" and "From Beyond."

Dr. Feinstone (Corbin Bernsen) appears to have the perfect life. He owns a thriving practice in the suburbs, drives a nice car, is married to a beautiful woman named Brooke (Linda Hoffman), and works hard to earn the respect of his many patients. You couldn't ask for a better existence, yet sinister seeds of discontent begin building in the mind of Dr. Feinstone. Little things, like a lost pair of cufflinks, send him into a dither. Too, the threat of an impending IRS audit conducted by the seedy Marvin Goldblum (Earl Boen) weighs on the dentist's mind like an anvil. What's worse, Feinstone concludes that his wife is cheating on him with Matt (Michael Stadvec), the guy who comes around to clean the pool. Any two of these problems could easily send the most even keeled amongst us shrieking into the abyss, but Feinstone has another problem, a problem that he thinks about aloud only when alone in the car or safely ensconced in his plush office. Apparently, the idea of decay is starting to assume a sublime importance in the mind of our fair dentist. He's beginning to understand that plaque often clings to every aspect of the human condition, that cavities can affect the soul as often as it does teeth. Feinstone, as a trained dentist and healer, soon believes he must do whatever is necessary to remove the decay afflicting the people around him.

Healing is often a painful process. When the dentist confirms that his wife is indeed cheating on him, he takes steps to insure that such acts will never happen again. When Agent Goldblum insists on receiving a free checkup as part of a far-reaching bribe, Feinstone teaches a lesson the G-man will not soon forget. And for all those employees with the temerity to question the boss's directives, well, there are ways to deal permanently with such insolence. What Feinstone doesn't seem to realize, much to the everlasting chagrin of those individuals around him, is that the decay he so fears has effectively sunk its wormy tendrils deep into his mind. Take the case of April Reign (Christa Sauls), a beauty queen seeking advice on how to brighten her smile. Feinstone's actions towards this ravishing woman are so despicable, so outside the boundaries of what comprises a healer, that we immediately recognize the dentist has lost his battle against decay before the war has even started. In a way, we should pity Dr. Feinstone even as the police uncover the bloody horrors in his office and his house. Very few of us appreciate the role dentists play in society. We fear them or make fun of them instead of lauding the brave men and women who undertake such a taxing occupation.

"The Dentist" is a remarkably fun film as well as an effective horror picture. Corbin Bernsen, never a personal favorite of mine, does an amazing turn as the deranged dentist. Even better are the grotesqueries parading across the screen, the reckless drillings, scrapings, extractions, and other assorted dental skills employed to gory effect by Feinstone as he attempts to stem the spread of decay. What he does to Agent Goldblum is downright horrific. "The Dentist" succeeds in many respects, none more so than in writer Gordon's and director Yuzna's brilliant maneuver to extend the idea of tooth decay to society at large. Isn't every nasty attribute of the human race really in essence a form of decay? And if it is, how does a healer go about eradicating the tartar of immorality? It must drive physicians, dentists, and other health care specialists utterly bonkers when they see patients refuse to follow advice that keeps a body and mind fit. Feinstone is obviously insane, but it's to the film's credit that we see why he loses his mind.

Don't expect to see much in the way of extras on the DVD of "The Dentist." Two trailers, for Peter Jackson's "Dead Alive" and one for this movie, and cast filmographies are the only things you get. Too bad. A commentary track from Yuzna, Gordon, and Bernsen might have been a nice touch. If you fear the dentist, this movie will probably give you the sweats. Personally, I'm thinking of giving the film to my dentist as a Christmas present. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Double decker fun in summer holiday!
The songs in the movie stick in your head long after the movie is over. Summer Holiday, Bachelor Boy, The next time..the hit songs go on and on. Very enjoyable movie with Cliff and the Shadows as they go on their holiday to France. Very simple story line, excellent songs. One of my favourite movies.

Magical fun !
Most Cliff Richard fans--and I'm one of them--consider "Summer Holiday" to be his best musical. When he appears after the opening credits, black and white turns to colour, and this fun movie gets rolling--actually "rolling" on the wheels of a bright red, double-decker London bus that Cliff and his pals take to France, across Europe and ultimately Greece.
There are many reasons why this movie works so well. There is a great cast of young, supporting players who match Cliff's enthusiasm, and Lauri Peters is a lovely leading lady. The dance numbers are expertly done--Cliff may not be Gene Kelly ( who is ? ) but he acquits himself very well, and watch out for one of his mates played by Teddy Green, a real pro. Comic sequences are very amusing. On-location European scenery is a big plus--Cliff singing "The Next Time" with the Acropolis behind him leaves a lasting impression.
The soundtrack quite simply is Cliff's best. "Summer Holiday", "Bachelor Boy", "Dancing Shoes", great production numbers and three excellent instrumentals by the legendary Shadows add up to super entertainment.
Finally, let's give full credit to the star--Sir Cliff was about 22 when this was filmed--he looks great, sounds great and has charm and charisma to spare. No movie will give you a better idea as to why he has had such a long career, and remains enormously popular all over the globe.
Oh yes--the DVD--the widescreen picture is gorgeous. This film is almost 40 years old, and yet the colours are beautiful and details clear. Thank you, Anchor Bay, for a superb job.

Great date movie for 60's musical buffs!
Better than Bye Bye Birdie, this movie has lots of charm and pizzazz. The dancing is superb and the music fits perfectly with the plot line. This is the kind of movie I feel comfortable watching with children of all ages. It is a summer fun movie that is sure to put a smile on the faces of even the most dour watcher. A must see for musical lovers.

Summer Holiday
This was a must to see movie during the 60's. This movie was seen by thousands of Cliff Richard's fan around the world and it's considered one of the most successful musical films that Cliff has made. Enjoy listening to hits after hits in the movie. It's a must to have collection for those people who like his voice. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

"Six feet two and a half inches at your service, Madam..."
Patrick McGoohan is back as John Drake, the stylish no-nonsense good guy. Sets 4 and 5 of this clever spy show contain some of the best Danger Man episodes of all. Drake himself is a shade more cynical than in the earlier sets, and he is more reluctant than ever to blindly obey his upper-class superiors. Sometimes he seems tired of his job which forces him to live without wife and family and one can feel he is on the brink of resigning. As he is shown to be a chivalrous man, he is genuinely upset when his missions force him to inflict emotional distress on a lady.

The quotation above is from the delightful comedy "Have A Glass Of Wine" from set 3, but there are few as lighthearted episodes in sets 4 and 5. Most of the stories here are serious dramas, with lots of memorable scenes and sometimes tragic endings.

In "To Our Best Friend" Drake has to investigate one of his oldest friends who is suspected of being a double agent. Drake has to find the real traitor and at the same time save his friend from being executed by his own department.
In "The Man On The Beach" Drake's own loyalty is being questioned. The arrogance and cynicism he displays in this episode do not help him in that difficult situation. The episode has two spectacular and brutal fight sequences and memorable scenes with Patrick McGoohan and three leading ladies. Watch out for Drake's powerful scenes with Lady Kilrush and the dramatic ending.
The atmosphere of "The Man Who Wouldn't Talk" is particularly oppressive. Much of the story is set in a hotel room in Sofia - with the Bulgarian secret police closing in on Drake and a colleague of his who has to be rescued from imprisonment and torture.
In "Sting In The Tail" Derren Nesbitt almost steals the acting honours as psychopathic assassin Nourredine. In a chilling, film-noir like scene, two of Nourredine's thugs prepare to beat Drake up with the murderer cynically commenting on the procedure and a record playing Chopin's Nocturnes in the background.
"Someone Is Liable To Get Hurt" shows Drake in a very "Number-Sixish" mood. Part of the episode is set in a spacious villa where Drake is being held captive by a beautiful femme fatale. The situation makes him furious and we can watch him pacing up and down like a caged panther, constantly snapping his fingers and barely able to contain his rage. Patrick McGoohan is always great in scenes like these.

One of my all-time favourite episodes is "Are You Going To Be More Permanent?" which is a companion piece to "You Are Not In Any Trouble, Aren't You?" In both stories Drake obviously breaks his no-romance rule and both have the lovely Susan Hampshire as leading lady. She and Mr. McGoohan have several terrific scenes together and there are moments of intense sensuality between them. In the final scenes, which include some of the finest acting moments in the whole series, Drake's loneliness and disappointment are almost tangible.

"Danger Man" is a unique show. It has clever plots, beautiful filming, haunting music and a charismatic leading man. What further adds to its attraction is the way it captures the political climate of the Sixties which was so different from ours today. Britain still had parts of her empire, some of the episodes show the problems of newly independent countries and the British people left behind in their former colonies and in the Middle Eastern episodes the spirit of the Great Game of the 19th century can still be felt. This spirit of adventure makes the show still highly enjoyable and interesting to watch.

Danger Man Is a REAL Man
I am struck watching these shows at how different they are from James Bond. I am a Bond fan, but DANGER MAN almost makes Bond movies (especially the recent ones) look silly. In one episode contained in set 5, Drake passes out from blood loss. In another episode he is trying to escape detention and is out on the roof attempting to get a better grip on a rain gutter when it gives way and he falls and breaks his ankle. Drake then spends the balance of the episode forced to use a cane. Can you imagine Bond ever breaking his ankle like that or, for that matter, even breaking a sweat? McGoohan turned down offers to play Bond (twice) and let's all be thankful he did. Danger Man, John Drake, is a real man. And what a great series this is. Let's just hope A&E releases the rest of the episodes (about 8 or 9 more I think). Danger Man Tip: One thing I like to do is have a good supply of beverages on hand (I like rum and Coke) when watching DANGER MAN because people offer Drake an average of 5 drinks per episode, and it makes me pretty darn thirsty! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bud Abbott and Lou Costello are one of the funniest comedy teams of all time. And this disc, featuring four episodes of The Abbot and Costello Show from the 1952-53 season is certainly proof of that. Most of the episodes begin with Bud and Lou onstage in front of an audience, providing an introduction to each story. The episodes themselves are stand-alone classics, but the plot lines frame famous Abbot and Costello sketches. The disc is formatted with menus so that you can play each episode or skip to the routines.

The four episodes featured in this volume, "Duck Dinner," "Hillary's Birthday," "Million Dollar Refund," and "Actor's Home," are heavy on physical comedy and rely on familiar supporting characters such as Mike the Cop, Bacciagalupe, and Mr. Fields to propel the stories. In the final episode, "Actor's Home," we are treated with a cameo appearance from comedian Joe Besser (previous to his joining the Three Stooges) as well as a brilliant performance of "Who's on First."

The fact that Abbot and Costello always appear to be in on the gags with their audience (breaking the "fourth wall" with humorous "see what I've gotten myself into now" looks and comments) only adds to the performances. It's also interesting to note that the low-grade special effects and highbrow comedy, which so encompassed the age when these shows were originally filmed, can still entertain audiences all these years later, proving that this pair of comedians, and their style of comedy, is timeless. --Zachary Lively ... Read more

Reviews (2)

ONLY a 4 show-DVD---like the identical 13 tapes(* * * * )?
The 52 Abbott & Costello TV episodes are a rarity. Must be: with only 4 of them to a DVD that'd easily hold six or seven. These are lovingly-transfered from the original 35mm masters owned by Lou's daughter-- Chris Costello, authoress of the excellent book "LOU'S ON FIRST!". In the "olden days" [before VHS], Bud and Lou insisted upon owning the "home-theatrical rights" of their 36 movies, and 52 TV shows on ACTUAL film. MOST television programs from the 1950s no longer even exist beause filming broadcasts was quite expensive...I LOVE LUCY comes to mind as another survivor (who knew the reruns would build Desi & Lucy-- DesiLu-- their own studios with the first TV program to use multiple cameras? In the early 1940s, when the Abbott & Costello COULD've owned Univeral Studios, outright-- and DID save them from bankruptsy-- one of the biggies in their contracts was "home movie rights". Bud and Lou were competative, and enjoyed watching 16mm films, at liesure, IN their own home-screening rooms at a time when watching movies at home wasn't possible to the average "Joe" who probably didn't even own a television yet...or a horse, a pool, restaurants, a nice car. The comedy team, even in their advancing years, really WERE "the boys!" Everyone knows that "Boys like toys." Good enough reason that ALL of these programs-- like Bud and Lou-- STILL survive. In many cases, these, almost plot-less excuses for repeating "old chestnuts" are the ONLY surviving representations of famous vaudeville skits honed and sharpened by A & C-- also my favorite VITAMINS. (My review COULD have rated a "5" if there were five episodes on this DVD-- a "6" if there were six.) => YOU do the math. <= 13 DVDs or 13 VHS tapes!? The only way I'd replace my VHS tapes is if there were LESS "little-video-boxes" to fall off my fairly-full video shelves. The covers on the DVD and VHS tape of "#1 of 13" are identical, and I doubt the DVD-transfer is more pristine than the EXCELLENT tapes in the series. ATTENTION: I do NOT own the DVD-- this review is based on the VHS copy of the same program material. Buy it. WHICH version is up to your wallet-- and shelf!

The routines are still as fresh as ever in great DVD quality
Watching this DVD video is like sitting in front of your television in the 50s. No difference. The routines are as fresh as ever and the DVD quality gives it that first run appearance.

I can't wait to buy volume two of this series. This series is a must have for any Abbott and Costello fan and DVD enthusiast. What a great combination! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Barbra Streisand returned to amped-up comedy form (following her work in Herbert Ross's sharp, unsentimental The Owl and the Pussycat and Peter Bogdanovich's screwball homage, What's Up, Doc?) in this nutty 1974 feature by Peter Yates (Bullitt, Breaking Away). Playing a Brooklyn housewife so dedicated to her cabdriver husband (Michael Sarrazin) she'll do anything to help him get ahead, Streisand's character--with the impossible name of Henry--secretly borrows three thousand dollars from a loan shark so hubby can play the stock market. When an expected windfall doesn't happen, Henry becomes frantically inventive trying to raise the money to pay the shark back. Originally called July Pork Bellies (a reference to commodities futures that makes sense in the context of this story), For Pete's Sake doesn't really measure up to the aforementioned Streisand comedies, but there are certainly solid moments and individual performances to single out for praise. (Among the latter is wonderful character work by Molly Picon, Estelle Parsons, and William Redfield.) Director Yates, as has often been the case, didn't quite get his head around this sort of broad material; as comedy goes, he has proven more adept with sweeter, droller films such as Breaking Away. Despite all that, true Streisand fans will not let this get away without a look. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (13)

"Don't let him down."
In retrospect, it isn't hard to understand why Barbra chose to make this limp, embarrassingly unfunny farce. The arty UP THE SANDBOX had just flopped and the future prospects of the just completed THE WAY WE WERE were unknown. Deciding that her reputation as a movie superstar couldn't take another project that was a commercial risk, she agreed to star in FOR PETE'S SAKE, a woefully misguided attempt at modern screwball comedy. Basically, everything that WHAT'S UP, DOC? succeeded at brilliantly, FOR PETE'S SAKE fails at miserably. Not only are the characters annoying and the puns infantile, but FOR PETE'S SAKE commits the biggest crime known to comedy: it just ain't funny. Throughout all of the typical comedic mix-ups and chases, the viewer will find his or herself moaning rather than laughing.

Barbra tries her best to pump the film up with her undeniable comic gifts, but there's no inspiration in this sitcom-level script, so even her earnest portrayal gets lost amid the murk. Michael Sarrazin fares even worse due to his badly underwritten character, and he has no chemistry with Streisand. Unfortunately, the rest of the cast doesn't fare much better. True, veteran comedic actress Molly Picon has a few amusing bits as Ms. Cherry, but none of the other supporting players are able to break out of their one-note characters. However, when a screenplay is this labored and unfunny, you can't really blame any of the actors - they obviously did the best with what they were given. It's certain that Barbra wouldn't have made this film had she known that THE WAY WE WERE was going to be a blockbuster hit, however that is not a good enough reason to excuse the poor execution behind this picture.

There are fans who like to say that the contrived box office hit THE MAIN EVENT or the off-beat box office flop ALL NIGHT LONG are Barbra's weakest films, but I must strongly disagree. THE MAIN EVENT may have been tired and predictable, but at least it was funny overall, and Streisand did had chemistry with her leading man in that one. And though ALL NIGHT LONG may have not been a perfect film (the film's soggy mid-section is it's biggest flaw), but it had a charmingly odd-ball perspective that made the movie seem bizarrely endearing. FOR PETE'S SAKE has none of the things that make THE MAIN EVENT or ALL NIGHT LONG entertaining. It just stumbles on to the finale, getting progressively worse as it goes. While FOR PETE'S SAKE was actually a box office hit in it's day, in the end it no doubt had a more damaging effect on Barbra's career. It did nothing but provide fodder for the people who never liked her to begin with.

About the DVD: The picture quality is great, much better that I expected, and the sound is also fine. Yates' commentary track isn't very interesting (and has some long silences), but it's still a nice addition.

Barbra Arrives on DVD
It's nice to see more Barbra Streisand titles appearing on DVD. FOR PETE'S SAKE has arrived and although it is not one of Streisand's "classic" films, it is certainly entertaining -- and the DVD makes this 1970's film look great!

For starters, the disk comes with a letterbox presentation on one side and a full-screen presentation on the other. The menu is colorful and a funky 1970's design. The trailers included (WAY WE WERE, PRINCE OF TIDES, and the PETE'S trailer) are interesting. The Talent Files are brief. The colors and clarity of the picture look great to me.

As for the film, Barbra is very funny. She's in her fast-talking Brooklynese mode here. The plot is barely realistic, but that doesn't really matter because this is a romantic, screwball comedy. Actually, when you think about it, the story of a wife who prostitutes herself to pay for a loan is quite horrendous. But director Peter Yates somehow makes you forget this -- in his commentary (an extra audio track on the disk) he keeps saying "This movie is entertainment, it's supposed to be fun and not taken seriously."

Barbra sings the title song (the lyrics are a bit dated, but the song is fun) and wears a short Jon Peters-designed wig. Look for Barbra's longtime manager Marty Erlichman in a cameo. Also, praise should be given to Gene Callahan's production design. Streisand's apartment (although clearly out of her character's means) is gorgeous!

My favorite scene is when Barbra gets licked by the bull while driving a trailer. Barbra's laughs of disgust and amazement are quite hilarious.

Enjoy FOR PETE'S SAKE!

Aptly Titled
Avoid at all costs. Streisand at her most obnoxious, weaker material than a Nick-At-Nite "Facts Of Life" marathon. Wear a life preserver if you have to sit through it because it starts sinking right away.

For God's Sake!
Okay, what were the film folks thinking with regard to this picture? The commentary by the film's director was fun; the film in two formats was nice; but after almost 20 years, there is nothing new to this piece. The only upside is being able to burn on your personal CD player the opening title song, "For Pete's Sake" sung by Streisand. Where is the creative genius' behind these releases?

Barbara chewing scenery
This is not one of my favorite Barbara films. It's ok to watch on a dreqary Sunday afternoon. I'd much rather watch "What's Up, Doc?" or "Funny Girl" the latter of which has finally made it onto DVD.
This little film is basically about the bonds of marrriage and how love overcomes everything, including prostitution, larceny, goodfellas, porkbellies, stocks, snotty family members and Molly Picon!
Barbara plays Henry, whose husband Pete drives a cab by day and plays the stock market putting their savings into porkbellies. The stocks go belly up and Babrba is determined not to let Petes dreams join them. So, she goes from one silly plotline to another to try and get him the money, all the while putting them further in debt. Until the end when the porkbelly stock finally brings them their dreams.

AA sweet comedy with Barbra acting her face off trying her best to make the most of it. I truly hate her short hair in this movie, it distracts me. I hope that "What's Up, Doc?" and "On a Clear Day" get a great DVD treatment. Enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (132)

A Must Own on DVD
Explosive action, stunning locales, a tight plot and Sean Connery's most convincing turn as the world's favorite spy make Thunderball one of the finest-- if not the finest -- entries in the James Bond film series. Add to that a DVD package chock full of dynamic extras such as "behind the scenes" documentaries and two highly informative audio commentaries and you've got yourself a must own movie.

The most visually stunning of all Bond films, Thunderball's sheer cinematic beauty comes glistening through on the remastered DVD print. The light, tropical hues of The Bahamas radiate like never before and the vast scope of the dazzling underwater scenes are fully appreciated on the widescreen transfer. Having personally viewed this Bond classic at least 200 times on standard video, I felt as though I was seeing it for the first time via widescreen DVD.

The plot involves Emilio Largo(Adolfo Celi) as sinister SPECTRE baddie #2 who threatens to nuke Miami unless paid a hefty ransom by the British government and NATO. Of course, Bond has just four days in which to save the world -- four days filled with such distractions as an array of willing women, killer sharks, and exploding cars and boats!

Celi is absolutely captivating as Largo,the eye-patched criminal mastermind. Deliberate and understated, Largo catches on to Bond, and his intent, early on. The ensuing cat and mouse chase begins cordially before turning deadly. The pursuit of Bond through the Junkanoo Parade in the streets of Nausau is positively nerve-wracking. Ditto a pair of horrific scenes in Largo's swimming pool which convieniently doubles as a deadly shark tank.

Italian actress Luciana Paluzzi nearly steals the show as Fiona Volpe a femme fatale killer who yearns for Bond in more than one way. Paluzzi lights up the screen, oozing equal parts temptation and evil.

Former Miss France, Claudine Auger turns in a fine performance as Bond's main love interest Domino. The fact the Domino just happens to be Largo's mistress doesn't stop our favorite super-spy from pursuing her.

Rik Van Nutter's portrayal of CIA operative Felix Leiter is perhaps the series' finest. Of course, Moneypenny, Q and M all flawlessly reprise their respective roles.

A perfect blend of From Russia with Love's suspense and Goldfinger's fun-filled explosiveness, Thunderball is undoubtedly one of the best Bond films. MGM did a great job on the DVD, thus making Thunderball a necessary addition to every Bond fan's collection.

Connery at His Unadulterated Best on DVD
Double entendres abound in this aquatic tale of intrigue, action and adventure 007 style. And make no mistake about it; Sean Connery makes this his picture. This may not have the narrative flow of a "Goldfinger" but Connery's confident and energetic performance and the villain's well-laid out caper makes this one of the most entertaining, realistic and tongue-in-cheek films in the series. This film was made at the pinnacle of the James Bond phenomenon and it shows. No cost was too great. This movie is big and it looks and feels big in every way. The underwater bellicose -ballet is one of the best pieces of action ever put on film thanks to Lamar Boren's colorful and beautiful photography and John Barry's original, innovative and intuitive scoring. The opening fight scene between Bond and Jacques Boitier in the chateau is one the best choreographed and edited of the series. What really makes this film is the dialogue. Connery's one-liners, his banter with Adolfo Celi as Emilio Largo and Luciana Paluzzi as Fiona Volpe and his delivery is brimming with aplomb, wit, humor and confidence all rolled into one. Claudine Auger, Molly Peters, Luciana Paluzzi and Martine Beswick are the ultimate 'Bond Girls.' Production designer Ken Adam, Art design Peter Murton, Cinematographer Ted Moore, Special effects expert John Stears, Editor Peter Hunt, Composer John Barry, Screenwriter Richard Maibaum and Director Terence Young make this one of the best Bond films of the series. Bernard Lee as "M," Lois Maxwell as Moneypenny and Desmond Llewelyn as "Q" all give their best performances. One of the best looking Bond films! It sounds better than ever in Dolby Digital 5.1 sound!

The second best film of Bond series
Thunderball is a feast eye. Visually stunnig with advanced and ingenious twist and ideas.
The presence of Adolfo Celi as Emilio Largo and one of the most beautiful Bond's girls - Claudine Auger , are winners components.
The unforgettable submarine fight deserved for this film won Best special effects . And from its release became in a classic sequence.
Funny and plenty of chases , sharks and arresting locations.
After Goldfinger , this could be the most clever and kinetic movie of Bond series.

THUNDERBALL = Best Bond Movie
This movie is Awesome. The story is the best and score is fantastic. Sean Connery gives one of his best performances as James Bond along with everyone else in the film. This is truly one of my favourite movies ever and I've only become a mega fan this past year. Make your life better and get this along with every other James Bond film!

borderline classic, borderline franchise popcorn
this is the pivotal bond film because it has enough of the same qualitites that rank it nearly alongside dr no, from russia with love and goldfinger.
but, it also has enough hints of the rot that is you only live twice and diamonds are forever that follows.
the first three bond films can actually be considered good films period and not necessarily 'franchise films'.
thunderball truly is the beginning of the franchise that will become furmulaic popcorn with the next one and that was too bad,
and connery, wisely, knew this himself. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

I love that film.
Yes, I am aware of it's imperfections, but still I love that film. It's miles above the majority of kiddie productions.

My son has a collection of action figures from movies and video games and the Roos are the best. Their design is so strikingly unexpected!

The action sequences are shot very artfully - all these leaves floating in the streams of Power, the resolved fighting of these who HAVE to fight, the total absence of JackyChanesque "funny" grimaces.

My son and nephew were obsessed by the movie for days, confronting each other with these - You came uninvited! - - Come on and pla-ay!!!- phrases, having their try at the art of flying kicks.

The film is kind, the baddies are redempted at the end but all that with the minimal level of saccharine preaching.

I want to thank the Law brothers and Ronny Yu, stuntmen and designers, who made the miracle happen. I've bought the VHS and later the DVD, recommended the film to all my friends who have sons - I want to let the people behind that film know that their effort is very much appreciated.

excellent movie
I read all the comments about this movie, and I started to watch this movie with low expectations, everyone was saying that this movie sucks. But then at half the movie, I realized that the suckers were the ones writting the reviews. Let me tell you that at the end of the movie I wished that it had not one but several sequels with the same quality in general. The producers really created something imaginative, the director just rocks with this movie, the acting is real good. This movie is way up there, and even better in some aspects, with Matrix and Blade, the story even though it is not truly original in itself, it delivers the goods. The action and martial arts, and the conveyance of the feelings and emotions, is for all ages not just for kids. Do not believe the fools that say this movie is awful. Please watch this movie if you want to see something spectacular and emotive. This movie deserves a double ten out of nine!!.

Anyone seen "Tank Girl" (1995)
They used those EXACT SAME kangaroo-people costumes from that movie, in this movie.

great movie
I first watch in the theater, with my first child(a girl)and husband, in 1997, rented it when it came out, and just recently found it in the library and check it out. It's amazing how after 6 years my husband and I still enjoyed it. And now not only do I and my husband enjoy it, but our four children enjoy it. My son loves it so much, that he wants us to find it and buy it.

Imagination
I have seen this movie several times, and I still rewatch it. After seeing it the first time rented; I immediately went ut and bought it. This movie is not for some because it takes an imagination to truly enjoy. If you truly enjoy fantasy and a movie that makes you think about the message, this may be one for you. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

paging dr. west
this movie is really gorey and really funny at times. Combs has never been better and he gets inside his character well but theres a lot of things that I really felt that this movie was gonna suck and some of that was true. now with a cut off head with bat's wings and the finale which was really dumb, i'd say Yuzna smashed the cult hit off its throne but he didnt. later in beyond re-animator he does. in this one its cool to watch Abbott being pushed around by Combs and the spark they have is cool. others beware some of the lameness

"The only blasphemy is to wallow in insignificance."
Director/producer Brian Yunza revives his characters from 1985's Re-Animator with this tongue in cheek splatter fest homage to The Bride of Frankenstein (1935). But where The Bride of Frankenstein actually succeeded its' predecessor (in the opinion of many), The Bride of Re-Animator falls a little short.

Returning are now doctors Herbert West (Jeffery Combs), Dan Cain (Bruce Abbott), and even Doctor Carl Hill (David Gale) makes an appearance, despite the fact he has no body (see the first movie). The film tries to build on the original showing doctors West and Cain, nine months after the hospital massacre in the first movie, working in Peru on the bloody frontlines of a civil war, still experimenting with the luminous, green life-giving juice. The notion is that in this backwater part of the world, they can work unfettered, not bothered by legal constraints. Things get a little hairy, and the boys decide to return stateside, working at the hospital with the first unpleasantness took place (I guess the hospital administrators have short memories).

Taking up residence in a house that was once a mortuary, located next to a cemetery, the doctors continue their work with creating life, using various body parts from the hospital morgue. Dan is reluctant, but Herbert proposes they create a woman, using various body parts, centered around the heart of Dan's deceased girlfriend, Meg, who bit the big one in the first movie.

Weird experiments and bloody body parts fill the screen, as a police lieutenant with a personal stake continues the investigation of what originally happened even though the case has been officially closed. Even the head of Dr. Hill makes a kept alive with the living giving juice.

Do Herbert and Dan succeed in bring Meg back to life from spare parts? From the title of the movie, you'd think so, but their creation is less than perfect...the movie may not be up to par with the original, but there is a really great scene where Herbert Combs goes into a nice rant about picking up where God left off, taking the refuse that is humanity and creating new life. Seeing that scene alone was worth watching this movie.

I did enjoy this film, but felt little of what made the first so enjoyable. If they were going to make a sequel, it was only natural to take the course that the filmmakers did, but I wish they would have infused more of a story into the film, and not gone whole hearted campy on us. The first movie did have its' humor, but it was well balanced with the rest of the story. I know sequels are rarely as good as the movie that spawned them, but I did have high hopes here. There's plenty of gore and blood, if you enjoy that kind of thing, but the movie is light on story. I felt much of it was patched together, tying elements together with the weakest of threads. The story may not hold up well, but it was fun to watch, especially the effects of Screaming Mad George and K.N.B. EFX Group.

My real disappointment is with Artisan, the company that released this disc. There are absolutely no special features, and all we are provided with is a full screen format. This movie was released on DVD before by Pioneer Video, loaded with special features, including two separate versions (one being a minute longer than the other), deleted scenes, bloopers, photo galleries, production information, commentary, and more. Also, the original release had both full screen and wide screen letterbox format, while we only get full screen here. You may be able to find that release, but you will most likely have to pay a premium, at least for a nice copy. This film was followed by a third movie, Beyond Re-Animator (2003).

Cookieman108

Excellent sequel!
Set after 9 months since Herbert West ( Jeffery Combs) have conducted his gruesome experiments and caused a massacre at the Mistaktonic university, he is back to do a different kind of experiment of making living parts into one body to create life. He does have Dan ( Bruce Abbot) to still help him, Dr. Carl Hill ( David Gale) is also back to get revenge on Herbert West.
Highly exciting sequel loaded with gore, a wicked sense of humor, good direction by the original's producer Brian Yuzna and Combs is great as West again.
If you love the original, your going to love this too!

Failed re-animation
"I will not be shackled by the failures of your God." Thus says mad genius Dr. Herbert West, who is back along with partner Dan Cain - only this time, they're creating life.

The story involves West (Jeffrey Combs) and Cain (Bruce Abbott) returning from war in Peru. After much research, West has finally discovered the secret to creating human life, and using Cain's lust for a mate as motivation, he proceeds to attempt to make Dan a bride from dead tissue. Naturally, there's also a few re-animated freaks who survived the first film, along with a suspicious detective (Claude Earl Jones) and West's nemesis, Dr. Carl Hill (David Gale), who's still a no-body. Get it? A-ha-ha-ha...

First of all, let me say I was a serious fan of the original "Re-Animator", thus I had no problem with buying a sequel that has a very bad reputation. Well, I can only say "Bride" lives up to its reputation. It has nothing whatsoever to do with any of H.P. Lovecraft's works, however it does borrow a few elements from his tale "Herbert West -- Re-Animator" which weren't used in the first film.

The acting is fine, the effects are fine, the music is fine. The direction is okay, although it can't match Stuart Gordon's. There are a few funny moments in the film, but overall it has a very, very unpleasant feeling about it - which the first film did not have.

Overall, this is only for serious "Re-Animator"/horror fans. Rent the first one instead. "Bride of Re-Animator" is nothing more than a failed re-animation.

DVD: This DVD is pitiful. No special features, Dolby Digital 2.0 sound, and picture quality that could've come off of an old VHS tape. It will do find if you're just a casual viewer, but if you're a fan of the film, then make sure you buy the excellent Pioneer edition.

More luminous serum into dead people and body parts.
This is the sequel to Re-Animator (1985) made five years later. Jeffrey Combs returns as the mad doctor, Herbert West. With his colleague Dr. Dan Cain (Bruce Abbott) they are now in Peru, set eight months later after the massacre they created at Miskatonic Medical School. They go back to Miskatonic Hospital where Dr. West is once again testing his luminous serum on dead people and dismembered body parts. Dave Gale returns as the without-a-body Dr. Hill. DVD contains no extras or bonusus. Just "Play" and "Scenes". Followed by BEYOND RE-ANIMATOR (2003). ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Saint Set 5: Solid action with The Saint...
Roger Moore returns as Simon Templar, alias "The Saint" in the fifth boxed DVD set of his exploits. Templar, the suave "Robin Hood of Modern Crime" is featured in seven more adventures from the 60's TV series. Here are summaries and/or comments for the episodes in this set. Episode ratings are on a scale from one to five (best).

Volume 9: (Disc 1)

The Gadic Collection - Episode 98: Rating (4)
This tale is set in Istanbul, and unfolds in classic "Saintly" fashion. While observing an assortment of museum pieces know as the "Gadic Collection", a beautiful young woman catches the Saint's eye, leading to an investigation into the collection's authenticity. Soon, Simon is up to his neck in murder, intrigue and deception. Except for some contrived silliness involving moving spiked walls, this a solid well-written story that holds together. Dark-haired beauty, Nicole Shelby is a plus.

The Best Laid Schemes - Episode 99: Rating (3)
In contrast to his "jet set" type adventures, from time to time The Saint would also become embroiled in more run of the mill "domestic" concerns. Here, Simon is in an English fishing village, when a dead body washes up on shore, apparently that of a cantankerous local sea captain. The Saint looks into the matter, and finds no shortage of suspects. The investigation is further complicated by evidence that the good Captain may still be alive. Who is the dead man, and how did he die? Sylvia Syms guest stars.

Invitation To Danger - Episode 100: Rating (4)
Once again, The Saint is set up to be the fall guy, in this instance he is suspected of robbing the casino of one Brett Sunley, a broker in international espionage. A victim of "the neatest piece of framing since the Mona Lisa", (to use the Saint's own words) Simon is backed into a corner, and forced to come out fighting hard. Featured in this episode is Shirley Eaton, the striking actress who had a golden finish as Jill Masterson, in the movie "Goldfinger". A complicated story with twists and turns aplenty.

Volume 10: (Disc 2)

Legacy For The Saint - Episode 101: Rating (4)
When Ed Brown, an ex-criminal leader is killed, The Saint gets involved with his daughter Penny, and in the execution of the dead man's will. The will challenges four of Brown's former criminal rivals to raise a sum of money, in order to receive a matching amount from Brown's estate. The deceased mobster has also left behind a plan for a criminal caper, one that could provide a payoff big enough for someone to claim the prize. All this, and Claude Eustace too, as the intrepid Inspector Teal from Scotland Yard is also on the case. A young and beautiful Stephanie Beacham guests as daughter Penny. This episode is the first to feature the new theme and closing music for the program.

The Desperate Diplomat - Episode 102: Rating (3)
Jason Douglas an old comrade of the Saint, and a diplomat to an African country, is suspected of stealing a fortune, and has now disappeared. Suspecting that he is in Geneva, Simon Templar arrives there with the missing diplomat's daughter Sara, looking to make contact. Also present is a group of criminals looking to get their hands on the loot. Suzan Farmer guests as Sara, the Saint's resourceful partner. Robert Hardy makes a most dislikable villain.

The Organization Man - Episode 103: Rating (3)
Set in England, The Saint goes undercover for the Queen, infiltrating a paramilitary organization training mercenaries for an unknown mission. Of course Simon's task is to find out just what they are up to. A rather implausible story with a lazy conclusion, that indulges someone's desire to see men in kilts. Why would the Saint ever become a mercenary?

The Double Take - Episode 104: Rating (2)
A fairly ridiculous tale, as the Saint is dragged into helping a Greek shipping tycoon who claims he is being impersonated by a perfect double. A dubious Simon Templar reluctantly agrees to help recover a code book, vital to the control of the tycoon's shipping empire. The screenwriting here is scraping bottom, bordering on the absurd, where irrational behavior by the Saint nearly gets him killed.

The Saint Set 5 starts out very strong, but finishes with some lackluster episodes. Still the collection is one of the better ones in the series. The best of the episodes have a no-nonsense approach, with a harder edge, solid action, and some excellent fight scenes. Overall, the writing is good, and not played for laughs. The bevy of beauties is better than average too, with a few ladies below age thirty for a change. As usual, look for Roger Moore's double in most second unit (location) shots.

One note about the episode numbers. Though there are a few different listings for the program, the listing used is one that most closely matches the "broadcast order" sequence that A&E is issuing them in. Episodes were not always released in the order they were produced or filmed. Fans of the Saint, are invited to view my other reviews of the series. ... Read more

Description

The BRIDE WITH WHITE HAIR saga continues with the bloody massacre of the followers of the Eight Clans.Powerful, insane and obsessed with hatred, The Bride (Brigitte Lin) has gone on a killing rampage, and can only be stopped by the one person she loves (Leslie Cheung). ... Read more

Reviews (17)

a victim of sequalitis
this movie was a pretty good sequel to the first one. but it should have been better. i think that if it werent for the acting ability of brigitte lin this movie would have been a flop. dont get me wrong its a good movie but when you compare it to the first one you can tell it falls short and carries all the symptoms of sequalitis. the best part of the whole movie, which about 90 min. in length, is the end scenes. even though i give it a lower rating i would recommend getting this one, or you will never know how the story ends.

What was this
Bride with the white hair had hardly any action and really disappointed me. I like the story line and everything and it's pretty sad, but I wanted to see more fight scenes. Don't get this movie is you are expecting action.

Mindy's Review
well as a Brigitte Lin Chin Hsia Fan, i would say that part 2 wasen't all that cause part 2 can't even compare with part 1 but, the story line is kinda dull but, this movie is sooo dam worth siting and staring at the screen just to see the end. where Brigitte and Leslie comes back together as Brigitte white hair turn back to black (cause they forgave each other and kiss while i guess they died while makine out haha) so worth sit through all them exta stuff just to see the end! but, if you haven't seen part 1 then i really suggest that you should see part 1. well if you didn't like part 1 then you souldn't get part 2 just think of it as leslie died in the moutain waiting for the rose! haha And of course you should see Brigitte Lin other movies such as Peking Opera Blues......etc

Mindy Yang

Great Movie..but watch Part 2 first..
This is a great movie and well done. The only bad thing here is that, Part 2 was suppose to come out before part 1. Becuz after watching part 1, you get the feeling you want to watch part 2 with hopes of the characters continuing just like that.. Trust me, this is one of the great movies ever, watch 2 first, you would be craving to watch part 1.. And there ya go, you would watch it over again.. Well Done..

Not as bad as everyone makes it out to be
While it certainly isn't up to par with its predecessor, Bride with White Hair 2 is not an awful movie. I admit that I bought the movie because of the sheer beauty of the first; and it did try its best to rectify the open ending that the original had.

The fighting scenes were bizarre and interesting to say the least, with Brigitte Lin's white hair strangling and piercing bodies all over the place, and the story was, while not terribly engaging, was not tepid enough to be utterly uninteresting. While the relationship between Sunny Chan and Joey Maan is not as interesting as that of Leslie Cheung and Brigitte Lin (hence the four stars, though I wish I could give 4.5 stars..), the young couple were somewhat convincing. Veterans, Brigitte Lin and Leslie Cheung electrifies in their wondrous renditions of the two doomed lovers. Too bad there's only a few minutes of screen time for the pair ;-(

Bride with White Hair 2 certainly is not a bad movie; living up to the original Bride with White Hair's greatness was not an easy task mind you, so the sequal did a decent job. Comparing BWWH2 with other HK wuxia flicks, this one is solid. If you want BWWH2 to give you the same, mind-numbing experience that the original delivers, you're going to be in for a disappointment. Watch the movie on its own, without comparing it to the magnificence of the original. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Abbott & Costello Show Vol. 6
Video and sound are very good. it's silly, hilarious, zany slapstick comedy. There are four 30 minute shows. #1 Wrestling Match"; A classic, whatch lou as he gets bounced around the ring. #2"In Society"; a society matron named Olga Van Goo hires the boys to impersonate British noblemen. #3"Lou's Marriage"; Lou gets knocked out cold and when he awakes, he believes he has been married to a girl he met in a column. #4"Beauty Contest"; the boys judge the Miss Mud Turtle contest. ... Read more

Amazon.com

James Spader looks like the hardest-working man in show business as the busy,comic-romantic lead in this enjoyable "film blanc" (a tongue-in-cheek phrasecoined by film critic Andrew Sarris to describe that genre of moviesfeaturing ghosts in love). Spader plays Stevenson Lowe, heir to ahighly respected publishing firm that has recently been purchased by a giantmedia corporation. Though Stevenson has deluded himself into believing thenew owners will allow him to maintain creative control over his family's bookline, he soon discovers the unpleasant truth. A ludicrous executive (funnywork by Buck Henry) is pushing no-brainer tomes about cats and the female fatcell into the spring list, pushing poor Stevenson into the margins of his owncompany.

His helplessness has a way of resonating with other mushy areas of his life.Having purchased an expensive townhouse for himself alone, Stevenson severelydisappoints his long-suffering girlfriend (Polly Walker in a rare comicouting), who thought they were going to get married. The hero's dithering onthis sore subject gets more complicated when he discovers a pair of Jazz Ageghosts (Michael Caine and Maggie Smith) occupying his new home and dispensingunwanted advice about love. Directed by Peter Yates (Breaking Away),Curtain Call has a low-key charm kept alive by the considerable skillsof its admirable cast (including Sam Shepard, Marcia Gay Harden, and FrankWhaley), while a handful of memorable, screwball scenes deliver solid sightgags. Not a masterpiece, but a real treat. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great Cast, Mediocre Film
I wanted so much to love this film. Maggie Smith & Michael Caine together again (first time: "California Suite")was a big reason I sought this one out. The story idea is pleasasnt enough, but too often the scenes seem to just ramble on. There are bright spots, usually when Smith and Caine are around. The dialogue needed much more sparkle to make this film more memorable. A bit of better editing might have also improved the whole piece. An enjoyable, but rather disappointing experience.

Beetlejuice it isn't but still funny in a sophisticated way
I have watched this movie many times. Michael Caine and Maggie Smith are wonderful, I wish they would do another one like the Topper series. James Spader is great also, sort of Cary Grant similar. I don't remeber Polly Walker very well, the weak link? You also get Buck Henry and Sam Shepard! The music is wonderful also, very beautiful movie. I am delighted with many small production company movies, Kill the Man was a strained comedy but at least it was a true comedy instead of some of the movies big production companies try to pass off as comedies.

A well-acted comedy romance
There are actually two romances going on here, although the younger couple, which consists of Stevenson Lowe (James Spader), a young and successful 4th generation publisher, and his girlfriend Julia have quite a time of it just trying to come together! She wants him to marry her, but the old home he has just purchased has a few resident ghosts whom he needs to deal with first. Because to some degree they have contributed to his rift with Julia, (she says several times "I just don't want this" in confronting Stevenson's seeming inability to commit himself) the ghost couple also go to great lengths to bring the two of them together. However, there is another woman in the picture, one which Stevenson likes but not romantically and, well, things gets good and complicated down this path. Meanwhile, the ghosts, Max and Lily Gale, stage performers in their previous lives, dead as they are, have much to work on in mending their own age old romance. The acting is superb. The customes are posh if adequate. The story is original and thoughtful, and warm, it feels real, in spite of the infighting spirits. And -- a big plus -- the language is clean. It's a feel good movie. It's a great movie, bound to become a classic.

Curtain Call
A delightful romantic comedy with the talented James Spader, Michael Caine, Maggie Smith, and even Sam Sheppard, it is set in Manhattan, with a lovely old home furnished in fabulous antiques, including two ghosts who were famous theatrical personalities in life. Spader inspires giggles with another of his always surprising comedic presentations, especially in his "fright" when the ghosts appear. The music is warm and the characters are rich. The dialogue is bright. The film offers a beautiful fantasy escape to upper class New York and a look into the publishing business - enjoy it with a glass or two of wine, and it will seem very believable.

NICE STORY, TOO BAD IT'S UNINTERESTING
The premise sounds interesting for a romantic comedy: successful commitment-phobic man loses successful girlfriend after saying the wrong thing once too often, man discovers house he just bought is haunted by a former husband-and-wife vaudeville team who constantly bicker, man asks the ghosts for help in repairing his relationship, and everything wraps up nice and neat within 94 minutes. Unfortunately, it's boring to the point where you just don't care. I really wanted to like this movie, but it just didn't happen. What was probably a good idea on paper didn't translate well to the screen. The acting is good, and some of the dialogue (especially between the bickering ghosts) is funny, but the whole thing lacks energy and seems forced at times. This is the second video from Square Dog Pictures that I've suffered through, the first being a very unfunny low-budget comedy titled "Kill The Man". Based on what I've seen so far (and the quality of the previews for their other films), it's best to leave their productions on the shelves. Definitely not worth purchasing unless you enjoy making yourself miserable. Maybe worth a rental if there's really nothing else available. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Syd Fields romp!
This dvd contains what may be the funniest apiosde of this or any series- Lou's Birthday. Syd Fields proves his versatility and steals the show! His verbal joust with Lou over whether or not he is invited to the party (or if he even wants to be invited) is a comedic gem. Then, when he arrives, his outfit is a must see! Then, watch his obvious pride at his gift to Lou- a picture of himself in the tub! (Please, watch and see for yourself.) With appearances by Joe Besser as Stinky (a 60 year-old man playing an eight year-old) this is a can't miss!

DVD is great, especially with classics
I used to own these on VHS, but the DVD really brings back a quality that I have never seen before with these classics. I hope they release all 13 volumes on DVD soon. ... Read more

Description

Tom Selleck (THREE MEN AND A BABY) turns in a riveting performance as Jimmie Rainwood, an average citizen whose life becomes a living nightmare when he's framed by a pair of crooked cops and sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit. With his life torn apart, Rainwood swears revenge, vowing to fight back and deliver justice to the dishonest cops who set him up -- no matter what the price! Ultimately, Rainwood risks everything to recapture his normal life, and prove once and for all that he is an innocent man! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Two inept cops who frame An Innocent Man
This is the story about two inept cops who frame AN INNOCENT MAN named Jimmie Rainwood(Tom Selleck). The two plain clothes police officers deviously plant drugs inside Jimmie's home,also using his mailing address. The cops spot a shadow of what looks like a pistol,but is actually a hair dryer. Jimmie was drying his hair after taking a shower. After other officers discover the drugs in Jimmie's home,he is arrested,arraigned,convicted and sent to prison for six years. After Jimmie is released,he and a few friends scheme to incarcerate the drug-planting cops. The cops end up in jail. Jimmie's buddy(F. Murray Abraham),who's still in prison,says at the end of the film,"Ain't life a motherf---er?". This film was not as great as THREE MEN AND A BABY and HER ALIBI,but I loved it.

AN EXCELLENT SELLECK MOVIE
As long as I can remember I've always immensely enjoyed/loved Tom Selleck movies. This is defintely one of his best(as well as 'Her Alibi'). This is a very enjoyable prision movie with a range of emotions. This film as always been on my DVD wishlist so I'm very excited that it's finally on DVD. I highly reccomend this film, you won't regret it.
By Justine Ryan

An Entertainingly Uncomfortable Film
Even though you know what's going to happen to Tom Selleck's character, and you know that the ending will be happy, watching the process is enjoyably discomfiting. This is a plot film -- stuff keeps happening to the main character, things he appears utterly incapable of controlling, and everything spirals right into disaster. Great Friday night fare. Make a lot of popcorn and savor it.

an excellent movie
Very entertaining movie. The characters are all great, the plot and the suspense are terrific.

Best Selleck Drama
I always like Tom Selleck movies. Some are actually very entertaining. This is by far his best dramatic role. I was very impressed how well he played the part of a framed Airline crew chief Jimmie Rainwood. F. Murray Abraham gives a great performance as one of the prison inmates, Virgil Cane, that befriends him. It has all the elements for some good drama, bad cops, drugs, decent and really bad convicts, attractive loving wife, and motive for revenge.

David Rasche and Richard Young do a fine job as the crooked detectives that frame him. I have recommended this to many people since many Selleck fans are not even aware of it. Whether you like Selleck or not you will enjoy this film if you like movies like "The Fugitive","US Marshals", and "Shawshank Redemption". It is being released on DVD soon and you can bet I pre-ordered a copy. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It may not be a great movie, but Bliss could be one of the greatest marriage-boosters ever filmed. This curious drama fits into the too-familiar form of the "therapy movie," but it's acted with intensity by a committed (and rather brave) trio. Craig Sheffer plays an uptight Seattle husband who discovers his neurotic wife (Sheryl Lee) visiting a radical doctor (Terence Stamp) who has sex--therapeutically--with his patients. After briefly flipping out, Sheffer finds himself buying into the doctor's remedies for a sexual and emotional make-over. The silky-smooth Stamp is perfectly cast: with his enthusiasm for chakras and fine cigars, the doctor is both spiritual guru and the kind of man who reads Playboy. The film veers into ridiculousness at times, yet there is something intriguing about its how-to frankness. Home viewers may find themselves embarrassed and maybe just a little bit liberated. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (33)

The Spiritual/Religious Side of the Movie
Many of the reviews posted here and elsewhere on the 'net talk about the wonderful cinematography and the open way in which sex and abuse are explored in "Bliss". There are some interesting coincidences that have been completely missed simply because the movie deals so openly with sex - which covers all the religious implications. First, our main characters are Joseph and "Maria" - isn't there another famous couple named Joseph and Mary? Our hero Joseph is a construction manager...a modern day carpenter. Both Joseph and Maria go to see a man named Balthazar...who, together with Melchior and Casper in the bible, make up the three wise men.
It's a fascinating juxtaposition - the wise man, Balthazar, teaches Joseph, presumably christian, tantric sex, which comes from the Hindu/Indian religious traditions.
I suspect that Young intended for his audience to see the sexual healing process that a young married couple has to go through. Indeed, that's what most people *will* see. Fewer people will think about the comments he makes on the relationship between Joseph and Mary/Maria. How would a couple like Joseph and Mary be treated in today's society?
Perhaps another message in this film is that bliss is difficult to achieve within the confines of christianity. Young handles this issue so well that you won't even realize that it's happened until it's all over.

One of the best movies I've seen!
I'm not sure what I expected when I rented this film. I had never heard of it before, and the only reason I had for renting was the praise from Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert on the front of the box. The movie starts off at a chaotic pace, but then begins to develop a rhythm, which I take to be part of its message. It's an amazing movie: One of my all-time favorites. I couldn't believe how utterly absorbing this movie was. It's funny, romantic, exotic, touching, and even tragic when it is learned that one of the characters has suffered from severe sexual abuse. Terence Stamp gives a performance that should've won him an Oscar. He's fantastic, and the two leads, Sheffer and Lee are also terrific. The movie is an experience unlike any I've had before, watching a film. I couldn't take my eyes off it. I hadn't been so into a movie since the first time I saw "American Beauty." This movie isn't for the faint of heart, though, I must warn you. It isn't so much explicit about the topic of sex as it is blunt and straight forward. Amazing...

Really enjoyed this.
Learned a lot from this. It has peaked my interest and educated me in the different realms of love (both physically and spiritually). The movie was beautifully done. The actors did a great job, even though some of the lines/acting were a bit cheesy (but not a lot), and I didn't let that affect my enjoying the movie. Great cinematography. This truly is one of those movies where if you watch it with an open mind, you find that less is more. There was no lengthy dialogue and I liked that. But what was said was concise and on the mark. Simple.

Thanks to the one reviewer who addressed the "Joseph/Mary/wise man" connection; this was very important to note, as in my opinion their future child would definitely be a product of a great love (hence, a savior, metaphorically speaking). Joseph began showing signs of his "saving" grace with the advice he begins to give to complete strangers/friends. This movie is about sacrifice and how beneficial it can be even when we assume we are suffering for a lost cause.

Many thanks to the "men" who posted positive remarks on the issues addressed in this movie. I thought the celibacy/"in"jaculation issue was intriguing.
Note: What you can't control, controls YOU.

If more couples were truly dedicated to their relationships and interested in seeking out the higher levels of love, like Maria and Joseph were in this movie, the world would be a much better place (bliss) and we could all begin to find a little peace (bliss) in releasing ourselves to the Highest Power. Everything is about education. No matter which path you are on, you can always learn more; there are levels of EVERYTHING, including love. If you are looking for something more, this may set you on that path; if you are not, then this won't. Anyways......., enjoy. ;-)

Facts & Comments,
1. Extremely fascinating to watch.

2. Excellent video throughout.

3. Offers a look into the psyche of a man learning about himself and own needs as oppose to everyone elses.

Intense emotional reactions followed by self-realization and drama. This is definitely worth viewing. (saw it on cable television & will buy).

Brilliant work of art
This film is truly brilliant. I never understood why it didn`t attract viewers some more -- maybe because they expected to see hot scenes and instead they got a serios film that deals with the effects of incest and love. "Bliss" was cut before release to get a miserable "R" rating.
But the film's impact stays the same, I hope. I recommend this film to everyone mature enough to appreciate a work of art. ... Read more