Reviews (12)

Comedy Gold
This movie is definitely in the "Oldie-But-Goodie" category. Very campy, very '80s, very funny. The ads they come up with are absolutely great. For example:

"Paramount Pictures presents 'The Freak.' This movie won't just scare you, it will f' you up for life."

Why only four stars? You need a group of people in the right mood to enjoy this movie properly. If you watch it alone, you might very well sit there thinking "Why am I watching this?" But with the right group of people, this movie is comedy gold.

You have to be nuts to get ahead in advertising
Dudley Moore plays a burnt out ad-exec who suddenly loses his ability to keep from being honest. His most recent ideas (for movies scary enough to [mess] you up, for boxy but safe Volvos, and for the tourism boards of countries a whole lot friendlier than France) are enough to see him committed to an idyllic sanitorium. Meeting with other "crazy people" like him, Moore's character not only fails to curb his new compulsive honesty, but spreads it around, turning the asylum into some new age marketing firm. When Moore's ideas, accidentally published, become unexpected marketing coups, his former colleagues visit his asylum and take creative nods from his newer colleagues, making the new pathological honesty in advertising the rule of thumb (like men buying cars or traveling to exotic destinations only for sexual favors they receive from women they don't know, or buying cigarettes because lung cancer isn't as definate as the great taste). This was a surprisingly fun movie, funny but innocuous. The script gives Moore's supporting cast some definate pathologies, but doesn't make them pitiable or outright laughable. Even if this light film falls out of your head, the sympathy given the "crazy people" will stick with you about as long as the catchy ideas they dream up.

WHEN WILL THIS MOVIE BE ON DVD?
My family has loved this movie for many years. The man who plays "the hello guy" must have a name but whenever we see him in anything else, we always say, "Hey, it's the hello guy!" Then there's the comment Moore's character makes about the guy on the car phone. Something like "People who talk on car phones annoy other drivers!" (As he yanks it out and throws it off the bridge. Priceless!) We do not have this movie in our home inventory and are only buying DVD's these days. Why isn't this movie on DVD yet?? I would definitely purchase it if it were available.

You'll never forget it
I decided to write a review because time and time again there are things that I come across in life that harken back to this movie. It's been nearly 15 years since the movie was released and yet I still remember many of the jokes from this film and many of the characters. I always recommend that people go get this movie. It's good for laughs and while it's no Oscar contender, you'll never forget it!

Very LOL Funny!!!
Crazy People is a very funny movie!!! One of the best
People in the movie is George, all he says is Hello! He is so
funny and cute! The crazy people are just hysterical and I recommend this movie to anyone who needs a good laugh!
Hello.How's The Family,, Hello! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

The pilot episode for Tony Shalhoub's "Monk" (but just that)
Absolute agreement that the premier episode of "Monk" is one of the more memorable television pilots of recent vintage, but only having one episode, even that one, is less than satisfactory. Consequently, this DVD is not really for the devoted fan of the show but more for those who have missed out on the party from the first episode and need to get up the speed. What you get is an introduction to Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub), a former San Francisco homicide detective who left the force because he suffers from an extreme case of obsessive-compulsive disorder, a condition that afflicted him after the murder of his wife. However, when there is an assassination attempt on a mayoral candidate he is coaxed out of retirement by his former boss, Captain Stottlemeyer (Ted Levine).

The idea is that Monk is now a private consultant with an uncanny ability to pick up details missed by other detectives. You can think of Monk as a really quirky Sherlock Holmes, with his full-time nurse Sharona Fleming (Bitty Schram) in the role of Watson. However, she spends more of her time serving as a buffer between Monk and the real world. The result is one of the rare delights on television from last season and the first television show to cross over from cable to networks. By the time you get to the scene where Monk knocks all of the little colored pins out of the candidate's map, you will be hooked and checking your television schedule to see when the next episode is airing. That is one of only a half-dozen scenes where Monk provides his bona fides as a detective.

The most important thing is that in addition to all the quirky comedy shtick with Monk's super attention to detail, the crimes he is investigating are worthy of his attention. The dynamic between Monk and Sharona becomes the pivot on which the pilot and all other episodes have turned, even though the idea of a potential romance between the two misses the point. Just watch the scene where he blows away her date and you can see the foundation of their relationship and just more proof that this is the role of Shalhoub's career. If you are not on the "Monk" bandwagon, then check this out. If you are already a fan and do not have everything on tape, keep hope alive that all of Season 1 will be available sooner or later.

"Mr. Monk and The Candidate" DVD Series Pilot A Delight
And to think Tony Shalhoub initially passed on the role of Adrian Monk when it was offered to him! It's as amazing as his strong, effective and often touching performance as the leading character, Adrian Monk, in the series' pilot: he never overplays the charcter's OCD--nor plays it solely for laughs. Shalhoub has demonstrated that in acting this part, less is actually more, not only in his dramatic scenes but also in his physical comedy and character's humor. It's called balance, and Tony Shalhoub is a skilled and talented pro who walks the tightrope flawlessly! In Monk we have an unlikely (and flawed) hero who for over three years could never even venture out of his home due to the trauma of his late wife's car bombing death, which induced full-blown OCD and phobias.

Enter Sharona Fleming (Bitty Schram), a nurse and single mom who doesn't always treat Adrian Monk with kid gloves. He relies on her yet she never allows him to become too dependent upon her. While she may supply antibacterial hand wipes along with note-taking/phone calling as Monk's hired assistant and nurse, she is a fiesty and independent woman who doesn't take much guff; yet, she also enjoys tracking down the baddies and solving the murder mysteries with her boss, Monk, whom she both admires and is aggravated by. She often threatens to quit, but Monk somehow never believes she really will. When she goes on a date, which Monk thought she was only joking about going on, he turns up at the restaurant where the couple is dining and after a few moments of sitting at their table blurts out that the guy she's with is both a phony and a liar--not even the entertainment attorney he claimed to be... All so low key it's as if he's talking about menu items' pros and cons... And he wonders why Sharona becomes very upset and says she's quitting her job with him. He seems more taken with the fact she'd been a dancer in Atlantic City (as he's sure she'll return to her job with him).

The mystery in the pilot episode revolves around a seemingly small little murder of a young woman that Monk has been working on but is later able to tie to the supposed assassination attempt of a local political candidate. It's as if Monk has ESP, but it's plain common sense, a photographic memory, attention to detail, and logic which aid Monk in his deductions. Higher stakes matter here, though, as we learn Monk is also working to gain re-instatement to the police force he was discharged from when his wife was killed and his OCD flared up full-force. He's been working as a private detective and also a consultant to the police for about a year (with Sharona's assistance) for very meager pay.

Monk's shrink, Dr. Kroger, initially believes Monk may be ready to re-join the force (which does get Adrian's hopes and spirits up) after Monk solves both murders (plus a third, another campaign aide's murder, which happens along the way) and saves Sharona from being murdered in the sewer! The reaction he has to his unexpected recognition for solving the case--by the candidate (with full media coverage)--the will both touch and move even the hardest heart watching. The comedy is a treat: fresh, although often bizarre, upbeat (yet sometimes dark) and sure to take you by surprise and make you laugh in spite of your feeling you shouldn't (maybe) even be laughing.

The role of Adrian Monk in this series' pilot garnered Tony Shalhoub a Best Actor in a Comedy Series Emmy Award Nomination. The pilot is well-paced, superbly acted by a talented cast, effectively directed, and is rich with strong production values (just having some of it filmed in San Franscisco alone is enough to set mood and tone).

And even when the pilot ends, we want to see/know more. It's the relationship between Monk and Sharona which grabs our attention, our interest--and it's Tony Shalhoub as Monk who makes us care. The man's a magician--the plastic gloves and antibacterial wet wipes, like smoke and mirrors, are simply an added bonus to the genuine life he breathes into the character and the comedy/drama. Two clean hands way up for this rare gem!--Lenore Hutton

Monk is on the Case
When an assassin takes a shot at a mayoral candidate, the current mayor insists that Monk is brought in as a consultant on the case. Adrian Monk has been consulting for three years trying to get over his intense fears and obsessive compulsive disorder enough to return full time to the force. Still, his curses are also gifts that help him notice little things others miss. Right away, he makes a connection between this case and another murder that otherwise would appear unrelated. But can Monk figure out what is going on?

I came to the party rather late, not watching until season 2. I was quite anxious to see the pilot because I wanted to get the complete background on the character. Since I've seen almost every episode now, I did know the basics of what I needed to know, so I could just sit back and enjoy the storyline.

I am a mystery fiend, and I especially love a good puzzle. Monk is wonderful for that, and this episode is no exception. I should have seen the ending coming, but, as usual, was taken completely by surprise. There are some wonderful laugh out loud moments as well.

The episode does fall into the traps of a series premier. Since we need to know about our characters, story is often slowed down for exposition. While it would have been helpful the first time around, I didn't need it. Fortunately, we were treated to the back story in small doses, so it didn't slow the story down for long. Also, the actors and writers are still trying to define the characters. While not as sharp as they later in the series, they're quite acceptable here.

I'm not completely sure why this DVD was put out. Maybe it was to test the waters or hold over fans until season one was released. Either way, all you get here is the two part pilot episode. No extras whatsoever. Since it's included again in the recently released complete season 1 set, if you are a fan of the series, just pass right on by.

Monk is one of the most original and entertaining shows currently on TV anywhere. While not perfect, this is a great intro to the character and tone of the series. If you only want an intro, get this disc. Otherwise, save your money for all of season 1.

Wait for the full first season
Around mid-June, the entire 13-episode first season of Monk will be included on DVD for about $40 (pretty reasonable, comparatively speaking). Unless you really need a Monk DVD fix right now, just wait a couple months for the whole enchilada.

Well blended cast and great script
I was really impressed with this Premiere Episode of "Monk". Of course, the lead character is played so well by Tony Shalhoub, but it takes more than that to make a premiere interesting enough to run as a TV series for another two seasons. The three main supporting characters are wonderfully written in the script and played to perfection by the actors. Every time I watch this premiere, I think I have a different favorite supporting character. I can't wait for the DVD to be released with the season episodes from season one and two. I think I like it so much because it's very different from all the rest of what's on TV these days. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Elijah Wood is amazing!!
I thought this movie was great. I am a huge fan of Elijah Wood and he is outstanding in this film. Richard Dreyfuss plays a very comical Fagin which I guess you probably won't mind unless you love Charles Dickens, I didn't mind him at all. However there is one flaw, Oliver. Alex Trench has got to be the worst kid they could have picked to be Oliver, and he's so annoying!!! But don't let that stop you from getting the movie. Elijah's performance alone pretty much makes up for that kid. A great family film. Watch it!!!

Elijah Wood Steals This Film
As others have said, if you want a quality retelling of Dickens' "Oliver Twist," then turn to David Lean or the glorious musical version, and not this bland re-hash with possibly the weakest Oliver (not to mention writing and direction) that I have ever seen for this story. There are only two characters that partially redeem it: an earthy, maternal Nancy and an Artful Dodger that, as portrayed by Elijah Woods, may not be what Dickens had in mind, but certainly becomes someone you care about and want to save - much more so than the annoying Oliver, who has two facial expressions (wide-eyed and not wide-eyed), a shrill voice, and an unhealthy obsession with his mother's locket, which stalls the plot at the most unlikely moments. The double irony is that this rather stupid, greedy child (who discovers a conscience quite late) is rescued from the streets to enjoy a life of ease and comfort, while the infinitely more promising Artful Dodger (whose tender response to Oliver's bout of conscience is the most moving two minutes in the film) is carted off to jail - a quip from him being enough to stop this Oliver making any move to save him! It's enough to make you want the REAL film buried here - the one about Woods' Artful Dodger, caught between confused loyalties, sensitive and intelligent in a world merciless to both, protective of both Nancy and Oliver but powerless to help either, trying desperately to seem more callous than he is and to pretend to himself that he has chosen this life.... It's his tragedy that is almost buried in this dull film, but it's hard not to be grateful it was made, if only for those scenes lit from within by Woods' amazing talent.

Disney version is TWISTed beyond belief.
OLIVER TWIST, the Charles Dickens novel of crime and childhood corruption in Victorian England, is perhaps one of the most adapted works in film. With such classic characters such as the innocent Oliver Twist, the master-thief Fagin, the touching Nancy and the comical Mr. Bumble, adapting the novel to the screen has proved to be a filmmaker and actor's dream. Probably the best versions out today are the classic 1951 David Lean version and the merry 1968 musical version, OLIVER! Of course, there are many other film and TV versions as well. This 1997 version produced by Walt Disney Co. for their "Wonderful World of Disney" TV show is unfortunately one of the lesser versions of this classic tale despite some handsome production values.

Part of the reasoning of this low opinion stems from a rather rambling screenplay that almost completely changes the title character (played by Alex Trench) from a put-upon victim into an overly spunky and almost overly abrasive tyke. It's not Trench's fault in that he does a good job with this rather false characterization, but he ends up seeming more suited to playing the Artful Dodger than Oliver Twist. In contrast, Elijah Wood's performance as the Artful Dodger comes across as overly mannered and laid back. As a result, his Dodger seems ill-equipped emotionally to be a "street educated" tough.

The pivotal role of Fagin, that master teacher of young pickpockets, has undergone much revision since Dickens first created him. Originally a slimy, nasty Jewish stereotype, the character has been softened to the point of sometimes being comic relief. Of course, this is due to modern sensibilities that have dictated the de-emphasis on racial stereotypes. That in itself isn't a bad thing as Ron Moody's masterful performance in OLIVER! showed, but Richard Dreyfus seems ill-prepared in the role. Wandering around in a false nose and gravelly voice, Dreyfus is inconsistent in the role and turns a star turn into something merely average. David O' Hara and Antoine Byrne are more successful in their roles of the brutal Bill Sikes and his ill-fated lover, Nancy. Unfortunately, the screenplay gives these characters rather short shift and they don't get much of a chance to make an impression. Indeed, the movie streamlines the classic story to an almost absurd degree with the elimination of classic characters and situations such as Mr. Bumble and Oliver's apprenticeship to the funeral parlor of the cruel Sowerberrys.

At about 90 minutes, the movie seems to go faster than it does because of the absurd trimming. The Walt Disney Company does not do the classic story justice and leaves the viewer feeling very unsatisfied as a result. This movie may be handsome to look at, but this is not a version that I would recommend. Stick with the classic David Lean or 1968 musical version for a better and more satisfying experience.

Awful Adaptation!
I'm usually a big fan of Disney movies but I didn't like their adaptation of Oliver Twist. This movie was on TV last week and you would think that with talented actors like Richard Dreyfuss and Elijah Wood that it would be a great movie but I actually thought this 1997 Disney version of Oliver Twist was awful and there are much better movie adaptations of the classic book by Charles Dickens, including the muscial Oliver.

Oliver Twist
This is a dreadful sanitized interpretation of Dickens' Oliver Twist.

The whole cast is American and have the most laughably awful English accents - to the point where it is distracting. Richard Dreyfuss and Elijah Woods accent slip every other word.

Oliver is supposed to be a fragile, deeply saddened little boy (the book will make you cry for me) but the 'actor' who plays him comes across as a happy-go-lucky kid who is always seen smiling. He has no facial expression and can't project a single emotion.

Fagan, who is played by Dreyfuss,is supposed to be a heartless, shady, and crafy character but instead comes across like Santa Clauss. I keep expecting him to burst into song. The only way you can tell the character is angry is when you get the Jaws-type disonnant music - without it, you wouldn't even know.

Not only is the acting bad, but the story is changed dramatically - some characters that are pertinent to the story are cut out completely.

If you have or have not read Dickens (you really ought to read it) it is a sad, disturbing and heart renching tale of a little boys horrendous life. This grittiness is NOT at all evident in this interpretation. If you want a smaltsy movie, go rent a Disney flick like Lion King or something, coz Oliver Twist is NOT suposed to be like that. ... Read more

Description

Three pig brothers leave home to build their own houses, only to be confronted by a wolf who is hungry for pork. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Faerie Tale Theatre: The Three Little Pigs
Hilarious episode from the Faerie Tale Theatre series with an all-star cast. Billy Crystal as well as his on-screen brother actors are excellent as the three pigs, and Jeff Goldblum is show-stealing as the Big Bad Wolf. Valerie Perrine is a knock-out and makes a surprisingly sexy pig in this faerie tale. A great comedic hit for the entire family to enjoy!

I love this series!
My brother, sisters and I grew up watching the Faerie Tale Theatre collection, and loving them all. By the way, they're not just for kids! My mother loved them so much she went out of her way to find them for my little niece to enjoy. I highly recommend them to anyone with (or even without) children to view them!

cute and appealing
Billy Crystal, Valerie Perrine, Doris Roberts and Jeff Goldblum star in the new telling of the tale from FAERIE TALE THEATRE.

One of the more light-hearted entries in the series, its a delightfully comic piece, played out by master comedians Crystal and Roberts, with the beautiful Perrine cutting a mean figure as a porker indeed.

The series was a huge success, boasting a huge multi award-winning cast (Tonys, Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, Golden Globes, etc), and creator/producer Shelly Duvall has earned laurels for one of the finest family series in years.

Best of the Fairie Tale Theatres
I must have rented this video 40-50 times for my then pre-school age son and daughter. We all had the lines memorized. Billy Crystal is terrific as one of the pigs (Peter, Paul and Larry) and Jeff Goldblum is a howl as the wolf. The whole cast is great. This is truly a film that everyone in the family will love. The best.

As Unforgettable as Nat
This was a household staple rented over and over from our local video store, played over and over for all ages whenever our guests seemed willing. There was never ever anything but laughter and appreciation; I'm still trying to find the Samuel Barber music played just so. Please let me know if you know where I can get a copy... there are future grandchildren and grandnieces/nephews in my life whose lives will be incomplete without it. ... Read more

Description

A prince who was turned into a frog by a witch's spell is ultimately saved by the kiss of a self-centered princess. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

my personal fairy tale theatre movie
If your looking for a fairy tale for kids that can make even you laugh this is the one. Robin Williams will lighten the mood every time.

Bad for Children
This film contains language and sexual content. Robin Williams uses profanity and parental discretion is advised. It is a funny telling of the story for adults but not younger viewers... Parents should watch the movie first to decide if it is appropiate for their children, and trust me, it isn't!!!!

Undoubtably one of the best Faerie Tale Theatre videos.
This episode of The Tale of the Frog Prince, starring the hilarious Robin Williams and wonderful Teri Garr, is not only a very well told classic children's tale, but a comedy. It has plenty of bits an adult would find entertaining, none being underhand or crude, while still amusing to a younger audience. I grew up watching this series; I loved it then, and I still love it now ... A very good movie to see, and a deal if you can buy it anywhere!

Hilarious, but for adults
This is a hilariously funny version of a children`s fairy tale. Both Robin Williams and Teri Garr do a superb job in their portrayals of the frog-prince and the princess, but you will, most likely, be surprised at how well Rene Aberjonois (Clayton, fron the t.v. series Benson) does comedy. The only caveat is that because of the language and some the situations I would not recommend this video for pre-teens, but anyone else will definitely be amused! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Must of been unadvertised
I had never seen any promotion for this film when it came out. I am a Kathy Bates fan and was switching channels and happened across this. I started watching it and loved it. I wonder why I had never heard any word of mouth on this movie? If you haven't seen this, please either rent the movie or buy it. It is worth the time to watch it.

It is basically about a family whom is living in LA and the father ups and leaves them. So the Mother must support her children. Her oldest keeps getting in trouble so she decides to take what little they own, and find a new home to restart their life. Mind you they are very poor and they vehicle they own is on it's last leg. They end up in Ohio living in a farmers half built home. It lets you see through the oldest son's memories of everything that happened along the way.

You end up loving the family and hoping for the best. I hope you watch it!

Great movie
I saw this in theaters when I was younger, and was never able to forget it. A Home of Our Own is one of the most touching and honest movies I have ever seen. The true story is about a family that is trying to make it after the father dies. I won't give away any more of the story, but the acting really elevates it, with Kathy Bates delivering an amazing performance.

Best Family Movie
If you know what its like to be poor, or even if you empathise with the unfortunate, then you will surely love this movie. It brings tears to your eyes to see the middle-aged widow, played by Kathy Bates, struggle with her six children, to build a house, from nothing. I believe if you want to give your kids a shock of reality, then this movie is as real as you can get. Many families live like this in the third world. You come away with an appreciation of the true things in life: love, and family values.

Very cheap looking movie, terrible script & awful acting!
Kathy Bates is very vulgar in this movie and it's so poorly made that I was surprised to learn it was not made for the Hallmark Channel because they air this turkey about once a month.

Save your money for a real movie like Anaconda with the great Jon Voight or Prison Heat with Lori Jo Hendrix.

Also, no matter what the DVD package claims, the old man from the Karate Kid movies is NOT in this movie.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!!

The best family movie you'll see
Kathy Bates is one of Hollywood's greatest actresses and provides her outstanding preformance in this hard drama showing how she deals with six kids as she is a widower in Idaho recentily moved from Los Angeles and tries to make her kids forget the life they currently live in and think of the house they will live in the near future, with the help of the priest and other great supporting roles, this emotional family drama shows exactly what other families deal with and whats the outcome, they worked hard and live now in a better home. One of my favourite family movies of all time, Kathy Bates shines. 10/10. ... Read more

Description

A cowardly king offers a young man who isn't afraid of anything all the riches in the land if he rid the castle of a ghost. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

TheBoy Who Left Home to Find out Aboutr the Shivers
The Shivers is the greatest Faerie tale in the whole theatre.I grew up on these videos. I have been searching for a few years now to purchase these videos.I can't wait for them to become available. I would love to own the whole collection.These classic tales should be available for all children to see and enjoy.I must say The Faerie Tale theatre collection is the greatest among faerie tale production.

Utterly Enjoyable!
The Fairy Tale Theatre Series is wonderful. I watched them as a child, and still enjoy watching them. This one especially. It makes you laugh and at the same time has enough scare to it to make a child feel that they just watched their first horror movie. In actuality there there is nothing horrible about it. A perfect family entertainment movie.

Truly a classic!
Faery Tale Theatre movies are masterpieces! They follow the tales they tell fairly faithfully as they were originally written. I only hope they will soon be re-released as my children are now asking for copies, and I don't want to give mine up!

My favorite out of the Faerie Tale Theatre collection.
I am a collector of these series by Shelly Duvall. I have the complete 26 set of movies. It is a great set of movies for families, young and old alike. My sister's favorite is "Cinderella," starring Jennifer Beals and Matthew Broderick. My Mom's favorite is "Rumpelstiltskin," starring Ned Beatty. This is a great collection of movies and a must for every family. ... Read more

Description

A motley crew of animals help a young girl who is no bigger than a thumb make her way home after she is kidnapped by a toad and taken to live on a lily pad in a swamp. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Definite kid-pleaser
My three-year-old daughter fell in love with this the first time we borrowed it from the library. I enjoyed it myself; my only gripe is Conchata Ferrell's performance. This usually very talented actress seems bored to tears and injects absolutely no feeling into her role as Thumbelina's mother. It's as if she was directed to perform as stoically as possible. I don't get it at all. I am also not impressed with Carrie Fisher's singing here. I know she is capable of singing quite beautifully, I just don't think the folkish songs in this tale are well suited to her instrument. It's hard to pull off such dirges unless the singer has that ethereal, almost mediaeval quality to her voice (think Loreena McKennitt, Mediaveal Baebes). But those minor complaints are of no consequence whatsoever to the intended audience. Children will certainly be enchanted! It's witty script and a fun production.

The Little Thumb with a Big Heart
"Thumbelina" is a fantastic retelling of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, "Little Thumb".

Produced in 1983 (and released the following year), as part of Shelley Duvall's charming live-action "Faerie Tale Theatre", the narrative is told with good humour, imagination, and a great sense of fun. The magnificent cast adds much colour and warmth to the proceedings. In particular, Carrie Fisher, in the title role, delivers a captivating performance. She makes an extremely attractive heroine, not to mention one who's "more than just another pretty face". She's an absolute delight, adding her unique qualities to the role. Not only is she pint-sized in real life (although not quite as tiny as a thumb!), she has a lovely, deep voice that is quite at odds with her diminutive stature. When she sings, it is a beautiful and rewarding experience. Indeed, she sings with "an angel's voice". (This is also a highlight for any Carrie Fisher fan, as she began her career as a singer, and yet she only sings briefly in "Hannah and Her Sisters", 1986, and in the Walt Disney live-action comedy, "Sunday Drive", also released in 1986.)

Carrie Fisher is supported by equally delightful character actors. The late Burgess Meredith is in top form as Mr Mole, the second would-be husband of Thumbelina. Likewise, William Katt makes a very positive impression as the Prince of the Flower Angels.

This wonderful fairy tale is further enhanced by excellent production values, including great music, atmospheric sets, and good costumes and creatures like Mother Toad, her hapless son, Herman, the Fieldmouse, and the Swallow.

The script faithfully follows the original story, although the gender of the Fieldmouse has been changed, making for a more convincing friendship with Mr Mole to exist, as well as creating a heartfelt guardianship of Thumbelina along strictly platonic lines.

This well-written and perceptive tale ("I'm always the bride, but never the bridesmaid") makes for enchanting family entertainment. "Thumbelina" delivers a great message, too, but above all, it's storytelling at it's most memorable.

I applaud executive producer Shelley Duvall, and all involved, for giving such a wonderful gift. It's up there with Jim Henson's equally engaging "Storyteller" anthology series, produced in the late 1980s, and the "The Doll", an Emmy Award winning episode of "Amazing Stories" (of the same era).

For me, it's an extra special treat because Carrie Fisher became much more than just Princess Leia with this performance. Besides, she continues to melt me every time she smiles as the Ultimate Flower Angel! Let's hope that this "Faerie Tale Theatre" production, along with my other favourites like "Beauty and the Beast", are re-released soon. Preservation on DVD for future generations is highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

five corners
I AM RATING THE DIGITAL QUALITY OF THE DVD, NOT THE MOVIE!
The one star is far too much praise for the digital quality of this "Direct Source Special Products Inc." brand dvd I've recieved . Far better to get the vhs copy, as this was so obviously dubbed from one, except that they left out all the colour and is so dark it is almost impossible to see! Does anyone know where a quality version of this film can be found on dvd?
I do however like this movie, and was looking forward to seeing it again.It was the first time I had seen Tim Robbins, and John Turturro, and really enjoyed both of their performances. Particularly Johns portrayal of the sinister Heinz character. I remember it to be a little shakey in its ending but really enjoyed it otherwise. Check it out, but be careful of which copy you purchase!

Worst movie I have seen in a long time
Jacket cover on movie states comedy drama. I failed to see anything at all funny in this movie. I thought this movie was very disturbing. While Tim Robbins and Jodie Foster put in a good performance the story line was jumbled and disconnected.

This movie has moved in top place of 5 worse movies I have seen.

...Not to Mention the Penguins
This is ensemble work at its best. A product of George Harrison's Handmade Films, it includes not only Jodie Foster and Tim Robbins, but also Todd Graff ("Hippie" in The Abyss), John Turturro, Elizabeth Berridge ("Mrs. Mozart" in Amadeus) with nicely interwoven storylines that dovetail spectacularly at the finish. Five stars means I own a copy (VHS since 1989, DVD since 2001) and watch it every year or so.

Underrated by far
This movie has never received the recogniton it should have. The acting by these "up-and-comers" is incredibly good, and the story, quirky as it is, rivets you.

Don't miss it if you haven't seen it, and see it again if you have.

Foster and Robbins
I gave this movie only 3 stars cause unless you like Jodie Foster's younger works and enjoy Tim Robbins' earlier works you prolly won't appreciate this film as much. Otherwise you may be delighted with this film, keeping in mind it's an indy flic, and appreciating it as such. ... Read more

Description

When her sadness becomes so overwhelming that a princess refuses to leave her room, a king searches the land for someone to make his daughter laugh. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

My favorite childhood movie!
My sister and I were recently discussing our favorite movies when we were little. And this one was it. We had the disney movies and stuff, but this movie is funny and a great story. We use to watch this movie a lot! A great, perfect movie for children.

Fond Memories
I rented every volume of the Faerie Tale Theatre that the video store had at least 100 times when I was a kid. All these years later, this is the one I remember the most. That must say something for the quality of this story. Kids and parents will love it.

The Princess Who Had Never Laughed
I really enjoyed this movie. It was very comical. It's the funniest Faerie Tale Theatre film I've seen yet. And it teaches a very good moral too! A great family film! ... Read more

Description

Hailed as a "rewarding gift" and "an unexpected pleasure," One Christmas is a timeless holiday treasure based on Truman Capote's bittersweet tale of a young boy's adventures with the father he's never known. It's a classic family story featuring acclaimed performances from an award-winning cast including the legendary Katharine Hepburn, Henry Winkler, Swoosie Kurtz and Julie Harris. It's Christmas 1930, and 8-year-old Buddy (T.J. Lowther) finds himself in New Orleans spending the holidays with his estranged father (Winkler). Leaving behind his Aunt Sook (Harris) and the peaceful Alabama country life, Buddy now endures a conniving, hard-living, deceitful, con man of a dad who seems to care more about fast buck scams than earning his son's affection. With Buddy looking for a relationship with his dad, and his dad looking for something real in a life of lies, the greatest thing they realize is that they have each other. It's a gift that comes just in time for one unforgettable Christmas. Starring: Katharine Hepburn, Henry Winkler, Swoosie Kurtz, Julie Harris. ... Read more

Description

Academy Award-winning actress Holly Hunter stars as Ruby, the wife of a coal miner in Harlan County, Kentucky. After two senseless deaths, the union calls a strike against the mining company. What follows is one of the most violent, bitter and notorious union battles in history. With no end to the violence in sight, Ruby decides to fight the company her own way. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

"Reality Christmas"
"One Christmas" was a film I happened upon some years ago. I did not know that it had been a story or a play, etc. I viewed it because I was familiar with the talents of the late Kathrine Hepburn and the talented Henry Winkler.

The story is not typical Christmas fare, but it is more real than many of the idylic Christmas movies. It is a tribute to the truth that many people struggle 365 days a year--their imperfections not taking a holiday.

Anyone who enjoys the talents of Winkler/Hepburn will enjoy this film; it is not stellar, not is not neccesarily their best performance, but it is a nice piece of "reality Christmas", if you will.

This Movie Is Horrible
This movie stinks...Henry Winkler is a bad actor and Hepburn is in full Parkinsons swing with her head moving and shaking like a dashboard ornament...it was too painful to view...and probably more painful to make...

Way overrated!!
We love Christmas movies but this was probably our biggest disappointment thus far. Expectations were high with the quality of the stars (Hepburn, Winkler) and the writer, but the quality scenes were just too few and far between. I suspect that people who liked the movie loved the book where the characters were presumably better developed and more likeable. Not having read the book, I found that I just didn't like the people on the screen and by the time they finally get into the spirit of Christmas, I just didn't care! Take a pass on this one.

Average DVD add-ons, magical cast
From a truly wonderful bittersweet story by Truman Capote (as has been said) comes an adequate adaptation with an all-star cast. Katharine Hepburm seems to be the central character and even if her acting may seem full of mannerisms to some, by now that is neither here nor there. Julie Harris and Henry Winkler rise above many past ill-choices, and the whole cast superbly gives life to what may come through as a Christmas cliché but is just that extra bit more that has us glued to the screen.
On my part, kudos to Katharine, Swoozie and Julie!

ONE CHRISTMAS
I REALLY LOVE KATHARINE HEPBURN IN ANY MOVIE. THIS IS ONE WAS REALLY LIKE REAL LIFE TO SOME PEOPLE. IT SHOWED HOW LIFE REALLY IS AND HOW IT COULD BE. SHE IS GREAT ACTRESS!! ... Read more

Description

A clever cat comes up with a way to transform his master into a nobleman, but first he demands a new wardrobe. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Puss in Boots
This is a great movie. It's real light hearted and comical. The characters are all very love-able, except for the ogre of course! I also thought it was neat that all the main characters are African American. I highly recommend this film if you're looking for a good, clean, fun movie to enjoy. ... Read more

Description

When a selfish mayor refuses to pay a Pied Piper for ridding the rats from the town, the Piper gets rid of all the children in the town as well. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Best Faerie Tale Theatre Ever!
I would have to agree with the previous review that this is the best episode of Faerie Tale Theatre. In adapting faerie tales for film or television, the biggest difficulty seems to be in capturing that sense of awe and wonder that the original stories invoke. Without picture illustrations and a child's imagination to fill in the blanks, the original stories often appear static and lifeless on the screen. At worst, the sublime becomes downright ridiculous. Faerie Tale Theatre is a great and entertaining show, but rarely has it captured that sense of magic. This episode is one time that is has, and the results are truly something to behold. Eric Idle is the only "name" here, but the rest of the cast is equally perfect in their roles. Nicholas Meyer creates an entire other world, utilizing medieval tones in setting and costumes, as well as an eerie score of pipes from composer James Horner. The effect is mesmerizing, and if the use of rhyme as dialogue takes some getting used to, it only adds to the haunting impact in the end. This episode may be too disturbing for the youngest children, but all lovers of faerie tales owe it to themselves to see this. It doesn't have the budget of big-screen fantasies, but I rank this right up there with the NeverEnding Story and the Dark Crystal. If you love those films, then you understand what I mean about the sublime.

Wonderful and surreal...as fairy tales should be.
In the early to mid eighties, Shelly Duvall produced a cable show for the then flagship HBO network called Faerie Tale Theatre. The intent was to bring classic childhood stories to an audience of young and old alike through big name stars, directors, and hip, irreverent writing. Without this series, there would not have been a "Princess Bride". Although many of these were excellent examples of the best television could offer, the finest hour (for me) was director Nicholas Meyer's interpretation of Robert Browning's "Pied Piper of Hamelin". Both faithful to the original poem and liberal in its creative embellishments, Meyer perfectly captured the eerieness of the story. The show starred Eric Idle and he makes a perfect Piper. Tall, pale, with piercing eyes and a hawklike nose, Idle looke every bit the character: part mystic, part mercenary. And his final march out of Hamelin with the children is truly the stuff of innocent nightmares. Without sentimentality, without any concession to cuteness, this episode proved that within all great children's stories lurked something magical and sinister...Just like adulthood. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

five corners
I AM RATING THE DIGITAL QUALITY OF THE DVD, NOT THE MOVIE!
The one star is far too much praise for the digital quality of this "Direct Source Special Products Inc." brand dvd I've recieved . Far better to get the vhs copy, as this was so obviously dubbed from one, except that they left out all the colour and is so dark it is almost impossible to see! Does anyone know where a quality version of this film can be found on dvd?
I do however like this movie, and was looking forward to seeing it again.It was the first time I had seen Tim Robbins, and John Turturro, and really enjoyed both of their performances. Particularly Johns portrayal of the sinister Heinz character. I remember it to be a little shakey in its ending but really enjoyed it otherwise. Check it out, but be careful of which copy you purchase!

Worst movie I have seen in a long time
Jacket cover on movie states comedy drama. I failed to see anything at all funny in this movie. I thought this movie was very disturbing. While Tim Robbins and Jodie Foster put in a good performance the story line was jumbled and disconnected.

This movie has moved in top place of 5 worse movies I have seen.

...Not to Mention the Penguins
This is ensemble work at its best. A product of George Harrison's Handmade Films, it includes not only Jodie Foster and Tim Robbins, but also Todd Graff ("Hippie" in The Abyss), John Turturro, Elizabeth Berridge ("Mrs. Mozart" in Amadeus) with nicely interwoven storylines that dovetail spectacularly at the finish. Five stars means I own a copy (VHS since 1989, DVD since 2001) and watch it every year or so.

Underrated by far
This movie has never received the recogniton it should have. The acting by these "up-and-comers" is incredibly good, and the story, quirky as it is, rivets you.

Don't miss it if you haven't seen it, and see it again if you have.

Foster and Robbins
I gave this movie only 3 stars cause unless you like Jodie Foster's younger works and enjoy Tim Robbins' earlier works you prolly won't appreciate this film as much. Otherwise you may be delighted with this film, keeping in mind it's an indy flic, and appreciating it as such. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

five corners
I AM RATING THE DIGITAL QUALITY OF THE DVD, NOT THE MOVIE!
The one star is far too much praise for the digital quality of this "Direct Source Special Products Inc." brand dvd I've recieved . Far better to get the vhs copy, as this was so obviously dubbed from one, except that they left out all the colour and is so dark it is almost impossible to see! Does anyone know where a quality version of this film can be found on dvd?
I do however like this movie, and was looking forward to seeing it again.It was the first time I had seen Tim Robbins, and John Turturro, and really enjoyed both of their performances. Particularly Johns portrayal of the sinister Heinz character. I remember it to be a little shakey in its ending but really enjoyed it otherwise. Check it out, but be careful of which copy you purchase!

Worst movie I have seen in a long time
Jacket cover on movie states comedy drama. I failed to see anything at all funny in this movie. I thought this movie was very disturbing. While Tim Robbins and Jodie Foster put in a good performance the story line was jumbled and disconnected.

This movie has moved in top place of 5 worse movies I have seen.

...Not to Mention the Penguins
This is ensemble work at its best. A product of George Harrison's Handmade Films, it includes not only Jodie Foster and Tim Robbins, but also Todd Graff ("Hippie" in The Abyss), John Turturro, Elizabeth Berridge ("Mrs. Mozart" in Amadeus) with nicely interwoven storylines that dovetail spectacularly at the finish. Five stars means I own a copy (VHS since 1989, DVD since 2001) and watch it every year or so.

Underrated by far
This movie has never received the recogniton it should have. The acting by these "up-and-comers" is incredibly good, and the story, quirky as it is, rivets you.

Don't miss it if you haven't seen it, and see it again if you have.

Foster and Robbins
I gave this movie only 3 stars cause unless you like Jodie Foster's younger works and enjoy Tim Robbins' earlier works you prolly won't appreciate this film as much. Otherwise you may be delighted with this film, keeping in mind it's an indy flic, and appreciating it as such. ... Read more