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The five films in the Planet of the Apes series are enjoyable aspure entertainment and yet substantial enough to inspire academic studies likePlanet of the Apes as American Myth: Race, Politics, and Popular Culture.

Loosely adapted from the novelby French author Pierre Boulle, Planet of the Apes was released at theheight of racial and political unrest in America, adding resonance to its storyof a NASA astronaut (Charlton Heston) stranded on a planet where superior apes dominate inferior human slaves. The film's final image--in which a horrified Heston realizes the fate of humankind--remains one of the most indelible in all of science fiction cinema.

Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970) continues the original's distant future scenario, pitting militant apes against mutant humans dwelling in the subterranean ruins of New York City. Its phenomenal success spawned Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971), in which simian scientists Cornelius and Zira (Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter, reprising their roles from Planet) travel backward in time, setting the stage for the ape supremacy of the first two films. McDowall returned in Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972) as Caesar, the son of Cornelius, leading an ape revolution that bridges the historical gap of the previous films. Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973) ended the five-film cycle with McDowall again playing the chimpanzee leader Caesar, defeating gorillas and human mutants to establish the hierarchy introduced in the original film.

The Apes films present a classic what-if scenario that hasn't lost a bit of its potency. As if to prove its cultural endurance, the cycle returned to its origins with director Tim Burton's remake of Planet of the Apes--one of the most eagerly awaited films of 2001. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (116)

You'll go ape over these!
Let me start out by saying the only reason I didn't give PLANET OF THE APES -- THE EVOLUTION series more stars is because as DVDs go, there are little extras and the sound was less than spectacular. Other than that, this is a great set. The first movie is (I believe in most people's opinion) the best one. But the others are wonderful too (although BATTLE FOR... is kind of lame). As a kid I used to watch them on Channel 9's (then WWOR-TV) 4:30 movie after school and never realized the political and social relevance each film contained ... I just thought they were cool monkey movies. But after watching them all again (even the hokey ESCAPE FROM...), I learned that they were and still are important statements about social equality and injustice -- while still being cool monkey movies! Though the behind the scenes documentary DVD is great, I wish there were more things on the DVDs themselves.

For those of you who don't like sci-fi and never wanted to watch PLANET... and it's sequels (as is the case with my fiancee), give them a shot. They're funny, action-packed, incredibly intelligent and still worth watching today. Let's hope Tim Burton's new take on it will be just as good (I think it will).

Saga
This is a great movie series. The problem is that it tends to drag after the third movie. However, all, and all I do like this. It's very different from the book but good non the less. I recommend it to any one who has ever wondered what would happened if another creature ruled earth.

Interesting Apes Sequel
This is fourth sequel to "Planet of the Apes" somehow is lacking as a denouement to the series. John Huston as the Lawgiver brings the entire series full-circle as best he can in a rather economical way. J. Lee Thompson leisurely directed the unsubstantial battle sequences. This is a highlight of the film as the mutating humans' attack Ape Village via yellow school buses laden down with an arsenal of weaponry in a totally preposterous sequence, which brings the house down. Roddy McDowall as the stalwart Caesar defends his rigid code of ethics with subdued dignity. J. Lee Thompson reflected the essence of 1970's ambiguities of its society with this inspiring parable.

Some are fantastic - others, not.
The first couple movies in this boxset are fantastic. Simply fantastic - they take you away to another world. Easy to follow, and they make you think...

However...the last 2 movies in the boxset are.....strange. Somewhat get off topic a bit - and are a bit hard to understand. Takes this far fetched idea...a bit too far fetched.

Essential to own though if you are a Planet of the Apes fan in the least...it's complete.

forgot how good these movies were
The first movie is odviously the best, followed by the second and then the Conquest/Battle series. Escape is goofy, but ties together the "astronaut sequence" and the "Heir to the Throne" sequence. That is incentive enough to watch all five in order(not all in a day of course). The two hour documentary is interesting, but not tiring and represents all of the movies, and is not the rediculous six-hour documenary/reality show with boring actors whining about how hard it was to make the movie, like most DVD sets. Lord of the Rings for example has six hours doc/reality drama per movie, I am now totally dis-enchanted with LotR, thanks alot, Jackson and team! With PoA I am totally more interested in the movies. Thanks Roddy McDowel(sincerely)Whining only constructively presant and not excessive. Peas and Carrots, never would've thought. ... Read more

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After they first worked together on the 1966 film This Property Is Condemned, director Sydney Pollack and Robert Redford continued their long-lasting collaboration with this 1972 drama set during the mid-1800s, about one man's rugged effort to shed the burden of civilization and learn to survive in the wilderness of the Rocky Mountains.Will Geer is perfectly cast as the seasoned trapper who teaches Jeremiah Johnson (Redford) how to survive against harsh winters, close encounters with grizzly bears, and hostile Crow Indians. In the course of his adventure, Johnson marries the daughter of a Flathead Indian chief, forms a makeshift family, and ultimately assumes a mythic place in Rocky Mountain folklore.Shot entirely on location in Utah, the film boasts an abundance of breathtaking widescreen scenery, and the story (despite a PG rating) doesn't flinch from the brutality of the wilderness. In addition to the original theatrical trailer, remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack, and informative production notes, the DVD also includes The Saga of Jeremiah Johnson, a promotional documentary on the making of the film. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (72)

Unforgettable Masterpiece From Director Sydney Pollack!
Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack, the Academy Award-winning director of Out of Africa team up (the 2nd of their 6 films together) for this powerful saga of a man whose determined search for contentment leads to back-breaking, even mind-breaking hardship, and to constant battle with hostile native Americans. This absolutely unforgettable and spectacularly beautiful, yet haunting adventure film captures both the epic scale of an unconquered Nature and the small, frustrating, hard scrabbling struggles of a lone man desperately trying to start a fire during a gale-force blizzard, cross a meadow knee-deep in snow or catch something, anything, to eat.

Filmed entirely on location in winter-time Utah, this movie captures on film Jeremiah Johnson's (Robert Redford) attempt in the mid 1800s to become a mountain man, seeking solitude in a wilderness whose purity he never questioned. This film is sure to find it's way into the private library of every connoisseur of superb movie making, and is one of those very rare films you can enjoy again and again! Masterpiece!

Robert Redford's personal favorite film role
I had the pleasure of seeing "Jeremiah Johnson" in the theatre soon after it first came out at Christmas 1972. On the big screen you could really appreciate the magnificent cinematography and the majestic scenery. It loses something when transferred to the small screen. So I recommend watching the letterboxed version on a larger screen TV(at least 27inches or larger.)It has fine direction by Sydney Pollack whom Robert Redford has worked with in more than a half dozen films. The movie takes place in Redford's own neck of the woods,the mountains of Utah.The late Will Geer,(the grandfather on the television series "The Walton's" back in the '70's),is very enjoyable as a bear trapping mountain man named Bear Claw. And,Delle Bolton is impressive in her movie debut as Jeremiah's young indian maiden bride named Swan. I don't believe I've seen Ms. Bolton in anything since this film.The film also has an atmospheric music score by John Rubinstein.

I haven't read the two books this movie is based on "Crow Killer" by Raymond W. Thorp and Robert Bunker and "Mountain Man" by Vardis Fisher and I hear the books are much more intense and graphic and if the screenplay had followed them more closely the film would have generated a more adult R rating instead of the family friendly PG rating that it has. Redford said in an interview back in the '80's that of all the films he has done that "Jeremiah Johnson" was his personal favorite.

I think that's really saying something considering all the fine films Mr. Redford has done.This is one of his best along with "Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid" from 1969, "The Sting",(the OscarTM winner for Best Picture of 1973),"The Great Waldo Pepper" from 1975,"Three Days of The Condor",(also directed by Sydney Pollack),"All The President's Men" from 1976,"Brubaker" from 1980, "Ordinary People"(which was his directorial debut and was the OscarTM winner for Best Picture of 1980 and he won Best Director honors),"The Natural" from 1984,"A River Runs Through It" from 1992,which Redford directed and was the narrator,"Quiz Show" nominated for Best Picture of 1994,(it didn't win), and "The Horse Whisperer" from 1998(which he both directed and starred in. Among Director Sydney Pollack's best are "The Way We Were" from 1973,"The Yakuza" from 1975,"Tootsie" from 1982 and "Out of Africa",the OscarTM winner for Best Picture of 1985,with Mr.Pollack winning Best Director honors). Robert Redford and Sydney Pollack are two of America's finest filmmakers.

"The day that you tarry is the day that you lose ..."
He was a big man, maybe even growing in physical stature with the growth of his myth; deadly with his Bowie knife and his gun alike. He'd been a fighter in the U.S.-Mexican war, but left the lowland's ways behind in favor of a mountain man's: the lonesome hunt, the wild outdoors, and the confrontation with nature rather than his fellow men. And he came to be known as "Crow Killer" and "Liver Eating Johns(t)on" when he took war to the Crow nation after they killed his wife.

Based on Raymond Thorp/Robert Bunker's "Crow Killer" and Vardis Fisher's "Mountain Man" and scripted by John Milius and Edward Anhalt - with input from frequent Redford/Pollack cooperator David Rayfiel - Sydney Pollack's and Robert Redford's 1972 movie loosely traces the mythical hunter's legend, opening with his arrival at the fort where he buys his first horse and gun. "Ride due west as the sun sets. Turn left at the Rocky Mountains," is a trader's goodnatured answer to Johnson's naive inquiry where to find "bear, beaver and other critters worth cash money when skinned." But soon he finds that his lowland skills no longer do him any good, almost starving in the freezing mountainous winter before being taken in by old "griz" hunter Bear Claw Chris Lapp (Will Geer in a stand-out role - his and Redford's deadpan exchanges alone make this movie worth its price).

Setting out on his own again the following year Johnson fares better, even gaining the respect of a Crow warrior prosaically named Paints His Shirt Red (Joaquin Martinez), the first person he encountered in the mountains. After assisting a settler's wife who had to watch her family massacred by Indians (Allyn Ann McLerie) and reluctantly agreeing to take charge of her son (Josh Albee) - a boy grown mute by the horrors he witnessed, whom he names Caleb - he comes across white hunter Del Gue (Stefan Gierasch), buried up to his head in sand by a band of Blackfeet. Revenging that act unwittingly leaves Johnson with a wife, in exchange for bestowing the Blackfeet's ponies and guns on Flathead chief Two-Tongues-Lebeaux (Richard Angarola): the chief's daughter Swan (Delle Bolton). Although neither embraces the match enthusiastically, over time Jeremiah and Swan learn to appreciate and, eventually, love each other. But then fate strikes: Against better judgment pressured into guiding a cavalry company through Crow burial ground, Johnson finds Swan and Caleb murdered upon his return. He sets out after the Crow who invaded his home ... and plants the seeds of his myth.

"Jeremiah Johnson" was Redford's and Pollack's second of seven collaborations after 1966's "This Property is Condemned." What most obviously characterizes this movie is the breathtaking manner in which its cinematography uses Utah's mountains (doubling for the story's actual Montana setting): despite studio budgetary limits shot entirely on location, the film had Redford acting as a virtual tour guide to the magnificent Wasatch, which he had recently made his home himself.

But the movie also shows enormous restraint, particularly given its violent underlying story. There's no blood-gushing "Braveheart"-style, no dramatic score; fights are mostly one-on-one, occurring as they would in real life - silently, with only the opponents' grunts being heard - and despite his fearsome epithet we never actually see Johnson eat a dead Crow warrior's liver. (Reportedly a script change on which Redford insisted: wisely so.) Similarly, Johnson's and Swan's relationship builds on small symbolic gestures, moving from his coarse attempts to teach her English and refusal to learn her language to conversations in Salish (Flathead); and from her submissive expectation of his exercising his marital rights on their wedding night (which rather repulses him) to later-exchanged tender glances and smiles: Thus, we only learn about their marriage's belated consummation when one morning Swan points to his beard in response to his question about her reddish cheeks. - Further, there's no dramatic conclusion; no final battle: as Johnson's myth begins to grow and he withdraws deeper and deeper into the mountains, he retraces his steps and meets in reverse order the people he encountered after his arrival: Del Gue, the settler now living in Caleb's mother's cabin, Bear Claw Chris Lapp; and finally Paints His Shirt Red who, although a Crow, created a monument in Johnson's honor and sends him off with a last salute, which Johnson reciprocates; ending the movie in an immortalizing freeze-frame shot - again, a feature insisted on by Redford, doubtlessly reminiscent of "Butch and Sundance" (and repeated one way or another in several subsequent movies).

Despite its languid pace and although just under two hours long, "Jeremiah Johnson" formally takes an epic approach, complete with overture, entr'acte and narrator (uncredited, but I think Willie Nelson), whose subtle voiceovers and brief songs provide key narrative bridges. While the latter match the movie's overall style and the overture at least corresponds with Johnson's mythical stature - albeit also setting up ultimately unfulfilled expectations of a dramatic finale - adding an entr'acte may have been a bit much, particularly in the middle of the ride through the Crow burial ground (incidentally a screenplay addition designed to give the Indians a reason to punish Johnson and not make them appear as mindless killers). In my view this breaks the dramatic tension rather than enhancing it; problematic insofar as virtually all that remains thereafter is Johnson's gradual withdrawal into the mountains and fights with the Crow. But no matter. This is a terrific movie, featuring great banter with Johnson's fellow hunters as well as some wonderfully delicate scenes with Swan, showcasing some of North America's most dramatically beautiful scenery, and growing on you more and more the more often you watch it.

And some say he's up there still ...

"The way that you wander is the way that you choose. The day that you tarry is the day that you lose. Sunshine or thunder, a man will always wonder where the fair wind blows ..."
(Lyrics, Jeremiah Johnson's theme.)

Jeremiah Johnson: a note on the theater
Just a note about this wonderful movie. I saw it when it first came out. JEREMIAH JOHNSON the title page screamed, "with Robert Redford" next in small fonts. A few years later I was back at the theater to watch it again. ROBERT REDFORD the title page screamed, "in Jeremiah Johnson" next in small fonts. This movie (and a few others) had introduced Robert Redford to the world.
This movie should be appreciated by every movie lover. Among other things, it demonstrates how words, if chosen carefully, can be memorable in their sparseness.

The best of any Mountain Man Movies
My very favorite Mountain Man movie. ... Read more

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Longtime La Femme Nikita fans and newcomers alike will enjoy this six-disc boxed set, which compiles the syndicated television series' entire first season, and shows why it garnered a devoted audience throughout its five-season run (1997-2001): it's a fast-paced, action-packed mixture of sex appeal (thanks to the statuesque form of its star, Australian actress Peta Wilson) and intricately plotted espionage thrills. Producers Joel Surnow and Robert Cochran (who later created 24) hewed the series' framework closely to its inspiration--Luc Besson's 1990 theatrical feature of the same name--save for one change. Where the movie Nikita is a drug-addicted thug, Wilson's Nikita is a street-savvy homeless woman. The pilot, "Nikita" (on disc 1), details her introduction to the underground spy network known as Section One: facing a death sentence after a trumped-up murder charge, Nikita is approached by the mysterious Michael (Roy Dupuis), who offers her a new identity as an anti-terrorist operative. The subsequent 21 episodes in the set offer plenty of action and suspense, as well as a compelling character in Nikita, who struggles constantly with the deception and bloodshed that are unavoidable aspects of her assignments. The set concludes with a dramatic season finale, disc 6's "Mercy," which forces Nikita to deal with some hard truths about her future and her feelings for Michael.

If having the complete first season in one set doesn't please series fans, the supplemental features will surely satisfy even the iciest armchair operative. Disc 1 offers commentary by Surnow, Cochran, and director Jon Cassar on "Nikita" as well as commentary by Surnow for deleted scenes from several episodes (also on discs 2, 3, and 6); disc 6 features Surnow's comments on "Mercy," as well as "Section One Declassified: The Making of La Femme Nikita," which features interviews with the cast and creators. --Paul Gaita ... Read more

Reviews (200)

Sinfully Hypnotic and Action Packed
Erotic. Thrilling. Suspencful and exhilirating should be the opening tag lines to this hugely anticipated and much awaited box set from the cult hit series on from the USA network, La Femme Nikita. Fresh faces from actors like Peta Wilson, Roy DuPuis, and Matthew Ferguson are pitted against veteran actors like Eugene Robert Glazer and Alberta Watson, which adds to the series unique flavor. Where other series get lost in the same repetative formula, La Femme Nikita kept it simple, adding new plot twists and character developments continously, which gave the series its vitality and eventually longitivity! The show was a psychological chiller and action packed thriller that kept its cult fan base tuned in every Sunday night like faithful addicts. The cover design and layout of the DVD set itself actually look the like the mission profile templates in the show, which is cool. It also lists which episodes are on each disk, with a disc by disc breakdown of extra footage and commentaries (which by the way, are awesome), so the viewer can view the episodes however they choose. Lots of extras and a low price are the icing on the cake for this long anticipated box set for a series that helped define the USA networks noteriety.

La Femme Nikita: The Best Action/Espionage Series on TV
"This television show was a work of absolute genius. The acting was extraordinary, the action intense, the direction and production design dazzlingly modern and possessing stylishness so well-thought-out that it'll likely remain 'contemporary' for decades to come...

"La Femme Nikita" is, in my opinion, the best action/espionage series on television ever. I watched it beginning with the Fall 1997 season, catching up with season 1 in reruns from midnight ET on, through the bittersweet end in 2001. When USA Network moved it to 1 a.m. ET, I followed it. When it was shown at 2 a.m. ET, I followed it. I have every episode on VHS taped from my own television. But it's on now at 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. ET. And my tapes, being rewound and rewatched, over and over, will someday break down and disintegrate, like the recording tape in the original "Mission Impossible."

DVDs are essential for both fans and new viewers of "LFN." We must have high-quality digital format, boxed series of all five seasons, including bloopers, background interviews, outtakes, and anything else one can convince Warner Brothers, USA Network, and Fireworks to release.

The demand for the DVDs is burning on the internet from viewers in over 50 countries worldwide. Thousands of participants in message boards crave them. They eagerly await boxed DVDs with everything on them. They have followed the suspense, the high-stakes romance, the complex ambiguity, the superlative fashions, the original and scored amazing music (the best sound tracks I've ever heard on TV), the artful film-quality photography, the visual and sound editing--and, above all, the acting--from Roy Dupuis (among the most formidable actors of his generation in any language) and Peta Wilson and Eugene Robert Glazer and Don Francks and Alberta Watson and Matthew Ferguson--all members of the principal cast, and from Lawrence Bayne, Carlo Rota, Colm Feore, and other fine supporting actors--the writing by such wordsmiths as Michael Loceff, Peter Lenkov, Naomi Janzen, Robert Cochran, and Lawrence Hertzog--the directing by René Bonnière, T. J. Scott, and Joel Surnow (executive consultant to this series, as before to "Miami Vice" and later to the current hit series "24"), and #506's directorial debut by Roy Dupuis, just to name some of these talented directors. This series is not to be missed. But in order to see it in its entirety, most people need DVDs. While those involved have moved on to other projects, longtime fans of the show are still devoted to watching it. Short of reviving the series, only boxed sets of DVDs of the entire five seasons will satisfy already-devoted fans and reel in new afficionadoes of "La Femme Nikita."

With the soon-to-be finished book by the assistant to the executive consultants Christopher Heyn, entitled "Inside Section One: The Unofficial Guide to TV's 'La Femme Nikita'" (which will be the definitive book on the series, including an exhaustive glossary of terms used in it), these DVDs will be essential to own. There is a good chance also that they will become companion "texts" in college courses in media and writing for television. Given the events of September 11th and subsequently, the series revealing the activities of the secret anti-terrorist organization that is Section One and those who worked and loved within it was downright prophetic. It isn't merely current, it is au courant and still way ahead of its time.

(Just updating, to say how pleased I am that the DVD box set of Season 1 will finally be released on July 8th, 2003, and that everyone needs to buy it to encourage WB to release subsequent seasons on DVD too! As an enthusiastic viewer of "24," which I also admire, I am also pointing out that, in my book, "LFN" is still "number 1.")

Incredible
La Femme Nikita was one of the best TV shows of the last decade, a few notable others being Babylon 5 and Twin Peaks. Several other good TV series that had potential got canned early on, like Firefly and VR-5 (the latter being a bit corny trying to masquerade sci-fi as reality). LFN is truly one of the best.

Watch LFN as an allegory of the corporate world, as a warning about the future of intelligence agencies and the cold war/hawk ideology, as a defense of the concept of destiny/duty, or as an exploration of social relationships, love, and hate. It doesn't matter. LFN is exquisite in every respect.

An Art Form in its Own Right...
La Femme Nikita is truly an art form in regard to its brilliant and provocative portrayal of the human psyche. Never has such a television series captured and cleverly displayed emotions so vividly through characters. We can clearly emphasize, applaud, and dream of having Nikita's laurels. We feel we grow as she does! We love witnessing Michael's struggle of the man he must be in the Section and the man he really is. We despise and at the same time, find ourselves attracted to both Madeline's and Operation's cold and ruthless behaviors. The first season, although it was made in 1997, is still ahead of its time! While the characters grapple with Section obstacles, their struggles with their own issues of humanity reminds us of our own. Its exotic settings, great soundtrack (Depeche Mode, Morcheeba, Mono, Enigma, and much more), stylish and modern fashion make this series a real gem. It is a great way for you to fulfill your fantasy of being a "special agent" while also satisfying your "id." You will be hooked, and you won't be able to contain the excitement for the other 5 seasons!

Want a season 2,3 DVD now
Its excellent to be able to watch the series all over again.Wish season 2,3 ,4 etc DVDs are brought out.Its a great DVD to possess. ... Read more

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Director Zhang Yimou brings the sumptuous visual style of his previous films (Raise the Red Lantern, Shanghai Triad) to the high-kicking kung fu genre. A nameless warrior (Jet Li, Romeo Must Die, Once Upon a Time in China) arrives at an emperor's palace with three weapons, each belonging to a famous assassin who had sworn to kill the emperor. As the nameless man spins out his story--and the emperor presents his own interpretation of what might really have happened--each episode is drenched in red, blue, white or another dominant color. Hero combines sweeping cinematography and superb performances from the cream of the Hong Kong cinema (Maggie Cheung, Irma Vep, Comrades: Almost a Love Story; Tony Leung Chiu-Wai, In the Mood for Love, Hard Boiled; and Zhang Ziyi, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon). The result is stunning, a dazzling action movie with an emotional richness that deepens with every step. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (310)

Thrilling Hero
With "Hero" and "House of Flying Daggers" director Zhang Yimou has jettisoned to the forefront of filmmakers working today.There is no denying that Yimou has a distinctively strong visual style.That said, if it's all style and no substance, so what?"Hero" is blessed with a good narrative.Essentially, the theme of the film is what defines a hero.The answers that Yimou offers are both surprising and enlightening.Strong cast that includes Jet Li and Ziyi Zhang.Essential viewing.

Beautiful Film, but where was Jet Li?
Okay, Zhang Yimou is one of the all-time great film directors and i love his movies, though this one came across as a Disney cartoon done in real-life. My main complaint is that he didn't give Jet much to do. The part of the so-called Hero was a wooden, 2-dimensional character who wasn't on screen much. Instead, the story is really a visual tapestry of how China became united, without much dialog. Whatever. Great for kids, I guess.

Pure Visual Poetry: Story, Myth, Heart, Emotion, & Beauty
Okay, people...let's get a hold of ourselves.Many have knocked the martial arts sequences in HERO as being horribly unrealistic and that this fact has ruined the movie.Nothing could be further from the truth.True, the martial arts in this film are not the "realistic" acrobatics of Jackie Chan.Instead, it is pure visual poetry.These martial arts sequences are absolutely beautiful to watch.Anyone that can watch them without coming away with a sense of awe is just plain blind in my book.

In fact, that goes for the entire movie.HERO is one of the most gorgeous films I have seen in a long time.Not only are the sequences superb, but the scenic locations are also breathtaking.Moreover, the extensive use of color is astounding.While watching it, I felt completely transported into a different world and found myself lost in the film's sheer beauty.Furthermore, the mythical story is extremely complex, interweaving several themes & variations of the central plot.The audience gradually discovers the truth of this film and it continued to surprise me throughout its length.

I am not sure why so many people did not like this film.I can only guess that they were expecting a pure-action film with Jet Li taking on a country, "Rambo" style.I, for one, am happy that we were treated to something more.HERO has plot, heart, emotion, and style.And let us not forget the outstanding action it does provide: the action sequences in this film are some of the best ever captured on film.Highly recommended.

Not sure what multiple narratives is for
Basically, I think the graphic, plot, and theme all work fine and those who enjoy plays should be able to enjoy this movie as well (at least, I do). A major part of the movie, i think, is devoted to delineating and discovering of perspectives (narratives, you might say) related to the proper fate of China proper. In the end, a supposedly supported perspectives is revealed and the death of some characters might represent the painful but necessary abdication/self-annihilation for a better future. Even if there can be a better future, it necessarily involves an excruciating self-negating process. Something passionate, tender, free or even righteous must be given up. I'm not sure if every character and plot fits into this major theme very well because some do seem a little bit distracting, but still entertaining (nothing really needs to make sense as long as you like it).
Some might think the implied theme of reunification is a serious problem. I wouldn't totally agree with it for the reason the emperor wants to unify China and three characters give up assasinating him is for the longer peace of China. "If you want peace, prepare for war." This is from Punisher, but it explains the logic well. However, I seriously doubt that the director made this movie to condemn Chinese nationalism, though I don't know if any trace of anti-cosmopolitanism is obvious in it.
Anyway, graphic is cool, plot acceptable, theme...a little bit cliche, and, because the theme cliche, the use of multiple narrative might seem childlish and rather less challenging. But for those who really have no idea about Chinese history during the end of Chou dynasty and the present situation between the strait, it might be interesting. That is why I gave it three stars. If I have know zero about China, I might give it four and a half.

I didn't see the point of the movie
This movie basically tells one story in a few different ways.A warrior and friends are attempting to kill the emperor.That is about it for plot.There are several martial arts scences in this movie, but most of them are just too unbelievable.In one scene, the main character single handedly stops hundreds of arrows without even getting hit once.This is impossible, and that is coming from someone who used to watch DragonBall Z.

There are also to many inane comparison of fighting to various things.Fighting is compared to music and to caligraphy, which both have nothing to do with fighting.The is even a long, drawn out story plot in the movie involving caligraphy, which I found really boring and did not really feel that it served a purpose in the movie.

The ending of this movie is also very disappointing.I'm not going to ruin it, but I will say that it made the movie seem rather pointless.I really don't know why the main character was considered a hero, and frankly think that the movie was too limited on plot and did not even have a good story to begin with. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Marlene Dietrich
Its WORSE and BAD and Ugly that this Movie appears when I type in MARLENE DIETRICH - she would rotate in her graveyard here in Berlin when she would know this.

This is toooooo BAD!
I hate and dislike the Nazi-Guys. They were ill and stupid and brought a lot of MESS. It s crazy that in the world some people are playing this time in Costumes? Has the World nothing better to do?

Get better good books and documentary about this then the stupid movies.

Brings this time in history alive.
This video brings this period in history to life. You can actually imagine yourself there. Wonderful new material in color.

Interesting, valuable, but could be better
An interesting work with valuable footage, but too much "filler" material. The inclusion of footage of war criminals Roosevelt and Churchill is especially not within the parameters of "Third Reich in Color." The producers/editors could have cut some of the footage that was unnecessary/inappropriate, and not only not detract from the work, but improve it, even if shorter overall. Their inclusion of the special feature, "Reichshauptstadt Berlin," is a big plus, though.

not worth the buck
I bought this DVD based on the Amazon on-line reviews. I'm not certain if the reviewers are put ups or not, but when they say how great the quality is on this film I really wonder if they've watched the same program I did. The quality is awful!
Come on reviewers help out a little. If this is what you consider great quality, what do you consider bad? Not worth $29.95. More like $2.95. NOT RECOMMENDED AT ALL!

Good quality, new material
This DVD contains some interesting and new color material from the Nazi era. Initially I was skeptical in purchasing this, and assumed it would just trot out the same old Eva Braun home movies we've seen a million times. But wait... there is actually new film here, some of it recently discovered and airing here for the first time. Much of it was taken by soldiers at the front. There is some especially interesting footage taken during Barbarossa in the Russian campaign. There are also segments taken on the Western front in the 1940 campaign which have only recently been unearthed. Seeing these things in color makes everything appear more immediate and contemporary.

A small weakness is that there is not much actual color footage included of Hitler, Goebbels, Goering or the other Nazi henchman. They spend an inordinate time on a 1939 exhibition at Munich's Haus der Deutschen Kunst, where Hitler and the gang arrives and sits on a dais, watching a Wagernian-motive parade. There's also some nice scenes of a Bueckeburg farm fesitival in 1936, with Hitler walking up a hill with a limping Goebbels at his side. This has been seen before, however, most notably in the British production from 1972, "The World at War." Another weakness is the narration, which doesn't provide much actual information and doesn't tell the viewer what year the footage was made.

I recommend this film which will intrigue most people interested in WWII or the Third Reich. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Excellent!
Silver Streak is one of my favorite 70's movies and is an excellent mix of comedy with mystery and suspense, everyone is great in this movie, Gene Wilder, Richard Pryor, Jill Clayburg, Patrick McGoohan, etc, the movie also has one of the best endings I have ever seen in a movie and this is a movie I defintely could watch again!

A Holiday
SILVER STREAK needs to come out in a restored letterboxed DVD (adding the reminiscences of the stars on an alternative track would be great - but seems unlikely given Gene Wilder's and Richard Pryor's health concerns). Sitting down to watch this movie is like embarking on a weekend holiday with a group of terrific friends. You feel the excitement as you step on the train with Gene Wilder's character, and you're off! For anyone nostalgic for the 70's, this has the clothes, the cheesy decor, the innocent sense that saying "dirty words" was naughty and funny, and of course it has Pryor and Wilder -- two of the decade's greatest icons. Wilder in his prime here projects a sweetness and grace that is one-of-a-kind, and so endearing. Pryor is at the height of his hilarious talent and skill. Their pairing produced magic. Fine direction from Arthur Hiller following a warm-hearted script by Colin Higgins.

DVD Edition Needed
Really like to see this movie in DVD!!

Vote for DVD version
One of my all-time favorites. Still waiting for the DVD. If you would like to see this movie on DVD, do a search for the DVD on Amazon (it's now actually listed) and enter your e-mail address to be notifed of it's release. This information is passed onto the studio.

Please release this on DVD
This is Gene Wilder's best movie and it is one of the best adventure/comedies that came out of the 70's. I feel this is Gene and Richard Pryor's best film together and I just can't believe they haven't released it on dvd.

I watch it whenever it is on cable and was very disappointed to see that it is only available in VHS format.

It would be wonderful if they would release it on DVD with special features and to have Gene, Richard and Jill's commentaries would be an added treat.

So many movies are being released every week on dvd that aren't even close to being as good as this one - I don't understand why it takes so long to get some of these classics on dvd.

If you haven't seen it, and you love Gene and Richard, you won't be disappointed - the comedy is great and the scenery is wonderful also. I have taken Amtrack through the Rockies, and this brings back some fond memories, even though it was filmed in Canada, the scenery is just as beautiful.

I also love the woman who always calls him "Steve."

I just rented Stir Crazy, The Woman in Red, and bought Hanky Panky and although I think they're good, this is still Gene's best movie - I even like it better than Willie Wonka!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (52)

Kinda sad when you think about it
I feel that this movie was an okay movie because it is about my favorite thing in the world: Capoeira. I feel that the main character would be better if he was a real capoeira mestre, not some Karate Champion. The only parts worth watching are the first and last 5 minutes where you get to see roda in action. I am a self-taught capoeira student and I can play better than the goofs that they put in the movie. It is a good movie for capoeira newbies, but if you really want to know about REAL capoeira, research and find a mestre near you so that you can experience the exhileration of practicing such a beautiful art.

Axe camaradas!
This is a charming movie with a stupid storyline like those seen in most martial arts movies. But hey, the point is to see the hero beat the bad guys with some sweet moves, right? And this movie delivers just that. So why bother analysing it any deeper?

Mark Dacascos plays a young capoeirista (a guy who practises capoeira) who gets some misfit students onto the right side of the law by teaching them capoeira. Of course this leads to some showdowns between him and various criminal elements. And that's it, really. But capoeira is a beautiful sport to watch, and the movie is a good teaser for the real thing.

But Dacascos isn't really a capoeirista, and the movie misinterprets some of the basic elements of the sport. If you become interested in learning more after watching the movie, look up the nearest capoeira club in the phonebook and try it for yourself. I guarantee it will be an experience well worth your while! I speak from personal experience.

Great Introduction
Years ago I woked at a bookstore and had a customer request a book on Capoeira. I was intrigued by what I read, and wanted to see how it was performed.

I found info about this DVD online when I looked for an mp3 for the "Mazda" Zoom song & discovered it was a (badly mangled) version of one of the songs from this video.

So this is my first time seeing the actual art...the story-line sounds hokey, but it works because everything is beautifully choreographed by Frank Dux. It was a great introduction to an art form that is still little-known in the US.

My husband and I have watched it twice already tonight, it's fun,has great music, and made me wish to learn more about Capoeira.

Unassuming B-movie, great fun
ONLY THE STRONG (USA 1993): Upon returning home to Miami, a former Green Beret (Mark Dacascos) is employed by his local high school to rehabilitate some of its worst students by teaching them the art of capoeira (a form of martial arts from Brazil, using dance-like moves). But his work brings him into conflict with a local drug lord (Paco Christian Prieto), whose operations are threatened by Dacascos' interference...

A predictable B-movie plot is elevated above the routine by virtue of its slick presentation and interesting cast, all of whom turn in creditable performances under the assured direction of Sheldon Lettich (former scriptwriter of RAMBO III who went on to helm some of Jean-Claude Van Damme's most popular entries, including LIONHEART and DOUBLE IMPACT). The script - co-written by Lettich and Luis Esteban - provides a showcase for the visual artistry of capoeira, practised with genuine flair by DTV favorite Dacascos (BROTHERHOOD OF THE WOLF), whose mastery of the form helps to win over some of the most problematic students at his former high school, now a crime-ridden wasteland whose faculty (led by Geoffrey Lewis, acting everyone else off the screen) is clearly at the end of its collective tether. A faint air of camp hangs over the entire enterprise, as ultra-buff Dacascos flaunts his pumped-up torso through a variety of tight-fitting vests (drool! slobber!) while facing off against ultra-butch Prieto (a real life martial arts instructor, making one of his first screen appearances), though ultra-cute Stacey Travis hovers around just long enough to blunt the film's relentless macho swagger and provide a fleeting romantic interest for Dacascos, thereby reassuring the movie's target audience that his character is entirely heterosexual. The film is naive, obvious and predictable, but it moves at a rapid clip and is well-staged thoughout, and the bone-crunching fight scenes manage to live up to every expectation. Good, catchy music score, too.

Fox's DVD is a no-frills affair, including both widescreen and fullscreen versions of the film, along with a trailer (curiously framed at 2.35:1, though the main feature is correctly framed at 1.85:1). Sound and picture quality are uniformly fine.

95m 52s
1.85:1 / Anamorphically enhanced
[Fullscreen 1.33:1 version also included]
DVD soundtrack: Dolby Surround 2.0
Theatrical soundtrack: Dolby Stereo SR
Optional English subtitles and closed captions
Region 1

Excellent movie, a must see
This is my favorite Mark Dacascos' film. I been trying to find it on DVD for a long time and I'm so glad it finally was relased on this version. If you're a fan of Dacascos and enjoy to watch martial arts, this is a must, trust me. ... Read more

Reviews (275)

One Super DVD
Faster than a speeding bullet. More powerful than a locomotive. Able to leap the tallest building in a single bound. The world's greatest superhero has finally arrived on DVD with "Superman: The Movie" Special Edition. The film focuses on the young survivor of the doomed world of Krypton. After crash-landing on earth, the young alien is adopted by a caring farm couple and grows up with amazing superhuman abilities. Moving to Metropolis, he uses his incredible powers to protect the people and fight injustice. "Superman- the Movie" is probably the best superhero movie to date. The story is quite entertaining but does lose some strength during the second half though it still manages to preserve its entertainment value. The film contains some great performance by Christopher Reeve, Gene Hackman, Margot Kidder and Marlon Brando as Jor-El. The cast also includes Jackie Cooper, Terence Stamp and Ned Beatty. From daring rescues to superhuman feats of strength, the film contains some impressive action sequence and terrific visual effects.

The DVD honors the Man of Steel like it should. The comic book film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen format. The DVD contains a sharp video transfer and a fine 5.1 Dolby Digital sound with great surround effects. This amazing DVD features an audio commentary with director Richard Donner and consultant Tom Mankiewicz, additional footage including an extended sequence inside Lex Luther's underground gauntlet, behind-the-scenes documentaries, theatrical trailers, deleted scenes and DVD-ROM extras. With such a striking DVD presentation, "Superman" earns an "A".

Super features, super options, JUST PLAIN SUPER!
I enjoyed the Superman DVD. 25 years after this movie came out and seeing it so many times on TV with pan and scan, the newly remastered print blows everything out of the water. The music only option works for the title sequence and hearing the extra tracks on Side B adds to the genius that was John Williams soundtrack.

The audio is remastered and put on a surround sound system instead of the setup I have at home would shake your house to the core. The extra scenes were a good touch as well. Behind the scenes added the great touch of mystique that was Superman. Having Marc McClure host the BTS stuff added a bit of credibility.

Until Spider-Man last year and Batman in 1989, this was the film on which Superheroes were judged. The Hulk disappointed and Daredevil and X-2 were moderate hits.

Superman still stands the test of time, no matter what your views.

Spider-Man has kind of surpassed it...
Well now that we have seen the two Spider-Man movies, I tend to belive that they are now the standards by which other comic book films (both Marvel and DC) will have to live up to now. In a way, Superman is now kind of the odd film out. It works better as an origin story in how Clarke Kent becomes Superman and Chris Reeve's effective perfomance in the title role still works, In the comics, Lex Luthor has always been a one dimensional cartoon character, the only time that he was an effective villian was when Gene Hackman played him in this movie. The final scenes of Superman turning the Earth backward to save lois lane, are what they are. It might be a bit far fetched to put in a movie, but that does not stop audiences from enjoying it. and it doesn't stop me from watching it over and over again.

Born on Krypton, raised by the Kents on Earth, Becomes Hero
The Man of Steel flys into the spectactular motion picture, Based The DC Comic and also appearing in Action Comics, Christopher Reeve stars as Clark Kent.Reporter in Metropolis,Illnois for the newspaper the Daily Planet,And trouble emerges Clark Kent flys to the rescue as Superman, a blue suited red caped powerful wonder. He takes on Lex Luthor played Gene Hackman and falls for Lois Lane played Margot Kidder and Marlon Brand as the Krytonian father of Superman Jor EL. This Film is a Great Superhero movie and great film all around, probably the most imaginative thing the Man of Steel has been in. Superman began as the comic, then a radio show, several 1950s B movies, TV show and in 1978 the true Superman ovie. Superman is imaginative in everthing because hes an imaginative character. A pop culture icon on screen and in everthing else. the Special Effects are incredible, This a Super high flying ride. You Want a good superhero movie before Batman and Spider-Man this is it. If it wasn't for this classic we would'nt have superhero movies like Spider-Man 1&2,Batman,Hulk and X-Men 1&2. Thank Hollywood for making a great superhero film that lauched other superhero films. A thrilling Film of one of the greatest heroes of the 20th century, The Man of Steel, SUPERMAN.

Release Superman into our 21st century!
Very bad film.
They released Spiderman into the 21st century, why not Superman?
I've always found him to be the most appealing comic book character. He is sure for an amazing performance.
RELEASE HIM INTO OUR CENTURY! ... Read more

Reviews (339)

One of the greatest films ever.
I think this film is a masterpiece. Luc Besson has beautifully directed this achievement and it is probably his best film (Fifth Element aside). The best thing about this film is the different emotions you feel. You feel hatred, happiness, worry, and sadness all for one character. Leon is a professional (hence the title) cleaner, or hitman. He is a very alone person who has no friends. He does have a soft spot for the 12 year old girl Mathilda(wonderfully portrayed by Natalie Portman). When Mathilda's family is killed, she stays with Leon, but she wants revenge. Leon begins teaching her the tricks of the trade which provides some very funny moments. They begin to get very close, and he feels love for the girl. I will not ruin the whoile story for you but it really is a must see.Jean Reno was born for this part and Gary Oldman plays the eccentric bad guy very well. This movie does have some explosive action scenes, but it is really more of a drama. Yes there is a directors cut which in my opinion isn't much better than the regular and the regular is 10 bucks cheaper. Buy this film either way and you will be wonderfully happy with your purchase.

Best Film Ever Made. Natalie Portman is Perfect.
This movie has, what I beleive, the best performance from a child actor ever, from a 12-year-old Natalie Portman. Her character Mathilda shows the innocence of a kid, and the depth of a person out for revenge. Why she didn't get an Oscar is beyond me. And this was her first movie.

The story is really good. A hitman named Leon (Jean Reno) helps a girl named Mathilda after her family is shot down by corrupt DEA officers led by Norman Stansfield (Gary Oldman). When she finds out about Leon's job as a "cleaner" she asks to be trained as a hitman to avenge her little brother's death. Despite Leon's concerns he teaches her anyway, but over the course of his teachings, Mathilda develops feelings for him. This is something the uncut version explores a little deeper.

I suppose some of the scenes were taken from the American release for their subject matter. A scene where Mathilda wants to take her love for Leon to the next level really gives a good insight into Leon's past. It dosen't lead to anything between the two, so I don't see why they cut it. Other scenes included are Leon giving Mathilda some on the job training when he goes on his hits. I can see where some groups in America could have protested that, but it makes their relationship more deeper and complex.

An outstanding film, you really should see this version to get the whole story. I highly recommend it, it is my favorite of all time. Luc Besson's masterpiece can be fully appreciated on this release. I've been hearing rumors about a sequel in the works. I can only pray it's true, but this film is a tough act to follow.

Natalie Portman in her best role!
I don't usually like to watch movies about hit men or cops and robbers. I remember I got interested in this movie because of two things: Luc Besson's movie the Fifth Element, which was so wildly different and fascinating that I wanted to see what else this French director had done; and secondly, seeing Natalie Portman for the first time in the Star Wars: Phantom Menace movie.

Behind all of the dense make up and bad script and horribly non-existent directing from George Lucas in Phantom Menace, I sensed in Natalie Portman one heck of a terrific young actress struggling to come up with a meaningful performance. In "Leon - The Professional", working with a superb director, her acting talent is on full display.

When one thinks of modern day child actors, Anna Paquin comes to mind, in "The Piano", because she aced out some terrific adult actresses in 1993 to win the Oscar. Well, Natalie Portman, at age 12, had Anna Paquin beat by a mile in this movie, since her character takes up about half of the movie. If not for the truly unusual and off-beat story line of this movie, Portman would have gotten a lot more attention for her role in this movie, I think.

If you just focus on Portman's facial expressions and the way she carries herself in this movie, she goes through an amazing acting range in this movie, from hurt, terrified, bored, stuck up, cool and calculating, manipulative, sweet, child-like, and pubescent sexual allure.

As mentioned by other reviewers, the uncut version restores scenes that basically give a harder edge to Natalie Portman's character. The additional scenes of her assassin training with Leon and her efforts to attract and get closer to Leon definitely put her character in a harsher light. I remember from my first viewing of the cut U.S. version that Mathilda came across as a much more sweet and innocent child. The uncut version shows her more to be a hardened child of the mean streets of New York. Given the usual Hollywood propensities, it's not that surprising that these scenes got cut for the U.S. release. The uncut version does show the fullest acting range of Natalie Portman, even if they make her character less sympathetic.

Basically, the movie skates close to, but avoids the pedophilia controversies of the "Lolita" movies by having the character of Leon adhere to a strict code of ethics that firmly blocks all of Mathilda's advances. Even at the end, when he kisses her good-by and says that he loves her, it is clearly in the vein of being her protector and a big brother/father surrogate figure.

All in all, this was a great movie. Jean Reno was just so hauntingly sad as the loner-assassin Leon. Gary Oldman was definitely over the top in his portrayal of the crazed DEA agent - you almost expected his Dracula fangs to come out and his eyes to glow red when he popped those pills into his mouth.

So all of you Natalie Portman fans, this movie is a definite must-see. All of you Phantom Menace/Attack of the Clones haters who think that Natalie Portman can't act, you've got to see this movie to understand that no, Natalie Portman is a terrific actress. It's just really, really tough to play opposite total stiffs like Hayden Christiansen and Jake Lloyd, working with an idiot director like George Lucas.

Got Milk?
There's hardly anything I can say that will do justice to the splendor of 'Leon - The Professional'. The insanity of both the action sequences and Gary Oldman's performance... the touching love story of 2 lonely outcasts... the fantastic cinematography... the heart-breaking tragedy... the pulsing score... the violent life of a shy, milk-drinking, plant-loving hitman... the soul of an innocent little girl... the blistering, chaotic, blood-drenched fury that lives in all 3 of these characters...

...Wow...

...It's just a vortex of beautiful destruction. All these things crammed into one amazing film. A remarkable cast giving remarkable performances, and a very visual director shoving this seething powerhouse of a film right in our faces...

Like I said, there's nothing I can say. So, just believe me when I tell you that this is a very great film.

Great cinematic masterpiece
REALLY GREAT! IT WAS DONE LIKE A FOREIGN FILM, BUT I REALLY LOVED THE WAY IT WAS DONE. AND THE ACTING WAS GREAT! ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Superb!
This is one of my favorite book adaptations ever. It's finely crafted and the characters are portrayed realistically. What's more, it has it all, romance, treachery, gritty (realistic) scenes and Ciaran Hinds. :) Oh, my God. He's a must see. If you love the medieval genre do not miss this film! Did I mention C. Hinds? Well as others have said, the R.A. actor IS the film, taking it over completely, no question. I have no idea why Steve Waddington gets top billing b/c he's just okay, okay, he's dull as dishwater and deserves his love, Rowena who is a bit bland too. Rebecca and Brian Bois de-Guilbert are wonderful, however. And for those who whine that the movie did not stick to the book, well I say why should it? This is the movie the director decided to make; all book adaptations are just that - adaptations and are not there to copy the book vis a vis. If you love Ivanhoe the book, don't bother with this b/c you'll just complain. But if you love a finely crafted medeival, this is your film. No paranormal, no bull about chivalry, just the way it was - and one more thing about Walter Scott -- he totally romanticised this period in Norman/Saxon/Crusade history so you should take that into consideration when comparing book to film. The fact is that the knights templar were not saints and many were burned at the stake for their die hard beliefs as well as the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of saracens.

New Ivanhoe-great!
I'll try to be brief. This is a fantastic movie. I enjoyed it far more than Spider Man 2, or any of the Lord of the Rings.

The story is easy to follow, the charachters have reel feelings, strengths, weeknesses, and the acting was exellent. No need for 100-million dollar special effects.

My only complaint, and this seems to be true for many of the "new" films, is that the spoken word is sometimes difficult to hear because of all the background music or battle sounds etc.
But this movie has all we wish for. Action, romance, heroes, villians-and the good guys win!

"Realistic" but dull
Ivanhoe is a great classic of romantic literature. The creators of this version, however, abandoned the romantic aspects entirely in order to present what they see as how it "would have really been." In other words, they present Ivanhoe without any romance whatsoever. The knights present no pretence of chivalry, the women have no charm (Rowena is a churning cauldron of bitterness and nagging), Athelstane is no longer a comic relief, the fool is not foolish (or funny). The surprises of the book are revealed in advance (Ivanhoe reveals himself to his beloved before the tournament), so that there is no tension in the story. Rowena is played as a modern feminist and the addition of the Queen Mother as the deus ex machina in the end is lame. Can anyone really believe that a Queen Mother of that period would have insisted that her sons "hug" at the end? Or that Richard Lion-Heart would have done so?

In short, the drama that arises in the book is absent in this version, which replaces it with a sort of modern psychological pseudo-drama about individual feelings. The absence of context is fatal. For example, there is no explanation of the Knights Templar, their role, their principles, or their hypocrisy. As a result, it is impossible to make sense of the trial of Rebecca. The best performances were by Christopher Lee and the actress portraying Rowena, although the character she portrays bears little resemblance to the Rowena of the book.

I see no reason to remake a romantic novel without the romance, but this seems to be the modern way. As in the movie "Troy," which took away the Gods from the story, leaving the events inexplicable, this version takes away all the information, culture, and history that makes the story understandable and fun.

Ivanhoe Goes To War
Ivanhoe is a classic story, loved by children and grown-ups alike. By what misguided arrogance do screenwriters think they can write a better story than the original author? The attempt to introduce new motivations for the characters leads to a plot full of holes and empty of the delight and careful craftsmanship of Sir Walter Scott's book. The tenor of the film is monotonously angry and the battle scenes are a tedious, cheesy hacking and hacking. The male roles look and act so alike that one cannot tell them apart. The last scene with Eleanor from A Lion in Winter has nothing to do with anything and disconnects both John and Richard from the characters they have played all through the rest of the movie. If you like Ivanhoe, reread the book. If you do decide to buy this, do yourself a favor, at least, and fast-forward the battle scenes. You won't miss a thing and you'll be able to get to bed on time for a change.

Grittily superior to a prissy book
This is one of my favourite portrails of early mediveal life in all it gritty detail. The adaptation takes all of Walter Scott's annoying Deux et Machina out and leaves the watcher with a gripping, dynamic tale. The care that is taken with the minor as well as major details is a joy to behold with great costumes and settings and a wonderfully authentc feel.

Ciarán Hinds is absolutely superb as the Templar Sir Bois-Gilbert as is Christopher Lee as the Templar Grand Master Sir Lucard de Beaumanoir and Susan Lynch as Rebecca. Steven Waddington's Ivanhoe is good, but definitely diminished by the three previous actors.

Whilst more Brannagh's Henry V than Olivier's I feel that this adaptation is only strengthened by that fact and would be replacing my tape version with a DVD one today if it was available as region 2. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The second half of season 1, with some of the best episodes.
Vol 2, Switched features the second half of the original season, and most of the episodes on this disk are classic.

Raven fans will want to check out Switched, in which Raven and Starfire switch bodies, while the other members have their minds trapped inside puppets.The girls must work together to save the boys despite being stuck in each other's form.Although both get equal screen time, Raven noticeably has a bit more importance in the episode.Props to both Hynden Walch and Tara Strong for delivering a great performance as Starfire and Raven, respectively.

Car Trouble has the return of annoying pest in Gizmo.In it, Cyborg builds a hi-tech car, but it winds up getting stolen by some thieves... then Gizmo steals it from them.Cyborg(with help from Raven) attempts to take it back.Raven also shows a slightly lighter and friendlier side in this episode.A cute show, especially if you're a fan of either character(me being a fan of both, I enjoyed it quite a bit).

Mad Mod has the Titans get captured by... Mad Mod.They wind up having to deal with his psycadelic "school" of death.The episode is pretty much an excuse to be crazy, and you'll either love or hate this one.

Deep Six has the Titans facing a new foe called trident.Due to his underwater abilities Beast Boy has to face him alone, but luckily, there's also underwater ally Aqualad to help.Shame I didn't care for this one.Beast Boy was just too much of a jerk, and Aqualad was boring.

The other 3 episodes, Masks, and Apprentice, pts. 1 and 2, deal with the main plotline of season 1: Robin vs. Slade.Masks sets the events of Apprentice up, as Robin must battle Slade(brilliantly voiced by Ron Perlman, who was also Clayface in both Batman: TAS and Justice League) as well as his own inner demons, especially when Slade reveals just what he wants.These episodes are fantastic, and give the series some nice depth and even a bit of darkness, which may surprise a regular viewer who expects this just to be a regular "kiddy" show.

Sadly, I don't know of any special features confirmed yet.The first disk had an excellent look behind the creation of the original 1980's comic, so I wonder if there will be anything along those lines for the second volume.I wouldn't mind if there was an interview with the voice actors of the show.However, in typical with the "DC comics kids" releases I won't be surprised if there is another "interactive" game for the kids.Overall, these are some classic episodes from the series, and fans will likely enjoy this DVD.

Teen Titans in a nutshell
As a ninteen year old male, I'm probably among the lowest demographic who watches this show.Nonetheless, I can say this is one of the best animated series to be released in a long time.This DVD perfectly shows everything that Teen Titans is... the dark, the funny, the middle of the line, and the bad filler.I'm also happy to say that seven episodes are on this DVD, so you're not getting ripped off here (ahem, Trigun).

The pinnacle of this DVD is the last five episodes, which are simply among the best of the whole season.They showcase everything that makes TT so good.Let's get to it.

-Masks and Apprentice part 1/2 are the last three episodes of the main "Slade" story arc.These are absolutely excelent episodes, with some grade A dialogue, a interesting little story, and a REALLY strong depiction of something called OBSESSION.Robin really shows us what he's like, and the character development is top notch.Nice music and action too.This is the dark, and I love it.

-Mad Mod is totally silly.I can't say much about it, but there are tons of in-jokes to go around that might slip by you the first time.Anyways, it's one of the funnier things I've seen lately, and it's just so delightfully nonsensical.If you want mindless humor, this is it.Funny writing, once again.This is the funny, and I love it.

-Car Trouble and Switched are right between.They aren't silly, neither are they dark.It's just two well done episodes that make a point.They've got great writing, and some good character development.Sadly, the villans are awful, but they don't bring down the episodes too much.This is the middle of the line, and I like it.

-Deep six is awful.Not funny, not interesting, not making a good point.This is the bad filler, and I don't like it.Thankfully, it's only one episode on a disc of seven (where many other anime DVD's have 3-5 eps) so it's no big deal.The show as a whole as a few too many of these episodes, and these are what brings the show down the most.

So there it is.If you could only buy one DVD of the whole series, this should be it.Great DVD for a good series that anyone can enjoy, for a good price. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In his 19th screen outing, Ian Fleming's superspy is once again caught in the crosshairs of a self-created dilemma: as the longest-running feature-film franchise, James Bond is an annuity his producers want to protect, yet the series' consciously formulaic approach frustrates any real element of surprise beyond the rote application of plot twists or jump cuts to shake up the audience. This time out, credit 007's caretakers for making some visible attempts to invest their principal characters with darker motives--and blame them for squandering The World Is Not Enough's initial promise by the final reel.

By now, Bond pictures are as elegantly formal as a Bach chorale, and this one opens on an unusually powerful note. A stunning pre-title sequence reaches beyond mere pyrotechnics to introduce key plot elements as the action leaps from Bilbao to London. Bond 5.0, Pierce Brosnan, undercuts his usually suave persona with a darker, more brutal edge largely absent since Sean Connery departed. Equally tantalizing are our initial glimpses of Bond's nemesis du jour, Renard (Robert Carlyle), and imminent love interest, Elektra King (Sophie Marceau), both atypically complex characters cast with seemingly shrewd choices, and directed by the capable Michael Apted. The story's focus on post-Soviet geopolitics likewise starts off on a savvy note, before being overtaken by increasingly Byzantine plot twists, hidden motives, and reversals of loyalty superheated by relentless (if intermittently perfunctory) action sequences.

Indeed, the procession of perils plays like a greatest hits medley, save for a nifty sequence involving airborne buzz saws that's as enjoyable as it is preposterous. Bond's grimmer demeanor, while preferable to the smirk that eventually swallowed Roger Moore whole, proves wearying, unrelieved by any true wit. The underlying psychoses that propel Renard and Elektra eventually unravel into unconvincing melodrama, while Bond is supplied with a secondary love object, Denise Richards, who's even more improbable as a nuclear physicist. Ultimately, this World is not enough despite its better intentions. --Sam Sutherland ... Read more

Reviews (447)

The best Bond film yet.
The 19th MGM James Bond-007 movie is here. It's probably the best movie yet. It has the best stunts.

Filmed in: England, France, Spain, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and the Bahamas. The name is taken from 1969 On Her Majesty's Secret Service when James takes a look at his coat of arms and is told that the family motto is: The World Is Not Enough.

Of course, Pierce Brosnan returns as the role of 007. Sophie Marceau as the murdered tycoon's daughter, Elektra King. Denise Richards as nuclear expert, Dr. Christmas Jones. Robert Carlyle as the doomed terrorist, Victor Zokas aka Renard. And John Cleese as R, Q's assistant. The movie also sees Robbie Coltrane's return as Valentin Zukovsky and Judi Dench 3rd appearance as M, the boss.

The plot involves Sir Robert King, an oil industrialist. He buys a report about the Soviet's missile department accidentally thinking it contained info about the terrorists attacking his pipeline in the East. Surprised to find out his money was wasted, a Swiss banker retrieves the money. M sends 007 to pick it up. But the banker, Lachaise, is in for a surprise. The report Sir Robert bought was stolen from an MI-6 agent who was killed for it. Knowing Lachaise knows who killed the agent, Bond threatens him. Unfortunately, Bond only escapes with his life and the money. No name. After a spectacular scene, Sir Robert is dead. Days later, his daughter Elektra takes over the construction of the pipeline. But 007 suspects there is something suspicious about terrorist Renard, the King organization, and even Elektra herself. M refuses to listen to 007's crazy instincts. Only Dr. Christmas Jones & Valentin are on Bond's side.

The movie sees Q's retirement. And a good thing too. After all, the DVD isn't dedicated to Desmond Llewelyn for nothing. However, Q has given the Q labs to R. Probably a bad choice. R will talk you through putting a shirt on!

The language features are: Languages-English and French. Subtitles-English, Spanish, and French.

Special Features. Music video performed by Garbage (the band). The Making of The World Is Not Enough. Audio Commentaries. The Secrets of 007-alternate video options. Theatrical Theater.

Well, that's about everything this DVD includes. Hope the review was helpful.

Bigger and Better!
Here's a Bond film that deserves to be ranked among the best in the series. Along with the usual Bond formula of high tech gadgets, one-liners, and of course, the Bond girl(s), this latest installment also provides a story with a different twist. Throw in a combination of mind games, an unusual villain, exotic locales, and amazing stunts and you get an explosive, testosterone driven, eye-candy, action-packed thriller with a dash of high quality performances. One sequence in particular is the high adrenaline boat chase along the Thames River that takes place very early in the movie. Cool stuff!

The story delves much deeper into the psyche of James Bond than previous 007 flicks. Pierce Brosnan plays a much darker and vulnerable 007 in his third run as the British super agent spy James Bond. The World Is Not Enough also showcases the acting talents of Dame Judi Dench (who plays M) and Sophie Marceau as well as many others. John Cleese, of Monty Python fame, also plays a role in the movie as the heir apparent to Q. Every character played a larger role in this movie, in which, there were times when I felt James Bond was a supporting character rather than a leading one. There is definitely no shortage of star power in this movie.

A few things I didn't like about this movie (just my personal opinion mind you) were the opening Bond song, the paraglider-ski sequence, and the miniature scaled models. Yuck! Still though, this latest 007 thriller gives a good ride! Humor, international intrigue, and plenty of action. This is a James Bond of the 21st Century and I hope Pierce Brosnan sticks around to do many more like this one!

Bond is the best of this time......Dry,humorous,and elegant,
Mr.Bond is ranking itself as the highest of his quality,and is back once more,but this time dry as a glass of martini,and elegant as far as he could ever get,making his job as right as Beethoven while composing his 9th.
James bond,her majesty's loyal star,is back in a very different style and story;He is involved in a complex of a villian trying to take over the world with his lover's own oil pipe line. The thing is,you see,he feels no pain.Nothing.Amazing,as it is surprising for the first time to hear it. Elektra,the new bond girl,is to my own taste one of the best bond girls ever in the series,simply because she has many sides to be related with,and sophie marseau,the actress,bringing an excellent performance in the role of Elektea.The other bond girl,christmas,portrayed by denise richards,has a small relation to a bond girl,but still interesting,though.
As well as the deep and dark plot which develops suprisingly,we also discover a more darker side inside the familiar characters,like M,for example,Which makes this movie special and wonderful.
Also,We are introduced to the the next Q(The great,humorous,and giant John Cleese,from the mighty "Fawlty towers" and "Monty Python's flying circus"),Which is,and believe in my own words,the best there is to portray the charcacter of Q.He is doing it very,very well.
You are going to see a different bond,a new bond,a complex and dark story,the best british humor ever brought to a bond film, and,of course,James Bond himself,Pierce Brosnan,is worth all of the bond touches and twists.
You think you can give me the whole world?
Well,the world is not enough,maybe,but the movie,believe me,does.

"I never miss"
This is the best film to date in the series, hands-down. It may not have the classic charm of Goldfinger, but a couple of viewings (something most people aren't willing to credit a Bond film with) reveal a film which is incredibly substantial, in an unprecedented - and unnecesary - way. It could get by on the charm of the locations, one-liners etc., but it still tries to put together a credible and interesting plot, and it succeeds.

The most obvious credit to the writers is Carlyle's brooding, existentialist villain, which reminded me of The Misfit in O'Connor's 'A Good Man is Hard to Find.' Carlyle, in surprising contrast to his turn as the psychotic Begbie in Trainspotting, plays the role with just enough subtley and understatement, making the character's evil much more believable than the cackling megalomania of earlier specimens. What I also like about the screenplay, though, and what isn't immediatley apparent, is that it casts some doubt on the role of Bond in the world. In other movies, he seems to have an absolute moral imperative, able to gun down scores of people without any consequence, simply because his enemies are abosolutley evil. In this film, though, among the ruins of the USSR (a theme already explored in Goldeneye), there's mo