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Hip-hop czar Master P cowrote, executive produced, and stars in I Got the Hook-Up, which is truly one of the more surreal urban comedies ever seen. P plays Black, a small-time hustler who scams a shipment of cell phones. With his partner Blue (A.J. Johnson) and semi-girlfriend Lorraine (Gretchen Palmer), Black snags a bit of cellular service from a large corporation and starts making a bundle from cell-phone sales. Unfortunately, the phones are a bit undependable, and a gangbanger accidentally broadcasts the location of a package of cash over the radio, setting off a treasure hunt. The gangbanger swears vengeance on Black and Blue, the cellular company starts investigating the surge in use, the FBI gets involved--everyone's on the hunt for our heroes. This plot description, however, is much more direct than the way it plays out. I Got the Hook-Up is a bizarre conglomeration of oddball characters and odd, off-the-cuff incidents, such as when a couple of cops get called in for a domestic dispute, only to discover one of the cop's wives, a dwarf, having an affair with a guy in a leather bat suit. Or there's the funeral of a gangster that turns into a brawl; the pleasure palace a TV repairman has in the back of his shop; an FBI interrogation in which the agents tear off Mission: Impossible-style rubber masks--the plot quickly gets lost in the madness. Which is not a bad thing, really. Tall, laconic P and short, excitable Johnson make an appealing Mutt and Jeff comic duo. Featuring cameos by Ice Cube, Snoop Doggy Dogg, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and others. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (41)

What is not to like about this movie
This movie was fun. Black and Blue get ahold of a bunch of cell phones and start their own business of hotwiring the phones to work on their service. This movie had that Friday feel. No big production, just a neighborhood that you will swear is only a few blocks from where you live. I almost didn't watch this movie, because at the time I figured it would be a waste of time. I happened to catch it on HBO and after a few minutes I relized that there was definately something fun about this movie. Well worth purchasing if you like movies like Friday or Don't be a menace to South Central while drinking your juice in the hood. It's just plain fun. Oh yeah, incase you haven't noticed, Ice Cube and Master P both are actually very talented actors. I threw Ice Cube in because he makes a cameo appearance in this one.

Money aint a thang
I really liked I got da hook up because Master P is very talented, fine and smart. He has mega loot so it really doesn't matter what he do with his money cause its' his. I gave the movie 4 stars because the ending part wasn't so funny as the beginning. I wish one day I could see him and meet the whole No Limit Soliders because they really blown up all over the world. I'm really sorry about his brother Kevin Miller pasting away. Now Master P has to do the best for him cause Kevin looking down on P and making sure he's accomplishing the best.

Thank you Eulanda A.K.A. Mookie

FUNNY MOVIE
this movie is the funnyiest stuff i have ever seen in my life, and it is a bonus for me that bone thugs n harmony sing on the soundtrack, i own it, anywayays, yea this movie has master p-black, and A.J. Johnson, blue, i liked it because it was gansta, i liek gangsta movies, so go out and get this DVD.

This is almost as bad as Manos: the Hands of Fate
There are bad movies and then there are really bad movies. This is one of the latter. I'm not picky when it comes to movies. No plot; fine they just get in the way. Horrible acting; great, I could die happy if I never saw another big name actor deliver an Oscar worthy performance.

The plot to "I Got the Hook Up" is actually quiet simple. Two hustlers who run a fencing operation go into the cell phreaking business, only to piss off all the wrong people in the process. Despite the simple premise however, the movie quickly turns into an incoherent series of scenes, which present a story only in theory. I actually wonder if the idea was to film a bunch of random scenes, glue them together, and hope for the best. This is supposed to be a comedy, but there are only a few scenes that are even remotely humerous. There isn't much unintentional humor either.

Whoever pronounced Ed Wood Jr. the worst director ever, has obviously never heard of Michael Martin. Seriously, I've seen Asian films without any dubbing, or subtitles that make more sense than this. Hell, even the Italians circa 1975, made horror movies that were more coherent than this pile of garbage. Do yourself a favor and find some nice paint to watch dry, and stay away from this one.

Watch Senseless, Don't Be a menace to..., Friday instead
This is not a funny movie... Now I've seen thousands of comedies and is a big fan of africanamerican flicks and I Know what I'm bout...

This is nuthin like "Friday" or the next, "Dont be a menace to South Central", "High School" High or even "Trippin".

AJ Johnson is a really annoying guy, but he's simply a Chris Tucker,Chris Rock wannabe who's not funny at all.
And Master P has got to be the worst rapper to turn actor, yes people even Coolio has shown better acting skills.

DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME, IF U WANNA WATCH "THE NO LIMIT FAMILY" BUY "THE HOT BOYZ" INSTEAD ... Read more

Reviews (61)

Refreshing dialogue
I live in Denmark where we don't get to see a lot of "black" movies. I picked it up at the video store because it had black actors on the cover. It was such a pleasant surprise to see an intelligent and witty movie with a refreshingly dry sense of humor. I say surprise because a lot of times, racial issues distract the director from the story he's really trying to tell. There's a time and a place for everything. For once this was just a great movie about brothers and sisters and how they get along.

Promising Debut for Cherot
Christopher Scott Cherot hits more than he misses in HAV PLENTY, his award-winning debut film. It tells the story of an extremely broke writer named Lee Plenty (Cherot), who is invited to hang out for New Year's with his soon-to-be-married college friend, Havilland Savage (Chenoa Maxwell) and a few of her "significant others." Along the way, issues about the true nature of their relationship are explored. Are they "just friends" or is their relationship more than platonic?

Cherot is very appealing in his role. It is refreshing to see an African American man that is articulate without being particularly "cool." On the other hand, while a definite "looker," Maxwell is so cold and manipulative in her role, sometimes you wonder what Cherot's character sees in her. Maxwell has also appeared in COLD FEET, another film that's made the rounds of the festival circuit.

Of the supporting cast, Tammi Catherine Jones almost steals the show as Caroline, Hav's buddy. Jones injects a comedic energy to all of her scenes that demand your attention. If given the opportunity, Jones could really shine in her own vehicle. Her expressive face seems particularly suited to the small screen. With the exception of a tiny role in the little seen, AMOUR INFINITY (a winner at the 2001 Hollywood Black Film Festival) and CASTING FOR GLINDA (a one-hour documentary that she directed), Jones appears to be amazingly silent in the movie biz. Hopefully not for long, because she's really the reason to check out this film.

Robinne Lee is also worth watching in her role as Leigh (note spelling), Hav's unhappily married younger sister. Of the cast members, Robinne has probably worked the most since making this film.

This romantic comedy has a breezy charm that is quite appealing. You really feel for Lee Plenty's struggles -- with his life and his relationship with Hav. Several of the dialog exchanges are also very good. Technically, it's on the level of a micro budget indie film. It's not slick -- which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but something to be aware, particularly if you only watch big budget studio films. However, sometimes you wish that at least half the time was spent with Cherot's appearance as were the women in the film. A little makeup would have gone a long way for Cherot (not to say he's a bad looking brother, he isn't).

In a case of "live imitates art," after the film was screened at the Acapulco Black Film Festival (where it received two awards including best film), it was picked up by Edmonds Entertainment, music mogul Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds's production company (they also produced SOUL FOOD). Apparently, after acquiring the film, the company felt that HAV PLENTY needed a new ending. What they came up with is hopelessly corny and adds little to the film. It appeared to be a classic example of what happens when there are "too many cooks in the kitchen."

However, don't let that faux pas keep you from seeing this otherwise charming film. Without spoiling anyting, you'll know the added scenes have arrived when the technical quality rises abruptly (and you see some more familiar faces). If you wish, this might be a good time to stop the VCR (unless you want to fast forward to the credits).

Christopher Scott Cherot was on to something with this film. This is especially true for the more educated and/or romantic among us, that don't relate too well to 'hood movies. There's a few missteps here and there (including scenes that should have been cut), but overall HAV PLENTY is worthy of your viewing consideration.

An awesome movie for everyone!
I absolutely love this movie, I rank it at the top of my favorites list. I'm white, so I don't know how "authentic" or whatever a portrayal of African-Americans it is. It must be fairly authentic, it was written by an African-American man, and no one holds the market on yuppies or starving artists! ;-)

My question is, why isn't this guy in more films? He is HOT and funny, and obviously extremely talented. I'd line up to see anything this guy was in. If you want a smart, sexy romantic comedy, this is the movie for you.

O.k.
I seen this movie a long time ago and had mixed emotions. It is O.k. I did not like the Havelent (?) character. I don't like when Black Sisters are played in a mean and ignorant light. (Give a brother a nice hello or smile) I hated that he got her in the end. There were some scenes I liked, such as when the husband punched the Plenty character (funny) and the arrogance of the Hil Harper character. Babyface and is wife Tracey, Oh there acting skills were awful. However I am happy they produced the movie. This movie gets a 3 stars.

Brilliant little movie
Surprising and charming movie. Clearly a small budget but no small talents in this one. Give it a try. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Far Greater Passion than Will Smith's "Version" of the Ali
I respect Will Smith's moving, and brilliant portrayal of Muhammad Ali. Mr. Smith's performance and efforts truly warranted him receiving the oscar nomination which came from the Academy of Motion Pictures and Arts.

Having said that-and surprisingly enough since the director was Michael Mann (Miami Vice, Manhunter, Last of the Mohicans, Heat-and I can stop right there-those titles speak for themselves!)and Will Smith has a strong supporting cast-the movie lacked passion, zeal, and emotion. It ended up being a clearly staged movie, trying to cram an epic into a long film. The result was mixed at best, lacking in soul and spirit of the very man it sought to portray.

Usually its very difficult to have a person portray themself-and Muhammad Ali is not in the same league of acting as Will Smith. Nor does the movie, "The Greatest" have the immense supporting cast-though Ernest Borginine (Angelo Dundee) and others are noteworthy. However, the key to "The Greatest" is that the real people play themselves-they are just being themselves. The fights aren't staged-but are actual footage of the fights. The news conferences are the real drama, and the interactions with Ali are both real clips and recreations. Will Smith is a very funny actor-and it surprised me that the humor of Ali (and I mean the kind of humor that makes you laugh till it hurts)did not come out.

Seeing Muhammad Ali cracking jokes and seeing his humor is poignant-and an awesome experience. Seeing the real Bundini, its awesome. Now, I'm not saying the performances-in the acting since, or that the plot, in the Hollywood sense is strong. What I am saying is something that Bundini says in a clip from "When We Were Kings." To paraphrase, 'Muhammad Ali's life ain't no dang Hollywood movie...he's a real man, with challenges and obstacles to overcome, and unlike some script, we don't always feel good everyday, we gotta work hard at this thing to get it right, we gotta push ourselves to be the Champion for the People, and to not lose by taking it easy even when we want too.'

And my friends, that,to sum it up, is why seeing the shorter, choppier version (which does omit somethings the Will Smith movie either covers, speculates about, or just plain makes up)will leave you coming away so inspired, and so happy-and knowing at the basic level-that "The Greatest" is the better story. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY ABOUT THIS ONE
AFTER SEEING HOW ENTERTAINING THE ORIGINAL ''SHAFT'' WAS, I WAS DISSAPOINTED BY THIS SEQUEL. THIS TIME, SHAFT INVESTIGATES THE MURDER OF AN OLD FRIEND. SOMETHING THAT MADE THE FIRST FILM SO ENJOYABLE IS SIMPLY JUST MISSING FROM THIS ONE. THIS FILM IS MEDIOCRE AT TIMES, BUT THANKS TO RICHARD ROUNDTREE'S LIKABLE PERFORMANCE, AND THANKS TO THE EXPLOSIVE FINAL HALF HOUR, THIS FILM IS WATCHABLE. ONCE AGAIN, THE THEME SONG IS A HIGHLIGHT. FOLLOWED BY SHAFT IN AFRICA.

Nu Yawk's Koolest
Back in prehistoric times, John Shaft was the role model if you was a nice guy, Priest from Superfly was the man if you was dreaming of livin' the life. Shaft's Big Score the followup to the Cool Black crimefighter series, is a slickened up version of the much more grittier original. Still, the bad ... gets off. The climatic chase has been "rescene" in dozens of later films from Hollywood and around the world and Mr. Parks still doesn't get the proper props for bringing to the screen a cultural icon that despite time and Singleton's "nephew" is still the Man. The late Reverend O.C. Smith is too countrified for singing a Big City theme but the powers the be didn't want to pay Isaac"Black Moses-Voice of ... Reason Chef from South Park" Hayes asking price. But there is a tease of what it might of been in the club scene where somebodys' girlfriend swirls to the early '70s funk. Never mind the usher pass the joint and hand me the gin Shaft Big Score is smokin' Jim.

Shaft Is Back !! With Good Action Scenes and Sexy Smile
Because of the success of the original "Shaft," MGM upgraded the series, giving more action scenes and less nudity; so this time Shaft in the opening credits drives a car in the midnight New York while in the previous film he was walking down the street.

The basic of the story is not particuarly original. It is about the missing money from the safe of Shaft's friend and insurance broker. As Shaft starts his investigation, a crime syndicate is looking for the money while it tries to kill him, but of course, it's a very, very wrong idea. Our Shaft, keeping the police and Bumpy (Moses Gunn re-appearing from the original) at bay, gets what he wants, as always!

Gordon Parks (who had a long remarkable career as photographer, and himself appearing as a croupier here) demonstrates he is also good at presenting impressive action scenes, especially the chase scenes at the end of the film. However, by the today's standard, they might look too long and stretched. Actually, the stunts themselves are impressive, but if the editing had been tighter, they would be much better.

Richard Roundtree looks as sexy as ever, and entertains us with his suave way of talking to girls. Other characters are drawn better than original "Shaft." Charismatic Julius W Harris is cast effectively as a detective, and the idea of clarinet-playing gangster is interesting. And Drew Bundini Brown's Willy is a standout. The movie is a satisfactory, if not perfect, action thriller.

Effective Sequel
When a friend of Shaft is killed in an explosion, the super-slick private dick tries to track down the killer. During Shaft's investigation, he once again crosses paths with Bumpy Jones, the Harlem mob boss from the first film, as well as another ganster, Gus Mascola. Again Shaft begins to play all sides against each other, in order for him to get what he wants, revenge, and a big chunk of change! This film was rushed into production to cap on the success of the first film, and the hurried production shows in the film. The plot is kinda weak, and the classic dialogue from the superior predecessor is sorely missed. However, the awesome chase scenes at the end of the film, as well as the increases in both sex and the body count make this an over all fun ride. Followed by Shaft in Africa.

Shaft 2 is 2
Shaft's Big Score was the second entry of the series. The main let down was the music that was provided with O.C. Smith's vocals. It had some gems of dialogue like the elderly lady scene at the elevator. Being a vehicle showcasing black actors, it was a conversation piece for the African American while playing card or during breaks at work or school. It was a thrill to watch then and still is fun now. ... Read more

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Special agent Cleopatra Jones (Tamara Dobson), six feet two inches of sinewy fighting fury clad in layers of runway chic fashions in bright rainbow colors, strolls up a sand dune and orders the destruction of a Turkish poppy field. Thousands of miles away, an L.A. drug lord named Mommy (Shelley Winters hamming it up with garish wigs and lecherous leers) screeches as her life blood burns away and lures Cleopatra stateside to plot her demise. A product of the "blaxploitation" explosion of low-budget thrillers featuring black heroes in the 1970s, Cleopatra Jones may not bethe best of the batch but revels in the most outrageous fashion sense. Cleo looks great in furs, pantsuits, ponchos, turbans--a new outfit every scene--and drives a sleek black Corvette with a personalized license plate: "CLEO." It's a shame that the producers dropped the exotic potential of a globetrotting super-agent for an L.A.-bound gangster film, which is entertaining in a comic-book way but rarely reaches the energetic levels of the gritty Pam Grier action pictures Coffy and Foxy Brown. Bernie Casey is a role model of dignity and action as a neighborhood activist, and a garishly overdressed Antonio Fargas delivers a suitably flamboyant performance as Mommy's pusher Doodlebug. The glamorous super-agent flew off to Hong Kong for the 1975 sequel, Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (11)

This one is great fun
Sure it's over the top. Sure Shelley Winters' character is absurd. But this one is a lot of fun. In the genre of blaxploitation movies, this movie is closer to "Shaft" in quality than it is to "Foxy Brown". "Foxy", while enjoyable, is a very amateurish production. "Cleopatra", on the other hand, is very well done. The car chase rates as one of the best of the era.

As for the transfer, it also is very well done. My only complaint about the DVD is the lack of any additional features. In fact, it is so bare that the menu is a generic Warner Bros. logo instead of related to the movie.

Regardless, even if you aren't a big fan of the blaxploitation genre, this one is great entertainment....exciting and funny at the same time.

Major Company's Answer to Blaxploitation Vogue
As a good example to see how a major studio handles topics in vogue, "Cleopatra Jones" is worth watching. I mean, there is nothing new in this film except the fact that more money is invested than in "Coffy" or "Foxy Brown," small, independent company's works. The formula is basically the same as those of so-called blaxploitaion films, but the shoot-out, car chase, or explosion scenes are all updated.

This movie is about Cleopatra Jones, or "Cleo," sexy, cool, no-nonsense secret agent for government, who fights against drug syndicate. And she uses karate (a bit). Well, the rest is as you guess. Tamara Dobson is remembered as Cleo, and rightly so. Her tall, slender body fits exactly Cleopatra's character, and she is pretty impressive, and her acting is not bad.

However, much, much more impressive is Shelley Winters (Oscar winner!!), who plays "Mommy," ruthless mastermind behind drug business. Her hammy performance -- wearing a black leather jacket, yelling "I will kill HERRR!!! -- is something you see in your nightmare. She overacts so much that if Golden Raspberry Awards had been there back in the 70s, she surely would have win the prize of the decade. The final scene, in which Cleo fights Mammy (yes, they fight!!) in a junkyard, will become ... well ... a bizzare memory for you.

Okay blaxploitation film
"Cleopatra Jones" is a surprisingly well-made action film, and although it offers nothing new, it has more going for it than many other films of this type. Drugs, inner-city violence, dealers and their remora of enforcers are what Amazon warrior Cleopatra Jones is up against and she tackles these evils with the help of two karate experts. Car chases, shootouts, killings and karate fights are all done with professional skill but it's too bad that Bernie Casey wasn't given more to do because he's wasted in this picture. Shelley Winters is way over the top as a lesbian drug dealer in an embarrassing performance that adds nothing to the film or her reputation as a capable Hollywood actress who won an Oscar in a supporting role in "A Patch of Blue" [1965]. Joe Simon's punchy vocals accompany the action on a soundtrack that seems to mirror Isaac Hayes' "Theme from Shaft".

For Blaxploitation fans only
If you liked the trashy Blaxploitation films of the 70s, you'll love this. If you're like me and hate this junk-filled genre, it ain't for you.

Bad acting (especially Shelly Winters and the ubiquitous Antonio Fargas), overdone story (main character getting revenge for framing by the (of course) racist crooked cops), ad nauseum. Good for laughs, but not much else.

However, there are some redeeming features that raise this from one starts to two for me. Bernie Casey comes off as a very sincere and redeeming character who tries to rid th eneighborhood of drug abuse. Cleo Jones herself shows that women can be smart as well as sexy (though she's not quite as charasmatic as Pam Grier's characters and Pam's a better actress). But in either case, this is one of those films best watched with a bunch of your friends over and a cooler filled with beers nearby.

Campy '70s Fun!
I have always really liked this movie since it came out in 1973. I have watched it countless times through the years on TV, but haven't seen it for a while on TV so I picked it up on DVD. Although the DVD doesn't offer a lot of features, the picture quality is good and it's presented in it's original cinemascope format. This was one of the higher budget "blaxploitation" flicks from the '70s. Seeing it as a kid I thought it was the coolest movie. Now that I am a lot older, it's still cool, but in a campy/fun way. The plot consists of a government agent named Cleopatra Jones (Tamara Dobson)who is hired to rid the US of drugs. She goes after one of the "Queenpins" of the drug trade called Mommy, played by Shelley Winters. The one thing I never forgot about this movie was Cleopatra's kickin' Corvette complete with a cassette deck, which was really high-end at the time! (Most cars had 8-track players) Along with this was her funky fashions! If you like the '70s action genre, this is a great addition to your library. ... Read more

Reviews (61)

An insight into late 20th century culture and racial issues
In WHEN WE WERE KINGS, Leon Gast portrays 1974's "Rumble in the Jungle" as a cultural milestone in American history. This is more than a film on boxing -- it sheds light on the entire sport of boxing and, more importantly, on issues of race in America and rest of the world in the late 20th century. Intellectuals such as Norman Mailer, George Plimpton, and Spike Lee add comentary, and ask questions such as: Who was the "good" black boxer? Who should we root for, the draft-dodging but personable and funny Ali, aged and probably past his prime, or the super-talented, but also aloof and arrogant, Foreman. The contrast between the ways in which each boxer relates to the black Africans in Zaire is interesting and touching, and the fans' pre- and mid-fight chants trying to rally the losing Ali stay with you long after the film has faded to black. The film sets off at a lightnign quick pace and never slows down, and the last twenty minutes is among the most triumphant filmmaking, documentary or fictional, that I have ever seen. This film is a must see for sport fans, cultural historians, and anybody who loves good movies.

great background on Rumble in the Jungle 1974 event
The thing that leaped out at me:
1) BB King's singing and playing guitar in 1974 in Africa was at the top of his game.
2) Norman Mailer's analysis and insight when interviewed 1974 is like a sample from his book, "Fight", which is now featured, in part, on Muhammad Ali's web site now.
3) Ali seemed like a smartalec to me in 1974, but now in 2004 looking at the old footage of him talking, he seems charismatic and funny .If you want lots of Rumble in the Jungle fight footage, this is not the DVD for you, but if you want insight in to the event and what contributed to Ali's upset of Foreman, this is a must have.

Not quite the whole truth
My DVD, bought in England, contains as extras the full-length footage, round by round, of both the Rumble and the Thrilla, with English commentary by David Frost among others. I have to agree with those reviewers who have pointed out that WWWK badly misrepresents the fight. The simple truth is that Ali won every round of the Rumble. He was right on top of Foreman from the outset, and the clever editing and dramatic spin put on the match by Norman Mailer is just so much fiction. Foreman looked like he'd swallowed some substance which was the opposite of speed: as Joe Frazier said in the live commentary, he was missing with empty air-swings and "boxing foolish". After two rounds, which was about as far as he'd needed to go in previous fights, he ran out of wind. He still tried to use Ali's body as a punch-bag, more and more feebly, while Ali was picking off blow after blow to Foreman's head as if it was a standing punch-ball. Ali certainly threw a head-punch with shattering speed. He rolled around on the ropes a lot of the time, but for the rest he ducked away and danced around grinning fit to bust, mocking Foreman with his mouth and winking to the crowd. He was in much better physical shape, superbly fit, and he boxed an extremely smart strategy in the local conditions. WWWK is still a great film, however, full of interesting comment on the politics and hoop-la of the event: but it's marred by its fake telling of the fight. Ali is presented in all his glorious charismatic uppity persona, a magnificent physical presence, funny and clever, the epitome of boxing skill. I could have done without a lot of the music etc, but it seems this was part of the original reason for making the film. Four stars for WWWK, five stars for this DVD because it has the real thing as an extra feature.

One of the Best Documentaries Ever
This fight was one of the first distinct memories of my childhood. The damn thing took forever to come on TV (my father and his friends had gotten it on closed circuit in Germany) and I fell asleep at least once waiting for the fighters to finally make it into the ring. I was too young to understand everything that went on in the leadup to the "event" (and that's what it was) and I was absolutely delighted to learn that this film was going to be released so I could catch up.

And it is a truly great film. It is a great film because it documents a great time in American and African history and because the things it documents are inherently dramatic and exciting. That said, this is also a terrific film from a filmmaking point of view; wonderful camera work, in your face documenting, and intelligent editing. It's not as "artsy" as Leni Riefenstahl's classic documentation of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, but that event had a totally different cultural and historical context.

As a sport film, this movie is also important because it documents one of the greatest fights of all time; Ali correctly noted after the fight that his rope-a-dope strategy would go down in the annals of boxing.

All in all a wonderfully entertaining, informative, and inspiring way to spend about 90 minutes of your time.

Ali Boom Bay Yea
As a piece of archival footage this film can't be beat, as it captures the chaos and pageantry that surrounded the Ali-Foreman fight in 1974. Ali never looked so great as he did in the build up to this fight. He was in prime form, even if a heavy underdog to the massive George Foreman. Leon Gast captures Ali in all his crazy kinetic glory, boasting proudly of how he would dance, and Foreman wouldn't lay a glove on him. Gast also focuses on Don King who in typical fashion played both ends of the stick, promoting both fighters and coming up with a $10 million purse thanks to Mobutu Sese Seko, Zaire's ruthless dictator, who saw a potential windfall for the country in the international attention this fight would generate. As Ali noted, some nations go to war to get attention and this fight will cost a lot less than a war. What we got was the famous "Rumble in the Jungle."

Unfortunately, this film doesn't go very deep in analyzing the fight, and gives the fight itself surprisingly short shrift. All we get are a handful of truncated rounds and the final blow delivered by Ali. But, what this film does provide is the pageant that surrounded the fight along with engaging commentary by Norman Mailler, who evocatively captured the spectacle in "The Fight," George Plimpton, Thomas Hauser, who has written the definitive biography on Ali, and Spike Lee. Mailler is the most fun to listen to, as he lived and breathed the fight and gives some of the most trenchant comments on it, but he too seemed mystified at how Ali pulled it off, chalking it up to the "trembling woman" who supposedly sucked the life out of Foreman.

George Foreman seemed invincible, having torn apart Joe Frazier and Ken Norton, but he simply wasn't prepared to deal with someone of Ali's caliber, or the massive publicity this fight generated. Foreman was also shocked to be so poorly received in Africa, where Ali was King. Foreman seemed out of place in Kinshasha, never able to find his footing or able to deal with a crafty fighter like Ali, who came up with his famous "rope-a-dope" that evening. Foreman simply punched himself out and had nothing left after seven rounds. It was then that Ali worked his magic and proved to the world that he was indeed the greatest, staging one of the most astonishing comebacks in sports history.

"Ali Boom Bay Yea" the crowd chanted as Ali fought himself off the ropes and pummeled Foreman with an array of blows that had him tumbling to the mat. Ali never had another moment like this, although he would successfully defend his title 10 times before his ignominous defeat to Leon Spinks in 1978, only to regain it for the third time that year. This film does more than any other at capturing Ali in top form, with all his remarkable charisma and incredible talent. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A good one hour documentary, but not the best in the world
This was an interesting documentary, but the directorial artsy stuff was quite curious. Filters (?) on the camera lenses gave the skies wierd hues and landscapes were odd colors, too. And that "turn the camera sideways" thing was in most of the still shots.

Those nuances almost drew my focus away from the story of King's life, which was not what the director intended, I'm sure.

This is one of the first documentaries I've seen on King where it freely discusses the whole FBI-King wire tapping incidents and the skirt chasing episodes. Also discussed the fact that Daddy King (MLK's Dad) rose up from abject poverty and his own children grew up in relative affluence - compared to most of the black community.

But if you want to learn more about the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr., I'd recommend "Eyes on the Prize" put out by PBS.

It's longish - but I guarantee you can't watch one episode without weeping tears of joy and gratitude at the price that was paid by MLK and others to buy freedom for men and women of color.

Eyes of the Prize is still the definitive series on the history of civil rights.

But this documentary on MLK is a good one - just not the very best. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

YEEEEEEAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
Now this is a movie!!!! I've been watching this movie for as long as i can remember, and for me and my brother, this is like "Friday" where we know every comical line, when the music starts in the movie. I can never get tired of this movie, it has it all. A funky-ass soundtrack from the star himself, a lotta pimps-ho's money, chases, shootouts, drama....everything. Isaac Hayes should have made more like this. This is the bomb!!!!

Black Moses and Lt. Uhura Together!
This is one of the better Blackploitation flicks. Hayes is very believable as a streetwise dispenser of justice. It's funny to see Nichelle Nichols, a picture of intelligence and sophistication in the original "Star Trek" series, play a hard bad woman here. The relationship between Turner and his larcenous girlfriend is a trip as well.

Truck turns em' out - dig it!
Isaac Hayes plays an ex football star turned bounty hunter named Mac "Truck" Turner. After he and his partner kill a violent pimp named "Gator", all the pimps get together and a contract is put out on Truck by none other than Gator's woman (Star Trek's Nichelle Nichols). When all the little fish fail to kill Truck, the biggest pimp of them all, Harvard Blue (Homicide's Yaphet Kotto) makes an offer to have it done but for a big price. Does he succeed? What do you think?

Director Johnathan Kaplan's (Unlawful Entry) "Truck Turner" is a great part of the blaxploitation genre and of action films in general. Isaac Hayes makes a great action hero and I wish he had made more films like this. Isaac and his band also provide for one of the funkiest soundtracks ever, maybe more funky than the one he composed for "Shaft". The film is exciting from beginning to end and Truck finds time to romance his lady and to make some jokes in between. One of the funniest scenes is when Truck and his partner go to pick up a prisoner from a military base and they have to break through the check point. When the security guards start shooting at Truck's car, he hopes they shoot his left tire out because he needs a new one real bad. Guess what, not only do they shoot the left tire out but they have to put the new one on for him! The rest of the time you will be laughing when you hear all the words that Nichelle Nichols has learned since she was Lt. Uhura on Star Trek!

*Also recommended with Isaac Hayes: Escape From New York (1981) and I'm Gonna Git You Sucka (1988) and if you can find it, Three Tough Guys (1974) which also stars Fred "Black Caesar" Williamson

A Top-Notch Blaxploitation Flick!
When I bought this DVD, I was expecting a run-of-the-mill blaxploitation movie. It turned out to be much more! Isaac Hayes is smooth & tough as Truck Turner, a no-nonsense bounty hunter. I'm surprised that Hayes didn't a make many more movies like this. He's more interesting than some of the better-known blaxploitation stars. I'd rank this near the top of the heap (a notch or two below movies like SHAFT and ACROSS 110th STREET). This is a great choice if you're looking for a good shoot-em-up . . . with an attitude!

One of the best of its genre
If you have a sense of humor, and you must if you like Blaxploitation flicks, this is one of the most enjoyable. Invite some friends and have a big laugh...The pimp outfits are to die for.... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

a blues must have!
this is a very special veiwing!honest,raw,moving! Son house was the man!

"The Snake that lays an egg ain't poisonous..."
After viewing this DVD several times I will say that I am not only impressed with Son House the musician, but also with the man.

The mumbled monologues and inaudible introductions by Son House almost made me feel sorry for him, not in a negative way, but in a way that I wanted to do something for him, to help him have more courage. The more I viewed him and was able to decipher the words I realized his forthrightness in speaking this way to an audience who was so foreign to him and I was overwhelmed with his honesty and sincerity.

The music itself is spellbinding and reaches the very heart and soul of an open-minded listener. The beat he taps with his shoe while playing creates an almost otherwordly aura around this music that I believe to be of the deepest expression men have ever conveyed through sound. This beat is at the root of all popular music today, although this expression is unparalleled. How is it that an uneducated man from an oppressed group of people can be so wise and able to communicate through music this wisdom? He had true wisdom which doesn't come from knowledge, it comes from truth, or as House puts it, "from above."

All this I gathered from his monologues but I don't want to take away from the pure simplicity of Son House's music. Yet it is hard for me to understand the music, being a white man in another world from House, separated in this regard but united as men. I can see the lines on his face and the pure humanity of his words and I struggle to understand the deep expression of his music and my love for it.

Son House had quit playing the guitar completely for years and was working regular jobs when he was rediscovered by men with an interest in exploring America's musical direction and preserving the blues.

Anyone with similar motives should look into this DVD, or anyone that simply loves the blues. The segments of Bukka White are a testimony to his influence and greatness. This is the blues at it's raw core, without electricity or accompaniment, gloriously simple but simply glorious!

In this age of technology, there's mass media, quick entertainment and television politicians, it's hard to know just who or what to believe anymore. Listen to the words of Son House, "I love a snake if I wasn't scared of him, but I can't trust him. Somebody said the snake that lays an egg ain't poisonous, but I don't trust none of 'em, I don't care how many eggs he lay..."

Two of the best.
This is a transfer to video of an old TV program. Son House and Bukka White perform before a live Seattle studio audience.

Both are excellent, of course, but Son House's time on stage is something strange and special. After finishing a blues number he'll get to his feet, shakily lay his guitar down, and perform an unaccompanied spiritual. But before he starts he delivers odd mumbled monologues - alomost inaudable - about how he hasn't left God, he is still pious even though he sings the blues, etc. The audience doesn't know quite what to make of all this. Son House was a man with a lot on his mind. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

good idea but bad come out
Fred Williamson(Black Ceasar, From Dusk Till Dawn) is John Bookman and he returns home after his father is shot up by a gang called the rebels, a gang he formed back in his day, led by Spyro and Damien..two ruthless thugs who changed the gang from what it used to be, the rebels think they own the streets. well Bookman and co. join forces to try to stop them. an allstar cast including Jim Brown(Mars Attacks,Salughter) Ron O'Neal(Superfly), Pam Grier(Ghost Of Mars, Foxy Brown, Jackie Brown), Paul Winfield(Mars Attacks, The Terminator), Richard Roundtree(Antitrust, Shaft, Corky Romando) and many more. takes its toll on the 70's black films but is too much uninspired with wooden performances and a lack of, anything...was expecting much more

A violent reunion from back in the day
The reason to watch this movie is the reunion for those of us who remember the protagonists from the era of blaxploitation films in which we were introduced to them/ Fred Williamson, Jim Brown, Pam Grier, reconvene to take back their home town of Gary, Indiana from several well organized and terribly violent street gangs.

Also appearing in almost cameo roles are Ron O'Neal ("Superfly") and Richard Roundtree (the original John Shaft). Seeing them all together is a treat, but left me wondering why this quintet did not get more screen time all together. It is particularly pleasing to see Brown and Grier, who, as one of the expert reviewers noted, have aged very very well. However, the re-ignition of their former relationship is tepid and seemingly forced. By contrast, it has nowhere near the intensity seen when barely restrained Brown confronts a gang leader about the murder of his son.

I agree that the simplistic plot and the consistent (and predictable) violence keep this from being one of the great films of our time. Those who remember the first time seeing these individuals in character now some thirty years ago will enjoy seeing them all together again, and that makes this disc worthwhile.

great re-union of 70's actionmovie st ars
if your a film buff, and wanted to see just outta curiosity
what happened to the black star's of the early 70's...see this movie, sorry to say that most of the aging star's except for pam grier now could be cast in a new version of sanford and son...as fred's old buddies from the hood drinking
grape ripple. it was a good social commentary of life in gary,
indiana and how dependent that city was on the steel mills and the off shoot business's that gradually closed down, see this movie on a saturday afternoon,,,but if you have to mow the lawn or paint the house...you'd be better off doing that.

An solid comeback for an action movie vet--
Original Gangstas: Fred Williamson, Jim Brown, Pam Grier. Williamson is John Bookman, former football pro turned coach, who comes back to his old hometown to find it overrun by gangs. The last straw is when Bookman's dad is assaulted and his grocery store vandalized. Grier is the mom of a basketball prodigy slain by the Rebels, one of three major gangs in the city. Brown is Bookman's best friend who comes back to bury his son. In a touch of irony, the gangs are the modern day incarnation of the crews started by Bookman & his friends decades ago. But whereas the original intent was to be a teen militia of sorts, the modern crews-mostly people well over 21-- are about nothing but victimizing their neighborhood.

Filmed entirely on location in Gary, Indiana, the film uses many city landmarks to illustrate the decay that has taken place. The film rightly postulates that the abrupt downsizing of the US Steel mill in the late 60's started an economic domino effect that the city has yet to recover from. Abandoned storefronts still abound, while neighborhoods are peppered with derelict houses and other rag-tag buildings.
Supporting roles are offered by Robert Forster as a police detective, and Ron O'Neal & Richard Roundtree as longtime residents who join the effort to take the city back.

Williamson and his contemporaries first came to prominence in the black action movie trend of the 70's. Some of his real life was slipped into the script: Williamson was a Northwestern football star before turning pro; also, according to the star the film was inspired from an encounter he had while visiting his mother, who still lives in Gary.

Fred and the actors of his generation deserve better from the Hollywood industry-- folks like Spike Lee, Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez have used them in a handful of contemporary films, but they should have the status of a Clint Eastwood or Burt Reynolds..

ORIGINAL GANGSTAS Review
In a reunion of the big-name 70's blaxplotation stars, you can expect a whole lot of fun. They're all here. Fred "The Hammer" Williamson, Jim Brown, Pam "Foxxy Brown" Grier, Richard "Shaft" Roudntree, and Superfly himself, Ron O'Neal. A host of other infamous character actors and some of today's big name underground rappers also show up for this bullet-riddled nostalgia pic.

It's "old school" versus "new school" as the Rebels, a gang once known simply for protecting their neighborhood has transformed into a gang of thugs who specialize in drive-by shootings and drug dealing. This doesn't sit well with the gang's founding members who reunite with the support of the community to clean up the streets once and for all.

While not nearly as energetic and entertaining as many of the 70's pics that it is paying homage to, "Original Gangstas" does have fun while delivering a solid anti-violence message. Seeing all your old favorites strap up again makes for some real good times. There are also some good performances from relative unknowns like Christopher Duncan as the leader of the new Rebels and rapper Dru Down as the group's loud-mouthed "trigger man". Also look for rappers, Scarface and Bushwick Bill in cameos. A genuine good time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Don McGlynn's uncompromising and soulful documentary look at the tumultuous life of musician and rebel Charles Mingus is fascinating stuff. Mingus said of himself "I am half black man, half yellow man, but I claim to be a Negro. I am Charles Mingus, the famed jazz musician--but not famed enough to make a living in America." His statement summed up the conflict that plagued this musical genius his entire life: volatility, pain, prescience, and raw rage roiled inside a complex man, composer, bass player, and trombonist who transcended labels and refused to be pigeonholed into a single musical style--and who did not achieve real fame until late in his career. The documentary is full of well-preserved footage and contains interviews with many Mingus followers like Wynton Marsalis as well as performances by icons Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and Gerry Mulligan. The film traverses past the musical legend with insight and information into Mingus's personal life, his civil rights activism, and his final triumph in the music world--just as his body began to deteriorate from Lou Gehrig's disease--to his eventual death in 1979. Mingus left a legacy composed of genius, vulnerability, brilliance, anarchy, and, as one friend noted, "the entire range of human emotion that is reflected in his music." --Paula Nechak ... Read more

Reviews (11)

I highly recommend this video
There are so many good things to say about this video. Let me start with saying that Mingus's "Epitaph" is covered in detail: both the 1962 Town Hall performance that was a disaster and the Gunther Schuller tribute perfomance made after Monk's death, are both amply covered including interviews with key musicians who played in both performances. One of the musicians interviewed had two of his front teeth knocked out when Mingus belted him in the mouth during an argument concerning who would do some of the orchestrations for "Epitaph". There are interviews with two of Mingus's wives, and towards the end there is an interview with one of Mingus's sons. I personally have read Mingus's wierd "autobiography" and that was a great help priming me to really enjoy this video. There are a lot of video clips of various concerts that Mingus gave, and these are valuable both because they show Mingus playing bass as well as conducting his own music. I was watching a bass player last night at Birdland on 44th Street in NYC, and I was very surprised to notice while watching this video today that the bass player, a young woman from Norway, was copying Mingus's style of plunking the lowest string to make a woody, vibratory sound. I recently heard the Charles Mingus sampler by Ken Burns and as a result of that CD was already beginning to develop a respect for the beauty of Mingus' distinctive compositional sound. This video helped me to better understand why Mingus has so many loyal fans. I am well on my way to becoming one of them. In summary, I think this video is very worthwhile. There are a *lot* of other good things about this video I have not even touched upon in this brief review. The people who made this video put a lot of thought and care and effort into making it.

An American Icon or Iconoclast?
Charles Mingus, one of the most creative forces in American 20th Century music, is examined in depth through archive footage and interviews with two former wives and numerous former bandmates. The music of Charles Mingus goes beyond simple categorization. Schooled in classical music, with his early professional exposure in the Los Angeles swing scene, Mingus moved through numerous styles, working with the major innovaters, such as Duke Ellington, Bud Powell, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Eric Dolphy. A volatile personality, his gentle and extreme sides are both in view. My favorite scenes are of Mingus' responses to stupid questions. By the end of this film, even those people who do not appreciate jazz will agree to Charles Mingus' place as one of the finest composers & musicians in American history.

Outstanding!
Definitely ranks up there with "Straight No Chaser" and "A Great Day In Harlem". The interviews with Mingus' sidemen are priceless, as are the discussions with Sue and Celia Mingus. A crucial documentary for serious fans.

after viewing
strictly raccomanded to everyone intends to play doublebass. After viewing, these are the possibilities:

starting to play day and night; mumbling something like: uhm, it's not so good for me, after all. But I could start playng something else!

A fascinatin work
I wasn't that familiar with jazz music before I saw this documentary, but I found it fascinating and very moving. The music was involving, and the life story very dramatic. It made me want to explore this music much more. A great documentary. ... Read more

Reviews (99)

So what if history is made more entertaining?
Have the critics of this film's historical "accuracy" never heard of "dramatic license"? If they had, then they would understand that Spielberg, like most of his profession, slightly alters history to make for greater theatrical effect or even heighten the events of the story. "Amistad" achieves both with scenes of horror combined with those of great poignancy that make for a total movie experience.

While there are times when the film drags, the performances and the engrossing story itself make up for the few inadequacies. Though stars Morgan Freeman (especially riveting in the inspection of the Amistad scene), Anthony Hopkins, and Matthew McConaughey perform well in their respective roles, the best acting belongs to Djimon Hounsou, Razaag Adoti, and Abu Bakarr Fofanah as three of the Africans, and the underrated Pete Postlethwaite as prosecutor Holabird. Nigel Hawthorne, as the inept President Van Buren, and Peter Firth as a conscious-ridden British ship captain are also memorable.

Spielberg skillfully balances a movie that is a courtroom drama mixed with an indictment against the slave system of America's past. The scenes of the events of the cursed "Middle Passage" are as graphic as is possible within the confines of Hollywood filmmaking.

John Williams contributes a beautiful and understated score, just below the surface of the on-screen events, providing just enough to carry the story along.

McCoguhney's Best!
Steven Spielberg's debut film for DreamWorks Pictures, Amistad, stars a distinguished cast led by Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins, Djimon Hounsou and Matthew McConaughey.

Earning acclaim for its filmmaking and power, Amistad was honored with four Academy Award nominations; Best Supporting Actor (Hopkins), Best Music, Best Costume Design and Best Cinematography.

Based on a true story, the movie chronicles the incredible journey of a group of enslaved Africans who overtake their captor's ship and attempt to return to their beloved homeland. When the ship, La Amistad, is seized, these captives are brought to the United States where they are charged with murder and await their fate in prison. An enthralling battle ensues that captures the attention of the entire nation, confronting the very foundation of the American justice system. But for the men and women on trial, it is simply a fight for the basic right of all mankind... freedom.

Badley scripted and direction
This was Spielberg's first Dreamworks picture and it was really awful. Mostly in poor script and lack of direction. The subject material was not for a director with his style of film making, and the poor performance of this movie has pretty much been the case for every picture this joke of a studio has continued to do since.

Powerful and Shameful
The word "powerful" has become a cliche when describing movies, which is unfortunate. However this film contains material that really moved me to strong emotion- something rare in today's bland entertainment market. Amistad does not simplify slavery as the above reviewer stated- rather it shows the audience the reality of slavery, and that we as a nation were guilty of supporting a terrible injustice. America embraced slavery for many years after most of our European friends had abolished it- a fact clearly demonstrated in this film by the presence of a british naval officer tasked with finding and destroying a carribean slave base.

This movie does revolve around the courtroom, but does so in a way that is both entertaining and educational. It shows how even the best courts can be warped or crippled by political influence and red tape. The characters are simple yet believable. In particular the roles of Cinque and John Q. Adams are played masterfully.

The speech given by Adams at the conclusion is a word-for-word transcript of his actual speech given to the Supreme Court. This speech is one of the more bold and patriotic speeches given in American history, and gives me goose bumps every time I read/see it. Amistad is an exceptional movie that forces the viewer to look back on our past with an unflinching eye and embrace both our courage and our shame as a nation.

MORE THAN A MOVIE ABOUT LA AMISTAD
AMISTAD tells the story of 1839 events involving a shipload of slaves who, having freed themselves from their captors aboard the cruel slaver La Amistad, try to sail back home. Instead they are tricked into sailing north and are captured in New England. The trial that resulted began in insignificance but escalated until it drew in some of the most powerful individuals of the time, especially former President John Quincy Adams.

The fact-based thriller transcends itself in Spielberg's epic. Yes, the story is one of heroism on the part of men trying to secure their freedom. But the real importance of AMISTAD is its gritty, nauseating portrayal of slavery and of those who fought it and of those who espoused it. It tells of how many of the ridiculous politicians of the time continued to bury their heads in the sand rather than take the hard steps that would require America and Americans to live up to the creeds and beliefs that had made them what they were.

Djimon Honsou (GLADIATOR) is wonderful in his portrayal of Cinque, the reluctant leader of the band of Africans. Matthew McConaughey portrays Lawyer Roger Sherman Baldwin, Morgan Freeman is Mr. Joadson and Anthony Hopkins is absolutely striking in the role of John Quincy Adams. John Williams provides one of his most soaring and original soundtracks ever.

THE HORSEMAN ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Would be a disaster if not for Pam
Pam Grier's magnetic personality and spunky character pretty much save this otherwise outrageously stupid and trashy film. Yaphet Kotto is pretty good too, in a low-key way. Other than that, it has all the stuff that keeps Blaxploitation films form being taken seriously (if they were ever meant to be in the first place). Horrbile acting, atrocious dialogue, cornball story, poorly staged fight scenes, ad nauseum. My parents forbade me from seeing this when it first came out (I was 11 at the time). Now I see why.

Yaphet Kotot does Comedy!?!
"Friday Foster"... Not as good as "Coffy" or "Foxy Brown", but better than "Sheeba, Baby". Pam is good as always, with lots of fairly gratuitous nudity (always a way to turn a bad movie to fair :-)

My big surprise was Yaphet Koto, who gets most of the best lines, and is funny throughout the film. I am always used to him as the stone-faced cop, a la "Across 110th Street" and "Homicide". If I remeber correctly, he gets off the "I'm getting too old for this sh!t," line years before "Lethal Weapon" made it a cliché.

Definitely worth watching for Blaxploitation or Pam Grier fans. If you are not familiar with Pam's earlier work, "Coffy" or "Foxy Brown" should definitely come first.

Pam Grier in Her Lighter Mood
Pam Grier of the 70s will be remembered as Coffy, tough, sexy, no-nonsense heroine who blows her enemy's head away with a shotgun, but as a movie, for all its good, funky soundtrack, "Coffy" was dark and violent. Then, it is a welcome opportunity for her fans to see lighter side of her in "Foxy Brown," in which Pam Grier plays an assistant camera artist who finds some conspiracy going on.

The story has been already told elsewhere, so I won't repeat it here. All I can say is, it is not particularly original, but good enough to keep us interested. But what we should notice in "Friday Foster" is a group of well-cast, talented actors. In addition to Pam Grier, who this time round goes with less tears and nudity, and more smile, is helped by Yaphet Kotto (Michael Clarke Duncan of the 70s) but it is Eartha Kitt as "madame" who steals the show with her flamboyant speech at fashion show. Actions are done in a rather bland way, but still watchable, and watch out Pam Grier steal a black hearse to chase the hitman; she later hits another guy in the head with a bottle full of milk!! Especially recommended to beginners of the genre as starting point of blaxploitaion films.

Slam, Bam, Thank You, Pam!
There are only two special features on this DVD, and they both belong to Pam Grier. And that's reason enough to buy it! She has two nude scenes in this lackluster blaxploitation thriller that largely fails to thrill, and her sparkle is the only spark here. A good cast, including Jim Backus, Earha Kitt, Carl Weathers, Scatman Crothers, and Yaphet Kotto, is wasted here, but they try their best with what they're given. The movie is in widescreen and the image quality is excellent. There's the movie trailer and a scene and language selector, and that's it. For '70s blaxploitation genre fans and Pam Grier fans only, but that's quite a large audience!

Good Solid Film
Pam Grier Is Solid in this Film&She Looks as Fine as Always.This Film Captures The 70's Vibe Really well.ALot OF Action&Laughs through out.Godfrey Cambridge had me Rolling.After watching Him in Watermellon MAn or Cotton Comes To Harlem this is a Real Interesting Role.Carl Weathers went on to do Rocky 1,2&3.Yaphet Kotto a Great Actor who Has Done well in Both T.V.&Film.&Ted Lange who Played Issac on The Love Boat.it was a Very Important Time Period For Black Films.FOrget what The Critics Say these Films Kept Hollywood Rolling&Paved The Way for The Future.Worth Seeking Out.Their has Never Been Another Actress Like PAM GRIER.SHE IS ONE OF A KIND. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Movies
GREAT movies. All three are very entertaining and uplifting. I can watch them over and over again and never get tired of them. They are all about LOVE, FAMILY & FRIENDSHIP.

Wonderful
These movies are great! The thing i like the most about them is that you can watch them over and over and not get tired. If you don't have this package you should get it but i will warn you they will be more enjoyable for women. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

A well-acted family story
"Down in the Delta," directed by Maya Angelou, tells the story of Loretta (played by Alfre Woodard), a single mother who lives in Chicago and faces economic hardships. She and her kids move to the family's rural ancestral home to live with her uncle (Al Freeman, Jr.). This change of setting has a profound impact on the family.

Those familiar with Angelou's fine books will probably see similar themes explored in this film. Solid performances are turned in by the excellent ensemble cast. I was especially impressed by Mpho Koaho as Loretta's young son. And veteran performer Esther Rolle turns in particularly moving performance as Loretta's Alzheimer's-afflicted aunt.

This film does a good job of exploring a variety of interconnected relationships in this multigenerational context. The film celebrates family ties and family tradition, as well as one's capacity to overcome adversity.

DOWN IN THE DELTA: ONCE IN A LIFETIME
Once in a lifetime does Hollywood produce a movie with a modest budget that contains an Oscar caliber screenplay,direction,soundtrack, and performances from everyone in the cast including the children.Although the storyline is very simple, it does appear to work. The story begins in a low-income urban Chicago apartment where a middle-aged widow,Rosa Lynn Sinclair, is faced with a difficult decision: save a family heirloom that has been in the family forever or save her daughter and two grandchildren from an uncertain fate.
In a desperate attempt to do both she pawns the family heirloom
and sends them to live with their wealthy but hard-working uncle "down in the delta" While there they learn the true meaning
behind the family heirloom and how they themselves will play an important part in it's future. They also learn that their uncle's
true wealth doesn't come from his money but from his unconditional love and loyalty to family values and hardwork.
A wealth that they inherit themselves and are able to share with Rosa Lynn.
The movie was originally made for cable TV but at the last minute the studio released it in the theatres in December 1998.
Unfortunately, it got lost in the big budget Christmas sauce of movies. Fortunately, it is available on video. It carries a PG-13
rating for mild profanity and mild drug use.

Great Movie
I watched this movie the first time just because of the cast. I've always thought Alfre Woodard was wonderful, and don't get me started about Mary Alice, Al Freeman Jr., and Esther Rolle! I just loved it, and I caught it again when it ran on cable a while back. I've told everyone I know to see it. It's what so-called traditional family values are all about: caring and integrity and your family heritage, and, most of all, LOVE!

It was also good to see Wesley Snipes step out of his usual bada*** roles into something different--he pulls it off pretty well.

Down In The Delta
This is the type of movie that causes you to stop and think. It shows some of the extremes you go through to keep family together. It also helps point out a lot of what happens day to day that is taken for granted. All the while you wonder what happens next. this is one movie that you don't want any breaks once you start watching it. So get comfy and have a drink and snack before you start.

Powerful, clean, meaningful, and full of rich teaching
This was a phenomenal movie. This is one of the only movies I have seen where African-American families are portrayed in a positive, and yet not politically manipulative light. The messages delivered through this production are as timeless as the meaning behind "Nathan" (a centerpiece in the movie). I would highly recommend this for teachers to use for powerful examples of ethnic identity development, positive examples of multicultural awareness, and inspirational teachings for all students. Additionally, this is a great show for families to feel comfortable watching together (however, there may be one or two scenes that are a little harsh for children- but they are not graphic by any means).
Overall, this is an excellent film!! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Another testament to Dr. King's legacy of greatness
I first saw this documentary air on television. I knew then how important it was that I add it to my vast CD and DVD collection. The film itself is a brief but, informative look into a movement that was led by one of the greatest figures of our time. Just when I thought I knew everything there was to know about the life of Dr. King; along comes yet another documentary that contains a few interesting facts that I had no knowledge of.
Being a native of Birmingham Alabama, this documentary holds a personal meaning for me. This DVD chronicles Dr. King's journey from the streets of Montgomery Alabama to Birmingham Alabama where the heart of the civil rights movement unfolds with a realness never before seen in history. It also takes a look into his role in making a difference in the civil rights movement.
I'm buying it not only as a collectors item, but as a historical learning tool for my younger family members who have yet to know the sacrifices and trials of the man known as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A man who left behind a legacy of greatness. A great orator whose speeches will forever stand for all times. A leader who put himself on the frontline of a struggle which was met with great violence; only to preach "non-violence" to the people. I 'strongly' recommend this DVD to people of ALL races and backgrounds. For those who have seen other documentaries on Dr. King; some of the footage may seem brief by comparison, but those with little knowledge of Dr. King's life will be surprised, pleased, shocked, and informed.

P e a c e

Shadow

A true disappointment.
Do not purchase this DVD. It doesn't even have the March on WAshington speech in its entirety. I thought that it would be equal in quality to the "Montgomery to Memphis" documentary of which I have an old copy. It wasn't even remotely close. So take my advice. Pass on this purchase and hope that some day there will be a DVD version of the original "Montgomery to Memphis" video.

Keep searching!
Well I purchased this video believing that I would get a better perspective on Dr. King's speeches, but I was somewhat disappointed. First, this tape is recorded in EP/LP (long play) speed. Therefore it is easily visible to notice the inferior quality of the recording. The documentary is only a hour long, there shouldn't of been a reason to apply it in long play mode. I was appreciative of the time spent on his second triumph-the war on povery and his staunch opposition to the Vietnam War. But when the video gets near the end and ventures on the Memphis sanitation workers strike in March/April 1968. You see footage from his 1966 Chicago equal housing campaign.
The bottom line is that I wouldn't recomend this video. Oh yah, Martin was born with the name of Michael Luther King jr. ... Read more