Amazon.com

A glammed-up Juliette Binoche and a slimmed-down Jean Reno are the main attractions in this very slight comedy--sort of a Planes, Trains, and Automobiles without the trains and automobiles. After they meet repeatedly at Charles de Gaulle Airport outside Paris, beautician Binoche and chef Reno decide to share an airport hotel room during a layover. She's a self-dramatizing chatterbox with a fondness for make-up and perfume; he's a fussy neurotic who can't stand artificial fragrances. They've just met and they're headed to different parts of the globe, but still... could this be... amour? Director Daniele Thompson, whose previous feature, La Buche, was a much more entertaining effort, would like it to be so. But the setting gets monotonous and the stakes never seem terribly urgent. Without the Chocolat smile of Binoche and the uniquely rough-and-tumble coolness of Reno, this one would never get off the ground at all. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Funny and Romantic
Juliette Binoche's is not the first name you associate with romantic comedy, but here she is as the tarty Rose in Daniele Thompson's Jet lag. Jean Reno plays Félix, a grumpy chef. the pair "meet cute" in an airport during a strike and end up.... well you know. While Jet Lag's outcome is obvious, we are offered a fun time getting there. thompson has dispensed with sex and smut in favour of ironic black humour. The result is a deliciously grown up mix of excitement and resentment.

However it is the lead actors who lift the whole excercise into the realms of worthiness. Binoche is loud, shrill and completely different to anything she has done before. Reno is grumpy and taciturn taking a well deserved break from his action roles. Jet Lag is sublime entertainment!

Rose Meets Felix: Slight, But Delightful Romantic Comedy
Contrary to what some people say, "Decalage Horaire" ("Jet Lag") is NOT middle-aged version of "Before Sunrise." The story is similar, but this French film is more 'French' ... I mean, relying on very subtle things expressed in the short course of the film, including cultural aspects of its contents. You should not take this film simply as 'chick flick' because the writer/director is Daniele Thompson, veteran writer with long career of more than 30 years, is making a very sophisticated romantic comedy in which small things really matter.

The film is, simply put, Jean Reno meets Juliette Binoche (or vice versa) at Paris airport. Rose, played by Binoche, loses her cell phone, and borrows one from Reno's character Felix. After we see several more rather complicated (some say contrived) events at the airport -- like, bad weather, strike, and so on -- they decide to spend the time together before the flight. They know they are going to part soon, never to meet each other again, but as you soon realize, they don't know whether they should continue the original plan of the trip.

The basis of romantic comedy is all here. Surprisigly, the film is originally written for American production about ten years ago, but the final result is absolutely French, or European. The characters are more mature than the ones in Hollywood-made films, and sometimes do or say very cruel things.

Some (or many) funny part of the film depend on the language; that means, if you don't know the French, you might miss several of the points the film is making. Reno's Felix often uses English, which reflects his career as chef travelling around the world. He even misuses French even though he is born French (hence, "Jet Lag"?), and if his conversations with Rose sound a little awkward at first, it is not all because he had been a total stranger to her. These liguistic aspects, which tell us the different background of these characters, might appeal to French people, but are sadly lost on many of us including me.

But Binoche's makeup is not among them. Her initial appearance is a bit of surprise because of her heavy make-up. It was done beautifully, but the fact that it is overdone is too obvious. And then, later in the film she appears as she is, being very natural and beautiful as before. The gap between the two Binoches is one of the fun you will get in "Decalage Horaire."

This is not a film that provides big laughs. This is a romantic comedy of which contents are too slight for some people, but still remains a delightful experiece especially for the fans of the two leads. And don't forget the cameo of Rose's ex-boyfriend Sergeo played by Sergi Lopez, whose creepy performance fascinated us in thriller "With a Friend Like Harry." So, Rose was dating with that Harry, huh.

Wonderful, charming movie
My husband and I actually saw previews for this movie repeatedly while in Paris. Even though I didn't speak French, I knew this was a movie I would love. I continually checked around, and when it finally came to our city, we were there. It lived up to my expectations. Such a charming romantic comedy. Jean Reno has never been sexier and Juliette Binoche was radiant. Not as syrupy and sticky-sweet as a Meg Ryan romantic comedy. I really loved this movie and can't wait to own it.

Mediocre
Jet Lag proves that just because it's in French, doesnt mean it's good. The movie is dull and looks like a French version of an American romantic comedy. If there was an American version, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan would star in it. There are so many good French movie, Jet Lag isnt one of them.

a real charmer
***1/2 "Jet Lag" is a French romantic comedy that takes place almost entirely in an airport terminal and an airport hotel. Juliette Binoche and Jean Reno are two strangers who meet at the Paris airport and end up sharing a room when all flights are cancelled due to an air traffic controllers strike (think of how this affair would have been thwarted had Reagan been France's president at the time!). Rose and Felix are both riddled with insecurities and anxieties, having been largely unlucky in the ways of love. Yet, after some predictable initial tension between them, they somehow manage to find a mutual strength - and attraction - in their combined weaknesses.

"Jet Lag" is so simple and unassuming in its early stages that we are amazed to discover, about a third of the way through, just how completely it has managed to sneak up on us and win us over. Unlike most American romantic comedies, "Jet Lag" allows its characters to actually talk and get to know one another. It sure doesn't hurt, of course, that Binoche and Reno are such talented, attractive performers who establish an astonishing rapport in their scenes together. Sure, the plotting isn't exactly believable, but when is that ever the case in a film of this type anyway? The thing that matters is that we like the people we have become involved with and that we can accept, if only for just a moment, the possibility that they might be able to find happiness together. That is certainly the case in this film. (If there is a criticism to be leveled against the film, it is that it is simply too short, clocking in at barely over 80 minutes. How many films can one say THAT about?).

"Jet Lag" could have been a completely insubstantial little film; instead, it resonates with a joyfulness and charm that truly captivate the viewer. This is a winner well worth checking out. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

fine silent comedy
Released in 1928, THE FARMER'S WIFE was a radical departure for Alfred Hitchcock. Based on a play by Eden Philpotts, the story translates perfectly to the silent-movie-medium.

Following his wife's death, farmer Sweetland (Jameson Thomas) goes in search of a new wife. He has his pick of any of the middle-aged spinsters in town, as well as an overweight hysteric and an equestrienne socialite.

Minta (Lillian Hall Davis) is his meek little maid who has loved him for many years, but now decides to make her move. But just as she is about to, the many "lovelies" in the town decide to marry him after all!

This pristine, black and white-tinted silent is backed by a colorful orchestra soundtrack, which underscores every mood and emotion shown on the screen.

A delightful silent programmer.

Wrong running time
Even though the film originally ran about 97 minutes, and even though Amazon's info shows the running time to be 93 minutes, this Laserlight's DVD version of THE FARMER'S WIFE runs 129 minutes. Apparently, the wrong film speed was used in transferring the film to DVD, stretching the film by an additional half hour. The film's tempo is therefore slowed down a great deal, and the pacing and timing of the various comedy scenes are very much ruined. The DVD does have decent picture and sound (mono) quality.

This dated and predictable film was nevertheless well-acted by Jameson Thomas as the farmer and Lillian Hall-Davis as his housekeeper. Hall-Davis also starred in another Hitchcock's silent comedy "The Ring" (a much better film), also available as a Laserlight DVD.

Imperdible...
En esta era de la tecnología y el gusto por lograr las mejores imágenes y los mejores efectos, esta colección nos lleva a darnos cuenta que las grandes obras de arte se deben edificar a partir de eso, "El Arte". Y esto es precisamente lo que demuestra este box set. El arte de la cinematografía puesta en las manos del genial Hitchcock. Ni que hablar de la producción: Siete discos, cada uno en su propio estuche, excelente sonido, y todo el material subtitulado (includo extras, introducción y trailers), además de que los discos son multizona. Cabe destacar que esto no fue obra de una gran empresa sino de LaserLight Video, pero es algo que los grandes estudios deberían tomar como ejemplo, hartos ya de ver películas con extras sin subtítulos. Si a eso le sumamos el costo del set, nos encontramos con una joya que no podemos desperdiciar. Muy recomendable.

A Hitchcock Film In Name Only That Goes On For Ever
I have nothing against silent films. In fact Clara Bow's 'It', Lon Chaney's 'The Phantom of The Opera' and Louise Brooks's 'Pandora's Box' are amongst my all-time favourites. But with the exception of 'The Lodger', Hitchcock never really got going in silent films. 'The Farmer's Wife' certainly had the potential for an easy going, enjoyable comedy, but NOT when it lasts over 2 hours. I challenge anyone to watch this film in one sitting without their eyelids feeling increasingly heavy. On the plus points, Laserlight has dispensed with one of those embarrassing Tony Curtis introductions, and has provided us with a newly recorded (and very good) score. The picture quality is also very good. If you're tempted to buy this DVD because it's a Hitchcock film, I'd say don't. It is only worth a look to anyone with an interest in silent films or a genuine Hitchcock enthusiast.

Nicely integrated package, image quality lacking
A solid collection of lesser known titles that are definitely worth the price if you are a true Hitchcock fan. Image quality and extras are lacking when compared with your typical Criterion Collection dvd but for this price you can't complain. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Classic Bristish Comedy
I remember watching this along time ago.... In a couple of Weeks i will own it on Dvd.....The Story goes there is a New couple that move into a New house, Only to have the Sister in-law calling round EVERY DAY...Until the Brother in-law had enough and throws her out..Just like a Woman she SCREAMMS the street down..With this the Sister in-law Is then Chase into the Neighbours house ((Who just happened to been there old school teachers))The comedy Really starts there, You will witness a tug of war between the new Couple and Teachers, as They all end up on the Stairs with the Sister in-law holding onto the stair rail for dear life, With her sister and brother in-law (New couple) trying to get her out of the Neighbours House....If you got a good sense of Humour and want a GOOD OLD FASHION BRITISH FILM, then BUY THIS..!!! Promise u will Laugh..!!! ... Read more

Description

This sexual cocktail of "Austin Powers"-type kitsch is based on a story from the popular sixties magazine Zeta. Following a game of strip poker, blonde bombshell Ann Olsen (Yutte Stensgaard) learns that Special Agent James Word (Robin Horden) is investigating Public Enemy No.1, Major Borden (James Robertson Justice). With the assistance of the nerdy Swyne (Charles Hawtrey), Borden is investigating a race of sexy, scantily-clad super women, led by the shapely Zeta (Dawn Addams). It seems that attractive young women are being abducted from Earth and then brainwashed into serving Zeta, all wearing kinky, fetishistic outfits. Borden's plan is to track down Zeta and her seductive sirens and become their new ruler. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Quite possibly the most ridiculous movie ever made
I paid special attention to the end credits of this film, fully expecting to see a formal apology by everyone associated with the making of this indescribably bad film. It is bad enough that this film was actually made, but now a company called Salvation has made this one of the first two releases of its Jezebel lineup of DVDs. Don't let the presence of scantily clad and topless women fool you - Zeta One is an abysmal film. I don't know who the looker on the box cover is - no one this attractive can be found in the film. This 1969 British film is supposedly kitschy, whatever that really means; from what I can tell, it means embarrassingly ridiculous.

If you read the summary of the film, you will be wondering if you were sent the wrong movie as you watch the opening third of the movie. This may be the most boring twenty-five minutes ever caught on film; even the big strip poker scene is mind-numbingly tedious. Worst of all, we have to spend so much time with the film's main character James Word. I would not even insult James Bond by calling James Word a poor spoof of the man. Word is a spy of some sort who spends most of his time in bed. This is made possible by strange women who magically appear in his apartment from out of the blue. Girl number one is his boss' secretary, which allows her to see through Worth's "brilliant" fake moustache disguise; she pumps him for information about his latest mission, but he has other things on his mind. Did I mention the fact that Worth is a pitiful, rather slimy specimen of manhood? Anyway, Worth eventually opens up and tells girl number one this incredible story about a race of superwomen and the master criminal who tried to conquer them.

Yes, a Major Bourdon and his bespectacled dweeb of an assistant Mr. Swyne have learned of the existence of a race of superwomen who live - well, no one really knows where they live; we do know they kidnap selected Earth women in order to brainwash them and make them a part of their female-only society. Major Bourdon is determined to get to the bottom of this for some reason that is never explained. Luckily for him, the Zeta women (Zeta is the name of their leader; I could never understand the name they were given in the film) all dress in identical mini-dresses and go-go boots, making it easy to follow them. (The mini-dresses and go-go boots are pretty much all this film has going for it.) Swyne learns that a certain stripper (actually, none other than the "Queen of the G-strings") is to be the next kidnapped girl, and Bourdon puts his plan in motion of discovering how (and where) to conquer these alien women. It all goes downhill from here. I won't describe the silly information we learn about the mysterious Amazon-like women's society or Word's proclivity for bedding every strange woman that appears from out of nowhere in his bedroom. Word does finally drag himself out of bed toward the end of the film, but he soon returns to the only place he seems to care about. Don't worry too much about the alien women; they have a Plan 69 for anything, it seems. You won't believe the weapon these girls use on silly human men, but you will see the absolutely predictable ending coming from a mile away.

Truly, Zeta One (aka Alien Women) is one of the most ridiculous films I have ever seen. You can have a lot of fun with this film if you make a big party out of it and settle in with a bunch of friends to watch what is the ultimate embodiment of cinematic silliness; apparently, this film exists only for the purpose of being laughed at. Keep a special eye out for the big and absolutely ridiculous "elevator" scene.

Better Than Expected
Secret Agent James Word (I guess his word is his bond) has just returned from a mission. He is met by his superior's assistant (his superior is UU (Double-U like an upside down M)). She plays coy and sexy but really just wants the details of his mission. During breaks in apparent intimacy he recounts his tale.

He has been investigating a Major Bourdin who has been have a series of run ins with a mysterious force of women. They are led by Zeta and have the ability to teleport. It is unknown if they are from space, the future or another dimension, but they have set up a colony of women. They add to the colony through kidnaping and brainwashing.

The film appears to have made no attempt at being erotic (check out the strip poker scene as an example) and the plotting is wooden (although some of the actual acting is quite good).

In the end we learn what the secretary is really up to and the final fate of James. I have to say that I enjoyed it more than I thought I would based on the other reviews.

no redeeming social - or any other - value.
Boy, it's not often you find a film that is this amateurish in so many ways. The comedy isn't funny, the nudity is anerotic. The plot makes no sense. It has terrible pacing and editing and cinematography and so forth and so on.

If the dialog had been written by Ed Wood, it would be exactly like an Ed Wood film, and that would be a major improvement.

pretty awful
There are no words to describe the badness of this movie. After the fabulous "Au Pair Girls" and the decent "Intimate Games", this one was a major letdown. This movie's all over the place, as if it were filmed, edited, half of it cut out, and new footage was filmed in and around what remained of the original plot. The careful viewer will notice that the opening and intermittent sequences with the secret agent don't interact at all with any of the rest of the plot, as if filmed and added afterward. This weak "James Bond" parody seems to have been added to an unrelated movie afterward, and what remains of the original plot is now incomprehensible, with its characters simply disappearing into plot holes. Even if you're a major fan of the genre, this is definitely an avoid. "Au Pair Girls", on the other hand, loosely associated in current release with this one, is a much, much better example of the genre. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Perhaps only the collective brilliant minds of the Monty Python film and television troupe are up to the task of tackling a subject as weighty as The Meaning of Life. Sure, Kierkegaard, Wittgenstein, and their ilk have tried their hands at this puzzler, but only Python has attempted to do so within the commercial motion picture medium. Happily for us all, Monty Python's The Meaning of Life truly explains everything one conceivably needs to know about the perplexities of human existence: from the mysteries of Catholic doctrine, to the miracle of reproduction, to why one should avoid the salmon mousse, to the critical importance of the machine that goes "Ping!" Using fish as a linking device (and what marvelous links those aquatic creatures make), The Meaning of Life is presented as a series of sketches: a musical production number about why seed is sacred; a look at dining in the afterlife; the quest for a missing fish (there they are again); a visit from Mr. Death; the cautionary tale of Mr. Creosote and his rather gluttonous appetite; an unflinching examination of the harsh realities of organ donation, and so on. Sadly, this was the last original Python film, but it's a beaut. You'll laugh. You'll cry (probably because you're laughing so hard). You may even learn something about The Meaning of Life. Or at least about how fish fit into the grand scheme of things. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (193)

Funny, but no Holy Grail
This film will never top Monty Python's Quest for the Holy Grail, but still deserves applause. The reason for it's second billet is that there are too many filler scenes that simply aren't funny. The Universe Song was just boring and stupid. The World War 1 trench scene was predictable and got old fast. There was obvious anti-Catholicism in the opening scene as well.

But apart from that, there were plenty of hilarious acts to keep this movie well above the red line. The Zulu Wars, the French Restaurant, and the Grim Reaper scenes are plenty reason to give this movie a chance...

Funny and worth the money, but for Python's best, check out Holy Grail.

An absolute Must see
This is the greatest achievement of the Monthy Python, any real python fan knows that, the sperm song is an historical moment (you shouldn't miss that).
This is high-class humour, and the most sophisticated the python have done, so beginners might prefer to start with holy grail or better, the flying circus.
If you like Wayne's World, don't watch that, this is not for you.

UnEven, UNeven UnEvEN
The Pythons followed the very controversial and successful Life of Brian with the ambitious and controversial Meaning of Life.

They had more money than ever before, and it shows, with varying results. The big budget is put to good use in Crimson Permanant Assurance, the mini-movie about a truly hostile takeover, and in the famous-infamous blast against Roman Catholicism with its beautiful, vibrant dancing and singing. They never could have afforded all those extras in their Holy Grail days.

Sometimes, the money works against them. In the Sex Education scene, the authentically teen-aged extras make it quite obvious that the Pythons are way too old to be in school. (In the old days, when it was only them, it was easy to suspend your disbelief and accept that they were schoolboys.)

There are some good moments (the Universe Song, the Toadying Priest, the Protestant Wife) when the humor and the intellect are apparent.

There are also some just-plain-stupid and/or disgusting parts. (Subjective as that is, I won't list mine.)

But the worst part for me was that this was an offensively sexist movie. Now, I know that Monty Python has never borne a standard for feminism. However, their best moments transcended race and gender. ANYone who has ever gotten a bad sales clerk can laugh at the Dead Parrot Sketch. It could have played as well with a man and a woman, or two women.

But THIS? What in the world possessed them to think that Heaven (which, in their version, was populated by both men and women) was staffed by topless Vegas Dancers? And so on and so on. Nothing artistic, witty, or insightful, or--and this is important--FUNNY about that.

They seem to have gotten so carried away with the money, they didn't focus on what they do best--which is make funny things out of ordinary experiences. Michael Palin himself said that he thought they were better when they had to improvise (remember the cocoanut horses?)

I look forward to getting this on DVD, when I can more easily skip through about half of it.

great movie but it needs a special edition!
Well I can't tell what monty python movie is my favorite,simply because they are all so good!But I will write up the good and bad points in this movie.First the bad:younger viewers should stay away from this because this is by FAR the most offensive python movie!just an example would be a scene with a sex education class where the teacher brings his wife and demostrates right in front of the students!It is usually done in a funny way though.And one scene shows a close up of a bunch of topless women rollerblading in slow motion catching all the movment on the chest!But it's not just sex that makes this tasteless, there is also scenes of vomiting,blood, and even a man exploding!
Now for the good!:It contains the best musical sequence I have ever seen!(while it has rather tasteless lyrics)The opening was done superbly!,and I can't count how many wonderful momments this has!And to tie up the package the acting is great!
About the dvd:It's not a big deal that the dvd format is out of print.It was lacking any real extras and the picture quality isn't suposed to be all that great.So until a possible special edition comes out just get the vhs edition!

THE BEST FOR LAST!
This is the best Python movie. It the most worst for kids to see because it has life through the eyes of Monty Python and if your a fan you know what I mean. The top nasty part is when they take out the man's liver and use saws and it's just sick (but funny.) They have "The Galaxy Song" which is the best part and the fat(est)man in the world throws up on the menu, the waiter's pants, the cleaning maid, and the floor and blows up at the end. The Grim Reaper coming to dinner, the machine that goes bing!, and the wars are funny. And not but not least the sperm song. It's hilarious and gross and funny and silly and eyerything else. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Interesting... but know what you're buying
I bought this on VHS a few years ago thinking it would give me a sense of the groundbreaking BBC TV series on which "All in the Family" was loosely based. For that, I should have just bought episodes of "Till Death Us Do Part" (which are also available on DVD in America).

This is a cinema-release feature film based on the series, and was aimed at fans of the TV show who wanted to know more about its characters. Out of that context, it doesn't really hold up. It's okay, and a fascinating document of its era, but it's nothing to write home about.

Still, the brilliant Warren Mitchell is in fine form in his signature role as Alf Garnett, the hard-drinking, loudmouthed, bigoted working stiff. And Dandy Nichol is her wonderful self as his long-suffering "silly moo" of a wife, Else (even if I don't quite buy her as a twentysomething in the flashback). The problem is that a little Alf Garnett goes a long way. And in this flick, you get a lot of Alf.

Much of the film is a flashback to the 1940s, where we get to see the early years of Alf and Else's "romance" (if you can call it that). Then it jumps ahead to the 1960s as Alf's xenophobia gets a workout when Britain faces Germany for soccer's World Cup.

Whether you buy this film or opt for the TV show (I suggest the latter), bear in mind that the tone is much harsher than the later American series, and many U.S. viewers may find "Till Death Us Do Part" so shrill as to be unwatchable. The TV series is growing on me. This film isn't. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

This late-'80s comedy-musical from video director Julien Temple (Absolute Beginners) has an infectiously buoyant if dumb charm and plays like a cross between Little Shop of Horrors and Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure. If you loved either of those movies, you'll have a fondness for this one, otherwise you'll be irritated beyond belief. Geena Davis stars as a San Fernando Valley manicurist who finds herself in charge of three aliens after they crash-land their spaceship in her pool. With said transport broken down, Davis offers them head-to-toe makeovers (it's the least she can do), turns the fuzzy aliens into a trio of attractive guys, and lets them loose on the dating scene.She promptly falls in love with the leader (Davis's then-husband Jeff Goldblum); of course, it helps that her slimy fiancé (Charles Rocket) is cheating on her left and right. Aside from its sunny California charm, the only other thing this film has to offer is a bouncy musical score, in particular two show-stopping numbers performed by costar (and the film's cowriter) Julie Brown: "Brand New Girl," in which Davis gets the requisite makeover ("If you want to be a femme fatale / You can't rest on your L'Oreals!"), and the entirely irrelevant but absolutely hilarious cult hit "'Cause I'm a Blonde."Davis does her standard airhead thing (still a novelty in 1989) and Goldblum is a studly if silent lead. Make sure you pay close attention to Goldblum's alien sidekicks, two then-unknown actors named Jim Carrey and Damon Wayans, both of whom manage to steal scenes with surprisingly understated charm. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (38)

An Entertaining Musical Sci-fi Comedy!
"Earth Girls Are Easy" is a musical sci-fi comedy about valley-girl Valerie (played by Geena Davis) living in 1980's Los Angeles, and who is engaged to a cheating, boyfriend doctor named Ted (played by Charles Rocket). Catching her boyfriend at home playing with a nurse, the disgruntled Valerie gets the surprise of her life when a spaceship crash lands in her swimming pool. The spaceship's crew (played by Jeff Goldblum, Jim Carrey and Damon Wayans), haven't had any "shore leave" in a long time. Not wanting to cause too much of a stir, Valerie takes the alien trio to her best friend Candy (played by Julie Brown) who owns a beauty salon. After Candy transforms the furry trio into believable human males, Valerie finds their captain, Mac (Jeff Goldblum), very attractive. Wild things happen when the alien trio are taken to a dance club and letting them drive in California traffic!

The fact that this film is also a musical only adds to the humor as there are several original songs by Julie Brown!

If you enjoy remembering the excesses of the 1980's and New Wave music, you will probably enjoy this film!

The Greatest Cinematic Acheivement Of All Time...
Alright, maybe not. But I can't think of a movie I love more. The parody of all things 80's is hilarious to those of us who suffered through them, though at times it's a tad heavy-handed (I mean, the exotic fish named Mercedes, Beamer, Aston & Martin is a bit...well, heavy-handed). But Geena Davis is cute and funny as a sweet, airheaded manicurist. Julie Brown is hilarious. Julie Brown is ALWAYS hilarious. Jeff Goldblum doesn't say much and is very, very sexy as a shaved alien. Of course, everyone knows that Jim Carrey & Damon Wayans were in this before In Living Color made them into stars. Both are very, very funny. Jeff Goldblum is much more a straight man, but this movie left me with a crush on him that I still have.

This movie is a great send-up of all things 80's, especially the SoCal sex comedies and beach flicks. Someone said that they thought this movie was supposed to bring back musicals. I don't think so. It's too quirky and too strange (I mean, the salon Geena Davis & Julie Brown work at is called "Curl Up and Dye" for gods sake). I don't think it was made to be a blockbuster. It is, however, a really good time. Julien Temple is marvelous with film visuals, and the silly, sexy humor is lots of fun. Get this movie. It's a treat not to be missed.

Could be an episode of "Before They Were Stars"
It was all about flash and glitz during the 80s, which makes me wonder why there simply weren't more musicals. Well, at least there was this one. Earth Girls Are Easy is a silly, kitschy romp with songs that are as fun as the goofy storyline.

Valerie (Geena Davis) is a manicurist at a styling salon in "The Valley" called Curl Up & Dye. She's engaged to a philandering doctor (Charles Rocket), and looks forward to the day that she'll be a bride. Life is confusing, but headed in the right direction, Valerie thinks. Until the fateful day when an alien spaceship crash-lands in her swimming pool.

The brains behind Earth Girls Are Easy is Julie Brown, who takes part of the credit for writing the script and the songs, who sang several of the songs, and who also co-stars as Valerie's best friend, Candy. Before this movie, really the only thing Brown had been known for was serving as a vee-jay on MTV. Likewise, two of the aliens who at the time were unknowns would later become comedic powerhouses, Jim Carrey and Damon Wayons. Rounding out the trio of aliens was Jeff Goldblum, who was Geena Davis' real-life boyfriend at the time and who, not surprisingly, plays her character's love interest in this film.

Mostly the movie is a series of setups for each of the songs, as well as some great comedy skits. Keep your eyes peeled during the "Cause I'm A Blond" sequence for uncredited dancer Robia LaMorte, who would later become well known to fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer as computer science teacher Jenny Calendar - she becomes de-throned as "this month's Miss August" by Julie Brown when she's exposed as really being a brunette.

There's also a great turn here by Michael McKean as over-the-hill surfer Woody.

If you enjoy a good, goofy musical-comedy, you don't want to miss Earth Girls Are Easy.

Terrible Movie
This movie was extremely poor lacking in taste, acting quality and humor.

Snap shot: 1989ish
For better or worse, this film really represents an era, particularly in So Cal. This film is superficial but bright and smart... and has VERY bright colors -- like a 90 minute Starburst commercial. The entire look, in every nook and cranny, is eighties glitzy-junk new wave excess taken to the extreme. And then grunge (Seattle, Nirvana, Clinton:-) put an end to it all, sort of. But while it lasted, the end of the eighties ($ boomtime for So Cal) is shown here in all its glory: Yuppiedom, lots of gadgets, almost disposable clothes, accesories to the max, disposable pop-culture references, and big-haired beautiful women. Julie Brown epitomizes all of the above with a postmodern wink. She is the heart here... while Geena Davis is the straight person, properly vacant, wandering through this neon world. As so many reviewers wrote, the Julie Brown musical numbers are real standouts. And Geena's "Ground That You Walk On" is great too. Highly recommended time capsule. (Compare this film to 1980ish "Xanadu," where lots of this glitz was in its infancy, more serious and innocent). ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Standing The Test Of Time
BEAT THE DEVIL is a very funny movie which retains its subtle charm even after many viewings, It reminds me of the MALTESE FALCON not only because of the similarity of some of the characters but also because of the likeness of the screenplays. Both films essentially focus on a treasure hunt with an array of buffoons vying for the prize. Humphrey Bogart's characters seem to be about the only really normal people in either movie. While it is definitely considered to be a comedy, BEAT THE DEVIL is also not a bad adventure story. Most of the subdued action takes place on shore while the assorted crooks and cutthroats are waiting for a leaky old ship to take them to Africa.

The cast includes Humphrey Bogart, Robert Morley, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida, Peter Lorre, Ivor Barnard and Edward Underwood.

John Huston was the director and Truman Capote contributed heavily to the screenwriting after the filming began in Italy.Truly a ton of Hollywood talent was assembled for this one movie in a relatively charming location.

It is no wonder that the movie is standing the test of time and is now enjoying a revival of sorts with even a minor cult following.

Either You Get It or You Don't
Optioned as a drama by Humphrey Bogart's own production company, this movie was hijacked by director John Huston and screenwriter Truman Capote, who turned it into a subversive comedy under Bogart's nose. Some swindlers assembling in Italy would like to clean up a uranium concession in Africa but can't seem to keep the plot on the tracks. Almost entirely dialogue-driven, this satire relies in no little part on the mangled English dubbed for several of the characters by Peter Ustinov. Critic Pauline Kael quoted Humphrey Bogart about it: "Only phonies think it's funny." But even phonies like to laugh.

GOOD MOVIE ???
Great story with a great cast,but horrible sound and picture quality.

A jar of pickled clichés
Certainly not a masterpiece with a terminating Humphrey Bogart and a debutante Lollobrigida. Two odd couples with crossing affairs lost in a small harbor no one knows where because their derelict ship has broken down, surrounded by a band of three or four would-be gangsters who are nothing but weak bad boys. They even end up with a taxi jumping into the ocean, an attempted murder by overboard throwing in the middle of some ocean night, a shipwreck that brings all that nice group of adventurers to some Morocco where they are forced to bribe the locals to get through, and that is not as easy as one may think. In other words quite a compilation of clichés. And yet it is some fun to see such naive queer composition that someone in Hollywood called a film.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU

FILM NOIR SPOOF
This glorious spoof of the film noir genre of the 1940's, has direction by John Huston, an ever evolving script by Truman Capote and stars:Humphrey Bogart - HB (Billy Danreuther), Jennifer Jones - JJ (Gwendolynne Chelm), Gina Lollobrigida - GL (Maria), Edward Underdown - EU (Harry Chelm), Robert Morley - RM (Pierson), Peter Lorre - PL (O'Hara) and other notable character actors.

Basically a group of rogues are vieing with each other to be the first to obtain a rich uranium deposit somewhere in "British East Africa" but we are never told where precisely.It was filmed on location in Italy and features the only other comic role of JJ, (her first being "Cluny Brown (1946)) as a congenital liar, whose Spanish Nurse taught her all there is to know!.What a pity Selznick did not recognise the comic potential of his wife and instead of putting her in soulful dirges like "Indiscretion of an American Wife"(1952), he had developed her natural comic potential."Beat The Devil" did not perform at the box office in 1953/4 when released but is now, thankfully, being re-evaluated by discerning film connoiseurs, achieving almost a cult like status.

Being a strong amateur chess player, I particularly liked the scene outside the Italian cafe where JJ is "duffing up" EU again with an almost instant sight of the board, while chatting up HB.(Note to chess geeks - JJ plays much more weakly in "A Farewell to Arms (1957) vs Rock Hudson!!).Incidentally HB liked to play chess himself when off camera.

The plot twists & turns and being English with a bawdy sense of humour, I laughed when GL says to EU "I've brought you some tea & crumpet" while almost smothering EU in the eye with her... well you get the point! It is reported John Huston rather sadistically requested JJ to climb to the rocking crow's nest- a fearsome climb - to do her leg stretching exercises on the ship taking them to Africa.The gang, led by RM, hope she breaks a leg - & not in the theatrical sense!My favourite scene is in the office of the African potentate who is questioning the motley group of rogues.In reality all he wants to know is whether HB has met Rita Hayworth as he is a big fan!.If you look carefully you can see her pin-up on his office wall.The quivering of RM's various chins when he is threatened with torture, is a delight to behold.

The trick of Nazis having escaped to Latin America after WWII, is lampooned by PL who insists everyone calls him "O'Hara" (our little Irish leprecaun!).Everyone seems to be having a ball.Look out for Bernard Lee playing his usual police inspector role.This was long before he shot to fame as "M" in the Sean Connery, James Bond series from 1962 onwards.I've noticed in memorable films there is usually a catchy tune somewhere and here is no exception as played by an Italian brass band.I even find myself whistling the pianola music played on the ship while Ivor Barnard is away with his stabbing swagger stick ready to bump off EU.I voted 3/5 stars for this film. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Crazy Slapstick Comedy
If you only like comedy films that are subtle and sophisticated, "Who Done It ? " is not for you. Personally, I found this movie to be consistently amusing, and I laughed out loud a number of times.

Benny Hill was one of Britain's most inventive comics, who achieved international stardom in the 70s and 80s through his zany television shows. In fact, television was Benny's medium--he did not make many movies.

"Who Done It ?"--released in 1956--features a young Benny in his first major starring role, and he makes the most of it. After losing his job at the Ice Capades, Benny decides to become a private detective, with the help of a surprisingly energetic bloodhound. He becomes involved with a pretty girl
( young and gorgeous Belinda Lee ), and a group of up-to-no-good Iron Curtain-type spies, led by stalwart British character actor, David Kossoff. Benny gets into one scrape after another, much to the continual annoyance of the police. There are various opportunities for Benny to "disguise" himself--a Hill trademark. Several setpieces stand out--posing as a "mad professor", Benny demonstrates a machine that "controls" the weather, with disastrous results--Benny and Belinda chasing the spies around a broadcasting convention at Earl's Court ( the whole film takes place in London )--the climactic race around a stock car track, reminiscent of the silent Keystone Cops movies.

Basil Dearden directs at a breakneck pace, and--yes--the plot is outlandish--the acting over the top--but if you like Benny and his antics, as I do, you'll love it.

Benny passed away suddenly about 12 years ago, and Britain lost one of it's brightest talents. In the biography included with this disc, it notes that a dying Charlie Chaplin spent many of his last days watching Benny's shows. Apparently, Milton Berle was a huge fan. If Chaplin and Berle thought Benny was funny, does it really matter what the rest of us think ? No comic could have more respected fans than these two "giants".

Another "bonus" with the DVD is a 30-minute, silent film Benny made in 1969, called "The Waiters"--Benny and a dim-witted sidekick are hired to cater a small party at an elegant country home. Would you want Benny to serve you food and drinks at a party ? If one of your guests is a curvaceous woman in a low-cut dress, would you want Benny within half a mile of her ?
Rhetorical questions both ! For you the viewer, this is a very entertaining half hour.

The picture quality for "Who Done It ?" is excellent--mono sound, of course. If you like goofy comedies--and Benny Hill in particular--Anchor Bay has given us another winner. Well done !

Who Done It? - Who Cares? Dum-Dum Wanna-Be Comedy
Benny Hill fans will enjoy this free-for-all nonsense about International espionage and a "secret weapon" developed by stereotypical Eastern-Block scientist. Benny, our likeable hero, is a "Inspector Clouseau" type amateur detective, ready to tackle his first assignment: impersonate the famous professor, as part of the secret plan for the bad guys to rule the world.

The story is "formula" and thin as a satin thread, but an extra large helping of "Benny Hill" slap stick, complete with lots of pretty girls and the obligatory Benny-in-drag scenes, make this predictable vehicle hobble along. The final car chase on (are you ready for this?) a race track is totally stupid, but what did you expect?

Given the 1960s mentality and the limited budgets available to produce a silly comedy, the objective was met. Today something similar would hope to recoupe it's investments in direct-to-video sales.***

Proof That Benny Hill Was A Great Comedian
Although I have watched the video 4 - 5 times, the most recent viewing was over a year ago. This is significant because it proves the memorably of the film. The film is well done. I must say there is no "obligatory endless complaining about rampant Socialism" so common to comedies of its era/place.

It has a fun chase at the end. There is a disastrous awards dinner. There are disguises too. It's a fun film. A note of caution: THERE ARE NO "BABES IN BIKINIS." It is a film with an actual plot ! Benny does exhibit many of his famous mannerisms, it's fun to look for them. I heartily recommend the film to fans of B&W Brit Comedies, and the "intellectual" Hill fan. :-D ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Standing The Test Of Time
BEAT THE DEVIL is a very funny movie which retains its subtle charm even after many viewings, It reminds me of the MALTESE FALCON not only because of the similarity of some of the characters but also because of the likeness of the screenplays. Both films essentially focus on a treasure hunt with an array of buffoons vying for the prize. Humphrey Bogart's characters seem to be about the only really normal people in either movie. While it is definitely considered to be a comedy, BEAT THE DEVIL is also not a bad adventure story. Most of the subdued action takes place on shore while the assorted crooks and cutthroats are waiting for a leaky old ship to take them to Africa.

The cast includes Humphrey Bogart, Robert Morley, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida, Peter Lorre, Ivor Barnard and Edward Underwood.

John Huston was the director and Truman Capote contributed heavily to the screenwriting after the filming began in Italy.Truly a ton of Hollywood talent was assembled for this one movie in a relatively charming location.

It is no wonder that the movie is standing the test of time and is now enjoying a revival of sorts with even a minor cult following.

Either You Get It or You Don't
Optioned as a drama by Humphrey Bogart's own production company, this movie was hijacked by director John Huston and screenwriter Truman Capote, who turned it into a subversive comedy under Bogart's nose. Some swindlers assembling in Italy would like to clean up a uranium concession in Africa but can't seem to keep the plot on the tracks. Almost entirely dialogue-driven, this satire relies in no little part on the mangled English dubbed for several of the characters by Peter Ustinov. Critic Pauline Kael quoted Humphrey Bogart about it: "Only phonies think it's funny." But even phonies like to laugh.

GOOD MOVIE ???
Great story with a great cast,but horrible sound and picture quality.

A jar of pickled clichés
Certainly not a masterpiece with a terminating Humphrey Bogart and a debutante Lollobrigida. Two odd couples with crossing affairs lost in a small harbor no one knows where because their derelict ship has broken down, surrounded by a band of three or four would-be gangsters who are nothing but weak bad boys. They even end up with a taxi jumping into the ocean, an attempted murder by overboard throwing in the middle of some ocean night, a shipwreck that brings all that nice group of adventurers to some Morocco where they are forced to bribe the locals to get through, and that is not as easy as one may think. In other words quite a compilation of clichés. And yet it is some fun to see such naive queer composition that someone in Hollywood called a film.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU

FILM NOIR SPOOF
This glorious spoof of the film noir genre of the 1940's, has direction by John Huston, an ever evolving script by Truman Capote and stars:Humphrey Bogart - HB (Billy Danreuther), Jennifer Jones - JJ (Gwendolynne Chelm), Gina Lollobrigida - GL (Maria), Edward Underdown - EU (Harry Chelm), Robert Morley - RM (Pierson), Peter Lorre - PL (O'Hara) and other notable character actors.

Basically a group of rogues are vieing with each other to be the first to obtain a rich uranium deposit somewhere in "British East Africa" but we are never told where precisely.It was filmed on location in Italy and features the only other comic role of JJ, (her first being "Cluny Brown (1946)) as a congenital liar, whose Spanish Nurse taught her all there is to know!.What a pity Selznick did not recognise the comic potential of his wife and instead of putting her in soulful dirges like "Indiscretion of an American Wife"(1952), he had developed her natural comic potential."Beat The Devil" did not perform at the box office in 1953/4 when released but is now, thankfully, being re-evaluated by discerning film connoiseurs, achieving almost a cult like status.

Being a strong amateur chess player, I particularly liked the scene outside the Italian cafe where JJ is "duffing up" EU again with an almost instant sight of the board, while chatting up HB.(Note to chess geeks - JJ plays much more weakly in "A Farewell to Arms (1957) vs Rock Hudson!!).Incidentally HB liked to play chess himself when off camera.

The plot twists & turns and being English with a bawdy sense of humour, I laughed when GL says to EU "I've brought you some tea & crumpet" while almost smothering EU in the eye with her... well you get the point! It is reported John Huston rather sadistically requested JJ to climb to the rocking crow's nest- a fearsome climb - to do her leg stretching exercises on the ship taking them to Africa.The gang, led by RM, hope she breaks a leg - & not in the theatrical sense!My favourite scene is in the office of the African potentate who is questioning the motley group of rogues.In reality all he wants to know is whether HB has met Rita Hayworth as he is a big fan!.If you look carefully you can see her pin-up on his office wall.The quivering of RM's various chins when he is threatened with torture, is a delight to behold.

The trick of Nazis having escaped to Latin America after WWII, is lampooned by PL who insists everyone calls him "O'Hara" (our little Irish leprecaun!).Everyone seems to be having a ball.Look out for Bernard Lee playing his usual police inspector role.This was long before he shot to fame as "M" in the Sean Connery, James Bond series from 1962 onwards.I've noticed in memorable films there is usually a catchy tune somewhere and here is no exception as played by an Italian brass band.I even find myself whistling the pianola music played on the ship while Ivor Barnard is away with his stabbing swagger stick ready to bump off EU.I voted 3/5 stars for this film. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The first season of Monty Python's Flying Circus was a time of experimentation: how to transition from one skit to another, how to weave a gag through a show, and most importantly how to sustain the comic momentum of a sketch. In Episode 7, "You're No Fun Anymore," this last problem was solved by creating their longest sustained sketch to date. The seemingly modest Science Fiction sketch (as it's introduced by a smarmy Michael Palin in a tacky sport jacket) chronicles the dastardly plot of a race of sport-loving Blancmanges from the Andromeda Galaxy to turn all Brits into kilt-wearing, bagpipe-blowing Scotsmen! Also featured in the program are the Camel Spotting sketch, The Audit sketch, and lots of characters uttering the now-familiar line "You're no fun anymore." In what can only be a blatant but desperate ratings gambit, the Pythons named episode 8 "Full Frontal Nudity." OK, there isn't much nudity, but there is the classic Dead Parrot sketch ("Nah, it's only sleeping"), a marauding pack of vicious, motorcycle-riding Hell's Grannies, a society of gossipy hermits, and an extortionist offering protection to the British Army ("You wouldn't want any of those tanks to get broken, now, would you?"). Episode 9, "The Ant: An Introduction," features what may be the single most famous skit in Python's short but eventful history. Nervous barber Michael Palin dreams of a life among the tall pines of British Columbia and warbles, "I'm a lumberjack and I'm OK" with a chorus of Mounties, who become rather puzzled by the sudden turn in the lyrics ("I put on women's clothing and hang around in bars!"). This classic episode also features a man with a tape recorder up his nose, a mountaineer with double vision mounting an expedition up both peaks of Kilimanjaro, and a brief but memorable appearance of a full-fledged Gumby, who sings while banging himself on the head with bricks. The Monty Python troupe really hit their stride in these episodes, which feature some of their most inspired, hilarious, and just plain weird moments. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Monty Python is the greatest comedy group of all time
This collection is good but not great. The sketches are priceless, but Monty Python does their best stuff when they perform live and only do their most popular sketches. regardless, this is a great dvd for MP lovers

IT's............. Another One
Buy It! 3 Superb Eps Of Superiour Intelligence

The parrot Is A Fake! It's A Dummy!

Appalling, Simply Appalling
Dear Sir,

I find it appalling that you continue to sell the products of this Monty Python person! They have implied that the Royal Navy is an 'aven for cannibalism, when it well known we have the problem relatively undr control, and that it is know the RAF which suffers the most casualties in that regard.

Further, what do you think the Argyles ate in Aden? Arabs!

Yours, etc., Rear Admiral Sir Charles Knickers in a white wine sauce ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Standing The Test Of Time
BEAT THE DEVIL is a very funny movie which retains its subtle charm even after many viewings, It reminds me of the MALTESE FALCON not only because of the similarity of some of the characters but also because of the likeness of the screenplays. Both films essentially focus on a treasure hunt with an array of buffoons vying for the prize. Humphrey Bogart's characters seem to be about the only really normal people in either movie. While it is definitely considered to be a comedy, BEAT THE DEVIL is also not a bad adventure story. Most of the subdued action takes place on shore while the assorted crooks and cutthroats are waiting for a leaky old ship to take them to Africa.

The cast includes Humphrey Bogart, Robert Morley, Jennifer Jones, Gina Lollobrigida, Peter Lorre, Ivor Barnard and Edward Underwood.

John Huston was the director and Truman Capote contributed heavily to the screenwriting after the filming began in Italy.Truly a ton of Hollywood talent was assembled for this one movie in a relatively charming location.

It is no wonder that the movie is standing the test of time and is now enjoying a revival of sorts with even a minor cult following.

Either You Get It or You Don't
Optioned as a drama by Humphrey Bogart's own production company, this movie was hijacked by director John Huston and screenwriter Truman Capote, who turned it into a subversive comedy under Bogart's nose. Some swindlers assembling in Italy would like to clean up a uranium concession in Africa but can't seem to keep the plot on the tracks. Almost entirely dialogue-driven, this satire relies in no little part on the mangled English dubbed for several of the characters by Peter Ustinov. Critic Pauline Kael quoted Humphrey Bogart about it: "Only phonies think it's funny." But even phonies like to laugh.

GOOD MOVIE ???
Great story with a great cast,but horrible sound and picture quality.

A jar of pickled clichés
Certainly not a masterpiece with a terminating Humphrey Bogart and a debutante Lollobrigida. Two odd couples with crossing affairs lost in a small harbor no one knows where because their derelict ship has broken down, surrounded by a band of three or four would-be gangsters who are nothing but weak bad boys. They even end up with a taxi jumping into the ocean, an attempted murder by overboard throwing in the middle of some ocean night, a shipwreck that brings all that nice group of adventurers to some Morocco where they are forced to bribe the locals to get through, and that is not as easy as one may think. In other words quite a compilation of clichés. And yet it is some fun to see such naive queer composition that someone in Hollywood called a film.

Dr Jacques COULARDEAU

FILM NOIR SPOOF
This glorious spoof of the film noir genre of the 1940's, has direction by John Huston, an ever evolving script by Truman Capote and stars:Humphrey Bogart - HB (Billy Danreuther), Jennifer Jones - JJ (Gwendolynne Chelm), Gina Lollobrigida - GL (Maria), Edward Underdown - EU (Harry Chelm), Robert Morley - RM (Pierson), Peter Lorre - PL (O'Hara) and other notable character actors.

Basically a group of rogues are vieing with each other to be the first to obtain a rich uranium deposit somewhere in "British East Africa" but we are never told where precisely.It was filmed on location in Italy and features the only other comic role of JJ, (her first being "Cluny Brown (1946)) as a congenital liar, whose Spanish Nurse taught her all there is to know!.What a pity Selznick did not recognise the comic potential of his wife and instead of putting her in soulful dirges like "Indiscretion of an American Wife"(1952), he had developed her natural comic potential."Beat The Devil" did not perform at the box office in 1953/4 when released but is now, thankfully, being re-evaluated by discerning film connoiseurs, achieving almost a cult like status.

Being a strong amateur chess player, I particularly liked the scene outside the Italian cafe where JJ is "duffing up" EU again with an almost instant sight of the board, while chatting up HB.(Note to chess geeks - JJ plays much more weakly in "A Farewell to Arms (1957) vs Rock Hudson!!).Incidentally HB liked to play chess himself when off camera.

The plot twists & turns and being English with a bawdy sense of humour, I laughed when GL says to EU "I've brought you some tea & crumpet" while almost smothering EU in the eye with her... well you get the point! It is reported John Huston rather sadistically requested JJ to climb to the rocking crow's nest- a fearsome climb - to do her leg stretching exercises on the ship taking them to Africa.The gang, led by RM, hope she breaks a leg - & not in the theatrical sense!My favourite scene is in the office of the African potentate who is questioning the motley group of rogues.In reality all he wants to know is whether HB has met Rita Hayworth as he is a big fan!.If you look carefully you can see her pin-up on his office wall.The quivering of RM's various chins when he is threatened with torture, is a delight to behold.

The trick of Nazis having escaped to Latin America after WWII, is lampooned by PL who insists everyone calls him "O'Hara" (our little Irish leprecaun!).Everyone seems to be having a ball.Look out for Bernard Lee playing his usual police inspector role.This was long before he shot to fame as "M" in the Sean Connery, James Bond series from 1962 onwards.I've noticed in memorable films there is usually a catchy tune somewhere and here is no exception as played by an Italian brass band.I even find myself whistling the pianola music played on the ship while Ivor Barnard is away with his stabbing swagger stick ready to bump off EU.I voted 3/5 stars for this film. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As she does in The Truth About Cats and Dogs, JaneaneGarofalo proves she's a capableleading lady--beautiful, charming, self-effacing, and what used to be referred to as sharp as a tack.Garofalo plays Marcy, aide to dim Massachusetts senator McGlory (Jay O. Sanders). Denis Leary isappropriately slimy as a fellow aide. The senator and Nick dispatchMarcy to the remote (and fictitious)Irish town of Ballinagra, where she's supposed to unearth relatives touse in the senator's PR campaign. Along the way, Marcy not only encounters the eccentric locals, butfinds herself in the maelstromof the town's annual matchmaking festival. The single Marcyinadvertently catches the eye of the movie'seponymous matchmaker Dermot (a captivating Milo O'Shea). Dermot senses sparks between Marcy andthe equally cynical, recently returned local boy, Sean (David O'Hara),once a successful journalist who'sreturned home to work on a book. The intimacies of the small town, the relationships between the locals, and the dialogue are credible andengaging. Look for beautiful cinematography and music, too. Also notable is the movie's ability to convey the feel of a foreign film while injecting humor that's both sarcastically American and yet Irish in trademark. --N.F. Mendoza ... Read more

Reviews (81)

Not The Quiet Man, Thank God
Someone called this movie a romantic comedy for people who don't like romantic comedies, and I think that's pretty accurate. The story of a hapless senator's aide (Garafalo) who is shipped to Ireland to search out Irish relatives (bogus or otherwise) of her dim boss, it is refreshingly funny, cynical and lighthearted. While there are, of course, some of the Irish stereotypes and cliches to be found, they are presented in a very sly, acidic, tongue-in-cheek manner, and some of the digs at tourists are particularly funny. The characters are charming, from the matchmaker(s)to the Kelly brothers who run one of the local hotels/pubs. David O'Hara is a find as a romantic leading man--no pretty boy but very sexy--and Jeananne Garafalo makes a great, offbeat romantic foil for him. The scenery is beautiful (it's Ireland, after all) and the dialogue very funny and, at times, touching. Even Murphy, the dog, is funny (note especially the scene in the home of the crusty and anti-tourist Aran Islander). In sum, this movie has some of the best comedic scenes I've seen and some of the most endearing characters as well. Highly recommended for light viewing.

Refreshingly different romantic comedy
The Matchmaker is a romantic comedy with a twist - it has an orginal premise, funny characters, truly comic moments, and the leads look like real people, which only adds to their appeal.

Janeane Garaofalo, as the U.S. Senator's aide visiting a coastal Irish village during their annual matchmaking fair, is funny and caustic. David O'Hara, as the seemingly n'er do well bartender who turns out to have a bit more going for him, is sexy as all get out, without looking anything like a Hollywood pretty boy.

The two stars have great chemistry and timing with each other, and the supporting cast is excellent. The only false notes are sounded by Dennis Leary, who overacts a bit as the obnoxious Senator's aide, and the character of the Senator himself, who is too much of a caricature. Milo O'Shea brings a poignancy to the key Matchmaker role that could have easily sunk into a stereotype.

This film has some very funny moments, with one of the best being a desperate car ride by O'Hara and his brother, both sporting full leg casts and trying in vain to pilot a stick shift.

All in all, you could do worse than to spend a couple of hours with "The Matchmaker". It left me smiling, as well as wanting to see more of O'Hara in future lead roles.

a sweet little sunday afternoon type of movie
having visited Ireland and flown into Shannon airport like Janeane Garofalo does at the beginning of this movie,it is a favorite.the scenery is beautiful,Janeane is adorable. i absolutely love the scene when she judges the singing contest!this movie is something you can simply enjoy-let it take you away to Ireland,its beautiful there!

Worthy of a Deluxe Turbo Tan!!
Bollix to those of you who don't like this movie! It is filled with quirky off center humor and constantly had me asking, "Did I really just hear that?" As a very pale caucasion myself, I related particularly well to the various jokes about the lack of pigment in the Emerald Isle. Anyone who's ever been set up on a blind date will find the matchmaking humor particularly entertaining as well. The charachters are wild and eccentric, but entirely lovable. This is one of those movies that leaves you feeling warm fuzzys, and is not to be missed. Even if you end up hating it, I recommend that you watch it and decide for yourself.

A Disappointment
This movie has beautiful scenery of Ireland but beyond that I can't recommend it. The acting is weak and the story hard to believe. There is a lot of offensive language that isn't really necessary to the story. The film never held my attention but did make me want to visit such a beautiful country. ... Read more

Description

A brash young American comes to London to star in a major new production-and becomes the central character in a mystery fueled by intrigue and passion.Interactive Menus, Filmographies, Production Credits, Scene Access ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Romantic thriller with good acting and unexpected twists.
Even if you are not a fan of Jon Bon Jovi this film is very good. It centers around an American movie star, played by Bon Jovi who wants to get artistic recognition by starring in a London play. Thandie Newton plays the playwrights mistress and Anna Galiena his unhappy wife. The playwright is played by Lambert Wilson as Felix Web. The desperate playwrite asks the American star, Robin Grange to seduce his wife so she can leave the marriage with her self-esteem intact. The plot thickens from there with a surprise ending. Well worth taking a look at the slick European film.

Pleasantly Surprised
I have seen Jon Bon Jovi in a few movies before and he has always impressed. However this movie is at the start of his acting career and he is "The leading man".

So it was lucky that he had a smart script, excellent support actors and talent to burn.

The story revolves around an american actor who is to star in a play in London and his relationship with the writer, his mistress and his wife.

Take it seriously, its a good movie.

interesting...not much more to say
okay, i've read most of the other reviews for this movie and had high expectations for it. i mainly wanted to see it for jon bon jovi, maybe because he is really HOT. anyway, i was a little disappointed, but it was an overall job well done. i'm just going to state the fact that i'm only a teenager, which explains why i found a couple of scenes awkward. to make it short and simple, i would recommend that you only watch this movie before you turn out the lights to make it more interesting. in my opinion of course, you may have your own

BEST JOVI MOVIE EVER!!!!
if you are looking at this movie for the same reason i did (bon jovi) then you are looking at the right movie!
i've seen pretty much EVERY movie he's ever been in and this by far is the best. some of the other reviews said the same thing,that if you think bon jovi is the greatest you won't be disappointed!
here are a couple of reasons why this movie should be at the top of your bon jovi list:
*scenes with his shirt off
*he is the leading man
*seduces the leading ladies
*twisted ending
if you need more reasons than those you'll just have to check it out for yourself.

regrettable
the mystery of why anyone would cast jovi
in the lead cannot be answered by watching
this movie. just being a celeb doesn't give
you the acting chops necessary to hold up your
end in the company of established performers.
the faltering screenplay didn't help matters
either. altogether regrettable ... Read more

Reviews (74)

Appropriate adaptation
When asked wh