Description

Director David Lean follows the heroic true-life odyssey of T.E. Lawrence (Peter O'Toole) in this dramatic portrait of the famed British officer's journey to the Middle East. Assigned to Arabia during World War I, Lawrence courageously unites the warring Arab factions into a strong guerrilla front and leads them to brilliant victories in treacherous desert battlefields where they eventually defeat the ruling Turkish Empire. ... Read more

Reviews (278)

DVD the best looking version yet
Apart from the slightly soft, washed-out picture quality during the opening credits of the movie, the DVD edition of LAWRENCE OF ARABIA is superb. The movie itself is spread onto 2 discs, with the disc break occurs just before Intermission. The Overture, Intermission, and the exit music are all played to a black screen, as per director David Lean's original wish. The picture quality looks as fresh and clean as, quite frankly, any film made in the 90s. In the dramatic shot where Lawrence appears on the far horizon after he rescued his Arab companion, the higher picture resolution of DVD makes it possible for us to notice his tiny figure whereas on VHS tapes or laserdisc it is so small it is almost impossible to see. Anyone who is serious about watching this film should get this DVD instead of any other version in order to appreciate the opulent cinematography and majestic atmosphere of this epic.

The disc has over 100 minutes of old and new documentaries and news footage about the making of the film, plus two well-designed DVD-ROM features (for Windows PC only): a interactive map showing the various journeys undertaken by the real T.E. Lawrence, and a "split-screen" feature that simultaneously plays the movie and shows you text of behind-of-scene information of the particular chapter of the movie that is playing. Since the DVD lacks a second audio commentary, being able to watch the film while reading facts about it is not a bad substitute.

The included "booklet" is a reproduction of the 1961 program given to theater goers, we are told. A nice touch: the disc case resembles Lawrence's diary in the movie.

Arabian Winner
Lawrence Of Arabia is one of the biggest and grandest films ever made. Director David Lean crafted a stunning epic that tells the tale of World War I British soldier T.E. Lawrence. Lawrence joined the various desert tribes of Arabia against the Turks and the desert battle scenes are breathtaking. Peter O'Toole is amazing as Lawrence in what would be a star-making turn for him. Omar Shariff, Anthony Quinn and Alec Guinness provide strong support, but this is Mr. Lean's film through and through. His direction provides sweeping shots of the desert vistas and gives the film its big look, but he also allows the story to flow and we really get inside the complicated head of Lawrence and see his psychological foibles. The film is beautifully transferred to DVD and it brings justice to the film that had previously suffered on video transfers. The movie was a major success as it swept through the 1962 Oscars winning Best Picture and Best Director, but Mr. O'Toole lost out on what would be the first of his of his seven unsuccessful Best Actor nominations.

Conservatives support slavery? This movie makes the case
Hi. My name is Steven Thulen. You might know me from such reviews as "Bowling For Columbine" and "My Life." I am here today to talk to you about "Lawrence of Arabia." While this may shock and astonish you, I will offer a long-winded review without actually discussing this film.

I am that good.

First, a history lesson. In the year 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue. He landed in Haiti and raped the native there, then enslaved them. Later, many Africans were captured and made slaves by white people. White people continued to terrorize other races throughout the latter half of the 19th Century.

Finally, World War I took place. During that war, many people died, including white people. Some people who were too cowardly to serve in the world fled to California, where they became subpar sports writers. Later, World War II took place. In that war, white people dropped atomic bombs on Asians.

Peter O'Toole was probably gay and acted really well in this movie.

STEVEN THULEN
AUTHOR OF "JIMMY KEY: BASEBALL'S BATMAN"
(...)

The Greatest Historical Epic Ever
LAWRENCE OF ARABIA is, without a doubt, the greatest historical epic ever filmed and the crowning achievement of David Lean's career. It's also the film that makes best use of the majestic desert landscape with shots of extraordinary rock formations, dunes, shimmering "mirages," and caravans making their way across seemingly endless sands.

LAWRENCE OF ARABIA tells the story of T.E. Lawrence and his adventures in the Middle East during World War I as he led the Arab revolt against the Turks. It is loosely based on Lawrence's book, THE SEVEN PILLARS OF WISDOM.

Even though there are battle scenes in LAWRENCE OF ARABIA, this film is, first and foremost, a character study of Lawrence who was, by anyone's account, a fascinating figure. Even the battle scenes serve to enhance the character of Lawrence rather than detailing the horrors of war and we see Lawrence's dark, embittered side as well as his heroic one.

Although Peter O'Toole wasn't David Lean's first choice to play Lawrence (both Marlon Brando and Albert Finney were offered the part), I can't imagine anyone else in the title role.

Omar Sharif is impressive as Sherif Ali Ibn El Kharish. Prior to this film, he was a virtual unknown, but LAWRENCE OF ARABIA launched Sharif on a long career that made him instantly recognizable the world over.

Even though O'Toole and Sharif weren't well-known when they starred in LAWRENCE OF ARABIA, the film's supporting case is certainly stellar: Alec Guiness, Anthony Quinn, Jose Ferrer and Claude Raines.

Although I think LAWRENCE OF ARABIA is best viewed on a large theatrical screen, this doesn't mean anyone should pass up the DVD. It's just too good for that, especially the Director's Cut (but do make sure you get the widescreen edition; this film demands it).

Don't watch LAWRENCE OF ARABIA expecting to get a history lesson. Watch it to learn more about the fascinating man who was T.E.Lawrence. If you do, I can't see any way you'll be disappointed.

Read the book, then watch again in awe.
I have seen this masterpiece many many times, but only after reading T.E. Lawrence's book "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom" this year do I now begin to understand. This movie is a product of two of the century's greatest minds, one an author and soldier, the other a film maker. The power of Lawrence's descriptions of the desert matches the great cinematography. No film could fully project the power of the inner thoughts of this most introspective man; for that you absolutely need the book to fill in the gaps. Many of the scenes take on a much deeper meaning once you have read the book in detail. The Columbia Tri-Star two-DVD edition is faultless, something I will always treasure. I find it hard to believe that someday a better movie could possibly be made, but we can hope against hope. ... Read more

Reviews (102)

The Importance of "Seeing" Earnest
Since I have not read the play by Oscar Wilde nor seen any previous performances of this work, I came into this movie completely unprejudiced, and left utterly delighted. I thought the film was hilarious; in particular the interplay between the two male leads, Colin Firth (Jack)and Rupert Everett (Algy). Judi Dench, as the austure Lady Bracknell, is of course perfection, and although less impressive, yet still quite good, are the two romantic interests of the gentlemen: Francis O'Connor (Gwendolyn) and Reese Witherspoon (Cecily). The tangled webs woven by our two heroes lead to some wonderful moments for Firth and Everett, especially when Algy shows up at Jack's manor to woo the fair Cecily. The scenes where Jack takes matters into his own hands had the audience roaring, and it was a treat to see Mr. Firth in a more playful role then is his usual.
There is also a sort of side plot involving the vicar (Tom Wilkinson)and Cecily's tutor (Anna Massey) which is also quite entertaining, and both actors display their humourous sides most credibly. All in all, a wonderful movie. I thought it was a shame, however, that the studio saw fit to release it only as a limited engagement. I, myself, had to drive nearly 200 miles to view this gem(well worth the trip, I might add), yet the lack of accessability disturbed me as it seemed to assume that only those in "larger metropolitan areas" would make the effort. Well, not only did I make the effort, I fully intend to purchase the DVD when it is released, and am looking forward to that date with relish, so that I may watch Firth and Everett over and over and over....

Run! (don't walk!) to see "The Importance of Being Earnest"!
This movie is a must-see and the epitome of a playful, feel-good comedy. Having never seen nor read the original play by Oscar Wilde I went to the theater with the expectation of merely staring at Colin Firth (whom i LOVED in P&P2!!) & Rupert Everett for an hour or so. I was pleasantly surprised and elated to discover that the movie was comedic, witty and filled with a cast of actors who played off each other wonderfully.

The movie is hysterical-i laughed throughout the entire thing-and it was not merely the verbal wit, but the physical comedy and dare I say again the chemistry of the actors that made the movie a true delight. Colin Firth and Rupert Everett are absolutely perfectly fitted to their roles, and "the muffin scene" (which those who have seen it must remember!) had me laughing so incredibly hard! Reese Witherspoon is grand, as is Frances O'Connor. Judi Dench's role was perfectly suited to her, and the twists of the story put the characters in such hilarious situtations. I must say, my only regrets after viewing this movie are:
1. It was only opened in limited release
and
2. I did not go and see it sooner.

I cannot wait for the DVD ~ the extra features *sigh* ~
...i can only imagine...

a treat
I haven't seen the 1952 version of Earnest, but I must say that I love this one. I laughed the whole way through. Purists might say that the dialogue goes too slowly, that the acting was underdone, or that Reese Witherspoon was miscast. My opinion: the dialogue is, of course, brilliant. It's Oscar Wilde. It is also delivered wonderfully, with perfect expressions that make the witty lines even more funny. Attention is, at times, required to catch these little expressions, but they are what help make the film so great. Also: I loved the casting. I loved it the first time I saw the film. I appreciate the casting even more now that I've read the actual play--the actors portray the characters exceptionally well, with all the quirks and nuances that I gleaned from the book. The add-ins (like the knight in Cecily's daydreams) make the movie, in my opinion, even more delightful. It should be quirky, and, thank goodness, it is. I highly recommend this film--it is a very well-done, lighthearted story full of wit. I definitely enjoyed it.

GOOD except some...
Brilliant, lovely, impeccable casting by the entire Oliver Parker's production team. Almost perfect performances by GORGEOUS actors and actresses upon beautiful costumes design, greenest of the countryside, and exquisite interior decorations. This Oscar Wilde adaption will no doubt remain timeless for the next three decades at least before another remake emerges in Hollywood.

Everything's so agreeable except Reese Witherspoon's cast here... Parker must have been mistaken for Christ sake! Witherspoon is so NOT right for the choice. Her indifferent beauty and bubbly profile are totally incompatible with the rest of the casts - who has got the lordly Englishness. She plays the "ward" of Jack Worthing (Colin Firth) who's kept and schooled in his country house, no wonder.

Superb
I must admit that I decided to watch this movie for just one reason. Colin Firth. And needless to say, I was not disappointed. The movie itself was very funny, not the slapstick stuff that has invaded the cinema screens in the recent past but hilarious dialogues and characters that are so rich in their stupidity that you can't help but laugh away. The concept of the play itself is lovely, the fact that so much importance is given to being christened with an appropriate name. However, I was quite upset with Witherspoon being cast as Cecily, there are a million wonderful British actresses for God's sake, why her ? I have this image of her in Legally Blonde, and then you see her faking this Brit accent and its sad, to say the least. Evert, Firth and Dench are superb in their roles, a must must watch movie. ... Read more

Reviews (29)

The warrior is truly great....
This Korean film by director Kim Sung Soo is a visionary masterpiece that brings to mind "Braveheart" and "Gladiator."

It takes place in ancient China, where Korean missionaries are betrayed by the Chinese and are taken into the desert to die. The Mongol hordes annihilate the Chinese guards and leave the Koreans to their fate. While wandering, the Koreans discover the Mongols have kidnapped the Chinese princess, and decide to rescue her and take her to safety. This is easier said than done, for the Mongols fight back with all the ferocity in their blood.

Zhang Ziyi is the most known star in this film, but she is hardly the main character. There and great performances by Jung Woo Sung as a quiet loner and Ahn Sung Ki, the skilled archer who gives Legolas a run for his money.

The scenery filmed in China and parts of South Korea is grand, and the battle scenes are filmed with finesse and brutality. Limbs are hacked off, arrows puncture necks, and heads are severed. This film is somewhat gory, so be warned.

This film was the biggest budgeted Korean film in history at the time of its release, and it was a box office hit in South Korea. It is a wonder why this film was never released commercially in the States, when it is on par if not far superior, to the films made in Hollywood. The DVD has some great extras in the 2-Disc edition, and I highly recommend this film to fans of Braveheart, Gladiator, and other epic sagas.

Movie is 4 stars, but American release is 2
I first watched this movie at the Asian Film Festival in SF and throughly enjoyed it. I'd give it a 4 (despite the absurd kill ratios, the inexplicable fact that the Mongols never utilize their horse archers, or the ambigious status of the princess- is she really Yuan or Chu?)

However, this DVD itself only merits 2 stars (maybe 3 if you haven't seen the original Korean version.) Why? No extras, second rate English subbing, and most irritating, they cut out about 15 minutes of the movie which developed the second characters (particularly the interactions between the priest and interpeter Park, as well as the one-eyed guy who constantly and humorously repeated that he was too ugly to get a girlfriend).

It's not a deal-killer, and I understand they did the same for other foreign releases, but the movie feels underdeveloped just the same. Why does the priest tag along? Why does Park grow a spine at the end? Do we really care that the other random guys survive until the end? You wouldn't be asking these questions if they hadn't edited those parts out of the movie.

Also, this may have been particular to my DVD, but there was an irritating glitch around 1:16:45. At this point I'm not sure whether I'll return the movie or not.

I loved it but....
Fantasic Film! The absolute only complaint I may think of is the music score is lacking in certain scenes, so much so as to be distracting. But, even so, I highly recommend this one. If you liked Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, this is in the same genre. A great ride.

Fantastic Story
Color scheme is excellent, the story is great, and the characters are well developed, an over all great movie.

I bought this movie based on the reviews on this site, as I could not find a preview or anything else other then reviews on the Internet.

The movie does start off a bit slow, but as I said, it develops the story. However, the action, once started, is very solid. Not your typical martial arts movie, all action bad story. In this movie the story is obviously what the director is focused on, the action comes second.

The complaints about the princess are unwarranted; as the princess in this movie is the same exact character she played in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. A spoiled brat, who wants to get away from the easy life and live "free." Once she is "free", she wants to return to the easy life. However, her character was more complex them people on this board give her credit for, as she cares about the people, peoples lives, and offers her own life to save everyone elses. Therefore, her character is more complex then given credit for.

If your looking for a great movie, w/a great story, and very solid action. This is the pick. If you are looking for great action, who cares about the story? This is not your movie. In addition, all the action scenes are realistic, no flying warriors, no magic, strait sword fighting, realistic battle scenes.

I give this movie and A-.

Oh man, this rules.
I'm really surprised a domestic studio didn't scoop this one up for a theatrical release in the US. This movie is simply incredible in its production value, realistically graphic battle scenes, and an extensive cast of engrossing characters.

A silent Koryu slave freed by his dying master joins the remaining Koryu warriors in an effort to free a captured princess in hopes of using her influence to regain passage into their homeland. The story quickly shifts to chivarly and honor as the warriors struggle to make their way to te edge of the Gobi desert. A masterpiece of Korean cinema that should not be missed. ... Read more

Description

From the team that brought you "Pride and Prejudice." Set in a richly portrayed society well-stocked with eccentric nobles and gossipy villagers, the story centers around 17-year-old Molly Gibson, the only daughter of a respected country Doctor. ... Read more

Reviews (69)

A MASTERPIECE...BRAVO!
This is a superlative period piece and a brilliant adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's 1865 novel of the same name. This BBC mini-series is a superb costume drama with stellar performances by the entire cast. Set in rural England, the film centers around Molly Gibson, the seventeen year old daughter of a country doctor. Richly drawn portraits of Molly's neighbors and friends quickly emerge and weave an absorbing tapestry of nineteenth century life.

Molly and her father, a widower for most of Molly's life, have an exceptionally close and loving relationship. Their relationship is put to the test when he decides to marry a widow and former governess, Hyacinth, who is a pretentious, self absorbed, ridiculous woman. She has a grown daughter named Cynthis, a beautiful young woman, close to Molly in age, but as different from Molly as night and day. Cynthia is best described as a Marilyn Monroe of the Victorian age. Cynthia and Molly become fast friends, while Molly barely tolerates her nigh intolerable step-mother.

The series really revolves around Molly's relationships with the all the characters in the production and her handling of the various everyday situations in which she finds herself. Richly drawn, memorable characters, as well as intrigues, secrets, and romance, make this a highly absorbing drama and one that those who love period pieces and lush, well acted costume dramas will enjoy. It is simply a masterpiece.

With stunningly crisp visuals and beautiful clarity of sound, the production value of this three disc, five hour DVD is simply first rate. It is also value laden with some very interesting features. There is an engaging fifty five minute portrait of Elizabeth Gaskell, the author of the novel upon which this mini-series is based. There is a also a twenty minute documentary on the making of the film which is entertaining, as it gives a bird's eye view of the thought that went into the making of the film and the development of the characters. There is also a who's who guide to the performers. This DVD is well worth having in one's collection.

The BBC does it again!! Splendid, romantic tale...
"Wives and Daughters" is adapted from the unfinished Victorian novel of Mrs. Elizabeth Gaskell and is produced by the same creative geniuses that gave us A&E/BBC's 1995 "Pride and Prejudice."

This story centers around girl-next-door Molly Gibson (Justine Waddell of "Mansfield Park," "Tess" and "Great Expectations") and her father, the town doctor (Bill Patterson). Their idyllic lives are turned upside down when Mr. Gibson remarries the selfish, self-absorbed Claire Fitzpatrick (Francesca Annis) and her beautiful daughter Cynthia (Keeley Hawes of "Our Mutual Friend") join the household. The brothers Osborne (Tom Hollander) and Roger (handsome newcomer Anthony Howell who reminds me of a young Mel Gibson) Hamley add romantic interest to the tale. However, the Hamleys come from old English stock and the squire Hamley (veteran actor Michael Gambon) desires his sons to marry into "wealthy old English families." Before long, Molly falls for Roger and Roger falls for Cynthia and we, the viewers, find some surprising discoveries along the way!!

Memorable supporting characters include the goodhearted Browning sisters, town gossip Mrs. Goodenough, mysterious Mr. Preston (Iain Glen) and the aristocratic Cumnor family. Justine Waddell is luminous as Molly and Michael Gambon and Francesca Annis turn in memorable performances. The scenery, costumes and production values are all excellent. Screenwriter Andrew Davies - who also penned P&P - gives us a satisfying, romantic new ending that would make Mrs. Gaskell proud. I loved every moment of this adaptation! If you are an Anglophile, enjoy a great love story or are a fan of Mrs. Gaskell, this is the film for you!!!

A PERFECT COMBINATION!
Sue Birtwistle and Andrew Davies are, in my opinion, the best possible combination to make perfect period drama; they are like bread and butter. Ever since seeing Pride and Prejudice (another must-see!) when I was five, I've adored both Ms. Birtwistle and Mr. Davies, and have made an effort to see every film that they have contributed to. When Wives and Daughters premiered on PBS's Masterpiece Theatre, I couldn't have been more thrilled. Lavish costumes, set design, and cinematography are always guaranteed when these two are working together.
Wives and Daughters was certainly no exception.
The film circles around Molly Gibson, brilliantly acted by Justine Waddell, who has also acted in many other period dramas. She plays her character with innocence and simplicity, and you feel for her as she struggles with her love for a man who is engaged to her step - sister. I couldn't wait for each instalment to air every week on Masterpiece Theatre, and now regularly watch it a few times a year.
Another favorite actress is Keely Hawes, who plays Molly's amiable yet flirtatious step - sister, Cynthia. She acts convincingly blind to her charms and also makes you feel rather sorry for her. Her admirer, Mr. Preston (played by Iain Glen) is also wonderfully cast as a spiteful, manipulating man who is used to getting what he wants. He makes you hate him one moment and sympathise with his hopeless love for Cynthia, who certainly does not return his affections. Rosamund Pike, who was cast as Lady Harriet, does a wonderful job portraying an upper-class woman who will not be messed around with. Though she is not a main character, Ms. Pike does a wonderful job. All in all, a wonderful cast.
The sets were perfect, too. Hamley Hall looks appropriately gloomy, dark, and dreary, while the Towers (where Lady Harriet lives) are lavish, enormous, and regal-looking. The Gibson's home is also ideal, with wonderfully unique gardens and herb houses, which make the film even more exquisite to watch.
If Pride and Prejudice and other films of that genre appeal to you, this is a film that you will certainly enjoy!

Wives and Daughters ~
The movie Wives and Daughters is a long movie full of romance and very mild suspense and action. Although it is not a bad movie whatsoever, it falls short of other romances I have seen. If you like long, drawn-out romances, you might enjoy this one, but its length makes it not worth it for all to see. --TJM

Phenomenal!
This is an incredible movie! Excellent character development, great plot. If you like Pride and Prejudice, you'll definitely like this. One of my top 10 for sure! ... Read more

Description

Queen of Japanese erotica Naomi Tani plays a wife who charges her husband with sexual battery. He escapes from the police and goes into hiding. Three years pass, she divorces him and tries to put the pieces of her life back in order when suddenly he returns. Obsessed with rage and hatred, he kidnaps her and brings her to a house in a remote wooded area. There he disciplines her vehemently, subjecting her to increasingly shocking forms of sexual torture, tetherings, suspensions and humiliations. Astonishingly, through the rage and lust, the pair develop a relationship that pushes the boundaries of lurid passions and perverse obsessions. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

a beautifully made but shocking film.
This is probably one of the best examples of classic Japanese erotica ever. The aesthetics are amazing and the film is very well shot. The DVD transfer is quite beautiful and clear. The film is not for everyone and the story is certainly lurid. A must for fans of this genre. Naomi Tani is simply amazing.

Would be five stars - but for shoddy presesentation
Wow! This is an amazing movie - although I had to laugh when I read another review that attempted a deeper political reading of the material than I'm sure was intended. (For that sort of thing see Koji Wakamatsu.) It irks me that in the case of something like this it's shameful to cop to having enjoyed it just because.

It's clearly a commercial venture. It does have some depth - as does anything that zeros in on our taboos with a sledgehammer. And, in it's way it is a facinating, well-made and "entertaining" work. It's also an incredible cultural document. The Japanese film industry has spawned a number of unique genres over the years, and this is a great example of something that never quite had an equivalent anywhere else.

This is definitely not for everyone, though. (I saw this with a Japanese friend who declared about two thirds of the way through that the Konuma was "not a human being.")

The performances are very good - Naomi Tani radiates star quality. The cinematography is lovely and the tape is letterboxed.

Unfortunately, Kim Stim's transfer quality is very poor indeed. I checked two tapes and both exhibited distracting ghosts of images from unrelated productions - particularly bad during dark scenes. I haven't seen the DVD yet, but if this was a problem with their master it could show up there too. And if they were careless enough to release a VHS of this quality I don't think I want to risk the cash to find out if the DVD transfer is any better.

Let's hope more of these films (the better ones) become available here - and that they are given the presentation that they deserve.

Pink poltics
'Wife' is one of the best examples of the Japanese Film Industry's notorious pink films made in 1974 by Nikkatsu Studios. Starring the Queen of Japanese SM Naomi Tani, 'Wife' is the story of an abducted woman who overpowers her abusive husband by succumbing to the pleasures of masochism. The film articulates a social commentary through the depiction of graphic SM scenes that fuction as a metaphor for gender relations in Japanese society. The underlying theme of the movie is to suggest that there is an impossibility of romantic love between japanese men and women and that sadism and masochism are possibly alternative forms of love than those of social obligation or the reani kekkon (Love marriages). The film asks us (well the japanese of 1974) to take a closer look at our realtionships to each other and roles within society which may be in itself the bigger of SM relationship than that of the personal one depicted in the pink film. Overall its a gruelling film to watch but Pasolini's SALO was never intended to be fun entertainment either. The amazon video tape reviewed here is a quality transfer from the original uncensored Japanese 35mm print which retains the crystalline cinematography and minimal soundtrack. The film is subtitled which is required for an artistic film with such a rare tension between cruelty and beauty. ... Read more

Reviews (108)

An engrossing and as legendary as the real story.
A monumental achivement and a powerful milestone that changed hollywood forever , not only is this film as big and legendary as the true life story , the true life story ended this movie this film the story is endless from the massive production to the sweeping love story that it gave on and off screen with Liz Taylor and Richard Burton is in many cases as legendary as the love affair between Antony and Cleopatra.Huge massive sets and authentic locations and an powerful cast of it's time such as Rex Harrison as Julius Ceaser,Richard Burton as Mark Antony and Roddy Mcdowell as Octavian but at it's heart Liz Taylor in the role that made her the dream of every man Cleopatra who held the power of two nations in the palm of her hand.

This still hold the worlds record as the most expensive film ever made 45 millon at a time when you could spend 2 millon on an epic and still get something grand but many drawbacks and waste and script rewrites , directors getting tired and producers fed up and many times a sick Liz Taylor ,it also holds the record for the largest sets ever built. At the hights of the Roman Empire and the Egyptian Empire, Julius Ceaser a respected Ceaser and general wars to make and expand the greatness of Rome, after the battle little does he know that while he may conquer countrys there is one thing he cannot conquer the love of his neighboring Egyptian Queen and ruler of Egypt Cleopatra who is feirce and ambitious and seducting and uniting Rome and Egypt as one she will do that at all costs even if it means loving a Ceaser and bearing him a son.But when both nations are locked into war and famon , The Roman senate decides that Julius is no longer capable of being a Ceaser so they , assasinate him.Cleopatra alone and not fufilling her dream she meets the beloved Roman General Mark Antony and is immidiately swept into another love affair from a Roman but Antony seemingly betrays Egypt and strikes Cleopatra's anger and frustration now hated and decived by Rome Antony is once again engaged in war with announced Ceaser Octavian as Antony wars at Actium he must endure a terrible defeat.

But as the movie ends in a almost Romeo and Juliet style as Antony dies in the hands of the only thing to him that was worth fighting for Cleopatra , when she realizes how much Antony loves her she causes her death and is bit by a serpent and dies before Octavian can capture her alive.

An amazing film , a legendary film sprawling in intrigue and betrayal and lust the DVD contains a two hour making of the film and a legend that almost bankrupted 20th century fox if Cleopatra was made today it would cost twice as much as TITANIC to make.Cleopatra was a virtual flop and badly tanked at the box office but this movie is good because it manages to bring a legend to life with unserpasssed and powerful brillance few Hollywood films can do today.Not even reacent 2001 Best Picture winner Gladiator is as big in scope and scale everything is just small next to this film the will live in the annels of film as the story will live in egyiptian lore for centurys to come an specticale worthy and awsome film.

Hey 20th Century FOX: RESTORE CLEOPATRA!
I think Cleopatra is the best movie ever made, it is also the most expensive movie ever made costing twice more than Titanic in today's money, but it just didn't make it to the screen. Intended to be two movies, Caesar and Cleopatra & Antony and Cleopatra, three hours each. But partly because of the attention of the famous Taylor-Burton affair, Darryl F. Zanuck shamelessly ruined Cleopatra from its 6-hour two movies into ONE 3 hour 14 minute movie, which is the TV version, which is Horrible! But luckily, the 4-hour version, this DVD version, survived the brutal cutting of the film. This movie is the most beautiful movie I have ever seen. The sets, clothes, props, and music... they are just FLAWLESS! As many people know, Rex Harrison as Caesar and Richard Burton as Antony both got nominated for Best Actor at the Oscars, but because the movie was cut to one, they were nominated against each other in the same movie, and more importantly, their best scenes were cut because of the length, so none of them won (but they deserve to), and Roddy McDowell got nominated in the wrong section and his votes were canceled. Martin Landau was going to be nominated as Best Supporting Actor, but after the film was ruined, the Academy Awards dropped him. Elizabeth Taylor's best scenes were cut off that she was so angry she puked at the Premiere.

The Music of the film is the BEST. Till this Day, I don't know why the Oscars didn't give Cleopatra the award. Of course, Oscars didn't give Gone with the Wind, Gladiator, and lots of other film's beautiful scores the Oscar, it's weird.

How do I know about all about Cleopatra? I have ALL the books, interviews, and even the full movie shooting script of this movie, I am the biggest fan! If you have seen the movie, you'll realize that Cleopatra was usually unhappy and tense. But there is a happy side of her, for example, there was a scene where Cleopatra, Antony and her son with Caesar were in the garden, Cleopatra watching them play swords. Then Caesarian, the son, stubbed Antony with his wooden sword and Antony cried out in "pain", and Caesarian suddenly went crying, saying "don't die, don't die!" Antony suddenly comes back to life and tickles Caesarian, then drags Cleopatra into them and they were all laughing and rolling on the floor... it was so happy, and that's one of the many sides of Cleopatra that's been cut off.

In the four-hour version, we first see Cleopatra dumped out of a carpet. That was NEVER intended to be the first scene we see Cleopatra. From the script I learned that there was a whole story of Cleopatra outside Alexandria, and she and the others planned to meet Caesar and how to sneak her in. Just after they got to the Palace, some soldiers almost caught them and the maid had to lure the guards away... it was thrilling to read the pages of the script! There are sooo much to saying about what Cleopatra should have been, but sadly, no one expect FOX has the missing footage, and they are the best scenes of the movie (some scenes were so humorous that I laughed out loud!).

In the late 70's, 20th Century FOX called a recording session to record the lines of the movie so they can restore it, since the sound elements were missing. But it was called off at the last minute. But the three-and-half hours of missing film footage was NEVER lost! With today's technology, they can totally restore the film back, including the sound. They also have the missing part of the unused scores, but why doesn't FOX, after making a two hour documentary about the film, restore it? No one knows! Movies like "A Star is Born", "Lawrence of Arabia", "Sparticus", and many other classic movies has been successfully restored and loved by many. Why not Cleopatra? I am writing just to let you know the truth about the movie, and hopefully, if more people know maybe FOX will restore the film to the intended way. In a Late interview with four-time Oscar winner Joseph L Mankiewicz, the director and screenwriter of the movie, when the subject Cleopatra went up, he literately cried (on TV!). He said he wanted the film to be perfect that he bit his nails until they were bleeding that he had to wear gloves when he was writing the script... He called Cleopatra his "butchered masterpiece". But however, it's still one of the best movies out there! Totally worth buying!!

FOX: PLEASE RESTORE CLEOPATRA BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE, BEFORE THE FILM ROTS OR A STUDIO FIRE AND BURNS THEM TO DUST, LIKE FOX'S 1917 VERSION OF CLEOPATRA!

THE BEST FROM OLD HOLLYWOOD
Although Miss Taylor is no match compared to Vivien Leigh in CAESAR AND CLEOPATRA; this i s by far the best epic from old Hollywood - and the most entertaining..... Enough said. Ok, I can`t shut up; the arrival of Cleopatra into Rome is a masterpiece in itself... and the choreography is by the renowned Hermes Pan:-)

Spectacular Film About a Powerful Woman
"Cleopatra" is a great film released in 1963 about rise and relationships of the woman herself played by Elizabeth Taylor. This five-time Oscar winning spectacular film gives a rise to audiences of all kinds. Its beauty is never to be forgotten. The hard work and dedication placed onto this film shows greatly. Such film quality answers why it's since become a highly remembered classic. Its brilliant plot follows the emotional path of Cleopatra through her rise in power and her life turbulances. The emotional value stands greatly beyond the spectacular surroundings. This doesn't distract from the many history details expressed. The love themes are romantic as any great love classic. The sense of loss and struggle, namely losing those closest to her and trying to stop the wars from erupting, are greatly present.

All five Oscar wins were won for the spectacular surroundings that continue to amaze audiences after forty-one years: costume design, art direction, special effects, sets, cinematography. Few other films from the classic days was as elaborate as "Cleopatra". The multi-million dollars spent was worth it. The backgrounds are accurate desplictions of the actual Ancient Egypt and Ancient Rome. The buildings and the structure styles are amazing. The wardrobes are accurate to the actual styles worn by the characters. The elaborate costumes, namely the ones worn by Cleopatra, are unforgettable. This set a record for most costume changes by an actress for one film, 32, which would take 33 years to break ("Evita", 68). The make-up work blends perfectly with every costume.

Elizabeth Taylor's role as Cleopatra is unforgettable. Her previous research of the subject is present. More perfect is the Oscar nominated role (Best Supporting Actor) of Caeser played by Rex Harrison. His expressions of love and life turbulances greatly improve the movie's theme. All other actors also play their roles wonderfully: Richard Burton, Martin Landau, Carroll O'Connor, and others.

"Cleopatra" is a great classic film that will continue amazing audiences for many more years. This will leave them with an unforgettable experience. After viewing, those looking for more should also watch the bonus features, which have a lot of interesting details behind the film.

One of the best epics ever made!
I can't really add much to some of the wonderful reviews I have read about this DVD set (the 5 Star Collection). But I do want to say that if you love this movie or even just like this movie, the documentary that is included with this 3-disc set is worth buying this DVD set just by itself. It's one of the most entertaining and interesting documentaries I've ever seen on the making of a movie and all the interesting and strange events that happened while making the movie and after the movie. The movie is absolutely beautiful - the sets and costumes are magnificent - the money spent on this film is so obvious. I wish they would restore this movie to the director's original plan and put back the other half of the movie that was cut out! I would pay lots of money to buy a director's cut of this movie. But until that day comes, if ever, I highly recommend this DVD set. It's still one of my favorite movies of all time. ... Read more

Reviews (189)

As memorable as the book
As a lifelong fan of the works of Austen I am always leary of film adaptations, for fear they are glorified costume pieces. This film was so remarkably well done, the characterizations complete and fleshed out, it was as "clinging" as the book. It truly stays with you. Cirian Hinds and Amanda Root are wonderful of course, but the rest of the cast is just as ideal. I would recommend it to all but the most cynical non romantics.

A Worthy Adaptation of a Favorite Book
I thoroughly enjoyed this adaptation of Jane Austen's "Persuasion." Unlike some other reviewers on this site, I found Amanda Root to be a perfect choice for the role of Anne Elliott, who had "lost her bloom" at age 27. At the beginning of the movie, Root's Anne is timid, often self-effacing, and her physical appearance is, frankly, plain. Thoroughout the course of the film, as she rediscovers her feelings for Captain Wentworth (Ciaran Hinds)she becomes more animated and self-assured, and by the end of the movie, sure of the captain's love, she positively blooms again. I liked the cast in general, although I thought that Hinds may have been an older Captain Wentworth than Austen envisioned. Corin Redgrave gave his usual excellent performance as the vain and foppish father of Anne and Elizabeth. I did not care for Phoebe Nicholls interpretation of Elizabeth Elliott, however. Ms Nicholls, who was so brilliant in "Brideshead Revisited," played Elizabeth (who is in her late 20s) as a spoiled teenager who would have been more at home in the Los Angeles of the 1990s than early 19th century England. Sophie Thompson (sister of Emma) and Fiona Shaw were outstanding as Mary Musgrove and Mrs. Croft, respectively.

The film makers did take some liberties with the story....it has been commented on several times by critics that Anne and the Captain never kissed in Austen's novel. While this is true, most of the film adaptations of Austen's works that I have seen include scenes of kissing between men and women who have come to an understanding of their love for each other. "Persuasion" is certainly a more faithful adaptation of Austen than is "Mansfield Park," which was released about the same time, probably because it does not have a political ax to grind.

Sweet Persuasion
What a wonderful adaptation of Jane Austen's fine novel. The performances bring to life the characters that Jane Austen's words inspired. Amanda Root's performance as the long-suffering Anne Elliott is perfectly understated. Her transformation from 'one who has lost her bloom' into one who is able to love again is wonderful to observe. Who cannot fall in love with Ciaran Hinds portrayal of the dashing Captain Wentworth? It is perfection itself. Supporting actor Corin Redgrave obviously relished his role as the ridiculously vain Sir Elliot, and most impressive was Sophie Thompson as Mary Musgrove. After watching her performance as the old maid Miss Bates in the 1996 version of Emma, I appreciate her portrayal of the jealous hypochondriac Mary Musgrove even more. Fiona Shaw & John Woodvine as Sophie and Admiral Croft were a breath of fresh air. Susan Fleetwood is convincing as Lady Russell and honorable mention should go to the actors who portrayed Captain's Harville & Benwick and of course those who portrayed the Musgroves. My only complaint as a Jane Austen purist: I loathe convenient deviations from her original novel and this version fails the novel through it's portrayal and storyline involving Mr. Elliot and Mrs. Smith. I was most particularly grieved by the insertion of an unnecessary scene involving Captain Wentworth offering to quit Kellynch on behalf of Admiral and Mrs. Croft. Despite these two atrocities, I find that the performances make this a must see adaptation.

A gem
This movie is not only the best film adaptation of a Jane Austen novel, it's also a wonderful film in its own right. What did I love about it?

1) It isn't stuffy and unnatural. The characters sound human when they speak; you can imagine that this is how people spoke in the 19th century - not like pompous orators, but like real people. The world surrounding the characters isn't overly polished or brightly lit; again, there's a natural, "lived-in" feeling to all the buildings and landscapes; they do not look like they came out of a glossy postcard.

2) The performances. I don't have enough praise for Amanda Root, who plays Anne Elliot, a woman whose marriage prospects are slim to nil, and who has just been thrown into the company of a man whom she rejected years ago. Root can speak volumes just with her eyes, and everything about her fits perfectly with the gentle, wry and intelligent Anne Elliot. As Captain Wentworth, Ciaran Hinds is also great; he disappears into the character. Both actors aren't conventionally beautiful or handsome either; Root in particular blossoms before the viewers eyes - at first she's very faded and quiet, and then we (like Wentworth) see her spirit shine out. In addition to Amanda Root and Ciaran Hinds, the rest of the cast also do a wonderful job. Perhaps because there aren't any big name actors, we can get totally immersed in the film.

3) It's true to Austen. There's subtle humor, real human feeling, and a keen understanding of human nature. It's an unforgettable love story.

4) The kiss. One kiss - perfectly timed, perfectly executed... you will melt.

5) The soundtrack. This holds true particularly for the assembly at Bath, and the Italian vocal pieces.

The DVD made me buy the book
I have always been a Jane Austen fan, but never read this particular book. Very well acted, and contains the sentiments of the book. Would definately recommend ... Read more

Reviews (69)

Great movie
This was my first "Ang Lee" movie and I am impressed. I like foreign movies because most of them do not follow the Hollywood standard of relying heavily on famous movie stars to make cash for the studios at the sacrifice of a good plot, skillful acting, and good storytelling.

This movie is a slice of Tawainese life. Master Chu is a renowned chef and a widower who raised three beautiful daughters. The movie observes the lives of the members of this family and the poeple around them. The storytelling is simple and sweet. Ang Lee has us observing the character's lives as forces around them change the circumstances they find each other in. The film is engrossing and satisfying as we watch the conflict of tradition and modernization affect Master Chu and his loved ones. I'm sure I would've enjoyed it ten times more if I spoke chinese, but the subtitles are better than dubbed. Never watch a dubbed foreign movie. The language will be lost.

I made the mistake of watching this movie with an empty stomach. Never do that. The cooking scenes are fantastic. The food Master Chu prepares are a feast for the eyes, and an empty stomach would only make you yearn for a taste.

Tantalizing Cuisine and Family Drama in Taiwan
Sunday dinner at master chef Chu's home resembles a spectacular banquet you would only expect at a gourmet restaurant. He works tirelessly to prepare a feast for his daughters who hardly seem to appreciate his culinary skills.

Jia-Jen (Kuei-Mei-Yang) is a chemistry teacher who has discovered Christianity, Jia-Chen (Chien-Lien Wu), is an airline executive who is in love with a man who will never marry her and Jia-Ning (Yu-Wen Wang) has her eye on a friend?s boyfriend.

The basic plot centers around a father who is not only trying to find a new life but is watching all his daughters leave and start their own lives.

Indirectly we also learn a great deal about men through the relationships the daughters pursue. We have a man who is living the bachelor lifestyle, a naive lover who is just learning about the games women play and a man who is willing to change religions to get the girl of his dreams.

This movie is deliciously dramatic with some deeply religious themes. I was pleasantly surprised with the light humor which was not at all offensive. You also see three lifestyles presented by the daughters showing how they each deal with their libidinous whims. The most unexpected twists and turns appear, making the plot entirely entertaining.

While chef Chu finds ways to show his love to his daughters, he is especially estranged from one of his daughters who only communicates with him through criticism of his food. There is a scene later in the movie which shows the father using this same tactic to communicate his love to his daughter.

Some of the comedy is all in the facial expressions. I especially loved the part where chef Chu is trying to eat the inedible lunch and where the children in his adopted granddaughter's classroom are all placing orders for lunch. As a woman, I could not help laughing when he pulls out the nylons and bras all tied up together in the washer.

I?m always complaining about the lack of chef themes in movies. If you are hungry for movies with cooking themes, add this movie to your must-see menu. You almost have to watch this movie twice. Once with the subtitles and the second time just to view all the tantalizing dishes master chef Chu (Sihung Lung) prepares.

This movie reminded me of "The Scent of Green Papaya" (1994). However, "Eat Drink Man Woman" excels in the presentation of the cuisine, while "The Scent of Green Papaya" was more poetic in its presentation. This movie is a visual feast. All I want to know now is where is the cookbook so I can learn how to make that dragon?

Playful romance, creative cuisine, deep rivers of emotional drama and original comedy are the ingredients that make this movie a satisfying feast for the heart and soul.

Three words to take Very Seriously "before" watching this movie: Order Chinese Food!

Don't say we didn't warn you. ;)

Also look for: Babette's Feast, Like Water for Chocolate, Simply Irresistible and Chocolat.

~TheRebeccaReview.com

Loved the cooking
This movie has the same story and is the basis for the film "Tortilla Soup." If you want to see the more accesible and entertaining of the two, see "Tortilla Soup" in which the Chinese culture is swapped for Hispanic-American culture. The culture differences and dry sense of humor in "Eat Drink Man Woman" kept me from identifying with the characters. It was still a wonderful movie and is worth watching for the cooking sequences alone. It was also interesting as a Chinese cultural study.

A DELICIOUS SERVING OF LIFE, LOVE AND LAUGHS
Apart from a fabulous peep into the Chinese culinary worlds and its delectable blend of touching yet hilarious screenplay (a natural, unfolding rhythm), this movie for me represents Ang Lee's peak.

A bit like a Chinese version of Woody Allen's "Hannah and her sisters", the film traverses through the lives of three sisters and their father. Lee manages to tell each character's story with care and humor. There are some hearty laughs, a number of touching dramatic moments, and towards the end even a couple of startling twists.

There are a handful of movies that employ cooking as a metaphor of life. But Lee doesn't stop there -- he uses the *preparation* of food as a motif of life's experience as a whole, to include friendship and familial devotion, as well as desire, passion and love. On occasion, food also represents a substitute to all that.

Ultimately, what makes a movie like this work is how much you care for its characters, each one wholesomely well-drawn and glibly multi-dimensional. With the possible exception of a family friend, who comes across as a bit cartooney, there are no caricature villains. Everyone is complex and human.

A terrific offering from China that I highly recommend. You may leave with a craving for some noodles soon after..

DVD Review
Eat Drink Man Woman is a joyous film that celebrates family, love, and food. Sure to evoke smiles, laughs, and tears. The film is wonderfully entertaining as the lives of three sisters and their father go through changes due to unexpected events. Throughout we are treated to breathtaking photography that caress and studies the art of food perparation. The film is sure to make anyone hungry.

Video: (1:85) A great transfer from MGM, good sharpess and shadow detail.

Sound: Clean and clear, very good audio track.

Extras: Trailers and an interview with Ang and his co-writer. Do not watch the interview if you haven't seen the film, it gives away all the pleasant surprises in the film. ... Read more

Reviews (53)

ASTOUNDING EROTICA.....
This is an amazing film to watch. Not only is it beautifully filmed but the atmosphere is quite vivid in its' depiction of a Japanese servant girl who becomes mistress of the master of the house and sexually obsessed with their relationship. She leads him deeper into the sexual realm until it becomes the focus of both their lives. Their relationship becomes so intense that it can only lead to destruction. Film is extremely sexually graphic and to be honest, I wasn't even aware that I was watching "pornography" because the acting and story were so mesmerizing. By then, I didn't care because it wasn't offensive---just honest. The two leads are wonderful actors and they made me forget I was watching a supposedly one-time controversial film. The film is supposedly based on a true incident. The ending is shocking and depressing but that's allegedly what happened. I consider this film a classic and a must see for foreign film buffs. It's one of the most beautiful erotic love stories ever made and one of the most disturbing.

An actors film, based on a true story.
Based on a true story, Nagisa Oshima's 1976 film about possession, sexual obsession and love, is still fresh in its portrayal of a woman named Matsuda who struggles to posses her husband Fuji, wholly and completely.
In what must be one of the most shocking movies to come out of Japan in decades,
Nagisa's skillful use of location builds a claustrophobic atmosphere of intimacy, with very little light, cramped space and no fresh air (minor character comments about the smell that builds in the room the couple are in). Though at times seemingly pretentious, my feeling is that this may be due to the translation.
From beginning to end the controversial and explicit nature of the film will either turn you on, or off or leave you in jaw-dropping awe. Its still amazing what the two main actors do for this film, and the levels they go to, to bring these two characters to life. Still fresh and worth a good unbiased viewing every other year.

Serious Minded Erotica......
Nagisa Oshima has achieved what few other directors have managed in dealing with the very touchy subject of sex, in this instance, with sexual obsession. If you plan to watch this movie for a cheap sexual thrill, you will be most disappointed. Oshima has drawn from a real incident reported in a 1936 Japanese newspaper. The film centers around the love between two people expressed physically, graphically, into realms of the senses where few dare to tread. And with good reason. This is a very intense film as it progresses from the attraction of two people through increasing experimentation in an effort not only to express their passion but to try to find the outer most limits of passion itself. Oshima must have had something metaphorical in mind but the journey as chronicled in the film also has retained the feel of the specifics. It's quirkey and eccentric. The backdrop of the story is as interesting as the story itself. It is an amazing spectacle to observe, giving the viewer a perspective on Japanese life not usually rendered but often alluded to in some historical accounts. One wonders what this experience must have been like for the actors. Oshima has managed what I have always believed should be done in order to treat the subject of sex fully and without shrinking from its' less savory aspects. This is serious minded erotica and quite unlike anything else on screen. The only other film I can recall that compares at all is "Taxi Zum Klo" which was autobiographical and starred a number of actual people playing themselves.Obviously a different catagory in that regard from what is going on here, but both films draw much of their power from explicitly sexual scenes without compromising the integrity of the story being told. This is a film experience that should not be missed.

Interesting movie...
I have to say that this movie is most certainly not one for everyone. That's quite obvious from it's NC-17 rating, and the fact that it was banned for quite some time.

But aside from that.... It's an interesting movie about obsession and sex. The characters don't really get too deep, and you don't necessarily feel much sympathy for them, but that's part of the point of the film. You're supposed to feel the obsession, and the fact that the two lovers really only ever have sex on their minds, that it's taken over their lives.

It's graphic, violent even, with tons of sex... But if you know what you're getting into and can look beyond just the simple act of sex, you might find it a worthwhile movie.

Not worth the time or money
After reading some of the other reviews I was expecting a film that would leave me thinking about something of significance in life, even if was an extreme reaction to sexual obsession. I also, often forlornly, hope for a cathartic experience whenever I watch drama.

Unfortunately, this film provided neither. I was left thinking that there was something left on the cutting room floor that would explain the actions of the main characters. There was little in the film that would help me understand how the two 'lovers' could end up in their final situation. It was northing more than a voyeuristic following of a couples' series of sexual experiences that were neither erotic nor enlightening of motivations.

Then there were those unexplained forays by the female lead that had nothing to do with the main theme of the movie. The only reason for them seemed to be "comic relief" to the sex. The problem is that they were not funny and did not inform the audience about the main character.

Over all, the only reason to watch this film would be to see what really bad movies are like. ... Read more

Description

There is a legend that Paikea rode on the back of a whale and led his people to New Zealand. Since that time tradition has decreed that the first-born male descendant will become chief of the tribe. Then Pai is born...and she is a girl. She grows up within a close-knit village which retains the tribes traditional spiritual relationship with the sea and their warrior values. Although loved by all, Pai faces rejection from her grandfather, Koro, who is brokenhearted that there is no grandson to carry on the line. ... Read more

Reviews (186)

A Whale of a Tale
"Whale Rider" was released on June 6th 2003, it is rated PG-13, and is 1 hour 45 minutes long. Whale Rider is directed by Niki Caro and is based on the book written by Witi Ihimaera. The main actor in this film is newcomer Keisha Castle-Hughes who was selected from many hopefuls to play the role of Pai. Keisha performs her role extremely well and makes the film complete. Her performance is well balanced by that of Rawiri Paratene who plays Pai's grandfather Koro. Other actors in the film are Vicky Haughton who plays Flowers, Pai's grandmother, and Cliff Curtis who plays Porourangi, Pai's father.

Whale Rider is set in the coastal village of Whangara, New Zealand. It is the story of a young Maori girl, named Pai, and her fight to defy the hard set traditions of her people. The film is told through the eyes of Pai and begins tragically when her mother dies while giving birth to her twin brother. Porourangi is disgraced, as his son was supposed to carry on the line of chiefs, and so leaves the village indefinitely. Pai is left in the care of her grandparents, her grandfather, Koro, being the current chief of the tribe. Once Pai turns twelve Koro rounds up all the boys in the tribe and begins to teach them the ancient ways in hope of finding a new successor. Pai is not allowed to train as she is female so she seeks out the help of her uncle to teach her the customs. Her struggle begins, her aim being to break tradition and take her rightful place in the tribe.

The gorgeous scenery of New Zealand makes a perfect backdrop for this film and the carved meeting houses help to intensify the Maori culture; the visual quality is excellent. The acting in the film contributed to making the characters exceptional, they are very believable and the audience is able to relate to how they are feeling. Much of the music used in Whale Rider is traditional of the Maori people and incorporates song and dance; it has specific cultural significance and is characteristic of New Zealand. Overall I found this film to be outstanding and exceedingly moving; one that should not be missed.

Marvelous film - impossible to compare it to anything else
This is a thoroughly satisfying but very, very unusual movie. Set in Auckland, New Zealand, in the present among members of a Maori tribe struggling to find a new leader, the movie is primarily about acceptance and rejection, and the difficulty of meeting expectations. The central character is an eleven-year-old girl, Pai, marvelously portrayed by newcomer Keisha Castle-Hughes. Life starts off badly for her, with her mother dying in childbirth giving birth to Pai and her twin brother, who is stillborn. Her father more or less deserts her, partly because of the pain of losing his wife and son, but partly because of the strained relations with his father Koro, who was convinced that the infant boy would become the new leader of their tribe.

Pai wants to take a place of leadership within her tribe, but is prevented by her rigidly traditional grandfather. Although smart and respectful of her ancestors and the traditional ways and beliefs, she is denied any potential role because of her gender. The film focuses both on her attempt to fulfill the role she feels calling out to her, and her attempt to win the affection and acceptance of her grandfather, whom she loves despite his hostility.

This is a beautiful film, and the climax is as satisfying as one could hope. One must allow oneself to become a bit of a believer in things mystical and magical, else the film won't work at crucial moments.

The film is populated with complete unknowns, except for Cliff Curtis, who plays Pai's father. He has appeared in a large number of big budget Hollywood films, frequently as heavies, including THREE KINGS, COLLATERAL DAMAGE, and TRAINING DAY. Just about everyone does an excellent job, though Keisha Castle-Hughes and Rawiri Paratene as Koro stand out.

Although many of the houses are inexpensive looking and even in some instances mildly dilapidated, nothing can disguise the extreme physical beauty of the locale. With a large bay and sandy beach facing the ocean, and striking, magnificent mountains ascending behind the houses, the location is strikingly beautiful.

This is not always an easy film to watch. Some of the scenes in which various individuals are expressing their feelings can be very hard to take, and Rawiri Paratene can express anger that is extremely realistic. Nonetheless, this film as a whole is one that deals with the possibility of healing, of acceptance, and of learning to expand the boundaries of one's conception of the world. I recommend it highly.

not bad for a girl
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, even though I thought the main charachter should of been a boy. The main premise of the story was of two fraternal twins (boy and girl). The girl survived and was discouraged from becoming a chief. Yet she persevered and trained with the help of some other villagers even though her grandfather wanted a male heir. Her grandfather's goal was to recruit one of the boys from the village school. There were tests of fighting skills and retrieving a whale medallion that the grandfather threw into the ocean. I would highly recommend this movie because it made me feel very good to watch it. You are going to get your monies worth whether you rent it or buy it from amazon.com

Must-see
Don't let the people raving about what a great family movie this is scare you away...while Whale Rider is appropriate for younger ones, it is definitely aimed at a more mature audience. Very good story, extremely moving and heartbreaking. I cried for hours.

Best Family Film of 2003 (and maybe best overall)
We live in an age where moving stories of courage and determination just aren't enough. Those tales have to be accompanied by Oprah Book Club moments of overcoming handicaps and tragedy or dealing with racism and sexism. Many a great story is ruined because the real drama of life takes a secondary role to the politically correct lens through which it is told.

In Whale Rider, it is the Lifetime-esque melodramatic subplot dealing with the evil old men who run the world and try to prevent little girls from reaching their life's destiny. The story takes place inside an aboriginal whaling community, seemingly untouched by the modern cultural advancements of the past one hundred years. Of course, our liberal filmmakers decided these people needed to be lectured in gender roles, and thus the little story of a young girl over-coming an oppressive and chauvinistic world is born.

Now, that all sounds like criticism for this film, and I do admit I wish this Steinam-like depiction of men was toned down a bit. But that one flaw doesn't change the fact that this is a wonderful film, a truly remarkable achievement. Forgetting all the male-bashing, at the center of the film is a touching story about a young child who so wants to be loved, especially by her grandfather. She latches on to a story from family's her past about a great voyager who arrived at their island on the back of a whale, a great warrior whose soul will someday return in a "chosen one". The young girl decides she has as much claim to the birthright as any of the boys and attempts to prove to everyone (especially her grandfather) that she is worthy.

We seldom see young people depicted in such an honest manner. This touching story will be loved by almost everyone (and the feminists may take steps to have it canonized). ... Read more

Reviews (30)

The Magic Of French Cinema: Film Lover's Collection
The 1947 French Cocteau classic, "La Belle Et La Bete" (Beauty and the Beast)was revolutionary in its day and on this new DVD, we get all the scoop on the making of this film and the masterpiece of French cinema. There is commentary by cultural historians and film critics, insight from the director, cinematographer and the cast and even more impressive, the opera by Phillip Glass, which he modeled after this same film. The film stars Josette Day as Belle and a costumed and frightening Jean Marais as the Beast. This film was released when World War II still weighed on people's shoulders. The French cinema was taking the film world by storm. It would be only one of many Cocteau films, though most assuredly his best work. The most impressive aspect of this film is its special effects and cinematography. Cocteau infused the film with surrealism and magic, enhanced by special effects which were new at the time, though tame and old-fashioned by today's standards. Before the digital, computer-generated image, there was "camera tricks". Cocteau was wise to make a film set to an enchanted fairy tale. He was able to make the bewitched castle seem alive. There is a prevailing eerie mood. Gargoyle, stone statuary, noctunal moods, voices, talking mirrors and doors, doors which open and close on their own and dimly lit candelabrum made the interior of the Beasts castle supremely Gothic and sensational.

As far as the acting goes, the cast does a good job at deliviring a good performance eventhough they are portraying fantasy characters. Josette Day is a beautiful and noble heroine as Belle and the Beast, monstrous in looks but gentle of spirit and kind hearted in a more human way. The story is more true to the original concept of Beauty and the Beast. This is not to be mistaken with the Disney 1991 animated film. There is very little cuteness and charm in this one. It's presented as a serious work of cinema. A must have for cinema students.

Breath-taking
Cocteau's beautiful, poetic and visually stunning re-telling of Beauty and the Beast is an enchanting fairytale for grown-ups.

Its gorgeous images - hands as candalabras lighting the way into the Beast's castle, statues that blink and move their heads - evoke all the magic and the darkness that you will recall from reading or hearing these stories as a child.

It is superbly, richly rendered - much more engaging, and also much more adult - than the more recent Disney animated version that attempts to recreate some of its baroque images but contains none of its charm, or its atmosphere.

This is one of the first major French productions of the post-war era. Cocteau had a lot of weight on his shoulders; he needed to make a film that showed the French cinema could survive, a film that needed to be artistically valid but also engage with an audience. People thought La Belle et la Bete was an odd choice of material, but the director pulls it off magnificently, presenting an ambitious, sumptuous entertainment, with winningly surreal touches.

A beautiful, mesmerising masterpiece that combines great storytelling with unique, breath-taking images.

PAINTING WITH BLACK AND WHITE AND SILVER
Cocteau's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST will leave an impression on those who are about to see it for the first time. Anyone who has seen it already will be able to recount multiple favorite images and delight in expounding upon them. Film in the hands of some people seems to become more malleable. Cocteau is one such weaver of images whose fantasy world is at the same time childlike and foreboding - innocent as a puppet theatre ,then dark as sin.
The film mixes fantasy and reality by presenting time spent in the ordinary world in straightforward, unambiguous scenes and juxtaposing these with theatre-like sequences that represent the parallel world of enchantment. Surreal set pieces, mists and blackness define the borders of the Beasts domain.
From the Beasts smoking hands after the kill to the living arm sconces and the couples flight in the end, simple effects seem to gain impact from the bare uncomplicated nature of them thrust out into view like magic tricks.
Composed like paintings the rich imagery conspires with stellar black and white photography
to produce a seeming mid range of silver smoke and shimmering highlights.
Anyone into or discovering film should acquaint themselves with this highly original sence of cinema that has lured admierers for almost six decades.
This adaptation of a fairytale will be best understood by adults but should be shared with children as well.
Small children will be uneasy in the presence of the Beast who looks a far cry from a cartoon character. Also, someone older will have to read the subtitles to them but in a darkened room that might make it even more effective as a fairy tale experience.

Criterion collection film trashed by Disney
This was a great move for the Criterion Collection to rerelease a film and classic story that was ruined by the Disney version.
This film is much more true to the original story. Disney even stole ideas from this release to put in their version and never credited Cocteau for what they took from him.

The special makeup effects for the beast are nothing short of incredible considering when this film was made. This film is also credited with reviving French cinema which had been ravaged by the German occupation.

It was an early attempt to present a child's fairy tale for an adult audience. The Criterion edition also has the excellent Phillip Glass opera available for the secondary audio track.

Beautiful
This is a beautiful version of the "Beauty and the Beast" fairy tale. Cocteau creates a dreamlike world of fantasy and illusion. There are two versions of the film available on this disk - one with spoken words and one with opera singing. Both are French, subtitled in English. I watched this movie twice in one evening - once with the spoken dialogue, once with the opera track. I was enchanted by the beauty of the story, and the black and white picture adds to the mystery. This is a film that I would watch again and again. ... Read more

Reviews (93)

great opportunities for interfaith understanding.
One of the finest movies on Islam ever made. It is a movie made for those looking for an objective portrayal of the worlds fastest growing faith, Islam. The movie should help dispel and refute the lies and fraud that the popular news media portrays on Islam.... It is truly a great movie. Being a Moslem by birth, I am happy to see a very historical, true and accurate picture of the struggles of Islam and the development of this religion. This is a movie I enjoyed watching and I think that anyone would enjoy watching regardless of his or her religious preference. I found myself having a much greater understanding of my own heritage and a very deep respect for Christianity and Jewish faiths after watching this movie. The fact that Islam, Christianity and Judaism were good friends of one another during the time of our prophet is greatly overlooked by all the three religions. I think that it is a pity that the three religions that share so much in common, worship the same God, spent so much time fighting one another. I highly recommend it for anyone and all ages. I am very surprised this movie was not a box office smash. Again, it is one of the best I have ever seen...it answers a lot of questions and presents some great opportunities for interfaith understanding.

The Greatest Movie on Islam & Prophet Muhammad made to date!
Asslaamu Alaikum! This is Arabic for what Muslims believe are 'elemental,eternal & Universal' greetings of Peace & Blessings to all Mankind...that's includes anyone including YOU on the Net Muslim or non-Muslim alike! The MESSAGE...is One and Only (to date) BEST Classic Religious epic ever made!!It beautifully captures the 're-birth' of Islam in 7th Century Arabia and the character of the Blessed & Last Prophet of God,'Muhammad' (arabic meaning 'The Praised One'. And here is the main reason of its Uniqueness from All Other Films ever Made!! It brilliantly portrays the HERO of this Historical Film without even showing a glimpse of the Hero...ie Prophet Muhammad...Why? & How? You Ask??...WATCH IT & See for Yourself!..Why the underlying Message of this Film is as beautiful & controversial as it was over 1,400 years as it is is today approaching the second Millenium!! Love, Peace & Brotherhood! Brother Nadim...(14/12/98) (1419 AH Islamic Calendar)

An Eye Opener
Having recently embraced Islam, I am happy to say this movie was my eye opener and a turning point for any doubts or confusions I had before I took my final step toward Islam. Once I watched it, I knew I was doing the right thing. It is brilliantly made, especially considering how old the movie actually is, and every time I watch it the tears flow more. I am glad the movie is back in circulation and know that it will help anybody who wants to learn more about Islam. I pray more people will take steps toward studying Islam and erasing any misconceptions they have. This movie will certainly help. It is accurate and reliable history and I recommend it as a teaching reference for anybody who wants to present Islam as well. It's even better when you watch it the second time round. I only wish they'd make it in more languages.

I really wonder!!
After watching this movie I really wonder as to why it was banned across the Arab world. Such a pity really!. In an age where people have horrible misconceptions of Islam this film would do a great deal in atleast putting a doubt in people's mind that Islam is nothing like the religion it is potrayed by the Western media.
I really hope & pray that someone comes along & tries to revive the movie by re-releasing it.
I as a muslim found myself trying to gulp my emotions while watching it. I feel this movie will serve as a starting point to people becoming interested in Islam & trying to learn more about it.

Underrated Cinema Epic
The Message is a compelling and riveting cinema epic. I have to say that I am certainly moved everytime I watch this movie. It tries to be a factual and informative movie while not trangressing the limits set by Islam such as not seeing the person of Muhammad and some companions. This epic is certainly moving, it captures the essence of Islam and preaches the Oneness of God, and that Muhammad is His Messenger. It chronicles the life of Muhammad S.A.W. from when he received the first Divine Message up till his end. It examines the tribulations and greatness of prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and tries to keep as though the viewer is there among them. Truly a captivating experience. I recommend it highly for Muslims to deepen their knowledge of Islamic history and also especially for non-muslims so that they may know and understand the message of Islam, what not with the bad protrayal of Islam by the media nowadays. This remains my favourite movie of all time. ...