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Hong Kong superstar Jackie Chan gives his self-mocking humor full flourish in CityHunter, adapted from a Japanese comic book. But that doesn't meanthere isn't a solid dose of action--after a brilliantly cartoonishopening, the movie settles into a half-comedy, half-thriller variation onDie Hard, in which Eurotrash terrorists have hijacked a plush oceancruise liner and super-detective Ryu Saeba (Chan) has to stop them, aidedby his lovely, love-lorn assistant (Joey Wong, A Chinese GhostStory, Green Snake) and a beautiful undercover secret agent(Chingmy Yau, Naked Killer). Though City Hunter is short onbreathtaking stunts, there's plenty of well-choreographed hand-to-handcombat. Jackie Chan's lecherous, self-absorbed character (accompanied by aparade of girls into skimpy or skin-tight outfits) come across like agleeful parody of James Bond (slightly marred by a bit of homophobia). Allin all, a high energy romp. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

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It takes nearly an hour for anything unusual to happen in With a Friend Like Harry, but that first hour is oddly unsettling. German filmmaker Dominik Moll reveals the trouble with Harry (Sergi López) with low-key precision, his thriller sensibility channeled from Hitchcock through Claude Chabrol, while emphasizing casual conversation in the style of Eric Rohmer. Harry's found Michel (Laurent Lucas) in a public restroom, identifying himself as an old schoolmate who remembers far too much about Michel, even though Michel has no recollection of Harry at all. But Harry's an ingratiating type, and nice enough on the surface, so Michel invites Harry and his girlfriend, Plum (Sophie Guillemin), to the summer cottage he's renovating with his wife, Claire (Mathilde Seigner), and their three young daughters. The Spanish actor López (from An Affair of Love) modulates his performance so carefully that Harry's psychosis--never explained, but strangely compelling--reverberates well beyond the film's shocking conclusion. It turns out Harry's been a helpful friend after all, but that's cold comfort in a film that warns us against the kindness of strangers. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Disturbing film that is not for all tastes.
WIith a Friend Like Harry is a silently terrifying psychological thriller that builds from a sedate family story into a suspenseful horror scenario with the use of spine-tingling cinematography and simple acts of manipulation. There is almost no violence in the film, and the shock value is minimal. Instead, the film relies on the piercing reality of the story it tells, on the intuition of its viewers, and on good old-fashionedscared-of-the-dark fear.

In the frenzied heat of midsummer, Michel (Laurent Lucas), his wife Claire (Mathilde Seigner), and their three young daughters are on vacation, headed toward their summer home. Much in need of a some relaxing time off, the family retreats to the secluded stone country house they bought a few years back. Though they have been working hard to restore the place, it has a few minor hazards that need fixing--such the deep, empty well hidden in the back yard. However, before the family even arrives at the house, they encounter Harry Ballestero (Sergi Lopez), who claims to have known Michel in high school. Though Michel doesn't quite remember Harry, he remembers Michel with intense clarity. Harry can recite from memory the poetry Michel wrote for the school journal, and treats Michel like a brother. So begins the family's odd relationship with the smilingly intense Harry and his flaky girlfriend, Plum (Sophie Guillemin), who impose themselves on the family with suffocating congeniality.

While the plot is one that has been done countless times, the film slowly manages to build a sense of overwhelming claustrophobia and jolting suspense. The ending is creepy, made even more disturbing by keeping all the secrets a secret. We never know what motivates the characters to do what they do, adding an extra sense of unease and fear to the story. It comes as no surprise that many people did not like this film, it is definitely not for all tastes, but for anyone who likes unsettling thrillers will enjoy this. It's a standard plot that turns itself into a pretty good thriller.

Psycho Killer, Quest-ce Que Cest?
Spoiler Alert. Dominick Moll's understated thriller shares much in common with George Sluizer's "Vanishing", not the least of which is a killer who is impossible to dislike. Sergei Lopez of "An Affair of Love", stars as Harry Ballasteros, a manganimous and wealthy fellow who resorts to increasingly horrific means to help his old school chum, Michel, deal with his bickering family and a stalled writing career. The film progresses a little bit too slowly to build any scares, but I don't think that the point of the film is to shock. Rather than resort to violence or gore, Moll builds suspense using an undercurrent of class conflict (between Harry and the less well-off Michel) and the natural irritations provided by Michel's family: screaming kids, nagging wife, overbearing parents, slacker brother. As was the case with "The Vanishing", Harry's motivations remain a mystery throughout. Some might feel that this leaves a bit of a vacuum at the film's center, but I'd prefer a hidden motivation to the cockamamie Scooby-Doo explanations that dog most movies in this genre. I think audiences can supply their own reasons for Harry's behavior. On the whole, the film is sufficiently entertaining for me to recommend. If you've been turned off by the Dogme '95/Olivier Assayas style of shaky-cam auteurism that's recently been infecting European cinema, this well-made little thriller may bring you solace.

Le trouble with Harry
This quirky little French thriller blends the squirming discomfort of watching "Chuck & Buck"'s unabashed adult-aged schoolboy-on-schoolboy crush with "American Psycho"'s disturbingly casual mayhem. Michel, a young, harried working-class father vacationing with his three screaming kids and cranky wife has a "chance" meeting at a highway rest stop with an "old school chum" named Harry who does not seem readily familiar. Harry, a Trustafarian slacker with his trophy girlfriend in tow, rapidly proceeds to completely ingratiate himself into Michel's life, and things become, well, (in the interest of avoiding any "spoilers") let's just say, quite "interesting". Newcomer Sergi Lopez, who plays the oddly charming yet psychotic Harry with brilliant understatement, could easily become this generation's Dirk Bogarde (compare Lopez's character with the late Bogarde's in the psychologically similar "The Servant"). The film could have been tightened up a bit, but still has more substance than 90% of the Hollywood "thrillers" cluttering up the multiplex these days. Fans of Hitchcock and/or deadpan black comedy (a la Jarmusch or Lynch) will get the most entertainment value out of this one.

A wicked, jet-black comedy (don't expect a true thriller)
First of all, if you're looking for a good scare then you'll hate this movie. If you're looking for a black comedy that will make you feel guilty to laugh and chuckle at some rather unpleasant goings-on, then I can't think of many other films that will fit the bill! This movie doesn't come out and tell you what it's about--it leaves it ALL up to your imagination. And that is the un-American genius to it (we can't seem to do this in American film anymore). Obviously Harry is a nut (because he's a killer), but do his motivations seem that "off"? Not really, and that's why this is a black comedy and not really a thriller. His motivations aren't really out of lust, greed, or hate, which is what makes it rather disturbing. It makes me think of a Macy Gray song: "you are relating to a psychopath, your role model is in therapy, you must be real far gone, you're relating to a psychopath". That's what this movie is like. You get a chance to hang out with a pyscho--and actually get along with him. It's pretty wild. But don't expect any hair-raising thrills--they do not happen here.

I also got the feeling that this movie is also making very subtle jabs at the Americanization of Europe. Like when Harry bought the 4x4 for Michel and family, Michel didn't want it because he thought 4x4's (we call them SUV's here now) were "vulgar". But he soon enough accepted it, seemingly undisturbed by the fact that his values were pretty easily sold out. Consumerism is making its way to the rest of the world. If you're unhappy, buy a product and enjoy the few minutes of relief it buys you. If it buys you more time (like the 4x4 did), then to hell with your values if they were compromised. These things are not uniquely American, but I think Harry in a way represents the modern American influence on old Europe. Harry did mention that he had some dental work done in America, so we don't know

So there's a lot of things to pick apart in this film. I didn't give it 5 stars because I still feel it's a little too obtuse to be a perfect film (plus it is really nihilistic--was Michel relieved by what happend to his parents???). Maybe I'll see it again in the future and will change my mind, but right now 5 stars doesn't seem right. But it's really a stroke of genius, though you'll never be able to fully explain why.

Disappointing
In usual Hitchcockian fashion, this French thriller is about ordinary folk plunged into sudden terror, but it speeds up and slows down gracelessly; peppered with a few murders here and there, it's just your average two hours of ennui. The first murder scene is so shocking (because the film has otherwise been so dull) that it really wakes us up, if only for the next ten minutes. There's a lot of useless filler material, like phone conversations of which we only hear one end, which in any case turn out to be completely irrelevant to the plot. There's none of Hitchcock's crackling tension, sexual or otherwise, to keep things interesting. Harry has moments of humor, but they are out of place and oddly disproportionate. With all of its boring mystery and emotional detachment, it feels at times like an amateur L'Avventura, with an added scene of Anna being brutally murdered on the rocks, minus the lyricism and profundity. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

I am very confussed
Try as I might I will never understand french humor. Yes this movie was funny and yes the acting is excellent don't get me wrong but come on the whole 12 year old kid suducing a grown women thing??? I don't understand maybe I just don't think very deeply.

GOYH: Funny, Perceptive Film
Blier creates a world that illustrates what men really know about women: Nothing! Depardieu and Dewaere deliver two brilliant performances that seem like one. They are friends joined by their common ignorance about what goes on inside a woman's head. The final twist and their ultimate realization of the futility of their mission is satisfying, as well as the other comic situations. The film's charm is that the humor is wild, but somehow never goes completely over the top. I highly recommend this comic gem. I don't think Depardieu has ever been better, and Dewaere matches him perfectly.

The Sauerkraut is not working.....
In 1978 when Bertrand Blier's "Get Out Your Handkerchiefs" was released in the United States we were all bopping to the beat of "Saturday Night Fever" and the Bee Gees. It was also a time when the "foreign film" was what Independent films are today: the place to go for the daring, the obscene maybe, the intellectual...sometimes.(Haven't you wondered why so few foreign movies are released in the USA today?)
"GOYH" was something else again, though: at the beginning an anarchic though sunny comedy of manners and by the end a black comedy with big concerns on it's mind dealing in 1978 (mind you) with subjects that are still taboo in the USA in 2002!
The first scene of the film throws us into a situation that is already in progress: Raoul (Gerard Depardieu) is frantic because his wife Solange (Carole Laure),lanquidly eating her saurkraut: obviously unhappy or manic depressive or both.
Raoul is so desperate to make Solange happy that, when he spys Stephane (Patrick Dawaere) in the restaurant, he offers to bring him over to the table for Solange's amusement and pleasure. And so he does.
First there is just Raoul and Solange; then Stephane and Solange; then Raoul, a woman he pulls off the street to comment on what he's just done, Stephane and Solange...all sitting at the table in the restaurant. The exposition is accomplished so quickly and so absurdly that we feel we are watching a silent film comedy. Blier writes and directs this first extended scene with such expert awareness of timing and pacing that it takes your breath away and grabs your interest immediately.
Ultimately, though Stephane and Raoul do their best to make Solange happy, it's Christian (Riton Liebman) who is finally the only one who touches her heart. (Don't ask)
In order to make this hybrid comedy-drama-romance work the actors must be quick on their feet and possess charm and panache to spare. All those involved do and then some: Depardieu and Dawaere, both looking young, handsome and flummoxed, Michel Serrault (soon to make a big splash in "La Cage aux Folles"),as a neighbor who inadvertenly gets pulled into this caper and Carole Laure with probably the hardest role to pull off: part zombie, part plain-jane, part sex pot.
"Get Out Your Handkerchiefs" is pain stakingly and downright seditious in it's refusal to adhere to any social or societal rules...and because of this, it must to be cherished and revered for these attributes even now; some 24 years after it's initial release.

GET OUT YOUR HANDKERCHIEFS....
...this film both bothers and fascinates as it tells the story
of a young man who will (in a very continental way) do almost
anything to see his wife happy. The film is beautiful to look
at and all the scenes seem very normal and attractive..but what
is going on is very strange indeed. This young couple go to a
restaurant...and add a pleasant fellow diner to their menage.
The three of them work at a summer camp for children and the
wife is seduced by a twelve year old boy. This is one of those
films which one goes back to time after time and finds fascinating and mystifying. The actors and performances are
simply perfect, but the film never fails to both delight and
disturb. Its world looks like our world, but many things have
gone askew. Prepare for an unusual experience.

Random at first, but funny
This seems at first to lack a real message at first, but is nonetheless quite enjoyable. It's very funny throughout, at times almost in a Monty Python manner, in that the action and plot are surreal and would normally seem both improbable and non-sensical. You will not want to stop watching, and when it's over, I think you'll be drawn back to watch it again. Certainly it is one of Depardieu's lesser-known films. I have rarely seen it mentioned, as it is older and, I assume, not sponsored with nearly the same amount of marketing as his bigger Hollywood films of more recent years. I think the obvious lack of attention this film receives adds to its innocence and appeal. For those seeking an enjoyable French comedy, that is touching, humorous and innocent, I would reccomend this film. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A French "Easy Rider" but rather more misogynistic...
Yes this is a french road movie, which in itself is interesting, but the rather sickening misogyny of the first part of the film makes it often hard to stomach. So be forewarned as you watch this, for if you are a fan of French cinema and culture, there are some things to be gleaned. As a portrait of a part of French society in the early seventies, culturally not long after the student riots of '68, the bohemian existentialist anti-bourgeois drifter held a romantic appeal similar to that found in an American equivalent to this film, Easy Rider. The relationship between the two men and the much older Jeanne Moreau actually subverts the film's early presentation of women as sexually and intellectually inept; yet her untimely end does nothing to truly mark her sexual freedom as empowered or stronger than that of poor miou miou who is pretty much a stereotyped kitten throughout, even when she learns to "enjoy" her freedom with the men at film's end.
Ultimately, if you are seeking an "amelie" or "il postino" or some other such Eurofilm fun, avoid this. But if you watch french films for some insight into the culture, this one is worth seeing. However, be prepared for some pretty brutal treatment of women. Nonetheless, the men are all largely bourgeois dupes or "liberated" trash too, so at least the film is egalitarian in its disdain for stereotypical gender roles. It is interesting to watch this film in tandem with Truffaut's "the man who loved women" for some insight into one aspect of the French view of women.

a must see..!
Patrick Dweare and Gerard Depardieu are so good together in this movie.a lot of energy from the pair and also some good laughs,the dubbing is ok but i think the movie is better in french speaking.it's a must see if you like french movie. ... Read more

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Federico Fellini's 1984 And the Ship Sails On is one of the latemaster's most fanciful projects, while simultaneously striking one of themost somber notes in the director's filmography. The year is 1914, the eve ofWorld War I and the coming destruction of Europe's old, cultured aristocracy,an elite class mourned in many a film from Renoir's The Grand Illusionto Truffaut's The Green Room. A luxury liner sets sail from Italy,full of artists, a royal entourage, and one rhinoceros. The point of thevoyage is to scatter the ashes of a world-famous diva, but the exoticpassengers--blithely unaware of the imminent conflict--have many, more privateintrigues going on behind closed doors. Still, it is the self-containment andformality of these travelers, at once absurd and moving, that sticks with the viewer: the way the many singers, musicians, and conductors (and one plumparchduke) seem aware, in public, of embodying a privileged history. Fellini films all the action aboard an impressively lush and blatantly artificialset, with a painted sky, paper moon, and cellophane sea, all underscoring thedreamy, precious nature of this adventure. The camera itself becomes a kind of character via a determined journalist (Freddie Jones) who speaks to usdirectly, drawing the film into vaguely obscene disruptions of an otherwise serene formalism. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (7)

a though provoking film
This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film.

The film's original title is "E la nave va"

It follows the story of an ocean liner going into the Mediterrainian Sea to scatter the ashes of a famous singer near the island she grew up on. The film takes place just before the start of World War I. The assassination of Ferdinand is mentioned as just having happened partway through the film. They later take on Serbian passengers and the crew suspect them of being spies.

Unfortunately, there are no special features on this DVD.

The film has some interesting scenes. The beginning scene reminded me of the first scene in the 1997 version of Titanic witht he black and white slow silent footage of the ship.

Later the film seuges from black and white into color in a manner similar to a scene in Andrei Tarkovsky's Solaris which was released by the Criterion Collection on DVD exactly 1 day before the release of Steven Soderbergh's remake of Solaris.

The film has some some humorous scenes one of which is a man singing in a bass tune, causing a chicken to fall asleep.

This is a must for anyone interested in Italian cinema.

Not A La-Strada-Feeling. No Screen That Striked Me. Flat!
...I own this movie, and I have not watched it fully out. Every time I turn it on I feel that Fellini is trying to show us every detail, and for me they are not psychologically deep enough, no screen that captured my mind. This is totally not a La-Strada-like picture, please do not make the mistake as I buying this with the expectation from La Strada, you should watch it before you buy. And don't get me wrong, there are other good Fellini's films too like Satyricon.

A typical Fellini - beautiful as usual
excellent film. be sure to pay close attention to the scene where two older guys make "great" music with their bare hands and wine glasses...

Underrated Fellini film is a dazzler by all means
The problem with people who've watched past Fellini films expect the same cinematic effect from his later ones. There's a certain magic that exists in the first few Fellini films you've watched. He makes you create movies in your own mind through a flowing series of fantastic images. Fellini's films don't really say too much in contrast to Bergman or Bunuel or even his pupil Wertmuller save for his constant jabs with the aristocracy and organized religion. Most of his films are made to serve the purpose of essential cinema. One just has to watch and enjoy the scenery like does a painter's obra maestra. And that is where his genius in artistry lies. He's not like other colleagues of his who are burdened with social responsibility to weave images out of their moral consciousness. Such is the case of And The Ship Sails On. This is one movie that dazzles both the eye and ear. Sit back and relax and let yourself be glided through this experience in Felliniesque phantasmagoria. True enough, the Criterion version does not offer extras which may make one think twice about the price of the disk. But then, a Fellini DVD is worth more than a lot of others of the same price range. Enjoy!

What a great film
I really loved this movie-it's funny, moving, and completely inventive. This is my first impression after just watching it at face value, and NOT reading into it (in response to the previous reviewer). Maybe to some it's slow moving, but I found it very enjoyable and constantly entertaining. I really found nothing wrong with this film-it is an engaging look at a variety of characters and stories, and is very touching. You should buy this movie (or at least see it!). ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Twin Stars
I haven't as yet seen this DVD (I fully plan to as Jackie Chan dubbed on this release I am told). The 3 stars are for the movie itself. It is not the best Jackie Chan Hong Kong movie, the Police Story series and Project A 1 & 2 are much better but is definitely worth a look. I have seen an old dubbed version (OK) and the Asian DVD release (better). Before approaching any "old" Jackie Chan film (ie. ones done in Hong Kong before America!) viewers should be aware they are lower budgeted so don't have the capacity for special effects as in US movies. Also, what a Chinese considers funny might not necessarily be what a westerner thinks is funny! Keeping this in mind, I really liked this film. The story is "old" (ie. twins separated at birth and coming together later in life with the expected mix-ups) but with Jackie (twice!) it is a lot of fun. The last action scene in the car factory shows Jackie's amazing acrobatic and martial arts skills to perfection. If you are Hong Kong movie buff, there are a lot of cameo appearances by HK actors and directors. Jackie did not direct this film, so ignore any criticism of bad direction by him! Most of the films Jackie directed himself are superb action pieces, though the acting is not very good in some. Jackie is more interested in action than dialogue, though "Accidental Spy", his latest Asian release, is extremely good in all aspects, both action and action, with a good storyline. Anyway, give Twin Dragons a look - it will be worth it.

Lots of fun - but not one of the best
Just a quick note: I don't think some of the reviewers have paid attention. There are criticisms to Jackie Chan as director. Well, two notes: 1) He did not directed this movie 2) Most of the best Jackie Chan movies have been directed by him. He has been recognized as an excellent director.

Anyway, this movie was done for the construction of some association for directors from Hong Kong, and that explains why the multiple directors. Jackie Chan has said he is not satisfied with the final result of the movie.

But don't be scared. This is an excellent comedy, using the old joke about mixed identities. It is not heavy on the action side, but includes some nice fight scenes, including a final shutdown at a facility for testing cars.

If you are looking for one Chan movie, there are better ones to select for starters (Supercop, Operation Condor, Rumble in the Bronx). But if you are a die hard fan, you will want to take a look at "Twin Dragons".

a good funny movie but not an action one.
I am a cantonese person and I rent this US version dvd. Is some ways it disapointted me because it doesn't provide cantonese audio and they substitute English audio instead. Anyway, this movie is so funny is so ways. I especially like the bathroom scene. It can't help laugh loudly. The action parts are quite boring but I think American people would like to watch them.
I would like to give it a 4 stars if it provides chinese audio.

Stick with an Original
Why American production make HK movies look so cheap? First of all, they cut off so much scene, second of all ruin it by making look acting so dumb by English Dubb. For ANY of HK movies, ALWAYS stick with ORIGINAL LICENSED HK RELEASE. Be careful with cheap imports, boots though.

"I think I got the fighter!!!!"
...If your interested in a REAL Jackie Chan movie, with REAL stunts, REAL comedy, REAL action, and REAL Jackie, look no further than TWIN DRAGONS.
It may not be entiely convincing that the twins are really together inframe (the split screen effects are as corny as they get) and the story may not be entirely original...but TWIN DRAGONS is nevertheless, one of the best Jackie Chan movies ever...

Jackie plays Boomer, womanizing, karate choppin' mechanic living in Hong Kong, and the brother he never kenw he had, reknown condutor John Ma. Ma arrives in Hong Kong to give a concert and things go completely cattewumpus. Ma knows kung fu about as well as Boomer knows how to conduct a concert
Boomer:P>Before long, bad guys have kidnapped Boomer's smart-...buddy Tyson (Teddy Robin, who also produced)...with all that to worry about, there's even girl trouble, when Ma's lady Tammy (Nina Li Chi) winds up in the sack with Boomer, believing him to be Ma, and lovely lounge singer Barbara (lovely Maggie Cheung) falls for Ma believing him to be Boomer.

The summary of TWIN DRAGONS plot simply does not do it justice. From the moment Boomer gets in a fight with an entire night club full of mobsters, the movie has already hit take off velocity. Fans of the sexy Maggie Cheung...will find she doesn't have much to do, but looks fabulous not doing it. This is only one of the movie's she's done with Jackie. off the the top of my head, I can name many others, but let it suffice to say that for action, comedy, and Maggie Cheung, Jackie Chan's TWIN DRAGONS can't lose. ... Read more

Description

Marco Ferreri's greatest international success, "La Grande Bouffe" scandalized audiences when it was released in 1973. Audiences were shocked by its tale of four world-weary middle-aged men (superbly portrayed by Marcello Mastroianni, Ugo Tognazzi, Michel Piccoli and Philippe Noiret) who decide to gorge themselves to death in one final orgiastic weekend full of gourmet food, call girls and a hefty, lusty schoolteacher. This blackly humorous parable of modern society's collapse won the Cannes Film Festival's International Critics Award. The New York Times called it "vulgar vaudeville on an epic scale...a mordant, chilling, hilarious dirty movie." Nearly 30 years later, it continues to challenge audiences' sensibilities and test the limits of shockability. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Flatulence Fantasique!
You will never forget seeing this movie. Like another reviewer I have carried images from this film in my mind for decades. It's not that it's a great movie, there have been better "food" movies - but nothing that has the black humor and the joyful vulgarity of this one. Philippe Noiret's infantile Judge is a wonderful performance and the entire cast holds nothing back. Philippe Sarde's haunting theme is superb - especially in the death by flatulence scene. Funny, farcical and oddly thoughtful beneath the somewhat contrived artiness that is French filmmaking of the 1970's.

There can be only one.
Some movies sear an image into your brain for ever. Like the end of "The Wild Bunch" or the beginning of Leone's "Once Upon A Time In The West" - "Looks like we're shy one horse". "No, you brought two too many".

I saw "La Grand Bouffe" over 20 years ago. I still have the image in my mind of the guy eating the two blancmanges at the end of the picture before he dies.

This movie is surreal, bizarre and wonderful. If we go to movies to see images and things we have never seen before, then this movie is spectacularly successful.

There is no greater movie about food and death.

One of the most provocative movies of all times
I like this movie for its outrageousness and its ability to combine an allegoric vision and a creeping reality: what are we doing with our lives? Where will this boredom of modern living lead us to? The idea of four friends engaging in an all-out "Grande Abbufatta" (the original title in Italian) is quite a perceptive allegory of what happened to the so-called Western civilization as a whole. It seems it has nowhere to go but to a formidable blow-out since its very beginning...

I'm not a big fan of Marco Ferreri's work. I think he was quite irregular in his output, but when he hit the mark he was simply second to none. For me, this "La Grande Bouffe" and "L'Ape Regina" ("The Queen Bee" or "The Conjugal Bed", 1963, with Ugo Tognazzi and Marina Vlady) are among the best examples of black comedy ever to be given us by filmmakers anywhere in the world. His choice of actors couldn't be better: Mastroianni, Piccoli, Noiret and Tognazzi will be forever among the greatest in this trade, and in "La Grande Bouffe" all of them give us one of the finest of their efforts ever.

I was very happy when I knew this movie was being released on DVD because I had seen it twice in movie theaters: in 1978 (the Italian-spoken version) and in 1981 (the French-spoken version, the one on this DVD). I was hoping the DVD version would bring both. I was quite disappointed to see that it brings only the French-spoken version, with English subtitles. It would have added much more to my pleasure if this DVD version of "La Grande Bouffe" would come with both Italian- and French-spoken versions, and also with Italian and French - besides English - subtitles.

If I'm not mistaken, it's possible to do this with any DVD (if not, please correct me), for I have many DVDs at home with a choice of several languages on the audio tracks and an equally wide variety of subtitles' choice. Also, the music that Philippe Sarde wrote for this movie has haunted me since the very first time I saw "La Grande Bouffe". I have been hunting for this movie's music all over the world to no avail for decades now (can anyone out there help me on that? Was this music ever issued on tapes, LPs or CDs anywhere?). I was hoping that on DVD they would provide us also with a choice of hearing this sensuous and intriguing music without the dialogues, but this too was denied to us viewers.

For these two reasons only (lack of a wider choice of languages and subtitles, and lack of a separate track for the music) I don't give this DVD a 5-star rating.

little known but glorious
Once in awhile you see a film that makes you rejoice with awe and pleasure; this is just such a film. A celebration of life in 24 dashing hours, Grand Bouffe portrays a hedonistic reunion of four old friends in the grandest style. A beautiful and thoughtful examination of aging and, ultimately, mortality underlines what is otherwise a touching and very amusing romp through all the delights of the senses. Mastroianni is only one of a truly talented crew of actors whose poignant portrayals mold the wonderful script into a delightful and humanistic work of cinematic art. See this film.

Most Hilarious Black Comedy I've Ever Seen
Sure, the French really have a way with movies, but I don't think I've ever laughed as much as I did when I first saw La Grande Bouffe. What's even better is that every time after that, you find more and more to laugh at. This movie is a must for food lovers everywhere! ... Read more

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The fourth film in François Truffaut's quasi-autobiographicalAntoine Doinel cycle finds the idealistic child-man (played by Truffaut's alter ego and French new wave icon Jean-Pierre Léaud) married to his sweetheart Christine (Claude Jade) and still plugging away at odd jobs. When his experiments in the florist trade burn his bouquets to a smoky black ruin, he decides that it's time for another trade, and lands a job sending radio-controlled toy boats around a miniature harbor mock-up. It's about that time that he learns of his impending fatherhood, but he throws a monkey wrench into his new happiness when he becomes obsessed with a beautiful young Japanese woman (Hiroku Berghauer). Truffaut enlivens Doinel's courtyard apartment with the bustle and business of neighbors, creating a warm sense of community reminiscent of the works of Jean Renoir. He also pays homage to comic auteur Jacques Tati in meticulously constructed comic bits and a hilarious cameo by Tati's famous character, M. Hulot. However, he tempers the giddy screwball kookiness that characterized the previous film in the cycle, Stolen Kisses, with a less forgiving disposition toward Antoine's passionate irresponsibility and emotional impulsiveness. In one of Truffaut's finest moments ever, he plays out a conversation between the separated but still in love couple with a hard-earned sense of reflective maturity: "I love you," she confesses, "but I don't want to see you." It's a comedy with serious edges as Truffaut decides it's time for Antoine to grow up. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

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This 1972 film by Lina Wertmuller (Seven Beauties, Swept Away) is a wild farce of the Sicilian milieu. Mimi (who is a man) is forced to leave his hometown when he can no longer get work as a result of voting against the local strong arms in a "secret" ballot. In the big city he finds work, but also finds that life there is very much as corrupt as it was at home. He falls in love and has a child by his lover, and when forced to take a job in his hometown again, he must hide his lover and their son from his wife. When he is too tired to please his wife in bed after making love all day to his lover, she becomes pregnant by another man, setting off a chain of events that ultimately lead to a public revenge scene that possibly has no rival. What's even more amazing is that the film manages to portray a complex protagonist in a searing comedy. A must-see, especially if you'd like a lighter view of the same world portrayed in The Godfather. --James McGrath ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Mimi or Not Mimi?
After purchasing this DVD, and loving it, I still have a disturbing question: is this the same theatrical release version, which, according to Wertmuller, was criminally cut by New Line Cinema (the original distributor) by up to forty minutes? Do I have to go to Italy to find out?

Fantastic Classic
Highlly recommen

Comical Satire worth 10 points
A man that wants everything, and ends up with nothing. Mimi, the laborer, is seduced into working for the Mafia - which he hates and fears - to pay for his extramarital affairs.

A well made film of high caliber. Thoroughly enjoyable and remarkably light hearted for an otherwise somber topic. A must for the serious movie buff. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Classic movie undone by dvd remastering
I have two copies of this movie-one on VHS and this one on DVD. I received the DVD as a present. Itami is one of the greatest modern directors in Japan who unfortunately committed suicide. This movie was enormously popular in Japan and deservedly so with its many touches of black humor, story, writing, acting and direction. The VHS is quite watchable. However, when I put the DVD on I immediately had to adjust my picture settings to even see the picture. It's unclear and fuzzy throughout the movie. In all of the film the English subtitling is difficult and sometimes impossible to read. I would say it is a prime candidate for a recall by the company. Since I can't give separate ratings for the movie vs. the DVD treatment I'm forced to give it 2 stars.

Middle of the road
R-Rated for a small amount of sex and nudity, this is pretty much a movie like most others, a human interest story involving a diligent tax collector (female) and a tax dodger. I found it interesting for casual entertainment (I rented it), for a look at a slightly different society, and a look at Japan that isn't kimono's and Geisha girls - this is modern Japan as such and a breath of fresh air from the "Yes'm massa" eyes-bowed-down type of Japanese movie. The lead female is freckled, not a sex-pot, but a nice looking gal and the main male is a hard nosed, limping fellow. In general, this is for a mature, general audience who isn't cranked over into some offbeat genre (if you need violence, military, porn, true romance, kiddie cartoons, space ships, whatever you'll find it dull - but an ordinary person in a good mood looking for a casual view might like it). ...thought I'd give a more honest opinion.

I myself am looking for more non-European/American movies featuring real people in real settings, but alas that is rare. I'd like seeing Japanese and Asiatic and African movies, even dubbed, which are something besides "Morphen Power Ranger" ... or "Kill 'Em All" garbage, but rather feature human beings getting along in life. But, they don't seem to exist here in the USA. Too much artsy or glitzy Holloywood hype gets in the way, it seems.

Great Movie, poor DVD
This movie is quite good. Not exactly like Tanpopo but it's a fascinating movie with memorable characters. Unfortunately, the DVD version is absolutely terrible. The DVD version of Tanpopo is a hundred times better. It's very clear that this was a sloppy job. It's nothing but a very poor VHS transfer of the movie to DVD. Bad thing is that the DVD highlights the imperfections of the original VHS so that even people like me can see it. The quality of picture is fuzzy and the subtitles are the ones from the VHS (not DVD subtitles). This results in words that are impossible to see in some scenes and hard to read in all the others since the picture quality is quite fuzzy. Unless you are a die-hard fan of this movie, you're better off spending your money getting the DVD of Tanpopo. The DVD of Tanpopo is not perfect but the quality is still reasonable good and sharp and much better than this ... job.

Utterly Delightful ...
As Tampopo is truly delicious, this film is an unadulterated joy. Fans of Juzo Itami and his wife, Nobuko Miyamoto will recognize old friends from other adventures in this offering. Like a much beloved repertory company, familiar faces are to be found new and surprising roles.

Taking an unlikely subject for heroic portrayal, Itami's (as usual) delightfully feministic touch on that dreaded villain the tax auditor is effective and engaging. Unlike MINBO, which for some inexplicable reason bores me beyond redemption, this film is easily accessible and eminently watchable. Aside from some quite graphic nudity at the very beginning, (view by parents first), the film is an excellent overall story accessible to an audience over about 15. (Depending on your feelings about sex and taxes).

In reference to the subtitling, I must say that ALL subtitling for Itami's films leaves a great deal to be desired, and I frankly don't see that much difference between the DVD and VHS versions ... but I must admit I am not a connoisseur on the matter, either. The ease of use and storage outweigh all other concerns for me.

By the VHS version instead
This outstanding (five star) movie has illegible captions in the DVD version. If you want to be able to read the captions, buy the VHS version instead. Only get the DVD if your Japanese is good enough to understand the movie without captions. ... Read more

Description

Jacques Tati, the choreographer of the charming, comical ballet that is Playtime, casts the endearingly clumsy Monsieur Hulot as the principal character wandering through modernist Paris. Amid the babble of English, French and German tourists, Hulot tries to reconcile the old-fashioned ways with the confusion of the encroaching age of technology. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

What are their criteria, exactly
I don't propose to write lengthing about Tati's masterpiece; I shall merely reiterate that Playtime is the 2001 of comedies.

My issues are with the quality of presentation on the DVD.

The transfer of the mono mix of the 35mm print of the film is as good as can be expected, and the subtitling adds another dimension over the International version, picking out "key" bits of dialogue (although none is essential). The sleeve notes explain that the location of the original elements, and thus the 65mm negative and stereo (or quadrophonic!) soundtrack have been lost, for the time being, but I urge you not to be put off by this.

It has already been discussed that some 4:3 material has been flagged as anamorphic, such that a television will stretch out images that should never have been stretched, causing some problems with subtitles being distorted. This is annoying and sloppy, requiring a manual correction when viewed each time; a moron in a hurry should have spotted this error, and I am very diappointed that Criterion have not been more punctilious.

Further, the very end of the film is supposed to be a fade to black while the music keeps playing to the end; there is about 30s overlap there. However, on this transfer, the music fades out as soon as the film is over. This gives the film an abrupt ending which has a very different effect to the proper version, as released by the British Film Institute on VHS in the UK.

Having said that, I urge you still to buy this disc, as it is good enough to get a high quality of this great film into your home. I am just disappointed at Criterion.

Amazing!
This is the best example of Tati's experimental approach to humor. In fact it's sort of a cubist comedy with multiple layering of material and no discernible plot in any recognizable sense. Yet it works, it works well, and at no time will you feel it's aimless or merely episodic. Sounds a bit intellectual but this film is actually filled with endless great sight gags and some of the best slapstick you'll ever encounter. Keaton aside, this has two of the best "falls" in comedy. Also, the nightclub scene at the end is a masterpiece of timing and coordination. It reminds me of classic jazz improvisation. Like Keaton's "The General" this movie bombed when it was released but I'm betting it'll eventually be added to the list of great comedies of all time. Hopefully Criterion will re-release this soon and keep it in print.

Two caveats: I've noticed that people who expect comedies to be consistently manic and/or aren't accustomed to the slower pacing of many French films don't care much for this movie. It does require the focused attention of its audience to work. Also, the film was originally released in some oddball format that doesn't always translate effectively to the home screen. Because of this one major routine doesn't work quite as well as intended. It's not a major problem though.

another good release
This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film.

It is the 3rd film in a series of four. The 4th film in the series was not released onto DVD unfortunately.
This film follows Msr. Hulot again as he walks through the streets of Paris while he attempts to contact a US diplomat.

This flim, while not as good as the previous two still has good moments. The film gained popularity in many countries and remains popular today. The DVD includes an introduction by Terry Jones as well as one of Tati's short films, Cours du Soir, or Evening Classes.

The Criterion DVD remains out of print to date and prices are currently around $70. If you want this release, it is best to get it sooner rather than later as the prices will rise until it is, if ever, back in print.

two hours i am never getting back
What a horrendous experiment in comedy...if you like Jerry Lewis, I guess you'll love this travesty of a film. If you are a film snob, you will love it. Personally, as neither, I am grossly disappointed and just really didn't get "the joke." It was trite and dull....there was no point....the plot...technology encroaching on humanity....well, good try, but again not for me. If I am looking for a laugh, I will watch a good Coen brothers film.

Aspect ratio vs. aspect ratio
I have not had the opportunity to see this film and ,sadly, it is now OOP (Out Of Print) from Criterion and the gougers of OOP's are licking their chops... However, this is in reference to "PUBWEBMASTER from LONDON" lambasting Criterion for what is claimed as a 4:3 aspect ratio transfer.

1. If you lookup this film at imdb.com and click on "TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS"
you will see that it was filmed in 1:85:1 aspect ratio

2. If you lookup this film at imdb.com and click on "DVD DETAILS"
you will notice it was TRANSFERRED at 1:85:1 aspect ratio ANAMORPHIC

CONCLUSION: Either believe the "PUBWEBMASTER from LONDON" or Criterion

ADVICE - don't support the GOUGERS!! - wait for Criterion to re-release this film ... Read more

Amazon.com

The second of Eric Rohmer's "Comedies and Proverbs" series, A Good Marriage stars Béatrice Romand as Sabine, a headstrong, emotional Roller coaster of a searching single woman. She impulsively leaves her married lover one night and decides she's going to marry, setting out to find her man with a mixture of romantic idealism and calculated determination. When her best friend Clarisse (Arielle Dombasle, from Pauline at the Beach) introduces Sabine to her handsome cousin Edmond (André Dussollier, Perceval), she seems to have found her mate;it's just a matter of convincing him of the impending marriage. But, alas, all is not so simple in Rohmer's world of modern love. Romand's Sabine is a delightful conundrum: resolute, firm, and fiercely independent on the one hand; moody, impulsive, and emotionally fragile on the other. Like all of Rohmer's films, this is driven by conversation, from uncomfortable small talk to confessions between girlfriends, but Sabine also lives her life, passionately pursuing her goals with the single-minded zest of a woman on a mission. Her road to love may take a few unplanned detours, but Rohmer, the eternal romantic, concludes the film on a delightfully hopeful note packed in a few glances and a flirty smile. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Absolutely delightful
The movie is from Rohmer series of proverbs, and it is very kind and charming. For me, it was a story of a young girl coming out of age, about a conflict between her determination to achieve a goal despite all odds by trying to manipulate others and how life unfolds to shock the her that other people's emotions are not simple matter. What I love about Rohmer's films is the kindness and warmth that radiates, although the stories are somewhat melancholic. I wish movies like this be done nowadays, too, without that garish vulgarity that blights modern cinema.
This is not for Hollywood lovers, therefore.

YOU SHALL MARRY ME !
Second of the famous " comedies and proverbs " of French director Eric Rohmer, A GOOD MARRIAGE is a less serious movie than THE AVIATOR'S WIFE, the first movie of this great artistic achievement. One smiles and laughs a lot during A GOOD MARRIAGE, and that's not so common in Rohmer's filmography !

One fine day, Sabine, a 25 years old art student, decides to get married. She is sure that she won't have any problem at all to find the right man ; she's pretty, young and smart. A handsome Parisian lawyer, played by a terrific André Dussolier, will be the chosen one. Without knowing it. One suffers (if you're a man, of course) with the poor man, absolutely not in love with Sabine, trying to escape from the charming girl's arms without hurting her.

A GOOD MARRIAGE is showing in a comic manner that will is not sufficient to obtain what one desires proving, if necessary, by treating this subject that it is definitely not a Hollywood product.

Images and sound are surprisingly good for a Winstar DVD... but extra-features are still under-average.

A DVD dedicated to bachelors. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Abrasive, self-deluded humor tinges the prickly exploration of sexual politics in French director Eric Rohmer's world and it often makes for less-than-comfortable viewing. Though Rohmer has made movies for several decades, his best-known films comprise a cycle loosely dubbed "The Six Moral Tales" (one short, one featurette, and four features), which also includes La Collectionneuse, My Night at Maud's, and Chloe in the Afternoon. Rohmer's comedies are full of the disillusion and jaded settling that come with age and adulthood, and he sharply contrasts cynicism against the naiveté andeasy, innocent wisdom of youth. In Claire's Knee, Jean-Claude Brialy plays a diplomat named Jerome Montcharvin, who agrees to housesit a friend's rural but lavish country estate for a month. Jerome appears contented with life as he's recently become engaged to Lucinde, a woman he's known for six years. He takes refuge in the fact that she is his opposite, and placates his doubts by reminding himself that "a woman made for me would bore me." Into this summer idyll and Jerome's predictable, ordered life come two teenage girls who threaten his faithful but passionless ardor for his fiancée. To temperhis awakening libido, Jerome pretends to "experiment" with the young women's affections and, in doing so, exposes himself as a cruel, callous man who is clueless as to his true nature. Though a close woman friend cautions him that "in love, there is will," he dismisses the possibility yet in the end performs an act of "pure will" with one of the teens, the lovely Claire, and brashly hurts that which he most desires. Claire's Knee was shot by the brilliant cinematographer, the late Nestor Almendros, and the color palette in the film is a masterpiece of style and scheme. It's a Monet on celluloid, and its visual prowess, combined with the provocative, unsettling theme, earned the National Society of Film Critics' Best Film prize in 1971. (Unfortunately,the first "reel" of the DVD transfer contains several noticeable scratches and the color is also faded and purple.) --Paula Nechak ... Read more

Reviews (12)

not bad , quite surprising for non-Japanese ...
hi every1 . I've seen this video within the studies of my varsity . It's nice and introduce the Japanese style of life and most of all their way of dealing with funerals.

To be short I will only say that the most overwhelming thing in the movie was that the mourning family had to use a VIDEO CASSETTE with instructions about how to act in a funeral and what TO SAY !!!!!!

enjoy

Soushiki: not a comedy by any means
At first I was worried when I purchased this film, because my fellow amazon reviews gave it such a low rating, however, I was pleasantly surprised that it was the DVD not the movie itself, that received such low scores. This is a wonderful film, although, for the life of me, I can not figure out why this film is refered to as a "comedy." It is true there are some funny moments when the main character and his wife are learning their lines to address mourning guests and at moments such as when the phone rings during a prayer. What this film's strongest point is, however,a glimpse of Japan while the bubble economy was at it's peak. Even someone just giving a cursory glance at this film ill realize how important money is to the family. It is the chief conversational topic throughout the movie. How much do we have to pay for the coffin? How much are the obento lunchboxes, etc. The power of money can really be seen when the monk arrives in a very stylish car and is given a gift of french tile to make a table for his garden. Funerals are extraordinarily expensive in Japan, so many Japanese do not look at Buddhist monks as a sign of benevolence, but as money lovers. However, although money is a major subject, as is the preocupation of acting a certain way during the funral, the key point of this movie is that although the world might be completely obsessed with money, in death one can bring members of the faily closer together, and in death there is also rebirh, as can be evidenced at the end of this film.

Not what I expected.
This film was nothing like I thought it would be. Having spent four years in Japan I wanted to see for myself what all the controversy was about surrounding 'The Funeral'. Well, I really liked this film, and found it had a lot to offer. From start to finish there is a lot going on at all levels of the emotional spectrum. I found it very touching, a little sad, a little funny, and very human. The quiet love and dignity of the widow and her daughter are the glue that hold the family and friends together. The widows humble expression of thanks to the guests after the funeral, thus releaving the son-in-law of the obligation, is nothing but poetic. I Recommend this film.

Cathartic and Hillarious if...
In order to really appreciate this film, you really have had to been through the experience... for that reason, there are a lot of people who will watch it and not get it.... - - I first saw the film before I really knew very much about Japanese culture... Some elements of the humor were universal... and I still could appreciate the Itami Juzo's dry surrealism... but after seeing the film I came to live in Japan on and off for 9 years and went through the experience, watching the film went beyond "interesting and sometimes funny"... one one had it was incredibly cathartic... on the other hands, uncomfortably hillarious... Its one of those films that if you'd just been through the experience and you watched it, it would definitely serve as a cathartic dose of laughter... - - Too many scenes, unfortunately, parody experiences and rituals (sometimes seemingly senseless, others incomprehensibly complex) that you'd really have to experience to appreciate... If you haven't been through them, those scenes might be a bit boring... for this reason my advice is this : read up on the subject first... and also, watch the film with an understanding that Japanese funerals are very different than Western funerals... The strange scenes in this film in many way present Japanese funerals as they are, and in other ways parody them...

All in all, having been lucky to have gone 9 years without any close personal losses in Japan, but recnetly having lost an important member of our family, I can't tell you how thankful I am that Juzo Itami made this film !

A wry commentary on the loss of meaning in traditions
There are times when death has been appropriate and hilarious material for a comedy. The juxtaposition of the seriousness of a funeral with wacky hijinks and hootenannies makes for funny stuff. But don't expect to find any of that in Itami's social commentary, "The Funeral" ("O-soshiki.") This film has been done a great injustice by marketers, who in the hopes of possibly capturing a quick sale labeled it "...A Deadly Comedy." You certainly don't find it in the comedy section of a Japanese video store! The scene on the cover, where a man tries to hike up his trousers while a watching woman mocks him, is one of the saddest in the movie.

It is, in fact, an incredibly insightful exposition of the meaninglessness of tradition and ritual in modern Japan. A family, so far removed from the society that first created these traditions, tries to struggle though an "appropriate" funeral for the deceased father. They rent videos on appropriate greetings and responses, they hire experts to tell them what direction the coffin should face, and how many sticks of incense to light. The ritual has far more importance too the family than the actual loss of the father, as does presenting a proper face.

The elderly, as the vanguard of the traditions, are the only ones who care. In fact, the dead man's daughters are shocked and impressed when one of their father's friends shows actual sorrow at the loss. "That's the way to do it," they say. Money is the symbolism for the loss of tradition, the idol that has replaced emotion at the altar. The Buddhist priest is made a gift of Italian tiles for his garden, and the climax of the film is when a case of money opens up to the wind, and the family grasps at it desperately.

While rough in nature, and clearly a first film, Itami manages to artfully wrap these various elements together, without stating the message directly. In the Japanese style, much is implied and little is said. A particularly capturing moment, is a black and white home movie of the family laughing and having fun, while a sad lament plays in the background. The pace is slow and patient.

The DVD is lacking, and the white subtitles can be almost unreadable. It is presented in pan-and-scan as well, with no change from the VHS version. Unfortunately, "The Funeral" seems to be a much-misunderstood film, and has not been given the release it deserves.

The critique of Japanese culture is honest and authentic, and I highly recomend this film to anyone who wants to see real Japanese people living real Japanese lives. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Eight years after the wry romantic sketch Antoine and Colette, François Truffaut and Jean-Pierre Léaud reunited to catch up with Truffaut's cinematic alter ego, Antoine Doinel, the troubled adolescent of The 400 Blows. Stolen Kisses opens with the now-grown Doinel sprung from military prison with a dishonorable discharge, drawn directly from Truffaut's own history of delinquency, but the parallels end there. Lovesick Doinel woos the perky but unresponsive object of his affections, Christine (Claude Jade) while he engages in a series of professions--hotel night watchman, private investigator, TV repairman--with mixed success and comic entanglements. But when he falls in love with the elegant wife of his client (Delphine Seyrig at her most beautiful and charming), Christine realizes she misses Antoine's persistence and clumsy passes, so she embarks on a seductive plan of her own. Truffaut's comic confection is full of deadpan gags and screwball chaos, a world away from the heavy seriousness of The 400 Blows, and Léaud is endearingly naive as thedetermined Doinel, forging ahead with more pluck and passion than aptitude. It may be Truffaut's most sweetly romantic film, a knowing man's embrace of eager innocence and storybook sentiment. Doinel returns two years later in Bed and Board. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Description

Based on a best selling novel of the same name, Confusion of Gendersis an uninhibited romantic satire that tells the story of Alain (Pascal Greggory), who ishaving an office romance with a female colleague Laurence (Nathalie Richard). Unfortunately her younger brother Christophe (Cyrille Thouvenin) likes him as well. Alain however, doesn't know what he wants.Men, women, commitment and freedom areluring him in every direction but he is incapable of choosing.Or willing.When Alainencounters sexy, dangerous Marc (Vincent Martinez), the only way to get close to him isto become the messenger of Marc's passion (the sexy Babette, played by Julie Gayet), anentrancing woman whose charms Alain can not resist.Unfortunately, by this time,Christophe has moved into Alain's flat and Laurence is expecting his child and his handin marriage.Will Alain find a compromise that will be acceptable to all? ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Confusion of intent
What was the intent of this film? Oh, yes, some call this a comedy. And I suppose it is, in a very dry way. Don't expect the obvious, slapstick-based French humor of a Francis Veber movie.

But this movie pretends to be more than a comedy. I have to agree with the other reviewer who called this "pretentious French nonsense." That's pretty much what this is -- take it from a foreign film fan who has several French movies on his all-time favorites list.

This is the sort of film where the characters almost always say the opposite of what they feel -- just for effect. Rarely is there any real dialogue. All the characters (unlikable, for the most part) tend to make pronouncements that have nothing to do with what the other character just said.

The main character, in particular, is unbearable. In this movie, he is irresistibly attractive to men and women alike, but the source of his allure remains a mystery throughout. We see him as selfish, uninteresting, depressed, confused and entirely unaware of his internal thoughts and feelings.

I'd recommend giving this a pass.

Pretentious French Nonsense
Now I know why so many people who travel, say that they are sick of the French. I did not care what happened to any of these self-serving, self-aggrandizing, self-centered, and annoyingly selfish characters. Hmmm, I wonder if a pattern is developing here? They all seem to have confused rudeness with sophistication.

The direction was haphazard and the acting entirely too "precious." These people wouldn't know love if it presented itself naked, prone and ready to be mounted.

Finally a movie with gay characters and no one dies!
Recently I've been renting a lot of gay movies because I was buying them and sadly disappointed by the unhappy endings so many of them have! This was a great movie with interesting characters, a plot line that was followable and attractive people, both gay, straight, bi and well just about everything. Purchased the movie right after watching it. Following a story of a man who loves. Doesn't matter what the sex is, just loves. There are women, there are men. It's a good movie. I recommend it.

One of the funniest comedies in years
A giant custard pie smack in the kisser of anyone who has ever claimed "but I'm really bisexual," when that's not the case at all "La Confusion des Genres" is miles ahead of the formulaic likes of "Le Placard" when it comes to making a comedy about gay life today. As he's shown in films as diverse as "Pauline at the Beach" and "Those Who Love Me Can Take the Train," Pascal Greggory is a master of guilty sexual sneakiness. Worth seeing for the wedding scene alone. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

The most thrilling, spectacular and entertaining movie ever
I consider myself to be Jackie Chans most loyal fan. I own almost 20 of his martial arts movies, including classics from Police Story to Who am I. The Young Master is an absolutely essential purchase for anyones martial arts collection, which is guaranteed to remain a highly regarded Jackie Chan classic. The movie is set during Chans younger days in cinema and demonstrates his amazing skill in martial arts as well as his great talent in entertaining the viewer through his humorous performances. He even sings the song to the ending of the movie. The film really does show how energetic and original Jackie is, and this is the main reason why I simply admire his artistic talent. The Young Master tells the story of an orphan named Dragon (Jackie) and shows how he struggles to set his friend free from the evil clutches of Master Kam. The master uses his friend to commit a number of crimes and in the process people confuse Jackie with his friend and mistake him for the criminal. The final showdown shows Jackie confronting the Master in a well-coreographed and extremely realsitic fight scene. This is the first most important movie which catapulted Chans career for Golden Harvest Productions and established himself as a great perfomer in all aspects and not only in kung-fu. In conclusion, this is the most thrilling, spectacular and entertaining movie which I have ever seen, and from all his greatest hits this has to be the most enjoyable.

Jackie Chan at his best?
There's no doubt about it. Jackie Chan is one of the most talented martial arts stars in the world. While The Young Master was the 2nd movie Jackie Chan ever directed, it was his first film for Golden Harvest Productions.

The Lion Dance was really awesome, and was a great way to start the movie out, setting the pace for the rest of the movie. It truly was great, and is a scene you really have to respect. The rest of the fight scenes are for the most part your average Jackie Chan kicks, flips, punches, and lunges. But what's really cool is the bench fighting. Really good stuff, which is often seen in some of Jackie's newer films, but not to the same extent. But what was probably the best part of the movie was the final battle. It was really exciting, and really funny. Truly Jackie Chan at his best.

The story and acting are also a step above most of Jackie's older films. Sure, there was plenty of Jackie's trademark "over-acting", but not nearly as much with most of his older films. This is the movie where Jackie Chan really started to shine in the acting department. From his funny sense of humor (which never fails at making me laugh), to his deadly seriousness (which is still funny most of the time), Jackie Chan really entertains in The Young Master.

The only thing that keep this movie from getting 5 Stars is, while it's entertaining, the bad dub voices spoil the experience. While this movie was basically a step above most of Jackie's older films in every way, the only catigory that remained at the same level was the cheesey voice acting. I'm sorry. Maybe if I'd seen the subtitled version I would have given it 5 Stars, but I haven't. But 4 Stars will have to do, sorry Jackie.

With the minor dubb problems aside, this is truly an exellent Jackie Chan flick, which all fans simply can't be without. Buy The Young Master today, and I promise you won't be dissapointed. Just don't forget to go with the Widescreen Edition, becuase the action scenes may suffor in the formatted version. - Ducky

A little-known classic
This is a great Chan film with great choreography and some really great comedy. I'm surprised by how unknown it is... I rarely see it for sale or rental in the stores, but it really is on par with films like Drunken Master or Fearless Hyena. If you liked those films check this one out!

The Young Master (1980)
Jackie plays a young kung fu student who disovers that his martial arts brother, Tiger, is secretly betraying their Master. However when Tiger gets framed for murder and Jackie gets mistaken for Tiger Jackie's forced to prove his innocence and Tiger's.

One of Chan's best earlier films
There's no doubt about it, Jackie Chan is one of the most accomplished martial arts action stars in the world today, but long before he made it to the North American mainstream, this little beauty was alive and well in Hong Kong. Other than the 1977 version of Drunken Master, this has got to be the best film I've seen from Jackie Chan in his earlier period. The fight scenes are truly a spectacle to behold. The lion dance is one thing, but the actual fighting is just superb. During the scene where the crime boss is released from the custody of the authorities, he delievers the greatest kick I have ever seen. I must have stopped and rewinded about 8 times! The sound is not bad at all, and the picture is not too shabby either. The story and plot is pretty good, even if some dialouge leaves more to be desired. Other than that, no complaints. The Young Master is really something to see, and I would recommend it to those who truly enjoy Jackie Chan's martial art skill! ... Read more