Reviews (76)

Spy Kids 2, better that the 1st
As a teenager I usually don't have a thing for movies like this but I definetly liked this one. I ended up taking my little sister to see it but I ended up liking it more than her. Yes, some parts are cheesy (like when the little spy boy ballet dances with the presidents daughter), but there aren't that many moments like that. They also have 2 new characters. Gerti (who is played by Haley Joel Osments sister) is a cool gal and her brother Gary (Matt O'Leary) is gorgeous! I think that's why I liked the movie so much. He's a great actor and a major hottie! The movie itself is WAY better that the first too. The islands got some cool animals too, the "catfish" is cute but i found the "spider monkey" a little disturbing looking. If that thing was my pet I'd be a little scared! I don't want to give the movie away but DEFINETLY WATCH IT!

We¿ve Got A Franchise!!
"Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams" is another in a line of great sequels to great movies. Overall, if you enjoyed the first film you'll be very pleased in the next installment in this "Bond for Kids" comedy/adventure series!!

THE STORY:

Carmen and Juni Cortez (Alexa Vega and Daryl Sabara) are back in a bigger and wilder adventure than before. This time the Cortez siblings are locked in a dead heat to get to the bottom of a mystery concealed by a remote and mysterious island before a rival team of Spy Kids beat them to the punch.

THE COOL THINGS:

The "Island of Lost Dreams" expands upon the Spy Kids world tenfold as we are introduced to the entire Spy Kids organization including its hierarchies and ultra-cool weapons. The "monsters" in this installment are also more formidable looking (mutated/spliced animals) as compared to the comical mutated humans from the first movie. We also get introduced to the extended Cortez family tree as Ingrid's parents gain a supporting role. In all, seeing the competing Spy Kids and the newer and cooler weapons made this movie more enjoyable.

BEST SCENES:

1. The Monster Duel

2. Popstars Carmen and Juni!!! (HILARIOUS!!!)

3. Battle at OSS

THE VERDICT:

Spy Kids was generally regarded as a good, solid movie not only for kids and families, but anyone in general. It was fun, entertaining and all around enjoyable. Summed in a nutshell, Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams is even better!!!

Highly Recommended

A PRETTY GOOD MOVIE!
IT WAS PRETTY GOOD!I LIKED THE FIRST ONE BETTER,BUT THIS ONE WAS REAL COOL TOO!THE ACTORS ARE REAL GOOD WHEN THE`RE PLAYING AS THESE PEOPLE!

Great Movie
I enjoyed Spy Kids 2 a lot. I have Spy Kids and it was alright. I watched 3-D in theatres and thought it was crappy. Today I watched Spy Kids 2 and I loved it it's a funny movie full of action. I highly recommend it.

Better than the original but much less like 007
Spy Kids was a lot like James Bond, only for kids. Sure, the gadgets were a little wacky, as was the plot, and the lines weren't super (they should have included some double entendres, that would have been a laugh), but it was good. This, however, shows the franchise is veering into fantasy. And from what I hear about Spy Kids 3D: Game Over, the James Bond similarity seems to be over. If you want James Bond, see Agent Cody Banks, XXX, or the real thing, Die Another Day.
Kids, however, will not make a Venn diagram between Bond and Spy Kids, primarily because they've never watched 007 ask for a vodka martini, shaken not stirred. This movie is heavy on stars ( Antonio Banderas, Ricardo Montalban) but it never feels like, say, Hook.
Two spies have no choice but to let their children, Carmen and Juni, become junior agents. The movie starts out, oddly enough, with a not-so-irrelevant action sequence.
At an OSS meeting, something fishy is going on already. The President, whose daughter was rescued by Juni, is carrying some sort of technological wonder called the Transmooker device (nice name, what's it mean?). It is promptly stolen by the champagne waiters, who disappear by being magnetically sucked to a UFO. Juni is claimed responsible by Gary, the snobby son of the president of the OSS. Gary also has a relationship with Carmen.
Gary and his younger sister Gerti are sent on a mission to recover the Transmooker device, but Juni and Carmen beat them to it. When they get to the island, however, their gadgets do not work... Poor Carmen without her cell phone. Soon they find out about the genetic experiments of a scientist that roam the island, which are pretty big. Picture a lizard with a twenty-foot neck. Yep, they're big. The president of the OSS, however, soon wants the Transmooker device for himself, and things get complicated fast.
The casting could use a little change. Alan Cummings, although his role is tiny in this movie, should have been replaced by Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey played a (kinda) normal guy in Batman Forever, and as a scientist and entrepreneur he wasn't completely wacky. It would take some work, but Robin Williams could do the scientist. That might need a bigger budget, though, so scratch Robin Williams.
This movie doesn't feel so much like a Nickolodeon flick, though, which is an accomplishment. Still, if your child likes the show, they'll like this. Heck, your child will like this no matter what. Take 'em to it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Spirited Away
The highest grossing film in Japanese box-office history (more than $234 million), Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away (Sen To Chihiro Kamikakushi) is a dazzling film that reasserts the power of drawn animation to create fantasy worlds. Like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz and Lewis Carroll's Alice, Chihiro (voice by Daveigh Chase--Lilo in Disney's Lilo & Stitch) plunges into an alternate reality. On the way to their new home, the petulant adolescent and her parents find what they think is a deserted amusement park. Her parents stuff themselves until they turn into pigs, and Chihiro discovers they're trapped in a resort for traditional Japanese gods and spirits. An oddly familiar boy named Haku (Jason Marsden) instructs Chihiro to request a job from Yubaba (Suzanne Pleshette), the greedy witch who rules the spa. As she works, Chihiro's untapped qualities keep her from being corrupted by the greed that pervades Yubaba's mini-empire. In a series of fantastic adventures, she purges a river god suffering from human pollution, rescues the mysterious No-Face, and befriends Yubaba's kindly twin, Zeniba (Pleshette again). The resolve, bravery, and love Chihiro discovers within herself enable her to aid Haku and save her parents. The result is a moving and magical journey, told with consummate skill by one of the masters of contemporary animation. --Charles Solomon

Castle in the Sky
Inspired by "Gulliver's Travels," the fantasy-adventure Castle in theSky (1986) was Miyazaki's third feature, and helped to establishhis reputation as a visionary in both Japan and America. The orphan Sheetainherited a mysterious crystal that links her to the legendary sky-kingdom ofLaputa. With the help of resourceful Pazu and a rollicking band of skypirates, she makes her way to the ruins of the once-great civilization.Sheeta and Pazu must outwit the evil Muska, who plans to use Laputa's scienceto make himself ruler of the world. Castle echoes elements inMyazaki's earlier Nausicaä, and anticipates imagery in his laterfilms, from My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away. Disney's newEnglish dub, which features Anna Paquin (Sheeta), James Van Der Beek (Pazu)and Cloris Leachman (pirate matriarch Dola) is lively and close in tone tothe original Japanese, if a bit talkier. The excitingflying sequences, appealing characters, and fantastic vision of asteam-powered future Jules Verne might have imagined make Castle in theSky a must-have for fans of Japanese and Western animation.--Charles Solomon

Kiki's Delivery Service
In Kiki's Delivery Service, a 13-year-old girl meets the world head on as she spends her first year soloing as an apprentice witch. Kiki (Kirsten Dunst) is still a little green and plenty headstrong, but also resourceful, imaginative, and determined. With her trusty wisp of a cat Jiji (a gently subdued Phil Hartman) by her side she's ready to take on the world, or at least the quaintly European seaside village she's chosen as her new home. Miyazaki's gentle rhythm and meandering narrative capture the easy pulse of real life (even if his subject is a girl flying high upon a broomstick) and charts the everyday struggles and growing pains of his plucky heroine with sensitivity and understanding. Beautifully detailed animation and the rich designs of the picture-postcard seaside town of red-tiled roofs and cobblestone streets only add to the sense of wonder. This charming animated fantasy is a wholesome, life-affirming picture that doesn't speak down to kids or up to adults. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (41)

A masterful trio by Studio Ghibli
...although actually, these films were never intended to be anything of the sort ;).

Although Disney has shown an irritating hesitation to publicize or release the films they have purchased the US rights to from Studio Ghibli, this three-set is still most welcome. Spirited Away was my introduction to the studio's works, and is probably one of my all-time favorite movies. These three DVDs, although sparing on the extras, hold up to scrutiny, and I give them my heartfelt reccommendation.

Kiki's Delivery Service is a light-hearted tale that gently chides the world for its harshness, well nevertheless remaining optimistic and true to its form. Spirited Away is a heartfelt adventure, in which the main character does not face good or evil, but simply a need to adapt to a new world and a new set of rules, and to overcome their lesser attributes. And Castle in the Sky is a wonderful, vaguely Star-Wars-y adventure about a confused girl who is ready to meet her destiny.

Did you notice I just used the word 'heart' twice in three sentences? Well, these movies have a *lot* of heart to them, more so than any typical viewing from the House of Mouse. These aren't a packet of slickly-paced jokes, or an 'epic' tale of Good vs. Evil. They simply...are. And they shine for it.

Each DVD contains three language tracks...English, Japanese, and either French or Spanish (Spanish for Kiki, French for the other two). The English version comes with subtitles for the hearing impaired, true to the dub (which is slightly different from the original Japanese version, although not much). There are also literal subtitles for the Japanese track...they're big and obvious, if you even stop to follow any of the instructions or pay any attention at all.

Actually, I prefer the dub for Kiki's delivery service, and I think I might for Spirited Away, too. I haven't yet tinkered with the Japanese Castle in the Sky (which, by the way, was rescored...the original score was maybe one hour of original melodies for a two-hour movie. Ghibli decided that they might as well fix an old annoyance, and the new soundtrack is awesome). Disney did a very good job; the voice actors for the English versions managed to cover some sort of poorly chosen lines rather well.

The movies are, in short, not 'Disney-fied' at all, and if you find the English versions unsatisfactory, you can still experience the pure Japanese bliss. Good show, Disney. Now take a cue from these guys in Japan!

Awesome 3 pack of Miyazaki
Let me just say that each of these films deserves a full review in their own right. That said, I think that Spirited Away is the centerpiece of this trilogy, and the treatment on DVD shows with great audio and video quality, and a healthy set of extras. Castle in the Sky and Kiki's Delivery Service also are looking great on these DVD's, but their extras are not quite as good - the second disc of both movies is the complete storyboards. That's interesting, but nothing I'd write home about. These movies showcase Miyazaki over quite a large period of time - interrupted by a gap where Princess Mononoke was made. It is obvious - you can see the evolution of his style, and the evolution of cgi - almost completely absent in Castle in the Sky, and filling lots of gaps of Spirited Away (though almost always scenery/backgrounds/zooms, nothing of the main characters that I can tell).
If you're a Miyazaki fan, get these discs! If you're new to the anime world, these are good starter movies to hook you in.

Miyazaki spirits audiences away
Hayao Miyazaki is undoubtedly one of the best children's filmmakers today. Here three of his best are collected together: "Kiki's Delivery Service," "Castle in the Sky," and "Spirited Away" -- all overflowing with charm, color, beauty, sadness, and spirit.

In "Kiki's Delivery Service," a determined young witch-in-training (Kirsten Dunst) sets out from her hometown to hone her powers out in the world, with only her cat Jiji (Phil Hartman) by her side. She finds a home and job in a picturesque little town, and puts her broomstick to good use as she sets up a delivery service -- and gets to know some of the townsfolk around her.

Action and fantasy are given a Jules Verne twist in "Castle in the Sky." Miner boy Pazu (James Van Der Beek) sees a girl slowly float down from the sky, suspended by a glowing crystal necklace. Sheeta (Anna Paquin) befriends the orphaned boy, but soon pirates and military thugs are chasing both of the children, so they can use Sheeta to find the fabled floating city of Laputa. To save Sheeta, Pazu teams up with some bumbling pirates -- and finds more than he ever expected up in the clouds.

Academy Award Winner "Spirited Away" opens with Chihiro (Daveigh Chase) being unwillingly moved to a new town. But when her parents take a detour into an abandoned amusement park, they are suddenly turned into pigs. Turns out the park is really a resort for powerful spirits and gods. To save her parents, Chihiro sacrifices her freedom and her name to the vicious Yubaba (Suzanne Pleshette). And she allies herself with Yubaba's henchman Haku (James Marsden), a mysterious boy who seems somehow familiar to her.

While technically the Miyazaki three-pack is for kids, adults will probably enjoy the stories as well. These are well-crafted, beautifully-animated films that manage to be uplifting and sweet without ever descending to sappiness. In short, they're smart films. They don't talk down to kids, but they won't alienate adults by being childish.

The animation is uniformly beautiful, full of bright colors and clean lines. And Miyazaki has an excellent story-telling range: He produces the resort-towns of "Kiki," the richly dark-edged world of monsters, ghosts and spirits in "Spirited away," and the slam-bang action and majesty of "Castle." And he doesn't forget to mix plenty of the fantastical in too. In what other movies can you see a six-foot-tall baby, a pirate street-brawl, and a girl riding a dragon through underground tunnels?

Miyazaki also has an excellent grasp of character development, presenting us with the plucky Kiki and resourceful miner boy Pazu. But the best character is perhaps Chihiro, who starts off whining relentlessly, but showing her courage and love as the story goes on. Even the villains are multi-dimensional, even if "Castle"'s Muska goes perilously close to the megalomaniac tyrant cliche.

Miyazaki -- whose latest project is an adaptation of Diana Wynne-Jones' fantasy novel "Howl's Moving Castle" -- is definitely a wonderful filmmaker. These three movies are charming, evocative, emotional, and occasionally even epic. Highly recommended.

Great stories, artist, and better in original version...
I grew up with Japaness Animation, and I can't speak, read or understand Jpanese. I watched these movies since I was about 10 years old, and I am very used to reading subtitle since I was fairly young. Why, because I hac no choice. And I was shocked to see the dubbed version of some Miyazaki film, because it is different than my childhood memory.

If it was just differeces in the way they word things, that's fine. But the problem is that the characters are changed, and story line are slightly altered. That bothers me. I don't remember Miyazaki's work marketing for younger children during the time I grew up in Taiwan, but they certainly changed that here. It is fine if the alternation is made for children, because that would be the only way my little girl can enjoy these great movies with me and my husband before she can read. But as a adult, I strongly recommmend you to watch these movies with English subtitle. Because that version is what the diractor intend us to see, and that is true art. Enjoy the art!!

Why complain about alterations in dubs?
I don't understand the reviewers who complain that Disney "ruined" these movies by the silly dialog or score changes they made in their dubs, or their choice of who to do the english voice acting.

C'mon, people -- they're DUBS. What do you EXPECT?

Watch them as they were intended to be seen -- use the Japanese audio track with English subtitles. If I'm not mistaken, you get the original soundtrack that way as well. It is AWESOME (and dare I say it uncharacteristic) that Disney provided the original japanese versions on these DVDs.

With a very few exceptions (Cowboy Bebop, for example), DUBS are almost always inferior to SUBS. As far as I'm concerned, people who are too LAZY to appreciate a foreign language film deserve what they get in Disney's alterations. ... Read more

Description

The magical story of Cinderella continues in an all-new movie brimming with irresistible music, lush animation and all your favorite characters from the original Disney classic. When Cinderella and her prince return to the palace from their honeymoon, the new princess suddenly finds herself cast in the role of Royal Hostess. But the traditional rules of the Royal Court don't allow her to entertain in her own warm and wonderful way. With the help of everyone's favorite Fairy Godmother and a band of mischievous mice, Cinderella and her friends find that the only true way to succeed is to be yourself. You'll find dreams really do come true in the enchanting tale of Cinderella II. ... Read more

Reviews (132)

What an insult. Can you give less than 1 Star?
Usually, we pre-purchase Disney DVDs, but for some reason I did not pre-purchase this one... and I am glad I did not. We instead decided to rent this DVD to see if it would be a keeper. What we found was simply minute after minute after minute of the single worst animated Disney movie myself and the rest of my family have ever seen. This movie actually makes Lion King 2 look like an Oscar winner.

Mr. Eisner? Did you really view this project before allowing the Disney name on it? I simply cannot believe you did. Peter Pan 2 was well done, Little Mermaid 2 was well done, Lady and Tramp 2 was well done, but this movie, a sequel to a timeless classic, is end to end mush. The animation is second rate; especially Cinderella although the wicked stepmother is excellent. The plot is nonexistent. The music is uninspiring.

About 20 minutes into the movie, my daughter, who by-the-way owns ever single princess item available from bed sheets to headboard to wallpaper to every DVD and doll and clothes..., took the remote and turned it off herself! I turned it back on and we struggled through the rest of the movie.

Mr. Eisner, for goodness sakes, if you are going to put out trash at least make sure does not involve one of the very classics that made you the success you are today.

Dreams Really Do Come True!!!!
This had to be the best Disney sequel of 2002 this year the sequels better than the original with great animation and great songs like "Put It Together" by pop singing sensation Brooke allison that was my favorite she sings four songs in the movie and she's very talented at it go buy this for me I'm telling you it is the best sequel ever. 14 yr. old veiwer

Cinderella II So-So good!
If Michael Eisner wants to re-introduce Cinderella to future generations he should re-release it, and other original animations, every 10 years in movie theaters to maintain interest. Snow White & the 7 Dwarves was re-released about 10 years ago. I was truly exited to see it in theater even though I owned a vhs copy at the time. So I ask you this question: If Cinderella already lives "happily ever after" then why does she need "dreams come true"? I recommend you rent Cinderella II before buying it. Cinderella II is cute but is not a quality full-length movie like the Beauty and the Beast Christmas sequel.

Cinderella II Shames Cinderella I...
Mr. Walt Disney would NEVER approve of Cinderella II. Michael Eisner has ruined Disney forever. Cinderella II is disappointing with its pop-like music, flat storyline, lack of drama/depth, animation quality--nothing like original, etc.
Walt's original classics were meant to allow viewers to continue the "happily ever after" in their imaginations. I suggest you rent this movie before buying it. You will save yourself a lot of grief.
It is also a shame Eisner has turned Disney into a mass-market mess. Within a year many original animation classics will have been released: 101 Dalmations 2, Peter Pan 2, Tarzan 2, Hunchback of Notre Dame 2, Lady and the Tramp 2, Cinderella 2, and who knows what else we missed.
Cinderella II is a "cute" story, but for those of us who grew up with the original as a timely classic this sequel will ruin all your fantasies/imaginations about Cinderella's "happily ever after". My dreams will never come true for Cinderella now that Eisner has basically "told" me what happens "after" ever after.

Disney is Garbage
Disney should be required by law to change it's name...it's not the same company it used to be. Disney releases one good (by today's standards, I guess) movie every few years and pumps out utter garbage the rest of the time. Does anyone really not see this? If they didn't have their name to keep them in business, they would have died a long time ago. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Just as Good as Mary Poppins!
I was about 2 years old when this movie was released in the theaters so I didn't see it back then but I remember watching The Gnome Mobile on the Disney channel sometime in the 80's with my nephews and really thinking it was a cute movie and fun movie, it stars Walter Brennen in a wonderful dual role as a wealthy man named D.J. Mulrooney and as a Gnome named Knobby. It also stars Matthew Garber and Karen Dotrice from Mary Poppins as D.J.'s grandchildren Rodney and Elizabeth and they give very good performances. Also giving good performances in the Gnome Mobile are Ed Wynn also from Mary Poppins who plays Rufus, Tom Lowell as Knobby's grandson Jasper and Richard Deacon (The Dick Van Dyke Show) as Ralph Yarby. Also look out for Ellen Corby (The Waltons) as Etta Pettibone. (She played the Grandmother in The Waltons). I see that this adorable and underrated movie which I think is just as good as Mary Poppins is finally coming out on DVD. There isn't any info on if it's being released in widescreen or fullscreen but I sure do hope that the DVD will include a widescreen version instead of just pan & scan!

The Gnome Mobile
A wonderful story starring the same Children who appeared in Disney's Mary Popins film. The Gnome Mobile song in a delight as is the action chase sequences. My favorite scene comes near the end where the teen gnome bachelor is made up like a grease pig and all the availible maidens try to catch him. The one he falls for reminds me of Anntte Fouchello (mis-spelling of name) but don't think it was her. As the kids grandpa was responsible for many gnomes to disappear and now he try to help a pair of male gnomes for more of their kind.

Disney is disapointing
I will pass on this one and all the other Disney DVDs until they do it right, not until I get the full aspect ratios of their films on WIDESCREEN will I purchase any.

Another disappointment
Of all the movies of my childhood, there are few that I remember with such fondness as "The Gnome-Mobile". I recall my Uncle picking me up, sitting between 2 of my cousins in the theater munching on Milk-Duds. It was a wonderful day, and the film was absolutely magical.
I was SO excited to see that it came out on DVD - I wanted to share it with my own children. But then I looked at the specs, saw the aspect ratio and realized that it was yet another crappy Disney pan-and-scan hack job. The question I pose is this - at what point are the people at Disney going to have the RESPECT for their treasured films to release them in their entirety? Please don't support this horrible, thoughtless effort on their part.

Where is the widescreen format?
The Gnome-moble is an excellent movie and a childhood favorite.
I would love to purchase this and many other Disney titles....
but they are not widescreen. Why are they not releasing these
titles the way they deserve to be shown?
Until the release of the widescreen versions, I will avoid those
pan-and-scan Disney titles. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Meredith Willson's musical masterpiece is such an American classic, itdeserves to be known by each new generation--and this sprightly TV-movie versionspiffs it up nicely for the young folk. It's a testament to Willson'sachievement that this 2003 production can survive a casting flub: the usuallyengaging Matthew Broderick's low-key charm is an exact mismatch for the brassyenergy of traveling salesman Professor Harold Hill. When Broderick sings thewords "thundering, thundering!" from "Seventy-Six Trombones," he sounds asthough he's murmuring, murmuring. But he wears well (especially in a nifty"Marian the Librarian"), and he has lyrical support from Kristin Chenoweth'scrystal-clear singing. Director Jeff Bleckner has a maddening tendency to cutaway from the crucial moment of a scene, but the atmosphere of small-town Iowais ably created. Adding zip is Molly Shannon, hilarious as chief busybody Mrs.Shinn. In short, the "Think System" still works. --Robert Horton ... Read more

Reviews (47)

Broderick ruins great production
This is my second review of this movie, and I have found that I have a few more observations. Has anyone noticed how wooden and mechanical Broderick's performance is? At times he sounds like he's reading cue cards, and at others his movements resemble those of a puppet, marionette, or wind-up toy. I kept looking during "76 Trombones" to see if he had any visible strings attached. And that blank face of his shows almost no emotion. It's really a shame that casting Broderick ruined the whole movie, because the production has so many good points. The period small-town atmosphere is superb, Kristen Chenoweth is great, the staging in many of the musical numbers (eg. "Iowa Stubborn", "Marian the Librarian" "The Wells Fargo Wagon") is brilliant. The cast radiates YOUTH and vitality, unlike the original 1962 version, whose shopworn cast looks like its been hanging around on the set for too long. But believe me - as far as Harold Hill is concerned, Broderick isn't worthy to shine Robert Preston's marching boots. Whereas previously we had a MUSIC MAN with superlative Harold Hill and a weak production, now the situation is reversed. So again I say, what a shame.

One final point: "Trouble" looks and sounds all wrong. Hill is here assuming the mantle of an itinerant revivalist preacher; his mesmerizing patter is like a fiery sermon. He is cataloguing rather scandalous behavior for the time, and the townspeople should be reacting with shock. Here, instead of preaching Broderick dances around like an idiot, while the people just stand there. Tell you what, Disney, why not just get a new Harold Hill and run all the scenes with him in it all over again?

A pointless but nicely done film.
The age old question - why remake a classic?
The original The Music Man is, in my opinion, one of the greatest movie musicals ever made (as I outline in my review of it). When I saw that it had been remade I was, at once, horrified and fascinated. What will they have done to improve the original? Could they improve the original? Well, the short answer is they couldn't and they haven't.
My main concern was, and is, Matthew Broderick. Although undoubtably a talented musical theatre performer (I enjoyed his performance on the Producers and the How To Suceed ... soundtracks) he is no Robert Preston, which in my books means that he's no Harold Hill! He seems to suffer from a stiff neck for the duration of the film as he hardly moves his head (maybe it's those high collars!). In some of the numbers he looks positively uncomfortable! His voice is not suited to the role and in numbers like 76 Trombones, shows itself to be very weak. The rest of the cast is good, but not in comparison with their counterparts from the original film.
The saving grace to this production is the direction and choreography. The original film is slightly stagey with it's direction (something I actually find endearing), but this one really allows us to explore River City, Iowa and meet it's residents. The choreography dares to be different from the original and I especially love what has been done with 76 Trombones. The sets and costumes are equally impressive, especially when you consider that this was made for television.
On the whole, an entertaining couple of hours but I would recommend watching Mr Preston in action first. After that, this is at it's most entertaining when reminding you of the original. Which is no bad thing!

Wonderful production, but Broderick is miscast
On the whole, I prefer this 2003 Disney production of THE MUSIC MAN to the original 1962 movie version. The original was full of bright, garish colors that emphasized the cast members' age and made the supposedly turn-of-the-century high school gym look more like the one in WEST SIDE STORY. By contrast, the new version recreates the period beautifully, with muted colors that give the train, the town, the school, and the ice cream parlor the look of an old-fashioned picture postcard. The original version was also quite stagey, while the new one uses subtle camera angles to suggest the unwelcoming quality of the town in "Iowa Stubborn" and to create an almost menacing mood in the opening train number, "Rock Island." "Marian the Librarian," which looked silly in the original, here becomes a delightful "literary fantasy." And the new cast is youthful and fresh, with a Marian (Kristen Chenowith) both ravishing of voice and much more appealing of personality than the original's Shirley Jones. Chenowith's Marian is no uptight spinster but the town eccentric, an independent young woman of intelligence and humor. Disney regular Victor Garber also stands out as a pompous yet likeable Mayor Shinn.
Matthew Broderick, though, is all wrong as Harold Hill. In an interview, Broderick suggested that he wanted to create a more understated salesman than Robert Preston's famous "bass drum." But in fact Broderick's performance is simply boring. I couldn't imagine duller renditions of "Ya Got Trouble" and "Seventy-Six Trombones," for example - and if Harold Hill doesn't "sell" those two big numbers, then he is not Harold Hill. In short, though Broderick has been fine in other, less dominating musical roles, he is miscast as a fast-talking, charismatic "spell-binder."

No match for the 1962 version.
Okay, okay, the 1962 version of the Broadway musical turned film, starring Robert Preston (in the part of his life) and Shirley Jones, super sweet and sexy at the same time and with the voice of an angel, happens to be one of my favorite films of all time. But this version? Forgettabout it.

When I first checked out reviews for this after seeing it in its first TV showing (or seeing MOST of it since, I think I started switching channels halfway through), and checking out if it was available on DVD, I was not only a bit shocked they'd even waste a good blank DVD on it but then have the nerve to charge people to buy/rent it, but by some of the POSITIVE reviews. What movie were these folks watching, I wonder, or is it just self-denial, or perhaps they've never seen the 1962 version, or perhaps they just don't know what "The Music Man" is and should be all about?

Still, I gave it a chance. The opening sequence looks and sounds good, the production values good, but my first clue something was "wrong" here was the presence of an Afro-American traveling salesman. This was just not realistic for the time period or places involved. And when Matthew Broderick (playing Harold Hill) takes his first stroll through River City, Iowa, circa early 20th century, more blacks. Fancily dressed ladies and little kids, all living in racial harmony in 1912 Iowa? Just not realistic. I think I even spotted an oriental or two, and these are not "racist" remarks at all. It's just that this just wasn't the way it was back then. Nowhere in the country back then actually, but especially the time period this takes place in. Egads, give me a break Disney on the over-the-top and totally inappropriate political correctness.

It was only when Matthew Broderick, already early on in the movie exhibiting none of the personality characteristics or mannerisms Preston made famous, started "acting" however, saying words and speaking lines like he were tied to a morphine drip, did I start to wonder, what the heck are they butchering a classic for? I kept watching though and when Ferris started to dance around like an 80 year old and sing lines with almost no real emotion or energy or spirit, that I knew this was going to be bad. Matthews' energy level compared to Preston is like a 40 watt light bulb compared to the spotlight on top of the Luxor in Vegas. He butchers EVERY song. His "Trouble in River City" is without a doubt the worst though I think.

The woman who plays Marion the Librarian, while she can sing well enough, is also a horrible miscast. While she sings like a bird (though not nearly as good as Shirley Jones in the original), her acting is generally poor, forced, and her voice is squeaky and her whole "look" nowhere near what it should be. As others have mentioned, the barbershop quartet guys seem much too young, the mayor of the town is played all wrong, although the stuttering kid (played originally by Ron Howard) is okay.

The production values are really about the only good thing about this movie, but almost everything else is wrong. It's hard for me to remember such a blatant bad job of casting here mainly. Matthew Broderick can act, for all we know, he can sing or dance. But he "acts" and sings and dances throughout without any magic or enthusiasm at all. Change the two leads here at least, and ditch the unrealistic and almost insulting political correctness here, and this might've been something good. Though still nowhere near the 1962 version.

Save your money and buy the REAL version, and make a VHS copy or DVD recording of this next time it's shown on the tube. Imho, there really are no legitimate excuses for trying to remake virtually perfectly done originals. Witness the color remake of "Psycho." This whole project should've sat in the can. And don't they do screentests and tryouts for parts anymore? If Matthew Broderick performed in those as he does here, he would've been nixed by any decent casting director, so whaa happened?

Buy the original or so see a live performance. This mostly does unjustice to Wilson's classic.

The Music Man is a True American Classic - Despite This!
I will admit that I'm prejudice when it comes to Robert Preston. Preston had a limited range as a singer, but more than made up for it with stage presence, knowledge of the character of Harold Hill, and great moves that dominated every scene (and he was in nearly every scene). I would be hard-pressed to find someone who would fill the man's shoes. Still, Matthew Broderick seems uncomfortable in his OWN shoes. His awkwardness and gangly movement is disconcerting for me, the viewer. I kept waiting for him to fall down! I know they cast Broderick to attract viewers with his familiar name and his reputation as a musical performer in The Producers, but it's like casting Ray Romano to play Don Corleone in The Godfather because he's Italian. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Not even the executives at Disney could have predicted the runaway success of this live-action movie inspired by Jay Ward's goofy 1960s cartoon character. Not only did George make a killing at the box office, but Disney's marketing wizards turned it into one of their best-selling videos. It's hard to begrudge the movie's success, even if this is the kind of mindless entertainment that caters to the lowest common denominator. In any case, it's obvious that kids love this movie, in which the idiotic George (Brendan Fraser) repeatedly swings into trees and attracts the attention of a lovely jungle explorer (Leslie Mann) who decides to call off her engagement to a wealthy snob (Thomas Hayden Church) in favor of the vine-swinging hunk with an elephant named Shep (that thinks it's a dog) and an ape named Ape (with a proper Brit voice provided by John Cleese). Filled with slapstick gags and some funny special effects, the movie can be a bit of a trial for adults, but it's a hilarious treat for its intended audience. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (76)

A review from Mr. Entertainment Lover
Hee Hee Hee.... What a silly movie! Yes it's dumb and stupid! Still that's what makes it so funny. I have it in my video collection to watch on a day I'm bored. In this film George falls in love with a beautiful women named Ursala. However her nasty mother and her mean boyfriend won't allow it. From then on it's madness and comedy that will keep you laughing. John Cleese does an excellent job as an ape named Ape and Bredon Frasier is good as the bumbling George. This is a movie for the whole family!

Pretty good for a kid flick...The Review...
Well, first off I would like to "admit", the first viewing of this film did not go over well with my friend and myself. I thought it was boring and just plain dumb. It lacked something I like to call, PLOT! Well, those times have changed and I have sort of soled-out! Just kidding, it is better than before, though weak in thought. I first saw the film when it was on television and now I rented it on DVD.

The movie stars Brendan Fraser who plays the title role, George of the Jungle. He is not really musculer but I guess neither was the original character. This film is like Dudley Do Right, but this is MUCH, MUCH better! If you are stuck having to pick which of the two to watch, see this w-a-y before you see Dudley Do Right. The film is about George of the Jungle, he looks for love in a girl named Ursilla, a woman from America and George just can not understand why he starts having all of these feelings for another person. His mate. John Clease does an OK job of playing the voice for the character An Ape Named Ape. Ape is George's mentor and guide through his life until he leaves the "Heart of the Jungle."

This is an over all good film, GREAT for kids. If I was a little youger when this film came out, I would of loved it. If you liked this movie I would suggest the following movies, Dudley Do Right also starring Brendan Fraser, 101 Dalamations both the original and the remake and a host of others.

Hoped I helped, Have a good one!

Ryan

This is so stupid you have to buy it
If you have labeled movie shelves at home, you'll have to cut this DVD into thirds. One 3rd would go in stupid, another in funny and another in classics. This movie is so stupid its funny and its extreme stupidity makes it a classic! Ha! Ha!

So stupid it's funny.
George, who I'm assuming was raised by apes, is the king of the jungle (lol, NOT). Somehow he manages to meet Ursula, who has a wierdo for a fiance, and George falls in love with her. She takes him back to the city and he does all kind of wild stuff.

Meanwhile, two poachers in the jungle run across Ape the talking ape and manage to capture him. So this brings George and Ursula back to the jungle so George can save his best friend.

So stupid that it's hilarious, but I'm sorry, I can never take Brenden Fraser seriously again.

where is the widescreen version???
I love this movie - the wit is funny, the sight gags are funny and the characters are endearing - very hard to do when you are creating a movie from cartoon characters. But where is the widescreen version?? The whole reason for buying a DVD is having the chance to see the movie as it was originally envisioned. If I want to watch full frame, I'll watch television. ... Read more

Reviews (130)

VISTA SERIES DVD well worth the wait!! Fabulous fun!
"Who Framed Roger Rabbit" was a huge hit when it was released in 1988 and made Bob Hoskins a star. It successfully combined live action with animation and featured a strong and funny cast of characters and an entertaining storyline.

To best describe this film to the uninitiated would probably require a comparison with "L.A. Confidential" (with PG-friendly/cartoon violence) and a Looney Tunes movie. It is fun, boisterous and entertaining with memorable performances by Bob Hoskins (as Eddie Valiant), Christopher Lloyd (as Judge Doom), Roger Rabbit (as himself) and that sultry scene-stealer Jessica Rabbit (as herself and voiced by Kathleen Turner). A veritable who's who in animation, this film features cameos by Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Yosemite Sam, Daffy Duck, Goofy and Betty Boop, to name a few.

The VISTA SERIES is especially impressive given the many, many special features that are included. The packaging alone - with a case that looks like a detective's portfolio/folder - is a treat. Add to that the following:

1) Audio commentary by the filmmakers led by director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump)
2) Facts and trivia
3) "The Pig Head Sequence" deleted scene
4) "Before and After" split-screen comparisons
5) 2 behind-the-scenes documentaries, including an new, exclusive in-depth featurette
6) A DVD game
7) 3 animated shorts
and more!!

The film itself is well worth the price of the DVD. Add to that the wealth of special features and this promises to be one of the best DVDs of the year. Animation, action/adventure and comedy fans will find this a special treat and I highly recommend this family-friendly (PG) film to everyone!

"Thanks! I needed that!"
This DVD set is sure to please anyone who enjoyed the ambitious, innovative and hilarious movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In 1988, Roger Rabbit earned several Oscars, combined animation with live action, made British actor Bob Hoskins a star and featured cameos from dozens of Disney, Warner Bros, MGM and Universal cartoon stars. Director Robert Zemeckis would also direct the Back to the Future series.

The story takes place in 1947 and it all begins with the lovable goofball Roger Rabbit (voiced by Charles Fleischer) co-starring with the cute but not-so-innocent Baby Herman (offstage, Herman is a whiney, scowling cigar smoking midget) in What's Cookin'. It's not long before Roger is under investigation by hapless no-nonsense detective Eddie Valiant (Hoskins). Marvin Acme (Stubby Kaye), owner of Toontown, has been murdered. Judge Doom (Back to the Future and Taxi's Christopher Lloyd) and his pack of scheming weasels suspect Roger is the culprit, particularly after Acme plays a game of patty-cake with Roger's sultry wife, Jessica (Kathleen Turner). Jessica's defense: "I'm not bad, I'm just drawn that way!" Roger, Jessica and Valiant do their best to prove Roger's innocence and save the fate of Toontown. Benny the wisecrackin' Cab is there to help Valiant get to the bottom of it all. Cameos include Daffy and Donald Duck, Bugs Bunny (voiced by the late Mel Blanc), Yosemite Sam, Mickey Mouse, Tweety, Droopy Dog, Betty Boop (with the original voice of Mae Questel) and many others. The musical score is composed by Alan Silvestri (Forrest Gump, Lilo and Stitch).

Now for the extras. There is a spoken commentary as well as a "pop-up video" style commentary on the picture, outtakes including the "pig head" sequence, information on before/after animation, a DVD game Trouble in Toontown, options of widescreen and fullscreen, and (if you're bi-lingual) dubbed in versions in French and Spanish.

Finally, it includes 3 Roger Rabbit short films, including Tummy Trouble (where Baby Herman swallows everything), Rollercoaster Rabbit (where Roger babysits Herman in an amusement park; my favourite of the 3) and Trail Mix-Up (where Roger takes Herman camping around Yellowstone Park; watch for Jessica's cameos in all of these!).

Give yourself a week or 2 to enjoy the movie and all the extras! Enjoy the ride and leave the driving to Benny, your faithful tourgide!

Tonsa 'toon fun!

I was 10 when "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" came out and it is just as much fun to watch now, maybe funnier because I missed some of the humor back then. Roger's a riot and his wife, Jessica Rabbit ("I'm not bad, I'm just drawn that way"), is truly a toon vixen. Bob Hoskin's Eddie Valiant is sent to find out the truth when the owner of Toon Town is murdered after playing patty-cake (literally) with Jessica. Everyone assumes a jealous Roger did it and that washed-up detective Eddie can't hack it anymore. There is lots of subtle humor, like when Eddie asks for a scotch on the rocks in a 'toon bar and instead of ice he gets actual rocks. Eddie seriously hates Toon Town because his brother had a piano dropped on his head, but he eventually becomes pals with Roger, overcomes his hatred of Toon Town and clears Roger's name. Christopher Lloyd's Judge Doom is perfectly creepy and his squad of weasels are funny as they try to stop Eddie and Roger from discovering the truth.

The interaction between the live actors and the toons is seamless, probably why the movie won four Oscars. The behind the scenes features and commentaries are great, the entire 2-disc set is incredibly well-thought out and packaged, making it a must-have for the fan.

A worthy dvd for one of the greatest movies ever.
When Roger Rabbitt came out, I was probably too young to ever know what it was. I am sure I saw it many times as a kid, but never saw it as the genius piece of filmmaking that it is. This movie is brilliant in every way, and with the release of the Vista Series DVD I have been reacquainted with it. I am 20 years old now and this is one of my top 5 favorite movies. That is the great thing about this movie, that all ages can enjoy something that this has to offer whether it be the animation sequences or just the fun storyline. I love both.

Here is the story. Someone has killed Marvin Acme, owner of ToonTown and Roger takes the heat for it. Of course he was framed but by who and why? Roger seeks the help of Eddie Valiant, a once prominant detective that fell into hard times after his brother was killed by a toon. Thus was his reluctance to help Roger since he was a toon. But he does help Roger, and he must get to the bottom of the mystery before Judge Doom finds and kills Roger by "dipping him". Eddie feels sorry for the rabbit so he investigates before it is too late, and along the way he discovers more and more about why Acme was killed and that ToonTown itself is in danger. Oh yeah, and Roger was the perfect one to frame because his wife Jessica Rabbit had been seen meeting with Acme before he died. So most people probably know the plot already, but if not it is highly original and entertaining.

This masterpiece couldn't get any better treatment than this, a fully loaded 2 disc set sporting both a family-friendly version on disc 1 and enthusiast version on disc 2. There are so many extras that it will take you a long time to see everything. I admittedly have just begun to see the treasures contained within. But it is obvious that the utmost care was taken to give this the fair dvd treatment it deserved--mission accomplished. This is probably my third favorite movie of all-time, and is without a doubt the best mix of live action and animation. So many great characters appear in this movie such as Bugs and Daffy in the scene where Eddie is falling and they hand him an anvil instead of a 'chute. It is sheer movie magic, and something I could watch all the time and never get tired of seeing it. Director Zimeckis has done a remarkable job with this film, and we also great great performances from Bob Hoskins (Eddie Valiant), Christopher Lloyd (Judge doom) and pretty much everyone else appearing in the film with the addition of the voices of Roger and Jessica who were terrific. To me this is a perfect movie so if you havent seen it before rent it, and if you like it then buy it. If you are a fan then you must own this dvd. It is truly a great thing and this dvd set presents it in all of its glory, the way it should be done.

Brilliant Animation
If you love classical (2D) animation, get this masterpiece. What's more, the master (and director) of animation himself, Richard Williams gets to say a few things too in this Vista-Series edition (that was a very pleasant surprise). Seriously though, I've never in my life seen such mind-blowing animation. I must have seen this film hundreds of times and till today, there is nothing comparable, no "Space Jam" or "Looney Tunes: Back in Action" (even with Eric Goldberg as animation director) comes anywhere near Roger Rabbit. We have to thank genius Richard Williams and his very talented team for this.

Do to the fact that 2D animation doesn't seem to generate much interest these days, it's very unlikely that Disney will ever complete Richard Williams' other masterpiece "The Thief and the Cobbler" properly (there is a butchered version out there from Miramax, with very poor animation next to Williams' brilliant sequences). ... Read more

Reviews (112)

A Haunted Mansion For The Kid In All of Us
The Haunted Mansion film is not as bad as some will lead you to believe. Actually The Haunted Mansion is a throwback to movies
like William Castle's original 13 Ghosts (1960) and Don Knotts'
The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1965). The ghosts play it straight and dead serious and leaves the comedy to Eddie Murphy and family. There are also many scenes that reference Disney's theme
park ride. Such as the singing busts, the ballroom waltz complete with a ghostly organist, and the hitch hiking ghosts even get their cameos. The story is very simple. A nice family
is trapped overnight in The Haunted Mansion, trying to find a
way out. There is also a subplot that deals with reincarnation,
and a 122 year old murder mystery. A really fun movie. My favorite scene: The Gothic Mausoleum. Rick Baker has produced
the best rotting, skeletal walking corpses I have ever seen.
Seemingly straight out of a 1950s EC horror comic.
So if retro horror comedy is to your liking you will love
The Haunted Mansion movie.

DECENT MOVIE BUT MORE FOR KIDS
Haunted Mansion is yet another Disney Movie based upon a Disney park attraction. Following on the heels of Pirates of the Caribbean and The Country Bears, Comes the Haunted Mansion, based on my favorite Disney ride.

Eddie Murphy continues his transformation into a family actor as he follows up his Dr. Dolittle and Daddy Day Care movies with yet another effort geared towards families.

Eddie plays Jim Evers a real estate agent whose ambitions are keeping him from spending time with wife and partner Sara (Marsha Thomason) and kids Michael (Marc John Jefferies) and Megan (Aree Davis). On the way to a long-postponed family weekend, Jim has to stop to case a new listing: a hulking gothic edifice with a cemetery for a backyard. The tear-down potential is great, but "Haunted Mansion" doesn't go that way.It goes inside, of course, where the master of the house, Edward Gracey (Nathaniel Parker), dresses in Dorian gray and seems a little vaporous about the gills. So do the butler, Ramsley (Terence Stamp), the footman (Wallace Shawn), and the housemaid (Dina Waters). I haven't even mentioned the crystal ball in the attic that contains the green, glowing head of Jennifer Tilly.

Edward takes one look at Sara and is convinced she is the reincarnation of his long-lost beloved Elizabeth, whom he couldn't marry for reasons the movie is too busy or too graceful to specify. Nor can I blame him, since Thomason, a trained British actress, has a delicate beauty that outclasses everything else here. No matter; Jim and the children have to rush around and find a key that opens a trunk that contains a letter that discloses the true villain of the piece.

Like "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Mansion" indulges every cliche of its genre, like the bust on the desk whose movable head opens the door to the secret passageway. That should be part of the fun, but it all feels as rote as Murphy's performance. The fluid editing, Mark Mancina's Danny Elfmanesque score, and some nicely calibrated special effects keep the film moving along, and Disneyland freaks will enjoy ticking off the bits of the ride that have made it on-screen, but there's none of the wild-card energy Depp and Geoffrey Rush brought to "Pirates." With his sepulchral stare and mortician's intonations, Stamp tries -- oh, does he try -- but he can't lift the movie up to his level.

Is it scary? In a theme-park sort of way: i.e., lots of "boo!" moments but nothing that really sticks. The only scene that might induce some bed-wetting is when Jim and Megan try to get the key from a mausoleum full of shambling corpses (it's like the "Thriller" video with better effects). But it's worth noting that neither of the kids seem particularly distressed by anything that transpires in "Haunted Mansion."

The real star of Mansion however is the house and its inhabitants as created by the famous creature creator Rick Baker. There are secrets in each room and hallway - sliding walls open to reveal lost passageways; tombs cover entrances to elaborate underground caverns filled with zombies; statues and paintings come alive to reap a playful havoc. The heads of one particular group of statues slows down Jim Ever's chicken race by singing entertaining tunes like a barbershop quartet would.

The DVD has pretty decent special features which bring its grade up a bit with multiple commentaries, bloopers, deleted scenes, making of documentary, and a few other goodies.

Good family horror movie...Not too scary, but scary enough to get the little ones hair standing on end.

could work for kids
To start off, yeah, it's nowhere near as fun as "Pirates of the Carribean", and much of it comes off like a too-long episode of "Scooby Doo". Still "Mansion" is a lot of fun. The plot? Essentially lifted from years worth of lore about the Disney ride (little if any of it actually created by Disney), a broken hearted southern gentleman commits suicide when his "true love" apparently does the same. About a century later, the ghosts of the suicide, the butler (Terence Stamp) and some other household guy (played by Wallace Shawn) are trapped in his mansion. The titular house itself is practically buried by the Louisiana bayou and, in the tradition of haunted houses, under tons of cobwebs. Instead of a van of meddling kids, the Mansion plays host to Jim Evers (Eddie Murphy) and his lovely wife Sara. Murphy's character is a work-a-holic real estate agent who manages to snag every customer in the southeast, while neglecting his family. Luckily (?) Sara is the spitting image of Elizabeth, the lost love of the mansion's owner. Invited to tour the mansion with the idea of selling it, and faster than you can say "I see dead people", Murphy and crew find themselves trapped in it by its spectral residents. With the help of Shawn's ghost and also a crystal ball containing the disembodied head of Madam Leota (Jennifer Tilly in a role that also originated with the ride), Evers and family plumb the mysterious environs of the mansion for a way to save Sara and escape.

This was a light movie that completely slips out of your head like a ghost five minutes after it's over. Murphy doesn't get as much mileage out of his mugging persona as he has in movies like the "Cop" series or as in "Golden Child" - but he still does a good job with the kind of movie role that even Bill Cosby couldn't grasp (check out "Ghost Dad" and prove me wrong). As for kids - my 7 & 4 year olds loved it. There was a possibly risky scene with Murphy and his character's daughter trapped in a crypt with an army of skeletal zombies, and the fiery climax of the movie unleashes a fiery demon, but most of the flick treats the spectral world with the same lightness as the ride had.

REAL GOOD!
GOOD,SCARY,AND FUNNY!MY WHOLE FAMILY LAUGED AT ALMOST EVERY SEEN!I KNEW IT WOULD BE FUNNY THOUGE BECAUSE IT HAD EDDIE MURPHY!SO,IT`S A GREAT MOVIE!

Haunted, rather Lovelorn.
Where to start? How about it is featuring Eddie Murphy, and someone else whose name I can't remember, you can't really give it a good number on famous people cast. But then again, with Eddie Murphy, who else do you need? Hehe, I'm SO funny. No, just kidding. Well regardless, on to the more important elements.

The soundtrack is decent, but it doesn't blow away your mind. They are pretty good with mood music, like in times with sword swinging action (which mind are rare) you get fast, jumpy music. Oh, that brings me to the topic of the action. Disney didn't do to badly with the fighting, and the scene at the end absolutely rocks. But I won't tell you what it is. Well...now the only thing left is plot...which was only okay. Actually, here's an outline real quick-

Jim Evers and his wife Sarah Evers are real estates salespeople. One day, Sarah gets a call about a house that the owner wants to sell. She doesn't really want to go but her husband who is obbessesed with his work takes her and their two children along.

Overall: Yes, sorry that was a horrible outline. But anyway, the plot really changes the name from The Haunted Mansion to The Lovelorn Mansion With a Lot of Trapdoors and Ghost. Watch it yourself. ... Read more

Reviews (163)

26 Months and still requests
My son (26 months) still enjoys baby einstein, especially the CD now. We practice saying the alphabet, numbers and other words in numerous languages. His confidence with foreign language can be directly attributed to this video/CD as it was his only exposure for the first 2 years. Now, my husband and I are learning the other languages along with our son. We count in spanish, french, and german - our son can count in japanese we can't discern the sounds well enough, but he can. We also own baby mozart, bach, newton, doolittle and shakespeare. All of them are requested on a regular basis and preferred to blue's clues and the other "more entertaining" TV he is exposed to. When we listen to the radio with classical music, he will tell us which video the music comes from. We watch shakespeare before going to bed and listen to the poetry before going to find a book to read. These materials have enriched all of our lives and hopefully they will do the same for you.

An educated parent's $.02
I had to add my input after reading all the reviews, positive and negative. This video does indeed appear "homemade." However, the creator (Julie Clark) and her husband, who does all the video, have gotten progressively more sophisticated with each video, although I would not recommend any of the Baby _____ videos for their video quality. Regardless, they are captivating to young babies. My six month old son has been watching all three, Einstein, Mozart and Bach since he was one month old. I was very dubious regarding the claims that they would interest a baby this young. He reacted with delight then, and continues to enjoy them all. He has just started watching Baby Shakespeare which seems to be his favorite, so don't be afraid to start your baby early on this one. I would suggest if your baby doesn't take to it the first time, give it a second try. You can get all the adult opinions you want, but really, it's how your baby reacts that counts! It's been designed to appeal to babies and their view of the world.

does not fit age suggestion
This video would be ok for an older child. The majority of the video is in different languages. They don't even give you subtitles to help the children possibly learn the other languages. There are only a few in english. The only section where you can select an English only part (DVD) they only do the alphabet and count to 20. My 7 month old is very attentive with these videos, but even he was not entertained, not even by the colors.

It made my 3-month-old squeal with delight!
Although we limit the amount of TV our daughter watches, we let her start watching this video at 3 months for the colors and movement. She actually squealed with delight each time she watched it!

The video shows colorful graphics and toys while people say the alphabet, count to 20 or say a nursery rhyme in many languages. I only wish there were a translation for each nursery rhyme with the video.

We have several other Baby Einstein videos and this one and Baby Shakespeare are her favorite! We like the music on Baby Bach, but agree that the videography is not as good and there are too many features of Julie Clark's children.

not entertaining for babies
The concept is ok. My 9 mo old daughter could not care less about this video and i can hardly stand to watch it either. You have no idea what they are saying in the other languages. What's going on on the screen has nothing to do with what they're saying. My advice: music & babies - these two things will keep your little one very content so you can take a little break. ... Read more

Reviews (169)

"Scuusssssseeee Me?"
Holes is a brilliant book by the fantastic Louis Sachar. Now its the utlimate book adaption and family film. Many films based on books, rarly compare, but this won me and many others over.
This movie has a fantastic cast as well. Let me start off with my favortie cast memeber. Sigourney Weaver is AWESOME as the mean spirted warden. She lights up the screen and you find yourself begging for more Sigourney. Shia LaBeouf is great at Stanley Yelnats and brings humor and heart to the screen. Patricia Arquette is great as Kissin Kate Barlow and totally embodies her perfectly. The rest of the cast I will mention in the following review.
When a famous pair of sneakers falls from the sky and lands in Stanleys hands, he finds himself in court with the decision of jail or Camp Green Lake. His family (except his mom) quickly blame this on Stanleys dirty rotten pig stealing greatgrandfather. Well, hes never been to camp so thats better than jail. He is sentenced to 18 months at Camp Green Lake to build character. Once there, he realizes he is not in any normal camp. He also finds out that there is no lake, and the place is not green. He is in the middle of the desert, and Camp Green Lake has the only water source for 100 miles. It doesnt take long, before MR.SIR (Jon Voight, who perfectly acts out this odd character) takes Stanley's bags and gives him his work clothes and his relaxation clothes and explains to him that every morning he will be required to dig one hole 5 feet deep and 5 feet wide to turn around his bad character.
The movie continues to explain how something fishy is going on at Camp Green Lake, and explains Stanley's greatgrandfathers curse, and the life of Kissin Kate.
I bought this film without seeing it and i am pleased. It is a fantastic movie for kids and adults. Its funny and extremely heart-warming. Dont miss this one.

Remains remarkably faithful to the book!
I read "Holes" several years back for a children's literature course I took in college. I highly enjoyed it! It was one of the best books I read in that class.

So when they introduced the movie, I was quite interested. Part of me was hopeful it would turn out well, the other part of me was skeptical that it would be anywhere near as good as the book. However, my fears were dashed. This movie was FABULOUS!

The story jumps back and forth a little between three different tales -- the story of Elya Yelnats, the main character's "no good, dirty-rotten, pig-stealing great-great-grandfather"; the story of Stanley Yelnats IV himself; and the story of a legendary outlaw, Kissing Kate Barlow. The three stories are interwoven quite ingeniously. In some cases, you aren't completely sure what the connection will be, but then when you find out, it fits perfectly.

The story IS slightly altered, of course, as most books-brought-to-movies tend to be. But it very much keeps the spirit of the original book. The boys are very believable -- I especially love Zero! Sigourney Weaver makes a wonderfully nasty warden. And John Voigt does a wonderful insane portrayal of Mr. Sir.

This movie will keep you laughing and curious throughout. And if you enjoyed the book, you'll like this film!

Adults can watch it with their kids and all actually enjoy!
The wildly popular novel for youngsters "Holes" gets turned into a movie that is completely in keeping with the spirit of the book.

The young cast bring to life the beloved characters at Camp Green Lake, where convicted juvenile delinquents are sent to toil in broiling Texas sun. It was great to see X-Ray, Zero, Armpit and of course Caveman brought to life. The adult parts are played by Jon Voight, Sigourney Weaver and Tim Blake Nelson, and they look like they're having a WORLD of fun playing the malicious staff at Camp Green Lake. The story is not insulting to kids, and adults can watch it and be entertained the entire length of the movie. Vignettes back at Caveman's home where Stanley Yelnats the second and third live under the curse incurred from the first Stanley Yelnats, and trips back in time where that first Stanley was cursed by European VooDoo Woman Eartha Kitt as well as the back-story around Kissin' Kate and her treasure all add to the viewing pleasure.

The DVD comes with just the right amount of supplemental features, interviews and commentaries.

Not many "children's movies" are as appropriate for all ages. Highly recommended.

if you don't like this movie - shame on you!
This is a movie for the entire family to watch and love with its humorous and clever plot, based on the hit book "Holes" by Louis Sachar, who also writes the screenplay for this. The movie is about a twelve-year-old boy named Stanley Yelnats who's family has been cursed due to his "no-good, rotten, pig of a grandfather". He's walking along the road when a fantastic pair of shoes fly out of nowhere. He thinks his luck has finally started, when he finds police chasing him and in a courtroom because those shoes were the greatest basketballer player's of all time, and it was for a charity event where the money raised would be given to homeless children. He is sent to Camp Greenlake, where once was a beautiful lake, which is now a dry and scorching desert. Deadly adventures befall him there as he makes a friendship with Zero, a mysterious, shy boy. Their adventures lead them to a hidden treasure that belongs to Stanley... If you want to findout more, watch the film!

Girls' movies are better
I liked the movie, which Stanley stole a pair of shoes that fell from the sky and landed on his head. Then he got sent to the courtroom and the judge asked him: "Your choices: Camp Green Lake or Jail?" Then Stanley decided to go to Camp Green Lake because he never been into any Camp before. Camp Green Lake is a camp for bad boys, because they're too young to go to jail. When he got sent to Camp Green Lake, he had to dig one hole each day, and each hole must be 5 feet deep and 5 feet in diameter. I think this movie is OK, but I like girls' movies better, like "The Parent Trap", "The Lizzie McGuire Movie", "What A Girl Wants". ... Read more

Description

Nab the star-studded comedy-adventure that dazzled moviegoers everywhere! It's the action-packed tale of three loyal swordsmen (Charlie Sheen, Kiefer Sutherland, Oliver Platt) who are joined by an eager recruit (Chris O'Donnell) to protect the King of France. Together, the foursome battle enormous odds in their attempt to defeat an evil royal advisor (Tim Curry) and a seductive envoy (Rebecca De Mornay) plotting to overthrow France's crown -- fighting against both time and scores of enemies! You'll cheer out loud when these exciting muskeeteers face danger, fun, and adventure at every turn -- proving they are the greatest swashbucklers who ever lived! ... Read more

Reviews (95)

My favorite musketeers movie
All right, let it be said. This movie has NOTHING to do with Dumas's novel. It isn't even close. There, now that that's out of the way, let me just say that this is a great film. It's done in typical Disney style, with an incredible cast that brings to life this classic tale with a lot of flare and some good, old-fashioned fun.

The entire cast is great: the three Musketeers (Kiefer Sutherland, Oliver Platt, and Charlie Sheen) are hilarious, and the impetuous young D'Artagnan (Chris O'Donnell) proves the perfect complement to this already comic trio. Add Tim Curry and Michael Wincott as the bad guys and you've got yourself a comic, action-packed adventure that is sure to please the whole family.

Loved it
I found this movie very entertaining... Oliver Platt (Porthos) provided some great laughs. Charlie Sheen (Aramis) was one of the nice looking ones. Kiefer Sutherland (Athos) could have acted a bit more bitter... but he did an over good job. Chris O'Donnel (D'Artgnan) no. I don't think he took to this part well at all. I agree with several other reviewers. He turned it into mush. Tim Curry (Car. Richeliu) LOVED HIM! He played that part two ways to the director... funny or scary/serious. The director wanted to go for the funny way, mainly because everyone else in the cast would be as well. I would have loved to have seen him play it serious. Rebecca DeMornay( ?) was quite good as a seductress. The man w/the patch (can't remember name) did fairly well. Wasn't the best performance, but wasn't mush either. I give this film only four stars, mainly because of Chris O'Donnel's performance. No,it didn't stay true to the book, but I liked it anyways.

F.U.N
is this film corny? silly? fun? YES! its a FUN romp! The acting is great the story is great its a very well done version of the classic story. the sword fighting isnt bad either. If you have seen this you must get it quick, most disney films don't last long. If you like swashbuckling movies that are fun and pay homeage to the films of days long gone this is for you!

BRAVO!!!
Definitely a great epic movie and one of my personal favorites, The Three Musketeers, brings to the screen the tale of who else, but Athos, Porthos, Aramis and D'Artagnan. Kiefer Sutherland, Chris O'Donnell, Charlie Sheen, Oliver Platt, Tim Curry, and the gorgeous Rebecca De Mornay whose performances are simply amazing, make this movie one of the best of its kind. (Tim Curry's character, in particular, as Cardinal Richelieu, steals the show!)
The actors' great talent and chemistry clearly shows, thus providing an entertaining film that can be watched over and over again. The castles, the battles and the costumes are all wonderful! The Three Musketeers is a movie about love, honor, bravery, loyalty, and heroes from a time long gone. It is a great movie indeed!

Wish I could give it O stars
The cast seems ludicrously out of place in this movie--only Anwar is partially believable and her part is slight.

If you wish to see an interesting an authentic three musketeers, look for AISN B00006LPC5 , a 1972 version that is incredible. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Why, you might ask, would Wes Craven direct a conventional biopic about Roberta Guaspari, a divorced mother of two who created an acclaimed music program in East Harlem's troubled school system? After all, Craven built his career on Freddy Krueger and the Scream trilogy, and you won't find razor-tipped gloves or a single drop of blood in Music of the Heart. All Craven has to do is provide a safe working environment for Meryl Streep (who earned an obligatory Oscar nomination), sublimate his deft directorial style, and surrender to the banalities of Pamela Gray's screenplay, which would've played more effectively on cable TV.

To be fair, Music of the Heart (partially inspired by the 1996 documentary Small Wonders) serves its purpose quite nicely. Streep is flawless in a non-showy role, and the story of Guaspari's celebrated violin training program provides the requisite rush of inner-city inspiration. As a fact-based companion to Mr. Holland's Opus, the film is less effective but similarly engaging; you'd have to be cold-hearted to dismiss it altogether. It's best when focusing on Guaspari's school program and the 10-year struggle to keep it alive; the drama falters when dealing half-heartedly with her tentative relationships, notably with a journalist (Aidan Quinn) who shies from commitment. And Craven? He seems content to direct by the numbers here, leaving inspiration on the screen while forfeiting his own. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (58)

Fascinating true story gets lackluster film treatment
Meryl Streep got her twelfth Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Roberta Guaspari in Places in the Heart. Her performance is excellent [when has she been anything but?], yet it is not enough to bring the movie completely to life. This true story, which has been filmed before as a documentary called Small Wonders, is about a teacher who created a music program in the schools of the impoverished East Harlem area of New York. A single mother of two boys, Guaspari, who was trained as a classical violinist but who had little teaching experience, was given a job as a teacher in the 1980s by Janet Williams, a principal at one of the schools. There was no real budget for a classical music program, so she was hired as a substitute. Guaspari herself supplied the first violins. Ten years later, she had taught 1,400 youngsters. When the program was in danger of being axed due to a school budget crisis, Guaspari enlisted the aid of some friends, who arranged for her to give a benefit concert with her best students at Carnegie Hall. Famous violinist like Isaac Stern participated, and the Program was saved. In 1999, money was found by the city to assure its continuation.

I don't know who was responsible for Music of the Heart's rather uninspired telling of the story. It certainly wasn't Ms. Streep. It may have been director Wes Craven, who until now has made his mark in the horror genre, with creepy teen fare such as Nightmare on Elm Street and the Scream trilogy. His choice to make a straight drama raised a few eyebrows, and perhaps he was overly cautious with the material. Some of the problem lies within the screenplay. Writer Pamela Gray concentrates on the main character almost exclusively. Ms. Streep is in nearly every scene. Except for some fairly good interaction between Roberta and her boys, most of the characters float in and out, acting almost as stage props. There is little that is memorable about them, and, as a result, we wind up not understanding Roberta Guaspari very well. We see what she does, and we understand that her work is noteworthy and inspirational. Yet the picture does not fill us with inspiration. It's not that it's a bad move, it's that it never soars, as movies about noble, dedicated people can when well done. While it is not a given, what usually provides the drama for such true tales is understanding what personal sacrifices an individual must make to fulfill a difficult goal. I feel certain that this happened to Ms. Guaspari in real life, but we see almost none of it in this movie. It is strongly hinted at a couple of times, but then the film simply glosses everything over and moves on the something else.

Music of the Heart is certainly worth watching for Ms. Streep's performance. The story is a fascinating one, but much of what makes a good story is the way in which it is told. Music of the Heart is not that much of a story teller.

Inspiring story and bravura performance by Meryl Streep
This is a powerful, moving and triumphant true story, which springs from a documentary about a music teacher and her students. This is the story of Roberta Guaspari-Tzavaras (Meryl Streep), a violin teacher who single-handedly created a program to teach violin to inner city kids in East Harlem, New York. The film follows her from the dubious inception of the program, which started as a substitute teaching job, through the ensuing 10 years where so many children wanted to be in the program that it had spread to three schools in the district and a lottery had to be held each year to limit the number of students. The last part of the film is devoted to her fight to continue the program after the board of education killed its funding. It culminates in a triumphant benefit concert supported by some of the greatest violinists in the world to raise private funds to save the program.

This film celebrates the dogged determination and courage of one woman who proved that a single individual can make a difference. Her life was not a pretty picture. Her husband left her for one of her friends, turning her into an emotional basket case. Music was her only solace and teaching was her gift. Unfortunately, her lack of experience in the education system made her unqualified to get a position. So on the recommendation of a friend she convinces an East Harlem principal to give her a chance as a substitute violin teacher. She even supplies the violins.

The story from there is an example of life often being more remarkable than fiction. The results she achieved with these children were astounding. My only criticism of the story was that it contained a little too much treatment of her personal life. Almost her entire relationship with Brian (Aiden Quinn) could have been eliminated without hurting the story. I know that director Wes Craven was trying to give us some character development on how tough her life was and how difficult a person she was, but it was superfluous and the digression only bogged the story down. The real story here was about her and the kids. He should have stuck to that. Otherwise, Craven did a fabulous job of directing, delivering an emotional story with great power and effect. I was quite impressed, especially given the fact that prior to this film, he was almost exclusively a one genre director (Horror. Think 'Scream').

The acting by Meryl Streep was nothing short of brilliant. I have read criticism of Streep's performance as too harsh, it seeming as if she didn't really LIKE the children. In actuality her performance was dead solid perfect. I was lucky enough to rent the Collector's Series DVD of this film which included a separate disk of the original documentary about the real Roberta Guaspari-Tzavaras and her students, including the actual concert at Carnegie Hall. If you watch that documentary you will be in awe of how well Streep utterly nails her character. We get to see the real Roberta teaching her students and she is like a drill sergeant barking orders, throwing kids out of practice for not having their violins, reproaching them angrily about plucking their strings while she is speaking, and generally tolerating no nonsense. She is impatient with them and completely intolerant of anything but their best.

The children who made comments about the real Roberta said things like, 'I wouldn't have the discipline I have if it weren't for Roberta. That discipline not only helps me with the violin, but with everything else.' Another child said, 'I have to pay attention to what I'm doing or Roberta will get mean. But if I do good, she is pleased and that make me feel good.' Yet another, 'I want to work really hard so Roberta will be proud of me.' Clearly, these are not the comments of children who were being negatively affected by Roberta's no nonsense style.

Streep said in the featurette included in the DVD that it is very difficult playing a real person because there is no leeway for artistic interpretation. Translation: If she was to play Roberta Guaspari-Tzavaras, she had to become Roberta. This she accomplished with stunning accuracy. Streep captures not only Roberta's irascible demeanor, but the essence of her drive and passion for drawing the students very best. Roberta is a complex and difficult character to play and Streep throws herself into the role, delivering a tour de force performance that very few actors have the range and depth to accomplish.

This film is a must see for anyone who loves the arts and anyone who can appreciate a great actress giving a career performance. I rated it a 9/10, subtracting a point for Craven's unnecessary digression into Roberta's private life. That is, however, hardly a reason to miss this bravura performance and an inspiring story.

Most unrealistic portrayal of a classroom ever on film...
Whoever wrote this screenplay had NO idea what the inside of a classroom looks like.
My goodness. I've seen more realistic depictions of school life in a few B-movies.
It's like the makers of this particular movie were SO interested in making a movie about MUSIC that they paid very little attention to making a movie about SCHOOL.
I could go on and on and on about how this movie falls flat on its face in the depiction of a contemporary classroom, particularly an inner city classroom, but let me just demonstrate but ONE ridiculous unreality this movie commits: In this movie, the school children all pretty much speak proper English. What?!!??? In the inner city???? School children not using barbaric slang in the inner city but instead speaking proper English and doing so naturally, like that's what they do all the time???
Yikes. You've got to be kidding me.
The 5 star reviewers on here ought to be ashamed of themselves for settling for such cartoony realism; better yet, they and the these out-of-touch moviemakers ought to actually go spend some time studying their subject matter, the actual daily war zone that is the contemporary American inner city classroom.

Wes Craven Shines!
Can you believe this film was directed by Wes Craven? What a moving story! Everyone should see this movie. One thing-why is Gloria Estefan on the cover???!! Don't get me wrong I love her music, but she hardly had any part AT ALL! Maybe she had 7 lines in all, so it kind of doesn't make sense. Anyway, this movie is great-so watch it, NOW! :-)

Outstanding.
Streep and Bassett are wonderful in this heart-felt drama about a music teacher who "belives" and makes a tremendous difference in the lives of young inner-city children. Funny and poignant.

Very highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (31)

REALLY HOLLERIN' OVER OLD YELLER!
"Old Yeller" is the heart-wrenching family drama about two kids and their faithful dog. Dorothy McGuire gets top billing but, like Tommy Kirk, plays second fiddle to that darling golden retriever. "Here Yeller - come back yeller, best doggon dog in the west!"
This isn't Disney's best on DVD. In fact it's not even close to what a film like "Old Yeller" truly deserves. For starters, the print used to master this DVD is very softly focused while still managing to be riddled with edge enhancement, aliasing and shimmering of fine details. There's a lot of pixelization throughout that really breaks up fine detail. Color is improperly balanced in many of the outdoor scenes, with greens, in grass and trees shifting color from brownish beige to muddy green and then back again. Flesh tones often appear too, too orange. Fine detail is generally lost in the darker scenes.
The audio has been remixed but is very, very strident and forward sounding. At times its painful to listen to and really doesn't hold a candle in comparison to fidelity of the day from other films of "Old Yeller"'s period.
Extras: Disney gets top marks for their supplimental package on this and their other three "Vault Disney" releases. We get documentaries, isolated scores, vintage advertising and short subjects, a gallery of stills, trailers and television spots and interviews with the surviving cast members. What more could anybody ask for?
BOTTOM LINE: The print is disappointing. The extras are amazing. Decide for yourself and then buy - or not.

Great family movie
I hadn't watched this movie for many years, but I still remembered the basic story as I watched it again recently trying to get my 18 month old to be interested in the big yellow dog, the horses, cows and pigs. She was only vaguely interested. It is hard for this type of movie to compete with Toy Story and other modern movies that start and finish with lots of action and special effects.

But the story here, a well done coming of age story, is timeless and classic and well worth sitting down with the kids and a bucket of popcorn to watch. There are lots of things this kind of movie can bring for topics of discussion, and unless one has seen it a few times, the emotional parts should stir up at least some feelings (even for non dog lovers).

I give a strong recommendation for this movie, it is a simple and straight forward story, and what it lacks in action and effects, it makes up for in it's timelessness and powerful story line.

Yet another in a long line of bad DVD's from Disney
It's almost hard to fathom a studio having so little respect for its classic movies. This "Vault Disney" release of "Old Yeller" is a perfect example.

The "Vault Disney" releases are promoted as "high end", supposedly better than the cheapy "movie-only" releases of many of Disney's live action movies.

From the initial opening credits, with the worst example I have seen of "grain" in a picture outside of a non-major-studio release, I knew this was going to be another Disney disaster. Though the grain subsided SOMEWHAT, the softness of the picture throughout was not even close to what I would expect of a classic movie release. While my widescreen television is relatively small, I'd hate to see how bad this picture would look on a large widescreen display.

In addition, the chintzy packaging for these movies is hardly up to "special edition" quality either, and the majority of the extras are nothing more than more "Disney" horn-blowing.

I will commend them for the inclusion of one of Pluto's best cartoons {"Bone Trouble"}, and for the current-day interview with Tommy Kirk {whom I would have NEVER recognized}.

However, all in all, Disney should be ashamed at the quality on such a classic film release.

A BOY AND HIS DOG....
I first saw this as a kid and nearly never saw another movie again. Especially one with an animal in it. For anyone who has ever bonded with an animal (especially a dog), "Old Yeller" strikes a nerve or two. The was also the first time I ever heard the phrase "It's only a movie!" after I saw "Old Yeller" because I cried so hard. This is probably one of the finest family films ever made by the Walt Disney people. It's a simple tale of a frontier boy who bonds with a stray dog (that more than proves it's loyalty) and the boy's final realization that he has to grow up. Dorothy McGuire is the steadfast mother and Tommy Kirk is the boy who must make a gut-wrenching decision that will start him on the road to maturity. I hated this movie for years but as an adult I more than see the beauty of it now and highly recommend it all round. But keep those kleenex handy because if you're like me, you'll need 'em.

Stop killing dogs
I can't stand it when dogs die in the movies.

I'd much rather watch people die before dogs.

I could laugh my butt off watching Meryl Streep in pain from cancer in that dumb movie with Renee Zellweger before I can stand to see a dog suffer.

Just tears your heart out. ... Read more

Reviews (44)

One of the better Baby Einstein DVDs
This was the first Baby Einstein DVD we purchased and our son, who was about a year old then and is now 16 months, has enjoyed it very much. He is a very active child but for quite a while he would sit completely still to watch, and now he has hand motions for some of the scenes and applauds at the end. As other people have mentioned, the animal footage is more interesting for an adult to watch than the endless parade of toys that fill up a lot of the other videos in the series (especially the classixal music ones). I personally like the quiet atmosphere of the video -- no loud noises, flashy pictures or dialogue -- just animal footage, adorable puppet shows and a small number of toys. My son has learned to recognize the animals shown and even has favorite scenes. Definitely get DVD because the baby will want to watch "continuous play"!

our seven month old loves it
I think it's hard to review Baby Einstein videos, because as an adult there are so many things that seem annoying or bothersome that are not so for my child. Yes, I find the kids dressed up in animal costumes annoying, but my son loves them. The puppetry (in this one especially) doesn't make any sense to me either, but my son loves it.

We own 8 various Baby Einstein videos, some DVD and some VHS and my son likes this one as well as all the others. We also own the Neighborhood Animals video and I don't really understand why some reviewers prefer it over this one. They are slightly different, but my son doesn't prefer one of them over the other (at this age anyway). The only thing I've noticed is that he likes to have a variety rather than watch the same one every day (that's how our collection got so big). As a parent, I actually enjoy watching World Animals with him more than Neighborhood Animals, because I find the videos of the animals more interesting. While I would prefer to watch a nature special on PBS, my son enjoys the way Baby Einstein breaks up the footage with animation and puppetry (however corny it seems to me), it helps his short attention span out.

I do recommend the DVD over the VHS if you are choosing between the two. The DVDs are a much better value in my opinion. We've already begun to wear out our VHS tapes (the sound is garbled in spots now) and I love the interactive flash cards and other extras that come with the DVDs.

All in all, my son watches this video over and over again even back to back sometimes and loves every minute. To me that says it all.

wonderful!
my dd loves this movie! she danced to all the music and loved seeing the animals. the puppets made her laugh (she just turned one). the colors are wonderful and keep her attention. if your child loves animals, then they will love this movie!

My boy's favorite
My little guy, now 13 months, has totally been in-love with this DVD since 3 months of age. His father and I love it, too! The animals and music are fantastic!

beautiful, colorful animal footage
This DVD has beautiful footage of animals in their habitats. It's broken into 3 main categories of Animals in the Jungle, Animals in the Ocean, and Animals on the Savannah. In the Jungle section, the animals shown are: Tiger, Tropical Bird, and Monkey. The Ocean segment features: Sea Turtle, Dolphin, and Fish. The Savannah segment shows: Elephants, Giraffes, and Lions. Each animal has about 5 minutes dedicated to it which includes a musical video, toys shown of that animal, and a mini puppet-show that introduces the next animal. I bought it for my 2 yr old son because he loves Elephants and it's been a hit (he loves the whole thing). ... Read more

Reviews (46)

Cute and Charming
Oliver & Company is a new twist on an Old story. This one has a little flare and music with a lot of personality. The story is around the street of New York City. And to let you know the emotional impact, it opens with an animated aerial view of the Manhattan Skyline - which includes the World Trade Center buildings. (This movie was made in 1988)

My favorite character - besides Oliver's innocence, is Bette Midler and Cheech Marin. They steel the scenes with their wit and humor. Very sharp and emotional are their deliveries of the lines.

The kids will relate to the young girl finding her new kitten and the adults can relate to those every threatening debts we all seem to have. The music is fun, but not consistent. (By this I mean all the songs are from different writers - there is no common thread in the music and songs.)

I enjoyed this movie a lot. My favorite Disney of all time is still The Little Mermaid. The DVD Extras are great for the kids and the behinds the scenes the adults will find interesting.

Finally, it's on DVD.
One of my all time favorite Disney Animated flicks is now on DVD to own and i bought it the other day!

This 1988 Animated feature was a hit that lead to the successes of other Disney Hits but this was never released on Video but got a re-issue in theaters and on Video. I still remembered when i was 6 years old back in 1988 when i was living in Omaha Nebraska, i was treated to see this movie and i saw it twice. But then it got re-issued back into theaters in 1996, i loved it again, it's basically about a orphaned Kitten named Oliver who hangs out with a gang that steals but he finds himself in a series of adventures.

A highly entertaining Animated feature on a great DVD, the DVD is fully loaded with a Scrapbook that includes pics of the original Poster artworks and concepts of characters, Theaterical Trailers, Original 1988 TV Spot, Documentaries, Two Sing-along songs, and Two Cartoon Shorts.

The transfer on this DVD is stunning, the picture is perfect without a single speck of grain and dirt and the sound quality is pheomeneonal, this is a must own DVD for Disney and animation lovers.

A Good Disney Musical with a lot of Class. NYC Style.
Before the success of such phenomenal Disney musicals like Beauty and the Beast and the Little Mermaid, Oliver & Company came along. This film totally embodies the eighties with its music, voice talent, and art direction. The music is very good. The songs are very hip and cool. The animation is exciting, and the plot grabs you and sometimes you feel as if you are watching a regular caper movie than an animated film. An exciting Disney ride that is fun for everybody. I highly reccomend this film.

Doesn't get any better than this! Rita fan.
I saw this movie when I was little and became obsessed with it. I would sing the songs on the schoolbus, dance to them, listen to them constantly, sing along in-character. This movie has everything, and I mean everything! It's severely underrated. Rita has always been a personal friend of mine; she reminds me of, well, myself, and I always loved her best. It was a dream of mine in childhood to have a plush Rita, and the day I acquired one was a very happy day indeed, and I even recall the date! But aside from my love for the characters, what's important to know is that this is a must-see animated masterpiece!

This movie was hip! (From a first grade point of view)
Back in the late eighties I recall seeing the trailer for Oliver and Company and I got caught up in the hype. Unfortunatly, I didn't have the money to see the film and it was never released to video after it's debut. So when the film had it's re-issue you bet I was quick to see it. I expected an exciting story, great eighties music, and stunning animation. Instead I got cartoon music, overly cute acting, and a poor story. Disney had stapled this film as appealing to the teenage crowd. How? This is most defintely a kid movie. The music was not contempory to its time and the human characters lacked a lot to be desired. Here is what I expected (and in detail!). Great eighties music, a strong gangster villian (preferably Italian), and a guy down on his luck who you could relate to instead of a bumbling bum. But sigh...they had to throw in a cute girl and singing birds. Sigh... ... Read more

Amazon.com

In these cartoons released between 1928 and 1935, Walt Disney createdone of the icons of 20th-century culture. Disney's reputation was built on theseearly shorts, and the films shimmer with the energy of the young artistsexploring the new medium of the sound cartoon. Watching the films inchronological order enables the viewer to see the remarkable progress Walt andhis crew made in animation, storytelling, and acting in just seven years. Therambunctious, rubbery Mickey of "Plane Crazy" and "Steamboat Willie" quicklydeveloped into the polished charmer of "Gulliver Mickey" and "Mickey's Orphans."More than 70 years after his debut, the black and white Mickey still displaysthe appeal that made him so popular during the '30s, when A Mickey MouseCartoon appeared on theater marquees with the feature titles, and his fansincluded Franklin Roosevelt, Mary Pickford, George V of England, the Nizam ofHyderabad--and the more than one million children who joined the first MickeyMouse Club.

Although it's fun to look at the old sketches and pencil tests, the high pointof the supplementary material is the discussion host Leonard Maltin conductswith Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, the last surviving members of the justlycelebrated "Nine Old Men" of Disney animation. Thomas and Johnston were nearly90 at the time of the interview, but their enthusiasm for their work, forMickey, and for the man who made it all possible remains undimmed. (Unrated;suitable for all ages: cartoon violence) --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (50)

Risque' Mickey!
That's right, Mickey's somewhat of an animal abuser, politically incorrect and sexist! IT'S GREAT! Disney has impressed me this time around, by making this collection FOR ADULTS. Thank you! In the uncensored "Steamboat Willie", Mickey plays a female hog's teats like a xylophone! Wait'll you see the script for this scene! He kicks animals out of the way, forces his affections on Minnie in a couple of cartoons...man! Mickey kicks some serious butt in these old 'toons that begin in 1928 and run thru 1935. Let's face it, not many young kids will get a kick out of these...they won't care for the antique animation, the black and white, the lack of special effects or even the plotlines. But we who appreciate these early 'toons for their POLITICAL INCORRECTNESS, nostalgia and artwork need this in our collections. Included is an Easter egg of the FIRST "Mickey Mouse Club", a club that was held in movie theaters in the 30's. You will definitely get a kick out of these...you can view them in chronological or alphabetical order as well. Thanks again, Disney...looks like you're getting on the right track for those who were the first to grow up with you.

It all started with a mouse...
Over the years Mickey Mouse has become more of a corporate symbol as opposed to a cartoon character in his own right. Today his smiling face and famous ears grace a million and one products, and he is arguably one of the most famous fictional characters of all time.

Here at last is the original Mickey in the full black and white splendor. See, perhaps for the first time, why this clever, spunky and all-together likeable little guy achieved the fame he currently enjoys. Walt Disney Treasures collection continues in a fine tradition with "Mickey Mouse in Black and White." Chronicling the birth and rise of an American icon, included on this DVD are all of Mickey"s black and white shorts. From the famous first synchronized sound cartoon "Steamboat Willie" to his final black and white appearance in "Mickey's Service Station," all 34 toons are included complete and uncut with original soundtracks.

As if this wasn't enough, "Mickey Mouse in Black and White" contains interviews with animators Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, rare pencil tests and other earlier visualizations of Mickey. Leonard Maltin adds his commentary has he has on other Disney Treasures DVDs.

What a fantastic collection!

Earliest and Best!
I eagerly awaited this DVD set of Mickey Mouse's earliest cartoons, and was thrilled. While not the entire run of the black and white cartoons (it is assumed there will be a Part. 2)
it does include every Mickey Mouse cartoon from Steamboat Willie to the mid 30s.

These cartoons show how Mickey evolved in the earliest cartoons to a rattish looking mouse, into the more classic Mickey we know. Cartoons are violent in some cases (Mickey torturing a cat!!! Say it aint so!!) to downright adorable. The DVD extras, including a look at Mickey memorabilia and introductions by Leonard Maltin, as well as a promotional Mickey Mouse cartoon made for Nabisco, make this DVD well worth it.

What is wrong with people???
People will complain about ANYTHING!!! So there is no PLAY ALL feature...that make this disc a 1 star review??? I know it must be so tough for these people to press a few buttons on the remote...can they not afford batteries??...are they so stupid they dont know how to navigate through a DVD???...there is just one word I can use to describe all these negative reviewers...LAZY!!! I trully believe these people look for the bad in everything. This is a great DVD, and I am extremely happy to finally have these shorts in my collection, and so should everyone else.

Excellent reflections in animation history
My family loves this set. Ironically, the kids clamour for it more than the MICKEY IN LIVING COLOR set depsite the B&W and lack of dialogue in many of the cartoons. They LOVE it. Some parents may want to note that there is plenty of un-P.C. content here but that is a great time to open the discussion with your kids.

The beef has already been noted that this disc does not have the Play it All feature like the color set has. So if you're getting it for little kids there is no "set it and forget it" option. They'll either have to know how to move around in a menu or you'll be back at the TV every 5 minutes to advance it to the next cartoon.

Other than that, this set is a real treasure and not only a great look into animation/Disney history, but also US culture in the 30s and 40s. ... Read more

Reviews (46)

"Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey," for appliances!
"The Brave Little Toaster" is a treasure of a family classic. My family's been watching it for years. It was made the year I was born, so I grew up with it and still adore it to this day. Even my father adores it. In fact, it's usually his idea to watch it!

A truly unique film, "The Brave Little Toaster" centers on the determined voyage of five totally lovable appliances (the meek electric Blanky, the droll Lampy, the vociferous Radio, the austere vacuum Kirby, and the compassionate Brave Little Toaster). Their trip home to their beloved master involves an office chair and a battery. Seeing the world from the point of view of an electrical appliance makes for one thoroughly interesting, enjoyable movie. Instead of the problems that would be encountered by traditional flesh-and-blood characters, we glimpse into the perspective of machines, each in possession of a soul. And what a wonderful glimpse it is.

We meet a great number of these sentient beings throughout the movie. Among its finest features is the music; three of the songs stand out for me because they're performed by a fascinating 'company' of various appliances. The first song in the film is "City of Lights," which is a catchy tune about the optimistic beginning of their journey. My father loves this song. The second song is performed in a parts shop, by deranged and mutilated appliances who've resigned themselves to an awful death. The sequence is ominous and deliberately frightening, but not too scary for children. The point is not that these characters are evil; on the contrary, they're quite pleasant to their own kind. Who can blame them for being creepy? For them, life is a horror movie, complete with a Peter Lorre ceiling lamp.

The tone of the movie is, on the whole, much darker than most animated children's films. But this should not deter audiences. It's a shame that movies like this are not more popular. Certain scary moments include Toaster's clown nightmare, the Jack Nicholson air conditioner exploding (rest assured, he's repaired later), and the final scene in the junkyard. Fear not this amazing film, however; you'll be glad you saw it.

The interactions of the main characters make them come across as very 'real'; audiences feel for them as for a main character who's a human, or a dog, or any other kind of animal. The characters are very funny and, despite their constant quarrels, very attached. The attachment clearly shows when disaster strikes (ie, at the waterfall, in the quicksand, in the junkyard, in the parts shop.)

To further the comparison to animal characters, the 'house pets,' if you will, during the majority of the film are then certainly the high-tech appliances. The colorful, futuristic scene in the master's apartment is flooded with various modern characters, seemingly led by a new-looking purple lamp cleverly named Plugsy. His proud demeanor belies the fact that he serves essentially the same purpose as old Lampy. A telephone, computer, boom box, toaster oven, green bagless vacuum, two-faced sewing machine, and entertainment center are among those who sing to their 'inferior' counterparts that they are 'on the cutting edge' and offer 'everything you wanted and more.' Except for the friendly black-and-white television (who is really a human onscreen), these appliances are seemingly insecure and nasty, packing our five heroes off to the dump in the master's absence. Somehow, they remain likable. The TV even seems to coexist peacefully with them; Blanky asks where the master is, and a surprised TV asks, "Didn't anyone tell you?" Of course no one told them. The cutting edge appliances aren't the nicest guys in the world.

The junkyard scene is sad because, unlike the parts shop appliances who escape, these worn-out cars are crushed. Their song, "Worthless," tells the tale of several cars who've accepted their fate. Naturally, in the end, the brave appliances wind up safe and happy with the Master; who's now off to college.

The variety of characters is what I really love, among many other things, in this movie. The woodland creatures who first entertain, then irritate, the appliances are not intended to make kids dislike them. How often do they see appliances in the wild?! They're just reacting to the new stimulus in the environment with curiosity. Also, be sure to listen for subtle humor; my dad cracks up when the customer says, "Heaven sent you to me" with very flat emotion to Elmo St. Peters. Aside from that, this unusual movie has no love story in it except for the obvious relationship between the Master and Chris, but even that is not stressed. There aren't too many girls in it anyway, save for the toaster oven, phone, some of the cars, sewing machine, and two parts-shop characters, including the Joan Rivers 'mish-mosh.' She's a can opener, a lamp, and a shaver. But these little points really don't make much difference, when the movie on the whole is so delightfully appealing.

The old-fashioned brave little toaster and all his friends will toast their way right into your family.

Excellent
This film is Excellent for all ages! I remember seeing this when I was younger and for a film that came out in 1987 it holds up well on dvd. The dvd won't win any awards with fans but its enough to NOT hamper the film. Kids wouldn't know anyway! The story is a good one and one that is a timeless classic. New cartoon films don't seem to have all of the heart that this one does. Its nostalgic, its fun and its a classic.

Greatest Movie Ever!
This was one of my three favorite animated movies when I was a kid and it still is (the other 2 were Rankin/Bass's "The Hobbit" and "Return of the King")! The songs are wonderful and should've won the Oscar (I don't know if it did or not). This should've won the "Best Animated Feature" Oscar of 1987 (again, I don;t know if it did or not). Overall, a great movie!

A Childhood Favorite
I still remember watching this charming, quite teary-eyed movie as a kid. I adore the film even though I'm older and mature now, but I still find that THE BRAVE LITTLE TOASTER can still hold up to today's animated movies.

When five household appliances- a brave toaster, a scared electric blanket, a talkative radio, a comical lamp, and a mean vaccum cleaner- learn that they're beloved master is nowhere to be seen, they decide to go on a journey to find the owner who mysteriously left them.

Of course, the film delightfully has the appliances have a grand old adventure, singing songs, encounter foes and obstacles and a sad and emontional return to their owner.

Although I haven't seen this movie in a while, I still like this film. Recommended mostly for the kiddies, it's also fun for the parents. THE BRAVE LITTLE TOASTER also sends a good message about courage, friendship and redemption.

The Brave Little Toaster
My daughter and I love The Brave Little Toaster, The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars and The Brave Little Toaster To The Rescue. These films are not only entertaining, but they also have a message. We all have things from our past that bring us joy and comfort(i.e. toaster, vacuum, light, etc.). It was cute that the Master and his appliances were in search of each other. The Brave Little Toaster To The Rescue reminds all of us how animals are used for experiments whether good or bad. I can't imagine someone not enjoying these films. They are all well done. My daughter's favorite is The Brave Little Toaster Goes To Mars. She enjoys the appliances helping the little master. This particular film is my least favorite, but as I said I like them all very much. ... Read more

Reviews (43)

Something 'Worthwhile' has this way come
Excellent film adaptation to Mr. Bradbury's whimsical book by the same title.

The film is cast in the autumn (the autumn of life?) and a small town around turn of the century America (our dream of what America should be?). Two boys, Will Halloway and Jim Nightshade are excited to hear of a carnival coming to town (remember our youth when autumn always brought some sort of carnival to your town?). However, this carnival is no ordinary one. It's proprieter, Mr. Dark, offers people what they desire most -- at a fearsome price.

Jim and Will discover the underlying nature of Mr. Dark, his menions and the carnival and end up as quarry for the mysterious, sinister man. Will's father, Charles Halloway - the town librarian - is an unlikely hero who faces his own fears and temptations to protect the two youths from Mr. Dark.

Not really bloody or scary, I'd say the theme of this movie (that of facing the realities of life) creates uneasiness because of the familiar setting and its dealing with normal everyday people and their dreams/wishes.

The movie is well done and entertaining. Certainly worth a look. You might consider before allowing younger children to view it - it would probably give them dreams.

~P~

Love Bradbury! ...not so much love for film adaptation -
Director, Jack Clayton, The Innocents, [an excellent film...] Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) -- Staring Jason Robards and Jonathan Pryce. This screenplay adaptation (1983), by the author, of his own novel Something Wicked This Way Comes, is good only during scenes with Robards and Pryce (these scenes are VERY good) yet, the plot is motivated by the actions of the characters of the two boys, Will Holloway and Jim Nightshade who, were inadequately cast (it's hard to find good child actors). Along with not being shot very well (Director of Photography, Stephen H. Burrum [the writer of this review simply can't tolerate the day-for-night scenes.]), it also seems that, 10 to 18 pages of the original script are missing from the final cut (the whole Tom Fury, B-Story), and much of the special effects scenes are cut in such a way as to reveal they didn't work and had to be cut out &/or around; how sad. The story simply falls apart! Somehow, a BEAUTIFUL script ended up as a film that, "had to be saved." Such, is the way of Hollywood.

Something Wicked This Way Comes, is available in paperback, ISBN: 0380729407 based on the screenplay, Dark Carnival by Ray Bradbury, based on the short story, The Black Ferris (1948), by Ray Bradbury available in ISBN 0-394-51335-5

Genuine Horror from Disney via Anchor Bay Comes
Based on the best-selling 1962 novel by venerable SF and horror writer Ray Bradbury--who also penned this cinematic adaptation--1983's SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES is the unabashedly nostalgic story of two young boys, Will Halloway (Vidal Peterson) and Jim Nightshade (Shawn Carson), who engage in a battle of wills with Mr. Dark (Jonathan Pryce), the nefarious proprietor of a preternatural carnival that that literally blows into the boys' hometown one brisk October night (circa 1940). When Will and Jim discover that Dark and his troupe of midway miscreants are hiding some evil secret that might endanger the town, the boys take it upon themselves to uncover the truth and protect their friends and neighbors.

Some viewers are surprised to learn that this somber film is a product of the Walt Disney Company. Though there are the lovable small-town characters that one expects from Disney, it is admittedly rare to find a Disney flick with an incorrigibly evil character such as Mr. Dark (obviously the Devil in all but name). It is also unusual for a Disney film to have such a grim atmosphere, at least one that is not regularly punctured with puerile comedic relief, but SOMETHING THIS WAY COMES has a consistently spooky ambiance and an earnestly frightening plot, both of which elevate it to the level of a genuine horror film DESPITE its Disney label.

The performances in SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES are top-notch. Jonathan Pryce is deliciously wicked as the enigmatic Mr. Dark--genre fans might recognize Pryce as the actor playing Governor Swann in the 2003 blockbuster PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL--and Jason Robards does a fine turn as the wise librarian father of young Will. Vidal Peterson and Shawn Carson, the two young actors portraying Will and Jim, are relative newcomers whose lack of substantial experience is an asset rather than a liability, as it actually adds to the realism of their characters' youthful innocence. Some of the seasoned actors that fill supporting and background parts also contribute greatly to the quality of the film. The gorgeous Pam Grier, star of several popular "blaxploitation" flicks in the 1970s, plays the carnival's witch-like fortune-teller; Diane Ladd plays Jim Nightshade's mother, a woman who is raising her son alone after both were abandoned by the boy's father; and Ellen Geer, daughter of the late Will Geer of TV's THE WALTONS, portrays the mother of Will Halloway. Horror fans might recognize the late Royal Dano in the role of Tom Fury, the lightning-rod salesman. During his lengthy career, the ubiquitous Dano appeared in such genre favorites as Hitchcock's THE TROUBLE WITH HARRY (1955), 7 FACES OF DR. LAO (1964), and KILLER KLOWNS FROM OUTER SPACE (1988); and also in episodes of genre TV shows like LOST IN SPACE, NIGHT GALLERY, AMAZING STORIES, and TWIN PEAKS.

Although the script does not have the same scope and attention to detail found in the novel, Bradbury has still done an exceptional job of translating to screenplay the novel's eerie essence and moral subtext. And director Jack Clayton does almost as well in visually interpreting Bradbury's script. He generates the perfect atmosphere for some genuinely creepy moments, and he is also quite adept at evoking Bradbury's primary theme of innocence lost.

SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES generates most of its chills and scares the old-fashioned way--through atmosphere, suggestion, good plotting, and great characterization. Unfortunately, the flick was originally released during the peak of the first big wave of slasher films in the early 1980s, and it was therefore unfairly ignored by moviegoers and panned by critics. But thanks to the cool folks at Anchor Bay, this little beauty has a new lease on life via DVD.

Anchor Bay's disc is short on extras, offering only the theatrical trailer and the option of viewing in either pan-and-scan or 1.66:1 Letterbox formats. But the digital transfer looks nearly pristine--even when viewed on a widescreen HDTV-- with only a few minor defects from the source print noticeable. In keeping with the subject matter, the film was shot with dark tones and subtle hues, and these come through wonderfully on the DVD. Serious collectors of horror films on DVD won't want to let this genre gem slip away.

More Than it Appears - Worthy of The Twilight Zone
I've read through several reviews and find myself in agreement with fans of this film. It is truly one of the most underrated films in Disney's library. Whether Disney has disowned it is questionable and I suspect there is a connection behind the scenes with Anchor Bay, just as there is (or was?) with Miramax Films.

The key to this film is that Bradbury captured the tone and flavor of his book perfectly. While nowhere near as complete as the book and the story told therein, it is, nonetheless, complete in and of itself. There's nothing missing for those who haven't read the book. But, if you liked the movie, go find a copy of his book and read it one dark and stormy night.

If you've seen some of the weird science before in other films, most likely it was because Bradbury wrote about it first. He is and was the Stephen King of his generation with such strange tales as The Illustrated Man and The Martian Chronicles (both are actually linked anthologies of his short stories).

If you haven't read the description of the film, it is a story about Middle America early in the first half of the Twentieth Century and two boys sharing their childhood. One comes from a respected, if unexciting family and the other from a less than honorable setting. Yet they live beyond their differences and hold on to their own special fantasies and memories in a Norman Rockwell sort of way. Life was simpler then than it is now, and yet it has its dark side, as the boys soon find out. Mr. Dark's Carnival has come to town in as mysterious way as it did in another time, many decades before, affecting all who became involved.

The film is deliciously handled with a flare that defies description, probably because Bradbury graced it with his retelling through the screenplay. Coupled with the compelling music that adds flavor and color to the outstanding cinematography, the film draws us into a Twilight Zone of the familiar and macabre.

The film is treated as one for children. It decidedly is not one for little ones who are half-awake, and yet the story is more disturbing to those who will think upon the hidden messages that are as old as time itself and what every parent dreads... What is to become of us? What is to become of our children? This is the very heart of the fear that is so omnipresent once the carnival arrives that dreadful night.

Don't just watch this story once. See it twice, but not on the same night. Give it some time to develop in your subconscious, and then, one autumn night, when the leaves are turning color, give it another look, ignoring the cliches it has spawned in other, later and lesser stories.

Disney does horror... really!
No need to repeat the plot you can read about that plenty below. This review is for parents.

Something Wicked This Way Comes is very scary. Not only have the censors totally misjudged this film but it is still classed as a children's movie! What rubbish! This is horror through and through, although albeit it can still be watched by kids but most adults will think twice about what they have just shown to them.

PARENTS SHOULD WATCH THIS BEFORE SHOWING IT TO THEIR KIDS.

This is not your average "darker" childern's flick like the Dark Crystal or the Black Caldron. It is much darker than that. I also remember a very graphic hand crushing scene. ... Read more

Reviews (47)

"The Three Caballeros" Gold Collection DVD
A lot better than Walt Disney's previous attempt, "Saludos Amigos", "The Three Caballeros" is another film that focuses on Central and Southern America.

It's Donald Duck's birthday, and his friends from Mexico (Joe Carioca & Panchito) send him gifts from their country. A long the way various clips from the foreign countries are show in a documentary style & animated shorts telling stories are intertwined. The best one is "The Cold Blooded Penguin", where a small penguin wants to live life in the sun. This film also landmarked, the first time live action was mixed in with animation in the same scene. The funniest of these segments is when Donald starts chasing the girls on Acapulco beach BUT the best use of this new technology was in the "Donald Loses His Heart To The Cookie Lady" scene, where the boys dance around and with live action dancers.

The film is well paced, has great segments, the music depends on your tastes. But overall, this movie definatley surpasses "Saludos Amigos", in all ways possible.

Now I know why it's not Three "Gay" Caballeros
I've always had a fondness for Disney musicals, particularly the old ones, so this DVD seemed like a perfect choice. Overall, I thought this was a pretty spiffy film, though it seemed patched together in spots.

The video portion was very clean, though this digital transfer really lets you see flaws in the original print. Watch the segments where Donald is "behind" the Cookie Lady in "Baia," and you'll see the woman is dancing in front of a projected image. Most of the time the animated characters are "layered" on top of the live-action reels. I'll grant that given the age of the film, the visuals are fairly impressive, but with the animation technology available, one would think Disney would "clean up" some of the imperfections.

That goes double for sound, which in this release is dead Mono. Even simulated stereo would do a better job of reproducing the dynamics of the great music of this film. Speaking of which, the music selections (and accompanying dances) are the highlight of the movie. I was particularly impressed by the wonderful "You Belong To My Heart," which segues into a mildly hypnotic, almost hallucinogenic segment with "animorphic" images and brilliant colors.

Though there is a plot to all this (Donald's birthday tour), the story is little more than a South American travelogue as envisioned by Disney. That means a lot of American extras playing Brazilians and Mexicans, though not all. I think most kids (and some adults) will appreciate the camaraderie of the three Caballeros, but Donald's randy behavior is a little off-putting. Disney left little doubt that at least one of the 'three gay cabelleros' was perfectly 'straight.'

This film is, of course, a must-own for any collector of Disney animation, but for others the choice is less certain. The music and elaborate dance routines are worth a peek at the very least.

-Mic

Not for everyone...
I like what is presented, but I don't like how it was done.
TOO MUCH NARRATION!!
My 5 year old cannot follow who is talking... the actual charactor or the INVISIBLE narrator in the movie.

I think it is too confusing and sexy for little kids.
We owned this movie for almost 2 years and watched it only twice.

It is educational about different cultures and the music is very enjoyable...so maybe a little older kids and adults can enjoy it more.

should have showed the charaters more
this movie was nothing like i expected, i thought it would be full of action but there was way to much live action. the charaters should have been shown more I was very disappointed when i first saw the movie.

Not Classic Disney, but good fun.
After the success of such Storybook tales like Snow White, Pinocchio, and Bambi, the studio took a different turn and presented about nine films that were more like many Fantasias than epic fairytales. This is one of the best and it truely is a standout among the Disney films. Donald Duck hosts the show, and he meets along the way Hose' and Panchito. The film is musical and colorful. It may not be one of the greats but definately good. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Mirale of the White Stallions
I am a ridding instuctor and have been searching for this video to show my students. It is a wonderful way for them to see some of the greatest riding in the world in a story every horse lover should know! These precious animals are braught to such vibrant and beautiful light by Disney in this movie. A REAL MUST SEE!!!

White Stallions Dancing
I have been trying to track down this movie for a long time. It was a movie from my childhood and I loved it dearly, I simply could not remember its title. I remember the heroics of the rescuers and the beauty of the Lipizanner horses. This is a movie that would still entrance all viewers, but especially those with a passion and love of horses. I wish Disney would release this on video for the children of today and tomorrow. This movie reminds us that war is not just about people but treasures and animals as well.

Miracle of the White Stallions
"Don't give a hoot about Joe Public" seems to be the mantra these days at Disney when it excitedly releases classics on DVD.

Why don't they take a little more care and issue these films in widescreen format in the way they were supposed to be seen. Its just another way the public has been hoodwinked by a greedy mouse. I wouldn't purchase any of these "new" re-releases until they put product of an acceptable - as opposed to half-assed - quality. Shame on you!

Again, the "new" Disney shows no respect for their heritage
No wonder the company is about to be taken over and broken up -- DVD was introduced to be an alternative to video, to offer more than video: better picture, more extras, and most importantly, more picture. Letterboxing. Widescreen. The complete image. So what does Disney do? They take some of their most beloved live-action films such as this one, and dump it on DVD in full-frame editions. It's a crime against these wonderful films, films that are a credit to the "old Disney" -- the wonderful, family-friendly Disney. And what, exactly is the point of pan-and-scan? Who isn't used to widescreen DVDs yet? Why should I waste my money replacing my old Disney videos with the same crappy full screen image as before? Disney just doesn't get it, and their sales show it.

THE DVD VERSION
Several of the reviews on this site ask the Disney studio to release this film on DVD. Well, they have and this review refers to the DVD version.

I have been familiar with this movie since I worked at the Disney studio in 16mm film distribution in the 1970s (about 7 years before the VHS blockbuster years began), and am familiar with the original negatives. In what I am finding to be typical of the Disney folks, this film is presented in a 'full frame' version, rather than a WIDESCREEN version. The film was shot for a 1:85x1 projected ratio (known as Academy Flat) which presents the picture in a slight retangular format. However, a full frame, 4x3 video transfer of such a negative isn't all that bad, although it would have distinguised it from the normal VHS format.

Also, I am very surprised that the Disney people didn't make an effort to 'clean up' the original negative, which contains a great amount of negative dirt and scratches. The DVD does preserve the original look to the film (color and tint), but there has been so much technology invented to digitally reproduce an almost flawless image, that I am surprised it isn't been used. It is one of trhe major reasons that people have switched to DVD.

Also, look for a mistake in the original negative. Just after the horses board the train, there are reddish, flash frames (possibly an overexposure to the camera original negative) which could easily have been removed digitally.

A few "extras" would have been nice, such as behind-the-scenes material. This stinginess is becomming something notorious with recent Disney DVD releases. Walt Disney shot tons of background footage for every movie he made, and this is stored in the studio vaults. I've seen it in 16mm, although it was shot on 35mm.. You can ignore the lack of a WIDESCREEN image if the DVD contained these precious extras. Otherwise, it's just a transfer of the old VHS image. What's the point of that?

As far as Robert Taylor's performance, far from being 'wooden' (as one reviewer wrote) I agree with another reviewer who said that he was protraying a real man (who was also alive at the time and a hero in Europe), and the script and direction decided to present a truthful, realistic portrrait of him. Don't forget that this movie, and many others (BALLERINA, HORSE WITHOUT A HEAD, ALMOST ANGELS) were shot in Europe after World War II. They were made chiefly for a European theatrical audience and were intened for an American TV audience on THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY. So, you'll find a different style of acting and presentation: a bit slow for us, but perfect for their intended audience. ... Read more