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My Alphabet Marathon Reviews
I changed my mind and decided to go ahead and make a Thread for my alphabet Marathon reviews. I am doing this because I am going to attempt to do them in order #, A-Z. Of course the way my mood hits and misses at times this may be difficult to do. To make this even more difficult. Because I am abstaining right now... there will be no horror movies allowed to be watched.
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Step 1:
Deciding on a movie that starts with a number. Here is what I can choose from.
- 10.5 (miniseries)
- 10.5: Apocalypse (miniseries)
- The 10th Kingdom (miniseries)
- 12 Monkeys
- 13 Going on 30
- 24: Redemption
- 28 Days
- 50 First Dates
- 5ive Days to Midnight (Miniseries)
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I hadn't even thought about my own # film yet. Last year I did 100 Rifles. I've only heard of a few you name...and have just one of them myself, 13 Going On 30...which I haven't seen yet. With your huge library, I'm surprised you don't have more that fit that category :o
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Well... I do have a few more Roger... but they are in the horror genre... and I already started abstaining from horror till October. :P
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Go for 12 Monkeys!
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I agree with '12 Monkeys'.
Brad Pitt is excellent in this film! :thumbup:
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I own 12 Monkeys and have never watched it... I should watch it for my # too
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I've seen it loads of times, but I fancy seeing it again now! Lets all go for 12 Monkeys! :drunk:
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Wow! both sites... everyone want 12 Monkeys! So guess I will watch 50 First Dates :tomato: OK... OK... 12 Monkeys it is! Sheesh you people are demanding! :tease:
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Title: 12 Monkeys: Special Edition
Year: 1995
Director: Terry Gilliam
Rating: R
Length: 129 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Joseph Melito
Bruce Willis
Jon Seda
Michael Chance
Vernon Campbell
H. Michael Walls
Plot:
In this science fiction masterpiece, Cole (Bruce Willis) is sent back in time to save the human race from a deadly virus that has forced mankind into dank underground communities in the future. Along his travels, he encounters a psychiatrist (Madeleine Stowe) and a mental patient, brilliantly portrayed by Brad Pitt, who may hold the key to the mysterious rogue group, The Army of the 12 Monkeys, thought to be responsible for unleashing the killer disease. Believing he can obtain a pure virus sample in order to find a cure in the future, he is met with one riddle after another that puts him in a race for time.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
When I bought this movie... it was a complete blind buy. Never even seeing the trailer before buying it. Some decent stars in this movie. I like Bruce Willis... I am not too familiar with Madeline Stowe, but everything I have seen her in to date I have enjoyed. Brad Pitt has always been hit and miss in my eyes. I always thought him to be a somewhat over-rated actor. Though he can be good at times. I did like him in Fight Club, Interview with a Vampire and Se7en. And I have to admit... he was right good in this one as well. When I first saw the trailer I was a little concerned this movie would be a bit on the confusing side. But it really wasn't. It is really an interesting, enjoyable movie. Maybe it was a little on the slow side in some parts. But not terribly so. Over-all I am glad I added it to my collection.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Jimmy... you can just switch the links on the above.
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Title: Air Force One
Year: 1997
Director: Wolfgang Petersen
Rating: R
Length: 124 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Harrison Ford
Gary Oldman
Glenn Close
Wendy Crewson
Liesel Matthews
Paul Guilfoyle
Plot:
Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman and Glenn Close star in two-time Oscar®-nominee* Wolfgang Petersen's gripping thriller about a steadfast U.S. President who has just told the world he will not negotiate with terrorists. Now, Russian neo-nationalists have hijacked Air Force One, and the President is faced with a nearly impossible decision – give in to terrorist demands or sacrifice not only the country's dignity, but the lives of his wife and daughter.
*1981, Das Boot, Director, Screenplay Adaptation
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this movie quite a bit. One thing I like about this movie... just when you think the excitement is over you are proven wrong. This movie is filled with action and excitement. The cast is wonderful... especially Harrison Ford, Glenn Close and of course Gary Oldman. This is a movie I can easily get lost in. I have seen it several times now... and it never fails to entertain.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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The above is another one you can just replace the link Jimmy :)
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Title: Best Men
Year: 1997
Director: Tamra Davis
Rating: R
Length: 89 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Dean Cain
Andy Dick
Sean Patrick Flanery
Mitchell Whitfield
Luke Wilson
Fred Ward
Plot:
Never cross a bride on her wedding day...she'll take no prisoners. Drew Barrymore (Riding in Cars with Boys) stars with a young and talented cast featuring Dean Cain, Andy Dick, Sean Patrick Flanery, Mitchell Whitfield and Luke Wilson in a hilarious "action-comedy full of snappy dialogue and colorful characters" (Total Film) that puts a whole new spin on shotgun weddings!
Hope's (Barrymore) big mistake on her wedding day was sending the groomsmen to collect her jailbird fiancé Jesse (Wilson) from prison. For on the way from the penitentiary, the best man, Billy (Flanery), decides to he needs a little cash infusion from the town bank...so he holds it up! But it's not long before all of the groomsmen are held up – when the cops surround the place! And since neither hell nor high water will stop Hope from having her day...she rushes into join her fugitive wedding party, at the risk of spending her honeymoon – not to mention the rest of her life – behind bars!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This title was suggested to me by our friend Tom when I was asking for suggestions of movies to add to my Drew Barrymore collection. Before that suggestion I never even heard of this one. Unfortunately Drew Barrymore's role is a little on the limited side... but it is a good movie... though not one I would call great. But it is an entertaining watch. It is definitely worth the few bucks I paid for it. Though I must admit I am a little disappointed with the DVD release. There is no extra features what so ever on this one. Not even any trailers for any movies let alone for the movie on this disc.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Title: Clash of the Titans
Year: 1981
Director: Desmond Davis
Rating: PG
Length: 118 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Laurence Olivier
Claire Bloom
Maggie Smith
Ursula Andress
Jack Gwillim
Plot:
Before history and beyond imagination! The machinations of gods above and the fates of man and monsters here below play out in a Clash of the Titans. Decades prior to the sensational 2010 version of the tale, Harry Hamlin took up sword and shield to play valorous Perseus, mortal son of Zeus (Laurence Olivier) who sets out to fulfill his destiny by rescuing beloved Andromeda from the wrath of goddess Thetis (Maggie Smith). Perils await Perseus time and again. And eye-filling thrills await viewers as stop-motion effects legend Ray Harryhausen (Jason and the Argonauts) unleashes snake-haired Medusa, fearsome Kraken, winged Pegasus, two-headed dog Dioskilos, giant scorpions and more. Rejoice, fantasy fans: the movie gods gift us with adventure that's innovative, heroic, titanic.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I was a teen when I last saw this movie. And that is more years then I would like to admit. While I forgot most of the movie... there was scenes that still remained in my memory. Mainly the scene with Perseus face off against Medusa. But for the most part it was like watching it again... for the first time. I am actually surprised just how into this movie I got. I was transfixed on the show. I really liked the style this movie was made in. The cast is wonderful in it. I was afraid that time would not be kind to this movie.... and special effects wise it really hasn't. But for some reason... while watching this movie I found I just didn't care about that... and was able to just sit back and enjoy every second of it. I forgot that Burgess Meredith is in this movie. I always liked him. As I did in this one. I think it is even safe to say I enjoyed this one more then I should have. But I think that is because of no more then nostalgia... as I watched this movie multiple times in my early teen years.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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I was afraid that time would not be kind to this movie.... and special effects wise it really hasn't.
What I always do when I watch a film from long ago, is I try place myself mentally in that time period and then the special effects don't bother me, looking outdated.
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Title: Daddy Day Care: Special Edition
Year: 2003
Director: Steve Carr
Rating: PG
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Eddie Murphy
Jeff Garlin
Steve Zahn
Regina King
Kevin Nealon
Jonathan Katz
Plot:
DADDY DAY CARE is the hilarious comedy about kids ruling the roost! When ad execs Charlie (Eddie Murphy-Dr. Dolittle, Shrek) and Phil (TV's "Curb Your Enthusiasm"'s Jeff Garlin) lose their jobs trying to sell a veggie-flavored breakfast cereal, their wives head off to work. But when they realize they can't afford to keep their kids at the fancy Chapman Academy run by evil Miss Harridan (The Addams Family's Anjelica Huston), Charlie and Phil become the proprietors of Daddy Day Care. Little do these two Mr. Moms realize that they have just begun their own adventures in babysitting! DADDY DAY CARE's excellent supporting cast includes Steve Zahn (National Security), Regina King (Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde) and Kevin Nealon (Anger Management).
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Interactive Games
Outtakes/Bloopers
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
Animated Short "Early Bloomers"
My Thoughts:
This is just a fun movie to watch. I literally laughed out loud on more then one occasion. I liked the entire cast... especially enjoyed Anjelica Huston as the evil head of the competition day care center. She played the role perfectly. A friend gave me this movie 3 years ago... and I remembered enjoying it at the time... but I forgot just how much I did enjoy it.I will have to keep this movie in mind and not let it go so long between viewings. It isn't perfect of course... there is some pretty silly stuff here... but it is just fun to watch.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Wow... I just found out that the letter E will be giving me some trouble. Most the movies I have that starts with E is horror. Though I do have a couple choices... hopefully I will be more in the mood for one of them tomorrow. :P
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Enter the Dragon isn't an horror film and I'm interested by it (but never think of ordering it). So if it isn't too late and you are in the mood for it, I would like to read your opinion about this film.
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I already started and gotten into a different movie for E... sorry Jimmy. But I will put it on my list to watch again shortly after the Alphabet marathon. :thumbup:
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Damn You Jimmy... now you got me thinking about how long it has been since I watched Enter the Dragon.... looks like I am changing my "E" movie half way through! :laugh:
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Spooky. It's ages since I've seen Enter The Dragon and I was considering it too. :slaphead:
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Go for it Jon... I am sure Jimmy would like a second opinion. :P
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Title: Enter the Dragon: 25th Anniversary Edition
Year: 1973
Director: Robert Clouse
Rating: R
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Music Only: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Bruce Lee
John Saxon
Jim Kelly
Ahna Capri
Shih Kien
Robert Wall [Bob Wall]
Plot:
Twenty-five years following his untimely death, Bruce Lee remains the movies' supreme martial-arts star. And Enter the Dragon, fully restored, in stereo for the first time and containing 3 minutes not included in the original U.S. theatrical release, stands the test of time as the most popular martial-arts epic in film history. This 25th anniversary edition also includes Bruce Lee: In His Own Words, sharing film, video and audio material from the Lee family archives with fans for the first time ever! It is a good watch... but now this DVD is going back on my shelf for a few years as it is a movie I can only watch so often.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This is not my usual type of movie. But it is one I like to watch ever once in a while. This is the first time I watched this one since I first bought it 5 years ago. It is the only title I have with Bruce Lee. But it is one I enjoy. I like the story and the martial arts is fun to watch. This DVD starts off with an introduction from Bruce Lee's wife talking some about her husband and the making of this movie. Also letting us know that some footage was added back into this cut of the movie giving us a version of the movie that Bruce Lee preferred.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543000358f.jpg)
Title: Fight Club
Year: 1999
Director: David Fincher
Rating: R
Length: 139 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Edward Norton
Brad Pitt
Meat Loaf [Meat Loaf Aday]
Zach Grenier
Richmond Arquette
David Andrews
Plot:
A ticking-time bomb insomniac (Edward Norton) and a slippery soap salesman (Brad Pitt) channel primal male aggression into a shocking new form of therapy. Their concept catches on, with underground "fight clubs" forming in every town, until a sensuous eccentric (Helena Bonham Carter) gets in the way and ignites an out-of-control spiral toward oblivion.
The New York Times raved that FIGHT CLUB "just might require another viewing." Here's your chance. Brace yourself.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Production Notes
Multi-angle
Music Videos
Outtakes/Bloopers
Closed Captioned
THX
Booklet
My Thoughts:
This is another movie I haven't watched in years! And it is one that I only watched once when I first bought it back in 2000. Not because it is a bad movie... I enjoyed it quite a bit. I just sometimes have a problem going back to movies that are 2hrs long or more. So it takes me years like this. While this is a good and entertaining movie... it is also one you need to give your full attention to. Or you could get a little confused. This is one of the few movies that I actually like Brad Pitt in. I always felt him to be an over rated actor... but he is perfect in this role.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Title: Garfield: The Movie
Year: 2004
Director: Pete Hewitt
Rating: PG
Length: 80 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Breckin Meyer
Jennifer Love Hewitt
Stephen Tobolowsky
Bill Murray
Evan Arnold
Mark Christopher Lawrence
Plot:
Talk about livin' large! Garfield (hilariously voiced by Bill Murray) lies around the house, eats lasagna, watches TV and makes wisecracks -- until his owner Jon (Breckin Meyer) falls for a beautiful veterinarian (Jennifer Love Hewitt). When she asks Jon to adopt a sweet pup named Odie, Garfield appears to be in the doghouse. But not for long! When Odie is abducted by a dog trainer, Garfield must get off the couch to rescue the precious pooch.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Bonus Trailers
Music Videos
Closed Captioned
Inside Look: Robots and Because of Winn-Dixie
My Thoughts:
This is a cute family movie. It isn't as funny as I would have expected it to be... but it does have a few laughs in it. I do think Bill Murray was a good choice for the voice of Garfield. I have been a fan of Jennifer Love Hewitt every since the pilot of Ghost Whisperer aired. I think she is a gorgeous young lady... but I have to say... she looks so much better with the long hair. The should length hair that she has in this movie just does not look right to me.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Title: Hancock: 2-Disc Unrated Special Edition
Year: 2008
Director: Peter Berg
Rating: Unrated
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Will Smith (1968)
Charlize Theron
Jason Bateman
Jae Head
Eddie Marsan
David Mattey
Plot:
Academy Award® nominee Will Smith (Best Actor, The Pursuit of Happyness, 2006) stars in this action-packed comedy as Hancock, a sarcastic, hard-living and misunderstood superhero who has fallen out of favor with the public.
When Hancock grudgingly agrees to an extreme makeover from idealistic publicist Ray Embrey (Jason Bateman, Juno), his life and reputation rise from the ashes and all seems right again — until he meets a woman (2003 Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron, Best Actress, Monster) with similar powers to his and the key to his secret past.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
Digital Copy
Theatrical and Unrated Versions
My Thoughts:
This is the second time for me to watch this movie. The first time I watched it... while I liked it... I wasn't completely thrilled with it. But that is because it just wasn't the movie I was expecting from the trailer. So I went into it today hoping I would like it more this time around. And I did enjoy more then I did the last time. I will say that it went downhill a little towards the end of the movie. But for the most part I really enjoyed it. I thought both Will Smith and Charlize Theron were good in it... but I have to admit I wasn't that impressed with Jason Bateman.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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I never thought I'd bother with Hancock...but I do love Charlize Theron...so now I have a decision to make! Maybe I can get a cheap combo deal with it and Aeon Flux? :laugh:
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Aeon Flux is a good one. I know most people don't like it, but not me personally ;D
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I really like Hancock up until
you find out she is like him
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Well, I've now ordered Aeon Flux and Hancock...cheap copies...I also included a few more westerns in that order including a TV movie starring Clint Walker called Yuma. That can be my "Y" entry this marathon if I remember to hold off on Y until that arrives.
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I liked Aeon Flux too.. but you have to see the animated series too at some point. The animation is so much better!
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Title: It's Complicated
Year: 2010
Director: Nancy Meyers
Rating: R
Length: 121 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Meryl Streep
Steve Martin
Alec Baldwin
John Krasinski
Lake Bell
Mary Kay Place
Plot:
Two-time Academy Award® winner* Meryl Streep, Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin star in this hilarious look at marriage, divorce and everything in between. Jane (Streep) has three grown kids, a thriving Santa Barbara bakery and an amicable relationship with her ex-husband, Jake (Baldwin). Now, a decade after their divorce, an innocent dinner between Jane and Jake turns into the unimaginable - an affair. Caught in the middle of their rekindled romance are Jake's young wife and Adam (Martin), a recently divorced architect who starts to fall for Jane. Could love be sweeter the second time around? It's... complicated! From writer/director Nancy Meyers comes the comedy that critics call "laugh-out-loud funny" (Rex Reed, THE NEW YORK OBSERVER).
*1982 Best Actress, Sophie's Choice and 1979 Best Supporting Actress, Kramer vs. Kramer.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Bonus Trailers
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
This is a movie I got by accident. I got it from Columbia House but the only reason I got it is because I never got the mailing to tell me about and give me the chance to refuse it. I was kind of upset about this as It's Complicated really wasn't a movie I was worried about seeing right away. The trailer... while entertaining... looked like it could have been hit or miss. So I planned to wait and catch it on cable first.
I decided to pop it in first thing this morning... and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. It really is on the subtle side. But it is an entertaining romantic comedy. There was really only one laugh-out-loud hysterical part in the movie.... but the entire movie did keep a smile on my face. I think all three... Meryl Streep, Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin did a great job and was a lot of fun to watch. I am pleasantly surprised this became a good addition to my collection.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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I just realized... today is the 4th of July... I should have watched Independence Day for my "I" movie! :P
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Title: Jocks
Year: 1986
Director: Steve Carver
Rating: R
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: N/A
Stars:
Scott Strader
Perry Lang
Mariska Hargitay
Richard Roundtree
R. G. Armstrong
Stoney Jackson
Plot:
When an odd-ball tennis team of a Los Angeles college sets out on a road trip to a regional college tennis tournament in fun-filled Las Vegas, all the stops are out and literally "anything goes" both on and off the court.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
This is a movie I never seen before. It is included in a cheap boxset I got called Too Cool for School... it is a boxset of '70s and '80s comedies. I don't know about others here... but when I think of Jocks I do not think tennis. Nothing really special here. basically just an average comedy about a misfit college tennis team going to Las Vegas for championships.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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I haven't seen Hancock yet either but I just recently picked up the bluray for it. I though Aeon Flux was pretty good though!
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When I saw the cover I wondered if you were filling in for Jimmy ;)
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:hysterical:
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When I saw the cover I wondered if you were filling in for Jimmy ;)
:hysterical: What really sucks is that scene wasn't even in the movie! Matter of fact there really was very little nudity in the movie. And no sex what so ever. :P
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Title: K-PAX
Year: 2001
Director: Iain Softley
Rating: PG-13
Length: 120 Min.
Stars:
Kevin Spacey
Jeff Bridges
Mary McCormack
Alfre Woodard
David Patrick Kelly
Plot:
Prot is a patient at a mental hospital who claims to be from a far away planet. His psychiatrist tries to help him, only to begin to doubt his own explanations.
My Thoughts:
This is a movie I watched on Encore On-Demand. I just now finished watching this one... and to be honest I am still letting it sink in. It is an interesting story... and I did enjoy it. And I think Kevin Spacey did a great job with the role. As did Jeff Bridges for that matter. The story itself has a slower pace then what I am used to watching. But it works for it. I think it is just the type of story it is. Without going into too much detail (just in case you haven't seen it yet) I liked how they ended this one as well. Lets just say it leaves you thinking. I think this is one I will eventually add to my collection. I can see myself watching it again.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4772567127_48317a2d5a.jpg)
Title: The Lady Vanishes
Year: 1938
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Rating: NR
Length: 95 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: N/A
Stars:
Margaret Lockwood
Michael Redgrave
Paul Lukas
May Whitty [Dame May Whitty]
Cecil Parker
Linden Travers
Plot:
During a transcontinental train trip in Europe, a young woman is alarmed to discover a passenger has disappeared.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
This is one of the movies in the Alfred Hitchcock: The Legend Begins set. It is a boxset of 20 of his early movies... most of which from the '20s and '30s. I got the set for only $5 so needless to say quality wise I was expecting the worst. While it did have it's problems... I was pleasantly surprised with the quality.
When I first put this on I was started to get discouraged. While amusing... I expected much more from it. Then about a 3rd of the way through it they finally get onto the train. This is where the movie picked up for me. I liked Margaret Lockwood in this movie. This is the first thing I have seen her in... but I found her both attractive and entertaining. And I have to admit I got more then one laugh out of the little fight the 3 characters had in the freight car.
The movie seemed to have 3 distinct parts. The first 3rd of the movie introducing the characters... some comedic situations. Entertaining but I expected more form it. Then there is the 2nd part of the movie which was the mystery itself. This was my favorite part of the entire movie. And then the final 3rd of the movie to solve the mystery and have the conclusion. This I liked more then the first part... but not as much as the middle. Over all I feel this is a very good... entertaining movie. This movie alone is more then worth the $5 price for the 20 movie set it is in.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Nicely done, Pete! :thumbup:
What did you think of the two British characters who are only concerned with a cricket match? :)
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Talk about crazy... there was definitely some characters in this one! :laugh:
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(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_CCsfLI3S7sk/SDOd1ym1TNI/AAAAAAAAAAg/NCqNxU3T3xo/s320/meet-dave-poster-1.jpg)
Title: Meet Dave
Year: 2008
Director: Brian Robbins
Rating: PG
Length: 90 Min.
Stars:
Eddie Murphy
Elizabeth Banks
Gabrielle Union
Scott Caan
Ed Helms
Plot:
A crew of miniature aliens operate a spaceship that has a human form. While trying to save their planet, the aliens encounter a new problem, as their ship becomes smitten with an Earth woman.
My Thoughts:
When I originally saw the trailer for this movie... my curiosity was peeked. Shortly after the movie came out I started reading bad reviews for it. So I decided to wait for it to show on cable instead of wasting money on it. I spotted it on On-Demand this morning and figured I would give it a go... but will keep my expectations very low. While it isn't exactly what I would call a good movie... I was expecting worse. I did get a couple chuckles out of it... but for the most part it really is a pretty average movie. Definitely not one I would be in a hurry to see again. It would have to be very cheap for me to add it to my collection.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://wpcontent.answers.com/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e0/9_to_5_moviep.jpg/200px-9_to_5_moviep.jpg)
Title: Nine to Five
Year: 1980
Director: Colin Higgins
Rating: PG
Length: 110 Min.
Stars:
Jane Fonda
Lily Tomlin
Dolly Parton
Dabney Coleman
Sterling Hayden
Plot:
Frank Hart is a pig. He takes advantage in the grossest manner of the women who work with him. When his three assistants manage to trap him in his own house they assume control of his department and productivity leaps, but just how long can they keep Hart tied up?
My Thoughts:
This is another one I watched on On-Demand. I seen this one years ago when it first came out. I thought I remembered it being a good comedy. But this one didn't work too well for me. While there is some entertaining scenes... there was no real laughs in it for me. This is 2 comedies in a row that I found be no more then average. I don't think this is one I would bother added to my collection at all.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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:o
Nine To Five is a classic! :redcard:
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You know... you are right... it is a classic. A classic bore! :tease:
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No no no...all the horror aver the years has warped your brain. 9 to 5 is great.
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The only thing I found great about Nine to Five is when it was finally over! :tease:
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What do you expect from someone who wants to include Miss Congeniality in every marathon he ever does? :laugh: Sorry, Pete, but I have to side with the others here...9 to 5 is great!
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:laugh: Now Roger... Miss Congeniality is 10 times the movie Nine to Five is! And I can't even put the " :tease:" up on that one... because I seriously believe that!
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085392432721f.jpg)
Title: Operation Pacific
Year: 1951
Director: George Waggner
Rating: NR
Length: 109 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Bahasa, Chinese, English, French, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
John Wayne
Patricia Neal
Ward Bond
Scott Forbes
Philip Carey
Paul Picerni
Plot:
Meet the dive-for-glory torpedo devils of the USS Thunderfish.
World War II rages across the Pacific and Lt. Cmdr. Duke E. Gifford is in the thick of it. He evacuates children from enemy-held islands. Oversees the development of torpedoes at Pearl Harbor. And prowls the depths in the submarine Thunderfish for a chance to aim his improved "tin fish"— torpedoes — at the enemy.
John Wayne plays Gifford in Operation Pacific. "I'm no theory man. I'm a line officer," Gifford barks. He backs it up with lots of bite in several feverish sea battles. He's also a man with a loving wife at home (fellow Academy Award® winner Patricia Neal). Vice Admiral Charles Lockwood, World War II commander of all U.S. Pacific submarines, was technical advisor for this adventure packing real you-are-there thrills!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This is one I got from my mother's collection when she passed away this past year. It is one of many John Wayne movies that was given to her from our good friend Roger. I enjoyed this one. It is a good entertaining movie. Though it is a little slow in some scenes for my taste. But I enjoyed it enough to say I can definitely see myself watching it again at some time.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4776500051_2d705ebabd.jpg)
Title: The Parent Trap
Year: 1961
Director: David Swift
Rating: G
Length: 129 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Hayley Mills
Maureen O'Hara
Brian Keith
Charles Ruggles
Una Merkel
Leo G. Carroll
Plot:
Hayley Mills, Special Academy Award® winner for 1960's Pollyanna, lights up the screen in Disney's fondly remembered release of The Parent Trap. Mills stars as Susan and Sharon, identical twins separated at birth. Neither twin knows the other exists until a simple twist of fate finds them at the same summer camp. Then, realizing who they are, they plan a little twist of their own. They switch places with high hopes of getting their parents back together. This delightful and heartwarming comedy will have your whole family doubling up with laughter.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Featurettes
Music Videos
Interviews
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
While I knew I seen the remake with Lindsay Lohan... going into this movie I couldn't remember if I ever seen the original. After watching it I can definitely say I didn't. Being over two hours... it is longer then I expected from a family movie. But it is one I enjoyed quite a bit. I did notice that the remake does follow this one pretty well. I just can't decide which I like more the original or the remake. I guess all I can say on that is I enjoyed them both. This movie has some good laughs in it. It does look a little dated... but the movie is almost 50 years old now.
This movie came in a 2 movie set with part 2. It is a nice release... with lots of extras as well. Though I did find it odd how they put the set together. The two movies are on disc 1... it is a single sided disc... so when the menu comes up you just pick which movie of the two you want to watch. Then there is a second disc with extras for both movies. I would have thought it would have made more sense to put each movie on it's own disc with the extras for each movie on the disc with that movie. But oh well... what can you do but take it the way they decide to give it to you.
I still haven't watched the second movie yet. That one I never seen before either. The second part is a made for TV movie made 25 years later and once again Hayley Mills returns to play Sharon and Susan. I am looking forward to watching it as well.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396012318f.jpg)
Title: The Quick and the Dead: Superbit
Year: 1995
Director: Sam Raimi
Rating: R
Length: 105 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish
Stars:
Sharon Stone
Gene Hackman
Russell Crowe
Leonardo DiCaprio
Tobin Bell
Roberts Blossom
Plot:
In this edgy and darkly humorous Western, a mysterious young woman rides into the lawless town of Redemption to settle an old score that has haunted her since she was a child. She becomes swept up in a deadly quick-draw tournament and, in order to win her revenge, must compete in a contest in which gunslingers from all over put their lives on the line for fame and fortune.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this movie quite a bit. There is a lot of well known people in this one. I especially enjoyed Lance Henriksen's character. And even though I don't normally like him... I did like Leonardo DiCaprio in this movie. I was somewhat surprised to see Tobin Bell's name in this one though... as at the time I had no idea who he was... he didn't become familiar to me till the Saw movies. Anyway... I am glad I added this movie to my collection. I think it is a good story and everyone involved did a fine job.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391862123f.jpg)
Title: Ready To Rumble
Year: 2000
Director: Brian Robbins
Rating: PG-13
Length: 106 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
David Arquette
Oliver Platt
Scott Caan
Bill Goldberg
Rose McGowan
Diamond Dallas Page
Plot:
What's more fun than a wrestling fan who drives a pump-it-up-and-dump-it sewage truck and sucks up the sweet air of World Championship Wrestling™ glory at night? Two wrestling fans - Gordie and Sean!
David Arquette is Gordie and Scott Caan is Sean in this laugh-slammin' comedy directed by Brian Robbins (Varsity Blues). With their brains in a hammerlock and their hopes high, Gordie and Sean set out to help their favorite WCW™ Monday Nitro hero (Oliver Platt) regain the championship. Bill Goldberg, Diamond Dallas Page, Sting and more superstars join the spin-dropping, power-bombing, ladder-swinging goings-on. To borrow from Gordie and Sean: they're the wrestlers who are better than all the restlers.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Next up I wanted something a bit light-hearted and silly. And this is definitely that. I am not a wrestling fan. I used to watch it many years ago... but I haven't for a very long time. But what I do like about this movie... and the main reason I bought it is because I like both David Arquette and Rose McGowan. I bought this movie after discovering Rose McGowan on Charmed. Unfortunately she isn't in this one as much as I would have liked. But it is a decent part. This movie is a fun watch when you just want something silly... something that you just don't want to think about. And just loose yourself in mindless entertainment. Even then some of this stuff makes you just shake your head and call the characters idiots!
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/014381006124f.jpg)
Title: Short Circuit
Year: 1986
Director: John Badham
Rating: PG
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: N/A
Stars:
Ally Sheedy
Steve Guttenberg
Fisher Stevens
Austin Pendleton
G. W. Bailey
Brian McNamara
Plot:
Steve Guttenberg and Ally Sheedy co-star in this high-tech comedy adventure about Number Five, a robot who escapes into the real world after he short-circuits in an electrical storm and decides that he's human. Because he's carrying destructive weapons, the Defense Department and his designer (Guttenberg) are desperate to find him. But Number Five is being protected by a young woman (Sheedy) who is teaching him a gentler way of life.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
This is a movie I haven't seen in many years! So much so that going into it all I could remember is brief bits and pieces of the movie. I am so thrilled I finally added to this one to my collection. It is still a lot of fun. And I must admit... Johnny Five was right about one thing... Ally Sheedy... Nice Software! :laugh: The movie definitely held up great for me. There was several times I literally laughed out loud. Unfortunately the DVD Release leaves some to be desired. It could be worse.... at least it is in widescreen... but there is absolutely no extras on this what so ever. Not even trailers for other movies let alone a trailer for this. Which makes me very upset considering I just got this and I now find out there is indeed a special Edition out for this movie for only a few dollars more then what I paid for this one!
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085392010028f.jpg)
Title: Twister
Year: 1996
Director: Jan De Bont
Rating: PG-13
Length: 113 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Helen Hunt
Bill Paxton
Jami Gertz
Cary Elwes
Lois Smith
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Plot:
The house rips apart piece by piece. A bellowing cow spins through the air. Tractors fall like rain. A 15,000-pound gasoline tanker becomes an airborne bomb. A mile-wide, 300 miles-per-hour force of total devastation is coming at you: Twister is hitting home. In this adventure swirling with cliffhanging excitement and awesome special effects, Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton play scientists pursuing the most destructive weatherfront to sweep through mid-America's tornado Alley in 50 years. By launching electronic sensors into the funnel, the storm chasers hope to obtain enough data to create an improved warning system. But to do so, they must intercept the twisters' deadly path. The chase is on!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
THX
My Thoughts:
This is another movie I always enjoyed. Probably more then I should considering everything. I have seen it many times since it was released... but haven't watched it in several years now. Sure this movie has plenty of unbelievable things in it. It is definitely far from perfect storytelling... but there is just something about this one that I like. You just have to turn your brain off going into it. I really enjoyed both Holly Hunter and Bill Paxton in this one. While I didn't care much for her character... I also enjoyed Jami Gertz in this one. Till today I didn't even realize she was the same woman that played Muffy in the '80s TV Series... Square Pegs.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012236047407f.jpg)
Title: Universal Soldier
Year: 1992
Director: Roland Emmerich
Rating: R
Length: 104 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Jean-Claude Van Damme
Dolph Lundgren
Ally Walker
Ed O'Ross
Jerry Orbach
Leon Rippy
Plot:
Two of the biggest action stars are together for the first time in one explosive adventure. JEAN-CLAUDE VAN DAMME is Luc Devreaux and DOLPH LUNDGREN is Sgt. Andrew Scott, two soldiers who kill each other in Vietnam and are then brought back to life 25 years later for a secret government program. Known as "Unisols," they're genetically enhanced, unstoppable killing machines with no memory, no feelings and no free will. But on an antiterrorist mission, Devreaux's memory starts to return and he escapes from the program. A superhuman chase across the country begins, with Sgt. Scott in unrelenting pursuit of the man who killed him. Devreaux heads for his home and a reunion with his unbelieving parents. There Sgt. Scott corners him for the ultimate clash of the titans.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This is another movie I haven't watched in several years. Not too bad for some mindless entertainment. I used to really enjoy Van Damme movies... but it seems over the years I just don't have the taste for them that I had. At least this one does have a bit of a sci-fi twist to it. So that added to the entertainment some.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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(http://www.aerotheatre.com/images/2010/March/MarchII/vertigo1.jpg)
Title: Vertigo
Year: 1958
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Rating: PG
Length: 128 Min.
Stars:
James Stewart
Kim Novak
Barbara Bel Geddes
Tom Helmore
Henry Jones
Plot:
A San Francisco detective suffering from acrophobia investigates the strange activities of an old friend's wife, all the while becoming dangerously obsessed with her.
My Thoughts:
This one I watch off On-Demand. One of the On-Demand channels is having a Hitchcock month of sorts and has a folder with a few of his most popular movies. I went to watch this and what happens?... I fell asleep! No... I didn't find it that boring. I just was up late last night and then woke early this morning. I just needed an extra hour I guess. Plus the fact that I think I am getting sick over here.
I think I may have messed myself up a little on this one. While I tried not to I was really hyped up to watch this one as I always heard it was a great one. So while I enjoyed it very much... I was kind of expecting more from it. So while it was very enjoyable... at the same time I was kind of thinking... ok... that's it? All THAT hype for this? I don't want you to get the wrong idea here... this is one I definitely want to add to my collection!
Both James Stewert and Kim Novak were wonderful in this movie. The story kept my interest... and the suspense was definitely there.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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I still like the original Universal Soldier, one of my favorite Van Damme movies. I recently picked up the bluray but haven't had a chance to watch it yet. All of the sequels were quite horrible except I am hearing good things about the most recent, Regeneration where they bring Dolph Lundren back. Apparently it is pretty good. :D
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I stopped watching after I seen the second Universal Soldier.
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While I tried not to I was really hyped up to watch this one as I always heard it was a great one. So while I enjoyed it very much... I was kind of expecting more from it. So while it was very enjoyable... at the same time I was kind of thinking... ok... that's it? All THAT hype for this? I don't want you to get the wrong idea here... this is one I definitely want to add to my collection!
I hope you do watch it again, Pete. It is a challenging and occasionally cruel film that doesn't attempt to entertain. I've always said you need a couple of runs at it to fully appreciate it. You might just come to love it. First time I saw it, I was definitely underwhelmed. Now, five or six viewings later, the last two very close together, I regard it as Hitchcock's finest and one of the best films ever made.
I don't think you've reviewed much Film Noir, Pete, which at least the first part of Vertigo is. Before you see it again, consider Chinatown, Double Indemnity and Laura, which all share themes that Vertigo used. Less obvious, but still part of the same theme, L.A. Confidential and Touch Of Evil.
I can see you enjoying any of these, more so than Vertigo. They are far more focused on a regular plot, whereas Hitchcock took off on a tangent halfway through. But after seeing any of those films, you might see what all the fuss is about in Vertigo too.
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Thanks for the suggestions Jon. I am sure I will be watching it again. Will be looking to get the dvd (whether in a set or by itself) hopefully before too long. Though we have been struggling a little over here so my dvd shopping has taken a backseat. Not getting nearly as many as I used to!
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929020027f.jpg)
Title: Wonder Woman: Two-Disc Special Edition
Year: 2008
Director: Lauren Montgomery
Rating: PG-13
Length: 74 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Keri Russell
Nathan Fillion
Alfred Molina
Rosario Dawson
Marg Helgenberger
Oliver Platt
Plot:
On the mystical island of Themyscira, a proud, strong warrior race of Amazon women lives in a utopian civilization shielded from the corrupt world of man. But a betrayal within the Amazon sisterhood leads to the escape of Ares, the God of War, and Amazon Princess Diana must capture him before he unleashes global chaos and destruction. With the aid of cocky fighter pilot Steve Trevor, Diana tracks Ares to the United States for a battle unlike any humankind has ever faced. Alfred Molina, Virginia Madsen, Oliver Platt, Rosario Dawson and David McCallum – infuses thunder and passion into this epic tale of the princess who becomes the World's Greatest Super Heroine.
Extras:
Audio Commentary
Bonus Trailers
Featurettes
Digital Copy
2 Bonus Cartoons
My Thoughts:
This movie is definitely heavier on the violence as well as some suggestive dialog. So it is not one for the kiddies... but I don't think it is to bad... I would say the teens on up would enjoy this movie. One thing I did find a little on the strange side is that you don't hear the name Wonder Woman till the end of the movie. But that is such a minor thing it doesn't matter in the least. I am hoping we see a sequel to this one before too long. As well as the long awaited live-action movie. The one problem I did have with this movie... and is true about all the animated super hero movies I have seen... is the short run time.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Jimmy... you can skip Wonder Woman in the review links... already have a full one up for it. :)
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I don't think you've reviewed much Film Noir, Pete, which at least the first part of Vertigo is. Before you see it again, consider Chinatown, Double Indemnity and Laura, which all share themes that Vertigo used. Less obvious, but still part of the same theme, L.A. Confidential and Touch Of Evil.
Hey Jon, do you see this...
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/dvd_reviews51/film_noir_classic_collection_vol._5.htm (http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/dvd_reviews51/film_noir_classic_collection_vol._5.htm)
Time to bust out the wallet again. ;)
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I've been sticking my fingers in my ears singing "la-la-la" as far as that series is concerned! I'll get to volume 1 one day and then it's all down hill from there.
:laugh:
I think I have all of the Fox Film Noirs that are going to be released, even Boomerang! which was withdrawn for some unknown reason. It's worth a fair bit, but a great film.
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You mean to tell me that you don't own any of that series?
Shame, shame, shame on you Jon.
Warners and RKO were the best studio's for noir.
You must rectify this forthwith.
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(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543091974f.jpg)
Title: X2: X-Men United: Widescreen
Year: 2003
Director: Bryan Singer
Rating: PG-13
Length: 134 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Patrick Stewart
Hugh Jackman
Ian McKellen
Halle Berry
Famke Janssen
James Marsden
Plot:
Following a shocking attack on the President, the X-Men must stand united with their deadliest enemies to combat a menace that threatens every mutant on the planet – and possibly all of mankind.
Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman and Halle Berry lead an all-star cast in this dazzling, action-packed spectacle that is "arguably the greatest superhero movie ever!" (Entertainment Weekly)
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Multi-angle
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This is a movie I haven't watched in a while. I don't know why I haven't watched this one again till now... it really is a very good movie. I liked it just as much... if not maybe a little more... then the first part. The story more then kept my interest. It has lots of fun with the mutants using their powers. I also liked how they go into Wolverine's past a little more in this one. I really enjoyed the entire cast in this. I can't think of a single one that didn't do a good job.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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You mean to tell me that you don't own any of that series?
Shame, shame, shame on you Jon.
Warners and RKO were the best studio's for noir.
You must rectify this forthwith.
I know, I know...
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(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4780806486_89a61f1151.jpg)
Title: Young and Innocent
Year: 1937
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Rating: NR
Length: 82 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: N/A
Stars:
Nova Pilbeam
Derrick De Marney
Percy Marmont
Edward Rigby
Mary Clare
John Longden
Plot:
A writer accused of murdering his girlfriend escapes police custody with a young woman in tow and the two fugitives attempt to find the real killer to prove the man's innocence.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
This is another movie I got in the Alfred Hitchcock: The Legend Begins set. This one turned out to be an enjoyable movie as well. It is a nice little murder mystery with a bit of comedy and romance thrown in for good measures. I do think the mystery was solved a little too easily at the end though. While not the best I ever seen... I thought the quality of the DVD was surprisingly good. But that is probably because of two things... how old the movie is and how cheap the set is. So I was expecting very low quality. Watched 2 movies out of this set now... and enjoyed them both. This is turning into a right good purchase.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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[Vertigo]
I hope you do watch it again, Pete. It is a challenging and occasionally cruel film that doesn't attempt to entertain. I've always said you need a couple of runs at it to fully appreciate it. You might just come to love it. First time I saw it, I was definitely underwhelmed. Now, five or six viewings later, the last two very close together, I regard it as Hitchcock's finest and one of the best films ever made.
Among the 14 movies I recently watched in my little Hitchcock marathon, it certainly is in the Top 3, but I'm not that enthusiastic about it. I may have missed some subtleties (Reverseshot recently had an entire essay about the use of a car honk during the first scene between Midge and Scotty), but a lot of the times his "visual storytelling" is so painfully obvious, that you can nothing but groan in frustration. Just think of the shots that mimic Scottie's POV as he sees Madeleine sitting before the portrait in the art gallery. Argh.
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(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4781358694_e43cdc1da1.jpg)
Title: Zorro's Black Whip
Year: 1944
Director: Spencer Gordon Bennet & Wallace Grissell
Rating: NR
Length: 182 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: N/A
Stars:
George J. Lewis
Linda Stirling
Lucien Littlefield
Francis McDonald
Hal Taliaferro
John Merton
Plot:
Linda Sterling was known as "The Queen of the Republic Serials" when she starred opposite George Lewis in ZORRO'S BLACK WHIP. This was one of the most strange Zorro films, for the very name was mentioned only in the main title of the picture. Throughout twelve exciting chapters, Linda was known only as "The Black Whip", who was assumed to be male until the final chapter unmasking scene. George Lewis usually played a heavy, but this time filled the starring slot as a government agent sent to assure an honest vote on Idaho Statehood. Linda's brother, who is the real Black Whip, is murdered by thugs opposing the law and order which would come with Statehood, and Linda picks up his mantle to oppose their evil in full Zorro regalia, in fact if not in name, as ZORRO'S BLACK WHIP!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
This is the second time I have watched Zorro's Black Whip since I bought the Zorro set. while the title is very misleading... I really enjoyed this one a lot. I especially enjoyed Linda Sterling as The Black Whip. See... this movie is not about Zorro at all. But a female Zorro like character. I think the studio was just cashing in on the Zorro name. Linda Stirling was very good... and very attractive. It is a shame this is the only thing I own with her in it. This serial has some fun and entertaining cliffhangers. And plenty of old time Western style action.
I especially liked that this one has a female Zorro like character. I always liked watching a good strong female. For the time this is made I find it pretty incredible. There is also some comic relief in this one also. In the form of Tenpoint Jackson... an old man that works the newspaper for Barbara... he is the only person that knows Barbara is The Black Whip. Well... through most of it anyway.
My Rating:
Out of a Possible 5
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Sorry, Pete, do excuse us a moment... ;)
[Vertigo]
I hope you do watch it again, Pete. It is a challenging and occasionally cruel film that doesn't attempt to entertain. I've always said you need a couple of runs at it to fully appreciate it. You might just come to love it. First time I saw it, I was definitely underwhelmed. Now, five or six viewings later, the last two very close together, I regard it as Hitchcock's finest and one of the best films ever made.
Among the 14 movies I recently watched in my little Hitchcock marathon, it certainly is in the Top 3, but I'm not that enthusiastic about it. I may have missed some subtleties (Reverseshot recently had an entire essay about the use of a car honk during the first scene between Midge and Scotty), but a lot of the times his "visual storytelling" is so painfully obvious, that you can nothing but groan in frustration. Just think of the shots that mimic Scottie's POV as he sees Madeleine sitting before the portrait in the art gallery. Argh.
Right there is a key point. I love that style when I watch a Hitchcock film. He manipulates the viewer with such skill... but you have to be complicit in what he's trying to do. So if you don't like it and resist, then yes, it becomes obvious. People often say that his style beget Spielberg's and I certainly see the comparison, and it's why I hold Spielberg in such high regard. Empire have just done a two issue celebration of all things Hitch and they said that both directors put themselves in the audiences seat, which I thought was apt.
Actually, on the subject of Vertigo, I liked one of the anecdotes they mentioned. Apparently, Hitchcock and Kim Novak didn't get on and one day Hitch got word from his costume designer that Novak had refused the grey suit he had chosen for her. "Damn it", he said, "I don't care what she wears as long as it's a grey suit!"... :laugh:
What were they saying about the car horn? Certainly one of the aspects of such a controlled style, coming from Expressionism I think, is that absolutely everything is contrived. If it's there, it's there for a reason.
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Right there is a key point. I love that style when I watch a Hitchcock film. He manipulates the viewer with such skill... but you have to be complicit in what he's trying to do. So if you don't like it and resist, then yes, it becomes obvious. People often say that his style beget Spielberg's and I certainly see the comparison, and it's why I hold Spielberg in such high regard. Empire have just done a two issue celebration of all things Hitch and they said that both directors put themselves in the audiences seat, which I thought was apt.
To me it is crafty, but pedestrian. Look here! Look there! See, now important plot points have been conveyed visually, not by talking. Yawn. Visual storytelling, but with way too much emphasis of the "telling". It lacks elegance, it lacks enigma, but most importantly, as a viewer I feel imprisoned. I'm quite comfortable in my audience seat, but only if I don't have to fight the director for it.
Hitchcock's style is functional, to transport exact the amount of information he intended to. The German playwright Heiner Müller once said, paraphrasing Lichtenberg I believe, that the text is smarter than the author. Hitchcock tries very hard to avoid that. There is way too often no associative freedom left for me as the viewer, which makes cases such as the gallery scene painfully boring, because I'm already way ahead of what he wants to tell me.
I wonder what you would think of Guerin's "In the City of Sylvia", which pretty much is "Vertigo" boiled down to its essence and freed of the plot - and with a dash of "Rear Window". A little unfair to compare movies from such different eras and with such different approach, but that really is what I would consider visual storytelling.
What were they saying about the car horn? Certainly one of the aspects of such a controlled style, coming from Expressionism I think, is that absolutely everything is contrived. If it's there, it's there for a reason.
It's about how Hitchcock added the honking of a car horn in the exact moment as Midge looks up to Scottie and how it is the only exterior sound in a carefully edited studio scene, where the actress who played Midge had no clue what that look was about. An expansion of what you already said about Hitchcock's controlled style.
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Link to the "Vertigo" article I mentioned above:
http://www.reverseshot.com/article/vertigo_0 (http://www.reverseshot.com/article/vertigo_0)