Kakaku：1299 saved$12.99
Universal Studios
Not yet released IPhone 3G used's review (First Feel-Good Musical to Hit the Theatres in a Long Time) 『I love musicals. But I am very picky about which ones I watch, and which ones I buy for repeat performances. MAMA MIA was the first musical that multiple generations can appreciate. For the first time, I wasn't the young pup represented in most musicals, but the mother experiencing love lost, found again, and letting go of your children. I found myself amazed with Meryl Streep's voice, cheering on Pierce Brosnan's (and yes, sometimes he hit a sour note, but when your boyfriend is singing to you something really sweet...who cares?)and laughing at how the screenplay writers incorporated particular tunes (Chickadita! Loved it!). I love Christine Baranski and have became a new fan of Julie ___ (can't remember her last name). I would love to have a set of friends like Julie, Meryl, and Christine.
I grew up in the ABBA-hit era, but did not "love" them. They were another group that had some great songs. But I did really "love" the way that these songs were not stripped of their melody, and still the words represented something current.
There were silly gestures, and some cheesy dances...but I liked it. It made me smile. Like watching your folks dance....
Long and the short...Mama Mia is worth buying. Buy the soundtrack, buy the DVD. Make yourself feel good, without a therapist.』
(Don't care what critics have said... I had fun!) 『This is supposed to be a musical comedy and it was, so the goal was reached. I'm not a fan of ABBA, but I don't hate their music... besides, it represents a generation, let's say it's part of history. The situations together with lyrics were appropiated, on time... a pretty smart combination. The performers had fun doing this movie and this is exported towards the audience you can notice that, you can feel it, just that fact makes you laugh and somehow be part of that experience. Watch the movie without prejudice and you will enjoy it... I'm definetely buying the DVD.』
(ABBA GOLD) 『What can I say other than the music created by the Swedish musical group nearly 40 years ago is simply to be treasured by all ages. I love ABBA music and waited years for the popular musical Mamma Mia to make it to the big screen and now Mamma Mia on DVD. I have never been a huge fan of Meryl Streep but she gives a wonderful virtuoso performance in this movie. Same for newcomer Amanda Seyfried. Neither actress is known for their singing ability, but are simply messmerizing in Mamma Mia. ABBA's music is timeless and pure joy in this romantic lost and found musical love story. If you look hard one of the original members of ABBA has a cameo in the movie; one of the two "BB" (Bjorn ans Benny) in the sensational signing group's name. The on location photography is beautiful in this movie as the story unfolds. The only fairly deserved criticism is the signing of the leading man (aka 007). Pierce Bronsan is way below par compared to the rest of the cast, but still nails his character's (dramatic) performance in this who's who of a Father-Daughter-Mother love story. If you've seen the play, the story is still the same, if not a bit over the top. Still, the signing and even the dancing in the movie version is just as entertaining and enjoyable to the audience. One thing for sure this movie cries out to be HEARD, so turn up the volume and delight in all the stirring melodies and lyrical music of ABBA. This DVD will make you feel good to be alive, and best enjoyed by singing along. Why not? Celebrate the music of Mamma Mia!』
(Don't feel embarrassed - this movie is a delight!) 『As a male, I probably shouldnt say this in public, but I'm a big fan of ABBA's music and you shouldn't feel embarrassed about seeing this film. It is such feel good fun, you will love it.
In this brilliant, joyful film adaption of the hit stage show, 20-year-old Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) lives with her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) on the small Greek island of Kalokairi where Donna runs a hotel called Villa Donna. Sophie is about to be married and discovers that any one of 3 men could be her father. But is it Sam (Pierce Brosnan), Harry (Colin Firth) or Bill (Stellan Skarsgard)? Sophie invites all 3 men to her wedding without telling Donna, who was the singer in a group called Donna and the Dynamos.
Glorious music and songs, imaginatively staged numbers and a fine sense of fun are present in this film. I loved it!
While Pierce Brosnan sounds awful, and sings like a lawnmower - and Colin Firth sounds rather nasal when singing "Last Summer" on guitar - in a funny way, the casting of actors who sing like us plebs works and adds to the fun and charm of the film. The wedding setting also works because you can imagine everyone at a wedding getting up and dancing or singing. Meryl Streep has an excellent singing voice which will astonish sceptics, and I also thought the actress playing the daughter sang well! The passionate renditions of The Winner Takes It All and Thank You For The Music are my highlights, and yet some uptempo songs are great too (Waterloo, Lay All Your Love On Me etc). I also think there are 1 or 2 touching moments in the film. Yes the screenplay is very cheesy, and it may be camp as Christmas, but you will surely leave the theatre smiling. Delightful. 』
(One of the WORST movies I've ever loved!) 『Yes, the critics are right. It's cheesy. The plot's an embarrassment. And Brosnan can't sing. But it was GREAT!
This movie is meant for audience participation. That's why there are sub-titles/lyrics when the singing starts - Sing along! After the movie was released, ABBA's music had a revival.
And this is not really a movie - just an excuse to sing along to ABBA songs. And a reminder of when you used to know these songs so well.
And Pierce Brosnan's role in the movie is simply so you'd know that at least you're not the worst singer of the day!』 『The delirious sight of Meryl Streep leading a river of multigenerational women singing "Dancing Queen" is one of the high points ofMamma Mia!, the musical built around the songs of the hugely popular pop group ABBA. The plot sets in motion when Sophie (Amanda Seyfried,Mean Girls), daughter of Donna (Streep), sends a letter to three men, inviting them to her wedding--because after reading her mother's diary, she suspects that one of them is her father. When all three arrive at the Greek island where Donna runs a hotel, Donna flips out and finds that passions she thought she'd laid aside are coming back to life. But let's face it, the plot is not the point--it's a ridiculous contrivance that provides an excuse for the characters to sing the massive hits of ABBA. Regrettably, first-time film director Phyllida Lloyd (who directed the original stage production) has drawn over-the-top performances from everyone involved, even Streep; every production number hammers its exuberance into your eyeballs. Which is too bad, becauseMamma Mia!is a rarity: A middle-aged love story. The kids start things off, but the story is really about Streep and the three guys (former James Bond Pierce Brosnan, former Mr. Darcy Colin Firth, and Swedish star Stellan Skarsgard), as well as Donna's best friends (Christine Baranski, best known from the TV showCybill, and Julie Walters,Calendar Girls). It's a romantic comedy aimed at the people who were around when all these songs were new, and that's an age group Hollywood largely ignores. For that alone,Mamma Mia!deserves to find an audience.--Bret Fetzer』
Kakaku：1299 saved$12.99
Universal Studios
Not yet released IPhone 3G used's review (First Feel-Good Musical to Hit the Theatres in a Long Time) 『I love musicals. But I am very picky about which ones I watch, and which ones I buy for repeat performances. MAMA MIA was the first musical that multiple generations can appreciate. For the first time, I wasn't the young pup represented in most musicals, but the mother experiencing love lost, found again, and letting go of your children. I found myself amazed with Meryl Streep's voice, cheering on Pierce Brosnan's (and yes, sometimes he hit a sour note, but when your boyfriend is singing to you something really sweet...who cares?)and laughing at how the screenplay writers incorporated particular tunes (Chickadita! Loved it!). I love Christine Baranski and have became a new fan of Julie ___ (can't remember her last name). I would love to have a set of friends like Julie, Meryl, and Christine.
I grew up in the ABBA-hit era, but did not "love" them. They were another group that had some great songs. But I did really "love" the way that these songs were not stripped of their melody, and still the words represented something current.
There were silly gestures, and some cheesy dances...but I liked it. It made me smile. Like watching your folks dance....
Long and the short...Mama Mia is worth buying. Buy the soundtrack, buy the DVD. Make yourself feel good, without a therapist.』
(Don't care what critics have said... I had fun!) 『This is supposed to be a musical comedy and it was, so the goal was reached. I'm not a fan of ABBA, but I don't hate their music... besides, it represents a generation, let's say it's part of history. The situations together with lyrics were appropiated, on time... a pretty smart combination. The performers had fun doing this movie and this is exported towards the audience you can notice that, you can feel it, just that fact makes you laugh and somehow be part of that experience. Watch the movie without prejudice and you will enjoy it... I'm definetely buying the DVD.』
(ABBA GOLD) 『What can I say other than the music created by the Swedish musical group nearly 40 years ago is simply to be treasured by all ages. I love ABBA music and waited years for the popular musical Mamma Mia to make it to the big screen and now Mamma Mia on DVD. I have never been a huge fan of Meryl Streep but she gives a wonderful virtuoso performance in this movie. Same for newcomer Amanda Seyfried. Neither actress is known for their singing ability, but are simply messmerizing in Mamma Mia. ABBA's music is timeless and pure joy in this romantic lost and found musical love story. If you look hard one of the original members of ABBA has a cameo in the movie; one of the two "BB" (Bjorn ans Benny) in the sensational signing group's name. The on location photography is beautiful in this movie as the story unfolds. The only fairly deserved criticism is the signing of the leading man (aka 007). Pierce Bronsan is way below par compared to the rest of the cast, but still nails his character's (dramatic) performance in this who's who of a Father-Daughter-Mother love story. If you've seen the play, the story is still the same, if not a bit over the top. Still, the signing and even the dancing in the movie version is just as entertaining and enjoyable to the audience. One thing for sure this movie cries out to be HEARD, so turn up the volume and delight in all the stirring melodies and lyrical music of ABBA. This DVD will make you feel good to be alive, and best enjoyed by singing along. Why not? Celebrate the music of Mamma Mia!』
(Don't feel embarrassed - this movie is a delight!) 『As a male, I probably shouldnt say this in public, but I'm a big fan of ABBA's music and you shouldn't feel embarrassed about seeing this film. It is such feel good fun, you will love it.
In this brilliant, joyful film adaption of the hit stage show, 20-year-old Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) lives with her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) on the small Greek island of Kalokairi where Donna runs a hotel called Villa Donna. Sophie is about to be married and discovers that any one of 3 men could be her father. But is it Sam (Pierce Brosnan), Harry (Colin Firth) or Bill (Stellan Skarsgard)? Sophie invites all 3 men to her wedding without telling Donna, who was the singer in a group called Donna and the Dynamos.
Glorious music and songs, imaginatively staged numbers and a fine sense of fun are present in this film. I loved it!
While Pierce Brosnan sounds awful, and sings like a lawnmower - and Colin Firth sounds rather nasal when singing "Last Summer" on guitar - in a funny way, the casting of actors who sing like us plebs works and adds to the fun and charm of the film. The wedding setting also works because you can imagine everyone at a wedding getting up and dancing or singing. Meryl Streep has an excellent singing voice which will astonish sceptics, and I also thought the actress playing the daughter sang well! The passionate renditions of The Winner Takes It All and Thank You For The Music are my highlights, and yet some uptempo songs are great too (Waterloo, Lay All Your Love On Me etc). I also think there are 1 or 2 touching moments in the film. Yes the screenplay is very cheesy, and it may be camp as Christmas, but you will surely leave the theatre smiling. Delightful. 』
(One of the WORST movies I've ever loved!) 『Yes, the critics are right. It's cheesy. The plot's an embarrassment. And Brosnan can't sing. But it was GREAT!
This movie is meant for audience participation. That's why there are sub-titles/lyrics when the singing starts - Sing along! After the movie was released, ABBA's music had a revival.
And this is not really a movie - just an excuse to sing along to ABBA songs. And a reminder of when you used to know these songs so well.
And Pierce Brosnan's role in the movie is simply so you'd know that at least you're not the worst singer of the day!』 『The delirious sight of Meryl Streep leading a river of multigenerational women singing "Dancing Queen" is one of the high points ofMamma Mia!, the musical built around the songs of the hugely popular pop group ABBA. The plot sets in motion when Sophie (Amanda Seyfried,Mean Girls), daughter of Donna (Streep), sends a letter to three men, inviting them to her wedding--because after reading her mother's diary, she suspects that one of them is her father. When all three arrive at the Greek island where Donna runs a hotel, Donna flips out and finds that passions she thought she'd laid aside are coming back to life. But let's face it, the plot is not the point--it's a ridiculous contrivance that provides an excuse for the characters to sing the massive hits of ABBA. Regrettably, first-time film director Phyllida Lloyd (who directed the original stage production) has drawn over-the-top performances from everyone involved, even Streep; every production number hammers its exuberance into your eyeballs. Which is too bad, becauseMamma Mia!is a rarity: A middle-aged love story. The kids start things off, but the story is really about Streep and the three guys (former James Bond Pierce Brosnan, former Mr. Darcy Colin Firth, and Swedish star Stellan Skarsgard), as well as Donna's best friends (Christine Baranski, best known from the TV showCybill, and Julie Walters,Calendar Girls). It's a romantic comedy aimed at the people who were around when all these songs were new, and that's an age group Hollywood largely ignores. For that alone,Mamma Mia!deserves to find an audience.--Bret Fetzer』
Kakaku：149 saved$1.49
Mazzarella Media
Usually ships in 1 to 3 weeks 『A fun way to learn colors and shapes. Take a seat under the big top and get ready for the most dazzling learning experience ever-the Colors and Shapes Circus! Colorful music videos, a magic show and lots of crazy clown antics will teach kids the primary and secondary colors as well as basic shapes.』
Kakaku：249 saved$2.49
Cinema Epoch
Usually ships in 1 to 2 days 『Joãozinho lives in the Vila de Nossa Senhora da Guia, and is brought up by his grandmother. Very ill, and unable to get around, old Didinha brings her grandson up on a pittance of a pension and milk from their goat. One night, Joãozinho wakes up with his grandmother praying that God take her for shecan no longer bear the pain of her disease and the lack of money to buy medicine. Joãozinho hears this and decides to sell their goat and, with the money, buy the medicine his grandmother requires. In While on his journey, he discovers the ancient and the new architecture of the capital, personalities from the cultural and political life, and the good and the bad sides of the city.』
Kakaku：646 saved$6.46
Liberation Ent
Not yet released 『A historic meeting so gripping and poignant it has been adapted into an award-winning stage play and major motion picture.
This program, culled from the over 28 hours of interview footage between Sir David Frost and U.S. President Richard M. Nixon, was originally broadcast in May of 1977. Never before, nor since, has a U.S. President been so candid on camera. Even more intriguing is the fact that Nixon agreed to appear on camera with no pre-interview preparation or screening of questions. The most famous of this series of interviews is in the final segment that focused solely on Watergate.
This program also contains new footage with Sir David Frost shot in 2007 discussing the historical impact of the interview along with his reactions of their famous encounter. Frost also discusses his views on Peter Morgan's interpretation and screenplay adaptation of this historical event.』
Kakaku：1299 saved$12.99
Universal Studios
Not yet released IPhone 3G used's review (Fun Action Movie!) 『I went into this movie expecting allot of great gunfights and action scenes... That's exactly what I got... If you went any deeper it wouldn't satisfy but it did what I expected...』
(Did a five year old write this movie?) 『WANTED stars James McAvoy (I guess Shia Lebouf wasn't available?) as Wesley, a down on his luck guy who works at a dead end job, has a girlfriend that cheats on him, and has no money to his name. Just when he's reached the end of his rope, he's recruited by a mysterious woman named Fox (Angelina Jolie) to join an elite group of assassins called "The Fraternity". It's revealed that Wesley's estranged father was a member of The Fraternity and one of the top assassins who, ironically, was killed by a rogue Fraternity member who left the group. Under the guidance of Fox, Fraternity leader Sloan (Morgan Freeman), and a few other characters, Wesley undergoes intense and brutal training in order to harness the inherited assassin-like characteristics that were genetically passed on to him by his father. The ultimate goal: to find the man who killed his father and avenge his death.
The premise sounds really cool, but when I first saw the trailer for this movie it automatically had two BIG striked against it. One being Angelina Jolie who I absolutely can't stand and the other being the shots of bullets moving in slow motion and apparently curving around objects to hit a target that's hidden in the background. Personally, slow motion bullets annoy the hell out of me. I know, it's weird and I really can't explain it. Maybe because of the fact of how RIDICULOUS it looks! How about slow motion brains coming out of someone's skull AFTER the bullet hits it? Now that would be cool. So anyway, with the two striked against it back when it was in theaters, that meant only one thing... wait 'til the DVD comes out. Which I did. And after finally watching it, hoping to be proved wrong about my assumptions about how bad the movies is, I can say that it is as bad even WORSE than I thought.
Basically WANTED is a one and a half star movie (MAYBE even two) that's saved by two things: Morgan Freeman and great special effects. Other than that, the film is poorly written and it's amazing how a screenplay like this can even be considered by a major studio and given the budget that this film has. The action scenes and shootouts are ridiculous and seem like they were dreamed up by someone with the mentality (or imagination) of a five year old boy (for example, a shootout in which both of the gunmen are such expert shots that every time they open fire at each other, their respective bullets crash into one another). And trust me... I love dumb Action movies with over the top violence... but this one was just horrible. It seems like half the movie is in slow motion for absolutely no reason other than to look cool or something. The best way that I can explain it is by asking a question. Have you ever watched a movie that's so dumb, that you actually felt insulted or even offended by even watching it because of the level of stupidity? Well, WANTED is that movie for me.
As far as good things, the special effects were great. The effects showcased a lot of unbelievably stupid scenes but the actual effects were executed very well. Even amidst the stupidity, I actually did find a couple of moments that I liked in the film. My favorite scene is where Wesley shoots a guy in the head, sticks his gun through the hole in the guy's head and runs around with his corpse as a shield and basically shooting his firearm while it's shoved completely through the guys skull. Also the climax of the film is almost like a video game where Wesley appears to be going through different levels and taking on a miniboss of sorts until finally reaching the person (or people) that he REALLY wants to kill. There's also a twist toward the end that I didn't see coming. I won't say what it is, but let's just say that its a ripoff of EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.
Overall, I wouldn't recommend WANTED unless you like Angelina Jolie (you do after all get to see her naked wet buttocks, along with her terrible acting) or unless you like really stupid Action films with an emphasis on the Action and no brains to the story whatsoever. Also the one disc version of the DVD has absolutely no Extra Features. But with my personal feelings on the movie aside, I decided to give the movie a fair rating (a two and a half is generous). WANTED has moments of fun in it, great effects and visuals with an interesting twist in the plot. However, if you're anything like me and can't stand watching films with weak scripts, then you should avoid this movie like the plague because it's about as weak as it gets.
2.5 stars』
(Hmmmm.) 『This will be my first review. I wanted my first review to be a positive one. Ah, well, the best laid plans . . . I did feel I had to put how I felt after reading the rave reviews. I haven't read the comic, so I can't tell you what I think in that direction.
The story is creative, and yes the plot is thin. Outside the box the theories of this fantasy world are intriguing. I'm thankful there wasn't as much gore as fans may want, and in my life I don't care for it as I did in my younger days.
The only character that had depth was the young adult played by McAvoy. You know what? I truly believe any film needs characters that you would relate to or get to know and love/like/hate. Even action films. I know some of you disagree there, but I think some of the best action films out there have characters that mean something, or learn something or that you can feel for.
An assassination group with scruples? How does killing people fit into any type of "norm" for anyone? Okay, maybe to some people who imagine out there that it would be cool to be a killer. Society tells people they can't discipline their kids, then when that kid becomes bad it's the parents fault. Hmmmmm, why do we get into these type of movies, and how do we teach our youth that this is not what you want to do, or be or desire to play out? How can we let them know that we want them to have long, productive lives and have loved ones support them in their endeavors?
I wouldn't let my children (18 or below) watch this type of film (the higher age bracket, 16-18, I would make sure they know the difference between real and imaginary - but that's for you all out there. I would never knowingly attend this type of movie with the entire age group - I think it's inappropriate.)
I myself will never watch the film again. I have watched few movies that I can say that of, and I won't list them here. It did teach me to monitor my own film viewings. I'll have to screen better to make sure it's something I would want to see myself.』
(Non-stop action) 『I am a woman who likes her action movies, and this one does not disappoint. Amazing effects, incredible stuntwork, and the casting is perfect! Three of my favorites(McAvoy, Morgan, and Jolie)in one movie, pure enjoyment. Highly recommended for those who are looking for a butt-kicking escape.』
(Not great) 『I really enjoyed the action scenes - shootouts, car chases, etc. But the overall story of the movie is absolutely absurd. The scenes with Wesley and Janice reminded me of Office Space. :)』 『As the impresario behind gravity-defying Russian blockbusterNight Watch, it's inevitable that Hollywood would come calling for Timur Bekmambetov. With a studio budget and an international cast, including two Oscar winners, Timur cooks up a Hong Kong-styled actioner bursting with fast cars and big guns. Our unlikely hero is mild-mannered Chicago accountant Wesley Gibson (Atonement'sJames McAvoy), whose father died when he was a tot. Wesley never learned to stand up for himself, and his girlfriend, boss, and best buddy all take advantage until the seductive Fox (Angelina Jolie) rescues him from a sharpshooter named Cross (The Pianist’sThomas Kretschmann). After which, she whisks him away to a mansion on the edge of town to meet the other members of the Fraternity, where leader Sloan (Morgan Freeman) informs Wesley that Cross, a rogue agent, executed his father. Sloan believes Wesley has the goods to take him out, so he undergoes the Fraternity's brutal training regimen (Marc Warren and Common dish up some of the abuse). When he's ready, Sloan sends him out to fulfill his duty, but matters become complicated when Wesley finds out someone isn't telling the truth, leading our former milquetoast to exact an elaborate revenge. For those who've been following McAvoy's career to date, Wanted will surely come as a surprise. In adapting Mark Millar's comic series, Timur offers buckets of blood and a smidgen of depth, but fans ofThe MatrixandMr. and Mrs. Smithwill want to give this one a look. --Kathleen C. Fennessy
Kakaku：150 saved$1.50
Paramount
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (It's good fun) 『I'm not a big fan of King Kong, but I have seen all three films: 1933, 1976, and 2005. The original 1933 film is a classic in its own right. The 2005 remake could've been better, but it had its moments. And right in the middle, the first 1976 remake is a love-or-hate motion picture. There are no dinosaurs, no chewing on natives, and no famous T-rex fight, which makes it a bit less exciting. Unlike the others, which are set in 1933, this one is set in the 70's. It's filled with politics, environmental issues, industrial strife, etc. And it has more of that than it has action.
But I don't mind the 70's politics. I like this film for what it is. Jeff Bridges gives an adequate performance, while Charles Grodin does seem to overact sometimes. Jessica Lange is a bit irritating with her sterotypical blondegirl attitude. But then her chemistry with the giant ape goes a much deeper than the original 1933 (Fay Wray just screams, while Jessica Lange, along with Naomi Watts, try to humor the fella). Speaking of ape, this ape looks realistic. Instead of stop-motion animation, this one is a guy (Rick Baker) in an ape suit. It can look cheesy at times, but his emotions have a far better effect than 1933.
The action sequences lack suspense, which both 2005 and 1933 have. The big snake (which is the only thing that Kong fights) is one laughable prop. The music is quite good and bombastic, and intentinoal humor found in this film are spot-on. I seem to like 2005 and 1976 more than 1933, because he feel much more for the ape and the woman he has a crush on. But 1933 is still a classic, and nothing would ever beat it in terms of revolutionary special effects.
P.S. I wonder what it would be like if King Kong was set in 2008.』
(Big Guy Learns Hard Racial Lesson) 『Lots of people have their opinions about this motion picture, and quite frankly, it has been reviewed based on its cinematic arts quite enough. But since the film is really a tart political statement, I offer a political review:
When it comes right down to it, this film is about a black guy who's in love with a gorgeous white woman. He just wants to live with her in peace, away from the interference of others. The uptight society of 1933 and 1976 couldn't put up with these kinds of shenanigans, so they stop at nothing to break the couple apart. They hunt him, trap him, cuff him by his wrists and ankles, incarcerate him without a trial and eventually decide it's best to just execute the guy by firing squad. Anything to prevent race-mixing.
It must be said that Kong has superb taste in women. He was also years or decades ahead of his time. Kudos, big dude. However, his flair for romance makes him public enemy number one, so they send airplanes and helicopters to destroy tall, dark and handsome when he takes a stroll to visit the World Trade Center. Surely this is how to treat out of town tourists.
The woman (Jessica Lange) prefers the hairy black guy (Kong) over the hairy white guy (Jeff Bridges). Speaking as a hairy white guy myself that would love to end up with such a gal, it brought tears to my eyes. Still, I don't think this tender misunderstood love merits the death penalty. I'm just not the racist that some others are. I know, it's one of my failings. I'm a flawed human being.
There are clear life lessons here: even when the white girl loves a man who refuses to get a shave and a haircut, people won't let them live and let live. Putting on a monkey suit is no guarantee of success in this world. You have to get rid of the excessive body hair in order to survive, even in New York City. Forcing long-haired freaks like Kong and myself to conform to arbitrary standards is un-American and uncivilized. Look in your mirror and ask yourself who the real animals are.
I do prefer the 1933 (masterpiece) version, but this one rocks in its own right. Dino De Larentis has made a great film. I remember the model for this flick residing on the Universal Studios Tour for years afterwards, becoming a slickly-promoted side show freak like the mechanical shark from Jaws. I have no idea whether he's still there.
This film is about the peace movement, tourism, greedy oil companies, animal rights, police brutality, racism, hairism and the death and destruction that come when you monkey around with someone's natural environment. Jessica Lange is very easy on the eyes and Kong literally fills the screen, while Jeff Bridges, the white, long-haired, peace-loving liberal tries to save the day.
In the end, we must ask ourselves: if someone the size of Kong isn't safe on the streets of New York, then who is?
』
(King Kong '70's version) 『Not the greatest when viewing it now. I purchased it because I now have all three versions; the original, the 70's version and the newest CGI version. It brings back a lot of fun memories on earlier acting techniques and I can remember when the special effects of this movie were considered great. I won't leave out the great performance of Charles Grodin in this version. Not Jeff Bridges greatest acting nor the new Jessica Lange but it has sentimental value.』
(Not worth it whats so ever!) 『This movie sucks! The other versons of King Kong are great and classic. But for King Kong (1976)&King Kong Lives, the producers were obviously not thinking straight. I mean King Kong climbs up the National Trade Center rather than the Empire State Building. Jack Driscoll looks like Jesus Crist. Ann's name is Dwan? Carl Denhem dies by getting squshed by King Kong. So no "The Beauty killed the beast" unless it was said by someone else!!! So don't give this one a chance but go see the other ones. It's with it :)』
(Amazon's critic M. Fine should be fired!) 『King Kong '76 was one of my favorite movies as a child, when I saw it for the first time I tought it was phenomenal. Now as an adult I can see the movie has many flaws, mainly Jessica Lange's acting, but to be qualified as utter trash as Mr. Marshall describes it, it is just plainly unfair, this movie has many qualities: great cinematography, great music score, natural sets, an atmosphere that only 70's movies possesed and the monster itself while not great, is better than any CGI garbage. I prefer this movie a 1000 times than Peter Jackson's fiasco, he is one of the most overrated movie directors ever, that movie has bad acting all over and doesn't look real to me (I'm not a big fan of CGI). I think movie critics are biased most of the times and not objective, I think this movie deserves a chance to be seen.』 『The Big Apple is again besieged by the monstrous King Kong. Jeff Bridges and Jessica Lange star in this ambitious remake of the 1933 original, which adds a great deal of camp and good fun to the story, Again, the gargantuan ape battles attacking aircraft high above the streets of New York, this time plunging from the top of the World Trade Center to his death amidst thousands of horrified onlookers. King Kong won an Oscar for special effects, and the horror and the thrills are brought anew to another generation in this classy production.』 『Before John Hughes claimed the mantle of Hollywood's antichrist, that title was firmly held by producer Dino De Laurentiis, whose middle name may have been "hubris." He vowed that this remake of the 1933 horror classic would be a bigger hit thanJawsand that his Kong would be more sympathetic than the shark. But for all the money he spent on trying to make this monkey look real, the biggest special effect was making Jeff Bridges look like a monkey--and nearly destroying Jessica Lange's acting career before it started. The film was noteworthy mostly for how cheesy the ape looks, though this was one of the first films to be shot at the then-new World Trade Center. Even Charles Grodin, as the villainous promoter, can't get laughs in this idiotic film.--Marshall Fine』
Kakaku：950 saved$9.50
VCI Entertainment
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (A Christmas Carol-Alstair Sims) 『This is without a doubt the best version of the Charles Dicken's classic ever made. If you only have one Christmas film in your collection it should be this one.』
(REVIEW OF THE SINGLE DISC B&W COLOR RELEASE 1989!) 『VCI Entertainment released a single disc version of this film almost 20 years ago. The print on it is faded and the color process is a bit fake looking. I can only hope that this new 2 disc edition from the same company is much better!....I would think so after 20 years.
The film itself is considered a classic by many, but this particular version is dated and stagey! It's slow moving with Alastair Sim being the only shinning light! I never saw this version as a kid and I think that is why I'm a bit critical of it. I have no fond memories of this movie, although I love the story! For those of you who love this version, please enjoy it as much as you like! I won't be spending my holidays watching this film version ever again! My DVD version(the single disc VCI edition from 89') has a washed out transfer, bad coloring and not much in the way of extras, including a vintage cartoon version of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Maybe the 2 disc edition has enough going for it, to make me love this film?』
(True restoration) 『Because I read several negative reviews of this restoration I purchased the disc with some misgivings. I'm happy to report that my misgivings were not justified. Now, no one is harder to please than me when it comes to DVD image and sound quality. This is the best looking version of this film I've seen to date. Overall detail is vastly improved over the previous release as is contrast. I can see textures in clothing I've never seen before, as well as detail in shadows that were lacking in previous releases. The sound is 100% improved (even the Dolby Surround is effective). While there is some footage that is a bit degraded it quite minimal and accounts for only a minute or two of the entire film.
Overall, a great restoration job!
』
(YOU CAN'T TOP ALISTAIR SIM'S SCROOGE.) 『Ever since I can remember, Christmas hasn't been Christmas without at least one viewing of this film. Even waaaay back to the days before VCRs and 300 cable channels, living in a small Arkansas town, my brother and I would scour the TV guide that came in the Sunday paper to see if it was coming on one of the three channels we got. (How did we survive?)
I also have the 2002 disc, and comparing them on my setup it's obvious that alot of care has gone into the restoration efforts. However (here comes the nit-pick)...watch the scene where the door to Scrooge's sitting room flies open in advance of Marley's entrance. Scrooge leaps up from his chair and cowers against the wall...his mouth is opening BUT YOU CAN'T HEAR HIM UTTER HIS CRY OF FEAR! This, to me, is shoddy audio engineering...since of course it's loud and clear on the 2002 version. Someone apparently dropped the audio out when the transfer was being done. Yes, I know this is a very, very minor point, but it's still a point. So I actually give the disc creators 4 stars. If they were as dedicated to the full restoration of this film as the packaging would have us believe, they wouldn't have missed something so trivial.』
(A Christmas Carol (Ultimate Collector's Edition)(B/W&Color)) 『I don't really have to write anything do I?????
The life of a Scrooge transformed by the Love of a friends. Watch both though I do really prefer the black&white one just being nostalgic.』 『Alastair Sim's tour-de-force performance as the ultimate miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, has almost single-handedly made this beloved version of Charles Dickens' story into one of the best-loved Christmas films of all time. Some of Britain's best filmmakers united behind Sim, who was joined by a delightful cast of accomplished and acclaimed English actors; creating what many today believe to be the best and most faithful production of Dickens' immortal tale. Cranky and curmudgeonly Scrooge learns the error of his unkind ways and is taught the true meaning of the holidays when he is visited by the ghost of his late business partner and the spirits of Christmas past, present and future.Bonus Features:Audio Commentary by Marcus Hearn&George Cole, "Spirit of Christmas Past" - George Cole remembers Alastair Sim, "Richard Gordon Remembers George Minter&Renown Pictures", "Charles Dickens - His Life&Times", Bonus Colorized Version, Original American Theatrical Trailer, Original British Theatrical Trailer, Before&After Restoration Comparison, Optional English&Spanish Subtitles, Optional Narrative for the Blind, Photo&Press Book Gallery, Cast Bios, "Scrooge" (1935 Seymour Hicks Version)Specs:2-DVD9s; Dolby Digital 5.1; 86 minutes; B&W / Color; Aspect Ratio: B&W Restored Version - 1.33:1; Optional 16x9 Enhanced for Widescreen Monitors; Colorized Version - 1.33:1; MPAA - NR; Year - 1951; SRP - $19.99.』 『This is the desert-island choice of the many versions ofA Christmas Carol, with a magnificent, full-bodied portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge by Alastair Sim that leaves everyone else in the dust. Lean and direct, this film's version of the story wastes no time trying to impress viewers with the magical nature of the spirits' visitations. Director Brian Desmond Hurst keeps the focus on Scrooge's life story, beautifully simplifying and underscoring the theme of lost women with a haunting musical refrain from the folk song "Barbara Allen." Sim's commitment to the role is at times astonishing; his Scrooge's Christmas-morning ecstasy is a marvel of giddy technique. Watch for Patrick Macnee (Steed inThe Avengers) as the young Jacob Marley--the actor made his screen debut in this 1951 production.--Tom Keogh
On the DVD This ultimate collectors' edition is crammed with special features, on both discs.
Amazon exclusive video: George Cole, who played the young Ebenezer Scrooge, reflects.Watch here
Find out what’s new on this restored version ofA Christmas Carol. Watch here
Never-before-seen U.S. and U.K. trailers. Watch here
Film (and Charles Dickens) fans won't want to miss a single screen. The audio commentary by Marcus Hearn and George Cole adds depth and perspective to Sim's amazing performance, and the groundbreaking special effects for the time. Cole also gives a homey remembrance of working with Sim during World War II and living in the English countryside to avoid the Blitz.
One of the most compelling extras is a short bio of George Mintner, the film's executive producer who would go on to found his own successful distribution company, Renown Pictures. An unlikely film mogul, the British Mintner was shy and bookish, but managed to build a reputable mini-studio in the '50s, out of the Hollywood limelight. He produced mostly B-movies, though afterA Christmas Carol(originally titledScrooge), he produced another Dickens adaptation,The Pickwick Papers. There's a great mini-bio of Dickens, who grew up in the poverty that later fascinated him in his writings. Other extras include the colorized version (what were people thinking back in the '80s?), cast bios, original trailers, and a features that more film companies might want to consider, an optional narration for the blind. Nothing is left out for film fans--God bless us, every one.--A.T. Hurley
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