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Universal Studios
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Big Red is Back...) 『Out of all the comic book based movies that have been released over the last several years, I can only think of one that I just knew would have difficulty striking a chord with audiences; and yet, I found myself to be completely surprised when the end result turned out to be a great success. The film I am referring to was the 2004 surprise hit, "Hellboy" starring Ron Perlman as a bright red, demonic monster hunter. Before the original film arrived in theaters, the promotional images looked impressive, especially the make-up effects work being done to create Hellboy's devilish visage; which was something I never thought would look even remotely realistic. Yet, somehow what I once thought impossible, without going cheesy, B-movie-esque with the whole production, was brought to an entertaining reality. With the release of "Hellboy" and its anxiously awaited sequel "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army", both films directed by critically acclaimed director Guillermo Del Toro ("Blade 2"), a once obscure comic book hero has broken into the mainstream, and a new franchise is taking Hollywood by storm.
"Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" finds our crimson hero (Ron Perlman) grappling with personal issues centering around his fiery relationship with Liz (Selma Blair) and his desire to become widely known and accepted by the public that still believes him to be a myth. Meanwhile, an ancient truce is unraveling, and dark forces, led by the power hungry Prince Nuada (Luke Goss), are gathering to wage a devastating war upon humanity the likes of which have never been seen.
Earlier in 2008, when the first trailers started appearing to signal the upcoming arrival of "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army", I was excited about seeing the movie for two reasons. One, the original film was so much fun and a truly great comic book adaptation; and two, from what I could tell of the story from the previews, the second film looked as if it was going to be another exciting adventure starring our favorite demonic devil buster, and early buzz had it sounding as if it could even be a bit better than its predecessor. From my perspective, I don't know if I can say that this is one of those rare instances where the sequel surpasses the original film, but I do believe that it is easily an equal to "Hellboy" in every way.
The story for the original film was two-fold, first and foremost, it seemed to be a very faithful film adaptation of a semi-popular Dark Horse comic book that had yet to break into the mainstream with the heroes of DC Comics or Marvel; secondly, it was a terrific jumping on point for typical movie audiences (obviously), and for those comic book fans that had not been introduced to the character yet, and perhaps had only heard about him in passing or whatever the case may be. With the first film, writer Guillermo Del Toro obviously had to get the obligatory origin tale out of the way for audiences to be able to relate to and understand this rather atypical superhero. With "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army", Del Toro (once again returning as writer and director) was able to essentially dispense with the pleasantries, so to speak, and just dive into the two main driving forces of the story.
The primary plot of the film, in my opinion, centers on Hellboy and Liz's chaotic romance, and his need for acceptance from anyone and everyone around him. Generally, I get kind of annoyed when comic book films make a romance the focal point of the story (for example, the Spider-Man series; great films, too much romance though), yet in this instance the romantic angle was handled with an appropriate dosage of humor and seriousness, that it never feels too heavy-handed or bogs the story down in any way. The secondary plot revolved around Prince Nuada's bid for power in his realm, and his quest for vengeance upon the human world. It was this latter storyline that propelled the action/adventure aspect of the story, while the former provided the dramatic element needed to keep the film interesting.
What was nice about having these two major plots running concurrently throughout the movie was the fact that Del Toro was wise enough to intertwine them at various points throughout the duration of the film. Sometimes when two major plot lines drive a story, they tend to not intersect with each other all that much, and at times this can result in one of the stories not feeling quite as resolved as the other (most likely as an attempt to cash in on a sequel). For "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" the two plots both come to satisfying conclusions providing the audience with a sense of resolution should another sequel not occur; while still leaving enough of an opening for a follow-up should the opportunity arise.
If I were to judge "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" purely from a visual effects standpoint, then it is by far a superior film to the original. Of course this is the result of a heftier budget, thanks in no small part to the success of "Hellboy". Even with a sizeable budget increase, Del Toro continues his somewhat rebellious ways within Hollywood, by taking the road less traveled these days. Meaning that he does not solely rely upon CGI to create his fantastical world of creatures. Sure there was a generous amount of CGI dispersed throughout the film, and without a doubt it all looked excellent; however, assisting the CGI, Guillermo Del Toro opted to use a large array of practical effects for many of the creatures he wished to bring to life. Make no mistake when you see this movie the CGI is virtually impeccable, but the costumes and creature designs created for the practical (on-set) side of things is simply astounding. After watching this film, it's easy to understand why Hollywood has branded Guillermo as being a visionary director from his work on both "Pan's Labyrinth" and now "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army".
The actors and actresses in this film are all top-notch, and considering that roughly 85% of them are wearing some form of prosthetics or heavy make-up or something of the sort, it's surprising how strong the performances turned out. Ron Perlman ("Hellboy") as the titular character, once again nails the role perfectly. I firmly believe that there is no other actor in Hollywood that could have captured this role any better than Ron has; from his sardonic wit, gruff voice, and the fact that he looked as if he simply walked off the comic book page, there is no doubt in my mind that Ron Perlman was born to be Hellboy. Selma Blair reprises her role as Liz Sherman. No longer a victim of her powers, Liz is in complete control, and has accepted her role in protecting humanity from those who wish to do it harm. Even though she has conquered one problem, she still has to deal with her often immature boyfriend, Hellboy, which causes more than just a few fiery arguments to say the least. It is their frequently heated relationship that makes for some of the most fun and entertaining moments of dialogue within the film.
The extremely talented, yet rarely heard from, Doug Jones once again personifies Abe Sapien; but this time Doug actually gets to provide the voice for the character as well. In the previous film, Doug's vocal performance was replaced by actor David Hyde Pierce (TV's "Frasier"), much like his performance in "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" when Laurence Fishburne was brought in to provide the voice for the Surfer, while Doug provided the physical performance for the character. Luckily, Doug's voice is similar to David's so if a person isn't paying close enough attention, or if it's been a while since they last watched the first film, they'd never even know it was another actor's voice providing the line readings. This does beg one question though. If Doug and David's voices were so similar, then why have David provide the voice in the first place, or for that matter why switch to Doug for the sequel? Perhaps, David Hyde Pierce wasn't available at the time to work on this film. Who knows? Lastly, Luke Goss ("Blade 2") as the villainous Prince Nuada, gave a performance that was equal parts dangerous and creepy weird, oftentimes he was both at the same time. The only thing that I felt was odd about Luke's performance was that he sometimes seemed to have a slight accent in his delivery, yet other times nothing out of the ordinary. Other than those sporadic bits of an accent, I thought Luke was a good choice for the lead villain, and that he gave a fairly strong, if not slightly inconsistent performance.
"Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" is an absolutely entertaining, action-packed adventure that perfectly expands upon everything that was great about the original film without ever seeming repetitive or unoriginal. While not necessarily surpassing the original film, this movie doesn't fall short of it either, which is an achievement for any sequel to attain.
"Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" is rated PG-13 for violence and language.』
(HELLBOY 2 THE GOLDEN ARMY) 『WORTH EVERY PENNY ESPECIALLY THE SPECIAL EDITION. RON PERLMAN IS AN AWESOME ACTOR AND SELMA BLAIR HELPS IT OUT. THE MOVIE WAS IN GREAT SHAPE AND THE BONUS FEATURES ARE SO WORTH IT.』
(Excellent mix of X-Men, City of Lost Children, and Men in Black) 『Fun movie, actually a lot better than Hellboy I, but even though it is a mix of X-men (the better ones ie: 1 and 3), Jean-Pierre Jeunet's City of Lost Children, and Men in Black II, it is actually a lot better than a bad movie like Men in Black II. There is a point in the movie where you wonder "oh no, this is becoming like Men in Black II", but luckily, the movie gets past that point unscathed (ie: the turn the encounter with the tree god into a more humanistic story, as opposed to "let's shoot up all 'dem big things!". The kid at the beginning was a bit corny, but I suppose fits into the comic book motif. Also Hellboy II should make an excellent companion to any Hellboy III (considering where the story was going.』
(Hellboy 2) 『Hellboy 2 is hipedup really bad.After seeing it you lose all intrest in seeing it againe. 』
(What the Hellboy happened?) 『The best part of Hellboy II: The Golden Army was the first few minutes when backstory was given in The Princess Bride-style with Hellboy's adoptive father reading him the story of The Golden Army. The cuts to the prepubescent Hellboy had me asking myself, "Why is Hellboy being portrayed as such a p---y?" It was frustrating and annoying to see the child version of the brusgue, rough-hewn character I'd come to like as portrayed by Ron Perlman.
Ron Perlman had me years ago in Beauty and the Beast, and his performance in this film was solid. The problem was the emphasis on the interpersonal relationships between the characters. I think the director and screenwriter strove too hard to marry the fantasy elements with the real-life problems of ordinary people problems.
Hellboy and his companions aren't ordinary people, so they became far too cartoonish and dull when they were behvaving like regular folk.
Doug Jones is wonderful in every movie I've ever seen him in. His Silver Surfer is one of the sexiest figures in an action movies.
Hellboy II: The Golden Army is worth a watch, but don't expect the movie to be as endearing and interesting as Hellboy.
I hope there's a Hellboy III because I love the characters and I don't want Hellboy II to be the endnote to the Hellboy movie franchise.』 『The fate of mankind hangs in the balance when a ruthless prince awakens an unstoppable army of creatures and wages war with the human world. It s up to Hellboy and his team of paranormal outcasts to face off with the forces of darkness in the ultimate battle of good versus evil!From the visionary director of Pan s Labyrinth Hellboy II: The Golden Army takes you into fantastical worlds with imaginative creatures and thrilling fight sequences unlike anything you ve ever seen before!System Requirements:Running Time: 120 minutesFormat: DVD MOVIE Genre: ACTION/ADVENTURE/FANTASY Rating: PG-13 UPC: 025195001861 Manufacturer No: 61100257』 『The feverishHellboy II: The Golden Armyis a very busy sequel that might have looked unhinged in the hands of a less visionary director than Guillermo del Toro. Ron Perlman returns as Hellboy, aka "Red," the Dark Horse Comics demon-hero with roots in the mythical world but personal ties in the human realm. Still working, as he was inHellboy, for a secret department of the federal government that deals (as in "Men In Black") with forces of the fantastic, Red and his colleagues take on a royal elf (Luke Goss) determined to smash a longtime truce between mankind and the forces of magic. Meanwhile, Red's relationship with girlfriend Liz (Selma Blair), who can burst into flames at will, is going through a rocky stage observed by Red's fishy friend Abe (Doug Jones), himself struck by love in this film. Del Toro brilliantly integrates the ordinary and extraordinary, diving into an extended scene set in a troll market barely hidden behind the façade of typical city streets. He also unleashes a forest monster that devastates an urban neighborhood, but then--interestingly--brings a luminous beauty to the same area as the creature (an "elemental") succumbs to a terrible death. Del Toro's art direction proves masterful, too, in a climactic battle set in a clockworks-like stronghold tucked away in rugged Irish landscape. But it's really the juxtaposition of visual marvels with not-so-unusual relationship issues that givesHellboy IIa certain jaunty appeal hard to find in other superhero movies. --Tom Keogh
Stills fromHellboy II: The Golden Army(Click for larger image)
IPhone 3G used's review (makes my child happy) 『I have a daughter with autism and she loves it. Thank you for the prompt service.』
(Not buying until available in widescreen) 『I watched the 1982 version of "Annie" on TCM the other day. I hadn't seen it since I saw it -and hated it--in a theater. My expectations must have been low, because I actually enjoyed it, especially the performances. Carol Burnett is at her best in this. She's like a Disney villain come to life. Awesome. Albert Finney, Ann Reinking and Bernadette Peters were good, too. The worst thing was the direction. John Huston made some really odd choices and the "action" scene at the end was just about the worst action scene ever. The second worst thing: the children. They were all really phony. Aileen Quinn in the lead role was good in places and was musically talented (her tap-dancing was especially good), but her acting overall was pretty weak. I'm surprised to find that you can't buy this in widescreen. I'm not buying it until it is available in widescreen--and it probably will be eventually.』
(\annie) 『 I don't have much to comment on this item as i could not view it. When I put it in the DVD player it asks you to check your area code. There is no area code for you to check, so therefor I cannot view the film.
My children were very dissappointed when they could not watch it and it was a waste of money buying it and having it shipped over,』
(We love Annie.) 『The dvd came very quick and was in perfect condition. Great price and will order again from amazon.』
(Horrible) 『An epic disaster. Bad acting. Poorly sung. The cast are all acting in different movies. Get the Disney tv version which is superior to this film in every way.』 『Broadway musical based on the little orphan annie comic strip. A young orphan girls adventures in finding a family that will take her. Studio: Sony Pictures Home Ent Release Date: 08/23/2005 Starring: Albert Finney Tim Curry Run time: 127 minutes Rating: Pg Director: John Huston』 『Charmless and dull, this adaptation of the Broadway hit stars Aileen Quinn as the depression-era moppet, Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks, Carol Burnett as the cruel headmistress at an orphanage, and Tim Curry as a villain. The film never gets its legs, and there is no sense of setting; it's almost as if the whole thing is happening in a void. John Huston nominally directed--no doubt to make money between his smaller, cheaper masterpieces--but one would have thought he would invest something of himself in here.--Tom Keogh』
Kakaku：1150 saved$11.50
WALT DISNEY VIDEO
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Wall-E Meets The Thought Police) 『My husband and I eagerly looked forward to receiving our pre-ordered copy of Wall-E from Amazon as the trailers had given us high expectations for another excellent and entertaining PIXAR product we could share with our grandchildren. Instead what we received was a computer animated forum for advancing today's political agendas! We wanted entertainment and state of the art animation for ourselves and our grandchildren, not hackneyed political whining and attempts at mind control and thought policing of the very young and impressionable people who will watch this movie.
If those of you considering buying this movie have grown steadily weary of Hollywood and the government attempting to dictate your value system through every possible venue you should definitely avoid this movie. If Disney is compelled to politicize their movies then the movies should be provided to the public at no cost as is the case with other political media.
Also, are we the only ones who recognized the plot to be interestingly close to that of the Movie "Silent Running" starring Bruce Dern? And how about the names of Bruce's little robot buddies, "Huey, Dewy and Louie" and that look a lot like Wall-E?』
(Unexpected) 『-Some Spoilers- Ratatouille, Cars, Finding Nemo; movies that fans and critics enjoyed, but I found to be forced, awkward, even insulting. I took my 7 year old niece to see Wall-E expecting more of the same, and was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. Instead of bombarding the audience with noise, jokes, explosions, loony behavior, etc, we are treated to subtle (for Disney) behavior and emotion. The two protagonists technically can't even speak (though they manage a few words) so their thoughts are expressed through "body" language and "facial" expressions. Yes, very ironic for two machines, hence the quotes. The love story that develops between them was far more moving than the majority of movies, including live action movies. (The embarrassing excuse for a love story in Matthew Vaughn's "Stardust" for example) Other reviewers have tried to say that the message of this movie is an environmental one, I have to strongly disagree. When you see the movie you'll understand where they are coming from, but any "environmental" message is incidental at best, and not the goal of the movie.
In terms of the Blu Ray transfer Wall-E is very much worth owning, even if you pay a premium over the DVD. Both the video and audio are very good, but strangely I did not find them to be as good as most claim. The extras are a delight. There have been some strong words said about the difference between the two disc and three disc versions; just make sure you know which one you want and which one you are getting.』
(Warning to Sony Blu-Ray Owners!!!) 『This movie is great. It's amazing how Pixar can make a 90 minute movie with only about 500 words of dialogue and have it keep your 2 year old's attention the entire time. As with all Pixar movies your kids will watch it again and again. I love the shorts too. There is an extra short that wasn't released in the theater, so check the special features menu.
A word of warning to anyone that has a Sony Blu-Ray player. I have the BDP-S301, which for the most part has been trouble free. I received this movie last night and tried to watch it. THREE TIMES during the first 60 minutes of the movie the player locked up and I was forced to reboot it, which takes a long time. I tried again tonight and the player locked up two more times. It's a good thing I bought the DVD as well (for the car and traveling). I want my money back!!!』
(Wowl E!!! This film might just "clean up" at Oscar time!!! A modern day classic with a true message!!!) 『Okay,there are 2 Blu Ray versions(2 disc and 3 disc,the only differnce being the 3rd disc on the 3 disc set is a digital copy for an Ipod,etc,other than that the contents ARE the same,okay!!!) of this soon to be classic with a true environmental message!!! My prediction come Oscar time is this WILL definatley get best animated film,hand down,Peter Gabriel's great song at the end of the film will probably get the best song statue,probably can't go up for best picture due to it's being an animated film,the Best Film Oscar will probably go to The Dark Knight!!! This IS a great movie!!! The 2 Blu Ray disc version is perfect for those who can live w/out the digital copy,like me,if you need it,get the 3 disc version!!! A perfect film for all ages!!! Very recommended!!! A+』
(Doesn't Come Close To Other Pixar Flicks...) 『It is my understanding that director Andrew Stanton (along with screenwriter Pete Docter) had a couple of ideas that came to fruition prior to WALL-E. Things you may have heard of like, oh, Finding Nemo and A Bug's Life. Wall-E was the final "idea" in the animation pipeline for Disney/Pixar and it is obvious to me why this was so after watching it. Let me explain...
Let's start with the aforementioned Finding Nemo. Here was a story that was 95% focused on the main characters: fish and those around the fish (crabs, seagulls, pelicans, etc.). The dentist -- a human -- was a side-story; a vehicle for the plot, sure, but he wasn't what the film was about. The audience became enamored with Marlin (Nemo's father) and his adventures to find and save his son. Again, a great character scheme that got the audience attached to the title character and his father (and we can't forget Dori, the forgetful sidekick).
Moving ahead several years we get to Wall-E, a story that isn't so well-formulated as far as characters go but has a decent message at its core: the survival of our planet.
If the story had stuck to Wall-E's adventures and his need to connect with someone (anyone!), the story would've turned out just fine. True, the decent message may have gotten lost but film makers need audiences to feel empathetic toward the characters, and that's where Wall-E short circuits. The humans don't come into play until 20-plus minutes into this 98-minute feature and then we're completely given over to them and lose sight of Wall-E altogether ...for a while. This extreme detachment from the title character made the film feel more like two separate ones than a consistent whole.
There are, however, some profoundly funny moments ...and some just plain profound things, too. Fred Willard (Date Movie) is the first human we see (but only through billboard displays) as the loathsome Shelby Forthright, CEO of the BnL corporation. His last name is a cautionary note to not trust someone just because of their name. John Ratzenberger (Ratatouille) is John, an Earthly human in an un-Earthly ship where his every whim is cared for by automatons, turning him and his spaceshipmates into worthless sloths (another cautionary note to not let computers or technology run rampant over us). The spaceship's computer voice is probably one of the funniest of note, because it's narrated by Sigourney Weaver (The Ice Storm). Anyone who's seen the Alien series and Galaxy Quest knows how Sigourney's previous characters feel about computers.
Better known for his sound work in the more recent Indiana Jones 4 flick, Ben Burtt lends his electrified voice as the main character, Wall-E. Although not much speaking takes place from Wall-E's standpoint, he does have some human moments of loneliness and tenderness (once another mechanical being arrives). EVE, Wall-E's love interest, is also electrifyingly voiced by voice actress Elissa Knight (she was Tia in the other Pixar hit, Cars). Her arrival on Earth heralds new hope for Wall-E that his life of loneliness might come to an end.
Despite all its character and whiplash faults, Wall-E is a movie of environmental importance. It shows us what we as humans might do to the only planet we can call home, and what might happen if we allow ourselves to go too far in damaging her. That, at the very least, makes this a watchable film.』 『The highly acclaimed director ofFinding Nemoand the creative storytellers behindCarsandRatatouilletransport you to a galaxy not so far away for a new cosmic comedy adventure about a determined robot named Wall-E. After hundreds of lonely years of doing what he was built for, the curious and lovable Wall-E discovers a new purpose in life when he meets a sleek search robot named Eve. Join them and a hilarious cast of characters on a fantastic journey across the universe. Transport yourself to a fascinating new world with Disney-Pixar's latest adventure, now even more astonishing on DVD and loaded with bonus features, including the exclusive animated short film Burn-E. Wall-E is a film your family will want to enjoy over and over again.』 『Pixar genius reigns in this funny romantic comedy, which stars a robot who says absolutely nothing for a full 25 minutes yet somehow completely transfixes and endears himself to the audience within the first few minutes of the film. As the last robot left on earth, Wall-E (voiced by Ben Burtt) is one small robot--with a big, big heart--who holds the future of earth and mankind squarely in the palm of his metal hand. He's outlasted all the "Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-Class" robots that were assigned some 700 years ago to clean up the environmental mess that man made of earth while man vacationed aboard the luxury spaceship Axiom. Wall-E has dutifully gone about his job compacting trash, the extreme solitude broken only by his pet cockroach, but he's developed some oddly human habits and ideas. When the Axiom sends its regularly scheduled robotic EVE probe (Elissa Knight) to earth, Wall-E is instantly smitten and proceeds to try to impress EVE with his collection of human memorabilia. EVE's directive compels her to bring Wall-E's newly collected plant sprout to the captain of the Axiom and Wall-E follows in hot pursuit. Suddenly, the human world is turned upside down and the Captain (Jeff Garlin) joins forces with Wall-E and a cast of other misfit robots to lead the now lethargic people back home to earth.Wall-Eis a great family film with the most impressive aspect being the depth of emotion conveyed by a simple robot--a machine typically considered devoid of emotion, but made so absolutely touching by the magic of Pixar animation. Also well-worth admiring are the sweeping views from space, the creative yet disturbing vision of what strange luxuries a future space vacation might offer, and the innovative use of trash in a future cityscape. Underneath the slapstick comedy and touching love story is a poignant message about the folly of human greed and its potential effects on earth and the entire human race.Wall-Eis preceded in theaters by the comical shortPrestoin which a magician's rabbit, unfed one too many times takes his revenge against the egotistical magician. (Ages 3 and older)--Tami Horiuchi>
Kakaku：1800 saved$18.00
HBO
Not yet released IPhone 3G used's review (When a USAF Vet recommends a USMC movie, it MUST ROCK!) 『I was almost shocked that liberal old HBO would produce something this great after paying Bill Mahar for his hateful, unfunny ramblings. I watched every episode and, as a USAF AMMO Vet, had extra fun trying to see which guy I'd be had I chosen the USMC route of service. I'm thrilled that a Marine Officer friend of mine hasn't seen it and will do so now thanks to me; his wingnut friend. Thanks USMC and I'll even say thanks HBO.』
(Amazing!) 『I watched this originally on HBO and was once again blown away by their ability to make a quality product. Jarring, thought provoking and touching this is a series to not be missed.』
(AVOID AT ALL COST!! Unpatriotic and just plain wrong...) 『Sure the firefights and comraderie is in here, but the one UNDERLINING, SUBLIMINAL point it makes in each episode is the wontan killing of civilians and collateral damage the US military does in Iraq. The sheer joy and amusement of the military at the destruction it is causing is harpped on, and on. I saw the whole serise(except the last episode)and the writers also just love to show men defacating and urinating and shooting civiliand, women, children, structures, etc.; as long as they're showing guns spitting spent shells and having that cool sound of M-16/M14 goin off.
I also read the book and it seems the author was also fully engrossed in only recording the civilina casualties. Each time they came in contact with the enemy, woemen and children were the only ones that got paragraphs and paragraphs of details.
Oh and there were Syrians and Iraqi jihadist that got killed also, but you get a sentance and then on to the chilren and innocents getting shredded left and right. It did happen, I read it on "One Bullet Away" by Nate Fick, the guy featered in Gen. Kill the book and tv series, but come on, give the guys some credit. By the way, "One Bullet Away" is a waaaay better book than Gen. Kill. The Gen. Kill authore just like to let you know how many times men in war go use the bathroom. He also details it over and over and over. We know guys out there don't have nice restrooms or private bathrooms, okay. It goes without saying. But to write about it over and over... The tv series also likes this aspect of the tale. You get to see guys butts alomst every 15 minutes. You sure don't see that on Platoon by Oliver Stone, or even implied on Tour of Duty(the '80s tv series).
The brutality of war is shown, but mostly how it affects women and children in the line of fire. The real bad guys don't get much time in the book or the tv series. In no way does this compare to Saving Priveate Ryan and Band of Brothers. Those movies/series were about the heart of the US military, not the heartless ones they are portrayed here.
I for one will not be buying it on DVD, nor do I recommend anyone else to do so either. Unless you like to see the killing of innocents by our incompetent military(which is what the book and series paint our miltary to be). I did 12 yrs in the US Navy so I know a little about military comraderie. It's show here, but in a deceitful context.』
(Terrific Series!) 『This series was incredibly well-produced and I'm looking forward to owning the DVD set when it's released. As many people are saying, "Support our troops - BRING THEM HOME!" (We need them to defend us against the Republicans!)』
(GENERATION KILL) 『AWESOME!!!!!! I CAN SAY BEEN THERE AND DONE THAT. THIS IS THE MOST ACCURATE SERIES OF IRAQ I'VE EVER SEEN. THERE EVERYDAY PROBLEMS ARE STILL FELT TODAY. I HAVE JUST RETURNED HOME AND HEARD ABOUT THIS SHOW FROM A FRIEND. NOW 16 OF MY FRIENDS SEE WHAT WE WENT THREW DRIVING CONVOYS UP AND DOWN IRAQ. MY HEART FELL WHEN I SAW HOW THESE MEN JOKED,SANG,EAT,BITCHED AND HAD EACH OTHERS BACKS IT BROUGHT BACK MEMORIES. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL HER VETS. THANK YOU FOR SHAREING YOUR STORY WITH US.』 『Based on the national best-selling book by Evan Wright, Generation Kill is an authentic and vividly detailed 7 part HBO mini-series event that presents a uniquely epic and intimate portrait of the first 40 days of the Iraq war from the perspective of the Marines of the First Recon Battalion– a new breed of American soldiers.
The mini-series tells the story of these young Marines physical and emotional journey into the heart of Baghdad in those initial weeks, and how the war reveals to be much more complicated, problematic and tragic than anyone had contemplated. Many of the complications and problems that arise are due to the unwieldy military bureaucracy which the Marines confront in the midst of the war, the challenges of over-zealous and incompetent commanding officers, ever-changing rules of engagement, a non-existent strategy, severe deficiencies in necessary armor and supplies, and an enemy they don’t understand.
Generation Kill is a humorous and frightening first hand account of these remarkable men, of the personal toll of victory, and of the brutality, camaraderie and bureaucracy of a new American war. It is a profoundly insightful and realistic look at the risk, costs and ultimately, the failures of the war.
Written and produced by Emmy-award winner David Simon (the Wire), and also produced by the award-winning George Faber (Elizabeth I).』
Kakaku：299 saved$2.99
New Line Home Video
Usually ships in 1 to 2 months IPhone 3G used's review (Wedding Crashers - Uncorked (Unrated Full Screen Edition)) 『Wedding Crashers - Uncorked (Unrated Full Screen Edition)
Funny, not much more.』
(Average.) 『Wedding Crashers starring Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn is somewhat funny but it is not a comedy classic like everyone has said. The acting is ok, Isla Fisher and Rachel McAdams steal the movie, they play sisters in the film - one is crazy the other is down-to-earth. Christopher Walken seems very out of place and Jane Seymour is not a hot cougar, ugh! There are some good laughs but mostly this movie is over-rated.』
(Rule #115: Never walk away in a funny jacket!) 『Wedding Crashers is an instant comedy classic. It is surprising that director David Dobkin hasn't done more. There was Clay Pigeons, with Vince Vaughn, but as a psycho, not a comedy. He worked with Owen Wilson on Shanghai Knights, but his resume is otherwise thin. Why hasn't Dobkin made more comedies? It is really remarkable. The chemistry between Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson is like it was between Vaughn and Jon Favreau in Swingers, because first and foremost, this is a buddy picture.
--------------- Jeremy Grey: John? I need to see you right away. It's important. John Beckwith: [Walking into Jeremy's office] What's going on? Jeremy Grey: [sighs] We got three big weeks ahead of us. It's wedding season, kid! John Beckwith: You sandbaggin' son of a *****! Jeremy Grey: I've got us down for 17 of them already. John Beckwith: Okay, now how many of them have cash bars? Jeremy Grey: Great question. I like where your head's at and two of them actually are, but I got us covered: Purple hearts. We won't have to pay for a drink all night. John Beckwith: Oh, yeah. Perfect. Jeremy Grey: We are gonna have tons and tons of opportunities to meet gorgeous ladies that get so aroused by the thought of marriage that they'll throw their inhibitions to the wind. John Beckwith: And who's gonna be there to catch them? Jeremy Grey: Grab that net and catch that beautiful butterfly, pal! What do you like better, Christmas or Wedding Season? [Jeremy raises his hand] John Beckwith: Mr. Grey? Jeremy Grey: Yes. The answer would be, um, Wedding Season? [shimmy-shakes] John Beckwith: Bingo! I'm gonna get my suit. Now who are we this time? =====================================================
But it is also a great romantic comedy, and Isla Fisher and Rachel McAdams are gorgeous and fantastic--also great chemistry with Vince and Owen, respectively. Finally, it is a coming of age story where a lesson is learned about the value of commitment, but marriage doesn't have to mean the end of fun.
----------------------- Jeremy Grey: Gloria, I've been doing a lot of soul searching recently, and I think I'm ready to take this relationship, our relationship to the next level. Gloria Cleary: Jeremy, I am so ready to take it to the next level. Jeremy Grey: Really? Gloria Cleary: Yeah. Do you want to watch me with another girl? How about those Brazilian twins we met at the ball game? Jeremy Grey: I was thinking more along the lines of an engagement. Gloria Cleary: Oh Jeremy, I do! Jeremy Grey: I love you. Gloria Cleary: I love you. ==============================================
So, it is like having your wedding cake and eating it, too. This movie has something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a six pence in her shoe--succeeding on so many levels, as buddy picture, romance, and coming of age; but mainly, it is always funny, no matter what level it is currently succeeding on.
--------------- Claire Cleary: What is true love? John Beckwith: True love is your soul's recognition of its counterpoint in another. Claire Cleary: It's a little cheesy but I like it. John Beckwith: I read it on a bumper sticker! ============================
Plus, the best wedding disruption since 'The Graduate.'
------------------- Jeremy Grey: Do you know what that awareness is, Gloria? Gloria Cleary: What? Jeremy Grey: That we're all one. That separateness is an illusion, and that I'm one with everyone - with the Prime Minister of England, and my cousin Harry, you and me, the fat kid from 'What's Happening,' the Olsen twins, Natalie Portman, the guy who wrote 'Catcher in the Rye,' Nat King Cole, Carrot Top, Jay-Z, Weird Al Yankovic, Harry Potter, if he existed, the whore on the street corner, your mother. We're all one. ========================================
The Cable Guy (Full Screen) (1996) .... Owen Wilson was Robin's Date Into the Wild (2007) .... Vince Vaughn was Wayne Westerberg Clay Pigeons (1998) .... Directed by David Dobkin and Vince Vaughn was Lester Long Swingers (1996) .... Vince Vaughn was Trent Walker Old School (Widescreen Unrated Edition) (2003) .... Will Ferrell was Frank Ricard The Deer Hunter (1978) .... Christopher Walken was Nick Gigli (2003) .... Christopher Walken was Det. Stanley Jacobellis Scooby-Doo (Widescreen Edition) (2002) .... Isla Fisher was Mary Jane The Notebook (2004) .... Rachel McAdams was Allie Hamilton Mean Girls (Special Collector's Edition) (2004) .... Rachel McAdams was Regina George
--------------- last lines] Claire Cleary: We're a folk singing group from Salt Lake City. Gloria Cleary: Yeah! Jeremy Grey: Yes, we are. [Gloria and Claire throw up their arms and scream like rock fans at a concert] =============================================』
(Get Wet) 『If you like watching girls fall on top of beds top less, then this is the movie for you. I idle these men and I only hope to achieve what they've achieved when I hit 35-40.』
(Vince&Owen score a touchdown) 『After looking at some of the negative reviews this hilarious comedy received--I've come to the conclusion that some people don't have a sense of humor or are stiff as board. Besides they were forewarned that this is an R-rated comedy!! Not since Carl Reiner's classic R-rated comedy, "Where's Poppa", never have I laughed so much in a theatre--and I've seen this flick 3 times-twice in a theatre, once on video. Vince Vaughn really scored big in this film even more than Owen Wilson and he's probably the only reason one would consider seeing his next film, "The Break-Up". If there were any awards for comedy, one should go to Vaughn for this hilarious film. I guess the only complaint I had about this film were--where were the beautiful Africain American sisters since the duo did score with the Indians, Hispanics and the Jews in their scam. Anyway if you're ever depressed, go check this out--it'll cure you of the blues!!』 『In this hilarious box office hit, Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson have perfected the art of wedding crashing but when one of them actually falls in love their sacred rule, "never leave a fellow crasher behind," may be broken!
DVD Features: Audio Commentary Deleted Scenes Featurette Music Video Other
』 『With Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson as a pair of brazen wedding crashers, this buddy/romantic comedy milks a few big laughs from its foolproof premise. Under the direction of David Dobkin (who previously worked with Wilson onShanghai Knights), the movie ranges from bawdy romp to mushy romance, and that tonal identity crisis curtails the overall hilarity. But when the well-teamed costars are firing on all pistons with fast-paced dialogue and manic situations, belly laughs are delivered at a steady clip. Things get complicated when the guys infiltrate the family of the Treasury Secretary (Christopher Walken), resulting in a romantic pair-off between Vaughn and the congressman's oversexed daughter Gloria (Isla Fisher) while Wilson sincerely woos another daughter, Claire (Rachel McAdams), who's unhappily engaged to an Ivy League cheater (Bradley Cooper). Walken is more or less wasted in his role, but Jane Seymour and Henry Gibson make amusing appearances, and a surprise guest arrives late in the game for some over-the-top scene-stealing. It's all a bit uneven, but McAdams (considered by some to be "the next Julia Roberts") is a pure delight, and with enough laughs to make it easily recommended,Wedding Crasherswill likely find its place on DVD shelves alongside other flawed but enjoyable R-rated comedies that embrace a naughtier, nastier brand of humor with no need for apologies.--Jeff Shannon』
Kakaku：2995 saved$29.95
Turtle Press
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Great buy!) 『I bought this DVD as a supplement to my Tang Soo Do training, and I am very glad I did. I like to practice my forms at home, but sometimes I can't remember all of the moves - this is a nice way to brush up and know that I'm learning correctly.
They show the forms from different angles, which helps, too. I'd recommend this to anyone who is training in the art of Tang Soo Do.』
(Proper Technique) 『I found the instructor and forms valuable in the format they were presented. A variety of punches, kicks and blocks were demonstrated by an expert on proper technique. As with other reviews, I found the application to my style of Tang Soo Do to be a variation. It is recommended for anyone who maintains a library of martial arts for instructional purposes. I highly recommend other products by Turtle Press.』
(good but different) 『this dvd is good for a beginer like me ive been doing tang soo do for the last few months and baught this to help me learn the forms because i have poor vision and sometimes find it hard to see what my master is doing i will soon be grading and am confident that i know the 3 kicho hyung. this dvd is good it shows the forms althought slightly different than what we do they are made very clear and easy to fallow』 『Learn the 9 traditional Tang Soo Do forms required for all belts up to 1st degree black belt. This DVD is an excellent learning aid for at-home practice and review, testing&competition. Young Kil Song demonstrates each form from front view, rear view and side view.
Learn the following forms:
* Kicho Hyung Il Bu * Kicho Hyung Ee Bu * Kicho Hyung Sam Bu * Pyung Ahn Cho Dan * Pyung Ahn Ee Dan * Pyung Ahn Sam Dan * Pyung Ahn Sa Dan * Pyung Ahn Oh Dan * Bassai』
Kakaku：196 saved$1.96
Homevision
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (The Blind Monk is So Good!) 『This film introduces the memorable character of a blind monk who is Zatoichi's better in terms of using his non-sight senses. This offers and interesting glimpse into Zato's world as a blind man and the blind in general during pre-modern Japan.
Zato, as usual, finds himself caught up in some injustice and sorts things out with his sword. This is another beautifully done entrant into Ichi lore.』
(#13: ZATOICHI, TO DRAW THE SWORD OR NOT!) 『The 13th entry of Zatoichi starring Shintaro Katsu is a truly excellent film. The title, ZATOICHI'S VENGEANCE, is also an apt title for this wonderful film. Zatoichi meets a travelling, blind priest who questions Zatoichi's life: By telling Ichi to put away his sword. And although the ending is predictable as far a the Zatoichi series goes, this one adds a little more depth to the character Ichi, and the character actors in the film as well.
One of the many highlights of the film is when the villians who take on Zatoichi, do so with more intelligence than one would expect. For example, they beat upon drums to confuse his heightened sense of awareness--knowing that his ears have become his eyes, so to speak. About time someone figured that out. He has definetly become a feared and respected opponent. His reputation has become too well known, and no longer is he some blind masseur who can be easily slain.
Also, when Ichi is being beaten up in the film by the villians, he does not act against his agressors. He is protecting the young boy in his charge with more than just physical abuse by not reacting: Ichi does not want to show violence in front of the child. Maybe to set an example for the young boy? The young boy in the film looks up to Ichi. Is Ichi trying to set an example by turning the other cheek? As with the end of the film, when Ichi leaves the child, he does so for the boys sake. He knows that he is not the example the boy needs in his life. And as such, he shows that he is truly an example of a decent and honorable swordsman, whom others should have emulated. Highly recommended. [Stars: 5+]
NOTICE: VOL.#14, ZATOICHI'S PILGRIMAGE [ZATOCIHI UMI O WATARU] has not been released to my knowledge in the USA. Hopefully it will. I don't know why it has not been released.』
(Duplicate Reviews Showing Up for 10 and 13 of Series) 『Thanks to the previous reviewer for pointing this out.
The review posted March 2005 applies to Vol. 10, and the review posted July 2005 obviously applies to Vol. 13.
As far as the one from 2002, it's anyone's guess.
Both 10 and 13 are terrific movies, but I will need to rewatch them to do a better review. And I would like to do one large review of both since it will end up listed in both places. Meanwhile, I have done reviews for Vols. 1 and 8 of this series, if you would like to know what I think about them.
--Irene Hamilton, big Zatoichi fan 』
(#10
of series posting identical reviews, Amazon error, not reviewer error) 『For some reason, Amazon has posted identical reviews for both Vol. 10 and Vol. 13 of this series.
The previous reviewer has indicated that this is misleading, which is correct. However, it is not correct that the reviewers are doing the misleading, since all reviews posted for both Vol. 10 and Vol. 13 are showing up in both places, which is Amazon's error. 』
(Vol. 13 - One of the Best of the Series, as Far as Unique Elements)
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