Alexander - Director's Cut (Full Screen Edition)

Starring:Anthony Hopkins, David Bedella, Jessie Kamm, Angelina Jolie, Val Kilmer, Fiona O'Shaughnessy, Connor Paolo, Patrick Carroll (III), Brian Blessed, Peter Williamson, Morgan Christopher Ferris, Robert Earley, Aleczander Gordon, Christopher Plummer, Gary Stretch, John Kavanagh, Nick Dunning, Marie Meyer, Mick Lally, Colin Farrell
Director: Oliver Stone
Studio: Warner Home Video
Product Type: DVD
Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
If you're determined to spend three hours with Oliver Stone's take on the personal and military struggles of ancient Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great, you should know that Alexander (Colin Farrell, in blonde disarray) is not half so much fun as mom Olympias (Angelina Jolie) or his future wild bride Roxane (Rosario Dawson). Indeed, it's the women in Alex's life who provide the movie's most satisfying action: Jolie, sporting some kind of Russian accent, wraps herself in snakes while hissing promises of Farrell's destiny; Dawson disrobes and threatens to cut Farrell's throat before shtupping his brains out. The rest is leaden history, supposedly novel because it showcases epic battle sequences and addresses Alexander's great love for his buddy Hephaistion (Jared Leto). But the man-on-man romance is limited to teary hugs, and the battles are indecipherable messes-you have to wait for Anthony Hopkins' narration to tell you what happened (in fact, you have to wait for Hopkins' narration to tell you everything that happens). There's some spectacle on display but, alas, not much that is truly spectacular. --Steve Wiecking
Description
Academy award winning director Oliver Stone presents a breathtaking new cut of his sweeping epic film, ALEXANDER, the true story of the world's greatest warrior. Using new footage and dramatically reshaping dozens of scenes, he brings to life the overpowering forces and fierce personalities that forever changed history. Torn by the war between his parents (Angelina Jolie and Val Kilmer), Alexander (Colin Farrell) left Greece to face massive armies in Persia, Afghanistan and India -- and was never defeated. "Fortune favors the bold" Stone powerfully demonstrates in this bold new film, ALEXANDER DIRECTOR'S CUT.
DVD Features:
Audio Commentary:Oliver Stone
Documentaries
Average customer rating:
- Great way to waste your money !!!
- Kingdom of Deeez
- Outstanding!!!
- And then some
- Well worth it.
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Kingdom of Heaven - The Director's Cut (Four-Disc Special Edition)
Starring: Martin Hancock , Michael Sheen , Nathalie Cox , Eriq Ebouaney , and Jouko Ahola
Director: Ridley Scott
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
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ASIN: B000EHSVQ4
Release Date: 2006-05-23 |
Amazon.com
It's hard to believe Ridley Scott's handsome epic won't become the cinematic touchstone of the Crusades for years to come. Kingdom of Heaven is greater than the sum of its parts, delivering a vital, mostly engrossing tale following Balian (Orlando Bloom), a lonely French blacksmith who discovers he's a noble heir and takes his father's (Liam Neeson) place in the center of the universe circa 1184: Jerusalem. Here, grand battles and backdoor politics are key as Scott and first-time screenwriter William Monahan fashion an excellent storyline to tackle the centuries-long conflict. Two forward-thinking kings, Baldwin (Edward Norton in an uncredited yet substantial role) and Saladin (Ghassan Massoud), hold an uneasy truce between Christians (who hold the city) and Muslims while factions champ at the bit for blood. There are good and evildoers on both sides, with the Knights Templar taking the brunt of the blame; Balian plans to find his soul while protecting Baldwin and the people. The look of the film, as nearly everything is from Scott, is impressive: his CGI-infused battle scenes rival the LOTR series and, with cinematographer John Mathieson, create postcard beauty with snowy French forests and the vast desert (filmed in Morocco and Spain). An excellent supporting cast, including Jeremy Irons, Brendan Gleeson, and David Thewlis, also help make the head and heart of the film work. Many critics pointed out that Bloom doesn't have the gravitas of Russell Crowe in the lead (then again, who does?), but it's the underdeveloped character and not the actor that hurts the film and impacts its power. Balian isn't given much more to do than be sullen and give an occasional big speech, alongside his perplexing abilities for warfare tactics and his wandering moral compass (whose sole purpose seems to be to put a love scene in the movie). Note: all the major characters except Neeson's are based on fact, but many are heavily fictionalized. --Doug Thomas
On the DVD
The Kingdom of Heaven Director's Cut is truly a DVD set of biblical proportions. If you are familiar with Ridley Scott's excellent, albeit massive, extended DVD sets for Gladiator and Black Hawk Down, you have a pretty good idea of what you are in for with this set. The biggest difference--unlike the Gladiator Director's Cut, which had some nice new scenes that really didn't add much to the film--is that this cut of Kingdom of Heaven is a drastic improvement over the theatrical release. This extensive 194-minute version brings the film back to Scott's original vision, maintaining an impressive balance of history, plot, and believable period reenactments and battle scenes. The best way to describe the improvements on the extended version is the film is now able to breathe a bit more, it's less choppy, and it has stronger character development. In addition to the extended scenes (which now span two discs in a clunky Road Show presentation), there is an exhaustive three-hour, six-part documentary detailing every aspect of filmmaking from the development of the "idea" through post-production and release. Also included are three feature-length commentary tracks, the best being the first with Ridley Scott, writer William Monahan, and actor Orlando Bloom. Included on the original release but missing from this set are the A&E/History Channel documentaries, the theatrical cut of the film, and "The Pilgrim's Guide," the fantastic text commentary which pointed out the historical anecdotes as the film played. Fans of the film and completists will probably want to hold onto both versions. However, those picking up Kingdom of Heaven for the first time need only to look to this definitive version. --Rob Bracco
Description
Among the best directors of our time, Ridley Scott (Gladiator), contributes generously to this extraordinary Collector?s Edition of Kingdom of Heaven. Featuring his Director?s Cut of the film and hours of fascinating extras including a six-part tour from conception to completion of filmmaking this definitive set makes what Variety called a "genuinely spectacular" film even more so!
An epic marvel that's as beautifully acted as it is visually awesome, Kingdom of Heaven stars Orlando Bloom as Balian, a Jerusalem blacksmith who has lost his family and his faith. But when his father (Liam Neeson) shows him his destiny, Balian vows to defend his country, and in the process, falls in love, becomes a formidable leader, and steps forever into history
Customer Reviews:
Great way to waste your money !!!.......2007-06-28
This is one of the worst films ever made, maybe even worse than "Waterworld," if that's possible. The scenery is excellent, the costumes are great; but it all goes downhill from there. The story is this convoluted ridiculous farce about a blacksmith who suddenly becomes a knight and then falls in love with the Queen of Jerusalem...um...I think. Actually the story is so poorly told it's not clear who is who...but more importantly, I don't care because the story and the acting is so superficial I ended up hoping everybody would end up dying in a mass apocalyptic attack on the walls of Jerusalem. The script read as if it was written by a 7th grader who read a couple Skakespeare plays, looked at a couple "Medieval History" websites one night, and wrote a script, full of the most predicable trite cliche's ever written. The director has NO understanding of the crusades, and what they were about. He has the main character saying some trendy politcally correct jargon like "Jerusalem does not belong to one religion, but to all." There is not a single crusader who would have said that! And then at the end he vows not to surrender to the invading army, and then goes out and surrenders, and then everyone hails him as a hero because he surrenders. This movie is indicative of the whole mindset of the country where giving up fighting for something noble is better than fighting for what you believe in. Total trendy liberal ideology disguised as a historical epic. Don't waste your time or money on this silly over rated farce.
Kingdom of Deeez.......2007-06-27
The amount of development that went into this movie was amazing. I thought this movie was good in theaters...until I saw the directors cut which should have been in theaters...As a whole the movie made more sense in the directors cut...it made a good movie even better...longer but better... If you are into these types of films this is a must have...
Check it Fooo!
Outstanding!!!.......2007-06-27
Absolutely amazing! The Director's cut is like an entirely new movie!! It doesn't matter what faith you claim, this movie does not choose sides. Truly one for the shelves.
And then some.......2007-06-27
When I saw this movie for the first time un cut it was fantastic. The HD version is far more than I had anticipated. The story is much more complex and makes much more sense. It seems the original release was a dumb-down version of the real story. Picture quality is amazingly clear with lush colors. Even if you have this movie on DVD it is worth getting for Blu ray. You dont know what you are missing
Well worth it........2007-06-27
The addional footage makes this a whole new movie. It explains the ties to Balian and the village better. The queen and her son. Much, much better!
Average customer rating:
- Alexander is a Great Epic!
- Comments on the Soundtrack only
- Better But Not Perfect
- Alexander The Great or The Gay
- Finally - the WHOLE story
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Alexander Revisited - The Final Cut (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins , David Bedella , Jessie Kamm , Angelina Jolie , and Val Kilmer
Director: Oliver Stone
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
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Similar Items:
- Kingdom of Heaven - The Director's Cut (Four-Disc Special Edition)
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ASIN: B000MGB6NM
Release Date: 2007-02-27 |
Amazon.com
For better or worse (and in this case, it's mostly for better), Oliver Stone's Alexander Revisited should stand as the definitive version of Stone's much-maligned epic about the great Asian conqueror. Following the DVD release of his previous Director's Cut, Stone offers a video introduction here, explaining why he felt a third and final attempt at refining his film was necessary. Essentially, he's using this opportunity to re-create the "road show" format of the Biblical epics of the 1950s and '60s, with a three-and-a-half-hour running time (with an intermission at the two-hour mark) including 45 minutes of previously unseen footage. Stone has also significantly restructured the film, resulting in substantial (if not exactly redemptive) improvements in its narrative flow. Alexander (played in a torrent of emotions by Colin Farrell) is dying as the film opens, his final moments serving to bookend the film's epic story, which incorporates flashback sequences to flesh out the Macedonian king's back-story involving the turbulent battle of fate between his father, King Philip (Val Kilmer) and his scheming sorceress mother Olympia (Angelina Jolie, ridiculous accent and all), who insists that Alexander is literally a child of the gods.
In Stone's final cut, epic battles remain chaotic (although Alexander's strategy is somewhat easier to follow, with on-screen titles indicating left, right, and center during his army's greatest maneuvers) and the ultra-violent battles are more graphically gory than ever (hence their "unrated" status). The animalistic lovemaking of Alexander and his barbarian bride Roxana (Rosario Dawson) is slightly extended (with Dawson as ravishing as ever), and Stone's additional footage also improves the overall arc of Alexander's relationship with his closest generals and male companions, although his most intimate homosexual encounters remain mostly discreet. As Alexander Revisited makes clear, the film's weaknesses remain unavoidable, but Stone deserves credit for recognizing how a longer running time, and more disciplined narrative structure, would bring Alexander closer to the respect it never earned from critics and filmgoers alike. This is unquestionably a better film than it used to be, leaving us to wonder why it took three separate efforts to shape Alexander into its best possible presentation. --Jeff Shannon
Description
Now available is an all new and completely unrated version of Oliver Stone's incredible epic film, loaded with nearly 40 minutes of additional never-before-seen footage, that takes the film to a new level of realism and intensity. Restructured and expanded into two acts with one intermission, Oliver Stone's vision is delivered the way he originally conceived and intended. With the new, unrated and graphic battle scenes and unadulterated sensuality, it's the movie you couldn't see in theatres, now available on DVD for the very first time!
DVD Features:
Introduction
Theatrical Trailer
Customer Reviews:
Alexander is a Great Epic!.......2007-06-23
A great Epic, I dont see why this movie got so much bad publicity. Okay, there were a few badly filmed obscure scenes which shouldnt have even been put in this movie, but overall the movie was great. The acting by Farell and Kilmer is amazing.
I laugh at the critics who just love to use words such as BI and GAY at any chance they get, whether it's for their own namesake or out of spite. They love to focus on that sole aspect as if it were the only thing he stood for! Ha!
You actually think hundreds of thousands upon thousands of armies comprised of legions would have followed him to the edge of the world if they thought of him as just a Bi? Alexander was a Soldier's Soldier just as he was a King.
You want to know the truth about Alexander, read the books, read the Greek manuscripts, go visit or learn about the lands where Alexander and the legions travelled and changed life over there forever even to this day. Take a trip to an ancient museam in the Greek State of Makedonia/Macedonia/Macedon in Northern Greece. A GREAT Documentary/TV-Series comes to mind, History Channel's In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great which depicts almost every battle, region, etc.
Learn how some of the Ancient Wonders of the World were constructed in this time period.
I'm pretty sure Alexander was WAY more into Women than he was, if at all, into anything else. All that massive wine they drank, especially in the places over where the Ancient Greek God Dinonysys travelled as well as Herakles during his time with the Twelve Labors (or Hercules as he is most referred to), must have added to the Drama and possibly even affected campaigns.
At the Height of it's extent, The Greek Empire spanned a total of almost 25 modern day countries.
The regions and peoples are beautifully depicted in the Tv-Series: Footsteps of Alexander the Great.
I havent seen the director's cut yet, the 2 disc special edition is my favorite but the Revisited edition is a must see for It's extra footage which is pretty good for the most part.
The music score by Composer Vangelis (Blade Runner, 1492 Conquest..) is just fantastic to say the least!
9/10 and 10/10 for the music score.
A King isnt born Alexander, he's forged by the Sword and Suffering!
Philip To Alexander/
Comments on the Soundtrack only.......2007-06-21
I'm a huge fan of Oliver Stone and I've seen the both the original and final cut version of his epic Alexander. I am only here to comment on the music. I have a prejudice against electronic or synthesized soundtracks for movies set in antiquity, and this is what spoiled Alexander for me - I couldn't get passed the music. I feel that the movie would have been far more successful with a soundtrack using natural instruments and the themes of Vangelis. I know that Stone loves Vangelis and so do others; but for me, I was pulled out of this ancient time in history by the artificial electronic sounds. They weren't powerful enough or heroic enough for my taste, and I tend to like Vangelis in other films. I would have much prefered a John Williams soundtrack if he'd been available, and I think the movie would have been far more successful. The soundtrack sets the tone for the entire movie, oftentimes in subtle or subconscious ways, and for me the music was unable to sufficiently support the largeness of Alexander's life events or the totality of his life as a whole. I expect no one to agree with me here, but I love the largeness of scope in what Stone attempts and I'd like to see him succeed according to the incredible efforts he makes in his films. And believe me, this was a monumental film, and I love that he gave it his all. Despite the score, there were numerous battle scenes involving elephants in warfare that were unforgettable, and the soundtrack was effective at times. Overall, I think this film was even larger in scope than JFK, and that's why I was sorry it wasn't more well received.
Better But Not Perfect.......2007-05-21
In my reviewing this third version of "Alexander," it is difficult for me not to contrast the results of Stone's efforts with what might have been had HBO carried through with their proposal to create a ten-part series about Alexander based upon Mary Renault's trilogy "Fire From Heaven," "The Persian Boy," and "Funeral Games," assuming that the producers would have chosen excellent script writers, directors, and actors. Such a docudrama, run chronologically, would have had a far better chance of covering the almost 33 years of Alexander's life in a more complete and presentable manner. Stone obviously struggeled in his attempt to produce a hybred docudrama / entertainment film that could fit into a single sitting at a movie theater. In all three versions of his film, he met with varying degrees of success or failure.
Still, Stone's production is better (the good parts are far better than many people were capable of recognizing) than many critics and too many audience members thought. There are reasons for this.
Over the years, I have conducted extensive research on Alexander. Also, my having worked as a mental-health therapist for nearly 30 years, I once engaged it what might be called a "forensic psychological analysis" of Alexander and came to some interesting conclusions. So I have been able to compare and contrast the film with the film industry's "preferred approach" to script writing, directing, and production as described to me by my friend who is a university instructor in film.
The second version "Director's Cut" was an improvement over the initial theater version. This final version has some further improvements yet suffers from the same, inevitable difficulties of the first two.
In an effort to integrate the divers elements of the film into an organic whole, Stone made the choice to move frequently forward or backward in time. A multi-part docudrama, run chronologically, would have been far easier for most of the public to follow. Some critics complained about the addition of narration throughout the film, a possibly cumbersome element for an entertainment film. The additional information was a necessary addition, however, considering the limited length of the film and also the limited historical knowledge of most movie goers.
The docudrama elements of Stone's film are historically accurate. Yet in his attempt to make an entertainment film, Stone engaged in compression of, and skewing of, events, especially in the later battle parts of the film. Those in the audience who prefer dramatic action to fact may have been more pleased; however, those members who were capable of appreciating the historically accurate parts of the film may have been a little uncomfortable with this conflict between the two approaches.
In "Alexander - Revisited," Stone finally was free to include additional dialogue and scene extensions that never should have been omitted in the first two versions, undoubtedly against Stone's wishes. The pressure on Stone to omit these segments apparently was worry about the film being "too talky" and also, frankly, from ignorance and prejudice. A therapist must attempt to promote acceptance of fact and reality over beliefs that not only defy fact and reality but also have the potential to be harmful. One of my patients was very upset and angry (along with many viewers and even some Greeks, who should know better) that Stone "forced upon the viewing public a false, made-up version of Alexander's sexual orientation." Stone's portrayal of Alexander and Hepheastion's life-long relationship is accurate, and their expressions of love for each other are done with taste and sensitivity. I have not read from those persons who were offended by the gentle kiss between Bagoas and Alexander in this third version any comments about the overtly sexual scene with Alexander and Roxanne in all three versions. Stone, therefore, should be commended for including the scenes with Alexander and Hepheastion and also the additional footage of Bagoas.
I own and have watched all three DVD versions of Stone's film. The second defintely is better than the first. Although I need to view the second and third versions more in order to come to a more detailed comparison, the additional film footage in "Alexander - Revisited" may tip the evaluation scales in its favor, despite the somewhat disjointed feeling resulting from its editing.
Alexander The Great or The Gay.......2007-05-17
Its one of the worst historical based movie I have ever seen. The implication that Alexander was a homosexual or bisexual does not cut it in terms of Macedonian society of the time period. There were strong friendships between men, which persist today, that have no sexual connotations. As a matter of fact men who dressed, painted themselves and acted as women were shunned by society and made fun of from Assirya in the east to Carthage in the west.The actress chosen for the part of Roxanne has no physical characteristics similar to her historical predecesor, except maybe her great body. But maybe casting a more ravishing woman in that part would have downgraded the supposedly homosexual relationship that Alexander is shown to have. The only good casting made was that of Alexander`s mother. I do not want to rehash other areas of criticism except to say that this is not a movie about Alexander The Great but rather of Alexander The Gay.
Maybe the director`s next movie will be making Richard The Lionhearted into Richard The Gayhearted, in which case he would again be sadly mistaken.
Finally - the WHOLE story.......2007-05-13
I've been a Greek history fan for years, especially Alexander - and this final verison of the movie filled in - what to me - were gaping holes.
Mind you, I'm well aware it's not all historically accurate - but it definitely had a lot more of Bagoas. I was upset the original release did not show his importance in Alexander's life - and that the 'Director's Cut' cut him even further. No doubt, in a vain attempt to satisfy the homophobes...
I was very amused at the chief eunuch's attempts to show Alexander how well he was cut. And the ending when Alexander told him how valuable he'd been. And Ptolemy's comment that he disappeared after Alexander's death.
Freeing the entire harem was not something Alexander would do, but expressing his love definitely was.
Still disappointed there was no love scene - either with Hephaistion or Bagoas - that might equal a scene from 'Queer as Folk' - but thought this final version captured the essence of the love they shared.
Oliver Stone - Thank You!
Average customer rating:
- Great In-Depth Look into the Lives of Wrestlers
- Good but felt incomplete.
- One of the best "behind the scenes" wrestling dvd's
- Best Rasslin' Documentary I've seen
- For Wrestling Fans and the People Who Love Them
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Beyond the Mat (Unrated Director's Cut) (Ringside Special Edition)
Starring: Roland Alexander , Barry W. Blaustein , Darren Drozdov , Collette Foley , and Dewey Foley
Director: Barry W. Blaustein
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
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ASIN: B000189DZE
Release Date: 2004-03-23 |
Amazon.com essential video
At first, this behind-the-scenes documentary about professional wrestling seems as if it will be an unabashed fan's whitewash of the increasingly bizarre and popular world of "sports entertainment," as it is known. But director Barry Blaustein (a Saturday Night Live veteran who has cowritten many of Eddie Murphy's films) goes much deeper than you'd expect in a film that is at once entertaining and disturbing. By focusing on a trio of wrestlers who give him surprising access, Blaustein uncovers human stories that can be wrenching in their stark honesty. That's particularly true of one-time superstar Jake "the Snake" Roberts, whose career has fallen on hard times because of a crack habit; Roberts brings Blaustein along for his first encounter in several years with his grown, estranged daughter. Blaustein also goes into the lives of Terry Funk and Mick "Mankind" Foley in ways that are both revealing and, at times, upsetting. More than just a fan's appreciation, this is that rare documentary that shows you sides of a familiar subject you never knew existed. --Marshall Fine
Customer Reviews:
Great In-Depth Look into the Lives of Wrestlers.......2007-05-07
Most people don't think about all the work wrestlers put into doing their jobs. This DVD gives the viewer a closer look at all the injuries, broken relationships, and health issues that wrestlers deal with. I bought this DVD for my husband for his birthday, but I ended up watching it with him, and I can say I have a new appreciation for professional wrestling. I recommend this to anyone who truely enjoys wrestling and those behind it.
Good but felt incomplete........2007-05-01
I really liked this documentary. The way they showed people who are just trying to make it to Jake the Snake who are way on the downside of their careers. However I felt like WCW should have been included but they are not.
One of the best "behind the scenes" wrestling dvd's.......2006-10-21
i just bought this today and this is a very good film, it shows the truth about professional wrestling and what its about. I strongly recomend it to all ages
Best Rasslin' Documentary I've seen.......2006-05-05
Beyond the Mat is not only an insightful wrestling documentary, it's a very good overall film. It tells the story of several wrestlers all at different stages and places in their careers.
Jake 'the Snake' Roberts' is the typical story of a down and out former star that's hit rock bottom. His story is like a VH1 Behind the Music minus the great comeback.
Terry Funk's the fading star that just can't quite give up the life he's always know.
Mike Modest and Tony Jones are the young hopefuls looking for their shot in the big dance.
Mick Foley's story is the most interesting of all, showing the life of a family man and one of the most extreme wrestlers in the game. His match with the Rock in the Royal Rumble was difficult to watch, particulary alongside the shots of his young children crying at the sight of their father's pain.
All in all, a great film...this wasn't hard hitting journalism talking about all the problems with McMahon or the rampant steriod problem in professional wrestling. Some of the darker issues were covered in the Jake the Snake segment, but when compared to the life of Foley, Jake's problems can be easily attributed to personal choices.
If you want good behind the scenes coverage of late 90s pro-wrestling, this is the film to see.
For Wrestling Fans and the People Who Love Them.......2006-04-10
Being a life-long wrestling fan, it was pretty much a foregone conclusion that I would enjoy this movie.
Not so certain, however, was my fiancee; she hates wrestling, and only agreed to watch this to appease me.
Well, the reports are in and... she liked it! She really liked it!
Honestly, I knew she would. Beyond the Mat is a story about human beings, not just wrestlers (which is, mostly, the point of it). Mick Foley is one of those folks who can connect with just about anyone, and Jake Roberts is a recognizable tragedy whether or not you've ever seen him in the "squared circle." How sad it is that this documentary was filmed years ago now, and chronicled Terry Funk's "retirement" due to his chronic medical conditions, and yet I know he's going to be wrestling later this year in a WWE produced pay-per-view. Not every story in wrestling ends sadly, but most of the ones chronicled in this film do.
Whether you're a fan of the product, or being subjected to this film by someone who is, this is a good look at genuine people trying to find security and success in a dangerous business that they love. Well-made and fascinating.
Average customer rating:
- Alexander is a Great Epic!
- Comments on the Soundtrack only
- Better But Not Perfect
- Alexander The Great or The Gay
- Finally - the WHOLE story
|
Alexander - Director's Cut (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins , David Bedella , Jessie Kamm , Angelina Jolie , and Val Kilmer
Director: Oliver Stone
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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Similar Items:
- Kingdom of Heaven - The Director's Cut (Four-Disc Special Edition)
- Troy (Two-Disc Special Edition)
- Batman Begins [HD DVD]
- Sin City - Unrated (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
- War of the Worlds (Widescreen Edition)
ASIN: B0009PLLNQ
Release Date: 2005-08-02 |
Amazon.com
If you're determined to spend three hours with Oliver Stone's take on the personal and military struggles of ancient Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great, you should know that Alexander (Colin Farrell, in blonde disarray) is not half so much fun as mom Olympias (Angelina Jolie) or his future wild bride Roxane (Rosario Dawson). Indeed, it's the women in Alex's life who provide the movie's most satisfying action: Jolie, sporting some kind of Russian accent, wraps herself in snakes while hissing promises of Farrell's destiny; Dawson disrobes and threatens to cut Farrell's throat before shtupping his brains out. The rest is leaden history, supposedly novel because it showcases epic battle sequences and addresses Alexander's great love for his buddy Hephaistion (Jared Leto). But the man-on-man romance is limited to teary hugs, and the battles are indecipherable messes-you have to wait for Anthony Hopkins' narration to tell you what happened (in fact, you have to wait for Hopkins' narration to tell you everything that happens). There's some spectacle on display but, alas, not much that is truly spectacular. --Steve Wiecking
Customer Reviews:
Alexander is a Great Epic!.......2007-06-23
A great Epic, I dont see why this movie got so much bad publicity. Okay, there were a few badly filmed obscure scenes which shouldnt have even been put in this movie, but overall the movie was great. The acting by Farell and Kilmer is amazing.
I laugh at the critics who just love to use words such as BI and GAY at any chance they get, whether it's for their own namesake or out of spite. They love to focus on that sole aspect as if it were the only thing he stood for! Ha!
You actually think hundreds of thousands upon thousands of armies comprised of legions would have followed him to the edge of the world if they thought of him as just a Bi? Alexander was a Soldier's Soldier just as he was a King.
You want to know the truth about Alexander, read the books, read the Greek manuscripts, go visit or learn about the lands where Alexander and the legions travelled and changed life over there forever even to this day. Take a trip to an ancient museam in the Greek State of Makedonia/Macedonia/Macedon in Northern Greece. A GREAT Documentary/TV-Series comes to mind, History Channel's In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great which depicts almost every battle, region, etc.
Learn how some of the Ancient Wonders of the World were constructed in this time period.
I'm pretty sure Alexander was WAY more into Women than he was, if at all, into anything else. All that massive wine they drank, especially in the places over where the Ancient Greek God Dinonysys travelled as well as Herakles during his time with the Twelve Labors (or Hercules as he is most referred to), must have added to the Drama and possibly even affected campaigns.
At the Height of it's extent, The Greek Empire spanned a total of almost 25 modern day countries.
The regions and peoples are beautifully depicted in the Tv-Series: Footsteps of Alexander the Great.
I havent seen the director's cut yet, the 2 disc special edition is my favorite but the Revisited edition is a must see for It's extra footage which is pretty good for the most part.
The music score by Composer Vangelis (Blade Runner, 1492 Conquest..) is just fantastic to say the least!
9/10 and 10/10 for the music score.
A King isnt born Alexander, he's forged by the Sword and Suffering!
Philip To Alexander/
Comments on the Soundtrack only.......2007-06-21
I'm a huge fan of Oliver Stone and I've seen the both the original and final cut version of his epic Alexander. I am only here to comment on the music. I have a prejudice against electronic or synthesized soundtracks for movies set in antiquity, and this is what spoiled Alexander for me - I couldn't get passed the music. I feel that the movie would have been far more successful with a soundtrack using natural instruments and the themes of Vangelis. I know that Stone loves Vangelis and so do others; but for me, I was pulled out of this ancient time in history by the artificial electronic sounds. They weren't powerful enough or heroic enough for my taste, and I tend to like Vangelis in other films. I would have much prefered a John Williams soundtrack if he'd been available, and I think the movie would have been far more successful. The soundtrack sets the tone for the entire movie, oftentimes in subtle or subconscious ways, and for me the music was unable to sufficiently support the largeness of Alexander's life events or the totality of his life as a whole. I expect no one to agree with me here, but I love the largeness of scope in what Stone attempts and I'd like to see him succeed according to the incredible efforts he makes in his films. And believe me, this was a monumental film, and I love that he gave it his all. Despite the score, there were numerous battle scenes involving elephants in warfare that were unforgettable, and the soundtrack was effective at times. Overall, I think this film was even larger in scope than JFK, and that's why I was sorry it wasn't more well received.
Better But Not Perfect.......2007-05-21
In my reviewing this third version of "Alexander," it is difficult for me not to contrast the results of Stone's efforts with what might have been had HBO carried through with their proposal to create a ten-part series about Alexander based upon Mary Renault's trilogy "Fire From Heaven," "The Persian Boy," and "Funeral Games," assuming that the producers would have chosen excellent script writers, directors, and actors. Such a docudrama, run chronologically, would have had a far better chance of covering the almost 33 years of Alexander's life in a more complete and presentable manner. Stone obviously struggeled in his attempt to produce a hybred docudrama / entertainment film that could fit into a single sitting at a movie theater. In all three versions of his film, he met with varying degrees of success or failure.
Still, Stone's production is better (the good parts are far better than many people were capable of recognizing) than many critics and too many audience members thought. There are reasons for this.
Over the years, I have conducted extensive research on Alexander. Also, my having worked as a mental-health therapist for nearly 30 years, I once engaged it what might be called a "forensic psychological analysis" of Alexander and came to some interesting conclusions. So I have been able to compare and contrast the film with the film industry's "preferred approach" to script writing, directing, and production as described to me by my friend who is a university instructor in film.
The second version "Director's Cut" was an improvement over the initial theater version. This final version has some further improvements yet suffers from the same, inevitable difficulties of the first two.
In an effort to integrate the divers elements of the film into an organic whole, Stone made the choice to move frequently forward or backward in time. A multi-part docudrama, run chronologically, would have been far easier for most of the public to follow. Some critics complained about the addition of narration throughout the film, a possibly cumbersome element for an entertainment film. The additional information was a necessary addition, however, considering the limited length of the film and also the limited historical knowledge of most movie goers.
The docudrama elements of Stone's film are historically accurate. Yet in his attempt to make an entertainment film, Stone engaged in compression of, and skewing of, events, especially in the later battle parts of the film. Those in the audience who prefer dramatic action to fact may have been more pleased; however, those members who were capable of appreciating the historically accurate parts of the film may have been a little uncomfortable with this conflict between the two approaches.
In "Alexander - Revisited," Stone finally was free to include additional dialogue and scene extensions that never should have been omitted in the first two versions, undoubtedly against Stone's wishes. The pressure on Stone to omit these segments apparently was worry about the film being "too talky" and also, frankly, from ignorance and prejudice. A therapist must attempt to promote acceptance of fact and reality over beliefs that not only defy fact and reality but also have the potential to be harmful. One of my patients was very upset and angry (along with many viewers and even some Greeks, who should know better) that Stone "forced upon the viewing public a false, made-up version of Alexander's sexual orientation." Stone's portrayal of Alexander and Hepheastion's life-long relationship is accurate, and their expressions of love for each other are done with taste and sensitivity. I have not read from those persons who were offended by the gentle kiss between Bagoas and Alexander in this third version any comments about the overtly sexual scene with Alexander and Roxanne in all three versions. Stone, therefore, should be commended for including the scenes with Alexander and Hepheastion and also the additional footage of Bagoas.
I own and have watched all three DVD versions of Stone's film. The second defintely is better than the first. Although I need to view the second and third versions more in order to come to a more detailed comparison, the additional film footage in "Alexander - Revisited" may tip the evaluation scales in its favor, despite the somewhat disjointed feeling resulting from its editing.
Alexander The Great or The Gay.......2007-05-17
Its one of the worst historical based movie I have ever seen. The implication that Alexander was a homosexual or bisexual does not cut it in terms of Macedonian society of the time period. There were strong friendships between men, which persist today, that have no sexual connotations. As a matter of fact men who dressed, painted themselves and acted as women were shunned by society and made fun of from Assirya in the east to Carthage in the west.The actress chosen for the part of Roxanne has no physical characteristics similar to her historical predecesor, except maybe her great body. But maybe casting a more ravishing woman in that part would have downgraded the supposedly homosexual relationship that Alexander is shown to have. The only good casting made was that of Alexander`s mother. I do not want to rehash other areas of criticism except to say that this is not a movie about Alexander The Great but rather of Alexander The Gay.
Maybe the director`s next movie will be making Richard The Lionhearted into Richard The Gayhearted, in which case he would again be sadly mistaken.
Finally - the WHOLE story.......2007-05-13
I've been a Greek history fan for years, especially Alexander - and this final verison of the movie filled in - what to me - were gaping holes.
Mind you, I'm well aware it's not all historically accurate - but it definitely had a lot more of Bagoas. I was upset the original release did not show his importance in Alexander's life - and that the 'Director's Cut' cut him even further. No doubt, in a vain attempt to satisfy the homophobes...
I was very amused at the chief eunuch's attempts to show Alexander how well he was cut. And the ending when Alexander told him how valuable he'd been. And Ptolemy's comment that he disappeared after Alexander's death.
Freeing the entire harem was not something Alexander would do, but expressing his love definitely was.
Still disappointed there was no love scene - either with Hephaistion or Bagoas - that might equal a scene from 'Queer as Folk' - but thought this final version captured the essence of the love they shared.
Oliver Stone - Thank You!
Average customer rating:
- Great In-Depth Look into the Lives of Wrestlers
- Good but felt incomplete.
- One of the best "behind the scenes" wrestling dvd's
- Best Rasslin' Documentary I've seen
- For Wrestling Fans and the People Who Love Them
|
Beyond The Mat - Director's Cut
Starring: Roland Alexander , Darren Drozdov , Collette Foley , Dewey Foley , and Mick Foley
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
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- The Unreal Story of Pro Wrestling
ASIN: B00004U8H3
Release Date: 2000-08-22 |
Amazon.com essential video
At first, this behind-the-scenes documentary about professional wrestling seems as if it will be an unabashed fan's whitewash of the increasingly bizarre and popular world of "sports entertainment," as it is known. But director Barry Blaustein (a Saturday Night Live veteran who has cowritten many of Eddie Murphy's films) goes much deeper than you'd expect in a film that is at once entertaining and disturbing. By focusing on a trio of wrestlers who give him surprising access, Blaustein uncovers human stories that can be wrenching in their stark honesty. That's particularly true of one-time superstar Jake "the Snake" Roberts, whose career has fallen on hard times because of a crack habit; Roberts brings Blaustein along for his first encounter in several years with his grown, estranged daughter. Blaustein also goes into the lives of Terry Funk and Mick "Mankind" Foley in ways that are both revealing and, at times, upsetting. More than just a fan's appreciation, this is that rare documentary that shows you sides of a familiar subject you never knew existed. --Marshall Fine
Description
Barry Blaustein's critically acclaimed documentary about wrestling takes viewers beyond the ring and into the lives of the men and women who inhabit this colorful, competitive, and surprisingly complex world. During the five years he spent working on the film, Blaustein discovered that the control wrestlers exert in the ring is often contrasted by the lack of control they have in their own lives. Some pursue dreams--others are pursued by personal demons. Always relaying his love and respect for his subject matter, Blaustein travels on the open road with the wrestlers, shares their most intimate moments with their families, and witnesses their victories and defeats in the ring. 108 minutes.
Customer Reviews:
Great In-Depth Look into the Lives of Wrestlers.......2007-05-07
Most people don't think about all the work wrestlers put into doing their jobs. This DVD gives the viewer a closer look at all the injuries, broken relationships, and health issues that wrestlers deal with. I bought this DVD for my husband for his birthday, but I ended up watching it with him, and I can say I have a new appreciation for professional wrestling. I recommend this to anyone who truely enjoys wrestling and those behind it.
Good but felt incomplete........2007-05-01
I really liked this documentary. The way they showed people who are just trying to make it to Jake the Snake who are way on the downside of their careers. However I felt like WCW should have been included but they are not.
One of the best "behind the scenes" wrestling dvd's.......2006-10-21
i just bought this today and this is a very good film, it shows the truth about professional wrestling and what its about. I strongly recomend it to all ages
Best Rasslin' Documentary I've seen.......2006-05-05
Beyond the Mat is not only an insightful wrestling documentary, it's a very good overall film. It tells the story of several wrestlers all at different stages and places in their careers.
Jake 'the Snake' Roberts' is the typical story of a down and out former star that's hit rock bottom. His story is like a VH1 Behind the Music minus the great comeback.
Terry Funk's the fading star that just can't quite give up the life he's always know.
Mike Modest and Tony Jones are the young hopefuls looking for their shot in the big dance.
Mick Foley's story is the most interesting of all, showing the life of a family man and one of the most extreme wrestlers in the game. His match with the Rock in the Royal Rumble was difficult to watch, particulary alongside the shots of his young children crying at the sight of their father's pain.
All in all, a great film...this wasn't hard hitting journalism talking about all the problems with McMahon or the rampant steriod problem in professional wrestling. Some of the darker issues were covered in the Jake the Snake segment, but when compared to the life of Foley, Jake's problems can be easily attributed to personal choices.
If you want good behind the scenes coverage of late 90s pro-wrestling, this is the film to see.
For Wrestling Fans and the People Who Love Them.......2006-04-10
Being a life-long wrestling fan, it was pretty much a foregone conclusion that I would enjoy this movie.
Not so certain, however, was my fiancee; she hates wrestling, and only agreed to watch this to appease me.
Well, the reports are in and... she liked it! She really liked it!
Honestly, I knew she would. Beyond the Mat is a story about human beings, not just wrestlers (which is, mostly, the point of it). Mick Foley is one of those folks who can connect with just about anyone, and Jake Roberts is a recognizable tragedy whether or not you've ever seen him in the "squared circle." How sad it is that this documentary was filmed years ago now, and chronicled Terry Funk's "retirement" due to his chronic medical conditions, and yet I know he's going to be wrestling later this year in a WWE produced pay-per-view. Not every story in wrestling ends sadly, but most of the ones chronicled in this film do.
Whether you're a fan of the product, or being subjected to this film by someone who is, this is a good look at genuine people trying to find security and success in a dangerous business that they love. Well-made and fascinating.
Average customer rating:
- Alexander is a Great Epic!
- Comments on the Soundtrack only
- Better But Not Perfect
- Alexander The Great or The Gay
- Finally - the WHOLE story
|
Alexander - Director's Cut (Full Screen Edition)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins , David Bedella , Jessie Kamm , Angelina Jolie , and Val Kilmer
Director: Oliver Stone
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
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| ( K )
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| ( L )
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Similar Items:
- Kingdom of Heaven - The Director's Cut (Four-Disc Special Edition)
- Troy (Two-Disc Special Edition)
- Batman Begins [HD DVD]
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- War of the Worlds (Widescreen Edition)
ASIN: B0009PLLN6
Release Date: 2005-08-02 |
Amazon.com
If you're determined to spend three hours with Oliver Stone's take on the personal and military struggles of ancient Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great, you should know that Alexander (Colin Farrell, in blonde disarray) is not half so much fun as mom Olympias (Angelina Jolie) or his future wild bride Roxane (Rosario Dawson). Indeed, it's the women in Alex's life who provide the movie's most satisfying action: Jolie, sporting some kind of Russian accent, wraps herself in snakes while hissing promises of Farrell's destiny; Dawson disrobes and threatens to cut Farrell's throat before shtupping his brains out. The rest is leaden history, supposedly novel because it showcases epic battle sequences and addresses Alexander's great love for his buddy Hephaistion (Jared Leto). But the man-on-man romance is limited to teary hugs, and the battles are indecipherable messes-you have to wait for Anthony Hopkins' narration to tell you what happened (in fact, you have to wait for Hopkins' narration to tell you everything that happens). There's some spectacle on display but, alas, not much that is truly spectacular. --Steve Wiecking
Description
Academy award winning director Oliver Stone presents a breathtaking new cut of his sweeping epic film, ALEXANDER, the true story of the world's greatest warrior. Using new footage and dramatically reshaping dozens of scenes, he brings to life the overpowering forces and fierce personalities that forever changed history. Torn by the war between his parents (Angelina Jolie and Val Kilmer), Alexander (Colin Farrell) left Greece to face massive armies in Persia, Afghanistan and India -- and was never defeated. "Fortune favors the bold" Stone powerfully demonstrates in this bold new film, ALEXANDER DIRECTOR'S CUT.
DVD Features:
Audio Commentary:Oliver Stone
Documentaries
Customer Reviews:
Alexander is a Great Epic!.......2007-06-23
A great Epic, I dont see why this movie got so much bad publicity. Okay, there were a few badly filmed obscure scenes which shouldnt have even been put in this movie, but overall the movie was great. The acting by Farell and Kilmer is amazing.
I laugh at the critics who just love to use words such as BI and GAY at any chance they get, whether it's for their own namesake or out of spite. They love to focus on that sole aspect as if it were the only thing he stood for! Ha!
You actually think hundreds of thousands upon thousands of armies comprised of legions would have followed him to the edge of the world if they thought of him as just a Bi? Alexander was a Soldier's Soldier just as he was a King.
You want to know the truth about Alexander, read the books, read the Greek manuscripts, go visit or learn about the lands where Alexander and the legions travelled and changed life over there forever even to this day. Take a trip to an ancient museam in the Greek State of Makedonia/Macedonia/Macedon in Northern Greece. A GREAT Documentary/TV-Series comes to mind, History Channel's In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great which depicts almost every battle, region, etc.
Learn how some of the Ancient Wonders of the World were constructed in this time period.
I'm pretty sure Alexander was WAY more into Women than he was, if at all, into anything else. All that massive wine they drank, especially in the places over where the Ancient Greek God Dinonysys travelled as well as Herakles during his time with the Twelve Labors (or Hercules as he is most referred to), must have added to the Drama and possibly even affected campaigns.
At the Height of it's extent, The Greek Empire spanned a total of almost 25 modern day countries.
The regions and peoples are beautifully depicted in the Tv-Series: Footsteps of Alexander the Great.
I havent seen the director's cut yet, the 2 disc special edition is my favorite but the Revisited edition is a must see for It's extra footage which is pretty good for the most part.
The music score by Composer Vangelis (Blade Runner, 1492 Conquest..) is just fantastic to say the least!
9/10 and 10/10 for the music score.
A King isnt born Alexander, he's forged by the Sword and Suffering!
Philip To Alexander/
Comments on the Soundtrack only.......2007-06-21
I'm a huge fan of Oliver Stone and I've seen the both the original and final cut version of his epic Alexander. I am only here to comment on the music. I have a prejudice against electronic or synthesized soundtracks for movies set in antiquity, and this is what spoiled Alexander for me - I couldn't get passed the music. I feel that the movie would have been far more successful with a soundtrack using natural instruments and the themes of Vangelis. I know that Stone loves Vangelis and so do others; but for me, I was pulled out of this ancient time in history by the artificial electronic sounds. They weren't powerful enough or heroic enough for my taste, and I tend to like Vangelis in other films. I would have much prefered a John Williams soundtrack if he'd been available, and I think the movie would have been far more successful. The soundtrack sets the tone for the entire movie, oftentimes in subtle or subconscious ways, and for me the music was unable to sufficiently support the largeness of Alexander's life events or the totality of his life as a whole. I expect no one to agree with me here, but I love the largeness of scope in what Stone attempts and I'd like to see him succeed according to the incredible efforts he makes in his films. And believe me, this was a monumental film, and I love that he gave it his all. Despite the score, there were numerous battle scenes involving elephants in warfare that were unforgettable, and the soundtrack was effective at times. Overall, I think this film was even larger in scope than JFK, and that's why I was sorry it wasn't more well received.
Better But Not Perfect.......2007-05-21
In my reviewing this third version of "Alexander," it is difficult for me not to contrast the results of Stone's efforts with what might have been had HBO carried through with their proposal to create a ten-part series about Alexander based upon Mary Renault's trilogy "Fire From Heaven," "The Persian Boy," and "Funeral Games," assuming that the producers would have chosen excellent script writers, directors, and actors. Such a docudrama, run chronologically, would have had a far better chance of covering the almost 33 years of Alexander's life in a more complete and presentable manner. Stone obviously struggeled in his attempt to produce a hybred docudrama / entertainment film that could fit into a single sitting at a movie theater. In all three versions of his film, he met with varying degrees of success or failure.
Still, Stone's production is better (the good parts are far better than many people were capable of recognizing) than many critics and too many audience members thought. There are reasons for this.
Over the years, I have conducted extensive research on Alexander. Also, my having worked as a mental-health therapist for nearly 30 years, I once engaged it what might be called a "forensic psychological analysis" of Alexander and came to some interesting conclusions. So I have been able to compare and contrast the film with the film industry's "preferred approach" to script writing, directing, and production as described to me by my friend who is a university instructor in film.
The second version "Director's Cut" was an improvement over the initial theater version. This final version has some further improvements yet suffers from the same, inevitable difficulties of the first two.
In an effort to integrate the divers elements of the film into an organic whole, Stone made the choice to move frequently forward or backward in time. A multi-part docudrama, run chronologically, would have been far easier for most of the public to follow. Some critics complained about the addition of narration throughout the film, a possibly cumbersome element for an entertainment film. The additional information was a necessary addition, however, considering the limited length of the film and also the limited historical knowledge of most movie goers.
The docudrama elements of Stone's film are historically accurate. Yet in his attempt to make an entertainment film, Stone engaged in compression of, and skewing of, events, especially in the later battle parts of the film. Those in the audience who prefer dramatic action to fact may have been more pleased; however, those members who were capable of appreciating the historically accurate parts of the film may have been a little uncomfortable with this conflict between the two approaches.
In "Alexander - Revisited," Stone finally was free to include additional dialogue and scene extensions that never should have been omitted in the first two versions, undoubtedly against Stone's wishes. The pressure on Stone to omit these segments apparently was worry about the film being "too talky" and also, frankly, from ignorance and prejudice. A therapist must attempt to promote acceptance of fact and reality over beliefs that not only defy fact and reality but also have the potential to be harmful. One of my patients was very upset and angry (along with many viewers and even some Greeks, who should know better) that Stone "forced upon the viewing public a false, made-up version of Alexander's sexual orientation." Stone's portrayal of Alexander and Hepheastion's life-long relationship is accurate, and their expressions of love for each other are done with taste and sensitivity. I have not read from those persons who were offended by the gentle kiss between Bagoas and Alexander in this third version any comments about the overtly sexual scene with Alexander and Roxanne in all three versions. Stone, therefore, should be commended for including the scenes with Alexander and Hepheastion and also the additional footage of Bagoas.
I own and have watched all three DVD versions of Stone's film. The second defintely is better than the first. Although I need to view the second and third versions more in order to come to a more detailed comparison, the additional film footage in "Alexander - Revisited" may tip the evaluation scales in its favor, despite the somewhat disjointed feeling resulting from its editing.
Alexander The Great or The Gay.......2007-05-17
Its one of the worst historical based movie I have ever seen. The implication that Alexander was a homosexual or bisexual does not cut it in terms of Macedonian society of the time period. There were strong friendships between men, which persist today, that have no sexual connotations. As a matter of fact men who dressed, painted themselves and acted as women were shunned by society and made fun of from Assirya in the east to Carthage in the west.The actress chosen for the part of Roxanne has no physical characteristics similar to her historical predecesor, except maybe her great body. But maybe casting a more ravishing woman in that part would have downgraded the supposedly homosexual relationship that Alexander is shown to have. The only good casting made was that of Alexander`s mother. I do not want to rehash other areas of criticism except to say that this is not a movie about Alexander The Great but rather of Alexander The Gay.
Maybe the director`s next movie will be making Richard The Lionhearted into Richard The Gayhearted, in which case he would again be sadly mistaken.
Finally - the WHOLE story.......2007-05-13
I've been a Greek history fan for years, especially Alexander - and this final verison of the movie filled in - what to me - were gaping holes.
Mind you, I'm well aware it's not all historically accurate - but it definitely had a lot more of Bagoas. I was upset the original release did not show his importance in Alexander's life - and that the 'Director's Cut' cut him even further. No doubt, in a vain attempt to satisfy the homophobes...
I was very amused at the chief eunuch's attempts to show Alexander how well he was cut. And the ending when Alexander told him how valuable he'd been. And Ptolemy's comment that he disappeared after Alexander's death.
Freeing the entire harem was not something Alexander would do, but expressing his love definitely was.
Still disappointed there was no love scene - either with Hephaistion or Bagoas - that might equal a scene from 'Queer as Folk' - but thought this final version captured the essence of the love they shared.
Oliver Stone - Thank You!
Average customer rating:
- Sensational!
- Intense and unsettling film
- Decent film, but bad adaptation.
- What Film Is All About
- Very disturbing but Very good
|
Mysterious Skin (Original Theatrical Director's Cut)
Starring: Chase Ellison , George Webster (IV) , Rachael Nastassja Kraft , Lisa Long , and Chris Mulkey
Director: Gregg Araki
Manufacturer: Tla
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ASIN: B000ATQYQU
Release Date: 2005-10-25 |
Amazon.com
Though the subject matter of Mysterious Skin is as sensational as that of Gregg Araki's other films (such as Totally F***ked Up, The Doom Generation, or The Living End), his direction is richer and more multilayered than ever before. Two Kansas teenagers named Neil (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, 10 Things I Hate About You) and Brian (Brady Corbett, Thirteen) share a childhood trauma--but their responses are radically different: Neil hustles tricks, while Brady, who can't remember what happened, believes he was abducted by aliens and left with "missing time." As both try to make sense of their lives and Brian struggles to find out the truth, Mysterious Skin builds to an emotional pitch that some viewers will find uncomfortable and others will find liberating. The characters of Neil and Brian have a fullness that lifts Mysterious Skin above most examinations of sexual abuse and trauma. Gordon-Levitt has been deservedly praised by the critics, but the entire cast--which also includes Bill Sage (Simple Men), Elizabeth Shue (Leaving Las Vegas), Michelle Trachtenberg (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and Mary Lynn Rajskub (24)--turns in superb performances. A striking and powerful movie. --Bret Fetzer
Description
The summer I was eight years old, five hours disappeared from my life. These are the words of Brian Lackey, a troubled 18 year old, growing up in the stiflingly small town of Hutchinson, Kansas. Plagued by nightmares, Brian believes that he may have been the victim of an alien abduction. Neil, however, is the ultimate beautiful outsider. With a loving but promiscuous mother, Neil is wise beyond his years and curious about his developing sexuality, having found what he perceived to be love from his Little League baseball coach at a very early age. Now, ten years later, Neil is a teenage hustler, nonchalant about the dangerous path his life is taking.
Customer Reviews:
Sensational!.......2007-06-19
Mysterious Skin- Sensational, controversial, intense... so many words can describe this movie by Gregg Araki based on the novel by Scott Heim. The first time I watched this film, I was blown away by the display of raw emotions of the two young lead actors- Joseph Gordon Levitt (who plays young hustler Neil McCormick) and Brady Corbet ( who plays Brian, the shy teen who believes he was abducted by Aliens). There is a special, albeit disturbing connection between the two young men and the film captures the journey towards their reunion and the ultimate discovery of that particular event that connects them.
Gordon-Levitt delivers one of the most unforgettable performances I have seen in recent years. As a young hustler, his dark and secret past, allowed him to mask his emotions, and live life as if what he does for a living is something ordinary and mundane. With his eyes showing off nothing, and staring blankly into space, he goes from one job to another just as if he's replacing parts in an automotive shop or sorting out letters in a mail room. There are certain sex scenes that are graphic and disturbing, but it captures the world of Neil- dark, violent, uncaring... It's the only way he can go on- the absence of emotion and with it, the inability to truly love the people who care for him. Corbet also delivered an amazing performance, as Brian he is the shy, trusting and unassuming young man who is so obsessed with recording his periodic episodes of forgetfulness, that he opens himself to anyone who cared enough to listen...
There is a certain fulfillment in watching this movie and see it towards its end, it opens up a world that is there, perhaps a world apart from your own, but it's there and you may need or may not need to protect yourself to discover it.
Intense and unsettling film.......2007-06-07
Neil (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Brian (Brady Corbet) played on the same Little League team when they were eight, but they grew into very different young men. Neil is a burned out, soulless prostitute, while Brian is shy and confused and obsessed with UFOs. When they meet again as adults, Neil reveals a terrible truth about that summer they played baseball.
This movie is a shocking look at pedophilia and its effects on the lives of two children. It is at times difficult to watch, but the actors' performances are flawless. Gordon-Levitt is stunning as the young hustler who lives a zombie-like existence, and Corbet is appealing as the naive boy who thinks he was abducted by aliens. The story is cleverly constructed; parallel vignettes from each boy's life trace their development until they are reunited and the truth brings them a degree of peace. This unforgettable film is brutal and very, very sad.
Decent film, but bad adaptation........2007-05-27
Mysterious Skin (Gregg Araki, 2004)
A good deal of my problem with Hollywood can be summed up by one unfortunate set of scenes in Gregg Araki's adaptation of Scott Heim's intriguing novel Mysterious Skin. All of these scenes concern Brian (Thirteen's Brady Corbet)'s relationship with Avalyn Friesen (Mary Lynn Rajskub of 24). Every time she appeared on the screen, I couldn't help but think "this is the conception of `grossly overweight' [as she's described in the book] in California?" That alone was enough to throw off my enjoyment of the film; the feeling was exacerbated by a number of small changes, the kind of thing I'd normally assume was done to preserve the film's R rating, but with more involved in each case. (For example, the lovely scene in the novel where Neal (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), his mother (Elisabeth Shue), and Eric (Jeff Licon) go picnicking the day before Neal leaves for New York is torn to shreds; the portion of it that might have messed with the film's rating is there, in abbreviated, almost prudish, form, but all the rest of the scene has been dispensed with.)
Not a terrible movie, but do yourself a favor: see it before you read the book, so you don't know what you're missing until afterwards. ** ½
What Film Is All About.......2007-05-16
This is one of those films that is so well made that it makes other films look bad. The acting is top rate and honest. The subject matter is difficult, but the film handles it so well. This a must see film.
Very disturbing but Very good.......2007-05-14
I thought this movie was excellently done and very watchable. Excellent acting and story. But the story was very disturbing, showing the effects on kids of abuse. It really opened my eyes to the problem of child abuse. A must see for every open minded free thinking adult. Not sure if I would recommend it for teens though.
Average customer rating:
- Alexander is a Great Epic!
- Comments on the Soundtrack only
- Better But Not Perfect
- Alexander The Great or The Gay
- Finally - the WHOLE story
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Alexander (Director's Cut) (With BBQ Book)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins , David Bedella , Jessie Kamm , Angelina Jolie , and Val Kilmer
Director: Oliver Stone
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000EWBKNA
Release Date: 2006-05-23 |
Amazon.com
If you're determined to spend three hours with Oliver Stone's take on the personal and military struggles of ancient Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great, you should know that Alexander (Colin Farrell, in blonde disarray) is not half so much fun as mom Olympias (Angelina Jolie) or his future wild bride Roxane (Rosario Dawson). Indeed, it's the women in Alex's life who provide the movie's most satisfying action: Jolie, sporting some kind of Russian accent, wraps herself in snakes while hissing promises of Farrell's destiny; Dawson disrobes and threatens to cut Farrell's throat before shtupping his brains out. The rest is leaden history, supposedly novel because it showcases epic battle sequences and addresses Alexander's great love for his buddy Hephaistion (Jared Leto). But the man-on-man romance is limited to teary hugs, and the battles are indecipherable messes-you have to wait for Anthony Hopkins' narration to tell you what happened (in fact, you have to wait for Hopkins' narration to tell you everything that happens). There's some spectacle on display but, alas, not much that is truly spectacular. --Steve Wiecking
Description
Academy award winning director Oliver Stone presents a breathtaking new cut of his sweeping epic film, ALEXANDER, the true story of the world's greatest warrior. Using new footage and dramatically reshaping dozens of scenes, he brings to life the overpowering forces and fierce personalities that forever changed history. Torn by the war between his parents (Angelina Jolie and Val Kilmer), Alexander (Colin Farrell) left Greece to face massive armies in Persia, Afghanistan and India -- and was never defeated. "Fortune favors the bold" Stone powerfully demonstrates in this bold new film, ALEXANDER DIRECTOR'S CUT.
Customer Reviews:
Alexander is a Great Epic!.......2007-06-23
A great Epic, I dont see why this movie got so much bad publicity. Okay, there were a few badly filmed obscure scenes which shouldnt have even been put in this movie, but overall the movie was great. The acting by Farell and Kilmer is amazing.
I laugh at the critics who just love to use words such as BI and GAY at any chance they get, whether it's for their own namesake or out of spite. They love to focus on that sole aspect as if it were the only thing he stood for! Ha!
You actually think hundreds of thousands upon thousands of armies comprised of legions would have followed him to the edge of the world if they thought of him as just a Bi? Alexander was a Soldier's Soldier just as he was a King.
You want to know the truth about Alexander, read the books, read the Greek manuscripts, go visit or learn about the lands where Alexander and the legions travelled and changed life over there forever even to this day. Take a trip to an ancient museam in the Greek State of Makedonia/Macedonia/Macedon in Northern Greece. A GREAT Documentary/TV-Series comes to mind, History Channel's In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great which depicts almost every battle, region, etc.
Learn how some of the Ancient Wonders of the World were constructed in this time period.
I'm pretty sure Alexander was WAY more into Women than he was, if at all, into anything else. All that massive wine they drank, especially in the places over where the Ancient Greek God Dinonysys travelled as well as Herakles during his time with the Twelve Labors (or Hercules as he is most referred to), must have added to the Drama and possibly even affected campaigns.
At the Height of it's extent, The Greek Empire spanned a total of almost 25 modern day countries.
The regions and peoples are beautifully depicted in the Tv-Series: Footsteps of Alexander the Great.
I havent seen the director's cut yet, the 2 disc special edition is my favorite but the Revisited edition is a must see for It's extra footage which is pretty good for the most part.
The music score by Composer Vangelis (Blade Runner, 1492 Conquest..) is just fantastic to say the least!
9/10 and 10/10 for the music score.
A King isnt born Alexander, he's forged by the Sword and Suffering!
Philip To Alexander/
Comments on the Soundtrack only.......2007-06-21
I'm a huge fan of Oliver Stone and I've seen the both the original and final cut version of his epic Alexander. I am only here to comment on the music. I have a prejudice against electronic or synthesized soundtracks for movies set in antiquity, and this is what spoiled Alexander for me - I couldn't get passed the music. I feel that the movie would have been far more successful with a soundtrack using natural instruments and the themes of Vangelis. I know that Stone loves Vangelis and so do others; but for me, I was pulled out of this ancient time in history by the artificial electronic sounds. They weren't powerful enough or heroic enough for my taste, and I tend to like Vangelis in other films. I would have much prefered a John Williams soundtrack if he'd been available, and I think the movie would have been far more successful. The soundtrack sets the tone for the entire movie, oftentimes in subtle or subconscious ways, and for me the music was unable to sufficiently support the largeness of Alexander's life events or the totality of his life as a whole. I expect no one to agree with me here, but I love the largeness of scope in what Stone attempts and I'd like to see him succeed according to the incredible efforts he makes in his films. And believe me, this was a monumental film, and I love that he gave it his all. Despite the score, there were numerous battle scenes involving elephants in warfare that were unforgettable, and the soundtrack was effective at times. Overall, I think this film was even larger in scope than JFK, and that's why I was sorry it wasn't more well received.
Better But Not Perfect.......2007-05-21
In my reviewing this third version of "Alexander," it is difficult for me not to contrast the results of Stone's efforts with what might have been had HBO carried through with their proposal to create a ten-part series about Alexander based upon Mary Renault's trilogy "Fire From Heaven," "The Persian Boy," and "Funeral Games," assuming that the producers would have chosen excellent script writers, directors, and actors. Such a docudrama, run chronologically, would have had a far better chance of covering the almost 33 years of Alexander's life in a more complete and presentable manner. Stone obviously struggeled in his attempt to produce a hybred docudrama / entertainment film that could fit into a single sitting at a movie theater. In all three versions of his film, he met with varying degrees of success or failure.
Still, Stone's production is better (the good parts are far better than many people were capable of recognizing) than many critics and too many audience members thought. There are reasons for this.
Over the years, I have conducted extensive research on Alexander. Also, my having worked as a mental-health therapist for nearly 30 years, I once engaged it what might be called a "forensic psychological analysis" of Alexander and came to some interesting conclusions. So I have been able to compare and contrast the film with the film industry's "preferred approach" to script writing, directing, and production as described to me by my friend who is a university instructor in film.
The second version "Director's Cut" was an improvement over the initial theater version. This final version has some further improvements yet suffers from the same, inevitable difficulties of the first two.
In an effort to integrate the divers elements of the film into an organic whole, Stone made the choice to move frequently forward or backward in time. A multi-part docudrama, run chronologically, would have been far easier for most of the public to follow. Some critics complained about the addition of narration throughout the film, a possibly cumbersome element for an entertainment film. The additional information was a necessary addition, however, considering the limited length of the film and also the limited historical knowledge of most movie goers.
The docudrama elements of Stone's film are historically accurate. Yet in his attempt to make an entertainment film, Stone engaged in compression of, and skewing of, events, especially in the later battle parts of the film. Those in the audience who prefer dramatic action to fact may have been more pleased; however, those members who were capable of appreciating the historically accurate parts of the film may have been a little uncomfortable with this conflict between the two approaches.
In "Alexander - Revisited," Stone finally was free to include additional dialogue and scene extensions that never should have been omitted in the first two versions, undoubtedly against Stone's wishes. The pressure on Stone to omit these segments apparently was worry about the film being "too talky" and also, frankly, from ignorance and prejudice. A therapist must attempt to promote acceptance of fact and reality over beliefs that not only defy fact and reality but also have the potential to be harmful. One of my patients was very upset and angry (along with many viewers and even some Greeks, who should know better) that Stone "forced upon the viewing public a false, made-up version of Alexander's sexual orientation." Stone's portrayal of Alexander and Hepheastion's life-long relationship is accurate, and their expressions of love for each other are done with taste and sensitivity. I have not read from those persons who were offended by the gentle kiss between Bagoas and Alexander in this third version any comments about the overtly sexual scene with Alexander and Roxanne in all three versions. Stone, therefore, should be commended for including the scenes with Alexander and Hepheastion and also the additional footage of Bagoas.
I own and have watched all three DVD versions of Stone's film. The second defintely is better than the first. Although I need to view the second and third versions more in order to come to a more detailed comparison, the additional film footage in "Alexander - Revisited" may tip the evaluation scales in its favor, despite the somewhat disjointed feeling resulting from its editing.
Alexander The Great or The Gay.......2007-05-17
Its one of the worst historical based movie I have ever seen. The implication that Alexander was a homosexual or bisexual does not cut it in terms of Macedonian society of the time period. There were strong friendships between men, which persist today, that have no sexual connotations. As a matter of fact men who dressed, painted themselves and acted as women were shunned by society and made fun of from Assirya in the east to Carthage in the west.The actress chosen for the part of Roxanne has no physical characteristics similar to her historical predecesor, except maybe her great body. But maybe casting a more ravishing woman in that part would have downgraded the supposedly homosexual relationship that Alexander is shown to have. The only good casting made was that of Alexander`s mother. I do not want to rehash other areas of criticism except to say that this is not a movie about Alexander The Great but rather of Alexander The Gay.
Maybe the director`s next movie will be making Richard The Lionhearted into Richard The Gayhearted, in which case he would again be sadly mistaken.
Finally - the WHOLE story.......2007-05-13
I've been a Greek history fan for years, especially Alexander - and this final verison of the movie filled in - what to me - were gaping holes.
Mind you, I'm well aware it's not all historically accurate - but it definitely had a lot more of Bagoas. I was upset the original release did not show his importance in Alexander's life - and that the 'Director's Cut' cut him even further. No doubt, in a vain attempt to satisfy the homophobes...
I was very amused at the chief eunuch's attempts to show Alexander how well he was cut. And the ending when Alexander told him how valuable he'd been. And Ptolemy's comment that he disappeared after Alexander's death.
Freeing the entire harem was not something Alexander would do, but expressing his love definitely was.
Still disappointed there was no love scene - either with Hephaistion or Bagoas - that might equal a scene from 'Queer as Folk' - but thought this final version captured the essence of the love they shared.
Oliver Stone - Thank You!
Average customer rating:
- Why isn't this on TV?
- This is one slick indie
- This Film Is Fun!
- Watch this movie!
|
Director's Cut
Starring: David Hunter , Kathleen Taylor , Molly Michelle , Cradeaux Alexander , and Marian Zapico
Director: Eric Stacey
Manufacturer: Landfall Productions
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
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ASIN: B0000AKMZP
Release Date: 2003-07-01 |
Description
Winner: Best Comedy Horror Feature Film - FrightFest 2003 Nominated: Best Horror Feature - ScreamFest 2003 Official Selection: AKA ShriekFest 2003
Customer Reviews:
Why isn't this on TV?.......2004-04-23
Don't get me wrong. I like wall to wall mayhem, and that's not Director's Cut. But this Killer Comedy is better than any reality TV show on TV. Of course, it isn't reality TV, but then neither is reality TV, know what I mean?... This is better. Way better. Funny, original, perverse. Instead of Survivor, I recommend Director's Cut!
This is one slick indie.......2004-04-22
This is one of the most refreshing pieces of low budget horror I've seen. It was slick well cut and bloody, with a good plot to help it along too. This is the direction horror films should be taking. Nothing like praying on a fear of missused power tools to make this type of film great.
This is one flick that you can't go without in your horror collection.
This Film Is Fun!.......2004-03-20
I really enjoy good horror films. The Nightmare on Elm Street series especially. But Texas Chainsaw Massacre is another favorite - and "Director's Cut: A Killer Comedy" is a very funny parody - substituting a family of inept film makers (Metalface for Leather Face) for slaughter house kin in a movie that makes fun of itself as much as it pokes fun at one of the scariest films of all time. Despite an apparent low budget, "Director's Cut" is slick and well made. The story and hilarious, dumb teens more than make up for the low budget. There are some good beheadings with scary power tools and more than enough blood for me. Don't let your kids get hold of it. You'll never get it back!
Watch this movie!.......2003-07-25
Director's Cut is the new kind of horror, fast, bloody and unrelenting. This film isn't just a bunch of good looking faces getting killed (which is enough), it also has a cool plot and odd characters. The box cover doesn't give this movie justice. If you like horror you will want to know this movie because it will come up in conversation.
Average customer rating:
- Alexander is a Great Epic!
- Comments on the Soundtrack only
- Better But Not Perfect
- Alexander The Great or The Gay
- Finally - the WHOLE story
|
Alexander (Director's Cut) (With Golf Book)
Starring: Anthony Hopkins , David Bedella , Jessie Kamm , Angelina Jolie , and Val Kilmer
Director: Oliver Stone
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
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| ( K )
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Lally, Mick
| ( L )
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