David Searching

Starring:David Searching
Studio: Water Bearer Films, Inc
Product Type: DVD

Average customer rating:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents
Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons.
I Was There
family movie
You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie

Searching for Bobby Fischer
Starring: Max Pomeranc , Joe Mantegna , Joan Allen , Ben Kingsley , and Laurence Fishburne
Director: Steven Zaillian
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: 6305910340
Release Date: 2000-07-11

Amazon.com

Steve Zaillian, the Oscar-winning screenwriter of Schindler's List, made his directorial debut with this critically acclaimed but little-seen drama based on the nonfiction book by Fred Waitzkin, about a father (Joe Mantegna) who discovers that his seven-year-old son (Max Pomeranc) is a genius at playing chess. The boy plays chess for fun, but when he's tutored by a former champion (Ben Kingsley) and entered into high-pressure competitions, an enjoyable pastime becomes a source of tension and resentment, forcing the father to reconsider his parental priorities. A poignant study of the difference between parental idealism and proper parenting, the movie is also an observantly witty portrait of a precocious child who is still, after all, a child, and still eager for the joyful discoveries of youth. While offering a fascinating look into the world of competitive chess, the movie's dramatically engrossing and extremely well-acted by a brilliant cast that also includes David Paymer, William H. Macy, and Dan Hedaya in memorable supporting roles. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents.......2007-06-25

Coaches, teachers, and parents of kids often make one of two errors in competitive activities:

1. They try to convince their kids that winning is the only thing that matters.
2. They instill in their kids a great fear of losing.

Josh Waitzkin is a young 7-year-old boy who enjoys playing the game of chess. He's also a very nice, sweet kid who never feels comfortable or even enjoys "beating" an opponent. He simply loves the game. When he first plays his father in a game of chess, he doesn't try his hardest. He's afraid of beating and hurting his father's feelings. This part of the film lays the foundation for the entire rest of the film. His mother has to tell him, "it's okay if you beat him. You won't hurt his feelings." Only then does Josh play at his best and wins.

Fred Waitzkin (Joe Mantegna) represents the first fear that I listed. He's an extremely supportive father who is very proud of his son. "He's better at this than anything that I will ever do in my whole life," he says of Josh. While has passion and support are strong, he falls into the trap of living vicariously through his son. Winning is the most important thing to him. When Josh loses a match to an "inferior" opponent, Fred is upset and can't understand why Josh lost. He doesn't realize that Josh loves his father and only wants to please him. It isn't until then that Fred realizes his mistake, and he finally encourages Josh to play for fun.

On the other side is Josh's chess teacher, Bruce (Ben Kingsley). He represents the second fear that I listed. He is afraid of Josh losing. Bruce is a man who is so scarred by his own losses that happened long ago, that he more or less "hides out" in an old chess room. At first, Fred Waitzkin has to talk him into taking his son as a student. While Bruce's demeanor is somewhat cold, it's obvious that he truly loves Josh, and can't bear the thought of Josh going through the pain of losing a match. It isn't until the end that he realizes that Josh is really in no danger of this, even if he did lose. Josh isn't greatly affected by either winning or losing. He only likes to play. But, Bruce tries to tell Josh that he needs to hold his opponents in contempt. That type of notion simply doesn't exist in Josh.

"Bobby Fischer held the whole world in contempt," says Bruce. Josh responds, "I'm not him." Josh already knows who he is, and he isn't trying to be the next Bobby Fischer, no matter how much everyone else wants him to be. He only wants to be himself.

There are two characters in this movie that already know Josh's heart, and they give him the positive values and support that Josh needs.

First, his mother (Joan Allen). She is so enamored by Josh's good heart, that at one point, she threatens her husband. "He's not weak. He's decent. And if you or Bruce or anyone else tries to beat that out of him, I swear to God I'll take him away."

Second, is his friend Vinnie (Laurence Fishburne), a man that Josh meets in Washington Square where Vinnie spends his time playing speed chess with other people who are mostly transients. Josh quickly makes friends with him, even though Bruce doesn't like it. But, Vinnie holds the wisdom of competition that Bruce fails to give to Josh. "You're playing not to lose, Josh. You have to risk losing. You have to play on the edge of defeat. That's where you want to be!"

I can't stress the performance of young Max Pomeranc (Josh Waitzkin) enough. He seems to know exactly who Josh is, and he plays him with a gentle sweetness that can't be ignored or overlooked. You see it in his eyes and facial expressions. He looks at his opponents not as enemies, but simply another kid sitting across from him who could easily be his friend. Josh has a well-balanced life. Chess isn't everything to him. He enjoys doing other things. Perhaps this is a testament to why his character is so strong. His opponent at the end, Jonathan Poe, thinks of only chess, and we quickly find that he is a very unhappy and miserable kid. He's the kind of player that Bruce tries to make Josh, and we are thankful that Josh never goes down that road.

Competition is so strong in our culture. Most parents, teachers, and coaches fall into these two fears without realizing it. We push and push, we forget that they are children, and that we need to stress the importance of having fun, being a good sportsman, and being gracious in victory and defeat. It's truly amazing to find that Josh Waitzkin already realized this at the tender age of 7. Hopefully, we can begin to pass these values on to our own kids.

Note* - Look for the real Josh and Vinnie during a scene when the movie Josh and Vinnie are playing chess in the park. The real Josh Waitzkin and Vinnie are talking just in front of Ben Kingsley and Joe Mantegna.

Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons........2007-06-21

As one reviewer who happened to winess much of this first hand has pointed out, yeah, hollywood may have taken some liberties with the characters for theatrics, but hopefully overall the message is transmitted, Winning is not everything, and more training and isolation on one task does not alway make a better player. Other factors come into play, heart and feeling should also. Based on a true story, Josh, a seven year old, picks up chess from the park (washington square) near his home, on his own. To the suprise of his parents, one day he asks to play at the park, and does well for the first time. From their, his father becomes involved, who is at first amazed at his son being so good, but then turns into an the classic Overbearing pressuring parent pushing josh into "always winning". Along the way young josh stuggles with what to do, fearing dissapointing his dad, as well as feeling forced to change his approch to something that brings him no joy. Alas, can Josh ever find his way, what will his dad do if he looses, and will he really be the next bobby fisher? Great movie, decent for the family and discussion.

I Was There.......2007-06-10

I am longtime chess player who also grew up playing chess in the New York chess scene of the 70"s (as a youth). I grew up playing in the streets of the "Time Square" area. A black chess hustler by the name of Bobby Dee originated setting up chess tables on the streets. Players would man the tables and challenge bystanders to a game. He set-up outside of Nathan's on 42nd street. He started this because he had been kicked out of the 42nd street Chess House. This was the 1st time I met "Vinny" (played by a miscasted Laurence Fishburne in the film). His name was Vincent Livermore and he was a preppie type. They all called him Livermore. He didn't have a bald head (in fact his hair was always neatly cut), and he always gave me the impression that he had just come from class. Asa Hoffman (a white chess hustle miscasted in the film} was a highly respected master who was not the neurotic type portrayed in the film, but an accomplished master full of confidence. He always stayed upstairs in the chess house because he had regular customers coming by. Charley (who was Bobby Dee's brother-in-law) worked in the area; and after work he also set up a single board in front of the building where he work (where the New Years Day ball comes down). When Bobby Dee died of aids,(being very popular with hookers from 8th ave.), another Bobby (called sweetpea) started setting up. The police never bothered Bobby Dee (as he was a well-known exboxer, and they knew him at the precinct). After awhile Nathan's complained and Sweetpea mover around the corner to the outside of Bryant Park. Those that set up (now) inside the park came much later and charged much more money to play. Sweetpea continued to charged what Bobbie Dee had charged for the house (fifty cent for each 5 -15 min. game, and a dollar for slow games). What ever money you played for was between you and the play. The flee market started setting up outside of Bryant Park also. The chess playeers started getting harassed by the cops. Two of the one's playing for Sweetpea (a white fellow name Doug and another fellow) decided to set up in the Wall Street area. It was the other fellow's idea (a black guy whose name I've forgotten). Sweetpea gave it up after awhle and started playing in Washington Square Park where "Vinny", and other chess hustlers made their headquarters. "Vinny" was very popular, and white kids from the area got to be good friends with him. He was a preppie with character (who could also be intimidating when playing masters or grandmasters). It was well-known that he was gay. He wasn't flamboyant (and no one ever brought it up), but he never hid the fact either. He was openly gay in an environment where the issue only came up during his absence. That's some of the histoy of the otherside of chess. As for the movie; it's very good otherwise. I've given you a view from the inside out. "Vinny" later died of aids, but Sweetpea was still there, the last time I looked. You see him in some of the park scenes (they use the park guys in the film). The Russian master in the park who talks to himself (who Josh's mother pays a sum of money to play her son a game) was at some point taken to a care facility by some of the neightbors of the park. In those days it was only beginning to look depressing (that's why I stop going there to play). You can sight Sweetpea in the following park scene. Josh is playing "Vinny" on one board while Sweetpea (in a blue sweater with light blue shirt collar) plays a white guy (in black leather coat). Vinny is talking loud while playing Josh. He saids "That's what I'm talking about...Make him run. What can I do...? By the way the guy who saids "A young fischer." is none other than Josh's real life chess teacher Bruce Pandolfini making this comment to Ben Kingsley (who is portraying him in the film). Enjoy.

family movie.......2007-06-03

This is a great family movie that both adult and child will enjoy and learn from. A movie with a lot of heart.

You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie.......2007-04-22

SEARCHING FOR BOBBY FISCHER is a wonderfully acted and produced film that should appeal to a wide audience. It is particularly appropriate for tweenagers and early teens but anyone who appreciates good movies can enjoy this. I am totally ignorant about chess and I loved it but for chess fans I would think it is a must see.

Average customer rating:

Bulls of Pamplona vs. Errol Flynn
Kids stay away from this picture
Not Great Hemingway, but a Memorable Misfire!
ernest hemingway
The party has just begun.

The Sun Also Rises
Starring: Tyrone Power , Ava Gardner , Mel Ferrer , Errol Flynn , and Eddie Albert
Director: Henry King
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000LC4ZDA
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Customer Reviews:

Bulls of Pamplona vs. Errol Flynn.......2007-06-25

Need I say more? Don't miss Flynn and Eddie Albert actually running through the streets and into the bull ring with the dudes of "Pamplona" (filmed in Mexico) Two guys get gored! Ava G. is as sensual as ever, whether in a Parisian bistro or flirting with a matador. Location is a huge part of the novel, and this movie gets is right.
The movie falls far short of the reckless desperation of the novel, and Tyronne P. is a soul-less Jake, but that would be a tough role for anyone to play.

Kids stay away from this picture.......2007-04-23

THE SUN ALSO RISES is a handsomely produced, but ultimately pointless film. It serves as yet another example of how Hemingway's work rarely translates onto the silver screen. Tyrone Power, Ava Gardner (beginning to look bloated from excessive drinking), Errol Flynn (the poster child of bloatedness from excessive drinking), and Eddie Albert (bloated, but not from alcohol) play a bunch of literate types who lounge about various western European locales drinking (not much of a stretch for Gardner and Flynn here) and moping and whining. Each male character increases his drinking, moping, and whining when left by Gardner for another male rival. This more or less describes what drags on over the course of 2+ hours. The real stars here are the European scenery and Cinemascope, which captures and conveys the grandeur and glory of the film's setting. Other than that, the only other value of the movie is the vivid illustration it provides of why Robert Evans' acting career was so short lived. His open-mouthed, blank stares while waiting for the bull charges almost inadvertently redeem this bland flick. To some extent, watching THE SUN ALSO RISES might be a case of life imitating art, since it will likely inspire its audience to drink, mope, and whine after enduring its pointlessness.

Not Great Hemingway, but a Memorable Misfire!.......2007-03-30

"The Sun Also Rises" was 20th Century Fox's big-budget 'prestige' film
for 1957, based on Ernest Hemingway's first novel, shot on location in Paris and Mexico (substituting for Spain), and starring the studio's long-reigning superstar, Tyrone Power, surrounded by legendary actors (Ava Gardner, Errol Flynn, Mel Ferrer, and Eddie Albert). With all the talent assembled in front of and behind the camera, producer Darryl F. Zanuck felt confident that the film would be an enduring classic for both his own independent company, and his studio.

It wasn't, unfortunately...

The film's problem was a fundamental one; the 'Lost Generation'
Hemingway wrote of were disillusioned young Americans, who, shattered
by the horror and brutality of the 'Great War', lost their innocence, and became a 'live fast, die young' crowd of expatriates, settling in Paris. These were men and women still in their twenties and thirties...yet the film's stars were all ten to twenty years older! The most glaring case can be seen in the film's star, Tyrone Power. As newspaperman Jake Barnes, a vet whose war injuries render him impotent, unable to satisfy the woman he loves (Ava Gardner), and, therefore, the 'perfect' observer of her romantic entanglements with other men, Power seems more a victim of a midlife crisis than a young man devastated about losing his manhood. In his next-to-last film, Power, at 44, was aging badly, his hair thinning and his slender, 'movie idol' good looks surrendering to a middle-aged paunch. Only when he smiles do the years seem to lift, a bit, and the "too handsome to be true" younger man appears. Adding to his physical deterioration was an undiagnosed heart condition, which would kill him, in less than two years.

His co-star, Ava Gardner, at 35, was going through a decline, as well, but, like her character, Lady Brett Ashley, her vices were the cause of her self-destruction. Both Brett and Ava were hedonistic women too fond of booze, bullfighters, and nightlife, and Ava's once-classic features were beginning to develop bags and wrinkles that makeup and lighting couldn't hide.

Coming off best are Errol Flynn and Eddie Albert. Flynn, at 48, long past his 'glamorous' prime (he and Power had been Hollywood's best-looking 'swashbucklers' of the early 40s), had become a very credible character actor, usually portraying variations of himself. His 'Mike Campbell', an alcoholic, impoverished but clinging to his pride, was, sadly, a dead-on assessment of Errol Flynn, as well. Like Power, he would be dead in two years, a victim of his own excesses. On the other hand, Eddie Albert, at 49, had long been health-conscious, and his performance as a drunk was simply good acting; paired with Flynn, they 'steal' the film, particularly during the famous Pamplona bull run, when the duo flee for their lives (while guzzling wine), and Flynn attempts to use a bad check as a cape to 'fight' a bull!

The drama seems overdrawn, the romance lacks 'fire', Robert Evans as a young bullfighter is dreadful, and the resolution is a hollow one. Even with the gorgeous scenery, Hugo Friedhofer's soaring film score, and Henry King's skill as a director, the film fails to generate more than a curiosity value, at the sight of so many actors, past their prime, trying to seem youthful and dynamic.

The DVD offers many 'added features', including 'behind the scenes' photos of Power, Flynn, and Gardner, and director Henry King's audio reminiscences of the production, possibly more entertaining than the feature, itself.

All-in-all, an ambitious misfire!

ernest hemingway.......2007-03-26

This has to be included as one of Papa's great stories. In this Fox CinemaScope version it looks fantastic. Although not much of a plot it is great to see it restored so well by Fox. Bring on the CinemaScope classics please, please, please.............The Sun Also Rises looks great and sounds great in surround sound. Sit down with a glass of wine and share the Hemingway experience.

The party has just begun........2007-03-10

The 1926 "Sun Also Rises" was Ernest Hemingway's first full-length novel. In the 1957 movie-version, Hollywood stars portray Hemingway's "Lost Generation". Tyrone Power heads the cast as American news journalist Jake Barnes, who, after a World War I injury that has left him impotent, re-locates to Paris. Barnes links up with other lost souls, including the nymphomaniacal Lady Ashley(Ava Gardner) and the irresponsible drunkard Mike Campbell(Errol Flynn). Barnes and his friends move to Spain, and participate in the annual Pamplona running-of-the-bulls. The fun is just beginning. The cast includes Mel Ferrer, Eddie Albert, and Henry Daniell. The film's best performance is delivered by Errol Flynn. It has been said that, in his role of the hedonistic, hard-drinking Mike Campbell, that he was merely playing himself. True or not, Hollywood took note; a film career was re-vitalized. His moving performance here is classic. Sadly, decay from alcohol dimmed his future. He died two years later(Tyrone Power himself died two years later shooting "Solomon and Sheba" of a hear attack). Filmed on location in Pamplona, Paris, Biarritz, and Mexico, "THe Sun Also Rises" was budgeted at $5 million. This brand new DVD transfer is the second DVD release, as it was also produced in August 2006, in a bare-bones edition. Cinema Club's new DVD features many extras: Commentary by Frank Thompson, a conversation with director Henry King, a documentary on the production, the restoration, and Hemingway. There is also a trailer and a stills gallery. Colors are bright. Blacks are pitch. This is outstanding, as the DVD is a low bitrate, single-layered disc. Audio is adequate but without much range. "The Sun Also Rises" is the classic tale of American ex-patriates caught up in dancing, parties, and drinking-til-dawn. What fun. What sadness. As the picture ends, one character sums it all up: "It's all like a wonderful nightmare. I believe in anything. Including nightmares.."

Average customer rating:

a mix of poor prisoners and religious folk just like them
How Did David Johansen Get In This Movie ?
quality
...just a total let down.
Salvation on White Mountain

Searching for the Wrong-Eyed Jesus
Starring: Rev. Gary Howington , Harry Crews , Johnny Dowd , David Eugene Edwards , and The Handsome Family
Director: Andrew Douglas (IV)
Manufacturer: Homevision
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000E1OI8U
Release Date: 2006-03-14

Description

Take a captivating and compelling road trip through the creative spirit of the American South, a world of churches, prisons, coalmines, truckstops, juke joints, swamps and mountains. Along the way you'll meet musicians including the Handsome Family, Johnny Dowd, 16 Horsepower, and David Johansen, old time banjo player Lee Sexton, and novelist Harry Crews. This film is a collage of stories and testimonies filled with sudden death, sin and redemption... and all the while, a strange Southern Jesus looms in the background.

Customer Reviews:

a mix of poor prisoners and religious folk just like them.......2007-06-12

I was interested in the music, including a familiar banjo tune, but I was almost shocked by the last song in the extra features, which was just Harry Crews talking like I was right back in the movie and he had to explain how the South shaped his own quest to become a great novelist. Some speaking in tongues is very intense, so you might want to see this for more than the music and attempts to tell hard luck stories that most of the songs are about. Talking about hell, or "Participating in my own butchering," as Harry Crews puts it in that special feature, can be fascinating.

How Did David Johansen Get In This Movie ?.......2007-05-15

This is a very beautiful film. Although very staged at times, it still seems slice of life. Me being a 47 year old black man from a city in eastern North Carolina, i didn't see myself here, but i saw what goes on DEEPER off-roads than the comparitively regular off-roads i usually encounter.

i repeat. How did David Johansen get in this movie ?

quality.......2007-01-20

I have to say as a DP for the last twenty years and working on some very well funded projects, this documentary
has so much thought behind it, to make it different, from the tipacle talking head B roll format.
I really respect the film makers ideas to make this a "different type of documentary" and I love the staged segues of the musical pieces. You dont need 2 second edits to make an interesting documentary.

...just a total let down........2007-01-13

honestly, this movie is awful to sit through because of Jim White and his ridiculous, meaningless philosophy of the South. he is an apsolute bore...unless, perhaps, you get a laugh out of it all. there are other reviews here that explain this film's faults in better detail and I needn't repeat them all (you know, paid actor sort of grumblings)...I will say this documentary only shows you one perspective, WHITE'S and he seems like a real silly square to me. there are some nice visuals, I'll admit that, but just drive through Southern states yourself and be spared the dim-witted ramblings of this self-serving "guide" Jim White. oh and some of the music is pretty good, a lot of it just sucks.

Salvation on White Mountain.......2007-01-08

This is a strange move to watch. It's not a documentary, even though it resembles one. Probably the best way to think of "Searching for the Wrong-eyed Jesus" is that what you are watching is one man's visual poem of a (large) region and people. And White's version, which is that of a musician's, is highly selective, jumping from the deep South into Appalachia, with hardly a blink - though these two regions, though similar, also have many differences. White can be annoying in his own way, since many of his musings regarding the South, can sound both pithy and full-of-it at the same time. If you are from the South, it seems pretty darned manipulative, even more so when you realize this film was done for BBC. White, clearly, is pushing buttons for a foreign audience, but he does it with such a clear-eyed sincerity that he's easy to forgive. It's kind of like listening to the Rolling Stones singing "Hand of Fate." You enjoy the song -- it rocks -- but you also know it's a bit hokey. Whatever his sins, White loves the South and its people, so roll with it.

But where does that leave the viewer? Well, it's not the real South with all of its complexities, but to be fair, that would take a series. Still, the parts that White offers up are real enough, and important to him, so I suggest you allow him his idiosyncracies, because he does entertain with some pretty fine music by some excellent folks you may not have even heard of. Cat Power, 16 Horsepower, The Handsome Family, to name a few, along with good story telling by the original literary wild man, Harry Crews. Accompanying many of the songs, are haunting film images that will hang with you. For example, the Handsome Family, singing from the porch of nearly flooded shotgun shack, or David Eugene Edwards (who strikes me as some sort of musical genius), from 16 Horsepower, singing Wayfaring Stranger out in the woods, his hands dancing lightly over his banjo, while his voice sends chills down your spine. Whew. These are real diamonds, and they're not rough.

Average customer rating:

no, i don't dig it
Better than I first thought
A moving, modern-day slice-of-life
A Surprisingly Sweet, Observant, And Funny Sleeper--This "Puffy Chair" Rocks
OH MY GOD WAS THIS FILM AWFUL

The Puffy Chair
Starring: Mark Duplass , Kathryn Aselton , Rhett Wilkins , Julie Fischer (III) , and Bari Hyman
Director: Jay Duplass
Manufacturer: Netflix
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000IMVE1Y
Release Date: 2007-01-23

Description

After finding a vintage Lazy Boy recliner online just like the one that used to grace his childhood living room, Josh decides to purchase the purple relic and deliver it to his father as a surprise birthday gift. Josh's simple plan is suddenly complicate

Customer Reviews:

no, i don't dig it.......2007-06-11

Can you say 'retarded'? That is what this film is...retarded.

Josh is setting out for a road trip to pick up this puffy chair that he won via Ebay. This puffy chair is almost exactly like the one he had when he was a child. He thought he'd get it and then stop over at his folk's house and give it as a gift for his dad's birthday.

The night before, he has dinner with his girlfriend. However, things just go downhill when Josh answers a call from his cellphone. The girlfriend, disappointed, just upped and left. So, Josh mends things the next morning by asking her to join him on the trip. And she does.

They stopped by Josh's brother for a quick visit. From there, I just had to stop the movie.

One, the camera movement is just really jerky and it steals your attention from the movie. Have the Duplass brothers never heard of a tripod? Or a dolly? Or something to set the camera on for steady shots?
Two, I never knew people could say "dig" so many times within a short period of time. Were these guys stoned when they wrote the script? "Yeah, I dig it, man." "Do you dig it?" "She digs it." "I totally dig what you're saying." Just on and on. Puh-leeze!

So, it was just simply retarded that I had to stop watching it.

Better than I first thought.......2007-03-26

When I saw this film I got a little seasick from the hand held camera, and I thought it was a little light diversion. But I found that the characters stayed with me and I kept thinking about it. And months later it is still with me. My son recently asked me if I thought it would work to rent a motel room for 2 and sneak in another person and I just started laughing, and I ordered the DVD for him. It turns out the characters are still with me, and I am extremely fond of this movie.

A moving, modern-day slice-of-life.......2007-03-22

The Puffy Chair is the kind of movie that loose usage of the term "Indie film" in recent years is all but killing off. A truly independent film, made on a budget of $15,000 (compare to $8 million for Little Miss Sunshine and even $400,000 for Napoleon Dynamite) with no recognizable actors. Without costly equipment and well-known names involved, The Puffy Chair focuses entirely on the story and the acting. The result is amazing. Every frame feels like a slice of painful reality.

The amazing part is that there's so much comedy involved as well. Stars Mark Duplass, Katie Aselton, and Rhett Wilkins manage to play some heavy material without weighing the film down with drama. After seeing this film, I can't imagine that the three of them will stay unknown for long.

I really don't want to go into the plot of the film at all, because this film seems like it would be much more enjoyable going in wondering what will happen. Throughout the film metaphors are thrown at the audience that are subtle enough not to be noticed until the film is over. And really, if they weren't noticed at all, the film still seems complete. Basically, it's the kind of film you think about afterwards and realize how much more to it there was than you originally thought.

The DVD is one of the most complete DVD presentations I've seen in a while. The special features include a self-filmed interview with the Duplass brothers, deleted scenes and outtakes form the film, 3 short films they made (all 3 with Mark Duplass starring, 2 with Katie Aselton), a director commentary track, and then 4 short vlogs showing them promoting their movie in various ways.

The whole film and DVD presentation show just how much passion goes into making a successful independent film. I wish I would have seen this movie in the theatre, but now that it's on DVD I will recommend it to everyone. Go buy it, rent it, or borrow it from one of your friends. If you're here on Amazon looking at this review, then you at least have some interest in the film, I promise it's worth your 85 minutes.

And Duplass brothers, if you're reading, give me an audition please.

A Surprisingly Sweet, Observant, And Funny Sleeper--This "Puffy Chair" Rocks.......2007-02-11

I don't want to oversell the charms of "The Puffy Chair," which some might label amateurish due to its modest scope and limited budget, but I actually found this little relationship picture to be supremely well done. Made with heart, if not a lot of money, "The Puffy Chair" exemplifies what you can do with a solid, finely nuanced script. Simple, lovely, observant and sometimes hysterical--I identified, in a surprising way, with many of the elements of this film. This sleeper had me from the start and kept me enchanted throughout.

Written and directed by Mark and Jay Duplass (respectively), their first feature film also stars brother Mark as its central character Josh. Josh is on a quest to pick up a recliner that he purchased on Ebay. That's it, that's the whole plot. Along for the ride is his girlfriend Emily (Kathryn Aselton) with whom he shares a playful, but sometimes volatile, relationship. Having been together for some time, they are at that stage in their relationship where they feel the pressure of making real commitments. Picking up his brother Rhett (Rhett Wilkins) adds a dynamic to the trip that is unexpected. Rhett is a simple soul at peace with the world, which contrasts nicely with the overthinking Josh. Idealizing the chair as a memory and connection to the past, to simpler times, they then plan to take it to their parent's house as a gift. (They had a chair just like it growing up.)

Along the way, they share some good times and some misadventures--almost every one of which I identified with! One particularly amusing (but very real) bit involves Josh paying for a motel room as a single and then trying to get all three of them in. It is, at once, utterly preposterous and absolutely believable. Other tribulations include the chair being not quite what they had in mind and a whirlwind romance for Rhett. All of these small moments provide us with tremendous character insight--but more, within the film's trio of characters, they reveal aspects about one another that may change relationships forever. In slight, and refreshingly subtle ways, you see as perceptions are changed and small observances shift the character interactions.

All three of the leads lend great credibility to their roles. In an almost improvisational style, the cadence of real speech is perfect (at least this represents how people I know talk)! The relationships are believable, especially the central romance as well as the brotherly link. I admired how much this little film could accomplish and how astute its observations are about how people communicate. Of course, everyone learns a little something about themselves--and find out that it isn't a chair that connects them at all. I recommend this film, seriously, and hope it means as much to you as it did to me. KGHarris, 02/07.

OH MY GOD WAS THIS FILM AWFUL.......2007-02-09

This is the laziest, most thrown together piece of completely inept filmmaking I've experienced in a long time. The plot is non-existent. The characters are completely contrived at best and just plain annoying at worst. This is really a horrible film. I seriously cannot fathom how people could like this.

Average customer rating:

I Loved This Film
Quirky but pleasant coming-of-age tale
And Now For Something New....
One of the better gay films
Promising effort by a young man

David Searching
Starring: Kathleen Chalfant , Craig Chester , David Drake , Camryn Manheim , and John Cameron Mitchell
Director: Leslie L. Smith
Manufacturer: Water Bearer Films, Inc
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0007WFXI0
Release Date: 2005-05-10

Customer Reviews:

I Loved This Film.......2006-03-26

A Month ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Anthony Rapp, and i told him that I had seen this movie. It took me a few viewings to get the point, but when I did.....!
He spoke to me very lovingly about the making of this film, the low budget, the crew, etc....But he was pleased that I liked it and valued him in this performance....A Must See

Quirky but pleasant coming-of-age tale.......2005-05-14

In the 1997 indie romantic comedy "David Searching", openly gay actor Anthony ("Rent") Rapp is teamed with Camryn ("The Practice") Manheim as a young gay man and a new divorcee sharing an apartment in Manhattan. Rapp plays David, who moved to NYC to pursue his dreams of becoming a famous filmmaker/documentarian, and also to find "Mr. Right" along the way. Neither search is going very well, because David isn't quite sure what he is looking for, nor how to react when
possibilities come along. He and (Manheim's) Gwen settle into a
comfortable living arrangement which actually makes it more difficult for either one to realize they want more out of life, and depression sinks in when they have moments in which this comes to light. Gwen has an affair with a former tenant of the apartment (who still has his keys and just appears on the sofa one day, sleeping off a drinking binge after breaking up with his girlfriend). Meanwhile, David goes through a series of "dates from hell", and also makes friends with a female comedian in a local club, who helps him to better see that he
needs to take more chances to achieve his professional and
relationship goals. In time, he learns that he is so concerned about finding the "deeper meaning of life" that he has lost perspective in the simple things that make it worth living.

Definitely a low budget indie, which looks older than its age (shot in 1996, but only recently released on DVD for the first time), and starts off rather shaky. But stick with it, and you'll find a quirky, delightful story obviously made best through the talented cast of actors, especially Rapp and Manheim. Has a realistic NYC feel, with characters many viewers can relate to. DVD extras include only a director's commentary, recorded especially for the DVD.

And Now For Something New...........2005-05-14

I found this film to be a refreshing change from so much of the standard gay-indie movie fare. From the first frame, when the hero (Anthony Rapp - and how fun is that?) sets out to find his way through love in the big City, DAVID SEARCHING never talks down to the audience or treats us as if we've never in our lives seen another gay film. The wry sensibility that inhabits this urbane romance is really the heart of the film. Plus, there's Camryn Mannheim in a supporting role and a great cameo by Craig Chester. Freshman writer/director Leslie Smith has put together a fun, literate romance his first time out.

One of the better gay films.......2005-05-13

I really don't hold a lot of high expectations for indies, but I was really surprised by David Searching. It was a very funny and touching film and I ended up thoroughly enjoying this movie. The performances are great, and some of the cameos are suprising. Leslie Smith, credited with both writing and directing, did a very decent job for a first film. I recommend it.

Promising effort by a young man.......2005-05-13

I was pleasantly surprised by this low-key story of a young gay man facing adult choices for the first time in New York. The script is literate and nicely avoids the obvious cliches that affect a lot of gay-themed works. With its upbeat ending, it makes a good, conversation provoking stay-at-home date movie. Besides, it's enjoyable to see stars such as Camryn Mannheim and Anthony Rapp before they became famous in Law & Order and Rent. If you enjoyed Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss or Latter Days, you'll probably like this.

Average customer rating:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents
Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons.
I Was There
family movie
You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie

Searching For Bobby Fischer
Starring: Max Pomeranc , Joe Mantegna , Joan Allen , Ben Kingsley , and Laurence Fishburne
Director: Steven Zaillian
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: 6305910324
Release Date: 2000-07-11

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents.......2007-06-25

Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons........2007-06-21

I Was There.......2007-06-10

family movie.......2007-06-03

This is a great family movie that both adult and child will enjoy and learn from. A movie with a lot of heart.

You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie.......2007-04-22

Charlie Rose with Jennifer Harbury & Robert Torricelli; David Foster Wallace (March 27, 1997)

Average customer rating:

Charlie Rose with Jennifer Harbury & Robert Torricelli; David Foster Wallace (March 27, 1997)

Manufacturer: Charlie Rose
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Description

Jennifer Harbury talks about the mysterious death of her Mayan rebel leader husband in a Guatemalan prison. Senator Robert Torricelli, who has been championing Harbury's cause in Congress, also weighs-in on the death. They also discuss Harbury's new book called, Searching for Everado: A Story of Love, War and the CIA in Guatemala. Also, author David Foster Wallace talks about his collection of essays that he has written entitled, A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again.

Charlie Rose with Jon Lee Anderson; David Martin; Thomas Friedman (March 25, 2003)

Average customer rating:

Charlie Rose with Jon Lee Anderson; David Martin; Thomas Friedman (March 25, 2003)

Manufacturer: Charlie Rose, Inc.
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

General | Educational | Genres | DVD | Video

Description

A conversation with Jon Lee Anderson of The New Yorker about the expected military conflict in Baghdad. Then, a dialogue with David Martin of CBS News, about potential military strategies in the event of such a battle. Also, Thomas Friedman of The New York Times talks about rebuilding Iraq once the war is over and a new documentary about the origins of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Searching for the Roots of 9/11.

Average customer rating:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents
Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons.
I Was There
family movie
You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie

Searching for Bobby Fischer [Region 2]
Starring: Max Pomeranc , Joe Mantegna , Joan Allen , Ben Kingsley , and Laurence Fishburne
Director: Steven Zaillian
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Little Man Tate
Searching for Bobby Fischer: The Father of a Prodigy Observes the World of Chess
The Art of Learning: A Journey in the Pursuit of Excellence
October Sky (Special Edition)
Chessmaster 10th Edition

ASIN: B00009V8YD

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Should Be Required Viewing For All Teachers & Parents.......2007-06-25

Great film for the achives of any home library. good values and lessons........2007-06-21

I Was There.......2007-06-10

family movie.......2007-06-03

This is a great family movie that both adult and child will enjoy and learn from. A movie with a lot of heart.

You Don't Have to Know Anything About Chess to Love this Movie.......2007-04-22

DVD:

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