The Witness

Starring:Lajos Ã–ze, Lili Monori, Ferenc KÃ¡llai, BÃ©la Both, ZoltÃ¡n FÃ¡bri, KÃ¡roly Bicskey, GyÃ¶rgy KÃ©zdi, JÃ³zsef HorvÃ¡th, RÃ³bert RÃ¡tonyi, LÃ¡szlÃ³ VÃ¡mos, Steve Nemeth, PÃ¡l JÃ¡kÃ³, Georgette Mertzhradt, GyÃ¶rgy PÃ¡lfi (II), Tibor Sipeki, GyÃ¶rgy BÃ¡lint, MÃ¡ria RÃ¡kosi, Tibor FehÃ©r, MÃ¡ria DudÃ¡s, JÃ³zsef Pecsenke
Director: PÃ©ter BacsÃ³, Ferenc KÃ¡llai
Studio: DreamQuest Films
Product Type: DVD

Editorial Review:
Description
Banned for over a decade for its outspoken criticism of the post-WWII communist regime in Hungary, PÃ©ter BacsÃ³'s 'The Witness' has since then achieved unparalleled cult status in its native land. Known as the best satire about communism, 'The Witness' has become a cult classic, which was also well received by critics and general audiences alike when it was finally released outside of Hungary. Its candid and realistic portrayal of the incompetent communist regime has earned great acclaim for both the director and the film itself when it was shown at Cannes Film Festival in 1981.

Amazon.com essential video

Ever since this convoluted thriller dazzled audiences and critics in 1995 and won an Oscar for Christopher McQuarrie's twisting screenplay, The Usual Suspects has continued to divide movie lovers into opposite camps. While a lot of people take great pleasure from the movie's now-famous central mystery (namely, "Who is Keyser Söze?"), others aren't so easily impressed by a movie that's too enamored of its own cleverness to make much sense. After all, what are we to make of a final scene that renders the entire movie obsolete? Half the fun of The Usual Suspects is the debate it provokes and the sheer pleasure of watching its dynamic cast in action, led (or should we say, misled) by Oscar winner Kevin Spacey as the club-footed con man who recounts the saga of enigmatic Hungarian mobster Keyser Söze. Spacey's in a band of thieves that includes Gabriel Byrne, Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Pollak, and Benicio Del Toro, all gathered in a plot to steal a large shipment of cocaine. The story is told in flashback as a twisted plot being described by Spacey's character to an investigating detective (Chazz Palmintieri), and The Usual Suspects is enjoyable for the way it keeps the viewer guessing right up to its surprise ending. Whether that ending will enhance or extinguish the pleasure is up to each viewer to decide. Even if it ultimately makes little or no sense at all, this is a funny and fiendish thriller, guaranteed to entertain even its vocal detractors. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Usual Suspects.......2007-05-13

Great Movie - Who is Kaiser Sosi? This where I became a real Kevin Spacey fan. This was his first Oscar winning role and he deserved it. The story is engrossing, and the climax terrific. If you haven't seen it, you won't guess what happens. I have never met anyone who has seen this film who didn't think it was terrific.

Definitely a DVD to Own - But Don't Read Any Plot Spoilers!.......2007-05-13

The Usual Suspects is a film noir movie set in modern times. I adore film noir movies, and one of the first things you learn about this genre is NOT TO READ PLOT DETAILS! I will not give away ANY plot details in this review. If you get even the inkling of what happens in the plot, it tends to make you "wait" through the entire movie for that particular twist or turn to happen. It is so much better to watch the movie all the way through the first time, plot unknown, to watch how it unfolds. That's what makes the film noir movies so great for watching and rewatching. The first time you see it, you are caught up in how the mystery elements are linked together and unraveled. In subsequent watchings, you know what the end game is, and you now enjoy all the clues and hints that are laid out for you along the way. Where most movies can get boring after a viewing or two, I've seen many of my film noir movies quite a large number of times.

The beauty of The Usual Suspects is the stellar cast involved - Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Benicio Del Toro, Kevin Pollak, Kevin Spacey, and many others. Every one of these actors does a fantastic job. There are so many quotes, so many specific lines of dialogue, so many tiny eye movements and looks that just bring incredible depth to this story. Again, I don't want to give away the details of the plot for you to "watch for". Once you've seen the movie, there will undoubtedly be moments that stand out for you. But don't stop there. Go back and watch it again. Suddenly you'll realize the meaning in the way someone looks at someone else - the way someone reacts to a specific line of dialogue. It's simply brilliant.

There are a number of heavily accented characters here which means the first time through you might not really realize what someone is saying. They do that on purpose. Those people *have* accented voices. It means you don't really understand what's going on in some scenes. Again, when you re-watch, you start to sink deeper into the environment. You realize what certain words mean. You realize the context of the situation. It is a multi-layered adventure and each time you take a look, something else unfolds for you.

Definitely recommended for owning. This isn't a one-time-watch film. It's something you see multiple times, share with family and friends, and then discuss afterwards. Highly recommended!

Violent yes but it blew me away!,.......2007-05-11

I remember after watching Pulp Fiction, it became hard for me to find new films during those days that excited me. I mean "Pulp" was so unique and original that I was so stunned when I first watched it. I couldn't believe my eyes, it was funny, violent and it wasn't meaningless either because at the end of each story there is a message of redemption. Now it brings me to "Usual Suspects." I didn't really know what to expect when I first watched it because it looked like it was going to be some prison movie. But I was wrong. The plot just kept twisting and turning which kept me on the edge of my seat. It was suspenseful and mysterious, the whole bit with Keyser Soze, it's gold! And the ending is what made this movie. The film truly has THE BEST ENDING in any movie ever made. I'm not gonna ruin it for those who haven't seen it.

So I desperately urge all of you who haven't seen it to go out to either rent it or buy it. Buying it is good because this one is a keeper; I have a copy of it myself. It's always fun to watch it with someone who hasn't seen it just to see their reaction. And of course, great performances on behalf of Kevin Spacey (who's career skyrocketed after his role as Verbal Kint) and Benicio Del Toro (whose talent was recognized after his useless role as Fenster where he basically took a guy who only had like two lines in the whole movie and actually was able to turn him into a character that people care about after watching it.

Good Blu-ray trans for a great movie.......2007-04-30

This movie's resolution on Blu-ray is fantastic in most sceens. There will be a few that look a bit grainy, but over all it's very nice for being a older movie produced before HD became common.

It's just a bit weak in extra features on Blu-ray and a bit pricy.

Who in the heck is Kaiser Soeza?.......2007-04-08

If you like complex, action filled films with a mystery element that keeps you guessing, this is definitely your film. Perfect? No--that title for me goes to the film where this film's title came from, "Casablanca."

Average customer rating:

THE BEST OF THE BEST
Goodmovie.
Perhaps Scorcese's best film
An Outstanding Gangland Epic...
He did it his way

GoodFellas (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Starring: Robert De Niro , Ray Liotta , Joe Pesci , Lorraine Bracco , and Paul Sorvino
Director: Martin Scorsese
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000286RKW
Release Date: 2004-08-17

Amazon.com essential video

Martin Scorsese's 1990 masterpiece GoodFellas immortalizes the hilarious, horrifying life of actual gangster Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), from his teen years on the streets of New York to his anonymous exile under the Witness Protection Program. The director's kinetic style is perfect for recounting Hill's ruthless rise to power in the 1950s as well as his drugged-out fall in the late 1970s; in fact, no one has ever rendered the mental dislocation of cocaine better than Scorsese. Scorsese uses period music perfectly, not just to summon a particular time but to set a precise mood. GoodFellas is at least as good as The Godfather without being in the least derivative of it. Joe Pesci's psycho improvisation of Mobster Tommy DeVito ignited Pesci as a star, Lorraine Bracco scores the performance of her life as Hill's love interest, and every supporting role, from Paul Sorvino to Robert De Niro, is a miracle.

Customer Reviews:

THE BEST OF THE BEST.......2007-06-13

LOVE THIS MOVIE! IT IS TRULY THE GREATEST MOB MOVIE EVER MADE. THERE'S ALOT OF GOOD ONES BUT GOODFELLAS IS IN A CLASS OF IT'S OWN. BRILLANT, COMPELLING, AND SUPERLATIVE. IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT.

Goodmovie........2007-05-27

Goodfellas (Martin Scorsese, 1990)

I hated Casino when I went to see it back in 1995. I now understand why; Casino was Scorsese's attempt to remake Goodfellas, but like Brian DePalma attempting to remake Curtis Hanson's L. A. Confidential in The Black Dahlia, the later film ended up somehow being both a shadow of the original and, if unintentionally, a parody of the original as well. Everything about Casino that ended up awful was fantastic in Goodfellas.

Based on Nicholas Pileggi's autobiography, Goodfellas follows three guys--Jimmy Conway (Robert DeNiro), Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci), and Henry Hill (Ray Liotta)--who all want to be mobsters. (Granted, as Tommy is the only Italian in the bunch, they don't have much of a chance.) From the outside, we're perfectly aware that they, and their band of assorted outlaws, are mostly comic relief for the actual made men in the area; they're well-meaning, but usually either not forward-looking enough when planning things, or simply inept. But they're exceptionally-drawn, all three of them perfectly-done pictures of what my in-laws are wont to call "bags of neuroses". We, as the viewers, are alternately amused and horrified by their doings. Meanwhile, when they're not out doing flunky jobs for the mob or trying to get ahead with side jobs of their own, their private lives are even more of a mess. It stands to reason that even the most thick-headed flunky will eventually get tired of riding on someone else's coattails and find some way to push the envelope. When it happens, it's pure screen magic. Then comes the denouement, and Scorsese proves himself a master of pace--the denouement is longer than the buildup, and if anything, even more compelling, as the three of them take different directions towards either redemption or self-destruction.

Simply put, an amazing piece of moviemaking. If you haven't seen it, do. **** ½

Perhaps Scorcese's best film.......2007-05-20

Martin Scorcese's epic tale of the rise and fall of small-time Mafioso Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) and his associates is riveting storytelling that is often as densely packed with information about the details and culture of mob life as a documentary. As a boy, Hill aspires to the power and wealth of the wiseguys he sees around the neighborhood. As he rises through the ranks, accumulating money, power, and a beautiful wife (Lorraine Bracco), Scorcese shows us how seductive this lifestyle can be. Yet he never flinches from its basic brutality and the thuggish mindset that money cannot change. In the end, the concept of honor among theives is shown to be a lie, a self-aggrandizing fiction that lasts only as long as it coincides with self-interest. This is perhaps Scorcese's best film and benefits enormously from complex, important supporting performances from long-time Scorcese accomplices Robert DeNiro and Joe Pesci.

An Outstanding Gangland Epic..........2007-05-19

In the 1970's director Francis Ford Coppola treated audiences with possibly the most accurate, yet somewhat romanticized, depiction of life in the mafia with his brilliant films "The Godfather" and "The Godfather 2". Ever since those two movies, no other movie has come close to touching the quality that is displayed in these two films for this genre, some have tried and come close ("The Godfather 3" being chief among them), but none have succeeded. That is until director Martin Scorsese released his biopic on the life of mobster Henry Hill with "Goodfellas".

"Goodfellas" follows the life of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a small-time hood who happens to participate in a robbery with Jimmy Conway (Robert DeNiro), calm and calculating individual, and Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci), a psycho with an incredibly short fuse. Little did Henry know that this robbery would place him on the path to becoming a 'made man' in the very mafia family that Jimmy Conway eventually becomes head of. As Henry Hill rises through the ranks of 'La Cosa Nostra' he manages to find some peace and stability when he meets a young Italian woman (Lorraine Braco) that he marries and has a few kids with. However, the excesses of mafia life eventually begin to get the better of Henry, as he begins to unravel due to heavy drug use, and making matters worse his one-time friend and Don, Jimmy Conway believes Henry may be a threat to him and plots to 'whack' him. With his life in possible jeopardy, Henry has two choices, one stay true to the family and face possible execution, or two, become a government informant and be placed into Witness Protection, becoming a rat in the eyes of the 'family'.

Director Martin Scorsese's work here is by far some of his best. His gritty, realistic approach to this true story, really shows the audience the great wealth and success (if you can call it that) that mafia life can have, while at the same time showing the pitfalls that can occur in that same life. The cast that Scorsese has managed to bring together for this film is truly excellent, and the performances by Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta are so powerful, and at times scary, that you can really appreciate the great talent that these actors possess. The supporting cast is equally talented, and just as worthy of praise as the three leads. An interesting note is that for his role of the psychotic Tommy DeVito, Joe Pesci improvised some of the more extreme moments the character has, earning him great critical praise and somewhat typecasting him in this type of role. The story is an excellent cautionary tale on what can happen when your choices lead you on the wrong path, even though it's the only path you ever dreamed of. The movie is probably just as strong as "The Godfather", maybe even stronger due to it's even greater authenticity and lack of romanticizing life in the mafia. For those moviegoers that enjoy mafia themed movies, but have never seen this gangster classic, you must do yourself a huge favor and watch this movie, you will not be disappointed.

"Goodfellas" is rated R for violence, language, and sexuality/brief nudity.

He did it his way.......2007-05-16

What a wonderful inspiring film-making by the only director who could possible make the film, the undisputed classic. The cast is superb, the pace - incredible; 145 minutes simply flew by. My beloved "Sopranos", all six seasons of it could fit perfectly like in a case in these 145 minutes. Ultra-violent, mesmerizing, enthralling, "GoodFellas" is an unforgettable wild ride. I have not seen the film for a while and what a great fun it was to re-watch it again and I know it always will be.

Favorite scene - after Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) and Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro) killed Billy Batts, they and Henry Hill stopped at Tommy's mother (Mrs. Scorsese) house. The contrast between earlier horrifying scene at the bar and the nice family dinner is simply breathtaking.

Average customer rating:

Classic action with a bit of substance
"I Want to Nail Him"
Pure Magic
The Classic 70's Cop Movie (from 1968!)
Excellent Action Film with Excellent Car Chase

Bullitt
Starring: Steve McQueen , Robert Vaughn , Jacqueline Bisset , Don Gordon , and Robert Duvall
Director: Peter Yates
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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Gone in 60 Seconds

ASIN: 6304698526
Release Date: 1997-11-19

Amazon.com

San Francisco has been the setting of a lot of exciting movie car chases over the years, but this 1968 police thriller is still the one to beat when it comes to high-octane action on the steep hills of the city by the Bay. The outstanding car chase earned an Oscar for best editing, but the rest of the movie is pretty good, too. Bullitt is a perfect star vehicle for cool guy Steve McQueen, who stars as a tenacious detective (is there any other kind?) determined to track down the killers of the star witness in an important trial. Director Peter Yates (Breaking Away) approached the story with an emphasis on absolute authenticity, using a variety of San Francisco locations. Jacqueline Bisset and Robert Duvall appear in early roles, and Robert Vaughn plays the criminal kingpin who pulls the deadly strings of the tightly wound plot. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Classic action with a bit of substance.......2007-07-02

Bullitt is an intense and suspenseful crime drama that features the famous car chase through San Francisco.

Steve McQueen is memorable in the lead role, with excellent support from Don Gordon as his partner, Delgetti, and Robert Vaughn as the powerful 'good guy / bad guy'. Look also for Norman Fell in a smaller role as a hardened police captain and a younger Robert Duvall as a cab driver.

Most people remember Bullitt for its car chase sequence, for better or for worse. It's good fun with a number of known continuity errors (passing the green VW Beetle at least three times, as well as the white car (Pontiac?)) and that black Dodge Charger must have about eight hubcaps on it, I swear, since about four fall off and later they seem to be back on. (Or did cars have two sets of hubcaps as standard equipment back then?) ;-) In any case, it's a must-see for classic muscle car fans, and the best moments are the "you are there" moments filmed over the drivers' shoulders.

Beyond that, Bullitt's enduring charm is its heavy atmosphere, rather than its dialogue or character development. At times, it seems so real that it almost feels like a documentary. You are taken behind the scenes into the medical and police worlds of the late 1960's.

The plot has enough twists to keep you going. However, by today's standards, some of the scenes could've been left out. I realize that the film tries to show the main character as both a distant maverick as well as a human being, but a number of scenes and subplots could've been edited out in favor of a tighter plot. I mean, do we need to watch Bullitt in a restaurant or grocery shopping or in forced, flat dialogue with his lover? I felt that these moments detracted from the film, rather than adding to it.

The soundtrack works well for the era, as composed by Lalo Schifrin. The opening titles is one of my favorite movie themes. It's jazzy and it fits the film well.

My favorite part of the film is its opening sequence. The titles are blended in creatively with the plot, which begins immediately. That, with the already mentioned music, creates the most enduring impression with me.

Bullitt is not a perfect movie, and not quite the classic that some would make it to be, but it's definitely worth seeing and owning.

"I Want to Nail Him".......2007-06-11

I saw this again last night for the first time in years and it reensured what I believe all this time: "Bullitt" is the greatest movie I have ever seen in my life. It will take a long time for me to find a movie that can top this. Not only that, but "Bullitt" is the only movie I know that grabbed my heart and moved me deeply. As evident in the scene, my favorite in which Bullitt's girlfriend Cathy (Jacqueline Bisset-what a class act angel! She's a split image of what fellow Brit Keira Knightley is; as you know they both co-stared in "Domino" in which Bisset played Knightley's mother) discovers a dead woman strangled and half-naked and later on, Frank Bullitt (Steve McQueen) pulls the car over the side of the highway because he knows she is pissed. As she gets out of the car and goes into the grass field, Bullitt follows her. Then she speaks by saying "Do you let anything reach you? I mean, REALLY reach you? You think violence is a way of life. Living with violence and death". Speaking of that there is a revealing scene in which the witness is shot and eventually killed in the face. Revealing because that's how Martin Luther King died from in the same year of "Bullitt"'s release. The supporting cast is great which includes Robert Duvall as the cab driver, Simon Oakland, Norman Fell as the police caption, and last but not least Robert Vaughn as Walter Chalmers-the most evil villian I have ever seen in any movie. This is a man that hates blacks and the police (including Bullitt). The movie along with the car and airport chase is a true masterpiece.

Pure Magic.......2007-06-09

This film demonstrates to contemporary Hollywood just how to make a superb thriller without having an explosion every 5 minutes. You know its a classic from the opening shot. Lalo Schifrin's insistent theme kicks in over the credits and the rollercoaster ride starts.

McQueen is marvellous as a Frank Bullitt a no-nonsense, and somewhat rebellious detective who is having no truck with authority. Robert Vaughn, who I've always liked, but never really rated as an actor, is excellent here as Walter Charmers (who is anything but charming!). The scenes between him and McQueen are riveting. Theres the famous car chase of course, which is great, but watching it again recently, the thing that struck me was the completely realistic Hospital scenes. Its all very clinical if you'll excuse the pun.

On disc 1:
There is a commentary by the directory Peter Hyams and a trailer.

On Disc 2:
Documentary 1 'The Cutting Edge: The Magic Of Movie Editing' narrated by Kathy Bates
Documentary 2 'Steve McQueen: The Essence Of Cool' a film about McQueen.
3 'Bullitt: Steve McQueen's Commitment To Reality'.

Of the extras the commentary is probably the best bit, but the film itself is reason alone to buy these discs.

The Classic 70's Cop Movie (from 1968!).......2007-04-03

This was one of a handful of truly classic cop movies from the period. Not to be missed if only for one of the best chase scenes ever to make it to film. Steve McQueen is more Steve McQueen than usual; calm, cool and always in charge. If you liked the Dirty Harry series, the French Connection or the Seven Ups this is a must see. This version is also in Wide Screen (unlike the one I rented) and it's much better than the cut up for your TV version.

Excellent Action Film with Excellent Car Chase.......2007-04-02

Steve McQueen is possibly one of the coolest men of all time. His presence in a film is enough to make it great. Besides that, this film is well directed, well planned out. My major issue with the film is the plot can get a little murky at times and bogs down what is one fantastic action movie.

Average customer rating:

THE BEST OF THE BEST
Goodmovie.
Perhaps Scorcese's best film
An Outstanding Gangland Epic...
He did it his way

GoodFellas
Starring: Robert De Niro , Ray Liotta , Joe Pesci , Lorraine Bracco , and Paul Sorvino
Director: Martin Scorsese
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

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ASIN: 0790729725
Release Date: 1997-03-26

Amazon.com

Martin Scorsese's 1990 masterpiece GoodFellas immortalizes the hilarious, horrifying life of actual gangster Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), from his teen years on the streets of New York to his anonymous exile under the Witness Protection Program. The director's kinetic style is perfect for recounting Hill's ruthless rise to power in the 1950s as well as his drugged-out fall in the late 1970s; in fact, no one has ever rendered the mental dislocation of cocaine better than Scorsese. Scorsese uses period music perfectly, not just to summon a particular time but to set a precise mood. GoodFellas is at least as good as The Godfather without being in the least derivative of it. Joe Pesci's psycho improvisation of Mobster Tommy DeVito ignited Pesci as a star, Lorraine Bracco scores the performance of her life as the love of Hill's life, and every supporting role, from Paul Sorvino to Robert De Niro, is a miracle.

Description

When Martin Scorsese, one of the world's most skillful and respected directors, reunited with two-time Oscar-winner Robert De Niro in GoodFellas, the result was one of the most powerful films of the year. Based on the true-life best seller Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi and backed by a dynamic pop/rock oldies soundtrack, critics and filmgoers alike declared GoodFellas great. It was named 1990's best film by the New York, Los Angeles and National Society of Film Critics. And it earned six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Robert De Niro received wide recognition for his performance as veteran criminal Jimmy "The Gent" Conway. And as the volatile Tommy DeVito, Joe Pesci walked off with the Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Academy Award nominee Lorraine Bracco, Ray Liotta and Paul Sorvino also turned in electrifying performances. You have to see it to believe it - then watch it again. GoodFellas explores the criminal life like no other movie.

DVD Features:
Interactive Menus
Production Notes
Scene Access
Theatrical Trailer:Two theatrical trailers

Customer Reviews:

THE BEST OF THE BEST.......2007-06-13

Goodmovie........2007-05-27

Perhaps Scorcese's best film.......2007-05-20

An Outstanding Gangland Epic..........2007-05-19

He did it his way.......2007-05-16

Average customer rating:

Witness for the Prosecution
A highly skilled and professional movie, with four highly skilled and amusing performances
From the Old School!
Guilty, Your Honor - I Love This Movie
Charles Laughton Steals the Show

Witness For the Prosecution
Starring: Tyrone Power , Marlene Dietrich , Charles Laughton , Elsa Lanchester , and John Williams (II)
Director: Billy Wilder
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005PJ6Z
Release Date: 2001-12-11

Amazon.com essential video

Billy Wilder cowrote and directed this brilliant 1957 mystery based on Agatha Christie's celebrated play about an aging London barrister (Charles Laughton) who's preparing to retire when he takes the defense in the most vexing murder case of his distinguished career. In his final completed film (he died of a heart attack less than a year later), Tyrone Power plays the prime suspect in the murder of a wealthy widow, and Marlene Dietrich plays the wife of the accused, whose testimony--and true identity--holds the key to solving the case. A classic of courtroom suspense, Witness for the Prosecution is one of those movies with enough double-crossing twists to keep the viewer guessing right up to the very end, when yet another surprise is deftly revealed. This being a Billy Wilder film, the dialogue is first-rate and the acting superb, with both Laughton and his offscreen wife Elsa Lanchester (playing the barrister's pesty nurse) winning Academy Awards for their performances. Although later films would concoct even more complicated courtroom scenarios, this remains one of the best films of its kind and a model for all those films that followed its lead. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich and Charles Laughton star in this brilliantly made courtroom drama (The Film Daily) that left audiences reeling from its surprise twists and shocking climax. Directed by Billy Wilder, scripted by Wilder and Harry Kurnitz and based on Agatha Christie's hit London play, this splendid, six-time Oscar-nominated* classic crackles with emotional electricity (The New York Times) and continues to keep movie lovers riveted until the final, mesmerizing frame. When a wealthy widow is found murdered, her married suitor, Leonard Vole (Power), is accused of the crime. Vole's only hope for acquittal is the testimony of his wife (Dietrich) but his airtightalibi shatters when she reveals some shocking secrets of her own! *1957: Best Picture, Actor (Laughton), Supporting Actress (Elsa Lanchester), Director, Sound, Film Editing

Customer Reviews:

Witness for the Prosecution.......2007-06-27

Adapted from Agatha Christie's celebrated stage play, Billy Wilder's quintessential 1957 courtroom drama steadily builds narrative tension with its crisp, cynical dialogue. Surprises of identity, double and triple crosses, and a succession of plot twists keep this "Witness" from becoming predictable. Laughton and real-life wife Elsa Lanchester, playing Robards's meddlesome nurse, both won Oscars for their roles, but it's Wilder's razor-sharp script and direction that make this mystery tick. Sadly, this was Power's last completed role.

A highly skilled and professional movie, with four highly skilled and amusing performances.......2007-06-13

"I'll snatch her thermometer," snarls the aging, portly, brilliant, irascible London barrister Sir Wilfred Robarts, just back in his office after spending time in a hospital recovering from a heart attack, "and plunge it between her shoulder blades!"

In Witness for the Prosecution, based on an Agatha Christie story and popular stage play, Sir Wilfred (Charles Laughton) is referring to his personal nurse and attendant, the chirpy and determined Miss Plimsoll (Elsa Lanchester). Sir Wilfred has strict instructions to give up everything he holds dearest, namely brandy, cigars and the excitement of criminal defense cases. Nurse Plimsoll is there to see that he does, as well as to give him his injections, make sure he swallows his pills and tuck him in for his afternoon naps. In an effort to sneak a cigar that first day back in his office, Sir Wilfred finds himself intrigued by the case of Leonard Vole (Tyrone Power). Vole is a charming, too charming, man whom we don't quite trust. He has been charged with murdering a rich, silly woman...who coincidentally changed her will in Vole's favor a week before her death. Vole stands to become a very wealthy man. There is means, motive and opportunity, and for Sir Wilfred, there is a challenge. Vole swears he's innocent, but his story is not altogether plausible. His only hope, and a shaky one it is, is the testimony of his German wife, Christine (Marlene Dietrich). She has supplied an alibi, which cannot be verified, but at least she cannot be forced to testify against her husband. Then, when the marriage is found to be invalid, who should decide to become a witness for he prosecution? Sir Wilfred is mortified but even more determined to save his client.

The case, full of startling twists, legal shenanigans, first-rate performances and vivid characters, ends with a typically Agatha Christie surprise. Some argue that Christie perhaps was weak as a writer, but peerless as a storyteller, able to construct mystery plot puzzles that consistently stumped her readers until the last chapter. With Billy Wilder directing and Wilder and Harry Kurnitz, an old pro, providing the screenplay, Christie once again gives a surprise twist that leaves us open-mouthed, yet smiling at her cleverness. Thanks to Wilder and Kurnitz, we also have a conclusion that involves Sir Wilfred and Nurse Plimsoll that is immensely satisfying. If only there had been a sequel.

The four leads do marvelous jobs. In a way, the movie is about two relationships, not just one. There is the relationship between Vole and his wife. They met when Vole was a sergeant stationed in Germany right after WWII. He met Christine when she was earning money entertaining in a dive for soldiers. We see some of this in flashback. With Vole's opportunistic charm and Christine's cool manner, it's difficult to determine who, if either of them, is using whom, or to what degree love enters the picture. Christine's first entrance is memorable. Says Sir Wilfred to a group of fellows awaiting Mrs. Vole, "Be prepared for hysterics and even a fainting spell. Better have smelling salts handy and a nip of brandy." Then in walks Marlene Dietrich as Christine Vole, with perfect assurance. "I do not think that will be necessary," she says to Sir Wilfred. "I never faint because I am not sure that I will fall gracefully and I never use smelling salts because they puff up the eyes. I am Christine Vole."

In the second relationship, Sir Wilfred and Nurse Plimsoll provide the acerbic and mutually bullying comic relief for the movie. The two actors, however, married in real life, manage to develop a touching inter-dependence. It's not just a smile they give as at the end, but also a modest lump in the throat.

And personally, I was delighted to see Henry Daniell in a substantial secondary role. He plays Mayhew, the solicitor who brings Vole to Sir Wilfred. Daniell could look like he was sneering with disdain even if he was just admiring the view. He played some wonderfully upper-class cads and villains in a lot of so-so movies. He also was a first-rate actor, who, given the chance, could also play serious, concerned men, the kind you wouldn't mind having for a friend. He does a fine job here.

The movie, filmed in black and white, looks very good in the DVD transfer. There are no extras to speak of.

From the Old School!.......2007-04-25

"Witness for the Prosecution" is a first rate courtroom drama with razor sharp direction by Billy Wilder and a cast to die for. As the plot opens, "nice guy" Tyrone Power stands accused of murdering a wealthy widow. Unemployed and shiftless, he reminded this reviewer of Ray Milland in "Dial M for Murder". TP was the last known person to see the demised alive, has a shaky alibi-and is in the lady's will for big bucks! TP turns in desperation to big shot London lawyer Charles Laughton. In fact, Scotland Yard busts him in CL's office! Most have already commented on the lively courtroom drama but this reviewer admired the out of court sparring too as Laughton and his colleagues prepare for trial. Just out of the hospital, CL is perfect as the curmudgeonly and crafty barrister, even if he does tear up most of his scenes. His tart banter with his nurse (Elsa Lanchester) is softened by the knowledge that she was his real life wife. There are at least 3 huge plot twists to WFP, leading this observer to write a concise review in the interests of not divulging the ending. That leads us to female lead Marlene Dietrich: She is central to those twists- watch her closely! MD played 30 movies from 1930-1965; was she ever better than here? Hollywood took notice of WFP: It was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Laughton) and Best Supporting Actress (Lanchester), though winning none. Dietrich was ignored by the Academy but nominated for Best Actress by the Golden Globes. How many times were husband and wife nominated together? WFP is filmed is beautiful black and white-a lost art-and features true economy of sets, perhaps reflecting its' stage origins. This review tried to maintain an aura of mystery about the ending; there is a good deal more suspense than implied here. Like the header states, WFP is a winner from the old school -one that has long since been out of session.

Guilty, Your Honor - I Love This Movie.......2007-04-19

The film is based on Agatha Christie's story with the enormous twist not on the last page but on the last line. Billy Wilder's direction is perfect and all actors get it right. Charles Laughton is absolutely superb; he has the best lines and scenes and he brings the wit, intelligence, and the heart to the film. Marlene Dietrich is perfect playing not one but three roles, convincingly transforming from one character to another, from the present to the past. This is not just a good mystery but a classic of the courtroom genre and a very enjoyable film even after you know the ending. "Witness for the Prosecutionis" is one of my favorite Agatha Christie's screen adaptations.

Charles Laughton Steals the Show.......2007-04-04

Witness for the Prosecution is an outstanding film with a number of great performances. I've seen some criticism of Tyrone Power but I can't agree. Far from wooden, he alternates between suave man-about-town and frantic defendant depending on the scene. Marlene Dietrich is also very compelling as his wife although I'm not sure I see her appeal as a sex-symbol which she used to enjoy. By far the best role, however, belongs to Charles Laughton as the defense attorney (or barrister) and he nails it beyond belief. His character is a classic curmudgeon but he plays it with such charm and humor that he is one of my favorite characters of all time from any movie.

The story moves along briskly and there are plenty of mood shifts as some scenes are very light and funny while others are quite tense. It's a bit of a roller coaster but one that is pure pleasure to ride. All in all, I highly recommend this film for virtually any movie fan.

Average customer rating:

"YOU NEVER HAD YOUR HANDS ON A TEET BEFORE"...."NOT ONE THIS BIG!" GREAT EDITION!
where he belongs
Timeless
Witness Protection Becomes Witness Perfection
havent seen it but.....

Witness (Special Collector's Edition)
Starring: Harrison Ford , Kelly McGillis , Josef Sommer , Lukas Haas , and Jan Rubes
Director: Peter Weir
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0009UC7R0
Release Date: 2005-08-23

Amazon.com essential video

When Samuel (Lukas Haas), a young Amish boy traveling with his mother Rachel (Kelly McGillis), witnesses the murder of a police officer in a public restroom, he and his mother become the temporary wards of John Book (Harrison Ford), a detective who's been assigned to solve the crime. After suspect lineups and mug-shot books yield nothing, Samuel, in the most memorable scene of the film, recognizes the murderer as a narcotics agent whose picture he sees in the precinct. Once Book realizes that the police chief is in on it, too, he whisks Samuel and Rachel back home to Amish country, where he himself goes into hiding as a plain Amish man. The juxtaposition between the life of the Amish and the violence of inner-city police corruption work surprisingly well for the story, and Kelly McGillis as the falling in love widow gives an almost perfect performance. Directed by Peter Weir, the film is extremely successful in drawing the viewer into its world and, accordingly, is immensely entertaining. The only thing that mars its polish is the one-dimensional, almost cartoonish handling of the upper-echelon police corruption--a subtler, more realistic treatment of this aspect of the story would have rendered the film near perfect. --James McGrath

Customer Reviews:

"YOU NEVER HAD YOUR HANDS ON A TEET BEFORE"...."NOT ONE THIS BIG!" GREAT EDITION!.......2007-07-04

Ford,McGillis,Haas and the entire cast shine in this classic romantic/thriller/fish out of water film! Now, we have a DVD treatment worthy of the movie. Interesting extras and a great transfer make this a must have in your collection.

where he belongs.......2007-05-27

Harrison Ford shines in this lingering over the close-quarter differences between Pennsylvania's Amish people and the 'English' life that by contrast seems so rude in this 1985 screen gem. Yet twenty-two years later, it is the young Kelly McGillis who nearly melts the screen with this early performance as Rachel, the Amish widow who takes in Harrison's 'John Book' and grows into love with a fugitive from 'the city' whose own heart grows entwined with the Amish way.

Although the Amish did not like this film (it *is* a film), it remains as a deeply moving tribute to their chosen, peaceful way. Perhaps it is the finest thing we 'English'--this reviewer grew up in Pennsylvania with the Amish as his neighbors--can offer them.

Not that they were asking for recognition.

Director Peter Weir caught them doing what they do best, going about the business of keeping peace and making the earth grow its greenest things. The occasional caricature that creeps in clumsily elevates the men and women it seeks to honor rather than reducing them to its dimensional poverty.

The Amish are not heroes and do not play that role particularly well on the wide screen (the actors of are course not Amish men and women). They are rather people who have from within community made a stark choice and chosen to celebrate both its limitations and the world it opens up to them.

Weir, Ford, McGinnis et al. did well to freeze-frame that choice as one that saved the life of a self-sufficient Baltimore policemen who stumbled upon corruption that made him a marked man in the city. It is a most moving still.

The film was uncanny in its capacity, in the end, to mark the Amish off in the most authentic way: not by sneering at their simplicity of style and rejection of 'fashion'. Rather, as recent history has provided grim occasion for us to observe, the Amish are distinguished by the grace that they do not kill. And, when bloodied, they say the damndest thing: 'We forgive'.

Witness indeed. And a superb movie.

Timeless.......2007-04-02

Witness is both a detective thriller, a love story, and a timeless view of our society. The acting is impeccable, the story both gripping and a deeply insightful take on our society. Set among the Amish of Lancaster County, Pennslvania we see the truly startling contrast between 21st Century America and the Eighteenth Century society preserved there. Detective John Book discovers corruption in the police department for which he works in Philadelphia and becomes a hunted man. He flees and is hidden by the Amish. The action and the human relationships that follow are completely absorbing.

Witness Protection Becomes Witness Perfection.......2007-03-02

This film defies being placed in any genre and is as near to perfection on screen as you will likely find. Harrison Ford gives his absolutely best performance in this film and he should have won the Oscar that year along with this film's great director, Peter Wier, who seems to be always a bride's maid and never the bride with his numerous nominations. Wier gets perfect performances from everyone involved in this landmark film on inner city crime and the ways of the simple Amish in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (where I live). Many actors in this film got their break here such as Jan Rubes, Lukas Hass, Kelly McGillis, Alexander Gundenoff, and Viggio Mortensen (in a quick scene).

The life of Det. John Book, Ford, is brilliantly juxtaposed to the simple life the Amish live only a mere 50 miles or so out of Philadelphia. It is carefully presented as not being a utopian society with its restrictions. Book risks his life to protect the witness and his mother and is nearly killed himself in the process. They nursed him to good health while he was also protecting them. He ends up falling in love with his caretaker and the simple life and ponders giving up everything for this simple life. Book must decide when the dust settles on the case that brought him out to Amish Country which life he wants: the simple, quiet life of the Amish or his busy, violent life where he also saves lives. Its not as an easy decision and we sympathize with his difficult choice.

If for some reason you missed this movie when it was out or have never heard of it, reward yourself by purchasing or at least renting this outstanding film. You will find it facinating and riveting.

havent seen it but............2007-02-27

this was Viggo Mortensens first movie, he plays Moses-somethin'-or-other, thanks in advance for clicking the not helpful button

Average customer rating:

Blu Ray version delivers
Good Blu-Ray Transfer
AMAZING!
The Best Mob Movie Ever
All time Great Movie

GoodFellas [Blu-ray]
Starring: Frank Adonis , Frank Albanese , Anthony Alessandro , Erasmus C. Alfano , and Manny Alfaro
Director: Martin Scorsese
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: Blu-ray

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ASIN: B000LPS4BG
Release Date: 2007-01-16

Description

Customer Reviews:

Blu Ray version delivers.......2007-06-27

I bought the movie because of 2 things:

1. It is already one of the best gangster movies ever
2. It came out on blu ray

Blu ray quality looks great, and you can see all these tiny details that come out when you see things clearer in the backgrounds

Good Blu-Ray Transfer.......2007-04-12

You all know the plot of Goodfellas; so what makes this worth getting on Blu-Ray? This is a great transfer to Blu-Ray - with the Aspect Ratio at 1.85:1 this movie fills the entire screen of a typical LCD/plasma. Watching it again was like watching it for the first time. The colors were brighter and the picture sharper. A must have to start your Blu-Ray collection.

AMAZING! .......2007-03-15

Great Movie , Great Masterpiece , Best of all its on this BLU-RAY version has an amazing picture ! A MUST BUY !

The Best Mob Movie Ever.......2007-02-20

This is by far the best Mob movie of all time its timeless . Growing up in New Jersey we saw this stuff on the news all the time. a very accurate account of thins with some drama mixed in for good measure.

All time Great Movie.......2007-02-19

What can I say..... This Movie is great and even better on Blu-Ray

Average customer rating:

Usual Suspects
Definitely a DVD to Own - But Don't Read Any Plot Spoilers!
Violent yes but it blew me away!,
Good Blu-ray trans for a great movie
Who in the heck is Kaiser Soeza?

The Usual Suspects [Blu-ray]
Starring: Suzy Amis , Stephen Baldwin , Paul Bartel , Bill Bates , and Billy Bates
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
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ASIN: B00000F214
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Amazon.com essential video

Description

Winner of two 1995 Academy Awards(r), including Best Original Screenplay, this masterful, atmospheric film noir enraptured audiences with its complex and riveting storyline, gritty, tour-de-force performances (including an Oscar(r)-winning* turn by Kevin Spacey) and a climax that is truly deserving of the word stunning. Also starring Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin Pollak and Pete Postlethwaite, this 'thoroughly engrossing film (HBO) is so gripping and diabolically clever (The Wall Street Journal) that it becomes a maze you'll be happy to get lost in (Los Angeles Times)! Held in an L.A. interrogation room, Verbal Kint attempts to convince the feds that the mythic crime lord not only exists, but was also responsible for drawinghim and his four partners into a multi-million dollar heist that ended with an explosion in San Pedro Harborleaving few survivors. But as Kint lures his interrogators into the incredible story of this crime lord's almost supernatural prowess, so too will you be mesmerized by a lore that is completely captivating from beginning to end! *1995: Supporting Actor

Customer Reviews:

Usual Suspects.......2007-05-13

Definitely a DVD to Own - But Don't Read Any Plot Spoilers!.......2007-05-13

Violent yes but it blew me away!,.......2007-05-11

Good Blu-ray trans for a great movie.......2007-04-30

Who in the heck is Kaiser Soeza?.......2007-04-08

Average customer rating:

bruce willis you got competition
Mel,Danny and Richard reunite!
Lethal Weapon 2
THE BEST OF THE SERIES
Gibson and Glover reunite for fun cop movie

Lethal Weapon 2 (Director's Cut)
Starring: Mel Gibson , Danny Glover , Joe Pesci , Joss Ackland , and Derrick O'Connor
Director: Richard Donner
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
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Binding: DVD

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Lethal Weapon 3 (Director's Cut)
Lethal Weapon (Director's Cut)
Lethal Weapon 4
Die Hard 2 - Die Harder (Widescreen Edition)
Die Hard with a Vengeance (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B00004RFFW
Release Date: 2000-06-06

Amazon.com

The series formula started to kick in with this immediate sequel to Lethal Weapon, but that doesn't necessarily make it a weak movie. Joe Pesci joins the fold, Richard Donner directs again, and Mel Gibson and Danny Glover return as LAPD partners, their relationship smoother now that Gibson's character has recovered from his maddening grief over his wife's death. But the reckless Mel and cautious Danny equation, good for a million laughs, settles into place in this story involving a South African smuggler and a new girlfriend (Patsy Kensit) for Gibson. The movie is hardly comfy, though. The last act gets nasty, and a climactic fight between Gibson (who gets the worst of it) and some high-kicking villain is ugly. --Tom Keogh

Description

Riggs wows the pretties of a hotel spa before getting to Getz. Murtaugh receives bad bodywork news from an auto repairman after his beleaguered station wagon sees some Riggs-piloted street action. Plus, feisty Leo shares a newly included scene in which he recalls a suspect's address by complex spins of numbers that, well, no one can tell it like Leo. And no one would follow his lead but Riggs and Murtaugh. It's police procedure, Lethal style. Ant it's yours to enjoy as the duo draws a head on criminals hiding behind diplomatic immunity.

Customer Reviews:

bruce willis you got competition.......2007-05-04

For those of you that are over 17 or grew up watching the die hard movies or were able to see rated r movies when you were three years under age because your parents thought you were mature enough this movie is for you. Do to heavy violencen action seqeunces, occasional language this movie might not be appropriate or may be questionable to children under the age of 17 depending on what there parents or guardian think is appropriate. This is and very old dvd it celebrate it's 7th anniversary in DVD format this year. Since this dvd is old and there are plenty of copies tdue to it's high popularity you probably should not pay more than $25 dollars for a copy of this unless you are bying the whole quadrilogy at once and not just the second film. Try to get this used to if possible and not in new condition because some the copies can be over 25 dollars. Mel Gibson an Danny glover take up there gones again in this action packed seqeul to the original movie. Can young Revis and his partner stop a drug gain from smugglig out of the country find out in this action packed sligtly extended version. If you liked the die hard movies and the robo cops which were good until the fourth installment then they went done hill you will enjoy this.

Mel,Danny and Richard reunite!.......2007-01-24

The success of the 1987 Warner Bros. action film LETHAL WEAPON inspired director Richard Donner to reunite with Mel Gibson and Danny Glover for this first of three sequels which was more successful than the first film. Oscar-winner Joe Pesci(GOODFELLAS,THE SUPER,MY COUSIN VINNY,BETSY'S WEDDING,HOME ALONE 1 & 2) joins the cast as Leo Getz,who is often a nuisance to Sgt. Roger Murtaugh(Glover) and his partner-buddy Martin Riggs(Gibson). Not only that,Roger and Martin tease Leo often as if they were grade school kids. Leo's tagline is "Anything you need,Leo gets!". Once again Darlene Love again plays Roger's wife Trish. The Murtaughs' kids are back as well. The funniest scene in this film,believed by many,is when Roger sits on his toilet in his upstairs bathroom,and a planted bomb inside the Murtaughs' home explodes. In reality,that would have been sad. Patsy Kensit(BLAME IT ON THE BELLBOY) plays Martin's love interest. Great music soundtrack which includes the late George Harrison performing CHEER DOWN during the end credits.

Lethal Weapon 2.......2006-06-16

Saw this movie on HBO and loved it.Rated R for violence,language,some drug use and sexualty.Canada:18A.Not for children.

THE BEST OF THE SERIES.......2006-06-15

I've lost count how many times I've watched this film. Gibson and Glover are excelent but the inclusion of Joe Pesci was the stroke of genius. His "steak sandwich" monologue is a classic. It's hard to believe he became so obnoxious in future sequels.
If you were going to watch only one Lethal Weapon movie, this should be it.

Gibson and Glover reunite for fun cop movie.......2006-05-12

The summer of 1989 was loaded with blockbusters, yet there was only one movie that I really wanted to see more than any other. In a season that saw such blockbusters as a new Indiana Jones movie, the latest Star Trek picture and Timothy Dalton's second outing as 007, the movie that held the most excitement for me was LETHAL WEAPON 2. Not because of Mel Gibson or Danny Glover or a particular love of the original, but because the love interest came in the very lovely shape of the lead singer of one of my favorite 1980s bands (Eighth Wonder) Patsy Kensit.
Truth be told though, there's not much to Kensit's role here, she is there simply as window dressing in the part of a secretary at the South African consulate. The movie as a whole though is a great, fun ride and is easily my favorite of the franchise.
The plot of the movie involves drug smuggling that is being conducted by officials at the South African consulate. Back in the 1980s South Africa was largely an international pariah because of its policy of apartheid. This made it easy to target them as the villains and their position as diplomats provides them with the protective vbeil of diplomatic immunity. As lead villain Arjen Rudd (played wonderfully by British actor Joss Ackland) comments when confronting the Los Angeles police officers "you could not even give me a parking ticket."
Starting with a chase through the night streets of Los Angeles, the movie races from one action sequence to another rarely pausing for breath in what is a classic cop buddy movie. Both Gibson and Glover make a great team and the interplay between them provides for some really subtle humor.
Which brings us to Joe Pesci, whose humor is about as subtle as a sledgehammer in the role of witness Leo Getz - "Whatever you want Leo Getz - get it!?" Pesci is at times annoying and at other times loveable, but he is always funny. Obviously he was also a hit with the audience too as he would return in the third and fourth movie of the series.
As a bonus for Kensit fans like myself - in the scene where Leo is cleaning Riggs house you can hear Eighth Wonder's biggest hit "I'm not Scared" playing in the background. It's a shame they did not have Kensit's character survive until the end as they had originally planned, but I understand that her death leads Riggs to take the dramatic action that he does.
This is my favorite cop movie (alongside "Beverly Hills Cop" and an entertaining way to spend 114 minutes or 118 minutes if you go with the directors cut.
Scenes included in the directors cut includes Leo using numbers to remember a suspects address and Murtaugh getting some bad news from an auto-repair man after Riggs drives his new station wagon up against a guardrail. Pretty standard stuff that I felt did not add anything particularly.
The directors cut also comes with a making of featurette, cast and crew bios and a theatrical trailer. Here's hoping that one day soon Warner will put out an ultimate edition. Director Richard Donner has already done a great commentary track on the original Suoerman movie and a commentary track here would be welcome also.
Recommended.

Average customer rating:

Hi-Larious.
Absolutely brilliant comedy
Don't Bother
Dumb Humor
Amazing funny film

The Whole Nine Yards
Starring: Bruce Willis , Matthew Perry , Rosanna Arquette , Michael Clarke Duncan , and Natasha Henstridge
Director: Jonathan Lynn
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Pollak, Kevin | ( P ) | A