Them!

Starring:James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, Joan Weldon, James Arness, Onslow Stevens, Sean McClory, Chris Drake, Sandy Descher, Mary Alan Hokanson, Don Shelton, Fess Parker, Olin Howland, Oscar Blanke, Walter Coy, Dean Fredericks, Forbes Murray, John Beradino, Richard Bellis, Lawrence Dobkin, Dorothy Green (II)
Director: Gordon Douglas
Studio: Warner Home Video
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com essential video

That ol' cinematic devil the A-bomb has spawned a colony of giant murderous ants bent on destroying humanity in this, the seminal big bug movie (an obvious and oft-credited influence for Alien among countless others). The special effects may be dated, but this brilliantly rational-sounding film has held up wonderfully in all other regards, including some starkly effective location work in the high Arizona desert, a genuinely inspired sound design guaranteed to bring on the creepy-crawlies, and an unexpectedly dry sense of humor (mainly personified by Grade-A egghead scientist Edmund Gwenn). This is essential viewing for all those who consider themselves science fiction or horror fans. Heroic hardcase James Arness previously played for the other team as the titular character in The Thing from Another World. --Andrew Wright

Description

Radiation from bomb tests creates giant, mutant ants that descend upon a town.

Customer Reviews:

Them!.......2007-06-27

Stories involving the mutation of people and animals through atomic radiation comprise a sci-fi sub-genre all its own, and "Them!" ranks as the best offering of the 1950s. Imagine if you will hordes of ants mutated to roughly the size of...well, bigger than a Buick. You would not want them invading your Sunday picnic. This terrifying if unlikely scenario engages thanks to solid direction, effects, and script, along with a sturdy cast, including the under-appreciated Whitmore and the cuddly Gwenn ( who played Santa in "Miracle on 34th Street"). Quintissential vintage sci-fi.

A very American monster story.......2007-04-27

Yes sir, those o'l World War Two generation people knew how to make a monster movie when they had the money. Someone gets gobbled up by something from outerspace or underground, someone lives to tell about it, the Army finds out saying--"Well, that it for them!" and in they go with everything they got. All that and James Whitmore, James Arness, and the cutie Joan Weldon and a ton of ammunition. This is kind of a serious movie so it requires both popcorn and hot dogs and soda--and remember, when you watch it you haven't got a clue what it's about.

PROS:

1. Story line better than so-so. Handled seriously. The writers and director took the time to figure it all out before they shot it including having the police in the movie pick up enough clues to tell them what was going on.
2. Whitmore and Arness star...that's a star there.
3. Even the little girl in the first scene can act and she only say's one word!.....I'm watching this again as I write...tell me something--is there anybody in this movie who 'can not' act?
4. At the scene where Whitmore and his police partner enter the general story that has been broke in. The evidence is mounting. They find a 30-30 rifle behind the counter...the barrel is bent double. They find the owner under a trap door in the floor--dead. A noise from across the room, Whitmore gets up, right hand pats holstered pistol--he gets a stern look on his face then he and his partner advance on the position where the sound came from. The beginning of the movie is like this, no filler. By the numbers. I wish our police were like that around here.
5. There is no doubt about it, the writer of is movie knew exactly what he was doing. Yes...five stars to the writer. Whitmore's partner is left alone--We know what's about to happen to him, don't we--Whitmore goes for help. His partner (a stern face strong lookin fellow) walks into another room, looks down. Whitmore is heard driving away. He goes into the ajoining room to turn the radio off. A sound is heard--it's the monster sound. He hears it, turns, pulls his gun--smart guy. Without taking his eyes off the direction of the sound, takes a step or two forward to the pull chain light. Standing under it, no expression change on his face--eyes never wavering from the direction of that sound...neither does his gun. He reaches up, finds the pull chain switch without looking and turns the light out. Two steps forward and he is out of that room. A glance left then right to find the light switch, he finds it, turns the light off...his gun never left the direction of the sound, (is this guy combat trained or something?). He eases forward, small steps, soft around fifteen steps, never does his eyes or gun waver in the least from that sound. The monster sound shoots up in volume. He hesitates, eyes swivel left then right like a gun turret, searching for anything--anything at all. His gun never moves off target. The sound is identified as coming from outside, through a big hole in the wall. He steps to the edge of the hole and stops. He turns his head right then left--I figure his was making sure which direction the sound came from. The sound is coming from the left, his head stays turned left, he blinks then steps through the hole. There is no need to go futher with this discription--we all know what he found. I will say he got off five shots (off screen) before he yelled. So, why am I writing this? Well, it goes to realism. In all the movies you watch, if there is a darkened corner or hole for a monster to crawl into and hide the actors will find a way to walk or crawl close to it until the monster gets them. This law officer had the look on his face and (with a little more training about taking proper cover) attention to stealth, and attention span focussing on a possible enemy I've seen from some of our soldiers during Vietnam. Unlike in the movies...they 'never' took their eyes off their target, and let's face it, his stern face had the look of walking towards a date with destiny. I don't remember who he is, but he sure could act!

Seven. I don't seen any reason to go through this step by step and tell you everything...I'll jump ahead toward the end.
8. We're in the sewer system now, (or something like it). The ants have found a new home...they been there for months. The army is in there to, searching for Them and two lost boys. James Whitmore gets chewed up by one of the ants as he was saving the two lost boys. James Arness holds his head up to hear his last words. The kids are safe. There is shooting going on, the ants have found the small army unit. Arness walks back to them and for 23 seconds I have never seen so much ordinance shot down range (in corridor like conditions) at any target as what I have seen here. It makes me wonder if back in World War Two when some of our smaller units stumbled across an enemy tank/s who spots them at the same time...what was their reaction? I bet it was pretty close to the same...throw everything you got at'em as quickly as you can, or run.

CONS:

1. There are no cons in this movie.

Few times have I ever seen a movie so well put together. The writing is perfect, the actors really act, no subplots get in the way and take away from the main story line and focus. There is no filler I could find, everyword, every hand motion, seemingly every hand gesture pointed at one thing...the story. Tight, percise, writing. It is because of the writing, acting, and obviously directing, THEM must have five stars. Even though all of it is laid out for the viewer sooner or later I feel you should have the full spread while you watch. The lights must go off, only you watching the movie so your attention isn't elsewhere--one salad bowl of popcorn, two hot dogs, and a big drink to wash it down with.

This kind of movie doesn't require thought to understand--it demands your full attention to get the most out of it. Bye.

P.S. For those of you who never seen handgrenade explosions the size of these smoke and dusk clouds thrown up by the rifle grenades is pretty close to accurate...of course real military explosions happen in the blink of an eye rather than so slow.

sugar cubes.......2007-04-01

A few weeks ago I was talking with a good friend of mine about films from the 1970s and 1980s. One of these films concerned mutant ants, so the conversation eventually led to my friend asking me if I watched a 1954 film titled Them which concerned the havoc caused by mutant ants. I said no and my friend loaned me the DVD a couple of days later and I was repeatedly asked over the last few weeks if I has watched said film. I wasn't intentionally putting off watching the film, but the opportunity just didn't arise for a few weeks. However, tonight I finally sat down to watch this old piece of science fiction and I must say that I am quite glad that I did.

Patrol officers Sgt. Ben Peterson and Trooper Ed Blackburn are called into the depths of the deserts of New Mexico after it is reported that a young girl had been spotted wandering the desert alone. After finding the girl, whose doll's head is missing quite a chunk, the officers find the girl's parents' vacation trailer which has been completely destroyed on one side. There are a few strange things about the wreckage, however, the trailer looks to have been ripper from the inside out, no money is missing, and sugar cubes are scattered about. Also there is a strange footprint found. The officers then travel to a nearby dry goods store and find the proprietor dead his body having been slung into a cellar. Peterson goes for backup, but during his absence Blackburn is killed by a strange creature that makes a high pitched screeching noise. It is eventually discovered that the owner of the trailer was a member of the FBI so an agent, Robert Graham, is sent in. He has the footprint sent to Washington D.C. and two doctors from the ministry of agriculture arrive and we soon learn that a human is the not the culprit, but instead giant ants.

Filmed some nine years after the atomic bomb testing in New Mexico, Them is a film that displays the fear of how nature and society are affected by the presence of such abominable objects of mass destruction. Similar to Godzilla in Japan, Them shows nature fighting back against the devastations that man has brought on himself. While this film could have easily just have been another bad B movie from the 1950s, Them is actually quite creepy in some parts especially with its use of audio and darkness. Those of us who are creeped out by bugs in general might received an additional watching this film.

THEM! THEM! THEM!.......2007-03-27

One of the all time great giant bug movies! The giant ants are so vivid in this excellent 50' sci-fi movie it is one time I'm glad they didn't use stop motion to create the ants. Ray Harryhausen could have made some cool looking monster ants for this film, but the giant ants in this feature are unforgettable. Good story,cast and some cool looking giant bugs make this a classic. The DVD transfer is nice only why did they colorize the title letters in the opening?

Wonderful cast, inspiration for scenes in Alien.......2007-03-19

Watch the scene where they go through the tunnels into the queen's egg chamber. There is knee deep dry ice fog, and they incinerate the place with flame throwers. I only picked up the similarity to Alien recently.

Also this is one of the first films where they battle monsters in the storm drains of LA and drove around in the concrete lined LA River.

Platinum Comedy Series - Dave Chappelle - Killin' Them Softly

Average customer rating:

HILARIOUS
Killin' Them Softly
This is Dave Chapelles' Best Work!
One of the single best stand-up specials ever
Can't go wrong with Chappelle

Platinum Comedy Series - Dave Chappelle - Killin' Them Softly
Starring: Dave Chappelle
Manufacturer: Urban Works
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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Similar Items:

Dave Chappelle - For What It's Worth
Chappelle's Show - Season 1
Chappelle's Show - Season 2
Chappelle's Show - The Lost Episodes (Uncensored)
Chris Rock - Never Scared

ASIN: B000095J1K
Release Date: 2003-07-15

Amazon.com

Killin' Them Softly is easily one of HBO's best comedy specials, catching star Dave Chappelle at a career high in 2000 and with an abundance of hysterical, highly polished material. Taking his time, stretching concepts and bits like a master, Chappelle plunges into a wealth of anecdotes and observations about the influx of white people into Washington, D.C. (where this show was recorded) since the 1980s. ("Who are the scariest people? White guys in black gangs. No telling what they did to get respect.") There are fantastic tales of racing cops with Chappelle's white friend, Chip, and a great story about being left alone in a limousine outside a busy crack house. Other good stuff: introducing a kid to a PePe Le Pew cartoon and realizing too late the skunk is a sex criminal, and why we should know our 911 calls will end up played on television. --Tom Keogh

Description

DAVE CHAPPELLE is a successful comedian, screenwriter, and actor. CHAPPELLE'S laid-back yet socially attuned style of comedy has made him a favorite among all ages and races. As an actor he's appeared alongside some of Hollywood's biggest names in films such as THE NUTTY PROFESSOR, CON AIR, YOU'VE GOT MAIL, UNDERCOVER BROTHER and BLUE STREAK. CHAPPELLE also co-wrote and starred in the sidesplitting prison caper HALF BAKED. Now laugh out loud as you spend 60 hilarious minutes with DAVE CHAPPELLE as he sounds off on everyone within earshot. Originally aired on HBO in 2000, "Killin' Them Softly" is without a doubt one of the funniest standup specials available. You'll never laugh more than you will here. Dave spares no victim as he addresses issues about the Police, Racism, Sesame Street, Kids, and the Government. It's hilarious! Comedy doesn't get any better than this! Welcome DAVE CHAPELLE'S "Killin' Them Softly" to the prestigious PLATINUM COMEDY SERIES. Bringing you the funniest comedians in America!

Customer Reviews:

HILARIOUS.......2007-04-23

DAVE CHAPPELLE TRULY IS ONE OF THE BEST COMEDIANS. THIS STAND-UP COMEDY DVD IS HILARIOUS. BUT NOW DON'T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE I DID. THERE IS ANOTHER DVD THAT'S THE SAME SHOW BUT IN A DIFFERENT NAME "FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH". SO DON'T BUY BOTH CUZ IT'S THE SAME EXACT SHOW. I HAD "FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH" AND THEN I BROUGHT THIS ONE NOT KNOWING IT WAS THE SAME. BUT THIS IS DEFINITELY ONE U GOTTA SEE. U WILL LAUGH YOUR HEART OUT

Killin' Them Softly.......2007-03-11

Dave Chappelle is funny...this one has got to be one of his best stand-ups.

This is Dave Chapelles' Best Work!.......2007-02-07

This DVD is so Hilarious. If you have seen his TV show....you havn't seen anything! His standup is so much better than his TV show. If you want to laugh and laugh, buy this. It is my favorite! My family has watched it over 10 times!

One of the single best stand-up specials ever.......2006-10-09

Dave Chappelle's Killin' Them Softly ranks up there with the best. What really differentiates Chappelle from other comedians, something I don't often see mentioned in his evaluations, is his nack for subtle humor. Although his material is outrageous in concept, his delivery is what makes it so brilliant. He throws in little words here and there, facial expressions, and masterfully realized impressions that are all made with such a laid-back delivery. It's subtle. He captures emotions. Seriously, it's not hype... the man is a brilliant comedian. Even if you're not a fan of Chappelle's Show, you'll love this special.

Can't go wrong with Chappelle.......2006-07-19

With the rising success of Dave Chappelle came -Killin' Them Softly-, one of the funniest and popular stand up specials to date. Almost everything he talks about in this will keep you laughing. It may be the typical things an African-American comedian might talk about, but it is down right hilarious the way Dave presents it.

My favorites would be:

- Taped 9-1-1 call - "Help! Help Mutha F**ka They Comin' Ta Get Me!"
- Ditched in the Ghetto - "Hey Baby! Baby go home... what the F**k are you doin' up!"
- Discovering old shows - "B***H I LIVE IN A F**KING TRASH CAN"
- Clinton/Bush/First Black presidency (By far the best one)
- Chivalry

55 minutes of sheer hysteria in one stand up by one man. Of course getting the DVD would be good, but I would actually recommend downloading it because of quick access to it. With a DVD you have to put it in the computer or DVD player and wait to then play it, but when you have it already on your computer you can just run it with a media player. Nonetheless, the point is to see this if you haven't.

Average customer rating:

classic fifties monsters
Wow, great deal.
The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms/Them
A classic '50s Sci Fi Double Feature
Ants In Your Pants

The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms/Them!
Starring: James Whitmore , Edmund Gwenn , Joan Weldon , James Arness , and Onslow Stevens
Director: Gordon Douglas , and Eugène Lourié
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

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The Thing from Another World
This Island Earth
The Monster That Challenged the World/It! The Terror From Beyond Space
The Classic Sci-fi Ultimate Collection (Tarantula / The Mole People / The Incredible Shrinking Man / The Monolith Monsters / Monster on the Campus)
It Came From Outer Space

ASIN: B000FOPPEC
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Description

Humanity has split the atom, unleashing a new era of science - an era that would also unleash monstrous celluloid rampages. An A-bomb test in the Arctic awakens The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, and it makes New York City its stomping ground in the movie (based on a story by Ray Bradbury) that launched a string of Atomic Age creature features. One of the best of those cautionary yarns is Them! Radiation-mutated ants - 12 feet long and capable of lifting tons - become giant problems for James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, James Arness and all of Los Angeles. They're big. They're bad. They've got a serious attitude problem. You won't find a can of bug spray big enough to stop 'em!

Customer Reviews:

classic fifties monsters.......2007-05-26

Two great monster movies for the price of one! Sounds familiar, but in this case, you get what they offer.
Them! is the original "big bug" movie. Atomic fallout causes ants to grow large enough to snack on humans and their nest has to be destroyed. But, here comes the McGuffin. Two of the Queens escape and a world wide hunt is on for Them! before they multiply and destroy the human race. The ants are really huge puppets ten years before Jim Henson.
Of course, we have the obligatory (poorly) hidden warning against nuclear testing. Remember, this was the McCarthey era and open protest against the bomb could get you blacklisted.
Again the bomb gets the blame in The Beast from 20,000 fathoms. (great title, but the beast never actually swims that deep) In this case, nuclear testing in the arctic thaws a dinosaur frozen under the ice. The ice at that time was just stuffed with all sorts of critters. First it froze in time to catch a Deadly Mantis, then it thawed enough to entrap a dinosaur without unfreezing the bug, then, in modern times, a starship crash thawed it enough to trap one of its crewmen, The Thing from Outer Space, then it froze the Blob, but allowed enough of it to thaw to menace the world again in the seventies. God knows what global warming will release in the twenty-teens.
getting back to the Beast, rather than freezing back to a Dino-sicle, this one jumps into the ocean and heads south. In Massachusets, it falls in love with a lighthouse, but when its new love proves frigid, it destroys her. Then it heads for New York city where it it is wounded, but its blood turns out to be contaminated by a mysterious disease, so a way has to be found to kill it without spreading the disease, The finale is really exciting. I missed the theatre showing of this film because I was too young, but when I saw this disk, I thought, "Oh that's Godzilla.". Sure enough, in the commentaries on Gojira, I learned that the writer openly credited the Beast as part of the inspiration for the Japanese movie. However, the two movies are different enough that I am glad to have both in my collection. I also have Gorgo, so now all I need is "the giant Behemoth", "Reptilicus",and "The Valley Of Gwangi" to complete my set.

Wow, great deal........2007-03-25

I recently saw "Them!" for the first time and fell in love with it. So naturally I soon went to the store to find a copy. I looked and I looked, but my store din't have it. Suddenly I saw in the double feature section thiscombination. There it was the movie I was looking for. I was hesitant when I saw the name of the other film. "The Beast fom 20,000 Fathoms" sounded like your stereotypical corny sci-fi movie. I sat there thinking it over and suddenly realized it was cheaper to buy the double feature then buying "Them!" individualy. I quickly payed $10 (that's how much it was at my store) and went home. It's a double sided disk and the DVD's are the same as buying them individualy. Same special feature etc. I decided to watch "the Beast from 20,000 Fathoms to see if I liked it, or not. It was wonderful, not on the same level as "Them!', but still good lots of semilarities to Godzilla. This is a really good deal if you want to save over $10 (The price of buying both individualy is $25).

RAtings:

Them! 5/5 stars: A true clasic that really holds up to today's standards.
The Best from 20,000 Fathoms 4/5 stars: Quite entertaining

The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms/Them.......2007-02-20

For anyone who loves the 50's "atomic monster" movies, these two are must-haves. Both still stand up well over the test of time. "The Beast..." features stop-motion animation by legendary special effects man Ray Harryhausen, featuring what I personally think is one of his best looking creations. The movie features plenty of monster-stomping action and a pretty intelligent script for what was pretty much a "quickie" production. "Them" is the classic "atomic radiation has unexpected results" theme that was copied ad nauseum, but rarely done better. The effects are, well, giant puppets, but the photography and sound effects still manage to make them pretty impressive, and the shots of the desert are still genuinely creepy. The fire-fight between the army and the nest of giant ants at the climax of the picture is first rate.

The special features are pretty good. The "archive footage" from the "Them" side is interesting, but a little skimpy. The special features on the "Beast" side give a little more background. Both side's menus are easy to navigate, and the "them" side is set up in an amusing fashion. Overall for anyone who likes 50's science fiction, you'd want to have both these titles anyway. Getting them together is a great deal.

A classic '50s Sci Fi Double Feature.......2007-01-13

Aficionados of 1950's Sci Fi movies will want to rush out and grab this great double feature consisting of "The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms" and "Them". Both films stand alone as memorable examples of some of the better movies to come from this era. Kudos to Warner Brothers for putting them on the same "double bill"!

Similar in plot line to a degree, both films deal with horrific situations that occur after nuclear testing. (a familar plot line from films of this era.) In "Beast...", it's a pre-historic Rhedosaurus that's awakened in the Arctic from an atomic blast and migrates south to a climactic finish in New York City. In "Them", ants who have been continually exposed to radiation from atomic testing in the New Mexico desert grow to enormous proportions and eventually terrorize Los Angeles.

Both films have memorable special effects in their own right. "Beast..." because of the special effects genius of Ray Harryhausen. This film is Harryhausen's first solo effort and he definitely excels. The "lighthouse" scene is visually stunning for special effects of this era. "Them", on the other hand, is memorable primarily because of its cheesy giant "puppet" ants with their haunting sounds. It's difficult not to retain the sound the ants make in this movie long after you've seen it. Still, you have to give film director, Gordon Douglas, credit for incorporating live action scenes with the ants in this film.

Both movies have solid casts for films of this era. "Beast..." is led by cinematic veterans Paul Christian, familar face Paula Raymond, Kenneth Tobey (from "The Thing") and, in one of his first roles, Lee Van Cleef (from Spaghetti Western fame). "Them" does have a stronger cast which includes strong performances from rock-jawed James Whitmore, James Arness, Edmund Gwenn ("Santa" from "Miracle on 34th St."), and the lovely Joan Weldon. Look closely for quick appearances by Leonard Nimoy and Fess Parker.

All in all, this double feature is simply a great value for collectors and/or lovers of Sci Fi films from this era. In addition to the films, there are a few extras that include a memorable interview with Harryhausen and his great friend, Ray Bradbury and behind-the-scenes looks at the special effects of both films. They are welcome added bonuses and not just filler. The viewer simply can't go wrong with this purchase!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Ants In Your Pants.......2006-12-24

I saw "Them" when it first came out. I was probably about nine years old. My father told my mother it was a nature documentary about insects, so the family, including some aunts, uncles and nieces and nephews all piled into our cars and drove into Manhattan. When we got to the theatre, on the marquee was a totally gigantic ant with a partially clad woman in its mandibles.

The 'girls' went down the street to see National Velvet.

The 'boys' went into see 'Them'. I remember exactly when we walked in (in those days, movie going was a much easier experience. If you wandered in late, you stayed to see what you missed at the next showing). I came into the theatre just after James Whitmore and his partner walked into Gramp's general store. They found his body. Whitmore leaves his partner there while he goes to interview an ant survivor. His partner, alone, hears some chirping.... Given the marquee, as he walked out of the wrecked store, gun drawn, we knew what was going to happen...

'Them!' remains one of my favourite films of that era. It has not been easy to find on DVD, so for many years I made do with a VHS version. Glad I am that I purchased this DVD combo with 'The Beast from Twenty Thousand Fathoms'. The transfer is excellent--sharp enough to cut your eyeballs. The black and white film looks great, just as it did in the theatre. The 'extras' are not all that extra, but it was kind of fun to see very brief clips showing special effects technicians manipulating the giant ant mock-ups.

The charm and brilliance of this film does not lie in the special effects. They're okay, but really just barely. This is not an eye candy film. You rarely see the ants moving much. But they remain convincing because they are in the context of an excellently written, directed and acted film. The movie is 'real' all the way through. No kiddie stuff here, no weak acting.

Look closely and you will see a rather young Leonard Nimoy at a teletype machine. Fess Parker, later to become Davey Crockett for Walt disney, got his big break in this film with a meatier role.

This film is odds-on best of all the giant bug movies of the fifties.

"The Beast" has long been available on Ray Harryhausen DVDs, but it is a definite bonus to have it on this double sided DVD. The transfer is also very good, and there are some nice featurettes. "The Beast" is Harryhausen's first go-it-alone feature after working with his mentor, the great Willis O'Brien, on "Mighty Joe Young."

I remember going to the local theatre in Brooklyn to see this film when it first cdame out. My mom did not want me to go, after seeing the ads on tv, but relented. The theatre was packed. The movie really was the first of its kind for my generation--King Kong was twenty years old then, and I'd seen it on a re-release to an equally packed theatre. The experience of seeing this film was electrifying. Compared to 'Them!', the effects were eye candy, and the real reason for seeing the film. It was well acted and directed, but could not and can not compare with 'Them!' in those departments.

An excellent DVD bargain.

VeggieTales Classics - God Wants Me to Forgive Them?

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veggie tails vhs
As always, a 'tales'
Not as good as I hoped, but my daughter loves it.
Great movie!!!
VeggieTales movie

VeggieTales Classics - God Wants Me to Forgive Them?
Starring: Veggie Tales
Manufacturer: Big Idea
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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VeggieTales - Where's God When I'm S-scared?
Veggie Tales: Are You My Neighbor?
Jonah - A VeggieTales Movie
VeggieTales - Heroes of the Bible - Lions, Shepherds and Queens (Oh My!)
VeggieTales - Madame Blueberry

ASIN: B0001WTWW4
Release Date: 2004-05-18

Amazon.com

Another early entry in the VeggieTales series offers two lessons on forgiveness. These colorful and very funny 30-minute tapes are an entertaining way to teach Christian-lite morals to youngsters (and those young at heart). In the first episode, Jr. Asparagus has trouble understanding why he must forgive an irritating grape tourist family (who call themselves "the grapes of wrath") after they insult him. The second episode, a parody of Gilligan's Island, deals with the bumbling Larry the Cucumber when he gets a tourist boat lost on a deserted island. It moves a little faster than the first episode, and Larry's antics--always a highlight--are in top form. Along with the bouncy songs, there's also a commercial for the Forgive-o-Matic. Remember: bamboo can be used for many things! --Doug Thomas

Description

Kids learn that God wants us to forgive others; even sour grapes and absentminded cucumbers. What do you get when a bunch of very cranky grapes make fun of Junior Asparagus? One sad asparagus and one big problem. Can Junior's dad show the grapes the error of their ways? Will Junior ever be able to forgive them? Does anybody know what seventy times seven equals? Learn the answers to these questions and more as Larry the Cucumber tells the story of "The Grapes of Wrath!" A three-hour boat tour takes a turn for the worse when first mate Larry absentmindedly crashes into an uncharted tropical island! Can Skipper Bob and the passengers possibly forgive Larry for making such a huge blunder? While the professor discovers how many contraptions can be built out of bamboo and coconuts, the others discover the real reasons God wants us to forgive!

Customer Reviews:

veggie tails vhs.......2007-04-08

I am very happy with the price and quality of this product.

As always, a 'tales'.......2007-02-23

My grandson is not quite two, but he can say two words very well - Veggie Tales. the tales comes out better. He loves to watch the action. My [..] granddaughter is beginning to learn that these tales come with messages. She is having a hard time 'forgiving' little brother for his 'misdemeanors' but this Tales movie has helped her progress with it.

Not as good as I hoped, but my daughter loves it........2006-10-30

When I read the discription of this film, I thought it would be different than it is. I guess I was expecting a little more humor. But it was written for children, not for adults. However my 2-year-old daughter loves it and askes to watch it over and over again, so in that regard I would call it a success.

Great movie!!!.......2005-12-09

Sorry to hear the previous buyer got a damaged copy. They should return it instead of giving the movie a bad review. This was a wonderful illustration on forgiveness. It shows how kindness and forgiveness can change the hearts of others and how good it feels to forgive, even when we are hurt. It is just another fabulous Veggie movie!

VeggieTales movie.......2005-10-04

This DVD was so scratched up that the second-half would not work. It just skips.

Average customer rating:

A classic revisited with a touch more magic
fair and slightly liberated
Fairest movie of them all
the best movie
Great version of snow white that's a little more mature

Snow White - The Fairest of Them All
Starring: Miranda Richardson , Kristin Kreuk , Karin Konoval , Tom Irwin (II) , and Vera Farmiga
Director: Caroline Thompson
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B0000640T0
Release Date: 2002-05-21

Product Description

There is perhaps no more beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tale than the legend of a beautiful young girl fleeing her home because of a jealous stepmother. Now more breath-taking than any previous interpretation, Snow White: The Fairest Of Them All is a fantasy of truly epic scope. Wonderfully acted and cleverly scripted, this modern retelling introduces such classic elements as Snow White's miraculous birth and the mysterious reason why her father remarries after his wife's death. Miranda Richardson (Enchanted April, Merlin) stars as Queen Elspeth, the beautiful, yet vain stepmother whose desire to be the "fairest in the land" ultimately leads her to conspire to kill any rival for that title. Kristin Kreuk ("Smallville") stars as Snow White, the winsome young princess who is forced to run away into the forest where she finds protection and shelter with a band of peculiar little men. Snow White: The Fairest Of Them All is a magical adventure with such dazzling special effects and unforgettable characters that it will instantly capture the hearts- and imagination- of a whole new generation.

SPECIAL FEATURES :

Digitally Mastered

Full screen version

2.0 Dolby surround

Interactive Menus

Scene Access

A Look Behind The Scenes

Cast & Crew Biographies

Kristin Kreuk's Neutrogena Commercial

System Requirements:
Running Time: 91 Minutes

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

Don't expect to plunk your 4-year-old in front of Hallmark's Snow White and have her come away whistling "Heigh Ho"--it's not that kind of movie. Substitute a kingdom of woeful and broody characters (the fairest-of-them-all contenders and their king, plus a green and warty undead guy) for Sleepy, Sneezy, and company, and the picture, a bleak one, becomes clearer. Call it Snow White noir, but don't call it dull. The actors, including Miranda Richardson and Tom Irwin, suck you into their saga of lust and greed by making despair their specialty, and the visuals crackle with a creepy gorgeousness. Writer-director Caroline Thompson sheared this Brothers Grimm adaptation into shape using the same jagged-edged prettiness she brought to the script for Edward Scissorhands; a similar audience--one that can handle a little less light in its darkness--should stick around for Snow White. -Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

A classic revisited with a touch more magic.......2006-11-04

The story of Snow White is one of the most famous by the Brothers Grimm, and this version by Hallmark is probably the most recent revision. It is also the one with the most magic, and is one of Hallmark's better movies. Snow White this time is born of by the prick of a rose on her mother's finger. Childbirth kills the mother and sends the father out into the cold winter with his daughter. Their desperation brings one of Satan's servants to life, who grants the father three wishes (what other number could it be). The first two wishes turn out well, but the third brings forth Elspeth, i.e. the wicked stepmother. Baby Snow White senses the evil stepmother immediately by crying when they are about to touch. What ensues is a lifelong rivalry in which Elspeth uses her magic to slowly take over the kingdom. This includes her mirror, which can fly. The seven dwarfs are not all short, but instead they now represent the 7 colors of the rainbow, and hence can travel across distances by "rainbowing" themselve. Animals of various sorts get involved, and the battle climaxes with the poisoned apple. Elspeth's evil is undone by the love of a prince, and Elspeth herself is taken down by her own evil creations.

The movie is about two hours long, and moves briskly along from one scene to the next. There is no singing, instead the music is orchestral in the style of classical Romance. The cinematography is great and the special effects are quite nice and believable. The overall story is the same as the original Disney version but many of the details have changed to make it quite distinct and unique. Overall, a good movie.

fair and slightly liberated.......2006-07-29

I saw this movie when it first aired on TV and have been looking for it again ever since (so it's been a while since I've seen it). As previously noted the visuals are very nice and the rendition of the story is not bad, but the key part for me was when the Handsome Prince declares his love for Snow White and she lashes back with a speech about how he doesn't know her, he's fallen in love with a vision from across the room. All her life she's been surrounded by people who don't look past the surface of her beauty...

Fairest movie of them all.......2006-06-17

Snow white is my favorite fairy tale, and this is my favorite rendition. It's far closer to the original tale than most, but it addsi many of it's own elements that give it a fresh new approach. I love it!

the best movie.......2005-09-12

this is kind of a remake of the original movie made.
the first time I saw this movie was when it was on TV in the holidays I thought that this movie was grand its one of my many favourite movies its based of the same charactors but the dwarfs names are the days of the week instead of doppy and all that when snow white was born hear mother died and her father was pore so a magic gennie thing came and granted them a wish that they will live in a castle and live happily ever after

Great version of snow white that's a little more mature.......2005-09-08

its not the cheesy disney version, though it has its own cheese with the rainbow kids. But I enjoyed the movie because it takes the Snow White story to a more mature level. Its sweet and very pretty cinematically speaking. Its entertaining above all else, which is key when looking for a way to spend some relaxation time.

Average customer rating:

Riviting Mini-Series
Great Story Telling
Entertaining, some subplots a little boring...
A Great Story
Excellent!

To Serve Them All My Days (Miniseries)
Starring: John Duttine , Frank Middlemass , Alan MacNaughton , Neil Stacy , and David King
Director: Peter Jefferies , Ronald Wilson , and Terence Dudley
Manufacturer: Acorn Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B00018WENM
Release Date: 2004-03-09

Amazon.com

The life of an English schoolmaster may sound like dry stuff, but To Serve Them All My Days finds engrossing drama and dry wit in the most ordinary of circumstances. David Powlett-Jones (John Duttine), a young Welshman, returns from the trenches of World War I disillusioned and suffering from shellshock. Accepted as a teacher at an elite boy's boarding school called Bamfylde, Powlett-Jones fears he won't last--but the faith of the headmaster who hired him (Frank Middlemass) proves well-founded. Powlett-Jones immediately flies in the face of convention, fighting with a pompous science teacher (Neil Stacy), speaking out in favor of socialist reforms, and finding a mixture of discipline and empathy with the boys he teaches. Over the course of his 20-year rise through the ranks of Bamfylde, he finds and loses love with several women (Belinda Lang, Kim Braden, and Susan Jameson); one of the greatest strengths of To Serve Them All My Days is how fully realized these women are, each strikingly individual and self-directed.

The writing and acting are impeccable, always cutting to the most engaging aspect of every scene, yet grounding every conflict in a rich understanding of character and circumstance. Even the minor characters are made vivid and distinct, and the realities of life--politics, sex, mortality--are handled frankly and honestly. In fact, To Serve Them All My Days demonstrates the best aspects of a miniseries, taking the scope of 13 episodes to map in detail a human life, with all its victories and disasters. Truly a pleasure to watch; of particular note is Alan MacNaughtan as a sardonic fellow teacher, whose ironic observations and close friendship with Powlett-Jones give the series a good dose of both humor and compassion. Based on the classic novel by R.F. Delderfield. --Bret Fetzer

Description

After barely surviving the trenches of World War I, an embittered young soldier takes a teaching post at Bamfylde, an elite boarding school in the uplands of West Devon. It is an unlikely job for a Welsh miner's son without a degree, but David Powlett-Jones (John Duttine) proves to be a rare schoolmaster, as passionate about learning as he is about teaching. Through two tumultuous decades, Powlett-Jones inspires his students with his courage and idealism, qualities that help prepare him to send another generation of young men off to fight yet another war. A beloved PBS Masterpiece Theatre classic adapted by Andrew Davies (Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones's Diary) from the novel by R. F. Delderfield.

Customer Reviews:

Riviting Mini-Series.......2007-05-28

The mini-series, "To Serve Them All My Days," kept our attention so well that we finished the four DVDs without realizing the time had gone by! It is well worth the money we spent!

Great Story Telling.......2007-04-12

I saw "To Serve Them All My Days" when it was first broadcast on Masterpiece Theater and I have never forgotten the series, so I was very pleased to see that it was released on DVD. The story has been nicely related by other reviewers so I will concentrate on the wonderful performances. John Duttine is marvelous as David Powlett-Jones; his range and depth of emotion are perfectly portrayed in a role that must have been very demanding. Frank Middlemass makes Algy Herries a beloved Headmaster; gregarious, open and unflappable but very serious when he has to be. We are quite sorry when he "retires" as Headmaster but are glad that he does not entirely leave the story. Neil Stacy is excellent as Carter, a character that I could loath and find some sympathy and understanding for.

The women in David Powlett-Jones' life are certainly fascinating and charming. Belinda Lang was truly wonderful as his first wife, Beth. She played the role with particular sweetness tempered by good humor and good sense; Kim Barden made quite a seductive Julia Derbyshire and Susan Jameson made a troubled would-be politician and lover for Powlett-Jones.

I recall that Alistair Cooke had warm praise for Charles Kay who turned in a perfect performance as Alcock, the icy Headmaster who succeeds Algy Herries. Alan MacNaughton was a delight as Howarth, who may have had a bleak outlook on life but was a solid friend to David Powlett-Jones.

Having come from a military boarding school founded along the lines of English boarding schools by an Episcopal minister, it was easy for me to recall events from my own education and compare the teachers of Bamfylde with ones that I was taught by. The series is so good because it is true to life and I would believe that R. F. Delderfield based his books on real people and events from his own experience. This is an unforgettable series that is well-acted and holds your interest throughout its 13 parts. Highly recommended.

Entertaining, some subplots a little boring..........2007-04-11

David Powlett-Jones is a Welsh combat vet discharged with shell shock. Hired to teach school at an elite boarding school, David finds himself mired in a culture he despises: that of the wealthy social elite. Soon however, David becomes enamored with the school and teaching and chooses to stay.

David's life is an interesting one, though at times some sub plots were more interesting to this viewer than others. David's persecution at the hands of the evil South African headmaster went on a little long. Likewise, I found his last romantic interest tedious. She seemed a selfish character who used David as a crutch. I found myself disliking her intensely.

Overall, I enjoyed the series and felt it could've benefited from a few more episodes. 4 stars.

A Great Story.......2007-02-18

This is a story about a shell-shocked soldier, David Powlett-Jones who returns home from the First World War, and finds his healing and restoration while teaching at an English boarding school for boys called Bamfylde. The story is derived from the novel by R. F. Delderfield with the same title as the film, To Serve Them All My Days. It is a hopeful and encouraging story which sweeps across the years from the final days of the First World War to the approach of the Second World War. Many discouragements and even tragedy plague the years, but the general trend is upward and encouraging.

This is a film series that I had waited a long time to see. I had read the book, To Serve Them All My Days twice, the second time just before seeing the film version. By and large I thought the film version was quite well done. The adult characters are well developed as they are in Delderfield's writing. Many of the individual schoolboy characters are slighted somewhat in the film, however. The story flows well from episode to episode as it apparently was presented on television.

The DVD version is about eleven hours long on four DVDs. In shorter films derived from written stories, one can understand leaving some significant things out. I felt, however, that there were too many exclusions in the film version of To Serve Them All My Days which was plenty long enough to take into account important elements of Delderfield's original story. In that sense I was quite disappointed. I felt the film makers deleted too many of the stories about the individual schoolboys which give the written story reality and life. Plus, the entire aspect of the story based on the survival and recovery of Powlett-Jones' young daughter, Grace, who in the book lives through the accident in which Powlett-Jones first wife and Grace's twin sister Joan were killed. I use the word "aspect" because Grace figures very prominently through much of the story as Delderfield originally told it, partnering with her father from a very young age and aided in her recovery by two of the Bamfylde schoolboys in particular, and finally joining her father as a secretary. When such a major aspect of a story is removed the story becomes something different. A bit less of Powlett-Jones love life and common room discussions, and the inclusion of Grace's recovery, and more of the stories about the boys he served all his days would, in my opinion, have raised the film to a level of excellence.

Excellent!.......2007-01-04

This is an excellent version of the book. The main characters and the supporting are very well cast and continue to be a pleasure to watch.

Average customer rating:

........Cary Grant At His Best........
not for families
Jayne wanted to be in a Cary Grant movie at all cost,and the result is a DISASTER
Fun, But Not Classic Cary Grant Comedy With A Good Jayne Mansfield Performance
Not a great Cary Grant movie, not a bad movie

Kiss Them for Me
Starring: Cary Grant , Jayne Mansfield , Leif Erickson , Suzy Parker , and Ray Walston
Director: Stanley Donen
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0000DD77W
Release Date: 2004-01-06

Amazon.com

Cary Grant--the man who defines "movie star"--plays Andy Crewson, a Navy war hero at the tail end of World War II who cons his way into a four-day leave in San Francisco. While a slick PR guy tries to turn Grant's hero status into a well-paying job, Crewson only has eyes for Gwinnith (Suzy Parker, one of the first supermodels)--who just happens to be the fiancée of a shipbuilding tycoon. Grant is always watchable, but the rest of the movie suffers from an identity crisis; while an aspiring Congressman (Ray Walston, The Apartment) cheerfully admits joined the Navy to further his political career, a buxom young woman (Jayne Mansfield, trying very hard to be Marilyn Monroe) offers herself to everyone in uniform because she sincerely feels it's her patriotic duty. A strange blend of cynical humor and light-hearted romance. --Bret Fetzer

Description

In this light-hearted wartime comedy, three WWII Navy men orchestrate a 4-day leave for themselves in San Francisco. Once ashore, they immediately set out to make it a swinging celebration - to last as long as possible! Chief among the party-bound is Commander Andy Crewson (Cary Grant). Desperate to keep the men on the straight and narrow, Lieutenant Walter Wallace (Werner Klemperer) commits the trio to becoming spokesman at a local shipyard that's owned by a local tycoon. But before long, the rowdy Crewson is courting the shipmaker's voluptuous daughter (Jayne Mansfield) with hilarious results.

Customer Reviews:

........Cary Grant At His Best...............2007-06-06

Cary takes alotta lumps from Reviewers in here, I say he was at his best by portraying a combat carrier pilot in the middle of WW2...he injects the inner/wisdom of the stressors of carrier pilots who take off in the largest ocean on this planet, drop bombs on a tenacious enemy afloat and tries to get back to his carrier in one piece, if fortunate enough ...with all these extenuating stressors of combat [dwell on this some]...he exudes all these traits when amongst his own calling, for example in the cocktail lounge high above San Francisco [The Top Of The Mark]...he encounters a younger Navy pilot in a wheelchair in the care of a Navy Chief friendly to Grant...at first Grant doesn't recognize the hero [ MOH] in the wheelchair ...in the flash of a mental/lightening bolt, Grant now recalls this young pilot now looking gravely sick as a result of aerial combat all shot up...at that precise moment, the young pilot is now aloft doing what he loves shooting down Japanese planes, destroying ships so on and so on...Grant is right with him all the way...that is a gift of an accomplished actor is Cary Grant [outside of Cary Grant]...that one scene is the BONDING of combat veterans, the rock-solid camraderie that civilians can't even recognize; let alone feel....but Grant and his comrades eminate this throughout the picture even up to the final fadeout...heading back into the war come hell or high water...heroes, of course, but the unherald types; yet, never ending mortal/combat can be such a gripping elixir to cetain men that many in here just draw a blank expression...whoever wrote this screen/play was a man of such Naval combat ilk and Grant comes through as the excellent actor who knows his character...another heart-tugging scene, when Harry Carey, Jr comes into the hotel party drunker than a skunk and blurts out their carrier was sunk!!...Grant and his buddies sink, too, with guilt as they are on an R&R... had they not...they probably would have died with their shipmates...no, this is not a bummer of a movie; conversely, a well thoughtout film about men at war, tired of killing, but it is still a long war: tomorrow-tomorrow-tomorrow, etc and that's all they know...the long and endless fight to end it, and hopefully, try to get on with a peaceful life thereafter...oh, for the record, Suzy Parker is a 100% dud of an actress, just awful...now that is your bummer!!........SSGT CHRIS SARNO-USMC FMF

not for families.......2006-11-24

OK, I learned that just because a movie is not rated and was made in the 1950s doesn't mean it's good for families. This movie made a joke of infidelity. Cary Grant's was the main character and his goal was to "get drunk and chase girls." There was no redeeming quality in him except being a good pilot. It's a pretty cynical movie as well.

Jayne wanted to be in a Cary Grant movie at all cost,and the result is a DISASTER.......2006-07-19

Poor Jayne,and the mistakes she made in her short film career.Read any biography about Jayne,and you will have to agree that she should have never accepted this role.Why did she do it? Her life-long competition with Marilyn is the only explanation.MM had been in a Cary Grant movie (Monkey Business),so Jayne just had to do the same.Interestingly enough,in the 2 Cary Grant biographies I read,the film is not even mentionned...Jayne fighting for the attention of Grant with the beautiful model turned actress,Suzy Parker,ends up looking like a female-impersonator,and not a good one.In 1957 Jayne was in a position where she could have refused that tacky role,but instead she sure is in this bomb.Cary Grant was obviouly in it for the money,and his 'I'm so cool,i can't believe it-kind of acting' just doesn't cut it this time.Jayne is the fifth wheel,and just looks like she doesn't belong-No chemistry whatsoever,and everyone in the film looks embarrassed for her.Even her clothes don't even have the feeling of a movie that is supposed to be set in the 1940's.You end up with the feeling that she is an unwelcomed guest on the film-set.
Get the DVD,but don't pay more than a buck for it !

Fun, But Not Classic Cary Grant Comedy With A Good Jayne Mansfield Performance.......2005-09-08

By 1957 Cary Grant had his screen characterisations down pat and was able to move effortlessly through comic roles like this one in "Kiss Them For Me". Never could "Kiss then For Me", be called his best effort in a decade that saw most of his famous collaborations with director Alfred Hitchcock in "To Catch a Thief", and "North by North West", bring him renewed popularity at the Box Office, however he works very effectively with a very different type of director here in Stanley Donen. Grant would enjoy one of his greatest successes under Donen's direction in the early 1960's with the classic "Charade", with Audrey Hepburn and while this is a much lesser effort that great comic timing and style is very evident. At first glance having Jayne Mansfield as his leading lady might not be what you would expect in a Cary Grant movie having become used to the Irene Dunne's and Katherine Hepburn's as his leading ladies in his earlier triumphs however the two make an interesting team. I find this to be one of Mansfield's more pleasing performances where she gets to utilise her vastly underestimated comic abilities which of course are still wrapped up in the screen persona of the luscious blonde bombshell, a la Marilyn Monroe, which she sadly always found herself lumbered with. Cynical comedy is always hard to put over effectively on screen but Grant does his usual fine job as a navy war hero on a four day leave of duty at the end of World War II who along with his mates find themselves the targets of a cynical money making PR campaign promoting the war effort.

Not a great Cary Grant movie, not a bad movie.......2004-07-04

"Kiss Them For Me" is a 1957 movie staring Cary Grant as Commander Andy Crewson who is able to get four days shore leave for himself and three of his buddies in San Francisco. While there, they meet women (Jayne Mansfield, Suzy Parker), old friends from the navy and when they are offer safe state-side jobs, these fun loving flyers realize that being in combat with buddies is what matters most.
For me, these was not the best Cary Grant movie that I have seen so far. But it was pretty decent, but clearly Grant's earlier works were better.

Average customer rating:

Couldn't finish it
Pour a glass of wine, build a fire, and enjoy.
vulgar ... waste of money
Hillbillies and their Discontents
Relate-able Dysfunction

Daddy & Them
Starring: Ben Affleck , James Michael Andrews , Jeff Bailey , Brenda Blethyn , and Jamie Lee Curtis
Manufacturer: Miramax Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B0000E32V1
Release Date: 2004-01-13

Amazon.com

Billy Bob Thornton's white-trash comedy has loads of appeal, beginning with a delightful cast playing the most dysfunctional Southern family outside a Faulkner novel. Thornton and Laura Dern play married couple Claude and Ruby Montgomery, whose true love is stymied by petty jealousies over her old boyfriends and his long-ago romance with Ruby's sister, Rose (Kelly Preston). When Claude's Uncle Hazel (Jim Varney) is arrested, the duo join their extended clan in Little Rock to provide support for him and his defense team (a stormy couple sharply played by Jamie Lee Curtis and Ben Affleck). But cooperation is an alien concept to this family; in no time they're bickering, drinking, and deflating dreams. Typical of Thornton, this is serious yet funny stuff, and the actors--including Andy Griffith, John Prine, Diane Ladd, and Brenda Blethyn--work that fine line between drama and comedy with admirable inspiration. --Tom Keogh

Description

Academy Award(R) winner Billy Bob Thornton (Best Adapted Screenplay, SLING BLADE, 1996; MONSTER'S BALL) has crafted another must-see motion picture as writer, director, and star of this darkly humorous comedy treat! Also starring Laura Dern (JURASSIC PARK), Diane Ladd (28 DAYS), and Kelly Preston (THE CAT IN THE HAT), it's the entertaining story of a dysfunctionally funny family from Arkansas that rallies to support their uncle (Jim Varney -- THE BEVERLY HILLBILLIES) when he's charged with murder. With Hollywood favorites Andy Griffith, Ben Affleck, and Jamie Lee Curtis in an amazing cast of stars, you'll love the amusing give-and-take dished out by this outrageous collection of characters!

Customer Reviews:

Couldn't finish it.......2007-06-20

If you think unrelenting ignorance is funny then this is the movie for you.

Pour a glass of wine, build a fire, and enjoy. .......2007-01-15

Filmed in Little Rock, Arkansas, this film is a languid telling of a Southern family's domestic travails.

All the characters appear to be enjoying themselves most of the time, except Ben Affleck and Jamie Lee Curtis. And John Prine, who seems to be enjoying himself all the time.

Prine's gravelly voice is a treat. Wait for the credits to roll and you will finally get to hear him sing ("In Spite of Ourselves"--just right for this film).

The soundtrack is stunning, especially the acoustic "Dixie," soft and reflective, strummed while Billy Bob reflects on himself.

The director's commentary is very well done, with Billy Bob Thornton adding a lot of detail and insight into how he made the film.

Pour a glass of wine, build a fire, and enjoy.

vulgar ... waste of money.......2006-11-23

The only reason this DVD got a "one" was because they do not give the option of zero or negative number ratings. This is one of the worse movies I have ever attempted to see (I say "attempted" because I took it out after 20 minutes!). The language and theme is true gutter. I cannot understand anyone giving this a good review. The only thing I can imagine is they have a vested interest in the good rating ... maybe they have some to sell and write a good review just to get rid of them. Don't waste your money.

Hillbillies and their Discontents.......2006-10-15

Its a little known Billy Bob Thornton film, put out by the Weinsteins,
I assume, in their days at Miramax before Disney dumped them out of the
company. I've never heard of it. It must've went straight to video.

Billy Bob wrote and directed Daddy and them. It seems a little
autobiographical.

I'm just a little way into the movie. Laura Dern and her husband Billy
Bob are down and out and living in a little house with no money.

Billy Bob is 52 but he's playin' a guy about thirty. Laura's nearing 40
in reality, but she's playing someone who is a post-teen.

It opens with Billy Bob wearing a hat backward and chasing Laura around
the yard. But its primitiveness is what makes this movie worth talking
about.

Their dialog is so remorselessly hillbilly that I have to share. Laura
complains that Billy Bob's tattoos aren't tattoos at all but cover ups
of the names of former loves he's had that he don't want Laura to see
anymore. He replies that he wouldn't have bothered coverin' em up if
she hadn't bitched so much about them.

Which leads her to complain that he shouldn'ta f****d her sister like
that, it makes bein' married to him extra hard. To which Billy Bob
replies, "Sure I f****d your sister, but what was I supposed to do? You
was only 13 at the time and if I'da f***d you, theyda put me in the
hoosegow."

It goes on like that. I suspect the Weinstein Brothers sent this one
straight to video cause it was too embarrassing to release. I'd call
this an unintentional comedy, only I don't think it is. Billy Bob
intended for this to appear to be an unintentional comedy.

Billy Bob doesn't like her folks, including Diane Ladd, Laura's
real-life actress mother and Bruce Dern's ex-wife. The movie is one
long dysfunctional family feud. Billy Bob emphasizes family and its
discontents. Andy Griffith is O T Montgomery, Billy Bob's Daddy.

Its about family, you see, and it don't get much better than that.

It has an extraordinary cast. Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Blethyn, the
English Actress who played Mrs. Bennett recently in Pride & Prejudice,
and Ben Affleck.

I haven't actually finished watching the movie yet, but with its mix of
bowling alleys, liquor stores, family dinner tables and just down home
country, I just got a feelin' this one can't go bad on me.

Relate-able Dysfunction.......2005-11-19

I loved this movie! I saw John Prine in concert and he
mentioned it, or I would have never found it, nor purchased
it. It was never released at the theater, straight to
video from what I understand. Anyway, the movie is a
great story of this southern dysfunctional family. The
opening language is a little "rough" but ends up being
pretty funny. I could relate to how the family acted
with each other. "Uncle Hazel loves you, but he can't
stand a one of you!" I wish the movie would have received
more attention. It is a good story with many laughs.

Average customer rating:

Walking on the MOON!
Some get it... some don't...
An independent review
For all mankind.

Apollo 11: Men on the Moon
Starring: Neil ArmstrongBuzz AldrinMichael CollinsThousands of others who worked to put them there.
Director: Mark Gray
Manufacturer: Spacecraft Films
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Documentary | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Project Gemini: A Bold Leap Forward
Apollo 13: The Real Story
The Mighty Saturns: Saturn V
Apollo 10: The Dress Rehearsal
Project Mercury: A New Frontier

ASIN: B000HOJ3IE
Release Date: 2003-08-19

Product Description

Own a piece of history! The most complete record ever available of this historic mission. This 3-disc set - over 10 hours in all - chronicles America's "one giant leap for mankind" from launch to landing with comprehensive footage from the film and videotape records of Apollo 11, the landmark event of man's achievement in the 20th Century. Features all TV transmissions, all 16mm on-board film, multi-angle views of the launch and lunar landing, and multiple audio tracks. Bonus features include the launch vehicle build, crew suit-up, recovery, and extra TV feeds including on-board audio.

Customer Reviews:

Walking on the MOON!.......2007-06-07

Can't believe in conspiracies after watching this amazing footage.
Nope. The Apollo 11 Moon Expedition was not staged in the Yuha Desert.

Educational experience!
An insight into Apollo 11 research, preparation, development, training, the launch, the flight, moon approach & landing, Armstrong's one small step & one giant leap, the work & experiments the men did up there, the placing of the American Flag, the return voyage back to mother, etc. etc.
Do it again NASA!

Be patient, perhaps watch it in steps.

You can see non-human alien off in the distance in a couple of frames, when the guys are bouncing around up there. Amazing!

Some get it... some don't..........2007-06-04

This is a note from the producer, and despite what the last reviewer asserts, anytime we post something about one of our products we do it in the clear, so you can see the source, any other reviews posted are from other independent customers.

Spacecraft Films set out with our series to provide those who have a deep interest in U.S. space exploration with access to the primary source material, in as good a quality as we could achieve. Because of this we do not filter the product in the manner of documentaries or live media. We do this on purpose, so that you have a chance to view the primary source material the way it really happened. The material is kept in many places and is in various states of preservation. We make new transfers and go through extensive editing just to bring the material all back together in one place.

Anyone's opinion is just fine with us, but I must clarify some items mentioned below.

The "audio and video taken from totally different events" was done on purpose, they aren't "errors." The reasoning behind this is that nearly all of the filmed portions that we have provided were shot silent. Rather than leave them silent or provide an obvious commentary, we elected to use that audio space to provide you with more primary audio-only material surrounding the mission. In order to do this, and because we often provide multiple camera angles of an event, for some tracks you get footage and audio that are from separate events, increasing the amount of material we're able to present.

Two of the television transmissions are presented on disc 3, because of the size limitations of the first DVD. I suppose this might be considered "out of chronological order," but the chapter booklet clearly states that the two transmissions are "on the way" to the moon. This isn't a mistake. It was done to allow the EVA to be kept all on one disc, and is noted correctly.

As for some tracks being boring... it all depends upon your level of interest and what portions of the mission your interests focus.

The Saturn V countdown was presented uncut because of the charm it holds for many of those who remember the countdowns. We've received numerous notes from folks who consider this one of the best tracks on the disc set.

Our sets aren't for those looking for a packaged, slick version of the mission. They are for those with a deep interest in being able to examine the record of the mission as it happened, without the errors introduced by the media filter and sensationalism.

An independent review.......2007-05-30

To be blunt, this set of disks was disappointing. While it has some high points (see below), it is largely a collection of NASA-created movie segments, with no narrative, no cohesive presentation, and, to a large extent,poor editing.

There are some notable highlights, however. The Apollo 11 lunar excursion is included in its entirety (likely one of the few disks that will ever show the whole thing). The producers put work into this particular segment, providing the viewer the option of viewing the slow-scan (1 frame/sec) 16 mm movie shot from the static position of Buzz Aldrin's LEM window (in color) or the black/white video image that the world saw back in July of 1969. The lead-up to the excursion, the lunar landing, is also of considerable merit.

I recall such TV coverage; America was swept up by Apollo (at least in 1968/1969). Gas stations gave out free LEM kits that kids could build and TV news reporting was good back then and gave generous treatment.

Here are the problems with this disk set:

- In several instances, the audio and video are taken from totally different events. For example, video showing the shirt-sleeved Apollo 11 crew is accompanied by pre-launch (!) audio. Similarly, footage of the crew suiting up is accompanied by unrelated audio. These errors are awful in that they deprive the viewer of context and can only confuse those less familiar with the events. The producers could have provided 2nd audio narrative or even closed captions to provide context, but they did not. They could have provided some written guidance in the form of a booklet, but did not. One is left with the impression that significant parts of the video was hurriedly thrown together. Such segments will only confuse new viewers.

- Filmed events are not presented in chronological order of the mission (for example, preparations to move into the LEM from the CSM follow the landing footage!). As noted before, there is no voice or text narative (that could have been easily provided) to help the viewer sort out this jumble).

- Some segments are very boring...and I say this as an Apollo fan and as a research scientist who is acquainted with boring things! The worst is the endless Saturn 5 count-down video. It doesn't do justice to the mission. Helpful audio could have provided context (basic historical facts). But none was provided.

Having said that, there is one thing that this DVD set does NOT engage in, for which I am very grateful: they do not sensationalize the procedings. Several higher-budget documentaries (see on the History Channel and Discovery) play loose with the Apollo program, inserting annoying graphics, inane fast-cut edits, and misleading drama. This disk set is low key. Too low in some cases, but, thankfully, it is not frenetic.

Please note that not all reviews that may appear subsequent to mine may be independent, but may have been penned by those associated with this DVD. Beware glowing reviews!

Recommendation: If you love the Apollo-era history, this may be of significant interest to you, particularly for the historic landing and EVA footage. However, do not expect this disk set to educate those not familar with Apollo or even provide a coherent narrative of events.

For all mankind........2007-05-26

It was like watching the mission all over agian. Apart form having a interest in manned space flight and that I had grown up in the 60's, now
I can show my children the wounder of June 1969. Apollo 11's achievement of landing on the moon was the start of the lunar missions. A total of six landings where conpleted between 1969 to 1972. I hope we are going back soon as Eugene Cernan stated at the end of Apollo Seventeen "As we leave the Moon and Taurus-Littrow, we leave as we came, and God willing we shall return, with peace and hope for all mankind. As I take these last steps from the surface for some time to come, I'd just like to record that America's challenge of today has forged man's dsetiny of tomorrow, God speed to the crew of Apollo Seventeen." .

The Fairy Faith - A breathtaking odyssey about fairies and those who belive in them (Documentary)

Average customer rating:

THIS IS BEAUTIFUL!
Sounded Good; not worth it
Beautiful film that addresses a rarely discussed belief system
faery dissappointed
Do you believe in fairies?

The Fairy Faith - A breathtaking odyssey about fairies and those who belive in them (Documentary)
Starring: Peter Aziz , Elizabeth Jane Baldry , Neil Boyle (II) , Hugh Boyle (III) , and Con Boyle
Manufacturer: Wellspring Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

( F ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

General | Indie & Art House | Stores | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Fairy Tale - A True Story
Kristen's Fairy House (The Fairy Houses Series)
The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns
A Complete Guide to Faeries & Magical Beings: Explore the Mystical Realm of the Little People
The Runes of Elfland

ASIN: B00005K9OQ
Release Date: 2001-08-21

Customer Reviews:

THIS IS BEAUTIFUL!.......2007-04-24

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS DVD TO ANYBODY WHO'S SPIRITUAL,AND TO THOSE INTERESTED IN MYTHS AND FOLKLORE.THIS IS SO INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE.IT SPEAKS ALOT OF TRUTH.I UNDERSTAND WHAT'S BEING TOLD AND TALKED ABOUT.YOU ALSO GET TO SEE BEAUTIFUL SIGHTS IN IRELAND.I'M REALLY GLAD I BOUGHT THIS.IT'S WORTH EVERY PENNY!THIS IS TRULY A BEAUTIFUL AND FASCINATING DVD!YOU REALLY SHOULD GET IT AND SEE FOR YOURSLEF.

Sounded Good; not worth it.......2007-01-05

I purchased this along with "Fairy Tale-A True Story" assuming it would give a little more insight into the "Fairy" genre. The truth of it is that "The Fairy Faith" goes on-and-on with repetitous stories and anecdotes to the point where I pulled the disc at halfway point and have felt no desire to finish. If does have any redeeming value past this point, it would have been wise to give the viewer SOME hope. I find the subject matter very intrigueing and the "Fairy Tale" film was delightful and beautifully done, but this documentary is neither.

Beautiful film that addresses a rarely discussed belief system.......2006-12-23

As far as I know, this is the only documentary on the fairy/faery mythology. As other reviewers have pointed out, it doesn't leave the viewer convinced that fairies are real, or bring forth any evidence trying to state that case at all. But I don't think that that's the point of this film.

As one of the interviewees remarks, "I'm an expert on the study of this belief system and its mythology, that doesn't necassarily mean that I personally subscribe to it." That's really the point of view of this film. The director speaks to several people in Scotland and Canada about their experiences and the stories they've heard.

The main idea here is that if fairies do exist, they don't exist in the typical human realm where we can prove their existence and photograph them. They also don't exist entirely in the human imagination. Fairies occupy that mythical realm in between, whatever and whereever that is.

For me this film offered a nice look into the history of fairy mythology and some beautiful scenic shots of Scotland. Seeing the land and shrubbery really helped show why the idea of fairies would come into existence.

faery dissappointed.......2006-05-30

As a huge fan of anthing faery and especially Brian Froud, I was very excited to find this one of a kind dvd about the exisitense of faeries. However I was quite dissapointed with the content or should i say lack of content. The people interviewed convinced me of nothing more than their need for a visit to a shrink! Not one of the people (with the exception of Brian Froud), revealled any convincing accounts of their contact with the faeries. One bit in particular caused both my partner and I to laugh out loud! A man who was taught by his shamin Grandmother to speak to the faeries, leads the camera crew to a beautiful stream and points behind a tree and says there is a faery behind it. He proceeds to make contact with this faery and says he is too shy to come out. The camera then focuses on this tree and nothing happens. Meanwhile the guy makes some weird hand gestures (supposedly communicating with the faeries) and makes the announcement that more have come out to find out what is going on. Further through the film we are taken to Canada where two teenage boys who appear to be very slow or under the influence of drugs, swear they saw a little man standing on a cliff whilst at the beach. I bet they did!
But really, It was a very dissapointing film. If I didn't already beleive in faeries from reading numerouse texts on folklore and celtic mythology, this film would certainly cause me to remain a skeptic.