Fantasia (60th Anniversary Special Edition)

Starring:Fantasia
Studio: Walt Disney Video
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com essential video

Groundbreaking on several counts, not the least of which was an innovative use of animation and stereophonic sound, this ambitious Disney feature has lost nothing to time since its release in 1940. Classical music was interpreted by Disney animators, resulting in surreal fantasy and playful escapism. Leopold Stokowski and the Philadelphia Orchestra provided the music for eight segments by the composers Tchaikovsky, Moussorgsky, Stravinsky, Beethoven, Ponchielli, Bach, Dukas, and Schubert. Not all the sequences were created equally, but a few are simply glorious, such as "Night on Bald Mountain," "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," and "The Nutcracker Suite." The animation ranges from subtly delicate to fiercely bold. The screen bursts with color and action as creatures transmute and convention is thrust aside. The painstaking detail and saturated hues are unique to this film, unmatched even by more advanced technology. --Rochelle O'Gorman

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful.......2007-04-04

While it is not plot based or known for a memorable and charming story, it is a wonder to watch. Music creates images in most of us, whether they be memories of something prior, or something conjured up from the sound. Fantasia is based on that idea. Listening to this classic music, set to such elegant and wonderful images is a treat. One of the best of it's kind. Enjoy.

A child's memories.......2007-03-09

This is the first movie I remember seeing as a child. I was probably about 7 years old at the time. I've never forgotten it, and now, after 59 years, I'm viewing it again. It's just as wonderful as it was when I saw it the first time, although there are a couple of "bits" that I don't remember from my first viewing. It keeps me company during my treadmill walks. It does a wonderful job of helping me to pass the time. It's a beautiful combination of art and classical music.

GREAT BUT DATED 3 DISC SET IS NICE BUT.............................2007-03-08

I am a big fan of Disney films. The animated classics will be forever imprinted in my mind. I do have a huge problem with any censorship! Unfortunately, the people at Disney decided to buckle under to it, because of a few cry babies complaining about racial stereotypes in some of their films. I know I am not the first to say this,but really are these people serious? I am Italian and German, do you think I have not seen my share of stereotyping in my 45 years on this planet? Why hasn't Stromboli from Pinochhio been altered for it's depiction of an Italian? It seems we are very selective with what we censor..hhmmm!I don't mind it because I know the characterization is just that and it doesn't reflect the entire race! Please stop censorship of any kind especially regarding these historic works of art. You can not change history you can only learn from it!

I'm a bigger fan of Lilo & Stitch! .......2007-02-17

I bought it when I was on my Disney kick -- was fascinated by it for like a week and then sold it on eBay. It's great for kids though!

Fantasia will amazia!.......2007-02-16

Sorry Disney studios, but my heading was an actual promo quip for the FANTASIA theatrical release.
I was first introduced to the awareness of the Fantasia movie while in elementary school viewing a "prehistoric animation clip" narrated as a seperate dinosaur documentary. Later I learned it was taken from Walt Disney FANTASIA feature. When I finally saw the movie as a whole in the theater, I was mesmerized. "The Dance Of The Hours" sequence was especially memorable, since no one in the audience could stop laughing at the animal ballet antics.
Being a soundtrack collector, even as a young kid, I got the 3 vinyl album issue of Fantasia soundtrack on Buena Vista label, which included a program insert that was as wonderful as the movie. It even included a fold out long colorful poster which had been used to promote the re-release of Fantasia in the 70's.
Therefore I totally agree with people's opinions that this animated feature is relevant to interests of all ages, young children and adults.
I would listen to the classic movie soundtrack over and over, picturing the fantasies in my mind. This is a wonderful addition to any childs collection, whether soundtrack, movie, or both! Do not wait!

Average customer rating:

The Art Form Of The Future
Walt Disney originally meant Fantasia to evolve
The movie that came out in 1940 is better!
"Fantasia 2000" was a whoopee-cushion.
A Great Sequel!

Fantasia 2000
Starring: Kathleen Battle , Paul Brizzi , Hendel Butoy , Eric Goldberg , and Ralph Grierson
Director: Paul Brizzi , Hendel Butoy , Eric Goldberg , James Algar , and Francis Glebas
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

Animation | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

3-6 Years | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

7-9 Years | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

10-12 Years | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Family Films | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Fantasy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Musicals & Performing Arts | Genres | DVD | Video

IMAX | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

Computer Animation | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

All Disney Titles | Disney Home Entertainment | Stores | DVD | Video

Animated Movies | Disney Home Entertainment | Stores | DVD | Video

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

Fantasia (60th Anniversary Special Edition)
101 Dalmatians (Limited Issue)
Pinocchio (Disney Gold Classic Collection)
Make Mine Music (Disney Gold Classic Collection)
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Disney Special Platinum Edition)

ASIN: B00003CWPX
Release Date: 2000-11-14

Amazon.com essential video

More ambitious in scope than any of its other animated films (before or to come), Disney's 1940 Fantasia was a dizzying, magical, and highly enjoyable marriage of classical music and animated images. Fantasia 2000 features some breathtaking animation and storytelling, and in a few spots soars to wonderful high points, but it still more often than not has the feel of walking in its predecessor's footsteps as opposed to creating its own path. A family of whales swimming and soaring to Respighi's The Pines of Rome is magical to watch, but ends all too soon; a forest sprite's dance of life, death, and rebirth to Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring too clearly echoes the original Fantasia's Night on Bald Mountain/Ave Maria sequence. But when it's on target, Fantasia 2000 is glorious enough to make you giddy. Hans Christian Andersen's "The Steadfast Tin Soldier" is a perfect narrative set to Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No. 2, and Donald Duck's guest appearance as the assistant to Noah (of ark fame) set to Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance marches is a welcome companion piece (though not an equal) to The Sorcerer's Apprentice, the one original Fantasia piece included here. The high point of Fantasia 2000, though, is a fantastic day-in-the-life sequence of 1930s New York City set to Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue and animated in the style of cartoonist Al Hirschfeld; it's a perfect melding of music, story, and animation. Let's hope future Fantasias (reportedly in the works) take a cue from the best of this compilation. The music is provided by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, conducted by James Levine, interspersed with negligible intros by Steve Martin, Bette Midler, Itzhak Perlman, James Earl Jones, and others. --Mark Englehart

Customer Reviews:

The Art Form Of The Future.......2007-04-27

It's interesting to note that while the entertainment industry is bellyaching about piracy and the copying of DVDs, Disney being among the loudest bawlers, you can't buy a new copy of this marvelous DVD for love or money, either here or at Disney's own store, and the price for a used copy is higher than that of most new movies. Apparently the demand is there, but Disney doesn't care about supply. Disney is said to put their movies in "a vault," bringing them out only every ten years, but other animated features such as "Kronk's new Groove" (2005) and "Mickey's House of Villains" (2002) are readily available. Meanwhile, free segments of "Fantasia 2000" are being given away on YouTube. Smart.

I may've paid top dollar for my copy of "Fantasia 2000" but I have no buyer's remorse, as it's a great show. Those who remember the original (1940) "Fantasia" as something suitable only for children and the anile would be well advised to take a look at this production. The quality of the animation is at Disney's highest standards, but the concepts and the images depicted are far more sophisticated than almost any other animated feature I've seen, the sole exception being Tomek Baginski's "The Cathedral."

This sets the standard of what can be done in presenting visuals to serious music. When classical music is shown on television, there is absolutely nothing original or creative about the camera work, as they use the same shots they've used since the 1940s. There is the master shot of the orchestra, and each time an individual instrument or section makes an entrance, there is a close-up, as if to assure you that, Yah, dot iz ah trumpet. There is always the mandatory close-up of the mallets whenever the timpani has a roll, and you get to see the conductor waving his arms and making faces at the orchestra - none of which augments my enjoyment of Beethoven at all. The Naxos company is selling videos of rustic European towns and landscapes providing the visuals for the classics, but such a slide show is as dull as . . . as a slide show.

But this is different. The combination of images in motion, coordinated to the music, and intelligent story lines really do compliment the great music, and the most popular chapter, Respighi's "The Pines of Rome," is especially inspired. If your idea of "aht" is Jackson Pollock or Karen Finley, you may not feel exhilarated by it, but for the rest of us, it is American art at its finest.

Of interest to audiophiles is the astonishing sound of this DVD. As CDs were an obvious improvement over the sound of LPs (disputed only by the senile), the sound of the best DVDs is as much an improvement over CDs, and the sound here is spectacular. There is, I would judge, no compression and no limit to the frequency response. My 18-inch Velodyne HGS subwoofer has trouble reproducing the ultra-low frequencies at the beginning of "The Pines of the Appian Way," so those playing it on toy computer speakers should take caution.

This is a genuine work of art fit for grownups - now if only Disney would market it.

Walt Disney originally meant Fantasia to evolve.......2007-04-12

I don't see anything wrong with the Disney Studio's attempts on relishing the Disney legacy. Walt Disney meant to have his Fantasia concept expand, explore, and evolve. . from time to time. And it was done, and it was good!
I grew up with the original Fantasia in full spectrum. First seeing the dinosaur excerpt in school and narrated as primeval documentary. Later I discovered it was from Walt Disney's Fantasia, and bought the special (back then) 3 vinyl album released by Buena Vista. I still have it in storage, because I loved it. It contained illustrated insert program introducing all the sequences, and had incredible photos of Mr. Walt Disney and the conductor, Leopold Stokowski. I never drew on the program, although I was no more than 13. I saw the special re-releases of Fantasia on the movie big screen, and have been to Disneyland countless times to view the Main Street techniques of ancient art. During all this course, I pretty much saw nearly all of Walt Disney movies, and was a devoted watcher of his "Wonderful World Of Color", plus the infamous Mickey Mouse Club five days a week in the afternoons. I have also met Mr. Walt Disney briefly on rare occasion back in the very early 60's. I would sit and listen to Julie Andrew's original "Mary Poppins" soundtrack so much, I wore it out. Finally I bought a digitally remastered two volume cassette of the original Fantasia at the Tomorrowland souvenir shop back in 1990, and when I visit Disneyland the 20th Century Music Shop on Main Street (by the cinema) is a must stop for me.
The original Fantasia was classic, revolutionary art form, and a milestone for Walt Disney, and incredibly "gutsy." I have absolutely no ill feelings, or misgivings for this particular sequel, because at least it's earnst. The only critical thing I had was the unusual focus on the piano play, but other than that (I first saw this in Imax), I now own it on video (VHS original copy issue) and place it with all my other Disney showcases. I like it, simply put, and I don't even mind the star pre-commentary because at least they get on with it. The music is fabulous, and it can grow on you on special days of the year. My favorite piece is the Magic Bird Of Fire. I almost cry on this one, those sultry violins hit me real hard having lived the Disney life. Plan to go again, this summer (Disney Resort, Ca.). Anyone ready for Fantasia 2050?

The movie that came out in 1940 is better!.......2007-03-11

Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" is one of my favorite musical pieces ever and I
loved the jazz era New York City setting that goes with this segment. And of course "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" is a much loved classic episode even more beloved by Micky's appearance as the sorcerer in the current night time extravaganza at some Disney parks. But why not watch this story on the original FANTASIA? Though Fantasia 2000 does have its worthy moments it can not compare to the groundbreaking original and is really quite unnecessary.

"Fantasia 2000" was a whoopee-cushion........2007-01-29

F2K represents what's wrong with Disney. Yes, Walt did intend for "Fantasia" to be a perpetually-updated film, and yes, the production values are above the industry standard. However, this is where all the goodness ends.

First of all, the idea itself is another manifestation of Disney's grave-robbing. Not just recycling "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" (yes, I know that the original concept called for some of the segments to come, go, and return), but the whole concept. We seem to be getting these direct-to-video part II and part III of their classic cannon. Come on! This is obvious exploiting of their thirty- and forty-year old cash cows . Fortunately, Disney has surrendered everything to Pixar, so hopefully the new blood will help.

Then there was the tedious drip of self-congratulating cameos. A host, be it Rod Serling in "Twilight Zone," Cecil B. DeMille in "The Ten Commandments," or Deems Taylor from the original "Fantasia," unifies the disparate stories, thereby allowing the movie to flow from segment to segment. What we got was a jangly kaleidoscope of talking heads and forced humor that would only appeal to missing links.

Lastly, you had a celebration of the ugly-absurd: flamingoes with yo-yos, flying whales (very Politically Correct), flying fat men (it was funny in "Dune" but not here), and the odd environmental piece at the end. OK--volcanoes are part of nature, "red in tooth and claw" just as much as the green flatfish-sprite. Destruction is part of nature, just as it is part of life. To preserve the forest (more Political Correctness again), therefore, is unnatural.

This is Disney's overall problem: it used to be good, then Walt died; it slumped, then it used to be good when Eisner was hired in the 1980's; it has now slumped again, and hopefully Pixar can get them out. However, in the mean time we are stuck with a likeable brad name--and nothing else.

(In fact, every time I see a Pixar movie, I always think "Disney used to make films like this. USED to.")

I do congratulate them on the wonderful way they brought to life Al Hirschfeld's distinct style. It was a wonderful marriage of period music to period art, and in a way, it almost saves the project. However, the storytelling left much to be desires. The Flying Fat Man seemed out of place--even for a cartoon. And the characters seemed clichéd and flat. They managed the threads well, and story worked on a Movie-of-the Week level, but more was desired.

The "Pomp and Circumstance" segment comes close to the feel of the original. We had a familiar piece of music, that we associate with processionals. The processional, in turn, became the procession of animals to Noah's Ark. The subplot of the missing Donald was genuinely tender, considering the danger--and if we willfully suspend disbelief about a duck being able to fly and swim. And the scene with the dragons and unicorns was hilarious, a joke my mother had been telling me since I was a lad.

The film was a technical masterpiece, and it had its moments. But the annoying interlude gags had a "gala celebration" feel to it. But what was missing was a sense of "we are approaching beauty" which the first film emanated. "Fantasia" was about visually interpreting classical music--a high concept film combining art, music, and culture. "Fantasia 2000" was a whoopee-cushion.

Or a flamingo with a yo-yo.

A Great Sequel!.......2007-01-03

After seeing the first Fantasia, and loving it, I decided to watch Fantasia 2000. It is much shorter than the first, but I actually ended up loving the movie! There are many good pieces in this movie, mine being the Firebird. Some little children might find this piece a little frightening, but I found it beautiful, especially at the end, where there is beauty and renewal. Some other favorites of mine are the Pines of Rome which had gorgeous computer animated backgrounds and characters. I especially like the ending. I also enjoyed the (very) short piece "Carnival of the Animals" finale, and it also is fun to see the Sorcerer's Apprentice, restored and remastered too.

Overall, Fantasia 2000 is (in my opinion) Disney's best sequel, and also one of my favorite Disney movies! Better than the first, and I think everyone will like this movie, if you liked the first one!

Zombi 2 (25th Anniversary Special Edition 2-Disc Set)

Average customer rating:

Zombi 2 (25th Anniversary Special Edition 2-Disc Set)
Starring: Ugo Bologna , Al Cliver , Stefania D'Amario , Dakkar , and Alberto Dell'Acqua
Manufacturer: Shriek Show
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

Suspense | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

Mystery | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

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

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( Z ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Special Editions | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Dead Alive
Dawn of the Dead (Ultimate Edition)
The Zombie Pack
Day of the Dead (Divimax Special Edition)
The House By The Cemetery

ASIN: B00009WVNT
Release Date: 2004-07-27

Amazon.com

In Lucio Fulci's genre classic Zombi 2, the dead rise once again to terrorize and consume the flesh of the living, this time Caribbean style! Those new to Fulci should note Island of the Flesh-Eaters, Zombi 2, and the more commonly known Zombie all refer to the same film. Though there is no Zombi 1, Fulci's film was titled Zombi 2 to capitalize on the commercial success of Romero's Dawn of the Dead. Though marketed as a sequel in Italy, the only similarities to Romero's classic are the title and the fact that the dead rise to eat the flesh of the living. Instead of being a metaphor for consumerism, Zombi 2 is a straight-out adventure story that ends in a horrific, apocalyptic nightmare. The plot is fairly straightforward, and more or less exists simply as a structure to hang scenes of extreme gore and terror on. Dr. Bowles's boat floats into New York Harbor missing its crew and carrying an undead passenger. The doctor's daughter (Tisa Farrow), dead set on finding out what happened to her father, teams up with journalist Peter West (Ian McCulloch) and heads to the cursed island of Matool, where a zombie epidemic is growing and Dr. Bowles's friend, Dr. Menard (Richard Johnson), is desperately trying to find a cure. Will Anne find her father? Will Dr. Menard find a cure? Will our heroes escape? In all honesty, who really cares? Because those in the "know" already know you don't come to a Fulci film looking for Shakespeare. What Zombi 2 lacks in plot development and continuity, it more than makes up for in atmosphere, intensity, and of course the trademark Fulci gore. Some of the unique high points are the never-duplicated zombie-versus-shark vignette, the rising of the Spanish zombie conquistadores, and Fulci's trademark eye shot. Fans of Italian/apocalyptic/cannibal/zombie films should not miss Zombi 2. Along with The Beyond, it defines the genre. --Rob Bracco

Description

We Are Going To Eat You! The Fulci Classic Returns, And Once Again The Dead Are Among Us!

Average customer rating:

Save your money
This movie got it
Honeymoon from hell
A very funny movie
Cute Movie!

Just Married
Starring: Ashton Kutcher , Brittany Murphy , Christian Kane , David Moscow , and Monet Mazur
Director: Shawn Levy
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Farce | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Screwball Comedy | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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

My Boss's Daughter (R Rated Edition)
Uptown Girls
Little Black Book
40 Days & 40 Nights
Dude, Where's My Car?

ASIN: B00008WJD6
Release Date: 2003-06-17

Amazon.com

Pretty Brittany Murphy and prettier Ashton Kutcher make a surprisingly enjoyable comic team in Just Married, a romantic comedy about a horrible honeymoon. After a whirlwind romance, radio traffic announcer Kutcher and rich girl Murphy get married over the objections of her upper-crust family. Their love can overcome snobbery--but as the cuddly pair start to drive each other nuts over mishaps traveling through Europe, it starts to look like their love can't overcome intimacy. Just Married has a sprightly script that keeps one foot on the ground (unlike some recent romantic comedies that seem to have no connection to reality) and one eye on the small ways in which lovers can get on each other's nerves. Kutcher (Dude, Where's My Car?) and Murphy (Clueless, 8 Mile) have a sweet yet volatile chemistry that keeps the antics lively. --Bret Fetzer

Description

Ashton Kutcher (Dude, Where's My Car?, TV's That '70's Show) and Britney Murphy (8 Mile, Don't Say A Word) take the cake in this outrageous hit comedy that proves love and laughter are the perfect match. Sarah (Murphy) is a happy-go-lucky rich girl whose

Customer Reviews:

Save your money.......2007-04-19

This is probably the worst film I have seen this year. There is no romance and very little comedy it's pretty pointless. A rich bimbo falls in lust with an idiot.

This movie got it.......2007-01-30

This is very funny romantic comedy. Even though it isn't funny all the way through the many laughs you do get make up for it.

There were so many unexpected laughs that i ended up in stitches so I was lucky I was the only one in the cinema.

Just remember not everything goes smoothly at first and whatever you do... make sure the door is wide enough before carrying your wife over the threshold!!!

Honeymoon from hell.......2007-01-16

I think Ashton Kutcher and Brittany Murphy are two of the brightest actors around today. And together on screen they share a wonderful chemistry for all to see which makes for a very funny, well written comedy directed by Shawn Levy (Cheaper By The Dozen, Night At The Museum) who does a fantastic job directing these two around picturesque Europe.

Kutcher and Murphy play newlyweds Tom and Sarah who come from entirely different backgrounds and share apparently nothing in common, and are about to learn some hard and hillarious lessons in love and loyalty whilst honeymooning in Europe. Throw in an ex-boyfriend who appears to be stalking the couple everywhere they go, and you get some very funny moments as we find out if opposites really do attarct.

One of the best comedies I have ever seen.

A very funny movie.......2006-01-23

When i saw this movie 2 years ago in theaters it was hilarious i love this movie and "ASHTON KUTCHER" is a hoot i like the part when he was taking her in the doorway he bumped her head it was funny my dad laughed alot and my stepmom laughed so hard it was very very funny you should get it it is very funny.

Cute Movie!.......2005-12-27

This is a cute movie. It is about a rich girl and a poor boy and how their families object to them getting married. The marriage doesn't work out. This movie is about the rich girl and the poor boy on their honey moon and the hilarious situations they get themselves into.

RECOMMENDED!

American Idol - The Best & Worst of American Idol ( Limited Edition )

Average customer rating:

Not the best of American Idol!
I love this show. Simon really makes me laugh!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lisa
The Perfecte DVD for an Idol fan
American Idol - The Best & Worst of American Idol ( Limited Edition )

American Idol - The Best & Worst of American Idol ( Limited Edition )
Starring: Trenyce , Carmen Rasmusen , Corey Clark , Julia DeMato , and Charles Grigsby
Director: Nigel Lythgoe , Ken Warwick , and Bruce Gowers
Manufacturer: Capital Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

American Idol - The Best of Seasons 1 - 4
American Idol Season 5 Encores
American Idol - The Worst of Seasons 1-4
American Idol
Some Hearts

ASIN: B000B58D0S
Release Date: 2005-11-22

Amazon.com

Many millions adore it, many others probably wish it was illegal, but there's no denying the magnetic pull of American Idol on television viewers. Maybe it's that we can't avert our eyes from the train wreck that comprises about 90% of the contestants, or that we appreciate the heart and soul of the ones who are genuinely talented; or maybe we just love to hate house villain Simon Cowell and his caustic put-downs. Good, bad, or whatever, American Idol really is the phenomenon it claims to be. And with some ten hours of material spread out over three discs--there's so much stuff here that even the bonus features have bonus features--this overview of the first four seasons will surely satisfy even the most ardent fans.

Disc One, The Best Of, takes us from the first step in the process (the cattle-call try-outs so popular they need stadiums to accommodate all the hopefuls) through the initial auditions and interviews with judges Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul to the performances seen on the telecasts themselves--including those by eventual winners Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, and Carrie Underwood, as well as runners-up Bo Bice and Clay Aiken, among others. In other words, nothing unexpected. Indeed, for many viewers, Disc Two (The Worst Of) will likely be the favorite. For it is here that the set focuses on our fascination with the profoundly clueless, those utterly untalented folks who make us squirm with their outlandish self-delusion and willingness, nay eagerness, to humiliate themselves on TV (epitomized by William "She Bangs" Hung, the so-bad-he's-good sideshow that's depressing on so many levels), only to then find themselves genuinely astonished and angry when they fail to make the cut. Finally, Disc Three includes an interview with Abdul, "homecoming" footage featuring Underwood and Bice, and additional interviews from the fourth season.

If American Idol has a dirty little secret (aside from Abdul's personal life), it's that the show hasn't produced a single artist with not just a good voice but an original one--a Norah Jones, an Alicia Keys, a John Mayer, someone can play and write as well as sing. But then, that's not what the show is about; we're frequently reminded that this is "a singing competition," pure and simple. Which brings us to what may well be this exhaustive (and perhaps exhausting, too) set's defining moment: When a particularly awful "singer" begs to do another tune, Cowell says, "There's only so much punishment a human being can take." Replies the contestant: "No, I can take a lot more." --Sam Graham

Description

Features the best and worst performances from the 1st four seasons of the pop cultural phenomena American Idol. Worst: Includes outrageous performances from William Hung and a collection of some of the most unreal performers. Best: Features the hottest talent to come out of the show: Carrie Underwood, Bo Bice, Fantasia (single "I Believe" hit #1 on the charts), Diana Degarmo (single "Dreams" hit #2 on the Billboard charts), Constantine, Clay Aiken (first single was #1 with 400,000 sold first week), Ruben Studdard (platinum artist whose album was in the Top 10 for 6 weeks), and Kelly Clarkson (double platinum).

Customer Reviews:

Not the best of American Idol!.......2007-02-18

Well, I've been a HUGE fan of American Idol ever since the beggining. When I heard that they were releasing a 3 disc DVD, I was ecstatic. I thought that I would finally be able to get all those classic performances on DVD, but when I got this, I have to say that I was very dissapointed. Now, this does have SOME of those really great performances. like "Respect" by Kelly Clarkson, "Summertime" by Fantasia, and "Alone" by Carrie Underwood, among a few others, but there are definitley quite a few missing. For example, where is Jasmine Trias' performance of "Inseperable"? and they put Diana DeGarmo's performance of "Enough is Enough" but did not put her signature song "Don't Cry Out Loud", what gives? they also miss a bunch of other great performances, like "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" by Kimberley Locke, "Circle of Life" by Jennifer Hudson" and "This is the Night" by Clay Aiken. While I'll admit that this is a must have for an American Idol fan, I just hope that if they come out with another box set, they will re-think it and REALLY put the best of American Idol.

I love this show. Simon really makes me laugh!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-08-06

If you like the show, this dvd is a MUST HAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
lots of things never seen before are going to really make your day funny!!! enjoy

Lisa.......2006-07-16

This DVD set is GREAT!!! The WORST disc is as good as the BEST disc. I really liked the American Idol 4 tour interviews, and the back home footage of Bo Bice and Carrie Underwood. Very good DVD set for American Idol Fans!!!!

The Perfecte DVD for an Idol fan.......2006-04-24

If you are a true fan of American Idol, this is an excellent DVD collection to have . It has auditions from the winners of seasons 1-4, the resluts to the finale- which I've been looking for and performances. Also the worst , which is really fun to watch, and a bonus disc with interviews from Bo Bice and Carrie Underwood. I really enjoyed watching this DVD .

American Idol - The Best & Worst of American Idol ( Limited Edition ).......2006-04-07

A great way to refresh your memory of the good and bad. You get to the see the process behind the scenes. Very informative with interviews and more. And most of all... fun!

Lion of the Desert - 25th Anniversary Edition

Average customer rating:

Lion of the Desert
Wow! Three of the Greatest Actors Ever in the Same Movie!
Great movie about Italy's colony
War Film
a historical epic george w. bush should have watched

Lion of the Desert - 25th Anniversary Edition
Starring: Anthony Quinn , Oliver Reed , Rod Steiger , Irene Papas , and John Gielgud
Director: Moustapha Akkad
Manufacturer: Starz / Anchor Bay
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

War Epics | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Message (30th Anniversary Edition)
National Geographic - Inside Mecca
Khartoum
Inside Islam (History Channel)
Empires - Islam: Empire of Faith

ASIN: B000AQ6A0I
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Product Description

Between two worlds wars, a struggle for freedom took place in the African desert. This movie is the historicaly accurate story about the Libyan resistance leader, Omar Mukhtar, who led the Libyan resistance against the Italian opressors from 1911-1931. The movie takes place during the reign of Mussolini.

System Requirements:

Running Time 186 Mins.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

Destined to remain a dubious footnote in books of movie trivia, this occasionally impressive epic from 1981 was financed with a budget of $35 million by Libyan dictator Muammar Qaddafi, who previously attempted the role of movie producer with the critically roasted Mohammad: Messenger of God. This effort didn't fare much better (it grossed approximately $1 million worldwide), and although some of its wartime action sequences are intelligently filmed, it's not likely to gain much more of a reputation on home video. Under a shaggy Muslim beard, Anthony Quinn stars as Omar Mukhtar, the Arab hero and guerilla fighter who defended Libya against Benito Mussolini and Italy's attempted conquests during World War II. As straightforward biography, the movie's got an admirable epic sweep, but a cliché-ridden script and uniformly bad performances (from a cast that includes John Gielgud, Oliver Reed, and Rod Steiger) make this little more than a curiosity for those wanting to learn more about Libyan history. The DVD "special edition" presents the film in its complete 162-minute version. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Lion of the Desert.......2007-05-06

Italy was among the first to use armored vehicles in the desert which is depicted excitingly in this telling of Omar Mukhtar's Arab revolt against them in Libya. Set in the latter stages of the revolt that lasted form Italy's invasion in 1911 to oust the Turks until Mukhtar's defeat in 1931.
Great action scenes with some well done performances by the late Oliver Reed.

Wow! Three of the Greatest Actors Ever in the Same Movie!.......2007-04-12

As far as war movies go, this is one of the best. The action shots and battle scenes were for the most part excellent and not short on theatrical blood and gore...but there again, many of these scenes seem silly and exploitive somehow with the realization that the truth is infinitely more horrible. In the long run, this what I think the director was trying to convey to the viewer.

I read a review of this film shortly after it came out twenty five or so years ago. The reviewer said he saw this film with his son and he said that his son asked him towards the beginning during one of the battle scenes if the whole movie was like this? The reviewer agreed that it was...WRONG. The story was so much more than what on the surface appears to be a gratuitous shoot 'em up. There was a great amount of dialog that presented the background of the Italian-Libyan situation of the 1920s without ever becoming boring, and in fact left myself wanting to know even more about this corner of history.

The acting by one and all was excellent...really top notch. I never tire of Oliver Reed and wish he had made many, many more films. His portrayal of General Graziani was crisp. Reed's character had a commanding presence of that of a professional soldier that had served Italy from the Second Italo-Ethiopian War, to World War I and then as supreme Italian commander in North Africa during World War II. His character was certainly one of ambition and military professionalism. Without getting into the actual historical/political aspects, I will point out that Graziani was responsible for many military innovations in not only desert but also guerrilla warfare. Graziani, did, after get his Ho Chi Minh or Osama Bin Laden, and this has been largely ignored by history because of the Italian affiliation with Fascism, Hitler, and becoming in time an enemy commander to the United States, Britain and the other allies.

Anthony Quinn's portrayal of Omar Mukhtar was astounding. He even looked like him and kudos to the director for including actual photographs of the major personages in this sad true life play. Gentle, intelligent, devoted to his God, merciful as his God claims to be...Quinn brought all of that out in his character and one can only hope that Mukhtar was exactly such a man.

Rod Steiger-another actor, who like Oliver Reed, is unfortunately not well known by the general public. His portrayal of Mussolini was excellent in spite of the ever pervasive myopia film makers have concerning Hitler and Mussolini-cardboard men painted with theirs and our propaganda. Still, the film injected some humanity in the portrayal of 'Il Duce' by having Steiger point out that he, like Mukhtar, was a teacher. Other than that, you could imagine Mussolini's character stiffly posturing on a balcony and spouting off about the glories of a New Roman Empire. But, that wasn't Steiger's fault and he just naturally acted in a manner of supreme authority while at the same time coming across as being pragmatic, thoughtful, and having a connection to Roman history while at the same time making history.

The Italians in general were rather plastic and stiffly portrayed, but acting as professional military officers and representatives of the Fascist state, these portrayals were probably not too far off the mark. The film was careful to not show the Italians as mechanistic monsters and through at least four supporting actors showed that they were human beings capable of compassion. The portrayal of the Bedouin fighters and people was much more human and realistic, and the sympathy of the film definitely tilted in their favor. All in all, the film did try to show both sides of the story.

Perhaps the most heart wrenching parts dealt with the sacrifices of men's lives in trying to defend their families and the hardships and deaths brought upon the civilian populace. Particularly sad was the plight of the Bedouin in the concentration camps, and especially the sexual exploitation of women prisoners at the hands of the Italian soldiers.

I found one of the most stirring parts of the film to be the trial of Omar Mukhtar. The Italian defense lawyer (an Italian Army officer) did his best to point out that an acquittal was the most just thing to do as Mukhtar should have been considered to be a POW since he was taken under arms. This portion was strangely reminiscent of the Breaker Morant trial.

What I found particularly interesting was the array of authentic uniforms of the Italian Army and even the inclusion of Black Italian Colonial soldiers (probably Ethiopians?). Even better was the fact that the film makers recreated armored vehicles of the time rather than merely using surplus military hardware and trying to pass them off as the real deal as they disappointingly did in otherwise great war films such as Patton and The Battle of the Bulge.

The battle scenes were indeed good 'shootemups', though dummies dressed as Italian soldiers were painfully obvious in some shots. Also, I think one armored vehicle taking to the air and crashing in a heap during a battle scene was more than enough.

All in all a great film that at least informs us of something of history that most of us in the West would not otherwise be aware of. It is refreshing to see a film maker doing his very best to show the human aspects of an enemy that he certainly is not sympathetic to on cultural and religious grounds and is a testament to his own sense of humanity.

Great movie about Italy's colony.......2007-03-16

This movie may have had reviews but I liked it fine. I thought the camera handling was good, the costumes and vehicles excellently portrayed and the action fine. The story? Pretty good. I bit long but it keeps your interest. Certainly there is no depth to some of the characters but is it really necessary to get into Mussolini's head?

I also loved the use of archival movie footage in this film. Some directors overdo this technique but I thought it was very well done in this movie.

I was glad to get my hands on this gem. I'm sure I'll be watching it several times.

War Film.......2007-02-13

This picture is fairly detailed has plenty of resemblance to what the U.S. is going through in Irag. Anthony Quinn is excellent in his leading role. The movie rolls along quite well.

a historical epic george w. bush should have watched.......2007-01-08

As I write this review in january 2007, America is mired in a civil war in Iraq. The recently executed dictator Saddam Hussein is considered a hero in the Arab world on the level of Omar Muhktar. Had Mr. Bush watched this movie and learned from it, he would have seen the folly of invading Iraq with very few troops and the true nature of Jihad.

The acting in this movie is superb. Anthony Quinn does a execellent of portraying this anti-fascist freedom fighter. Oliver Reed does a equally good job of portraying Gen. Graziani, who used genocidal tactics that were later used in Ethiopia when he was the governor( Italy invaded that country in 1935) and by Nazi Germany. Rod Steiger's performance captures the essence of the brute and hard dren style of Benito Mussolini.

Omar Muhktar's prediction that he will live longer than his hangmen has turned out to be prophetic. Today he is Libya's national hero while the hangmen are virtually written out of history. His captor Gen. Graziani died as a war criminal who very few people in Italy remember or mention.

The NeverEnding Story III - Escape From Fantasia

Average customer rating:

The NeverEnding Story III - Escape From Fantasia
Starring: Jason James Richter , Melody Kay , Jack Black , Carole Finn , and Ryan Bollman
Director: Peter MacDonald
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Fantasy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

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

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

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

The NeverEnding Story
The NeverEnding Story II - The Next Chapter
The NeverEnding Story / The NeverEnding Story II
Tales from the NeverEnding Story - The Beginning
Tales from the NeverEnding Story - The Gift

ASIN: B00006472Z
Release Date: 2002-06-04

Description

Here's the latest chapter in the popular film trilogy, starring Jason James Richter (FREE WILLY) as Bastian, a teenager whose life is turned upside down when his father remarries. On his first day at a new school, Bastian is chased by a vicious gang called the Nasties. He hides in the school library where he finds a magic book that writes itself according to the imagination of the reader. To escape the Nasties (and his troubles at home), Bastian wishes himself into Fantasia, the storybook's phantasmic world of incredible creatures. It's here, away from the pressures of the real world, that Bastian thinks he's safe. But when the Nasties take control of the book, his Fantasian friends get stuck on earth, and it's up to Bastian to save them. And in order to do that, he must defeat the Nasties! With great music by some of your favorite rockers, this awesome fantasy-adventure celebrates the joy of reading and the magic books create within our own imagination!

American Idol - The Best of Seasons 1 - 4

Average customer rating:

American Idol - The Best of Seasons 1 - 4
Starring: Kelly Clarkson , Carmen Rasmusen , Corey Clark , Julia DeMato , and Charles Grigsby
Director: Bruce Gowers , Nigel Lythgoe , and Ken Warwick
Manufacturer: Capital Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Music Video & Concerts | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Television | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

American Idol - The Worst of Seasons 1-4
American Idol - The Best & Worst of American Idol ( Limited Edition )
American Idol
American Idol Season 4 - The Showstoppers
American Idol Season 5 Encores

ASIN: B000B58D08
Release Date: 2005-11-22

Description

Features the best performances from the 1st four seasons of the pop cultural phenomena American Idol.

Celebration of Gospel - Taking You Higher!

Average customer rating:

Celebration of Gospel - Taking You Higher!
Starring: Yolanda Adams , Pastor Shirley Ceasar , Coko , Fantasia , and Kirk Franklin
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

Wow Gospel 2007
The Clark Sisters: Live - One Last Time
Free to Worship: Live at the Potter's House
Grace: Live in Kenya
We Praise You

ASIN: B000OONQAI
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Amazon.com

Staged under the auspices of the BET Network, the 2007 edition of the "annual musical praise-fest" known as Celebration of Gospel: Taking You Higher! has all trappings of a big-time pop event: a fancy venue (the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles) with a tony crowd, slick production values (lights, sets, costumes, and so on), a big, powerful backing band… even an American Idol connection. But although you can take the music out of the church, you can't take the church out of the music, and this hour-long show, which brings together some of contemporary gospel's biggest names, is a joyous, inspired, and unrestrained display of worship and soul. Aside from the individuals involved (Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hampton, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Kelly Price, Tye Tribbett, and former Idol champ Fantasia are among them), what's perhaps most striking is the incredible energy level, both onstage and in the audience, from start (a fiery performance by Caesar and Adams, who comes on like a sanctified Tina Turner) to finish. While there are traditional elements in evidence, like Loretta Devine's straightforward delivery of "The Lord's Prayer," a certain pop/R&B sensibility permeates much of the music: Hampton tears it up with one of his patented "old skool jams," rapping and rocking through a number that evokes Luther Vandross and Earth, Wind & Fire; a quartet of older (and unidentified) ladies wail on what could easily pass for a lowdown, foot-stomping blues; and Fantasia, joined by three other young performers (Lil' Mo, Coko, and Kiki Sheard), indulges in the kind of vocal acrobatics heard every week on the world's most popular TV show. Yet there's something else going on here, a level of commitment reflected both in the constant Hallelujahs and the inimitable backbeat, alternately rocking and swinging, that takes gospel music both higher and deeper. The DVD includes a brief behind-the-scenes featurette and a couple of extra performances. --Sam Graham

Product Description

BET takes you higher with Celebration of Gospel. This annual star-studded musical event features appearances and performances by Grammy Award winners Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams, Fantasia (of American Idol fame), Pastor Shirley Caesar, Fred Hammond and more, with a special tribute to actor/writer/director Tyler Perry (Madea's Family Reunion).

Average customer rating:

The Bible - Jeremiah
Starring: Hamid Zoughi , Giovanni Micoli , Mohamed Bensouda , Anita Zagaria , and Leonor Varela
Director: Harry Winer
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Religion | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Special Interests | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

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

The Bible - Esther
Jacob (The Bible Collection)
The Bible Series Box Set
The Bible Collection
Abraham (The Bible Collection)

ASIN: B00004VVOW
Release Date: 2000-09-26

Amazon.com

The overwhelming conclusion of this 94-minute movie is that being a prophet is tough. Jeremiah (Patrick Dempsey) is repeatedly imprisoned and beaten, dropped into a muddy well face first, and forced to witness the stabbing death of his fiancée. And all for repeating messages from God, most of them urging the Judeans to submit to Babylon's King Nebuchadnezzar (Klaus Maria Brandauer). Dempsey gives an earnest performance, ably assisted by a strong supporting cast. Writer-director Harry Winer spends the first part of the film on Jeremiah's formative years of visions, moving on to his contentious relationship with King Zedekiah, who ultimately--and tragically--listened to his general (Oliver Reed) rather than the prophet. This bleak film ends with the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians and Jeremiah's self-comforting thought that the city will rise again. Parents should be aware of some disturbing violence: in addition to Jeremiah's fiancée's murder, Zedekiah sees his sons fatally stabbed before he is killed. --Kimberly Heinrichs

DVD:

DVD

DVD

DVD

Everybody Loves Raymond - The Complete First Three Seasons

Dil Bechara Pyaar Ka Maara

Hitman

DVD: Jesus of Montreal (French language only) (Import)

A Zed And Two Noughts