Music of the Heart (Miramax Collector's Series)

Starring:Meryl Streep, Aidan Quinn
Studio: Miramax/ Walt Disney Home Video
Product Type: DVD

Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
Why, you might ask, would Wes Craven direct a conventional biopic about Roberta Guaspari, a divorced mother of two who created an acclaimed music program in East Harlem's troubled school system? After all, Craven built his career on Freddy Krueger and the Scream trilogy, and you won't find razor-tipped gloves or a single drop of blood in Music of the Heart. All Craven has to do is provide a safe working environment for Meryl Streep (who earned an obligatory Oscar nomination), sublimate his deft directorial style, and surrender to the banalities of Pamela Gray's screenplay, which would've played more effectively on cable TV.

To be fair, Music of the Heart (partially inspired by the 1996 documentary Small Wonders) serves its purpose quite nicely. Streep is flawless in a non-showy role, and the story of Guaspari's celebrated violin training program provides the requisite rush of inner-city inspiration. As a fact-based companion to Mr. Holland's Opus, the film is less effective but similarly engaging; you'd have to be cold-hearted to dismiss it altogether. It's best when focusing on Guaspari's school program and the 10-year struggle to keep it alive; the drama falters when dealing half-heartedly with her tentative relationships, notably with a journalist (Aidan Quinn) who shies from commitment. And Craven? He seems content to direct by the numbers here, leaving inspiration on the screen while forfeiting his own. --Jeff Shannon
Description
Two-time Academy Award(R)-winner Meryl Streep (1983 Best Actress, SOPHIE'S CHOICE; 1980 Best Supporting Actress, KRAMER vs. KRAMER) stars with Angela Bassett (HOW STELLA GOT HER GROOVE BACK) in a heartwarming, acclaimed true story of how one woman's musical gift affected those who least expected it. A single mother with little more than talent and the determination to make a difference, Roberta Guaspari (Streep) overcame the skepticism of everyone who didn't think she should be teaching violin to students in a tough inner-city neighborhood. But even after a decade of ever-growing popularity and countless success stories, Roberta and her kids must rise to meet an even greater challenge: budget cuts aimed at shutting down her valuable program for good! Also starring Aidan Quinn (PRACTICAL MAGIC) and Grammy-winner Gloria Estefan in a stellar cast, this extraordinary story will inspire anyone who's ever thought their dreams were too far out of reach!

Average customer rating:

Sound of Gold

Neil Young Heart of Gold

Worth It!

Neil Young - Heart of Gold

Like being on stage with Neil and friends

Neil Young - Heart of Gold
Starring: Wayne Jackson (II) , Emmylou Harris , Jimmy Sharp (II) , Diana DeWitt , and Gary W. Pigg
Director: Jonathan Demme
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video
Young, Neil | Artists | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video
General | Classic Rock | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video
Harris, Emmylou | ( H ) | Actors & Actresses | Stores | DVD | Video
Young, Neil | ( Y ) | Actors & Actresses | Stores | DVD | Video
Demme, Jonathan | ( D ) | Directors | Stores | DVD | Video
Used DVDs | Stores | DVD | Video | Action & Adventure | African American Cinema | Animation | Anime & Manga | Art House & International | Classics | Comedy | Cult Movies | Documentary | Drama | Educational | Fitness & Yoga | Gay & Lesbian | Horror | Kids & Family | Military & War | Music Video & Concerts | Musicals & Performing Arts | Mystery & Suspense | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Special Interests | Sports | Television | Westerns
All Paramount | Paramount Home Entertainment | Studio Specials | Stores | DVD | Video
DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
( N ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Living With War

Live at Massey Hall (CD/DVD)

Modern Times (Deluxe Edition With Bonus DVD)

John Fogerty: The Long Road Home in Concert

Bob Dylan - No Direction Home

ASIN: B000F48D00
Release Date: 2006-06-13

Amazon.com

"I just want to play well, share the stage with my friends, give the best I can," says Neil Young before the concert that is the centerpiece of Heart of Gold. No problem, dude. Working with filmmaker Jonathan Demme, Young has come up with a gem--not all flash and bling-bling, but as understated as a single pearl, musically restrained yet emotionally open. Of course, neither Demme (an Oscar winner for The Silence of the Lambs; he also helmed Talking Heads' Stop Making Sense) nor Young would call it "a concert film"; the director describes it as "a dream concert, something that's literally being dreamt by Neil," while the singer-songwriter himself calls it "a multi-level story." Whatever, the project came together in 2005, as Young was finishing his Prairie Wind album (the latest in a string of lovely, country-flavored acoustic recordings dating back to 1972's Harvest) and preparing to debut the music at Nashville's fabled Ryman Auditorium, home of the Grand Ole Opry. The fact that Young had also recently experienced a brain aneurysm might or might not have influenced his decision to film the show, but it certainly seems to have had an effect on the music. He and his band (which, with the addition of horns, strings, and backup singers, including Emmylou Harris, occasionally numbers forty or more musicians) perform Prairie Wind in its entirety, and there is some deeply moving, highly personal material here; in addition to the gospel-tinged "When God Made Me" and the dirge-like "No Wonder," Young sings about his recently-deceased father (the title song), his newly adult daughter ("Here for You"), the guitar he plays that once belonged to Hank Williams ("This Old Guitar"), and even his dog ("He Was the King"). Demme's direction is ideal for conveying the music's restrained acoustic textures, rich backing vocals, and simple, elegant melodies. Shots are held much longer than is usual in such films, and while there are lots of close-ups, there are no gimmicks. This superb DVD package is filled out by a second disc of bonus features, including a variety of featurettes and a solo performance of "The Needle and the Damage Done" from The Johnny Cash Show in 1971. --Sam Graham

Product Description

Academy-award winning director Jonathan Demme beautifully captures Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legend, Neil Young as he prepares and presents the performance of a lifetime with the help of his wife Peggi and friends country star Emmylou Harris, steel guitarist Ben Keith and more at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry.

Customer Reviews:

Sound of Gold.......2007-06-26

In the Prologue of Neil Young's beautiful concert DVD, 'Heart of Gold' key players, which are ample, reminisce over the highlights of concerts past. Each musician is alone except interviewer and camera, and the feeling is eager but laid back. Neil Young himself explains that the people he's chosen for this special concert are friends and not merely studio musicians, setting up a feel that Roy Orbison enjoyed for his magnificent 'Black and White Night' DVD. There is the same sense of intimacy, and, while I suspected a retro act, the scope and splendor of the chosen material is great. Although about two or three songs are familiar hits, he breathed real life into this concert at Reiman Auditorium in Nashville where the acoustics resonate with perfection. Besides a great repertoire of songs, his styles draw from country, bluegrass, folk, gospel, blues, and rock. Each song seems so singularly crafted and find Young switching from guitar to harmonica to banjo to piano. Distinctively, he proves to have many friends who back him up with vocals, brass, guitars, fiddles, and, even, a broom. Misguided casual fans like me are immediately struck by the economy of words that come in a stream on this "Prairie Wind" harvest.

More specifically, theme song "Prairie Wind" opens with words "It's a long road behind me...It's a long road ahead of me." Indeed even with his weathered, tan face he sings enraptured in his own music which translates the wisdom of his years. Whether singing about 9/11 ("Falling off the Face of the Earth") or "King, the best hound dog," ("He Was King") he connects in spare language. At one of his intimate moments he shares before "This Old Guitar" how he acquired the worn guitar he uses onstage from Hank Williams. Highlights are for every song, but "When God Made Me" so eloquently scotches any argument for chauvenism or bigotry known to man. In too few words to measure, he bridges the gap to every gender, race, and creed. Alone with his harmonica he adds to the mellow sweetness with "I'm Still in Love with You" and the lovely, wide-eyed "Harvest Moon". Oddly, "Heart of Gold" and "Old Man" seem anti-climatic, but are marvelous nonetheless. His explanation for the latter song is worth checking out. Seven guitars serenade "Four Strong Winds," (which, incidentally, was one of the tracks on Johnny Cash's last C.D.). Neil Young goes out with big brass on "One of These Days," but not without a couple of intimate moments: One is "Needle and the Damage Done," (which despite the movie warning, doesn't doing anything but deter drug use). Then, I believe, it's "The Old Laughing Lady" that finds Neil on stage to an empty auditorium.

There's little to criticize. Jonathan Demme deserves credit for capturing this "golden" event. While I would have preferred more shots of supporting players, no one will argue about the focus of this film, and many fans may find that assessment all wet. The small auditorium and the silent awe for this performance gives the whole affair the intimacy of Orbison in a nightclub setting. This DVD is a must for fans and the uninitiated alike. (Also starring Emmylou Harris, Ron Keith, Karl Himmell, Chad Cromwell, Larry Cragg, Spooner Oldham, Rick Rosas, Gary Pigg, Diana DeWitt, The Nashville String Machine, et al) (Essential)

Neil Young Heart of Gold.......2007-05-31

Neil Young has a heart of gold when it comes to writting heartfelt songs and performing and that's all here. This video belongs in the Library of Congress as true American Music written by a foreigner...(And Arnold S. should be allowed to run for president...another subject). I love Neil Young, seen him numerous times, loved him since Buffalo Springfield days. I don't care if he is a horrible tipper. This is great product for anyone interested hands down.

Worth It!.......2007-05-08

I have been a Neil Young fan since too long to remember. Stopped going to concerts years ago though: too many obnoxious fans! So if you want that concert experience, and appreciate Neil's music, this is for you. Arrangement's great, with appropriate musings by Neil about his selections. Was great also to see other artists, including his wife, throughout. I highly recommend this video for your collection.

Neil Young - Heart of Gold.......2007-05-07

Liked it so well I kept a copy and ordered another to be delivered to my son and his wife in San Marcos, CA

As a guitar play since 1957, trying to learn each day, I certainly appreciate the chords used and the non-chalant, easy pace of Neil's music.

I further state, that I detest having to listen to the bad language and the vibration of the car parts when auto/((KID - CARRIERS) pass. LEE

Like being on stage with Neil and friends.......2007-04-21

There really aren't enough stars for rating this one. It is filmed with such warmth and intimacy that it is like being on stage playing with the band. The great music speaks for itself, but it is also wonderful to see the way Neil, Pegi, and the others glance at one another, smile at one another, enjoy one another's company and musicianship.
In the added features DVD there is a film diary of the 10 days of rehearsal leading up to the concert. I showed it to some of my middle school students. I wanted them to see how hard professional musicians work, and how, after 40 years of playing these instruments, they still practice every day. It was a good lesson for them.
I can't recommend this DVD highly enough.

Average customer rating:

Whisper of the Heart
Another great Studio Ghibli film
Great Movie
Not bad but also not what I expected
Slow, but moving

Whisper of the Heart
Starring: Youko Honna , Kazuo Takahashi , Takashi Tachibana , Shigeru Muroi , and Shigeru Tsuyuguchi
Director: Yoshifumi Kondo
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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

Feature Films | Anime & Manga | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Anime & Manga | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

Feature Films | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Howl's Moving Castle
My Neighbor Totoro
The Cat Returns
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Kiki's Delivery Service

ASIN: B000CDGVOO
Release Date: 2006-03-07

Amazon.com

Based on a manga by Aoi Hiiragi, the gentle coming-of-age story Whisper of the Heart (1995) was scripted and storyboarded by Hayao Miyazaki, and directed by the late Yoshifumi Kondo. Shizuku Tsukishima is an absent-minded, insecure junior high school student who reads book after book of fairy tales, helps her friends, and does most of her chores, but remains dissatisfied. When she encounters a wonderfully supercilious cat on the train, she follows him and meets Seiji Amasawa, a student in her class who hopes to become a violin maker. Seiji's commitment to his dream helps Shizuku find her voice, literally and figuratively: she realizes she wants to become a writer. A statue of a cat in the antique store of Seiji's kindly grandfather inspires her first story, "Whisper of the Heart."

Shizuku and Seiji exhibit believable strengths and flaws: their warm humanity contrasts markedly with the shabby superficiality of the characters in many American animated films. The lively performances of Brittany Snow and David Gallagher transcend the geographic limits of the story to make Shizuku and Seiji the kids the viewer wishes lived next door. Miyazaki's script suggests that a sense of magic can exist, even in everyday Tokyo. Whisper of the Heart was the only film Yoshifumi Kondo directed before his untimely death at age 47, but its understated charm stands as a monument to his talent. (Rated G, suitable for ages 10 and older: tobacco use) --Charles Solomon

Description

From the creators of the Academy Award(R)-winning SPIRITED AWAY (Best Animated Feature Film, 2002) comes a tale based on the screenplay from the legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. During summer vacation, a schoolgirl named Shizuku, who longs to discover her true talents, observes an ordinary-looking cat riding by himself on the train. Intrigued, she decides to follow him. This chance encounter leads her to the mysterious Seiji, a boy who is determined to follow his dreams, and The Baron, a magical cat figurine who helps her listen to the whispers in her heart. Soon, Shizuku's exciting adventures carry her far beyond the boundaries of her imagination. Featuring extraordinary storytelling, enchanting animation, and an all-star voice cast, this 2-disc set will inspire dreams and warm hearts of all ages. (c) 1995 Aoi Hiiragi/Shueisha • Nibariki • GNH

Customer Reviews:

Whisper of the Heart.......2007-06-08

I have been Anime fan since Totoro and I would rate Whisper of the Heart as one of the best. It, as with some Anime for children, portrays an intelligent, viable approach on life as a teenager or making that difficult transition from adolescent into adulthood, unlike most of the youth culture movies/tv in America today. It not only is entertaining but retains it's youthful essence throughout with a magical flair. At times, it can be corny, but not over-the-top. All in all, I would recommend this as a great family film.

Another great Studio Ghibli film.......2007-05-10

Another great film from Studio Ghibli. I've been collecting all of their movies and haven't been dissapointed yet.

Great Movie.......2007-05-07

I loved this movie and really identified with the characters. I actually bought this movie before seeing it because I had seen The Cat Returns and thought this would be just as good. It was even better than I expected because there was a depth of character in this movie that is not seen in The Cat Returns (though it is also a wonderful movie). I would recommend this for children and adults, a heart warming movie.

Not bad but also not what I expected.......2007-05-03

My girls own all of Miyazaki's other movies. This one has the art style they expected but has a romantic storyline and a mundane quality that didn't appeal to them. Not terrible or anything, just different.

Slow, but moving.......2007-04-14

With the exception of "Sunday in the Park with George" by Stephen Sondheim, this animated movie is one of the most moving dialogues I have seen about the insecurities, difficulties, and eventual joys of the artistic process.

As an extra bonus, the second DVD of this movie has the original storyboard (or at least a large portion of it) shown in sync with the audio of the movie playing in the background. This shows very clearly the artistic genius of Hayao Miyazaki, and just how much of his creative vision is infused into this movie.

As with other Studio Ghibli films, I felt that it moved rather slow, but nowhere near as slow as Castle in the Clouds.

Recommended.

Average customer rating:

ANN AND NANCY ARE CLASSIC!!!!!!!!!
Heart - Alive in Seattle ( DVD )
One Of These Dreams For A Long-Time Heart Fan
Goosebumps!!!
The Heart of Rock N Roll!

Heart - Alive in Seattle
Starring: Ann Wilson , and Nancy Wilson
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Arena Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

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

( H ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

The Road Home
Jupiters Darling
Styx - Return to Paradise
Live At McCabes' Guitar Shop
Fleetwood Mac - The Dance

ASIN: B00008H2I9
Release Date: 2003-04-29

Amazon.com

Sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson and the rest of Heart are in good form in this solid if unspectacular 100-minute concert video, shot in 2002 in their hometown of Seattle. The sisters, of course, are a good deal older than in Heart's '70s heyday, and their bandmates have changed, but the group's sound, led by Ann's powerful vocals and Nancy's instrumental versatility, hasn't changed much; that's a good thing for those who revel in the likes of "Barracuda," "Magic Man," and other oldies. There are several brand-new songs here as well, and the ongoing influence of Led Zeppelin is readily apparent, not only in the covers of Zep classics like "Black Dog" and "The Battle of Evermore" but also in Heart's commingling of pastoral acoustic sounds and hard rock. And after 19 songs, even the most ardent Heart lovers should be well satisfied. --Sam Graham

Description

Music's most famous sisters, Ann and Nancy Wilson, have been successfully writing and performing chart-toppers since their 1975 debut album. From acoustic to folk to hard-driving rock 'n' roll, the ladies instill emotional energy into every song. This special hometown concert showcases a rich musical legacy that's distinctively Heart! Songs: Barracuda, Sister Wild Rose, Mistral Wind, Wild Child, Dog and Butterfly, Magic Man, Crazy on You, Dreamboat Annie, Love Alive, These Dreams, Alone, Two Faces of Eve, Break the Rock, Heaven, Straight On, Black Dog, The Witch, Mona Lisa and Mad Hatters, Battle of Evermore.

Customer Reviews:

ANN AND NANCY ARE CLASSIC!!!!!!!!!.......2007-07-03

THIS CONCERT VIDEO IS PURE HEART AT THEIR BEST,THE BALLADS AND THE ROCKERS ARE ALL THERE,IT'S A CLASSIC AND A MUST HAVE FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES OR WHO HAS EVER LOVED ANN AND NANCY.

Heart - Alive in Seattle ( DVD ).......2007-06-10

Sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson set the stage alight on their homecoming tour with a new set of musicians. Performed in 2002 at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle, the DVD is well produced with clear, crisp and vibrant colours. Audio sound is good in 5.0 surround ( Dolby or DTS modes )or 2.0 Stereo. Although there is no .1 for the subwoofer input bass is solid and adequate. Favourite hits like the acoustic " These Dreams " and " Alone " bring out the strong vocals of Ann, the lead singer. The more rock n roll " Love Alive " and feet stomping " Barracuda " show off Nancy's guitar virtuosity. Addition tracks from Led Zep's " Battle of Evermore" and " Black Dog " make this DVD a must have for any fan of Heart.

One Of These Dreams For A Long-Time Heart Fan.......2007-05-16

I always had been a Heart fan. I love any group with female vocalists (in case you can't tell by my other reviews).

This project deals both with the Heart Classics and more contemporary songs. I did notice that Heart is going back to their roots, which is included by the song selection. For example, they had five songs from their first two projects, but only one song each from the two albums that revived their career in the mid-80's ("Heart" and "Bad Animals"), those songs being "These Dreams" (I liked "What About Love" and "Never" from the same project better) and "Alone". Furthermore, the music was more guitar based as Heart originally was. And I was happy with the fact that they included "Love Alive".

In addition to their own material, which featured some new songs, they also did a couple of covers: Elton John's "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters", and Annie doing her best Robert Plant on "Black Dog".

One thing I like is that they took risks of jazzing up a couple of songs. For example, they slowed down the final verse and ending of "Crazy On You" (one of my two favorite "Heart" songs, with "Love Alive" being the other). Also, an acoustic guitar replaced the piano on "Alone".

If you're a Heart fan, you will enjoy this project.

Goosebumps!!!.......2007-05-08

While I was watching this, I literally had goosebumps many times. Why? Ann Wilson's voice sounds as good, if not better than it did back in the 70's. The same cannot be said for many of that era's great singers, if they are even still around. I also thought the material from what was to become 'Jupiter's Darling' was very good.

The Heart of Rock N Roll!.......2007-04-14

Just saw Alive in Seattle on April 14, 2007 - what a cure from the SAD blizzard & winter storms here in Traverse City over Easter time. Read all the reviews and I became compelled (as always after hearing & seeing Heart) to add another. I wholeheartedly agree with all that gave the DVD five stars. Quite simply: with a state of art home theatre & HDTV the performance excels. Mine is an LG 30" Flat CRT HDTV with a Yahama 5.1 home theatre system. The yami has a nifty 6.1 matrix emulation which puts you figuratively sitting cross-legged in the Wilson sister's laps for their awesome sound. The thing is that inevitably you will get up and start dancing!

Yes the audio only tops out at DTS 5.0 so the sub-woofer is `missing' but guess what? With a system like a Yahama you can kinda adjust for it and what is truly nice is to actually hear the music & singing clearly through-out - think immersive. With a large screen over 40" you may forget like I did more than once that I was not there that night in Seattle. Considering the video production elements - at least it was not some Hollywood production that made you wonder how they did the special effects. You could see up close & personal - reminiscent of the concert back in the late 70s at Charlevoix's Castle Farms.

And the song selection? It was great since it left you wanting more . . . like some of the other hits I heard at Pine Knob in the early 80s. Now if only we can get the ladies to perform one night during Interlochen's summer festival (imagine the Battle for Evermore or Mistral Wind echoing off Green Lake) - if Ian Anderson and The Moody Blues could play there then why not Heart?

Music of the Heart (Miramax Collector's Series)

Average customer rating:

Uplifting Story.
A tear jerker, a learning experience and a message of hope.
Music of the Heart
movie review
heart warming

Music of the Heart (Miramax Collector's Series)
Starring: Angela Bassett , Kieran Culkin , Gloria Estefan , Cloris Leachman , and Josh Pais
Director: Wes Craven
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

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

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

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

Mr. Holland's Opus
Lean on Me
Stand and Deliver
Finding Forrester
Dead Poets Society (Special Edition)

ASIN: B00003CWUI
Release Date: 2000-04-25

Amazon.com

Why, you might ask, would Wes Craven direct a conventional biopic about Roberta Guaspari, a divorced mother of two who created an acclaimed music program in East Harlem's troubled school system? After all, Craven built his career on Freddy Krueger and the Scream trilogy, and you won't find razor-tipped gloves or a single drop of blood in Music of the Heart. All Craven has to do is provide a safe working environment for Meryl Streep (who earned an obligatory Oscar nomination), sublimate his deft directorial style, and surrender to the banalities of Pamela Gray's screenplay, which would've played more effectively on cable TV.

To be fair, Music of the Heart (partially inspired by the 1996 documentary Small Wonders) serves its purpose quite nicely. Streep is flawless in a non-showy role, and the story of Guaspari's celebrated violin training program provides the requisite rush of inner-city inspiration. As a fact-based companion to Mr. Holland's Opus, the film is less effective but similarly engaging; you'd have to be cold-hearted to dismiss it altogether. It's best when focusing on Guaspari's school program and the 10-year struggle to keep it alive; the drama falters when dealing half-heartedly with her tentative relationships, notably with a journalist (Aidan Quinn) who shies from commitment. And Craven? He seems content to direct by the numbers here, leaving inspiration on the screen while forfeiting his own. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Two-time Academy Award(R)-winner Meryl Streep (1983 Best Actress, SOPHIE'S CHOICE; 1980 Best Supporting Actress, KRAMER vs. KRAMER) stars with Angela Bassett (HOW STELLA GOT HER GROOVE BACK) in a heartwarming, acclaimed true story of how one woman's musical gift affected those who least expected it. A single mother with little more than talent and the determination to make a difference, Roberta Guaspari (Streep) overcame the skepticism of everyone who didn't think she should be teaching violin to students in a tough inner-city neighborhood. But even after a decade of ever-growing popularity and countless success stories, Roberta and her kids must rise to meet an even greater challenge: budget cuts aimed at shutting down her valuable program for good! Also starring Aidan Quinn (PRACTICAL MAGIC) and Grammy-winner Gloria Estefan in a stellar cast, this extraordinary story will inspire anyone who's ever thought their dreams were too far out of reach!

Customer Reviews:

Uplifting Story........2007-06-28

This movie brings tears to my eyes for the willingness to help other people and put their needs before one's own.

This is an uplifting story about Roberta Guaspari instituting a violin program in an inner city school system. Through her trial and tribulations, Roberta was able to overcome many obstacles to keep the children playing this wonderful instrument.

It's a tad slow in parts, but you won't regret the message that Music from the Heart Brings.

A tear jerker, a learning experience and a message of hope. .......2007-06-08

Recommended for special education students along with LEAN ON ME and DANGEROUS MINDS and RADIO and others, Music of the Heart has a message that should be in demand in this nation seeking sense out of abuse and meyham and so on.
It is a message that a citizen can make a difference in a whole school system in a whole community for the good of education. This, inspite of the school systems own battles to end the program. And, the budget for the program was not traditional... it was affordable.
The price is right and so is the message... Buy one and give it to your local school.

Music of the Heart.......2007-04-12

Enjoyed this movie very much. Service from Amazon definitely met expectations about speed and price.

movie review.......2007-03-10

I enjoyed this movie a lot because I enjoy movies that are based on true life experiences. Watching how ordinary people touch the live of others; letting them know they can reach beyond thier circumstances and dream of a better life. Movies like this touch us because teachers and others give selflessly to those who otherwise might not be given the oppertunities to excell in life. They give those less fortunate an oppertunity to reach beyond thier circumstances.

heart warming.......2007-03-10

this movie is fun loving and will make music in your heart. meryl streep is great in this movie. she shows a passionate love for her teaching and her music. she never gave up on teaching any one that wanted to learn or not. a great family movie to make your heart sing.

Average customer rating:

Now I'm satisfied
Works flawlessly on Xbox 360 after 5/15/07 HD-DVD update
Rented it and I liked it so much I bought it
NOT TOO OLD
Outstanding performance and video quality...it DOES work on the 360!

Heart - Alive in Seattle [HD DVD]
Starring: Heart
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: HD DVD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Arena Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

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

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

General | HD DVD | Formats | DVD | Video

Music Video & Concerts | HD DVD | Formats | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Chicago & Earth, Wind & Fire - Live at the Greek Theatre [HD DVD]
Eagles: Farewell 1 Tour - Live From Melbourne [HD DVD]
Toto - 25th Anniversary, Live in Amsterdam [HD DVD]
Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series [HD DVD]
Manilow Live! [HD DVD]

ASIN: B000I2J79U
Release Date: 2006-12-12

Description

SONGS: Barracuda, Sister Wild Rose, Mistral Wind, Wild Child, Dog and Butterfly, Magic Man, Crazy on You, Dreamboat Annie, Love Alive, These Dreams, Alone, Two Faces of Eve, Break the Rock, Heaven, Straight On, Black Dog, The Witch, Mona Lisa and Mad Hatters, Battle of Evermore.

Customer Reviews:

Now I'm satisfied.......2007-05-20

When I first received this I was disappointed because it was not working correctly with my XBOX 360 HD-DVD player. This was not the fault of the disc but because of the programming in the player. Since the new 360 update all is well and I now own a great show.

Works flawlessly on Xbox 360 after 5/15/07 HD-DVD update.......2007-05-16

My Xbox 360 drive had problems playing this HD-DVD until the 5/15/07 HD-DVD update from Microsoft. Now, in addition to the performance, the menus and everything works flawlessly. The picture quality of the concert is amazing. Except for CG movies like Happy Feet or Ant Bully, this is probably one of the best HD discs out there. On top of that Ann Wilson's vocals are just awesome. The Wilson sisters sound as good as they do on the audio CDs. I would highly recommend this HD-DVD to anyone who has ever heard one of Hearts songs. My favorite has to be "Straight On" and their cover of Led Zeppelin's "Black Dog".

Rented it and I liked it so much I bought it.......2007-05-15

I originally received the HD-DVD from Netflix and was impressed by the overall quality of this release. Heart was uber-huge back in the day, but they feel comfortable and confident as they play smaller audiences--quality over quantity. Ann still has that incredible voice, my wife, who was not particularly familiar with the band, was won over by Nancy's passion and spirit.

NOT TOO OLD.......2007-04-10

Heart still has it and both sisters could still sing in 2001 (when made) if your a heart fan get it

Outstanding performance and video quality...it DOES work on the 360!.......2007-03-25

Like Robert A. Rhode says below, this HD-DVD does indeed work on the Xbox 360 add-on. I received my copy from Netflix originally, and when I tried it, I couldn't get it to work on my 360. I sent it back, saying the disc was broken. I purchased a new one from Amazon, thinking it was really a physical error, and had the same result initially. I did some research and ran across these ratings. I did what Robert said to try and it worked. You simply:

- Put the DVD in and let it get to the main menu screen. This may take a few minutes, so be patient
- Once the main menu appears, simply hit "OK" on your HD-DVD add-on remote
- Sit back and enjoy a wonderful concert

Two ridiculously talented women with a brilliant supporting cast, Ann and Nancy put on one heck of a show. Two songs really moved me - "Alone" and "Battle of Evermore". Ann's vocals are as powerful now as they were 20 years ago as evidenced on "Alone". Their cover of Zeppelin's "Evermore" was a fitting tribute to the rock legends. Nancy's guitar skills are as sharp as ever. I had a hard time taking my eyes away from her fingers when they showed her playing on-screen, but I'm a little biased.

The sisters have a bond and a chemistry that's easy to see and hear. It would have been a fun show to see live...too bad I missed it! This HD-DVD truly is the next-best thing, though. Once you get it working, of course.

Joni Mitchell - Woman of Heart and Mind: A Life Story

Average customer rating:

The Voice!
Joni Mitchell DVD
Joni is a class act, an original
Not the music, but the person
A very good video Biography of Joni

Joni Mitchell - Woman of Heart and Mind: A Life Story
Starring: Joni Mitchell
Manufacturer: Eagle Vision USA
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music

Folk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Biography | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

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

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Joni Mitchell - Shadows and Light
Joni Mitchell - Painting with Words and Music
Song To A Seagull
Joni Mitchell - Collectors Edition
Joni Mitchell - Refuge of the Roads

ASIN: B000096FTI
Release Date: 2003-06-03

Amazon.com

One of the great talents of her or anyone else's generation gets the royal treatment with this superb two-hour (with bonus material) documentary. It's all here (via interviews, including conversations past and present with Mitchell herself, photos, generous helpings of concert footage, and more): her Saskatchewan childhood, her lovers, her painting, her reunion with the daughter she had left behind at age 19... and, of course, her music, the songs, recordings, and performances, so intensely personal yet so universally accessible, that comprise one of the most extraordinarily original and significant (if not always wildly popular) bodies of work any artist has ever produced. Even true fanatics are likely to find revelations here; the rest of us can simply rejoice in the life and artistry of Joni Mitchell. The extras are highlighted by complete concert readings of four songs, including "Big Yellow Taxi" and "Woodstock." --Sam Graham

Description

DVD CHAPTERS
Childhood/Beginnings
All I Want * Urge for Going * Little Green * Both Sides Now Night in the City * I Had a King

Greenwich Village/Laurel Canyon (The 60's)
Cactus * Circle Game * Chelsea Morning * Ladies of the Canyon Just Like Me * Positively 4th Street (Bob Dylan)

First Record/Carnegie Hall/Woodstock
Marcie * Conversation * Morning Morgantown * Woodstock

Romance with Graham Nash/Creative Process
My Old Man * The Agreement * California * Our House (Graham Nash) Get Together (Graham Nash)

Blue/Retreat/Transformation
Blue * A Case For You * For Free * River * For the Roses I'm a Radio * Raised on Robbery * Same Situation

New Musical Languages/Painting
Amelia * Hejira * Coyote * Cotton Avenue * Chair in the Sky Dry Cleaner from Des Moines * Goodbye Pork Pie Hat

Marriage and Divorce/Social Commentary/Honors
Wild Things Run Fast * Underneath the Streetlight * Come in From the Cold Dog Eat Dog * Sex Kills * Taming the Tiger

Full Circle
Stay in Touch * Both Sides Now

Customer Reviews:

The Voice!.......2007-06-03

I purchased this DVD some time ago and frankly forgot I had it. I played it on my laptop with my Bose earphones and my gosh!!! I forgot how much I miss that voice. Her self taught, avant-garde style transcends any other english speaking singer, bar non. I was especially intrigued by her somewhat normal childhood (except for her childhood polio) and her mystical rise to a non-wanted fame. Her songs, primarily based upon her infectious loneliness and her life's travels with the many men in her life, are filled with true poetry which uses an incredible combination of visual and unconventional prose.

While I was particularly intrigued with her relationship with David Crosby (her first producer), Graham Nash (her long time live-in lover) and David Geffen (her second producer and confidant), I was disturbed at the sixties logic that permiated their lives. But again, that was the sixties.

I would recommend this DVD to anyone who wants a good sixties history lesson of
American west coast music; you should purchase this DVD. If you love Joni's music and want to know her better, this is the only DVD you need to purchase.

Joni Mitchell DVD.......2007-05-07

If your a Joni Mitchell fan....this is a DVD you need to own.Very informative.

Joni is a class act, an original.......2006-08-24

I always liked Joni Mitchell. I remember when she came out with her first album, and I thought it was amazing. The first thing I noticed was her voice, her range. Just thinking of the vocal instrument itself, she was up there with Joan Baez and Judy Collins. Her more recent material isn't as vocally challenging as her earliest material, in terms of the range of notes she hits.

She seems to have had a lot of angst in her life. You would think she wouldn't; that she would have led a joyful life, considering that she was a big star. You would love to change places with her and be rich and famous, but somehow she seemed to muck things up pretty much and get depressed.

There's something so likeable about her. She does her own thing. She doesn't chase wealth and fame, and never did. I see a lot of myself in her, in that regard. Just be yourself and don't worry about it. To those of you who are familiar with astrology, Joni and I share the same sun and moon signs, which is a 100-1 coincidence. Grant Lewi, the greatest astrologer of all time, described her sun and moon combination as being part of that discriminating and appreciative public without which the arts are pointless. She has a Scorpio sun with a Pisces moon. Very deep, watery, intelligent woman. Nothing superficial there.

I'm not a big fan of her more current music. It's okay. It just doesn't grab me very hard. She seems to be a Type Four in the enneagram system of personality types, a true original, a true artist, looking within for inspiration, not wanting to be one of the crowd, not wanting to copy anyone else. Other Type Fours include Dylan, Alanis Morissette, Prince. When I think of Alanis I think of her music video in which she appeared on a city street completely naked, not to be sexy, just to be herself, in a pose that was more revealing than it was flattering. Joni Mitchell is the type that wants to express her true feelings, and it doesn't necessarily lead to record sales.

Not the music, but the person.......2006-07-19

When I ordered this DVD I was hoping for some good concert footage of Joni Mitchell. Actually, it is something else: a really good insight into the person behind the music, and a help in explaining Joni's complex development over time. I watched Joni at the 1970 Isle of Wight festival, and despite her statement that she hated big concerts, I still think it was amazing, given the lunatics who interfered with the whole event, and intruded on her set in particular. This is an excellent reminder that some people do an awful lot to represent what a human being really is, or could be, or should be.

A very good video Biography of Joni.......2006-05-02

At the time of writing this, I am just cutting the surface of Joni's music. This Biography has deepened my understanding of Joni. Interesting to note how she adapts to a new period and always re-invents herself. She has never gone after pop music but stayed personal in her approach. I especially enjoyed her speaking of her guitar playing and she referred to her strange guitar tunings as a "Chords or Inquiry". There is much to absorb here, and I've found myself watching it about 3 times up to now. It is a good launching point if you are preparing to experience Joni's music and there are many performance bits from various periods.

Average customer rating:

Excellent.
Lovely.
Great Movie, Great Value DVD, the 'white Dreamgirls'?
Great Movie!
Amazing

Grace of My Heart
Starring: Illeana Douglas , Sissy Boyd , Christina Pickles , Jill Sobule , and Jennifer Leigh Warren
Director: Allison Anders
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | 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

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

Grace Of My Heart: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
That Thing You Do! - The Director's Cut (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Gas Food Lodging
Married to the Mob
Things Behind the Sun

ASIN: B00000JMOE
Release Date: 1999-08-17

Amazon.com

The traditions of old-fashioned melodrama are given a hip facelift in this homage to the Brill Building era (the late 1950s to the early 1970s) of pop-music glory, providing a perfect match between writer-director Allison Anders and her excellent cast. Illeana Douglas plays a singer-songwriter (loosely modeled after Brill recording artist Carole King) whose life runs emotionally parallel to popular music trends. John Turturro is a stand-in for "wall of sound" producer Phil Spector and Matt Dillon is a thinly disguised version of maverick Beach Boy Brian Wilson. It's a bit too schematic in the way the central character is always in the right place at the right time, but as a tale of fame and romantic highs and lows in the '50s and '60s the movie is funny, touching, and sincere. It's a lively and loving tribute to timeless music and the colorful characters who created it. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Excellent........2007-05-13

It got here quick, and was in great condition! I love the movie too!

Lovely........2007-02-28

Grace of My Heart (Allison Anders, 1996)

Allison Anders spent the early part of her career making little gems that no one saw (with the exception of one film upon which she collaborated with, among others, Quentin Tarantino). Grace of My Heart is one of them, a loosely-fictionalized account of Carole King's career in the Brill Building, writing hit song after hit song for other artists before reaching into herself and drawing on that material for the groundbreaking 1971 album Tapestry, to this day considered one of the best records ever released in America by many critics.

Illeana Douglas (Bondage) plays Edna Buxton, a socialite from the Philadelphia suburbs who wins a recording contract in New York. When she gets there, she finds out the whole thing was something of a scam, and finds herself down and out until she meets Joel Millner (John Turturro [Rounders] in what may be one of his finest roles), a producer who renames her Denise Waverly and gets her caught up in writing songs for other artists, and Howard Caszatt (Eric Stoltz [who would come back and work with Anders again in Things Behind the Sun]), who becomes her songwriting partner, and after a while her husband. The marriage is anything but stable, and Denise's life continues on its rocky path through a succession of friends, lovers, and inevitable heartbreak. Until, that is, Tapestry-- excuse me, Grace of My Heart.

What Anders brings to the table is that, while she was obviously going for some sense of the reality underlying the fiction, she never lets it get in the way of telling a good tale. Music historians will find a good deal to munch on where this picture is concerned, but the rest of us can just sit back, chew popcorn, and have a good time without worrying about whether we understood all the in-jokes or not. (Not that that stops us. It seems there's been a debate raging for years over whether Bridget Fonda's character in the movie is a lesbian or not. I don't understand why; isn't it patently obvious?) The primary goal of any good film should be to entertain, and Grace of My Heart delivers. Everything else is just icing on the cake. ****

Great Movie, Great Value DVD, the 'white Dreamgirls'?.......2007-02-05

A lot to recommend here, Illeana Douglas deserved an Oscar nomination, and much more popular recognition than was forthcoming for her terrific performance in what should have been her breakthrough movie. Her portrayal of Denise Waverly (nee Edna Buxton) is just so RIGHT that it has to be seen rather than droned-on about.
As the beautiful but snooty British songwriting colleague of Denise's, Patsy Kensit is just perfect, the eventual friendship of the two women unfolds believably and very enjoyably. Douglas and Kensit are terrific in their scenes together.
Matt Dillon gave one of his best film performances here, Eric Stoltz and John Turturro were spot-on in roles that seemed to be (loosely) based upon Gerry Goffin and Phil Spector. The Edna/Denise character clearly has shadings of Carole King, while Dillon's character seems to have more than a tad of Brian Wilson used as inspiration. Chris Isaak, in a miniscule role, unfortunately, is totally forgettable as Kensit's husband.
Recapturing what NYC's Brill Building may have been like circa 1963, progressing with a satisfying segue into early 70's Los Angeles, the movie hits all the right notes.
Members from the girl-group that Denise wrote early hits for nicely weave in and out of the movie, the female teen-star who struggles with her 'Secret Love' provides another memorable segment amongst many.
There were enough 'original' aspects in the movie for it to stand upon its own, but the film may have undone itself by the not-so-subtle maskings of aspects of the lives of Carole King and Phil Spector. The 'fictional' characters seem to a treatment of 'what if Phil Spector had discovered Carole King?' (It is less obvious that the roles of Kensit and Isaak could also be intrepreted as being based upon Mann and Weill, the UK's answer to King and Goffin in the 1960's).
Maybe 'karma' somehow prevented this film from being the huge smash it should have been, only in that if the lives of King, Goffin, Spector and Wilson actually were the inspiration of this movie, it may have been better to be upfront about it. Yet, the film is so life-affirming, the music so good, the feel of it so resonant, 'Grace Of My Heart' is a success of its own entity.
Today in 2007, Motown, Diana Ross and Florence Ballard are getting similar treatment with 'Dreamgirls'-- aspects of their lives are used without monetary compensation, changing just enough not to have to pay. 'Dreamgirls' is 2007's "Grace of My Heart", with louder box-office ka-ching and some Oscar noise that 'Grace of My Heart' was actually more deserving of.
The DVD is a great value for the price, loaded with extras and a sufficient fold-out booklet. See it for a once-in-a-lifetime performance by Illeana Douglas.

Great Movie!.......2006-07-05

Surprisingly, this movie is quite unknown. I first saw it a few years ago on cable and have been waiting for it to come out on DVD and had almost lost hope. Illeana Douglas, always absolutely fantastic, just takes this one all the way home. The story is great, the cast amazing, this is a just a great story. Great movies, to me, are ones that you dont feel compelled to pick to bits to justify why you liked it. You just do. This is an entertainment medium after all. I loved this movie the first time I saw it and I still love it.

Amazing.......2006-04-19

I thought this movie was amazing. I loved everything about it. I read were someone had written that no one under 40 would probably like it, well I agree, with some exceptions. I am 27 and I fell in love with it. There are great minds behind this story and the actors and actresses were terrific. I would love to have a soundtrack for this movie. I have searched everywhere for one and can't seem to get one. If anyone has any ideas or suggestions please let me know. I am amazed at the story and characters, what can I say except brilliant.

Average customer rating:

Unusual Heart
Pure Class!
The Road Home Video
An Acoutical Heart ...is Heartless!
Heart never before than this !!! ....... Terrific girls .....

The Road Home
Starring: Heart
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

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

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Deals Over $10 | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video

All Blowouts | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Heart - Alive in Seattle
Live At McCabes' Guitar Shop
Lovemongers Christmas
Jupiters Darling
Pat Benatar - Choice Cuts - The Complete Video Collection

ASIN: B00008MTX5
Release Date: 2003-04-01

Description

Since Ann and Nancy Wilson first showed the world that women can rock when Heart stormed the charts in the `70's, they've sold more than 29 million records, had 21 top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide and inspired a generation of rockers. The Road Home is the concert video companion to 1995's CD of the same name, produced by Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones.

Customer Reviews:

Unusual Heart.......2007-06-27

I have been a Heart fan since their songs first came to Australia. I have grown up listening to all their songs in rock form and it was a pleasant surprise to hear them acoustically. Very refreshing. Really worth the listen. Anyone who loves Anne and Nancies voice's will love this.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Pure Class!.......2007-05-15

This brilliant live performance really took me on my own "road home".
Not only as a child of the 70's and 80's, but as someone who grew up in the Seattle area, Heart is a band whose songs truly live in the soundtrack of my life. Definitive cuts like "Barracuda" and "Crazy on You" are as much a part of me as my unique sense of humor, just as they are inseperable from my memories of growing up.

This incredibly lush performance (in front of a hometown crowd) is not only "unplugged" but includes members of the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, making for an unbelievable show.

And Ann Wilson's voice has never sounded better.

All in all, this is an absolute treat to watch.

The Road Home Video.......2007-02-24

This is a great video for those hard core Heart fans. There are some old songs that I love along with the newer songs of their career. Ann Wilson's voice is still super! I recommend this video for those true Heart fans.

An Acoutical Heart ...is Heartless!.......2006-01-08

I knew this was going to be an acoustical concert but I guess my expectations were too high. Afterwards I thought about it and said to myself...why would i want to hear barracuda or anything else of theirs without their hard driving sound? And the answer is you shouldn't if you have a choice. This is for only the die-hard fans that are in love with the songs in any form. For me it should be played in the hard driving way it was intended to be. This is great for what it is...but would you listen to Bad Company do an acoustic set? None of the reviews I read told of the all acoustic fact! It's just not the same.

Heart never before than this !!! ....... Terrific girls ............2005-08-24

I bought this one after enjoying Nancy Wilson's 'Live at McCabes Guitar Shop', looking for similar material and found this gem. Heart in their basics, precisely the return to acoustic and simple, powerful interpretations are incredible.
Special attention to Cherry Blossom Road, Back to Avalon, Alone, These Dreams, Love Hurts.
Although 'All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You' was not their favorite, their interpretation is at their best, our personal case, we love that song, it is simply incredible.
Thanks for that enormous show ....

Average customer rating:

I just loved it!
An Extraordinary Man.
Great DVD on the Life of a Brilliant Talent, Bobby Darin
I Love Bobby
Really good bio about a master showman

Bobby Darin - Beyond the Song
Starring: Bobby Darin
Manufacturer: White Star
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Bobby Darin - Mack Is Back
Aces Back to Back (Audio CD & DVD)
Beyond the Sea
Dream Lovers: The Magnificent Shattered Lives of Bobby Darin and Sandra Dee - by Their Son Dodd Darin
Darin at the Copa

ASIN: B0007CILSY
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Description

Beyond the Song is the quintessential tribute to an innovative performer whose tragically brief life was often stranger than fiction. With songs like Splish Splash, Beyond The Sea and the classic Mack The Knife under his belt by age 23, Bobby Darin soon found himself confronted by simply everything he had ever wanted; but it wasn't nearly enough. He died on December 20, 1973 from heart trouble. Featured in the show are live performance clips including: Mack the Knife, Splish Splash, Dream Lover, Beyond The Sea, As Long as I'm Singing, If I Were a Carpenter, That Funny Feeling, Higher and Higher, Simple Song of Freedom and For Once in My Life. This engaging program traces Darin's career from his first television appearance in 1956 to his last in 1973. Along the way, interviews with family and friends help to illustrate the deep impact that Bobby had on those fortunate enough to know him. Bobby Darin left a rich legacy of music and memories. He was an entertainer of unparalleled ability whose real impact lives on, long Beyond the Song.

Customer Reviews:

I just loved it!.......2007-07-03

I am buying this because I saw it on NetFlix and really enjoyed it. It's got to be the best summary of Bobby Darin's life and music out there.
Fan in Colorado

An Extraordinary Man........2006-07-06

Beyond the Song may only run for about an hour, but in that hour you get a very good look at the life of Bobby Darin. I personally loved the movie. I loved the many live performances that it features. Live performances of Mack the Knife, Splish Splash, Beyond the Sea, As long as I'm Singing and many more.

I learned a few things that I never knew about Bobby's life and i've gained more respect for his talent, as long as his character. One thing that I never knew that touched my heart was that Bobby Darin spent a night sleeping next to the casket of his late friend Bobby Kennedy, vowing that he would not leave the casket until it was buried. Darin was a very compassionate man and should not have died at the age of only 37.

Probably the most touching sequence for myself was the "Beyond the Sea Reprise" and the scene before the credits where you see various pictures of Bobby throughout the course of his life, all while you hear him singing Beyond the Sea in the back round. The final wave as he is singing "so long sailing" touched my heart. I highly recommend this to anyone, long time Bobby Darin fan or someone just beginning to discover the talent of Darin.

Great DVD on the Life of a Brilliant Talent, Bobby Darin.......2006-04-03

This is a great introductory DVD on Bobby Darin, one of the greatest performers in American entertainment history. Rare personal film clips and numerous clips from TV shows from the late 1950s to the early 1970s show Darin at his cabaret-performing best: clowning, doing incredible impersonations, playing various musical instruments and, best of all, singing swing, standards, jazz, gospel, country-western, you name it, he sang it. Interviews and commentary from other show business legends like Gregory Peck, George Burns, and Henry Mancini add to the portrait painted of this unparalelled performer---highlighting his singing and acting accomplishments. I highly recommend this DVD to every Darin fan and every fan of good, old-fashioned entertainment. He was truly a legendary performer with immense and eclectic talent and an ingratiating and magnetic personality. Talk about charisma? Wow! Who knows how great he would have become had he lived a normal life span?

I Love Bobby.......2006-02-27

I watched this after watching the movie that was recently made about his life. I am glad that I did it that way. Now I am interested in reading biographies and purchasing more dvd's and cd's of his. A great talent, that should be enjoyed again and agian.

Really good bio about a master showman.......2006-01-06

This is one of two great bios about BD (the other being the A&E songmaker's collection), and this one has some fantastic footage. I especially like the fact that they showed an entire Mack the Knife number (from 1970 Andy Williams show), and a fantastic version of Higher and Higher (from Bobby's own 1972/73 TV show), tho' I wish they'd shown more complete numbers. Includes interviews with lots of celebs, showing how widely respected he was in the industry. A must for BD fans, or anyone wondering why BD has so many fans decades after he sung his last song.

I Am Trying to Break Your Heart - A Film about Wilco (Single Disc Edition)

Average customer rating:

I Was Afraid I Was Going To Hate It
Wilco yes
I Am Trying to Forget This Movie
Good Movie for Wilco Fans
A Rock Film for the ages

I Am Trying to Break Your Heart - A Film about Wilco (Single Disc Edition)
Starring: Jeff Tweedy , John Stirratt , Leroy Bach , Glenn Kotche , and Jay Bennett (III)
Director: Sam Jones (IV)
Manufacturer: Plexifilm
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music

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

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

( I ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Jeff Tweedy - Sunken Treasure - Live in the Pacific Northwest
The Wilco Book (with CD)
Wilco: Learning How to Die
Kicking Television: Live in Chicago
Billy Bragg & Wilco - Man in the Sand (The Making of "Mermaid Avenue")

ASIN: B000EQ5UPU
Release Date: 2006-04-18

Amazon.com

This splendid documentary captures the band Wilco's struggles (both with their record company and within the band itself) while recording their album Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. I Am Trying to Break Your Heart is completely engrossing, whether or not you are familiar with the band. As they work on the album, there's some tension between singer-songwriter Jeff Tweedy and bandmate Jay Bennett, but overall the band members are happy and enjoying exploring their music. But when they turn in the finished songs, their record label drops them, leaving them adrift with the album that promises to be a huge artistic leap. For fans of Wilco, this gorgeously photographed movie will be a thrilling look at the life of the band and Tweedy's creative process; but even novices will be drawn into the contrasts between art and commerce brought out by the conflict. --Bret Fetzer

Description

This is the single disc DVD version of I AM TRYING TO BREAK YOUR HEART - A FILM ABOUT WILCO.

First time director Sam Jones documents the making of Wilco's fourth studio Album, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. Named after the Wilco song that is featured on Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, an album that strays from the Alt-country that made them famous. Jones' desire was to document the creative work of YHF's production, he seems to have found a bit more, including band members departing and a conflict with Reprise record company. This is a true documentry of art versus money-driven media conglomerates.

Customer Reviews:

I Was Afraid I Was Going To Hate It.......2007-04-14

I am big fan of Wilco and I have followed their career from Tweedy's days with Uncle Tupelo. After reading some bad reviews about this movie from some that called it "boring" and from another who stated they disliked the band after watching this, I was afraid I was going to hate the movie and I didn't want to dislike Wilco after seeing the film. I decided I should never let anybody else decide for me (especially in advance) or tell me what I am and am not going to like. Luckily for me, I made the right choice.

This film is not perfect. It's not supposed to be. It is, however, supposed to tell the story of a band trying to make an album and trying to get along together as people, friends, and business partners. The film maker does an excellent job of telling this story and the music speaks for itself...it's top-notch. There are a few scenes I would have shortened and I have to admit the candid scene of Tweedy talking to his wife (I assume) on his cell phone is boring, but it also allows the viewer/fan a glimpse of Jeff Tweedy being Jeff Tweedy rather than Mr. Wilco. I highly reccomend this DVD to any Wilco fan or anybody who is interested in becoming one. What a great ending!

Wilco yes.......2007-01-19

I love this Documentary. ifu love of like or whatever Wilco, you will love this film. beautifully shot and created. yes.

I Am Trying to Forget This Movie.......2006-04-28

Who cares?

A completely mediocre band is given appropriately mediocre docu-coverage. What's truly amazing -- and the only interest the film holds -- is the towering self-importance of everyone involved with Wilco. Guys, just who do you think you are? You're not the Beatles, Coltrane's Quartet, or the Brandenburg Orchestra. A rather more interesting movie, perhaps called "I Am Trying to Break Your Eardrums", might be about Wilco's fans and why they're so tone-deaf.

Almost as bad as "Darkon".

Good Movie for Wilco Fans.......2006-04-03

If you are a big Wilco fan, like me, you will enjoy this movie. If you want to know Jeff Tweedy better--or better yet, you already feel you know Tweedy and want just to see more of him--you will enjoy this film.

However, it is not a great concert film--there are many better, despite the grandiose comparisons--and it spends a lot of time on matters that will prove inconsequential in the long run. Years from now, who will really care that Wilco lost its record company after recording Yankee Hotel Foxtrot and sold the record to a different company? Who will care about the resentful difficult guy they kicked out of the band and replaced, whose name I don't even remember now? If you will, of course this film's for you.

What you have here is a well-filmed version of a reality show with really likeable characters, a little music biz drama, and great great music. That was enough for me to enjoy this film a lot.

A Rock Film for the ages.......2006-03-24

Wilco is one of the definitive bands of the times, not some flash-in-the-pan group - if Wilco were to disappear or break up tomowrrow, they would be remember single handidly for arguably having one of the best albums of the last six years, that being Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. I feel we are very lucky the infamous story over that album was filmed, whether for some "looming" future purpose, or it just randomaly happened - I believe it just happened - and for that reason alone is why this film is of value.

Wilco fans, and just rock music fans, should really enjoy this documentary over the development of Wilco's classic album Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, and the behind-the-music like story that takes place. The bonus disc is worth the money alone, seeing solo performances by Jeff Tweedy, and extra footage of the Wilco live. Like Dylan's Don't Look Back, I Am Trying to Break Your Heart is of a classic rock film level and not to be taken lightly. Excellent film. Definitely worth purchasing!

DVD:

DVD

For the Moment (REGION 1) (NTSC)

DVD: All About Eve

Die kleinen Gespenster 1