The Life (Unrated Edition)

Starring:Daryl Hannah, Denise Richards, Joaquim de Almeida, MarÃa JimÃ©nez, Pierre Woodman, Conrad Son, Dora Venter, Rita Faltoyano, Carol Fonda, Erica (VIII), MÃ³nica Naranjo, ValÃ©rie Tasso, Black Widow, Denisse Valdes, Max Hardcore, Jacklyn Lick, Charlotte (XVIII), Servine, Monica Sweet (II), Brittany Andrews
Director: MarÃa LidÃ³n
Studio: Universal Studios
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com

Based on Katherine Paterson's young-adult novel and filmed in picturesque New Zealand, Bridge to Terabithia has lessons to impart about empathy and self-expression, but the tone is never heavy-handed. Jesse (sleepy-eyed Josh Hutcherson, Zathura), a fifth-grade loner, lives in the country with his parents and four sisters, including pesky May Belle (Bailee Madison), who adores him. His strict father (Robert Patrick, The Terminator 2) works in a hardware store. Money is tight and classmates make fun of his hand-me-downs, so Jesse finds refuge in running and drawing. Everything changes when two writers and their daughter Leslie (wide-eyed AnnaSophia Robb, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) move in next door. Leslie is faster than all the boys, which initially puts Jesse off, but the two soon bond over their love of make-believe. In the forest, they find a creek that can only be crossed by rope. Leslie names the land on the other side Terabithia, where they imagine themselves rulers of the kingdom. Jesse and Leslie also connect with their unconventional music teacher, Ms. Edmonds (Zooey Deschanel, Elf), who encourages their creativity. Despite the tension at home, Jesse's personal life is finally coming together when the unthinkable happens. Will he revert to his anti-social ways or will he grow from the experience? Though aimed at all ages, pre-school students may find Terebithia's creatures frightening. For grade-school kids and up, however, there's much to savor in this smartly written, sensitively acted film. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Customer Reviews:

I preferred the Wonderworks version.......2007-07-05

The two main complaints about this film seem to be that a) it's depressing and b) the marketing campaign mislead audiences. Well, yeah. It's based on a book, and if they hadn't been faithful to the book's plot, there would have been just as many people complaining bitterly. So in a way, the filmmakers were in a double bind. That said, at least separate the film from the way it was marketed. Give the marketing people two stars and a spanking, since they led lots of people to think the movie was a lighthearted fantasy - but can we try to examine the movie on its own merits?

Many children and young adult classics feature a death, either of an animal or a human. Particularly if the book is a Major Award Winner, it doesn't just show how fun it is to be a child but grapples with serious issues. That's partly why it won the award and acclaim in the first place. The Narnia books are far from lighthearted fantasies either, although they can be read that way. They, too, examine friendship and betrayal. But they are set in a magic land, while "Terabithia" is set in the real world.

The actors in the new version of "Terabithia" all do a fantastic job, particularly the young ones, like Bailee Madison as Jess's spunky younger sister. The movie's storyline stuck so closely to the book that the invented scenes felt a little out of place. Perhaps that when it deparated from just showing the developing of two children's friendship, and put in special effects, it felt false. Even if they were brief, they seemed out of place, like the movie makers were trying to placate their young audience, who would presumably be unhappy without special effects.
The montages also grated on me, because they were so Hollywood and unnecessary. Why must every movie character break into an impromptu song and dance routine? And why did the treehouse have to look like set designers were competing for an Oscar? I don't know if kids still make treehouses anymore, but mine as a kid sure looked primitive in comparision.

In conclusion, it's a lot better than most kids' movies today - with nary a fart joke - but that's not saying much. There's no cussing or drinking, but there is the aforementioned death, which may upset sensitive viewers. I'd recommend talking over the movie with your kids afterwards if they seem upset.

a potentially epic movie that was very badly made, should have been done as "big fish" was.......2007-07-05

now having read the book, i expected to be seeing something along the lines of "Big Fish" or "Hook"..... full of vast fantasy visuals, heartwarming moments and the tear jerker ending.... unfortunately this one really didnt deliver like the others were able to.

the audience was conned into thinking this was the "never ending story" meets "chronicals of narnia". and if done correctly (or atthe very least with an extra half hour of fantasy world), it would have been both visually stunning and one to leave you with a warm feeling in the heart.

...unfortunately it was very badly adapted and as a result EXTREMELY dissapointing. and it fell short on both points

the fantasy aspects consisted of only 20 minutes (generously approximated) of footage spread throughout the middle of the movie in short 3-5 minute incriments.

they simply did not put enough emphasis on the fantasy aspect as you would be led to believe by all the press, and even the disney channel's "commercial break, behind-the-scenes" stuff only focused on the fantasy of it without giving the audience a fair chance to save the 7 bucks.

all they needed to make this movie to the top of the pack was an extra 30 minutes of fantasy footage and a "sensitive content" warning to spare families from the transformers movie fiasco of the 1980's (when the kids left the theater early, crying at the death of optimus prime)

now, it gets credit for following the book fairly closely, but it was without explaination,

they seemed to put in the key elements of the book without giving any exlaination as to why things were the way they were (ie: the teacher bringing him on the spontainious field trip).....they should have made up sometihng like "the kid had been failing and this was extra credit..."etc. instead of making it a sketchy, grey area, uncomfortable situation. in the book there was no question.

i had to explain alot of things to my finacee who had not read the book, and both of us were dissapointed with the whole movie. i was expecting something more along the lines of "big fish" or "hook"

but all we got from it is a potentially epic movie that really was badly made

and a distrust causing me to pay an extra $2 to rent a movie before purchasing it

i only gave it 2 stars for the actual meaning behind the book/movie

A remarkable film.......2007-07-05

I watched "The Bridge to Terabithia" on a whim with my wife and daughter with little foreknowledge of the plot. I'd never read the Newbery Award-winning book by Katherine Paterson, and I'd seen only one trailer for the film, which left me with the impression it would be a Narnia knock-off. It's not.

I'm not dissing "The Chronicles of Narnia," which in its way was a remarkable film. But "Terabithia" didn't deserve the CGI-laden marketing campaign it received; far from a fantasy blockbuster, this is a deep and thoughtful movie that places substance over sparkle -- a rare treat in the sprawling field of youth-oriented theater. It ranks up there with one of my favorites, "The Secret of Roan Inish," which accomplished more with no special effects than most family-friendly movies could with a billion-dollar budget.

But I just can't shake "Terabithia" from my head, a fact owed mostly to the performance of AnnaSophia Robb. As Leslie, a spirited young girl with a fiery imagination and endless good cheer, AnnaSophia captured my heart. She's the kind of person you want to know when you're a child and, as my wife remarked midway through the film, she's the sort of young woman you'd be happy to see your daughter grow up to be.

An outsider despite her youthful good looks and family wealth, she finds her perfect match in Jesse (Joss Hutcherson), another outsider who has withdrawn into his art to escape a chilly home life and his own problems at school. Together, they discover a secret getaway that might seem like a fairly ordinary patch of woods to most people; to them, it's a magical world replete with fantastic creatures, hidden dangers and amazing triumphs. It's here the special effects intrude more than accentuate the film; the story would have benefited from a vaguer sense of Jesse and Leslie's own wonder. We don't need to see CGI creatures to believe that these two children do.

The strength here, besides outstanding performances from the two lead actors, is the impact of a story that knows no amount of fantasy can prevent real-life tragedies from occurring. And the tragedy here -- it's hard to write about it without giving it away -- slams into unsuspecting viewers like a sudden kick to the gut.

Parents of younger viewers should be prepared to have a long and serious talk with their children after this movie, but that's not a recommendation to avoid it. "Terabithia" deserves to be seen, discussed and seen again. (Although use some discretion; very young children should wait before seeing this.) My thanks to director Gabor Csupo, as well as writer Paterson, for giving kids something honest and real rather than another serving of high-energy fluff.

by Tom Knapp, Rambles.(n e t) editor

Very Emotional. Surprising. Not About Fantasy, But About Loss and Relationships.......2007-07-04

This movie can be very surprising and possibly an emotional tearjerker if you are not familiar with the story or book it was based on. If you don't mind your young children learning about "loss" and the sadness surrounding it, this will also be an uplifting movie that shows the positive nature of fostering good relationships. I thought I was getting a "fantasy" movie to watch with my son -- it was short on fantasy, and was heavy on the theme of "loss" but was still a good movie overall as it really brought out the emotions it intended to bring out. Many parents may argue whether the movie should be watched by their children (depending on what you are willing to teach your children about early.) As an adult, I found the movie of value and entertaining and also feel it is necessary to be present if you allow younger children watch it.

A beautiful story with something to say.......2007-07-04

I have been wanting to write a review for this film since I saw it for the first time, back in February. Though the main praises and controversies surrounding the story have been well covered by previous reviews on this site, this movie holds a personal significance that prompts me to share my own thoughts--although I must admit, I wasn't quite sure what to say about it at first.

I am a huge movie fan and have seen a generous number of them over the years, and for some reason, "Bridge to Terabithia" is--in all genuine honesty--the very best, most beautiful, most heartwrenching work of art I have ever seen. Even if it might sound silly to regard a Disney film as something that profound and meaningful, it is certainly true that this particular movie had more time, effort, and sensitivity put into it than most others from the infamous Walt Disney empire.

After watching this movie a good 13 or 14 times (the sad thing is, I'm not even joking), it is difficult to pinpoint exactly why it has moved me in a way that no other film has. Yes, it has a powerful message, a well-executed emotional undercurrent, and some truly impressive acting, but I have seen other movies with similar qualities. I don't even remember being a HUGE fan of the accompanying book by Katherine Paterson, although my fourth grade teacher did read it to our class twelve years ago, and what I remember of it is the strong development of unique, positive characters who--at the tender age of 11 or so--receive a thing or two to think about concerning the "realities of life," as several of us would call them.

Countless children's books have been adapted for the big screen over the years, among them including "Because of Winn-Dixie," "Madeline," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," and "Shiloh." When you are transferring stories like these to film, it is so crucial to do it the right way, and sometimes, the end result doesn't really do much justice to the original author. One of the reasons I enjoyed "Bridge to Terabithia" so much is because it did not feel the need to conform the movie script to the things that today's society often deems as important, such domineering special effects and technology-driven means of having fun. This film allowed the main characters to highlight some of the personal creativity that all of us can take a lesson from, without making it too saccharine or unrealistic.

I have read in previous interviews that Katherine Paterson (who, again, penned the original book of the same name) was concerned about how her story would be portrayed on screen once she signed the rights over. To achieve the goal of making her tale shine through in the movie, it was only fitting that her son David Paterson--a producer of the film, a co-writer of the script and the real-life inspiration for the Jess Aarons character--take part in making it all happen, and he was surely the perfect person for the job.

I don't really want to hash over too much of the actual plot, since I was a little late in writing my review and, as a result, have a slew of reviews before mine that provide those details. However, since the acting in this film was so powerful and memorable, I would like to comment a bit on that. There are very few actors who command a role so well that you cannot imagine another person as that character, but Josh Hutcherson was about as incredible in this movie as anyone could have possibly been. I saw him for the first time in "Little Manhattan" and thought he was a cute kid with a fresh face in the booming child star industry, but he has since metamorphosized into this amazing, amazing young actor. Simply put, he just seems to know what he is doing when he gets in front of the camera, and let me tell you, that can't be taught (and in fact, Hutcherson did not take any acting classes when he started out at the age of 9, and his career launched because he was basically a talented kid with a gift for portraying different characters). I've heard about actors who can indicate so much emotion with just their eyes and facial expressions, but Hutcherson absolutely has it down cold. I give him a lot of props for what he did with his character, and I predict he is going to do extremely well in his career (which should easily extend into adulthood, for a 14-year-old with this much natural talent).

As for the critical role of Leslie Burke, it has been said that child star sensation Dakota Fanning was allegedly offered the role first. I admit that I can envision her as the character (though many of you might disagree), but I also feel that the casting director's final choice was for the best, given the remarkable performance by AnnaSophia Robb. Always capable of delivering a strong acting job, Robb used her trademark charisma, beautiful smile, and ever-sparkling eyes to lend all the right elements to this dynamic character. Watching Leslie's strengths and personalities unfold in the plot, she reminded me so much of a friend I had back in grammar school, who was constantly making up stories and thriving in a rambling imagination that did not require a television set, an I-pod, or just hanging around indoors. You know the actors are doing their craft well when you can compare their characters with figures from real life, and for that, both Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb are outstanding up-and-coming stars for being so young. (The obvious close friendship that they have off-screen is also clearly a contributing factor to what they created with Jess and Leslie in the movie.)

Also noteworthy in the cast is young Bailee Madison, whose performance as Jess's younger sister May Belle is about as refreshing as you could ask for in a movie. To see what I mean, just take a second to think about all the 5-year-old children you have seen in the movies over the years, and then ask yourself how many of them actually act like real kids. With her sweet, boisterous, pesky yet affectionate personality throughout the film, Bailee paints a nearly flawless image of any child her age that I would see in my own life, and I give her a lot of credit for that. In some cases, it's far better for a kid to just be herself in a movie, rather than acting too mature and ten years older than she really is, and that is what brings a sense of magic to Bailee's performance (not to mention the fact that you will be hard-pressed to find at least one scene of hers that doesn't make you well up, especially in the film's last thirty minutes). Zooey Deschanel, too, is worth mentioning for the incredibly positive portrayal she gave of a young, vibrant teacher who gets the very best from her students by being compassionate, energetic, and creative. It's the Miss Edmonds-type of educators in our world that make a difference with these kids, as you can see by the impact that Deschanel's character has in the movie.

Although the climax in "Bridge to Terabithia" packs a punch and will leave older audiences with a question or two to answer for the younger viewers, the culminating themes presented are anything but dark and depressing, as some other reviewers here have indicated. Since when is it not completely uplifting to watch kids overcome emotional hardship, recognize the impact of the friends around them, and use what they have learned to make efforts that they may not have considered before? I don't believe for a minute that Jess would have made the decision he did at the end of the film if it weren't for the "close your eyes, but keep your mind wide open" ideal that Leslie introduced to him in their friendship.

And so it goes. Many people have criticized the phenomenon of false advertisement and the unsettling plot threads that changed the film's originally perceived direction in a matter of seconds. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and their differing feelings about the movie are valid, but it's the idea of this being an inappropriate children's film that makes me want to ask the question: What exactly do we want to be teaching our kids, if not courage and compassion in the face of adversity? If we don't want them exposed to certain things, and if we want to protect them from what might be potentially sad or painful, then what opportunity is there to help them learn some of the life lessons that Jess Aarons did at the conclusion of the story? Yes, I understand that it's just a movie, and no kid is going to have a fully developed concept of reality simply by watching "Bridge to Terabithia." However, before we claim that the chosen themes are too much for children and should be replaced with something more along the lines of "The Chronicles of Narnia," we should consider what Katherine Paterson and the filmmakers are trying to communicate with a story like this. Trust me, the message is intended to be a positive one, achieved by working through the tough stuff and discovering a level of happiness that is different, but every bit as valuable.

This isn't to say that I would recommend showing this movie to a preschooler and eagerly filling her plate with all these ideas, but for a kid around the age of 9 or so, it is very much a "children's film" that can be enjoyed by the whole family and appreciated for occasionally uneasy but always important messages it shares. In addition, I am not trying to speak negatively of "Narnia" kinds of action films for kids. Those are also good movies with positive qualities of their own, and if that's what you like, then there is absolutely no problem with it. For the purpose of this particular tale, however, and what it is trying to say to contemporary audiences, I am just saying that it deserves a shot, and if you are looking for a film with kids who are good role models and creative ways of thinking that are encouraged, "Bridge to Terabithia" is worth your time. If you watched it and didn't like it, or if you were upset by the marketing choices that the studio made with the preview trailers, then hey, what's the worst thing that happened? You spent some money on a movie theater ticket, a video rental, or maybe even a DVD purchase that you weren't completely satisfied with--or maybe you watched it with your kids because you were expecting something else, and you had to have a conversation afterward that you weren't exactly thrilled about. Even then, though, in a situation like that, there are far more positive things than negative to derive from the film's ending.

With that in mind, I would like to give this film my strongest recommendation for at least a movie rental. Setting the plot aside, the DVD does have a nice set of special features, including a commentary by Josh Hutcherson and AnnaSophia Robb--as well as one of the film producers Lauren Levine--that is both sweet and interesting to listen to, especially if you are a fan of these two stars. There is another commentary by the director, writer and producer; a short featurette about the special effects; and a second featurette where the cast teams up with educators and elementary school administrators all over the country to discuss some of the best reasons to add this book to today's classroom curriculums. Lastly, there is a music video for the song "Keep Your Mind Wide Open," performed by AnnaSophia Robb and sprinkled with some scenes from the movie. Although her actress-turned-singer approach is similar to what young movie starlets like Hilary Duff and Lindsay Lohan have done in their careers, AnnaSophia is a beautiful girl who, to her credit, appeared to give it her all with this song. Regardless of anything else, it is a nice tune, with lyrics that correlates perfectly with everything that this movie is about. In the above mentioned commentary, AnnaSophia discusses this experience and acknowledges that she isn't planning a singing career, but even so, it is a fun music video to watch, and there's no doubt that she will find great things in her future.

I am writing this because this film has reached me in a way that NO other movie has, and there is just something about it that makes me literally want to watch it over and over (which I have essentially been doing ever since I purchased the DVD). If you have not seen it, or if you are debating whether or not it is the right material for young ones, I really hope that you will at least rent it and give it a chance. Just because it is the best movie I have ever seen does not mean that I expect everyone else to agree, but if nothing else, it is a film with an impeccably chosen cast--a group of actors who obviously grasp the movie's purpose and play it out so effortlessly. When she wrote the book in the 1970's, Katherine Paterson wasn't sure if children could deal with the emotions of the story, but her editor knew that kids could, and she was right on target. Paterson did base the plot on a difficult experience that she encountered with her 8-year-old son many years ago, and after all, what hits home harder than a story that is true?

Average customer rating:

Love this Movie
Miss Potter - a life of courage and beauty
Light-hearted, charming and full of colorful friends
a gem
An Outstanding and Heart Warming Film

Miss Potter
Starring: Renée Zellweger , Ewan McGregor , Emily Watson , Barbara Flynn , and Bill Paterson
Director: Chris Noonan
Manufacturer: Weinstein Company
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000N4SHOE
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Description

(Drama) The story of Beatrix Potter, the author of the beloved and best-selling children's book, "The Tale of Peter Rabbit", and her struggle for love, happiness and success.

Customer Reviews:

Love this Movie.......2007-07-05

It is so refreshing to find a movie that has no bad words in it. Ms. Zellweger does a awsome job as Ms. Potter. And I have found that Ms. Potter and I have a lot in common.

Miss Potter - a life of courage and beauty.......2007-07-02

The quiet introduction of a watercolorist at work, sparkling with swirls of vivid color, set the mood for this wonderful, gentle film. The settings were a feast for the eyes, and the story development moved at an satisfactorily eighteenth century pace, but the impeccable characters, wonderfully played, are the life-blood of this movie. The brisk energy of Beatrix [Zellweger], the engaging smile of Norman Warne [MacGregor], and the directness and kindness of Millie [Watson] created a marvelous chemisty. In joy and in sorrow, each character rang true. Though a less central character, Lloyd Owens adds value in his role as Willie Heelis as well. Potter's indomitable spirit, however, is what keeps this movie from sinking into mere romanticism. In spite of pain, disapproval, and deep loss, she found happiness in her art and in her determination to live life forward. It is more than a feel-good movie; it is an inspiration to courageous living wrapped in delightful artistry.

Light-hearted, charming and full of colorful friends.......2007-07-02

I rented this DVD for my wife, thinking it was the kind of thing she'd enjoy. She loves period films and adores Renée Zellweger. I'm not typically fond of either of those two things so I didn't figure on watching much if any of the movie. But as the film started, and I happened to be in the room, I realized quickly that this is a charming and warm movie built on a strong character.

Notably, Renée Zellweger seems to nearly disappear into the role of Beatrix Potter and you quite forget that you're watching her act. It's rare to see that kind of skill but when it is captured in a movie like this it's magical.

Ewan McGregor is every bit the modern leading man but with a respectful nod to the dashing gents of yesterday's Hollywood. He is easy-to-like and doesn't for a moment feel as though he's trying to 'star' in this movie. He's more than happy to let the movie become its own entity in which he is but a part.

I began by saying that I wasn't sure I'd even sit down and watch this film, so it's worth noting that I sat entertained straight through to the end as was glad I did. This is certainly something you can watch with the kids, though the romance and the character development might be a bit slow for some of the younger ones.

One very odd thing to mention is that the DVD cover art is quite strange in that it shows Ewan McGregor clean shaven. But when you watch the movie you'll realize that he sports a moustache throughout. Not sure why the difference in appearance from one to the other but it was something that caught my eye as I navigated to this page to leave this review. It hardly matters though... this movie is about so much more than just a moustache. :)

5 Stars! Highly recommended!!

a gem.......2007-06-29

you can say this movie is perhaps avoiding the much mentioned darker side of miss potter- who seems almost delightfully frothy throughout most of this great bio pic-- u could say mcgregor's performance was a bit superficial---tho there is more chemistry between them here than say between drew barrymore and hugh grant in music and lyrics-- an unwatchable mess of a movie ! but this labor of love-- w a very interesting director's commentary-tho i wish miss zellweger was there to chime in--is probably one of the best movies ive seen recently---- the attention to detail is thrilling actually-- the art direction impeccable ! and ms zellweger-- gives her best performance to date by a long shot---- her sustained performNCE is a revelation---was she even nominated for an oscar?? who remembers ?? but i give her my own right here----and the actors who play her parents--are also so in character so convincing-- so relaxed and nuanced in their work---what goes on between these three actors is just a sheer joy to watch ! very uncommon stuff in any movie---kudos to everyone involved in this charming touching & delightful and very well wrought gem of a movie----i`ve seen this movie 4 times now showing it to different friends---enjoying it more and more each time- i swear!!!beautiful !!!!!!!! i'd like to see the same cast and direcors/producers do chekov's three sisters-- w renee as masha---- and the mother here as the brother's crazy wife who takes over the household--- anyway -- miss potter is golden as they say-----check it out now !! its rich !!

An Outstanding and Heart Warming Film.......2007-06-29

This is an excellent film with truly delightful characters. The most evil person in the film is not really evil -- just clueless. Rene Zellweger makes a great Potter and shows her to be ahead of her time as she opts for independence from male domination. Ewan McGregor does a good job in playing her shy suitor. This was a wonderful film that had no profanity, no nudiy, no explosions, no car crashes, and relied totally on the characters, who came across as realistic and believable. Watching Beatrix grow from a shy spinister into an independent woman in love with a man who loved her for herself was a treat to watch. True love grows by inches and this is what was shown here, so when the kiss came it was powerful and had meaning.

This is really not a guy's movie, but any guy who wants to get on the good side of girl should rent this movie because I think most women will relate to Beatrix and for the guys it is a lesson in how patience is better than haste when it comes to women. I liked the film -- my wife loved it!!

The Blue Planet - Seas of Life Collector's Set (Parts 1-4)

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The Blue Planet
The Blue Planet - Seas of Life Collector's Set (Parts 1-4)
The Blue Planet
Blue Planet enchantment
The Ultimate Ocean Documentary

The Blue Planet - Seas of Life Collector's Set (Parts 1-4)
Director: Alastair Fothergill
Manufacturer: BBC Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

Nature & Wildlife | Special Interests | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

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Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series
The Life of Mammals
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ASIN: B000069HXC
Release Date: 2002-08-27

Product Description

Come explore years of incredible undersea photography and breathtaking views into a world we share. Choose four DVDs or four VHS tapes. Seasonal Seas/Cral Seas, Tidal Seas/Coasts, Ocean World/Frozen Seas, The Open Ocean and The Deep. Two titles per disc or tape. (Some scenes may be graphic in nature.)

Amazon.com

Extraordinary footage and eloquent narration by David Attenborough highlight the BBC's remarkable wildlife series The Blue Planet: Seas of Life. "Ocean World" begins with astonishing views of a gigantic blue whale--the elusive Holy Grail of undersea photography--and the marvels continue to demonstrate the power, diversity, and profound ecological influence of Earth's oceans. "Frozen Seas" examines whales, walruses, penguins, and other creatures under the extreme conditions of the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. The next two episodes are even better. "Open Ocean" travels thousands of miles into the vast "liquid desert," where currents determine how the ocean's diverse life forms will assume their places in the food chain. More amazing, "The Deep" descends with a state-of-the-art submersible to the ocean's abyssal plain and beyond, filming such bizarre creatures as the fangtooth, bioluminescent jellies, transparent squid, the giant-mouthed gulper eel, and the never-before-seen hairy angler fish.

"Seasonal Seas" focuses on the explosion of life that accompanies every annual blooming of plankton, numbering in the countless billions and captured here with brilliant microphotography. In "Coral Seas," miles-long reefs of living coral are explored, from deep within (requiring brief computer animation) to the surrounding environs, where you'll see white-tipped sharks in a feeding frenzy while beautiful harlequin shrimp wrestle with a starfish. "Tidal Seas" explores the myriad life forms that thrive when lunar gravity pulls the oceans offshore. "Coasts" is easily the most brutal episode, but no less mesmerizing. The most unexpected, and horrifying, sequence is the orca, earning its "killer whale" nickname by capturing, killing, and tail-tossing a seal pup--a sequence so mysteriously primal that even the most seasoned marine biologist will be utterly amazed. One of the finest wildlife programs you're ever likely to see, The Blue Planet: Seas of Life provides the privilege of visiting a truly alien world teeming with the rarest wonders of nature. The series was recut into the feature-length Deep Blue in 2005. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

The Blue Planet.......2007-07-03

I could not believe it when I saw an ad for deep blue. I remembered a special I had seen on tv about the ocean. I kept trying to watch and see if it was ever going to come on tv again, because i wanted to try to catch it all. I was playing music at night and working in the daytime so it was hard for me to see all of the series. But here some of it was on the ad for Deep Blue. And I wanted it. So I got on [...] and much to my surprise I found Deep Blue and and The collector's set of The Blue Planet. So I ordered both. I had told my sister and her kids and grand kids about The Blue Planet. So I couldn't wait to take it to their house to let them see the amazing filming that was done on this remarkable collection. If anyone enjoys the ocean and films about the ocean, you have not seen anything and I mean anything until you see this collection. Do not see how it can be any better. Their All going to order it to add to their collection.

Larry Hull

The Blue Planet - Seas of Life Collector's Set (Parts 1-4).......2007-07-03

The Blue Planet - Seas of Life Collector's Set (Parts 1-4) Great series. Every science department K-college should have this in their library. Photography is top-notch.

The Blue Planet.......2007-06-27

This DVD collection is very well done and extremily educational. My teenage son loves these DVDs and watches them over other things on TV or other DVDs. Would make anyone a great gift!!!!

Blue Planet enchantment.......2007-06-27

Enjoyable fantastic film of life on earth. The ocean shots are the best I have seen. This is a set that we will watch over and over again.

The Ultimate Ocean Documentary.......2007-06-27

It is rare to see anything on Amazon where this many people have given it five stars. I just had to write a review to say that they were right! Definitely worth five stars. This is the most amazing documentary I have seen of the sea: chock full of riveting footage, filled with amazing facts, and never dull. From bacteria to whales, from the coasts to the open ocean, from the birds that live off the ocean to the deepest ocean floor, from feeding habits to breeding behavior, this series shows you things you could never have imagined. My sister, who was visiting, was so riveted by the DVD she saw that I will have to send her this series for her birthday.

As someone with an interest in saltwater aquariums, a past member of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, and the parent of a little boy who is obsessed with sea animals (we have lots of books), I thought I knew something about the ocean. Boy, was I wrong! I was stunned by what I learned in the first half hour. This series is a GEM. We also have some of the IMAX underwater movies, but the material in the Blue Planet just blows IMAX out of the water. IMAX may have the better video quality, but you learn so, so much more from the Blue Planet. No contest.

Average customer rating:

A great cast makes this a great movie
Funny - Good for men & women
Great Movie!
Great Movie
Fun for some

Wild Hogs (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Tim Allen , John Travolta , Martin Lawrence , William H. Macy , and Ray Liotta
Director: Walt Becker
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment / Touchstone
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Comic Action | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Ghost Rider (Two-Disc Extended Cut)
Shooter (Widescreen Edition)
Zodiac (Widescreen Edition)
Night at the Museum (Widescreen Edition)
Premonition (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B000QFCD7W
Release Date: 2007-08-14

Description

Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence and William H. Macy star in Wild Hogs, the hysterically funny comedy about four weekend-warrior friends who decide to rev up their ho-hum suburban lives with a cross-country motorcycle adventure. They don their leathers, fire up their hogs and throw caution and their cell phones to the wind as they hit the open highway. A lot can happen on the road to nowhere, including a run-in with the bad-to-the-bone Del Fuegos, a real biker gang who don't take kindly to the wannabes. Filled with hilarious misadventures, screwball situations and madcap mayhem, this laugh-out-loud comedy is a movie your whole family will go hog wild over.

Customer Reviews:

A great cast makes this a great movie.......2007-06-28

Wild Hogs is a typical midlife crisis movie. Four men, who have been friends for years and who suit up in leather and ride to the local bar and grill regularly to hang out, suddenly wonder what happened to their lives. They all realize, one by one, that they've hit middle age and fallen into a rut, and they decide to take a cross country trip on their bikes to get out of it.

This is one of the more entertaining movies I've seen in a while. What made it for me, however, was not the plot or even the comedic moments but rather the excellent performances by a great cast. John Travolta plays the cool-guy-in-a-midlife-crisis role perfectly, and Tim Allen pulls off his when-did-my-life-get-so-bland part flawlessly as well. Throw in great performances by Martin Lawrence, a man desperate to get out from under his overbearing wife's thumb, and William H. Macy, a geek who hopes he can FINALLY do something that will make him cool, and you've got a great group of main characters.

Macy's performance is probably the most surprisingly good of the bunch. He's downright hilarious in this movie as the 'rebel nerd.' And Ray Liotta is excellent as the villain, the antagonist who tries to refuse this group of "Wild Hogs" their right to ride on the grounds that they're not real bikers.

This is a very funny movie and is sure to keep you entertained. With a relatively unoriginal plot this may not have been a great film if not for the excellent cast, but these guys will have you cheering for the middle-aged suburbanite and longing for the open road yourself.

Funny - Good for men & women.......2007-06-26

My husband and I don't often agree on movies - he tends to like horrors (too gory for me) and war movies (same problem) while I like comedy and sci-fi (okay, he likes SOME sci-fis, too) but I never would've thought I'd like a biker movie! This one I did. It's funny and it's manly but not so much that a woman can't appreciate it, as well. My favorite part is when some average (overweight) middle-aged man starts singing "Don't you wish your girlfriend was HOT like ME?!" Histerical!

Actors include: Tim Allen, John Travolta, William H. Mac, Ray Liotta, Martin Lawrence, and others.

Great Movie!.......2007-06-22

I loved this movie. I saw it twice; the first time with my friend who is a Harley man and the second time with my daughter, Both laughed all the way through. I can't wait to buy the movie. My Harley friend is also waiting to buy it to watch with his fellow biker friends.

Great Movie.......2007-06-19

I Loved this movie. this movie is about four friends (Tim Allan,John Trovlta, Martin Lawerence and William H. Macy) who love riding their Motorcycles. Now all four of them are stressed out and are having personal problems and they are being told that they are not real bikers and they are old. so they deside to take a road trip on their bikes and that is where the adventur starts. you will have to get the movie to find out what happens....

Fun for some.......2007-06-17

When this movie first appeared, I read the review by N.O.Scott, in the New York Times. He blasted it (in a very funny way.) Then a friend of mine seconded his opinion, claiming it was dreadful. She mentioned that the 12 yr old boy she brought to the film thoroughly enjoyed it. One of the readers of the NYTimes, a jr. high teacher, said he found the movie to be perfectly geared to a jr. high audience.

So....I waited till it came to the dollar theater, not expecting a whole lot. I think that expectations are important...I have found that if I expect a lot I'm often disappointed, and vice-versa. So I offer this review saying that if you don't expect High Art, and are not bothered by politically incorrect homophobic jokes, you might like this. (I also advise you to read the review here by Mark Eremite, which I think is quite intelligent.)

So, expecting not-much, I bought my very cheap ticket and joined the crowd at the Sat. afternoon show at the cheapest theater in town. I actually enjoyed it! Not a huge amount---but my attention never left the screen from beginning to end. With the exception of a really tacky episode with a gay cop, there's nothing really offensive. And that says a lot for movies these days.

I think that the success of the film (and it was a huge box office smash) is due to the very capable and attractive cast. John Travolta is strong and charismatic. While I wouldn't call him exactly handsome, he certainly is hunky and not bad to look at. He doesn't seem to take the role terribly seriously but maybe that's ok. Martin Lawrence is very funny and endearing. His facial expressions are terrific and he excudes a sweet vulnerability as the hen pecked plumber.

William H. Macy, a fine actor, brings a touch of class to what could have been a very dopey character--the computer nerd. He embues this girl-shy guy with an innocence and simplicity that is really touching. Even with his rumpled face and tendancy to self-destruct, he wins the prettiest girl in town, which I found truly touching.

Tim Allen's performance, as the dentist, was the most lack-luster, in my opinion. He does have a nice moment near the end, when confronting the "real" bikers, telling them that they, are really the posers. That won points for me.

The big surprise is the cameo appeaance of the archetypal film bad-biker, Peter Fonda! He is appropriately adorable with his grey curls under his bandana, eclipsing all of the other bikers, and wannabes with his presence. A nice touch, for those of us who remember him cruising through the same New Mexico territory in Easy Rider.

Under all the silliness, there are some nice lessons and the good guys really do win out. Just read the reviews here, see who you most resonate with, and make that your index of how much you'll like this movie.

The Sound of Music (Two-Disc 40th Anniversary Special Edition)

Average customer rating:

The Sound of Music
the magic is alive...
Pure Magic
The Sound of Music
saw it as a child and now at my 40s.. it still holds the magic

The Sound of Music (Two-Disc 40th Anniversary Special Edition)
Starring: Julie Andrews , Christopher Plummer , Richard Haydn , Peggy Wood , and Anna Lee
Director: Robert Wise
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Special Editions | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B000AP04OM
Release Date: 2005-11-15

Product Description

Shot in Salzburg against the majestic Bavarian Alps, THE SOUND OF MUSIC is considered one of the greatest screen musicals ever made. Winner of five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director (Robert Wise), the film, based on a real family and their true events, tells the story of a young postulate, Maria (Julie Andrews), who, after proving too high-spirited for the Mother Abess and other nuns, is sent off to work as a governess to seven unruly children. The Von Trapp family is run, in military style, by the seemingly cold-hearted Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer), a lonely widowed naval officer. Seeing how badly he and his children need companionship, he proposes to the Baroness Schraeder (Eleanor Parker), a calculating, mutual friend of beloved family friend Max Detweiler (Richard Haydn). It is the baroness who soon realizes that it's Maria--with her warmth and love for the children--the captain really loves. It is nearly bliss for the newly formed family who loves to sing together--except for the cloud looming over their beloved Austrian horizon: Hitler is ascending to power, forcing Von Trapp to decide whether to join the Nazi party--which he loathes--or force his family to leave their home forever. One of the most memorable scores ever written (by Rodgers and Hammerstein) and breathtaking performances by Andrews, Plummer, and the seven children mark this classic as one of the world's most favorite films.

System Requirements:

Running Time 174 Min

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com essential video

When Julie Andrews sang "The hills are alive with the sound of music" from an Austrian mountaintop in 1965, the most beloved movie musical was born. To be sure, the adaptation of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II's Broadway hit has never been as universally acclaimed as, say, Singin' in the Rain. Critics argue that the songs are saccharine (even the songwriters regretted the line "To sing through the night like a lark who is learning to pray") and that the characters and plot lack the complexity that could make them more interesting. It's not hard to know whom to root for when your choice is between cute kids and Nazis.

Read our interview with
Charmian Carr, who played
Liesl von Trapp in The
Sound of Music.

It doesn't matter. Audiences fell in love with the struggling novice Maria (Andrews), the dashing Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer), and, yes, the cute kids, all based on a real-life World War II Austrian family. Such songs as "My Favorite Things," "Do Re Mi," "Climb Every Mountain," and the title tune became part of the 20th century Zeitgeist. In addition, The Sound of Music officially became a cult hit when audiences in London began giving it the Rocky Horror Picture Show treatment, attending showings dressed as their favorite characters and delivering choreographed comments and gestures along with the movie. So why resist, especially when the 40th Anniversary Edition is the best DVD yet.

The DVDs
As if the direct involvement of Julie Andrews weren't enough, the 40th Anniversary Edition of The Sound of Music is a must-have for fans because of the fond sense of nostalgia that will touch all but the worst cynic's heart. Andrews introduces both discs and contributes a commentary track on the film. It's a joy to hear her speak about the film (for example, she explains how she solved her dislike for the lyrics of "I Have Confidence"), and also heard are remarks by Christopher Plummer (who at one point refers to his being 48, which if true would mean his comments were made in about 1975), Charmian Carr (Liesl), choreographer Dee Dee Wood, and Johannes Von Trapp (the real-life Maria Von Trapp's youngest son, who admits that his father did have a whistle but claims that he was not as stern as portrayed in the film). Even with all those people involved, there are still significant gaps of silence, however. Retained from the previous two-disc editions is the commentary track by director Robert Wise, which during the musical numbers becomes an isolated score with no vocals. Also new are sing-along subtitles in English, Spanish, and French, which allow you to have your own sing-along at home. In addition, the film's remastering shows off a truer and much warmer sense of color.

On the second disc, Andrews participates in a new 63-minute documentary "My Favorite Things: Julie Andrews Remembers." But it's really a general making-of documentary with contributions from a number of principals, including director Robert Wise, who died in mid-2005 (not surprisingly, some stories are repeated from the commentary track and from the 87-minute documentary on the previous DVD). Andrews also shares a warm 19-minute sit-down with Christopher Plummer. Carr, who over the years has become the film's biggest advocate, narrates a new 22-minute documentary, "On Location with The Sound of Music," in which she revisits the places in Salzburg where the movie was filmed, and even joins one of the "Sound of Music tours" that have become a booming industry. And acknowledging another big industry, there's a 12-minute featurette on the sing-along phenomenon, focusing specifically on the audience, costumed and otherwise, that attended a sold-out Hollywood Bowl sing-along in 2005. Making special appearances at the event are four von Trapp great-grandchildren and all seven of the actors who played the children. Thankfully, those actors also appear in a 33-minute documentary "From Liesl to Gretl: A 40th Anniversary Reunion," in which they explain what they do now (many are still in show business) and share stories about the film, who was afraid of Christopher Plummer, and what they feel is their responsibility to the film's passionate fans. What's touching is how the group still considers themselves a family so many years later. Other material includes an A&E documentary on the von Trapps, Mia Farrow's screen test for the Liesl role, and a restoration comparison.

What's Missing?
If you already own the previous two-disc editions, you'll want this 40th Anniversary Edition as well, but you might not want to toss those versions. Probably the most significant omission from this edition is the original 14-minute documentary Charmian Carr made in 1967, "Salzburg Sight and Sound." Carr's new documentary includes only a couple clips from the vintage piece. It's not a great work of art, but it's a notable loss and would have made a good contrast with the new documentary. In addition, the new making-of documentary is about 24 minutes shorter than the old one. Also missing are the audio-only features--the interviews, the radio programs, the Ernest Lehman spotlight--and the historical still gallery examining the history of Salzburg and the film. Granted, this material probably got the least play of any of the old features, but completists might want to hold onto their old discs for it. It would have also been nice to have screen tests other than Farrow's. Tests for all the children and for Christopher Plummer (including singing in his own voice before he was dubbed for the film) were included on Hollywood Screen Tests and Rodgers and Hammerstein: The Sound of Movies. Again, they're not critical but it would have been nice to have them all in one place. So maybe the 40th Anniversary Edition isn't the complete package on The Sound of Music, but it's the most satisfying edition yet, with enough new material to please even the veteran SoM DVD watcher. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

The Sound of Music.......2007-07-02

Shot in pristine color on location near Salzburg--and featuring that dizzying opening shot of Maria belting out the title tune from a verdant hilltop--"Music" fully deserves its reputation as one of the most popular films of all time. The daisy-fresh Andrews is simply terrific, whether she's acting or singing, and the songs--"Do Re Mi," "Climb Every Mountain," and "My Favorite Things"--have become part of our cultural heritage. Adapted from the Rodgers and Hammerstein Broadway play, the film might be a bit schmaltzy at moments, but in all, it remains utterly irresistible. The hills are still alive--and your singing pipes will be too--with the wondrous "Sound of Music."

the magic is alive..........2007-06-26

I was only six but I still remember when my mother took us kids to the movies to see 'The Sound of Music'. A memory permantly ingrained as is this film. From the most amazing opening shot ever filmed this classic film never lets go of yor senses. It's fun, thrilling and holds up extremely well. Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer are exquisite. Sure some of the lyrics are corny and simple but it all works and I'm not even a fan of musicals.

Pure Magic.......2007-06-25

Who doesn't know the general plot of this movie? Well just in case: Maria is thinking of becoming a nun, yet Sister Superior isn't so sure about that and sends her off to become the governess to seven Von Trapp children. There she meets the very strict father and the not so angelic children. She quickly wins over the children and their father. While all this is going on the Nazis are slowly but surely taking over the country. By the second half of the movie they become a true family and decide to make a dareing escape from the Nazis.

Now that pretty much wraps it up plot wise, yet there is so much more. The songs are very sugar coated but so what? They are there for a purpose: teaching children to not be afraid, coaching them on how to sing,etc. In most parts they are there for the pleasure of the young and the young at heart.

I'll close with an example. I was driving with my wife and our girls in the car, and we were looking at about an hour trip to my mother's house so we popped The Sound of Music in the DVD and we were on our way. As I heard (I coudn't see the movie of course) the movie and we sang the songs on our journey, I looked back and every face was smiling. Now if you are looking for a movie like that you've come to the right place.

The Sound of Music .......2007-06-11

A Family Night is made of... Sound of Music. Worth watching over and over.

saw it as a child and now at my 40s.. it still holds the magic.......2007-06-05

This review is about the movie and not the DVD Product-

I saw it yesterday, Im 43, last time I saw ir I was 28 and prior to that I was 12 the first time I saw it. It still holds the magic, and now I can say its a classic for all the family.

Yes, now I see details I previously did no see. The plot is so idillic that you don't feel the nazi presence inspiring fear, the love scenes are a perfect example of puritanism and political correctness. Yet there is love and there Julie Andrews gives a performance larger than life to captivate all public.

I do not know why in the review preface there is some critisims of the lyrics of the song "Sound of music"- those were elaborated lyrics and none of that senseless rap or overly simplistic lyrics. Sugarcoated? You bet, but just like the pinl lemonade they were sipping on the terrace, "its not too sweet, not too acid, its just too pink "

The movie has an ending that is rather sudden, just as it starts with that glorious song it should have ended with one as well, a triumph song. I still have the same feeling I did when I was 12, what happened to them?

Bridge To Terabithia (Full Screen Edition)

Average customer rating:

I preferred the Wonderworks version
a potentially epic movie that was very badly made, should have been done as "big fish" was
A remarkable film
Very Emotional. Surprising. Not About Fantasy, But About Loss and Relationships
A beautiful story with something to say

Bridge To Terabithia (Full Screen Edition)
Starring: Josh Hutcherson , AnnaSophia Robb , Zooey Deschanel , Robert Patrick , and Bailee Madison
Director: Gabor Csupo
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B000OYCM5I
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

I preferred the Wonderworks version.......2007-07-05

a potentially epic movie that was very badly made, should have been done as "big fish" was.......2007-07-05

A remarkable film.......2007-07-05

Very Emotional. Surprising. Not About Fantasy, But About Loss and Relationships.......2007-07-04

A beautiful story with something to say.......2007-07-04

Average customer rating:

Hugh & Drew --A Winning Team!!!
Awesome and Romantic
No surprises equal Surprisingly good!
Cute boy meets girl movie!!
my new favorite movie

Music and Lyrics (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Hugh Grant , Drew Barrymore , Brad Garrett , Kristen Johnston , and Campbell Scott
Director: Marc Lawrence (II)
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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

( M ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B00005JPE3
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Amazon.com

Music and Lyrics is frothy and sweet, like the top of a perfect cappuccino shared a deux. Hugh Grant is a self-professed "happy has-been," playing his befuddled, adorable persona more spot-on than he has since Four Weddings and a Funeral. As Alex, former member of an '80s pop band who years later is playing at water parks and high school reunions, he's settled into a life of lesser expectations. Drew Barrymore, quietly radiant, is Sophie, the underachieving girl Friday who arrives to water--make that overwater--Alex's plants--and to explode him out of that comfy rut. If the plot's a bit farfetched, it matters not, since the two lead characters are so likable--and make such beautiful music together. Big bonus: the supportive role of Kristen Johnston as Rhonda, Sophie's older sis (and longtime Alex fan) whose hilarious performance threatens to steal the show whenever she's onscreen. (The owner of a chain of successful weight-loss centers, Rhonda tries to comfort a rattled Sophie: "Want to do some stress eating?") The film also marks the remarkable debut of Haley Bennett, who plays a pop star of Britney/Cristina proportions with deadpan sincerity radiating through her skimpy outfits and mega-extensions. As Alex and Sophie work on crafting musical magic, something else is taking hold. It's music to the ears of anyone needing a sweet romantic comedy that hits all the right notes. --A.T. Hurley

Description

First you're hot, then you're not...and then you're Alex Fletcher (HUGH GRANT). So when the sizzlingest tween-queen on the charts asks the has-been '80s pop sensation to write her a song, he grabs for another chance at stardom. Problem: Alex can say it with music, but he sure can't say it with words. Enter Sophie Fisher (DREW BARRYMORE), his beguiling if quirky plant lady, who has a green thumb for lyrics. Together, they go after songwriting success -- and discover that if you want to write the perfect love song, it helps to fall in love. With Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore at the keyboard and Marc Lawrence (Two Weeks Notice) directing, Music and Lyrics is a witty, wacky romantic comedy that faces the music...and laughs!

Customer Reviews:

Hugh & Drew --A Winning Team!!!.......2007-07-01

After seeing this movie all I have to say is I hope Hugh and Drew will continue to pair up again in other movies. Their onscreen chemistry was unmistakable. And besides the great music heard throughout the supporting cast Brad Garrett, Haley Bennet, Kristen Johnson, and Campbell Scott was equally amazing. For people who don't like Hugh Grant, this movie will change your mind!!

Awesome and Romantic.......2007-06-30

There are good types of movies you can see. Different types. Not just action/adventure/fantasy films like "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Harry Potter," but there are some comedies like spoof, and others are romantic comedies.

I have to admit that one of the first most calmest things of a movie genre is a romantic comedy. Especially, when there's lots of love songs. So, watching a movie like "Music and Lyrics," perhaps, you should be entertained with lots of love, excitement and joy through a romantic comedy.

"Music and Lyrics" opens up with Alex Fletcher (Hugh Grant) singing the song with his band in an 80's style music video called "Pop! Goes My Heart." And that's what makes a movie like "Music and Lyrics" shine, and for the lots of its parts, it works.

The movie tells the story about Alex Fletcher, who is in a band. He is one of the most popular bandsman. He one days meets a lovely woman, Sophie Fisher (Drew Barrymore), when Sophie waters the plants in his house. Together, they come for a good song to write for them, as singers, to perform.

But on the other hand, a young pop star, by the name of Cora Coleman (Haley Bennett) wants to have Fletcher write another song for her. Now, see that's one thing for Alex to work it out with Sophie, maybe yeah, along with his businessman, Chris Riley (Brad Garrett). But their work has brought them faith, friendship and love.

Honestly by trying to be a movie critic, I can know of old romantic comedies, like "Meet the Parents" and "50 First Dates," that I found "Music and Lyrics" to be charming. It has plenty of appropriate humor for the teens, yet kids can try to understand the humor at age 10.

Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore are great together as the lovely romantic comedy couple. They perform a great performance and their singing is incredible. When it comes to music, they are both absolute geniouses, and that's what a type of a movie "Music and Lyrics" should be like. But another great star of the film is Brad Garrett as Alex's businessman, Chris Riley. He sure is funny with his funny humor, and that's another thing that shouldn't stop you from seeing "Music and Lyrics."

If you like romantic comedies, you should definitely enjoy "Music and Lyrics." There's plenty of humor for the teenagers and kids who are older than 10, maybe 8 or 9, should enjoy this movie. I, for one, can take this movie with a lot of movement and feel, and that's what you should get with a movie like "Music and Lyrics."

No surprises equal Surprisingly good!.......2007-06-29

This movie was cutesy, campy and trite. It was a cliche parody of itself from the beginning. And that is part of what makes it so wonderful. It doesn't try to pretend to be something it't not.

Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore are thrown together in the oddest and most unlikely of circumstances when Grant, a throwback to the 80's pop music scene, is offered a chance to write a song for an un-and-coming 21st century teen queen that is an almost annoyingly accurate parody of Shakira, Christina Aguilara and a host of other would be starlets you could name.

When a struggling Grant can't seem to find the words to express his heart's melody, Barrymore walks in completing a pairing that is as wonderful personally as they are professionally.

This is a darling comedy/drama/romance/whatever you'd like to call it... I highly recommend it!

Cute boy meets girl movie!!.......2007-06-29

This is an adorable boy meets girl type of movie. I had heard through friends that this was a great movie but was even more pleasantly surprised after watching it! Great feel good movie and wonderful satire of the 80's music scene.......especially love the opening video clip!!!!

my new favorite movie.......2007-06-28

What's not to love about this movie? It's witty, fun, funny, and a great story. When you break it all down the films just down right entertaining. It is rare, these days, to find a film that has both a captivating storyline and the ability to have you rolling on the ground laughing. It is even rarer to find a movie that you can watch over and over again without tiring of it.

Let me explain; Music and Lyrics is almost exactly like a good song. The first time you hear it, you think 'hey, this is catchy' and you decided that you like it. The next time you listen to it you pay attention to the lyrics, and find out that you love the song even more. I realize I stole a metaphor from the movie itself, but it's true. The first time you watch the film you are sucked into the story; from the very first panel you are captivated. It's just so absurd yet so clever that you can't turn away. The banter in the film is so entertaining, but since you won't catch everything in the first sitting you'll want to watch it again. This time paying more attention to the banter, you'll be busting stitches as you listen to what these people are saying.

Hugh Grant is brilliant and Drew Barrymore pulled off her role flawlessly. The two main protagonists have so much chemistry everything just clicks. They defiantly found all the right people for this movie, even Brad Garrett, who didn't have much of a lime light role, was perfect. Whoever cast this movie is a genius, everything just works.

Music and Lyrics follows the life of a former 1980's pop star named Alex Fletcher. He was a big deal back in the day, but after his boy band broke up he fell out of the mainstream spotlight. Now he works as a 'has-been' act performing in hotel showrooms, state fairs, and amusement parks for his now middle age fan base. However, he won't be able to keep this up for long since new 'old acts' like the Spice Girls are popping up on his territory and stealing the spot light. To reclaim some glory Fletcher teams up with Cora Corman, the current reigning pop sensation, for a duet...only one problem, Fletcher has to write the song by Friday. He teams up with the girl who waters his plants, Sophie Fisher, to write a hit duet that Cora will approve of.

Music and Lyrics is defiantly a worth while investment for any movie lover. I've watched it four times since buying the DVD last week, and every single time I watch I find something new and hilarious that I had missed in the first few sittings. If you love straight face comedy, witty banter, or simply good movies...you must add this film to your collection. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

Average customer rating:

good shepard, BAD movie
CIA spies
C.I.A. Confused I Am
Boring as Heck !!!!!!
Over-hyped, over-cast, poorly written