Trees

Starring:Ron Palillo
Studio: Brain Damage Films
Product Type: DVD

Average customer rating:

Pollyanna of the Savanna
The British Empire Revisited: Romance and Reality in Africa
British Couple in Africa in 1913.
A Short Review
Flame Trees of Thika

The Flame Trees of Thika
Starring: Hayley Mills , David Robb , Nicholas Jones , Sharon Maughan , and Ben Cross
Director: Roy Ward Baker
Manufacturer: A&E Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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The Flame Trees of Thika: Memories of an African Childhood (Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics)
The Jewel in the Crown
Fortunes of War
The Far Pavilions
Love in a Cold Climate

ASIN: B0007GP83G
Release Date: 2005-03-29

Product Description

When a young Edwardian family leaves the shores of England to build a home in the wilderness of East Africa, what they encounter is beyond their imagination, but forever remembered through the eyes of their 11-year-old daughter. Based on the beloved memoir by Elspeth Huxley, The Flame Trees of Thika brings to life the color and adventure of turn-of-the-century Kenya. In 1913, Robin (David Robb) and Tilly Grant (Hayley Mills) arrive in Kenya with the dream of transforming a barren plot of land into a thriving coffee plantation. But torrential rains, relentless insects and murderous animals, as well as relations with natives and other settlers, challenge their ambitions. Will England call them back? Or will the wide-eyed wonder of young Elspeth (Holly Aird) help unlock the mysteries of a foreign land and open the doors into the pleasures and rewards of a new home? From the creator of Upstairs, Downstairs, The Flame Trees of Thika is an enchanting, critically acclaimed mini-series featuring all seven episodes authentically shot on location.

System Requirements:

Running Time 350 Min

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

Based on the beloved autobiographical novel by Elspeth Huxley, BBC miniseries The Flame Trees of Thika brings an eventful childhood in Eastern Africa to vivid life. In 1913, 11-year-old Elspeth Grant (Holly Aird) traveled with her mother, Tilly (Hayley Mills), from England to Kenya to help build a coffee plantation. (Born in 1907, Huxley was actually six at the time.) Her father, Robin (David Robb), who had preceded them, was waiting to greet his family in the arid town of Thika. Also waiting for them were lions, elephants, giraffes, and countless other creatures (the 18-week production was filmed on location in Kenya).

Directed by Roy Ward Baker (A Night To Remember) and written by John Hawkesworth (Upstairs, Downstairs), The Flame Trees of Thika isn't just about one girl, or one family, adrift in an occasionally hostile foreign land, but also about the dangers of colonialism. The Grants, their neighbors, the Palmers (Nicholas Jones and Sharon Maughan), and most of the other Europeans in Thika feel certain they're bringing culture to the uncivilized, without realizing what they're destroying in the process. Ian Crawford (Ben Cross from Chariots of Fire), is one possible exception to the rule, but he brings another kind of danger in his pursuit of Mrs. Palmer.

Since their actions are seen through the eyes of a child, The Flame Trees of Thika is never preachy, but the meddling of these adults--however well intentioned--in the affairs of the Masai, the Kikuyu, and other locals frequently creates tension. As Tilly notes, "It's like two whole separate circles revolving around each other--their world and ours--and only just touching occasionally." What began as Elspeth's coming-of-age story, becomes one for her parents, as well, in this sensitive and engaging series. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Customer Reviews:

Pollyanna of the Savanna.......2007-07-04

Hayley Mills looks great wherever she is. Half of the American adolescent/pre-adolescent population fell in love with her years ago when she was Disney's favorite little star. I was one of them, so the pleasure of this marvelous mini-series rests in the joy of seeing Ms Mills again. She is decidedly middle-aged, but she is still a sweet and innocent and charming as ever. The entire production is first-rate: the setting itself is the star, of course, but the musical score, the acting, which includes a sizable native tribe who shares the land with the pre-WWI colonial family trying to make something of the arid property. There are multiple themes at work here: class tensions and rivalries, love affairs, intriguing white-blacks miscues and misunderstandings, along with expected colonialist arrogance and racism. It was a magical time nonetheless, and one shares the young family's hopes and ambitions. They may be carrying the British flag, but they are decent and good and honorable at every turn, so you can't help cheering them on.

The British Empire Revisited: Romance and Reality in Africa .......2007-06-27

"The Flame Trees of Thika" is a masterpiece of on location dramatization of Elspeth Huxley's childhood memories and also functions as a history lesson for contemporary students of empire and its outcomes. This miniseries satisfies on all counts: it is supported by the genius of John Hawkesworth, the company of great British character actors, and attention to authenticity with respect to the gifts and beauty of Africa in the clash of cultures that continues to this day. I have purchased this dvd set for my own collection and for gifts.

British Couple in Africa in 1913........2007-04-22

A British couple with daughter, start a coffee farm in Kenya Africa in 1913.

Haley Mills and family are pleasant. However, the pleasant is undone, by adultery and deaths (not Haley Mills), and the little girl is the only English-speaking child in a 100 miles.

A pretty scene of gazelles, is undone by a gazelle being shot. A terrific song duet at the piano, is undone by the singers being adulterers, singing for the deceived spouse, in the spouse's home. Schizophrenic producer.

One tragedy within 2 hours, is enough for me, rather than ten. Different from TV, holds your attention, is ok, some scenes of interest. I will not keep it to watch again. However, if price is not a thought, then it is of some interest. We never see the flame trees grown, only saplings. We never see the sprouts of charm blossom.

Good cast and location. Only, the idea of a British child on a farm in Africa, is worth keeping. Add some other children. The end of the leopard episode is good, but not the beginning. Re-write the rest. A missed opportunity for a good film. Show the workings of the coffee farm, from seedlings to harvest. British farm life in Africa, without the game hunting, and a happier script would be better. I recommend Johnny Weissmuller's good "Tarzan" series.

A Short Review.......2007-04-14

Other reviewers cover most of the bases. I would just remind you of the stout Europeans who sought their fortunes and endured the hardships after the Boer War and before World War I. Much like the 49'ers of Gold Rush days, it's the sort of pioneer spirit no longer seen today. Many stories have been written of men in that era but few have been told from the view of the Women and Children. I should think a good companion film would be Out Of Africa w/ Meryl Streep, R. Redford. A good companion book might be West into the Night by Beryl Markhum. (spelling from memory) Hayley is lovely in this role and I can say with all honesty, this series is worth the time you will spend watching it. I see fears of unsuitability for children in some of the posts but personally think there's nothing worse than what we saw in the old Tarzan movies.

Flame Trees of Thika.......2006-11-12

Having read the book, written from the persapective of an 11 year old girl, I thought the DVD would be a nice gift for my 10 year old grandaughter. Fortunately I reviewed it prior to sending. The TV series has been scripted for an adult audience and it was not an appropriate selection. That being said my husband and I enjoyed it as we had just returned from Kenya. However, I would rate the book far higher than the DVD set.

Average customer rating:

Great Movie!!
How did I miss this one?
Finding the impossible
The Idolmaker
Vincent, Make Us More Idols to Worship

The Idolmaker
Starring: Ray Sharkey , Tovah Feldshuh , Peter Gallagher , Paul Land , and Joe Pantoliano
Director: Taylor Hackford
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
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Eddie and the Cruisers
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Sooner or Later

ASIN: 0792844858
Release Date: 2000-04-25

Amazon.com

The same year Neil Diamond made a ballyhooed (through lackluster) remake of The Jazz Singer, first-time director Taylor Hackford (An Officer and a Gentleman) created a musical biography packed with energy, verve, and style. Golden Globe winner Ray Sharkey is Vincent Vacarri, a tough, charismatic music fan who turns producer, creating stars in the halcyon days of rock and roll. Loosely based on the life of Bob Marucci, who created the Fabian and Frankie Avalon juggernauts, the story is part character study, part musical. The outstanding concert sequences are the payoff with newcomer Peter Gallagher as the Fabian-like Caesare--a great bit of casting. Brill Building songwriter Jeff Barry's song score, including a cagey final number, is a highlight, as is Joe Pantoliano (in another debut) as Vacarri's abused but loyal songwriter partner. --Doug Thomas

Customer Reviews:

Great Movie!!.......2007-06-08

Not a well known movie but very powerful and interesting look on the teen idols of the 50's Was supposedly modeled after the careers of Frankie Avalon ( Tommy ) and Fabian (Cesare) My daughters were obsessed with this movie after I introduced it to them. Peter Gallagher was very young here and Ray Sharkey was excellent. Highly recommend this film to watch.

How did I miss this one?.......2007-04-18

God bless my satellite package, loaded with all of the premium movie channels. Disgusted with network TV and basic cable, any time of the day I can catch something decent. Often I peak at something I've never seen or heard of, and one morning I watched this movie. From the start the script, cast and performances keep you watching. A classic, often used storyline is given life and color by Taylor Hackford's direction. The movie is a perfect blend of everything: just the right amount of screen time for each character to produce the right balance for a story that never bores, always keeps you on your toes, and thoroughly entertains. So many familiar faces in this movie that I had no idea had put out such quality at such early stages in their career, including Peter Ghallager, Joe Pantoliano plus a magnificent performance by Ray Sharkey, someone who I'd heard of but had never knowingly seen in anything. His tour de force performance was offset only by the heartbreak I felt when reading his biography. The use of music in this movie is the glue holding it all together, particularly the film's score. Combined with the great script and performances, you really feel this movie, right down tot he last bittersweet note of the last song sung. An absolute delight to have tripped across when scanning the premium channels on my dish one morning.

Finding the impossible.......2007-02-02

I want to thank Amazon for helping me find a product that according to the suppliers in our country are not available! I searched for the movie Idol Maker for over 2 years and as a last resort decided to try amazon! Well I found it, ordered it and within 2 weeks it was delivered from NY to my door in South Africa! Your service and quality of products are amazing and the security of your site makes me feel safe in ordering with my Credit Card! Thank you once again for ending my long search!

The Idolmaker.......2007-01-09

This movie is great. I watched it as a teenager and had never forgot the wonderful songs they sung. I am so glad to have this movie.

Vincent, Make Us More Idols to Worship.......2006-09-23

This movie was released in 1980, starring Ray Sharkey and Tovah Feldshuh. Ray is Vincent Vacarri, said character being loosely based on Bob Marucci, an idolmaker in his own right - Frankie Avalon, Fabian. Vincent is ever-seeking fame and fortune, but feels he can't cut it in the spotlight himself. Those who can't, teach (and capitalize from it). His drive to succeed is merciless, on himself, and others, but his character remains deep and thoroughly likeable. Tune in, Peter Gallagher fans, he is young and hot-hot-hot in this one, while Vincent molds him into idol material. As great looking as this guy is, physically it's not a far stretch but he benefits from instruction. Memories of Ed Sullivan rock and roll first viewings - Elvis, the Beatles, etc. - will hit strongly. Great music, interesting story line...Christine Taylor (Marsha in The Brady Bunch) is a reporter who wants to do more to our Idol than just interview him.

The Man Who Planted Trees DVD Box Set - Nine Animated Classics by Frederic Back

Average customer rating:

Great movie, OK collection
Story telling as entertaining cultural intro
Inspiring!!
Buy "The Man Who Planted Trees" on its own, not this boxed set
Exquisite storytelling

The Man Who Planted Trees DVD Box Set - Nine Animated Classics by Frederic Back
Starring: Philippe Noiret , and Christopher Plummer
Director: Frédéric Back
Manufacturer: CBC Radio Canada
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Masters Of Russian Animation - Volume 2
Masters of Russian Animation - Volume 3
Man Who Planted Trees
The Man Who Planted Trees
Masters Of Russian Animation - Volume 1

ASIN: B0006UF7NY
Release Date: 2004-12-01

Description

Presented on 4 DVDs, The Man Who Planted Trees Deluxe Edition is the complete collection of celebrated works by one of the most acclaimed animators of our time, Frederic Back.

This tribute to Frederic Back contains 9 animated short films, fully digitally re-mastered for the first time, featuring: Academy Award winners The Man Who Planted Trees and Crac!, and the Academy Award nominated film The Mighty River.

SPECIAL FEATURES: Interviews with Frederic Back, Interview with Jean Giono (author of The Man Who Planted Trees), Interview with Hubert Tison, Frederic Back Biography, Interactive Menus, Photo Galleries, and Lists of Festivals & Awards.

Customer Reviews:

Great movie, OK collection.......2007-06-02

The Man Who Planted Trees is a great animated short about the power of one individual to make a difference for our environment. It's an excellent film. The collection, however, pales in comparison. It's not worth the extra money-- if you want the Man Who Planted Trees, just buy the DVD of that alone.

Story telling as entertaining cultural intro.......2007-01-27

This series performs multiple functions. In the French track, storytelling can offer lessons often ignored in the native language of American students. It also can demonstrate the universality of protecting nature and politicians corrupting the best work of man. In addition to the educational value of this series, the animation is hypnotizing and wonderful.

Inspiring!!.......2007-01-13

I remember seeing "The Man who planted Trees" as a child and then, finally found out about the animated cartoon and bought it recently. Even as a child the ideas haunted you and stayed with me through out these years.
It is imagery and summation of ideas which you may even encounter on a daily basis.........but just as a poet makes usual unusual, Frederic Back's film makes it worth remembering forever.

Buy "The Man Who Planted Trees" on its own, not this boxed set.......2007-01-12

5 stars+ for "The Man Who Planted Trees" it is a gorgeous piece of animation, and beautiful heartfelt story about one man's stoic determination to restore a wind ravaged denuded landscape. Having seen The Man Who Planted Trees many years ago and loving it, I was keen to check out the animator's other work, but couldn't help but be disappointed as none of Frederic Back's other work lives up to his masterpiece The Man Who Planted Trees. Unless you are truely a diehard animation aficionado, and like to explore an artist's earlier musing's and influences i can't recommend this box set. But i highly recommend buying "The Man Who Planted Trees" on it own. Beautiful, moving and inspirational.

Exquisite storytelling.......2007-01-12

The visual and auditory journeys of these movies have enthralled friends and family members of all ages.

Average customer rating:

Small, Rough...but Excellent.
Buscemi's Masterpiece
Buscemi directs with a sure hand...
Buscemi as Bukowski
I was Tommy

Trees Lounge
Starring: Eszter Balint , Richard Boes , Mark Boone Junior , Elizabeth Bracco , and Michael Buscemi
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Trees Lounge: Music From The Motion Picture
Animal Factory

ASIN: B00005Y6X6
Release Date: 2002-03-26

Amazon.com

Steve Buscemi, an icon of the independent film world for years, took the opportunity to write, direct, and star in this wistful low-budget gem. He plays Tommy, a Long Island loser who gets tossed from his job as a mechanic for questionable financial antics. He spends his days at a local bar, drinking his life away even as he denies that he's doing any such thing. And when he finally works up the gumption to get a job, he winds up driving an ice-cream truck in his old neighborhood--and getting involved in an inappropriate relationship with his teeny-bopper assistant (Chloe Sevigny), earning the violent enmity of her father (Daniel Baldwin). Low-key in its approach, the film has a sad humor that is both knowing and forgiving, as well as offering one of Buscemi's best performances. --Marshall Fine

Customer Reviews:

Small, Rough...but Excellent. .......2007-02-28

I don't have anything controversial to say here as I basically feel the same way about Trees Lounge as everybody else. I loved it when I saw it a decade ago and my opinion has not changed in the time since. I rented it the other day and was as pleased as I was the first time around. Buscemi's virgin directorial effort could not have been more resonant. He portrays Tommy as both a hero and an anti-hero. The plot itself takes us to quite familiar places as there isn't anything too "Hollywood" about this production. It is not happy, but its realism offers great value. Trees Lounge has the type of feel that Ed Burns has tried to create continuously over his career, but was only able to do so in Brothers McMullen. All of the ambiguities shared by Buscemi and his cast in the film add up to one thing: life.

Buscemi's Masterpiece.......2007-01-22

This movie is all about the little things; It's the awkward comments and familiar situations that make you feel like you know these people and have been in their homes. Whether it's the fact Buscemi is a mechanic who doesn't have a working car, or the fact he is constantly being cheated out of cocaine, this movie brings a smile to my face every time. This is a slice of life type movie, filled with colorful but not 'pre-meditated' characters. I always got the feeling I was watching these people, not the actors playing them. This film derives much of it's humor from the problems that can plague any of us, from drug and alcohol problems to losing someone you loved to a best friend. There is lots to laugh at here, but has a nice dramatic side when needed. This was Steve's first movie from the directors side; When you couple that with his acting here, you can't say he didn't do everthing right here. Plus I never thought in my wildest dreams I'd ever see his mug driving an ice cream truck.

Buscemi directs with a sure hand..........2006-08-21

What a pleasant surprise this flick turned out to be. Always liked Buscemi's work as an actor, but had no idea he could direct...until I saw this film.

It's easy to relate to what this character goes through in this movie. Who hasn't been in a rut? Who hasn't felt this way?
You know you'd like to shake the Blues, get your life back on track...be happy about something, find meaning in your existance somehow...

I liked this quiet tale told in a relatively low-key way. Real nice.

Buscemi as Bukowski.......2006-03-05

A convincing portrait of the drinking life. If you ever had a bar period in your life, you'll recognize the people and events in this movie. Steve Buscemi should be writing and directing more movies. The cast is perfect, too. I haven't seen Barfly, but this movie is dead on. It's like a Bukowski novel without the gross-outs. In short, it has a heart.

I was Tommy.......2005-11-17

Man, what a great movie; very well done. This is funny, sad, dark, and real. Steve Buscemi (who also wrote, & produced) gives his best performance, & that's saying plenty. This movie's been reviewed well, and the story is about a guy, and the people in his life that you'll see in every town. Alcoholism is no joke, and the existance that some folks end up living in is a darkness that few understand. People don't grow up saying "I'm gonna be an alcoholic some day", but when you're in "the pit", this is what it looks like. I lived in a very similar state, and existance, and this movie struck a very special chord for me. You won't find the storyline focusing on recovery, it strictly shows you a guy after he's crossed the line, so to speak. The characters in Tommy's life a so realistic that I'd swear I'd met them before. It's not a typical "Hollywood" movie like "Clean & Sober"; this is where the lost, and the sick end up before death, or recovery.

Average customer rating:

My search for a movie universally loved and admired may be completed
AWESOME!
One person can make a difference!
Inspiring classic of simple altruism
The Man Who Planted Trees

Man Who Planted Trees
Starring: Philippe Noiret , and Christopher Plummer
Director: Frédéric Back
Manufacturer: CBC Radio-Canada
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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The Man Who Planted Trees
The Man Who Planted Trees
The Man Who Planted Trees DVD Box Set - Nine Animated Classics by Frederic Back
The Solitude of Compassion
The Man Who Planted Trees: A Story

ASIN: B0006HDBU8
Release Date: 2004-11-01

Description

The Man Who Planted Trees tells the story of a solitary sheperd who patiently plants and nurtures a forest of thousands of trees, single-handedly transforming his arid surroundings into a thriving oasis. Undeterred by two World Wars, and without any thought of personal reward, the sheperd tirelessly sows his seeds and acorns with the greatest care. As if by magic, a landscape that seemed condemned grows green again. A film of great beauty and hope, this story is a remarkable parable for all ages and an inspiring testament to the power of one person.

Customer Reviews:

My search for a movie universally loved and admired may be completed.......2007-06-28

Frédéric Back's 30 minutes long Oscar winning animated film "The Man Who Planted Trees" is astounding work of art with its beautiful story and the images that equal it. The story written by the French writer Jean Giono that tells about Elzeard Bouffier, a quiet shepherd, and later bee keeper who never talked much but over 35 years of hard work singlehandedly cultivated a magnificent forest in a desolate area of Provence, France and made it a peaceful and happy home for over 10, 000 people, is highly moving, inspirational, and life-affirming. It makes a viewer proud of what a man can achieve if he is determined to create, not to destroy. Every frame looks and feels not like a flat drawing but like a beloved painting of a celebrated impressionist painter (Monet, Sisley, Morisot, and Pissarro, the "purest" impressionists come first to mind). To achieve this effect, Back worked on unpolished acetates using crayons and modulating the colors. During the film, the colors change dramatically from barren and lifeless desert like palette in the beginning to the tender glowing delicate colors of blossoming eternal Spring in the final scenes. I was absolutely mesmerized by Back's visual style and his ability to beautifully translate such a literally story to the screen and not to lose any of its appeal but on the contrary to enrich it with incredible taste and unique exquisite beauty and tenderness of his images. For the first time, I came across the work of animation that reminded me so much of my all time favorite animated film "Tale of Tales" (1978) by Yuri Norstein, artistically and spiritually. It was not surprising for me to find out that Norstein and Back have met, respect and admire each other work and that Norstein studied Back's techniques and took with him to Moscow Back's acetates and coloring pencils that he was going to use while working on his ambitious project, full feature animation "Overcoat".

There is one question that pops up from time to time on the different film forums, "Is there any movie that all viewers would love and cherish"? I am always skeptical and up until tonight used to believe that the universally loved movie simply does not exist. I am happy to admit that I was wrong. I don't think that anyone who saw this little marvel may not be affected by its clear message, its kindness, beauty, and artistry.

Highly recommended as deservingly one of the very best animated movies ever made.

5+/5

AWESOME!.......2007-06-02

This is an excellent film about the power of one person to make a positive difference on behalf of our environment. I HIGHLY recommend it! Enjoy!

One person can make a difference!.......2007-05-07

Excellent material for an adult discussion group. Could even be considered spiritual, but not necessarily. Topic related to caring for the environment, and the positive effects this care might have on the general public of the community.

Inspiring classic of simple altruism.......2007-03-19

This allegory is truly a timeless tale of generativity; a thought-provoking look at what constitutes greatness in character in its most elemental form. Every person, no matter how humble,is capable of leaving of a legacy. Greatness is not a matter of talent, but of spirit. Patience and vision trumps skill or station in life. Find your own task and persevere-and change the world in the process! Great story and an inspiration to all.

The Man Who Planted Trees.......2007-01-04

The story of Elzéard Bouffier, a shepherd, who by his own efforts transformed a wasteland into a fertile forest. His selfless work not only dramatically changes the environment, but also improves the lives of others, in perhaps unforeseen ways.

A wonderful tale that contains an encouraging message. The animation is beautiful and successfully supports the the story.

One of the best cartoons I have ever seen.

A&E Literary Classics - The Romance Collection 2 Megaset (Horatio Hornblower / Nicholas Nickleby / Vanity Fair / The Flame Trees of Thika / The Mayor of Casterbridge / Tess of the D'Urbervilles / The Great Gatsby)

Average customer rating:

A&E Literary Classics - The Romance Collection 2 Megaset (Horatio Hornblower / Nicholas Nickleby / Vanity Fair / The Flame Trees of Thika / The Mayor of Casterbridge / Tess of the D'Urbervilles / The Great Gatsby)
Starring: Romance Collection 2
Manufacturer: A&E Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

A&E Literary Classics - The Romance Collection Megaset (Pride and Prejudice / Emma / Victoria & Albert / Tom Jones / Jane Eyre / Lorna Doone / Ivanhoe / The Scarlet Pimpernel)
Masterpiece Theatre Collection - Romance - Anna Karenina / Wuthering Heights / Reckless
The Charles Dickens Collection (Oliver Twist / Martin Chuzzlewit / Bleak House / Hard Times / Great Expectations / Our Mutual Friend)
Middlemarch
Jane Austen Collection (Sense & Sensibility / Emma / Persuasion / Mansfield Park / Pride & Prejudice / Northanger Abbey)

ASIN: B000AYEIWM
Release Date: 2005-10-25

Description

A&E LITERARY CLASSICS: The Romance Collection Volume 2 Heart-stopping romance amidst the Napoleonic Wars, the delightful pursuit of love and fortune among the British upper crust, greed and longing during the Jazz Age--just some of the great narratives evocatively brought to screen in this magnificent library of A&E LITERARY CLASSICS. From the 19th century to the Roaring Twenties and Colonial Africa to Tsarist Russia, A&E presents eight original productions that are sure to enthrall any sophisticated romantic. Featuring topnotch production values and powerful performances by today's brightest stars, coupled with stunning cinematography and masterful screenplays adapted from the world's greatest novels, A&E LITERARY CLASSICS: The Romance Collection Volume 2 is the essential 14-disc DVD collection. This Megaset contains: HORATIO HORNBLOWER: There's always time for a dalliance or two in C.S. Forester's thrilling high seas adventures. NICHOLAS NICKLEBY: Love and compassion blossom amidst hard times in Charles Dickens' great tale. VANITY FAIR: A study in contrasts, Becky and Amelia pursue love and fortune in Thackery's trenchant satire. THE FLAME TREES OF THIKA: An unforgettable true account of a young girl's coming-of-age in turn-of-the-century Africa. THE MAYOR OF CASTERBRIDGE: From cruelty to redemption, a heartrending masterpiece by Thomas Hardy. CATHERINE THE GREAT: Catherine Zeta-Jones, Omar Sharif and Jeanne Moreau star in this world-class epic. TESS OF THE D'URBERVILLES: Abandoned hearts and lost virtues seek redemption in another immortal classic by Thomas Hardy. THE GREAT GATSBY: Academy Award®-winner Mira Sorvino stars in F. Scott Fitzgerald's great American classic. DVD Features: Horatio Hornblower: About C.S. Forester; Nautical Terms and Definitions; Nicholas Nickleby: Charles Dickens episode of BIOGRAPHY; The Flame Trees of Thika: Elspeth Huxley Biography and Bibliography; Cast Biographies; The Mayor of Casterbridge: Thomas Hardy Biography and Bibliography; Catherine The Great: Cast Filmographies; The Great Gatsby: F. Scott Fitzgerald episode of A&E's BIOGRAPHY; Cast Filmographies

Average customer rating:

Great
The angel slipped
Stay Away From Passport - Large "PIP" Logo On Screen
"You don't belong where I'm going honey."
Judge for your self

Angel on My Shoulder
Starring: Paul Muni , Anne Baxter , Claude Rains , Onslow Stevens , and George Cleveland
Director: Archie Mayo
Manufacturer: Vci Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

Here Comes Mr. Jordan
I Am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang
Scarface (Universal Cinema Classics)
House of Strangers (Fox Film Noir)
I Wake Up Screaming (Fox Film Noir)

ASIN: 6305986975
Release Date: 2003-01-24

Description

Paul Muni gives another classic performance in this wonderful fantasy about a notorious gangster who is murdered by a double-crossing partner. While in Hell, he makes a deal with the Devil, played with relish by Claude Rains, to return to earth... only to double-cross him in the end. Bonus Features: Bonus classic 1940 RKO comedy two-reeler starring Leon Errol| Scene Selection| Actor Bios. Specs: DVD5; Dolby Digital Mono; 100 minutes; B&W; 1.33:1 Aspect Ratio; MPAA - NR; Year - 1946; SRP - $9.99.

Customer Reviews:

Great .......2006-08-10

The movie arrived in super condition.I had seen this movie only once many many years ago and had searched for it but did not know the title. Then there it was was on AMC. Had to have it for my collection. Great acting, super plot and an even better ending.

The angel slipped.......2006-07-28

This is a light weight film with a heavy weight star. The film is not worthy of the great Paul Muni.

Stay Away From Passport - Large "PIP" Logo On Screen.......2006-04-19

Both Passport DVD's I've had the misfortune of viewing (this one & Plan 9 From Outer Space) have a large "PIP" logo on screen for the entire movie which is extremely distracting & unneccesary. For quality, get the Roan edition.

"You don't belong where I'm going honey.".......2005-08-23

I got the wrong idea somewhere. When I originally read about this movie I heard it was about a tough gangster, played by Paul Muni, who after death tries to bust out of Hell. I was very excited.

I rented it and it's nothing like that at all! Instead of BRUTE FORCE in Hell this is some overly sappy story about a gangster who dies, is fooled by Satan to go back to Earth and ends up doing good instead of bad.

Anne Baxter is enjoyable (and easy on the eyes), but outside of that I was disappointed in the hokieness of the whole thing.

Judge for your self.......2005-06-14

Nick (Claude Rains) never satisfied with the amount of soles caught, has his hat set for an incorruptible judge. He will recruit Eddie Kagle to replace Judge Fredrick Parker (both played by Paul Muni) in exchange for a second chance at life.

I you were raised Catholic then you will recognize the title as you have a devil on one shoulder and an angle on the other and you are struggling in the middle.

There is great interaction between Paul Muni and Claude Rains. This move takes unexpected twists and turns. I may remind you a little of "The Devil and Daniel Webster "(1941). However no one can play "Nick" as well as Claude Rains.

I kind of like the way they return to the surface. I never trusted those types of elevators. Before you write off Anne Baxter as just another personality in this film remember that she was also Nefretiri in "The Ten Commandments" (1956)

Average customer rating:

The Legend of the Three Trees
VERY GOOD! Wonderful story!
A superbly produced, animated folktale

The Legend of the Three Trees
Starring: Hal Holbrook
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson Pub.
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

The Legend of the Candy Cane
The Legend Of The Three Trees - Picture Book
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The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale
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ASIN: B0000A1QO3
Release Date: 2000-01-01

Customer Reviews:

The Legend of the Three Trees.......2007-05-12

This animated movie about Jesus's life is wonderful. I showed it to 1st-3rd graders and they were captivated. I would recommend this movie for all ages.

VERY GOOD! Wonderful story!.......2004-12-06

This is a favorite for my children as well as myself. We all love this DVD and the book that is by Catherine McCafferty. Don't mistake it for the "Tale of Three Trees" which isn't as good.

A superbly produced, animated folktale.......2001-10-16

The Legend Of The Three Trees is a superbly produced, animated folktale of three distinct trees (an Oak, an Olive, and a Pine) and the roles they played in the story of Jesus. Each tree began with their own particular dreams and aspirations -- but met with what seemed to be bitter disappointment, only to emerge with truly unique roles in "the greatest story ever told". Hal Holbrook's narration is nothing short of masterful, the quality of the animation is flawless, and the story is totally engaging from beginning to end. The Legend Of The Three Trees (VHS, 30 minutes, full color) is a wonderful addition to family, parochial school, and community library video collections for young viewers.

Samurai Deeper Kyo - Sea of Trees (Vol. 3)

Average customer rating:

Great DVD!
A Surfeit of Battles

Samurai Deeper Kyo - Sea of Trees (Vol. 3)
Starring: Samurai Deeper Kyo
Manufacturer: Anime Works
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Samurai Deeper Kyo - Nobunaga (Vol. 4)
Samurai Deeper Kyo - Curse of Tokugawa (Episodes 6-10)
Samurai Deeper Kyo - Fire and Ice (Vol. 5)
Samurai Deeper Kyo - Shift in Time (Vol. 6)
Samurai Deeper Kyo - Demon Awakens (Episodes 1-5)

ASIN: B0000B1A0Q
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Customer Reviews:

Great DVD!.......2004-02-14

This dvd is great, although not as good as the last. They go to the sea of trees. There aren't any plot twists, but there are a lot of fights. There is still a story. We also get to see an episode for Benitora. This dvd has the best animation to date though. The battles are also clever. One more thing... Mahiro doesn't make that much of an appearence. You know what they say, too much of a good thing is a bad thing. 5 stars though. 5 stars.

A Surfeit of Battles.......2003-12-11

This has been a 'samurai' series with quite a few odd twists. So I was a bit surprised that this DVD actually returns to the mainstream. That is, lots of fights with people making fighting moves that require shouting out strange names like 'bug eating loon' (I made that up). In retrospect, it is pretty well done, but in a story that hands out complexity like popcorn. The more character development, the better. In this set of episodes, most characters develop in the context of their battles, which can be a bit confusing.

The primary source of opponents is the Jyunishinshou clan. In normal Japanese legend these were 12 generals who guarded the Buddha. But in this alternate history they are kenyou (monsters) who carry out the wishes of their lord. Everybody gets to fight them, and they don't always lose. They, and Kyo are in a desperate race to find Kyo's real body. Who wins will determine the fate of the world.

In addition Sasuke Sarutobe makes his real debut with his own Muramasa blade. Sasuke has appeared so far as a ninja in the service of Yukimore Sanada. Now he moves into center stage as a full player. Of course, he challenges Kyo to find out whose Muramasa is Tenrou, on of the 'true' Muramasa's. After a spectacular fight the two men settle into an uneasy truce, as Sasuke undertakes to lead Kyo to the Sea of Trees.

The pieces I haven't quite fit together is that this series is the retelling of Ieyasu Tokugawa's rise to power, and the aftermath of those events. Everyone bad and good is taking part in a story that is part history and part invented legend. All of this is to a purpose, but it has yet to come completely clear. It may take more familiarity with the Shogunate's history to catch all the references. The liner notes do their best, but sometimes they make things even more complex.

Description

Douglas is an ambitious lumberman who wants to make a fortune from the Redwood Forest by pushing a religious sect off of their land. His many adventures include organizing the religious sect to take action and leading them against their enemies as well as saving a heroine from a runaway train.

Customer Reviews:

Pretty good Kirk Douglas western. .......2005-06-16

CONTAINS SPOILERS
"The Big Trees" is a western mystery starring Kirk Douglas and Edgar Buchanan. It concerns conflicts between two warring factions: the environmentalists and the conservationsist profiteers. Kirk Douglas plays a mine leader who's objective is to make use of California's Redwood Trees for his company's profits. A Quaker group attempts to prevent these trees from being destroyed. That is the conflict for half of the movie. However, problems start to get far more complex as the film moves on. The conflicts erupts into full scale when an innocent priest is crushed to death by a falling redwood. Then, members of Kirk Douglas' rival company gun down and murder his pal "Lucky" (Edgar Buchanan) in cold blood. He then ponders over changing his greedy ways. He also battles the bad guys in a climactic showdown and emerges a victorious and reformed man. Overall an action packed and enjoyable film.
It has already been said by another reviewer that there are six DVD versions of the film available. I purchased the Vina Distributor $1.99 disc and found the quality to be adequate. However, I have heard that the Roan Group edition DVD ($14.99) quality is far from impressive. There is no point in spending a fortune on a DVD that is expensive and bad quality. I highly recommend that you search for the inexpensive Vina edition and buy that. Happy viewing!

Just fun to watch.......2005-01-11

No, this film wasn't a masterpiece, but there weren't a lot of films made in 1952 that *were* masterpieces by most standards. This struck me as a standard sort of western for those days, and it was fine in that context. I like Kirk Douglas and this was a Kirk Douglas film, and I like Edgar Buchanan as well. Was it predictable? Sure. No one really thinks Kirk Douglas will *stay* bad, does he? Were there any intriguing plot twists? No, but enough minor ones to keep me interested. But enjoyed it, and that's all I wanted from it. The one thing I don't understand is why there have been six releases of this on DVD.

Where's my chainsaw?.......2004-08-20

As other reviewers have pointed out, "The Big Trees" is no masterpiece. Some elements of "Angel & the Badman" are there, like a bad guy being reformed by an inocent Quaker girl, but this "tree-hugging hippie crap"(as Eric Cartman would say) just never connects with the audience (unless you're stoned). Forget the dvd cover with Kirk Douglas, the real star is the trees. Before I bought this movie I read about the plot but figured surely it was worth the low cost. Well, I have mixed feelings about it. The movie was pretty horrible, but I had a lot of fun watching it with my family because we took turns making fun of the cheesy dialogue! In my opinion Kirk Douglas never gave a bad performance & he's the only reason I gave this 2 stars. I guess he was desperate for money at the time. Overall, I think this is a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon with your friends, just for the unintentional humor of the whole movie!

You like me, don't you?.......2004-06-01

THE BIG TREES starts out with a great deal of promise - Kirk Douglas stars as Jim Fallon, a Wisconsin timber baron who plans to take advantage of a new law that will allow him to `harvest' California's giant sequoias and make a fortune in the process.
The movie opens in Wisconsin where Fallon is facing down a growling work crew. The pay is late, again, and the men have just about had it. Drawing on his deep well of nerve and blarney and charm, as well as a well-timed gunshot from soon-to-be sidekick `Yukon' Burns (Edgar Buchanan), Fallon not only avoids a bloody mutiny but he even manages to talk the crew into migrating to California where, seemingly, money does indeed grow on trees.
So far so good. THE BIG TREES might be a cut above. The first scene in California (the movie was filmed in Orlick) has Fallon and Yukon measuring the diameter of a giant redwood. It measures out at twenty-eight feet, and the scene is only slightly jarred by the shadow of the camera and boom during this attractive tracking shot.
The hitch in Fallon's plans take the form of Friends, or Quakers, who regard the ancient redwoods as sacred objects. They hold their religious services outdoors, nestled in this majestic sequoia cathedral. Nestled in the bosom of the Quaker community is the beautiful Alicia Chadwick (Eve Miller) (the dvd biography on Miller tells us she was a Playmate of the Month a couple years after THE BIG TREES was released.)
Love trumps Greed and, the last time I looked, Beauty is batting 1.000 against the Beast. Fallon doesn't stand a chance, but before this movie loses all momentum and devolves into a group tree-hug a second group of lumber hungry sociopaths make their presence felt.
It's about then that THE BIG TREES took a big turn and morphed into a Starched Shirt western. Characters chop down trees and wrestle the bad guy on a shaky rope bridge spanning a deep gorge and then show up in the next scene in a spotlessly clean starched shirt. The last half of this movie is corny and formulaic, and betrays the promising start.
Still and all THE BIG TREES is entertaining, well-acted, and good looking.

Action and Romance Among The Redwoods..........2004-03-22

The Big Trees"(1952), Stars Kirk Douglas, as a lumberman intent on claiming ownership and cutting down the beautiful Redwood trees in Northern, California. His oppostion are a group of Quakers who feel that God gave them those trees for their church and do everything in their power to protect the trees from the money hungry businessman! The most outspoken of the group is of course a beautiful woman(Eve Miller), that Douglas falls for, and must decide between the trees and her. Also look for notables Edgar Buchanan as "Yukon", Allen Hale Jr., and Miss Ellen Corby. This one, by BCI Eclipse looks great on the DVD. The original technicolor is beautiful,the picture is clear and the sound quality is very good.

This film is perfect for fans of Kirk Douglas and westerns.You really can't go wrong for the price. And for just a few dollars more, you can also get it in a great set that BCI has put together called "Legends of the West". It's a two disc set with four films(one on each side) and includes this one, the wonderful "One Eyed Jacks" starring Marlon Brando and Karl Malden(also happens to be directed by Brando),"The Sundowners"(1950) with Robert Preston, Robert Sterling and John Barrymore Jr, and "Vegeance Valley" starring Burt Lancaster and Robert Walker.

Happy Trails.....Laurie

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