Joshua

Starring:Joshua
Studio: Vidtape
Product Type: DVD

Ghost In The Shell - Solid State Society (Limited Edition)

Average customer rating:

The Right Mindset
Surely they could've done better...
Argueably the Best GIS yet
Full English Version
True to the Series

Ghost In The Shell - Solid State Society (Limited Edition)
Starring: Michael McCarty (III) , Dean Wein , Yutaka Nakano , Takashi Onozuka , and Joshua Seth
Director: Kenji Kamiyama
Manufacturer: Manga Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Anime & Manga | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Volume 2 ( Limited Edition)
Ergo Proxy, Vol. 4: Wrong Way Home
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Volume 1 (Special Edition)
Full Metal Panic!: The Second Raid - Tactical Ops 04
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 07 (Special Edition)

ASIN: B000PMGNK4
Release Date: 2007-07-03

Amazon.com

The television movie Ghost in the Shell: Solid State Society (2006) continues the adventures of the cast of Stand Alone Complex, the TV series based on Mamoru Oshii's watershed feature. It's been two years since Major Kusanagi left Public Security Section 9 and struck out on her own. Batou pursues only investigations that interest him. Togusa is in charge of the Section, largely by default. All three characters, plus Chief Aramaki and the Tachikoma robots, join in the investigation of a string of suicides by agents of a foreign general. The trail leads them to a terrorist plot involving micro-machines created to release a deadly virus, and to the master-hacker known as the Puppeteer. The depiction of a corrupt politician using resources earmarked for the care of an aging population for his own ends reflects recent scandals in Japan. But Solid State Society feels derivative. The plot borrows heavily from the "Laughing Man" storyline, and the general lack of inspiration is evident in the failure to resolve the mystery satisfactorily.

The Limited Edition includes a music CD and a second DVD of extras, among them notes on designing the futuristic vehicles in the film, and an interview with Mitsuhisa Ishikawa of Production I.G., all packaged in a metal box. (Rated 13 and older: violence, grotesque imagery) --Charles Solomon

Customer Reviews:

The Right Mindset.......2007-07-05

So, the first thing I have to say is yes, I am glad I bought it. However, don't make the same mistake I made... I, for no good reason, assumed that the team who created GITS: Innocence created GITS: SSS. Wrong!!! Do not expect the same dramatic, philosophical, and artistic depth and sophistication found in GITS: Innocence.

The team that created this film is the same team that generates the series. As a matter of fact, this film has a "made-for-TV" feel about it. It seems as if two individual stories were grafted together as one which may account for some of the disharmony. It also felt somewhat episodic, as if filmed so that it could be easily serialized. (As an aside...The involvement of Nissan makes me a little nervous for the future, hopefully the studio doesn't lose their artistic vision and swing too far to the commercial side. The concept cars were cool but they weren't anything the art team couldn't have created on their own. With the exception of one scene, the cars simply were not integral to the film.)

Now, with all of that said, I love the series. This film is on par with caliber of the 2nd season. The art, audio, general plot, English dubbing, etc. is top notch. (Writing? Well...the continuity people responsible for ensuring that the story flows smoothly could have tightened things up a bit.)

If you love the series, you'll love this movie.

So, yes, I'm glad I bought it and I'll probably watch it again today!!

Surely they could've done better..........2007-07-02

Ghost in the Shell's success has always been a bit of a fluke, as it was to be Appleseed that was Shirow's magnum opus. I really wanted to like Solid State Society, I really did, but just found it to be very lacking.

The first season of Stand Alone was amazing, as it managed to capture some of the feel of the comic: counter terrorist ops fighting terrorists and drinkin a cold one afterwards. Second season was passable, grasping at straws to develop characters meant to be nothing more than a talking head or plot device, plus the inclusion of a Mary Sue villain.

Still, I'd hoped that all the money that the GitS property has made studio IG over the years could've produced something better than what was essentially an almost two hour episode of Stand Alone with at most three minutes of amazing action animation.

Had they simply retold the classic Puppet Master story from the comic using the Stand Alone characters, it could've been a much better movie. The further GitS breaks from the original source material (specifically the original comic run), generally the weaker it becomes. I can't help but think that by borrowing more heavily from Man Machine Interface (particularly the whole rogue Motoko and Motoko's split consciousness bit), Solid State Society lost the potential to be an action packed thriller to wrap up the series in a hail of gun-fire and car chases. It all felt rather unsatisfying.

After the unyieldingly convoluted, pandering, and nearly unreadable debacle that was Man Machine Interface, I hope, as a Shirow fan, that the Ghost in the Shell franchise can be laid to rest with some of its dignity in tact; a solemn procession that should not end with a 21 gun salute, but rather a crudely drawn Batou going colon "d" while firing a miniature shoulder mounted rocket into the air.

Argueably the Best GIS yet.......2007-06-16

Not since they pulled out the concept in the first GIS movie that the build up of information at nodes in the sea of information could result in a self maintaining/regulating entity have I been so blown away by an idea in an Anime film. Batou, Togusa, and the whole gang are on the job, but where is the Major? Some hard hitting criminal is up to something with people dying or disappearing or simply just being erased from the sea of information. The Major is missing AND their is a new criminal about, who could it be?

Well, this film take political science fiction to its height, and also does very nicely with the technology and action aspects. And the ending is friggin phenomenal. Sure the GIS has always been wonderful with its ability to paint the world in shades of gray, or at least to say that sometimes the black is the better choice over the white, but in this story, the viewer will find it impossible to make a judement call on which side was fighting for the greater good.

BTW, watching these movies in English is pathetic because they choose voices that seem appropriate for Children's Cartoons. Be serious, GIS is absolutely not for children, if, IF, they can comprehend the concepts being thrown around, there is no way they can actually appreciate them.

Full English Version.......2007-06-12

I saw this movie for the first time on Sci-Fi Channel's Ani-Monday. I was getting ready to call it a night when this was advertised as being next and had to stay up and watch it. It's a very well done movie with a lot of feeling of the first movie that was brought to the series. Alot of things have changed, alot of feelings are different, but it's all very good. I think I saw an edited version but for the most part it was very well done. All the original cast has returned to do the voices so there's no problem with the english subtitles or with dubbing. Overall it was a good movie.

True to the Series.......2007-06-11

This film is one of the best things that I have seen come out of the GITS franchise. I have watched the movie several times, each time enjoying even more. I would give a description of the plot, but I will not ruin it for you. My only complaint about Solid State Society is that it borrows ideas from both of the feature-length movies. If you liked GITS: SAC, and most specially 2nd GIG, you will enjoy this movie.

Note: It is dubbed in English, unlike Innocence. Amazon just has that fact incorrect

Average customer rating:

Old Hollywood Meets New Hollywood
the boys are back
Have you ever watched a film where you wanted the bad guys to win?
WOW DANG ONE OF THE BEST MOVE
My son't favorite movie

Ocean's Eleven (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Don Cheadle , George Clooney , Holly Marie Combs , Matt Damon , and Michael de Lano
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Ocean's Twelve
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ASIN: B000062XHI
Release Date: 2002-05-07

Product Description

Danny Ocean likes his chances. All he asks is that his handpicked squad of 10 grifters and cons play the game like they have nothing to lose. If all goes right, the payoff will be a fat $150 million. Divided by 11. You do the math.

System Requirements:
Starring: George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Andy Garcia, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, and Elliott Gould.
Directed By: Steven Soderbergh.
Running Time: 116 Min., Color.
This film is presented in "Standard" format.
Copyright 2002 Warner Home Video.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com essential video

Ocean's Eleven improves on 1960's Rat Pack original with supernova casting, a slickly updated plot, and Steven Soderbergh's graceful touch behind the camera. Soderbergh reportedly relished the opportunity "to make a movie that has no desire except to give pleasure from beginning to end," and he succeeds on those terms, blessed by the casting of George Clooney as Danny Ocean, the title role originated by Frank Sinatra. Fresh out of jail, Ocean masterminds a plot to steal $163 million from the seemingly impervious vault of Las Vegas's Bellagio casino, not just for the money but to win his ex-wife (Julia Roberts) back from the casino's ruthless owner (Andy Garcia). Soderbergh doesn't scrimp on the caper's comically intricate strategy, but he finds greater joy in assembling a stellar team (including Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, and Carl Reiner) and indulging their strengths as actors. The result is a film that's as smooth as a silk suit and just as stylish. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Old Hollywood Meets New Hollywood.......2007-07-06

This is a perfect example of a movie where Hollywood got it right! Ocean's Eleven combines old style class with new world flare in this edgy, high-stakes, winner-take-all, cloak and dagger redo of the 1960 classic. Fresh out of prison and looking to get back into the action, Danny Ocean (George Clooney) enlists a group of 10 fellow ex-cons and "professionals" to take down his current target: his ex-wife's boyfriend, Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia). Among his crew is his old friend Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt) and new recruit Linus Caldwell (Matt Damon). But when old feelings between Tess (Julia Roberts) and Danny start to resurface, the result threatens the entire mission. Can Danny overcome his feelings for Tess and focus on the heist? Can Linus pull off the biggest pick-pocket of his life? Will Rusty ever stop eating? This movie lacks nothing: just the right amount of intrigue, action and glamour...not to mention stars. A good addition to any espionage-lovers DVD library!

the boys are back.......2007-06-08

nice to have all the ocean series good entertainment for a rainy day for myself and guests

Have you ever watched a film where you wanted the bad guys to win?.......2007-06-01

I have trouble calling this a remake, because it doesn't share much in common with the `rat pack' original except the name of the lead character and that it is a casino heist. Actually, this is a better film than its namesake, apart from the fact that the cast of the original was filled with entertainment legends.

Director Soderbergh takes a vacation from serious filmmaking with this film, which on his resume is something of a lark. Everyone seems to be having a good time and it is clear that the actors enjoyed making this film. The overhauled screenplay pops with snappy dialogue, riddled with deadpan humor and a decent, though somewhat far fetched plot. It has a little of the whimsical feel of `The Sting', though the screenplay isn't as strong. A crew of professional thieves plans to knock over three casinos on a fight night by raiding the impregnable vault that serves all three. The plan is elaborate, full of high tech wizardry, daring deceptions and acrobatic stunts. The caper runs into more than the normal amount of foul ups, but our devious team of burglars is always up to the task of working around the glitches.

The cast is very solid. George Clooney is perfectly cast as the brainchild of the scheme. He is dapper, macho and smooth with a sardonic wit that keeps the film's tone serious yet light. Brad Pitt plays the always eating Rusty, who is really the brains behind the operation, coordinating it flawlessly. Except for `The Mexican', this is much lighter material than Pitt usually tackles, yet he gives a suave performance seeming very comfortable with his character. Despite the fact that this is an ensemble cast, Pitt carries a lot of the weight and makes the story as close to believable as could be possible given its improbable nature.

Don Cheadle continues to impress, rendering a terrific demolitions expert. His cockney accent is great and with this part Cheadle shows once again what a terrific character actor he is. In a little twist of irony, Cheadle plays an analogous part in this film to that played by Sammy Davis, Jr. in the original, and he also played Sammy in the TV movie entitled `The Rat Pack'. Poor Andy Garcia has the thankless task of playing the heavy in a tongue-in-cheek film, but he does a marvelous job. Matt Damon plays the rookie, giving the character a charming naiveté and a mischievous bent. Julie Roberts is nothing more than a throw in, with a minor role as Ocean's ex-wife.

If you don't take this film too seriously, you are in for an entertaining evening. It is smartly done without too much melodrama, and provides just enough suspense and realism to keep it from being a farce.

WOW DANG ONE OF THE BEST MOVE.......2007-05-08

NOW I COULD EASYLY SAY THIS WILL GO DOWN AS ONE OF THE GRATEST MOVE EVER MADE IN THE WORLD THAT IS SO FOR SHORE & THAT IS PUTTING IT LIGHTLY

My son't favorite movie.......2007-05-07

My son loves this movie. He found the ratings on Amazon pretty much perfect. The music is really good.

Average customer rating:

Catch and Release
Cinematherapy
Throw It Back!
Please enter a title for your review
Heartwarming.

Catch & Release
Starring: Jennifer Garner , Timothy Olyphant , Sam Jaeger , Kevin Smith , and Juliette Lewis
Director: Susannah Grant
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005JPF3
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Amazon.com

Jennifer Garner's lips grow more Angelina-esque every year. In the romantic comedy Catch and Release, Garner (Alias, 13 Going On 30) plays Gray Wheeler, a young woman whose fiance dies unexpectedly before the wedding, leaving Gray unable to afford her home--so she moves in with her fiance's best friends, Sam (Kevin Smith, director of Clerks and Dogma) and Dennis (Sam Jaeger, Lucky Number Slevin). But the presence of another old friend named Fritz (Timothy Olyphant, Deadwood) leads to the unveiling of a secret: Gray's fiance had a child with another woman. Catch and Release lacks the clear story structure that most romantic comedies are built on, but trades it for a richer sense of the ambiguities of human relationships. Garner, though lovely and personable, is a bit bland--fortunately, she's surrounded by actors with all kinds of edges, including Smith (who shows an unexpected and uncloying earnest side), Fiona Shaw (from the Harry Potter movies) as the fiance's grieving mother, and Juliette Lewis (Cape Fear), who demonstrates once again her powers as a fearless and surprising actress. Catch and Release is an uneven movie, with a remarkably elegant visual style that sometimes clashes with the workmanlike dialogue, but it can't be written off as the same old Hollywood claptrap. Though a happy ending is inevitable, the path it takes has some surprising turns and flashes of unexpected emotional depth.-- Bret Fetzer

Stills from Catch and Release (click for larger image)

Beyond Catch and Release on Amazon.com

More Films from Jennifer Garner
CD Soundtrack
More Romantic Comedies

Customer Reviews:

Catch and Release.......2007-07-09

Great chick flick movie. Jenneifer Garner is good as usual. However, there are moments when the film seems to drag a bit, but overall very entertaining! You get a sense of the characters but there are almost too many to get the depth of who they are.

Cinematherapy.......2007-07-08

I really enjoyed this movie - it was a delightful surprise to me. I was afraid that it was going to be dark and depressing but it wasn't that at all. I was entertained from start to finish - never bored.

Throw It Back!.......2007-07-08

**** Warning! Major Spoilers in this Review! ****

This is the kind of movie that gives romantic comedies a bad name. Each situation in this trite and forgettable piece is contrived to the nth degree. There isn't a moment of genuine emotional honesty in the film. What we get is the director choosing to insert a sappy alt-lite song every five minutes to underline how her characters are feeling. Apparently, all of them are feeling drowsy and folksy, because that is what every soporific musical interlude sounds like.

The plot starts with Jennifer Garner mourning the passing of her fiancé. We know she's upset because she tells us in a pointless voice-over. Then she runs from the room of mourners to shut herself in the bathroom and get in the tub. Why? Because the writer obviously thought this would be cute somehow. It just comes off as stupid. While in the bathtub, one of her late fiancé's "friends" comes in with a caterer, and to show his grief, he bangs her on the sink while she repeats "sock it to me" several times. Why? Guess the writer thought this would be quirky and amusing. It's not, just weird and inappropriate and bad writing. This kind of behavior would never in a million years happen at a funeral. As played by Timothy Olyphant, we get no real insight into the character. Timothy appears quite incapable of registering much emotion. Maybe this was a directorial choice, if so, it was a bad one. When Garner reveals herself, they just look at each other like they are trying to figure out why the writer/director even inserted this scene. Failing to find a logical answer, Garner departs. Cue music.

Garner later moves in with two other friends of her dead hubby-to-be, the underused Sam Jaeger and horribly miscast Kevin Smith. Apparently, there was another directorial/writer choice to have Kevin eating or drinking something in almost every scene he appears in. Morbid obesity is funny isn't it? Naturally Timothy Olyphant moves in for awhile too. His prior actions at the funeral are dismissed because he's from L.A. and works in the entertainment industry. Guess that was supposed to be funny and a dig at the world that unleashed this movie on an unsuspecting public. Garner doesn't believe he cares that his friend died at all, and we, the hapless viewers, are forced to concur after witnessing his every action while in the house. So naturally, because this is a poorly written excuse for a rom-com, Garner ends up in bed with him, accompanied by another musical interlude. What the hell? But it's okay, because it turns out that Tim really is grieving his friend's loss. How do we know? Because the writer has been kind enough to give him a line saying "I miss him too". Great, that explains why he banged a caterer, and then his deceased "friend's" fiancé a week later. Makes perfect sense to me. Oh, and he's from L.A. of course.

There are numerous other scenes where characters are unable to talk to one another like real human beings, instead they stare at one another "meaningfully" (or not, with this direction it's difficult to tell), or simply wander off during the pseudo-conversation, while the director cues up another syrupy, breathy voiced soft-rock ballad to show how much each character is hurting. Yecchhh.

Later in the film, another twist is revealed in the form of massage therapist Juliette Lewis in a blond bimbo wig, with a child. Surprise! The kid may be the late fiancé's. And let's turn the fiancé's mom into a villainess (albeit temporarily; remember this is a badly written film, we know she'll come around by the end of the flick for a heartwarming conclusion with more elevator music swelling), who gets to snarl that the child will never see a penny of her late son's money. Grrrrr.

I felt bad for most of the actors, they can do better. If Jennifer Garner ever gets a good part (let's all try to forget Elektra), she could be on her way to a real career. Sam Jaeger also seems very likable and it would be nice to see him in a better written part. The twist he is involved in late in the film is simply a throwaway that goes absolutely nowhere. The woman playing the mother also has some dignity about her, though the writing tries to crush that. And Juliette Lewis, well, what the hell has happened to her career? Kevin Smith needs to stick to the View Askew universe, he really can't act outside it. It's a real shame that this movie obviously had these talents, and a decent budget, and one good song which plays near the end (Death Cab For Cutie), but couldn't find anything better to do with them.

The end of the film devolves into a feel good stew of stupidity as Kevin hooks up with Juliette, Jennifer runs to L.A. to hook up with Tim (leaving poor Sam behind, in the real world she would have and should have chosen him), and the mom gives Juliette money because her son would have wanted it that way. Don't slip in my vomit. In more capable hands, this could have been an affecting and honest drama, or a deft black comedy, instead of this mush of misplaced romance and fluctuating tones, all set to music.

Hopefully this is the last film from this writer director I will ever have to suffer through.

Please enter a title for your review.......2007-07-04

One of the least engaging movies I've ever endured. It's hard to know how to criticize it when I can't see anything it was attempting. The biggest problems are how little of a sense you get of who the characters are to each other and the cryptic way the plot unfolds without containing any interesting mysteries. As a Kevin Smith fan I don't understand why he thought this movie was worth his time. Even his part didn't make me laugh. I'd give four stars to his commentary track that goes a fair way to redeeming the overall product though.

Heartwarming........2007-07-04

I really enjoyed this movie. I am a Jennifer Garner fan and she plays a great role in this movie. Timothy Olyphant, Sam Jaeger and Kevin Smith are very convincing in their roles as grieving friends even though they share a very odd sort of kinship.

The movie shows the different ways these individuals grief for their deceased friend and how they emerge on the sunnier side of life at the end of the film via different paths.

There are some very funny moments in the film but mostly it leaves you with a very warm fuzzy feeling....even the hubby enjoyed it !

Harry and the Hendersons (Special Edition)

Average customer rating:

Great Family Fun
Harry and the Hendersons
Don't Miss This Movie
Once upon a time with Harry
Bigfoot, Bigheart....and a BiggerMind than you might think

Harry and the Hendersons (Special Edition)
Starring: Don Ameche , Orene Anderson , Richard Arnold , Melinda Dillon , and Nick Flynn
Director: William Dear
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000MRNWKG
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Amazon.com

This cute movie by William Dear stars John Lithgow as a family man who befriends a Sasquatch (a.k.a. Bigfoot) and brings the friendly monster's oversized, hairy self into his Seattle home. Mayhem and comedy ensue, but things take a heavier turn when a hunter (David Suchet) gets on the creature's trail. Everything hinges on the relationship between Lithgow's character and Harry (the Sasquatch), and that relationship is really quite effective and touching. Don Ameche is a hoot as an old guy who has dreamed of meeting Bigfoot all his life and finally gets the glorious chance. --Tom Keogh

Description

John Lithgow takes adventure to new heights in this big-laughs, big-hearted, big-footed comedy for the whole family! A chance car accident introduces the Hendersons to the real-life Bigfoot, who is anything but a ferocious monster and quickly becomes a true friend to the family. They're soon in a race against the clock to return "Harry" to his natural environment before the authorities capture him. The fur will fly in this feel-good romp - an Oscar winner for Best Makeup - the whole family will enjoy again and again!

Customer Reviews:

Great Family Fun.......2007-06-27

I had seen this movie many times when I was a kid and always loved it. "Harry" is great family movie full of Hilarious scenes that will make you laugh out loud! It asks the question "What is Bigfoot really existed?". Would he be able to be seen as a gentle beast? Great for children as it shows that all "animals" aren't mean and nasty and don't deserve to be killed just because we can. If you are looking for a movie with great laughs for kids and adults alike then see "Harry and the Hendersons" I believe it is a movie everyone can enjoy!

Harry and the Hendersons .......2007-06-02

Nice liitle movie about a 'fictional' character set in the Seattle area .
Great fun for the whole family .... and you get to see John Lithgow with more hair (funny how we lose our cranial covering and then it migrates to other parts of the body ) and Melinda Dillon fresh from closeEncounters of the 3rd kind .
Don Ameche is wonderful.

Something to let all kids watch ...reminds me of the best 'Disney' stuff when I was a kid .

Don't Miss This Movie.......2007-05-31

It was great to revisit a movie I have always loved. Many people have been searching for a release of this movie and now it has finally come to DVD. The "extras" are mostly promotional material that supported the movies original release so don't expect much there, but the movie itself is awesome!

Once upon a time with Harry .......2007-05-30

Great for children and adults, this movie can be watched over and over again. Enjoy the comedy and the imaginative creation of Harry.

Bigfoot, Bigheart....and a BiggerMind than you might think.......2007-05-26

This is one of the best family movies ever made!! I don't know why it wasn't a big hit??!?!! If you haven't seen this movie yet, especially if you're into bigfoot but, even if your not....you must see it. I believe that having an open mind and an open heart is important and this movie helps people see how, why and what the results might be. Give yourself over to the big guy.....heck, I'd let him stay with me....well for a little while. Great family fun and adventure can't be found like this in modern movies; Harry and the Hendersons has real heart and one of my favorite performances by John Lithgow. The cast is a great combination of very gifted actors who gave great performances that should have been recognized as such and really haven't been. Buy it! Buy it! Buy it!

Ghost In The Shell - Solid State Society

Average customer rating:

Sweet!
True to the Series
Delving into a detailed universe...
Another Star in the GitS Series
Much better than the serials

Ghost In The Shell - Solid State Society
Starring: Michael McCarty (III) , Dean Wein , Yutaka Nakano , Takashi Onozuka , and Joshua Seth
Director: Kenji Kamiyama
Manufacturer: Manga Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Anime & Manga | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 07 (Episodes 24-26)
Ergo Proxy, Vol. 4: Wrong Way Home
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 05 (Episodes 17-20)
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, 2nd GIG, Volume 03 (Episodes 9-12)
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Volume 2

ASIN: B000PWQPAC
Release Date: 2007-07-03

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Sweet!.......2007-06-12

Every instalment of this series leaves me in awe. It was great to see all the familiar faces and hear some new tunes from Yoko Kano.

True to the Series.......2007-06-11

Delving into a detailed universe..........2007-05-28

Solid State Society is hopefully a sign of what is to come in the world of Ghost in the Shell. After Stand Alone Complex's 2nd GIG, I was definitely left with a slightly bitter aftertaste. The pacing of the 2nd GIG felt uneven and the story felt more convoluted than tastefully complex, creating an adequate but not perfect addition to the GitS series. However, Solid State Society takes the best from the Stand Alone Complex series and in little under two hours presents a story as rich in detail and as lovingly complex as the series preceding it.

A huge plus of the movie is that instead of feeling like an overstretched episode, it feels more like a long arc of quality episodes stringed together while still feeling cinematic in its presentation. Solid State Society gives us everything we expect in a GitS story: a sci-fi universe that draws you in but never overwhelms, continuity in character development, rich and intelligent dialogue and plot that almost seems plausible down the road, and of course, some light philosophy and shades of grey. Even if you aren't an anime or a strict sci-fi fan, you might just enjoy this one.

Another Star in the GitS Series.......2007-05-17

This series just keeps getting better. Unlike the abysmal Cowboy Bebop movie that killed the franchise, Ghost in the Shell in all it's incarnations are well-thought out, engaging, topical, and state-of-the-art animation. Solid State Society is no different. It's all the little things that matter to the animation team from deep character development to the smallest of drawn detail.

Although I've only seen the Japanese DVD version, I assume the usual cast of American voice actors will be along for the State-side release (and in a way, I prefer them... the Japanese Motoko, while I'm told sounds like a traditional "sexy mama" voice is pretty darn husky), so the production value should be spot on.

Don't listen to that guy from San Francisco. I love the Tachikomas. If fact I bought the model and put one together myself. It's sitting here on my desk keeping my Talosian figurine company. My wife has the big plush version sitting on her desk as well. Hee Hee.

Much better than the serials .......2007-05-17

I assume that Production I.G. finally got tired of padding screen time with trite exposition and inane one-off subplots that contribute nothing to the story, as this film does away with all these things that so plagued its made-for-TV predecessors. The production values are nowhere near the levels of the last GITS theatrical release, but the story is at least as focused and drives straight ahead throughout. Taken at a distance, the plot seems somewhat derivative--there are child abductions (just like in "Innocence") and a mysterious computer network based consciousness known as the "Puppet Master" (sounds a lot like "Puppeteer") driving people to kill themselves ("Innocence" again), but the similarities are fairly inconsequential once you actually get into the story.

There are also far fewer squeaky voiced robots pontificating tediously, which is always a plus. Those kinds of things work OK in the sidebars of comic books, but translated into film... Ugh... I often felt as though the viewer's intelligence was being insulted by the television serials, but never felt that way at any point in this more streamlined offering (though the music is often intensely silly). Kudos to the writers for growing up. Boo for Bandai's delays and choice of cover art--it's not 1988 anymore, kids. Put the airbrushes down.

Average customer rating:

Great film!
Everything I remembered and more!
Great Great 80's cheese movie....
Teen Witch
Liked this one too

Teen Witch
Starring: Robyn Lively , Dan Gauthier , Joshua John Miller , Caren Kaye , and Dick Sargent
Director: Dorian Walker
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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The Worst Witch (The Movie)
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Troop Beverly Hills

ASIN: B00094ARJ6
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Description

Romance is the most powerful spell of all or so one teenager learns in this fun teen fantasy starring Robyn Lively ("Chicago Hope"), Zelda Rubinstein (the Poltergeist trilogy), Dan Gauthier ("Beverly Hills, 90210") and Dick Sargent ("Bewitched"). Filled with sweet-natured comedy and supernatural appeal, Teen Witch will work its magic on you! Louise (Lively) is a shy misfit with a huge crush onand no chance of datingBrad (Gauthier), the hunky star of the high school football team. And when Louise discovers on her 16th birthday that she's descended from Salem witches, she uses her newfound powers to become the most popular girl on campus! But when sparks fly between her and Brad, how can she be sure it's true love and that he's not simply spellbound?

Customer Reviews:

Great film!.......2007-07-01

This is an excellent film for anyone who loves a comedic, fun film!

I give it 5 stars!

Everything I remembered and more!.......2007-06-26

I hadn't seen this movie in a few years, so I was thrilled to find it on Amazon! Great moive! I never get tired of it!

Great Great 80's cheese movie...........2007-05-26

I Loved this movie when I was a teen! One of my very favorite 80's movies! Highly recommend this!

Teen Witch.......2007-03-23

I am a big 80's fan, I love all the old movies. This movie is really cute and my daughters like it. So, I think that is pretty cool.

Liked this one too.......2007-03-20

I like movies about witches and this one was cool and funny, so it gets 4 stars.

Average customer rating:

Family Friendly
Favorite Family Movie
great movie
Pioneer Romance
great-clean- meaningful

Love's Enduring Promise
Starring: January Jones , Mackenzie Astin , Cliff De Young , Logan Bartholomew , and K'Sun Ray
Director: Michael Landon Jr.
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Love Comes Softly
Love's Long Journey
Love's Abiding Joy
Straight From the Heart
The Inheritance

ASIN: B0006IUDC6
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Amazon.com

Set in a frontier world of bonnets and one-room schoolhouses, Love's Enduring Promise follows a headstrong young teacher named Missie (January Jones, Bandits), the daughter of Clark and Marty Davis (Dale Midkiff and Katherine Heigl) from previous prairie romance Love Comes Softly. After Clark injures himself in a woodcutting accident, the family farm is in danger of failing--until a handsome young stranger (Logan Bartholomew) helps out. Missie finds herself drawn to this man, but the intelligence and graciousness of young railroad magnate (Mackenzie Austin, How to Deal) appeals to a side of her that yearns to go beyond the hills and valleys of her childhood. What could be romantic froth becomes a quiet, well-paced, and thoughtful love story, thanks to a solid script, capable performances, and clean direction. Jones is particularly engaging; Missie could have been blandly virtuous, but Jones draws a rich and subtle range of emotions out of her scenes. Religious viewers will appreciate the movie's commitment to wholesome storytelling and clear moral perspective. Love's Enduring Promise, like Love Comes Softly, is based on a novel by Christian writer Janet Oke, though Love's Enduring Promise departs more from its source. --Bret Fetzer

Description

Clark and Marty Davis were caught in a "marriage of convenience" that over time turned into deep mutual respect and love. In this sequel, they now preside over a growing family in their little prairie house. But as they reach out to those in their frontier community, they discover that love is not limited by the size of a dwelling.

Customer Reviews:

Family Friendly.......2007-05-23

This was another great movie. They really follow the books. I like that there is no cursing or violence in these movies.

Favorite Family Movie.......2007-05-21

This is our favorite family movie currently! It is refreshing.....suited for families. No swearing, immorality....clean movie!

great movie .......2007-05-15

This is a great movie you should get all of them> I really liked them. When i was done i shared them with my best friend and also my mother.

Pioneer Romance.......2007-05-13

Had read the book - Love the book and the movie. I hope Michael Landon Jr
continues to make movies like these. He is truly following in his father's footsteps by making family friendly, Christian movies. Not afaid
to mention God - knowing God's presence is important. Thank you Michael
Jr. for making this movie and thank you Janette Oke for writing it.

great-clean- meaningful.......2007-05-13

this is a wonderful movie for the family not only providing entertainment but there are humorous moments, tearful moments and spiritual moments---makes us think about a more simple way of life

Average customer rating:

Bobby deserves a 10!
A Political Version of "Crash"
Good movie just know what you are expecting
Good Acting, Some Problems - Not About Bobby Kennedy
Poetry

Bobby (Widescreen Edtion)
Starring: Demi Moore , Anthony Hopkins , Lawrence Fishburne , Lindsay Lohan , and Elijah Wood
Director: Emilio Estevez
Manufacturer: The Weinstein Company
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

The Good Shepherd (Widescreen Edition)
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Notes on a Scandal

ASIN: B000MEYJI8
Release Date: 2007-04-10

Description

(Drama) A re-telling of the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel in 1968. The film follows 22 individuals who are all at the hotel for different purposes but share the common thread of anticipating Kennedy's arrival at the primary election night party, which would change their lives forever. This historic night is set against the backdrop of the cultural issues gripping the country at the time, including racism, sexual inequality and class differences.

Customer Reviews:

Bobby deserves a 10!.......2007-07-02

Through the eyes of the twenty-two people that worked and stayed at the Ambassador Hotel on June 5, 1968 we see how the assassination of Senator Bobby Kennedy affected them all. Written and directed by former `Bratpacker' Emilio Estevez and featuring an all star cast, 2006's Bobby will be remembered as one of the great movies depicting the assassination of RFK.
Born nine years after the death of Robert Kennedy this film fascinated me. After studying about the war in Vietnam and the racism in the 60's, it was clear Kennedy wanted to put a stop to it all, but like his brother before him he died before he could really make a difference in the world.

A Political Version of "Crash".......2007-06-13

I only got this movie because of the all-star cast. Having lived through the events I didn't feel the movie would do it justice but I was wrong. The movie uses all real footage of the events leading up to June 4, 1968 and focuses on the hotel on that fateful day. It is basically like the movie "Crash" and has many different stories going on at once inside the hotel where Kennedy's victory party and shooting took place. Like Crash the stories come together when the Senator is shot just after he makes his victory speech. There is a lot of inspirational footage, excellently interspersed throughout the film of Kennedy talking political issues both in California and about the country at large. Many of his thoughts ring true today with the concerns about the war in Iraq, global warming and poverty.

Each of the stories presented in the film are excellent by themselves and with so many big name actors, none have any bigger roles than any others. My favorite is one where a young man came with his girlfriend to the hotel to get married so he would not be sent to the front-line in Viet Nam. The girl's father calls him a coward, if that is the actual reason for the marriage. Another good tale involves Harry Belefonte dealing with the onset of Alzheimer's disease, while his main goal is to win a game of chess before he dies. Also, there is a tale of a Mexicano kitchen worker who wants to take off because he has Dodger tickets on the night that Don Drysdale is going for the consecuitive shut-out innings record. He talks about the Latinos being the next group to win their "civil rights."

The tales were so intriguing that this movie held me spellbound until the ending credits.

Good movie just know what you are expecting.......2007-06-13

Bobby is a good movie, however realize what the movie is portraying before you watch. I did not know much about the assasination of Robert Kennedy and I was expecting more of a biography on the specific events that led to the assasination. However, the movie is really more about a short glimpse of specific lives that were directly affected by the assasination of Kennedy at the Ambassador hotel.

Do not expect to learn more about the events that took place but rather the individuals who played some sort of role immediately following the assasination. The movie wasn't great, nor was it bad yet I think if I knew a little more about what to expect before I saw the movie I would have enjoyed it more.

The film making and the story line are extremely thought provoking and keep your interest throughout entire film. Although, you may be left somewhat dissapointed by the abrupt end. But what do you expect when you know exactly how this movie will end? Enjoy the film, just realize it is not about Bobby Kennedy, it is about the lives surrounding him on the day of his assasination

Good Acting, Some Problems - Not About Bobby Kennedy.......2007-06-07

I was very interested to see this movie, in part because of the historical period, and in part because of the cast.

1. The cast was generally wonderful, with an all-star cast playing regular folks going about their business at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles on the day that Robert Kennedy was assasinated in June, 1968. Two of my favorites were Ashton Kutcher as a drug dealer turning two Kennedy staffers on to LSD, and Christian Slater as a rather unlikeable racist kitchen staff manager. Kutcher's real-life wife Demi Moore played a soggy alcoholic singer who passes out in the beauty shop chair with a martini in one hand and a Marlboro in the other. It seemed as though writer/director Estevez was aiming at something like "Babel", "Traffic", or an Altman picture in the way that the various stories danced around each other, all culminating with Kennedy's murder and the non-fatal wounding of a number of bystanders. Some of the writing was actually quite poetic, as when Martin Sheen's character talks to his materialistic wife about the real values in their marriage. That was really a great speech. At other times, the writing felt contrived.

2. Estevez' handling of the period was patchy, but that is understandable, since he was only six or seven years old when Kennedy was shot. Sometimes his "take" on Los Angeles 1968 was spot-on (as with the fabulous big hairpieces, earrings, and indoor smoking like chimneys), and sometimes way, way off. As, for example,when a young kitchen staffer says "I'm not a Mexican, I'm a Latino" - my recollection is that the PC term used at that time in Southern California wasn't "Latino", it was "Chicano". There were a number of other times when the language used was not accurate to the historical time frame, as when someone referred to "getting down", and (as all senior citizens know), people didn't start to get down until the 80's.

I thought about going with 3 stars here, but the actors were generally just too good. It is worth seeing for that alone, but it's not Altman and it's not "Traffic".

Poetry.......2007-06-03

I thought this film had great poetry
its a beautiful film and you should see it,
Bobby kennedy - the once and future king.
Peace
x

Average customer rating:

..."YOU WANT ME ON THAT WALL....YOU....NEED....ME ON THAT WALL"...
memorable
A Few Good Men and One GREAT Woman
You can't handle the truth!
Enjoyable Watch which captivates interest

A Few Good Men (Special Edition)
Starring: Tom Cruise , Jack Nicholson , Demi Moore , Kevin Bacon , and Kiefer Sutherland
Director: Rob Reiner
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

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Similar Items:

Top Gun (Widescreen Special Collector's Edition)
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The Fugitive

ASIN: B00005B6JZ
Release Date: 2001-05-29

Amazon.com essential video

A U.S. soldier is dead, and military lawyers Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee and Lieutenant Commander JoAnne Galloway want to know who killed him. "You want the truth?" snaps Colonel Jessup (Jack Nicholson). "You can't handle the truth!" Astonishingly, Jack Nicholson's legendary performance as a military tough guy in A Few Good Men really amounts to a glorified cameo: he's only in a few scenes. But they're killer scenes, and the film has much more to offer. Tom Cruise (Kaffee) shines as a lazy lawyer who rises to the occasion, and Demi Moore (Galloway) gives a command performance. Kevin Bacon, Kiefer Sutherland, J.T. Walsh, and Cuba Gooding Jr. (of Jerry Maguire fame) round out the superb cast. Director Rob Reiner poses important questions about the rights of the powerful and the responsibilities of those just following orders in this classic courtroom drama. --Alan Smithee

Customer Reviews:

..."YOU WANT ME ON THAT WALL....YOU....NEED....ME ON THAT WALL"..........2007-05-07

....Darn good movie [DVD]...Sorkin's screen/play defines the spartan USMC discipline to perfection...for instance, when Jack Nicholson [he overshadows the entire cast of this film] berates all the non/combatant Navy JAG/attorneys trying to bring his illustrious Marine career to an abrupt end is spell/binding and cuts right to the bone [an immense scene of impact]...his bombastic and clarion call to what a Fleet Marine Force Marine [FMF] is all about is so true to all the unsuspecting civilians taking life for granted, etc...his sneering but simple, "Thank You" is all he expects...."and be on your way, my man" is totally real...99% of the American people don't know the instantanious, and grating/lethal feeling... I'm about to die!!....pooof, dead!!...no more mama-no more papa...no more nothing!!...is what Fleet Marines go through in combat operations 24/7 by closing with America's enemies, etc...Nicholson tries his darndest to bring this sailent point home with alacrity, "You Want Me On That Wall..You...NEED... Me On That Wall!!!"...he's right on, folks.....give the devil his due...as for the final fadeout, Nicholson's character gets his just reward of due process of the Military Code of Justice...but, I say again...Nicholson's portrayal as a FMF Marine Colonel is colossal by the fact, how the United States Marine Marine Corps' commitment to duty, honor and country allows all Americans to go about their daily rush of life in peace and at days end, sleep the good sleep while the USMC guards the ramparts like no other, since 1775...a very good cast begets a great show!!....Semper Fidelis...SSGT CHRIS SARNO-USMC FMF

memorable.......2007-03-15

This movie is very good, especially for it's memorable moments in the end. It is a nice window into the lives of our military people and how honor and obediance play into their lives.

A Few Good Men and One GREAT Woman.......2007-03-09

If YOU can HANDLE THE TRUTH ... This is a spectacular Movie. It really is ! A Must See ! Jack Nicholson, Tom Cruise, Kiefer Sutherland, Demi Moore-Kutcher among others....who could ask for a better casting ? I never thought in a million years that all those TOP stars could actually act together and make it work..OHH but they did and the movie is GREAT ! Get it..u will not be sorry ! A CODE RED will be issued on anyone who does not buy this movie....J/K that is not done anymore..now is it ? Check this movie out !

You can't handle the truth!.......2007-02-12

4.5 Stars. An absolutely stellar cast saves this film from being ever-so-slightly boring. While some of the courtroom scenes drag, the rest of the script is tight and packed with light humor in appropriate moments.

Two marines, Downey and Dawson, are accused of murdering private Santiago during a disciplinary procedure known unofficially as a Code Red. Assigned to represent them is naval lawyer Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise) and Lt. Sam Weinberg (Kevin Pollak), joined by internal affairs officer Lt. Cdr. JoAnne Galloway (Demi Moore). The chain of command extending downward from Col. Nathan R. Jessep (Jack Nicholson) denies ordering the Code Red, so Dawson and Downey's only hope is if Kaffee can prove they were following orders given to them from above.

Kaffee and Weinberg find themselves facing off with prosecutor Capt. Jack Ross (Kevin Bacon) and hard-core marines such as Lt. Jonathan Kendrick (Kiefer Sutherland), Lt. Col. Matthew Andrew Markinson (the late, great J.T. Walsh), Cpl. Carl Hammaker (Cuba Gooding Jr.), and of course, Col. Jessep.

Innocence, orders, protocols, procedures, guilt, and morals are strewn over the courtroom in a trial over the loss of one life, and potential loss of two more. Where is the line between right and wrong drawn? Kaffee (the carefree one), Joanna (the serious one) and Sam (the stable one) are forced to work as a team to uncover the truth as to what happened to break down the chain of military command the night private Santiago died.

The cast is first-rate and the performances stellar in this tense drama. The scripting does drag at times, but can't distract from the overall plot. Jack Nicholson, though his screen time is limited, steals the show with his portrayal of Col. Jessep, a war-zone hardened marine of high stature, slated for promotion. This movie is a must-see for fans of courtroom or military dramas. Enjoy!

Enjoyable Watch which captivates interest.......2007-02-12

My interest was quickly captured by this movie and enjoyed it from beginning to end. A tale of honor and justice and proof.

Agree with the other reviews who thought most of the acting was superb, from Cruise to the exceptional character which Nicholson pulls off so convincingly;was a super watch for me and one that I'll want to see again.

The plot is intriguing and believable, and the plot slowly unwinds. Even if one thinks it is predictable, and it is (you know they'll win the case) it peaks your interest till the end. However, that being said the surprise verdict of the dishonorable discharge makes a very salient point at the end, and bonds the Marine with the Navy attorney in a superb way of closing the film.

Average customer rating:

Murphy's Romance
A Movie For A Rainy Day
You'll be sorry!
best romance
one of those great movies

Murphy's Romance
Starring: Sally Field , James Garner , Brian Kerwin , Corey Haim , and Dennis Burkley
Director: Martin Ritt
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: 0767827813
Release Date: 2000-05-02

Amazon.com

Director Martin Ritt (Norma Rae) helmed this offbeat romance that earned costar James Garner an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of a widowed druggist who befriends a confused divorcee (Sally Field) and her son, who move to a small rural town to start over. The laid-back performance of Garner as a man finding love "for the last time in his life" contrasts wonderfully with Field's portrayal of a woman scared and unsure of what the future may hold for her, and the two of them together exhibit great comic timing. As well written and as deftly performed as any movie of its type, Murphy's Romance will rope you in with its winning style. --Robert Lane

Customer Reviews:

Murphy's Romance.......2007-07-05

This film dates back to 1985, and of my over 500 DVD collection I have placed it in my top 10.
That alone says a lot about how I feel about this film. Sally Field and James Garner are at there vary best hear. It's a shame that Hollywood has not seen fit to put them together more often.
This film is real life. This could be for real. Being an Arizona resident myself , and an old, used to be horseman, I can relate to this story line. It's a romance story at its best. For all ages.

A Movie For A Rainy Day.......2007-06-27

This is one of my favorite movies to curl up in the chair on a rainy day and put in the DVD player. I absolutely love it. It's funny, charming and one of the best love stories around.James Garner and Sally Field at their best.

You'll be sorry!.......2007-06-16

This unanimity of opinion about this movie duped me into buying it. Big mistake.

This movie boggles the mind: no plot, no story even, no characters, nothing. Will she marry James Garner? Well, of course, she's going to marry James Garner! He's James Garner! Maybe you have to be a fan.

Well, I like Sally Field a lot, but she had no role worth playing in this slice of life. Slice of life is a hard enough thing to pull off, but when you pick such a dull life, it's a joke.

My advice: talk to someone you trust before you put your money on this movie.

best romance.......2007-05-19

i loved this movie from the first time i saw it. james garner is my hero!!! older men are better!!!!

one of those great movies.......2007-05-15

Another great feel good movie. These actors are amoung the best there is and the movie is up there with them. A great one to watch.

DVD:

DVD

DVD

DVD

Bionicle 2 - Legends of Metru Nui

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