Tom & Jerry - The Magic Ring

Starring:Jeff Bennett, Frank Welker, Charlie Schlatter, Jim Cummings, Maile Flanagan, Jess Harnell, Maurice LaMarche, Tress MacNeille, Tara Strong, Billy West (II), June Foray, Mel Blanc
Director: James T. Walker, William Hanna, Joseph Barbera, Chuck Jones, Maurice Noble
Studio: Warner Home Video
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com

Like Sin City before it, 300 brings Frank Miller and Lynn Varley's graphic novel vividly to life. Gerard Butler (Beowulf and Grendel, The Phantom of the Opera) radiates pure power and charisma as Leonidas, the Grecian king who leads 300 of his fellow Spartans (including David Wenham of The Lord of the Rings, Michael Fassbender, and Andrew Pleavin) into a battle against the overwhelming force of Persian invaders. Their only hope is to neutralize the numerical advantage by confronting the Persians, led by King Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro), at the narrow strait of Thermopylae.

More engaging than Troy, the tepid and somewhat similar epic of ancient Greece, 300 is also comparable to Sin City in that the actors were shot on green screen, then added to digitally created backgrounds. The effort pays off in a strikingly stylized look and huge, sweeping battle scenes. However, it's not as to-the-letter faithful to Miller's source material as Sin City was. The plot is the same, and many of the book's images are represented just about perfectly. But some extra material has been added, including new villains (who would be considered "bosses" if this were a video game, and it often feels like one) and a political subplot involving new characters and a significantly expanded role for the Queen of Sparta (Lena Headey). While this subplot by director Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead) and his fellow co-writers does break up the violence, most fans would probably dismiss it as filler if it didn't involve the sexy Headey. Other viewers, of course, will be turned off by the waves of spurting blood, flying body parts, and surging testosterone. (The six-pack abs are also relentless, and the movie has more and less nudity--more female, less male--than the graphic novel.) Still, as a representation of Miller's work and as an ancient-themed action flick with a modern edge, 300 delivers. --David Horiuchi

Description

The epic graphic novel by Frank Miller (Sin City) assaults the screen with the blood, thunder and awe of its ferocious visual style faithfully recreated in an intense blend of live-action and CGI animation. Retelling the ancient Battle of Thermopylae, it depicts the titanic clash in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) and his massive Persian army. Experience history at swordpoint. And moviemaking with a cutting edge.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary:Director Zack Snyder, Writer Kurt Johnstad and Director of Photography Larry Fong
Deleted Scenes:with Introduction by Zack Snyder
Featurette:The 300- Fact or Fiction? (RT: 24:31 Historians, authorsÂ and filmmakers reveal how much of the film was based on fact.); Who Were The Spartans: The Warriors of 300 (RT: 4:24 Touches on the customs and ways of life of the Spartan that werent explicitly shown in 300 but were used by the actors and filmmakers Ã,Â to help build their characters.); Frank Miller Tapes (RT: 13:00 Ã,Â We'll show how the outspoken Miller continued to push his limits to realize his epic graphic novel in the world of film
Other:Webisodes: Behind the scenes peeks on the set of 300 (RT 20:00)
Photo gallery:RT 3:39 Rapid fire stills from the first day of production to the last.

Customer Reviews:

A "brilliantly empty" film.......2007-07-09

In short, this is a comic book turned into a movie with video game aesthetics, telling the tale of the 300 Spartans who died fighting back parts of the Persian army at Thermopylae in 480 BCE. The very
fact that the introduction rather cheerfully depicts the eugenic conditions of Spartan adolescence, and that the almost two hours of film are filled to the brim with (some, historically accurate) lines mirroring Spartan warrior ethics, could make this movie into a nice sliproad from a seemingly endless stream of movies focusing on the quite tiresome theme of modern individualism.

But that's only on the surface. In one scene, the Spartan king Leonidas (Gerard Butler) lectures on the importance of the army keeping together, using their shields to protect each other, and consequently creating a strong unity. In combat, this unity is initially kept, but then each Spartan runs along towards his own one-on-one battle, showing off a few hokum stunts. Interestingly, this is quite a precise parable for what makes this movie collapse: there is nothing keeping it together. This makes the movie, at its heart, into the very opposite of what it is set out to be. The exterior of an over-blown praise of an interpretation of Spartan life, accompanied by mediocre acting, blue screen animations, Hollywood sound effects, NuMetal riffs, billions of slow-motions, and the constant use of the increasingly obscure concept of "freedom," will most probably entertain some people. But beneath all this, there is nothing.

Those who seek art that beautifully portrays heroism, will not find it here.

Not even the debate on whether the movie draws its motivations from current politics or not is very interesting. Instead, what makes this work sort of fascinating as a phenomenon, and meaningful to review at all, is that it's an excellent example of the extreme contrast between modern and traditional thinking, and of surface versus content. These filmmakers take some ingredients from the past, but don't know how to deal with them other than by throwing them into a stew of modern decorations and purposes. While awful as a movie, and hardly worthy of ancient Sparta, at least "300" stands as an unintentionally comical monument of contemporary misunderstandings.

Recommended.......2007-07-09

I can't wait to get the DVD. I loved the art direction and style of Sin City so this was a no brainer. Even after watching the latest summer blockbusters of 2007 (ie. Transformers, Spiderman 3, Die Hard), I consider 300 to be the #1 action movie in the past year. I see many negative reviews from customers here but the general consensus seems to agree with my opinion. Most people enjoyed this movie and recommend it. If you're not sure whether to pay ~$20, rent it. Simple as that.

"This is NOT Sparta!".......2007-07-07

And I thought Classics Illustrated were a bad idea! I guess any two hacks can come along and make over one of the classic HISTORY stories of all time, mangling it horribly, in order to make it some kind of gay-spectacle-for-profit. (Yes, if you found yourself staring at all that artificially sweating "manliness," well, you know.) There wasn't one single good thing about this movie: all it was was fantasy-killing a la video games. Why not just make something completely up then? Or, if you really want to know the truth, why not make the movie reflect it? My one great gripe with the movie was the ending, which implied that the Spartans, who were always face-forward, would resort to any kind of stealth at the last minute. Just wouldn't happen. That tarnished quite unnecessarily the really impressive gesture the historical Spartans actually made and what fascinates us even today. In short, author and film-maker both blew it. Or more likely they just didn't get it.

Surprisingly good.......2007-07-07

The advertisements for this film did not entice me to see it. It was word of mouth that brought me to the theater to see it on the big screen. And I wasn't disappointed. It was probably just as well that I didn't know going in that it was from a graphic novel. That might have quelled my interest. Especially upon seeing the special effects in those ads.

Although the filmmakers -- and the writers of the novel -- took liberties with the story, there was enough of the original history of Thermopylae to maintain interest. The actors were well chosen. The artwork and special effects were unique and worked as part of the story rather than as just stuck in there because it could be done.

The biggest disappointment would have been predictable had I known of the origins of the story. Xerxes, the Persian ruler, was so monstrous that when he first appeared on screen, he drew the viewer out of the story. Unfortunately, he was laughable, and the story became too cartoonish. I was glad I went to see it. I just wish the quality of story and characterization had been maintained throughout.

ill keep it short.......2007-07-07

as i agree with everything the other one star rated reviewers say, no need for me to repeat them, only to acknowledge that i agree and if you have any idea of what a good movie is, or have a I.Q. of 100 or more with the ability to see through hype, then this movie isn't for you.

Average customer rating:

Muscular action and political propaganda
I am just a patsy...
Lots of bang Little for your buck
3 &1/2 Stars evil america meets the angry patriot movie
Shooter

Shooter (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Mark Wahlberg , Michael Peña , Danny Glover , Kate Mara , and Elias Koteas
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000Q6GUTI
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Amazon.com

A movie that would not have been out of place in the run of paranoid-political thrillers of the 1970s, Shooter works an entertaining variation on the assassination picture. Mark Wahlberg, carrying over good mojo from The Departed, slides neatly into the character of Bob Lee Swagger, master marksman. Swagger has retreated from his duty as an off-the-books hired gun for the military, having become disillusioned with his government (switching on his TV at his remote mountain cabin, he mutters, "Let's see what kind of lies they're trying to sell us today."). Ah, but the government needs Swagger to scope out the location of a rumored attempt on the life of the president, so a shadowy government operative (Danny Glover) begs Swagger to use his sniper's skills to out-fox the assassin. From there--well, spoilers are not fair, since the movie has a few legitimate shocks and a very nice wrong-man scenario about to unfold.

A novel by the Washington Post's Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic Stephen Hunter gives the movie a logical spine, even if the premise itself is the stuff of conspiracy theorists. Wahlberg gets support from Michael Pena, as a skeptical FBI agent; Kate Mara, as a trustworthy widow; and Ned Beatty, trailing along memories of Network, as a supremely cynical Senator. Along with the well-executed action sequences (the previously unreliable director Antoine Fuqua gets it in gear here), the movie includes a few potshots at the Bush administration. No, that doesn't put Shooter at the level of The Parallax View or All the President's Men, but it provides some tang along with the flying bullets. --Robert Horton

Beyond Shooter

More Sniper / Hit Man Movies on DVD
More DVDs with Mark Wahlberg
The Novel

Stills from Shooter (click for larger image)

Customer Reviews:

Muscular action and political propaganda.......2007-07-09

First, the bad. This film is really stuck in the 70's. Muscular violence and anti-corporate propaganda mixed in way guaranteed to sell.

That said, it is very well done. If you want none stop action, romance and intrigue, this your picture. The techniques used by the sniper teams has been coached by experts.

I'll probably buy a previously owned version from local video store.

I am just a patsy..........2007-07-08

The timing of this movie is impeccable-with the weariness the American public has developed and the growing disdain for some of our current political leaders. There are some obvious parallels here with the current times.
Aside from that, this is a pretty typical action flick. Action star Mark Wahlberg gives a solid performance as Bob Swagger, a former marine scout sniper. The story opens in Ethiopia, where he is on a covert mission that goes astray. He and his best friend/spotter, Donnie, are left for dead.
Of course Bob survives, and ends up disappearing to his remote hideaway back in the states. Three years later he is informed that a code was broken on an upcoming assasination attempt of the president. He is asked to help prepare and stop these efforts.
So the story goes. An evil act of this magnitude really builds the suspense. The president ends up surviving, but the Ethiopian arch bishop standing next to him gets tagged by the sniper. And Bob is the perfect man to blame.
Here's where the story gets a little ridiculous. Bob is able to escape his pursuers by driving his stolen car into the river and sneaking away on a passing barge. Riiiiight, that's believable. I saw that one coming too, but was hoping it wouldn't go there. Oh well.
There are some other moments that will require some uh, shall we say suspensions of belief. There are some pretty good action sequences mixed in to distract you from the plot holes. Mark makes the best of his role and helps the story stay afloat. But it stays in shallow waters, for the most part.
I think the overall message this movie sends is disheartening. It basically is labeling our entire government as being corrupt. Plus it's a horrible depiction of our powerful military waving its evil iron fist to accomplish "the greater good".
Please, somebody, say it ain't so...

Lots of bang Little for your buck.......2007-07-08

Great for a 14 year old boy...... Anyone else it is nerve riding... Very predictable. Marky Mark does look great in a white feather outfit in the end.... Save your money and see it on TV.

3 &1/2 Stars evil america meets the angry patriot movie.......2007-07-08

Shooter is a pretty good action flick if... you can really suspend disbelief from the second scene on through the rest of the movie. Otherwise, although Wahlberg continues to make a great action star, this plot is so unbelievable, and the political agenda is so deep you may find yourself talking to your TV, and wishing you'd passed.

Shooter.......2007-07-08

One of the best movies I have seen in a LONG time. What made it so great was that there was no love story (well, not a long drawn out one anyway). Love stories always ruin these kinds of movies. The actors were awesome, the killing scenes were awesome, and the BOOM was awesome. Will watch it again and again!

Average customer rating:

Great Season
Seinfeld as Usual
Seinfeld Must Have
Seinfeld Season 8 Purchase Review
Hilarious!

Seinfeld - Season 8
Director: Tom Cherones
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Seinfeld - Season 7
Everybody Loves Raymond - The Complete Eighth Season
Scrubs - The Complete Fifth Season
Frasier - The Ninth Season
Seinfeld - Season 6

ASIN: B000OIOOVO
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Amazon.com

After seven seasons of groundbreaking comedy, what could possibly be left to accomplish in season 8 for Seinfeld and company, especially in this, the first season without co-creator Larry David at the helm? Plenty, as it turns out. This is the season that gave us some of the most memorable episodes in the entire series, including "The Muffin Tops," "The Bizarro Jerry," and "The Yada Yada," the episode that proved you can "yada yada" anything in life. Fortunately by this point in the series, the comic formula that sustained the show throughout its run had not yet begun to get tired, and the writers proved that they could continue to pull a whole lot of something out of the show about nothing. Case in point: "The English Patient," where they created an entire story line out of Elaine's hatred for the award-winning film. In "The Chicken Roaster," one of Seinfeld's most underappreciated episodes, Kramer switches apartments with Jerry and wages a one-man crusade against a Kenny Rogers' Roasters, only to becomes like Jerry and become undone by Newman. George continues to, well, be George. He habitually shoots himself in the foot as he continues life without Susan, only to find out marrying her would have made him rich ("The Foundation"). And Elaine gets her kicks, literally, horrifying her co-workers with her terrible dancing, spinning moves so bad they've actually become one of the show's most popular punch lines (go on any dance floor and you'll see someone doing "The Elaine" as a joke, it seems). Season 8 also continues the Seinfeld tradition of loading up the DVD sets with plenty of special features, including an illuminating documentary detailing how Jerry juggled his act as star and show-runner after Larry David's departure, and all new interviews with the cast. All in all, it's good stuff for fans, and there's plenty here for the casual viewer to enjoy as well. --Daniel Vancini

Extras from Seinfeld

Visit our Exclusive Seinfeld Microsite
Visit the Site

Stills from Seinfeld (click for larger image)

More Seinfeld at Amazon.com

Seinfeld Seasons 1-6
Seinfeld and Philosophy the book
Jerry Seinfeld Live on Broadway
All Seasons of Seinfeld

Description

Jerry Seinfeld: Submarine Captain You know him as "Master of his Domain;" now in a behind-the-scenes documentary, dive beneath the surface to see how Jerry Seinfeld juggled his act as star and show runner following Larry David's departure. Inside Looks Behind-the-scenes stories from the cast and creators. Not That There's Anything Wrong With That Never-before-seen outtakes and bloopers. In the Vault Season Eight never-before-seen deleted scenes ... saved from the cutting room floor. Yada, Yada, Yada Cast and crew audio commentaries. Sein-Imation See classic SEINFELD scenes re-imagined in Sein-Imation. Notes About Nothing Behind-the-scenes trivia and production notes.

Customer Reviews:

Great Season.......2007-07-07

I am a huge seinfeld lover, i have all of the seasons but this one is one of the best by far. Great buy.

Seinfeld as Usual.......2007-07-07

Seinfeld is always great! This season seems to be a little different in that it is more slapstick comedy rather than alot of verbal comedy and discussions. It is still excellent in its way! Am anxious for Season 9!

Seinfeld Must Have.......2007-07-06

Season eight met all of my expectations. I have all eight, which will come in handy during my retirement years (30 years to go).

Seinfeld Season 8 Purchase Review.......2007-07-06

Amazon had a great price for this newly released series. I was happy with my purchase and even happier that I didn't have to pay for shipping. The only thing I wasn't happy with was that Amazon took almost a week to ship out my order. Once they finally shipped it, I received it quickly. I just thought they'd ship it out as soon as the series was released.

Hilarious!.......2007-07-06

My family too loves Seinfeld, so I get them each season as it is released. Season 8 is just as funny as the previous 7 seasons. Absolute fun to watch!

Average customer rating:

The Zen of Freeing One's Mind
Great Movie!
Great Wholesome Movie
Went in with no clue.
Eastern religion re-packaged for Western consumption

Peaceful Warrior (Widescreen)
Starring: Scott Mechlowicz , Amy Smart , Nick Nolte , Ray Wise , and Karen Landry
Director: Victor Salva
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B000QEIOSU
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Customer Reviews:

The Zen of Freeing One's Mind.......2007-07-07

Here's one great movie which is headed; eventually, to become a cult classic like Star Wars, the Matrix and What the Bleep do we know??: A movie that will open up one's mind to ponder the mysteries of the divine universe and our relationship to and in it. What really impressed me about the movie is how it closely followed the sequence and events in the book. In addition to the scene where Socrates exemplified Jesus by giving away all of his and Dan's personal items in order to avoid physical conflict.

Whether you believe this or not, "synchronicity" brought you "here" and to my humble review and recommendation of this movie: This movie provides the navigation and road map for you to discover the "meta-purpose" of why you are "here" and how to learn to follow your own path through this 3D reality.

First of all, there are many complex meta-elements in this movie; such as, (1) the issues of violence against oneself, (2) the seeking of approval from others and the outside "world," (3) how the vast majority of people sleep-walk through life and don't exist, feel and live in the moment and experience real joy, (4) service to others is the ultimate purpose of one's existence, (5) developing non-attachment to trinkets (material stuff) and the drama of daily events, (6) realizing that what one experiences and learns along the journey is what's important and not the goal in itself, (7) clearing out the garbage within one's mind in order to sense, feel and experience everything which is happening around oneself, (8) the universe is a mirror and reflection of what's going on within your head ~ you create your reality, (9) there's a very big difference between knowledge and wisdom, and (10) the true answers to all of one's questions are centered and anchored within you already, which is where the kingdom of God and heaven is, and all you need to do is still your thoughts and monkey-mind to access them.

What also stands out in this movie are the contrasts between Dan Millman, who is an immature, arrogant, and self-absorbed college gymnast and Socrates whom is exemplified as the wise sage, mentor and teacher. As the movie progresses from beginning to end, I realized that this movie followed the path of what Joseph Campbell referred to as the "Journey of the Hero." The journey of the hero involves: (1) doubt, denial, anger & disbelief, (2) separation and isolation from the "world," (3) death to one's beliefs, experience & initiation, (4) understanding, resolution, acceptance, integration and the fusion of knowledge into wisdom, and (5) the "return" to reality and society in order to be of service to others. This concept is very similar to Elizabeth Kuebler-Ross's stages of Death and Dying and Eric Erickson's psychological levels of growth and development in which the highest level is self-actualization in which very few people ever achieve or reach.

Let me reiterate my following statement; "synchronicity brought you here to read everyone's reviews, and mine, of this highly recommended and spiritual movie." If you start knocking, doors (universes, answers and realities) will open up to you; if you ask the appropriate questions, answers will come to you; and if you sincerely seek, you will find that special mentor, teacher and resource(s) to guide you along your "hero's journey" in this 3D reality... May peace be with you, my friends!!!

Great Movie!.......2007-07-07

I absolutely loved this movie. Very thought provoking. A must see for all those with open minds.

Great Wholesome Movie.......2007-07-06

This movie is indeed a rare jewel among jagged stones. So much trash passes off as entertainment these days that it was refreshing to watch a film where slaughter and mindless vulgarity are absent. The hero of this story actually grows inwardly, and NOT achieving his goal was the best thing for him! Why? Because winning the gold would only have reinforced a false sense of self and left him more empty than before. Isn't that the way it works? When we attain something we desire there is an initial thrill which lasts for a day, week, or month followed by an emptiness we often miss as we move on the next desire or dream. In doing that we miss what's happening here and now. Self-absorption prevents self-awareness, and as Socrates (Nick Nolte) sagely pointed out early in the movie, most go through their whole life asleep without ever realizing it. Get this movie and watch it alone or with your family. You will not be disappointed.

Went in with no clue........2007-07-05

A good friend of mine received free tickets to see this movie in the theatres. I decided to go even though I had no idea what the movie was about and ended up being pleasantly surprised.

It was an engaging movie which I actually sat through without wishing I was somewhere else. The only drawback was how far-fetched it seemed. I know it is based upon a true story (the author's) but come on? A mystical gas station attendant who helps the young man come back from a grievous accident? I bet this is more from the imagination of the author than from true life experience.

Eastern religion re-packaged for Western consumption.......2007-07-04

While it was nice to see Nick Nolte working in front of a camera again instead of speeding down the highway blitzed out of his mind on drugs. And equally as nice to see Amy Smart acting more civilized this time instead of being humped like a dog in front of a horde of people on a public street as she did in the movie Crank. This movie, while fun to watch was nothing more than a load of Eastern religious "Self Realization" teachings presented in a way to be palatable to the Western mind. I didn't like it.

If you are into Buddhism and New Age religions. You'll probably eat this up.

Average customer rating:

soap opera takes over super hero
Promise
Please don't make Lex a wimp
Great but missing something.
The Good, The Bad, and The Bizarre

Smallville - The Complete Sixth Season
Starring: Tom Welling , Kristin Kreuk , Michael Rosenbaum , Annette O'Toole , and John Glover
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000N6SE4U
Release Date: 2007-09-18

Customer Reviews:

soap opera takes over super hero.......2007-07-08

It's apparent that the producers want to keep Lana center stage even at the expense of the supposed starring super hero. Smallville has turned into the Lana and Lex show. The series took a wrong turn the year it prematurely killed off Jonathan Kent. Next, they developed an inane relationship between Martha and Lionel under the approving eyes of Clark. Not to mention -- how are Clark and Louis supposed to meet for the first time at the Daily Planet when they've already lived together in Smallville? This was a terrific show for the first four years, but this last year isn't worth buying. I don't see how the present writers, directors, producers can bring it back on course. They need a new team, one that understands the Superman lore -- one that realizes its job is developing the young hero into a superMAN and not keeping a prominent role for Lana. She was darling, but it's past her time.

Promise.......2007-07-04

Season 6 started out as a disappointment...it had the feel that the characters were 'pulling away' or 'dis-interested' as most shows do that are spinning their final season. The Episode Promise, however, seemed to kick things back into place and go from there. I am biting my nails down to the bone waiting for season 7, and have pre-ordered season 6 already. yea!

Please don't make Lex a wimp.......2007-07-01

Hmmm....I kindof agree with most of the negative comments of the show I have read, although I did like subterranean, well at least the last 3 minutes of Lex in his dark suit walking the aile of 33.1.

I have to admit that I'm beginning to like Lex more than Clark since he has more dimensions to his character, especially when he saves Clark when he was caught under metal in the underground base. I was hoping that Lex would have built his army but was extremely disappointed in the last episode where that last phantom destroyed his army in the lab...what was that all about? Just when I think that Lex is so smart and cunning, something stupid happens to ruin his carefully, intelligently-plotted, laid out plans to take over the world.

I do like Lana, she seems hotter now than ever, but I too am getting tired of Clark holding on to her. A man of steel with a fragile heart?...Time to kill her off, or at least put her on the sidelines, being Lex consort again in the future.

I thought the Justice League formation was cool, but having Peter Pan, no-power Green Arrow leading it, just didn't do anything for me. I'm glad they forgot about him in the last ending episodes.

I also am wondering how they are going to pull off putting Clark with the cape and nobody recogning him. Is Clark going to kiss all of them and make them forget (like in Superman II)? I also agree with some comments about having more flight and fight scenes. I didn't care too much about Bizarro at the end...With so many cool, evil characters superman fought, they had to take that one?

Also, time for Lex to know about Clark's powers. I know he knows, but might as well make it official.

The only last recommendation (my point of view) is to stop tearing down Lex's character just when he's making great strides. What's up with the wedding scene when he breaks down when he kills the doctor because he wants not to lose Lana. Please... If Lex is to rule the world, he has to have a 'darth vader' like character, some weakness sure, but not a total breakdown (no, I'm not a Star Wars fan). His character is great, and the actor is fabulous, but please don't turn him into a wimp.

Overall, I think the writers/producers are doing an excellent job with the series.

Great but missing something........2007-06-19

To begin, I like this show. Can't help it. This is one of the few television series I actually watch with any kind of frequency or deliberation. I enjoy the story, charaters, special effects, and a dozen other things...But like any real fan, I find myself discussing futilely with my family (who are also hooked) what should be changed. The series has gotten progressively darker and unlike in other seasons, the sixth season doesn't seem to have any feel-good episodes to releave the intensity. And also, this close to donning a cape and no one is going to recognize Clark? Time to pick up those glasses! And considering all the powers Clark has now, I wonder why the Robin Hood copycat (aka...) and his team weren't a little more impressed. I mean, he should be so out of their league! Still, I intend to buy it. Though there may be some episodes I woudn't care to watch too many more times, I especially enjoyed "Sneeze", "Rage", "Subterranean", "Tresspass", and "Noir" (Tom Welling does a great Clumsy Clark). I think "Justice" could have been worked a little more but it was good, too. Then there was "Combat" which was tough but amazing. All in all, definitely worth owning.

The Good, The Bad, and The Bizarre.......2007-06-12

This season for me was disappointing. To me this was not ventage Smallville. The season premiere, the season finale, the wedding, and an episode here and there, were actually ok. But to me it seems like when Smallville moved to The CW, the graphics weren't even close to last season's. In this season, the focus was actually more on the supporting characters (Lex, Lana, Chloe, etc.) rather than Clark. Which is fine, but I just think they should have given them better storylines than what they had. And I know that The CW network had to have budget cuts, but even the shows they showed in high definition (Smallville, Gilmore Girls, etc.) just looked better last year on The WB than they do on The CW. I brought that up because the graphics on Smallville just seemed to be used more towards the season premiere and finale and not the rest of the season. I mean bottomline, this season was disappointing with some of the storylines and the development of the characters wasn't up to the level it should have been. I mean if it was up to me, I would just download the episodes I enjoyed, and not buy the season 6 box set. But if you are a die-hard Smallville/Superman fan, then this set is for you. I was just hoping for something more concrete this season than what they put out.

Average customer rating:

Muscular action and political propaganda
I am just a patsy...
Lots of bang Little for your buck
3 &1/2 Stars evil america meets the angry patriot movie
Shooter

Shooter (Full Screen Edition)
Starring: Mark Wahlberg , Michael Peña , Danny Glover , Kate Mara , and Elias Koteas
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
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Deja Vu
Mel Gibson's Apocalypto (Widescreen Edition)
Blood Diamond [HD DVD]

ASIN: B000Q6GUT8
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Amazon.com

Beyond Shooter

More Sniper / Hit Man Movies on DVD
More DVDs with Mark Wahlberg
The Novel

Stills from Shooter (click for larger image)

Customer Reviews:

Muscular action and political propaganda.......2007-07-09

I am just a patsy..........2007-07-08

Lots of bang Little for your buck.......2007-07-08

Great for a 14 year old boy...... Anyone else it is nerve riding... Very predictable. Marky Mark does look great in a white feather outfit in the end.... Save your money and see it on TV.

3 &1/2 Stars evil america meets the angry patriot movie.......2007-07-08

Shooter.......2007-07-08

Average customer rating:

Band of Brothers
The Eagles Nest people, the Eagles Nest...
Band o' Blood.
BoB is true greatness
The Best Docu-drama

Band of Brothers
Starring: David Frankel , Tom Hanks , Damien Lewis , and Ron Livingstone
Manufacturer: HBO Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Action & Combat | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

World War II | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Miniseries | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

DTS | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video

( B ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Drama | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Saving Private Ryan (Special Limited Edition)
Beyond Band of Brothers: The War Memoirs of Major Dick Winters
Flags of Our Fathers (Widescreen Edition)
The Departed (Two-Disc Special Edition)
The Da Vinci Code (Widescreen Two-Disc Special Edition)

ASIN: B00006CXSS
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Amazon.com

An impressively rigorous, unsentimental, and harrowing look at combat during World War II, Band of Brothers follows a company of airborne infantry--Easy Company--from boot camp through the end of the war. The brutality of training takes the audience by increments to the even greater brutality of the war; Easy Company took part in some of the most difficult battles, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy, the failed invasion of Holland, and the Battle of the Bulge, as well as the liberation of a concentration camp and the capture of Hitler's Eagle's Nest. But what makes these episodes work is not their historical sweep but their emphasis on riveting details (such as the rattle of a plane as the paratroopers wait to leap, or a flower in the buttonhole of a German soldier) and procedures (from military tactics to the workings of bureaucratic hierarchies). The scope of this miniseries (10 episodes, plus an actual documentary filled with interviews with surviving veterans) allows not only a thoroughness impossible in a two-hour movie, but also captures the wide range of responses to the stress and trauma of war--fear, cynicism, cruelty, compassion, and all-encompassing confusion. The result is a realism that makes both simplistic judgments and jingoistic enthusiasm impossible; the things these soldiers had to do are both terrible and understandable, and the psychological price they paid is made clear. The writing, directing, and acting are superb throughout. The cast is largely unknown, emphasizing the team of actors as a whole unit, much like the regiment; Damian Lewis and Ron Livingston play the central roles of two officers with grit and intelligence. Band of Brothers turns a vast historical event into a series of potent personal experiences; it's a deeply engrossing and affecting accomplishment. --Bret Fetzer

Description

Based on the bestseller by Stephen E. Ambrose, the epic 10-part miniseries Band of Brothers tells the story of Easy Company, 506th Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Army. Drawn from interviews with survivors of Easy Company, as well as soldiers' journals and letters, Band of Brothers chronicles the experiences of these men who knew extraordinary bravery and extraordinary fear. They were an elete rifle company parachuting into France early on D-Day morning, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge and capturing Hitler's Eagle's Nest at Berchtesgaden. They were also a unit that suffered 150 percent casualties, and whose lives became legend.

DVD Features:
DVD ROM Features:Weblinks to the orignal Band of Brothers website and more!
Documentary:"We Stand Alone Together: The Men of Easy Company" - 80 minute documentary featuring interviews with the real men of Easy Company
Featurette:30-minute "The Making of Band of Brothers" The Premiere On The Beaches of Normandy - includes interviews with Easy Company vetrans and heads of state for the United States, Great Britian, France and Canada.
Interviews:Ron Livingston's Video Diaries - The experience of making "Band of Brothers" through the eyes of one actor.
Other:Interactive "Field Guide": An extensive reference feature that details the people, places and events associated with Easy Company's campaigns through Europe, and World War II as a whole, including sections such as: soldiers, timelines, maps, chain-of-command and glossary of terms.
Scene Access

Customer Reviews:

Band of Brothers.......2007-07-08

We had the Band of Brothers of VHS tapes which my father in law had described as the closest movie out there that actual shows what truely happened. In this day and age everything is now DVD. I was so happy to be able to purchase this through Amazon as I trust Amazon and its vendors. The Band of Brothers has special meaning for my husband since my father in law passed away and I was pleased to be able to receive it in time for father;s day. Band of Brothers is a very good movie especially when you know someone who has served in the war. Everyone needs to see it and remember what occured and what we went through

The Eagles Nest people, the Eagles Nest... .......2007-07-03

This is the Holy Grail of WWII movies. If you are a fan of Saving Private Ryan, Letters to Iwo Jima, Flags of our Fathers, Schindler's List, Tora Tora Tora, Enemy at the gates, or any other classic WWII movie (Kelly's Heroes, ahem!), and have not seen Band Of Brothers...than you need to stop what you are doing and order it right now and watch it...If you can't get it fast enough, still order it and rent it while you wait for your very own copy to come in the mail. I like Saving Private Ryan, but this smokes it out of the water. Smokes it people, smokes it....puff puff glub glub...

Band o' Blood........2007-07-03

I bought this for my boyfriend for Christmas and he was so thrilled to get it . Him, being in the military, loves it for being realistic, and also being a true story that's well played out.

I watched the first disk and was impressed by it, but having a weak stomach, I was squirming every so often, trying to avoid someone get blown up.
Four stars for the gore.

But this collection is a must own for every guy in the military, military buff, or just a guy who loves war stuff.

BoB is true greatness.......2007-07-03

This is one of the best WWII depictions I have ever seen. So many stars in many great roles.

The Best Docu-drama.......2007-07-03

With Shogun a distant 2nd (and that was phenomenal), this is by far the best docu-drama/miniseries filmed to date! In context alone, watching this not only informs the viewer of the hardships of WWII, but of the sacrifice of Easy Company and the soldiers just like them! Thanks for your service gentlemen!!

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Two-Disc Special Edition) (Harry Potter 4)

Average customer rating:

I Liked it Again
Hey, good movie!
Amazing book, mediocre movie
! horrible movie - goblet of fire - 1st 2 great 3rd lousy as well
The Best HP Movie Yet!

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Two-Disc Special Edition) (Harry Potter 4)
Starring: Eric Sykes , Timothy Spall , David Tennant , Daniel Radcliffe , and Emma Watson (II)
Director: Mike Newell
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Adapted from Books | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Fantasy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

( H ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Special Editions | Fully Loaded DVDs | Features | DVD | Video

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

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Widescreen Edition)
Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Two-Disc Special Edition) (Harry Potter 3)
Star Wars - Episode III, Revenge of the Sith (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B000E6EK3S
Release Date: 2006-03-07

Amazon.com

The fourth entry in the Harry Potter saga could be retitled Fast Times at Hogwarts, where finding a date to the winter ball is nearly as terrifying as worrying about Lord Voldemort's return. Thus, the young wizards' entry into puberty (and discovery of the opposite sex) opens up a rich mining field to balance out the dark content in the fourth movie (and the stories are only going to get darker). Mike Newell (Four Weddings and a Funeral) handily takes the directing reins and eases his young cast through awkward growth spurts into true young actors. Harry (Daniel Radcliffe, more sure of himself) has his first girl crush on fellow student Cho Chang (Katie Leung), and has his first big fight with best bud Ron (Rupert Grint). Meanwhile, Ron's underlying romantic tension with Hermione (Emma Watson) comes to a head over the winter ball, and when she makes one of those girl-into-woman Cinderella entrances, the boys' reactions indicate they've all crossed a threshold.

But don't worry, there's plenty of wizardry and action in Goblet of Fire. When the deadly Triwizard Tournament is hosted by Hogwarts, Harry finds his name mysteriously submitted (and chosen) to compete against wizards from two neighboring academies, as well as another Hogwarts student. The competition scenes are magnificently shot, with much-improved CGI effects (particularly the underwater challenge). And the climactic confrontation with Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes, in a brilliant bit of casting) is the most thrilling yet. Goblet, the first installment to get a PG-13 rating, contains some violence as well as disturbing images for kids and some barely shrouded references at sexual awakening (Harry's bath scene in particular). The 2 1/2-hour film, lean considering it came from a 734-page book, trims out subplots about house-elves (they're not missed) and gives little screen time to the standard crew of the other Potter films, but adds in more of Britain's finest actors to the cast, such as Brendan Gleeson as Mad-Eye Moody and Miranda Richardson as Rita Skeeter. Michael Gambon, in his second round as Professor Dumbledore, still hasn't brought audiences around to his interpretation of the role he took over after Richard Harris died, but it's a small smudge in an otherwise spotless adaptation. --Ellen A. Kim

On the DVD
The highlight of the two-disc set is a half-hour conversation with actors Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint. They discuss their reactions to the film and other topics with British writer Richard Curtis . Then they answer questions from contest-winning fans, such as what are their favorite kids' books (Watson bypasses the obvious answer in favor of Roald Dahl and Philip Pullman) and what scenes are they looking forward to in upcoming films. More routine extras include the "Reflections on the Fourth Film" featurette (14 min.), though it has comments from some of the other young cast members, and "Preparing for the Yule Ball" (9 min.). The 10 minutes of additional scenes are mostly skulking and skullduggery, plus a long musical number from the ball. The remaining material is grouped along the lines of the Triwizard Tournament, with behind-the-scenes looks at each of the competitions (about 22 min. total), two longer featurettes on He Who Must Not Be Named (11 min.) and the workday of the other contestants (Robert Pattinson, Stanislav Ianevski, and Clémence Poésy, 13 min.), and four games, playable with the directional arrows on the remote control, that can be frustrating to figure out. --David Horiuchi

Product Description

When Harry Potter's name emerges from the Goblet of Fire, he becomes a competitor in a grueling battle for glory among three wizarding schools - the Triwizard Tournament. But since Harry never submitted his name for the Tournament, who did? Now Harry must confront a deadly dragon, fierce water demons and an enchanted maze only to find himself in the cruel grasp of He Who Must Not Be Named. In this fourth film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, everything changes as Harry, Ron and Hermione leave childhood forever and take on challenges greater than anything they could have imagined.
Running Time: 157 min.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Customer Reviews:

I Liked it Again.......2007-07-07

Before year four at Hogwarts starts, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) gets a real treat. He joins the Weasleys and Hermione (Emma Watson) at the Quidditch World Cup. But what should have been a fun trip turns serious when the campground is destroyed and a giant skull shows above the area. The skull is the sign of the evil Voldemort.

All that gets forgotten when the trio return to school. Hogwarts is playing host to the Tri-Wizard tournament. One student each from three wizarding schools will be competing in a series of dangerous contests.

But things start out weird when Harry's name is called as a fourth contestant. He's three years younger then the rest of them, yet he still must compete and survive the competition.

Meanwhile, there is yet another new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Mad Eyed Moody (Brendan Gleeson) seems to have taken a particular interest in Harry. Can his tips help Harry make it thought the contest?

I first saw this movie in the theater and loved it. I have since started reading the books and expected it to change my take on this movie. After all, the movie takes a 740 page book and turns it into a two and a half hour movie. You know they will be leaving stuff out.

Actually, however, the movie works. Yep, there were lots of things left out of the book, but they did a good job of covering the important plot points without losing those who haven't read the book. That's impressive.

Ironically, they did add some things for the movie. The most noticeable is the first task. While dangerous in the book, they made it much worse here. That time could have been used for something else, but it does make for a dramatic scene.

The only weak part is the ending. It is so rushed that it doesn't make the emotional impact that it does in the book. And it glosses over some of the things that made the ending of the book such a big cliffhanger.

Once again, I must say that this is the best movie version of the book we could hope for. If you view it on its own, you'll enjoy it. And if you haven't read the book, you'll love it.

Hey, good movie!.......2007-07-06

As many other reviewers have said, it would be impossible to fit all of the 4th book into the movie. That being said, I thought the creators did a great job in just sticking to the Tri-wizard tournament, thus establishing a fast-paced, enjoyable Harry Potter flick. This especially made me happy after the third movie, which in my opinion was all over the place in terms of pacing.

Amazing book, mediocre movie.......2007-07-04

There is no comparison to the book. The acting was horrible (kids, Dumbledore) but I assume they were just badly directed - why is Dumbledore raving and out of control? Furthermore, many interesting scenes were cut or shortened - at least give us more world cup quidditch! I love the first 3 movies but this one just didn't measure up. I hope OotP is better.

! horrible movie - goblet of fire - 1st 2 great 3rd lousy as well.......2007-06-30

i have never read any of the harry potter books. the 1st 2 harry potter movies were excellent. you did not have to read the books to follow along and enjoy the movies. most importantly, the movies made sense. i have seen all 4 movies at the movie theater. this movie was horrible. (3rd movie was lousy as well) this movie made no sense. there was no cohesiveness. the movie was all over the place. jumping from scene to scene without correctly explaining the scene that the movie was in. i was very bored. i did not feel a bond with really any of the characters including harry. the guy who plays dumbledorf needs to be fired immediately he has no personality at all. i have tried to watch this harry goblet of fire movie on cable several times thinking maybe i misjudged or overeacted. i was totally 100% accurate. this movie is horribly bad. as other reviewers have said the movie needed to be longer (example stated lord of the rings) i hope harry potter v is much better.

The Best HP Movie Yet!.......2007-06-26

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was an amazing movie. The effects were astonishing, the action was awesome, and the acting was outstanding!
In his fourth year at Hogwarts, Harry Potter discovers that Lord Voldemort has returned and is trying to kill him. This movie is awesome!

Average customer rating:

A show that shows us how far we've come
Looking Forward to Seasons Two, Three, and Four
Ground Breaking Show (really)
Almost as I remembered it...
Rome and Boston - World's Apart

Picket Fences - Season 1
Starring: Zelda Rubinstein , Don Cheadle , Denis Arndt , Roy Dotrice , and Leigh Taylor-Young
Director: Michael Pressman , Dennie Gordon , Martin Davidson , Jeremy Kagan , and Arvin Brown
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Television | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

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

The Practice - Volume One
Eureka - Season One
St. Elsewhere - Season 1
The Closer - The Complete Second Season
The 4400 - The Complete Third Season

ASIN: B000K7VHJ6
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Amazon.com

While Ally McBeal garnered more attention, Picket Fences garnered more acclaim. It was justified. Set in Wisconsin, the Emmy-winning drama plays like The Andy Griffith Show by way of The Commish. The focus is on small-town life from a law and order perspective. The action revolves around Sheriff Jimmy Brock (Tom Skerritt), his physician wife Jill (Kathy Baker), and their children, Kimberly (Holly Marie Combs), Matthew (Justin Shenkarow), and Zack (Adam Wylie). Storylines alternate between personal issues, like puberty and pre-marital sex, and criminal cases. As Matthew quips, "Things happen around here." At city hall, Jimmy works with officers Kenny (Costas Mandylor) and Max (Lauren Holly), dispatcher Ginny (Zelda Rubinstein), and coroner Carter Pike (Kelly Connell), who likes to exclaim, "Let me exhume the body!" Judge Henry Bone (Ray Walston) and attorney Douglas Wambaugh (Fyvush Finkel) dominate the courthouse. Cases include such tragi-comic crimes as a serial bather ("Frank, the Potato Man") and a cupid killer ("Be My Valentine"), but serious issues also come into play, such as assisted suicide ("Sacred Hearts") and incest ("Nuclear Meltdowns"). Unlike Twin Peaks, to which it was sometimes compared, Picket Fences could be heavy-handed, but piety never trumped entertainment, and Baker, Skerritt, Walston, and Finkel all won Emmys for their work.

Notable guests are a hallmark of every David E. Kelley production, from Chicago Hope to Boston Legal (and beyond). The first season attracted Carnivále's Michael J. Anderson ("Mr. Dreeb Comes to Town"), Evening Shade's Michael Jeter ("Frog Man"), and Man of La Mancha's Richard Kiley ("Thanksgiving"). The series also features one of the last of the old-fashioned orchestral scores, Stewart Levin's distinctive piano theme. Picket Fences ran for four seasons on CBS (when Kelley left between seasons three and four, ratings took a nosedive). Afterwards, Combs joined Charmed, Baker joined Kelley's Boston Public, and Holly joined NCIS. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Description

PICKET FENCES Season 1 is the first season of the critically acclaimed series from creator David E. Kelly ("Ally McBeal", "Boston Legal") starring Tom Skerrit and Kathy Baker, in the story of a sherriff and his family in Rome, Wisconsin, a town where things never seem to be business as usual. This long-awaited fan favorite is available on 6 discs.

Customer Reviews:

A show that shows us how far we've come.......2007-07-08

I ordered this DVD immediately and watched the entire season quickly, an impulse based on my remembered fondness for it. I have to admit that David Kelley's vision, once so daring, seems almost quaint nearly fifteen years later. Nearly all the episodes of this first season center around an "issue" or two - stem cell research, AIDS, Native American rights, dwarfism, menopause, state vs. church - you name it, Kelley covers it. He tries very hard to play fair by showing more than one side, and no matter which point of view "triumphs," losses are sustained by both sides. In playing this game, the characters tend to become preachy, suddenly dropping character to spout statistics and didactic viewpoints in order to "educate" the viewers and probably invite them to take a stand. I have to admit that this became quite repetitive and even a little tiresome watching straight through this time. Other television writers have emerged who are far more witty and subtle than Kelley, whether their shows tackle issues or or character-driven. Kelley's gradual disappearance from the mainstream TV scene seems to bear witness that his voice has become a bit old hat.

I know that this sounds snippy! Who am I to criticize one of the most successful writers in his field, one whose shows I really enjoyed at the time. So I say: "Go buy this DVD" on the strength of its wonderful cast. Fyvush Finkel has become even funnier to me now than when the show first came out, creating in Douglas Wambaugh a complex man, both ambulance chaser and seeker of justice, whose pontifications on issues are easiest of all the characters to swallow. Others here have mentioned the wonderful Ray Walston. Yes, he gets the lion's share of "final monologues" summing up Kelley's probable point of view on most issues as he invariably has to hand out a verdict that pleases no one due to the morass of political chicanery, legal mumbo jumbo and moral ambiguity that touches most of the plots, but he delivers these speeches with dignity and cantankerous humor.

The core family, the Brocks, are warm and humane, flawed and funny. Tom Skerritt and Kathy Baker are both parental and sexy, Holly Marie Combs is wise beyond her years, and Justin Shenkarow and Adam Wylie are funny without being precious. (Shenkarow's initiation into puberty is hilarious.) The sheriff's department is also wonderful. especially Zelda Rubinstein, who has fun with her "Poltergeist" image but lends gravity to issues of size bigotry.

I remembered the mystery plots best from before because of their twistiness, but they suffer a bit when you know the endings. Best of all are the character interactions, which include some truly wonderfully acted scenes. Don Cheadle doesn't arrive until the second season, but I remember that he added a lot to the series as well, and I look forward to watching him.

Finally, I have stated that the "issues" parts of the series seem now to be dated and didactic. But it is interesting to note how, fifteen years later, ,we are still struggling with many of the same issues and haven't come much further in terms of resolving our moral quandaries. This should make for some great discussions about our culture! I'm ready to discuss!!!

Looking Forward to Seasons Two, Three, and Four .......2007-07-04

Whew - I'd forgotten how good this show could be sometimes! A quirky show for its time, tackling alot of issues and willing to take a stand on the said issues, more or less allowing viewers to form their own ideas. I watched a good part of the first season but then started to lose track with the following seasons so I'm definitely looking forward to coming DVD releases - this DVD set does feature a short featurette, featured on the last DVD disc - interesting to see everyone at the present.

Ground Breaking Show (really).......2007-07-01

Many other reviewers have covered the various aspects of the main players. So I won't rehash them in my review.

I missed the majority of the first season, picking it up when whatever it was that ran against it went to reruns. I entered Rome WI without any idea of the towns history or the background of the characters.

Without this history, the story lines and characters seemed very odd, but also very entertaining. I stayed with Picket Fences when the other show returned and picked up the earlier shows over the summer.

What first fascinated me was the complexity of the characters and bold daringness of the topics the show addressed. Later, in his other shows, David Kelly's penchant for interesting quirks and humor have become standard fare. But 15 years ago, there were so few quality shows tackling sensitive issues without resorting to such black and white positions. David's risks were indeed groundbreaking.

I must state that I am a life long liberal, and like most people who accept a "label" my positions on a number of issues are black and white to me and I can't understand those whose views are counter to mine. However, David's writings and the actors hired to flesh out the characters did give me a greater understanding on such issues as anti-abortionists, proponents of hand guns, and other social issues. While they didn't change my view, they did take the vitriol out of my arguments and allow me to "hear" what the other side was saying. All the while providing an entertaining median.

If you're a recent David Kelley fan, or one who picked him up with Allie McBeal, Boston Public, The Practice, or Boston Legal, you should take a trip to Rome WI where you will see the seeds sown for his later shows. While I enjoyed all of the shows referenced in this paragraph, (and being a Bostonian, it kills me to say this) I'd prefer to be back in Rome, with Judge Bone, and the edgy fresh writing I discovered there.

One final thought. If you've not seen Picket Fences before, give it a chance into Season Two before you write the show off.

Almost as I remembered it..........2007-06-27

I was so pleased to see the release of "Picket Fences" on DVD. I have been waiting years for this release. I have tried to watch Kelly's "Boston Legal" and I see so many of the themes (and, sometimes, story lines) from "Picket Fences" being recycled. Yes, "Picket Fences" does play as an overdramatized version of 'The Andy Griffith Show' at times. The stories are strong. The acting, almost always, spot on. I've watched a few episodes I haven't seen since the show first aired... I'm happy to be returning to Rome, WI.

Rome and Boston - World's Apart.......2007-06-25

Being such a huge David E. Kelley/Boston Legal fan and seeing the extraordinarily high ranking Picket Fence held on the Amazon pre-order list, I thought that I was in for a huge treat.

Needless to say, although Mr. Kelley plays a predominant role in both shows, Picket Fences is definitely not his best work. Boston Legal is both hilarious and brilliant. He deftly weaves in an out of current issues while consistently making you laugh and, occasionally even shed a tear. Picket Fences, on the other hand, is rarely funny, is especially heavy handed with issues/preachy, and, although it may not have played this way at the time, compared to the hard hitting/off the wall shows of today, it comes off as incredibly quaint. Matlock quaint. Senior citizen quaint.

15 years is an epoch in TV land. There's not a lot of 15 year old TV that I'm running out to watch/buy. I may have loved/waited with baited breath to see certain shows then, but now, I'm off to bigger and better things.

Historically, Picket Fences is well situated. Picket Fences fits in very comfortably with the shows of it's age. A little too comfortably, I think. In some ways it feels like an amalgamation of other shows from that period. Here's my best guess at how it breaks down.

10% Family Ties
50% Northern Exposure
30% Degrassi
10% Matlock

If you're yearning to wax nostalgic, give this set a shot. If, on the other hand, you're looking for entertainment that can stand up to the scrutiny of the present day, you might want to look elsewhere.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Widescreen Edition) (Harry Potter 4)

Average customer rating:

I Liked it Again
Hey, good movie!
Amazing book, mediocre movie
! horrible movie - goblet of fire - 1st 2 great 3rd lousy as well
The Best HP Movie Yet!

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Widescreen Edition) (Harry Potter 4)
Starring: Eric Sykes , Timothy Spall , David Tennant , Daniel Radcliffe , and Emma Watson (II)
Director: Mike Newell
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Adapted from Books | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Fantasy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Widescreen Edition)
Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Two-Disc Special Edition) (Harry Potter 3)
Star Wars - Episode III, Revenge of the Sith (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B000E6EK2Y
Release Date: 2006-03-07

Amazon.com

The latest entry in the Harry Potter saga could be retitled Fast Times at Hogwarts, where finding a date to the winter ball is nearly as terrifying as worrying about Lord Voldemort's return. Thus, the young wizards' entry into puberty (and discovery of the opposite sex) opens up a rich mining field to balance out the dark content in the fourth movie (and the stories are only going to get darker). Mike Newell (Four Weddings and a Funeral) handily takes the directing reins and eases his young cast through awkward growth spurts into true young actors. Harry (Daniel Radcliffe, more sure of himself) has his first girl crush on fellow student Cho Chang (Katie Leung), and has his first big fight with best bud Ron (Rupert Grint). Meanwhile, Ron's underlying romantic tension with Hermione (Emma Watson) comes to a head over the winter ball, and when she makes one of those girl-into-woman Cinderella entrances, the boys' reactions indicate they've all crossed a threshold.

Seinfeld Seasons 1-6	Seinfeld and Philosophy the book	Jerry Seinfeld Live on Broadway
All Seasons of Seinfeld