A Bug's Life (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

Amazon.com

There was such a magic on the screen in 1995 when the people at Pixar came up with the first fully computer-animated film, Toy Story. Their second feature film, A Bug's Life, may miss the bull's-eye but Pixar's target is so lofty, it's hard to find the film anything less than irresistible.

Brighter and more colorful than the other animated insect movie of 1998 (Antz), A Bug's Life is the sweetly told story of Flik (voiced by David Foley), an ant searching for better ways to be a bug. His colony unfortunately revolves around feeding and fearing the local grasshoppers (lead by Hopper, voiced with gleeful menace by Kevin Spacey). When Flik accidentally destroys the seasonal food supply for the grasshoppers he decides to look for help ("We need bigger bugs!"). The ants, led by Princess Atta (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), are eager to dispose of the troublesome Flik. Yet he finds help--a hearty bunch of bug warriors--and brings them back to the colony. Unfortunately they are just traveling performers afraid of conflict.

As with Toy Story, the ensemble of creatures and voices is remarkable and often inspired. Highlights include wiseacre comedian Denis Leary as an un-ladylike ladybug, Joe Ranft as the German-accented caterpillar, David Hyde Pierce as a stick bug, and Michael McShane as a pair of unintelligible pillbugs. The scene-stealer is Atta's squeaky-voiced sister, baby Dot (Hayden Panettiere), who has a big sweet spot for Flik.

More gentle and kid-friendly than Antz, A Bug Life's still has some good suspense and a wonderful demise of the villain. However, the film--a giant worldwide hit--will be remembered for its most creative touch: "outtakes" over the end credits à la many live-action comedy films. These dozen or so scenes (both "editions" of outtakes are contained here) are brilliant and deserve a special place in film history right along with 1998's other most talked-about sequence: the opening Normandy invasion in Saving Private Ryan.

The video also contains Pixar's delightful Oscar-winning short, Geri's Game. Box art varies. --Doug Thomas

Description

Journey inside the world of bugs in this epic of miniature proportions. Crawling with imaginative characters, hilarious laughs, and colorful animation, Walt Disney Pictures Presentation of A Pixar Animation Studios Film, A BUG'S LIFE, will "delight everyone -- young, old, or six-legged." (People Magazine) In this 2-disc set you'll step behind the scenes for a look at the innovation and teamwork that resulted in this ingenious film. Loaded with bonus features — including animation not seen in theaters, abandoned sequences, and multiple surprises — A BUG'S LIFE COLLECTOR'S EDITION offers something for everyone from families to film lovers!

Customer Reviews:

Insectoid Three Amigos.......2007-08-27

Well, I suppose we can't expect original plots. Bugs life is not my favorite of the pixar movies. On the other hand, I didn't buy it for me, so my four year old loves it. Of course, she also loves Dinosaur, so you know, dubious taste.

Happiness.......2007-05-14

I am compelety satisfied with dvd when I recicevd it. It was in great condition, and it did not take forever to recieve it either. Thanks a lot hope to do more buisness here.

Delightful family film.......2007-04-25

I think I can just about act out any part in this movie at this point. Since this past Friday, I've watched it about 15 times. The kids love it and want to watch it over and over again. It is a darling movie about that little ant that just wouldn't give up. Great lessons for our children along with dazzling Disney animation. Highly recommended.

The Only Movie You'll Ever Need.......2007-03-30

If I could only keep one movie, this would be it. The kids love it. You learn a little bit about bugs. The kids learn to respect bugs. The outtakes are funny. My five-year old is a little scared of the mean grasshoppers, but my two-year old can't get enough of it. (2nd child syndrome) She calls it the "Princess Dot" movie.

Cute Movie. Great for young children.......2007-03-13

Overall the DVD was good and very much appropriate for young children. However, after a couple of weeks it had fallen to the back of his preference list. We've not watched it in over a year now. I guess this isn't so different from any other DVD we have.

I would recommend this for young children. It does have a few concepts that are not appropriate, but are presented in a way that is way over the heads of children adn does have a few scenes that very concervative parents may term violent. The movie is mostly an original concept but there are striking similarities to Antz.

The Hunt for Red October (Special Collector's Edition)

Average customer rating:

Hunt for Red October, Outstanding
The Hunt for Red October
Like, so 80's
The hunt for Red October
Excellent Movie

The Hunt for Red October (Special Collector's Edition)
Starring: Sean Connery , Alec Baldwin , Scott Glenn , Sam Neill , and James Earl Jones
Director: John McTiernan
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B00008K76U
Release Date: 2003-05-06

Amazon.com essential video

Before Harrison Ford assumed the mantle of playing Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan hero in Patriot Games, Alec Baldwin took a swing at the character in this John McTiernan film and hit one to the fence. If less instantly sympathetic than Ford, Baldwin is in some respects more interesting and nuanced as Ryan, and drawing comparisons between both actors' performances can make for some interesting postmovie discussion. That aside, The Hunt for Red October stands alone as a uniquely exciting adventure with a fantastic costar: Sean Connery as a Russian nuclear submarine captain attempting to defect to the West on his ship. Ryan must figure out his true motives for approaching the U.S. McTiernan (Predator, Die Hard) made an exceptionally handsome movie here with action sequences that really do take one's breath away. --Tom Keogh

Description

Based on Tom Clancy's bestseller, directed by John McTiernan (Die Hard) and starring Sean Connery and Alec Baldwin, THE HUNT FOR RED OCTOBER sweats with high-tech anxiety and the tension of men who hold Doomsday in their hands. A new technologically-superior Soviet nuclear sub, the Red October, is heading for the U.S. coast under the command of Captain Marko Ramius (Connery). The American government thinks Ramius is planning to attack. A lone CIA analyst (Baldwin) has a different idea: he thinks Ramius is planning to defect, but he has only a few hours to find him and prove it - because the entire Russian naval and air commands are trying to find him, too. The hunt is on!

Customer Reviews:

Hunt for Red October, Outstanding.......2007-09-09

This copy replaces a destroyed VHS copy. Giant of a movie. Watched it many times, but when played it is always the first time. A good nail biter.

The Hunt for Red October.......2007-09-01

Great movie, Sean Connery played his role outstandingly. The Hunt for Red October (Special Collector's Edition)

Like, so 80's.......2007-06-24

This is a really good yarn, but the film adaptation is marginal - Connery and Baldwin are real, compelling, and entertaining, but the other actors leave much to be desired. Some really good shots of underwater scenes, and a good suspense level, but the acting could add a lot to this film.

The hunt for Red October.......2007-05-27

Connery at his best. A fantastic film. Definitely an owner movie.

Excellent Movie.......2007-05-02

I can't stand Alec Baldwin, but he did well in his first major motion picture. Sean Connery was good as he always is. I liked everything about it. The music is good. The special effects don't match these days, but I can live with it. A very dramatic, well acted movie I think.

Average customer rating:

Not done right for HD
Rent it
Alright...until you read the book.
the sleeper has awakened
Ripped off

Dune (Extended Edition)
Starring: Francesca Annis , Leonardo Cimino , Brad Dourif , José Ferrer , and Linda Hunt
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0007PAMR4
Release Date: 2006-01-31

Amazon.com

Kyle MacLachlan as Paul Usul Muad'Dib Atreides

something to do with political intrigue and a planet that is home to a precious spice and gigantic sand worms. Think Shakespeare's Henry IV with a dash of Tremors, and set in another galaxy. But despite plenty of strangely whispered voice-overs that explain the characters' thoughts (and endlessly detailed exposition), storytelling is not really among the film's strong points. There are, however, a lot of memorably fantastic/grotesque images, an extraordinary cast, and a soundtrack featuring Toto. I told you it was weird. Among the stars are Kyle MacLachlan, José Ferrer, Dean Stockwell, Brad Dourif, Sting, Kenneth McMillan, Patrick

Sting as Feyd-Rautha

Stewart, Sean Young, and Linda Hunt. --Jim Emerson

DVD features
Melange fans have a lot to be excited about with this impressive edition of Dune, though the "Extended Edition" label is a bit misleading. If you are expecting the mythic 4 hour "David Lynch preferred" version that is rumored to be sitting in a vault, don't get your hopes up. This isn't it. In an attempt to quickly sober spice-fueled giddy fans, producer Raffaella De Laurentiis (daughter of Dino De Laurentiis) immediately reveals in the 'Deleted Scenes' introduction that the rumored 4 hour version is just that; a rumor. What this DVD set does contain is the 2 Hour 17 Minute original theatrical release digitally remastered, available for the first time in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen and 5.1 surround sound. The presentation on this edition is a drastic improvement from the original letterboxed release. On the flipside of the DVD

Knife fight!

is the alternate 2 hour 57 minute version cut for television. As many fans know, this 'extended' version was disowned by Lynch, who insisted his name be replaced by that famous Hollywood pseudonym "Alan Smithee;" the name used by directors whose film was taken away and recut against their wishes. There is some new material in the 14 minutes of deleted scenes offering a bit more background into the Bene Gesserit sisterhood, the Kwisatz Haderach prophecy and the Fremen culture and their struggle. All other extras focus on the international production crew of Dune including the design team, special effects, and short documentaries on the miniature models and wardrobe designs. Disappointingly, there are no appearances in the bonus features by any of the original cast or Lynch himself. However, many of the production crew members talk openly about working with David Lynch and his artistic involvement in the visual process. To cap it off, this edition comes in a very stylish and sturdy DVD tin that opens like a keep case. --Rob Bracco

Further Explore the World Of Dune

Dune (Dune Chronicles, Book 1)

Dune Messiah (Dune Chronicles, Book 2)

Children of Dune (Dune Chronicles, Book 3)

Sci-Fi Action Films on DVD

The Dune TV Series

David Lynch Essentials

Customer Reviews:

Not done right for HD.......2007-09-13

OK the title pretty much says it all. I have always been a fan of this movie but I expected a lot more out of it for a HD-DVD release. The video quality was pretty much the same as the original, none of the graphics were enhanced, and it was other than being made to fit in HD resolutions without issue nothing else was done to the film.

All the blotches that were present on the original film were left and show excessively in the opening credits. The CGI looked entirely untouched. There was in some scenes strong evidence of grainy looking video.

The only reason I give this movie 3 stars is because it's DUNE, if it were any other title I would have received much less. I would have taken a little more care in releasing this movie for HD but apparently I was wrong. You might as well just pick up the original DVD as with a HD player it'll upscale to just about the same quality of this HD-DVD.

Rent it.......2007-09-05

This is not a very good adaptation of the novel, so if you are a purist you will be disappointed.

Alright...until you read the book........2007-08-14

I saw this once; thought it was decent. Then I read the book, and realised just how BAD it was in comparison. It's now impossible for me to watch this and NOT think about what it could have been, if there'd been a genuine attempt to transfer the book's depth to the screen.

Not bad if you've never read the book; but if you love good sci-fi, READ THE BOOK INSTEAD.

the sleeper has awakened.......2007-08-07

This movie is so cool. I can understand why someone who has never read the booK Would find this very hard to follow...or enjoy. But I LOVED it. I think the acting was good...aside from maybe Sting's (which wasn't too bad either). The ending was not what I expected, but hey, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I couldn't keep my eyes off it, and the cinemetography is so well done, that I could find something different each time I watch it. Very cool.

Ripped off.......2007-07-08

If you do not have a HD DVD you can not play this product, so be warned.

Average customer rating:

Not done right for HD
Rent it
Alright...until you read the book.
the sleeper has awakened
Ripped off

Dune (1984) [HD DVD]
Starring: Francesca Annis , Leo Cimino , Daniel Bryan Corkill , Brad Dourif , and Linda Hunt
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: HD DVD

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ASIN: B000IONJH4
Release Date: 2006-11-28

Amazon.com

Kyle MacLachlan as Paul Usul Muad'Dib Atreides

Sting as Feyd-Rautha

Stewart, Sean Young, and Linda Hunt. --Jim Emerson

Customer Reviews:

Not done right for HD.......2007-09-13

Rent it.......2007-09-05

This is not a very good adaptation of the novel, so if you are a purist you will be disappointed.

Alright...until you read the book........2007-08-14

the sleeper has awakened.......2007-08-07

Ripped off.......2007-07-08

If you do not have a HD DVD you can not play this product, so be warned.

Average customer rating:

KARATE KID PART 2 IN NOT DOO DOO!
rumble in Hokido
Best of the Karate Kid movies
Great Nostalgia
There's a reason....

The Karate Kid Part II
Starring: Ralph Macchio , Pat Morita , Pat E. Johnson , Bruce Malmuth , and Eddie Smith
Director: John G. Avildsen
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B00005JXY3
Release Date: 2001-07-10

Amazon.com

Literally picking up about five minutes after the conclusion of the 1984 The Karate Kid, this 1986 sequel, also directed by John G. Avildsen, sends Ralph Macchio's and Pat Morita's characters to the latter's home turf in Japan, where the older man is confronted by an old rival, and Macchio's newly confident fighter gets a tougher challenge than the punks back home. Sillier than its predecessor, this follow-up at least has some distracting soap opera elements in Morita's coming to terms with an old flame, while Macchio woos a lovely local girl. Ironically, it's the action that evokes laughter, particularly a climactic fight that gets over the top quickly. --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

KARATE KID PART 2 IN NOT DOO DOO! .......2007-08-02

This is a pretty good sequel! It doesn't quite have the magic of the first film, but it does have a beautiful new setting in Okinawa. Macchio and Morita are great again in this "Rocky" type underdog movie. Like "Rocky" the sequels are kind of formula, but very watchable 3 1/2 stars!

rumble in Hokido.......2007-05-24

This was the second movie in the series to be released. It was made about two year after the first movie came out in the middle 1984. For those of you that did not see the first movie there is a briefy flash back lasting about 5 to ten minutes at the beginnig showing some of the footage from the first movie. Daniel travels to Onknowa were he gets involved in a brutal feud between mr Manyagie and his rivial who trained under his sick father. Shortly after the father dies of an illness the rivial and his sons due several nasty thins to presuade MR. Mayege to fight him. Finally after threaten to sell the land and destroy all the homes he excepts to fight him at midnight. Can Mr. Maygga make peace with his old nemisis and bring honor back to the Maygga family. There is also a special collector version of albums which contains the musice for all four films. However this cd limited edition set is super, super, super, rare only two copies are avilable on Amazon used and the selling price for these two copies is about 90 to 120 dollars with the shipping fee include. If you like this I recommend you buy the collection unless you want to by them seperately one at a time. I recommend you try not to get karate kids part III and part four one disk by themselve with out one and two becaue the cheaptest you can get the last two movies with out the first 2 movies is about $40. Will Daniel save the day again and resolve the feud find out in the thrilling conclusion.

Best of the Karate Kid movies.......2007-05-13

This was the only movie in this series I wanted on DVD. This movie is very
romantic, and the exotic setting just makes it even more enjoyable. I
actually liked the movie because of the romantic part of the story rather than the fight scenes. Great DVD!

Great Nostalgia.......2007-02-13

It really brings back some memories I had forgotten... It is a good film to watch. Sure there are some silly moments, but all in all, I rate this movie highly because of the introduction to Japanese Culture this movie provided to an entire American Generation.

There's a reason...........2005-12-20

There's a reason why this movie made more at the box office then the first one did and it's because this one got real. Daniel is no longer fighting for a title but for his life in this awesome squeal. This is my favorite out of the entire series cause it gets real and honest and has Daniel fighting for his life as his mentor prepares to fight for his. In this movie Daniel is left to find his own way basically as his mentor has some problems of his own this time around and this makes for a very interesting spin as Daniel suddenly finds that his mentor is not made of stone.

Average customer rating:

A forty-one-year-old epic that reflects both historical events and movie history
As good as the book from Wilbur Smith?
Worth Seeing Again!
Khartoum
Excellent story; fine acting

Khartoum
Starring: Charlton Heston , Laurence Olivier , Richard Johnson , Ralph Richardson , and Alexander Knox
Director: Eliot Elisofon , and Basil Dearden
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000062XF0
Release Date: 2002-05-07

Amazon.com essential video

Set in the expanse of the Sudan desert in the midst of holy war, Khartoum (1966) plays like an attempt to work the Lawrence of Arabia magic on the (mostly) true story of eccentric British general Charles "Chinese" Gordon in 1884 North Africa. The magnificent opening desert battle suggests David Lean's epic sweep, at least until the film settles into a more modest story of political games, military standoffs, and a battle of wits and wiles between two fierce leaders. Charlton Heston plays the wily Christian soldier as cocky, unconventional maverick, and Laurence Olivier (behind heavy make-up and a thick black beard) is almost as good as his cagey nemesis the Mahdi, the Islamic holy warrior on a mission of annihilation. More talk than spectacle, the film falls short of Lawrence but is nonetheless a compelling story of colonial politics, cynical maneuvering, and the unconventional heroics of another colorful British maverick abroad. --Sean Axmaker

Description

Academy AwardÂ(r) winners* Charlton Heston and Laurence Olivier face off in this epic, stirring drama of two men and two empires. Filmed in glorious CineramaÂ(r), with stunning desertbattles staged by the creator of the Ben-Hur chariot race, Khartoum is a "magnificently staged action spectacle [with] outstanding portrayals" (Boxoffice) and breathtaking cinematography. In 1883, British Prime Minister Gladstone (Ralph Richardson) dispatches General Charles Gordon (Heston) to Khartoum, Sudan, where thousands of civilians are threatened by a Muslim fanatic, the Mahdi (Olivier), and his army of followers. Gordon gains the Mahdi's respect but can't prevent the Mahdi's men from laying siege to the city. Now, as history hangs in the balance, Gordon faces the fight of his life defending the ancient city of Khartoum. *Heston: Actor, Ben-Hur (1959). Olivier: Actor, Hamlet (1948); Lifetime Achievement (1978); Outstanding Achievement as Actor, Producer and Director on Henry V (1946)

Customer Reviews:

A forty-one-year-old epic that reflects both historical events and movie history.......2007-07-24

To appreciate some old movies, one must take in consideration the time in which they were made and the techniques/casting that was the norm. "Khartoum" has a Yank playing a Brit and a Brit playing an Arab. The film also sports some jaw-dropping fight scenes involving horses obviously tumbling as a result of the then-common use of a "trip wire."

Thankfully, we now live in an era wherein such aforementioned casting and animal abuse would be frowned upon and not tolerated.

That said, the film is one of those rousing adventure epics that tells that tale of an English officer (Heston) sent to quell an uprising by an Islamic demigod (Olivier). Both actors are good in their respective roles with Olivier having the edge in the execution of his "Arabic tongue" over Heston's try at "the King's English."

Even though Olivier wore heavy dark makeup and the traditional moustache and goatee, the filmmakers didn't do a good job of "masking" his European eyes.

But, the film was made in the "not-so-politically-correct" 60's.

The cinematography is breathtaking and composer Frank Cordell's music is truly dynamic.

When modern movies resort to the use of computer-generated battle scenes, it's refreshing to see real "actors" in well-choreographed combat.

However, as mentioned before, the horses flipping and careening down hillsides is a bit disconcerting, considering that some animals had to be sacrificed for the realistically staged fights.

And this release conveniently edited the original's horrific scene of the fate that befell Heston's character at the end, which made Olivier's final line rather mute.

As good as the book from Wilbur Smith?.......2007-07-04

Watched this monumental movie after having the read the book from Wilbur Smith, The Triumph of the Sum.
Although the main story remains of course the same the film does not provide the depth and different angles I was hoping for.
Most striking is that I cannot remember one woman playing even a less important role in this film.

Worth Seeing Again!.......2007-06-10

I viewed this movie when it made the theater tour. Since then, I learned more about the history of the British Empire in the period. Khartoum is well written, well acted and has no major technical or historical inaccuracies that I could detect. Khartoum is definitely worth watching more than once.

Khartoum .......2007-05-06

Charlton Heston plays the charmed, charismatic Gen. Charles Gordon and Sir Laurence Olivier is suitably menacing as the Mahdi in this thumping tale of the siege of Khartoum and the death of history's classiest fall guy. Great action sequences throughout: the assault on the city, the relief expedition, the attempt of the river steamers to run the Dervish gauntlet.

Excellent story; fine acting.......2007-04-10

The outstanding cast in this true story of China Gordon's demise in the Sudan at the hands of the presumed "Mahdi" in 1884, is only one of several factors that make this a great film. The story line is excellent, as it not only presents the desert conflict battle scenes extremely well, but it also visually describes the political and social intrigue involved in the British efforts to establish and maintain its colonial empire in that era. In a subtle and obviously unintentional manner, the film also presents some hints of contemporary conflicts and social issues. A truly fine film!

Average customer rating:

WHY RELEASE IT IN 1:77.1?
Inspirational film.
Mix of Sad Ironies Fill this Film!
I only with Bush and Cheney would view this film!
Fast Shipping

Message (30th Anniversary Edition)
Starring: Anthony Quinn , Irene Papas , Michael Ansara , Johnny Sekka , and Michael Forest
Director: Moustapha Akkad
Manufacturer: Starz / Anchor Bay
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ASIN: B000AQ6A4E
Release Date: 2005-11-01

Amazon.com

Producer-director Moustapha Akkad made a true labor of love out of The Message, which seeks nothing less than to tell the story of the origins of Islam. Originally released in the U.S. as Mohammad, Messenger of God, the film has the appeal of most biblical epics: persecuted true believers, a revolutionary prophet scorned by the powers-that-be, and the miraculous triumph of faith. It also has the cheesiness of many biblical epics, with nose-flaring performances and awkward dialogue, but the whole mish-mash is generally entertaining (and informative for those unversed in the "origin stories" of Islam). Akkad had one major hurdle; he couldn't portray the person or voice of Mohammad himself, as such things are traditionally forbidden in Islam. To say the least, this presents an interesting narrative challenge. Akkad tackles it by having characters address the camera-as-Mohammad, or having disciples step out of Mohammad's tent to repeat what the prophet has just said. It's a weird device, but the surprising thing is how often you forget about it. Akkad is aided by some topnotch technicians, including cameraman Jack Hildyard (The Bridge on the River Kwai) and composer Maurice Jarre (whose score was Oscar-nominated); Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, and Michael Ansara lead the cast.

Also included in the two-disc set is the Arabic-language version of the film, which was shot at the same time with different actors. (It comes without English subtitles.) It runs about 20 minutes longer than the English version; Akkad explains, in a helpful 44-minute making-of documentary, that Arab styles of storytelling (including pacing) and acting are quite different than in the West. Akkad would also make Lion of the Desert and executive-produce the Halloween pictures. He died in the November 2005 terrorist bombings in Jordan. --Robert Horton

Customer Reviews:

WHY RELEASE IT IN 1:77.1? .......2007-08-30

The film gets 5 stars, but the DVD gets 2 1/2, since Al-Risalah is kept in its proper aspect ratio. Both films were made in the anamorphic 2:35.1 ratio.

Inspirational film........2007-08-23

Essentially, Message is a great movie about a great period in the history of world history, and that is the advent of the last of the great monotheistic religions called Islam. It does well to convey the basic message of Islam and its founder Prophet Muhammed (p.b.u.h.). Of course, the detractors of Islam will not find the movie all that enjoyable. But irrespective of whether one is a Muslim or not, the movie certainly does well to deliver an entertaining panorama of events and action.

The late Moustapha al-Akkad, who also made the film "Lion of the Desert", made a film that did all it could to be in sync with Islamic religious sensibilities, but at the same be historicaly accurate. If there is one criticism that could be surmised about the Message was the fact the film failed to zone in on other aspects of Prophet Muhammed's life and message, but being a movie, one cannot simply include everything, which puts the director and film's makers off the hook, so to speak.

I recommed this film for all ages. It's a movie that will be treasured as a classic. One of my P.h.D. friends from Senegal, who teaches African history, used the film to educate his class about Islam, and all the students enjoyed the film immensely. I'm sure coming generations will also enjoy the film.

Mix of Sad Ironies Fill this Film!.......2007-07-17

Hollywood has always wanted to have a big named star play Muhammad. But Islamic law would not allow that to happen as it would be blasphemy to show the image of Muhammad. However, fellow Muslim Moustapha Akkad found a way to make a film without insulting the masses. "The Message" was an epic film that took 6 years to prepare for and a year to shoot. Led by Oscar winner Anthony Quinn, the film is very faithful and accurate in its historical value. However, there are some shortcomings. One problem is the film's length. Three hours is way, way too long. The film could have been chopped off by about an hour and it still would have been able have an effective story to tell. Another problem is the dialogue. In the film, "The Message", Muhammad is referred, but is not seen. That makes it a little confusing when the characters are referring to Muhammad. Despite the shortcomings, "The Message" gets its point across without insulting the Islamic religion. This is a film that should be recommended to people of all faiths and will answer lots of buring questions regarding this controversial faith. Ironically, Moustapha Akkad was killed by a terrorist bombing while attending a wedding in Jordan in 2005. It appears that some members of the Islamic faith have not followed Muhammad's "Message" not to kill fellow Muslims. It shows that Islam still has many obstacles to climb in getting Muhammad's "Message" to its followers.

I only with Bush and Cheney would view this film!.......2007-07-07

A profound film on the roots of the Islamic faith. Granted it was a Hollywood film but nonetheless it got the point across that there is more similarity between Islam and Christianity than most Americans thought possible. I would like to make this film a prerequisite for political office. Right now hatred for Muslims and the Islamic faith is at an all time high and that is very unfortunate. So unfortunate that it could lead to total anniliation of the human race! We must learn to deal with other faiths because our lives depend on it. This film underscored the vast similarities in all religous beliefs rather than the differences as we so often get in the mainstream press and other media. You must see this film and encourage others to see it. It is timeless. The acting of course is superb.

Fast Shipping.......2007-05-30

The DVD came very fast and it was in a very good condition.

Average customer rating:

Hillbillies fight back against big corporations!
The Last Hurrah of Steven Seagal
Entertaining Seagal flick
One Of The Best
Seagal is simply an authority figure with a heart of purest gold...

Fire Down Below
Starring: Steven Seagal , Marg Helgenberger , Stephen Lang , Brad Hunt , and Kris Kristofferson
Director: Félix Enríquez Alcalá
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: 6304707622
Release Date: 1998-01-07

Amazon.com

Here's a movie that only a Steven Seagal fan could love. It's not nearly as good as Under Siege (the movie destined to remain Seagal's high-water mark), but not any worse than Above the Law. This time ol' Steve is an agent of the Environmental Protection Agency who's busting heads in Kentucky. He's on good terms with the local yokels (including Marg Helgenberger and Harry Dean Stanton), but locks horns with a slimy mogul (Kris Kristofferson) who's using abandoned mines to dump toxic waste. Along with an ecological message, Seagal serves up several broken limbs, cracked skulls, and bloody noses, and he even finds time to do some guitar picking with country boys such as Travis Tritt and Randy Travis. Once you've heard Seagal crooning a country tune, you'll be eager to see him go back to whuppin' the bad guys. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Hillbillies fight back against big corporations!.......2007-08-12

Wow, the left will have a hard time with this one. The rednecks in the mountains are led by Steven Seagal to fight back against a big moneybags dude that is dumping toxic chemicals in the mountains. Yeah peoples a good movie with a great chase scene involving a Mack truck! Well Seagal cannot act but he can kick some booty when necessary. Marg Helgenberger or however you spell her name, well she is hot, oh so hot and she is great in this! Then there are like 20 cameo appearances from a bunch of Country singers, I recognized Randy Travis and Kris Kristofferson but I could not place the fella playing the guitar on stage. Maybe it is Marty Stuart I don't recall and it does not really matter. Lots of action but really this story is just so much better than most of the junk action stuff Seagal did in the years following this movie. Whatever, he is over the hill now but hey there peoples, for nine dollars it is not a bad DVD to have. Yeeeeee haaaaaawww!

The Last Hurrah of Steven Seagal.......2007-03-25

This movie was Steven's last really good flick. It really isn't his best , but after "On Deadly Ground" it sure is better , and much better than his later movies. How many EPA workers carry guns , break bones , know kung-fu , and play guitar, I don't know but in this movie a least one does. It's the same thing as in all his other movies but at least he is still fit here.

Entertaining Seagal flick.......2007-02-25

Seagal plays EPA agent Jack Taggert, who heads to a quiet Kentucky mining town to investigate the death of his friend and the possible dumping of toxic waste by a corrupt corporation. (yes, like "On Deadly Ground" it raises environmental issues, but it's thankfully not as self-serving) Posing as a carpenter for the local priest, he quickly finds much of the town under the influence of the evil corporate head. (played by Kris Kristofferson) Soon he's busting heads to get a few answers.

"Fire Down Below" has everything you'd want in a Seagal film. There are fight scenes involving crowds of people, you've got the car chase, and you've got Seagal giving half-hearted retorts to the villains. The film does, unfortunately have its faults. It gets very repititive by the hour mark - pretty much most of it is the villain sending thugs after Seagal, Seagal beating them up...rinse and repeat. Granted there are cool fight scenes, like the one at the grocery store or the car chase with the 18-wheeler, but they would be even better with a more engaging story. And yes, I know, it's a Steven Seagal film, but I was looking for a story that at least offered some different plot points from time to time. I might also add that Seagal's character seems rather incompetant when it comes to keeping friends - any time someone says, "I'll tell you what you need to know" they get beat up or killed without Seagal seeming to care or even try to protect them beforehand. It's only when the love interest is threatened that he actually steps in and stops the bad guys.

Still, it's not nearly as bad as his later films (when he became a kung-fu version of Meatloaf) and Seagal still seems to be in his prime. When the fight scenes happen they are entertaining, and you do get a sense of who the good guys and bad guys are. (even if the bad guys are stereotypically shallow)

"Fire Down Below" is not Seagal's best, and it won't be featured in any historical film archives, but if you're looking for classic Seagal then it will still amuse you.

One Of The Best.......2007-01-10

If you like Steven Segal, you will love this movie. He is fabulous in it, and slams the really evil bad guys in their faces, the way they deserve to be slammed. He is dashing, handsome, and very sensitive to the nice people in the town he is visiting. He is caring and tries to help them. He also is a gentleman, besides meting out his special type of punishment, the way we all just LOVE to see. I love this movie.

Seagal is simply an authority figure with a heart of purest gold..........2006-12-31

Steven Seagal is one of those actors with a totally winning personality... He is simply an authority figure, a killing machine with a heart of purest gold... I can't help it; I like the guy.

In 'Fire Down Below,' he is an outsider posing as a church sponsored carpenter while he works for the Environmental Protection Agency to stop a greedy coal baron from dumping extremely large quantities of toxic wastes in abandoned coal mines... Those dangerous chemicals could destroy the drinking water for thousands of miles and kill a bunch of people around the hills... Seagal gallantly promised not to leave the small town until the poison from the air, the streams and the earth is taken out...

Many thugs (with snakes, sticks, guns, and big trucks) are hired by the uncaring mining magnate to get rid of our action hero but Seagal remains virtually untouched...

'Fire Down Below' highlights new environmental message but fails to come up with the expectations... First, Seagal's amorous interest with the sad country woman seems artificial, used in the film to grant the 'new visitor' easy access to statements he might need... Second, the motion picture lacks the best villain whose prowess could equals Seagal's... Steven's character never really faces much of a challenge... In fact, the fight scenes are too short and extremely fast and easy...

If you are a fan of country music and you want to see Seagal playing guitar and singing, and you like to explore sweeping vistas with glorious sunsets, don't miss this movie!

Average customer rating:

Check it out, because . . .
Just clarifying a point made earlier
Awesome to another level!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Save Your Money
David Lynch's Misunderstood Epic

Dune
Starring: Francesca Annis , Leonardo Cimino , Brad Dourif , José Ferrer , and Linda Hunt
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: 0783226063
Release Date: 1998-03-31

Amazon.com

Even more than most of David Lynch's deliberately bizarre and idiosyncratic movies, Dune is a "love-it-or-hate-it" affair. An ambitious, epic, utterly mind-boggling--and, let's admit it, all-out weird--adaptation of Frank Herbert's classic science fiction novel, Dune remains one of the most controversial films in the director's exceedingly provocative career. The story (if Dune can be said to have just one story) is complex and convoluted in the epic tradition; it has something to do with political intrigue and a planet that is home to a precious spice and gigantic sand worms. Think Shakespeare's Henry IV with a dash of Tremors, and set in another galaxy. But despite plenty of strangely whispered voice-overs that explain the characters' thoughts (and endlessly detailed exposition), storytelling is not really among the film's strong points. There are, however, a lot of memorably fantastic/grotesque images, an extraordinary cast, and a soundtrack featuring Toto. I told you it was weird. Among the stars are Kyle MacLachlan, José Ferrer, Dean Stockwell, Brad Dourif, Sting, Kenneth McMillan, Patrick Stewart, Sean Young, and Linda Hunt. The DVD contains the original release version; a shorter version cut for television has been disowned by Lynch, who insisted his name be replaced by that famous Hollywood pseudonym "Alan Smithee." --Jim Emerson

Customer Reviews:

Check it out, because . . . .......2007-09-08

Long, weird, and totally overwrought--Dune is mainly worth checking out for the fantastic art direction, cinematography, and bizarre sci-fi vision of David Lynch.

Just clarifying a point made earlier.......2006-11-15

This is the 'short' version (2hr 17min) and the only version finally approved by David Lynch. The extended version (which can be bought here as well) is the one that Lynch disowned, insisting that it be labeled 'directed by Alan Smithee', the name used when a director refuses to put his or her name on a finished film. In my opinion, however, the extended version is much more complete, and regardless of having been disowned by Lynch, provides a lot more background and insight into the characters in the film, and is almost word for word from the book. Much more so than this version, which assumes the watcher has read the book and knows the background. It's just my opinion, so take it with a grain of salt, but I recently purchased the other version available here which includes both versions of the film, both David Lynch's and 'Alan Smithee's' films, and it's only 2 dollars more than this one, and comes in a neat collectors tin with nice paperwork inside and a 2-sided DVD.

Rob Hale

Awesome to another level!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-10-24

I saw this movie as a kid and was amazed at the graphics and effects of it. Sting looked awesome as a killer. I wish there was even more to it. Wish he would release the rest before he goes.

Save Your Money.......2006-08-31

So awful you have to laugh to keep from crying. The dialogue is almost impossible to listen to, the acting is wooden and at times ridiculous, and the special effects are very, very dated. It reminded me of the old "Lost in Space" TV program, and that isn't good.

David Lynch's Misunderstood Epic.......2006-07-31

Before David Lynch made the masterful&creepy "Mulholland Drive",he attempted-nobly-to put Frank Herbert's epic on the silver screen.Instead of trying to stay EXACTLY true to the story,he did keep its spirit.He doesn't explain too much,such as with the experiences of the Spice.

Kyle MacLachlan is the excellent--and DEFINITIVE--Paul Muad'Dib.He shows how the young man,who goes from losing his father&living in exile with the Fremen,becomes a messianic leader.His transformation is believable&sympathetic.

Sean Young has a VERY small role as Chani,who's more important in the book than the movie.Her romance with Paul is hardly explained.

Virginia Madsen,who was in the recent pinot film noir "Sideways" has a small role as Princess Irulan,the Emperor's daughter who is forced into a loveless marriage with Paul.It is interesting that in the book,Princess Irulan's memories form the backbone&frame Paul's experiences.

Sian Phillips&Francesca Annis are both powerful as Bene Gesserit Reverend Mothers.Francesca Annis' role goes from being a widow to a powerful&respected Reverend Mother among the Fremen.In the book,Jessica is merely Duke Leto Atreides' concubine,whom he regrets not marrying;in the movie,Jessica is Duke Leto's wife.

Patrick Stewart has a pleasant role as Paul's mentor,Gurney Halleck.Who knew one day he'd be Capt.Picard?

Considering the time period,the special effects in "Dune" are excellent;the setting is believable.It's a fascinating&aesthetically marvelous movie.

Average customer rating:

Great, but STILL incomplete.
Exciting Story
flashback memories
Fantastic Saga of Vikings, Moors, and a Great Golden Bell
Not all that good.

The Long Ships
Starring: Richard Widmark , Sidney Poitier , Russ Tamblyn , Rosanna Schiaffino , and Oskar Homolka
Director: Jack Cardiff
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Dune (Dune Chronicles, Book 1)	Dune Messiah (Dune Chronicles, Book 2)	Children of Dune (Dune Chronicles, Book 3)
Sci-Fi Action Films on DVD	The Dune TV Series	David Lynch Essentials