My Name Is Earl - The Complete First Season

Amazon.com

The most original comedy since Arrested Development, My Name is Earl marked the launch of a lovable new loser. Earl Hickey (Jason Lee) sleeps all day and drinks all night. The pattern ends when he buys a "scratcher"--and wins $100,000. Seconds later, he's hit by a car and loses the ticket. While in the hospital, wife Joy (Emmy nominee Jaime Pressly) leaves him for Darnell the Crab Man (Eddie Steeples). Doped up on morphine, he's watching TV when Carson Daly says something about karma. Earl decides that's his problem: bad karma. He resolves to spend the rest of his life making up for all the harm he's ever done. In the pilot, Earl and brother Randy (Ethan Suplee) start by picking up litter around their motel (Joy got the trailer). While they're at it, Earl finds the lost ticket and collects his bounty. The plan is working! Along with comely maid Catalina (Nadine Velazquez), they set off to right more wrongs. Created by Greg Garcia and teamed with The Office, My Name is Earl put NBC back on the must-see comedy map. Unlike most sitcoms, it drops the studio audience in favor of flashbacks, freeze frames, first-person narration, and extensive So-Cal location work. A soundtrack heavy on blue collar favorites, like Lynyrd Skynyrd, completes the picture.

Throughout the season, Earl gives an old girlfriend self-respect ("Faked My Own Death"), plans his ex-wife's big day ("Joy's Wedding"), and makes up for the birthday he ruined ("Monkeys in Space"). First year guests include Brett Butler ("White Lie Christmas"), Juliette Lewis ("The Bounty Hunter"), and Emmy nominee Jon Favreau ("O Karma, Where Art Thou?"). Giovanni Ribisi and Beau Bridges also stop by as, respectively, Earl's pal Ralph and father Carl. Speaking of originality, "Dad's Car," which takes place during Mother's Day, features commentary from the mothers of Lee, Suplee, Garcia, and director Marc Buckland. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Stills from the First Season of My Name Is Earl (click for larger image)

Description

Karma is a funny thing. Just ask Earl (Jason Lee), who's learning the hard way that when you do something bad, it has a way of coming back and biting you in the ass! Hoping to turn his life around, Earl's got a lengthy list of detestable deeds to make up for. Also starring Jamie Pressly, Ethan Suplee, Eddie Steeples and Nadine Velazquez, My Name Is Earl is wildly offbeat and hilariously irreverent—the #1 new comedy of the season!

Customer Reviews:

Very Funny!.......2007-09-14

I just love this show! And now I can watch all episodes in a row! Looking forward to receiving the season 2!

Fun.......2007-08-23

I purchased this for my son, and have never seen the program! But, once he showed it to me, It was fun!

Great series!!.......2007-07-24

I am from germany and had the pleasure to see two episodes of "My name is Earl" through an american friend of mine. And I loved it right away! Here in germany the series will be broadcast in autumn so it wasn't on german tv yet. I ordered my season 1 - package from amazon.
What a great kind of comedy "My name is Earl" is! For me this set is a must have. All the season 1 - episodes are on it, and additionally some Behind the scenes stuff as well.
Can't wait to get season 2 when it will be released in september in the US.

Original and well-crafted series that is genuinely funny.......2007-07-16

I tend to be skeptical of all hype, whether about sports figures or commercial products or film reviews, but particularly about "critically acclaimed" TV series (comedies especially, since I am admittedly not an easy laugh). Most of these so-called "original" and "brilliant" shows are almost invariably formulaic, predictable, unimaginative, unoriginal, and uninteresting mediocrity that are predictably shilled by a largely conformist and toadying group of "entertainment critics" who often pander to the networks' program marketing and who themselves probably have never actually written a script, (and for the most part don't have a clue what is in fact good), but strive to maintain their credentials by raving about the "right" shows in a scarcely veiled act of symbiosis between the networks and the mainstream outlets where these critics/shills ply their dubious trade. Far too often, something unique or original or unorthodox meets with disdain or indifference, while meritless offal is undeservedly touted. But once in a while, there is a program that critics and audiences (not just the really stupid ones that watch "reality" shows) all can laud. MY NAME IS EARL is one such show.

I first saw this show inadvertently, on the big TV screens at the gym. I started laughing out loud within just a few minutes. This influenced me to watch more episodes, which in turn convinced the Mrs. and myself to buy the first season, which we missed in its original broadcast. After having seen each episode of the first season, I don't think there is a bad or weak one in the whole series, although there are some that do stand out as favorites.

For those few who might not be familiar with the show, it's about an inveterate ne'er-do-well named Earl Hickey (Jason Lee) who continues his life of petty theft and mayhem until one day winning a big prize from a scratch-off lotto ticket, which he loses moments later in a bizarre accident. While in the hospital, Earl comes to the conclusion that his poor quality of life - in particular his painful loss of fortune - is a result of karmic forces aligned against him. To regain some measure of good fortune, he begins a determined quest to live a better life and to try and right some of the wrongs he has done. No sooner does he begin this quest than his winning ticket is miraculously returned to him by the providential wind, thereby providing the funds for his mission.

The show's premise is both creative and interesting, in addition to being very well-written. The stories are an imaginative foray into different subplots which cleverly ties the various elements together in an ending which is not only satisfying, but also adroit.

The biggest pleasant surprise is the wonderful effectiveness of the cast. I was not an especially big fan of Jason Lee (I don't like Kevin Smith films), but he is so good in the lead role (capturing the clumsy but earnest intentions and hamheaded determination of the character), that it is difficult to imagine anybody else being able to play that role with any comparable skill. The other biggest surprise was Jaime Pressly, whose acting career has largely consisted of straight-to-video or late-night cable low budget B- movies. Though she had been making the transition towards comedies, she excels in her role of Joy (Earl's ex-wife and occasional nemesis). She has really hit the mark in terms of her comic timing, delivery, and expressions. The rest of the main cast includes Ethan Suplee, a capable journeyman character actor with a surprisingly long and diverse resume' of roles, plays Earl's simple but mostly good-natured brother Randy; Eddie Steeples plays Darnell (aka Crabman), Joy's laid-back new husband (she divorced Earl while he was in traction in the hospital) who Earl still remains friends with; the scorching hot Nadine Velasquez (yummy!) plays Catalina, the paradoxically worldly yet naive (and highly sexy) maid who works at the rundown motel where Earl and Randy live. Also, she's really attractive. Add to this a wealth of talented and familiar guest appearances and you have the right crew for this remarkable vessel.

The show works for a variety of reasons, and all factors not only work well but exceptionally so. Of all the different types of entertainment viewing options (films and/or TV), comedies are usually first preference, although again I tend to be a tough audience. In addition to the laugh-out-loud humor, it is very satisfying to see a show about someone trying to redeem himself and help others WITHOUT ALL THE SANCTIMONY AND SELF-ADULATION that other programs with less merit would purport to have. It has become a staple of entertainment for our family, and countless others. The only thing I enjoy more than watching the episodes are watching them with family and friends and seeing the enjoyment they also have in watching it. There is no show (or anything for that matter) that everyone will like, but I am confident that this show will be received favorably by those looking for great humor, good writing, engaging stories, likable (if somewhat dysfunctional) characters, and a positive message.

Add This DVD to your list of Great TV Shows whose DVDs come with Great Extras.......2007-06-17

A lot of TV shows don't put much effort into their extras packages (some like Curb Your Enthusiasm from the second season on give you none at all) but those in charge of putting My Name is Earl on DVD have done a very nice job indeed! Aside from the documentaries, blooper reel, audio commentaries and deleted scenes they've given the purchaser a whole new episode to watch. Not just any episode either, no the Bad Karma episode lets us see what would have happened if Earl made a list to get vengeance on everyone who had ever wronged him. It's hilarious and also has Jason Lee playing a second character (female prostitute) which you see him getting his moustache shaved off and done up for at the end of the documentary Making Things Right.

This is definitely the best show to have appeared on TV recently. It's fresh, it's original and very, very funny! Buy it! Would highly recommend Scrubs as well for shows that go above and beyond for their fans with their DVD extras.

Average customer rating:

soft core
real bad
The Story of O
No Star if it were possible
A bit clumsy

The Story of O
Starring: Corinne Clery , Udo Kier , Anthony Steel , Jean Gaven , and Christiane Minazzoli
Director: Just Jaeckin
Manufacturer: Somerville House
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000065RSW
Release Date: 2006-09-20

Amazon.com

A milestone of cinematic eroticism, The Story of O was an art house sensation in 1975, and it's still worthy of intelligent discussion. As with the controversial French novella by Pauline Réage, reactions to Just Jaeckin's sumptuous adaptation range from moral outrage to masturbatory indulgence, yet this remains one of the few sex films that stand the test of time (and a lot of academic study). Championed by practitioners of bondage and discipline and vilified by feminists, this metaphorical "love dream" (as Jaeckin has called it) follows the beautiful fashion photographer "O" (Corrine Clery) as she, like many gorgeously naked women before her, is "trained" for a seemingly satisfying life of love and discipline, her freedom sacrificed to the man (Anthony Steel) whom she willingly obeys. The debate whether Jaeckin's feminine-empowerment ending, which differs from that of the novella, justifies a story of humiliating submission is just one more reason why The Story of O endures. (Note: This DVD presents the 97-minute version of the film, edited by the director to improve pacing and not for purposes of censorship.) --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

soft core.......2007-09-11

Story of O, the movie, is a softish core redo of the Pauline Reage classic novel: Story of O. While it's fairly true to the book, it does make allowances in order to stay out of the XXX rating area. All in all, however, I'd call it a "must have" for serious collectors.

real bad.......2007-08-13

bad acting and a weak plot. they should have thoght twice about turning a great book in to a bad film.

The Story of O.......2007-07-09

Hot in a dominant sort of way. If this is what you want, then this movie is a 10.

No Star if it were possible.......2007-06-08

I was so disappointed by this purchase and this film. Being a fan of the book I was very excited to see how they translated it on to film. What I found out is that they didn't translate it at all. They LOOSELY followed the story line and took the liberty to add and change which in my opinion, changed the story all together. I threw this movie away and would not reccomend it to any true Story of O fan.

A bit clumsy.......2007-05-15

Somehow, I was expecting better acting, knowing this would be a major undertaking based on a controversial book. Sadly, the film just doesn't work. There's no arguing Corrine Clery's beauty but Udo Kier is completely miscast.

Average customer rating:

Real Genius is smart and fun. It's a no brainer.
Loved the gags!
Real Genius
Pretty Good Movie...
Floating, sir...

Real Genius
Starring: Val Kilmer , Gabriel Jarret , Michelle Meyrink , William Atherton , and Jon Gries
Director: Martha Coolidge
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000065U1Q
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Amazon.com

An underrated little picture, Real Genius offers a rare college comedy that doesn't rely on gross-out humor--and a look at Val Kilmer before he turned into a star. A high school whiz kid (Gabriel Jarret) arrives at a brainy college, where the crème de la crème of the science students are marshaled under an ambitious professor (expert villain William Atherton). Unbeknownst to them, the kids are working on a weapons system that the prof plans on selling to the government. The star student, and chief rabble-rouser, is played by Kilmer, in good early form as a cocky genius who hasn't lost touch with his goofy side. The director is Martha Coolidge, whose Valley Girl was one of the brightest (and most unexpected) of '80s comedies; she keeps the movie perking along and never worries about dumbing down a film that just happens to be about smart people. --Robert Horton

Customer Reviews:

Real Genius is smart and fun. It's a no brainer........2007-09-04

Real Genius, staring Val Kilmer, William Atherton, and Gabriel Jarret, is stock and trade of many films to emerge during the 1980's. It questions not only the power structures of government and wealth which direct them, but also the innocent and deluded world view often prevailing in scientific circles. Along with War Games, and other such classics of the 1980's, Real Genius is unlikely to age.

Chris Knight (Val Kilmer) is a young man of rare and unusual gifts in mathematics and physics. He welcomes a new wonder kid named Mitch Taylor (Gabe Jarret) to show him the ropes and act as an unofficial mentor, and party central. The dynamics of academic politics are played as the typical coming of age story of independence and self discovery against the brooding darkness of Professor Jerry Hathaway (William Atherton), who is under pressure to delver a ray machine to the United States military. On one side are the indolent aphorisms and excesses of Kilmer, and on the other are the demands to produce or fail by academia, which is a willing pawn of Orwellian power figures.

This pressure to get results ends up in a wake up call for all its central characters, when they discover the intended use of their invention. In the modern world it seems virtually impossible to be innocent. This film succeeds largely based on the merits of its fine script written by Neal Israel, and strong direction by Martha Coolidge. The performances are all very good. Atherton, in particular, should be singled out as delivering a very fine performance. Where so many other films from this period are already dated and lose their power to entertain, this offers its viewer issues that belong to any generation.

Loved the gags!.......2007-09-02

My own background is heavy in the arts and sciences, even coming out of college. This film is for those of us who can equate to the technical mind set and that type of journey through life.

This film is light hearted with its premise. Even the scene in the dorm where they fill the hallways with ice, so they can "body slide" the halls on the ice, reminds me of some of the things done at my college dorm so long ago.

If you think the pranks done in this movie don't happen in college, here are some examples of things I saw in my own college days while living on campus. One day someone put a vaseline slick on the carpet, so if you came running down the hallway, you'd be sliding down the length of hallway on your butt. (lol) On another occasion, I passed a trash barrel full of water vicariously and precisely balanced up against someone's door so that when they opened the door, the barrel would fall on them saturating them in water.

Then there was that one morning I woke to use the central bathroom down the hall and could not get out of my dorm room. I simply could not make the door knob turn, as though it were locked. Neither could my room mate. So I climbed out on the window ledge, two stories up no less on the narrow ledge, and got in through someone elses window, whose door was operating. As I stepped into the hallway, I could hear all the door knobs turning as each person was trying to get out of their room. What I learned was that some engineer had stuck pennies inbetween each door and door lip creating enough pressure so that the door knob would not turn. As I freed each person from each dorm, using a kitchen knife to pop out the pennies, I discovered that some doors were three penny doors, some were six penny doors; some were in betweeners. I couldn't stop laughing. I think I made about 45 cents that morning for my trouble and eventually got to use the bathroom when everyone else was done. This happened in just my freshman year.

In my senior year, while living with three other guys sharing an off campus apartment, one of my room mates decided to play a prank on me. One of our teaches kept a life size Marylyn Monroe manikin in his office. My friend Jym had come to me proposing I join him and a few others in sneaking into the office and steal the manikin. I turned him down on that offer and when I didn't join him, by the weekend, when I came in from classes one Friday evening, and climbed the stairs to the two level apartment we shared, to my bedroom, I found Marylyn; lying in my bed in a seductive pose, with my desk light covered in a red gel to mimic the red light district. (lol)

At the time I didn't find it funny. Jym and his buddies could not stop laughing. After awhile I did laugh and suggested we send a ransom note and if our demands were not met, we would take the pieces apart and send the teacher on a treasure hunt to find all the parts. In short, I have my own college prank stories to tell and all of them are good memories 30 years later. I've tried my whole life not to take life too seriously. Afterall, none us are getting out of it alive anyway.

I suppose if any of us had thought of it, we would have filled the hallways with ice, like they showed in this movie. The scene at the end of the film, showing the giant "Jiffy Pop" corn popper is a classic gag. Maybe U.S. leaders should learn from this scene when it comes to dealing with people like Sedom Hussain for instance. Instead of skud missling the enemy, maybe U.S. forces should have sent a heat ray into his home, after sending him a giant Jiffy Pop popper via International carrier and laid him out with a ton of Jiffy pop popcorn! You have to see the movie to appreciate what I'm talking about. I could not stop laughing when I first saw the gag done with the first viewing of this film.

The Amazon summary pretty well gives you the story. I'm just filling in some of the movie's highlights. Overall its a fun 80's film to watch. Val Kilmer was cute when this was made; so are the young college gals during the party scene. Makes me wish I was young again. Reminds me of all the fun times I had in college pursuing my technical studies.

So if you like a light hearted, fun story and a good laugh, then this film is for you. I certainly enjoyed it very much.

Real Genius.......2007-05-24

Yet another 80's classic. The ending credits which play "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," by Tears for Fears brought me back to my childhood. If you love 80's movies, you will love this movie.

Pretty Good Movie..........2007-05-17

This is one of Val Kilmer's first movies and a pretty worthy effort on his part. He plays a hot shot physics (or something) student who is a little bit on the eccentric side. He is teamed up with a 15 year old hot shot and wackiness ensues.

the scene at the end of this movie is classic as are some of the lines used.

Floating, sir..........2007-04-18

I will not waste anymore time with this; the movie was, is and will always be a great cult/80s classic. Val Kilmer is brilliant as Chris Knight. The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is that there are no deleted scenes; specifically... "Knight!!! What the hell are you doing?" "Floating, sir"...

Average customer rating:

Cheesy and fun!
The Only Army of Darkness DVD You'll Ever Need.
Bruce Campbell rocks!
Great Movie
Army of Darkness

Army of Darkness
Starring: Ian Abercrombie , Deke Anderson , Andy Bale , Billy Bryan , and Bruce Campbell
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: 0783227434
Release Date: 1998-08-19

Amazon.com

A movie that only true horror buffs could love, Army of Darkness is officially part 3 in the wild and wacky Evil Dead trilogy masterminded by the perversely inventive director Sam Raimi, who would later serve as executive producer of the popular syndicated TV series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. Raimi's favorite actor, Bruce Campbell, returns as Ash (hero of the first two Evil Dead flicks), a hardware-store clerk who is magically transported--along with his beat-up Oldsmobile and a chainsaw attachment for his severed left forearm--to the brutal battlefields of the 14th century. He quickly assumes power (who else in the Middle Ages packs a shotgun and a chainsaw?), and unites his band of medieval knights against the dreaded Army of the Dead. Raimi gleefully subverts almost every horror-movie cliché as he serves up a nonstop parade of blood, gore, and vicious sword-bearing skeletons--an affectionate homage to animator Ray Harryhausen's classic Jason and the Argonauts. The frantic action is fun while it lasts, but even at 80 minutes Army of Darkness nearly wears out its welcome. You know that Raimi can maintain the mayhem for only so long before it grows tiresome, and fortunately this madcap movie quits while it's ahead. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Cheesy and fun!.......2007-08-27

This is one of those awful cheesy movies that you cant help but watch over and over. Its great fun. Pretty much everything is awful in this from the effects to the acting, but, who cares?! Its such a mesmerizing movie. I cant even say how many times I've seen this since I was young. I don't own the DVD but I should. It really is a great cheesy classic. And no, I am not being sarcastic. Watch and you will see...

The Only Army of Darkness DVD You'll Ever Need........2007-08-26

If you want Army of Darkness - this is the edition to get. It has it all: the director's cut and the theatrical cut (each with different endings). It also has the hilarious (and award winning) commentry with Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi - which is as funny as the film itself.

It would be nice if they had a later edition with the director's cut remastered, but until then this is a worthy purchase - and you won't regret it. This is one of my favorite movies, and I'm glad I have the choice of watching both versions since they are very different(I enjoy both).

Bruce Campbell rocks!.......2007-08-23

I have always loved Army of Darkness. It's not as serious as the Evil Dead movies; it's just a fun movie to watch.

Great Movie.......2007-07-04

This movie is awesome! I've been wanting to get it for a long time and don't regreat a cent of it.

Army of Darkness.......2007-05-18

This movie was great, very entertaining and funny. If you love Night of the Living Dead, this is even better.

Average customer rating:

Good choice for young children
Love It!!
Wonderful purchase
Toddler Rated
Never Gets Old

Little Bear - Rainy Day Tales
Starring: Kristin Fairlie , Dan Hennessey , Elizabeth Hanna , Andrew Sabiston , and Sean McCann
Manufacturer: Nickelodeon
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0007Y08W4
Release Date: 2005-06-07

Description

When it rains, sometimes Little Bear plays indoors...and sometimes Little Bear plays outdoors. Either way, Little Bear and his friends know how to have fun. A rainy day never puts a damper on Little Bear's adventures - whether he is acting in a play or puddle jumping.

Customer Reviews:

Good choice for young children.......2007-08-24

If you are looking for good cartoons for very young children to watch, the "Little Bear" series is an excellent choice. These videos are nonviolent, reasonably engaging and intelligent, and they generally teach good values and problem solving. It's not great art, but it is entertaining and won't insult your child's intelligence. Based on a series of books written by Else Homelund Minarik in the 1960s, this is good family fare -- you can park your kid in front of these films and not have to worry about disturbing or inappropriate content. Whew! Thank goodness. (ReadThatAgain)

Love It!!.......2007-08-23

Absolutely love it! My 2 year old has been a Little Bear fan all along & the 1 year old loves it too. Noggin used to have Franklin & then Little Bear on during dinner time - I know parents...you're not supposed to watch TV at dinner - but this keeps them content & sitting long enough for them to eat good. When the programing changed, we had to get this! They are very nice episodes - none of the scary ones on this DVD. Yeh, there are Little Bear episodes that are scary - to teach you there's really nothing to be scared about but, it takes a while to get to the lesson part that it is not scary : o

Wonderful purchase .......2007-08-11

This item was wonderful for my two and six year olds who just can't get enough of Little Bear.

Toddler Rated.......2007-08-06

Little Bear is the only program that captures my 21-month old daughter's interest. I initially purchased this DVD to ease long car trips. My daughter absolutely loves this DVD and has watched it repeatedly - both in the car and at home.

Never Gets Old.......2007-07-03

Well like the other reviewers we love this DVD at our house. My 2.5 year old daughter asks for it over and over, and her older cousins like to watch it at our house, too. Each tale involves rain in some way but it's a nice variety of characters and story lines and holds my daughter's attention the whole time. We did not like Little Bear - Little Bear's Band (see my review of it for details) or The Little Bear Movie (a few parts were too scary) as much as Rainy Day Tales. As a mother of two in a small apartment, what the kids watch over and over, I watch over and over, and I'm very happy to have found a DVD that does not get on my nerves, no matter how much it's played. In fact, I even enjoy it.

Average customer rating:

Good choice for young children
halloween
A true classic collection for the toddler set
Repackaged Content Still Pleases
they changed the theme music in this one!

Little Bear - Halloween Stories
Starring: Kristin Fairlie , Dan Hennessey , Elizabeth Hanna , Andrew Sabiston , and Sean McCann
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000FIHN6G
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Description

"Halloween" is the first and only Little Bear release in 2006. It will focus on Halloween/Fall elements found within the episodes. The DVD will include a main episode (which contain 4 mini episodes) and two bonus episodes (which contain 4 mini episodes each). Each episode is approximately 33 minutes in length for a total run time of 101 minutes. There is no VHS version for this title.

Customer Reviews:

Good choice for young children.......2007-08-24

halloween.......2007-06-13

my son likes these stories, they are different than ones we have seen on tv.

A true classic collection for the toddler set.......2007-03-28

We owned this on VHS when our older kids were younger, and just purchased it for our 2 1/2 year old twins. Much better quality on DVD - we played the VHS version so much that it finally frayed.

A lot of episodes - and our 1st grade daughter still likes to watch it. Reminds me of a more innocent time - and encourages my kids to play outdoors and use their imaginations! Now if only anyone can tell me where I can find a wolf suit like Max wears in Where the Wild Things Are (it shows up in one of the episodes on this DVD too)!

Repackaged Content Still Pleases.......2006-11-01

"Little Bear: Halloween Stories" is the only "Little Bear" DVD release for 2006. Although it's not immediately evident, this DVD is actually just a rerelease with additional stories of content already released on VHS. The main four featured stories that are part of the Halloween theme were all released on the VHS "Little Goblin Bear" (which I own) way back in 1999.

That said, this is still a great show. There's actually lot of content on this DVD --- around 75 minutes worth. In a smart move, each individual story is accessible from the main menu and the full opening and closing plays for each story --- so you / your kids have the choice of whether to watch it or fast-forward through it. Unfortunately, other than promos for other Nick Jr. releases, there are no special features.

Besides the Halloween-themed stories (which are "Goblin Night," "Moonlight Serenade," "How to Scare Ghosts" and "Thunder Monster"), there are also eight other stories. I'm pretty sure most of these have been released before, but there may be one or two that haven't previously been seen on home video. "Exploring" is a very early and nice "Little Bear" story in which Little Bear heads up an expedition. Two other particularly noteworth ones are "The Campfire Tale" (in which Little's Bear's Uncle Rusty tells a story) and "Duck Loses Her Quack" (in which Duck tries to teach ducklings quacking.) The other stories are "Under the Covers," "Night of the Full Moon," "Up All Night," "Little Sherlock Bear" and "Detective Little Bear."

One bit of warning --- the stories on this are so wonderfully relaxing that you or your kids might end up falling asleep! Not because it's boring --- it's anything but, but just because the overall tone, coloring and characters are very pleasant and relaxing. The only other show like this that I think offers real competition in this category is "Maisy."

Oh, and I didn't notice any changes in the theme music.

they changed the theme music in this one!.......2006-10-19

I love Little Bear for my 3 year old. It DOES calm down little boys. But I was disappointed that they changed the theme music. Don't "they" realize that children need routine - my little boy jumps for joy when he hears the old theme music. We put this on today all excited to see the Halloween episodes and he was quite upset the music was different - en fin....it is still Little Bear but just a little different.

Average customer rating:

Great movie
quick and perfect
A Welcome Native American Perspective
Pow-WOW!
Pow Wow Highway - A Must See for A Martinez fans

Pow Wow Highway
Starring: A Martinez , Gary Farmer , Joannelle Nadine Romero , Amanda Wyss , and Sam Vlahos
Director: Jonathan Wacks
Manufacturer: Starz / Anchor Bay
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B00020HCBS
Release Date: 2004-11-23

Amazon.com

Gary Farmer (Smoke Signals) is the standout in a fine film by Jonathan Wacks about an oversized Cheyenne man-child (Farmer) who decides to go on a spiritual quest, while simultaneously giving a ride to his lifelong Indian activist friend (A. Martinez). The film takes us through some pretty desolate Indian communities, but while Wacks makes a point of revealing harsher aspects of life on some reservations, the emphasis is on Farmer's delightful performance. A bonus: among the cast are Graham Greene (Dances with Wolves) and Wes Studi (The Last of the Mohicans), neither of whom were well-known in 1989, the year this film was released. --Tom Keogh

Description

For the Northern Cheyenne tribe of Lame Deer, Montana, the American Dream has taken a grim detour. Here, Buddy Red Bow (A Martinez) is a committed activist battling a suspicious land-grab. Philbert Bono (Gary Farmer, in a performance Roger Ebert calls "one of the most wholly convincing I've seen") is a serene spiritual warrior guided by sacred visions. But when Buddy's estranged sister is framed and jailed in New Mexico, the two men take Philbert's rust-wrecked '64 Buick `war pony' on a road trip that makes some very unexpected stops along the way. Jonathan Wacks (Producer of REPO MAN) directs and Graham Greene (DANCES WITH WOLVES), Wes Studi (THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS, HEAT) and Amanda Wyss star in this acclaimed comedy/drama about Native Americans understanding the past, fighting for their future and discovering a few surprising truths along the POWWOW HIGHWAY.

Customer Reviews:

Great movie.......2007-09-10

Buddy must make a trip from Montana to Santa Fe when his sister is framed to keep Buddy's mouth shut about not allowing some business-men to exploit the reservation's resources. He travels with a school-mate he once bullied who has his head in the past (calling his beat up old car his 'pony'). Buddy gets forced to look at their past while trying to deal with modern problems. I would've liked a longer ending that tied up a couple loose ends, but I enjoyed the film overall.

Chrissy K. McVay - Author

quick and perfect.......2007-09-02

I love buying this way = so efficient and time saving
I received exactly what I wanted in a speedy manner

A Welcome Native American Perspective.......2007-05-16

This film accurately depicts life in Indian Country; the pervasive poverty, racism and lack of opportunity. Despite this bleak reality, there is great humor, culture and spirituality. Gary Farmer embodies the pathos, humor and dignity of this tremendous resilience while remaining completely grounded. He was also in a similar Indian road-trip adventure; "Smoke Signals" based on stories from Sherman Alexie's book: "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist-fight in Heaven".

There aren't nearly enough Native American made films but this one is a welcome and much needed addition to the genre. The best film reflecting contemporary Native American life is Chris Eyre's "Skins" starring the excellent Eric Schweig and Graham Greene.

Pow-WOW!.......2007-04-08

Powwow Highway is a touching, realistic, slightly lighter look at the way Native Americans have lived and been treated for quite some time. Though it doesn't concentrate solely on their lives, what you do see, does touch you.

The film is about two best friends, Philbert, played by Gary Farmer, who is absolutely charming and wonderful in this role, and Red Bow, played by A Martinez, who is also great in his role. All the performances are wonderful, especially Gary Farmer's touching performance, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful.

Although the ending is a little unbelieveable, it is still a great movie and I highly recommend it.

Pow Wow Highway - A Must See for A Martinez fans.......2007-03-24

Loved Pow Wow Highway from the first time to the hundredth! A great A Martinez film. Lots of plot and a lot of fun. Got one for my son, too.

Average customer rating:

Good, but not Great!
Good choice for young children
Wonderful purchase
GREAT episodes, but . . .
very sweet

Little Bear - Feel Better Little Bear
Starring: Kristin Fairlie , Dan Hennessey , Elizabeth Hanna , Andrew Sabiston , and Sean McCann
Manufacturer: Nickelodeon
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0000AQS8N
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Customer Reviews:

Good, but not Great!.......2007-09-04

My children love Little Bear and enjoyed this movie, too. Some of the clips were repeated from other Little Bear videos which bothered me, but probably didn't phase my two year-old. It would have been nice if they were original to this video and if there were more clips on this video.

Good choice for young children.......2007-08-24

Wonderful purchase .......2007-08-11

This item was perfect for my two and six year olds who just can't seem to get enough of Little Bear!

GREAT episodes, but . . ........2007-05-14

Excellent show - perfect for toddlers. Very sweet stories with undertones of morality, kindness and respect for others without smacking you in the face with it. The only drawback here is that you can't play the bonus episodes straight through - you have to click on each one from the menu. And, because each "episode" is only 7-8 minutes long, you have to be right there or, in my case, you have a toddler demanding "More Little Bear please Mommy!"

very sweet.......2007-05-14

My 4 yr old loves Little Bear. The characters are very sweet and teach lessons of life. Well worth it in today's world with all the trash on TV for kids.

Average customer rating:

Make the Effort & You Will be Rewarded
One of the Best Films
Self-indulgent, although somewhat entertaining
Does not hold up well
Not to all tastes, and sadly not quite to mine

8 1/2 - Criterion Collection
Starring: Bruno Agostini , Anouk Aimée , Guido Alberti , Caterina Boratto , and Claudia Cardinale
Manufacturer: Criterion
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005QAPH
Release Date: 2001-12-04

Amazon.com essential video

Federico Fellini's 1963 semi-autobiographical story about a worshipped filmmaker who has lost his inspiration is still a mesmerizing mystery tour that has been quoted (Woody Allen's Stardust Memories, Paul Mazursky's Alex in Wonderland) but never duplicated. Marcello Mastroianni plays Guido, a director trying to relax a bit in the wake of his latest hit. Besieged by people eager to work with him, however, he also struggles to find his next idea for a film. The combined pressures draw him within himself, where his recollections of significant events in his life and the many lovers he has left behind begin to haunt him. The marriage of Fellini's hyperreal imagery, dreamy sidebars, and the gravity of Guido's increasing guilt and self-awareness make this as much a deeply moving, soulful film as it is an electrifying spectacle. Mastroianni is wonderful in the lead, his woozy sensitivity to Guido's freefall both touching and charming--all the more so as the character becomes increasingly divorced from the celebrity hype that ultimately outpaces him. --Tom Keogh

Description

One of the greatest films about film ever made, Federico Fellini's 8 1/2 (Otto e Mezzo) turns one man's artistic crisis into a grand epic of the cinema. Guido Anselmi (Marcello Mastroianni) is a director whose film-and life-is collapsing around him. An early working title for the film was La Bella Confusione (The Beautiful Confusion), and Fellini's masterpiece is exactly that: a shimmering dream, a circus, and a magic act. The Criterion Collection is proud to present the 1963 Academy Award® winner for Best Foreign-Language Film-one of the most written about, talked about, and imitated movies of all time-in a beautifully restored new digital transfer. Disc two features Fellini's rarely seen first film for television, Fellini: A Director's Notebook (1969). Produced by Peter Goldfarb, this imagined documentary of Fellini is a kaleidoscope of unfinished projects, all of which provide a fascinating and candid window into the director's unique and creative process.

Customer Reviews:

Make the Effort & You Will be Rewarded.......2007-09-04

On my list of 10 greatest movies I've ever seen. Beautifully filmed and endlessly creative. Fantasies within fantasies and an incomplete movie within an incomplete movie. Fellini always tried to provoke, to challenge and move beyond the accepted standards and cliches of moviemaking and storytelling. Be forewarned, Fellini is not casually approached. First time viewers who have little or no experience with Fellini's other work may be baffled and put off. 8 1/2 takes a few viewings to sort it all out, put it all back together and get an understanding of the various themes, fantasies, memories, & ideas. It might be helpful to watch 8 1/2 then several other Fellini movies then come back and rewatch it with fresh eyes and an understanding Fellini's methods and themes. It really is worth the effort because the reward is a wonderful cinematic experience.

One of the Best Films.......2007-08-26

I have to say that I have watched a lot of movies, probably like everyone else on this page. However, I consider myself to be sort-of a film buff and I think 8 1/2 is one of the best movies ever made. I can completely understand why some people do not like the film, or feel that others who do are trying to be stuck up, superior, artsy fartsy jerks. But, make no mistake, 8 1/2 is an amazing movie; and, even though you may not understand everything, that does not make the film "bad". Some movies take patience, maybe even some research, and sometimes a few more viewings, before the viewer can fully appreciate what the director is trying to accomplish. Some of my favorite movies I hated the first time I watched them. Yet, I gave those movies another try because I thought that I must have overlooked something, that for some reason I was not glimpsing the true vision of the Director.
Most people want to see movies that they have already seen. Many movies are just repeat plot tricks, with the same characters and heros and anti-heros. Doesn't anyone want to see a movie that attempts to unveil a part of the soul, not one that simply aims at that base desire to be entertained. Just give 8 1/2 a try, I don't think It could hurt!

Self-indulgent, although somewhat entertaining.......2007-08-14

You know when you watch a film where the characters are filmmakers, you've entered the vanity zone. It's just a basic conceit that anyone who wants to create should avoid... don't make the creation about the act of creating it.

Yet, time and again it's an irresistible lure... the grand tell-off tell-all that creative people can't resist. It always stinks, and this wasn't really an exception. Things are constantly "told" rather than shown... from politics, to philosophy, to love, this is more of a director's essay disguised as a story, than a story. Fellini throws in lively dream sequences, and tries to doll the whole thing up as a righteous attempt at clearing the skeletons out of his personal closet by blurring the lines of film and barely disguised confession. Yet, like any artistic adventure so audacious, in the end you feel a little sick that he felt the need to share so personally and so indifferently to the fact people might rather see a good plot, than the weak wailing of his self-abased soul.

For all that, the movie is rather beautiful sometimes, just in looks and music. I'm just at a loss as to where people think this even a "great" piece of art though. The revelations in it are nothing if not weak, and "The Director" in the fictional sense seems to make out ok in the end without truly atoning for a lifetime of treating his women like garbage.

Does not hold up well.......2007-07-18

Self-absorbed and vain, the movie was novel for it's time, taking a "critical" look at the movie making process and it's often shallow
and materialistic nature. Unfortunately, this is a well worn theme
by now. It's egotistical self-fawning is reminiscent of Woody Allen's
Stardust Memories, which is also an annoyingly narcissitic work. I love "art movies", but along with Bergman, Truffaut and others, Fellini
is often overrated.

Not to all tastes, and sadly not quite to mine.......2007-06-15

Unfortunately, for the most part 8½ left me cold, one of those films where you get what is being done but it's just not on your wavelength. It's pointless to complain about it being hit-and-miss or confused, since erratic confusion is the nature of the beast as Fellini becomes possibly the first man to film his own nervous breakdown (or at very least his crisis of creativity). In many ways the turning point in Fellini's career where fantasy and grotesquery would become an increasing part of increasingly disjointed phantasmagorias with a design style as cluttered as a tart's dressing table, there are moments that strike home and the latter scenes with his wife and with Claudia work because there's a sense of self-awareness of Fellini's limitations not just as an artist but as a human being. But overall I was just left with the feeling that I'd got on the wrong train by mistake.

(Incidentally, to strike a timely note, it's amusing to note that the producer's brainless bimbo girlfriend is the spitting image of Paris Hilton!)

It's a shame Criterion's otherwise excellent 2-disc DVD couldn't locate the deleted sequences, although they are represented in the excellent stills galeries. Alongside the 50-minute 'Director's Notebook' documentary TV special by Fellini, the 45-minute German Nino Rota documentary is interesting and has a wonderful moment where the composer accepts a proffered cigarette only to turn down a light because he doesn't smoke!

Average customer rating:

Good choice for young children
Not as Good as Rainy Day Tales
Everyone Loves Little Bear
A Must Have!
Great for quiet down time and/or travel

Little Bear - Little Bear's Band
Starring: Kristin Fairlie , Dan Hennessey , Elizabeth Hanna , Andrew Sabiston , and Sean McCann
Manufacturer: Nickelodeon
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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