A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

Amazon.com

"Something familiar, something peculiar, something for everyone: a comedy tonight!" Those words from the opening song pretty much describe the menu in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a frantic adaptation of the stage musical by Larry Gelbart and Burt Shevelove. The wild story, set in ancient Rome, follows a slave named Pseudolus (Zero Mostel, snorting and gibbering) as he tries to extricate himself from an increasingly farcical situation; Mostel and a bevy of inspired clowns, including Phil Silvers, Jack Gilford, and Buster Keaton, keep the slapstick and the patter perking. The cast also includes the young Michael Crawford as a love-struck innocent. This project landed in the lap of Richard Lester, then one of the hottest directors in the world after his success with the Beatles' films. Lester telescoped the material through his own joke-a-second sensibility, and also ripped out some of the songs from Stephen Sondheim's Broadway score. The result is a pixilated romp and very close to the vaudeville spirit suggested by the title--though anyone with a low tolerance for Zero Mostel's overbearing buffoonery may be in trouble. Oddly enough, amidst all the frenzy, Lester creates a grungy, earthy Rome that seems closer to the real thing than countless respectable historical films on the subject. --Robert Horton

Description

Something appealing. Something appalling. Something for everyone a comedy tonight! "One ofthe hottest burlesque shows that ever hit Broadway" (Time) comes to the screen showcasing the enormous talents of Tony AwardÂ(r) winner Zero Mostel, Phil Silvers, Jack Gilford (Cocoon), Buster Keaton and Michael Crawford (Broadway's "The Phantom of the Opera"). Featuring keenly clever tunes like "Comedy Tonight" and "Lovely," this wild Stephen Sondheim musical about a raucous gaggle of ancient Romans is a "flip, glib and sophisticated, yet rump-slapping bawdy and fast-paced look at the seamy underside of classical Rome through hipster's shades" (Variety).When a wily, witty, lying, lazy, cheating slave discovers that his master's son is in love with thegirl next doora virgin courtesanhe promises to help win her heart in exchange for his freedom. But the road to romance is blocked with stunning surprises, cunning disguisesand the wildest chariot race ever!

Customer Reviews:

A Travesty .......2007-08-03

I purchased this DVD but found it difficult to sit through it having only just seen the excellent National Theatre production with Desmond Barritt. This film is an absolute travesty. Most of the music is missing and the ludicrous 'chase' sequence completely ruined the film. Knowing that I would never watch it again, I donated it to a charity shop.
If anyone is thinking of buying this DONT.
I would think that Stephen Sondheim has nightmares about this!

Zero Mostel Classic.......2007-08-01

Zero Mostel is one of the all-time classic Broadway comedians. This musical comedy production showcases him as Pseudolus, a laughably conniving household slave who isn't worth his weight in lead, let alone gold or silver. Phil Silvers ("Sergeant Bilko" of 50s TV fame) also gives a hilarious performance, all set in ancient Rome. Freedom-from-slavery, long-lost children found, love and romance, chariot chases, a funeral (what could be funny about a funeral? -- you'll see), beautiful women, befuddled old men, Roman soldiers, and Milus Gloriosus -- the most egotistical commander of them all, all combine for uproarius laughter.

Not So Funny Anymore.......2007-07-27

I was prepared to really like this movie. I love Zero Mostel, Buster Keaton, and Jack Gilford. However, mostly it was a disappointment. The script was uneven, and much of the humor was either sexist or a bit raunchy in nature, which may be somewhat true to the Roman view of women, but it became tiresome after a while. My husband and son found it overdone, as well.

That said, there were some really funny bits in it and many of the actors did a wonderful job. Buster Keaton was brilliant, as usual. Even in his older years and with a lesser role, he managed to milk the most from it. Zero Mostel was good, but I did like him better in The Producers.

I think I was hoping for brilliant, which most of those involved in this movie are certainly capable of, but instead got uneven and definitely not something worth watching a second time.

Cornball alacarte.......2007-05-23

Fair to good comedy, but a long way from great comedy. Is it worth the buy ? maybe if your ready for some tall CORN, but definitely not a collectors edition. Buy it once, view it once but it will probably b a longtime before you would view it again, if ever ?

Not all Romans are as stuffy as Cicero.......2007-05-13

I grew interested in Roman history some years ago. A classical scholar friend introduced this movie to me. He said the movie is based on a form of Roman play called the farce. I laughed so hard that I almost failed to keep the dinner down. Jon Pertwee, who played Dr. Who, has a cameo appearance. I especially loved some of the music which just build on the mirth instead of interrupting it. If you think Roman history is all about bloody gladiators and stuffy speeches, watch this movie!

Average customer rating:

Shock value?
From one who lived it...
80's Tragedy
NOT AS GOOD AS I REMEMBERED!
O.K!

Less Than Zero
Starring: Andrew McCarthy , Jami Gertz , Robert Downey Jr. , James Spader , and Tony Bill
Director: Marek Kanievska
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005V9IH
Release Date: 2002-03-05

Product Description

In a spellbinding dramatic performance, Robert Downey, Jr. portrays Julian, a Beverly Hills brat who has it all: looks, charm, smarts, a rich father and a drug habit. His friend and girlfriend (Andrew McCarthy and Jami Gertz) are trying to help, but Julian's world is crumbling so fast, he might take them out with him. The result is a powerful and compelling story of three kids who started out with everything and are about to wind up with Less Than Zero.

System Requirements:

Running Time 98 Min

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

Dreary, pointless late-'80s novel by literary poseur Bret Easton Ellis focused on listless, shiftless, drug-sniffing, sex-swapping, dead-end California teens with too much money and time on their hands. Which just about sums up this movie, though it's not nearly as interesting as that. This is mostly due to the ridiculously cleaned-up script and lifeless direction, which whitewashes the baser depravity and replaces it with perversion-lite and fashion shows. It doesn't help that director Marek Kanievska is saddled with Brat Pack lesser (make that least) lights Andrew McCarthy and Jami Gertz. The only things that lift this film above the muck are the performances by James Spader as a particularly heinous drug dealer and Robert Downey Jr. as a rich-kid addict with no self-control. --Marshall Fine

Customer Reviews:

Shock value?.......2007-09-11

Less Than Zero was a film I've heard people say was powerful, meangingful, and deeply moving so I decided to watch it one evening. I was less than impressed with this "drug" film, Robert Downey Jr., is over the top and Jami Gertz well who said she could act? The only performance worth a damn is Andrew McCarthy, he actually cares about his snobby, heartless friends, I always thought McCarthy was highly under-rated. This film goes absolutely nowhere, it's mudane, tries to be glamourous, and it's boring to look at. If you want a real and profound film about the ugly and dangerous world of drugs, I would check out Requiem for a Dream. Stay away from this uninspired mess!

From one who lived it..........2007-09-03

If you were there...at all...in the cocaine-driven LA 80s...you know that this film hits the mark, despite what most critics have said. Perhaps having watched a friend go down in flames just like Julian as well makes it all the more poignant for me. And I have to admit...I'm not crazy about Jami Gertz' performance or persona--she wouldn't have gotten a second look back then, at any of the clubs. But the storyline, as rewritten for clarity by the screenwriter from the far less coherent book, is spot on. We came, we saw, we had sex and snorted (or...some of us did) in the bathroom...and we died of chronic overboogie 'way too young and 'way too often. The Eagles song "Life in the Fast Lane" was our anthem. And this movie tells you why.

80's Tragedy.......2007-08-31

For it's day Less Than Zero was breakthrough. The test of time however, makes it "broken." To see these star's early work was the most redeeming factor, then look at where they all are now. The tragic story of drugs ruining lives, friendships, families, perhaps was a newer concept back then? Having lived in the 80's (or lived through) one could possibly relate to the moral of the story that drugs bring bad fashion to the level of beyond Popular & less of a statement of expression. The life of the lead Robert Downey Jr. in the film became real. "Art immitating life & Life becoming less than artful." A foreshadowing of his future sans film. Although I happen to think Downey can truly act on some level worth watching. James Spader was his typical self (see Boston Public this season). Still Standing (CBS) was a winner tho with showing that mother's younger days of bad hair & Coke. All in all it was a romp through the blast from the past era. The best part is when Downey barfs after Supposedly being FORCED to give oral sex to other men to pay off his debt. Can we say TYPE CASTING? Altho, I do believe he's never been forced to give oral sex to any man rather eagerly engages in it til he gets it right. The soundtrack was however memorable & for these things is worth keeping in one's collection, if nothing more than to remind us of Hollywoods use of POOR RICH KIDS GONE WRONG. The character played by the CORVETTE did the best job. The angst of the final scene made it a complete comedy. How far we have come ........

NOT AS GOOD AS I REMEMBERED! .......2007-07-07

I give this film credit for not being just another "80's teen" movie. This film is not a comedy and is really a downer. The likable cast is very familiar,as we have seen them many times before in light "high school 80's" comedies. James Spader who normally plays a snobby rich kid(at least back in those days) portrays a cold hearted drug dealer and Robert Downey Jr. portrays a kid with a serious freebase or crack addition(sounds like his real life) who gets into a big debt with the drug dealing Spader. The performances are OK. but Downey has the best performance in this flick by far. The DVD transfer looks pretty good and there are some trailers for the film.

O.K!.......2007-04-13

I think what mostly has a lot of people frustrated about this movie (myself included) is that it's exactly opposite from the book. With that being said, I think they also wanted to somewhat bring some resolution to the movie that wasn't in the book. I guess I'm torn in this review for the simple fact that even though I know this movie is not like the book, I still didn't altogether hate it (I didn't love it either). Don't get me wrong, they seriously twisted the details as far as the way the book actually goes, but in the book nothing is solved. The same way you start at page 1 is the same way you'll end up at page 200. This movie is sad and depressing, and that's exactly what the book is, but the movie would've been better if they wouldn't have deliberately changed so much. In the book, Clay wasn't the hero, he was an addict too. Secondly, this movie focuses only on Julien's addiction, but Julien isn't even in the book until the end. Thirdly, the real slap in the face to the fans is that Julien..DOESN'T DIE! Don't get me wrong, I guess with the movie they wanted to bring forth a resolution while emphasizing not to do drugs because this is ultimately what your life could be. It just didn't manage to impress any fans of the novel though. I must admit the one good thing this movie did have going for it was James Spader. James Spader was definitely in his comfort zone though seeing as how he played the bully/bad guy in all of the movies he did in the 80's. It doesn't matter he still rocked it though. Ultimately, I see the statement they were making with the movie, but I guess I could've appreciated it more if they stuck to the story. I guess the best advice I can give is to judge this movie on it's own terms. If you avoid the book you'll like the movie. If you've already read the book, then you should avoid the movie because it will only make you angry.

Average customer rating:

Very Good
Bob Geldof es impresionante!!
Live
Simply Unforgettable
Great video of Pink Floyd

Live 8
Starring: Bob Geldof , Nick Baines , Natalie Portman , Harry Judd , and Green Day
Director: Paul Flattery , Nick Hopkin , and Claire Popplewell
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000BHHVPO
Release Date: 2005-11-08

Amazon.com

Two decades years after Live Aid addressed the issue, lethally oppressive poverty in Africa remains a blight on the planet. Thus, in the Summer of 2005 activist Bob Geldof staged an even more ambitious series of continent-spanning concerts dedicated to raising funds and public consciousness about international debt relief. This expansive four-disc chronicles those shows in one of the most ambitious concert documents ever attempted, capturing all of the highlights (and a few complete artist sets) of concerts in London, Philadelphia, Toronto, Paris, Berlin and Moscow. Underscoring the events' sense of unity, the performances here span both generations and genres, offering veteran rock fans often muscular sets by Elton John (including a woozy take on T. Rex's "Children of the Revolution" with Baby Shambles' Pete Doherty), The Who, Sting (who sharply reprises a trio of Police favorites) and the ubiquitous Paul McCartney. But the highlight of the Jurassic set's contributions are a reunion of Roger Waters and his long-estranged Pink Floyd bandmates on a sonically flawless five-song whirl through highlights of Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here and The Wall; footage of their rehearsal for the show is contained on the set's equally eclectic fourth disc of bonus materials. But there are highlights here for nearly every taste, be they a fine sampling of contemporary UK and Australian rockers ( Coldplay, Jet, Razorlight and especially blistering performances by Stereophonics and Kaiser Chiefs), a little hip-hop nostalgia (a joyous Will Smith and Jazzy Jeff leading what seems half of his Philly hometown in a goofy singalong of the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" theme); showy turns by pop-meister Robbie Williams and chateuses Mariah Carey, a rousing set by Black Eyed Peas (featuring Rita and Stephen Marley on a cover of "Get Up Stand Up"). Other one-off duets include Coldplay and Richard Ashcroft doing a fine version of the latter's "Bittersweet Symphony," Stevie Wonder with Rob Thomas ("Higher Ground") and Adam Levine ("Signed Sealed Delivered"), a tender take on "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan and Josh Groban and McCartney and George Michael taking an upbeat turn via "Drive My Car," before Macca closes out the London show by leading its various participants in an obligatory singalong of "Hey Jude." Royalties from sales of the set will go to the Band Aid Trust for the relief of hunger and poverty in Africa. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Very Good.......2007-09-10

I bought this dvd and I do not repent myself, a product of excellent quality. Congratulations Amazon.com because she was perfect in the delivery of the product.

Bob Geldof es impresionante!!.......2007-08-24

Live 8 recopila lo mejor de lo que fue uno de los gestos más importantes que aunque no logró captar la atención de los 8 que tienen el poder del mundo, es un gesto noble de todos aquellos que estuvieron involucrados.

Las presentaciones de cada unos de los artitas fueron formidables... Principalemente la de R.E.M.

Live.......2007-06-27

I missed the concert when it actually happened. It's nice to have it always in this package.

Simply Unforgettable.......2007-06-01

I bought this DVD for one reason only.....Pink Floyd Reunion. I wasn't dissapointed. I was however dissapointed in MTV for cutting out most of David Gilmour's guitar solo on Comfortably Numb. The only part of the Floyd performance I didn't like was Roger singing on Wish you Were Here. Dave probably should have sang everything. The highlight of the concert was Gilmour's guitar solo on Comfortably Numb. I haven't seen Dave play with that much emotion for a very long time and it gave me chills. That is why he is one of the greatest guitar players of our time. A must own for any Floyd fan.....

Great video of Pink Floyd.......2007-05-23

I basically bought this video to see the reunion of the Pink Floyd band - all members. Thought the concert was excellent in general, but particularly loved the Pink Floyd portion. If you are a fan, I highly suggest this video.

Average customer rating:

One of Mel Brooks' best films........
a true Classic
Original Producers an outstanding title
The Producers
THE PRODUCERS

The Producers (Deluxe Edition)
Starring: Zero Mostel , Gene Wilder , Christopher Hewett , William Hickey , and Anne Ives
Director: Mel Brooks
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000BMY2LU
Release Date: 2005-12-13

Amazon.com essential video

Mel Brooks's directorial debut remains both a career high point and a classic show business farce. Hinging on a crafty plot premise, which in turn unleashes a joyously insane onstage spoof, The Producers is powered by a clutch of over-the-top performances, capped by the odd couple pairing of the late Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder, making his screen debut.

Mostel is Max Bialystock, a gone-to-seed Broadway producer who spends his days wheedling checks from his "investors," elderly women for whom Bialystock is only too willing to provide company. When wide-eyed auditor Leo Bloom (Wilder) comes to check the books, he unwittingly inspires the wild-eyed Max to hatch a sure-fire plan: sell 25,000 percent of his next show, produce a deliberate flop, then abscond with the proceeds. Unfortunately for the producers (but fortunately for us), their candidate for failure is Springtime for Hitler, a Brooksian conceit that envisions what Goebbels might have accomplished with a little help from Busby Berkeley.

Truly startling during its original 1968 release, The Producers does show signs of age in some peripheral scenes that make merry at the expense of gays and women. But the show's nifty cast (notably including the late Dick Shawn as LSD, the space cadet that snags the musical's title role, and Kenneth Mars as the helmeted playwright) clicks throughout, and the sight of Mostel fleecing his marks is irresistibly funny. Add Wilder's literally hysterical Bloom, and it's easy to understand the film's exalted status among late-'60s comedies. --Sam Sutherland

Description

A "startling, stunning, outrageous [and] breathtaking debut" (Los Angeles Times) from acclaimed writer/director Mel Brooks (Young Frankenstein, Spaceballs), this Oscar®-winning* comedy combines "pure pell-Mel lunacy [and] wild, ad-lib energy [into an] uproariously funny" (Time) film! Low-rent Broadway producer Max Bialystock (Zero Mostel) and his high-strung accountant, Leo Bloom (Gene Wilder), discover that, with the help of a few gullible investors, they can make more money on a flop than on a hit! Armed with the worst show ever written ("Springtime for Hitler") and an equally horrific cast, this double-dealing duo is banking on disaster. But when their sure-to-offend musical becomes a surprise smash hit, they find themselves in the middleof a Broadway blitzkrieg! *1968: Original Screenplay

Customer Reviews:

One of Mel Brooks' best films...............2007-09-02

I haven't seen the latest version of THE PRODUCERS on Broadway, nor the film adaptation of the remake. I did see the original some fifteen years ago and it left me laughing so hard I nearly cried. This wildly absurd movie, directed by one of the great clown princes, Mr. Mel Brooks, features the comedic brilliance of the late, great Zero Mostel (best known for his role in the original Broadway production of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF) and Gene Wilder. The screenplay is sharp-witted and absurd and showcases two of the most loveably devious con artist around. They are Mr. Max Bialynstock (Mostel) and Mr. Leo Bloom (Wilder). Max is a seasoned con artist who has a penchant for snagging little old ladies as investors in his doomed stage productions by trading romantic favors for monetary contributions (with the checks made out to "Cash"). When Bloom gets wind of Bialynstock's scam, he is hysterical (literally). Yet, together, the two men put their heads together and hatch the most devious scam of all--prepare a Broadway stage production doomed for failure, ask for 25,000% from the would-be investors, cash checks from the failed project and then run to the bank. The only problem is that their so-called "doomed production" is SPRINGTIME FOR HITLER, an anti-semetic romp set to upbeat show tunes, that takes an intimate look at the life of Adolf Hitler. Yes, this sounds almost unbelievably inappropriate and offensive. Yet, somehow Mel Brooks and his cast make this work brilliantly. I guarantee the songs will get stuck in your head and you'll be rolling with laughter. Don't miss out on this one.

a true Classic.......2007-08-13

I first saw this film several years ago,but because of the substances being imbibed,i didn't recall much about it the next day-other than an over all feeling of it being very funny and that i needed to see it again.
I did just that last w'end and i guess even a filter of jim beam couldn't put a cloak on this film.
it is hilarious. the sheer audacity of Brooks and the "springtime for hitler" wow! and Kenneth Mars' Nazi soldier...it was outrageous.
i guess there is no amount of ridicule that would be enough to impale hitler with,but Brooks sure gives it a try.
I think it's his best film ever and considering that ""young frankenstein" was comig down the chute,(and which i used to count as brooks' best)...well, that's enough hyperbole.
in case of a reader who wants some R'n'R trivia relating to this film:
Supposedly,this film was a personal favorite OF George Harrison's.
It helped inspire him to become a film producer (and exec.f.p.) and led to his mortgaging his home so that Monty Python could finance "The Life of Brian".The company was known as "HandMade Films" and some Brit film critics,etc. give HandMAde the credit for rescuing and resusitating the British film industry. check out "withnail and I","A private function""mona lisa","time bandits",etc. all handmade films.the sole stinker being shanghai surprise.
Harrison also had a morbid sense of humor which would explain why the producers appealed to him...along with a fascination with Hitler which was shared by Keith Richards and thousands of other british males of their age who grew up playing in bomb-craters and rubble of their cities.
i have not seen the re-make of the producers-why bother????

Original Producers an outstanding title.......2007-07-26

Don't even bother with the Matthew Broderick/Ulma Thurman remake - this original version is so much better its hard to believe its the same movie. Great digital version and extra features

The Producers.......2007-07-02

"The Producers" is a laugh riot, plain and simple. The inspired pairing of Mostel and Wilder creates the zany rapport that anchors the film. But wait, there's more, with side-splitting support from players Kenneth Mars, Dick Shawn, and Christopher Hewett. One of the best comedies ever, "The Producers" will leave you flabbergasted at Brooks's comic audacity--and howling for more.

THE PRODUCERS.......2007-06-02

I SAW THIS FILM 10 TIMES WHEN IT ORIGINALLY CAME OUT. ITS STILL ONE OF THE GREATEST.

Invasion of Astro-Monster (aka Monster Zero)

Average customer rating:

rubber suit classic
A CLASSIC GODZILLA FAVORITE
Classic Godzilla well handled
ONE MOUTH, TWO VOICES & THREE HEADS
Aliens from planet X, Ghidorah, Godzilla does the jig, what more could anyone need?

Invasion of Astro-Monster (aka Monster Zero)
Starring: Nick Adams , Akira Kubo , Kumi Mizuno , Haruo Nakajima , and Takamaru Sasaki
Director: Ishiro Honda
Manufacturer: Classic Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000OCY7IK
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Description

(Sci-Fi) Invasion of Astro-Monster/Godzilla vs. Monster Zero -- Aliens from Planet X borrow our monsters for a little extermination project, but they've got something else up their sleeves: world domination! Using mind-control technology, these vinyl-and-sunglasses wearing spacemen turn Godzilla, Rodan and King Ghidorah loose in Japan, demanding Earth's surrender! It's up to American astronaut F. Glenn, his galaxy-trotting buddy Fuji, and nerdy inventor Tetsuo to break the aliens' hold on the monsters and save our planet from certain doom.

Customer Reviews:

rubber suit classic.......2007-07-16

This movie, being the "Sequel" to Ghidora, the three headed monster, surpasses that movie in both action shots and story. for those into classic Godzilla movies, this is a must have.

A CLASSIC GODZILLA FAVORITE.......2007-07-05

I love that these old monster flicks are being produced on good, quality DVDs. CLASSIC MEDIA has done a wonderful job!

Classic Godzilla well handled.......2007-07-05

This is a sillier Godzilla then in the previous movies of this series. However, it is still entertaining. Classic Media does a wonderful job with the commentary on the American version and by having the Japanese version as well.

ONE MOUTH, TWO VOICES & THREE HEADS.......2007-06-09

Classic Media has to be applauded for the effort not only given to presenting the best versions of INVASION OF ASTRO-MONSTER possible (and they truly are some of best I've seen in a long, long while), but also the work that went into the case design. The box is striking, the artwork clever, clear, nostaligc and retro-future at all the same time. It's an attractive and eye catching design that demands (and gets) a second look. My copy has been picked up, picked over, and pick-pocketed a few times off my shelf already and throughly enjoyed.

But, having said that, I must admit that INVASION OF ASTRO-MONSTER is one of my least favorite GODZILLA films, yet one of my all time favorite TOHO movies. Truth be told, Godzilla here is at best a supporting player in a much larger and more complex story that could have done away with Godzilla and company and still have been just as compelling. Much like THE FIFTH ELEMENT fashion and design triumph over story and plot. This is one good looking movie. From the sets (wide open, with some of the most creative future computer and advanced table top technology), to the costumes (the aliens not only sport the expected antenna atop the head, but tight pants, trim sunglasses, and high useless collars), to the spaceships (which look exactly like spaceships should look), it's all here, and it's all a lot of fun.

It is something of a minor disappointment that Godzilla has been pushed to the margins here and used simply for effect than being the engine that drives the story. Godzilla, Rodan and King Ghidorah do loom large on the stunning minature sets on both PLANET X and Earth, and their battles are worth the long delay between the first and the last, but it does leave you wanting more. But, this does not stop INVASION OF ASTRO-MONSTER being a true gem.

The prints are the best possible and the extras are well done... although the commentary by Stuart Galbraith IV, while informative, fact filled and trivia stuffed is delivered in such a slow and measured way, that it sounds and feels like he's in fear of tripping over his own words if he talks too fast. Be prepared to feel like a five year old at some points when he wants to to Understand. Clearly. What. He. Is. Saying. To. You. So. You. Had. Better. Listen. While strange, it is a trip, and you will learn a thing or two.

Classic Media has done a great service to not only the fans of Godzilla, but to all those fans still to come. These DVD releases, like King Ghidorah, manages to wear three crowns and wear them well... they are entertaining, history and art all rolled into one.

Aliens from planet X, Ghidorah, Godzilla does the jig, what more could anyone need?.......2007-06-07

I am very pleased that Classic Media have released this long desired Godzilla movie on region 1 dvd. Having seen only the Simitar Dvd release, which actually was a fairly clean print, but left a lot to be desired, not the least of which was the original Japanese language track.

Well finally it is now here for all to enjoy.

There is a lot to like here. The packaging, extra features, sound quality and of course the movie itself are all pluses for this release.

Also, the picture quality is outstanding. leaps and bounds above the older Simitar release. A very clean print, with very very few scratches or blurs. Sharp image with an appropriate amount of contrast. Color is excellent.At times it can be a bit too bright or dark, but not so much so that it detracts from the overall presentation. Considering the original elements are nearly 40 years old, it will satisfy and perhaps exceed most viewers of this genre type movie's expectations.

I wholeheartedly recommend this release and am quite sure most fans of cheesy old sci-fi will truly get a kick out of the alien storyline and low budget space effects.

As for the movie itself, Nick Adams is especially good as Glenn, and the story and production while quite "hokey" and "cheesy" is still very enjoyable. The commentary and documentary of Tomoyuki Tanaka are both worthy bonuses. The Tanaka doc is particularly interesting, especially if you are a fairly long time fan of Godzilla films. His journey from ww2 propaganda films until reaching a creative peak with Toho studios is enlightening and quite inspiring.

So, lose yourself in the cold war era threat of the aliens from Planet X, the reapperance of Ghidorah, the hamminess of Nick Adams and company, and of course that unforgettable iconic Godzilla as he dances to his heart's content. The origin of that dance by the way, is mentioned during the on film commentary.

Enjoy "Invasion of Astro Monster", now available in the U.S. for the first time in it's originally intended Japanese language incarnation.

Panic in the Year Zero/The Last Man on Earth

Average customer rating:

Cult Film Of "Legend"
Panic in the Year Zero / The Last Man on Earth (Midnite Movies)
Last Man on Earth, one of the greatest horror movies ever
One good, one OK
Great stuff

Panic in the Year Zero/The Last Man on Earth
Starring: Franca Bettoia , Antonio Corevi , Christi Courtland , Emma Danieli , and Carolyn De Fonseca
Director: Ubaldo Ragona
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000787YOA
Release Date: 2005-09-20

Amazon.com

Vincent Price gives an atypically restrained performance as the sole survivor of a worldwide plague that revives its victims as bloodthirsty vampires. During the day, he canvasses his abandoned hometown, tracking down and stalking his former friends and neighbors, always making sure to return before nightfall, when the dead rise to assault his fortified house. Hope arrives in the form of an apparently normal young woman (Franca Bettoia), but her agenda proves to be even more sinister than that of the vampires.

Based on the 1954 novel by coscripter Matheson (whose displeasure with the final product spurred the use of a pseudonym), this Italian-made production is best known for its influence on George Romero's Night of the Living Dead. The similarities between the two films go beyond the presence of shuffling zombies and housebound heroes; both feature taboo-breaking scenes of interfamilial murder, and both end on bleak, dystopian notes. While The Last Man on Earth lacks the political and darkly satirical shadings (and graphic gore) that make Night of the Living Dead a more memorable experience, the combination of Bava-esque Gothic atmosphere and bleak, documentary-style camerawork by directors Ragona and Salkow (the brother of Price's agent Lester Salkow) lend themselves to moments of pure frisson that compare laudably to Romero's film. Matheson's novel also provided the source material for the awkward 1971 Charlton Heston vehicle The Omega Man. A planned third version, helmed by Ridley Scott and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, was shut down in its earliest stages due to skyrocketing budget costs. --Paul Gaita

Description

Disc 1 Side A: Panic In Year Zero WS Disc 1 Side B: Last Man On Earth WS

Customer Reviews:

Cult Film Of "Legend".......2007-08-10

THE LAST MAN ON EARTH is one of those end-of-the-world sagas that posits the notion of what it would be like to live in a largely dead world after some ghastly war or plague with nobody else left. The twist here, taking its basis from Richard Matheson's classic 1954 novel "I Am Legend", is that you do have one human protagonist left alive, and a world full of things that want to kill him.

Vincent Price stars as Robert Morgan (though he is Robert Neville in both the book and the latter film THE OMEGA MAN [and the soon-to-be-released third version with Will Smith, under the author's original title]), the only survivor of a terrible plague that decimated Earth, and turned everyone into vampires. By day, Price goes out into the city to stake and burn as many vampires as he can. And at night, he must barricade himself against the hordes that prowl around his isolated fortress each night, including his ex-friend Ben Cortman (Giacomo Rossi-Stuart), wanting to get at him. Price tries to find a logical and scientific explanation for the vampire plague (explained in flashbacks to when the plague began); and in due time, he happens upon another survivor, a woman (Franca Bettoia) who seems to be normal. But there is a fairly diabolical twist that Bettoia turns out to have in store, for both Price and the vampires.

Often seen as a precursor to George Romero's 1968 horror classic NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, and Danny Boyle's more recent 28 DAYS LATER, THE LAST MAN ON EARTH, though very flawed in many aspects due to its rather low budget and its being filmed in Rome (Matheson's original novel is set in post-plague Los Angeles, as is THE OMEGA MAN), does have an extremely high creepiness factor that is very difficult for a lot of horror/sci-fi hybrids to come by, especially today. Price may not have necessarily been the ideal one to play Robert Morgan (one of the many reasons Matheson disavowed the film and used his pen name Logan Swanson for the screenplay credits), but he does a fairly good job all the same. The direction of Sidney Salkow and Ubaldo Ragona is fairly perfunctory for the most part, but certain scenes do stand out, including Price being caught outdoors at dusk after visiting his wife's grave; and Price having to see his wife come back from the dead as a vampire.

Matheson's novel remains one of the high points of both horror and science fiction literature (and without much doubt the greatest vampire story since "Dracula"), and ironically it has proven to be a fairly tough one to adapt and still fit Hollywood (THE OMEGA MAN differed wildly from the letter of the novel but retained the basic spirit of it; how the Will Smith version will fare is yet to be determined). But if one ignores the inherent flaws of this near-Poverty Row production, THE LAST MAN ON EARTH can easily be seen as a fairly good cult film of "legend."

Panic in the Year Zero / The Last Man on Earth (Midnite Movies).......2007-08-04

I've bought many of the MGM "Midnite Movies" titles in the past few months and they ALL have satisfied! Speaking just of the technical aspects, they have all been clean transfers. They have little extras that they could get away with not having (Theatrical trailers, occasional interviews) that I'd like to see more of. All in all, a good product.

Last Man on Earth, one of the greatest horror movies ever.......2007-07-21

Before Romero and Night of the Living Dead there was the Last Man on Earth. There are no zombies in this movie, they are vampires, but they movie slow and are pretty much the same thing you'll see in Night of the Living Dead. This is a true classic. A great post apocalypse movie. This is definately Vincent Price's greatest movie. Nobody could have played Nevilles part better. I cannot comment on this specific dvd version of it, as I have never seen it. However, there are enough comments on amazon to tell you that this is probably the most high quality transfer of this movie available. And its in the letterbox format. It will be nice to see the movie the way it was intended to be seen. I would love to see a colorized version!

One good, one OK.......2007-06-14

"Panic in the Year Zero" is an outstanding movie. It is as timely today as it was when made. "The Last Man on Earth" is OK and Vincent Price carries the day. It did show its European production style with a lot of fits and starts and no smoothness in continuity.

Buy the set for "Panic in the Year Zero" which is thought-provoking and a good survival primer. Watch "The Last Man on Earth" on a rainy day.

Great stuff.......2007-05-26

I remember seeing Panic when I was just a little (like maybe eight or nine years old) kid. It was on TV and I thought it was great. Having watched it now, as an adult and having grown up during the Cold War, I see just how great it really was. In a sense, it was visionary in its portrayal of society's reaction to a nuclear attack. Miland's performance was incredible as were the other actors in the film. Add to that fact that Miland also directed this film and I believe it truly shows the man's talents and genius. Yes, there was a level of nostalgia for me as I watched it, but the film points to some very significant issues that I feel we all need to address.

I have not yet watched Last Man but will do so soon.

Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection (Broadway's Lost Treasures 1-3 & The Best of the Tony Awards - The Plays)

Average customer rating:

Perfect for Musical Theatre fans
memories
Classic Broadway Shows
Broadway Stars
Almost Perfect

Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection (Broadway's Lost Treasures 1-3 & The Best of the Tony Awards - The Plays)
Starring: Wanda Richert , Steven Hack , Angela Lansbury , Mandy Patinkin , and Nana Visitor
Director: Chris Cohen
Manufacturer: Acorn Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Musicals & Performing Arts | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

Musicals & Performing Arts | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

( B ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B000EDWLU0
Release Date: 2006-05-02

Amazon.com

The Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection consists of the three volumes previously released on DVD plus a never-before-available fourth disc, The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays. The first three discs deliver what the title promises: historic performances of great moments in American musical theater televised on the Tony Awards starting in the 1960s and into the new millennium. Unlike some other arts, theater has rarely been well-documented, so it's a treat to see these numbers performed by the original artists rather than experience them through audio recordings or tepid movie adaptations. Sure, sound and picture quality are only adequate, some of the numbers are minimally staged and some appear to be lip-synched, and some of the performances that do have excellent film counterparts seem rather lackluster here. But those are minor drawbacks compared to the chance to see Gwen Verdon performing "All That Jazz" and "Nowadays" from Chicago and "Whatever Lola Wants" from Damn Yankees; John Raitt singing The Pajama Game's "Hey There"; Alfred Drake singing Kiss Me Kate's "Where Is the Life That Late I Led"); a 33-year-old Jerry Orbach performing Promises, Promises' "She Likes Basketball"; and 12-year-old Andrea McArdle breaking hearts in Annie's "Tomorrow."

The second and third volumes feature newer, fully staged performances that are almost indistinguishable from an actual show, including scenes from splashy, high-energy revivals such as Anything Goes (Patti LuPone and company performing the title tune) and Guys and Dolls (the fabulous "Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat"), and new shows such as Grand Hotel (Michael Jeter and Brent Barrett in a gloriously exuberant "Take a Glass Together"), Les Miserables ("One Day More"), La Cage aux Folles (George Hearn solo and with a chorus line in drag in "I Am What I Am"), Ragtime (the opening number), and You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Kristin Chenoweth's "My New Philosophy"). The new generation of splashy dance-oriented musicals are also represented by the likes of the 42nd Street revival (the title tune and "We're in the Money"), Fosse ("Sing, Sing, Sing"), and Crazy for You ("I Can't Be Bothered Now").

The Best of the Tony Awards: The Plays features 19 of the dramatic and comedy excerpts showcased on the Tony Awards telecasts between 1969 and 2001. From 1969 are James Earl Jones and Jane Alexander in The Great White Hope and Art Carney in Lovers, and other performances include Maggie Smith and Margaret Tyzack in Lettice and Lovage (1990), John Lithgow and B.D. Wong in M. Butterfly (1988), Joan Allen and Peter Friedman in The Heidi Chronicles (1988), and Joe Mantegna and Ron Silver in Speed-the-Plow (1988). The performances aren't specifically organized by date or performer, but the collection concludes with four excerpts from August Wilson works followed by three Shakespearean works. The excerpts are brief, lasting 2-3 minutes each, and even though each segment is introduced by a narrator, this format clearly works better for musicals than it does for plays. Regardless, it remains a rare chance to see stage performances that for the most part are not available on home video. Collectors who already own the three musical volumes, however, will have to weigh how badly they want The Plays when they consider mostly duplicating their purchase with the Broadway's Lost Treasures Collection. --David Horiuchi

Description

A comprehensive collection of great performances captured on film as part of the annual Tony Award® broadcasts. Broadway royalty and Tony® winners, including Lauren Bacall, Bebe Neuwirth, Robert Goulet, and Harvey Fierstein, serve as hosts and share their own Broadway and Tony® memories.

Produced as PBS specials, Broadway's Lost Treasures I, II, & III feature legendary stars—including Patti LuPone, Nell Carter, Jerry Orbach, Gwen Verdon, Ethel Merman, Kristin Chenoweth, Angela Lansbury, Joel Grey, and many more—performing musical numbers from legendary shows—including Anything Goes, Man of La Mancha, Guys and Dolls, Ain't Misbehavin', Chicago, Fosse, Miss Saigon, Crazy for You, and many many more.

The Best of the Tony® Awards-The Plays features acting greats, such as James Earl Jones, Maggie Smith, Annette Benning, Kevin Kline, and Morgan Freeman, performing key scenes from 19 celebrated plays, including The Great White Hope, The Heidi Chronicles, Fences, Hamlet, and Long Day's Journey Into Night.

For theatre lovers, it doesn't get any better than this!

Customer Reviews:

Perfect for Musical Theatre fans.......2007-07-17

If you are a fan of Musical Theatre, this is a must-have DVD. The performances are absolute classics. My only disappointment was the video quality, but I guess most of these were not really filmed with that in mind. Several are segments taken from old TV variety shows. Still, it's a treat to see them.

memories.......2007-07-07

I feel this is great memorabilia for the older crowd. There are facts that a lot of people did not know about some of the actors,like few people knew Jerry Orback was a song and dance man.

Classic Broadway Shows.......2007-03-30

Almost every show on this DVD is a favorite of mine and has been for many years. It's great to have these true treasures at your beck and call through this DVD. Some of these talented performers will never be seen again. I am very, very happy with this DVD. beti schwartz

Broadway Stars.......2007-03-20

Broadway stars abound in these DVDs. There is a wonderful variety of clips and the narrations and interviews are good, as well. Such talent! Gregory Hines, Robert Goulet, Richard Kiley, Julie Andrews, and more and more to knock you off your feet. Don't pass this up!

Almost Perfect.......2007-02-27

I saw this on PBS and immediately decided to buy myself a copy!
While these excerpts are not from the broadway shows themselves, they are from the Tony Awards and are therefore, 'live.' And it's just wonderful to experience the level of 'energy' that great actors project when performing live on a stage.

There are a couple of songs that I don't particularly care for myself (Worst Pies in London), but most are wonderful, and the performances, while not 100% flawless (this WAS filmed live) are almost all engaging.

A few comments:
Yul Brenner manages to project more energy just standing there in the background than his co-star singing her heart out in "Shall We Dance." She is, alas, a fairly indifferent actress, and is overwhelmed by her enormous dress!

Lip-synced or no, Robert Preston in "Music Man" is wonderful. As is Joel Grey's fabulous MC in "Caberet." Again, it's all about energy.

I'd honestly never even heard of Patti Lapone before I saw this show, but she blew me away with her powerful voice. (Evita.)

"All that Jazz" and "Nowadays" from "Chicago" is, alas, much too short,but delightful.

The most unintentionally funny bit -- Twiggy looking either utterly bored or utterly terrified (but completely out of character, regardless) as she struggles with a simple dance routine in "Kicking the Clouds Away," (From "My One and Only.") She must have not realized that the camera had her in close up ...

Recommend this 100%

Average customer rating:

The Surf Trip guide
group wanderlust
Unique
you will love this movie
Catch this wave!

Zen & Zero
Starring: Allan C. Weisbecker
Director: Michael Ginthor
Manufacturer: Build World Wide
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B000HXDWIW
Release Date: 2006-10-31

Description

AWARDS: BEST DIRECTOR, BEST STORY: X-Dance-Action Sports Film Festival, Park City, USA (Nominee: Best Film, Best Original Score) BEST FILM: Surf Film Festival St Jean de Luz, France DIRECTOR'S AWARD: Santa Cruz Int. Film Festival, USA BEST PHOTOGRAPHY: II Festival Internacional de Cinema Surf, Brazil BEST of FEST ADVENTURE FILM: Tahoe-Reno Int. Film Festival, USA BEST PHOTOGRAPHY: Pichilemu Surf Film Festival, Chile

Customer Reviews:

The Surf Trip guide.......2007-05-16

A creative surf movie, unlike any you have seen. No surf stars, no radical moves, only ordinary surfers (like me and many others) enjoying the surf trip of their lives.

group wanderlust.......2007-05-05

I like this kind of film or book anyway, but this was captivating. The movie stands on its own for sure as just a good film, but for me the addition of the surfing theme was the attraction, and then for the ultimate treat we see Weisbecker in his element. If you have read his books and like them, its worth the movie just to see those sections he appears and how surreal it all feels.

Unique.......2007-02-15

The reviews here are incredible ! And this film deserves all of them. It is incredible how they were able to go into the inner feelings of a surf trip. I feel like all and I mean all the other surfing films that tried to put a surf trip on the screen failed after watching Zen and Zero. I leave one question ... Why Austrians managed to do that ? This is a real surf art film.

you will love this movie.......2007-01-13

as a non-surfer, i might not be the most qualified person to review the 'surfer film' side of this documentary. but to me, it was less a surf movie and more a movie about getting there; getting to the ultimate place, enjoying the waves, and capturing it all on film in an original and beautiful way. this movie makes you want to get out and try what these guys did, because what they did was more than document surfing. they documented the spiritual side of surfing and the ocean, friendship, and finding the ultimate wave. i highly recomend buying this movie.

Catch this wave!.......2006-12-19

A riveting account of an extraordinary journey from Los Angeles to the heart of Central America in the search of the essence of surfing. Beautiful images, an amazing soundtrack, great surfing, and above all, a fantastic story.

Nine Innings From Ground Zero: The 2001 World Series

Average customer rating:

remember 9/11
The World Series the Yankees SHOULD have won...
parochial and myopic
I Still Get Tears In My Eyes...
Hate the Yankees....but love them as human beings.

Nine Innings From Ground Zero: The 2001 World Series
Starring: Bobby Valentine (II) , Luis Gonzalez , Liza Minnelli , Mariano Rivera , and Curtis Sliwa
Manufacturer: Hbo Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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ASIN: B0007939LG
Release Date: 2005-03-29

Amazon.com

In the days following terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001, sports might have seemed trivial and irrelevant. But Nine Innings from Ground Zero demonstrates how New Yorkers, in fact, embraced baseball with a cathartic passion, turning Yankees and Mets games into spontaneous rituals of grief and showcases for resilience and the restoration of normalcy. Off the field, both teams found a way to comfort the city to the extent they could, visiting firefighters and relatives of the dead; the Yankees' Derek Jeter personally reached out to the young daughter of one of the pilots killed by hijackers. The Yankees' ride to the World Series that year is covered extensively here, and the team's up-and-down dramas playing against Phoenix coincide with such off-field horrors as an anthrax scare and more warnings of terrorism. Outstanding game footage and interwoven analysis of baseball action and real-world events make Nine Innings unique. --Tom Keogh

Description

The tragedy and horror of the 9/11 attacks triggered a host of changes in America, including a reassessment of the role of sports and its accompanying hero-worship. Batting averages and home run totals were no longer paramount, particularly in New York, but in the fall of 2001 baseball played a significant role in the city's recovery efforts. Nine Innings from Ground Zero revisits that remarkable and inspiring phenomenon.

Customer Reviews:

remember 9/11.......2007-05-17

the main reason i bought this video is because the price finally dropped. i happened to be at this - my first- world series. i watched games three and four in yankee stadium after making the long trek out from colorado in late october. i'm very experiential and had to visit ground zero. every time i'm in nyc i visit the same corner. jeter's november heroics are memorable and by kim's meltdown. he never really recovered from those home runs. kim was just traded from the colorado rockies to the marlins. unfortunately, the yankees lost that one on a luis gonzalez's bloop single off mariano rivera, but there was nothing like watching president bush throw out the first pitch, the wtc flag unfurled over yankee stadium and lee greenwood singing.

The World Series the Yankees SHOULD have won..........2006-11-22

Being a Yankees fan, it always baffles me that the Yankees lost the World Series of 2001. If there ever, EVER was a year they deserved to win, 2001 was it.

I enjoyed the footage of the series as well as the interviews with the team and the family members who were impacted by the series. This documentary will make you laugh and cry. Above all, it will make you remember...

parochial and myopic.......2006-06-20

One of the most monumental events in the history of American sports, the 2001 World Series is perhaps more worthy than any other sports topic of a comprehensive, informed and inspired film document. This film is not that document.

The premise of the filmmakers is that the New York Yankees, because they chose to play after September 11 rather than abandoning the season, should be regarded as saints. They then maintain that it was the patriotic duty of the Yankees' opponents to roll over and lose in order to improve the moods of their non-playing interview subjects (all New Yorkers). Meanwhile, the players responsible for the most courageous and inspiring performance in baseball history are cast as villains, and the city that experienced the greatest moment of sports-inspired civic pride in American history is ignored.

Here are three reasons why this World Series will be talked about in 2051 that were barely, if it all, talked about in this movie:

1. There has never been a greater contrast in the backgrounds of the two participants in a professional sports championship: the most celebrated, decorated team in American sports history against one that was only playing its fourth season. The Yankees were fielding teams when Arizona was not even a state! I would make the argument that not only was this the most important event in Arizona SPORTS history, but by way of having so little traditionally defined history, this was the biggest thing ever to happen in Arizona period!

2. By virtue of becoming the first pitcher to win three games in one series since Mickey Lolich, Randy Johnson became the unchallenged star of the series. The most spectacular pitching performer since Nolan Ryan, this series marked his transformation from star to legend. While it's unfortunate that he did not make himself available for interviews that is no reason to be giving him passing mentions instead of prominent ones.

3. There is no more magical moment in sports than a bottom-of-the-ninth come from behind rally by the home team to win the seventh game of a World Series. What will place this in the realm of the greatest sports legends is that it occurred in the context of a blown save by the greatest relief pitcher in the history of the game.

For Pete's (and Pinnacle Peak's) sake let's all hope that fans from both of these cities someday get the film about this series that they deserve.

I Still Get Tears In My Eyes..........2006-04-09

First of all, I am not a Yankees fan, nor am I a Yankees hater.

This film, although a wee bit heavy handed at times, still brings tears to my eyes...five years since 9/11. It is wonderful to see how a simple game of baseball helped in a small way heal a devastated city and country.

What I liked is that it did not focus on the terrorists or the attack as so much as the healing. It was a film about resolve, not vengeance.

The interviews with the families of the victims were prominently featured, as they should. The ballplayer interviews were to add to the feeling, but the film clearly focused on the famlilies. This ensured that the viewer knew what was truly important.

Although as an Oakland A's fan, I get to relive the moment when Jeremy Giambi should have slid over and over again, I love that I have this in my DVD collection.

*note - as a DVD there are no special features...it's the documentary and that's it...

Hate the Yankees....but love them as human beings........2005-11-23

Being a west-coast sports fan,I have always hated the Yankees. I don't know what got me into buying this dvd but I must say that I am glad I did. This documentary is the story about the city of New York and one of their most beloved sports teams getting by one of the most horrific events in both New York and American History...9/11. If this tragedy was the illness,then the love of Yankee baseball was the cure. While watching "Nine innings from ground zero",my hate towards this team was put aside while watching it as I got to see the side of Yankee stars that one doesn't see off the field. From the young girl who met Derek Jeter after he learned through her letter that she lost her father in the towers...to the firefighters who put on a smile thanks to a surprise visit from Yankee players...to the group of family members of 9/11 victims who got to attend the world series,I was deeply moved by this documentary. We,the sports fans,are so used to hearing stories about too many sport stars who get in trouble with the law or stars who complain about a 7 to 8 figure contract not being enough,that we seem to forget about the few out there who have alot of good in them. The documentary even has an interview with President George Bush that I am glad was included. I don't care if the war in Iraq is right or wrong nor do I care what party he is. It is a proud moment watching the leader of your country throw out the first pitch at the 2001 World Series while the crowd chants...U-S-A...U-S-A!!! I believe this first pitch is the most memorable one on film to date. After watching Nine innings...,am I still a Yankee hater? Yeah,but I love them for bringing hope and smiles to the people of New York. This dvd is recommended to both the sports fan and non-sports fan. All will not be disappointed. "It's a hit"!

Average customer rating:

Great Story - Low Budget Movie
b20
A could have been.
Good adaption
very very good!

Bravo Two Zero
Starring: Sean Bean , Steve Nicolson , Rick Warden , Richard Graham , and Ian Curtis (III)
Director: Tom Clegg
Manufacturer: Dimension
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005R87B
Release Date: 2001-12-18

Amazon.com

Sean Bean has yet to star in a major movie, but he proves his charisma in Bravo Two Zero, based on the true story of a British Special Forces unit behind enemy lines during the Gulf War. Bravo Two Zero begins with the men taking leave of their wives, children, and girlfriends, then takes us step by step through the procedures that lead to going to war: not simply the gathering of equipment and intelligence, but things like "proof of life" statements--something idiosyncratic that, if the soldiers are captured, will demonstrate that they are still alive. Sent to cut an information line, the squad loses radio contact, and the men are forced to abandon their gear and head for the border of Syria. From there things only get worse, and some viewers may find the going brutal. These realistic details give the movie its punch, but it's Bean who keeps you caring. --Bret Fetzer

Description

Starring action favorite Sean Bean (THE LORD OF THE RINGS, DON'T SAY A WORD, ESSEX BOYS) and based on a captivating true story written by best-selling author Andy McNab, BRAVO TWO ZERO explores the tragedies and triumphs of men taken to the edge of survival during the Persian Gulf War. When an elite eight-man British SAS team is dropped behind enemy lines, their mission is clear: take out Saddam Hussein's SCUD missile systems. But when communications are cut and they find themselves surrounded by Hussein's army, their only hope is to risk capture and torture in a desperate 185-kilometer run to the Syrian border. With a terrific screenplay by the writer of the classic action hits KELLY'S HEROES and RED HEAT, you'll long remember this compelling story of wartime heroism and bravery.

Customer Reviews:

Great Story - Low Budget Movie.......2007-08-30

A great story told on a "made for TV" budget.

The film looks and feels right. It doesn't have the Hollywood blockbuster special effects and cast, but real life doesn't either. Actual footage is interspersed which gives it a documentary feel. If you have read the book, Bravo Two-Zero by Andy McNab, you will be able to follow along quite easily.

On the downside, they tried to cram too much of the book into the movie. There are scenes that seem to have been done only because they were `in the book" and not because they add to the story. The acting is average and some of the special effects cheesy.

If you read and enjoyed the book then you should follow-up with the movie. If your only interest is to be entertained, then you may be disappointed.

b20.......2007-06-03

Great movie very enjoyable and realistic a classic delivered fast and in good condition

A could have been........2007-02-18

As ex-infantry I found this a big disappointment and almost unwatchable. This low budget movie spoils the book. A supposed highlight is the SAS field craft, but that's a bad joke. The SAS troop crowds around for camera shots, all the while talking loudly if not shouting. Bog normal infantry don't do this never mind the best of the best, the SAS. The fire-fight sequences are passable. The interrogation is the strongest part of the movie but can't make up for the rest of it. The foul language Even if it's what they used in the field, should have been ameliorated for the movie and it detracts a lot, making it unsuitable for many audiences.

Good adaption.......2007-01-05

This movie was a decent adaption of the book. Written by the same author, many of te small details and personalities of the team members have been put in the movie. Naturally, the movie is at best, a synopsis of the book due to budget and time restraints, which is why I recommend reading it first, then watching the movie. As a stand alone movie, it has decent action and a pretty good plot (the novel fleshes everything out alot better) and Sean Bean as always, delivers lines and action the way he always does. Not a bad purchase.

very very good!.......2006-09-20

one of the best man-at-war movies ever made and viewed so far. the fighting scenes and the tortures were so realistic and shockingly cruel.

DVD:

DVD

DVD