Miss Potter

Amazon.com

Miss Potter walks that fine line between charming and cloying with pleasing sure-footedness. Apple-cheeked Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones' Diary) once again slips into a British accent to play writer/illustrator Beatrix Potter, the creator of Peter Rabbit. Potter, born into wealth, fought the disapproval of her high society mother to do something as crass as publish a book...and to fall in love with her publisher, Norman Warne (Ewan McGregor, previously teamed with Zellweger in Down With Love). Unfortunately, their love runs into something worse than upper-class stuffiness. Miss Potter skips through Potter's life a bit too briskly at times, but Zellweger's thankfully restrained performance, McGregor's infinite charm, and some beautiful shots of the English landscape keep the movie grounded and engaging. Also featuring a crackling supporting performance by Emily Watson (Breaking the Waves) as Warne's sister Millie. --Bret Fetzer

Description

(Drama) The story of Beatrix Potter, the author of the beloved and best-selling children's book, "The Tale of Peter Rabbit", and her struggle for love, happiness and success.

Customer Reviews:

My favorite movie ever!!!!.......2007-09-16

Bought this movie for $5 and loved it! It's the best movie ever. Ewan McGregor is an awesome actor and loved his accent. I watched the movie over and over again. I just cant get enough. Great work by all the cast. Loved Beatrix mother she played her part well. Great for the whole family. Very pleased that it had no profanity. If you have not seen it you need to get it now!

under rated Movie!!.......2007-09-14

This movie is so under rated!! It is wonderfully acted, a true story of love heart break and triumph!! if you are a hopeless romantic and a champion of the under dog you will love this movie- it is not, a story of bunnies and children's books!! Renee Zellwiger is an unbeleivable actress!!! Ewan McGregor once again shines in teaming up with Renee!!

Rating of Miss Potter DVD overall.......2007-09-13

I enjoyed the beautifully filmed and acted story of Beatrix Potter and also the additional information on her life and legacy. However, the DVD as a whole loses one star (I am tempted to subtract two) for the annoying intrusion of 15 minutes of commercials at the start.

Miss Potter is a touching true story.......2007-09-11

I enjoyed this biography very much and have watched it several times. It is very nice to see a movie that does not have the violence that seems to be so popular with the public today. I dislike violence for violence's sake.

Heartwarming Family Film.......2007-09-08

This is one of our favorite movies. It is a wholesome love story, based on the life of Beatrix Potter and her "bunny story" plus others. The setting is 1902 with crisp, beautiful city and country scenery. Miss Potter is not happy in settling with a husband selected by her mother and maintains her independence, being happy in her drawing and writing. When her first book is accepted for publication, she meets the love of her life Norman Warne (Ewan McGregor), her publisher. Of course, Miss Potter's mother doesn't view him as acceptable and wishes that her daughter wouldn't bring trades people into their home and the story unfolds. The actors are great. I recognized some actors from another favorite - Lorna Doone. You won't want to miss the song that Ewan McGregor sings, when he is teaching Renee Zellweger to dance. Beatrix Potter gave 4,000 acres of land to the people of Britain when she died, saving it from developers. The only negative that others who have seen the film have to offer is that some have a problem with Renee Zellweger's facial expressions and find them distracting. I didn't find this to be a problem for me and loved all of the expressions.

Average customer rating:

Energetic high school musical set in the 1950s
Grease (Rockin" Rydell Edition
Great Movies
Grease
A classic, must have for every collection

Grease (Rockin' Rydell Edition)
Starring: John Travolta , Olivia Newton-John , Stockard Channing , Jeff Conaway , and Barry Pearl
Director: Randal Kleiser
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000GBEWHA
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Amazon.com essential video

Riding the strange '50s nostalgia wave that swept through America during the late 1970s (caused by TV shows like Happy Days and films like American Graffiti), Grease became not only the word in 1978, but also a box-office smash and a cultural phenomenon. Twenty years later, this entertaining film adaptation of the Broadway musical received another successful theatrical release, which included visual remastering and a shiny new Dolby soundtrack. In this 2002 DVD release, Grease lovers can also now see it in the correct 2:35 to 1 Panavision aspect ratio, and see retrospective interviews with cast members and director Randal Kleiser. All these stylistic touches are essential to the film's success. Without the vibrant colors, unforgettably campy and catchy tunes (like "Greased Lightning," "Summer Nights," and "You're the One That I Want"), and fabulously choreographed, widescreen musical numbers, the film would have to rely on a silly, cliché-filled plot that we've seen hundreds of times. As it is, the episodic story about the romantic dilemmas experienced by a group of graduating high school seniors remains fresh, fun, and incredibly imaginative.

The young, animated cast also deserves a lot of credit, bringing chemistry and energy to otherwise bland material. John Travolta, straight from his success in Saturday Night Fever, knows his sexual star power and struts, swaggers, sings, and dances appropriately, while Olivia Newton-John's portrayal of virgin innocence is the only decent acting she's ever done. And then there's Stockard Channing, spouting sexual double-entendres as Rizzo, the bitchy, raunchy leader of the Pink Ladies, who steals the film from both of its stars. Ignore the sequel at all costs. --Dave McCoy

Description

John Travolta solidified his position as the most versatile and magnetic screen presence of the decade in this film version of the smash hit play Grease. Recording star Olivia Newton-John made her American film debut as Sandy, Travolta's naive love interest. The impressive supporting cast reads like a "who's who" in this quintessential musical about the fabulous '50s. Grease is not just a nostalgic look at a simpler decade--it's an energetic and exciting musical homage to the age of rock 'n' roll!

Customer Reviews:

Energetic high school musical set in the 1950s.......2007-07-06

Remember those school productions of "Grease" - well this is the film that everyone remembers, based on the long-running Broadway show.

The songs are deliberately cheesy, the acting over the top, the teenagers look about 30, but it's all pretty good fun.

Comparing this to "High School Musical", which has real teenagers one realises that "Grease" is not about teenagers at all but a 1950s that probably never existed. Indeed "Grease" was part of the 1950s nostalgia phenomenon of the 1970s along with "Happy Days" and "American Graffiti" that continued with films such as "Back to the Future" and "Stand By Me" in the 1980s. America was harking back to a kinder, simpler, innocent era post-Vietnam, Civil Rights, and Watergate.

"Grease" still holds up as decent entertainment today.

Grease (Rockin" Rydell Edition.......2007-06-27

Bought it for my 17 year old grand daughter, who loves Grease, she loves it.

Great Movies.......2007-06-08

This moie came out when I was out of HighSchool....I LOVED it then and it's been one of my favorites...The music is terrific and John Travolta and Olivia Newton John did an incredible job as the two main characters in the movie.......

Grease.......2007-06-01

My DVD arrived very quickly, as usual. A welcomed addition to our collection of classics.

A classic, must have for every collection.......2007-05-23

This movie is just a classic and always a good time to watch. It's pretty harmless and just puts you in a good mood. I saw this movie about 25 times when I was growing up and it came out, so I was pleased to see it on a DVD so I can watch it and not wear out the tape!

Average customer rating:

Great love story!
Sweet Land - sweet movie
Hypnotically Quiet, but No Less Passionate.
A Smart and Enjoyable Film
Moving, poignant, timely, and a keeper

Sweet Land - A Love Story
Starring: Elizabeth Reaser , Tim Guinee , Alan Cumming , John Heard , and Alex Kingston
Director: Ali Selim
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000P5FH26
Release Date: 2007-07-10

Amazon.com

Adapted from a Will Weaver story, Ali Selim's Sweet Land is a truly sweet story about unlikely immigrant lovers whose struggle for integration into 1920's America earns them a work ethic more American than many of their narrow-minded neighbors. Set in rural Minnesota, the sentimental film focuses on tribulations that Scandinavian settlers experienced, with a cinematic serenity reminiscent of Terrence Malik's Days of Heaven. Norwegian farmer Olaf Torvik (Tim Guinee) invites a non-English speaking German siren, Inge Alltenburg (Elizabeth Reaser), to relocate and marry him, but discovers that neither the town's Lutheran pastor (John Heard) nor the local judge will marry a German into their community for fear of wartime German spies. Inge finds friendship in neighbors Frandsen (Alan Cumming) and his wife, Brownie (Alex Kingston), who disregarding local gossip, welcome her into their home. Finally, Inge proves herself, settling in so that Sweet Land's historical narrative is framed by Inge, fifty years later, speaking to her adult son about her husband's death and their plot of land. This multi-generational tale of social acceptance and land ownership is ultimately the story of America, though the regional specificity of Sweet Land will speak especially to those familiar with Midwestern culture. --Trinie Dalton

Description

Inge (Elizabeth Reaser) is a feisty German mail-order bride who has come to Minnesota to marry Olaf (Tim Guinee), a young Norwegian immigrant farmer of few words. But in a post-WWI, anti-German climate, the local minister (John Heard) openly forbids the marriage. Inge and Olaf fall in love despite the town's disapproval. But when the town banker (Ned Beatty) attempts to foreclose on the farm of his friend Frandsen (Alan Cumming), Olaf takes a stand...and the community unites around the young couple, finally accepting Inge as one of their own.

Customer Reviews:

Great love story!.......2007-09-06

This movie was beautifully written, directed and acted. I was very impressed with the soundtrack as well. Though the movie is not action packed, it is filled with well developed characters and interesting plot turns. The gradual love story that builds through the entire film is entertaining right up to the end. I would highly recommend this movie!

Sweet Land - sweet movie.......2007-08-25

Our family thoroughly enjoyed the steady, quiet, loving pace of this movie. There are many issues of acceptance, faith, and determination that are woven into the story. It is beautifully filmed and we loved the characters. We highly recommend this movie for just about anyone.

Hypnotically Quiet, but No Less Passionate. .......2007-08-24

"Sweet Land" is an unusual love story set among homesteading immigrants in Minnesota farm country shortly after World War I. Olaf Torvik (Tim Guinee) came to the US from Norway in 1910, moved west, cleared some land, and became a farmer. A decade later, his parents in Norway find him a wife. Inge Allenberg (Elizabeth Reaser) arrives by train with 2 suitcases and her indispensable phonograph. But Inge is a German national. Post-war sentiment toward Germans prevent the minister and judge from marrying the couple. Olaf is frustrated by the situation, but Inge is determined to be his wife.

"Sweet Land" director Ali Selim adapted the film from Will Weaver's short story "A Gravestone Made of Wheat". The story of Inge and Olaf provides an window on an American culture rarely seen in film. The farms' placid beauty defies the harsh realities of eking out a living in this fickle environment. I was entranced by the quietness that results from Olaf's laconic nature and Inge's inability to speak English. The actors do a splendid job of conveying Inge's resolve and Olaf's frustrated longing and fear of this stranger with few words. "Sweet Land"'s framing device is awkward, but it does give the story context and leaves the audience satisfied to know how things turned out.

The DVD (20th Century Fox 2007): There is one featurette, a theatrical trailer (2 ½ min), and an audio commentary. "Sweet Land: A Labor of Love Story" (11 min) interviews director Ali Selim about his intentions and talks with the cast about their characters and themes. The audio commentary is by writer/director Ali Selim, actors Tim Guinee and Elizabeth Reaser, editor James Stanger, and producer Gil Bellows. Selim and Stanger discuss the framing device. Selim talks about adapting the story. Also discussed are locations, the score, performances, shooting anecdotes, and the actors share their experiences. Subtitles for the film are available in English, Spanish, and French.

A Smart and Enjoyable Film.......2007-08-13

Sweet Land is a film which is enjoyable time after time for the nuances of the writing, the acting and the beautiful cinematography. Because of the focus of the film on immigrant brides, and the reality of the language barriers, my second viewing was like seeing a sequel. The actors brought real depth to the subject matter and I especially appreciated the development of the relationships in the community. A great film for the whole family.

Moving, poignant, timely, and a keeper.......2007-08-12

A friend recommended we see this movie so we drove 90 miles to the nearest theatre to view this independant flick. Wow! Now, we have the video and are every bit as impressed. Filmed on location in the vicinity of Montevideo, MN Sweetland exudes a rare authenticity that simply grips the heart and soul. Pastoral settings, migrating geese flying by, the harvest the old fashioned way...it's all there, with great magnificence and integrity. We tend to forget life tensions around 1920, emigration pressures, foreign language miscommunications, ostracism, hard work, the influence of the church and minister...While you're immersed in the story it suddenly hits you that certain contempory issues also echo within this unfolding drama. How many films have you seen lately that are bold enough to go a full ten minutes before the main title comes to view? It's 1 hour 50 minutes long. The ten minute behind the scenes feature reveals what inspired the writer and the director, adding additional dimensions to the moving story. We haven't yet taken in the audio commentary, that'll be next. Buy it, watch it, show it to your kids. Keep your hankies close, it'll tug powerfully at your heart, especially so if you have roots in the great midwest. You'll find why the land can be sweeter than money.

Average customer rating:

Personal morals aside, a beautiful love story.
An Intelligent Film
LOVING ANNABELLE
Forbidden Love
Great Movie with a Poor Ending.

Loving Annabelle
Starring: Diane Gaidry , Erin Kelly (III) , Laura Breckenridge , Jennie Floyd , and Marla Maples
Director: Katherine Brooks
Manufacturer: Wolfe Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000J4QWIG
Release Date: 2006-12-12

Amazon.com

A lot of taboos are broken in Loving Annabelle, even if the film itself remains remarkably tasteful--even demure. The central characters are two women, a teacher and her student, and the setting is an all-girls school (shades of Lost and Delirious). Annabelle (the smoldering Erin Kelly), a senior, is a rebellious rocker chick--the Beverly Hills version that is, i.e. highlighted hair, black eyeliner, and nose ring. Her senatorial mother ships her off to boarding school to shape up. Annabelle's hard-partying ways are starting to become an embarrassment. Miss Simone Bradley (the sympathetic Diane Gaidry) is a popular poetry teacher. She's a Catholic. Annabelle is not. Simone has a boyfriend, Annabelle is gay. Looks can be deceiving, however, and there's more to both than meets the eye. For one, Simone's relationship is not as secure as it appears. For another, Annabelle's ardor is so relentless it threatens to sway sympathy against her. She seems to have no regard for the damage an affair would inflict on her teacher's career. Nonetheless, Simone is not entirely resistant to her charms. Inspired by 1931's Mädchen in Uniform, writer/director Katherine Brooks preserves the forbidden relationship at the heart of the Weimar-era classic, but drops the political subtext. Consequently, she doesn't take on more than she can handle, but Loving Annabelle still feels a little slight. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Description

Rising star Erin Kelly is Annabelle, a precocious Senator's daughter who falls for her Catholic school teacher, Simone (Diane Gaidry, The Dogwalker). After Simone is assigned to control the rebellious student, she instead finds herself drawn into Annabelle's world. As their attraction builds, the two women must cope with the reactions of those around them. Writer-Director Katherine Brooks unveils this smoldering tale of forbidden love with intelligence, wit and sensitivity.

Customer Reviews:

Personal morals aside, a beautiful love story........2007-08-29

Though I won't comment on the fact that this is really the story of a teacher/student affair, I will say that this is truly a love story, when honed down to the two main characters. Gaidry's performance is perfectly nuanced and you're with her all the way.

The ending leaves much to be desired, though. The 'alternate ending' on the extras really adds onto the actual ending rather than changing it and provides the viewer with the closure needed to move on and not become and emotional wreck over the affair. I'm puzzled as to why it was left off but highly recommend the movie either way.

An Intelligent Film.......2007-08-15

This film is built on Rilke's poetry. Simone first becomes aware of Annabelle when Annabelle uses Rilke to get inside Simone's head to seduce her--sex and love can be one, especially if the sex is really good sex. . . I was half expecting jabs at the patriarchal symbolism of the Catholic Church; however the "bad Catholic" in the film is a controlling woman, not a man. The true patriarch in the film is a priest who has given up control, instead imparting wisdom and compassion when he can. There are several conflicts here, the strongest is conveyed when the head mistress asks Simone hadn't she ever thought what she was doing was wrong, and Simone's reply was yes, she had thought about it at every instant. The most interesting character to me was Cat, aptly named because she pounces on anything, mauling it, without really meaning to--it's just her nature. Annabelle is a skilled seductress but she misjudges the lethality of Cat. Cat is the irritant, the grain of sand that makes pearls, and poetry.

LOVING ANNABELLE.......2007-07-30

Best indy film I've seen in a long time. The actors performances were very strong. Director Katherine Brooks succeeds in making the teacher-student relationship about more than sex. Both women fall deeply in love with each other and it comes across very sincere on screen.

Forbidden Love.......2007-07-29

Ok its about a teacher who falls for a student. Lets get that out of the way first. Yes, its bit squicky and wrong, but that's what forbidden love is isn't it?

This has one of the hotest moments I've seen in awhile, and its not the love scene. I'm talking about when the teacher is still resisting her feelings for Annabeele and has what turns out to be a very vivid dream about her and she has it in a church. I remember going "wow" when I saw it.

Forbidden love is always a difficult subject. Right or wrong, they loved each other. I liked the way the movie ended. I won't give it away but it left things open without being to angsty and "Chlidrens Houry" but it did show that there are repercussions to dangerous actions.

All in all one of my favorite lesbian films.

Great Movie with a Poor Ending........2007-07-22

Loving Ananabelle is well written, well directed, and both stars (Diane Gaidry and Erin Kelly) do excellent work here.

The story does a fine job of showing the venom faced by anyone who chooses to be different from the "norm", whatever that is. Although this movie touches on lesbianism, it is not simply a story about lesbians. And it is not porn, in my opinion. It's more a story about love, about prejudice, ostracism, harassment and about the courage and suffering required of those brave enough to openly leave the safety of the herd.

I would have rated this movie a strong five, had it not been for the ending. The writer/director is certainly a talented artist to have created such a fine and insightful story and to write and direct it so well. But she certainly could have done better on the ending; it was quite disappointing. The alternate ending available was better, but it was still less that adequate.

Overall, I recommend the movie, Loving Annabelle. Be ready for considerable disappointment during the final ten of fifteen minutes, however.

Average customer rating:

Girl Happy with Chris Noel
MY FAVORITE ELVIS MOVIE!!!!
FINALLY!!!
Girl Happy - Elvis Happy - Viewer Happy
Don't like Elvis, but this movie is AWESOME!

Girl Happy
Starring: Elvis Presley , Shelley Fabares , Harold J. Stone , Gary Crosby , and Joby Baker
Director: Boris Sagal
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000QXDEEA
Release Date: 2007-08-07

Description

Elvis plays Rusty Wells, the leader of a four-piece rock group, consisting of Gary Crosby, Joby Baker and Jimmy Hawkins. Hired by Chicago gangster boss Big Frank (Harold J. Stone) to protect the virtue of Frank's cute daughter Valerie (Shelley Fabares), Rusty and his buddies follow Valerie to Fort Lauderdale during Spring Break. The girl falls in love with Rusty, then falls out of love when she learns that he's in her dad's employ. Valerie then becomes involved with a slick Italian playboy (Fabrizio Mioni), forcing Rusty to break up the romance lest he end up in a cement overcoat.

Customer Reviews:

Girl Happy with Chris Noel.......2007-09-14

You know what makes this movie so good ?? It's Chris Noel who did so much for our troops in Vietnam and continues to support the VETERANS today !! She's been an outstanding advocate of the AMERICAN VETERAN for many years and we're so thankful for all she has done. She realized a long time ago what's important to OUR nation and that's the AMERICAN VETERAN. God bless her and help her to continue her very important work.

P.G. Gentrup
Rising Sun, Indiana
25th Inf Div
Cu Chi, Vietnam 1967-68

MY FAVORITE ELVIS MOVIE!!!!.......2007-08-16

This is by far my favorite Elvis movie to date. It's just such a fun spring break movie with girls, beaches and most importantly, Elvis. I have been watching this movie since I was kid. My grandmother was a huge fan and loved watching his movies and got me into, not only his music but also his movies. I have been searching over the last few years for this on DVD. And now the day has finally come, it's here YEAH!!!!

FINALLY!!!.......2007-08-16

Yes, FINALLY!! I'm not quite sure why this particular Elvis film took
so long to get to DVD, but instead just say "thank you" Warner Home Video, for finally making it so!

This is one of my favorite Elvis films of all time. Why? I'm not really sure. It's the "typical" Elvis formula flick (you know, paper-thin plot,
pretty girls, Elvis lip-synching to a song every (seemingly) 5 or 10 minutes, etc., etc., etc.). However, therein probably lies the very reason why this one for me stands out (just a bit), from Elvis's others.

The year is 1965. The country wasn't yet divided over that "unfortunate
situation" brewing in southeast Asia (U.S. troop strength up until this year, was relatively small), NASA was well on it's way to turning the corner on the way to "victory" in the space race, and life, for most
Americans was pretty good.....

What could make it better? April 14 held the answer. This was the release date for "Girl Happy". Elvis, at the peak of his movie career,
looks and sounds great! Add to this one of his most enticing female
co-stars, Shelley Fabares (possibly second only to Ann-Margaret), fold-in a light-weight, fun plot "set" (on sound stages, anyway) in Fort Lauderdale, FL at spring break, and sprinkle in a generous helping of frothy, playful Elvis tunes from start to finish.

Okay, a great film it ain't; but a deliciously fun "guilty pleasure" nonetheless.

For those fond of Elvis throw this one on, kick back with a bowl of popcorn, a favorite beverage, and bask in the glow of simpler times
gone by! Enjoy, one and all!!

Girl Happy - Elvis Happy - Viewer Happy.......2007-07-03

Yes this is a really great fun type of movie from the mid Sixties (when the world was more innocent and safer place) Not sure I would want to hang around on the beach in Fort Lauderdale now. Anyway I digress - it's great to have this available on DVD along with the cut song "Startin Tonight" that was noticeably absent from recent VHS releases. In fact Warner's have come up trumps with all these new DVD releases, as the majority of them are really good happy go lucky fims.

Don't like Elvis, but this movie is AWESOME!.......2007-06-06

I admit I am not an Elvis fan at all. As matter of fact, this is the only Elvis movie I have ever seen. BUT this movie is great! Every song is upbeat and fun. You get the first song stuck in your head, then you hear the next song then IT gets stuck in your head, until the end of the movie when you have every song stuck in your head. The storyline is wonderful too. I can relate to every character, even Elvis. I am only 24, but first saw this movie in my teens and it was load of fun then too. A must have for anybody who likes fun tunes, witty humor, and a movie to talk about that many people don't know about (unfortunately). FINALLY on DVD, too. My VHS player was having a breakdown and the tape has just about had it!

Average customer rating:

Wonderful love story
BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY
Loved This Movie ,Made Me Cry
Crud story, glorifying adultery - disgusting trash
It only takes one love to complete the journey ...

The Bridges of Madison County
Starring: Michelle Benes , Brandon Bobst , Art Breese , Annie Corley , and Pearl Faessler
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
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ASIN: 0790729369
Release Date: 1997-03-26

Amazon.com

Some called it a snooze-fest, while others tearfully clutched their Kleenex. In any case, Clint Eastwood was an unusual and (as it turned out) perceptive choice to direct and costar in this lush adaptation of Robert James Waller's phenomenally bestselling novel. Meryl Streep costars as Francesca, the lonely Iowa farmer's wife who is instantly attracted to Robert (Eastwood), the photographer from National Geographic who is in the area to photograph the bridges along Iowa's rural roadways. The two fall in love while Francesca's husband and children are away at a county fair, but the story's passion and lasting appeal derive from their decision to part forever after just a few brief days of intimate connection. Superbly acted with an emphasis on quiet, graceful moments of tender revelation, the film builds to a crescendo of powerful and conflicting emotions. Like David Lean's Brief Encounter (to which it bears marked similarities), The Bridges of Madison County is destined to become one of the classic movie love stories. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful love story.......2007-09-09

When I went to see this movie in the theatre years ago, I was so sure that I wasn't going to like this film. There was a loud rumbling in the romance community about this story being written by a man. At the time there were a lot of them. This one, Message in a Bottle and a Walk to Remember shortly after. So there I was in all my huffy glory, glaring at the screen. But all that nonesense was forgotten as this wonderful story started to unfold. Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep had me smiling and melting in this forbidden love story in no time flat. By the time we reach the scene where Eastwood is standing in the middle of the street during a rain down pour, I was begging her to get out the car. Run, girl. Run to your true soul mate! Ah, amour. So despite my prejudices I fell helplessly in love with this story--and you will too. Highly recommended.

BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY.......2007-08-28

I own all of Eastwood movies.Including..Rawhide series.All his motion pictures are widescreen...all! What about'.....Madison County?Who in the world didn't stop to think..this too should be in widescreen..to get the whole pictureSCOPE of this great Romatic future classic.I do have it also on Laser Disc.& it's in widescreen.I just run a print to a blank dvd for now.
Come on you people who sell these movies..if nothing else...put both versions on dvd.They do that you know?

Loved This Movie ,Made Me Cry.......2007-08-25

I wasn't sure I would like this movie since I had already read the book and fell in love with this story.
I'll have to admit Clint Eastwood & Merle Streep did a beautiful job. There were parts that were left out of course but all in all a very good movie,still the book was much better and left me wanting more.

Too bad there cannot be a sequel since both characters are now deceased.

The only part I did not like was the beginning where her children found the story of her love story. I hated the actions of the son or maybe it was the actor.

Crud story, glorifying adultery - disgusting trash.......2007-08-15

This movie makes me sick. Basically it's a movie about a woman who betrays her marriage vows, betrays her husband, betrays her children. It's a movie about a man that commits sin by persuing a sexual relationship with a married woman. The first time I watched this movie (and the last) I found myself hoping the husband would come home and catch the two in the act. He would have been justified in kicking the snot out the filthy no good womanizer. There's no repentance for sin in this movie, no confession of guilt. Heck, for all we know the wicked man gave the married woman a mean case of the herps and then moved on to the next town where he did it all over again (that's the way these people are) How many marriages have been wrecked by this type of thing? And they throw it up on the big screen and package it as a love story? No, it's not a love story. It's a story of human depravity at its worst. If this movie had been advertised as such, I would give it 5 stars for it displays wickedness of unrepentant human hearts in grand fashion. But since this movie tries to pass itself off as a romantic interlude between two lonely adults.. uh uh. It's just horrible, new age agenda laden, anti-christian schlock. Avoid it unless you enjoy throwing up in disgust.

It only takes one love to complete the journey ..........2007-07-22

This review is dedicated to the boy who once slugged his subject line "To the girl who wisely wouldn't date me in the `60s." A road less traveled out of fear for the unknown can seem like your downfall. But, harbor no regrets. In fact there are paths we take to help fill the void. As trite as this may sound, one of those paths can be a great movie. "The Bridges of Madison County" has become both a life-saving tool (a bit dramatic) and an obsession for me. The DVD places its two main characters, brilliantly acted out by Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, into a state of infinite thoughts that transcend all boundaries. In his novel, Robert James Waller poignantly describes the fuse used to shape a lifetime of bliss in just four days, scenes the DVD expertly portrays and brings to life. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this epic tale is a much-needed time warp to a better place through the eyes of Francesca Johnson and Robert Kincaid, who share a passion for common ground that only comes along once.

Shakespeare in Love (Miramax Collector's Series)

Average customer rating:

Beautiful
Shakespeare in Love (Miramax Collector's Series)
lovely movie, and worth the grounding
Lame and overwrought
One of the best movies I've ever seen

Shakespeare in Love (Miramax Collector's Series)
Starring: Geoffrey Rush , Joseph Fiennes , Tom Wilkinson , Antony Sher , and Martin Clunes
Director: John Madden
Manufacturer: Miramax
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ASIN: B00001U0E1
Release Date: 1999-12-07

Amazon.com

One of the most endearing and intelligent romantic comedies of the '90s, the Oscar-winning Shakespeare in Love is filled with such good will, sunny romance, snappy one-liners, and devilish cleverness that it's absolutely irresistible. With tongue placed firmly in cheek, at its outset the film tracks young Will Shakespeare's overwrought battle with writer's block and the efforts of theater owner Philip Henslowe (Geoffrey Rush, in rare form) to stage Will's latest comedy, Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate's Daughter. Jokey comedy, though, soon takes a backseat to ravishing romance when the beautiful Viola De Lesseps (Gwyneth Paltrow) disguises herself as a young man to wangle herself an audition in the all-male cast, and wins both the part of Romeo and, after much misunderstanding, the playwright's heart. Soon enough, Will's pirate comedy becomes the beautiful, tragic Romeo and Juliet, reflecting the agony and ecstasy of Will and Viola's romance--he's married and she's set to marry the slimy Lord Wessex (Colin Firth) in the near future.

The way that Oscar-winning screenwriters Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard enfold their story within the parameters of Romeo and Juliet (and even Twelfth Night) is nothing short of brilliant--it would take a Shakespearean scholar to dissect the innumerable parallels, oft-quoted lines, plot developments, and thematic borrowings. And most amazingly, Norman and Stoppard haven't forgotten to entertain their audience in addition to riding a Shakespearean roller coaster, with director John Madden (Mrs. Brown) reigning in his huge ensemble with rollicking energy. Along the way there are small gems to be found, including Judi Dench's eight-minute, Oscar-winning turn as a truly regal Queen Elizabeth, but the key element of Shakespeare in Love's success rests on the milky-white shoulders of its two stars. Fiennes, inexplicably overlooked at Oscar time, is a dashing, heartfelt Will, and as for Best Actress winner Paltrow, well, nothing she'd done before could have prepared viewers for how amazing she is here. Breathtakingly beautiful, fiercely intelligent, strong-willed, and lovestruck--it's a performance worthy of Shakespeare in more ways than one. By the film's end, you'll be thoroughly won over--and brushing up your Shakespeare with newfound ardor. --Mark Englehart

Description

Triumphant winner of 7 Academy Awards(R) -- including Best Picture -- this witty, sexy smash features Oscar(R)-winning Best Actress Gwyneth Paltrow (SLIDING DOORS, THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS) and an amazing cast that includes Academy Award-winners Judi Dench (Best Supporting Actress), Geoffrey Rush (Best Actor -- SHINE), and Ben Affleck (GOOD WILL HUNTING, PEARL HARBOR). When Will Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes -- ELIZABETH) needs passionate inspiration to break a bad case of writer's block, a secret romance with the beautiful Lady Viola (Paltrow) starts the words flowing like never before! There are just two things he'll have to learn about his new love: not only is she promised to marry someone else, but she's successfully impersonating a man in order to play the lead in Will's latest production! A truly can't-miss motion picture event with outstanding critical acclaim to match its impressive collection of major awards -- everyone will love this funny behind-the-scenes look at the writing of the greatest love story ever told!

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful.......2007-09-13

This is one of my top 3 favorite movies. I just love the costumes, the acting, the story...everything about it was something I fell in love with.

Shakespeare in Love (Miramax Collector's Series).......2007-08-24

I don't remember buying this one but if I did, it was a gift. I haven't seen it.

lovely movie, and worth the grounding.......2007-08-18

I remember sneaking into the theater at 14 to watch this on Christmas day after my family decided to see "You've Got Mail" instead. So, full disclosure: This holds a special place in my heart for visiting such wonder and wit in my decidedly smalltown life. This is what the movies is about.

Precocious theater dorks unite because on DVD, it's as well-written, clever, funny and magical today as it ever was. A lovely film, and worth the grounding, after all these years.

What a cast. Fiennes was robbed on Oscar night. And next to "Sliding Doors," this is Paltrow's most winsome performance. Add Geoffrey Rush to the mix, and you just can't lose. Can't be done. Even dear nurse is a sight to behold -- here, my most beloved character in a nun habit since Mother Superior. Simply put, and esp. for fans of the Bard, I can't recommend this enough.

Lame and overwrought.......2007-08-02

How did this win the Academy Award?! I guess because it is a movie theater people and the Academy is composed of theater people? The script is predictable and formulaic. Fienes's performance is unbearably earnest.

One of the best movies I've ever seen.......2007-07-31

I'm astounded that this movie has anything but 5 stars from everyone! The editing between the "live" action and the play and players is brilliant. The screenwriting is superb, and the characters are engaging, personable and loveable. It's as nearly perfect as a movie can get, with bright, witty dialog and tremendous aesthetics. I've seen it 6 or 7 times and I'm still enthralled at the craft of the actors, writers, producers, cinematographers, costumers, etc. Fiennes deserved best actor nomination at least for his part. Wow! Get it and you won't be disappointed.

Average customer rating:

Awful
and more ******
a truly unforgettable film.........
Beautiful Story
Life is Beautiful is Beautiful

Life Is Beautiful
Starring: Claudio Alfonsi , Lidia Alfonsi , Gil Baroni , Massimo Bianchi , and Sergio Bini Bustric
Manufacturer: Miramax
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Life Is Beautiful (La Vita E Bella)

ASIN: B00001U0DP
Release Date: 1999-11-09

Amazon.com

Italy's rubber-faced funnyman Roberto Benigni accomplishes the impossible in his World War II comedy Life Is Beautiful: he shapes a simultaneously hilarious and haunting comedy out of the tragedy of the Holocaust. An international sensation and the most successful foreign language film in U.S. history, the picture also earned director-cowriter-star Benigni Oscars for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor. He plays the Jewish country boy Guido, a madcap romantic in Mussolini's Italy who wins the heart of his sweetheart (Benigni's real-life sweetie, Nicoletta Braschi) and raises a darling son (the adorable Giorgio Cantarini) in the shadow of fascism. When the Nazis ship the men off to a concentration camp in the waning days of the war, Guido is determined to shelter his son from the evils around them and convinces him they're in an elaborate contest to win (of all things) a tank. Guido tirelessly maintains the ruse with comic ingenuity, even as the horrors escalate and the camp's population continues to dwindle--all the more impetus to keep his son safe, secure, and, most of all, hidden. Benigni walks a fine line mining comedy from tragedy and his efforts are pure fantasy--he accomplishes feats no man could realistically pull off--both of which have drawn fire from a few critics. Yet for all its wacky humor and inventive gags, Life Is Beautiful is a moving and poignant tale of one father's sacrifice to save not just his young son's life but his innocence in the face of one of the most evil acts ever perpetrated by the human race. --Sean Axmaker

Description

An inspired motion picture masterpiece, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL was nominated for 7 Academy Awards(R) -- winning 3 Oscars, including one for Best Actor Robert Benigni. In this extraordinary tale, Guido (Benigni) -- a charming but bumbling waiter who's gifted with a colorful imagination and an irresistible sense of humor -- has won the heart of the woman he loves and created a beautiful life for his young family. But then, that life is threatened by World War II ... and Guido must rely on those very same strengths to save his beloved wife and son from an unthinkable fate! Honored with an overwhelming level of critical acclaim, this truly exceptional, utterly unique achievement will lift your spirits and capture your heart!

Customer Reviews:

Awful.......2007-09-11

I was extremely disappointed with this movie. I read the raving reviews and thought it would be great but it wasn't. Some parts were funny but I don't think you can make light on something as dreadful as the Holocaust no matter how good the acting is. I think this is taking dark humor too far and I found it extremely offensive and over rated!

and more ******.......2007-09-10

Yes, I cried too. In a world, where we forget to appreciate our beloved ones, Guido gives the most strength to his beloved ones in the most difficult times. A smiling face, a loving heart, a courage to give that strength to his family in the most beautiful way. a sharp thinking capability... With his love, Dora and Joshua find the direction to survive and with his love, I am sure both Dora and Joshua find the way to move on... lovely...

a truly unforgettable film................2007-09-01

I had the privilege of seeing LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL (LA VITA E BELLA) in the movie theater, right after star and co-director Roberto Benigini had won a well-deserved Academy Award for Best Actor. There is no other word to describe it. This film is beautiful, and it definitely makes you appreciate and value life more.

I know some people have trouble picturing a film whose subject matter is the Holocaust that starts out as such a bubbly comedy. But, that is exactly the tone that the director and writers (Roberto Benigni and Vincenzo Cerami) developed, and it's brilliant. Guido (Benigni) is a young, Jewish-Italian man with a wonderful sense of humor and a gusto for life. He falls madly in love with Dora (Nicoletta Braschi), a beautiful woman who he continues to pursue (even when she is engaged to be married to another man!). Of course, love conquers all. However, the second half takes a decidedly different turn when he and his son (Giorgio Cantarini) are placed in a concentration camp. This is when Guido's inventiveness and imagination become invaluable tools in shielding his son from the horrors they encounter there.

It is rare that I see a fillm that leaves me so breathless as this one does, ten years later. This is the film that Roberto Benigni will be most remembered for, and for good reason. I suggest that you watch this for your heart, your soul and your spirit. Be sure to have a box of kleenex and prepare to lose yourself in the spellbinding beauty of this movie.

Beautiful Story.......2007-08-09

The love of a man for his wife and son is remarkably touching. This is a very well done movie. I enjoy it every time I see it!

Life is Beautiful is Beautiful.......2007-08-03

My entire family adored this charming tragicomedy about life in Italy just before and during World War II. Director and star Roberto Benigni has created a fairy tale with an edge. An irrepressible Jewish waiter falls in love with a socialite, winning her away from her Fascist fiance with a mix of humor, coincidence, opportunism and whimsy. They have a son and find themselves in the midst of a Jewish pogrom that transports them to an unnamed concentration camp. Father "Guido" uses the same skill set that he used to win his wife to protect his four-year old son from the brutality that surrounds him, convincing him that the camp is an elaborate holiday and game in which the winner will receive a new tank.

Benigni's performance (which won a Best Actor Academy Award--rare for a foreign language film) is a masterwork--manic, touching, hilarious and affecting in about every possible way. The scene where he translates a German soldier's camp instructions for the benefit of his son is priceless ("No lollipops! Don't even think about asking!") His wife Dora is beautiful and bemused in the first act and exists more symbolically, but still powerfully in the second. The very young actor who plays son Joshua is amazing--portraying the wide-eyed enthusiasm of his father combined with a mistrustful wisdom well beyond his years.

Like the recent French film "Amelie", "Beatiful" has a whimsical soul. The concentration camp sometimes seems a little too smooth, a feature that Spielberg films on serious subjects are sometimes accused of. Still, the Germans were known for the their organization and order, and the story doesn't really need grisly depictions of much of what went on during the Holocaust to make its point. The production design also fits with the fairy tale feeling of the tale.

My wife doesn't much care for foreign films, but said she felt like she'd learned some Italian watching this one. My daughter doesn't like foreign films or period movies. Both loved "Life is Beautiful." You will too.

Average customer rating:

When times were fun.
One of the BEST movies of ALL TIMES
Longing for the good 'ol days
Happy Highways
American Graffiti

American Graffiti (Collector's Edition)
Starring: Richard Dreyfuss , Ron Howard , Paul Le Mat , Charles Martin Smith , and Cindy Williams
Director: George Lucas
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
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ASIN: 078322737X
Release Date: 1998-09-16

Amazon.com essential video

Here's how critic Roger Ebert described the unique and lasting value of George Lucas's 1973 box-office hit, American Graffiti: "[It's] not only a great movie but a brilliant work of historical fiction; no sociological treatise could duplicate the movie's success in remembering exactly how it was to be alive at that cultural instant." The time to which Ebert and the film refers is the summer of 1962, and American Graffiti captures the look, feel, and sound of that era by chronicling one memorable night in the lives of several young Californians on the cusp of adulthood. (In essence, Lucas was making a semiautobiographical tribute to his own days as a hot-rod cruiser, and the film's phenomenal success paved the way for Star Wars.) The action is propelled by the music of Wolfman Jack's rock & roll radio show--a soundtrack of pop hits that would become as popular as the film itself. As Lucas develops several character subplots, American Graffiti becomes a flawless time capsule of meticulously re-created memory, as authentic as a documentary and vividly realized through innovative use of cinematography and sound. The once-in-a-lifetime ensemble cast members inhabit their roles so fully that they don't seem like actors at all, comprising a who's who of performers--some of whom went on to stellar careers--including Ron Howard, Richard Dreyfuss, Harrison Ford, Cindy Williams, Mackenzie Phillips, Charles Martin Smith, Candy Clark, and Paul Le Mat. A true American classic, the film ranks No. 77 on the American Film Institute's list of all-time greatest American movies. --Jeff Shannon

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

When times were fun........2007-08-18

I was 8 years old when rock n roll first came on the scene and when young people ask me what it was like when I was a teenager, I tell them to watch the movie American Graffiti. It nails it right on the head. The street rods, cruisers, custom cars, the music, all bring back good memories. Sock hops, car races, going steady, all part of an era in time that will never be duplicated again. All of these things were captured in a fun but very capable and accurate way by the director, producers and and actors. Richard Dreyfuss, Cindy Williams, Ron Howard and the rest were great. What a cast of characters and what a time in history. I loved it and have watched this movie more times than I can count. I highly recommend it to anyone that grew up in that era and to the young who want to see how the "older" generation had fun and enjoyed life. It didn't take much to entertain me or my friends when i was a teen. Give me a car, a girl friend, friends and a few hundred cruises around the circuit on a Friday and Saturday night and there you have it. American Graffiti.

One of the BEST movies of ALL TIMES.......2007-08-08

One, great cast. Two, great music. Three, great story. A must for any movie buff. This is one I watch from time to time and enjoy it every time I watch it

Longing for the good 'ol days.......2007-08-07

I grew up in Northern California and graduated from Fremont High School in the not so small town of Oakland in 1965 (and later from California Polytechnic University in San luis Obispo in 1975, after a short stint in the service). I remember the Mel's drive-in in downtown Oakland, and I remember the 'cruising' on San Leandro Blvd on Friday and Saturday nights (although I couldn't afford to get a car until 1968--a 1961 Volvo PV 544 sedan--(Wow, I wish I had that car back!). I have to say that this movie is truly one of the best nostalgia stirring movies I have ever seen. It tugs at your heart and reminds us babyboomers that there really was a simpler, more carefree time and we lived it! When gas was 23 cents a gallon (or less when the gas wars were on), you loved Casper's Hotdogs, and education costs were almost nothing if you attended Merritt Junior College. When you rode on the back of your friend's Vespa motorbike to San Jose, just because you had never been there, and when you took off in your car on a whim to visit Big Basin to see the redwoods. Talk about a movie that causes you to reminisce!

Happy Highways.......2007-07-09

Into my heart on air that kills
From you far country blows:
What are those blue remembered hills,
What spires, what farms are those?

That is the land of lost content,
I see it shining plain,
The happy highways where I went
And cannot come again.

This verse, from A.E. Housman's "A Shropshire Lad", summarizes everything that I feel for American Graffiti. The movie opened when I was 13 years old. It was my first "R" rated movie and the sold out theater erupted with laughter over and over. Now I'm 47 and I find it almost too sad to watch. Where did my childhood friends go? What lives have they led? The sweet promise of youth: a happy highway where I went and cannot come again.

American Graffiti .......2007-06-27

I didn't care for this movie too much. It might be ok for teenagers but I doubt today's teenager would relate, it may seem kind of nerdy to them.

Average customer rating:

Teen Fantasy Come True
She loved it!!
Teen Witch
Great film!
Everything I remembered and more!

Teen Witch
Starring: Robyn Lively , Dan Gauthier , Joshua John Miller , Caren Kaye , and Dick Sargent
Director: Dorian Walker
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
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ASIN: B00094ARJ6
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Description

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

Customer Reviews:

Teen Fantasy Come True.......2007-09-09

If wishes were fishes, we'd all have a fry. As a teen in high school, Louise (Robin Lively) has a chance to fulfill all her wishes. It's just that most wishes are for personal gratification and rarely are concerned about the dreams or hopes of classmates, friend or foe. We all have had such desires and seeing Louise deal with such power only brought back my days of high school envy. So enjoy some nostalgia for a little bit and put yourself into her shoes.

She loved it!!.......2007-09-04

This movie is my girlfriends favorite movie, she's had it on VHS but wanted to get it on DVD, so I bought it for her. Thanks AMAZON!!

Teen Witch.......2007-08-09

I am 53-years-old and like most things that have to do with Halloween. The movie "Teen Witch" is one of my favorite classical movies. I would recommend it to anyone, at any age, who is looking to see what it is like to want to be popular, being popular, and then wanting your origional life back as it was. Great movie!

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

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

I give it 5 stars!

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

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

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