The Miracle Worker

Amazon.com essential video

Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft had been playing their respective roles as Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan, on Broadway for some time before director Arthur Penn (The Left-Handed Gun) built a mesmerizingly beautiful film around their layers-deep performances. Duke is astonishing as the deaf, blind, mute Keller, who awakens to an awareness of language under Sullivan's determined guidance. Bancroft is fascinating and focused. Penn wisely kept his adaptation unencumbered by cinematic indulgence. The black-and-white film is sparse and charged with the immediacy of the drama. The script is by William Gibson, who also wrote the original play. --Tom Keogh

Description

Starring in what is quite possibly the most moving double performance ever recorded on film (Time), Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke are remarkable in their OscarÂ(r)-winning* portrayalsof Annie and Helen. Ennobling and uplifting (Variety), this inspirational story of courageand hope is one of the finest works of art in the history of motion pictures (Boxoffice). Locked in a frightening, lonely world of silence and darkness since infancy, 7-year-old Helen Keller has never seen the sky, heard her mother's voice or expressed her innermost feelings. ThenAnnie Sullivan, a 20-year-old teacher from Boston, arrives. Having just recently regained her own sight, the no-nonsense Annie reaches out to Helen through the power of touchthe only tool they have in commonand leads her bold pupil on a miraculous journey from fear and isolation to happiness and light. *1962: Actress (Bancroft); Supporting Actress (Duke)

Customer Reviews:

The Miracle Worker.......2007-08-20

This dvd is a depiction of Helen Keller's early years with her family and new teacher Annie Sullivan and the struggles they all faced in trying to deal with Helen's blindness and deafness. It is a story of a strong will, love and perseverance which ended with most positive results.

Bancroft Dukes it out to perform miracle acting job!.......2007-08-15

This has got to be an all time classic based on the true life of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan. The last time I saw this film, I was a young boy; but I never forgot the story of Helen Keller, her obstacles and how she overcame them with the help of a determined teacher; Anne Sullivan.

The film sends a great message to all of us saying that no matter how bad our hand may be that life gives us, there is nothing the human spirit can't overcome, if we simply don't quit. Helen was born blind and deaf. Her parents didn't know how to reach her or teach her; so she grew up in the dark world of her mind. This was so until a teacher, whose own past was a nightmare to overcome, enters her life to try and bring the light of knowledge and reason into young Helen's dark world.

The interplay between Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke is simply Academy Award Winning acting in my book, which this film got; as the two actresses strive to bring forward a well written script sumarizing the war it took to bring light into Helen's mind and who went to become a brilliant teacher in her own right.

This is a great film for the entire family and a very spiritually uplifting film when it comes to the battles we all face in life. If you think you have problems in your own life, this story will either make you think you are not alone or will make you think your troubles are small next to what Helen Keller had to overcome.

Fantastic Movie.......2007-08-05

I like this movie. It deserves to be seen by all age groups. Hope to see part 2 of that real great story.

The picture fooled me........2007-06-27

I guess I was expecting a colorized version of the movie because of the picture displayed. I guess I'll pay attention next time, however the movie is the one I wanted.

A Must-See for EVERYONE!.......2007-05-23

And that's no exaggeration. The Miracle Worker has everything you could possibly want in a movie and more. The powerful ending scene is as beautiful as it is gut-wrenching; poignant doesn't even begin to describe it.

As for the extras, there's really only one worth mentioning, and that is the original theatrical trailer. I enjoyed watching it because it gives you a glimpse into the past and shows you that although movie trailers were originally quite simple, they gave the audience so much and made them want to run out and see it.

Watch this movie with your family and I'm sure you will all cherish it for years to come.

Average customer rating:

Great movie
Miracle
Miracle
This movie will get your heart rate going
Like being there again...

Miracle (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Kurt Russell , Patricia Clarkson , Noah Emmerich , Sean McCann , and Kenneth Welsh
Director: Gavin O'Connor
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B0001US66E
Release Date: 2004-05-18

Amazon.com

The miracle about Miracle is that it gets so many details right in telling its 24-year-old story about the historic victory of the U.S. hockey team at the 1980 Olympic Games. It's typical for Hollywood to compromise such period details as hairstyles and fashion when catering to a contemporary audience, but Miracle looks and feels right in every detail, capturing the downbeat mood of post-Watergate America while showing how obsessively determined Minnesota hockey coach Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell) managed to assemble a once-in-a-lifetime team and whip them into a victorious frenzy over their Soviet champion opponents. With sharp support from Patricia Clarkson (as Brooks's wife) and Noah Emmerich (as his long-suffering assistant), Russell grounds the film with a well-balanced combination of aloofness, intimidation, and closely guarded strategy. No doubt the real Brooks (who died in a car accident shortly after filming completed) would have approved. Thanks to director Gavin O'Connor (Tumbleweeds) and the producers of the similarly laudable sports films Remember the Titans and The Rookie, Miracle brings plenty of heart--and historical accuracy--to an old, familiar formula. --Jeff Shannon

Description

From the studio that brought you THE ROOKIE and REMEMBER THE TITANS comes the movie everybody loves -- MIRACLE. Filled with exhilarating nonstop hockey action and heart-racing suspense, it's the inspiring true story behind one of the greatest moments in sports history — the 1980 United States ice hockey team's triumphant Olympic victory against the Soviet Union. Kurt Russell gives a brilliant performance as the dynamic and determined coach Herb Brooks, who had an impossible dream -- beat the seemingly unbeatable Soviets at their own game. Starting with a handpicked group of 26 undisciplined kids, Brooks coached them to play like they never played before, and turned 20 of them into a team that believed they could achieve the unachievable -- and in the process, united a nation with a new feeling of hope.

Customer Reviews:

Great movie.......2007-09-07

My son has started to play ice hockey. In the past three years he has become obsessed with the sport. I remember wanting to see this movie when it came out because I was in high school when the US team won the gold medal. I never did see it when it was in the theaters. I bought this DVD as a gift for my son. What a great story. Well told and well acted.

Miracle.......2007-08-09

One of the best hockey movies. A must to have, and watch over and over.

Miracle.......2007-07-23

Despite our knowing the outcome, "Miracle" keeps us riveted right up to the final buzzer, revisiting a glorious moment in the storied history of the Olympics without resorting to all the familiar underdog-team clichés. Russell, assured in his role as Brooks, is ably supported by Patricia Clarkson, as his wise, supportive wife, Patty; Noah Emmerich as assistant coach Craig Patrick; and Eddie Cahill as team leader and goalie Jim Craig. Full of humanity and fun period detail (just check out Kurt's haircut and wardrobe!), "Miracle" scores as a first-rate family film.

This movie will get your heart rate going.......2007-07-23

I was 16 when this event happened and for some reason, I don't remember it. I saw the documentary "Do You Believe In Miracles" on HBO about three months ago, was totally in awe at this huge historical event, and to find out it was voted the sports event of the millennium in 2000 over incredible events such as Jack Dempsey, Joe Lewis, Seabuscuit, Secretariat, Walter Hagan, Joe Namath, Tiger Woods, Nadia Comaneci, Mary Lou Retton, MaEnroe, Billie Jean, Arther Ashe...and well.. it goes on and on, although I tend to agree with the other review before mine where sports is more commercially owned these days and more of a let down with it's drug use.

This movie depicts plays and events SOOO accurately you could have matched movie to documentary on tv's side by side and not seen much difference even where the players were on the ice!
The team for the movie was made up of real hockey players from the NHL, Canadian and Russian hockey teams.. only a couple were real actors, but ALL did superb in their portrayal of the player he was acting out.

If you are like me and didn't know of this most incredible event in American Olympic history (HOW did I MISS it??) I would highly recommend getting the documentary and the movie and soak in what it must have felt like.. you will leave this movie thinking "Wow.. maybe I can"...
A must see.

Like being there again..........2007-07-16

I was twelve years old when this event happened, sitting in a bedroom with my brothers and some friends, going absolutely crazy when they won the game. I wasn't aware of the larger implications, of the events in history that had been transpiring nor even the meaning of the Olympic games. I knew the Russians to be the bad guys, that was about it. Obviously I somehow knew there was something larger at stake because even my mother was surprised at how nuts we went when they won.

I hesitated to watch this film for a long time due, sadly, to the Disney attached to the film. I was afraid of it being given a gloss. Happily, this was not the case, as many reviewers here will attest to its accuracy and attention to detail.

The opening segue giving a quick and poignant synopsis of events that had been transpiring throughout that decade, with a few significant moments captured at various points throughout the film, grounds it in the history of which I was, at twelve years old, unaware.

Kurt Russell is incredible as the coach but it is the seasoned hockey players who were chosen to act in the film that really give this film its feel. Relive that moment or experience it for the first time, I highly recommend this film, especially in a day and age where the idea of sports has dissipated into big business. This was perhaps one of the last moments in sports history where there was something pure in the game.

Average customer rating:

Truly inspirational and better than the novel...
A pure heart can see heavenly visions!
Song of Bernadette
DVD Performance re Amazon CD
The Song of Bernadette

The Song of Bernadette
Starring: William Eythe , Charles Bickford , Vincent Price , Lee J. Cobb , and Gladys Cooper
Director: Henry King
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
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ASIN: B00008LDO7
Release Date: 2003-06-03

Amazon.com

Jennifer Jones plays the legendary French peasant who claimed to have dialogues with the Virgin Mary at a Lourdes grotto in 1858. The script handles the visitations as an article of truth (Linda Darnell plays the Virgin), which helps move the drama forward, though much of the story concerns the conflicts that arise in the community after Jones is told the grotto contains healing waters. Made by Henry King (The Snows of Kilimanjaro), the film is gorgeous to look at and sensitively directed; and Jones (who won an Oscar for Best Actress) is radiant in the lead. Whatever one's religious persuasion, this is a strikingly handsome Hollywood production to be enjoyed. The film also earned Academy Awards for cinematography and score. --Tom Keogh

Description

The story of a peasant girl Bernadette Soubirous, a poverty-stricken, pure hearted adolescent, who saw a vision, of a "Beautiful Lady" near her home town of Lourdes in 1858. The wondrous news spreads rapidly throughout France, leaving in its wake a variety of consequences: adoration, suspicion and greed among the people of Lourdes skepticism from the town doctor (Lee J. Cobb) charges of insanity from the town prosecutor (Vincent Price) threats of physical punishment, then support and guidance from the Dean of Lourdes (Charles Bickford), who finally becomes convinced that the miracle has, indeed, taken place. Winner of four Academy Awards, including Best Actress and Best Score, this true story is both first-rate filmmaking and an inspiring tribute to faith, courage and the human spirit.

Customer Reviews:

Truly inspirational and better than the novel..........2007-09-09

Here's a film that deserves high praise for every aspect of its production--writing, direction, acting, music, etc. Jennifer Jones gives the best performance of her career as the simple peasant girl who sees the Beautiful Lady in the grotto and sets in motion the story, based on Franz Werfel's best-selling novel.

I recently took a look at the novel and must say I found it laboriously detailed with regard to all the political events going on at that time in that region of France. The simple story was buried under so much clutter that it's wonderful to see how the film overcame all of this with a script that is concise and to the point--and yet, does contain some of the historical background that was so detailed in the book.

All of the performances are superb, the most outstanding being Charles Bickford as the Dean of Lourdes and Gladys Cooper, as a stern and unbelieving nun.

Alfred Newman's score is magnificent and now available in its entirety on CD (dual CD in fact), since it's an extensive score. Whether you are Catholic or not, your enjoyment of this movie is guaranteed if you enjoy a well-acted, well scripted film version of the legendary story. I have to report that this is one case where the film is much better than the novel in every way

A pure heart can see heavenly visions!.......2007-09-02

The life and story of Bernadette Soubirous is one of tradjedy and redemption all roled up into a mystery, I think to this day, which no one really fully understands.

Never at any time did Bernadette say she saw the "Virgin Mary"; which is made clear in the commentary section of this film. Who did visit her was more the same apparation the children of Fatima viewed it seems, but in this case "The Lady", as Bernadette called her, identified herself as "the immaculate conception", a form of abstraction taking on a personified or human form. The commentary makes it clear that not even Bernadette, to her dying day, fully understood the apparation she had received from heaven, which resulted in the famed "Lourdes" and the healings that came forth from the spring Bernadette helped bring forth out of the earth under direction of the Lady that appeared to her.

What this simple, innocent young 14 year old girl experienced from the Church and authorities of the time, I think would have sent most of us running in the other direction when it comes to persecution, with our hearts utterly broken. Yet she prevailed through it all. The message of redemption and love is so uplifting, you are totally mesmorized throughout the entire film.

Jennifer Jones' performance is magnetic in this 2 1/2 hour story, a movie time duration unheard of back in those days of making motion picture films. You really don't get bored watching this film at any time. If nothing else, this film is enough to inspire anyone walking through their own trials in life, not to give up hope and that miracles are not only possible, but more probable than most of us realize. You just never know when one will occur it seems.

In the book of Job, taken from the Holy Bible, it asks the quesiton "Who can count the number of your miracles Oh Lord; for they are numerous and many over the face of the earth." Still in the end, it really is the message behind the miracle, it seems, this story tells us to seek out, not the miracle itself.

This is simply great for the whole family, whether you are religious or not. Young children, especially, will enjoy this representation and rendition of the true to life story.

Song of Bernadette.......2007-09-01

Franz Werfel's fictionalized 1942 book, The Song of Bernadette, was made into this memorable motion picture in 1943, introducing Jennifer Jones, who plays the humble and innocent young visionary, Bernadette Soubirous. Bernadette saw the Blessed Virgin Mary in a Cova in Lourdes, France in 1858. In 1933 Bernadette was canonized a saint by the Catholic Church. Having enjoyed the book first and then having seen the movie, I continue to find this story of Bernadette a moving experience. Jennifer Jones received the Academy Award as Best Actress for her inspiring performance.The Song of Bernadette

DVD Performance re Amazon CD.......2007-08-28

I was excited to play the dvd as soon as I received it. However, I was dissapointed as it would not play in my DVD at home. I live in Ireland. The message came on my TV Error Code. I am still unable to play this film on my TV and can only play it on a computer.
The film itself and the service received from you was very good. However, I need to know why it does not play on the Television set.
Dissapointed customer.........

The Song of Bernadette.......2007-06-25

It is hard to overstate just how respectfully and reverentially director King handles the details of the Lourdes legend, in which the Virgin (played here by an uncredited Linda Darnell) is said to have appeared to a sickly peasant girl, through whom she conveyed her message of love. That's because he treats the story as fact, depicting Bernadette's divine encounters as wholly natural rather than fantastic. Jones is radiant as the scapegoated Bernadette, and won an Oscar for her effort. Price is wonderful, too, as the withering voice of reason. If you're in need of heavenly grace, lay hands on the ecstatic "Song."

Average customer rating:

Review of "The Miracle Match"
AWESOME and INSPIRATIONAL
Movie/ packaging
Great For Soccer Fans
Good, but not Great

The Miracle Match
Starring: Gerard Butler , Wes Bentley , Jay Rodan , Gavin Rossdale , and Costas Mandylor
Director: David Anspaugh
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: B000G8P1Y6
Release Date: 2006-09-12

Amazon.com

The writing-directing team of Angelo Pizzo and David Anspaugh tries to do for soccer what their films Hoosiers and Rudy did for, respectively, basketball and football. Here's another true story, a legendary upset in the early days of the World Cup. In 1950, America hastily forms a team to play against the world. We center on a tight Italian community in St. Louis providing the bulk of the national team. We meet GQ-ready stars led by goalie Frank Borgi (The Phantom of the Opera's Gerald Butler, deftly handling the duties). This brotherhood of players is unfortunately strapped to play off clichés and the movie never really engages us beyond the autumn-tinged scenery. A big part of the blame goes to the narrator telling us what we should be feeling (perhaps because we dumb Americans don't know soccer, er, football, like the rest of the world). No fault in the performance of the narrator/journalist (played by Patrick Stewart as the elder, Terry Kinney as the younger) or the rest of the cast. Perhaps the game is elusive to cinematic grandeur, (how many memorable soccer movies can you name?), but the movie is also tired and slow, something those earlier sports films were not. There's only a brief stirring when the earnest Gino (Louis Mandylor) has a wedding-date conflict and as the most famous English player of the day, Stanley Mortenson (Gavin Rossdale), patronizes the Americans in a public speech. Perhaps the studio knew they had a cellar dweller; the film was barely released and retitled for home video echoing the moniker of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team. Soccer kids will enjoy the film, but others better stick to Geoffrey Douglas's book, The Game of Their Lives, the film's original title (and mistakenly left on the end credits). --Doug Thomas

Description

In the spirit of REMEMBER THE TITANS, MIRACLE, and THE ROOKIE, THE MIRACLE MATCH is the incredible story about the men behind one of the all-time greatest upsets in sports history. Two weeks before the 1950 World Cup, a ragtag group of recreational soccer players from St. Louis and New York were chosen to represent the USA in Brazil. Consumed with conflicts — personal, cultural, and playing styles — they had mere days to become a team. And then they had to play the British, the best team in the world. Inspired by a newfound belief in the team, their passion and talent turned into pure magic on the field — and the unthinkable happened. Filled with heart-stopping action, and featuring Patrick Stewart, this triumphant story is a rousing celebration of the human spirit, love of the sport, and pride of country.

Customer Reviews:

Review of "The Miracle Match".......2007-08-14

We enjoyed this video because it is based on a little known but true historical event and doesn't contain offensive material. It is especially good if you like soccer as we do.
We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

AWESOME and INSPIRATIONAL.......2007-07-03

This is an amazing and very moving film - sadly it got very little on screen theatre time! And it took me MONTHS to find it on dvd - and Im extremely glad to have it in my collection! This is an A+ movie with NO reservations about it! The cast is excellent and the story will bring you to tears!!!!! this is a MUST OWN DVD! AAAA++++

Movie/ packaging.......2007-06-11

Terrific movie based on terrific events. Will share with family & friends. Will watch it many times. Was packed
very well.

Great For Soccer Fans.......2007-05-14

This is a great movie if you love the game of soccer. Great cast selection.

Good, but not Great.......2007-03-22

I am a rabid fan of Gerard Butler, but even I can't give this film a glowing recommendation. I'm even from St. Louis, where some of the filming was done. Most of the team featured in the film was also from St. Louis.

It's a good film, but just not great.

Miracle on 34th Street (Special Edition)

Average customer rating:

Miracle on 34th Street 1947 (Special Edition)
Great Christmas Movie to enjoy each year.
What is Christmas without Great Stories
Another classic
Miracle on 34th Street

Miracle on 34th Street (Special Edition)
Starring: Maureen O'Hara , John Payne , Edmund Gwenn , Gene Lockhart , and Natalie Wood
Director: George Seaton
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000HT3PPG
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Amazon.com

The original 1947 version of this Valentine Davies story follows the misadventures of Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) as he gets a job playing Santa Claus at Macy's department store in New York City. Natalie Wood is the little girl who tells him she doesn't believe in Santa, and Maureen O'Hara and John Payne are the couple who help Kris through a trial in which he must prove he's the jolly fellow from the North Pole. A sweet movie and perennial Christmas favorite, this is one of those movies that gets under your skin and must be revisited every so often. --Tom Keogh

Description

Six year old Susan has doubts childhood's most enduring miracle Santa Clause. Her mother told her the "secret" about Santa a long time ago, so Susan doesn't expect to receive the most important gifts on her Christmas list. But after meeting a special departement stare Santa who's convinced he's the real thing, Susan is given the most precious gift of all - something to believe in.

Customer Reviews:

Miracle on 34th Street 1947 (Special Edition).......2007-08-26

Now in Full Color ! . Miracle on 34th Street is an irrestible fable that has , for many years , become synnomymous with celebrating Christmas . And now this three-time Oscar winning tale is as colorful and respledent as the holiday itself in an all-new colorized version that's sure to delight fans old and new ! . The holiday seasons is in a full swing when a cultured gentleman with twinkling eyes, an ample belly , and a snowy beard (Edmund Gwenn 1877-1959) is hired as Macy's department store Santa . He Claims his name is Kris Kringle , and soon fills everyone with Chrismas spirit ... exept for his boss , Doris Walker ( Maureen O'Hara 1920- ) who's raising her daughter (Natalie Wood 1938-1981) to not belive in Santa . But when Kringle is declared insane , and put a trial , everyone's faith is put to the test as a young and old alike face the age-old question: Do you believe in Santa Claus . Super all-nes colorized version . High Quality transfer . Many funny feature a recommendation .

Great Christmas Movie to enjoy each year........2007-08-10

What can I say, It is a great movie. One that the whol family will enjoy.

What is Christmas without Great Stories.......2007-08-04

A wonderful movie about a child, her mom and Santa Claus, yes I still believe.

Another classic.......2007-06-27

This is another classic movie of which I have more than one version. I do enjoy this version's "Kris Kringle" very much and Natalie Wood was fantastic as Susan. Maureen O'Hara made a great mother and the story speaks for itself, if you believe. . . .

Miracle on 34th Street.......2007-06-25

Was there ever a better big-screen Santa than Oscar winner Edmund Gwenn? This timeless Christmas fable about an elderly retiree who sets New York a-twitter with his claim to be the sleigh-riding patron saint of the North Pole captures the spirit of the season like few other holiday films. Young Natalie Wood is delightful as the disbelieving girl who, hewing to her mother's urban sophisticate views, thinks the notion of elves and Saint Nick is preposterous. Repeat viewings won't diminish the charming allure or the endearing message of "Miracle."

Average customer rating:

Surprisingly entertaining
the reeking
Did this film "reap" (pun intended) what it has sown?..

The Reaping
Starring: Hilary Swank
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000U7169M
Release Date: 2007-10-16

Amazon.com

The Reaping capitalizes on cheesy clichés to begin with, rendering it even less scary than predecessors like Children of the Corn, The Devil's Rain, Satan's Blood, or All the Colors of the Dark. Overuse of CG special effects ruin this already bad film about Louisiana State University scientist Katherine Winter (Hilary Swank), who heads to the bayou to investigate what at first she denies is a Biblical plague. The river has turned to blood, frogs fall from the sky, cattle die, and the townspeople keel over covered with red bumps, while Katherine, who happens to have been an ordained minister before she became a university professor, struggles to justify these horrendous events sans religion. Eventually, Katherine's skepticism places her in danger, as the town lays blame on Loren McConnell (AnnaSophia Robb), bewitched daughter of a local Satan worshipping family, and the one whom Katherine tries to protect since Loren recalls her own deceased daughter. As Katherine and Loren battle as angel and devil, they learn to instead forge Team Faith against the townsfolk who are all part of a sinister, inbred, Satanic cult. The film is badly cast, and the acting is horrendous, save Hilary Swank, who at least looks sexy traversing the swamps with a hunting knife hooked through her belt. The Rosemary's Baby ending is the icing on the cake. There is nothing original about The Reaping, except that it might be the biggest rip-off of previous Satanic cult films ever made. —Trinie Dalton

Description

Investigative scholar Katherine Winter (Hilary Swank) is a debunker of modern "miracles," bringing scientific light to superstition and fraud. But events in tiny Haven, Louisiana, defy even her expertise. There, the 10 Biblical Plagues seem to be reoccurring. And the more she seeks answers, the more she questions her own beliefs. Two-time Academy Award (R) winner Swank headlines this electrifying Dark Castle Entertainment production that reaps locusts, frogs, a river of blood and more - all to eye-filling, fear-inducing, heart-probing, must-see effect.

Customer Reviews:

Surprisingly entertaining.......2007-09-16

Considering the big critics' reviews of this film (which I almost let dissaude me from seeing it in the theatre), I thought it a very pleasant surprise.

Clearly hiring Swank blew the budget, but fortunately, she was fabulous as always (not just looking, but also acting) and carried the film through the drier parts (of which there were few).

On the other hand, the CGI left much to be desired and as to be expected, there's more than a heaping helpin' of it in this biblical plague flick. I guess it wouldn't be practical to dye an entire swamp red but the blatant phoniness of the water-into-blood scenes greatly diminished the awe effect. And the supernatural hellstorm at the end could've been footage ripped wholesale from My Science Project - cutting edge 20 years ago, but Flintstonic by today's standards. Yet, I didn't much care.

The screenplay was well-written and coherent (something that cannot be said of many recent entries in this genre) and even the now obligatory "twist" ending strengthened rather than detracted from the story.

As defined by my "time-check" count, this film pulled a strong zero. And whenever I can make it through 100 minutes of cinema without so much as glance at the watch, something's gotta be right. Not a fantastic film by most measures, the Reaping is nevertheless an entertaining way to spend a couple of hours.

the reeking .......2007-09-04

The ReapingThe Reaping [Blu-ray]The Reaping [HD DVD]ok. heres the skinny on this borefest . its not a terible movie ... its just not scary . i dont know about you but im tired of movies steeped in old time religon .
hillary swank mails it in while slumming in this b film about a girl who might be an incarnation of satan .
does the world really need another anti christ film ? anybody remember last years terrible omen remake? that winona ryder mess from a few years ago?did you care? i didnt!!!! save your money and rent or buy rosemary's baby or the exorcist .
this film also suffers from being way too long to get to the point (which still doesnt work ) .
too familar themes retreaded from a half dozen better films (race with the devil , brotherhood of satan ,the devils rain) .
want to see a better film about bad things happening in a small town ? buy "lets scare jessica to death " and leave the reaping behind . supporting films like this only encourages bad film making . especially in the horror genre where if you get one good film a year you truly are lucky . this on isnt it . spare yourself .

Did this film "reap" (pun intended) what it has sown?.........2007-09-03

I am biased. I love Hilary Swank. Like Biblical thrillers. Impressed with great visual effects.
Two-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank is a great actress, I believe given the right role, she will portray it to near-perfection. Her latest film, "The Reaping" is a Biblical thriller based on the 10 Plagues in the Book of Exodus. I'm assuming most, if not everyone has heard the story of Moses, if you did, then, you pretty much know what the film is about. The question is: What is the motivation for the 10 Biblical plagues?

Plot synopsis partially derived from the back cover:
Katherine Winter, (Hilary Swank) a former ordained minister who lost her faith is now an occult investigator with the purpose of debunking modern "miracles" bringing a scientific explanation to superstition and exposing frauds. Events in a small town called Haven, Louisiana defies all scientific explanation. The 10 Biblical plagues are occurring in the same order as in the book of Exodus. Katherine's investigations uncover more questions, she finds that the plagues are linked to the murder of a boy and a young girl. Are they Harbingers of evil or something else? Time is running out for Katherine, as it turns out not just the town is at stake, but maybe creation itself..

"The Reaping" has a very interesting premise, but the screenplay is far from perfect. To its credit, it does execute a lot more things RIGHT than wrong. Although, not wholly original, it has a lot of similarities to "Bless the Child" and "Rosemary's Baby", I have to say by going into a different direction by taking the time in character development, it succeeds in bringing a bit of mystery. The studio responsible is Dark Castle Entertainment, known for gory thrillers like the remake of "House on Haunted Hill" and "Ghost Ship". People who are expecting a fast-paced bloody horror film will be disappointed. Visually speaking, "The Reaping" has phenomenal special effects that surpasses most horror flicks, the EFX are realistically done, especially the "Locusts swarm", the visuals are very impressive. (I hated the cheesy EFX in "The Haunting" remake)

As mentioned above, the film goes to a different direction. It ignores the blood and gore approach, it is more a tightly-wound thriller than a horror film. The direction by Stephen Hopkins could have done better with a lot less banter, but all in all, each main character is fleshed out a little more(even the townsfolk). Some may say it could have done without these factors, because the screenplay did divert into a "pointless" direction at times that it did have some dull moments but I rather thought that they were still necessary to liven the transition from each plague. After all, the plagues didn't happen overnight. Does "The Reaping" deliver as a thriller? Yes, but it did stumble a bit in that area. It is NOT an "edge of your seat" kind but rather it takes its time.

As usual, Hilary Swank does a great performance. This movie would have failed miserably with a lesser actress in the lead, but Hilary passes with flying colors and does the best anyone can expect from her character. David Morissey and Stephen Rea both do a decent supporting performance.

I saw the Warner Bros. Asian region-3 release, I think it would be safe to say the U.S. release will utilize the same transfer.
VIDEO/AUDIO: Anamorphic Widescreen. The transfer is flawless, very sharp and clean. Colors are radiant although a bit on the softer side. Black levels are very solid throughout. The 5.1 Dolby Digital track is very powerful and suited for the film. I'm a DTS fan myself, but the 5.1 Dolby is not shabby.
Closing remarks:
"The Reaping" is not reinventing the suspense thriller genre, but with the strong performances of its leads, especially Swank, and the different approach it went with character development, it is worth a watch. The way it is directed may be a bit slow at times and the heavy-handed climax may not be perfect, but the special effects together with the main premise kept me interested for the most part. It may not hold up to repeated viewings, but it is at least worth a rental for most people and gets a "Recommended" rating for those who like Biblical thrillers. (3 ½ stars)

Leslie Sansone - Walk the Walk 3-DVD Set (Miracle Mile / Two Mile Walk / Weight Loss Walk 4 Miles)

Average customer rating:

Leslie in the 80s
Walk the Walk
Good workout, but old...
Yuck!!!
good but it could be better

Leslie Sansone - Walk the Walk 3-DVD Set (Miracle Mile / Two Mile Walk / Weight Loss Walk 4 Miles)
Starring: Leslie Sansone
Manufacturer: Peter Pan
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00006BS7Q
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Customer Reviews:

Leslie in the 80s.......2007-08-19

Wow, I left my original 1 and 2 mile DVD with the pink background at my Mom's house out of town. So, I purchased this one expecting the same thing. To my surprise, this is 1980 version. It's ok, but I am a bit taken back by the dated look. The workout is still pretty good though. It was quite funny to see all of the old looks...a bit distracting but funny. She talked a lit less back then which is a good thing.

Walk the Walk.......2007-07-27

Love all the Leslie DVD's and tapes they really give me the nudge I need to get moving

Good workout, but old..........2007-05-24

This set is good b/c it offers a variety of lengths and a few different steps, so you can easily fit to how much time you have. It is set in the 80s or 90s, so it is an older version, but the workout is still good. She is a real person and not cheesy, but a good, low impact workout.

Yuck!!!.......2007-05-13

This was clearly recorded in the early 80's when she was trying to refine her style and figure out what worked and what didn't. The studio/design elements were horrible. The camera shots were very amateur. I didnt like how it went from Mile 1 to Mile 2 to Mile 3 with obvious breaks in between. It is terrible! I had Walk Away the Pound on VHS and was looking to upgrade to DVD. I figured I would buy it on Amazon and save myself some money. In the end it was a waste of money because I had to go to Leslie Sansone's website to order a more recent workout program and boy was it worth it.

good but it could be better.......2007-05-07

I used to watch the walk show on demand tv and it was pretty good, but this dvd kind of disappointed me because it looks like old. No one in 2007 wants to exercise with a dvd from the 90's so I really hated that part.

Other than that it's pretty good. The exercise is low impact, but it works, if you make the 3 miles you will notice some pain in your muscles at the next day. The third mile is definitely KILLER, oh gosh! was hard to finish that one.

Average customer rating:

informative in a narrow scope
A Must have for all Pregnant Couples
Simply Amazing
Wonderful & informative, but too "scientific"
Make sure this is the info you're looking for!

NOVA - The Miracle of Life
Starring: David Ogden Stiers , Bo Moller , Hans Wigzell , Klaus Renner , and Hans-Jochen Lunemann
Director: Mikael Agaton
Manufacturer: WGBH Boston
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: 1578071968
Release Date: 2000-03-28

Amazon.com

Still startlingly beautiful after several years, Nova's The Miracle of Life records human conception for the first time on film, and much more. Living, functioning reproductive systems are laid bare to the camera, and there is so much to explore and absorb that Nova's expert guidance is much needed and appreciated. The viewer follows an egg from its follicular development in an ovary, through the delicate, flowery fallopian tube for fertilization, and on to the uterus for development and eventual birth. Likewise, we follow the shorter journey of millions of sperm as they develop and strive mightily to reach the egg. (There isn't a man alive who can watch intraurethral footage without squirming--see for yourself!) Photographer Lennart Nilsson has shown us something profoundly beautiful and yet has left its fundamental mystery intact. The Miracle of Life is a rarity: a documentary that is also art. --Rob Lightner

Description

Each minute, all over the world, a baby is born. An everyday occurrence, yet each birth is the culmination of one of nature's most complex, mysterious, and seemingly miraculous processes. A dramatic breakthrough in science and cinematography, the Peabody® award-winning The Miracle of Life takes you on an incredible voyage through the human body as a new life begins. World-renowned Swedish photographer Lennart Nilsson presents a spectacular look at a microscopic world

Customer Reviews:

informative in a narrow scope.......2007-08-09

This video dealt mostly with the process of conception, with only the last 5 minutes showing the fetal development over the nine months to birth. It was very in depth, showing actual photos and video of cell-level processes you never thought you would see on video, but for the non-science class oriented, it could be a bit dry.

A Must have for all Pregnant Couples.......2007-07-03

This is a must have for all pregnant couples its not the most detailed DVD ever made but it gives you a fantastic overview of the full pregnancy process, from conception to delievery. Its a great way to bond with you spouse and baby to be.
thanks
Joe

Simply Amazing.......2007-05-31

This is a very informative, interesting look at what a miracle conception and birth really are. This video explains every aspect in scientific terms that you can understand, along with brilliant technological capturing of conception and the growing fetus in the womb. At the end is a short but tasteful live birth. Since I am expecting it has greatly increased my knowledge of what is happening to my baby. This is a wonderful DVD to watch with your family when expecting a child.

Wonderful & informative, but too "scientific".......2007-03-08

I've watched this DVD when I was younger and I bought it for my son who is at the age where he needs to learn what actually happens instead of what he hears at school and on the bus from the older kids. It is a wonderful and informative DVD, however, I do think that it is a little over his head with all of the medical terminology. We still had to stop at several spots and explain it to where he could understand what exactly they meant. Other than that, it is definately a great buy.

Make sure this is the info you're looking for!.......2006-09-11

Video was very well done, however much of the focus was on the act of conception. I was expecting more on the development of the fetus, which felt crammed into the last portion of the video. However, it was a good way to get my non-reading husband a little more interested in the entire process (aside from making the baby, that is).

Average customer rating:

Great movie!
WOWer
inspirational
Midnight Express
What Oliver Stone wants Oliver Stone gets...

Midnight Express
Starring: Brad Davis , Irene Miracle , Bo Hopkins , Paolo Bonacelli , and Paul L. Smith
Director: Alan Parker , and William Riead
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
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ASIN: 0767817486
Release Date: 1998-10-27

Amazon.com

Forever embroiled in controversy, Midnight Express divides viewers into opposing camps: those who think it's one of the most intense real-life dramas ever made, and those who abhor its manipulative tactics and alteration of facts for the exploitative purpose of achieving a desired effect. That effect is powerfully achieved, regardless of how you may feel about director Alan Parker and Oscar®-winning screenwriter Oliver Stone's interpretation of the story of Billy Hayes. It was the American Hayes--played by the late Brad Davis in an unforgettable performance--who was caught smuggling two kilograms of hashish while attempting to board a flight from Istanbul, Turkey, in 1970. He was sentenced to four years in a hellish Turkish prison on a drug possession charge, but his sentence was later extended (though not by 30 years, as the film suggests), and Hayes endured unthinkable brutality and torture before his escape in 1975.

Unquestionably, this is a superbly crafted film, provoking a visceral response that's powerful enough to boil your blood. By the time Hayes erupts in an explosion of self-defensive violence, Parker and Stone have proven the power--and danger--of their skill. Their film is deeply manipulative, extremely xenophobic, and embellishes reality to heighten its calculated impact. Is that a crime? Not necessarily, and there's no doubt that Midnight Express is expertly directed and blessed with exceptional supporting performances (especially from John Hurt as a long-term prisoner). Still, it's obvious that strings are being pulled, and Parker, while applying his talent to a nefarious purpose, is a masterful puppeteer. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

Great movie!.......2007-05-18

Fast shipment! This is one of my favorite movies! I was very excited to own it on DVD.

WOWer.......2007-05-13

This DVD was great to see again and came to me as promised. Very good DVD and in excellent shape. I cant say enough.

inspirational.......2007-02-22

I love this movie; it's a survivor's movie. The acting is great; I could feel the intensity of the rage and terror. Be careful, though, if you're disturbed by violence and abuse.

Midnight Express.......2007-02-03

This was a very good movie to see, even though it was made some time ago. I really enjoyed how survival became the force which gave this person the will to continue, not loose focus on his goal but to escape. If someone is looking to see a true story that will scare you straight, this might be the one to see.I hope who ever watches this movie from my review, that you enjoy this story as much as I did.

What Oliver Stone wants Oliver Stone gets..........2007-02-01

Stone won't make himself vulnerable to anyone or the facts, whether that means eliminating all JFK conspiracy theories other than his own or simplifying a story and people as he has done here in Midnight Express. Stone borrowed Billy Hayes' real story of being held in a Turkish prison for several years after being caught smuggling hashish, and hijacked it to devastating effect. [I focus on screenwriter Stone instead of director Parker because the substance of Hayes' original book was altered by Stone and Parker just created Stone's skewed vision]. Stone was successful in destroying the Turkish justice image in the minds of generations of Americans. Ask most any American [now thirty years after Stone made his movie] to picture a Turkish(or Islamic) prison or court room or justice system, and the one portrayed in Midnight Express is the one that is ingrained. Coincidence or not, it should be noted that this humiliating portrayal of Islamic justice came at a time of increased Hollywood output of negative Islamic images and favorable Israeli ones(the unprecedented and universally viewed miniseries Masada). To this day, Islam's portrayal in movies is considered horrendous by those who study it(Shaheen's 'Reel Bad Arabs').

Instead of having ANY sympathetic Muslim/Turkish characters, they ALL are beasts. It turns out the real Billy Hayes actually made friends with several Turkish inmates but accepting Stone's reality means accepting this truth as a lie. Constantly the Western inmates have more depth,..they play instruments, they sing, they constantly visibly show compassion that the Muslims lack, they even articulate in a courtroom why Western justice culture is superior to Islamic sense of justice. The Muslims in the film are stoic, opportunistic, hypocritical, and, well,..evil. They are portrayed as victims of their own culture, as the judge hangs his head down when Billy is castigating Islamic justice for its lack of mercy, and the judge seems sad when he replies that his hands are tied. There is no reaction or inquisitiveness in the faces of the Turkish prosecutor or the others - the viewer sees them as programmed by their culture. Just so the viewer isn't confused as to the root of what creates such a fiasco of justice, Stone purposefully puts Islamic prayer beads in the hands of reprehensible characters like the Turkish public defender, and makes sure that a mosque is the prominent structure occupying the frame as Billy is driven around the city by policemen. Likewise, he hangs Christian symbols on the victims in the film. The warden never attempted to rape Hayes, as the film depicts, nor did Hayes murder anyone. Stone's manufactured murder of the raping warden may have been an effort to implant the idea that the resolution the [mostly Christian] viewers should expect between their culture and the grotesque monster of Islam will take the form of a violent showdown.

The differences between the book and the film is evidence that Stone possibly used the powerful vehicle of a "true story" to instigate prejudice against Turks/Muslims. Billy Hayes, now 56 years old and living in LA, recently tried[in the Seattle Post] to correct Stone's portrayal of his book: "The message of 'Midnight Express' isn't 'Don't go to Turkey', it's 'Don't be an idiot like I was, and try to smuggle drugs." and, "I loved the movie, but I wish they'd shown some good Turks. You don't see a single one in the movie, and there were a lot of them, even in the prison. It created this impression that all Turks are like the people in 'Midnight Express.'"

Average customer rating:

Awesome!!
awesome
excellent
Great Archival Resource on the history of music and culture
Brought back good memories

The Definitive Performances 1963-1987
Starring: Smokey Robinson , and The Miracles
Manufacturer: Motown
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000JMK6IK
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Customer Reviews:

Awesome!!.......2007-09-04

This DVD is a must have. I recently showed it to family and friends and not only did they enjoy watching it, however, they got up to dance as if they were at a concert. Everybody wanted to know where I purchased the dvd. This dvd offers vintage footage and "full performances" which takes you back to this era. I plan to order more for Christmas presents.

awesome.......2007-07-27

This dvd came quite quickly. It was a great purchase. I am very pleased with seller and the product.

excellent.......2007-06-27

i bought this for my sister.. she is a big fan of smokey's.. she loved it

Great Archival Resource on the history of music and culture.......2007-05-22

This was a great documentary on preserving the historic contribution Motown made to the evolution of American music in the late 1950s through the 1970s. First person accounts by Smokey Robinson and the original Miracles add great value to archival documentation. A must see for all who not only love good music but understand the significant contribution of the Motown sound.

Brought back good memories.......2007-05-14

If you are a fan of Smokey Robinson and the Miracles this is a must have!!!To see Smokey with two of the surviving Miracles was heart warming.The music and the stories just took me back to the "good ole days",when Motown was king and Smokey was it's reigning prince.I'm glad I bought it and would encourage any Smokey Robinson and the Miracles' fan to do the same.

DVD:

DVD

DVD