Doctor Who - The Complete Third Series

Description

The third installment of Doctor Who is full of new thrills, new laughs, new heartbreak and some terrifying new monsters. From the moment the Doctor walks into the life of medical student Martha Jones he changes it forever. In Elizabethan London, they meet William Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre while back in present day London, 76-year-old Professor Lazarus recaptures his youth with consequences that threaten Martha's entire family. And, the Doctor's sworn enemies, the Daleks, who have been hiding in 1930's New York, return with a terrifying plan for humanity.

Customer Reviews:

Better and Better.......2007-09-12

I watched all the episodes on line as they came out and then began watching them agian on sci fi.
It is better every time I watch it.

GET THIS SET! (warning - contains spoilers).......2007-09-09

Okay, it hasn't come out yet, but having watched the third series on sci-fi, it is by leaps and bounds superior to the previous two years of mush.

David Tennant has never been better as the Doctor, and Freema Agyeman is impeccable as the far superior companion, Martha Jones.

While I'm not keen on all the references to Rose's departure early on (she's gone, let's get on with things) I love how Martha's unrequited love subplot has played out. It feels natural, especially if you consider the Doctor an asexual being.

Plus, Martha herself is a stronger and intelligent character. The writers and producers have used her to great effect and she is a joy to watch. Okay, she's gorgeous too and Freema knows how to act, but it's her characterization Martha that has won me over.

Episodes include:
"Smith and Jones" - series 3 opener and character introduction
"The Shakespeare Code" - AWESOME episode featuring Shakespeare and contains the first set pieces dealing with racism... plus, it's the best pseudo-historical made to date. A terrific piece.
"Gridlock" - a bit disappointing, but not terribly bad. The Macra seemed underused and I couldn't care less about the plight of some of the characters, which felt shoehorned in.
"Daleks in Manhattan"/"Evolution of the Daleks" - it waffles near the end and some would argue the Daleks feel shoehorned in to what is otherwise a story with depth and really good set pieces, but it's got enough merit to be enjoyed.
"The Lazarus Experiment" - a bit better and it introduces a character you need to keep an eye on.
"42" - if you recall the classic series story "Planet of Evil", "42" seems to be reminiscent of "Planet of Evil" yet seems to be a lot more consistent. And creepy. Defintely underrated.
"Human Nature"/"The Family of Blood" - it's the best of the entire new series and then some. Paul Cornell tops himself here with the plot, its resolution, the period setting, the cruelty of racism... this is perfection, personified and alone is worthy of the set's purchase.
"Blink" - another top notch entry from Steven Moffat.
"Utopia" - Russel T Davies' best WHO script, ever. Plus, there's an awesome performance from Derek Jacobi. But the story itself is impeccable as well.
"The Sound of Drums"/"The Last of the Time Lords" - it's a bit campy, plays up emotions rather than providing rudimentary coherence, and unusual for the new series as it ends on a rather happy note, but logic is thrown out the door just to wrap up some of the plot points and that's just bad. Plus, how the Doctor treats his adversary here directly contradicts how he's dealt with other nasty wrongdoers who want to kill everybody. The implied reason is that they are of the same race, which instantly makes people ask if the Doctor is being a racist, or at the very least working with double standards?)

But all in all? The good outweigh the bad, and the bad is nothing worse than I've come to expect out of the new series.

Series 3 is a WINNER for new series fans, classic series fans, and potential converts. And I hope series 4 matches and improves on it.

A quick revisit to what made the first season so special........2007-08-29

Wow, in a word was how I felt watching the first episode of the new Doctor Who's 3rd season. Smith & Jones that is (and not that the Runaway Bride wasn't great, as it was) which was the first pairing of Tennant and his new companion Martha Jones, played superbly by Freema Agyeman. The breakneck speed that threw me for a loop in Season One's opener Rose was back. Again, it offered a highly enjoyable and tightly scripted lead-in, to where the Doctor has to explain and open the eyes of a new Earth companion, to his many dimensions of both time and space.

If you read my review of Season 2, I explained how I felt that with Series 1, there was simply nothing better on TV at that time, either a sci-fi or other genre show, but during Series 2, while still a very good watch and excellent season of Who, I couldn't safely say there was nothing better on televison. Well, now I am back to my original thought, that with Series 3, there isn't anything I'd rather be watching on television, and nothing more entertaining.

I couldn't help but quickly make a comparison of Martha Jones to Mary Tamm's Romana in the original Who series, as someone of a high intellect and someone constantly keeping up to the Doctor in terms of wit, composure, and sophistication. While even though she is just a medical student, and not yet a Doctor when she's swept up into the Tardis, she's as sharp as a surgeon's blade in playing the part of a new Who companion. There were quite the shoes to fill with Rose's departure, and Freema has just about (but not fully) made me forget about Rose. Speaking of Rose, she is recollected in this series, through the Doctor's alouds, and it really sets the tone for a new Doctor-Companion relationship that we may have never seen before. Martha shares a kiss already with the Doc in the first episode, and is lying in bed with him in the second! Oh, Martha!

Anyway, with the Daleks, the Master, and the Face of Boe, the surprises just keep coming in this season. It really rivals the first in terms of the best of the new Doctor Who, and after seeing all 3, unfortunately makes season 2 seem all the more weaker than 1 and 3. Again, I revert to my opinion that it's the writing that was at fault in series 2, and the scripts, dialogue, and character interaction weren't quite as enjoyable as what came before, and what has obviously come now. Some call 2 the sophomore slump, or as one Amazon.co.uk reveiwer put it, that "second album", where there was just something a little less in keeping it from receiving the gem status that I give 1 & 3.

This is a must have season of Who. It also sees David Tennant really settling into his role and upping his status as one of the best of the Doctors. Amazingly, the weakest episodes in the series (if you can call any weak, as they are all quite entertaining) are the Daleks two parter and the series finale.

I was a little sad to see that Martha is only returning for Series 4 in a more limited role, and that Catherine Tate was set to become a companion again (from the Runaway Bride Xmas episode). I liked Tate a lot in that one show, but I am not sure I want her as a continued regular, as she sort of gets on your nerves. We'll just have to wait and see, but Martha being relegated to a lesser role is definitely a minus in my opinion.

As of this writing, audio commentaries, deleted scenes, video diaries, and the Doctor Who Confidential episodes are on slate as box set extras.

Two Days Later.......2007-08-28

Hey, all of you who are complaining about the $89.99 price... it's two days since the last complaint on August 26th and the price is down to $69.99 already. HAVE YOU NOTICED that Amazon guarantees pre-order customers the lowest price offered between the time they order and the release date? Anyone who has already ordered at $89.99 will get it for $69.99 max.

I've seen some of these episodes on Canadian TV and it's another great season for The Doctor... hence my 5 star rating.

Way to much money!.......2007-08-26

$89.99 is insane. As much as I love Dr. Who I will not pay that much for it.

Average customer rating:

This is a solid mature effort...
Dr. Strange... a strange choice?
Dr. Strange Movie
Another more than solid Marvel animated treat
Strangely refreshing

Doctor Strange: The Sorcerer Supreme
Starring: Michael Yama , Tara Strong , Paul Nakauchi , Bryce Johnson , and Kevin Michael Richardson
Director: Jay Oliva , Greg Johnson , Richard Sebast , and Patrick Archibald
Manufacturer: Lionsgate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000R5OFOA
Release Date: 2007-08-14

Description

Peel back the layers of reality and behold a stunning realm hidden beneath. One of magic and wonder. Of sorcery and enchantment. Of ancient spells, secret doors and remarkable heroes who protect us from evil. Because this is also a world of dark mysticism, malevolent forces and unspeakable horrors. And within the shadows around us, a supernatural war is waged. But the balance is shifting. Darkness is winning. Yet there is hope... Join us as Dr. Stephen Strange embarks on a wondrous journey to the heights of a Tibetan mountain, where he seeks healing at the feet of the mysterious Ancient One. But before his wounds can mend, Strange must first let go of his painful past and awaken a gift granted to very few. The gift of magic. Empowered as the new Sorcerer Supreme, Dr. Strange now tests his limits, rising up against monsters that push at the gates, facing the most terrifying entity humankind has ever known.

Customer Reviews:

This is a solid mature effort..........2007-09-12

I wasn't sure what to expect. I know about Dr. Strange, but I was never "into" Dr Strange. I felt the movie was well paced, well written, and well performed.

I feel that these sort of comic based movie stories are all too formulaic, and Dr. Strange was; however, it was still plenty entertaining. I think it could have use a bit more intensity in it's action, and charactor interactions; it's a subdued movie much of the time. I expected more of an ending as well, but again this was solid.

I don't think this was on par with Ultimate Avengers, my favorite newer Marvel DTV so far. I feel this was more like Invincible Iron Man. So if you like Iron Man, you will probably like Dr. Strange. In my opinion.

Dr. Strange... a strange choice?.......2007-09-11

Like Iron Man, I thought this was done really well. The animation and back story along with the acting was very good. I just question Marvels choice of doing a Dr. Strange animated movie. I am not complaing, I like that they didn't go with the standard X-Men or other really popular characters but it seems like a 'Strange' choice. But Marvel also did a made for TV movie back in the late 70's early 80's of Strange too. So they might be trying to get an old favorite character over with some new fans.

Its a good movie and a good story. I recommend it.

Dr. Strange Movie.......2007-09-06

Marvel does it again! This movie pays tribute to the character by going more in-depth into the characters personal life, which reflected on the choices he made. It touches on how tragedy can emotional blind a person from seeing what is really inside. It also shows how people can put up walls believing they are protected themselves, but in truth can be holding themselves back from something greater. Well done.

Another more than solid Marvel animated treat.......2007-09-05

Doctor Strange, the fourth Marvel animated feature distributed by Lion's Gate, is a pure treat. Re-telling the origin of Marvel's sorcerer supreme, Doctor Strange follows the wealthy and full of himself doctor and surgeon Stephen Strange, as he bears witness to a supernatural event before an accident robs him of his greatest tools: his hands. Soon enough, Strange learns he has a destiny, which leads him to Tibet and coming under the teachings of the Ancient One, who foretells of a powerful and ancient evil callded Dorramu, which is preparing to rear it's ugly head. Though there are a few more modern twists (a car accident robs Strange of the use of his hands here, his faithful assistant Wong is much less ethnic), this animated origin story is plenty entertaining. The animation and voice acting are top notch, and the Doctor Strange mythology of the classic Marvel comics is put to good use as well. Though like the other Marvel animated features, Doctor Strange is an acquired taste, but for those who have so far enjoyed the Ultimate Avengers and Iron Man DVD's, Doctor Strange is more than well worth a visit.

Strangely refreshing.......2007-09-03

Admittedly I'm not a long-time follower of Dr Strange, and I nod with respect to those who can comment more authoritatively about the accuracy of the adaptation. Nonetheless, I am pleased and impressed with the talent and creativity that goes into these Marvel Ani-movies. The comics corporations just do tooo much foot-dragging in adapting their properties to the big or small screen, denying fans the fun and excitement of seeing their favorites spring off the comic page. I've enjoyed the Avengers 1 & 2, and Iron Man, and really wonder what's going to happen with the upcoming future Avengers tale. It's just fun seeing these characters being treated in a polished and respectful manner, and I really wish DC comics would get on the animated movie bandwagon. One thing I don't get is why they don't get these a short run in theaters before going to DVD. Glen Larson did this with the pilot for the original Battlestar Galactica, and cheesy though it was (by today's standards especially), it was still great to see it on the "big screen." Marvel, you listening?

Average customer rating:

Young Frankenstien
One of Mel Brook's masterpieces..
"Elevate Me!", "What Knockers!"...Classic!!!
Brooks best
Young Frankenstein

Young Frankenstein
Starring: Gene Wilder , Peter Boyle , Marty Feldman , Madeline Kahn , and Cloris Leachman
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( Y ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000G6BLWE
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Amazon.com essential video

If you were to argue that Mel Brooks's Young Frankenstein ranks among the top-ten funniest movies of all time, nobody could reasonably dispute the claim. Spoofing classic horror in the way that Brooks's previous film Blazing Saddles sent up classic Westerns, the movie is both a loving tribute and a raucous, irreverent parody of Universal's classic horror films Frankenstein (1931) and Bride of Frankenstein (1935). Filming in glorious black and white, Brooks re-created the Frankenstein laboratory using the same equipment from the original Frankenstein (courtesy of designer Kenneth Strickfaden), and this loving attention to physical and stylistic detail creates a solid foundation for nonstop comedy. The story, of course, involves Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) and his effort to resume experiments in re-animation pioneered by his late father. (He's got some help, since dad left behind a book titled How I Did It.) Assisting him is the hapless hunchback Igor (Marty Feldman) and the buxom but none-too-bright maiden Inga (Teri Garr), and when Frankenstein succeeds in creating his monster (Peter Boyle), the stage is set for an outrageous revision of the Frankenstein legend. With comedy highlights too numerous to mention, Brooks guides his brilliant cast (also including Cloris Leachman, Madeline Kahn, Kenneth Mars, and Gene Hackman in a classic cameo role) through scene after scene of inspired hilarity. Indeed, Young Frankenstein is a charmed film, nothing less than a comedy classic, representing the finest work from everyone involved. Not one joke has lost its payoff, and none of the countless gags have lost their zany appeal. From a career that includes some of the best comedies ever made, this is the film for which Mel Brooks will be most fondly remembered. Befitting a classic, the Special Edition DVD includes audio commentary by Mel Brooks, a "making of" documentary, interviews with the cast, hilarious bloopers and outtakes, and the original theatrical trailers. No video library should be without a copy of Young Frankenstein. And just remember--that's Fronkensteen. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Mel Brooks' monstrously crazy tribute to Mary Shelley's classic pokes hilarious fun at just about every Frankenstein movie ever made. Summoned by a will to his late grandfather's castle in Transylvania, young Dr. Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) soon discovers the scientist's step-by-step manual explaining how to bring a corpse to life. Assisted by the hunchback Igor (Marty Feldman) and the curvaceous Ings (Teri Garr), he creates a monster (Peter Boyle) who only wants to be loved.

Customer Reviews:

Young Frankenstien.......2007-09-05

I recived the movie the next day. The movie and service was great, I was so impressed with the service that I ordered 2 more movies for friends.
Delores

One of Mel Brook's masterpieces.........2007-08-13

In my oppinion, this is one of Mel Brooks best movies and one of the best comedies EVER! Great DVD!

"Elevate Me!", "What Knockers!"...Classic!!!.......2007-08-02

Truley one of the funniest movies ever made! This is Mel Brooks at his very best along with a superb cast. This movie has made millions of people laugh, (hysterically!), for years. One of the funniest scenes is when the Creature rapes Elizabeth, but she's so overcome by his "size" she bursts out singing "Oh sweet mystery of life at last I've found you!" That scene is one of the funniest ever filmed, and highly worth metioning! Other scenes, and quotes include: "Putin' on the Ritz!", "Put the candle back!", "What Knockers", Elevate Me!" "Frau Blucher", (horses whining hysterically!) "Abby Normal", and on, and on, and on... Also, I believe the term "blucher" is German for glue. Hell, if I were a horse I'd whine too!

You simply can't go wrong this classic comedy. It is sure to put a smile on your face and have you quoting the characters lines for years to come. Way to go Mel Brooks, Gene Wilder, Cloris Leachman, & Teri Garr!

As for Marty Feldman, Peter Boyle and Madeline Kahn: You all are true comdey legends. God bless you all, and may you all rest in peace.

Fredrick: "Igor. Will you give me a hand with the bags?"
Igor: "Certainly. You take the blonde and I'll take the one in the turban!"

Deserves more than five stars. WAY MORE!!!

Brooks best.......2007-07-29

Although 'Blazing Saddles' is better remembered and 'The Producers' more critically acclaimed (Mel Brooks won an Oscar for the screenplay), Young Frankenstein is the best and the funniest film he has ever made. Its a wonderful comedic homage to the original James Whale films made back in the 1930's. So this is much more than just a parody. The original sets were recreated, in the same location, and the film is shot in black and white which brings back happy memories of Bride of Frankenstein (itself a black comedy).

Mel Brooks was very lucky to have Gene Wilder as leading actor for his best films. In the 1960's and 1970's Wilder was a comedy actor without peer. Effortlessly funny, and here right from his opening scene, at a teaching Hospital he's brilliant. The classic moment in this scene is his growing anger whilst holding a scalpel. Well you can guess what happens... Wilder does it with brilliant comic timing. Seeing the film again recently it struck me that Wilder would have made a great silent comedy star. Evidence of just how good Wilder was in this era, is that he even out performs the late Marty Feldman. The rest of the cast are nearly as good with Cloris Leachman and Peter Boyle both giving marvellous performances.

Gene Wilder also gets writing credits with Brooks as well and between them they produced a great script with a stream a great one-liners:

Frankenstein: Igor, would you give me a hand with the bags?
Igor: [doing a Groucho Marx] Certainly, you take the blonde and I'll take the one in the turban.

The DVD has some great extras, with the commentry by Mel Brooks being a particular highlight. Its both informative and funny. I haven't watched the documentary on the DVD yet. Overall this is a superb disc and a film that should be in everybodies collection.

Young Frankenstein.......2007-07-16

I LOVE this movie!! That's why I had to own it--it's a classic. Funny stuff.

Average customer rating:

New Doctor continues the quest for universal angst
Tom Baker Fan Approved
Love the Tardis
Glick on DVD Disk 5
Human Beings... fan-TASTIC!!!

Doctor Who - The Complete Second Series
Starring: David Tennant , and Billie Piper
Manufacturer: BBC Warner
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Cult Movies | Genres | DVD | Video

( D ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Television | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

ASIN: B000JBWWP6
Release Date: 2007-01-16

Amazon.com

Christopher Eccleston's tenure as the time-traveling title hero in the venerable UK sci-fi series Doctor Who lasted just 13 episodes, but he left enough of a impression on fans to make some wonder how his replacement, veteran television performer David Tennant, might fare in the role. As this second-series boxed set proves, the answer is: he's a near-perfect Doctor who combines the eccentricities of earlier incarnations (most notably Tom Baker) with a fresh and youthful interpretation of his own, and even brings a healthy dash of romantic chemistry with his sidekick, Rose Tyler (the equally charming Billie Piper). And their adventures retain the solid blend of thoughtful speculative fiction, pulp action, and quirky humor that typified the series at its best. Among the 15 terrific stories contained in the six-disc set are the "Children in Need" (a.k.a. "Pudsey Cutaway") mini-episode from the 2005 Children in Need telethon that showed Eccleston's transformation into Tennant; "School Reunion," in which Elisabeth Sladen returns as Sarah Jane Smith; "The Girl in the Fireplace," which draws together robots in 18th century France with a derelict space station in the distant future; and the season finale, "Army of Ghosts/Doomsday," which not only revives the series' most popular villains, the robotic Daleks, in a head-to-head struggle against the Cybermen, but also marks the final appearance of another series regular. For fans and first-time visitors to the TARDIS alike, the Second Series is simply thrilling sci-fi TV.

As with the First Series set, the supplemental features are plentiful here; commentary by the show's cast and crew is provided on each episode, and four feature picture-in-picture commentary tracks; deleted scenes and outtakes are also included, as are video diaries by Tennant and Piper, and a lengthy featurette, "Doctor Who Confidential," which covers nearly every aspect of the series' production, including the introduction of the Torchwood Institute and the return of Sarah Jane, both of which would be featured in their own respective spin-off series (the first in Doctor Who's long history) in 2007. - Paul Gaita

Description

Can Rose trust a man with a new face? David Tennant (Viva Blackpool, Harry Potter) steps into the role of the Doctor, now in his 10th incarnation. Following on from the phenomenal success of the first series, the second series is full of more thrills, more laughs, more heartbreak and some terrifying new aliens and old acquaintances. The Doctor and Rose meet Queen Victoria, an evil race of Cat Women, K9 and Sarah Jane, and the dreaded Cybermen.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Other:Doctor Who is the longest running sci-fi franchise in television history
Outtakes:Doctor Who is the longest running sci-fi franchise in television history
Other

Customer Reviews:

New Doctor continues the quest for universal angst.......2007-09-11

The new Doctor took a little while to get into the swing of things, but when he did, boy, did he! The biggest bit of stuff in this new season was a new doctor and the loss of a character. I'll let you figure this one out yourself. Don't want to spoil the surprise. However, I will tell you that you have to wait till the very end.

Tom Baker Fan Approved.......2007-08-27

Let me start off by saying I have never PREVIOUSLY liked any of the Doctor-Who series outside of the Tom Baker episodes. The US tried to do a new version of Doctor-Who years ago and it was awful. I didn't expect this new attempt at bringing Doctor-Who back to be any better, but from the very first episode was really impressed with not only the production values, but the characters and stories themselves.

When so soon, they already changed the Doctor to a new actor only in the second series, I was again prepared for a let down, but I actually like this Doctor better, and he seems to have a little bit of "Tom Baker" personality that comes out too.

I was really enjoying this second series set, when I came across the double episode story "Army of Ghosts" and "Doomsday" which are the two last episodes on this set, but really a two-parter of the same story.

These two episodes, are the best Doctor-Who episodes of ALL TIME, in my opinion, and remember, I am a Tom Baker fanatic.

There are THREE reasons I make this the most amazing Doctor-Who episode off all time, (to date) but I will not mention the first reason, because that would ruin the surprise for those that have not seen the episode and give away something that is more enjoyable to find out when watching for the first time. The second reason would be the great production value, it stands up with any major production motion picture made for theaters, and this is for only a television series? Wow! The third reason is the emotional feeling I went through after watching this last episode on this set. I have never gone through anything like that ever from watching Doctor-Who.

I have to admit, I liked Billie Piper as the Doctor's companion,(and the only other companion I have liked since Romana) but since she was mostly known prior as just a teen pop star (like the UK's version of Britney Spears) I did not expect her acting abilities to do what she did in "Doomsday" the last episode in this second series set. I was very impressed.

Seeing that Series Three (not yet available to me as of this review) has a new companion for the Doctor, I am again hessitant that I will like it, but will have to see.

However, even if you are a die hard Tom Baker fan, I think you will find this Second series of "Doctor-Who the Next Generation" to be one you will not be disappointed with and really will enjoy!

Especially the last two episodes on this set!!

Love the Tardis.......2007-08-15

A brilliant season that combines outstanding writing with charismatic performances. David Tennant and Billie Piper are an incrdible pair of actors surrounded by a wonderful supporting cast. The total effect is that you care about the characters deeply. Keep a full box of tissues on hand for the final episode.

Glick on DVD Disk 5.......2007-08-14

First let me say right out that I enjoyed every single story on this set. The only reason I didn't give this set a rating of 5 stars was because of a technical issue playing disk 5 on my computer system. The menu program locks up or when it doesn't lock up it crashes to the desktop before you can make a menu selection. I discovered that by unchecking the video hardware acceleration option in the PowerDVD software I am able to enjoy the contents of disk 5. This is the only time that I ever experience this kind of problem with a new disk.

Human Beings... fan-TASTIC!!!.......2007-08-12

How do you improve on the near perfection of the reborn "Doctor Who" starring Christopher Eccleston? Quite easily, when you have stories like "School Reunion," "The Girl in the Fireplace," "The Impossible Planet," and "The Satan Pit," to name just a few, but... I'm getting ahead of myself here!

For those of us of a "certain age," as we say in England - that's the wrong side of 40! LOL! - and remember the origins of the series waaaaaaaaay back in the 60's, then spent the subsequent decades suffering through more cardboard sets and rubber monsters than you could shake a stick at - the Daleks being honorable exceptions of course! - the rebirth of the venerable Doctor in 2005 was a revelation.

The stories had been tightened-up considerably - no running up and down endless corridor filler here! - the budget for a single episode appeared to be more than was spent on an entire series from the good-old-days, the production values/sfx were stellar, the writing tight and dramatic, bringing the Doctor and his Companion thoroughly up-to-date without losing the essence of the original. In Chris Eccleston they had, at last, a genuine, heavyweight Thesp playing the Doctor, an actor who could not only handle the edgier, more grown-up aspects of the new stories, but could also inject an element of the manic/slightly unhinged into his performance, similar to the much-loved Tom Baker. And any worries that Billie Piper would not be up to the job, dramatically, were soon laid to rest... and how!!!

To say that us fans were spoiled by the 2005 series was putting it mildly, then as the season climaxed with the superlative "Bad Wolf" and "Parting of the Ways," we were all thrown for a loop when given a "regeneration scene" and a NEW Doctor! What were the BBC thinking about, were they crazy?!?!?! The short answer is "No," the casting of David Tennant was every bit as inspired as his predecessor; he actually managed to up the manic-quotient without going completely bonkers, and brought a kind of geeky coolness to the character we hadn't seen before!

And then there was "Rose;" oh my goodness, in all it's years, there has NEVER been a companion for the Doctor like Rose Tyler. Unlike practically all previous companions, Rose is a character in her own right, with her own back story, fully realized, she is, dramatically at least, the Doctor's equal. Her development, from London shop-girl, to time traveler, explorer of the universe, and killer of Daleks, helps drive the stories in a new, more emotionally fulfilling direction.

After the roller coaster ride of Season 1 with it's "Bad Wolf" story arc, Season 2 scaled things back ever so slightly, but invested even more time and effort in exploring the relationship between the unearthly Doctor, and the all-too-human Rose. This is tackled head-on in the 4th episode, "School Reunion," which goes some way to answering the question of what happens to the companions after they have stopped travelling with the Time Lord; a stand-out episode, it re-introduces Elizabeth Sladen's "Sarah Jane Smith." I don't want to say too much about any particular episode for those who haven't seen the series yet, but the scene where Sarah Jane discovers the TARDIS and its owner made the hair on the back of my neck stand up! Later in the episode there's an affecting scene between the Doctor and Rose as he tries to explain to her why he can't allow himself to become emotionally involved with his Human companions... he's practically immortal, we're not.

The next episode, "The girl in the fireplace," perfectly illustrates the preceding point, when the Doctor allows himself to become attached to Madame de Pompadour, whilst simultaneously battling clockwork androids on a derelict starship in the far future! "Rise of the Cybermen" and "Age of Steel" successfully reinvents one of the Doctors most popular adversaries, whilst "The impossible planet" and "The Satan pit" set-up some very Alien-esque chills in a wonderful two-parter.

The series ends, just as did Season 1, with another amazing two-part story, "Army of Ghosts" and the aptly titled "Doomsday," which sees the Daleks fighting it out with the new-and-improved Cybermen for control of planet Earth; to steal a line from the totally execrable AvP, "Whoever wins, we lose!" LOL! It's difficult to know which fate would be worse, having the whole planet "upgraded" by the Cybermen, or flayed and filleted through the Daleks genetic labs to help create an even bigger and more murderous Dalek army!!! This is a superb story to end the season, but be warned, the finale is... emotional!

There's a nice recurring theme in the series concerning the "Torchwood Institute," which becomes central to the final two episodes, and if this set is the first you've seen of Season 2, DO make sure you watch the "Children in Need" episode in the "Special Features" section of the set FIRST. It acts as a coda to Season 1, as well as a prologue to Season 2, and explains the somewhat crazed materialization of the TARDIS, as well as the Doctor himself, in the rollicking first episode, "The Christmas Invasion."

Any worries I had that the quality of the first season could not be maintained were unfounded... if you enjoyed Season 1, grab Season 2 immediately, you won't regret it!

The Last King of Scotland (Widescreen Edition)

Average customer rating:

Idi Amin
Idi Amin
Great Movie
a bonus star for Whitaker
A dramatic and engaging film

The Last King of Scotland (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Forest Whitaker , James McAvoy , Kerry Washington , Gillian Anderson , and Simon McBurney
Director: Kevin Macdonald
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( L ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000NIVJF4
Release Date: 2007-04-17

Amazon.com

As the evil Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, Forest Whitaker gives an unforgettable performance in The Last King of Scotland. Powerfully illustrating the terrible truth that absolute power corrupts absolutely, this fictionalized chronicle of Amin's rise and fall is based on the acclaimed novel by Giles Foden, in which Amin's despotic reign of terror is viewed through the eyes of Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy), a Scottish doctor who arrives in Uganda in the early 1970s to serve as Amin's personal physician. His outsider's perspective causes him to be initially impressed by Amin's calculated rise to power, but as the story progresses--and as Whitaker's award-worthy performance grows increasingly monstrous--The Last King of Scotland turns into a pointed examination of how independent Uganda (a British colony until 1962) became a breeding ground for Amin's genocidal tyranny. As Whitaker plays him, Amin is both seductive and horribly destructive--sometimes in the same breath--and McAvoy effectively conveys the tragic cost of his character's naiveté, which grows increasingly prone to exploitation. As directed by Kevin Macdonald (who made the riveting semi-documentary Into the Void), this potent cautionary tale my prompt some viewers to check out Barbet Schroeder's equally revealing documentary General Idi Amin Dada, an essential source for much of this film's authentic detail. --Jeff Shannon

Beyond The Last King of Scotland

More from Forest Whitaker
General Idi Amin Dada
The Last King of Scotland (Paperback)

Stills from The Last King of Scotland

Description

As Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, Forest Whitaker gives "one of the greatest performances of modern movie history" (Wall Street Journal), one that the Associated Press calls "nothing short of Oscar(r) worthy." This is Amin's incredible story as seen through the eyes of Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy), a young Scotsman who becomes the volatile leader's personal physician, due in part to Amin's unexpected passion for Scottish culture -- Amin even proclaims himself "The Last King of Scotland". Seduced by Amin's charisma and blinded by decadence, Garrigan's dream life becomes a waking nightmare of betrayal and madness from which there is no escape. Inspired by real people and events, this gripping, suspenseful stunner is filled with performances you will never forget.

Customer Reviews:

Idi Amin.......2007-08-27

I thought this was a pretty good movie. I like the concept of seeing Amin's regime thru the eyes of an outsider. I have seen a very good documentary and also a very old OOP movie about Amin that were also very good. I thought Forrest Whitaker was ok as Amin but I don't give him the rave reviews that some others have. This is a good movie though no doubt and I recommend it to anybody though it is a bit gruesome and has some pretty extreme violence.

Idi Amin.......2007-08-25

Forest Whitaker as Idi Amin was amazing. Amin slaughtered thousands in Uganda before being over thrown. He went to Saudi Arabia into exile and died several years ago. This story takes you inside his world.

Corey Cotta, Author of All of Yesterdays Tomorrows.

Great Movie.......2007-08-20

This movie was so phenom! Didn't know what to expect and then found it so charming and told a great story. Made the main character so real. The hardest part to watch was the end which was really hardcore violence.
But overall it was a great movie.

a bonus star for Whitaker.......2007-08-18

This film probably would have otherwise gotten a 3 stars from me, but all due respect goes to Forest Whitaker for an amazing performance, so he alone bumps this up to 4 stars for me.

I saw this movie expecting that I would be at least a little let down, since I had read the Foden novel and wasn't entirely impressed by the book. In the novel, I found Dr. Garrigan a little too plodding, though I did appreciate the aspect the bookwas working on of a man who is trying to avoid controversy nevertheless wooed into the thick of controversy through both his neutrality and through the powerful personality and charm of Idi Amin.

But the movie took a completely unfortunate tack. Instead of being mildly weathered and maybe a little pessimistic about the world, Doctor Garrigan is instead young and naive and ambitious and idealistic, and these are what Amin uses to bring Garrigan into his fold. While the book did drag a bit for its resistance to melodrama (except, maybe, towards the end), the movie makes the doctor quite the young piece of bravado by having him shooting cattle in the head and sleeping with the President's wife. I found this stupidity (no other word for it) just plain over the top, which is tough to say when dealing with the story of Idi Amin's tyranny, but nonetheless the case.

It is unfortunate because it seems that some movie execs got together and decided that Foden's Garrigan would not be an interesting leading man for the movie, so he went into rewrite. The shame with this decision is that it is a total revision of the book to its very essence--rather than Amin being a threat for his ability to exploit anything but rabid dissention, Garrigan is instead a bumbling Scot who seems to lack too much common sense to avoid Amin at all. Most of the threat is removed, and so Amin is down to being a mad killer rather than a charismatic mad killer. Also, the removal of some wonderful Amin monlogues from the book, where he meanders wonderfully and shows the depth of his delusions, were a gaping hole here.

Whitaker clearly deserved all accolades he received for his performance, but the movie as a whole left me rather wanting.

A dramatic and engaging film.......2007-08-18

A young Scottish doctor longs for adventure so he spins a globe and decides he'll close his eyes and point to the place where he will go. His finger falls upon Uganda and his fate is sealed. At first he works at a clinic, but then his path crosses that of dictator Idi Amin and his life becomes inexorably intertwined with that of the Ugandan ruler as he becomes his personal physician. The movie is dramatic and fast-moving and the performance of Forest Whitaker as Amin is truly memorable. Fiction though it may be, the film is very entertaining and it does give the viewer a look at the havoc that one man can cause when given absolute power.

Average customer rating:

uplifting entertainment
A great experience
Anne of Green Gables
oh, lordy...
beautiful, intelligent and delightfully entertaining.......

Anne of Green Gables
Starring: Megan Follows , Colleen Dewhurst , Richard Farnsworth , Patricia Hamilton , and Marilyn Lightstone
Director: Kevin Sullivan
Manufacturer: Sullivan
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Period Piece | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Kids & Family | Independently Distributed | Stores | DVD | Video

Independently Distributed | Indie & Art House | Stores | DVD | Video

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

( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B00005YNTR
Release Date: 2001-11-13

Amazon.com

This gorgeous adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic children's story is well worth watching with the whole family. Produced for Canadian television, it's one of those rare productions that actually sticks to the book and even enhances it through first-rate performances and an excellent script. Set on bucolic Prince Edward Island in the late 19th century, Anne of Green Gables is the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and headstrong orphan. When brother and sister Marilla and Mathew Cuthbert decide to adopt an orphan boy to help Matthew work the farm, they are astonished when Anne arrives at the train station by mistake. "What use is she to us?" grumbles the gruff Marilla. "We might be of some use to her," answers Matthew, who has taken an instant liking to the talkative Anne. As Anne grows up, her adventures are both hilarious and moving. It's a delight to watch as she forms a friendship with the beautiful Diana and her admirer--the dashing Gilbert Blythe--then dyes her hair green, cracks a slate over Gilbert's head when he calls her "Carrots," and finds a sympathetic teacher who encourages her to attend college.

Richard Farnsworth is perfect as the shy and gentle bachelor Matthew, who confides to Anne that he never went courting because "I would have had to say something." Colleen Dewhurst delivers a nuanced and powerful performance as Marilla, a seemingly cold-hearted spinster whose no-nonsense exterior conceals a warm heart. And as Anne, Megan Follows strikes the perfect note, maturing from freckle-faced orphan to elegant and poised young woman. --Elisabeth Keating

Customer Reviews:

uplifting entertainment.......2007-09-08

Solid story that teaches many important lessons. It's not just a movie for young girls. Richard Farnsworth was one of the best!

A great experience.......2007-09-05

I love Anne of Green Gables and I ordered it off of Amazon with no problems. It arrived in the mail a week later. Perfect!

Anne of Green Gables.......2007-09-02

Again I bought this DVD for my wife. I had given her Anne of Green Gables The Sequel several years ago and she had tried to find the original story of Anne of Green Gables but could not find it in local stores where we live. She loved it so much that after watching it she watched the sequel again and has now ordered the Continuing Story of Anne of Green Gables. It is nice to know there are still some nice, clean movies out there that have a good story and can entertain you without listening to vulgar language and watching violence.

oh, lordy..........2007-08-27

This simpering little twit plodding her way through this series should be used as forced-viewing punishment for people who take organized sports too seriously. I suffered through an hour of this with my wife and I wished she's fall down a well and not come out. Or fall off a horse-drawn carriage that's going at full speed. Or, well, you get the idea.

beautiful, intelligent and delightfully entertaining..............2007-08-26

This great 1985 production gloriously brings the characters from the "Anne" series, written by Canadian writer Lucy Maude Montgomery, to life. I remember well watching (and reading) this story as a small child. It was magical, then, and it remains so more than twenty years later. Anne (Megan Follows) is a lively and strong-willed orphan adopted by Marilla (Colleen Dewhurst) and Matthew (Richard Farnsworth) Cuthbert, siblings in need of a helper on their farm. Originally, they had expected to adopt a boy, but fate has other plans for them. Anne proves to be just what they needed. She brings them her youth, indomitable spirit and flare for getting into mischief. Along the way, Anne meets and befriends neighbor and classmate Diana Berry (Schuyler Grant) and butts heads with "would be" suitor Gilbert Blythe (Jonathan Crombie). Anne's slew of adventures and misadventures are a lot of fun to watch (especially an instance where she attempts to die her red hair auburn--turning it green instead!).

The strength of this wonderful film is in the engaging acting, warm direction from Kevin Sullivan and the luscious photography. You really feel like you have been transported to St. Edward Island in Canada, in the early 1900s. You'll laugh, you'll feel the pangs and poignance of Anne's trials and tribulations and you will absolutely lose yourself in the story.

Average customer rating:

Dr. Who has the cure for predictable Sci-Fi.
doctor who-- the complete first series
Doctor Who Fans
Fantastic
Doctor Who fan

Doctor Who - The Complete First Series
Starring: Billie Piper , Christopher Eccleston , Camille Coduri , Noel Clarke , and John Barrowman
Manufacturer: BBC Warner
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Cult Movies | Genres | DVD | Video

( D ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Television | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

ASIN: B000E41MS6
Release Date: 2006-07-04

Amazon.com

The venerable science fiction program Doctor Who returned to British televisions in 2005 after a 15-year absence and delighted the majority of fans and critics with its adherence to the adventure and charm of the original series while making admissions for a new generation of viewers (hipper editing and score, CGI effects). Thirteen episodes were generated, all starring Christopher Eccleston as the ninth Doctor and pop-singer-turned-actress Billie Piper as his companion Rose; acclaimed writer/producer Russell T. Davies (Touching Evil, Queer as Folk) oversaw the show as chief writer and executive producer. The new series proved so popular that the BBC agreed to revive the program for second and third seasons--though without Eccleston, who has since been replaced by David Tennant. This six-disc set comes with all 13 episodes plus the battery of supplemental features now customary to all Doctor Who DVD releases.

Eccleston is very engaging in the title role, bringing a manic curiosity tempered by occasional bouts of gravity (which befit a personality with a long and dramatic a lifespan as the Doctor's) that hew closely to the (arguably) most popular Doctor, Tom Baker. Piper is equally adept as department store clerk Rose--she's afforded more of a back story than most of the Doctor's sidekicks have received in the past, and she more than handles her own alongside Eccleston. Highlights among the 13 episodes include the season opener, "Rose" (which sees the return of an old foe, the Autons, and their controlling force, the Nestene Consciousness); the revamped Daleks in "Dalek" and the two-parter "Bad Wolf" and "The Parting of the Ways"; a trip to Victorian England to aid Charles Dickens in "The Unquiet Dead," and of course, the arrival of the tenth Doctor at the conclusion of the action-packed "Parting of the Ways." The episodes strike the right blend of quirk, excitement, and imagination, thanks largely to the engaging performances and the guidance of Davies, whose admiration for the show and its history is evident throughout.

Supplemental features--and there are many--including commentary on all 13 episodes by members of the cast and crew, including Piper and Davies; numerous making-of featurettes, including a profile of Davies; a video diary by Piper; an interview with Eccleston, and best of all, a glimpse at the 60-minute Christmas special, "The Christmas Invasion," which picks up where the series concludes. Who fans won't be disappointed. --Paul Gaita

Description

Christopher Eccleston's Doctor is wise and funny, cheeky and brave. An alien and a loner, his detached logic gives him a vital edge when the world's in danger. But when it comes to human relationships, he can be found wanting. That's why he needs Rose. From the moment they meet, the Doctor and Rose understand and complement each other. As they travel together through time, encountering new adversaries, the Doctor shows her things beyond imagination.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary: Dolby Digital 5.1 surround mix on all eps Almost 5 hours of ?making of? interviews and behind-the-scenes footage
Interviews
Other:Star studded team of writers including Russell T Davies (Queer As Folk), Steven Moffat (Coupling), and Mark Gatiss (The League of Gentlemen)

Customer Reviews:

Dr. Who has the cure for predictable Sci-Fi........2007-08-25

A few years ago if anyone told me that the next sci-fi series I'd latch on to after Stargate SG-1 was cancelled would be Dr. Who, I would have laughed and laughed. That is until I saw this new, high budget and well written adaptation of the series.

I'm traditionally into American "hard sci-fi" like Star Trek and Stargate franchises, and traditionally not into the British stuff, but this series made me cross the pond and pay attention to what's going on over there in Britian. I'm very impressed with the actors, the writing, the stories, and the whole series in general.

You get action, adventure, top-notch effects, character development, morality plays, and sarcastic pop-culture referential humor all in one. And, speaking as an American, the English accents and expressions just make it all the more fun.

This DVD set also contains a number of special features that both cater to the Dr. Who fan who wants more insight into the series and to the person new to the Dr. Who universe. All in all a great deal of great sci-fi. Bravo!!

doctor who-- the complete first series.......2007-08-23

I loved this series...packaging was great...Seemed like background sound over powered the voices...but I don't care because I love these actors..

Doctor Who Fans.......2007-08-14

If you were into the old Doctor Who you'll love this one even better. My teenage children were really into this, too. This doctor has a quirkiness about him that keeps you watching. It's a great collection.

Fantastic.......2007-08-13

This was really more than I even expected coming from someone who had never seen the show before. The acting is great and the plots are so fun, the extra features are worth a watch too. I recommend this to anyone, it was really addictive.

Doctor Who fan.......2007-07-23

Thanks to this particular season, I am now a die-hard fan and collector of the show! All of the episodes are endearing, even if THIS doctor is a little passive at best.

Average customer rating:

You can't kill damnation mister!
Who's the one that let Rob Zombie get his hands on THIS?!
Puts the Horror in HORRIABLE
the REAL Halloween
MICHAEL MYERS IS HALLOWEEN!!!

Halloween
Starring: Brian Andrews , Jamie Lee Curtis , Charles Cyphers , John Michael Graham , and Peter Griffith
Manufacturer: Starz / Anchor Bay
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

Slasher Flicks | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

Teen Terror | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

Cult Classics | Anchor Bay Horror Store | Stores | DVD | Video

70's Horror Classics | Anchor Bay Horror Store | Stores | DVD | Video

Legendary Horror Icons | Anchor Bay Horror Store | Stores | DVD | Video

Slasher Flicks | Anchor Bay Horror Store | Stores | DVD | Video

All Titles | Anchor Bay Horror Store | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( H ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: 6305546789
Release Date: 1999-09-28

Amazon.com essential video

Halloween is as pure and undiluted as its title. In the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois, a teenage baby sitter tries to survive a Halloween night of relentless terror, during which a knife-wielding maniac goes after the town's hormonally charged youths. Director John Carpenter takes this simple situation and orchestrates a superbly mounted symphony of horrors. It's a movie much scarier for its dark spaces and ominous camera movements than for its explicit bloodletting (which is actually minimal). Composed by Carpenter himself, the movie's freaky music sets the tone; and his script (cowritten with Debra Hill) is laced with references to other horror pictures, especially Psycho. The baby sitter is played by Jamie Lee Curtis, the real-life daughter of Psycho victim Janet Leigh; and the obsessed policeman played by Donald Pleasence is named Sam Loomis, after John Gavin's character in Psycho. In the end, though, Halloween stands on its own as an uncannily frightening experience--it's one of those movies that had audiences literally jumping out of their seats and shouting at the screen. ("No! Don't drop that knife!") Produced on a low budget, the picture turned a monster profit, and spawned many sequels, none of which approached the 1978 original. Curtis returned for two more installments: 1981's dismal Halloween II, which picked up the story the day after the unfortunate events, and 1998's occasionally gripping Halloween H20, which proved the former baby sitter was still haunted after 20 years. --Robert Horton

Customer Reviews:

You can't kill damnation mister!.......2007-09-13

I have always been a fan of the Halloween movie series. The original was w/o a doubt a true classic and masterpiece!

I recently saw Rob Zombie's version and was pleasantly surprised that it was pretty good. The Halloween series is the only horror series that I believe had a good story line.

Was that the Boogeyman? As a matter fact it was.

Who's the one that let Rob Zombie get his hands on THIS?! .......2007-09-09

Ah, that little Tommy Doyle. If only more people listened to him about the reality of the Boogeyman.

Who's the Boogeyman in this horror classic? Two words: Michael Myers. No, not the comedian. Someone better, someone more sick and sadistic.

Granted, this is a horror movie, with the occasional nudity. So what makes this stand out and become the building block of modern horror movies? The execution.

The story is well known. Myers kills his sister and is sent away to Smith Grove for fifteen years. Dr. Loomis has been treating him and is perplexed with Myers. "He hasn't said a word in fifteen years," Loomis professes. "...the devil's eyes."

Myers' is on a war path, taking out any pubescent and overly sexed up teen that is in his way. Why? To find his sister, Laurie Strode, played by the amazing Jamie Lee Curtis who can effortlessly command a stage.

What's great about this classic is that it doesn't rely on gore but the element of surprise. The fact that Myers is an enigma, with no actually reason to kill his prey. Is it for the hunt? Is it for the way he was treated as a child? We don't know, and quite frankly it is best we don't. Do we really want to sympathize with someone who just stabbed someone into a wall? No.

The movie is directed in a dim lighting as well, which adds more chills up and down the spine. The score is also timeless; a simple piano with each key the suspense picks up. A movie like Halloween is art in it's rarest form. It flows beautifully; the pace of the movie; the story; the suspense; and finally; the war between the two siblings.

It's not actually a "war." Just a slight slice around the arm, a coat hanger to an eye. But what's great is that it is left on a cliffhanger. Myers shot off a balcony only to be on the run for the sequel.

It was really a shame that Rob Zombie has ruined this classic. Turning his biological mother and father, who were decent human beings into a prostitute and a worthless couch potato was just insulting. Well, at least Myers has a new victim to kill...Zombie! And we have an awesome horror movie to cherish the moment in!

Puts the Horror in HORRIABLE.......2007-09-07

"What??? He gave this classic masterpiece 2 stars?!?" Is that whats racing through your so called brain? This film has been heralded as great horror, but its nearly as stupid, boring, and insulting to one's intelligence as some of todays worse slasher movies. This original version of the movie, unlike the Excorcist, does not stand the test of time. And why is that? Well, i hear time and time again, that this movie is a such a great essential classic. Being essential and classic doesnt apparently mean its truly great, becouse the acting is very bad in this movie. The script is dumb and the characters arent interesting or likeable. Its not as annoying and insulting as something like Halloween:Ressurection. ( a zero star movie) but its certainly NOT the great film its touted to be. And we hear "CLASSIC MASTERPIECE" over and over again in the same sentence as the title. But i honestly feel the people caling it that are just stuck on the fact that its suppost to be this "great classic" and dont or refuse to see it for what it is...a B-movie. Maybe it got popular becouse of the fact that in the late 70s, a movie with a killer in a mask like that, killing kids and people with a butcher knife was kind of a fresh idea. But as a movie, you cant deny how poor it is. It might be a classic old horror movie that sparked lots of trends, but this is NOT deserving of the word " MASTERPIECE ". Thats a complete lie. But people and critics keep saying it and saying it, but their words dont have meaning becouse it doesnt match up with the movie. The genre of "HORROR/SLASHER" movies hasnt been the most respected or acclaimed genres out there, to say the least. And i suppose within the relm of the endless sea of stupid gore fest slasher films, this must be the Father of them all and so its reveared as such a 'great' thing. But if you see it as a film, its not very good, and you dont even have to be some purist film critic snob. Anyone can see that fact. The music, the resounding piano theme is memorable and is classic. The legend that has become Michael Myers through out the years has grown beyond the depiction found in the original film. Michael Myers is not very impressive at all in this movie. He sounds allmost like an ape, how he breathes through the mask. And he just seems like he is mentally handicapped more than he is psychotic. And the 'teens' in this movie all look like they are allmost 30, like they should be outta college or something. Not convincing AT ALL as highschool kids. But all that is just side complaints. The movie itself is just boring, and i had to force myself almost to watch it in its entirity and give it a proper chance before i made final judgment of it. The image of Michael Myers and his theme music is what is truly legendary and haunting to this day....Not this film. Despite the 'popular critics' view, the recently re-telling of the film, directed by Rob Zombie, titled "HALLOWEEN". is far more superior film, that brings actual weight and respect to that legendary killer...MICHAEL MYERS. Out of respect for John Carpenter and his original film, watch this original movie made in 1978. But FIRST, if you have a choice for which to see first, id say see the Rob Zombie re-telling of "HALLOWEEN", first, that is a deep, emotional, and truly horrific piece of work, that captures the sheer intensity of what became the legend of Michael Myers that rises above and beyond the original, while stil giving it much respect. Rob Zombie delivers something awesome that truly and finally lives up to such a haunting legend...something neither the orginal or ANY of the sequals have EVER done, nor could do. Im no fancy critic, but im giving this 2 and half stars...the half is for its originality at the time, with its theme and character.

the REAL Halloween.......2007-09-02

I recently got back from the worst remake and probably movie ever made, Rob Zombie's Halloween. After about twenty minutes or so of that movie, I longed for this movie. Everything in this movie was perfect: The score, the actors and actresses, the setting seemed like a real home town, the gore was minuim but effective, and the story was good. There is no reason on Earth that anyone would hate this movie. If you prefer the other film over this classic, then you need to grow up.

MICHAEL MYERS IS HALLOWEEN!!!.......2007-09-01

halloween was and still is the movie everyone remembers and still talks about. enough said, john carpenter made you cringe and always look behind you with this one. he made babysitters all over the world lock their doors and keep a constant eye looking out the window. he made the boogyman real. this is a masterpiece. i'm hooked on this psychotic killer who just never dies. you can't kill evil, it just keeps on coming. and jaimie lee curtis, her breakout role, made a name for herself, great actress she has mad skills. this film is different from todays films but it still manages to scare you. you don't want to be alone, because he'll find you.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (Collector's Edition)

Average customer rating:

A very good remake; collector's edition is sweet
GREAT COLLECTOR'S EDITION OF THE INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS!
Great New Special Edition of Classis 70's Paranoia
Get INVADED all over again....
DON'T FALL ASLEEP WATCHING THIS MOVIE!!!

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (Collector's Edition)
Starring: Brooke Adams , Maurice Argent , Joe Bellan , Veronica Cartwright , and Tom Dahlgren
Director: Philip Kaufman
Manufacturer: MGM (Video & DVD)
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Horror | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Mystery & Suspense | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Indie & Art House | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000QQJ3Q0
Release Date: 2007-08-07

Description

When filmy spores fall from space and take root in San Francisco, the city is beautifully transformed by spectacular and exotic flowers. But these lovely extraterrestrial blossoms have gruesome plansfor their earthly admirers: to slowly clone their bodiesand then dispose of the originals! "A first-rate suspense thriller" (Newsday), this sci-fi adventure is a "chilling" (Leonard Maltin), "dazzling" (The New York Times) and "stunning" (Cosmopolitan) thrill ride that will send your pulse rate soaring! From a brilliant screenplay by Academy AwardÂ(r) nominee* W.D. Richter, filmmaker Philip Kaufman directs an all-star cast that includes Donald Sutherland, Jeff Goldblum, Brooke Adams and Leonard Nimoy. With its mesmerizing style and awe-inspiring special effects, Invasion of the Body Snatchers is "a classic of the genre" (New York Post) a terrifying tale that "literally chills the blood" (The Hollywood Reporter)!

Customer Reviews:

A very good remake; collector's edition is sweet.......2007-08-27

As other reviewers have noted, this is an excellent remake of the 1956 original, with superb casting, great performances, excellent direction and cinematography. Veronica Cartwright and Jeff Goldblum (and Spock - Leonard Nimoy!) are very good in supporting roles. Cartwright in particular is just excellent (see her also in "Alien"). And Sutherland and Adams give believable, sympathetic performances in the leads. The scene towards the end when "Amazing Grace" starts playing on bagpipes along the waterfront... well, suffice to say it's tremendously effective and emotional. This film speaks volumes about the evils of social pressure and conformity, while managing to scare the be-jeezus out of most viewers. Definitely worth having in your collection of sci/fi DVDs! I'll leave you with one final line from the film: "It eez a caper!" "No, it's a rat turd!" :-)

GREAT COLLECTOR'S EDITION OF THE INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS!.......2007-08-22

i have recently saw the new movie THE INVASION starring nicole kidman and daniel craig a third remake of the invasion of the body snatchers.i wont spoil this third entry on my thoughts for now for those who havent seen it yet,so lets move on to the 1978 invasion of the body snatchers,directed by philip kaufman and starring donald sutherland,brooke adams,jeff goldblum,veronica cartwright,leonard nimoy.with special appearances of don seigel,kevin mccarthy and robert duvall.an intense remake of the 1956 classic of the same name based on jack finney's novel.while the 1956 version is far more superior the 1978 version runs close behind with added different twists to the story.the new 2007 collector's edition gives this 1978 small gem the red carpet treatment with better sound and crystal clean print better than its previous release in the late 1990's,with added bonuses on the making of the 1978 film.the question is..is it worth the upgrade?........ the answer is yes!everything you want to know about the 1978 version is right here in this worthwhile package 2 disc set.a great addition to any collections of sci fi.now back to the 2007 INVASION film,the third remake is a (im sorry im falling asleep(yawning)let me get some sleep and ill finish this review another time zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Great New Special Edition of Classis 70's Paranoia .......2007-08-16

I loved this Film from teh first time I viewed it about 5 years ago. Everything is perfect the cast the pace the atmosphere. The New Special Edition is very nice with some small little documentaries on the makings of the film. And just to point out that french title on the cover art on the amazon listing is NOT on the package for some odd reason they got a image of the french/multi lingual release not the US release. I can't tell if the new DVD is better looking than the older release but it is a dual layer disc where as the older release was a flipper WS on one side Pan/Scan on the other, so it should be a bit better in the picture dept enhanced for 16:9 displays. SIDE NOTE:This title is currently under distribution from FOX who for some odd reason doesn't distribute their MGM titles very well. Ever since they were releasing the MGM titles such as Fiddler on the Roof and even the more recent S.E. of Showgirls the titles were very hard to find at first even on any store shelves. In fact FOX couldn't even get online sellers to give the correct street date for the Release of Invasion of the Body Snatchers some are still saying it isn't to be release until Spet 11th. FOX is about to release a bunch of MGM Midnite Movies titles coming in the next month or so. Hopefully these titles will not be hard to find and that someone at FOX will get these titles in stores at a faster pace.

Get INVADED all over again...........2007-08-13

People keep asking me, is this movie worth the double dip?? My reply is YES!!!! I have been waiting for months to receive my copy of this rerelease Collectors Edition and it was worth the wait.

The story needs no recap, everyone in the world should know the story by now. However the special effects are awesome (that man/dog hybrid still works today and the space flowers at the beginning look very organic and real) and the acting is top notch. My favorite performance in the movie is Veronica Cartwright as Nancy. The movie also is still very scary and intense once the action gets going.

The picture on the DVD is a lot cleaner and sharper than the old disc. The widescreen framing appears to be correct, the old version seemed more zoomed in and the credits were slightly cropped off on the sides of the screen.

The sound also has more boom and clarity to it. Those pods hatching sound as creepy today as they did in the theater in 1978.

The extras while not excellent, are pretty good. Wish they would find more stuff for the Blu-Ray version, if they ever release one.

As for the Blu-Ray DVD, Yes I would definitely triple dip for that one if the picture is outstanding and true Hi-Def.

DON'T FALL ASLEEP WATCHING THIS MOVIE!!!.......2007-08-13

The 1978 remake of Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a perennial classic that absol