DVD

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

Average customer rating:

An action movie to top the rest
Captain Jack Sparrow The Flamboyant Pirate.
Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Aar ye mattes
Ahoy Mates

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Starring: Johnny Depp , Geoffrey Rush , Orlando Bloom , Keira Knightley , and Jack Davenport
Director: Gore Verbinski , and Hamilton Luske
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Comic Action | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Swashbucklers | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Sea Adventure | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

All Disney Titles | Disney Home Entertainment | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
X-Men - The Last Stand (Widescreen Edition)
Ice Age - The Meltdown (Widescreen Edition)
Over the Hedge (Widescreen Edition)
The Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B00005JM5E
Release Date: 2003-12-02

Product Description

From producer Jerry Bruckheimer (PEARL HARBOR) comes PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL, the thrilling high-seas adventure with a mysterious twist. The roguish yet charming Captain Jack Sparrow's (Academy Award(R) Nominee Johnny Depp) idyllic pirate life capsizes after his nemesis, the wily Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), steals his ship, the Black Pearl, and later attacks the town of Port Royal, kidnapping the governor's beautiful daughter Elizabeth (Keira Knightley). In a gallant attempt to rescue her and recapture the Black Pearl, Elizabeth's childhood friend Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) joins forces with Jack. What Will doesn't know is that a cursed treasure has doomed Barbossa and his crew to live forever as the undead. Rich in suspense-filled adventure, sword-clashing action, mystery, humor, unforgettable characters, and never-before-seen special effects, PIRATES is a must-have epic on the grandest scale ever.

Amazon.com

You won't need a bottle of rum to enjoy Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, especially if you've experienced the Disneyland theme-park ride that inspired it. There's a galleon's worth of fun in watching Johnny Depp's androgynous performance as Captain Jack Sparrow, a roguish pirate who could pass for the illegitimate spawn of rockers Keith Richards and Chrissie Hynde. Depp gets all the good lines and steals the show, recruiting Orlando Bloom (a blacksmith and expert swordsman) and Keira Knightley (a lovely governor's daughter) on an adventurous quest to recapture the notorious Black Pearl, a ghost ship commandeered by Jack's nemesis Capt. Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), a mutineer desperate to reverse the curse that left him and his (literally) skeleton crew in a state of eternal, undead damnation. Director Gore Verbinski (The Ring) repeats the redundant mayhem that marred his debut film Mouse Hunt, but with the writers of Shrek he's made Pirates into a special-effects thrill-ride that plays like a Halloween party on the open seas. Aye, matey, we've come a long way since Jason and the Argonauts! --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

An action movie to top the rest.......2007-06-27

The first time I watched this I fell asleep...so I didnt watch it for about 2 years then my fiance made me again and I loved it. I guess I aquired a love for pirates in the two years :). This movie takes you on a wild ride on various ships until leading up the black pearl. There were twists and turns the whole way with alot of subtle details thrown in there. All three of the main actors acted beautifully. Johnny Deep played a good role as aiding in much comedic relief. All in All a great buy.

Captain Jack Sparrow The Flamboyant Pirate........2007-06-25

I am one of those rare folks who didnt get around to seeing this movie until years after it came out. Being as the name of the movie is Pirates of the Caribbean I was expecting tough guy pirates stealing and plundering and having sword fights. I did not at all expect Captain Jack Sparrow to be a flamboyant and quite amusing pirate. Johnny Depp completely made this movie for me. His acting is fantastic and so weird you just can't look away. The story line was well thought out and the special effects are fabulous. I highly recommend you check this movie out even if you think you might not like it.

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition).......2007-06-09

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)~ Johnny Depp is a truly grand adventure/fantasy/pirate movie. Johnny Depp is amazing in the part of Jack Sparrow and he is the best and wackiest charachter in the entire movie. The special effects are right on the money and the action scenes are filled with loads of fun. The script is well-written and the movie never drags and one is not left with meaningless scenes that could have been removed. I love this movie and I can not wait to see the sequell.

Aar ye mattes.......2007-06-08

Once started out as a ride at disney world now became a hit movie. Which in my oppinion is an awesome movie. This is a movie the whole family will enjoy.

Ahoy Mates.......2007-06-02

Love Johnny Depp in this movie, what a hottie. Great special effects. LOVE IT. Funny, Entertaining, Great for the family.

Average customer rating:

A moving story of estrangement & reconciliation...
Excellent!
A Perfect Film of a Wonderful Somerset Maugham Story
Good Movie but needs the Big Screen
Wonderful Period Piece

The Painted Veil
Starring: Naomi Watts , Edward Norton , Liev Schreiber , Toby Jones , and Diana Rigg
Director: John Curran (II)
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Notes on a Scandal
The Queen
Little Children
The Last King of Scotland (Widescreen Edition)
The Good Shepherd (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B000NOIX48
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Amazon.com

Produced by Edward Norton and Naomi Watts, The Painted Veil works well as a movie--even better as an actor's showcase. The year is 1925. When her domineering mother pressures her to marry, Kitty (Watts) settles for shy bacteriologist Walter (Norton). Then Walter is transferred from London to Shanghai and the lonely and bored Kitty drifts into an affair with married diplomat Charlie (Liev Schreiber). When Walter finds out, he makes a startling proposition: either Kitty accompanies him to the cholera-infested countryside or he'll divorce her. With no other prospects, she comes along on what looks like a double-suicide mission. Based on the novel by W. Somerset Maugham, The Painted Veil was adapted by Philadelphia's Ron Nyswaner (who knows a little something about infectious diseases). As two previous versions made little impact--despite Garbo's presence in the 1934 melodrama--John Curran's film is sure to stand as definitive. Interestingly, Norton, who studied Chinese history at Yale, chose Watts as his co-star, while Watts chose Curran, for whom she appeared in 2004's underrated We Don't Live Here Anymore. Filmed on location, the handsome production is, in many respects, just as old-fashioned as its source material--sex is merely suggested and Kitty is shocked that their English neighbor (Toby Jones) has a Chinese lover--but the ending packs a feminist twist. Mostly though, The Painted Veil is about the acting, and Watts and Norton, along with Diana Rigg as a disillusioned Mother Superior, have rarely been better. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Description

Based on the classic novel by W. Somerset Maugham, "The Painted Veil" is a love story set in the 1920s that tells the story of a young English couple, Walter, a middle class doctor and Kitty, an upper-class woman, who get married for the wrong reasons and relocate to Shanghai, where she falls in love with someone else. When he uncovers her infidelity, in an act of vengeance, he accepts a job in a remote village in China ravaged by a deadly epidemic, and takes her along. Their journey brings meaning to their relationship and gives them purpose in one of the most remote and beautiful places on earth.

Customer Reviews:

A moving story of estrangement & reconciliation..........2007-07-01

This is a slow paced but beautiful film about marital betrayal, estrangement, reconciliation, forgiveness and love. The cinematography is spectacular, as most of the movie was shot on location in China. Edward Norton and Naomi Watts do a good job as the couple with the tortured relationship. Its pacing and theme will prompt many to dismiss it as a "Chick Flick," but that label does not do justice to this fine movie.

Excellent!.......2007-07-01

I just wanted to give this movie the 5 stars it deserves. I absolutely loved this movie - everything about it was perfect, even it's slow pace which some complain about. Sometimes a movie has to move slowly in order to evoke a certain sense in the viewer. If you want to be totally transported to a different and interesting time and place, then see this movie.

A Perfect Film of a Wonderful Somerset Maugham Story.......2007-06-29

This movie is exquisite---really a perfect little film. And not that little a film really. The pacing, acting, directing, art direction, photography and---most especially---the writing by Ron Nyswaner is just superb. I used to like reading Somerset Maugham in the summer when I went to the beach in New Jersey. All those years ago. His stories were perfect little gems. He was no Virginia Woolf, but he could tell a story. I don't recall ever reading The Painted Veil but I am sure that Somerset would be thrilled with the movie. Bravo to Ron Nyswaner and all involved. Just lovely. Many many bravos!

Good Movie but needs the Big Screen.......2007-06-27

Edward Norton certainly chooses unexpected venues to show off his performance skills - the man is an acting genius and never cliche. I saw this first at the local cineplex and was blown away by the grandure of it. The story, the performances, the technical detail and the scenery are all top rate. I'm sorry to say that it does not translate well to the small screen (even if your small screen is huge). I'm sorry for anyone who did not get to see it in a theater but it's still well worth your time and money to see this DVD.

Wonderful Period Piece.......2007-06-25

This movie is about sacrificing love and grace that is found in the commitment of the marriage bond. This period piece, thought somewhat predictable, is about the process as well as the end story. I bought it after I saw it, and I usually don't do that with movies. I highly recommend it.

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest [Blu-ray]

Average customer rating:

Great movie!
Blu-Ray Heaven
Rate the movie, not your firmware
FIRMWARE UPDATE
THE Blu-ray movie.

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest [Blu-ray]
Starring: Christopher Adamson , Lee Arenberg , Josie Dapar , Johnny Depp , and Spider Madison
Director: Gore Verbinski
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: Blu-ray

Action & Adventure | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

General | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

Comedy | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

Science Fiction & Fantasy | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl [Blu-ray]
Casino Royale [Blu-ray]
Mel Gibson's Apocalypto [Blu-ray]
Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series [Blu-ray]
The Departed [Blu-ray]

ASIN: B000N6UERU
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Product description

Charming rogue pirate Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) is back to wreak hilarious havoc on the high seas on Blu-ray Disc®! Also starring Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightly, this swashbuckling joyride will amaze you as never before in this spectacular, "see-worthy" format! Jack's got a blood debt to pay: he owes his soul to Davy Jones, ghostly Ruler of the Deep. Get caught up in the whirlpool of Jack's misadventures as he schemes to avoid eternal damnation by seizing the fabled Dead Man's Chest. Thrill to the nonstop action, devilish humor, monstrous sea creatures and breathtaking black magic presented in astonishing 1080p and thunderous 5.1 48 kHz, 24-bit uncompressed audio. Experience oceans of fun with Blu-ray™ High Definition.

Customer Reviews:

Great movie!.......2007-07-01

I must say I like the second part better than the first one. The story and characters were amazing. Uncompressed sound is heaven so use a surround sound system! The graphics were pretty good and overall it's a great movie to watch and to collect on Blu ray.

Blu-Ray Heaven.......2007-06-30

The video transfer on this BD is definitely one that would be classed as reference material. I have watched it a few times now with my PS3 set to 1080P feeding my JVC HD1 1080P projector and the picture quality is the bees knees.

Even with my ageing Denon AVR-2802 I can quite clearly hear the quality of the audio. I am expecting to take delivery of the new Onkyo 875 in the next few weeks which I am sure will give me a better idea of how good the audio transfer really is. Suffice to say that with my current equipment I believe the audio transfer is up there with the best available.

Rate the movie, not your firmware.......2007-06-26

This movie is stunning, If you need a firmware update, do it, it's easy and free. Then rate the movie. The 2 pirate movies are outstanding. Disney did an excellent job and I can't wait for pirates 3!

FIRMWARE UPDATE.......2007-06-24

Well the second disc was reconised but the first one got stuck at 0:00,
All the other blu-ray movies I have did have no probs except this one............Sorry one star
I got the sony blu-ray player BWU-100A

THE Blu-ray movie........2007-06-13

Ok, so you want to show off your brand new Bluray player or your PS3 with that amazing HDTV? Buy this movie now.

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl [Blu-ray]

Average customer rating:

Awesome!
Good Blu-ray
Must Have on Blu-ray!
Amazing picture and sound quality
Disney Obviously Loves Blu-ray and So do I

Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl [Blu-ray]
Starring: Lee Arenberg , Johnny Depp , Trevor Goddard , Kevin McNally , and Jonathan Pryce
Director: Gore Verbinski
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: Blu-ray

Action & Adventure | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

General | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

Comedy | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

Kids & Family | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video

Science Fiction & Fantasy | Blu-ray | Formats | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest [Blu-ray]
Casino Royale [Blu-ray]
Mel Gibson's Apocalypto [Blu-ray]
Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series [Blu-ray]
The Departed [Blu-ray]

ASIN: B000N6UERA
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Product description

Set sail for adventure with Disney's Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl on Blu-ray's high definition disc. This revolutionary new format brings the thrilling tale of the high seas to life like never before! Legendary pirate Captain Jack Sparrow and young sword-maker Will Turner join forces to rescue a governor's daughter from a band of bloodthirsty fellow pirates. Only Jack knows the dark secret the crew of the Black Pearl harbors. See the glint of each sword in eye-popping 1080p, and experience every cannon blast with spectacular 5.1 48kHz, uncompressed audio. It's entertainment quality so intense, you'll almost feel the sea mist in the air with the magic of Blu-ray high definition.

Customer Reviews:

Awesome!.......2007-07-02

The last time I saw this was when it first came out on DVD. Bought the Blu-Ray and all I can say is Wow!
The clarity of the picture along with the Uncompressed Audio track, I now use this Movie to show off my Home Theatre!

Good Blu-ray.......2007-07-01

This is a pretty good movie to start the Pirates series. I did notice that this movie was a little grainier than the second part since I own both movies. So as far as the graphics go, it's not too bad, but still a bit grainy. The uncompressed sound is always amazing, and will really rock if you have a surround sound system. By far, it's a collectible movie...so it's in my books.

Must Have on Blu-ray!.......2007-06-27

I scooped up this and PoC:Dead Man's Chest right before PoC:At World's End was released in theaters and WOW! The movies look fantastic Johnny Depp is great as Capt. Jack with all the oddities. Geoffrey Rush is brilliant as Capt. Barbosa. Keira Knightley is just stunningly gorgeous 1080p.
As stated before this blows the dvd away.

Ignore the low rating given by the other reviewer and his "hectic weekend" get a firmware upgrade if you need it and buy the movie.

Amazing picture and sound quality.......2007-06-26

Even if you own this movie on DVD, sell it and get this blu-ray disc! If you need a firmware upgrade on you BD player, it's easy and free to download and install.

This is by far one of the finest HD transfers to date. Thank you Disney, and I can't wait untill the Pixar movies start to show up.

I don't understand the person that gave it a low star rating, your rating the MOVIE not your player.

Disney Obviously Loves Blu-ray and So do I.......2007-06-11

Holy cow! What a release! Even for those like me who have seen this movie a dozen times, Disney found all kinds of new ways to make the movie fresh again.

First off:

Awesome Picture - one of the best I've seen on Blu-ray and I have at least 20 in my collection.

Awesome Sound - The foundation of my house was shaking!

Really cool special features! My favorite was the choice to have pirate facts pop up as you watched the film, and some of the facts could be banked so that at the end of the film, a documentary (that you have created by banking the facts you are interested in) plays. I mean, getting to custon make your own documentary? Only on Blu-ray my friends.

My family and I had a great time watching this film and I highly recomend it!

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Widescreen Edition)

Average customer rating:

awesome movie
Another great movie to add to your collection
Stands alone!
With a yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum - this show's a lotta fun!
Not As Good As The First But Still Fun To Watch.

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Johnny Depp , Orlando Bloom , Keira Knightley , Jack Davenport , and Bill Nighy
Director: Gore Verbinski
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Comic Action | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

All Disney Titles | Disney Home Entertainment | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

Cars (Widescreen Edition)
The Da Vinci Code (Widescreen Two-Disc Special Edition)
Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Ice Age - The Meltdown (Widescreen Edition)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)

ASIN: B000I0RQVI
Release Date: 2006-12-05

Product Description

Take the first Pirates of the Caribbean film, add a dash of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and a lot more rum. Shake well and you'll have something resembling Dead Man's Chest, a bombastic sequel that's enjoyable as long as you don't think too hard about it. The film opens with the interrupted wedding of Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley), both of whom are arrested for aiding in the escape of Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) in the first film. Their freedom can only be obtained by getting Captain Jack's compass, which is linked to a key that's linked to a chest belonging to Davy Jones, an undead pirate with a tentacle face and in possession of a lot of people's souls. If you're already confused, don't worry--plot is definitely not the strong suit of the franchise, as the film excels during its stunt pieces, which are impressively extravagant (in particular a three-way swordfight atop a mill wheel). It may help to know that Dead Man's Chest was filmed simultaneously with some of Pirates 3, so don't expect a complete resolution (think more The Empire Strikes Back) or the movie will feel a lot longer than it really is.

Amazon.com

Bloom shows a tad bit more brawn this time around, but he's still every bit as pretty as the tomboyish Knightley. (Seriously, sometimes you think they could swap roles.) Bill Nighy (Love, Actually) weighs in as Davy Jones and Stellan Skarsgård appears as Will's undead father. But the film still belongs wholly to Depp, who in a reprise of his Oscar-nominated role gets all the belly laughs with a single widened eyeliner-ed gaze. He still runs like a cartoon hen and slurs like Keith Richards--and he's still one of the most fascinating movie characters in recent history. --Ellen A. Kim

More Pirates at Amazon.com

Johnny Depp DVDs
Buy Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl
Buy the Soundtrack

Customer Reviews:

awesome movie.......2007-07-02

awesome sequel to the first one! i love the special effects in this one with Davy Jones and the Kraken! also, jack sparrow was hilarious as always! :D

Another great movie to add to your collection.......2007-06-27

This movie had me sitting on the edge of my chair throughout it. Once again, all of the cast plays an outstanding role. The whole object of this movie is to get the keys from Davy Jones to get to Dead Mans Chest. Its an awesome movie. I recomend it to everyone.

Stands alone!.......2007-06-27

FUN! I always look at sequels from at least two angles: as a sequel and as a movie without a predesessor. This movie can easily stand alone.

With a yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum - this show's a lotta fun!.......2007-06-26

I finally sat down and watched this DVD - I have no idea why I waited so long, I'm a Johnny Depp fan and love the way he lives and breaths his characters. He is especially believable as Jack Sparrow - lovable despite his tendency to think predominantly of his own well-being or how to line his pockets.

A good bit of time has passed since the previous movie and the East India Trade company has moved into the area; bringing with it the detestable Lord Beckett, who has Will arrested on his wedding day and drags him to the site - where Elizabeth forlornly sits in the rain, in her wedding dress - in chains. And proceeds to arrest Elizabeth as well. What does he want? He wants Jack Sparrow's compass and he's willing to make a deal to get it - he will send Will out to find Sparrow and get the compass in exchange for a pardon for Sparrow and leniency for Will and Elizabeth.

The movie has amazing special effects - like the first movie, the crew of the antagonistic ship is completely crewed by "monsters," requiring extensive special effects. Personally, I liked the special effects in this movie better - I was fascinated by the constant movement on many of the characters. The kraken was also pretty cool, especially toward the end where you get to see the main body and mouth of the "beastie," as Jack puts it.

This movie does end on a bit of a cliff-hanger, with a bit of a surprise thrown at us right at the end that I certainly didn't see coming. I will definitely be looking forward to watching "At World's End" once it is released to DVD. A recommend from me for anyone who enjoys a good adventure flick, some fun sword fights (love the water-mill scene - shades of a hamster wheel, anyone??) and terrific special effects. Not for the people who prefer to be intellectually challenged or go to "theatres" to see "films" - this is definitely a movie ;-) Get it, watch it, enjoy it!

Not As Good As The First But Still Fun To Watch........2007-06-25

Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest is not as good as the first but still worth watching. The story is full of holes and slightly hard to follow at times but the acting is still great. I just cannot get enough of Johnny Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow as a flamboyant pirate. If you saw the first movie you need to see this one. If you havent seen the first yet, go back and view that one before this movie.

Average customer rating:

Creative and Thoroughly Well Done
One of the Best
A New Standard for Catatonic, Brainless Stupidity
Happy Feet = Happy Heart
Happy Feet (Widescreen Edition)

Happy Feet (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Carlos Alazraqui , Lombardo Boyar , Johnny A. Sanchez , Robin Williams , and Elijah Wood
Director: George Miller (II)
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Animals | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Animation | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Family Films | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Animation | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Charlotte's Web (Widescreen Edition)
Night at the Museum (Widescreen Edition)
The Pursuit of Happyness (Widescreen Edition)
Casino Royale (2-Disc Widescreen Edition)
Flushed Away (Widescreen Edition)

ASIN: B00005JPCF
Release Date: 2007-03-27

Amazon.com

For anyone who thought the Oscar-winning documentary March of the Penguins was the most marvelous cinematic moment for these nomads of the south, you haven't seen nothing yet. Happy Feet is an animated wonder about a penguin named Mumble who can't sing, but can dance up a storm. George Miller, the driving force behind the Babe (and Mad Max) movies, takes another creative step in family entertainment with this big, beautiful, music-fueled film that will have kids and their parents dancing in the streets. From his first moment alive, Mumble (voiced Elijah Woods) feels the beat and can't stop dancing. Unfortunately, emperor penguins are all about finding their own heart song, and the dancing youngster--as cute as he is--is a misfit. Luckily, he bumps into little blue penguins and a Spanish-infused group (led by Robin Williams) and begins a series of adventures. Miller has an exceptional variety of entertainment: Busby Berkley musical numbers, amusement-park thrills, exciting chase sequences (seals and orca lovers might like think otherwise), and even an environmental message that doesn't weigh you down. Best of all, you don't know where the movie is going in the last act, a rare occurrence these days in family entertainment. A fusion of rock songs, mashed-up and otherwise, are featured; this movie is as much a musical as a comedy. Mumble's solo dance to a new version of Stevie Wonder's "I Wish" by Fantasia, Patti, and Yolanda may be the most joyful moment on camera in 2006. --Doug Thomas

On the DVD
There are two new animated sequences, which aren't incorporated into the film. One's a half-minute hackysack-themed bit, but the other is a good-looking, two-minute scene featuring the late Steve Irwin as an albatross, who, with Mumble, encounters a blue whale. "Dance Like a Penguin: Stomp to the Beat" is hosted by Savion Glover, whose dancing was motion-captured for the film, but other than a couple basic tips, it's pretty much a demonstration rather than a lesson. In addition to the two music videos (Gia's "Hit Me Up" and Prince's "The Song of the Heart"), "I Love to Singa" is an appropriately matched 1936 Merrie Melodies cartoon in which a young owl ruffles feathers by wanting to sing jazz for his classical-music-loving family. --David Horiuchi

More Happy Feet

Blu-ray
Combo HD/DVD
More Penguin DVDs

Description

In the great nation of Emperor Penguins, deep in Antarctica, you're nobody unless you can sing - which is unfortunate for Mumble (ELIJAH WOOD), who is the worst singer in the world. He is born dancing to his own tune...tap dancing. As fate would have it, his one friend, Gloria (BRITTANY MURPHY), happens to be the best singer around. Mumble and Gloria have a connection from the moment they hatch, but she struggles with his strange "hippity- hoppity" ways. Away from home for the first time, Mumble meets a posse of decidedly un-Emperor-like penguins - the Adelie Amigos. Led by Ramon (ROBIN WILLIAMS), the Adelies instantly embrace Mumble's cool dance moves and invite him to party with them. In Adelie Land, Mumble seeks the counsel of Lovelace the Guru (also voiced by ROBIN WILLIAMS), a crazy-feathered Rockhopper penguin who will answer any of life's questions for the price of a pebble. Together with Lovelace and the Amigos, Mumble sets out across vast landscapes and, after some epic encounters, proves that by being true to yourself, you can make all the difference in the world.

Customer Reviews:

Creative and Thoroughly Well Done.......2007-06-30

Memphis sings, dances and speaks like Elvis.

Norma Jean comes complete with a well-placed mole and Marilyn Monroe's accent.

Mumble's wide-eyed, upbeat nature can't be beat.

Robin Williams' Lovelace is warm and smooth.

And of course there is Savion Glover's happy footwork!

I loved this movie and continue to watch it over and over again, when I need something sweet and uplifting without the calories.

One of the Best.......2007-06-30

I really like this movie for the simple fact of what it was trying to convey; Somehow, the penguins could sing, but poor Mumble, couldn't. I like it when his mother kept on being there for him no matter what. But what I like is the fact that they had this whole darn chior, but this ONE little fella couldn't sing to save his life if he could. Very interesting movie.

A New Standard for Catatonic, Brainless Stupidity.......2007-06-30

The most utterly plotless, stupid movie ever made. Penguins walking around on ice; occasionally singing and swimming. Sometimes they sing in spanish.

An intelligent adult would be fast asleep within 5 minutes of turning on this film.

When I say 1 star, read about -5 stars. This film truly sucks.

Happy Feet = Happy Heart.......2007-06-27

This was a really cute movie. I loved the characters and the animation was excellent. I had to remind myself that I was looking at an animated show because sometimes it was so real like. Wonderful movie for both kids and adults.

Happy Feet (Widescreen Edition).......2007-06-27

I knew from the first promo I ever saw for "Happy Feet" that I HAD to see the film. It was a joyful, wonderful, touching and sometimes sad film that I saw in a theatre and KNEW I would have to own as soon as it came out on DVD.

The vocal characterizations and music are wonderful. The humor range is grin-from-ear-to-ear to laugh-out-loud. In particular, the banter of "the amigos," Mumble's small penguin friends is delightful.

The central theme of a child being different from what society expects him to be should hit home with anyone who has ever been different. Mumble's inability to sing well and his wanting to dance instead causes no end of embarrassment to his father Memphis. Mumble's predicament has been shared by every kid who was not as athletic/beautiful/gifted etc. as a parent has wished.

I resented the critics who thought the movie got off-track when it got into the question of humans ruining the environment for so many species. The fact of the matter is that loss of habitat, over-fishing, pollution and extinction are all facts of humanity's impact on the planet. "Happy Feet" should be applauded for bringing this message in a way that might inspire even the littlest among us to care for Earth and all Her children.

Ultimately, the film celebrates tolerance, being true to oneself and, hopefully, the ultimate acceptance by society that "different" is not synonymous with "evil."

"Happy Feet" truly deserved the Oscar for best animated feature of 2006.

Kudos.

Average customer rating:

A comedy about drama
Still juicy yet better than season 1 set....
Second season was more real.
Thought Provoking and Very Funny
WONDERFUL

Noah's Arc - The Complete Second Season
Starring: Keith Boykin , Darryl Stephens , Johnny Smith (VI) , George Keith , and Alistair Abell
Director: Patrik-Ian Polk
Manufacturer: Paramount Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Television | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Noah's Arc - The Complete First Season
Dante's Cove - The Complete Second Season
Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds
Dante's Cove
Another Gay Movie

ASIN: B000P5FH6C
Release Date: 2007-06-12

Product Description

Navigating life and love in L.A. isn't easy, and no one knows that better than Noah and his friends - Alex, Ricky & Chance. LOGO's ground-breaking, one-of-a-kind series Noah's Arc follows all four as they chart an uncertain course through the City of Angels, where laughter and drama are never in short supply.

Customer Reviews:

A comedy about drama.......2007-07-02

The second season of Noah's Arc has all the comedy, drama, and excitement of the first with even more hilarious twists and turns. The season begins with Noah and friends seeing Wade at a bar and Noah realizing, much to his chagrin, that Wade has moved on. Even though he's involved in a relationship himself, Noah finds that he's still in love with Wade and has to come to terms with those feelings over the course of this season. Chance and his husband Eddie are working on strengthening their marriage and learning to be better parents, while Ricky finally accepts that he cares for Genito and decides to try and make it work. Finally, Alex lets his jealousy take over again when Trey begins hanging out with his friends too much.

This season tackles all sorts of issues, including trust in a relationship, infidelity, living with a partner who has AIDS, and homophobia. It seems, at times, that the writers tried to squeeze every gay issue they possibly could into this short season and, with only eight episodes, at times it feels a bit rushed. Still, I have to say this is one of my favorite shows from Logo just because of the hilarious dialogue between the characters and their Sex and the City dynamic. Logo marketed this show as Sex and the City meets Soul Food and I'm going to say it also has elements of Queer as Folk and The L Word. I would highly recommend Noah's Arc for a fun weekend in when you're in the mood for some laughs.

Still juicy yet better than season 1 set...........2007-06-24

For those who know of Noah's Arc know that the show is a one of a kind experience because it explores Black gay culture and not the standard norm of perceived gay culture. On the second season box set of Noah's Arc, the entire show has been upgraded with lots of features unlike the season 1 set that wouldn't dare compare to season 2. I must say that I am still looking for the easter egg of Trey's calendar shoot. Patrik-Ian Polk, the show's creator, mentioned it on his My Space blog as well as Amazon has it listed in the features so it's somewhere on one of the three discs. Overall, this set should be bought and watched repeatedy it's that good. However I must tell you that in order to enjoy the enitre show you have to get the season 1 dvd in order to know what exactly is going on in season 2.

Second season was more real........2007-06-19

I was glad to see the characters more fleshed out in the second season. The story line and production was really punched up. The sets, wardobe, music selections and guest stars were refreshing. I only wish the show was an hour long. Too often, I would want more time to watch the show. 30 minutes just wasn't enough!

Thought Provoking and Very Funny.......2007-06-16

A television series about a previously ignored group of people certainly deserves attention, and I applaud the creators of Noah's Arc for daring to present the first series about the lives of African-American Gay men. Even better, after watching both seasons on DVD, I found that Noah's Arc mostly lived up to its well-deserved accolades. The characters are quirky, the plot lines fast and furious, the laughs frequent and genuine and the drama quite effective.

I admit I was initially disappointed by the quality of the acting, until I realized that it took a few episodes for the cast to fully hit their stride, and I believe that the series perfectly fit its tag line, "A comedy about drama". After I relaxed into it, I came to care about the characters and their situations quite a bit. By the time I finished the DVD of Season One, I was so addicted to Noah and his friends that I had to purchase Season Two, even though it seemed the creators sometimes tried to squeeze just a little too much plot into a 22-minute format. But considering the constraints they had to work with, in the end I marveled at how skillfully the writers weaved in a myriad of subjects and plotlines, subtly handling many important issues without ever being heavy handed.

The lead character Noah is a case in point. I quickly caught on that his character is deliberately rather feminine, and I realized that the writers wanted viewers to get comfortable with the idea that this slight, delicate and very femme gay man managed in eight short episodes to attract the romantic attention of a half-dozen masculine, sexy co-stars and guest stars. The story of Noah's romance with his on-again off-again boyfriend Wade (played by the adorably dimpled hunk, Jensen Atwood) is the primary focus of the plot, although each episode also found time to explore the daily lives, loves and dramas of his three best friends, Alex, Ricky and Chance (for those who don't get it, Alex Ricky Chance = Noah's ARC, according to a comment by the series creator).

But at first I wasn't sure if Noah's wardrobe and femme manner were meant to be the biggest "in-joke" of the series. In an early episode, while his character is crying poverty and falls behind on his rent, he is dressed (as always) in an ever-changing ensemble of ultra-chic couture, much of which makes him look even more effeminate. Eventually, the effeminacy issue was tackled head-on quite satisfactorily, and one character's speech about "effemina-phobia" and his subtle but powerful comments on the anti-eroticism / ostracism of femme men in the gay male subculture was extremely thought provoking. This is the show's biggest strength; it manages to delve very subtly into issues that many members of the gay male community (and indeed, many gay films and novels) completely ignore, without spoiling the humor or getting too preachy. Before long, I realized that the creators were definitely making a statement with the fact that some of Noah's outfits bordered on cross-dressing, even while I could never be sure if his clothes were meant to be taken seriously or not. Noah's boyfriends were all extreme hunks (one thing this show does not lack for is eye candy) but all the while the disparity between Noah's feminine nature and the masculinity of his various suitors made me feel uncomfortable and definitely conscious of the looks-ism and anti-femme bigotry that permeate the gay male world today. Bravo!

In fact, the most satisfying aspect of the series was that it tackled a surprising number of real-life issues with humor and charm, and I was amazed that through the relatively short run of this show, Noah's Arc discussed a variety of important topics, like HIV testing and awareness, the "down-low" subculture, sero-discordant couples, gay dating, gay marriage, sexual compulsion, monogamy, gay bashing, and the previously mentioned delicate issue of "effemina-phobia" (and whichever writer on this show coined that word deserves a medal), all with a refreshing mix of light-hearted laugh-out-loud humor and (at times) dead serious drama. As often as I found myself laughing hysterically, I also found myself extremely touched by the dramatic situations and challenged by the serious, provocative subject matter.

There was one major disappointment - although I was aware even before I acquired the Season Two DVD set that the show had not been renewed for a third season, I was not prepared for the abrupt, unresolved cliffhanger ending of the final episode, which left the fate of one of the main characters completely up in the air. This was quite annoying, since there was no opportunity to resolve this plot point. For this reason alone, I must subtract one star from what would otherwise be a five star review.

Despite this shortcoming, Noah's Arc gets five stars for effort, ten stars for its genuinely funny moments, and a big thank you for discussing so many important topics without being preachy or trite. May it be a harbinger of things to come.

WONDERFUL.......2007-06-12

The tale of Noah and his cohorts continues. Fun and heartbreaking. Why did LOGO drop the series?..Dumb move as far as I'm concerned. Anyhow, you will love this season as well as the first.

The Ultimate Johnny Carson Collection - His Favorite Moments from The Tonight Show (Vols. 1-3) (1962-1992)

Average customer rating:

YOU MUST SEE 'THE GREAT FLYDINI"...THE BEST OF CARSON!
A More Definitive and Comprehensive Release Needed In Honor of Johnny
The Ultimate Johnny Carson Collection - His Favorite Moments from The Tonight Show (Vols. 1-3) (1962-1992)
Disappointing
Here-e-e-e-r's Johnny!

The Ultimate Johnny Carson Collection - His Favorite Moments from The Tonight Show (Vols. 1-3) (1962-1992)
Starring: Skitch Henderson , Milton Delugg , Doc Severinsen , Teresa Ganzel , and Conte Candoli
Director: Dick Carson , Frederick De Cordova , and Bobby Quinn
Manufacturer: Carson Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Television | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Classics | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

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

The Carol Burnett Show - Show Stoppers
Johnny Carson - The Tonight Show: Return to Studio One, 3/6/69
The Best of Carson, Volume 1
Johnny Carson: Carson Country
Here Is...The Johnny Carson Show

ASIN: B000068WS7
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Amazon.com

Culled from 30 years of material, this collection of moments from The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson contains some of most inspired bits of lunacy ever recorded. Whether cajoling with Hollywood's biggest stars or normal folk with special talents, Carson was a master of finding the right joke, with timing second to none. Along with bits of his opening monologues, skits, and early standup appearances from the likes of David Letterman and Eddie Murphy, there are many highlights with perhaps the perfect Carson guest--exotic animals that stole the show. This collection was released shortly after Carson's reign ended in 1992. Although most of the tapes from his first decade are lost, there are plenty of highlights from the '70s through the '90s. Also included is Carson's touching and historic "Final Show," which finds the host simply talking to his audience and showing highlights--or just the faces--from his years on the set. Although many followed--and a few have even succeeded--Carson's Midwest charm made him the king of TV in a period when America was defined by television.

The DVD edition adds some superlative extras, including "Danger Johnny" segments from his first decade, short bits on the history of the show and the host, and more behind-the-scenes glances, including an intriguing way to watch the final show via unedited feeds from isolated studio cameras. Also included is the 1982 NBC special "Johnny Goes Home," which follows Carson on a tour of his rural Nebraska homeland, and a slightly edited version of the penultimate show, in which his last two guests, Robin Williams and Bette Midler, are on fire. These extras make the DVD, produced a decade after Carson left, a must-have piece of entertainment and pop history. --Doug Thomas

Description

On his final Tonight Show telecast, Johnny Carson summed up the feelings of a nation of late night viewers. Host of the most highly-acclaimed late night show in television history, for seven presidential administrations, Johnny's monologue was a nightly barometer of the times. While his wide range of characters, comic impersonations and merry band of Tonight Show regulars became fixtures of pop culture, his guest list was a virtual Who's Who of show business legends, sports heroes, authors, heads of state, amazing animals and average citizens with above average talents. For fans of Johnny, The Tonight Show and 30 wonderful years of laughter, this is the definitive retrospective chronicling television's late night legend and legacy. Enjoy.
Volume 1 - The Best of the 60s & 70s; The Best of the 70s & 80s
Volume 2 - The Best of the 80s & 90s; Johnny Goes Home
Volume 3 - 5.21.92 Episode (never before available); The Final Show

Customer Reviews:

YOU MUST SEE 'THE GREAT FLYDINI"...THE BEST OF CARSON!.......2007-06-10

WE BOUGHT THIS SET AS A GIFT WITH INSTRUCTIONS ON FINDING THE SEGMENT OF STEVE MARTIN'S "GREAT FLYDINI" ROUTINE. THE RECIPIENT WATCHED IT OVER AND OVER AND WE MUTUALLY DECIDED MARTIN IS A COMIC GENIUS...AND THAT CARSON KNEW AND APPRECIATED THE BEST TALENT ON EARTH. MAKES A GREAT GIFT OF LAUGHTER.

A More Definitive and Comprehensive Release Needed In Honor of Johnny.......2007-05-18

A lot has changed with " Johnny's Favorite Moments" since their original early 90's release on VHS. I picked up this set and noticed some skits were left off. The late Sam Kinison is a good example, and his Elvis lullaby ode to women who have torn his heart out.

Where is it? Another volume? I have noticed other volumes, but these are unavailable. I just remember there being so much more than what is on this DVD set.

Anyway, a more comprehensive/definitive release should be produced. The red carpet needs to be rolled out in honor of a comic genius and his wide-spread influence on an American mainstream audience that couldn't get enough of him. Wouldn't you agree?

The Ultimate Johnny Carson Collection - His Favorite Moments from The Tonight Show (Vols. 1-3) (1962-1992).......2007-05-10

great dvd esp if you like johnny carson...it was great

Disappointing.......2007-04-11

The great comics that appeared for years on the Tonight Show, such as Don Rickles and Rodney Dangerfield, are largely ignored. All the great band music isn't here. Only one singer is featured, Bette Midler, crooning to Johnny on the final show. Only traces of the opening monologues appear. The best feature is a Steve Martin bit on the second disc: The Great Flydini. Now that's funny! But on the whole, this is a great disappointment, and certainly not worth the money.

Here-e-e-e-r's Johnny! .......2007-03-26

It is a refreshing privilege having just viewed this 3-DVD video anthology of Johnny Carson's very successful TV career without have to be leary whether or not those shows were suitable for all-family-viewing or needed to be screened for children like many of the contemporary TV shows requiring parental lock-out! The video clips extracted from his entire 30+ year TV career are a breath of freshness compared to so much of the tripe that is present-day, à la mode humor! NO ONE ever will or EVER could be capable of replacing Mr. Carson's genre of humor, facial expressions, gestures, and the myriad of interesting guests he chose for his TV presentations. We will always miss you Johnny but thank goodness for this SUPER career presentation!! You will always be remembered as a truely philanthropic, generous patron of the TV arts forever! His original die was cast when he was born, had a fairytale career and can no longer be replicated. His legacy is of special interest to me because he hailed from my hometown area close to his hometown of Norfolk, Nebraska; he was a popular figure while he attended OUR University of Nebraska, and later on so generously contributed some of his good fortune back into so many living tributes for the State of Nebraska to show his appreciation. Thank you Mr. Johnny 'Legendary' Carson!!

Average customer rating:

Grease (Rockin" Rydell Edition
Great Movies
Grease
A classic, must have for every collection
Tell me more, tell me more....

Grease (Rockin' Rydell Edition)
Starring: John Travolta , Olivia Newton-John , Stockard Channing , Jeff Conaway , and Barry Pearl
Director: Randal Kleiser
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Auto Sports | Sports | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Grease 2
Grease (Original 1978 Motion Picture Soundtrack)
Dirty Dancing (Ultimate Edition)
Footloose (Special Collector's Edition)
The Sound of Music (Two-Disc 40th Anniversary Special Edition)

ASIN: B000GBEWHA
Release Date: 2006-09-19

Amazon.com essential video

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

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

Description

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tell me more, tell me more...........2007-05-14

A should have DVD in your collection! The special features are awesome! John and Olivia reunited again on stage...wow..lots of emotions there! Buy it, you'll enjoy it as much as I did!

Average customer rating:

I Love Chocolat!!
Tempted by the Bittersweet Treat
Chocolat...DVD
bittersweet 'Chocolat' for me.....
Chocolat

Chocolat (Miramax Collector's Series)
Starring: Juliette Binoche , Alfred Molina , Carrie-Anne Moss , Judi Dench , and Antonio Gil-Martinez
Director: Lasse Hallström
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Art House & International | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Foreign & International | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

Like Water for Chocolate
What's Eating Gilbert Grape
Benny and Joon
Don Juan DeMarco
Amelie

ASIN: B00005K3OT
Release Date: 2001-08-07

Amazon.com

With movies like Chocolat, it's always best to relax your intellectual faculties and absorb the abundant sensual pleasures, be it the heart-stopping smile of chocolatier Juliette Binoche as she greets a new customer, an intoxicating cup of spiced hot cocoa, or the soothing guitar of an Irish gypsy played by Johnny Depp. Adapted by Robert Nelson Jacobs from Joanne Harris's popular novel and lovingly directed by Lasse Hallström, the film covers familiar territory and deals in broad metaphors that even a child could comprehend, so it's no surprise that some critics panned it with killjoy fervor. Their objections miss the point. Familiarity can be comforting and so can easy metaphors when placed in a fable that's as warmly inviting as this one.

Driven by fate, Vianne (Binoche) drifts into a tranquil French village with her daughter Anouk (Victoire Thivisol, from Ponette) in the winter of 1959. Her newly opened chocolatier is a source of attraction and fear, since Vianne's ability to revive the villagers' passions threatens to disrupt their repressive traditions. The pious mayor (Alfred Molina) sees Vianne as the enemy, and his war against her peaks with the arrival of "river rats" led by Roux (Depp), whose attraction to Vianne is immediate and reciprocal. Splendid subplots involve a battered wife (Lena Olin), a village elder (Judi Dench), and her estranged daughter (Carrie-Anne Moss), and while the film's broader strokes may be regrettable (if not for Molina's rich performance, the mayor would be a caricature), its subtleties are often sublime. Chocolat reminds you of life's simple pleasures and invites you to enjoy them. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Nominated for 5 Academy Awards(R) including Best Picture, Best Actress (Juliette Binoche -- THE ENGLISH PATIENT), and Best Supporting Actress (Judi Dench -- SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE), CHOCOLAT is the beautiful and captivating comedy from the acclaimed director of THE CIDER HOUSE RULES! Nobody could have imagined the impact that the striking Vianne (Binoche) would make when she arrived in a tranquil, old-fashioned French town. In her very unusual chocolate shop, Vianne begins to create mouth-watering confections that almost magically inspire the straitlaced villagers to abandon themselves to temptation and happiness! But it is not until another stranger, the handsome Roux (Johnny Depp -- SLEEPY HOLLOW), arrives in town that Vianne is finally able to recognize her own desires!

Customer Reviews:

I Love Chocolat!!.......2007-06-28

This movie is visually and mentally appealing I could almost taste the chocolate.

The message is as good as chocolate!

Tempted by the Bittersweet Treat.......2007-06-27

About a year ago my very Italian husband came home and announced that we were going to "as a family" now make chocolates in the shape of icosahedrons, tetrahedrons, dodecahedrons and octahedrons and MORE. This to be a part of his largely then mentally imagined company, Math Through the Ages. (Now it is very real and I will be launching many projects around it...and he has shown me I need to shut up sometimes.)
And what this candy would be, was a tasty treat aspect to the wares for families and kids. They would play and eat to better know and work with Math conceptually. In ways designed to develop math proofs with actual doing, something that is always actually our orientation in teaching in schools. " The platonic solids, Sarah", he said, "Are our answer."

(I might add this was somewhat better received on my part than when after my second baby he announced I should in my maternity leave run a 12 baby daycare because he "always wanted this".)

But I looked at him dumbfounded because he followed this with, "What do you know of chocolates and candy making". Well I knew this movie. And I can make something called a "Buckeye" which is peanut butter, powdered sugar and dipped in chocolate.

So it would seem that we had some point of connection as he was hoping for Juliette Binoche to step forward and begin a rich Latin chocolate cooking experience. I would say for a fantasy that's a fair one. Or for a kind of sensual pleasure this movie would awaken most men and women to the luxury of food, the pleasure of watching her on-screen and relating to Depp is lovely. But dressed in an old t shirt, too chubby, covered with Elmer's glue, glitter and ambivalent about how many minutes it would be before we argued over any process we started together I made the mistake of a guffaw. Men generally presenting their fantasy dreams do not appreciate this response. It's a cooling kind of thing. I have learned this. But...perhaps I could start by explaining my life might more closely resemble Green Acres.

I was very ill when I first watched this with peritonitis, again, and about a week from a month in the hospital some three or four years ago, actually doubled over the next day and in some rigid pain this day and I still found it a wonderful escape. Which is why Jack went out and got it. I'd just finished an angiogram in Anaheim(no it wasn't the heart, it was cancer) and right after that everything really went to hell. The storyline of the movie, I'll leave for others having recently been told about my spoiler nature. (Yes secrets are difficult for me sometimes) But I will say this story was beautifully filmed, set into a kind of place not unlike the Secrets of Roan Innish, a mystical realism.

I like magical tales and the weaving of this suited me when a magical escape was something I needed. If you are a woman or man that likes love stories I think you'll like this movie a great deal. If you have been on another planet you'll hear it here first. Shortly afterwards it was Dilaudid for me and then that might have heightened my recall of it as so very magical (or whatever they called the tripping pain med.)

So to be a bit more self-referential my husband would like, I think, to have our home be like this kitchen, filled with these wonderful treats that bring alive libido and sensual passions created by this magical maker. Me too.

I fumble around with cobblers and country fried steaks and the occasional pound cake. It is also true I am too plump for the fantasy. But I could play the diabetic sweet treat loving older lady, a sage dying so meaningfully especially in the party scene. One of the things that is so nice about this movie is Judy Dench and how her character serves to speak of a very powerful older woman, her complexities of feeling and her decisions regarding her health and her being in the living world, and her death, and how she choses to go. In a way this serves to ground you in living your life on your own terms and realizing you probably will in many ways mess up most of it. I would interject the movie suggests to live for love. The way her story is woven into the tapestry of the lives of the characters, the magic of these (filmed) days when life went upside over as a part of the construct of a home the candy maker builds in her wind blown life is fascinating. I'll spoil it to tell it and sound ridiculous not telling it.But Binoche serves as someone who forces other to deal with their heart. And is finally served the same by way of the vehicle of the chocolates and what they evoke from the characters.
The ins and outs of everyone's revelations spring out,their deeply held secrets revealed, their facing truths and it would seem their coming out of cowardice into the power of love, into a wind which blows it all upside down and right again. Too good. Oh, I wish it were so. I can think of this in relationship to several stories I do love. Their connection through the chocolates/shop/this powerful woman shaman is so cool. Facing their foolishly going wrong lives amazes me. The construct of her blowing into communities, making connections moving on, needing to find the home, to finally stay somewhere and the tension between moving on and admitting the need to have a place for love to matter hits you. Yes I'll stay in that village. Sure. I really like the plot line, can you tell?

It is a kind of story line that would appeal to my husband. And I'm almost afraid to think about that anymore right now.

No I am not wrapped up in the creation of chocolates yet though he has a mold maker and has brought in many chocolate molds.Really. I'm not capable of really playing this part, as said, and I can foresee how crazy an idea this is for us. Turning 48 Sunday and needing to just learn to make a good pie crust is enough. I don't think I could run a geodesic candy company. But I could taste a few of the treats. He came in with bulk chocolate recently from Trader Joe's and I made a note to myself to get him this on DVD for his "office" on his day. Or just hope for a sequel.

It is a lovely piece of art. Widely seen and enjoyed. Beautiful fantasy and insight into the mind's eye of my husband and insightful for me as I contemplate the realities of bittersweet chocolates.

Chocolat...DVD.......2007-06-27

Watched this years ago, after Juliet Binoche lost the Emmy to Julia Roberts . i had not heard of the movie til then. Now it had my curiosity.
The story line is so different, it is a combination of a little intrigue, a little eccentric town and a twist that will surprise you.
Johnny Depp appears in a small role, but is charming.Chocolat (Miramax Collector's Series)

bittersweet 'Chocolat' for me............2007-06-12

First, let me start this review by saying how much I adore chocolate (the food). I mean, there is a reason that women love this stuff. Personally, I would even be so bold as to say I prefer my chocolate dark and bittersweet (I can get more antioxidents from this, too--another incentive). Now, moving on to the movie. How would I describe CHOCOLAT if I were to compare it to a bar of the dark stuff? Well, I can't say it tastes authentic. My favorite type of chocolate isn't even European, or French, for that matter. It's Ecuadorian, with a cocoa count of [at least] 75%. CHOCOLAT wants to be this kind of chocolate. Instead, it ends being more of a blend of Hershey's milk chocolate (to please the American consumers) with the sensibility of a dash of French dark. In other words, not really smooth or memorable, but it wants to be!

I'll add in just a dash of synopsis, here, to get a sense of the recipe. For starters, director Lasse Hallstrom (or should I say "sous chef") paints the picture of a conservative little French town that Vianne Rocher (Juliette Binoche) swoops into, with her daughter, Anouk (Victoire Thivisol). This ultimately poses a great challenge to the Comte (Alfred Molina) and most everyone else. Why? Because Vianne has set up a Chocolaterie (chocolate shop) during Lent--an observance that the devoutly Catholic villagers strongly uphold. This is a time when they abstain from indulgences (especially foods like chocolate!). This also co-stars Johnny Depp.

Though, CHOCOLAT delivers in terms of visual beauty and spectacle, and the chocolates look divine, the storyline and most of the rest of this film leave a lot to be desired. Yes, a lot of you will think I am being harsh. Yet, while I sat there, watching this film (I won't even lie to you--I saw it twice), I couldn't help but feel that CHOCOLAT stole gimmicks from virtually every film genre focusing on mysticism, magical realism or food and claimed them as their own. The filmmakers desperately wanted to make the story something for everyone. We have a swashbuckling pirate (Johnny Depp), who is Irish, nonetheless. We have the mysterious stranger who sails into a town with her daughter, and no one knows her background. Is she a heretic? A witch with a cauldron of chocolatey sacreligious goodness--made to saturate and corrupt the palates of the unsuspecting villagers? We even have a subplot alluding to a battered wife (Lena Olin). Good lord! The gimmicks boggle the mind. Okay, dear readers. Thank you for sticking with me on this review. Those of you who were diligent enough to read it, I have a verdict for you. Skip this film and watch.....I am thinking LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE. Hey, it even has chocolate in the title, and you'll never look at wedding cake quite the same way again.

Chocolat.......2007-05-12

I saw Chocolat at the theater when it was new, now I've bought it for my collection. I love Chocolat every time I watch it!!

DVD:

DVD

DVD

Internal Affairs

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Lion King [Read-Along] [1994]

DVD: Eat My Dust

DVD 014