DVD

Average customer rating:

Miss Potter - a life of courage and beauty
Light-hearted, charming and full of colorful friends
a gem
An Outstanding and Heart Warming Film
Renee Zellweger deserves 6 Stars as does the Movie!!!

Miss Potter
Starring: Renée Zellweger , Ewan McGregor , Emily Watson , Barbara Flynn , and Bill Paterson
Director: Chris Noonan
Manufacturer: Weinstein Company
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000N4SHOE
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Description

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

Customer Reviews:

Miss Potter - a life of courage and beauty.......2007-07-02

The quiet introduction of a watercolorist at work, sparkling with swirls of vivid color, set the mood for this wonderful, gentle film. The settings were a feast for the eyes, and the story development moved at an satisfactorily eighteenth century pace, but the impeccable characters, wonderfully played, are the life-blood of this movie. The brisk energy of Beatrix [Zellweger], the engaging smile of Norman Warne [MacGregor], and the directness and kindness of Millie [Watson] created a marvelous chemisty. In joy and in sorrow, each character rang true. Though a less central character, Lloyd Owens adds value in his role as Willie Heelis as well. Potter's indomitable spirit, however, is what keeps this movie from sinking into mere romanticism. In spite of pain, disapproval, and deep loss, she found happiness in her art and in her determination to live life forward. It is more than a feel-good movie; it is an inspiration to courageous living wrapped in delightful artistry.

Light-hearted, charming and full of colorful friends.......2007-07-02

I rented this DVD for my wife, thinking it was the kind of thing she'd enjoy. She loves period films and adores Renée Zellweger. I'm not typically fond of either of those two things so I didn't figure on watching much if any of the movie. But as the film started, and I happened to be in the room, I realized quickly that this is a charming and warm movie built on a strong character.

Notably, Renée Zellweger seems to nearly disappear into the role of Beatrix Potter and you quite forget that you're watching her act. It's rare to see that kind of skill but when it is captured in a movie like this it's magical.

Ewan McGregor is every bit the modern leading man but with a respectful nod to the dashing gents of yesterday's Hollywood. He is easy-to-like and doesn't for a moment feel as though he's trying to 'star' in this movie. He's more than happy to let the movie become its own entity in which he is but a part.

I began by saying that I wasn't sure I'd even sit down and watch this film, so it's worth noting that I sat entertained straight through to the end as was glad I did. This is certainly something you can watch with the kids, though the romance and the character development might be a bit slow for some of the younger ones.

One very odd thing to mention is that the DVD cover art is quite strange in that it shows Ewan McGregor clean shaven. But when you watch the movie you'll realize that he sports a moustache throughout. Not sure why the difference in appearance from one to the other but it was something that caught my eye as I navigated to this page to leave this review. It hardly matters though... this movie is about so much more than just a moustache. :)

5 Stars! Highly recommended!!

a gem.......2007-06-29

you can say this movie is perhaps avoiding the much mentioned darker side of miss potter- who seems almost delightfully frothy throughout most of this great bio pic-- u could say mcgregor's performance was a bit superficial---tho there is more chemistry between them here than say between drew barrymore and hugh grant in music and lyrics-- an unwatchable mess of a movie ! but this labor of love-- w a very interesting director's commentary-tho i wish miss zellweger was there to chime in--is probably one of the best movies ive seen recently---- the attention to detail is thrilling actually-- the art direction impeccable ! and ms zellweger-- gives her best performance to date by a long shot---- her sustained performNCE is a revelation---was she even nominated for an oscar?? who remembers ?? but i give her my own right here----and the actors who play her parents--are also so in character so convincing-- so relaxed and nuanced in their work---what goes on between these three actors is just a sheer joy to watch ! very uncommon stuff in any movie---kudos to everyone involved in this charming touching & delightful and very well wrought gem of a movie----i`ve seen this movie 4 times now showing it to different friends---enjoying it more and more each time- i swear!!!beautiful !!!!!!!! i'd like to see the same cast and direcors/producers do chekov's three sisters-- w renee as masha---- and the mother here as the brother's crazy wife who takes over the household--- anyway -- miss potter is golden as they say-----check it out now !! its rich !!

An Outstanding and Heart Warming Film.......2007-06-29

This is an excellent film with truly delightful characters. The most evil person in the film is not really evil -- just clueless. Rene Zellweger makes a great Potter and shows her to be ahead of her time as she opts for independence from male domination. Ewan McGregor does a good job in playing her shy suitor. This was a wonderful film that had no profanity, no nudiy, no explosions, no car crashes, and relied totally on the characters, who came across as realistic and believable. Watching Beatrix grow from a shy spinister into an independent woman in love with a man who loved her for herself was a treat to watch. True love grows by inches and this is what was shown here, so when the kiss came it was powerful and had meaning.

This is really not a guy's movie, but any guy who wants to get on the good side of girl should rent this movie because I think most women will relate to Beatrix and for the guys it is a lesson in how patience is better than haste when it comes to women. I liked the film -- my wife loved it!!

Renee Zellweger deserves 6 Stars as does the Movie!!!.......2007-06-28

Beautifully brought to life, not only the love and beauty of her characters, but of her life as well. Renee Zellweger is American, but she speaks the British accent so brilliantly as she did in Bridget Jones' Diary. It gave me the pleasure of focusing on her acting and how beautifully she does it too. So well written that I found myself there. This movie is being added to my library of everything English!!

Average customer rating:

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

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

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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:

Spellbinding.......2007-07-03

I have watched this movie three times in the last 24 hours. Everything about it is beautiful and tragic and haunting. I have always been a fan of Edward Norton's, but beginning with The Illusionist and now with this movie, I see how powerful and deep the emotions he portrays are. Both he and Naomi Watts are so perfect for this story, I literally cannot stop thinking about it.

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.

Average customer rating:

Even better the 3rd time.
English Humor And Zombies! What a Combination!
A Somewhat Dissenting Opinion
Shaun of the Dead
Shaun of the Dead

Shaun of the Dead
Starring: Kate Ashfield , Tim Baggaley , Nicola Cunningham , Sonnell Dadral , and Lucy Davis (II)
Manufacturer: Universal Studios
ProductGroup: DVD
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Dawn of the Dead (Ultimate Edition)

ASIN: B0006A9FKA
Release Date: 2004-12-21

Amazon.com

British horror/comedy Shaun of the Dead is a scream in all senses of the word. Brain-hungry zombies shamble through the streets of London, but all unambitious electronics salesman Shaun (Simon Pegg) cares about is his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield), who just dumped him. With the help of his slacker roommate Ed (Nick Frost), Shaun fights his way across town to rescue Liz, but the petty concerns of life keep getting in the way: When they're trying to use vinyl records to decapitate a pair of zombies, Shaun and Ed bicker about which bands deserve preservation--New Order they keep, but Sade becomes a lethal frisbee. Many zombie movies are comedies by accident, but Shaun of the Dead is deliberately and brilliantly funny, while still delivering a few delicious jolts of fear. Also featuring the stealthy comic presence of Bill Nighy (Love Actually) and some familar faces from The Office. --Bret Fetzer

Customer Reviews:

Even better the 3rd time........2007-06-29

I liked the movie a lot when I rented it. After seeing "Hot Fuzz" by the same team, I knew I had to see the movie again. It's just as good as I remember it and I caught new things watching it again. I invited a few friends over to watch it and they liked it too.

English Humor And Zombies! What a Combination!.......2007-06-28

I was never a huge fan of Zombie flicks. George Romero's Night Of The Living Dead scared me so bad when I was eight years old that I didn't sleep for the next decade. So when it comes to the lurching, head-snacking undead, I tend to steer the other way. Well, too many of my friends have commented on Shaun Of The Dead, so I had to take a look for myself. I'm a big fan of dry British humor and Shaun Of The Dead is packed with that as well as flesh-scarfing zombies. The entire scene where Shaun goes to the liquor store to by his morning drink and completely ignores all the signs (the bloody handprints on the glass of the cooler door, the dead bodies sprawled in the yards and streets) that the zombies have come to roost. Hysterical! Along with his slacker cohort Ed, Shaun decides to go over to his mum's house and rescue her, while taking care of his zombie-bitten step-father with a cricket bat. The laughs, entertwined with the gore, make for one trippy movie. Filled with absurd situations, Shaun Of The Dead will have you rolling while you flinch. Great!

Dig it!

A Somewhat Dissenting Opinion.......2007-06-05

Yes. Rent it or buy it. It's not a bad movie, rather entertaining in fact. You know the plot - standard (by now) end of the world flesh eating zombie flick with a double dollop of dry British humor and sufficient gore. Good script. However, I had a few problems with this movie. First off, it's amusing rather than roll on the floor hilarious as others have stated. Secondly, it is extremely derivative of Romero's films - so much so, that I found it both distracting and a little annoying. Simply, Romero did all the heavy lifting laying the groundwork in his initial trilogy, and this film apes rather than adds like 28 Days Later. This one borders on plagiarism. Goes to the well too often with the overly used "loved one is bitten by zombie and now we have to kill it..." cliche. And, while the production values are surprisingly good, the direction is at a banal TV movie level. You've heard this from critics before - "doesn't know what kind of movie it wants to be..." Imagine if Monty Python and the Holy Grail flip-flopped between a silly spoof of the legend of King Arthur and a serious treatment of the mythology like John Boorman's Excalibur. Or, if "Crusher" lops off Curly's head with an ax as The Three Stooges are being chased around haunted mansion, and Moe pauses for a few minutes to tearily weep and grieve the loss of his brother before Crusher sneaks up behind Larry, Moe tells Larry to quit breathing on him, Larry gives his pateneted, "Nyaaaaahh" and they resume woop, woop, wooping in circles around the halls again, stepping over Curly's "corp-us" ; ) to escape Crusher as he weilds his ax.

Entertaining, worth a watch, but to call this derivative work a "homage" is being too kind, it's not as funny as its hype, and it simply flip-flops between horror and comedy to often, too severely, and too jarringly. The direction is also mundane. This one was saved mainly due to its energetic cast and a good script. Still, these criticisms aside, I couldn't say I wasn't entertained.

Shaun of the Dead.......2007-05-30

Consistantly funny, yet amazingly believable, take on a zombie invasion. Characters well drawn and full of subtle details that make rewatching fun.

Shaun of the Dead.......2007-05-28

I originally saw this movie because the previews looked undeniably hilarious. I waited of course until the movie was available to rent because I was cautious regarding the type of humor that might be in the film. I was pleasantly surprised to find the movie wildly entertaining with very little gratuitous humor. This British movies' premise is a spoof of the many American zombie movies (and the single British one), where the main character Sean finds himself battling zombies with presumably his best friend and roommate in order to save his as of recently ex-girlfriend. The mild manner of lead character Sean is ultimately what balances the hilarity of the movie, creating a sense of seriousness on the part of the characters, one which is ultimately the catalyst of humor. It is classic British humor and very enjoyable indeed.

Average customer rating:

Loved this series!!
Not impressed
Solid Show
Robin Hood makes TV fun again!
Amateur Night in Sherwood Forest

Robin Hood - Season 1
Starring: Jonas Armstrong , Lucy Griffiths , and Richard Armitage
Manufacturer: BBC Warner
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Hex - The Complete First Season
Robin of Sherwood - Season 1
Kyle XY - The Complete First Season - Declassified
Eureka - Season One
Heroes - Season 1

ASIN: B000NQQ4DI
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Amazon.com

Every generation gets the Robin Hood it deserves. After a dashing adventure (The Adventures of Robin Hood), a ponderous retelling (Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves), spoofs (Mel Brooks' When Things Were Rotten and Robin Hood: Men in Tights), and even a cartoon (Disney's Robin Hood), this thoroughly modern 2006 BBC series brings cheeky wit, exuberant action, and fierce fencing and special effects-enhanced archery to the party. Scruffy Robin (Jonas Armstrong) returns home from the Crusades war-weary and "changed." But when he finds the countryside under the taxing grip of the brutal (he crushes birds with his bare hands!) Sheriff (Keith Allen) and his glowering lieutenant, Guy of Gisbourne (Richard Armitage), he takes up his bow and arrow against the injustice.

Series 1 depicts how Robin of Locksley becomes "Robin of the Wood" and then "Robin Hood," robbing from the rich and, well, you know the drill. "The peasants' hero," this Robin is a tad vainer than previous screen incarnations. As his former servant and wisecracking sidekick Much (Sam Troughton, who can be a bit much himself), observes, Robin likes to linger after his good deeds to see the looks of gratitude. Marian (Lucy Griffiths) is another revelation. The daughter of Nottingham's former sheriff, she doesn't exactly welcome Robin back with open arms. "Five years and you're still peddling the same drivel," she says after he spouts some romantic tripe. A formidable fighter and champion of justice herself, she has a surprising moonlighting gig best not revealed here. We also see the gathering of Robin's men (none call them "merry"), including hulking Little John (Gordon Kennedy), Allan-a-Dale (Joe Armstrong), and Will Scarlett (Harry Lloyd). Beautifully filmed in Hungary (what; England was booked?), Robin Hood is mostly grand escapist adventure, but there are unnerving scenes of violence that raise the stakes. In one episode, a peasant who won't reveal Robin's whereabouts has his tongue cut out, (mercifully offscreen). In another, a child is the victim of a sniper's arrow. . Robin Hood takes liberties with the oft-told story of the legendary folk hero, but it's so well played and rousingly entertaining, few should mind. --Donald Liebenson

Description

People's hero, war hero, romantic hero and leader of the world's most famous resistance group...Robin Hood is known and loved by millions around the world. His fight against a corrupt government and greedy officials is something we all can connect with. Fun, modern and intelligent, the BBC's Robin Hood is guaranteed to appeal to today's sophisticated viewers and is set to be as popular as the new Doctor Who. Sharp, witty scripts by Dominic Minghella and a striking new look set the tone as the BBC updates this popular legend for all the family.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary
Audio Commentary
Featurette:Hood Academy Featurette
Other:Character profiles
Audio Commentary
Other:Character profiles
Audio Commentary
Other:Character profiles
Featurette:Robin Hood - The Making of Featurette Dressing Hood Featurette Designing the Hood Featurette

Customer Reviews:

Loved this series!!.......2007-07-01

This show only gets better with each episode. The last two episodes were the most exciting thing I've seen on T.V. in a long time. I was on the edge of my seat. Can't wait until season two. Richard Armitage as Sir Guy is so good you don't know if you should love him or hate him. When I first saw Jonas Armstrong as Robin I wasn't sure he would be right but was I wrong. His face is so expressive it's a delight to watch him. And Sam Troughton as Much seems to keep everyone-especially Robin-grounded with his sense of what is right and wrong. I wasn't prepared to like such a young Will Scarlet but he carries himself with such quiet dignity and grace that age just doesn't matter. All in all the whole cast is just doing an awesome job!

Not impressed.......2007-06-30

I am disappointed by this new series, Robin Hood. I think the writing and the humor is immature and I was not convinced that the main actor fit the role of Robin. I also feel that Marion could have been better cast. Richard Armitage, who plays Sir Guy, plays his role very well. In fact, I would have preferred him as Robin! I wish I could have enjoyed this DVD set, but I just couldn't.

Solid Show.......2007-06-28

Some of the previous reviewers apparently expected a Simon Schama documentary or a reenactment with 12th century dialogue and sensibilities. If you want it that way, go buy Chretien de Troyes instead and prepare to be thoroughly bored.

On the other hand, this series is engaging and often funny, with excellent acting by Armitage, Griffiths, Armstrong, Allen...well, every cast member. Sometimes the writers are a little heavy-handed with the modern parallels they draw, but it's only noticeable in the first few episodes. Otherwise, the strength of the series reveals itself through the complex interpersonal relationships between the characters. (My personal favorite is the Robin/Marian/Guy dynamic.) Additionally, Robin & Co. are well-rounded; each character has his/her own traits, history and humanizing features.

All in all, this is an appealing and endearing version of an old classic. Before watching this series, I was never remotely interested in the Robin Hood mythos, but the characters drive the story and the show ultimately benefits from palpable, modern situations and writing.

Robin Hood makes TV fun again!.......2007-06-27

This is the best show on television and Jonas Armstrong is a charismatic new star. Jonas has such an expressive face and makes Robin such a complex character - it's refreshing. In fact, I love all the men of Sherwood Forest.

I actually got my box set before the release date. I've had a few issues with scratches on disc one but I've been cleaning it and I think it's better. I like one of the four commentaries but there are quite a few people, all often talking at the same time, on those commentaries (and with heavy accents) so I couldn't always catch everything they were saying. The one for Tatoo, What Tatoo? was my favorite.

If you want action, adventure, social commentary and romance in the beautiful countryside of Hungary as England, this box set is for you.

Amateur Night in Sherwood Forest.......2007-06-27

You either love this BBC off-season replacement for Dr. Who, or hate it. There's very little middle ground. Either you leave your brain at the door and zone out, or gawk in amazement and embarrassment that such a show could be so popular in this day and age. I fall into the latter category, yet still find myself watching - partly because I paid for the DVD set, and also because, much like a train wreck, or plane crash, I just can't tear my eyes away.

Okay, it's not that bad. There are a lot of good things about this series. For one thing, it certainly looks good. The cinematography is first rate, casting the Hungarian forests and castle locations in beautiful, moody light. The costume work is nice, though a bit too modern when it comes to some of Marian's outfits - but still nicely done all around.

Casting and acting are also quite good. One or more characters are prone to overplaying some fundamental moral or ethical dilemma each episode, but this is probably more due to the directing and writing than to an inherent tendency to overact.

And there's the real problem - the writing. The plots, characterizations, dialogue - the very modus operandi of the show's creators - range from mediocre to so bad as to be embarrassing.

The creators are apparently going for a hip, updated Robin (and supporting characters), and utilize the legend to address many current as well as long-standing issues. Jonas Armstrong as Robin, in particular, is more in the vein of Orlando Bloom, vice Kevin Costner, Patrick Bergen or even Errol Flynn. This updating, however, is usually done in total ignorance of the Medieval Setting and actual history.

Dialogue mixes what passes for 12th century speech with a constant stream of modern cliché. `Breadwinner,' `Call of The Wild,' `Sacked' (as in fired), `We don't do Town,' the Ben Franklin quote about death and taxes, `Willy-Nilly,' and `Economy Cuts,' are examples. Even ignoring the historical inaccuracies, the wide-spread use of cliché is a common sign of lazy, uncreative writing.

Other glaring historical disconnects include the casting of black actors in key supporting roles without any justification for, or even recognition of, their race (we are not talking Morgan Freeman here). The most vocal of a group of Muslim slaves turns out to be a woman, with no consideration for the role of women in Islam at the time. A group of miners working for the evil Sheriff actually go on strike - and the Sheriff's response is to fire them (Hello!? - Feudal society? Evil Sheriff of Nottingham?).

The over-simplified, often stereotypical portrayal of 12th century Muslim peoples, beliefs, mannerisms, dress and culture in general, over the course of several episodes, reminds me of the Hollywood portrayal of Asians, Hispanics and other religious and/or ethnic groups from decades past. It's both embarrassing and insulting, especially given the sizable Muslim population in Great Britain.

But let's forgive and accept all that. Let's embrace the modern Robin, the strong independent Marion, the free-wheeling style that allows the show to address terrorism and religious fundamentalism, the rule of law, modern politics and ethics, and so many other issues, in a way that is accessible and acceptable to a wide (if historically uninformed or at least intellectually undemanding) audience.

Unfortunately, we are still left with some really bad writing. There are plot holes you could drive a truck through, and character action/motivation that constantly defies reason. People all too often say things and/or do things in apparent ignorance or disregard for what happened in a previous episode, a previous scene, or even the last few lines of dialogue.

In an early episode, the Sheriff is seen to cut out the tongues of villagers, one per hour, until they give him the location of Robin. In the next episode, he is compelled to publicly justify increased security measures (a speech about the war on terror, as it were) to these same peasants.

Early on we learn that Robin saved King Richard from Saracen assassins in the Holy Land, and his injury during this incident is what prompted his return to England. In one episode, Robin recognizes the assassin's tattoo/scar on a prominent local noble, and is compelled to expose the noble and exact justice. When relaying this to his friends, however, the latter are suddenly and inexplicably skeptical. `Hate to say it, Robin, but I wasn't there,' or `I didn't see it.'

When the Sheriff traps our friends in the castle, and leads them into a courtyard to witness a hanging, nobody bothers to disarm our heroes - whose weapons are immediately put to use when the hanging is disrupted.

There's even an episode where upon finding a baby abandoned in the forest, Robin is somehow compelled to carry the infant everywhere he goes, whatever he happens to be doing. On horseback, on the way to rescue a mate, during swords fights. This allows him to chide his opponent for swinging at him when he has a baby, and to throw the bundle at the opponent (who of course catches it, allowing Robin to then hit him over the head).

There is one other consistent problem with the show - the action. Many of the action sequences are conceived, blocked, shot and edited together in an amateurish unconvincing fashion. Many stunts are simply bad rehashes of tricks done countless times before in film, which fail to deliver precisely because they are so poorly set up. The trip wire across the road (horse trail in this instance) is used. The slide for life has Robin using his bow to straddle/zip down a wire - a good gimmick, but the set-up is drawn out and obvious. Robin does a back flip off a second story platform so we can gawk at it from three angles - great for style points, but having no plot significance as he could have just stepped off the ledge and dropped straight down. Soldiers on horseback dismount before attacking a lone Robin on foot, one or two at a time. There is a tendency to treat bows and arrows as guns, with one or two people armed as such holding off twice or more their number at close range (at one point a lone Merry man being instructed to escort four soldiers this way - do the math).

Except for one scene in the pilot, by the way, there are apparently only five or so Merry men - and normally the Sheriff and/or Sir Guy only have enough soldiers to slightly outnumber what ever Robin and company have in the current scene.

Were I to describe every historical flaw, every plot pain, every characterization goof, etc., we'd be looking at a small book's worth of text. But I assume you get the idea. If you perhaps count yourself among the blissfully ignorant who can buy off on this tripe (and enough of the BBC audience has done so to secure a second season), I'd advise you to at least check it out on BBC America first before buying the set. If you're still interested, you could probably buy mine for a bargain - as I expect I will at some point tire of staring at the wreckage and the body parts, and want to recoup at least some of my losses.

Average customer rating:

Excellent :)
"That woman deserves her revenge... and we deserve to die."
Vol 2 is better
kill bill vol. 2
A Letdown

Kill Bill, Volume 2
Starring: Larry Bishop , Sonny Chiba , Sid Haig , Samuel L. Jackson , and Gordon Liu
Manufacturer: Miramax Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00005JMUA
Release Date: 2004-08-10

Amazon.com

"The Bride" (Uma Thurman) gets her satisfaction--and so do we--in Quentin Tarantino's "roaring rampage of revenge," Kill Bill, Vol. 2. Where Vol. 1 was a hyper-kinetic tribute to the Asian chop-socky grindhouse flicks that have been thoroughly cross-referenced in Tarantino's film-loving brain, Vol. 2--not a sequel, but Part Two of a breathtakingly cinematic epic--is Tarantino's contemporary martial-arts Western, fueled by iconic images, music, and themes lifted from any source that Tarantino holds dear, from the action-packed cheapies of William Witney (one of several filmmakers Tarantino gratefully honors in the closing credits) to the spaghetti epics of Sergio Leone. Tarantino doesn't copy so much as elevate the genres he loves, and the entirety of Kill Bill is clearly the product of a singular artistic vision, even as it careens from one influence to another. Violence erupts with dynamic impact, but unlike Vol. 1, this slower grand finale revels in Tarantino's trademark dialogue and loopy longueurs, reviving the career of David Carradine (who plays Bill for what he is: a snake charmer), and giving Thurman's Bride an outlet for maternal love and well-earned happiness. Has any actress endured so much for the sake of a unique collaboration? As the credits remind us, "The Bride" was jointly created by "Q&U," and she's become an unforgettable heroine in a pair of delirious movie-movies (Vol. 3 awaits, some 15 years hence) that Tarantino fans will study and love for decades to come. --Jeff Shannon

Description

With this thrilling, must-see movie event, writer and director Quentin Tarantino (PULP FICTION) completes the action-packed quest for revenge begun by The Bride (Uma Thurman) in KILL BILL VOL. 1! Having already crossed two names from her Death List, The Bride is back with a vengeance and taking aim at Budd (Michael Madsen) and Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), the only survivors from the squad of assassins who betrayed her four years earlier. It's all leading up to the ultimate confrontation with Bill (David Carradine), The Bride's former master and the man who ordered her execution! As the acclaimed follow-up to the instant classic VOL. 1 -- you know all about the unlimited action and humor, but until you've seen KILL BILL VOL. 2, you only know half the story!

Customer Reviews:

Excellent :) .......2007-06-18

Uma Thurman, swords, kung-fu,& Quentin Tarrentino ... how can you go wrong?

"That woman deserves her revenge... and we deserve to die.".......2007-06-01

All grown men have a little boy in their heart that still surfaces every now and again...some fellows more so than others, and it's always so much fun to go back. That is one of the many reasons I enjoy having a son waiting to greet me when I come home from a day of work or a long business trip. On the flip side, Quentin Tarantino gets to go back to being a boy every time he goes to work, and I say good for him.

The Kill Bill movies are a potent effusion of likely all the things Quentin grew up with. Westerns, Kung-Fu movies, Samurai movies and other action films that helped mold and create his robust imagination. Now, he can take the ideas that inspired him as a child and make them even better for the next generation of action-craving bloodthirsty little children. Kill Bill volume 2 is more than a derivitive tribute film, it is an elicitation of massive nostalgia, excentuated keenly by incredible dialogue. Other than function well as a conclusion to the series, it is actually quite different from Kill Bill volume 1 in a few ways. Kill Bill volume 1 contained mostly introductions, followed by bloody action as Beatrix Kiddo took on and took out Vernita Green, O-Ren Ishii, Go-Go Yubari and of course the Crazy 88 (yes, all 88 of them). But in Kill Bill volume 2, I felt like those were merely the supporting villains as Kiddo takes on the more resourceful and profound antagonists in this film; Elle Driver, Budd and of course Bill himself. The sequel, unintentionally perhaps as the two were written and filmed together, possesses more depth than the first part. There is more room for dialogue and that is of course a great thing because outrageous and unlikely dialogue is one of Quentin's strengths, and it serves here to make the characters even more unearthly and super-hero-like then in the first film.

Overall, in volume 2 we get to see how Beatrix learned her skills and we learn more about the relationship between her and Bill. It all leads up to an often criticized climax between Bill and Beatrix. Between the dialogue and David Carradine's performance, the climax helped me enjoy this film a bit more than volume 1. So, if you prefer action and violence you will like the first movie better, but if you just so happen to get caught up in the characters along the way and have an appreciation for the kind of concentrated cultural yearning crossed with mythical level characters that only a Tarantino film can deliver, then Kill Bill volume 2 is a great cap to the two films. For me, simply put, together they make one amazing movie.

Vol 2 is better.......2007-05-27

You've seen vol 1 and thought do I really want to sit through another 2 hours of swords and kung-fu? Well vol 2 is the much better film, so the answer is yes.

Curiously enough although Vol 2 is longer, it seems to have a tighter construction. Some of the chapters are breath-taking, perhaps because they are shorter. The Pai-Mei chapter is simply marvellous. Uma Thurman gets her training with Pai Mei and Bill tells her "remember no sarcasm, no back-talk at least not for the first year or so, gonna have to let him warm up to you"! The Pai Mei chapter ties a lot of things together as well.

Oh yes in vol 2 we get to see Bill for the first time. David Carradine is great, very cool, and occasionally seems to become Kwai Chang Caine again all these years later.

I'd recommend seeing Vol 1 first, although it isn't quite as essential to do this, as it is to watch vol 2 after watching vol 1.

This is fabulous entertainment made by a master film-maker and I strongly recommend it.

kill bill vol. 2.......2007-04-19

i tend to bounce back-and-forth in my mind as to which half of the "kill bill" story i like better. as of writing this review, i'm going to have to go with "vol. 2", perhaps just because it's the one i've seen more recently, but i'm thinking there's more to it than that, so i'll try to get to those points instead.

first off, this really is like splitting hairs, picking which volume is better. now, believe all of those who point out how incredibly different the movies are because they are absolute night and day, but equally good and, more importantly, equally enjoyable.

i guess the one and only edge that i'd have to give "volume 2" is that the character's you get to spend time watching in this half (alongside the Bride, who is just as awesome here as in "vol. 1") are just more in-tune with what i like to see. for example:

-i LOVE the character of Bill, and found the scenes between he and the Bride to be among my favorite ever "ex-lover" face-off's in all cinema. they're is certainly a nastiness to the scenes, but you can SEE the two of them still deeply caring for another, despite themselves, esp. upon the conclussion of their showdown. it is just excellent.

-Michael Madsen's Bud is quite possibly the most difficult character to not like in any movie ever. despite his actions toward the Bride (no more detail. don't want to ruin anything in case you haven't seen it.), you just can't help but kinda feel for the guy. i mean, a dude that has to take junk off his boss, clean up nasty toilet water at a [...]-hole strip bar, then go home to his El Paso trailer to sit alone and listen to Johnny Cash records just kinda screams "feel bad for me" even if we really don't wanna. Bud is awesome, and i like having more of him, so yet another nod to "vol. 2".

-Pei Mei is freakin' awesome, esp. if you love the old kung-fu movies that the "kill bill" series was so lovingly created to replicate. awesome!

-Elle Driver is my absolute favorite member of the divas, so her being more prominant in this half alone makes me love it, love it, love it! just EXACTLY what a "bad guy" bad girl should be, man. all this, and the revelations made during the throwdown between she and the Bride just makes that fight (and the conclussion of said fight) SO much cooler it's just insane!

there is one more character in this movie that i thought was a really neat addition, but to talk about this is to REALLY ruin the movie, so just in case, i'll let you guys decide who you think belongs in this fifth spot.

overall, "kill bill" start-to-finish is outstanding in everyway, but i wanted to yack about "volume 2" today, so that's that. thanks for reading and enjoy!

A Letdown.......2007-04-03

I liked the first volume, despite the fact that it was mostly plotless, because it was very pretty in all its carnage. Volume 2, however, spends a lot of time on a plot that bothered me more and more when I thought about it. In the end, I found it overly simplistic and irritating (trying not to give anything away here). I kept waiting for a twist that never came. While the first volume was mostly fluff, a lot of style with no substance, it was enjoyable as that at least. The second volume has more plot, but this does not end up as more substance. But in the second volume, the time that is spent on the plot takes away from the style and we end up with two and a half hours which are not very enjoyable.

Average customer rating:

long but worth watching.
Silly but fun.
Wonderful
Wonderful, rollicking tale
Fun Fantasy Movie

The 10th Kingdom
Starring: Kimberly Williams , Scott Cohen , John Larroquette , Dianne Wiest , and Camryn Manheim
Director: Herbert Wise , and David Carson
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Fantasy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

Miniseries | Television | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns
Merlin (Special Edition)
The Mists of Avalon
Jack and the Beanstalk - The Real Story
The Snow Queen

ASIN: B0000648XE
Release Date: 2002-05-28

Amazon.com

This epic 10-hour miniseries from the Emmy-winning writer of Gulliver's Travels was a ratings bust on television, but on video and DVD, where it can be enjoyed at one's leisure, it has a better chance to cast its magical spell. Kimberly Williams has never been more enchanting than as Virginia, a waitress who still lives with her janitor father (John Larroquette) and yearns for something exciting to happen to her. Her wish comes true when she and her father are transported from New York City into a dimension that, with apologies to Rod Serling, can only be called the Fairy Tale Zone; nine kingdoms populated by characters from fairy tales of yore. They team up with a dog who's really a prince--Wendell, grandson of Snow White--changed into canine form by the evil Queen (Dianne Wiest), who plots to usurp Wendell's throne. Father, daughter, and his royal dogness are relentlessly pursued through the nine kingdoms by the Troll King (Ed O'Neill) and his three bumbling and horrible children, and the conflicted Wolf (Scott Cohen), who is allied with the Queen but, with the aid of some Oprah-esque self-help books, tames his inner beast and falls in love with Virginia. The 10th Kingdom is a special effects extravaganza. There is indeed, as one character marvels, magic to behold here. But despite the Hallmark brand name and the presence of a grown-up Snow White (Camryn Manheim) and Cinderella (Ann-Margret), bewitched animals, magic mirrors, and trolls, this is not kid's stuff. It can get scary, surprisingly violent, and quite intense; you know, just like real fairy tales. --Donald Liebenson

Customer Reviews:

long but worth watching........2007-06-27

Funny. Most of the fairy tales are infused in one movie. I like the part of the werewolf being so in love with the girl. Colorful props and sceneries. My children like it and I like it too. Fantastic.

Silly but fun........2007-06-18

I can't say this is the best mini-series I've ever seen, but it is one that I keep watching. If you can get past the ridiculous trolls and the pure silliness that is this world they have fallen into, you will have a great time.

The story is intricate and the characters are developed well. The only truly great character here is Wolf (Scott Cohen), but you just can't help but root for Kimberly Williams and John Larroquette's characters as they trod through this crazy world as one absurd thing after another befalls them. I thought it was clever how they introduced so many fairy stories into one big plot.

The middle of the story is the best part when the trolls aren't around, but knowing that the story is supposed to be a little silly and even makes fun of itself from time to time, usually through the eyes of John Larroquette's character, it's all just a fun 7 hours. Now I for one take about 4 to 5 sittings to get through this because a little bit goes a long way, but I've watched it at least 4 times and it hasn't gotten old yet.

Overall fun story if you can get passed the silliness.

Wonderful.......2007-06-17

This is the best movie ie seen in a long time i watch it all the time! If you liked snow white sinder rella and all thoses movies when you were a kid or now then you will like this storie abput what happened after happly ever after. You will also meet all new characters and a whole new storie. This movie is funny, fun, and exciting! Buy or rent this movie you'll love it!

Wonderful, rollicking tale.......2007-06-14

I loved this as a miniseries. I bought the DVDs as soon as they came out, and recently bought the series for a mother's day gift for my mom, who couldn't believe she'd never heard of it.
This wonderful tale is full of joy from moment the opening credits start (and that should be a little video on it's own).
The sort version is: Fairy tales run amok. A star-studded cast, some hilarious twists and some really fun writing make the 9 hours WAY too short.
If you like light-hearted fantasy and are unsure about this, DON'T BE. The whole family can enjoy this.

Fun Fantasy Movie.......2007-06-12

I think this movie is fun and creative. The story is well-crafted and keeps your attention. However, it is often cheesy and has some bad acting. Despite that, I would highly recommend the movie!

Average customer rating:

True drek...
Cool
A way to improve....
Love it or Hate it - I just happen to love it!
Brilliant, Not For Everyone However

Kill Bill, Volume 1
Starring: Uma Thurman , Lucy Liu , Vivica A. Fox , Daryl Hannah , and David Carradine
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

Crime | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Thrillers | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

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Similar Items:

Kill Bill, Volume 2
Pulp Fiction (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Reservoir Dogs (15th Anniversary 2-Disc Special Edition)
Sin City - Unrated (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Jackie Brown (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

ASIN: B00005JMEW
Release Date: 2004-04-13

Amazon.com

Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill, Vol. 1 is trash for connoisseurs. From his opening gambit (including a "Shaw-Scope" logo and gaudy '70s-vintage "Our Feature Presentation" title card) to his cliffhanger finale (a teasing lead-in to 2004's Vol. 2), Tarantino pays loving tribute to grindhouse cinema, specifically the Hong Kong action flicks and spaghetti Westerns that fill his fervent brain--and this frequently breathtaking movie--with enough cinematic references and cleverly pilfered soundtrack cues to send cinephiles running for their reference books. Everything old is new again in Tarantino's humor-laced vision: he steals from the best while injecting his own oft-copied, never-duplicated style into what is, quite simply, a revenge flick, beginning with the near-murder of the Bride (Uma Thurman), pregnant on her wedding day and left for dead by the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad (or DiVAS)--including Lucy Liu and the unseen David Carradine (as Bill)--who become targets for the Bride's lethal vengeance. Culminating in an ultraviolent, ultra-stylized tour-de-force showdown, Tarantino's fourth film is either brilliantly (and brutally) innovative or one of the most blatant acts of plagiarism ever conceived. Either way, it's hyperkinetic eye-candy from a passionate film-lover who clearly knows what he's doing. --Jeff Shannon

Description

The acclaimed fourth film from groundbreaking writer and director Quentin Tarantino (PULP FICTION, JACKIE BROWN), KILL BILL VOLUME 1 stars Uma Thurman (PULP FICTION), Lucy Liu (CHARLIE'S ANGELS, CHICAGO), and Vivica A. Fox (TWO CAN PLAY THAT GAME) in an astonishing, action-packed thriller about brutal betrayal and an epic vendetta! Four years after taking a bullet in the head at her own wedding, The Bride (Thurman) emerges from a coma and decides it's time for payback ... with a vengeance! Having been gunned down by her former boss (David Carradine) and his deadly squad of international assassins, it's a kill-or-be-killed fight she didn't start but is determined to finish! Loaded with explosive action and outrageous humor, it's a must-see motion picture event that has critics everywhere raving!

Customer Reviews:

True drek..........2007-07-01

Tarantino knows what he's doin', this is truly fodder for the children of suburbia, all the ones who were nurtured on sugar crisps & little league & sesame street & soccer moms & commuter dads, little tubeheads this is your stuff. *Bad language* woowoo, daughters of charlies angels meet asian martial arts movies woowoo.

Bad stuff, like thinking robitussin is a high, imitation of life. hahahaha.

smart move quentin.

Cool.......2007-06-23

While watching the Kill Bill movies, one word continuously and irresistibly comes to mind: cool. Scenes are shot from cool angles, flush with cool colors, at cool speeds, with cool characters that communicate in cool dialogues, all set to the tone of cool music.

Like the Godfathers I&II, Kill Bill immediately jumps right into the plot's heart. Initially mysterious elements are then illuminated as the story repeatedly sidles back through each character's past.

Uma Thurman's character avenges her former assassin squad colleagues one-by-one as payback for their having tried to murder her on the eve of her wedding. Her brutal violence and feverous hatred make her a textbook anti-hero character similar to Clint Eastwood's "man with no name" persona in old Sergio Leone Westerns.

With so many other movies featuring fight scenes, it's not easy to produce ones that hold the viewer's interest; however, Kill Bill's do because they blend the right combination of novelty, violence, creativity, suspense, and general eye-pleasingness.

If you're worried about violence, you shouldn't let that deter you from watching this series. There are some bloody parts, no doubt; however, perhaps because the violence is seemingly deserved, just twisted enough to be more comical than gross, or somehow alluringly cool, it doesn't seem quite as bad as it should.

If you want to see a cool movie, see this one.

A way to improve.... .......2007-06-18

The first, I really enjoyed... and the second didn't disappoint! Cheers!

Love it or Hate it - I just happen to love it!.......2007-06-08

After reading the other reviews, good and bad, I just decided to chime in with my two cents.

To be quite honest, I love this movie. Tarantino must have had an amazing time making it, and that shows up in the final product. It's just fun to watch. It introduces those of us who aren't very familiar with the kung-fu genre to it and makes us want to go watch a bunch of them. Volume 2 does the same with spaghetti westerns. These movies are like a crash course in Grindhouse-type cinema. I noticed one reviewer who negatively critiqued the film commented on the black and white photography during the fight scene-Quentin had to do that to get it past the MPAA; the Japanese version is all color. Anyway, the movie was a blast, and if you can stop being a snooty cinephile for about 2 hours, you should have a blast too.

Brilliant, Not For Everyone However.......2007-05-29

My first viewing of this volume in the Kill Bill saga occurred at two in the morning, as I suffered from severe insomnia. I was desperate, hoping that it would help me drift off. Unfortunately, or rather, fortunately, this film did anything but. The action, cinematography, and witty script blew me away; I loved it. The next day, however, I was surprised to learn that many people I knew did not feel the same way as I did regarding this flick. Willing to form a better opinion of the movie and shrugging the fact that I loved it off to simply being overtired, I watched it again.

I still loved it. And herein was where I realized that this film is not for everyone. As it is a homage film, a tribute to Spaghetti Westerns and Kung-Fu flicks, one must look from this perspective. I myself enjoy these genres of film and lapped up Tarantino's unique and witty take on them. It is apparent (as it is in most of his work) that he is a great fan as well.

As mentioned numerous times by others, there is gore abound here. Ridiculous violence, blood spurting everywhere, and bodies flying constantly. But somehow Mr. Tarantino, and you may call him sick or twisted for it, made all the slicing and dicing humorous and never too serious, witty lines and funny visuals all the way through. True cinematic genius in my book.

On the surface it looks like a senselessly violent revenge movie, but underneath it is far more. Like most of Tarantino's films, Kill Bill is riddled with culture references and contains a wonderfully varied soundtrack; absolute joy for the pop culture buff. It is a cleverly written, and the wonderful talent of all involved is clearly exhibited.

On to the acting, Uma Thurman is a true standout. Prior to this film I hadn't thought much of her, even believing her to be overrated. This one role of hers changed my opinion completely. Thurman is brilliant as "The Bride"; her piercing eyes and intense persona portray a woman out for revenge amazingly. Lucy Liu is also impressive as a cold Yakuza headlady, and Vivica A. Fox and Daryl Hannah both provide great supporting roles as well.

Overall this film is most definitely not something that everyone will go for- in fact, most will find it odd for the first ten minutes or so, but stick with it. This film is one of the most brilliant in recent years, even though it might not hit you with its depth right away. Highly recommended.

**By the way, make sure to buy Volume 2 along with your purchase of Volume 1- the films were intended to be one but due to time constraints two were made, as you see them now. It will add for a more complete viewing experience, not to mention the cliffhanger at the end of the first.

Average customer rating:

Wonderful Version
Delightful from start to finish!
Just Great!!!
A good Emma adaptation
j. austen lover

Emma (A&E, 1997)
Starring: Kate Beckinsale , Bernard Hepton , Mark Strong (II) , Samantha Bond , and James Hazeldine
Director: Diarmuid Lawrence
Manufacturer: A&E Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Persuasion (1995)
Sense & Sensibility (Special Edition)
Pride and Prejudice - The Special Edition (A&E, 1996)
Mansfield Park (1999)
Emma (1996)

ASIN: 0767020308
Release Date: 1999-10-26

Product Description

From the greatest romantic novelist of all time comes a delightfully wicked comedy of love and matchmaking. Jane Austen's sly and vivacious heroines have enchanted readers for more than 200 years. Now, for the first time on DVD, this acclaimed production from the creators of A&E s bestselling PRIDE AND PREJUDICE brings to life one of the most fascinating Austen characters of all -- the charming and mischievous Emma Woodhouse.Starring Kate Beckinsale (The Last Days Of Disco), EMMA is the story of a rich, clever and beautiful young woman who can't resist orchestrating other people's love lives. As her romantic plans go ridiculously wrong, however, it's Emma herself who risks missing out on her perfect match! Join A&E for a wry visit to the drawing rooms and country manors of 19th century England -- a visit to the enchanting world of Jane Austen's EMMA now in the crystal clear digital clarity of DVD.

Format: DVD MOVIE

Amazon.com

Similar to the equally excellent Valmont, this version of Jane Austen's classic novel had the misfortune of following a sumptuous big-star version with Gwyneth Paltrow, which was released the summer before. And, just as 1989's Valmont suffered comparisons with Dangerous Liaisons, inevitably these Emmas were held up next to one another.

This delicious Emma concerns a young woman of financial substance (Kate Beckinsale), who fancies herself a matchmaker, especially with shy Miss Harriet Smith (Samantha Morton, who also appears in A&E's Jane Eyre). In Emma's swirling world of social activity and social consciousness, one's position and stature is a constant preoccupation. But to her credit, Emma, albeit a busybody, has compassion for all classes, and for her kindly but hypochondriacal father (Bernard Hepton).

This miniseries is more subtle than the grand theatrical release, is truer to the novel, and gives a richer explanation of the relationship between Emma associates Jane Fairfax (beautiful Olivia Williams of Rushmore) and the duplicitous Frank Churchill (Raymond Coulthard). Of course, at the center, as in all Austen stories, is the romance between the unsuspecting leading lady and an unlikely, but wholly suitable gentleman. In this case, it's Emma and her brother-in-law, the righteous (as played here) Mr. Knightley (Mark Strong). Strong's Mr. Knightley is more reserved, less coy than Jeremy Northam's; he plays Knightley more like Mr. Darcy (the leading man in Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which A&E also offers in a wonderful miniseries). Beckinsale proves to be utterly delightful and in no way should this excellent adaptation be ignored. --N.F. Mendoza

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Version.......2007-06-19

This is my favorite of the Emma movies. Emma, though meddlesome, is so endearing and forgiveable in this version. I think A&E in general does a great job of adapting beloved novels to the small screen. They have also done well with the Hercule Poirot mysteries. In the same way they treated Agatha Christie's words with care, they have done the same for Jane Austen. The supporting characters are all well-done in this movie too. The scenery and costuming is colorful and superb. I am pleased I purchased this, and I am not at all disappointed in the way this story has been presented. This is a terrific version of a great novel.

Delightful from start to finish!.......2007-06-14

This is one of the best Jane Austen adaptations I have ever seen! I've been so captivated with it that last week I watched it three times in a row, one night right after another. I even managed to get my husband to sit down and watch it with me one of those times and even though he is not really a fan of period-type films, he enjoyed this one immensely!

Lovely Kate Beckinsale stars as Emma Woodhouse, a beautiful and wealthy young woman who lives with her widowed father at Hartfield, their estate located in the English town of Highbury. Emma spends her days taking care of the endearing but hypochondriac Mr. Woodhouse while also playing matchmaker for her friends and acquaintances, in particular for one young woman named Harriet Smith. Harriet's lineage is unknown and she is but a common boarder at a local school but Emma is convinced that she must be a gentleman's daughter. She dissuades her from accepting the hand of a very suitable young farmer and instead attempts to set her up with several of the more eligible bachelors in town. These efforts backfire time and again with humorous but sometimes hurtful results. Emma learns the hard way that it is best not to interfere in the affairs of others, especially after she realizes that the man she loves, Mr. Knightley, may have fallen in love with someone else as a result of her meddling.

I cannot recommend this movie highly enough! It was made by Andrew Davies, who also produced the highly acclaimed A&E version of "Pride and Prejudice." If you liked that one, you will definitely love this one, too! Don't miss it! This movie set on my bookshelf for six months because I thought nothing could compare with Pride and Prejudice. Well....that one is still my very favorite but Emma now comes in at a very close second! Two thumbs way, way up! :)

Just Great!!!.......2007-06-08

This was a watch over and over friendly adaptation of Emma and captured the book very, very well!! In fact, my whole family found it witty, sweet, well adapted. It is colorful and fulfilling. I will be sure to put it next to my favorite Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, and watch it again often.

A good Emma adaptation.......2007-05-24

This is relatively true to the book, much moreso than the Paltrow version. However, like the book, it may be a bit heavy for some viewers. They won't, for example, see Mr. Knightley as a romantic hero. The acting is good, and the story is great. It's a wonderful way to introduce someone to this work, by Ms. Austen, and would be wonderfully paired with something like Clueless, so that one can see how the story transcends time.

(*)>

j. austen lover.......2007-05-18

I was very impressed with this BBC version of the Jane Austen classic. The movie arrived in excellent condition and I was very happy with the price as well. I intend on ordering more movies from Amazon in the future.

Lucille Ball Film Collection (Dance Girl Dance / The Big Street / Du Barry Was a Lady / Critic's Choice / Mame)

Average customer rating:

Great movie salute to Lucille Ball
Famous Lucy Films Finally on DVD
Four Great Films & One Misfire
Pre-Order for 6-19-2007 // GREAT new film collection!!!

Lucille Ball Film Collection (Dance Girl Dance / The Big Street / Du Barry Was a Lady / Critic's Choice / Mame)
Starring: Lucille Ball , Red Skelton , Gene Kelly , Henry Fonda , and Bob Hope
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video

Esther Williams Collection, Vol. 1
Classic Musicals from the Dream Factory, Vol. 2 (The Pirate / Words and Music / That's Dancing / The Belle of New York & Royal Wedding / That Midnight Kiss & The Toast of New Orleans)
Katharine Hepburn Collection (Morning Glory / Undercurrent / Sylvia Scarlett / Without Love / Dragon Seed / The Corn Is Green [1979])
Can-Can
On the Riviera

ASIN: B000OCY7V2
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Amazon.com

Offering an abundance of vintage Hollywood entertainment, the five films included in The Lucille Ball Film Collection cover a broad spectrum of Lucy's movie career, from one of her most prominent early roles to her final big-screen appearance. Long before she became an icon of TV sitcoms, Lucy had moved from New York to Hollywood in 1933, appearing in a variety of mostly uncredited showgirl roles in over 40 films before getting her first big break in the 1937 classic Stage Door (not included in this set). Lucy's star quickly began to rise, and by the time she played sassy nightclub singer "Tiger Lily White" in 1940's Dance, Girl, Dance, she was holding her own with such famous costars as Maureen O'Hara and Ralph Bellamy. Noteworthy as an early feminist comedy directed by Dorothy Arzner (one of the only women to break into the male-dominated profession of Hollywood directors), it's a fun and fascinating film that helped to establish Lucy's persona as a fiery, independent entertainer. That image was pushed to extremes in The Big Street (1942), an oddly enjoyable comedy/melodrama in which Lucy and Henry Fonda are cast against type--she as a selfish, unlikable nightclub diva, and he as the doting busboy who devotes himself to her when she's badly injured by her villainous boss. A year later, Lucy starred with Red Skelton and Gene Kelly in Du Barry Was a Lady, a lavish and still-delightful MGM musical comedy that was Lucy's first film in color--and the first to feature the blazing red hair (recommended by legendary Hollywood stylist Sydney Guilaroff) that became one of Lucy's most beloved and readily identifiable features.

By the time Lucy played a middle-aged playwright in Critic's Choice (1963), she'd become one of TV's most beloved and successful comediennes, and her film career was clearly winding down. Critic's Choice was a fitting follow-up to 1960's The Facts of Life, reuniting Lucy with four-time costar Bob Hope in an upscale comedy/drama that was noteworthy for its progressive depiction of divorced and remarried sophisticates in New York City. A decade later, Lucy chose the ill-fated Mame (1974) for what would prove to be her final big-screen appearance. Despite brutal reviews that focused on Lucy being too old for the title role (originated on Broadway by Angela Lansbury), Mame has survived its bad reputation to become one of Hollywood's most popular high-camp misfires, with Lucy's eccentric and lavishly costumed character gaining a loyal following (especially in the gay community) as a colorful inspiration for female impersonators. In some ways it's a fitting end to Lucy's big-screen career; she always gave maximum effort against considerable odds, and The Lucille Ball Film Collection is a testament to Lucy's show-biz tenacity. --Jeff Shannon

On the DVDs
Each of the DVDs in The Lucille Ball Film Collection is accompanied by bonus features culled from the extensive Warner Bros. archives. As with many of WB's DVD boxed sets, these bonus features consist of featurettes and cartoons that are chronologically matched (in most cases) to the feature presentations, offering a home-video approximation of what it was like to attend these films in their original theatrical context. (See reviews of each individual title for specific bonus-feature details.) For the long-awaited DVD release of Mame, Warner Bros. technicians attempted to create a new stereo soundtrack mix, but this ultimately proved technically impossible due to the variable quality of the original recording elements, so the film is presented with the mono soundtrack of its original theatrical release. As always with WB releases, picture and sound quality is uniformly superb, especially in preserving the brilliant Technicolor of Du Barry Was a Lady. Of particular value among the bonus features, the DVD of Critic's Choice breaks from strict chronology with "Calling All Tars," a 1936 Vitaphone short featuring one of Bob Hope's earliest screen appearances, and the Oscar-nominated cartoon "Now Hear This" (1962), directed in abstract-art style by legendary Warner Bros. animator Chuck Jones. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Big Street: Haughty nightclub singer Gloria Lyons (Lucille Ball) doesn't have time for the little people, including Little Pinks (Henry Fonda), the busboy who adores her. Then Gloria is paralyzed when a mobster knocks her down the stairs, and those little people are the only ones who help her. Critic's Choice: Tossing inspired throwaway lines right and left, Hope is a New York critic who loves writing pointed reviews that close insufferably lousy plays. But there's a new play in town â€" by his redheaded wife (Ball). Dance Girl Dance: Bubbles (Lucille Ball) loves to dance. But she also likes to eat. Her friend Judy (Maureen O'Hara) may choose to suffer for her art, but not Bubbles. She swap hers ballet shoes for a G-string...and turns patrons' fantasies into dollars as burlesque sensation Tiger Lily White. Dubarry Was a Lady: Hapless nightclub hat check boy Red Skelton loves glamorous chanteuse Lucille Ball. Handsome hoofer Gene Kelly loves her too. But Lucy only loves money. Then Red mistakenly gulps down a Mickey Finn, dreams he's in 18th-century France and before you can powder your wig, a throng of suitors fall in love with Lucy! Mame: Lucille Ball brings star sparkle to the title role, a high-living grande dame who's outlandishly eccentric and, when suddenly faced with raising an orphaned nephew, fiercely loving. Veterans of the New York stage original join her: Beatrice Arthur as best friend Vera, Jane Connell as prim governess Agnes, choreographer Onna White and director Gene Saks.

Customer Reviews:

Great movie salute to Lucille Ball.......2007-06-29

This is a pretty good collection honoring Lucille Ball's motion picture work in various decades of her long career. She looks beautiful in "Dubarry...". The movie is dated but, she looks so glam. The film was made mostly just to promote MGM's Technicolor process of color filming. By the time "Critic's Choice" was made, Miss Ball was just past 50 years old. Heavy makeup and careful camera lensing makes her look about 15 years younger than she actually was. Ironically, the woman playing her mother in the film was about the same age as Lucy. "Mame" should have starred Angela Lansbury. But, Ball wanted to follow up her 1968 hit, "Yours, Mine and Ours" with a major film project. So, she secured rights to "Mame". Aside from her singing, the film is OK. She looks great thanks to her makeup team and Vaseline closeups. Nice campy moments. Glam clothes! "Big Street" is her best film of all that starred her.

Famous Lucy Films Finally on DVD.......2007-06-28

This is the best of the best films they can release in one set for Lucille Ball. I just got the set yesterday, (June 27) and stayed up all night to watch all of the films.

The Big Street - This stars - Henry Fonda, Lucille Ball, Barton MacLane, Eugene Pallette, Agnes Moorehead, Sam Levine, Ray Collins, and Ozzie Nelson.

Critic's Choice - This stars - Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Maxwell, Rip Torn, Jessie Royce Landis, John Dehner, and Jim Backus.

Dance, Girl, Dance - This stars - Maureen O'Hara, Louis Hayward, Lucille Ball, Virginia Field, Ralph Bellamy, Mary Carlisle, Katherine Alexander, Edward Brophy, Walter Abel, Harold Huber, Maria Ouspenska, and Harry E. Edington.

DuBarry Was a Lady - This stars - Red Skelton, Lucille Ball, Gene Kelly, Virginia O'Brien, Zero Mostel, and Tommy Dorsey

Mame - This stars - Lucille Ball, Beatrice Arthur, Bruce Davison, Joyce Van Patten, Kirby Furlong, Robert Preston.

This is all of the stars of the 5 films. I was going to tell about the movies, but if you are purchasing this item, or are looking to see how the movies are according to other people on this site, I am not going to ruin your suprise. I will let you watch the films yourself, and all you are getting from me is - I LOVE THESE MOVIES.

Four Great Films & One Misfire.......2007-06-20

This set is worth owning just for Mame, in which Lucille Ball BECOMES Auntie Mame. DuBarry Was A Lady, Dance Girl Dance (with a young Maureen O'Hara) and The Big Street are all fan favorites. While Lucy looks stunning in Critic's Choice, it is the least enjoyable film in the set (and the only "stinker" out of four films she made with her preferred screen-partner, Bob Hope).

Pre-Order for 6-19-2007 // GREAT new film collection!!!.......2007-05-14

This is a GREAT collection to own and a must have for any Lucy fan! With this collection you will receive 5 movies starring Lucille Ball's most popular film adaption. You will be amazed to see the true acting ability of Lucy here.

Some of the films here are somewhat of a opposite to Lucille Ball's role on "I Love Lucy" but some are very similar to "I Love Lucy" in my opinion. Take "The Big Street" for instance, High class Gloria (Lucille Ball) was a bit cruel and mean to a poor man named pinks who falls head over heels in love with her and will do anything to please her at the end she begins to fall for him too. A must see dramatic film!!

You will see Lucille Ball like you have never seen her before and these movies are not boring at all but they are really good interesting movies that you will not lose interest in. I am somewhat shy of old films and find them boring but I can watch anything with Lucille Ball and you will love these films!

"Lucille Ball Film Collection" includes:

"The Big Street" - Ex-chanteuse Gloria is vain, cruel, crippled - and busboy Pinks can't help but love her. Ball and Henry Fonda power Damon Runyon's tale of Broadway denizens living on life's margins.

"Critic's Choice" - That's no playwright, that's my wife. Poison-penned Broadway critic Bob Hope loves wife Lucille Ball...but hates the play she writes. Based on the play by "Deathtrap's" Ira Levin.

Dance, Girl, Dance" - Art doesn't pay the bills. So aspiring ballerina Ball makes her way as a burlesque star in this powerful study of being a woman in a man's world. With Maureen O'Hara.

"Dubarry Was A Lady" - Their friendship is a perfect musical-comedy blendship! Ball goes from NYC torch singer to the dream gi