Yogi Bear (2010)

All these people that are rating this movie as boring, expected, "I knew exactly where the plot is going" SERIOUSLY???? its YOGI BEAR, not a Tarintino movie. I personally LOVED this movie. Sure the jokes were corny, but that's why they were funny. The jokes were always corny on the original Yogi cartoon. I honestly thought I was going to hate this movie because of all the so called bad reviews it got. However, I decided to go see it anyway, at the discount 3d theater, and I laughed from beginning to end. My 9 year old son also was cracking up. It was a nice, clean, goofy family movie. What's so wrong about that? after we watched it at the movies, we went out and bought the blu ray combo and watched it again. I enjoyed it more the second time watching it in the comfort of my home. Don't listen to People's opinions, rent it if you must, but watch it and make up your OWN mind. If you are like any of the people at that theater that day, you will love it.

as for the blu ray dvd, it is beautiful and very clear. On this movie, I did not have enough money to buy the 3d version, but I did borrow it from a friend and it is AWSOME. This movie is BEST VIEWED IN 3D, its just much more fun that way. the regular blu ray is nice but its much more fun in 3D.

Well, I went to an advanced screening of the new Yogi Bear movie and I loved it. It is a very funny film with lots of laugh-out-loud moments. I took my 11 year old son with me and he enjoyed it just as much as I did. As we were leaving the cinema, we were both going back and forth over all the lines from the movie. I think the animators did a great job with Yogi and Boo Boo. Dan Ackroyd did a good job with Yogi and Justin Timberlake was fantastic as Boo Boo. Speaking of the little buddy, in the commercials Boo Boo seems a little smarmy but in the film he is the same ol' Boo Boo that we all know and love. The story line is pretty weak but the antics of Yogi and Boo Boo help make up for it.

As a matter of fact, the weakest part is the human actors. Yogi and Boo Boo were always dead on perfect and funny during their scenes. However, Tom Cavanagh is weak as Ranger Smith. Instead of chasing after Yogi and getting all upset at Yogi's antics, Tom took the opposite approach: Yogi will be Yogi and there's nothing I can do about it. Anna Faris is a good love interest for Ranger Smith. The first twenty minutes of the film, when they are setting up the plot, is the slowest part of the film because it is mostly Cavanagh, Faris and the villain, Mr. Mayor. Once the set up is done, though, it is pure antics and hilarity throughout the rest of the film.

I am very biased because I have been a big Huck and Yogi fan all of my life and it is great to see an H-B character in a big budget film that works. After the film, I turned to the guy next to me (not my son) and said, "What did you think?" His reaction was the same as mine that it was a great film and a terrific Yogi Bear movie. Everyone in the theater were laughing uproariously at the film and gave the film a huge applause at the end, so it wasn't just me.

I loathe the three TV films from the 80's (Yogi's Great Escape, Yogi Bear/Spruce Goose and Yogi/Space Bears). They were awful. Yogi's First Christmas is a just a step above these three but not by much. However, this film is probably the best Yogi Bear showing since "Hey There, It's Yogi Bear" and this is no exaggeration. I enjoyed every minute and my hat is off to Warner Brothers Pictures for making a terrific Yogi Bear movie.

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I loved Yogi cartoons when I was a kid, many moons ago. Wasn't sure what they would do to wreck that with an "updated" movie. Fortunately, they pretty much stuck to the original formula and produced and thoroughly predictable but thoroughly enjoyable movie.

We took our grandson and I expected to drift off or spend more time concentrating on the popcorn bucket than the actual movie. However, despite a massive headache at the start of the show, halfway through, I was back to the screen and had a great time. The live actors were a vague mystery to me. I have seen them all somewhere, someplace, but couldn't put my finger on who they were. When I got home and looked them up on IMDB, I had that "aha" moment. Anna Faris was the most recognizable.

I'll have to give Kudos to Dan Aykroyd as he really nailed Yogi's voice. I'll also give A for effort to Justin Timberlake, who did an admirable if slightly off Boo Boo.

I was able to predict virtually every single scene and event well in advance, yet it didn't bother me at all. I think the filmmakers delivered the spirit of the cartoon show from so long ago.

Wasn't perfect, but still not a bad way to pass time while I ate popcorn. All I know is Baby loved it. Highly recommended for kids and young at heart.

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Comment: I have to laugh when I hear these people reciting bogus information about 3D and the wearing of "goofy" glasses from so called "technical reporters" that formed their opinion based on a brief viewing in a crowded noisy convention, rather than living with a 3D TV in their homes for awhile. These same people will stand in line for hours and spend $18 apiece (not to mention the cast of food) to get in. That same 3D experience (or better) can be had any time they want (with their family) for the cost of one admission. This family movie is a case in point. It is family entertainment on all levels. The jokes are great... the story is "lesson learning"... and the 3D effect is wonderful with the occasional surprise. It is probably a little mild for teenagers and "tweensters" but if it's a wholesome funny politically correct family movie your looking for, this is it... it's "smarter than the average bear... right Boo Boo"?

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I love this movie.

There's something about it, that doesnt get old. I have watched it about 15 times and still feel like I'm watching it for the first time, whenever I watch it again. It's like taking a fun trip to Jellystone over and over again.

What's not to like?

The movie is about forever friendship: Yogi and Boo Boo are charming, a great team, and compliment each other better than Abbott/Costello, Cheech/Chong, Laurel/Hardy, etc, and those were great teams.

The movie is about fun and adventure: Yogi and Boo Boo stop at nothing to swipe a pic-a-nic basket. If they have to fly, they will. If they have to hook up pic-a-nic tables themselves, to a vehicle and get the baskets that way, they'll do it.

They never give up, and there's a good natured lesson to be learned there.

The film is full of scenes of a sunshine filled Jellystone Park, it is a happy movie, a movie meant to entertain and provide fun to the audience and it hits a home run in doing that.

The scene where Yogi and Boo Boo dance and shake their groove things: Cute and Great.

The fireworks scene: Hilarious.

The "limo window challenged" Mayor: A riot.

The so called movie "critics" and less than stellar box office numbers notwithstanding, this is a great movie that the whole family will love.

It brings Yogi and Boo Boo to life like never before, and I love this movie more than the cartoons.

I hope there will be more movies.

Throw in a nerdy but funny Mr. Ranger and a funny, cute "Movie lady" played by the lovable Anna Faris, and what do you have?

A pic-a-nic basket full of goodies, and dreams that come true.

Verdict: Two pic-a-nic baskets up!!

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Twilight Samurai

This Japanese film, directed by Yoji Yamada, won many awards in Japan. I can certainly understand why. It breaks the mold of films usually associated with Samurai warriors, and instead shows us the human side of a man who lived for his honor and who also wanted to just simply live.

The time period is 19th Century Japan. The strength of the Samurais is fading. And our hero, played by Seibei Iguchi, is a recent widower who is trying to support his two young daughters and aging mother. Yes, he's a Samurai, but of a minor caste. This means he works a day job, the equivalent of bookkeeper, along with a group of other men. He's a sad man, ignoring his personal hygiene, which embarrasses his boss. And he always goes straight home after work, never accepting the invitations of his co-workers to go out for a drink.

His relatives want him to marry again but he rejects the marriage broker who comes to visit. And then a lovely woman does come into his life. She's a childhood friend who has married badly. Because she was so mistreated, she has come home to live with her family. She's beautiful and kind and gentle, ad the sad Samurai's children love her. Later, he shows his valor with some swordplay with her abusive husband.

But as the story continues, and a romance blossoms, the man feels unworthy, even though it is clear that he and this woman would make a good match. And then, suddenly, the head of his Samurai clan calls upon him to commit a murder for the honor of the clan. Reluctantly, very reluctantly, he accepts, understanding that it is likely he will die.

I learned a lot about Samurai life and the details of living in a harsh environment every day. I felt I was right there, in a culture that is indeed different from mine. And, as I absorbed the atmosphere, I also felt the plight of a very troubled human being who had to make a hard choice about what he personally felt was right as compared to what his culture demanded of him.

This is a really fine film. The acting is extraordinary. The directing is flawless. There is romance, action and adventure. There's a serious glimpse in the world of the Samurai. And, most of all, there is a human story that tugged at my heartstrings. Highly recommended.

In "The Twilight Samurai", director Yoji Yamada conceived a more realistic interpretation of life in 19th century Japan than is often seen in "samurai films". The result in a genuine period film that spends time on the daily struggles and family life of its protagonist, Seibei Iguchi, without adrenaline-pumping swordplay. Yamada based the film's screenplay on 3 stories by novelist Shuuhei Fujisawa. The story is told partly from the point of view of Seibei Iguchi's daughter, Ito, who is 5 years old in the film, but provides voiceover narration as a grown woman.

Iguchi (Hiroyuki Sanada) is a low-ranking samurai of the Unasaka Clan, living under the Shogunate of mid-19th century Japan, a few years before the Meiji Restoration. Already the days of the samurai seem numbered, which casts a certain fatalism over the events of the film. Iguchi's wife has recently died after a long and taxing illness, leaving him to care for his two young daughters and senile mother with insufficient income. Iguchi actually enjoys the life of a farmer and watching his daughters grow, but his poverty leaves him without even proper clothing to fulfill his professional responsibilities. His spirits are lifted when he learns that Tomoe (Rie Miyazawa), a woman he has adored since childhood, has received a divorce from her abusive husband. But when his clan's leader dies, the ensuing struggle for power may prove fatal for many samurai.

"The Twilight Samurai"'s success depends upon the performance of Hiroyuki Sanada, who makes Iguchi's humility, heartbreak, and eccentricities convincing. Mutsuo Naganuma's delicate, subtly hued cinematography draws our attention to character development and small gestures. This is a period drama, not a martial arts film. There are only one and a half sword fights, which director Yoji Yamada uses to impress upon the audience that samurai didn't conquer one another with quick fatal cuts, as we so often see in movies, but normally delivered and received many cuts and subsequently bled to death. "The Twilight Samurai" is slow and probably a bit too long at 2 hours and 9 minutes. But it is a lovely film of one man's acceptance of the difficulties his life has brought him. Japanese with English subtitles.

The DVD: Bonus features include interviews with director Yoji Yamada and actor Hiroyuki Sanada and 3 theatrical trailers, one of which is for "The Twilight Samurai". The interview with Yoji Yamada (10 minutes) is dubbed in English. The director explains why he wanted to make a realistic period film, why it was well-received by Japanese audiences, and casting actors Sanada and Min Tanaka, who fight in the movie. Hiroyuki Sanada speaks English in his interview (17 minutes). He talks about the character of Seibei Iguchi, his acting career, and his work on the film "The Last Samurai", in which he had a supporting role. The English subtitles for the movie cannot be turned off.

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Growing up with a first generation Japanese father and a second generation Japanese-American mother, and being very American the Japanese culture is very close and dear to me. Ever since I can remember, films like Seven Samurai, Rashomon, Yojimbo, Kwaidan, Ugetsu Monogatari, Sword of Doom and Seppuku [Harakiri] have shaped my view of Japanese cinema. I've also watched more Japanese TV historical drama series than I can remember in the last 35 plus years.

A few weeks ago, I happened upon Tasogare Seibei [Twilight Samurai] very much on accident and can't stop thinking about it. It's affected me that much. And more than anything it has opened my eyes to my ignorance regarding modern Japanese cinema. Sure I've enjoyed movies like Shall We Dance and Ringu, but only because they both had releases in the US. Tasogare Seibei has made me realize that modern samurai era films can be very very good, and don't necessarily need names like Kurosawa, Inagaki, Kobayashi or Okamoto attached to them to be good.

This film reminds me very much of Seppuku in that the central character is a devoted and loving father that makes great sacrifices for his family. Unlike the emotional and explosive battle climax that takes place in Seppuku the duel here is taken on reluctantly by Seibei with a heavy heart, yet equally heroically. This reluctance to violence by Seibei is similar to that of William Munny in Unforgiven. But while both are family men and farmers, they have very different character at their core.

Violence and the understanding of it is not what makes this such a great movie. Devotion to his two daughters and aging mother, undying love for a childhood sweetheart, the daily struggle of supporting loved ones on a measly clerk's salary while balancing massive debt is something most 21st century Americans can relate to. What makes it so easy to like, admire and sympathize with Iguchi Seibei is his humble and self-sacrificing approach to life. Compounded by "giri" [duty and obligation] to his clan this creates almost unbearable responsibility and leads to a heart-wrenching decision.

Tasogare Seibei is based on several short stories by Fujisawa Shuhei, and until recently I had no idea my father was such a fan of his. Fujisawa's stories focus on the trials of everyday low-ranking samurai living in the strict feudal world of the samurai. It's no surprise the film's director Yamada Yoji known for his long running Tora-san series is also a fan of Fujisawa's.

Growing up I often wondered if non-Japanese could appreciate or see Japanese cinema the way I do. When I read reviews on Amazon.com for Japanese movies, I have no doubt they can, and I'm frequently humbled that their insights are often more Japanese than mine. But that may also prove that cinema has no cultural or language barrier, so that a person in Moscow can see Gone With The Wind as the classic struggle of Russian women, or Twin Peaks can become a cultural phenomena in Japan. And part of what might make foreign films so special is that they present familiar situations in an inherently culturally unique way.

Twilight Samurai does that, and will hopefully help people realize that no matter the place or the time, we are all the same.

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This is absolutely one of my favorite movies. Sanada's performance as the reluctant warrior at the beck and call of lesser men who are his social seniors draws you into his world. This man is a fighter who has no real interest in fighting. He has children whom he loves and he aspires to nothing greater than caring for them. When he gets a second chance at a love life you hope he can pull it off but circumstances seem to work against it...

This isn't an "action" movie per se. It is definitely a love story; between the man and his family, between the man and his childhood sweetheart. But the lack of action filled fight scenes doesn't mean that you aren't aware throughout the film that this man is "special". As a martial artist and swordsman I felt that the two fight scenes that were in the film were really excellent in terms of technique and drama. Every time I watch this film, I enjoy it more and more.

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This is a beautiful film from Japan that was nominated last year for Best Foreign Language Film. It is the story of a poor samurai who takes care of two adorable little girls and a senile mother while facing troubles at his job and the turmoil of his time. The film's emotional force lies in both the nuanced, delicate direction and Hiroyuki Sanada's amazing performance that would undoubtedly be nominated for, or even win the Oscar if the Acadamy members and voting actors were to see the film. It is that good. Apart from Kate Winslet, there has not been a better performance this year (in fact, the two are about tied in that respect). Sanada perfectly and precisely crystallizes every bit of complexity his character has to offer into a sympathetic man we care about and feel for throughout the entirety of the film, which is crucial to its success. There was also a notable performance from Min Tanaka as a dangerous, but deeply sad samurai cornered within a decrepit home. Tanaka managed to key in on the underlying depression and insanity of his dark character. You feel for him, and his presence adds an important sense of gravitas to the conversation both men have before the film's controlled, nerve-wracking climax. This is not your usual samurai film, and proves to be something revelatory, memorable, and, above all, satisfying.

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Deep Rising / The Puppet Masters (Double Feature)

Deep Rising (1998)

Watched the Deep Rising Blu-ray recently and it is a LARGE improvement on the previous non-anamorphic DVD. The picture quality I'd rate 7/10, the close-ups had a lot of detail. The movie is filled with dated CGI but I'm always willing to put that aside given the year of production. However, you will be hard pressed to find a more aggressive 5.1 soundtrack mix filled with gunfire, monster sounds, ship and hardware sounds real ear candy and delivered in DTS-MA HD. Recommended.

The Puppet Masters (1994)

The Puppet Masters which for some reason I've never seen before, loosely based on a Robert Heinlein story. Decent 'B' movie starring Donald Sutherland. Many of the outdoor shots seemed flat and dull while the interior shots were solid with more clarity, it had the look of a made-for-TV movie. Special effects were convincing enough to make for an entertaining popcorn flick. The DTS-HD MA 2.0 sound was pretty good although I had Denon set up to use the surround channels and matrixed to 5.1.

Both movies are on a single disc with the correct aspect ratios 2.35:1. If you're a fan it's worth the upgrade and a bargain.

One of my favorite guilty pleasures,Deep Rising, finally comes to Blu-ray. Can't wait. It's a full tilt action ride. Purportedly about a Monstrous Squid rising from the deep, as usual, it's really about the characters populating the film. And what a cast we get in this one. As the captain of a small PT type ship, with a motto of, if the cash is there, we don't care, Treat Williams is fine in the hero (good guy?) role. The mercenary crew who have chartered the ship are led by Wes Studi, and a lovely crew they are. Painted in broad strokes as ultra-violent, ridiculously unredeemable bad boys. I particularly enjoyed Djimon Hounsou, he is always good, but if you haven't seen his performance in Blood Diamond, treat yourself. Their plan is to hijack and rob a luxury liner. But they find it dead in the water, without power, and seemingly empty. They do meet up with a few survivors. Among them the not so pure ship owner, Anthony Heald, and the lovely Famke Janssen, who's back and forth banter with Treat Williams is a workable chemistry. now let the blood and gore fly as Squidy takes the stage. Course the gore is done in the over the top style that renders it non-retch-able. Having to work together to get off the ship, they are of course going down one at a time. Some even get a poetic come-up-tance, Wes Studi's was fun. But with movies of this ilk, what can raise it beyond it's parts is a great side-kick, The Great Kevin J. O'Connor is at his scene stealing best in this one. I think he is given some of the best lines in the movie, and his delivery is always spot on. So if your looking for hi-brow entertainment, with a sensible plot, you didn't read this far, so no worries, But if your into all-out, non-stop mayhem, cartoonish characters, bullets, blood & gore, with dialog consisting mainly of one liners, this is for you. The Blu-ray of Deep Rising at $6.99 is worth it alone. Getting another movie (Puppet Masters) is like an extra prize in your Cracker Jacks.

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If you have never seen these two relatively obscure movies, you have missed quite a treat. Both are outstanding. And now they are together on Blu-ray for a song. As science fiction goes, both are at the top of their game. Actors are great, acting is great, story is great, and the monsters are great. Don't bother looking at reviews and critiques. If you enjoy sci-fi movies, buy the disk and see for yourself. You will be glad you did.

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Both these movies were murdered by the critics of the time but they offer up tight plots, great actors, action and horror all the ingredients for great 'B' horror flicks that hover most of the time around the 'A' level. Treat Williams and Donald Sutherland (Keifer's dad) headline Deep Rising And The Puppet Masters respectively and do a bang up job in both cases. The transfers are great in blu-ray and there's enough action here for a double-feature evening that will curtail your bathroom visits to the intermission between films. Two pros with great supporting casts adding their personal touch to the genres. You'll have a blast!!

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Both the movies are good. I hadn't seen "Robert A. Henlein's The Puppet Masters" before I bought this DVD, but I was already a big fan of "Deep Rising" because of the action/horror story and excepetionally good cast. The Puppet Masters has a decent cast with Donald Sutherland the most notable. The Puppet Masters plot is of an alien crash and people being taken over is a familiar one, but this one doesn't let you down. The Deep Rising plot is about a group of Mercs that have been hired by an unknown person to rob a Cruise ship out at sea. They hire a captain, played by Treat Williams, with a small fast torpedo style boat to get them out to the ship. Treat's crew includes a mechanic (Benny in The Mummy) and a co-pilot. Once they arrive they find that the chalenge isn't getting the money from any security force, it's staying out of the jaws of a creature. Of the two I enjoyed Deep Rising the most. I felt a better story, directing, and cast.

To me the directing by Stephen Sommers (The Mummy Trilogy [Blu-ray], Van Helsing [Blu-ray], Gi Joe: The Rise of Cobra [Blu-ray], et cetera) on Deep Rising is great and the well known cast alone in Deep Rising gave it a plus. The comedy thrown in on this action/horror is definitely icing on the cake. This Blu-ray version is pretty good. Only two slight complatints I have are technical to the DVD disc itself. On mine the disc icon shows up with the cover and title of the movie Van Gogh. But it does actually have the two advertised movies Deep Rising/ The Puppet Masters on the disc. My only other minor complaint is I had to open the player to get to the other movie after watching either one. It wouldn't let me just go back to the menu where you see both titles in the beginning unless I ejected the disc and reloaded it. Now considering the price, I'm not really complaining to much because the quality of the movies themselves is excellent and they both played without any problem. I highly recommend purchasing this DVD.

CA Luster

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Mardock Scramble: Second Combustion

Just finished watching this film. Abdolutely loved it as with the first installment. The second installment is focused in two halves, the first runes recovery within a place known as "paradise" with the brief ebcounter of another nut-nut assassin with a penchant for limb cutting. The second half all takes place on a casino. Whe I saw the trailer I had no idea why a casino would play such a large role in the story, (having not read the mang) but, no spoilers, now I see and it was a great way to finish off the film. Coming to that, it ends very VERY abruptly with a simple sentence leaving you wondering just what's going to happen next. Thoroughly enjoyable mature watching and I really can't way for last installment.

I just finished watching The Second Combustion and I was soo happy when i could see the continuation to one of my fave mangas turned anime. It picks up exactly where the 1st film left off and it does for the most part follow the manga almost 100% A few things were left out, like the gambling lessons and how to play the games, but to me that was a good thing. I found that to be very dull in the manga and also they added nudity in this anime as well, as they did in the First Combustion. The manga has no nudity at all, and Balot looks a little different but anyways, back to this work. The story seems to run rather short and kinda ends abruptly, like the first film.

I know this series has maybe 1 maybe 2 more films to finish the story and I wish they wouldn't take so damn long to make it but I did think that both films are good, so its worth the wait. I'm just not very patient so I would like to see the next film soon and also wish the next volume of the manga would drop already. It is odd that they mention a lot of egg jokes in this series. (Dr. Easter, Boiled, Shell...etc.) I guess its an inside joke somewhere but i don't understand it. Overall, if you enjoy the manga i recommend you watch this, and if you enjoy this anime, watch the First Compression if you haven't and I highly recommend the manga to you as well.. ENJOY!

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I just finished reading the book(translated by Viz), which is over 700 pages long and I can tell you that the primary Amazon Editorial Review has totally missed the mark on this one. I have also seen both of the Mardock Scramble disks sold by Amazon. I feel it behooves me to review some of the material that is in the book which either did not make it into the videos, or were so glossed over that people do not know what they are looking at. As such, the rest of this going to be in the vein of spoilers, but they are important so you know what you are looking at. I will avoid telling about anything that will be in the third video.

Spoilers Start Here:

There was a really big war where the army engaged scientists to do human experimentation to make better soldiers. The center of this experimentation was a place called Paradise. There were three main scientist leaders for Paradise. After the war, the countries repudiated Paradise and the leaders would have been executed, but each chose a different path to make themselves acceptable to society. One started the Scramble 09 protocol to solve criminal cases to show their usefulness. One started the October Corporation, to provide amusement & pleasure to the populace. The third isolated himself in Paradise (the head in the birdcage). The October Corporation killed the head of the Scramble 09 group, leaving Dr. Easter.

In the first Mardock Scramble, we meet two creations of this mess, Shell & Boiled. Rune is killed? and brought back by Dr. Easter. The stories in this series are a journey of how a severely damaged young girl is empowered to strike back and how she is repaired psychologically. There are multiple sets of bad guys that need to be brought down, including striking at the October Corp.

The primary reviewer states that the plot in Second Combustion doesn't go much of anywhere -or make much sense, when in actuality what is happening is that it is giving you the back story of the three Paradise scientists. The casino is important since the heroes need to get their hands on the Million Dollar Poker chips that store Shell's memories. Can they do it? Will Shell marry into the October Corp and become a member of their ruling elite?

If the video producers handle it right the end of series (video 3) should have fight scenes in it that are epic. The name of the third section in the book is "The Third Exhaust". Keep an eye out for it. I am looking forward to it.

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Just watching the being sequence you feel that it is a little different. Would not recommend for kids since there is nudity. But love how they mix tech into the lives of the character. Sometimes leaves you guessing a little of where this is heading.

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part two of the series, I liked part one enough to purchase part two an watch it. Very serious subject matter, not for kids.

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Drumline (Special Edition) (2002)

that's what you'll think when you finish this DVD!

It's a great flick! If you've ever been in a marching band, no matter how long ago, it will bring it right back to you. Now, most of us only dreamed of being in bands the caliber of those featured in drumline. They are the cream....I didn't catch the names of the REAL marching bands that participated in the movie (the college names are fictional, I believe)...but they were the stars of this particular show.

The filmmakers captured the difficulty and exhuberance of being a part of "one band, one music" and the dedication these young people have to being the best at what they do. The only recognizable actor is intense Orlando Jones, as Mr. Lee...and he is very good at what he does.

The plot is pretty typical...boy who is a little different from the crowd has incredible talent, faces adversity, finds love, finds his way back to his dream. The boy is a newcommer named Nick Cannon, who has a real screen persona. He's hard not to like. The real star is the music, and the marching, and the in your face color spectacle of being involved in marching band at the college competition level.

For a real feel-good experience, catch Drumline. It's awesome!

Let me preface my comments with my bias first: I am a graduate of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, so the notion of a movie set on an historically black college campus (A&T-filmed on CAU's beautiful campus) gets points out the gate. This movie, however, managed to do something that its ealier predecessor's failed to do: entertain, educate, and rally the audience all at the same time.

"Drumline" is your classic story of a highly talented and cocky freshman coming into his own by bumping heads with authority and consequently learning to respect the differences. Where this movie picks up major points is that it takes you directly into the heart of a culture (HBC bands) and helps to preserve on film to some and present to others something that has an awesome legacy in Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

There is something incredibly awesome about seeing bands battle on the big screen. The adrenaline gets going and you find yourself cheering during the competitions. When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I knew I would have to see it.

Nick Cannon does a wonderful job with the main character, Devin. And less we forget, the extras in this movie were totally on point. I'm so glad that this movie was as well done and well received as it was, and I hope that Hollywood takes note and gives us more movies like this one.

Also worth mentioning, excluding some very light profanity, this is pretty much a good movie for anyone to watch, be it families, dates, or just friends hanging out. I know that this DVD will be the highlight of my collection for a while.

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Nothing like a percussion section to dress up a marching band--to give the band some flair and a nice touch of razzle-dazzle. Is it any wonder percussion sections are often comprised of flamboyant, overly-confident, enthusiastic showboaters? And there's nothing wrong with that: after all, these guys have to strut their stuff, entertain the crowd, and hold the band together--all at the same time.

The movie DRUMLINE pays homage to the determined percussionists who entertain college football crowds on Saturday afternoons. The story itself is formulaic and predictable: young Devon (Nick Cannon), a snare drummer with buckets of talent but a serious attitude, is constantly on the outs with his no-nonsense band director, Dr. Lee (Orlando Jones, forever known to me as the 7UP dude). But the story is enhanced by the fascinating trials and tribulations of the (fictitious) Atlanta A&T marching band as it progresses through a long football season. The viewer is privy to the band's countless practices, personality clashes, section challenges, and performances. But the performances make this movie so entertaining; director Charles Stone III and his crew really knew their stuff, as DRUMLINE vividly portrays the gritty and glittery realism of a big-time college marching band.

I even get a nice little workout while I watch this film--especially when Atlanta A&T's percussion section must meet a challenging drumline in a "face-off" to determine the winner of a national marching band contest. The drum cadences, the pounding and clashing rhythms, are so clean, crisp, and compelling that I find myself first bobbing my head to the beat, then swaying and strutting to the delightful sounds. Finally, I'm slapping my beer belly in unison with the cadence (and I keep up pretty well, if I do say so myself). The workout provides a fresh burst of energy, and so does DRUMLINE.

--D. Mikels

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My review of "Drumline" is based on what I saw at the theater, not on home video. First of all, the plot is pure formula, inspired by "An Officer and A Gentleman". Remove that complaint, and it's a great film. The movie is highly original in that it shows, (perhaps for the first time on the screen), what it's really like to be in a marching band in college. This film does an excellent job in showing a real-life school, with real people, in a way that should not offend that many people. There's no real gratutious sex, violence, or bad language. What it has is in keeping with it's PG-13 rating. Nick Cannon graduates from a high school in a lower-income neighborhood in New York City. He was raised by his mother, his father having little to do with either one of them. He gets a musical diploma to a college in Atlanta. He has an attitude; he's a great drummer and he knows it. We later find out he cann't read sheet music, (he lied on his college application), but he has the ability to learn very fast by hearing alone. The fact that Nick was raised by a single parent also contributes to his bad attitude towards the world. Nick does have some good morals, but, it takes some attitude adjustment to bring them out. Orlando Jones, the only big name in the cast, is very believable as the musical director who is stuck on out-of-date music, that while nice to listen to, is not winning the big competition with the other schools. The college pricipal really wants a winning band, much like another pricipal would want a winning football team. The movie shows that being on a marching band means being on time, being part of a team, constant workouts, (just as hard as the football players), and when one person makes a mistake everyone suffers. Also there are four levels in the band from the most talented down to the rookiees. A person on a lower lever can challenge a person on a higher level to a one-on-one musical competition for their seat. The nerve-racking fact that college students, many in their teens or early twenties, have to be near perfect in front of a stadium filled with thousands of people is also shown.I doubt if what it really means to be in a band in college has ever been shown in such detail in a movie before. For the record, I was never in a band in school, but those who were, have said what is shown on the screen is very accurate. "Drumline" does have moments when what the viewer expected to happen does occur, but, it has enough surprises to keep the film-goer engaged. The acting, camera work, music, and location filming are all first rate. This is more than a "fish out of water" film, this is a movie about real people at a real college playing in a real marching band.

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Drumline is a heart-thumping, feet-stompin', get-up-and-shake-your-...-and-feel-good type of movie that makes one thankful to be alive. Nick Cannon plays a gifted drummer from the inner city who gets a full scholarship to Atlanta T&T, a predominantly black college which has a long history of having an exceptional marching band.

Most of the characters are black. A few well placed faces are white. The story, of gifted ambition fighting against the system, is universal. Nick's love interest is Zoe Saldana, a lovely cheerleader (whom I had seen in Center Stage and Crossroads). Orlando Jones (Evolution, The Time Machine) plays an overly conservative band director who is challenged to bring more excitement to defeat longtime rival, Morris Brown College, at the upcoming band competition classic.

Nick wears his motor-board and graduates from high school. There's a touching scene where he goes to see his father, who works as a ticket taker and "thanks" him for not being there when he needed him. In college, Nick's rebellious nature gets him into trouble and eventually kicked off of the band. He makes a triumphant return and everyone lives happily ever after (but, of course).

Along the way, however, we are treated to the most exciting display of marching band prowess and drum line percussion riffs I've ever enjoyed anywhere! Take it from me, you'll never in a million years view such an exhibition on Saturday afternoon NCAA football!

The finale is spectacular. On the field, you'd be life-challenged to see black cheerleader mid-driffs more sensual; or black drum beats so inspirational. The bands duel, and tie; and the drum lines face-off for the conclusion. Not a word was spoken, but I've never experienced anything so dramatic; and I literally ended the film with my heart pounding in my chest, and tears streaming down my cheeks.

There's a touching moment in the deleted scenes where Nick goes to thank his father who turned out to offer him a key piece of inspiration in the film.

Drumline is viscerally and emotionally powerful; and it is easily one of the best movies I've seen all year (black or otherwise). I'm sure you'll love it as much as I did!

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Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001)

This movie was a blast, but you know that already. Read on for the

details of this fully-loaded DVD edition:

Feature Commentary Track

w/ Kevin Smith, Scott Mosier and Jason Mewes; Deleted Scenes

with Intros by Kevin Smith and members of the View Askew family; -

Jay & Silent Bob's Secret Stash w/Intros; Gag Reel w/Intro;

Internet Trailers w/Intro; TV Spots; Still

Galleries; Storyboards; Behind The Scenes Featurette;

"Morris Day and The Time Learnin' the Moves"

Featurette;

Afroman "Because I Got High" video; -

Stroke 9 "Kick Some Ass" video; Comedy Central's Reel

Comedy special; Cast and Crew Filmographies; Guide to

Morris Day and The Time; Some DVD-ROM goodies Widescreen

(2.35:1) Enhanced for 16:9 Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound -

Special DVD Mix French Language Track; Spanish Subtitles

I've always heard that if you look beneath the grimy setup you'll see the beautiful interior. Well that saying is not dissimilar to the horrors of the summer movie season 2001! Some of the most anticipated flicks of the summer are huge dissappointments (ie. Scary Movie 2) and some of the best moves, the general audience are too ignorant to set foot in (ie Hedwig and the Angry Inch). Well thank god we can still depend on the rapier wit of Kevin Smith. the King of Curse Words and verbal fluency. Has given us the most entertaining installment in the View Askewniverse. Well I know it ain't saying much but "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" is the funniest film of the summer!!

This film has all the things that make a screwball comedy perfect. Wacky Characters, Funny jokes both verbal and physical, Good storyline, great comic timing, and of course, a monkey.

Many people were afraid that Jay and Silent Bob would be unable to handle a movie on their own. Well not only did they succeed they went through the roof!!! Kevin Smith kept the jokes piled, one on top of the other and each one different and original. Though I loathe bodily function jokes, Smith managed to make them appropriate and not over use them, unlike the comically declined Wayans Brothers, who seem to think making the characters fart is like printing money. Smith on ther other hand keeps you on your toes awaiting what's gonna happen next.

"Is Jay Gonna Do What I think He's Gonna Do?" "If Silent Bob Speaks What will he say?"

Questions like that were popping in my brain because of the aggressive spontaneity of the comedy. But another thing I loved was all our old friends from the View Askewniverse (Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy and one omnipotent female from Dogma.) Dante, Randal, Brodie, Holden, Banky, and even Willam the idiot Man-child. All performed once again be the same View Askew alumni and all played to perfection. And to go with them there's also stellar performances by many new faces, like Shannen Elizabeth as Jay's love-intrest Justice and also Eliza Dushku, Ali Larter, and Jen Schwalbach (Mrs. Kevin Smith) as the evil villainesses. And including great cameos by George Carlin, Marc Blucas, Seann William Scott, Jason Biggs, James Van Der Beek And God knows how many more. (She does know)

I think Every self respecting View askew fan Is required by cinematic Law to get up off their butts and see this flick. And all those poor schmucks who think The Wayans Brothers actually care about originality, NEED to watch this movie or I'll Beat the ever lovin' tar outta them.

Now I can say there were 5 good movies this summer instead of 4.

And Oh Yeah, To Jay and Silent Bob: Snooch to the Nooch and Good Bye My friends

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a lot of cursing if your sensetive to that but the rest is so fuuny (especially the scooby doo part!) best line

Jay (rapping)30 bucks little man, put that sh** in my hand!

Read Best Reviews of Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001) Here

Who'd have anticipated it? I grew up never needing to be told "just say no to drugs". I always focused on serious subjects when contemplating what movies I'd make given a chance. And now I find myself in a world where the most innocent cinematic diversion are often silly farces about potheads. The riotous hoot "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" is a prime example. I wasn't sure about it all the way through. Ali Larter was recently one of my favorite actresses. At least she doesn't take such a disastrous fall herein as Kirsten Dunst did in "The Virgin Suicides". Refreshingly, Ali's character Chrissie admits to being a "bad girl cliche". She gave me pause by repreating a frequent movie assertion (hopefully strictly an urban legend) about what girls don't do. But she gives a new twist, belying the claim at a point where she nearly dooms herself and co-consrirators thereby. Hence one could make a rhyme about her role: "Ali Larter plays the ......" All in all, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" is one of the most surprising bits of comic relief I've seen lately.

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First and most importantly, you have to be very well prepared to watch "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" if you want to have any hope of enjoying it to its full potential (assume, for the sake of argument, that this is both possible and desirable). Not only do you need to watch all of writer-director Kevin Smith's earlier films (to wit, "Clerks," "Mallrats," "Chasing Amy" and "Dogma"), but you also need to have seen "American Pie," watched enough "Dawson's Creek" to know why Dawson should drown Pacey in the creek, and at least recognize every film Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have made in the past decade (know the title and a one line synopsis of what the film is about).

You need to do this for two reasons. First, it is the only way you can get all of the in-jokes in this film, which is heavily self-referential vis-a-vis the Smith oeuvre. In fact, you are better off using one hand to tick off the names of all the people from Smith's earlier films who are NOT in this movie (Stan "the Man" Lee immediately springs to mind). Second, you will need all this knowledge to be able to explain to the person next to you why Ben Affleck sometimes is playing himself, sometimes is playing somebody else (Holden McNeill from "Chasing Amy"), and sometimes is playing himself playing somebody else (Chuckie from "Good Will Hunting II: Hunting Season").

"Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" is another one of those films where two guys go off to Hollywood to stop tinsel town from ruining their good reputations with a film. Jay (Jason Mewes) and Silent Bob (Kevin Smith) have always played small but pivotal roles in Smith's films (e.g., the "Chasing Amy" speech in "Chasing Amy"), but this time they not only get to be ABOVE the title of the film, they get to be IN the title of the film. Now, I will readily admit that I have always been one of those who could take Jay and Silent Bob in small doses, which probably explains why my favorite bits in this film usually involve other characters. However, I will admit enjoying Jay's attempt to find a nonderogatory term for women.

I have the feeling that this film is the swan song for Jay and Silent Bob. I mean, now that they have achieved titular glory, how can they go back to being the two man Greek chorus of Smith's prolonged "New Jersey Trilogy." Besides, with the appearance of virtually everyone who every appeared in a View Askew production (always good to see Joey Lauren Adams whether she is playing Alyssa Jones or not), you get the feeling the entire film is setting up a "Revenge of the Jedi" curtain call. Maybe Kevin Smith is turning a giant corner and about to start a new chapter in his life. Hey, it could happen. But I really get the feeling we have seen the last of Banky, Brody and the rest of the boys. Besides, Silent Bob speaks TWICE in this one, surely one of the signs that the end of days is nigh.

Like most View Askew productions, "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" is rated R for nonstop crude and sexual humor, pervasive strong language, and drug content (Actually, I did not know that the MPAA could use a word like "nonstop" in its description of a film, but certainly the term applies to everything on their little list here). So just remember to go back over Smith's earlier films before you screen this one and save yourself a lot of headaches and avoid watching it with anyone who is going to demand you justify your enjoyment every other expletive out of Jay's mouth.

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White Lion (2010)

This story is about a young White Lion cub named Letsatsi. Letsatsi is destined to be revered by the Shangaan.

A white lion cub must beat the odds to become an adult. According to legend, white lions are the messengers of the gods, but Letsatsi's uniqueness just makes him vulnerable.

He is cast out from the pride and, close to starvation, befriended by Nkulu. The older lion helps him survive but is killed by a farmer, leaving Letsatsi to survive on his own.

He learns to hunt and grows into a formidable adult. But before he can take over a pride of his own, Letsatsi must face his greatest foe the trophy hunter, for whom legends are worthless and rare skins priceless.

This is a Real-Life LION KING MOVIE!! It is for anyone who also loved the movie about two tiger cubs in "Two Brothers."

I have been waiting for this movie to come out on DVD and I am glad that it finally did!! I plan to purchase this amazing DVD about Letsatsi's Journey Home and recommend it to anyone who loves animals, particularly lions.

This movie is one of the greatest achievements in Film since the movie "Born Free" about a lioness named Elsa.

I recently got to watch an advance showing of "White Lion" and can only say that if you aren't already an animal lover, this film should make one of you! My first comment after watching the film was that it was as good as any comparable Disney flick I've ever seen (and that says a LOT!)

I recommend the "White Lion" for everyone!

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All who are interested in the conservation of the great cats of the wild should be directed to this film. Photographically, it stands up to anything filmed in Africa.

To an African tribe in South Africa, the white lion is revered...and the disappearance of such an animal spells hardship for the land. A young African male discovers a young white lion cub and through his lifetime acts as a secret protector of this sacred being.

Parts of the story are a coming of age tale of the young cub who gets lost from his mother, finds an older lion friend, and then

is compelled to strike out and hunt on his own. [All the animals in the Disney animated film The Lion King are actually filmed in this story but the true conflicts between these creatures in the great wild are quite thrilling). Yes, there are several cinematic shots that can only be described as "hold your breath" moments.

As explained in the special feature, no one has "ever" filmed these lions so intimately before. The movie took years to make and it is the result of the special bonding of the caretakers in South African parks with the white lions themselves.

Whether you are eight years old or eighty I highly recommend this gorgeous film... obtain the Blu-Ray if you can. The emotions it stirs is a respect for the sacredness of all life. Given the choice I actually preferred this movie to [National Geographic's} "The Last Lions" (released in 2011)...but both are extremely impressive cinematic achievements.

And for those interested in human stories of the people of Africa and their relationship to the lion, I do recommend "Masai: The Rain Warriors."

Read Best Reviews of White Lion (2010) Here

I bought "White Lion" when I was in a local music shop, because I heard a French couple ask the assistant for a good local (South African) movie. When the assistant recommended this movie, the couple said they'd already seen it and it was "excellent!"

Curious, I bought it...and from the moment Letsatsi, as is the nature of lions in the wild, was cast from his pride until he has to face his greatest challenge, I went through every emotion. I laughed at his youthful explorations; cried at his hunger; was so angry at the very real threat trophy hunters pose to all the lions of Africa (lion numbers have been so drastically reduced in recent years, they will shortly be on the endangered species list!) and was constantly in awe at the beauty of these magnificent creatures.

This story, redolent with the mystique of the bush, is a tale of that speaks of myths and legends, of spirits and heroes. Letsatsi's struggles, the dangers he faces from both cruel nature and even crueller mankind, could be the conflict that any person must overcome. But Letsatsi is a white lion, a messenger from the ancestral spirits who guard this land of ours and, although he loses one friend, he finds another, sent by the ancestors. Getsani, a young Shangaan, is called to protect this symbol of hope and helps guard Letsatsi from the terrible dangers he must overcome.

Although there are not many humans--the real stars of this show are the lions--the acting, as one expects of the likes of John Kani, is excellent. Showing the sweeping vistas of this beautiful country, the photography is breath-taking. In its respect and love for these animals, the well-written script is touchingly sincere and, while avoiding any proselytizing, clearly emphasises the importance of protecting our wild life from senseless slaughter by callous killers.

To say I was proudly South African throughout this film is an understatement, because this movie combines an evening of good family entertainment with an emotional melancholy at what one fears is an endangered and rapidly disappearing natural world.

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This is a great film and a wonderful story, in the making, in the telling, and in the seeing. Filming real cats (who could easily have us for lunch, even with their handlers around) while coaxing them to "perform" in front of a camera crew was not an insignificant accomplishment. Talking about herding cats, the blu-ray "extra" featurete on the making of the film tells that part of the story.

Along the lines of Winged Migration, or March of the Penguins, the main characters are the animals (real cats from the lion preserve in South Africa). The visuals are stunning, the cinematography is amazing and the musical score is quite a treat. This movie has become an immediate big hit with my children, though much like Winged Migration it was never intended to be a children movie. You can see how the jungle is not a place suitable for human habitation. Predators prowling at night looking for food will not hesitate to kill any number of two or four-legged creatures they find... with all the unfortunate consequences associated with such encounters...

I'd much rather the school districts pick this one up and show it to our second and third graders. It will be quite an education. The moms and dads should see it too. It is an invaluable journey and experience for city-folk like me.

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Scrooged (2013)

Other reviewers have commented on their likes or dislikes for this 1988 Christmas movie starring Bill Murray. I'm a Bill Murray fan and I love this movie. What I want to comment on in this brief review is the quality of the blu ray transfer. I'm happy to report that the transfer is excellent! Finally fans of Scrooged can enjoy watching Frank Cross discover the true meaning of Christmas in beautiful hi-def. I'm so tired of buying a blu ray of a favorite movie and getting something that looks worst than standard-def. This is NOT the case with Scrooged. It looks and sounds great. Buy and enjoy.

Bill Murray is the new Scrooge in the classic tale done yet again. I remember a reviewer giving it a low rating because he said it seemed as though Murray's character really didn't like people. Helllooo, isn't that what actors are supposed to do? This version of the old Chrsitmas tale is a good retelling of the story. Murray is mean to everyone including his only brother (played by his real younger brother). The 3 spirits that visit Frank Cross (Murray's role) are wacky to say the least. Carol Kane plays the ghost of Christmas present and is probably the funniest of the spirits. Murray has this act down pat. He's a big t.v. exec and fires Elliot Laudermilk (Bobcat Goldthwait) just for disagreeing with him. By the way, his fires Laudermilk on Christmas eve.

Alfre Woodard plays his longsuffering assistant and tries to be Cross' conscience since he doesn't have one of his own. In the visit to Christmas past we learn that television played the biggest role in raising him since his parents weren't the greatest in the world. Christmas doesn't mean much because his parents didn't put up Christmas lights, buy a tree or get him presents. His father does come home one night and drop a package of veal in front of him as a Christmas gift but the young Frank Cross tells his dad that he wanted a choo-choo train. His dad, a butcher, (played by Brain Doyle Murray, Bill Murray's real life brother) is totally unsympathetic and suggests that his son get a job even though he's only four.

There are lots of laughs here as the cast pokes fun at the t.v. industry from behind this comedy. The end of the film might be a little mushy bit it's fine here since Cross is so mean during the rest of the film. He even steals a cab from a little old lady carrying a load of packages. This movie would fit nicely in your holiday collection.

Parents Advisory: There is no nudity or sex. However, there is a small bit of foul language. It may frighten very young children. I suggest a viewing age of at least thirteen.

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Since the first time I ever saw this movie, I have watched it a few times a year, never tiring of the modern take on the Dickens classic. Bill Murray is excellently cast as cold hearted TV exec Frank Cross and with each scene, the movie draws you ever-closer to the Christmas feeling.

I watch this EVERY Christmas Eve and no matter how bad a year you've had, by the time this movie finishes and it's time to go to bed before Father Christmas comes, you'll be in the true Spirit of the Season.

I've yet to meet someone who doesn't lean towards this as their movie of choice for the festive period. And now... I finally get to see it on DVD!

Read Best Reviews of Scrooged (2013) Here

Bill Murray lends his comedic talents to this contemporary version of the Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol," with somewhat skewered results in "Scrooged," directed by Richard Donner from a screenplay by Mitch Glazer and Michael O' Donoghue. This time around, Ebenezer is one Frank Cross (Murray), programming executive for a major television network with an office in New York. Above all else, Cross covets the "ratings" he can add to his coffers, and this year he's going all out with a "live" broadcast of "A Christmas Carol" planned for Christmas Eve, starring Buddy Hackett as Scrooge and Mary Lou Retton as Tiny Tim. And that's just a taste of the kind of humor this film has to offer. There's more, much more, and it's all handled with aplomb by Donner, Murray and a great supporting cast. Whatever genre he's working in, Donner knows his stuff and knows how to deliver the goods. Here he wisely lets Murray lead the way, but keeps his star on task and the film moving along with a tempered pace and great timing. The story remains the same, but placing Scrooge-Cross-in the entertainment industry was a stroke of genius, and it all works exceedingly well, as it gives the audience a medium with which it can readily identify. Let's face it, television is a part of our culture, like it or not, and it's here to stay; and in this instance, using it as a setting for this story offers a "tableau vivant" rich with possibilities that are tapped to the fullest. There's a promo for the upcoming live broadcast like you've never seen before; there's the "inside" industry jokes, like Network executive Preston Rhinelander (Robert Mitchum) urging programming for cats; "Marley's ghost" becomes Lew Hayward (John Forsythe) the exec who sold his soul for ratings; the casting of Hackett and Retton; but most of all, it puts Murray right in his element. Murray gets right to the heart of the character, imbuing Cross with a sense of jaded, dubious and sarcastic paranoia that so perfectly fits the psychological make-up of an executive in a business where you're only as good as yesterday's ratings. And Murray plays him to the hilts; he has the tone and the body language, and nobody can look "askance" like he can, a nuance he makes the most of here. it's an original take on a familiar character, and in Murray's skin Cross becomes a memorable and entirely believable figure, from his credible ruthlessness (he fires an underling, Eliot Loudermilk--played by Bob Goldthwait-just before Christmas for disagreeing with his "vision") to his epiphany on Christmas Eve. The terrific supporting cast includes Karen Allen as Claire, the girl Frank lets slip away as he follows the siren's song of career; John Glover (Bryce Cummings) as Frank's new "assistant," plotting his way to the top; Alfre Woodard (Grace) as Frank's secretary, a single mom with a sick child; Michael J. Pollard (Herman); Nicholas Phillips (Calvin); John Murray (James); Brian Doyle-Murray (Earl Cross); David Johansen, as the cab-driving Ghost of Christmas Past; and Carol Kane, who turns in an unforgettable, hilarious, scene-stealing performance as the Ghost of Christmas Present. There's plenty of laughs and some touching moments in "Scrooged," which is a wonderfully entertaining holiday treat, especially if you want your "Christmas Carol" served up just a little bit differently this year. And the speech Murray gives at the end, once he's had his revelation, is worth the price of admission alone; it's one of those things Murray does best, and he really connects with the audience, especially when he finishes up by leading everyone involved (including the audience) in song. This is a movie that has become an annual event for many since it's arrival on video; give yourself a present this year and put this one under your tree. You'll be glad you did. Like the song at the end (sung by Annie Lennox and Al Green), it'll "Put A Little Love In Your Heart."

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Christmas movies are fun. I like Christmas movies because they're generally nice, lightweight, enjoyable pieces of fluff with important moralistic messages ("It's a Wonderful Life," "Scrooge") or sometimes they're just fun to watch ("Gremlins," "Home Alone").

"Scrooged" isn't lightweight, cheery, or happy. It's dark, brooding, sort of evil, and it's the only Christmas movie I can think of that seems as if Tim Burton directed it.

Am I insulting the film? Heavens, no. I love it. In fact, I'm complimenting it. Instead of repeating old traditions, it's trying something new, and the secret to the film is the way it actually pulls it all off.

The plot: Frank Cross is the youngest television station president in recorded history because he knows the people. At least he thinks he does. In reality, he's just a greedy tycoon who gives people bath towels for Christmas -including his own brother.

Cross is a modern day Scrooge, and the movie "Scrooged" is a modern reworking of the classic Charles Dickens story. Frank Cross is played by Bill Murray absolutely perfectly. He's cynical, dry, and sarcastic, and doesn't give a darn about anyone else other than himself.

So the night before Christmas Eve, Frank is visited by an old business partner -who has been dead for seven years. ("I wouldn't have guessed more than three, tops," says Frank in his usual sarcastic tone.) His old associate warns Frank to change his ways or he'll end up like himself -angry, bitter...and dead.

Frank doesn't pay any attention to his "hallucination," and continues being his usual self during the festive Christmas holiday -by ripping off old ladies' cabs and firing Elliot (Bobcat Goldthwait) on Christmas Eve. (Elliot is sort of today's version of Bob Cratchitt.)

Frank is putting on a Christmas Eve production of Charles Dickens' immortal classic "Scrooge" (what happened to "A Christmas Carol," I wonder?), and in the film's funniest scene, introduces his ad for the program. (It later scares an old woman to death and Frank takes it as a wonderful sign -controversy is as good as advertising!)

The three ghosts do indeed come and haunt Frank. Except Frank is more cynical than Ebenezer Scrooge ever was, and convincing him that Christmas is a season of giving will be hard. (Frank: "I get it, you're here to show me my past and I'm supposed to get all dully eyed and mushy. Well forget it pal, you got the wrong guy.")

Frank is revisited by an old flame (Karen Allen) and his heart starts to beat once again after years of silence. Frank slowly but surely starts to learn to appreciate Christmas once again, following all of Scrooge's examples. His intern's son, who witnessed his father's murder and hasn't spoken since, is a sort of Tiny Tim, and "Scrooged" does indeed follow all of the elements of Charles Dickens' classic. Only it updates the tale, throws in a bunch of cameos, and great acting on Murray's behalf.

Frank revisits scenes from his childhood and adulthood first hand with the wacky ghosts as companions. They can't see or hear Frank -his cab driver ghost tells him that he's in the middle of a rerun.

Frank remembers how his father brought him meat for Christmas, how he broke up with his girlfriend over a matter of greed vs. happiness, and how his life was a complete waste. (Ghost: "Let's face it, Frank, garden slugs got more out of life than you." Frank: "Yeah? Name one!")

It was a matter of time before "A Christmas Carol," or "Scrooge," got a modernized treatment. And it comes out fresh and ingenious, dark and hilarious. The movie owes its entire success to the casting of Bill Murray, whose cynical ways shone through in such early films as "Stripes" and "Ghostbusters," and here compliment the film the way no other actor's talent could.

Take, for example, the way he can remain unmoved but, at the same time, flippant and sarcastic, towards his boss when he tells Frank that cats and dogs are starting to watch television, and that he thinks Frank should target some advertising at the canine and feline demographic. Frank just stares at his boss as if he's crazy and whispers, "Call the cops."

The movie was directed by Richard Donner ("Lethal Weapon"), and is one of the films I watch as an annual tradition around Christmas. It's dark and often quite disturbing, and its eerie music adds to the mix. But it helps the film because it makes us see through Frank's eyes. And the outcome is, quite frankly, an instant Christmas classic. This is a film I'll be watching for years, and so far, it's only been getting better every time.

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Swingers (2011)

Swingers could be a hip movie, a Guys movie, great-sagacious-advice movie, a warm-amusing movie, this-is-what-friendship-is-about movie, or simply one of the most facetious for-a-lark flicks of the 90s. But whatever tag you wish to stick on it, this honest, low-budget humdinger from Liman is very very "money"!

Top 10 reasons to get your hands on this movie now:

(1) It's fast-paced, well edited (not one wasted scene) and frequently laugh-out-loud funny. If you hear people dismiss this as an inconsequential narrative about a "bunch of losers trying to get laid", I'm afraid they just have not watched the entire movie. I am not into the "Spy who shagged me" genre of humor, but this movie will truly grow on you.

(2) It'll ring a bell with almost anyone, particularly guys. Mike -a crestfallen loverboy (Jon Favreau) is in the throes of a breakup, and his confidence has hit rock bottom. (Sidenote: Favreau is a very ordinary looking guy, which in fact imho is the power of his character.) Under the aegis of his friend Trent (Vince Vaughn, in top form, a lot better than his controlled acting in, gulp, The Psycho) Mike re-learns how to get back up on his feet and take reins of his life/emotions again. While this happens, we are treated to a bunch of every-day faux pas that we all can identify with in a blink. Interested yet?

(3) The boys' camaraderie is infectious. If you watch this movie with friends -and this indeed is the best way to watch it! -you'll know what I mean. This has to be one of the most honest portrayals of relationships between friends -both the lover and the platonic variety.

(4) Call me weird but I loved the sound track, a delectable blend of underground jazz and triphop.

(5) Some of the "get back on your feet" dialogue for Mike is truly marvellous, and makes for better, more down-to-earth, more inspiring advice about life and relationships than Dr. Ruth and Oprah put together.

(6) An interesting look at the Los Angeles we never see in films, the underground life of the struggling actors and writers and less glamorous people, not living in Malibu opulence as seen in other weaker films.

(7) Some great Sega Genesis NHL ice-hockey "footage" (to use a dignified term) and an unusual preview of seeing Gretzky's head knocked.

(8) This is to men what "Sex and the City" is to women. (Ok, SATC has had a lot more time than Swingers to entice us with the workings of the Modern Woman, but you get the idea)

(9) A wide assortment of one-liners for you to conveniently plagiarize from. Not seen in a single movie since Roxanne with Steve Martin.

(10) Oh, and it's so laid back, its horizontal. No spiffy visual FX, no crash boom bang, no cheap frills. But still a high handsome homerun.

Required Viewing.

It's shocking to see, here on Amazon, that this movie only grossed $5 million in the theaters. Swingers has gone on to become an incredibly popular movie. It made Vince Vaughn's career as an actor and defined Jon Favreau's career both as an actor and as a writer.

This is the kind of movie that every man can relate to on at least one level. Most men can probably relate to both of the main characters: each representing one side of us in our dealings with women. On the one hand, the sensitive man who isn't afraid to reveal himself and on the other hand, the player, who doesn't have any pretentions and makes no apologies for his brash behavior. Both are real and both have their pros and cons. They are both well-represented in Swingers.

I first saw this movie when I was about 17 years old. I loved the characters and I loved the flow of the movie, but I find that when I watch it now (in my mid-20s), I appreciate it on a whole different level. For those of us who are shy and reserved, this movie almost makes you want to come out of your shell. It can almost be called "inspirational" in how it will goad you to get the hell out there are let it all hang out. Great lines are delivered throughout the script. Mike and Trent compliment each other very well and they have some great scenes together.

This is an indie-film classic. The kind of movie that you never get tired of.

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"Your Money, your so Money, you don't even know your Money!"

Classic, great everyday, anyday movie. If your in a rainy day mood its "Money", break-up with your girlfriend mood, its "Money", and last but not least ... Showing allllll the "Pretty Babies" you have this movie in your collection ... "MONEY" !!!!!

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One day I saw a glimpse of a scene from the movie Swingers. It was the "is she looking at me now? No. She hasn't looked at you all night..." scene. That was the only scene I saw and I thought, "That looks kinda funny. I should see it one day." When I finally saw it, "That looks kinda funny" was a definite understatement. That movie kept my friends and I in stitches all night. It wasn't for sale on video yet, so I spent a small fortune renting it about three times a month. All my friends and I could see ourselves in that movie. I was the Mikey of my group because my girlfriend had broken up with me six months before I saw this masterpiece and I was still broken up about her. If you can't get over your break up with a girl, and are looking for a replacement, but with no luck, you MUST see this movie. It spoke to me and now I use it as my guide for life. Whenever you feel depressed about beautiful babies not going for you, flip this movie on and check it out. You'll feel better, guaranteed.

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"Swingers" really reminded me of "Good Will Hunting" in that it was written by and stars struggling actors who decided to go out and create their own success. It is a low-budget gabfest type movie, with no real action taking place; but it is a fun, highly entertaining film nonetheless. The plot revolves around five struggling actors in L.A., who go from party to party looking for "beautiful babies" and career opportunities. They are sort of a modern "rat pack", led by the fast-talking and charismatic Trent (Vince Vaughn, who carries the movie with a star-making performance). "Swingers" features hilarious, witty writing and some enjoyable performances from its up-and-coming stars. We are so entertained by their antics that we forget that nothing really signifficant is happening. Credit is due for spawning some great catch phrases too. The DVD doesn't come with any great special features. It comes in widescreen format with a theatrical trailer. The soundtrack is worth owning for lovers of great swing-jazz music. Overall a great movie and a good investment.

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Legends of the Canyon (2013)

I waited months for this to finally be release. I received today & went right in my DVD player. I found this video fresh, & loved hearing stories being told first hand, by the musicans, fans & supporting cast. These historic bands made West Coast 60's 70's rock legendary. We already know the on-going effect they have on popular music, even today.

The beauty here is Henry Diltz knew these performers before they were stars, before they lost some of their shine. He was able to share stories & pictures that only an insider's would have had access. Sit back and enjoy the stories, some we already knew & some brand new to me, a music lover of 35 years. At times Henry sounds much like a proud grandparent, speaking about his grandkids, but I'd bought into his subjects long before this DVD arrived.

I found this by accident while browsing on Amazon. I just finished watching it and thoroughly enjoyed it. A warning to potential viewers the focus is heavy on Crosby, Stills and Nash and their various incarnations/relationships. There are others mentioned and included but CSN is the focus. It is not even across the all the "legends". As I am a huge CSN/Y fan, this was fine with me but I put it as a heads up to others.

I have read and viewed a great deal about these bands but still found that this included some new materials. Some of the interviews seem quite recent.

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At first,I thought this was going to be a boring documentary,rehashing old stories based on half-truths.This is an excellent documentary on the short-lived,yet lively musical flower-power explosion of the late 1960's.As the New York folkie bands headed west-ward,they settled into the artistic enclave of Laurel Canyon.Mama Cass was said to be the den mother of the psychedalic pride.Others have said she was the Gertrude Stein of that intense Lost Generation of ecletic musical artists.Many of the stories are well known,yet this video documentary expounds upon the legendery tales.Lots of great footage from Henry Diltz's collection,seldom scene.I have always thought Henry was the paragon of pacific coast photographers ,during that '60s zeitgeist.He was in fact, a real folkie himself,who bought a camera by happenstance one day.As a painter paints on a canvas,or a weaver looms a tapestry; Henry captured amazing images of the people and their environs.The Dvd is almost two-hours,and many extra specials added.I felt the dvd ends too quickly,for such an amazing video montage tribute to those SoCal bands.One thing is made clear,by Henry Diltz,two bizarre things were happening that hazy summer of 1969.One,wide-spread use of cocaine around and secondly whatever petals left on the flower-power stalks,were gleaned and reaped by Manson and his brethern.And one thing is for certain,the music lives on.Eventhough the various forces of vain egos and dope abuse,eventually caused seperations and divisions among themselves.Their music mirrors the thoughts and feelings of that brief era of questioning social norms.

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My wife, who is younger than I am and a music fan like I am, sometimes refers to me as a hippie. She says this to exaggerate our age differences, and to point out that we are from different generations, as if we were decades apart (As a point of fact, she was born six years, nine months and seven days after me, but who's counting?). In a sense, I can understand her point, because a lot happened in those six-plus years. For example, I can remember Beatlemania, but she wasn't born until after "Help!" was released. Although I was much too young to be a hippie, I identified with the youth movement, especially the music, while her point of reference usually dates back no further than the Clash. I may have only been seven years old during the `Summer of Love', but that didn't stop me from buying love beads and bell-bottom jeans (My Dad made me return the love beads). That is why I anticipated watching "The Legends of Laurel Canyon," while she remained skeptical.

As it turns out, I am very happy to report that she enjoyed this documentary as much as I did. For me, it reaffirmed my love for what I already knew, but for her, it was revelatory. The story begins with theories regarding how the circumstances surrounding the Kennedy assassination led the youth of the time to become skeptical of the older generation, and provided the impetus for Beatlemania as a means of rejecting the status quo. By leading us through Dylan's influence on folk music, it follows Stephen Stills and a few other key players as they settle in Laurel Canyon and form bands that emulated both the Beatles and Dylan. The Byrds and Buffalo Springfield were first, and a scene developed around clubs like the Whiskey a Go-Go and the Troubadour. Along the way, we meet the Mamas and the Papas, Joni Mitchell and others, and through their collective work, we discover a generation defined by its pursuit of intelligence, self-awareness, curiosity and sensuality.

Before I go too much further, I should point out that this documentary could be subtitled "Stephen Stills and his Influence on the California Culture of the Sixties." Stills is by far the primary focus of this story, and it is his music that provides much of the soundtrack. The footage covering the birth of Crosby, Stills and Nash is revelatory and beautiful, covering details that I had not previously known. It also allows the story to move smoothly from the highs of Woodstock, to the subsequent lows of the Manson murders and the Kent Sate shootings.

Back then, there was a phrase about never trusting anyone over thirty. Now that I'm 51, I have a different perspective on that axiom. I still identify strongly with this music, as if it were frozen in amber while I continued to age. In a sense, that is true, and happily, I believe the same is now true for my wife. Maybe I've become entirely too old, but I'd prefer to think that our time has come, and this music lives on in the spirit of all the people who experienced it firsthand when it happened, as well as those who are just now discovering its essence. As I reread this paragraph, I recognize that I need to confess to something after all: OK, so I'm a hippie.

A Tom Ryan

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Well made & well-intentioned documentary is about 2/3rd Crosby Stills & Nash and the rest all the other artists featured on the cover. The DVD cover art tips one off that the film is an overview of the Laurel Canyon music scene of the 1970's. The DVD's Main Menu states "Crosby, Stills & Nash IN Legends of the Canyon" and the film's Opening Credits read "Legends of the Canyon Origins of West Coast Rock". Its like the producers of this DVD cannot make up their mind what this film is really about. Film is disjointed & ends very abruptly. Very little of Joni Mitchell or Neil Young. nothing about America (although Gerry Buckley gives an opinion on other artists). What about Frank Zappa, Jackson Browne, Jimmy Webb, The Monkees, Tim Buckley, and on & on. Fans of CS&N will enjoy, other folks wishing for a better view of LC scene, stick w/Henry Diltz's companion book "Canyon Of Dreams".

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Iron Monkey (1993)

Why can't the people at Dimension Home video get it right for once??? They messed up every single martial arts movie release by not providing the original language tracks and cutting scenes. This time with Iron Monkey, they were wise enough to remaster the original chinese language track, but they still decide to cut. For me, cutting a fighting scene, especially if its the last one, is a no no...and I, like another reviewer here, love it when Wong Kei-Ying or Wong Fei Hung call out their special move (Shadowless Kick) before they actually do it. Anyways, for those that don't know, this movie was made in 1993 and it took long enough to come over here. This is a story of a Robin Hood like character who steals from the rich corrupt govt officials and gives to the poor towns people. He goes by the name of Iron Monkey (played by Rongguang Yu), a hero to the townspeople, and a wanted man by the officials. The officials are arresting anyone that looks suspicious. While in town to shop for medicine, Wong Kei-Ying (played by the awesome Donnie Yen) and his son, the very young Wong Fei Hung get in a quarrel with some thugs and get arrested for suspicion. The chief official learns of Wong Kei-Ying's great martial arts, and by force sends him to take out the Iron Monkey while his son Wong Fei Hung is held in custody. To make it simple, Wong Kei-Ying and the Iron Monkey will eventually team up and fight some interesting govt officials. Donnie Yen pretty much steals the show in this film as Wong Kei-Ying, and he is the reason why I watched it. His kicking ability and speed are just awesome. Yeun Woo Ping once again lends a hand in making a decent choreographed film. I must admit there is more wirework here than I would want to see, but thankfully Donnie saves it here. The kid that plays Wong Fei Hung (a boy?...I've heard it was a girl too) is pretty awesome in this movie as well. Basically, theres plenty of fighting action in this film to keep action fans happy, and the ones with Donnie Yen are the best. Now, to the dvd...quentin tarantino and Dimension is getting a lot of heat from me for the cutting. Folks, if you are able to play Region 2 PAL dvds...then the Hong Kong Legends version of Iron Monkey is the essential copy to own...completely uncut, remastered audio (Original Chinese and English) and video, and some interesting extras. If not, then get the Media Asia HK version (green box) for that is uncut as well, but not as crisp clear as the Region 2. I wrote this review in full support of Donnie Yen, he is one of the best martial artist to be caught on film. Check out his other greats such as In The Line of Duty IV, Tiger Cage 2, Wing Chun (alongside Michelle Yeoh), and OUATIC 2 (alongside Jet Li). For those that dont know, hes also the asian guy in Blade 2. Anyways, Iron Monkey is a classic and well worth your buck. Check this movie out and check my other HK reviews too...hope this was helpful.

The Iron Monkey is evidence why the martial arts choreography in The Matrix thrilled the American audience. Director Yuen Woo-Ping delivers an impressive punch with this 1993 film which features an easy-to-follow storyline, good acting, stylish cinematography, and amazing fight scenes. Highlighted in this film is actor Yu Rong-Guang whose acrobatic and hand-to-hand combat skills are at their best. The inclusion of the legendary character Wong Fei-Hung (depicted in this movie as a child) makes this movie appealing to the younger viewers as well. All in all, the Iron Monkey is a great film and, perhaps, deserves a big screen showing here in the U.S. Until that happens, whether you buy or rent this film, watching it would definitely be time well spent.

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Full of action and wonderful fighting choreography,

A remake of the 1970's film of the same name, the 1993 film "Iron Monkey" stars Rongugang Yu ("Musa the Warrior", "Shanghai Noon", "Midnight Express in Orient" as Dr. Yang a.k.a. "Iron Monkey".

During a time when the poor were being mistreated by bandits, many tried to flock towards government officials for protection but finding mistreatment at a higher level as well. So, the "Iron Monkey" is like an equivalent of Robin Hood, steal from the rich and give back to the poor. But being the popular doctor in the village, no one suspects him of anything.

Dr. Yang works with Miss Orchid (Jean Wang, "Once Upon a Time in China" films, "Swordsman III"), a woman who is also an impressive fighter but is seen as the shopkeeper at Dr. Yang's office.

But with a senator coming to visit the village, the current governor wants a search for Iron Monkey (who has stolen a lot of the governor's savings) and has his men try to capture anyone who may be the one who has been stealing from them.

One day, a man named Wong Kei-Ying (Donnie Yen, "Kill Zone", "Shanghai Affairs", "Hero") and his son Wong Fei-Hung (Sze-Man Tsang) visit the village and make some purchases but when Wong Fei-Hung spots a child being bullied, he defends him by using a slingshot and shooting a rock at one of the bad juveniles. But when his father takes the slingshot away, the bad bullies suspect he is the culprit and the father easily beats them.

Because the governor's men watched Wong Kei-Ying fight, they arrest both Wong Kei-Ying and his son.

While all men who were arrested try to plead to the governor that they are not Iron Monkey, the governor doesn't care and wants to imprison all of them. But then the real Iron Monkey shows up and Wong Kei-Ying who wants to protect his son, gets into a fight with Iron Monkey and everyone is at awe at both men's martial arts. The governor then cuts a deal with Wong Kei-Ying, if he catches the Iron Monkey, he will release his son to him. If not, his son will be in prison forever.

With Wong Kei-Ying knowing that all he has is his son, he will do what he can to catch the Iron Monkey. But he is quick to learn that the villagers are supportive of the Iron Monkey and will not feed him. Being broke and having no money and knowing he has a week to catch the Iron Monkey, unbeknown to him, Miss Orchid takes him into their home for food and both she and Dr. Yang learn that his son has been captured and learn that the only way they will be free is if the Iron Monkey is killed.

Knowing that Wong Kei-Ying is being wronged, Dr. Yang (ala Iron Monkey) and Miss Orchid do what they can to help him.

It's important to not that Wong Kei-Ying's son is the Wong Fei-hung that is a Kung Fu hero in China. The real man lived from 1847 through 1924 and was a master of the no-shadow kick, drunken boxing, the lion dance and Hung fist. The character has been explored in a number of films which include the Jet Li "Once Upon a Time in China" films and for Jackie Chan in the "Drunken Master" films

VIDEO & AUDIO:

"Iron Monkey" is presented in 1080p High Definition (1:85:1). For the most part, this 1993 film definitely looks better with the HD treatment than its 2002 DVD counterpart. The picture quality looks much clearer and compared to the 1994 "The Legend of Drunken Master" film that is coming out on Blu-ray, "Iron Monkey" has less scratches and dirt. For the most part, the film looks good, not great but good and better than DVD.

As for the audio, this is what will determine whether or not one will probably but it or not. "Iron Monkey" is provided in English 5.1 DTS-HD (48 kHZ/24-bit) lossless audio, while the original Chinese dialogue is only 5.1 Dolby Digital and Spanish 2.0 digital. I'm not going to add flame to the fire of whether or not to call an English dub bad or not, especially since I'm biased towards the original language. But I also know there are many people who dislike reading films with subtitles and will put up with the English dialogue. So, with that being the case, the English dub is much clearer and there are some scenes that utilize the surround channels. But for the most part, the film features a lot of front and center channel usage with some thumps being heard on the surrounds. I didn' t notice much LFE on the English dub either.

As for the original Chinese soundtrack, it is in 5.1 Dolby Digital but for the most part, at least with Blu-ray, you know that the 5.1 DD track is at a higher bitrate. But yes, too many people, not having a lossless audio soundtrack is a deal breaker.

And of course, the major deal breaker for many fans of "Iron Monkey" is that this is the edited version. Scenes were cut out, some fixed up but the most significant change audio-wise is the replacement of the music. Miramax wanted to capitalize on the popularity of "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", so the music was changed to a classical score.

As for subtitles, the film is presented in English SDH and Spanish. And yes, the subtitles have been revised as well to eliminate the political context of the film.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

"Iron Monkey" comes with two special features:

* Quentin Tarentino Interview (9:35) Quentin Tarentino talks about his passion for Kung Fu films.

* Donnie Yen Interview (6:21) Donnie Yen talks about how he got involved in martial arts and film.

JUDGMENT CALL:

"Iron Monkey" is an entertaining martial arts film filled with interesting characters and wonderful fighting choreography.

Personally, this was one of the more memorable fighting films that dominated the 80's and early 90's but the controversy lies on the cutting and editing of the films for the US release. Like "The Legend of Drunk Master", this release is going to be loved or hated by fans.

Again, I want to make it clear that this film has its best looking transfer to date on Blu-ray and much better than the previous 2002 DVD. Picture quality is very good but not reference quality but for a 1993 film, it looks pretty good. But what it all comes down to is the viewer and what they want are expecting from this film.

For those who have a disdain towards watching films with English subtitles, you're going to get a solid English dubbed soundtrack via its lossless English 5.1 DTS-HD audio. Fight scenes sound very good and although not an immersive soundtrack, it's still quite solid. Again, I'm not going to debate if the English dubbing is good or bad because everyone has their own opinion on dubs and personally, I'm biased towards the films with its original language but at the same time, I know plenty of people who are unable to enjoy a film with subtitles and thus needs the English dub.

But for those who have been waiting for the uncut release, this is not it. The film has the edited scenes, revised subtitles and also the music change but at least the Chinese audio via Dolby Digital 5.1 was still included. It may not be lossless but I'm glad it was included (unlike "The Legend of Drunken Master" which doesn't have it nor does it have the original ending scene) but still, with the revisions made, purists will not be satisfied and its understandable.

So, needless to say...it's going to be a love or hate release among fans. As a fan of the film, one can either wait and hope that an import uncut release of the film makes it to Blu-ray. Or perhaps maybe purchasing this latest release with the better picture quality, better lossless audio than the original DVD.

But with that said, "Iron Monkey" is still an entertaining martial arts film that has an enjoyable storyline, enjoyable characters and awesome fight choreography. "Iron Monkey" one of my favorite Donnie Yen films but unfortunately, it's not the uncut/unrevised version that I was hoping for. But again, if you enjoyed the original US DVD release and don't mind the revisions, then this is the definitive version to own.

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After several years of watching old Run Run Shaw kung fu movies on late night local TV, I was able to find a laserdisk from the UK of this movie, and man was my world rocked.

In terms of bang for buck, no other martial arts movie comes even close to capturing the savage ballet exhibited in Iron Monkey. Other reviews will tell you about the simple story line, and how it is mostly a Chinese variation of the Robin Hood story. This review is just to reiterate the sheer number of incredibly high quality action sequences. Highlights of this amazing martial arts film rank high in the top CHK fight sequences of all time. From hand to hand battles, to weapons kata, including swords, chains, staves and even an umbrella, the choreography by Yuen Wo Ping is brilliant, and the speed of the battles is mind-blowing. The production values (lighting, photography, etc.) are pure Tsui Hark.. absolutely beautiful.

If you're a serious martial arts film enthusiast and do not have this movie in your personal library, you should be hit with flying sleeves, the king kong palm, and no shadow kicked in the groin all at the same time. Turn in your badge and go back to renting 'American Ninja' and 'Karate Kid' videos. Shame on you.

Want Iron Monkey (1993) Discount?

Just to clear up some issues about the film: It is enjoying a USA theatrical release currently, but the film itself was released originally in 1993. Stands on its own as one of the greatest martial arts movies ever made, yet was obviously slated for a USA release by Miramax to capitalize on the surprise success of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The two films bear little similarity, with IM being more of an action-on-display film, CTHD being more of a pensive highbrow affair, though both are tremendous films.

Donnie Yen got top billing in the film, yet he is NOT Iron Monkey, he is Wong Fei-Hung's father. Incidentally, the role of Wong Fei-Hung's father was played by Hong Kong veteran actor Ti Lung in Jackie Chan's Drunken Master II (dubbed Legend of Drunken Master in its USA theatrical release.) Yu Rong-Guang (a former male model in China) plays Iron Monkey, but gets 3rd billing in the film, due to previous unsuccessful efforts at making him a top-shelf HK action hero.

Yuen Woo-Ping's world-reknowned fight choreography truly shines in the ending scene, which has our heroes battling on top of a courtyard of burning poles. For certain one of the finest martial arts scenes ever filmed. The Chinese folk hero Wong Fei-Hung is also featured in over 200+ films, including Jet Li's famous Once Upon A Time In China series. Wong Fei-Hung was indeed a real person, born in 1847, and passed away in 1924. He was a martial arts master, teacher, healer, and revolutionary who would protect and help those who were weak and defenseless.

All in all, Iron Monkey is a top-notch film that belongs in any martial-arts or Hong Kong film fan's collection.

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