Universal Soldier: Regeneration (2010)

'Universal Soldier: Regeneration' finds an aging Luc Deveraux (Van Damme) struggling through behavioral therapy while a scientist sells the UNISOL technology to a terroist group. Helmed by first time director John Hyams, son of director Peter Hyams (timecop, Sudden Death). In this installment, you really get a sense the level of complication that would arise from the events of the first film, both emotionally and socially. "Soldier gets killed in war, body frozen for twenty years only to be brought back to life as a weapon, etc etc." Apparently because the second sequel was so bad and the direction the writer's took Luc Deveraux's character being ridiculous, this one pretty much ignores it. Which really, really works. Van Damme brought kickboxing to America, or at least to Hollywood and while he's always choreographed his own fight scenes; this one takes the cake(and at nearly 50!) The final battle between Lundgren and Jean-Claude here is one of the most brutal, raw, hands down best in years! If it weren't for nostalgia, I'd say this was better than the original...

15 minutes into this, I noticed something strange. I didn't want to turn it off which is pretty rare when talking about most of Van Damme's movies over the past decade. The thing that might kill this movie with some fans though, is that it is so different from the great original. It is not a polished Terminator type action flick like the original was. Director John Hyams' retelling is much grittier and with some of the locations and fights, it almost has more of a Bourne style feeling to it. The action is furiously directed...very quick with no dopey slow motion. The acting isn't great but it's decent and convincing enough...two qualities that have been lacking in recent Van Damme DTV casts. It is true that Van Damme is only sprinkled throughout, but the film is so fast moving, before you know it, you are already at the final 40 minutes ...and he owns the *beep* out of it!! There is a long tracking shot of him tearing up terrorist ass and it's probably the best action sequence he has ever been a part of. It truly gets the heart pounding, and like me, you will probably re-watch it about 10 times. It's also a refreshing blast to see Lundgren on screen even if it is pretty brief. His and JC's fight is completely different from the one in the original. There is no Hollywood gloss to it at all. This is how the fight would be if these two met up and decided to scrap and it comes of very effective. You can feel the anger and rage. All in all, Unisol: Regeneration is a solid little action flick. Other than JCVD, it's easily his best movie since Sudden Death, which happened to be given to us by another Hyams...John's father, Peter. It may not be a masterpiece and isn`t quite on par with the original but it`s still a lot of fun and it`s definitely a worthy addition to my bluray collection. I'll definitely be keeping my eye on director John Hyams. I'd like to see what he can do with a decent budget and some better filming locations. The subtle synth music score was well done too. Think along the lines of Vangelis, who created the Blade Runner soundtrack, or something John Carpenter might have composed back in the day.

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I honestly don't know what I'm more shocked by, the fact that I gave Universal Soldier: Regeneration a chance, or the fact that it turned out to be as good as it is. When a group of terrorists take over the Chernobyl nuclear reactor and threaten to release a radioactive cloud, and with an uber-advanced UniSol (former UFC champ Andrei "The Pitbull" Arlovski) at their disposal, former, deactivated UniSol Luc Deveraux (Jean-Claude Van Damme) gets called back into action. However, there's a surprise in store for Luc, in the form of his once deceased nemesis Andrew Scott (Dolph Lundgren) who has been cloned and reanimated, and looking to bring some pain of his own. While all this sounds like the recipe of a low budget, direct-to-DVD, schlock fest featuring two action stars way past their primes, Universal Soldier: Regeneration ends up surpassing both of the films to come before it, thanks to the great directing from John Hyams, who not only manages to put together some just plain brutal action sequences, but also manages to coax some great performances from Van Damme and Lundgren, as well as take advantage of Arlovski's cold menace. John's father Peter Hyams, who directed Van Damme in 90s actioners Timecop and Sudden Death, serves as the film's cinematographer, and helps give the film the surprisingly great look that it has: this certainly doesn't look like a low budget, direct-to-DVD film. All in all, Universal Soldier: Regeneration deserves a look at the very least, and if and when you do chcek it out, be prepared to be surprised with what you get here.

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With stolen top-secret technology, terrorists have created a next-generation Universal Soldier, an elite fighter genetically altered into a programmable killing machine. With this "UniSol" Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei "The Pit Bull" Arlovski leading the way, they seize the crippled Chernobyl nuclear reactor, threatening to unleash a lethal radioactive cloud. The only one who can stop them is Luc Deveraux, a UniSol who's been decommissioned for years. Reactivated and retrained, Deveraux must make a full-out assault on the heavily armed fortress. But inside, he'll discover not one but two of these virtually indestructible warriors. Andrew Scott, Deveraux's vicious UniSol enemy from the original Universal Soldier, has been secretly reanimated and upgraded. Now, these elite fighters are locked, loaded and programmed to kill; and the fate of millions hinges on this high-action showdown. In the third and by now the last Universal Soldier series, both Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren are back for one last showdown together. Universal Soldier: Regeneration is an enjoyable movie, and leaves you with a sense that it's not over yet.

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The title really says it all. Granted, both Dolph Lundgren and Jean-Claude Van Damme aren't really on screen as much as one of their typical films but it really, really works.

The plot is simple but effective. The action is outstanding, ultra violent and rarely stops. And it's not old school action either. There's a taste of the Bourne series in some of these shoot-outs. Big marks for Director Hyams. Can't wait to see what he does next!

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Antwone Fisher (2008)

To be honest, I was a little hesitant to see "Antwone Fisher," the directorial debut by Denzel Washington. Movies directed by actors can be little more than self-serving vanity projects that merely say, "Hey! I'm an actor! And I can also direct! I'm so multitalented!" You can say the same thing about this movie, but you would be wrong. While it's a little sentimental at times, "Antwone Fisher" is one of the most heartfelt and genuine movies of 2002. Derek Luke is the title character, a young and hotheaded seaman who gets sent to Jerome Davenport (Washington) for psychiatric evaluation following a heated brawl with another soldier. From there, the two begin a painful journey that involves discovering the roots of Fisher's anger and, more important, the broken family that left him behind. It's often disturbing to see the psychological abuse Fisher suffered at the hands of his elders, and his strong will and tenacity make him all the more respectable. Luke gives a decidedly low-key yet strong performance and holds his own admirably against seasoned pro (and two-time Oscar winner) Washington. But if I have a slight bone to pick with this movie, it's that its plot has a bit of a "heard it before" feel. Several movies ("Good Will Hunting" comes to mind) have already featured a story about a troubled kid whose life gets turned around by an older mentor. Yet, "Antwone Fisher" earns its four stars thanks to its classy, non-flashy direction by Denzel and a solid performance by Luke.

...i would give this film ten stars even, more if there were a way. I saw this movie when it first came out on DVD in 2003, and i think i pretty much understood it for what it was, but i still didn't feel it for what it was. Then, i saw it again last night for the first time since 2003, when it very first arrived on DVD. This time, i both understood it for what it was meant to be and felt it the way it was meant to be felt. As a young, black writer trying to make my way along the same path that people like Toni Morrison, Stephen King, Ray Bradbury, J. K. Rowling, Antwone Fisher and Ralph Ellison have paved before me, it is always a very interesting thing to see such an honest and heartfelt screenplay make it to the big screen. The actors are superb throughout the entire picture, and they always manage stay in character. Just when you expect the characters to suddenly change due to some happy or sad or traumatic event in their life at the moment, BAM, reality is smashed into your face. This, more than anything else in the film besides the truth to the story, made watching it very worthwhile. Because Life often has no happy ending, and things rarely ever turn so quickly in real life, as they do in hundreds of other films. I don't exactly know how to describe watching this film. I'll just say that it moved me to tears several times throughout with no shame whatsoever. I was a child who was abandoned by his father completely, and i didn't have the best family life, growing up poor in a very small town. I loved this film so much that i got a copy for my best friend recently, as a Christmas gift. I thought that he must see it, if only to give him some view of what it was like growing up me or like me, although i know i didn't have it as badly as Mr. Fisher did. All in all, very great film, great acting, very realistc, very compelling, and most of all, completely honest, even when it hurts. Watching this film, you begin to understand that most personal problems stem from somewhere, most likely childhood, even if you've never seen or thought about this before. We are all truly sponges as children. See this film. You will not regret it. It may even help you to watch it. it helped me, after all. It allowed me to see that there is hope, this second time around.

Hawksmoor...From The Bleed

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All I can say is: Thank you, Antwone, for sharing your life with us, and thank you, Denzel, for bringing this story to the theater. You have made a huge difference in my own life, and I wish I could thank you personally.

As a child, I suffered much of the same abuse (though not so violent) and loneliness that Antwone experienced. It has been a long and difficult journey for me to move towards health. I did not make it as quickly as Antwone did.

What this movie did for me was to help me face again some of my old pain, but also, like Antwone in the movie, to see that I have finally found my own "Welcome Home" family in my two children, my two "in-law" children, their families, and my new grandson.

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I believe today's society is too reliant on counselors, therapists, and an abundance of Dr. Phils who tell us how to act and feel. But ANTWONE FISHER mellowed my opinion of couches and shrinks--made me better understand how a caring professional can make a positive difference in another person's life.

I was fascinated to learn this movie is based on a true story; I was even more impressed that newcomer Derek Luke, who plays the title role, is an actual friend of the real Antwone Fisher. Luke brings a plethora of range to his character: anger, resentment, confusion, forgivness, integrity, dignity. Portraying a young sailor trying to come to grips with his painful past--trying to control his violent outbursts--Luke flawlessly stays in character, whereas other newcomers have a tendency to overact. Antwone Fisher, as it turns out, is a remarkable human being; Derek Luke effectively brings this fact to the forefront.

Denzel Washington, portraying Navy psychiatrist Jerome Davenport, is superb. Davenport doesn't belittle, belabor, or browbeat his young patient--he gains Antwone's confidence through soft-spoken empathy and compassion. As the relationship between the two men evolves, Davenport becomes a surrogate father to Antwone. Yet Davenport also has problems in his personal life; his friendship with Antwone gives him the additional insight and strength he needs to confront them.

The chemistry between Washington and Luke is extraordinary; the scenes featuring just the two of them are spellbinding. ATWONE FISHER is also Washington's directorial debut; if Washington can furnish such exceptional storytelling right out of the gate, one can only hope he'll decide to go behind the camera again and again.

--D. Mikels

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****

This movie was a great viewing experience, based on a true story. It is about how childhood abuse and abandonment affects the life and career of a Navy enlisted man, especially in the area of anger. It is a little painful to watch at times, because as Antwone Fisher (beautifully played by Derek Luke) remembers his pain, you also experience it in a way. Ultimately, however, the effect is not dark but inspirational. The movie is about how Antwone struggles to be strong and to overcome his past---this struggle, to one degree or another, is one we all can identify with.

The acting was wonderful and the writing was also. The special features that came on the DVD version I bought (widescreen version) included information and a feature about the real Antwone Fisher. After he left the Navy, he was a security guard. A producer discovered his background, believed in him, and supported him in writing the screenplay himself. So the film is especially poignant in that it was written by the man who experienced it, one who does not have a writing background or college degree, yet who writes movingly, realistically, and wonderfully.

Although the subject is serious, the film does not leave you with a depressing feeling, but encouraged and uplifted about the human experience. I would have given it five starts, but I save that rating for "great" movies; although this movie was not great, it was moving and very worthwhile to watch and own.

****

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Nothing in Common (1986)

This is one of my most treasured films of all time and I can't understand why it receives so little attention. This is the story of an immature but successful bachelor whose world is disrupted when he gets an unexpected call from his estranged father, telling him his mother left him. Tom Hanks gives one of his BEST performances (comedically AND dramatically) as the carefree fellow who is forced to get to know his parents all over again while supporting them emotionally.

While many label this a comedy--and it IS pretty funny-I find it one of the most heartfelt and touching films ever thanks to a brilliant director, soppy but appropriate music, and an extraordinary cast. There've been so many films made concerning father-son relationships but if you're looking for the most genuinely realistic one, this is it. The final line of dialogue spoken by father to son ("You're the last person on earth I would've ever expected to come through for me") never fails to choke me up.

This is one of Tom Hanks' (and director Garry Marshall's) best films, yet it has received little publicity.

Among Hanks' fans I know who have seen this film, all hold it in very high regard. It's classic Tom Hanks funny and serious at the same time. As it's promoters said, "It's a comedy and a drama, just like life." You will surely love it.

Jackie Gleason, Eva Marie Saint, Hector Elizondo, and the rest of the cast do wonderful jobs.

I only wish it was on DVD, but hopefully in time it will be.

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I've watched this movie dozens of times, and was overjoyed to find it on DVD at last. This was (I believe) The Great One Jackie Gleason's final screen performance, and it showed the way of the future for Tom Hanks. Sela Ward also appears as a love interest, along with Hector Elizondo as his boss, and Eva Marie Saint as Hanks' mom.

The only thing that gets on my nerves just a little is the soundtrack. I think it's Christopher Cross, surely one of the most annoying alleged musicians ever to hit the big time.

The transfer to disk is good. The cast is excellent. The plot makes sense, and the script is near perfect. The story is about the relationship between Tom Hanks' character, David Basner, and his father, Max Basner. Its a wonder that anyone comes out right as an adult, and Hanks had no idea how screwed up his childhood had been until the night his father told him his mother had split. And soon thereafter his secretary gave him a message that his mother had called, and added "I had no idea you had parents."

Wonderful. Buy it, enjoy it.

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This is the first movie where Tom Hanks really began to show his depth. It was a film that required him to open with the comedic chops he's honed so well but then, because of the deepening of the film's story from comedy to drama, requested so much more of him. He ultimately delivers in spades.

This is really a story about a son moving very fast in the fast lane of advertising. He's a pro and he loves what he does. He's also a personality that lives on charm and in the moment. But when his parents separate after years of marriage, his life changes rapidly from no personal responsibilities to a multitude of them. It's also begs a question that rarely gets told wellhow do sons and daughters deal with parents as life turns the tables and we suddenly start having to deal with listening to and taking care of them? The changing of roles and responsibilities. As the film unfolds, it presents those concerns with proper weight, depth, sadness, growth and understanding.

Gary Marshall directed the film prior to his mega hit with Pretty Woman but I really think this is the better film of the two. He draws the best from Jackie Gleason, Eva Marie Saint and Beth Armstrong and Hector Alonzoeach lending a real ensemble cast feeling to the piece and although Tom Hanks shinesso do they.

Jackie Gleason deserves special mention because he really plays a rather hard, sad man at the end of the road as a clothing salesman, and he digs deep, never lending anything false to how this man thinks, feels and operates. The exchanges between him and Hanks about how he was raised lend a real truth to the role.

If you're looking for a film that has some humor and some depth of feeling in the same breath, this is an interesting evening's viewing.

An underrated film that deserves a second look and a larger audience.

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I found Nothing in Common to have all the attributes of a wonderful film. From its soundtrack to its cast. The subject, a selfish advertising executive, thinks only of himself, but finally learns that family is important, and old friends are the best.

It is my most favourite Tom Hanks movie.

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Another: Complete Collection (2012)

Kōichi Sasakibara has recently transferred to a new school. His class has a strange atmosphere, and it gets even stranger after he meets a pretty girl named Mei Misaki, whose existence none of his classmates will acknowledge. Then he learns of a horrifying story that started 26 years ago, when a popular student named Misaki died...

Another is one of those horror stories that is horrific, but not really scary. The deaths were surprisingly graphic, but other then that it was fairly mild. The atmosphere is well done, the story fast paced, and the characters engaging enough to propel the story. I really enjoyed watching this series, as it is exactly the kind of horror show I enjoy. Creepy, but you'll have no trouble sleeping at night. If you enjoy shows like Shiki, Umineko, and When They Cry (Higurashi), then you should give Another a try.

Another is based on the novel by Yukito Ayatsuji. It is 12 episodes long and aired January through March of 2012. It is available streaming on Crunchyroll, if you want to give it a try before purchasing.

Another isn't entirely what you'd expect. A transfer student joins the mysterious class 3 of Yomiyama High School, and soon encounters a lot of weirdness. There is a mystery, a tragic history, a curse, and a strange odd girl that no one can see but him. He soon finds out that a chain of events has been set in motion that will cause a lot of carnage and death, and there seems to be no way to stop it...

The best way to describe it would be an anime take on the Final Destination horror films. In both, the actions of people tend to result in a lot of death and carnage by everyday things and invisible circumstances. Another embraces this and adds a mystery to it of why this is happening and how can we stop it? I can't really describe the plot as it twists, turns, and sometimes blatantly misdirects you to keep you unsettled. It's quite good for anime horror, and escapes a lot of the traditional Japanese horror tropes into a more Western sensibility. There are even references to writers like John Saul and the movie the Omen.

Like Final Destination, it's also pretty gory. Some of the deaths are brutal, and extended for shock impact, while others are brief and startling. It's winds up being less gratuitous in a way because the deaths are so unexpected, and to people you actually care about, that it is less about what cool gore scene they could include, and more about shocking you and reminding you the curse is not something cozy or benign. You also see the aftermath of the deaths, too, and your heart goes out to the poor people surviving.

It's good, but there are some minor issues. The ending to me didn't really seem to be as justified as it was. Without spoilers, the most pertinent parts of why it ended the way it did were revealed at the ending and only some things were foreshadowed well. Also, the misdirection changes the story in the way you don't expect, and you may get one idea of how things are and not like the actual explanations.

The whole series is streaming on Crunchyroll, but I plan to buy the blu-ray when released. It's a different take on anime horror that is quite good, and worth a spot in your collection if you like that genre.

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When I started watching Another, I was intrigued by it. The story is essentially that in one particular classroom, year after year a bunch of the students die. The mood of the story is very well done, and I liked the two main characters a lot. The visuals in Another are also quite appealing. If you are a fan of gore, there are some pretty unique death scenes. But after it was all said and done, the story really just didn't develop well...

As the story begins, you wonder why do students in this class die. But then the reason doesn't turn out to be very elaborate; it's kind of a let down... There's good chemistry between the two lead characters, but nothing ever comes of it. The ending had a bit of surprise, but most of it was pretty predicable...

There's nothing psychological at all in the show. If you want to see gore as a result of a tormented mind or strange twist of fate like in Elfen Lied, Deadman Wonderland, or Future Diary, you will not find it here.

I won't say that I didn't like Another, because as I was watching it I enjoyed it. But looking back on the series after it was over, it just seemed empty. If you like random gore, then by all means, watch it. If you want there to be some reason behind the madness, or really even much of a storyline, you'll probably come out a bit disappointed.

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Executive Decision (2011)

Okay, it's Die-Hard-on-an-airplane the way _Speed_ is Die-Hard-on-a-bus, _Under Siege_ is Die-Hard-on-a-battleship, and _The Rock_ is Die-Hard-at-Alcatraz. But it's a fine action flick and it beats the heck out of _Air Force One_.

I like Kurt Russell; to my mind he's never gotten the credit he deserves as an actor. And if (like me) you're not a big Steven Seagal fan, you'll be gratified to learn (about half an hour into the film) that he's _not_ the hero of the story.

This film probably couldn't have been made today. In the post-9/11 world, every moviemaker is carefully shying away from the 'Arab terrorist' stereotype; the screen adaptation of Tom Clancy's _The Sum of All Fears_ substituted neo-Nazis, and even the Gubernator took the safe route (using Columbian drug lords in _Collateral Damage_). But in fact, this script does a pretty good job of making clear that the head terrorist (David Suchet) is a loon who doesn't represent even the views of his collaborators, let alone those of the larger Arab/Muslim world.

Anyway, if you like a good action-suspense yarn, you'll like this one. Sure, parts of it are implausible, but less so than in lots of other good action films. And Russell makes an excellent hero.

Terrorists hijack a jumbo jet with over 400 passengers. Terrorist expert Dr David Grant (Kurt Russell) believes that the terrorists have nerve gas bombs on board and therefore, they can't let the plane enter US airspace, since the nerve gas could probably destroy the entire Washington DC. And they don't want to shoot them down, since that would lead to a big scandal. Instead, they send up a special military unit, led by Lieutenant Colonel Travis (Steven Seagal), to get on board the jumbo jet and take control over it. This turns out to be even more difficult than they had thought.

This is an action thriller that unfortunately doesn't seem as unrealistic now as it would've done some months ago, and some people would maybe prefer not to watch it because of the recent attacks. On the other hand, it could be interesting to watch because of that. Either way, it's a very good and well made movie. It's not so different from Air Force One and if you liked that one, you'll probably like this one and vice versa.

Steven Seagal's role is actually quite small, he's out of the movie after approximately half an hour, or even less, and you don't miss him. Kurt Russel, Oliver Platt, Halle berry and the other actors are good.

If you like quality action movies, here is one that will keep you at the edge of your seat for a little more than two hours. I really liked it!

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My attention was fixed to the TV like never before the first time I saw this come on cable. We need more films that can generate suspense as well as this did. But did they really have to have Kurt Russell's character get his foot stuck in that..."thing on the wall" near the end of the film? I think the movie producers could have come up with a better (and more believable) way to hinder him for the situation he was in. There goes the 5th star.

But, holy cow, did any movie foretell 9/11 better than this one? Airline security employees should have been made to watch this; maybe at least some of them would have believed an event like 9/11 was more probable and taken their job more seriously, preventing the disaster.

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Even though Executive Decision today would remind the viewing audience of the tragic, if not cowardly attacks made by Islamic terrorists on September 11, 2001 AD, it is still an entertaining and enjoyable action/suspensful/political thriller. I mean, if any film has Steven Segal killed off within the first 40 minutes of the picture (mirroring Roy Thinnes's demise in Airport 1975) and British actor David Suchet playing an excellent heavy, then it has to be worth watching.

Released in 1996 by Warner Brothers, Executive Decision was the directorial debut of British film editor Stuart Baird (Superman The Movie and Outland). With the material he had been given by screenwriters Jim and John Thomas, Baird does an excellent, if not remarkable job in film direction. Especially when it comes to the staging and filming of the action sequences.

The plot of the storyline centers around a group of Islamic Terrorists from the Middle East who hijack a 747 en route from Athens to Washington DC. The Islamic extremists main plan is to force the release of a known terrorist leader, who had been captured and imprisoned by British and American military forces.

Unknown to some of the terrorists, their leader has smuggled a Soviet nerve toxin gas left over from the Cold War. A nerve gas hooked up to a bomb, which is controlled by an al-Queida sleeper agent. The real purpose of the terrorist leader is soon revealed. His plans are to use the 747 as a weapon and detonate the nerve agent over Washington, killing all citizens there and those living along most of the East Coast.

Enter into the picture a group of U.S. Army anti-terrorist commadoes, along with a intelligence analyst/field operative from the Pentagon and an aircraft designer. Their mission is to transfer from a U.S. Air Force stealth fighter onto the 747 in mid-air, locate the nerve toxin, deactivate the bomb, kill all of the terrorists and sleeper agents with extreme prejudice, re-take the plane, and ensure the safety of the passengers and flight crew. Easier said than done. With the help of a courageous flight attendant/stewardess and a U.S. Sky Marshal, it becomes a fight to the death five miles above the Earth, with the fate of the U.S. Capitol and the eastern seaboard hanging in the balance.

Better than Air Force One, The Delta Force, The Die Hard Trilogy, and the Under Siege films, Executive Decision pulls all the punches and the stops when it comes to high flying action and high octane political thrillers. With a cast that consists of Kurt Russell, David Suchet (in a non-Hercule Poirot role), Halle Berry, Whip Hubley, Oliver Platt, B.D.Wong, Joe Morton, John Leguizamo, Andreas Katsulas, the late Charles Hallahan and J.T. Walsh, it is an ultimate winner in explosive action and political thrillers. Even the soundtrack by veteran composer Jerry Goldsmith is explosive and excellent. One of his best soundtracks since the 1968 version of Planet Of the Apes.

If you enjoy films that deal with politics, the U.S. Government's policy of not negotiating with terrorists, and the right-winged, if not the best way, to eliminate Middle Eastern terrorism, then Executive Decision is the film for you. Civilian, veteran, any patriotic citizen who wants to stop terrorism dead in its tracks!

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In "Executive Decision", Kurt Russell stars as a reluctant hero who is charged with saving the country from a airborne terrorist attack on the US that would have unbelievable consequences on the country. Co-starring are Steven Seagal as Col. Austin Travis, the leader of a group of Army Rangers who provide Russell with the backup that he needs during the movie. Halle Berry (before she really became HALLE BERRY) stars as the brave airline attendant, Jean, who provides the Rangers and Russell with help during their counterattack.

The plot revolves around a terrorist group's reaction to the capture of their leader in the Mideast. Their response to the arrest is to take over control of an American airliner and hold the passengers for ransom. Or is that really their plan? Rather than provide the viewer with too many plot details, let me suffice to say that a significant plot twist occurs during the first third of the film that changes the pacing and interest level of the film dramatically.

Viewers who enjoy Kurt Russell's action movies and any of the "Die Hard"/"Lethal Weapon" genre' of films will certainly enjoy "Executive Decision". The action is pretty much non-stop and will keep many viewers on the edge of their seats.

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The Jane Austen Book Club (2007)

You don't have to be a fan of Jane Austen's novels to enjoy Robin Swicord's "The Jane Austen Book Club", but after spending 106 delightful minutes with some of the most likable people you'll ever meet, you may want to grab "Pride and Prejudice", and start a club of your own!

This IS another film where the women are all beautiful, and the men, hot, but, to Swicord's credit (working from Karen Joy Fowler's terrific novel), she establishes each character with a humanity that transcends appearance. Working mom, Syl (Amy Brenneman), has it all, with a great job as a librarian, a radiant, if klutzy, lesbian daughter (Maggie Grace), and a devoted husband (Jimmy Smits)...until he announces he was cheating on her, and asks for a divorce. Oft-married, ever-optimistic Bernadette (Kathy Baker) decides to create an Austen club to provide emotional support for both Syl and their best friend, ever-single dog trainer/matchmaker Jocelyn (Maria Bello), who is grieving over the loss of a beloved dog. Bernadette meets young, uptight French teacher/Austen devotee Prudie (Emily Blunt), who has her own baggage, with an inattentive husband (Marc Blucas), an ex-hippie mom (Lynn Redgrave), and a sexy student (Kevin Zegers), whose attentions are sparking her barely-repressed lust. The older woman quickly railroads Prudie into her plan, finalizing a book club that will be "all-women, all-Austen", focusing on a different Austen novel, each month. Ah, but then Jocelyn meets handsome young computer geek, Grigg (Hugh Dancy), and decides to pair Syl with him, using the club...so a male member joins in the mix, and the fun really begins...

With each major character a 21st century variation of an Austen one, the story unfolds around the monthly meeting/book discussions, allowing the entire cast opportunities to shine. Will Syl recover from her failed marriage? Will Prudie give in, and have her forbidden tryst? Will Jocelyn ever figure out Grigg loves HER? Swicord succeeds in making every subplot both involving, and entertaining!

Great bonus features make "The Jane Austen Book Club" even better. The Austen prototypes of each character are explained, there is a terrific biography of the writer (far better than the one offered in "Becoming Jane"), and an affectionate behind-the-scenes look at the production all truly expand the enjoyment of the film.

Is this a 'chick flick'? Certainly! But with it's well-written male roles, I prefer to think of this as an ideal 'date' movie, and an experience guys can enjoy, too!

"All Austen, all the time" never sounded better!

Five women and one man decide to start a book club, reading the works of Jane Austen. Bernadette (Baker), the organizer of the club, is a woman looking to add one more to her many marriages. Jocelyn (Bello) is single and happy with her dogs. Sylvia (Brenneman) is in a failing marriage to Daniel (Smits). Allegra (Grace) is their lesbian daughter. Prudie (Blunt) is unhappily married, and attracted to one of her students. Lastly, there is Grigg (Dancy), a science fiction fan who is in the club because he is interested in Jocelyn. Their lives all contain elements that echo Jane Austen's stories, so their choice of reading is appropriate.

"The Jane Austen Book Club" is a female bonding movie that will also appeal to fans of Jane Austen. The acting is capable, but nothing outstanding. There is a little of everything relationship-wise here, and all the stories are handled pretty well. Jocelyn and Grigg's story is probably the most appealing though. To the story's credit, knowledge of Jane Austen isn't necessary, but it helps. In all fairness, the title of the film is going to draw in the appropriate audience, and they will probably enjoy it.

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Warning: This is a major "Chick Flick", no testosterone required.

Chick flick or not, the '07 release `The Jane Austen Book Club' is a delightful film exploring the possible application of the six books comprising the "Jane Austen Bible" into the everyday lives and loves of five contemporary women. What was supposed to serve as a carefree diversion from the constant angst of male female relationships becomes the epicenter of their emotional venting and the Gospel of Jane the rule by which all relationships are judged.

The cast displays an infectious chemistry, the storyline solid and consistent from beginning to end and the dialogue is believable, containing a number of quotable lines that will stay with you. `The Jane Austen Book Club' is a terrific film for the females audience. As far as the guys are concerned, come on and give it a try, you know you have to give in once in a while. This one is not as painful as most within this genre.

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This film opens with a montage of modern day, mundane technological snags, which sets the stage for busy and varied lives among working people. I thought this was a brilliant way to begin, to show just what kind of people form a book club and how random it all really is. The cohesiveness of these seemingly mismatched individuals, a free-spirited, serial bride, a recently discarded wife and her lesbian daughter, a socially awkward, pretentious French teacher, a control-freak dog breeder and a bicycling techno-geek (albeit a very CUTE techno-geek) centers around the six novels of Jane Austen. This story really isn't about the work of Jane Austen, but rather, it's about the people of the club coming from many different directions to form a believable bond. Sure it has some Jane Austen-esque subplots, but so many modern stories do and I, for one, never grow tired of them.

Very enjoyable, well-cast and well-acted film, and I recommend it to anyone who likes a good story of group dynamics--regardless of whether or not you liked or disliked the book.

Michele Cozzens is the author of It's Not Your Mother's Bridge Club

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"The Jane Austen Book Club" (TJABC) was a 2004 novel by author Karen Joy Fowler. I acquired the novel last spring and relished the thought of reading a contemporary version of Austen's romances, with each character and each chapter tying into one of Austen's novels. A clever premise, some interesting characters....but I found the overall effort to be a tad on the lackluster side and kept picking the book up, and putting it down before eventually managing to end it all.

Robin Swicord tackled the job of getting this book to film; and it opened to very little fanfare last summer. As the members of the book club, the cast is a director's dream. It's always a joy to see Amy Brenneman (Of the TV Show, "Judging Amy", on the screen, and we've had too little of her in the world of film. Brenneman is devastated and devastating as an unwilling divorcee, Sylvia, who was married to Daniel (Jimmy Smits in an unfamiliar role) who has fallen in love with the other woman. Maggie Grace (Shannon from the TV Show, "Lost") is suitably cast as Allegra, Sylvia and Daniel's grown daughter. Much of Fowler's book centered on the oddities of Allegra...thankfully, the movie only touches on them.

Kathy Baker plays flamboyant, much-divorced Bernadette and does so with a satirical air. Maria Bello is Jocelyn, a dog breeder who is afraid of commitment. Bello is no surprise; she's done a credible job with every one of her big screen roles -here we are caught up in her draw towards Grigg, the only male member of the club, although initially she attempts clumsily to "matchmake him" to Sylvia.

The outstanding turns belong to Hugh Dancy, as Grigg. He's a science fiction fan who accidentally meets Joceyln and accepts her invitation to join a book club reading a genre he has no idea about. He's subtly charming and has a way of 21st century hero about him; he and Bello are drawn like moths to flame. Also a stand out is Emily Blunt, so good in whatever she brings to the screen, as Prudie. Prudie's character is audacious -an obsessive French teacher married to the wrong man, she's eager to find romance in any way she can.

Tying in Austen's novels and characters to the ensemble is easy, and a little tedious, but by film's end, you're glad you made the attempt. TJABC is kind of a "little film that could"...not excellent by any stretch of the imagination, but still a worthy contemporary treatise on Austen's themes.

Set in Sacramento, the surroundings are lovely and bracing, and the DVD has a full complement of extras like deleted scenes, the casting dilemma, and a lively conversation about the filming between Swicord, the producers, Maggie Grace and Hugh Dancy.

For once, a film that improves upon the material it was derived from. Worth a viewing!

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Sparkle (2013)

I saw this film in the movies as a teenager and I've never forgotten how it made me laugh, cry and want to sing right along. "Sparkle" is the fictional story of the struggles of three Harlem sisters who are trying to make it in the music business in the late 1950s, but each of them encounter individual problems on the road to fame. Only one of the sisters eventually go on to stardom, while one gets engulfed into the street life, with heartbreaking results, and the other hates the life she's living and decides to leave for good.

There are fine performances in this movie. Irene Cara (who plays "Sparkle"), Lonette McKee, and Dorian Harewood are particular standouts. Look for future "Miami Vice" star, Philip Michael Thomas, as Sparkle's enterprising boyfriend. It has been compared to Broadway's "Dreamgirls" and the Supremes' story, but it has its own strengths, plus a slammin' soundtrack, written and produced by the late, great Curtis Mayfield, and sung by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. "Something He Can Feel" is STILL the jam. I gave it four stars because the ending was predictable, but all around this is a wonderful film. Highly recommended. Now where's the DVD?

I must say Sparkle is my favorite movie. I've seen it probably hundreds of times since the 70's. Lonette McKee and Irene Cara were great in this movie. Making it big in the "Music Business" was their dream until Sister (Lonette McKee) let something over power her dreams. Fortunately, Sparkle (Irene Cara) was able to succeed with the help and encouragement of her boyfriend Stix (Philip Michael Thomas). This is definitely an African-American Classic. I hear there's going to be a remake of this film soon. It may be good, but it will never come close to the original.

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I thought for sure this DVD would be released in 2001 for a 25th year anniversary. When that year can and went, I figured 2006 would be the year of release for the movie's 30th year anniversary. Oh well, at least the DVD is finally being released.

The release of this movie in 1976 was a big deal in Detroit, because it was the movie debut of Detroit native Lonette McKee. She even attended the Detroit premiere! Her reviews were great, and she had appearances on many talk shows afterwards--including Dinah Shore's. On one show, she expressed disappointment that an album featuring the songs as sung by her, Irene Cara, and others in the movie wasn't released, but thanked Aretha Franklin for recording an album featuring the songs from the film. She was later cast as Ali's wife in the movie 'The Greatest', but later quit after creative differences with the director. She was then cast as one of the female co-stars in the hilarious 1977 movie 'Which Way Is Up?' with Richard Pryor (who had taken McKee under his wing and who she was rumored to have been dating). Her next big movie role was in 'The Cotton Club' in 1984, where she played a Cotton Club girl who later passes for white to get gigs in higher-paying clubs. Other roles include Haley's tv movie 'Queen' (where she played a slave who passes for white) and Oprah Winfrey's tv movie 'The Women of Brewster Place' (where she played a lesbian school teacher fearful of losing her job if her sexuality became known).

Back to 'Sparkle'...One of my all-time favorite movie characters is the tall, sexy, strutting, long-haired, high-yellow, gum-chewing, I'm-hot-and-I-know-it Sister! McKee owns the movie, and the three girls in red dresses singing "Hooked On Your Love" is a screen classic! Irene Cara is the perfect choice for the sweet, innocent Sparkle. Many often joke about pretty Dwan Smith's Delores character--mainly because she looks so unlike her supposed sisters in the film ("she was adopted"..."Effie had an affair with a black man when Delores was conceived"). But she is great as the tough, proud middle sister. Then there's Tony King as the villian Satin, and Philip Michael Thomas as the good guy Stix. (Hmmm...should I address the color complexion issue? How the lightest of the girls is considered the "prettiest girl in Harlem", how the darkest guy is the evil bad guy, and how...no, forget it! Lets just enjoy the movie!)

I love that the DVD is a 2-disc set!! I assume this means that we will get many special features! Cast interviews? Deleted scenes? A 'the making of...' documentary? Can't wait to see!

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Needless to say I was absolutely thrilled when Sparkle finally became available on dvd, because I refused to buy it on vhs! Unfortunately the packaging is very misleading regarding it being a 2disc set, considering it's a single disc with a cd of the soundtrack, which only includes a few songs. Normally I would'nt find fault in the extra disc, but I just hated the fact that the original soundtrack does not include the songs being sung by the girls in the movie. When I first hear a song I enjoy there is an instant connection to the person who sings it. When I heard Lonnette McKee sing Hooked on your Love or Irene Cara sing Look into your Heart, these are the singers who I want to hear on the soundtrack not Aretha Franklin!!!

Eventhough Aretha is the Queen of Soul she did'nt sing those songs in the movie, and therefore did not make them her own!!!

Despite a few flaws in the dvd release of Sparkle, I did really enjoy seeing this 70's classic!!! I always thought Phillip Michael Thomas and Irene Cara were pure magic together. She possessed such a sweet innocence as Sparkle and Phillip Michael Thomas was just so damn fine!!!! And still is!!!! He's aged very well!!! It would have been nice to see a current interview with the original cast, but unfortunately alot of older black films from the 70's just don't get the royal treatment like alot of current films that get released on dvd. At this point I'll just be grateful that Sparkle is finally available on dvd!!!

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Sparkle is a classic and excellent cast and directed film. This movie is hidden from getting the attention that is deserves. The story and acting is superb! It's a classic movie in the class with "The Imitation of Life" (but a different type of story here). I STRONGLY recommend this film.

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Tron: Legacy (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy) (2010)

Let's face it: if you're wondering whether or not to buy Tron: Legacy 3D Blu Ray, you know if you like the movie or not, and are more concerned with the image quality and sound quality. Let me start by saying this is the first 3D blu ray I've purchased (my television came with Avatar 3D). I use a Panasonic 50 in. plasma, with active 3D. I have a pretty run of the mill surround sound stereo that I ran straight from my PS3 through AV cords. In other words, my television is fantastic, but my sound leaves something to be desired.

The 3D of Tron in theaters was, in my oppinion, the fourth best at the time of its release (Avatar, How to train your Dragon, and Toy Story 3 were above it). In my home however, this film looked fantastic. The depth of the 3D was great and the quality of the image is met only by Avatar's 3D Blu Ray. There are scenes that were filmed for IMAX and, like The Dark Knight, the blu ray keeps this aspect ratio for Tron. Personally, I loved this, my only complaint being that it makes the non-IMAX scenes feel less exciting.

The sound was another high point for this movie. The soundtrack is phenomenal and I can only imagine that on a better sound system, this would be the best sounding movie released on blu ray yet (them's fightin' words!).

All-in-all, buy this. It's a fun movie with an even better presentation that will make you satisfied with your 3D television purchase.

"Greetings, programs!"

It was a long time coming, but the wait was worth it. While theatrical sequels to The Last Starfighter and War Games may or may not come out in the near future, and I am left hoping and praying for big-screen adaptations of Isaac Asimov's Foundation Series and Doc Smith's Lenman Series...Tron Legacy is here now (in glorious 3D) courtesy of Disney. I saw it on opening night in 3D with a huge box of kettle corn, a large group of friends...and I was first in line for the showing. Naturally my expectations were high.

The Grid

To be sure, this movie is visually and audibly stunning in every way. Everyone who was tantalized by the trailers and got excited by the visuals will NOT be disappointed with the art design or special effects. As they were leaving the showing before us, many people had neither a positive nor a negative expression on their face. They simply looked...stunned. Shocked. Out of it. And after seeing the movie I think I understand why.

This must be what it felt like to see Star Wars the first time in 1977. Seeing Tron Legacy (especially without seeing the first Tron) is like being transported to an alien planet through an inter-dimensional gateway. There simply has never been anything like this on the big-screen in history. The film cost 170 million according to box office records I read online, and you can see where the money went.

The computer world is literally a city of light. The first time you see it, it takes your breath away. The action sequences featuring light cycles, flying discs, and various flying vehicles are some of the most amazing ever captured. From the moment I saw the visuals that became the film's logo I knew the visual style of this film was spot on and I was going to love it.

The Game Has Changed

When you compare this movie to the first Tron, it's a MAJOR upgrade in just about every way (the one area I think it's inferior is the acting not quite on the same level). The dorky outfits of the first movie have been replaced with the new skin-tight outfits with glowing edges, the discs no longer look like ceramic Frisbees, the light cycles can make curved turns, ect. In truth, this was something I was worried about when I first saw the previews. It seemed to break from the feel of the first Tron film too much. But now...

This is how i feel about the overall feel of Tron Legacy compared to the first: I have seen many animated TV shows that were then made into feature films, and you almost always have the same feeling that characters were changed around, and usually some past events were totally re-written. In a good movie adaptation the essence is maintained but the experience is different (like an alternate telling or a what if?). Thus, while Tron Legacy breaks from many of the traditions of Tron (digital people now look much more like real people, real food exists in the Grid instead of just energy), at its heart it is a continuation of the story, characters, and world you have grown to love.

Flynn Lives

Yes, at its heart, this is the same world you loved when you saw the first Tron, with the same features and flaws. The first Tron was a visual masterpiece with unique music and visual flair, a simple but deep plot, and characters you grew to love on an age-old but engrossing quest to save the computer world and along with it the real world. This film is no different in these fundamentals. The visuals are amazing, the music is astounding, and the main plot is almost identical to the first movie (get out of system, defeat the evil program who rules the computer world with an iron fist).

The now older Kevin Flynn who was trapped in the digital world is no less likable, but expectedly changed as anyone would be after decades spent inside a computer. His son Sam is the kind of guy you immediately like. He's rich but not snobby, attractive but not superficial, a good guy but maybe just lacking some purpose and direction in his life. At any rate, he makes a great protagonist. Jeff Bridges is a bit subdued compared to his other roles lately, but his whacky zen charm still makes him fun to watch. His digital younger (flashback and arch-nemesis) self does not fare as well because while a digital world evil Jeff Bridges that feels a bit unnatural is no problem, when it's supposed to be Kevin Flynn in the past it just comes off as strangely artificial.

Probably the first thing everyone noticed from the trailer besides the light cycles was Olivia Wilde's character Quorra. She manages to be beautiful, innocent, courageous, loyal, child-like, fierce, and in all other ways awesome for the duration of the film. Her acting is flawless. Michael Sheen is totally over-the-top in a role that people will probably either love or hate, and Beau Garrett's Gem and Cillian Murphy's Dillinger will have you wishing they had larger roles. And of course there is one surprise I wasn't expecting regarding an old favorite character. But let's not kid ourselves...the real star of this movie is...the soundtrack!

Derezzed

The soundtrack...to Tron...is one of the greatest soundtracks in history. Please understand, I do not use these terms to describe a soundtrack lightly. My favorite kind of music to listen to is orchestral movie and TV music. From anime soundtracks like Vision of Escaflowne and Magic Knight Rayearth to under-rated scores like A.I. and the New World, I am a HUGE fan of orchestral tracks. I have literally hundreds of movie themes performed by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. I listen to the Star Wars soundtrack from beginning to end. I even recently wrote the Prague Philharmonic an email requesting that they record music on my wish list. That is to say...I take movie musical scores SERIOUSLY.

You should know that I am a fan of Daft Punk's album Discovery. Look it up on Amazon and you'll see my ecstatic review. Some people have unfairly criticized the soundtrack for Tron Legacy, simply because what they wanted was another Daft Punk album, another Discovery. This is NOT a Daft Punk album. This is a FILM SCORE, featuring a full orchestra in addition to the electronic wizardry of Daft Punk. And it is destined to become legendary. From the first moments of the film when the main theme kicked in I was blown away by the music, but there is much more to it than just that the music is phenomenal.

I would say that from 60 to 75 percent of the brilliance of this movie is the film score, and the reason for that is that the film was actually CUT to the film score, rather than the score being cut to the film. What this means, is that the film and its music are almost perfectly synchronized. Anyone who has watched a really good AMV on the Internet has seen the magic that happen when you cut the action to the music and it works magic in this film. The disc battles, light-cycle sequences, and chase scenes and fight scenes (Derezzed being the stand-out) are incredible because of how the music not only fits, but drives these scenes. And when the epic climax of the movie rolls around the music makes it a hundred times better because it is brilliant, and it is so loud, so strong, so appropriate, and so flat-out amazing that it just makes everything WORK. Some have said that they listened to the music on its own in order to more fully appreciate it. I say the opposite. See the movie to appreciate how the music was MEANT to be used. Awesome.

The Creator

Some critics and others might dismiss Tron Legacy as a simple candy-coated popcorn flick with all the depth of Super-Bowl commercial. "Tron Legacy isn't actually trying to be smart"? You have got to be kidding me. But then again...people said EXACTLY the same thing when the first Tron came out, and when the Matrix movie came out as well. I'm starting to think that every time someone says a movie has no plot what they really mean is "I didn't understand it."

This movie is NOT simplistic. The spiritual overtones of Tron once again are pronounced. Love them or hate them, they are what drive this story, not the basic premise of the plot. In the first Tron the Users were seen as gods, the ones who had a plan for everything, the great beings who watched over the Grid with benevolence. When Tron was given a mission by his User, it was akin to pulling The Sword From The Stone or learning to Use The Force. Likewise, Kevin Flynn's User powers are seen from time to time, making him seem like a sort of mythological wizard (Merlyn, Gandalf, or better yet Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars: A New Hope). When the creatures of his self-created Grid turn on him we cannot help but see an allusion to our own world where in films and popular culture everyone sees to be angry at God despite the fact that he made them. This spiritual metaphor does not come off as silly or cheesy (at least in my opinion) but rather lends significant gravity to an otherwise straightforward plot.

There you have it. The new Tron is an amazing film in just about every way. Not perfect, but definitely the best movie to come out in years. The 3D is nice, but not required, as it is not quite up to the par of Alice in Wonderland and Avatar. It would be better to see this film on a digital screen where the wonders of the world of the Grid can really shimmer and pop off the screen in razor sharp detail (the icing on the cake would be digital 3D). I've seen it multiple times in the theater. You should do the same. This one movie you do not want to rent and watch on a tiny TV for your first viewing. You want to see it on the big screen. And then buy the Blu Ray and watch it on your home theater. This is one movie that would show off a high-def setup in spectacular fashion.

Buy Tron: Legacy (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy) (2010) Now

As a 12 year-old boy seeing the original Tron, I was hooked. When I bought the 20th anniversary DVD I was taken back on a sentimental journey reminding me of those times when a movie came along that showed you new things you'd never seen before. Tron was one such movie. I worried how Tron Legacy would look, if it would be just like every other new sci-fi movie, and if it could stand out uniquely as much as the original did. Tron Legacy is stunning visually, and even more impressive for me is the story. What a great way to connect the two, and carry on the story. I'm amazed by people who think it as shallow, or without soul. This movie is rich, and has great depth. Those who can't see that, don't fully grasp the story. Tron was all Steven Lisberger, and although Tron Legacy has creative input and direction from additional people, Steven's hand is evident throughout. I feared they might not be able to pull it off, but not only did they pull it off, they did it convincingly. The Tron franchise still stands alone, not that it's the best movie ever made (how can that even be determined?, but Tron Legacy helps to cement the story as one of the most unique. Too many movies follow a formula where you can figure out what is going to happen. Tron does not. Who could have guessed what Clu becomes, or that Tron changes allegiance? The nuggets classic Tron fans are thrown throughout the movie are a real treat: Dumont's garage, Journey on the juke box, Dillinger's son, and so on. I loved the young Flynn and old Flynn. The did it flawlessly.

Read Best Reviews of Tron: Legacy (Four-Disc Combo: Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray / DVD / Digital Copy) (2010) Here

This movie is very well made. Perfect casting, excellent visuals, amazing score, great story. It's simply a well made movie, and the effort from everyone involved shows.

Jeff Bridges makes this movie stand out with his performance(s). Garrett Hedlund did an outstanding job, especially with how demanding the role was mentally and physically. Olivia Wilde was cast perfectly in playing the naive, yet intelligent and capable character Quorra.

The visuals are amazing, and they stand on their own. I'm someone who's easily put off by excessive CGI in movies (Indiana Jones 4 was terrible, the CGI brought it down even further), but Tron: Legacy is a movie where CGI actually helps make the movie, as it takes place in a digital world (Star Wars Episodes I III however does not take place in a digital world, hence it looked bad, and the technology used to film those movies wasn't as advanced as it is today, just as an example of where I'm coming from).

The score was amazing. When I found out it was Daft Punk who scored the music, I was taken back after realizing who they were. I'm not a fan of their other work, but I do have respect for them after hearing their work for this movie. The music worked flawlessly with each scene, as it added to the emotional situation perfectly.

The story was perfect. A touch of a Nazi Germany theme along with a father son story in the middle helped make this movie very much enjoyable.

I went into watching this movie for the first time expecting an excessively high level of quirkiness and lameness (I was not familiar with the Tron series before seeing this). I also expected that those who made this movie might have approached it as a money making project where I'd only see a "cookie cutter" like movie (Example: The Pirates of the Caribbean movies) I'm very glad I was wrong, and I'm also glad that I gave this movie a chance; a well deserved/earned chance.

Finally I'm accustomed to people making comments on reviews for DVDs/Blu-rays in stating that they only want a review of the product, the product being the format alone, not the actual film/story. In response to anyone who is tempted to make such a comment (I know you're out there), this IS a review of the product, as I bought the movie, I didn't just buy a blu-ray. But to make you happy, here's the reivew you're looking for It looks really good on 3D Blu-ray...

...end of line.

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TRON LEGACY is certainly a stylish beautiful movie--so are many video games. But TRON LEGACY has about as much substance as cotton candy. We've seen the plot all too many times--good guy goes bad, turns into a megalomaniac wanting to take over the world. The acting is merely posturing and programmed. I just didn't get into it!

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Can't Hardly Wait (10 Year Reunion Edition) (1998)

Ethan Embry and Jennifer Love Hewitt star in this teen comedy originally released in 1998 and now finally 10 years later we are getting a special edition DVD. So what can you expect from the 10 Year Reunion Edition DVD of Can't Hardly Wait? Well Extras will include:

* an original commentary with filmmakers and cast (no big deal as this was on the original DVD release)

* a commentary with filmmakers and cast 10 Years Later

* Featurette "Huntington High Class of `98" Reunion

* Featurette "Can't Hardly Wait: The Making of a Teen Classic"

* Featurette "The Life of the Party"

* exclusive deleted scenes (at last)

* A You Know You're `90's If..." trivia game

* and the "Can't Get Enough Of You Baby" Smashmouth music video (which was also on the original release)

All in all it has the makings to be great. I am just happy this amazing movie is finally getting the attention it deserves!

In my opinion, this is one of the best teen movies ever made. While the main characters seem somewhat stereotypical at first, all of the characters (well, almost all of them) break down the barriers of high school cliquedom and discover something about themselves and their high school classmates. The whole movie centers around a party on graduation night. Preston (Ethan Embry) has carried a torch for Amanda (the gorgeous Jennifer Love Hewitt) ever since meeting her as a freshman. After four years, Amanda has just been dumped by her jock boyfriend, and Preston is convinced that fate will finally bring him and Amanda together. A series of "signs" convinces him to tell Amanda how he feels about her--this task becomes pretty complicated as the night progresses. Meanwhile, there are other wonderful subplots. Seth Green is hilarious as a jive-talking, would-be playboy determined to find a girl at the party; he ends up stuck in a bathroom with a girl he was good friends with before he tried to join the cool crowd in high school. The obligatory nerd goes to the party with a plan to humiliate Amanda's ex-boyfriend for having picked on him for years, and he ends up becoming the life of the party. His drunken performance of GNR's "Paradise City" is not to be missed. A lot of things happen throughout the movie, but the only person who really comes out a loser is Amanda's ex-boyfriend.

As a former nerd, I enjoyed seeing the self-absorbed jock get humiliated, the nerd become temporarily popular, and the shy guy stand a chance of getting the girl. I'm sure some people think the idea of carrying around a letter to a girl for four years is weird or obsessive, but I can attest to the fact that carrying around a secret longing for a person runs deep within the soul and cannot be expected to disappear in such a short time as four years. One feature of this movie I really liked was seeing a yearbook-like biography of each character at the beginning--complete with high school activities, future plans, and a favorite quote.

The entire cast is terrific, and I really enjoy this movie every time I watch it. Seth Green, as I have mentioned, is downright hilarious. Hewitt does a wonderful job portraying a prom queen who wants to find someone who will see her for what kind of person she is rather than judge her solely on her looks. Although the movie may sound like typical teenaged silliness to some, the characters do succeed in disproving the often perceived shallowness of the young. If you believe or want to believe in fate, this movie can also be an uplifting experience. As an added bonus, Smash Mouth's video for "Can't Get Enough of You Baby" featuring a dangerously stunning Jennifer Love Hewitt is also included with the movie.

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Bashed by critics, audience viewers have given this movie cult status, and deservedly so. Good fun performances by everyone but of course the standout is Jennifer Love Hewitt who plays the most popular girl at school Amanda Becket. The story goes something like this. Since it's their last day of school Preston Meyers (Ethan Embry) sees this as his last chance to tell the girl of his dreams (Becket) just how much he loves her. While his best friend Denise Fleming (Lauren Ambrose) has doubts about it. Telling him, what if she doesn't like you? Ever since Amanda's (Hewitt) break up with popular jock Mike Dexter (Peter Facinelli) Becket is the most sought at girl at the party. Now each person has their own agenda at this party. For instance Embry (Preston) wants to tell Hewitt he loves her, and William Lichter (Charlie Korsmo) has his own agenda. William has been humiliated his entire life by Dexter (Facinelli). And feels tonight at the party is his perfect way of getting back at him for all the years of misery Dexter put him through. But that's not the only thing going on at this party. Everyone wants to get "lucky". And no one does more than Kenny Fisher (Seth Green), who in my opinion is the funniest character in the movie! With so much going on you can tell this will turn out to be a funny fast paced teen comedy that I'm sure all teens and even adults will enjoy. Teens might think Seth Green gives the best performance, he certainly is the funniest, and might just want to watch the movie for him. But I think Hewitt is the highlight of the movie. Some might like to take notice to the brief cameos seen in the movie by Melissa Joan Hart, Jerry O' Connell, and a voice over by Liv Tyler. Here's a good clean, and funny teen comedy all will enjoy.

Read Best Reviews of Can't Hardly Wait (10 Year Reunion Edition) (1998) Here

I bought this video on a whim, mainly because I like Seth Green, but not expecting too much of it. I was totally blown away. This is the best movie I've seen for ages! It's like a "Sixteen Candles" for the 90's (which was a great movie till they changed the soundtrack). Ethan Embry (the saving grace of "Empire Records") was sweet and convincing; Charlie Korsmo was wonderful as the supergeek (making a nice comeback after disappearing for like 8 years). Lauren Ambrose is a junior Janeane Garofalo and although she's a new one on me, I think she's got talent. Seth Green, as always, stole the show as the white wannabe-black kid, and is excellent in everything he does (even if I'll always think of him as Chuckie Miller). The one weak link for me was Jennifer Love Hewitt. If the role called for a dull, wishy-washy, easy on the eye but not on the stomach kind of girl, then she did very well. I wasn't a fan of hers before and this did nothing to convert me. Still, the film had me laughing hysterically from start to finish, and I'd recommend it to anyone, brat pack fan or not.

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This Is one of the best feelgood films i have seen in a long time. It was one of those films with the tense feeling all the way through. with the will they, wont they, moments all through out. if you liked ten things i hate about you, fast times at ridgemont high and films of a similar ilk then this is for you It is about a boy who has loved the same girl for 4 years. when she is finally single he makes a pact with himself to show his true feelings. Along with many other plot lines and a spectacular cast (especially Seth Green In his Best role to date) this is a must see movie. see it before it is too late.

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Mrs Miniver (2013)

This beautiful drama about a quiet English village and its inhabitants during the early days of WWII is perfect in every way. Director William Wyler was himself flying a bombing mission over Germany the night the Academy got it right and singled it out as Best Picture. Like the hat Greer Garson purchases despite the cost, this film is rather precious, and if made tomorrow, would still win the award for Best Picture.

Wyler was delivered a fabulous script from screenwriters Arthur Wimpers, George Froeschell, James Hilton, and Claudine West. Greer Garson's restrained performance as Jan Struther's heroine won her Best Actress honors but the entire cast is equally good, Teresa Wright especially so as the bright and cheery young woman who would marry the Miniver's son and show them all the way.

Wyler paints a lovely picture of day-to-day life in 1939 for the Miniver family and the small village where they live. Greer Garson is the nice Mrs. Miniver. An early scene when the kind porter Mr. Ballard (Henry Travers) reveals to her that he has named the beautiful red rose he intends to enter in the yearly floral contest after her, sets the feelings and mood of the entire film. The story of the white rose turning red from tears yet made more beautiful was not lost on audiences on both sides of the pond. If ever a film gave the world a resolve to stand up to evil, this quiet and touching film certainly did.

Wyler shows the poignancy of young men going off to war as the Miniver's young son, Vin, home from college and full of ideals, joins the R.A.F. There is one terribly moving scene as Garson listens with all her being as the planes fly over, waiting for Vin's signal that he is one of those returning. Wyler shows the efforts of all during the early days of the war to help in any way possible. Clem (Walter Pidgeon) will use his small boat along with his fellow villagers in a dangerous rescue mission during the night, beautifully filmed by the director.

But through the air raids, which become matter-of-fact for the Miniver family, the joyous moments of living are shown by Wyler, leaving no doubt that life will and does go on. Dame May Whitty is superb as the village's most powerful woman, Lady Beldon. She is the grandmother of the sweet Carol, portrayed winningly by Teresa Wright. It is her romance with Vin (Richard Ney) which will provide the most poignant moment in the film, showing that tragedy could come at any moment.

Garson's cool resolve when confronting a downed German flyer in her kitchen is never to be forgotten. Neither are the moments of Mrs. Miniver's small children sleeping peacefully in the cellar during air raids hitting closer and closer to home while Clem talks and she knits. Just as moving, however, is the moment the winner for best rose is announced.

There is a deeply moving and unexpected death, just as it happened to many families, English and otherwise, during the war. But it will not defeat the Minivers or the village, and the final speech was so stirring that Roosevelt had leaflets of it dropped from the air all over Europe.

Rarely does something so entertaining have the substance of "Mrs. Miniver." It is no wonder that Churchill said "Mrs. Miniver" was more important to the war effort than an entire fleet of of destroyers ever could have been. A magnificent and unforgettable film you can watch time and again with the entire family. A must see film for everyone.

"Mrs. Miniver" is one of those non-factual, war time propaganda tear jerkers that has proven itself to be enduring and immensely entertaining. Upon its release, Winston Churchill declared the film more influential in getting America involved in WWII than a fleet of destroyers. The plot concerns Mrs. Miniver (Greer Garson) the atypical English housewife quietly enduring the hardships of war and capturing a downed Nazi pilot in her begonias in the process. It sounds hoaky but actually the story is incredibly stirring. Walter Pigeon, Garson?s frequent costar, is cast as her tender husband, Clem. Richard Ney plays her slightly opinionated son, Vin who rises to the occasion and becomes a flyer for the RAF. Aside: Ney and Garson were carrying on an affair during the filming that eventually resulted in a disastrous marriage and a quicky divorce. Oh well, at least the relationships in the film are perfect. Of merit is Teresa Wright?s outstanding performance as Carol, Vin's doomed fianc?e.

Previously issued versions of this film were near perfect so it's really no surprise to discover that this DVD carries on in the same tradition. Quite simply: the picture is outstanding. Blacks are deep and solid. The gray scale is beautiful and well balanced. There is hardly a scratch or a bit of grit or grain to distract. The soundtrack is equally impressive in MONO but very, very nicely balanced. A bit of a disappointment comes from the fact that no one at Warner Brothers had the foresight to do a ?making of? featurette. All we get is a couple of short subjects and a stills gallery.

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This is by far not your typical war movie. I love war movies. I have the vast majority of war movies on DVD or VHS. I have been anxiously awaiting some of the older classic war movies like "The Enemy Below (1957)", "African Queen (1951)", "Mrs. Minniver (1942)", and "The Pied Piper (1942)" to come out on DVD. I am delighted to see this will be available in February.

No movie that I have seen about WWII tells a better story of how the English endured so much hardship and personal loss for so many years. This could easily have been a very depressing movie but it has many lighter and uplifting moments that balance out the sorrow and make you feel good at the end of the movie. If you bought this just because of the award nominations it received you should consider yourself pretty smart. If you buy it because of the good reviews from people here at Amazon you are intelligent. If you bought it because you only buy the best movies, and this is a great movie with a boat load of extras, well there aren't words to describe how gifted you are.

If you enjoy movies that take a more personal look at the impact of war on families you will like this movie. Far from being boring as some family movies drag when they get into far to many personal details. This movie has plenty of action with the Battle of Dunkirk, German bombings and strafings, and a enemy parachutist on the loose. Mrs. Miniver reminds me a little of a tough woman like Maureen O'Hara in the John Wayne movies. Her strength is a little more sophisticated but nonetheless you know it is there. She is the kind of woman you know can weather the storm and you are happy to have her with you. The DVD includes Greer Garson academy award footage, photos, and a couple wartime shorts. The movie itself makes it a great buy, but with these bonuses it's a steal.

Read Best Reviews of Mrs Miniver (2013) Here

An unforgettable slice of wartime life in England, MRS MINIVER stars Greer Garson in the role she was born to play, one which earned her an Academy Award in 1942. The story opens in the last peaceful summer of 1939. We meet the lovely Kay Miniver as she frets over buying a particularly expensive but beautiful hat. It is a lovely, carefree scene which sets up the idyllic existence of Kay and her family in the close-knit village of Belham, a world which literally disappears when World War II breaks out. Kay, her husband Clem (Walter Pidgeon), eldest son Vin (Richard Ney) and his beautiful young bride Carol (Teresa Wright) become the central characters in a saga which scales the highs and lows of life lived in the worst possible circumstances, but the Miniver clan muddle through with strength, will and self-respect.

There are many memorable scenes in the film: Kay reading `Alice in Wonderland' to the two younger children whilst in the bomb shelter; Clem leaving for the shores of Dunkirk on his rickety fishing boat; kindly station master Mr Ballard (Henry Travers) growing a rose in honour of Kay; and the amazing sequence where Kay herself confronts a downed Nazi fighter-pilot in her kitchen.

MRS MINIVER remains to this day a moving account of wartime life in England. It's purpose during the war was to boost morale, and that it did. Today, MRS MINIVER is still regarded with affection and love. May it always be.

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This is one of my favorite movies, and the black & white print on the DVD is pristine. This is an idealized presentation of England in the beginning of WWII, but I love the scene where the Minivers are all in their bomb shelter in the back garden, and reading "Alice In Wonderland" to their children. Very touching. I couldn't recommend this film more. The lovely actor who plays Mr. Ballard, the station master, who grows a rose he wants to name after Mrs. Miniver is so affecting; watch Mr. Ballard's face as Mrs. Miniver says how nice it is to have a rose named after one-you can see he just idolizes her. The end is both heartbreaking and uplifting. This film won best picture, best actress. best director and best supporting actress at the Academy Awards of that year. Bravo!

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Sleep Tight (2011)

Sleep Tight is a foreign film i know most people haven't heard about unless you live in Spain of course, it barely got a release in America but now it's out on blu-ray and digital and is definitely a must watch. First thing though if you hate subtitles walk away because watching it with dubbed voices is criminal. Anyway the movie comes from the director of [REC] 1&2 and is his best film yet, sleep tight takes place almost exclusively inside a small apartment complex and tells the story of Caesar the complexes lobby and maintenance worker and his fascination with the tenant Clara and how she's always happy. I won't go any further with plot points as doing so will ruin it but the movie makes you think about how you trust someone yet that person can be just plain evil. The concept is very dark and surprisingly original and bolstered by fantastic performances, beautiful direction and writing with gorgeous cinematography and editing. A must rent or buy in my opinion. But fair warning this movie is done in a very intense Slow-Burn style so the movie moves at a slower pace.

After directing two POW thrillers "[REC]" and its sequel, a director team Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza took separate paths. While Paco Plaza went on to direct another sequel to the "[REC]" franchise alone, Jaume Balagueró chose to direct "Sleep Tight" ("Mientras duermes"), a thriller whose success with audiences may depend on how much they can suspend their disbelief.

"Sleep Tight" centers on César (Luis Tosar), a quiet Barcelona apartment building concierge with a secret. Without giving away much about the film's convoluted storyline, he is interested in one resident, ever-cheerful Clara (Marta Etura). Also, another resident seems to know something about his "secret."

As the story slowly unfolds, you will know more about César, who finds his meaning of life in something that most people would deem as unusual or unhealthy. Perhaps some viewers may find the central character César intriguing, while others notice in him an all-too-familiar narrative pattern, in which our protagonist greatly benefits from lucky coincidences and other supporting characters' incredibly stupid decisions.

It is true, as some critics point out, that the film is free from familiar thriller conventions, but Balagueró actually borrows its key ideas from other thrillers: one from Hitchcock and one from Almodóvar. Not that "Sleep Tight" is a rip-off, as it has a few unique aspects, especially its ending. Still, as far as characters go, Balagueró's are disappointingly flat, in spite of Luis Tosar's effective performance.

So is it worth watching? It depends. Maybe once. Not a bad thriller though with characters that we do not care much it fails to leave much impact.

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This movie starts off ordinarily enough, and then sucks you right in! How anyone can be as despicable as the main character is beyond my imagination. I love the way they established the setting and the characters from the beginning. From then on it gets worse, with every scenario worse than the preceding one. The main character is relentless and I love the actor playing him. This is what thrillers are made of! I can't wait to purchase the DVD.

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This is not a slasher film (in the traditional sense)) but certainly reveals a lot of physical, mental and sexual pain as inflicted by a middle aged misanthropic psychopath. The sadist, in this case, is an outwardly mild mannered concierge in a Spanish apartment building who vacillates between suicidal urges and drives to inflict humiliation and degradation on the unfortunate tenants and neighbors in his building. He is at his worse when other are happy, and most at peace when others despair. Even his own ailing mother doesn't escape his hatred. So, be prepared for a discomforting adventure that is well-acted and truly believable. English subtitles.

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Cesar (Luis Tosar) is the concierge/super for an apartment building. He seems like a normal helpful person, however under it all he is not a people person. At night he has chloroform sex with Clara, an unsuspecting tenant. He confesses his misdeeds to his mother, who is bed ridden, unable to speak, only cry. He is also being blackmailed by a young girl (Iris Almeida) who espies him coming out of Clara's room (Marta Etura).

The film is not overly graphic and goes easy on the "perv" factor. You are drawn into the film to see how far Cesar will go to make everyone miserable. It is a well done production, unlike so many "B" films in this genre.

The film lacks any real good "B" horror. At the same time it is a "B" movie subject. I would imagine the niche is narrow for a fan base in this slow moving tale.

Parental Guide: F-bomb, brief sex, brief nudity.

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Casanova (2005)

If you're old enough to have seen the "Carry On" movies the first time around, or have watched them on DVD on "oldies night", (don't worry, we're not going to ask your age) you'll see the resemblance to this funny take on the world's greatest lover. Slapstick, double entendres and misunderstandings abound, as Heath Ledger tries to fill the trousers of the legendary lothario without getting a broken back in the process.

It takes place in 1753 in Venice, a time when no woman is safe from the charms of Casanova, not even those confined to the convent. Luckily for him he has friends in the right places and escapes being strung up for debauchery (a big word which in the movie means that he shakes a lot of bedsprings without the benefit of a marriage license)

After going one conquest too far, his friend the Doge insists that Casanova get married ASAP, or face exile from Venice. Exile is not a possibility, as we learn early in the movie that he has a very good reason for sticking around, so marriage it is, and the lady to whom he pledges his troth is not only a virgin, but extremely willing to be wed. In a classic case of bad timing, he then meets the one woman worthy of his affection, and she turns out to be a cross-dressing (but only when necessary to prove a point) feminist writer who hates every bone in his body. She unfortunately is betrothed to a corpulent but very wealthy lard merchant (Oliver Platt) whom she has never set eyes on before, the union having being arranged by her late father as an insurance policy for the family fortune.

If you're still with me after all that, things get even more complicated when Jeremy Irons shows up as Inquisitor Pucci, out for the bewigged head of Casanova as a gift for the hangman's noose.

The important thing is not to attempt to take this movie seriously as a period piece, or as a factual account of the life of Casanova. It is a historically set spoof of the life and especially the times of Casanova and should be taken with a pinch of salt or was that lard?

Amanda Richards, July 10, 2006

What a fun romantic flick about the infamous womanizer, Giacomo Casanova. Gorgeous settings, exquisite costumes, and lively music bring this wonderfully delightful story to life--not to mention the stellar cast! Heath Ledger stars, of course, with Sienna Miller, Jeremy Irons, Oliver Platt, Lena Olin, and I have to include Omid Djalili (a great comedian actor!). I'm not a big Heath Ledger fan, but I really like him in this movie--he definitely portrays the womanizer role very well. I guess "Casanova" is considered to be a 'chick flick,' but guys can get a real kick out of this movie, too. (Believe me. In the movie theater that I went to, the guys were bursting with laughter just as much as the girls were). As stated in the movie poster, this is: "A partially true story about lies told, virtue lost, and love found." I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for some great, light-hearted entertainment. Expect plenty of laughs!! Enjoy!

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This is the first of Hallstrom's films that I've seen, and I gather it's by no means typical of his recent work. However, I found it immensely entertaining. It bears little reference to the Chevalier de Seingalt's life, but once you've got over that (ideally before you see it) it is highly enjoyable. The imaginative and brilliant photography of a Venice peopled with the colourful characters and costumes of the ridotto in the city's heyday makes the film worth seeing for that alone. Venice should always look this good; its inhabitants should always wear the costume of this period.

Then the acting is good and plausible. I spent some time trying to work out who it was that Heath Ledger reminded me of, and eventually realised that it was Russell Crowe, not so much in looks as something about his manner. Jeremy Irons is hilarious and others well up to par. The film was well-paced, building to a comic finale.

I think the great point is to grasp that the whole thing was clearly conceived as a sort of Commedia dell'Arte, knockabout farce with very little sex but plenty of misunderstandings, mistaken identities and laugh-out-loud moments. And, of course, love. I thought it was made in very much the manner that operas like The Marriage of Figaro or The Barber of Seville would have been conceived and performed in when they first came out in fact it shed new light on those for me.

Not a great film it's a bit too slight for that but a good, well-made, highly enjoyable romp.

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Casanova is a minor gem of a film. It is carefully bracketed as a memoir of Casanova, who is busy in his old age writing his memories in his famous book. However, this is worth paying attention to, because in a film of masks, deceptions and subterfuge, this too is perhaps the best of all possible masks. Giacomo Casanova may be many things to many people (particularly the women of Venice), but he is a very human being, if he would but know it.

After spending the greater part of his youth in pursuit of being the pursuer ('be the flame, not the moth,' he says as he gives advice to a young man in need of help courting his love) rather than the pursued, he has finally had to promise (the Doge and the Inquisition) that he will mend his ways and marry. But, in typical Casanova fashion, the woman he intends is the unofficial intended of another, and the woman he wants is not his intended, but intended to another. If you can't quite keep pace, you might be on to something. For Casanova's desire (not to be confused with his intended) is intended to another, whose identity Casanova 'borrows' to better woo her.

In the end, this is a fairly standard but well-done costume drama of mistaken identities, plots going awry, and love triumphant (of course it would have to be, for after all, this is Casanova). Heath Ledger plays a very serviceable Casanova (no pun intended, well, perhaps a little intended); Sienna Miller plays the fair Francesca, a woman with a brain far in advance of her time (she is some ways portrayed as a female da Vinci-esque character). Lena Olin plays Francesca's mother, who has arranged a marriage for Francesca, which certainly does not involve Casanova. Charlie Cox plays Francesca's brother, Giovanni, jealous of the attentions Casanova is paying to his unannounced intended across the canal (in an interesting twist, Charlie Cox played in 'The Merchant of Venice' the year before this film was made, together with Jeremy Irons).

I was very pleased with the role played by Oliver Platt, the merchant of Genoa (coming to Venice, a very subtle, witty reversal on Shakespeare) he played the intended of Francesca, a pupil of Casanova, a lard merchant of wealth and fame, and in the end one of the good guys. Tim McInnerny plays the hapless but good-intentioned Doge. However, highest praise goes to Jeremy Irons, who plays the papal visitor/inquisitor, Bishop Pucci, who, if he isn't threatening inquisitorial tortures on illiterate philosophers or falling over backwards in boats is promising to restore the virginity of young maidens. Irons provides a delightful mixture of terror and farce that plays in both comedic and dramatic ways, and he looks every inch the post-medieval bishop.

The sets are stunning of course, this was filmed on location in Venice, so how could they be otherwise? The music is well-selected and drawn into the overall film, using Italian and Italian-influenced compositions of the Renaissance and later periods heavily.

This is a fun film, with an unexpected ending in several ways, but love reigns triumphant, and Casanova (in a very interesting twist) both 'gets the girl' and continues his amorous ways but I'll not spoil it for you.

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this is a really cute funny romantic comedy. i thought that it was very well done and it was not completely focused around sex. actually i was surprised at how little romance scenes there were considering the R rating. this film probably could have been PG 13, but either way it was still great. heath ledger is the perfect casanova and while this movie is centered around him, sienna miller's role was also very good along with oliver platt and jeremy irons. the cast is great and so is the movie. i would recommend it to anyone just looking for something romantic and fun!

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