Circle of Iron (2-Disc Special Edition)

Description

The Adventure Epic Written By Bruce Lee - His Dream Project He Never Lived To See!

At the height of his international fame, the legendary Bruce Lee - along with his friend and student James Coburn and OscarÂ® -winning screenwriter Stirling Silliphant - began to write what he believed would be the greatest achievement of his film career. Five years after his mysterious death, Lee's vision would finally be realized. David Carradine (KILL BILL), Christopher Lee (THE LORD OF THE RINGS), Roddy McDowall (PLANET OF THE APES) and Eli Wallach (THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY) star in this acclaimed cult hit that brings Lee's personal philosophy to the screen with a still-potent combination of mysticism, humor and martial arts mayhem.

Amazon.com

Bruce Lee and James Coburn conceived the story for this unusual blend of fantasy, martial arts adventure, and Zen mysticism that should please cult-movie collectors and action aficionados with a taste for the offbeat. The bland but serviceable Jeff Cooper stars as a lone warrior who sets out to find the mysterious Book of All Knowledge. He faces numerous physical challenges on his journey, chief among them David Carradine in four roles (including a half-man, half-monkey), as well as numerous philosophical conundrums. While the dialogue by Sterling Silliphant (In the Heat of the Night) and Stanley Mann (Eye of the Needle) occasionally teeters into self-parody, the action and pace rarely lags, and the fine supporting cast, which includes Christopher Lee, Eli Wallach, and Roddy McDowall, lends a degree of gravity to the proceedings. One wonders how the film would have played with Lee in the cast (it had been a pet project of his for years, but was completed years after his death), but the end result is certainly watchable and entertaining. Blue Underground's DVD includes a wealth of extras, including a typically laid-back interview with Carradine, commentary by director Richard Moore, trailers and TV spots, an alternate title sequence, and, most intriguing of all, Lee's original script with Coburn and Silliphant (accessible only via DVD-ROM). --Paul Gaita

Description

The Adventure Epic Written By Bruce Lee - His Dream Project He Would Never Live To See!

At the height of his international fame, the legendary Bruce Lee - along with his friend and student James Coburn and Oscar®-winning screenwriter Stirling Silliphant - began to write what he believed would be the greatest achievement of his film career. Five years after his mysterious death, Lee's vision would finally be realized. David Carradine (KILL BILL), Christopher Lee (THE LORD OF THE RINGS), Roddy McDowall (PLANET OF THE APES) and Eli Wallach (THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY) star in this acclaimed cult hit that brings Lee's personal philosophy to the screen with a still-potent combination of mysticism, humor and martial arts mayhem.

CIRCLE OF IRON - also known as THE SILENT FLUTE - has now been remastered from its original negative and features exclusive Extras that honor the legacy of Bruce Lee, including an all-new interview with David Carradine.

"The Most Elaborate And Most Beautiful Martial Arts Film To Ever Come Our Way!" -The New York Post

"Striking And Surrealistic!" -The Soho News

EXTRAS INCLUDE:
• Playing The Silent Flute: Interview With Star David Carradine
• Audio Commentary with Director Richard Moore
• Bruce Lee's The Silent Flute: A History By Davis Miller & Klae Moore (text essay)
• Alternate Title Sequence
• Theatrical Trailer
• TV Spots
• Poster & Still Galleries
• First Draft Script By Bruce Lee, James Coburn & Stirling Silliphant (DVD-Rom)

Customer Reviews:

Circle of Iron.......2007-05-12

A classic of Zen Philosophy. A bit far-fetched, but nevertheless entertaining and funny.

GREAT MOVIE ! Unique and interesting.......2007-04-29

This is one of my all time favorite movies ... every line is clever and the scenery and soundtrack music are beautiful ... the fight scenes are some of Carradine's best ... I love the simple but clever plot, the moods and the cinematography ... it takes you to a different place and time ... When i was a kid i would watch this over and over on late night Cinemax. I would put this movie in with the likes of Excalibur (another of my favorites). If you like Excalibur, get this movie. This one is much lower budget but a hidden gem.

The Silent Flute.......2007-04-07

"Circle of Iron" is either a whimsical martial arts movie or a profound exploration of the nature of man, depending on how seriously the viewer takes the philosophical side of martial arts. Based on a story by Bruce Lee, the movie features a quest by a young martial artist named Cord (played by game good humor by Jeff Cooper), who is in search of a mysterious book of knowledge. He is sometimes accompanied on his journey by a blind seer (played by David Carradine) who alternately teaches and challenges young Cord. The seer seems to materialize almost at random along the journey, announcing himself by playing a "silent flute' that only Cord can hear. In a remarkably versatile performance, David Carradine also plays a series of opponents Cord must confront in his journey to the book. The solid supporting cast includes Christopher Lee, Eli Wallach, and Roddy McDowell.

The movie alternates between the mythic landscape over which Cord travels, and the various set-piece but not always obvious obstacles he must overcome. Cord starts out believing that fighting is the solution to every challenge, but comes to understand that more subtle arts must be learned. At the heart of the movie is Cord's slow journey to self-knowledge, one finally fulfilled at his destination on a distant island presided over by a order of monks who guard the book of knowledge

This movie is recommended to fans of the early days of the martial arts genre, of which this movie is a better than average example. Both the humor and the philosophy are gentle, and the fighting sequences are more rhythmic than brutal. Be sure to watch an included interview with David Carradine for some insights on the making of the movie.

Mystery.......2007-03-28

Unfortunately they cut out the most part of the "DEATH"- sequence, so that the film lacks in coherence.

Interesting Find.......2007-03-22

I found this film at a video store, it was a special $.99 rental. It was the first time I have ever seen this film. I was draw to it with the mention of Bruce Lee and David Carradine.

Now that I have watched the film and found out a little of its back story, I find the film passable at best and frankly wouldn't mind seeing it remade. David Carradine himself is great but as you watch the film you find that you wish he either took the role of Cord for himself, or he just added it to the other 4 he was already playing. Cooper is practically unwatchable. Though I did enjoy some of the notable stars in the film, I could have done without the scene involving Eli Wallach as it was a silly addition that was not needed.

The martial arts in the film are enjoyable though at times slowly paced, David does well seperating each of his characters even during the fight scenes.

I would also like to note, though Lee may have developed this story, he himself did not possess the acting chops to play the roles Carradine played, at least not as well as David did. Now the seeker, Lee could have done alot with that role. It is a shame he did not live long enough to have been involved.

I do reccomend this film to all those that enjoy martial arts in general and Carradine in particular.

Average customer rating:

The kids like it
Not that bad
not worth watching
Can I give it *negative* stars...? Please?

The Snow Queen
Starring: Colin Marsh , Helen Mirren , Gary Martin , Scarlett Strallen , and Julia McKenzie
Director: Martin Gates (II)
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00016XOBU
Release Date: 2004-03-02

Amazon.com

Hans Christian Andersen's tale has never received a first-class production. This tepid version (made in 1995, released in 1999) stars Helen Mirren (the only known talent in the cast) as the queen who wants to freeze the world. Unfortunately, her giant mirror has broken and Tom, a young boy, is put under her spell to fix it. Tom's sister, Ellie, comes to the rescue with the usual assortment of animal friends to help. Not much fun, forgettable songs, and good only for passing 75 minutes in front of the TV. --Doug Thomas

Description

Ellie is a sweet, little girl living happily in a northern village . . . until her brother Tom is kidnapped by the evil Snow Queen. Only Tom can rebuild the giant mirror the Snow Queen will use to deflect the sun's rays and turn the entire planet to ice. Joined by a reluctantly heroic bird named Peeps, Ellie sets off on an incredible journey to rescue Tom and save the world. But when they finally reach the Snow Queen's frozen lair, Ellie and Peeps will need help from a hilarious trio of trolls and a little magic to defeat her. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale, nothing can match the magical music and splendid animation in The Snow Queen. Year: 1998

Customer Reviews:

The kids like it.......2007-02-04

My 3-year-old really likes it, and the 11-year-old is watching it. What more can a frazzled parent ask for? 11-yo says it's weird but good. 3-yo laughs a lot.

Not that bad.......2004-11-05

In all fairness, I had to add my review. My daughter (10 yrs) has rented this movie twice from Hollywood where she gets it for 5 days and watches it every night of those five days. Obviously, it isn't as bad as the other reviewers would have you believe. It's apparently good enough that she asked for it for Christmas, as well. Is it as good as the other version by director David Wu? There really is no comparison. If you saw the theatrical version first, this one would likely be disappointing, as it would be if you expected it to meticuluosly follow the original fairy tale. However, it is entertaining to the young and deserving of viewing for those who enjoy cartoon fairy tales. She recommends it as one of the better movies for kids.

not worth watching.......2002-12-26

Just what kind of movie is this??? The animation didn't stand out, the music was too childish, and they could've given it a bit more detail! Almost everything in the movie was outdated. I think this movie should never exist again.

Can I give it *negative* stars...? Please?.......2001-09-09

This is the absolute worst movie I have ever seen. I rented it in hopes that it was the version of the Snow Queen that they always used to play on television. It's not. THAT version was an absolutely beautiful piece of work. This version is the most insipid thing I've ever had the misfortune to view. Whoever did this took the original story by Hans Christian Anderson (who I can just FEEL turning over in his grave) and turned it into a fairy tale just like the other hundred or so that have been released for children on video. The attempts at characterization are laughable, as are the "villains"-- the snow queen wants to take "her" mirror and block out the sun, so that the world will be ICE and so that no one will be able to think. The old evil witch-lady (who was just *lonely* in the original) wants Ellie's heart so that she can be young forever Heard this all before, thanks. The music... Well, I won't elaborate on that. I tried my personal best to block it out. Don't rent this, unless you really want something to make fun of. That is all it's good for.

Visual Guide to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Two Towers

Average customer rating:

This DVD is for newbees
Great information
Brilliant Work...

Visual Guide to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Two Towers
Starring: J.R.R. Tolkien , and Michael Stanton
Manufacturer: Kultur Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00007KK12
Release Date: 2002-12-17

Amazon.com

Like the previously released DVD Master of the Rings, Secrets of Middle-Earth: Inside Tolkien's "The Two Towers" delivers all that it promises and more. Perfect for home or classroom viewing, this hour-long, British-made program begins enticingly with archival film of Tolkien describing his serendipitous creation of The Hobbit. What follows is a thorough survey of the second volume of The Lord of the Rings, spanning every aspect of The Two Towers, from geography (via computer-animated maps of Middle-earth), language, dominant themes, cultures and races, character development, and literary influence. Host Grant McTavish may seem a bit too solemn, but the program is so densely informative that any quibbles (such as occasional redundancy) are easily forgiven. Preeminent Tolkien authority Michael Stanton and historian David Doughan provide astute analysis, complemented by the popular artwork (also compiled in a separate gallery) of veteran Tolkien illustrators the brothers Hildebrandt. Other highlights include audio clips of Tolkien reading from The Two Towers (who could do it better?), making this a worthy appreciation of Tolkien's timeless literary legacy. --Jeff Shannon

Customer Reviews:

This DVD is for newbees.......2003-03-27

It's not that detailed. Read the books. The maps are nice but would have been better if they had also drawn paths traveled. Better to get the Middle Earth Atlas book. The "soundtrack" after about 15 minutes was reduced to the same short musical phrase over and over and over...I wanted to tear my hair out. Only redeemed by the thoughtful insite of a few commentators. If you have not read the books it will entice you to read them (if the theatrical movies haven't). Peter Jackson is not on this DVD as an other reviewer implied. It does have bits of JRR himself. The Biography was good but also is on other DVDs. The Brothers Hildebrandt discuss their paintings but it would have been better if lead by an interviewer..they do babble on a bit. Quality of the DVD does not do the artwork justice (you need to see them in print). A bit of a teaser to get the viewer to learn and see more.

Great information.......2003-03-13

For anyone who wants a detailed explanation of the stories of J.R.R. Tolkien with some awesome maps to go along with it, this is the thing to watch. It's like having the books read to you in a condensed yet thorough version, so you feel like you fully understand everything and it all comes together.

Brilliant Work..........2003-01-02

Amazing collage of Tolkein's mind and the thoughts of Peter Jackson, the two men who made the Lord of The Rings Possible![.] A brilliant design of artwork, thoughts and anaylsis of the Towers to give a look into the minds of the magnificent people who made all of this possible. Great for huge Lord of the Rings fans![.] Two thumbs way up![.]

Average customer rating:

Lord of the Strings
Starring: Misty Mundae , Darian Caine , A.J. Khan , Paige Richards , and Chelsea Mundae
Manufacturer: E.I. Independent
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B00008L3Y9
Release Date: 2003-04-29

Description

In a mythical realm long ago, beautiful and diminutive Throbbit Bildo Saggins (Mundae) is sent by Smirnoff the Wizard to destroy the legendary G-String - the most powerful weapon in the land. The String was forged by an ancient villianess, and those who possess the slinky and sexy undergarment experience supreme invincibility. . .and a whole lot more!

Average customer rating:

Great DVD for kids and parents!!
Magic Tricks that really work plus a story

Wizard Quest
Starring: Wizard Quest
Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000068TP1
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Description

Peter has been chosen to save the castle of Chancemoor from the hands of an evil wizard. He will accomplish his task only if he learns to master magic tricks. Learn magic along with Peter as he prepares for his big challenge. An exciting adventure story, which contains 6 magic tricks, performed and explained by a professional magician. The instructions are clear, easy to follow, and can be accomplished with common items found in most households.

Color/60 min.

Customer Reviews:

Great DVD for kids and parents!!.......2003-05-20

I think Wizard Quest is great fun for the whole family, where everyone can get into the magic tricks and also get involved in the little storyline. Great DVD!

Magic Tricks that really work plus a story.......2002-10-11

As a parent this video gave me a whole day of things to do.

First we watched the tape. The kids were rapt with attention.

Then we tried out the magic tricks that are taught inside the tape.

We kept going back to the dvd to see if we were doing them the right way.

This video has 5 or 6 really good magic tricks that this magician teaches you. It's not corny stuff.
Plus, there's a wacky and wild storyline about a kid who helps a good hearted wizard defeat evil.

My kids ate it up.

For the price this is definitely worth it for the tricks alone.

Try it.

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