Adventures in Babysitting

Amazon.com

Way before she grabbed an Oscar nomination for her searing performance as a world-weary prostitute in Leaving Las Vegas, Elisabeth Shue was known as one of the squeaky-clean actresses of the '80s. Having made a splash in The Karate Kid and the '60s-nostalgia TV series Call to Glory, Shue cemented her good-girl reputation with the charming but badly titled Adventures in Babysitting. Set in the John Hughes-style suburbs of Chicago, the titular adventures follow babysitter Chris (Shue), who agrees to watch the Anderson kids (Keith Coogan and Maia Brewton) when her boyfriend cancels their anniversary date. All is quiet on the home front until Chris is called upon to rescue her best friend (Penelope Ann Miller, also doing good-girl duty) from the seedy downtown bus station. She can't leave the kids, and she can't leave her friend alone in the big bad city, so she packs everyone in the station wagon and heads into Chicago. Screwball craziness begins as they encounter car thieves, knife-wielding gangs, gun-toting truck drivers, and, worst of all, Chris's duplicitous boyfriend. It's hardly mature entertainment, but Shue makes it work; when she wins over the audience at a blues club with her improv singing, you'll be won over, too. In his directorial debut, Chris Columbus (who later went on to helm the sap-fests Mrs. Doubtfire and Home Alone) gently skewers the suburbia white-bread mindset of the main characters, and plays up the comedy over the schmaltz with a subtlety of which he now seems incapable; the near romance between Shue and Coogan is played lightly and adorably. Look for brief appearances by art-house faves Lolita Davidovich as a college party girl and Vincent D'Onofrio as an unlikely savior. --Mark Englehart

Description

Chris Parker (Elisabeth Shue) agrees to babysit after her "dream" date stands her up. Expecting a dull evening, Chris settles down with three kids for a night of TV ... and boredom. But when her frantic friend Brenda calls and pleads to be rescued from the bus station in downtown Chicago, the evening soon explodes into an endless whirl of hair-raising adventures! Babysitter and kids leave their safe suburban surroundings and head for the heart of the big city, never imagining how terrifyingly funny their expedition will become.

Customer Reviews:

Remember This One?.......2007-09-14

This movie is a lot of fun, and having recently seen it on DVD, I liked it as much as I did as a kid in the '80's. While I guess there was a bit of rough language a time or two that the movie could have done just as well without and which I can't for the life of me recall hearing when I used to watch this, Adventures in Babysitting holds up well today and should be a hit with new fans in this decade. Interesting how times have changed though since this film was shot. Nowadays cell phones would shake up the entire course of the plot, but it's contrasts like those that make this an enjoyable look back for those of us who were actually around back when this was a new show. Elizabeth Shue turns in a versatile performance as the babysitter in the title, and director Chris Columbus, who went on in later years to give us the classic Home Alone, and more recently a pair of Harry Potter movies, displays a few tricks that keep things from ever getting close to boring. Adventures in Babysitting is one to sit back and enjoy all over again.

Great.......2007-09-07

This is a great, fun movie. One scene does contain some pretty bad language for kids but other than that, it is a great movie. My family loved it.

I wish they made the CD !.......2007-08-17

The music was great in this movie and I have talked to so many people that have said the same thing.....Why didn't they make a CD of the soundtrack?

What's with the "racism" review! Puuuhhhleazzze!.......2007-08-14

I couldn't believe the review I read written by "Adventures In Racism" back in November of '06.

If I may quote one of his or her ridiculous ramblings...

"A white girl (Elizabeth Shue, lightyears from her work in Leaving Las Vegas) is baby-sitting several white kids, when she gets a desperate phone call from her white girl friend. Why is her white girl friend desperate? Because she is stuck in a downtown bus station, surrounded by (gasp) African Americans!"

Ok!

1. There was a WHITE guy at the train station with a gun
2. There was a WHITE homeless guy who she was scared of who's house was the telephone booth.
3. There was a BLACK lady who took her glasses who was homeless..BUT..
4. There was a WHITE Rat that she thought was a cat.

5. Yes there was a BLACK car Thief,but he was very helpful and an outcast to his thief-mates
6. There was a BLACK blues band,but this is inner city,this is Chicago where I am from, the blues is big...and the band in the movie kicked butt and the WHITE kids were written sorta dorky and out of sync.
7. Let's get to the crazy WHITE truck driver with the hook in his hand and the gun in the glove department! WHITE, WHITE, WHITE,what am I now,color blind??
8. The car thief garage was made up of WHITE and BLACK and the head criminal/boss was...(drum roll) WHITE!
9.The "street gang" on the train fighting each other...hmm let's see..I see WHITE,HISPANIC,AFRICAN AMERICAN..pretty diverse gang for being a "racist" film don't ya think.
10. Until the little gal warmed his heart by giving him her "Thor" hat..the car repair guy, that was going to rip them off and KEEP their car (and who they were scared of) was WHITE!

I'm sick of crap like this. "Adventures in Racism" my review of YOU is one star and you act lie a dope.

Not liking a movie is ONE thing. But to call it racist is just absurd.

So there have been other films by this director with primarily white people and less black actors,but let's not forget..

I don't see TONS of White people in a movie that is primarily African American.

Friday,I'm Gonna Get You Sucks,Friday II which by the way,has used it's own stereo-typing to the fullest..NONE of which I've seen in Adventures In Babysitting.

The 80's was a fun time for films be it a WHITE movie or a BLACK movie.

It's just good...

5 STARS!! (if it makes you feel better "Adventures In Racism" I'll paint my stars BLACK.

Sorry to all my African American friends..I know you were with me and find it RIDICULOUS.

Please Please Please! REALLY watch the movie before jumping to these ridiculous accusations! Thank You!

Great.......2007-08-01

The DVD arrived in perfect condition, just as seller advertised. Fast shipping too. Thank you!

Average customer rating:

All for one and one for all.
My life on film!
Now and Then
movie
The Worst Film in the History of Cinema!!!!

Now and Then
Starring: Christina Ricci , Rosie O'Donnell , Thora Birch , Melanie Griffith , and Gaby Hoffmann
Director: Lesli Linka Glatter
Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs as Low as $6.49 | The Big DVD Sale | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

ASIN: B00002SSKI
Release Date: 1999-12-21

Amazon.com essential video

This obligatory girls' version of Stand by Me begins with actors Melanie Griffith, Rita Wilson, Demi Moore, and Rosie O'Donnell doing a lousy job of playing adult versions of the film's youthful protagonists. The idea is that this quartet of characters is having a reunion, which serves as a preface to the main story about school chums who make a pact to stay close and supportive through thick and thin. The trouble is that Griffith, Moore, Wilson, and O'Donnell look like they've rehearsed their scenes for no more than a few minutes, and after boring us silly there's little reason to get excited about anything else. Still, it's nice to have a supporting cast that includes Janeane Garofalo and Bonnie Hunt, while among the girls are three young actresses who have been burning up the road in recent years: Christina Ricci (The Opposite of Sex), Thora Birch (A Clear and Present Danger), and Gaby Hoffmann (Strike). --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

All for one and one for all........2007-09-14

I hadn't seen this film for so long, but having remembered how much I enjoyed it years ago I thought it a necessary purchase. I wasn't disappointed.
This is a film to satisfy every mood. Like all the greats it has highs and lows. Focusing on a group of four young girls this is an emotional film touching on the importance of losing innocence, dealing with disappointments and, inevitably, hormones.
Roberta's discovery about her mother's death and Sam's realisation about her parent's marriage are just two of the genuinely moving moments. These are nicely balanced out by the more humorous events, such as the girls stealing boys clothes after watching them bath nude in the river and talks about sex. Chrissy's reactions to this subject are hilarious on their own. Each girl brings something unique to the friendship group and is appreciated for it. Their relationship is, as they say, 'all for one and one for all.'
It's great to see Christina Ricci and Thora Birch portraying their characters so effectively, perhaps because they are so different from their recent roles in Sleepy Hollow and The Hole. It's unfortunate that there are no special features here, although you could argue the film is special enough without them. It really is a treat.

My life on film!.......2007-06-23

The setting of this film is in Indiana in the early 70's. I was the same age as the characters at that time and was also growing up in a small Indiana town. The movie is like my youth on film..... I love it!!

Now and Then.......2007-05-17

Although it is something of a chic flick, "Now and Then" is a great movie. I would watch having a youngster see it as there are some adult topics discussed. Each child character and her adult counter part, look so similar that it is amazing! It is a very well told narrative of young ladies coming to terms with growing up and all that it involves and holding onto friendship in spite of it all.

movie.......2007-05-14

This was in wonderful condition it was almost brand new. Very quick delivery thank you.

The Worst Film in the History of Cinema!!!!.......2007-04-09

I dont care how bad a movie can be. Even films that suck beyond belief can at least have a few moments that are not so painful to watch. This film actually amazes me, I cannot think of a single second of this charade that I can actually call quality. It's actually insulting to watch. After viewing this garbage, I have come to discover that I HATE Rosie Odonell! I Hate Demi Moore!! I Hate Melanie Griffith!!
It Stinks! It Sucks! The DVD should include a hand-gun so you can blow your brains out as punishment for watching it!

Average customer rating:

Very difficult to watch . . the best part was when it was over.
Ars Longus, Vita Brevis
Venus Arising
o'toole one of the greatest of all time-VENUS
Phillips: "You've been loved Maurice. You've been adored." O'Toole: "Yes. So have you Ian. You just didn't always notice it!"

Venus
Starring: Peter O'Toole , Leslie Phillips , Beatrice Savoretti , Philip Fox , and Lolita Chakrabarti
Director: Roger Michell
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

ASIN: B000NOKFHG
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Amazon.com

Peter O'Toole adds another Great One to his list of indelible performances: as Maurice, a frail but defiantly horny London actor in his sunset, O'Toole lays bare his weathered face and sophisticated soul for a marvelous portrait of mortality. Maurice, who mostly hangs out counting pills and parsing obituaries with his fellow old-trouper Ian (Leslie Phillips), is roused to play Pygmalion one final time... not on stage, but in life, as Ian's gauche, callow niece (Jodie Whittaker) comes to live with her uncle. It would be very easy to turn this set-up into a heartwarming drama, but screenwriter Hanif Kureishi (My Beautiful Laundrette) has never been one to warm hearts. Unless it's on his own terms. As Maurice takes his Venus under his frail wing and imparts a few old-school instructions to this junk-culture lass, Kureishi and director Roger Michell hit just the right notes of clumsiness, grace, and regret. Everybody's good in the film; Jodie Whittaker does nicely by the task of creating a rather ordinary young woman, and Vanessa Redgrave turns up as Maurice's patient, long-suffering ex (about whom there is nothing ordinary). But it's O'Toole's show, and the grand old actor gives a performance without a hint of grandness, except where it might fit. When he sighs a valedictory, "There really isn't anything else," you know a life's experiences and mistakes are distilled in the wisdom. --Robert Horton

Description

Academy Award® nominee Peter O'Toole (2006 Best Actor) leads a powerful cast to deliver a charming and poignant portrayal of Maurice, an aging veteran actor who becomes absolutely taken with Jessie - the grandniece of his closest friend. When Maurice tries to soften the petulant and provincial young girl with the benefit of his wisdom and London culture, their give-and-take surprises both Maurice and Jessie as they discover what they don't know about themselves. Featuring brilliant performances from a superb supporting cast, VENUS is a witty and wise celebration of how the greatest lessons in life can come from the most unlikely places.

Customer Reviews:

Very difficult to watch . . the best part was when it was over........2007-09-12

Peter O'Toole and Vanessa Redgrave are far from youthful, but they are made up to look 15 years older than they really are. Why? Even in the moments that are supposed to portray some tenderness, all that one sees is old age, and attempts at tenderness become a disgusting farce.

Jesse is unabashedly common, with any redeeming features so well hidden as to be practically non-existent. She is so guilt-ridden after she and her boyfriend do their thing in Maurice's home, that any human being would have regrets. This was no particularly warm quality of hers coming to the fore.

All in all this was a very, very bad movie with gratuitous and stereotypical and juvenile portrayals of the elderly. Very difficult to watch . . the best part was when it was over.

Ars Longus, Vita Brevis.......2007-09-07

Venus, starring Peter O'Toole, is like one of those water-filled snowflake globes you buy at an airport gift shop - except that it's made by Faberge. It's a tiny, complete world of exquisite beauty - as your imagination drifts into it the outside world disappears. Most movies have gunfights - this movie has two old man beating each other with rolled up newspapers. Most movies reek with profanity and trash talk - here you can see a surly, provincial young woman transported by the music of an old man reciting lines from Hamlet. Most movies fawn over the advantages of youth, this movie shows you old men, and women, taking inventory at the end of their lives, trying to die with dignity.

Even more remarkable, this movie explores the virtually uncharted terrain of asexual love between a man and woman who are separated by two full generations - a love that is all the same powerful and redemptive for both. The subject matter is risky, and in lesser hands might have become tawdry. But it is handled with such authenticity and dignity that there's nary a smutty schoolyard giggle to be found. The depiction of old people is refreshing. America fears the aged so deeply that they rarely appear in films at all, and when they do, it is usually in cameo roles playing doorstops, table lamps, and magazine racks. But these old people are vital, full of attitude, wit, edge, sarcasm, and wisdom. They're wonderful to be around and we're enriched by watching them interact.

Director Roger Mitchell has an extraordinary touch; the film is simultaneously romantic and tough-minded. Writer Hanif Kureishi, who gave us the masterpiece - My Beautiful Launderette - is characteristically unsentimental and honest about the lonely, yet lovely, places within the human heart. The cast is simply overwhelming. Peter O'Toole speaks the English language more beautifully than any actor I can name, with the possible exception of Jeremy Irons. Considering he is playing an actor, he might easily have turned up the juice too high - but he never does. His portrayal of Maurice is Oscar level. To see O'Toole and Vanessa Redgrave conversing like any old couple is to witness acting royalty in action, they are amazing together. Leslie Phillips, who plays Maurice's fellow actor and dear friend Ian, practically walks off with the film several times, he is that good.

Tiptoe-ing among these giant sequoias is Jodie Whittaker who is extraordinary in her ability to not be extraordinary. Whittaker's gradual unfolding is handled beautifully, and to her great credit, it seems organic and credible. This film reminded me of another wonderful "small" film, 10 Items or Less, with Morgan Freeman. In both movies, people who are worlds apart have very limited encounters with each other that provide them with a rare opportunity to offer and receive profound gifts. They are moments in time that somehow reach out of time and touch something that outlasts time. If I were in an airport gift shop, I would buy them both for you.

Venus Arising.......2007-09-03

This is another movie in a genre that seems to be gaining steam in recent years. The plot centers around a very young woman (Jodie Whittaker) and a much older man (Peter O'Toole) who share a very off-the-wall friendship. There are many parallels between this film & other recent flicks of the same basic genre, such as Lost in Translation (where Bill Murray's character "falls" for Scarlett Johannson's character) and Shopgirl (written by Steve Martin, where he plays the title role of a man who goes after a younger woman, portrayed by Claire Danes). Like both of these movies, Venus is very subtle. It kind of floats along, sort of dream-like. People who need movies with lots of action, or lots of stuff going on @ once, may be rather bored by this film.

Peter O'Toole plays an actor who is way past his prime. Once a storied Thespian, he is now relegated to roles such as that of a corpse. He was also quite a Lady's Man in his time, but now his seductive prowess & power over women is stale. Physically, too, he is wearing down. He is in need of prostrate surgery and his body is basically falling apart beneath him.

When he meets his friend's niece (played nicely by Whittaker), he suddenly finds his sexual urges and romantic passions re-awakened. He projects & idealizes her into the image of Venus, Roman goddess of Love, as she appears in a famous painting. Jodie Whittaker has an unconventional, demure beauty that is perfect for her role as the young siren.

The story tells of how the 2 people try to manipulate each other towards their own ends. He wants small non-sexual favors, and in return she wants him to buy her stuff. Out of this they somehow form a genuine (albeit awkward?) friendship.

For those who have seen LOST IN TRANSLATION and / or SHOPGIRL, those films will likely be a good indicator as to how much (or little?) you will like this movie. One thing that must be acknowledged is that this is a little more "extreme" in its view of the older man / much younger girl. O'Toole is in his Golden Years while Jodie Whittaker is literally barely out of high school. Some may find this a bit vulger, but for those who stick around for the whole story, they will find a certain elegance in watching the Venus on the screen transforming into the vision of Venus in the painting.

o'toole one of the greatest of all time-VENUS.......2007-08-25

Peter O'Toole was wonderful in this movie....especially for those of us over 55 who still believe in life and love....and the possibilities of finding same....i hope someday he wins an oscar for his achievments...i recectly watched "Beckett" again after many years and both he and Richard Burton were "tried and true" actors with out all of the explosive and violent distractions of todays movies....i plan on watching more of the older movies now that i am old enough to appreciate them!!! For a man who is obviously frail now..he still has a wonderful sense of himself, a sexinesss, great beauty and humor...i don't care how old he is, he has class!!!

Phillips: "You've been loved Maurice. You've been adored." O'Toole: "Yes. So have you Ian. You just didn't always notice it!".......2007-08-20

This could have a groan to watch, even pervy (it actually is in places) but it's still an absolute gem.

While Peter O'Toole grabs the lion's share of attention, there are many other reasons why this so works. One of them is a stunning turn from Leslie Phillips who up until now has been all but a National joke in Britain (in the nicest way - he's been acting since the Fifties in light-hearted and often bawdy British comedies). The two together are never anything less than brilliant. Phillips knows he's up against real acting talent, but every time he matches it with his most brilliant and layered performance ever. And he's subtle too. Their scenes together are worth their weight in gold.

Part of the reason is the fantastically funny, observational and touching script from Hanif Kureish which should have pulled a statue. There's a scene where two nurses are chatting over Peter O'Toole - one sticking a needle in his arm in some god-forsaken National Health Service room - and they just don't see him - he might as well not be there - why - because he's old - and therefore doesn't count anymore. It immediately cuts to him in the next scene at home - head lowered - sat on the side of a bed - hurting at the realisation of his aged fate. Then he slaps his own face three times and tells himself to "get up you old fu**er" and get on with life! O'Toole can suggest so much with even a glance. Both scenes are crushingly sad, but say so much by using so little. It's fantastic writing.

There's another scene with Richard Griffiths (superb British actor who played Uncle Monty in Withnail & I) and Leslie Phillips; they're in a London cafe the three dotty cumudgens frequent, when Phillips bemoans the fact that his new girl lodger Jessie (played by Judie Whittaker - dubbed "Venus" by O'Toole after visiting the famous painting in The National Gallery) has drunk all his best booze and eaten him out of house and home. He's frantic. The two boys react - not with sympathy and tea - but by relentlessly taking the piss out of his overreaction! It's just hysterically funny, well paced and packed full of wisdoms.

Maurice's (O'Toole) reaction to Venus is entirely different. She, of course, with her short skirts, Northern accent and lip that knows no subtlety - represents life, youth, woman. And for a man who's been in love with them all from the moment he could ditch his nappy and chase them down the street - she's irresistable. Their romance at-a-distance is slowly boiled and admittedly at times, it seems highly unlikely, but they play it so well together, you believe it. There are slightly pervy moments as I said and awkward scenes where he can't help himself and gets physical, and she calls him "forward". But he is - as a man - dying - and he can't stand it - he has so much to give still, if only someone will stop looking at him as old, and instead see him as a viable human being. It's all beautifully handled, insightful and ballsy - because these things should be/need to be said and addressed.

The music is provided by the lovely Corrine Bailey Rae, a British soul singer (like a softer version of Tracy Chapman meets Mica Paris) - soulful songs and strumming moments pepper the nicely used London locations. Later scenes with his long-suffering wife Vanessa Redgrave are genuinely touching too - another great actress adding class to an already classy project.

There are times when O'Toole looks ill, that this maybe his last role, but then that voice comes through, or he does an "act-or's turn", or he smiles at Leslie Phillips and hugs him - and lifetimes of friendship come through. In another scene Phillips' character Ian says as they sip whiskey in a gentleman's club reminiscing on their pasts, "I love this horrible place. It reminds me, of what I wanted to become." He admires Maurice and is jealous of him, but can say it without fear, because they're real friends. Sipping whiskey and clipping toenails!

Of course the central relationship between Maurice & Jessie goes to crap and a series of events threaten to wreck it. We're not looking at traditional happy endings here, but compromises - as all living is. It ends as it began - on a beach - with the waves of the free sea lapping on the shore - fresh and untamable.

I loved this film. Please don't let the subject matter put you off.
In one particularly touching scene, O'Toole's character Maurice, quotes Shakespeare to Venus - and to finish this review - so shall I.

"So long as men shall live and eyes shall see...
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee".

Put this movie high on your rental/to buy list.

Average customer rating:

Ms Swain Should Have Won An Oscar
Despite...
Do directors read?
Close but so far away...
An inconvenient truth

Lolita
Starring: Jeremy Irons , Melanie Griffith , Frank Langella , Dominique Swain , and Suzanne Shepherd
Director: Adrian Lyne
Manufacturer: Lions Gate
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

ASIN: B00001IVFG
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Customer Reviews:

Ms Swain Should Have Won An Oscar.......2007-09-03

Both Dominique and Jeremy gave Oscar-worthy performances in this brilliant movie. The fact that Dominique had zero previous acting experience was of course the very reason that she could not possibly have won. I mean that would point out a rather obvious fact about Hollywood.....

Anyway this movie is very atmospheric and will make you happy, sad, sick, and angry. Which is exactly what a good movie is supposed to do....drag out your feelings/emotions. This is a timepiece movie and you really get a feel for the 1940's. We all know the story about an older man infatuated with a young girl so I won't rehash any of that...it is the backbone of the whole thing. Mr. Irons is absolutely perfect in the role of the hopelessly torn and consumed Humbert. He has a way of saying so much without having to say a word. Mr. Langella is the perfect villain and whereas you have empathy for Humbert, you have none for Quilte. Melanie Griffith gives a good performance as the unaware and overbearing mother who herself falls hard for Humbert.

I especially liked the fact that Dominique was never shown nude. This actually increases the erotic element of their relationship and keeps an edge on the movie. The emphasis on the girls bare feet and legs puts a punctuation mark on her coltish figure and her "barefoot girl next door" image that is so cute and yet so seductive, in a natural and innocent way.

There is also a very interesting point made (Humberts first tragic love...) regarding "sexual imprinting" that boils down to your first sexual experience sometimes being the reason you gravitate towards a certain type of person whether it be age, weight, or even sex. It is like you become fixated based on moment in time and you just continue to loop on that fixation. A most interesting theory. It may provide insight into the situation where an older adult falls hard for a young boy or girl.

Dominique makes the movie. You can't fake being a nymphette. You either are or you aren't...and she is. She is so natural, playful, and innocently sexual she literally embodies everything that is attractive about young women. Easily the best performance by an actress I have seen in a long time. She is truly a "natural".

An instant classic....

Despite..........2007-03-08

the inconsistencies with the book, I thought it was great. You need to keep in mind that America is founded on Puritanism. They could never get away with a 12 yr old or any of that. The public had a problem with her just being 14. It's better than Kubrick's and closer to the book without trying to match it too closely. I personally hate when the movie tries too hard to copy the book word for word. In the end,they get the same point across. Not all pedophiles fit the stereotype. Both represent the risk of a sick relationship like his, and both are done so beautifully tragic.

Do directors read?.......2006-12-23

Another movie based on the Cliff Notes, this movie gets everything wrong. It is even worse than the Sue Lyon movie, since that older movie created a parallel story which, while nothing like the book, almost stood on its own. In that one we got a 21 year old Lolita to satisfy the censors. In this one we get a 15 year old Swain who looks 18. She is not a Lolita regardless, by Nabokov's definition of nymphet. She is too curvy by far and entirely too seductive. Lolita is supposed to be 12, weigh 84 lbs soaking wet, with "unflared iliacs" and dirty hair. Instead of this "pale little gutter girl" we get Swain, a "big-breasted and practically brainless baba." Irons is no better. A great actor, he has been wonderful in many roles, but he is not Humbert Humbert. Humbert was big and dark and hairy, handsome and educated but the opposite of Irons' catfoot delicacy. Beyond this, Irons and Swain have no heat regardless. The love scenes have this golden Hallmark falsity to them that could not possibly be further from Nabokov's intent. This movie is a misfire in all ways, an absolute disaster. I can envisage a wonderful adaptation of Lolita; what I cannot envision is where it will come from. The US and UK are more uptight now than they were in the 50's and France isn't much interested in American stories, even when they are penned by a Russian internationalist. Hopefully the world will survive into a new age where some true artist can rediscover this masterpiece and tell it faithfully.

Close but so far away..........2006-09-27

This films greatest strength is also its greatest weakness. This movie plays Humberts obsession with Lolita seriously and sympathetically. You can't help but feel bad for Humbert by the end of the movie as it is really Lolita who takes advantage of him and not the other way around. That is the film's strength but also the weakness; Lolita is 12 years old. That's just creepy. This film tries to make you feel bad for a man who, for all intents and purposes, uses his charm and status as stepfather to sleep with his 12 year old daughter. I find it disturbing. Surely this was not Nabokov's intention when he wrote the novel.

Jeremy Irons is very good at the role he plays, but he isn't the character the books gives us. The character in the book was not a nice man. He drugged his wife, he planned to drug Lolita to take advantage of her while she slept, he lied and manipulated, he planned in his mind to kill his wife and probably would have had she not been killed before he could get to it. But Jeremy Irons is not like that at all. His character is just a lonely man in the wrong place at the wrong time; he is haunted and almost, it seems, justified in his love(?) for Lolita by the sad events of his childhood.

Melanie Griffith is not a good Charlotte at all. She is not nagging enough, she is far too good looking, and until she give Humbert her love letter there is no indication that she is in love with him. There definitely needed to be more time spent developing her character.

Doninque Swain seemed far too aware of what she was doing at times, and far too childish at other times. The film made her look like the bad guy for seducing Humbert and using his obsession with her as a weapon against him. That isn't how the books played her at all.

Clare Quilty is all but absent in this film. He has a very short appearance at the hotel, and then we don't see him again until the end of the film. The book gives him a lot of charisma that was completely absent; in this film he is just a dirty old man. Look to Sellers performance in the 1962 version for a much more rounded and exact portrayal of Quilty.

Overall, this was not a bad film if it stood on its own. The camera work is excellent in expressing the emotions of the film and Jeremy Irons is excellent is his portrayal of a Humbert (albeit a different one that was presented to us in the book) but this film misses the message of the book even if it is a more literal cinematic translation of the book.

An inconvenient truth.......2006-08-24

(4.5/5 stars) Very few films (or the books upon which they are based) portray the relationship between an adult and an adolescent seriously, preferring instead to depict them as monsters, perverts or both. Not so with "Lolita." Humbert Humbert is as normal and as realistic as any other fictional character, and so are his human traits. He just so happens to fall in love/lust with Dolores, the fourteen year old daughter of Charlotte Haze, a widow with a room to rent. It is an unspoken fact that most men are attracted to teenage girls, yet are afraid to admit it because it is not acceptable for adults to act on these impulses. Most people see this as taking advantage of someone not yet old enough to make important decisions like this on their own. Even though Humbert acknowledges the socially unacceptability of this relationship and keeps it hidden from everyone, at the same time he indulges his fantasies and exploits his new-found fortunes. Although details would most likely differ, this sad tale is ultimately practical about the fate of a man who disregards reality and ignores potential consequences when he takes a fourteen year old girl as his lover. Many men would like to do this, John Mark Carr being one of the latest, yet few do because of the consequences. Most men can envision the effects of their actions and conclude both that this girl will not stay this age forever and he would not be able to keep this relationship secret indefinitely. In that sense, it is a cautionary tale for those who fantasize about this sort of thing. Conversely, it allows everyone else to experience a glimpse into the mind of someone who acts on this type of fantasy. Either way, "Lolita" is a tragic story that is faithfully brought to the screen by director Adrian Lyne and a magnificent cast.

Average customer rating:

Heartwarming.....
mystery alaska
Totally Enjoyable "Small" Film
Decent screenplay overshadowed by a lousy leading man
Part of Your Hockey Collection

Mystery, Alaska
Starring: Hank Azaria , Cameron Bancroft , Adam Beach , Maury Chaykin , and Russell Crowe
Director: Jay Roach
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Sports | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

Product Features:

Classic DVD
Exclusive interviews, highlights, and behind the scenes coverage
DVD's main menu allow you to jump directly to the action
Presented in full-screen digital video

ASIN: B00003CWUX
Release Date: 2000-05-09

Product Description

With Russell Crowe (THE INSIDER, A BEAUTIFUL MIND), Hank Azaria (GODZILLA, THE BIRD CAGE), and Burt Reynolds leading an incredible all-star cast, here's a fun, uplifting, action-packed story that everyone will love! A remote hockey-obsessed town populated by 633 of the most eccentric characters you'd ever want to meet, Mystery is the kind of place where nothing ever changes. But then life as they know it gets turned completely upside down! When a publicity stunt brings the world-famous New York Rangers -- and the national spotlight -- to Mystery for a game with the local team of weekend warriors, the whole town rises to meet the challenge of a lifetime! Also starring Mary McCormack (TRUE CRIME, DEEP IMPACT) and Lolita Davidovich (PLAY IT TO THE BONE, JUNGLE 2 JUNGLE) in another critical favorite from the hit-making director of AUSTIN POWERS 1&2 -- you'll stand and cheer as this ragtag bunch shows that nothing can melt their dreams of a miracle on ice!

Amazon.com

When it comes to the subject of community, David E. Kelley--the prolific writer-producer behind television's The Practice and Ally McBeal--falls somewhere on a continuum between directors Howard Hawks and Robert Benton. While Hawks's professional characters are bound by a knowledge of how to do what they do even if they don't know why, Benton's people, professional or not, have long ago substituted their own eccentric reasons for that elusive why. Thus we get the kind of in-house, oddball rituals sandwiched between passages of actual work on Ally, and the affectionately entangled personal and professional ties between small-town folks in Kelley's earlier TV series Picket Fences.

Kelley's script for Mystery, Alaska (co-authored by Sean O'Byrne) takes that level of eccentricity to a geographical and spiritual extreme. The film revives the hackneyed Rocky formula, setting a lopsided hockey match within a remote, self-contained hamlet where the members of a tiny population all have to wear multiple hats and still keep neighborly ties intact. The story concerns the town's chief source of identity and pride: so-called "Saturday games," in which local men divide into teams and play pond hockey for the locals. When a prodigal son (Hank Azaria) of Mystery shows up with a television network offer to bring the New York Rangers in for a televised match against the homegrown team, the town fathers agree. Coaching falls to the town sheriff, John Biebe (Russell Crowe), an admirable man and a longtime player recently bumped from the team. John, however, doesn't want the job: everyone knows the real coach in those parts is Judge Burns (Burt Reynolds), but he wants no part of it either. All of that changes after a sad tragedy forces everyone to reevaluate their positions and pull together in order to beat the Rangers.

Following the success of Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, Jay Roach proves to be an able director of drama, swift action, and low-key, character-driven comedy not unlike that in Benton's Nobody's Fool. He has to deal with some pure corn at the end, but Roach pulls it off and guides the actors to and through far better moments. --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

Heartwarming............2007-05-26

Mystery, Alaska is one of those movies called a "sleeper". Not much heard about it and not much expected when you see it, but it turns out to be an amazing feel good, heartwarming kind of movie. If you love hockey, then it's a must have for your collection. If you love good, clean, family oriented and feel good kind of movies, then it's definitely worth the purchase.

mystery alaska.......2007-05-16

mystery alaska is a very good hockey movie if you are a hockey fan and russell crowe plays a very good role in this movie and there is some humor to go with this movie.

Totally Enjoyable "Small" Film.......2007-03-25

In a town [New York] where "March Madness" has ruined every aspect of TV watching, except for PBS [they're begging instead -- seems as if they do that for two weeks every two weeks or so now], this little film was a real treat for this nonhockey fan! The performances were uniformly excellent [though I wish Russell Crowe would not go so terrifically soft in the voice at times so that you have to pitch your sound way up and then suddenly decrease the volume quickly; Burt Reynolds, an excellent actor, is also guilty of this in this film], the story good, the cinematography excellent -- in short, for me, a really good, totally enjoyable movie! Thank you, producers!!

Decent screenplay overshadowed by a lousy leading man.......2007-03-19

There is one major problem with this movie, and the problem's name is Russell Crowe. I CAN'T STAND Russell Crowe! I think he is one of the most overrated actors around, and his arrogance bleeds into every single movie he appears in. He is not particularly talented and makes the same faces in every film, and it drives me CRAZY! In this case, we have what could have been an okay movie, but Russell Crowe poisoned the whole thing with his very presence.

"Mystery, Alaska" has the potential to be a decent movie. It's about the small Alaskan town of Mystery, a place where everybody knows everyone else and each resident is obsessed with the game of hockey. One day a former Mystery resident turned sports promoter returns to town with very exciting news: he's set up an exhibition game between Mystery amateur hockey players and the New York Rangers. The people of Mystery must learn to put aside their various differences and pull together in preparation for the event of a lifetime.

This film is sentimental and can basically be summed up in one cliche: "It's not about whether you win or lose; it's how you play the game." There are several strong performances in this movie, including Hank Azaria as Mystery's prodigal son and Burt Reynolds as the town judge/coach. However, Russell Crowe spoiled the whole film for me. He plays the town sheriff/hockey player/coach, and he's basically just a big cocky oaf on ice. There's this one scene where Crowe's character is supposed to have a "touching" moment with his wife. He crosses out a bunch of words in a newspaper column and instructs his wife to read the remaining characters out loud. I think the intention of the scene was for Crowe's character to come across as being all sentimental and deep, but it was just incredibly stupid and serves as a perfect example of how every movie Crowe is in basically turns to garbage.

If ANYONE but Russell Crowe had been cast in the role of John, "Mystery, Alaska" might be worth watching. Sadly, though, I must advise you to skip it.

Part of Your Hockey Collection.......2007-02-06

If you are a hockey fan, this movie has to be part of your collection! Besides, without this movie, you will never be able to answer the question, "What are the best two activities to do in the cold?"

Average customer rating:

Fantastic Steve Martin Vehicle
A good picture of the spiritual chaos of modern society
Great Feel-Good Film
A Perpetual Favorite
Entertaining with great music. Very thought provoking.

Leap of Faith
Starring: Steve Martin , Debra Winger , Lolita Davidovich , Liam Neeson , and Lukas Haas
Director: Richard Pearce
Manufacturer: Paramount
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

Satire | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

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

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

ASIN: B0000A2ZNZ
Release Date: 2003-09-23

Description

LEAP OF FAITH stars Steve Martin as Jonas Nightengale, a fraudulent faith healer who makes a living visiting small towns and giving hope in the form of prayer. Aided by his no nonsense manager, Jane (Winger), Jonas sets up his tent in a small suburb of Kansas where he soon learns that their hidden mikes, cameras and computers can't fool the neighborhood sheriff (Neeson). But, when Jonas is touched by a local waitress (Davidovich) and her disabled son Boyd (Haas), he learns something new about truth and what real miracles are made of.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic Steve Martin Vehicle.......2007-05-31

Steve Martin, without his funny-man routine, turns in a great performance as the leader of a ministry of con men who is out-conned by none other than.........Jesus.

This is a film for people who wonder about life under the "Big Top" of traveling ministries where miracles MAY take place--for a price. There's always a fix in to find the truly needy under the big top and its great theatre watching Martin on stage as the man "GOD" speaks to. Until one day he actually, by hook or by crook, pulls off the big miracles no one in his gang can figure out! Martin as well!

I hated the ending, you may see why. I wanted him to go on to bigger and better cons, but the spirit got to him.

An excellent film also starring Meatloaf and Debra Winger (Winger's chacter disappoints for some reason, maybe just too unbelievable a woman would act as she does in the end.)

Overall, Martin and cast are fantastic in this film, with George Duke Gospel songs throughout, Meatloaf on the radio, and the Glen Frye title track.

I want a sequel, where Martin goes back to the pulpit and cons all the suckers again. I hope Jesus dosen't mind.

Somebody say "Amen!"

A good picture of the spiritual chaos of modern society.......2007-03-22

Very good film about a fake travelling faith healer and his entourage of employees/followers.

The story is simple enough, almost cliché, but there are a few elements that raise the film above the garbage of Hollywood industry (post 1960's). The end has been commented enough, and I agree it's a nice ending. But what interests me most are the roles played by Debra Winger, the fake man's assistant, and the nice-guy sheriff. Watching this movie from a believer's perspective I must say that they both represent the real lost, no matter how nice human beings they are. Jonas Nightengale at least faces reality with honesty; when he leaves the town we know he will not be the same man after all that happened. No matter how big his sin was: using God and the gospel for his own profit. His attitude is sincere. He is not a manipulator, as he said, because his modus operandi is too obvious, only suckers don't notice it. So who is the real smooth operator? Debra Winger?. She acts like she cares about people's feelings getting hurt, and so complains about it to Jonas, but she takes the money. Isn't she more hypocrite than him? This contrast of characters really interested me, the way it was portrayed, subtlely. What about the sheriff, such an (apparently) well-intentioned and nice man? Same thing. Obviously, one does not see him in a bad light during the film. It's afterwards, when one thinks it over. Jonas and the sheriff. The first, may have even accepted Jesus, for real this time, in spite of what he did; the second, such a nice and good fellow though, goes and sleeps with "the devil". Humm, these are the elements that make a film worth watching, that keep you thinking once it's over.

I have to write down the following lines from thescript, I think they are great: JONAS: "-I KNOW I'm a fake. KID: -But what difference does it make if it gets the job done? JONAS: -Kid, it makes all the difference in the world."

That last line is the key line to the movie. Without it the film would be also a whole world different.

One last word about the company of employees that travels along with Jonas. It's a pity there isn't more time devoted to individualize these folks a little, because they are the crowd, the ones who enter the 'wide door' instead of the 'narrow one'; the ones that shouted for Jesus to be crucified, for money, in spite of knowing Him to be innocent. Jonas may enter the narrow door (Christ); these folks are happy as can be with a wide door to hell. Tells you something about lack of character in people. Don't blame others for your faith or the lack of it. Faith is a gift from God. The lack of it is when you become a willing puppet in the hands of manipulators, for money.

Great Feel-Good Film.......2006-11-19

I have never particularly enjoyed Steve Martin as an actor, but bought this film because based upon the description, it sounded like he was made for the role. Was he ever!

Often where that's the case the supporting cast is weak, but not here. This is one of those rare cases of nearly perfect casting.

If you enjoy traditional gospel music, or even if you generally don't, you will love the musical support provided by the Angels of Mercy (including La Chanze, Delores Hall and Albertina Walker) who are superb as Jonas's choir.

There is none of the unpleasant ridicule of evangelicals (I am not one) that often characterizes films of this type. This is one where everyone comes out smelling good. Truly uplifting.

A Perpetual Favorite.......2006-06-04

Yesterday, I found this move on DVD.. Over the last 10 years or so, I wanted it on a VHS Copy that was crowded into a couple of other movies I had copied... Grainy... So the DVD is a long overdue addition to my movie collection.

I'm always moved by this movie; it touches me deeply.. Steve Martin is what everyone says: born to play the role, Incredible physical movements... But the supporting cast: Liam Nieson, Debra Winger... the contrast of the simple small town, century old houses, 100 year old oak trees.. with the big-city hustlers, everything for a buck... The miracles definately turn on the Mircle Workers... with no effort, the flow and pace inspire.

Repeated Viewings are guaranteed.

Entertaining with great music. Very thought provoking........2006-05-22

This film bears repeating viewings, revealing a new layer of meaning each time.

Martin's performance is one of his best--funny and energetic, but this is no shallow role played just for laughs. The subject of faith is explored thoroughly here, but, as in life, there are no easy answers. Although Martin's character, Jonas Nightingale, is a con man of the first order, is God working through him? Even though he may have no faith of his own, he touches the lives of ordinary people, strengthening their faith.

Jonas shows us some of the tricks of the trade in manufacturing "miracles" for the gullible, but when the real miracles happen, some tough questions are raised.

Some have criticized the ending as being weak, but I'm glad the viewer isn't handed an easy answer.

If you return for repeated viewing (as you probably will), you may find yourself examing your own faith.

Average customer rating:

Tim Allen does it again........
Excellent WIDESCREEN DVD
Jungle2Jungle
wonderful family movie
Martin Short and the kid from Detriot Rock City have Chemistry.

Jungle 2 Jungle
Starring: Tim Allen , Luis Avalos , Joan Copeland , Lolita Davidovich , and Bob Dishy
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Comedy | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

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

ASIN: B000068QPM
Release Date: 2002-10-08

Description

America's favorite entertainer, Tim Allen, is at it again as commodities broker Michael Cromwell, king of the Wall Street jungle. With money, power, and an engagement to a beautiful fashion designer, he has it all. But when Michael travels to the Amazon to finalize the divorce from his first wife -- a jungle doctor -- she reveals that he also has a blowdart-shooting, giant-spider-carrying, 13-year-old son, Mimi-Siku. Cultures clash when Mimi is entrusted by his tribal chief to bring back fire from the Statue of Liberty. Back home in New York, Michael must somehow convince Mimi that pets are not for eating and it's not nice to chase people with your killer spider. But when Michael's partner (Martin Short) crosses a Russian mob boss in a coffee bean deal, Mimi and Michael must use all their jungle skills in a hysterical father/son rescue. Now you can bring home the hilarious new hit comedy adventure from the studio that brought you HOME IMPROVEMENT and the box office smash THE SANTA CLAUSE.

Customer Reviews:

Tim Allen does it again...............2007-07-22

Tim Allen goes from the jungle of Madison Avenue to a rain forest jungle to get divorce papers signed so he can marry again. He discovers he has a son and decides to show him his world in New York. The fun begins when "jungle boy" pees on the door of the airplane before they even land. Things are a lot different for the boy in his father's world. They both find out that "home" is where the boy belongs and a twist ends the show with love and family being the most important things no matter where you live.

Excellent WIDESCREEN DVD.......2007-06-15

It's amazing how many people write a review for a DVD they've never even purchased. There are all these other people out there who give it 1 or 2 stars because "it's a great movie but it's full screen." If you were to actually watch this movie on this DVD you would see that, yes, it reads full screen on the back but it is WIDESCREEN. I watched this on a huge TV and I have surround sound, and while it did not play in surround sound, I barely noticed a difference, it really did not bother me. The picture quality is fine as well, the only screw-up I see is that it is marked Full Screen and it is widescreen - and that's only annoying if you LIKE full screen. It lacks bonus features, however, many DVDs do - all the bonus features come on special edition collector's sets these days that cost more than just a full- or widescreen version. So if you love this movie but are hesitant to buy it after reading reviews stating that it is awful because it's full screen and the sound is terrible, you're missing out. Clearly many of these past reviewers who gave this movie bad ratings didn't view this disk. This is a wonderful, memorable, funny movie, great for kids and family. I would not hesitate to recommend this DVD.

Jungle2Jungle.......2007-01-15

have always enjoyed this movie very much and am happy to have it as one of my collection so the rest of my immediate and extended family can enjoy it whenever they have the opportunity of watching something from my collection
from phyllis

wonderful family movie.......2006-04-10

TIM ALLEN DOES AS USUAL A WONDERFUL PERFORMANCE. THIS IS A GREAT FAMILY MOVIE UNLIKE SOME OF THE SEX AND VIOLENT FILLED MOVIES OF TODAY. IGNORE TH BAD RATINGS SOME CUSTOMERS GIVE THIS MOVIE. IT IS A BREATH OF FRESH AIR. ITS NICE TO BE ABLE TO WATCH A MOVIE THAT THE ENTIRE FAMILY CAN ENJOY.

Martin Short and the kid from Detriot Rock City have Chemistry........2005-07-24

That chemistry does not make up for Tim Allens selfish profomance and the plot sucked. I hated the part when the kid crawls on top of the statue of liberty. That would not fly to day, The police and the govnment would think he is a terroist and kill him. I thought the humor was bland and it is a stupid crapy movie and I hate it.

Average customer rating:

Thought Provoking film about a great baseball player
A tremendously acted portrait of a first-class Prick, Ty Cobb
A Great Baseball Film
For BB fans a strong 4; casual sports fans a 3.
Five-Star Level of Disgust

Cobb
Starring: Tommy Lee Jones , Robert Wuhl , Lolita Davidovich , Ned Bellamy , and Scott Burkholder
Director: Ron Shelton
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

Sports | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

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

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

ASIN: B0000A02YH
Release Date: 2003-09-02

Description

Tyrus Raymond Cobb played baseball like a man charging a machine-gun nest. He gave no quarter, took no prisoners. And when his Hall of Fame career was over, Ty Cobb attacked life the same way. Tommy Lee Jones portrays the legendary - and equally cheered and detested - Georgia Peach in this acclaimed film from writer/director Ron Shelton (Bull Durham, Dark Blue), also starring Robert Wuhl and Lolita Davidovich. From its recapturing of the outfielder's playing days (Roger Clemens portrays a rival pitcher) to its recreation of a 1961 Hall of Fame banquet, Cobb is a movie grand slam.

Customer Reviews:

Thought Provoking film about a great baseball player.......2007-08-09

Cobb is a haunting type of film, mostly because it chronicles the end of a man's life. This man was Ty Cobb, one of the most spectacular athletes in the sport of baseball. Hailed as one of the greatest of all time, Cobb's ability to steal bases was just as good as his inability to be a gentleman. Cobb's personality flaws were well known and brought out well in this film by the actor Tommy Lee Jones. The film swirls around a man interviewing Cobb for a spell in which there would be no tomorrow. Cobb is a man who is dying of cancer and is just as ornery and blunt in nature as he was during his playing days. Jones is great as Cobb, and the direction of this film is haunting, with some very, very poignant if not extremely sad moments that are shown. A woman looking through a window at a man she knows is her father, but does not speak to is one of them. The look on Cobb's face as the car drives off for this scene is one of those sad ones. The sometimes hateful, irritable disposition is replaced by a look of somber sorrow as he realizes some of the most important things in his life are gone.

The prophetic statements about the stock market were interesting, as Cobb was an avid investor up to the end. "They are going to start putting coca cola in these cans made out of aluminum" he says. Remember, the 60s had just started so even at that time for Cobb to have the open mind to accept a progressive future in technology was incredible, considering the film shows his final years spent in a large, dark house out in the middle of nowhere. The musical score is also impressive and does nothing but add to the film.

A tremendously acted portrait of a first-class Prick, Ty Cobb.......2007-07-04

Talk about films that are totally unsentimental about their lead character!!! COBB is just that.

Baseball great Tyrus Raymond Cobb, by his own admission, was a prick his entire life. Ron Shelton, in his written and directed biopic of the "Georgia Peach" does nothing to dispel this claim. Tommy Lee Jones attacks this role with such ferociousness that I doubt that anyone could like this character. Cobb was arguably the best ball player of his time. He was generally hated by all that came in contact with him. Jones plays him to a tee. Cobb is totally repelling and there is not but possibly a half ounce of sympathy for him in this film. This is the film's biggest problem: who can sit and watch total narcissistic behavior for 129 minutes??? Even amidst his totally insane and irrational behavior, there are some brilliant comic moments, but not enough to lift this film from the relentless heavy-handedness. After a while you have simply seen enough and want to walk out, never to return. There is nothing that made me respect or care for Ty Cobb in the slightest. Cobb was a bully, a manipulator, a cheat, a liar, a carouser, a drunk, a wife-beater who was forsaken by his five children and more. No excuse can be given for this kind of behavior no matter how "great" the man.

This film did strike a very personal chord in me. My own father was a "Ty Cobb." My father did all and was even more than Cobb was. He, like Cobb, died alone,rejected by his family and friends in his old age. After 84 years, only six people attended his funeral, and only out of some weird obligatory feeling. So, in brief, COBB reflected much of what I knew to be true in my own experience from my life. NOT A PLEASANT WATCH FOR SOME!

Elliot Goldenthal's original soundtrack is appropriately riveting and truly is an asset in the fast moving scenes!

Is COBB a well done film? Absolutely.Is it stylish and clever? Absolutely. Does it drag on? Absolutely. Did I learn something? Absolutely. Have I seen enough, though? Absolutely.

A Great Baseball Film.......2007-04-08

Even if you're not a baseball fan, this is a helluva great film that really gets inside a complex human being who just happens to be the best baseball player of all-time.
Tommy Lee Jones has never been better and Robert Wuhl gives an outstanding performance that gets short shrift to Jones' sublime turn.
This movie never gets mentioned when they compile the list of best sport's movies but "Cobb" is a terrific film that is hands down a better film then "The Natural." (A highly overrated movie).
This is probably the second best baseball film of all-time after "Field of Dreams."

For BB fans a strong 4; casual sports fans a 3........2007-03-13

Though some people consider Cobb the greatest, I don't recall ever seeing any name higher than Mr. Ruth in any book, on any list, with the exception of one book which places Willie Mays at the top. So with that statement, there should be many sports fans and historains who would want to check this movie/DVD out (though it's a little light on actual baseball *playing* - too bad, because the photography/camera work is terrific).
Tommy Lee Jones plays the part as if he's auditioning for the part of Mephistofolies; or Sweeney Todd; it's surely "over the top" but he dominates every single scene he's in, actually over-running (with no sharpened spikes) Mr. Rhul, playing the (now) legendary sports writer Al Stump. In "real life", it seems Stump had to deal with a relatively tame but decidedly moody lion, in motel rooms, in banquet halls, in lounges, all over the place.
The movie portrays a somewhat self-righteous writing genuis, as it constantly refers to his own personal troubles - the more he yells at his employer, who ultimately he does befriend, albeit cautiously, the more the very perceptive, though dying 72 year old man, reminds him of his own mess as a filanderer and failed husband. There's a rather unconvincing scene towards the end of the picture, when at some motel Stump is presented with Divorce papers and he begins to fire Cobb's gun in the direction of this guy who's been chasing him around the country for this purpose. The script is very strong throughout but here the scene ends on a depressing note. What was needed was for Cobb to simply convey through his eyes "Wanna throw any more "stones" at *me*, son?" Well, maybe that's a bit trite, but the scene closes as Lee says that he saw nothing - just a coupla bad boys.
Lolita Davidovitch has some good scenes, but her 1960 Vegas Cocktail Waitress has the look but not the "feel", meaning Shelton probably had to make her a milennium feminist to fit the quasi-political contemporary movie industry demands. Keeping the character more to the period would have worked.
Another concession to the male-female spirit of today, not 1960, is in a deleted scene: Stump watches, through his office window, and in the company of his Secretary, a shapely lady ascend a staircase. In the midst of his confusion and disorientation, he tells his exasperated co-worker to tell his wife, who has just called, well, tell her something. I wonder what the "real" Al Stump thought of that kind of stuff.
Tyrus Raymond Cobb surely fought death...and life. In his profession, he reached high, refusing to be taken lightly or be beaten. As his violent world finally came crashing in, and his health was in free-fall, he still refused to acknowledge his vulnerability, his mortality. Maybe that's the only real lesson to be learned by all of this: even a wicked man can sustain by calling up his reserve of strength and courage; maybe even artfulness.
Mr. Shelton delivers a very interesting narrative of the back story, though he sounds very subdued - perhaps the memory that the kind of numbers the Georgia Peach drew out to the old ball park did not exactly compare to this movie about his last days.

Five-Star Level of Disgust.......2007-02-03

Yes, it is possible to feel utter disgust for the subject of a movie - even while acknowledging respect for the excellent performance by Tommy Lee Jones in transforming himself into Ty Cobb, a man who has nothing to redeem him but a talent for tossing and batting a ball. It is, after all, a game, folks.

The movie, in general, is well done. No technical complaints, no complaints on any performance by any actor, no complaints about how the life of this man Cobb was portrayed - may the truth be told. "Prince among men," says Cobb of himself. "A great who is misunderstood." Hardly. I have rarely seen a portrayal of a man with so little to redeem him. His only excuse, achingly lame, is that there was an ugly scene in his childhood, adulterous parents gone mad with rage. Okay. Anyone out there without a dysfunction in your childhood, raise your hand! Thought so. Albeit, Cobb's childhood contains some doozies, but as he himself admits: "I was a prick even before my father was murdered." He begs the nature versus nurture debate, but personally, I don't care. Anyone who so defies any accountability for himself throughout his 72 years, eschews all responsibility, gains no compassion from me. He beat his many wives, attempted rape, regularly frequented prostitutes, abused his children, was racist to the bone, purposefully aimed to injure other athletes on the field, exhibited only brutality and rudeness to others, and topped it all off with an incredible arrogance. At least justice reigns: Cobb has not a single friend in the world, knows only hatred, and must deal with his own demons to the very end.

And he is in the baseball Hall of Fame? Why? I struggle to respect the game if it honors such as Cobb, regardless of his stats.

Yes, that's right, that's five stars I gave this movie. Perhaps we at times need to be reminded of what and how not to be, where to draw the line, and perhaps a portrayal such as this might spur some on to think twice about who we honor in our baseball-adoring culture, and why.

Average customer rating:

I LOVE THIS MOVIE
A fun cop comedy
Romper Room
Hollywood Homicide
Oh Solo, why have you forsaken us?

Hollywood Homicide
Starring: Harrison Ford , Josh Hartnett , Lena Olin , Bruce Greenwood , and Isaiah Washington
Director: Ron Shelton
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

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

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Action & Adventure | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 Comedy | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

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

ASIN: B0000B00KB
Release Date: 2003-10-07

Amazon.com

Harrison Ford lends his solid, perpetually disgruntled presence to Hollywood Homicide, an action comedy in which he's paired with the squinty eyes and peaches-and-cream complexion of Josh Hartnett (Black Hawk Down, O). Radical French filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard would appreciate this complete deconstruction of the buddy-cop flick genre; basic cinematic elements (mismatched partners, a hard-ass superior riding them, arguments about who's going to drive, arguments about intuition vs. diligent detective work, the bad cop who killed Hartnett's father, etc.) have been scrambled and slapped together with no concern for coherence, making clear their innately artificial nature. Sex scenes and car chases come out of nowhere and disappear without consequence, providing arbitrary visual stimulus. During shootouts, it's impossible to tell who got killed or why, underscoring a basic doubt about the purpose of making movies like Hollywood Homicide. It's rare for a mainstream movie to be so daringly (if perhaps accidentally) avant-garde. --Bret Fetzer

Customer Reviews:

I LOVE THIS MOVIE.......2007-06-16

This is my favorite movie - as a matter of fact, if I were a homocide detective instead of a software salesperson, this could, in fact be my story. Anyone who has ever gotten a real estate license and worked another job understands this far more than the casual viewer. I particularly liked when Harrison Ford is doing a foot chase through LA after a murderer. On the street is a Buyer for a