An incredible story of an incredible man's tale of survival under terrible conditions. Magnificently realized on film and greatly touching performances by the major characters. Must see to appreciate what freedom truly is and really means.
Reviews
15 Reviews
Forbidden Planet
(1956)
Way ahead of its time
15 September 2020
As others have said and rated, this is a seminal production and one of the best Sci-fi films ever made - a (the) personal favorite of mine. Several factors came together to (quoting Pickard) "make it so" (lol).
One is that the studio went beyond the projected budget to showcase their capabilities in set design, construction, and special effects creating another world in startling, full color detail and beauty.
Two is that the director had instructed everyone to take the production seriously and treat it as so which helps making the film so believable.
Three is the thoughtful, intelligent story and script - a characteristic of several MGM science fiction films including Soylent Green, Demon Seed, and Coma to name a few.
Fourth is the eerie, ground breaking sound track which (as Walter Pidgeon is quoted as saying) "transformed the film". There has never been a more appropriate and awesome sound track (of "electronic tonalities") for a sci-fi film; subsequently copied (but never equaled) in a few others.
Five is the most iconic character, Robby the Robot - a totally believable creation of an advanced, alien technology which added greatly to the believability that what you are seeing is real and could happen.
An unexpected masterpiece deserving of its treasured place in film history which was inspirational to many directors, productions, and films that followed.
One is that the studio went beyond the projected budget to showcase their capabilities in set design, construction, and special effects creating another world in startling, full color detail and beauty.
Two is that the director had instructed everyone to take the production seriously and treat it as so which helps making the film so believable.
Three is the thoughtful, intelligent story and script - a characteristic of several MGM science fiction films including Soylent Green, Demon Seed, and Coma to name a few.
Fourth is the eerie, ground breaking sound track which (as Walter Pidgeon is quoted as saying) "transformed the film". There has never been a more appropriate and awesome sound track (of "electronic tonalities") for a sci-fi film; subsequently copied (but never equaled) in a few others.
Five is the most iconic character, Robby the Robot - a totally believable creation of an advanced, alien technology which added greatly to the believability that what you are seeing is real and could happen.
An unexpected masterpiece deserving of its treasured place in film history which was inspirational to many directors, productions, and films that followed.
3000 Miles to Graceland
(2001)
Why thank ya m'am, for the wham 'n bam!
28 July 2020
A totally wild action ride with plenty of glitz, glam, and flim flam - buckle yourself in for quite a ride with some cool performances by all the main players - hard to lose with Kurt and Kevin playing the main roles with heart and gusto and lots of good supporting players. Great sound track. Yes, its super violent too but just remember - "GO WOMBATS!!!"
Kung Fu
(1972–1975)
Yeah, but...
5 February 2020
Okay everybody enjoyed this series and so did I - mainly for the great cinematography, scenery, characters, acting, fight scenes, etc. but what about the plot holes? For one how come Master Po didn't avoid the guard hitting him? Next, sorry but not even a shaolin monk could cross that desert on foot, in fine condition, and then only want a couple sips of water. Worse is when the other monk showed up to take him in, why wouldn't the other RR works have just shot him and his escorts dead to protect Caine - and then Caine could have stayed with them for further protection or at least a few could have gone with him on his journey! Oh well.
Species
(1995)
Ugh Fest
13 January 2020
So mediocre it's bad! Kinda obvious the main actors kind of new they were making a turkey and were in it just for the paycheck. Best acting was the motel clerk for crying out loud! Well, at least Ben Kingsley apologizes to us early on in the movie - "I'm sorry." Sniff sniff.
Terror in the Midnight Sun
(1959)
Yes rather silly except for...
23 September 2019
The other reviewers have pretty much summed up this sci-fi snow fest but I just have to mention a couple things - the overall cinematography isn't all that bad and I have to say some of the special effects took some effort. I especially am intrigued by the landing of the meteor/space ship at the beginning - the part where it skids in through the snow and buries itself in the mountain side. It is a pretty well done 5-10 seconds of the film, obviously a miniature of some kind and surprisingly well done compared to the rest of the film's mostly mediocre FX.
The Man with Two Brains
(1983)
Rename it Dumb and Dumber!
7 September 2019
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
Too short huh - well, take this!
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
Is what it needs, no deserves is correct! Stupid, tripe dialog and acting. Poorly written and not really all that funny - only a few things I would laugh at . Bought the DVD, but can't get past the first 10 minutes or so. Anybody who says it ranks with the Marx Bros comedies is a ____.
First time was the charm?
20 January 2019
I was thrilled watching this show when it first aired and now am enjoying having all the episodes on DVD, but I'm noticing something that I guess didn't bother me before.
As has been generally noted, each episode has incredible production values and structure - enough for a full length movie and therein is where perhaps I am seeing the problem now. Everything is too rushed. Has to be to squeeze (pardon the pun) everything in in less than an hour.
For example in this episode, the banter between Mulder and Scully is quite rapid - first Mulder says something and Dana replies almost instantly. Would have been better (and more dramatic) if more time had been taking by each to reply. Also more realistic as it takes time to think through what someone else says and come up with a reply. Also this episode is over too quickly without having the time to more fully explore and expand all the details. We see the cult member "Marty" transform several times - how interesting it could have been if towards the end we saw him/her transform to his/her "real" form - also perhaps more of the sect leaving: glimpse of their craft or cut to a military base's radar operations in the area:
"Sir, I just notice an anomaly in sector 6." "Yes?" "Sir, object appeared on my screen at low altitude, then quickly shot up and out of range." "Identification?" "No sir, didn't match anything I'm familiar with and when it left, nothing I know of can move that fast."
As has been generally noted, each episode has incredible production values and structure - enough for a full length movie and therein is where perhaps I am seeing the problem now. Everything is too rushed. Has to be to squeeze (pardon the pun) everything in in less than an hour.
For example in this episode, the banter between Mulder and Scully is quite rapid - first Mulder says something and Dana replies almost instantly. Would have been better (and more dramatic) if more time had been taking by each to reply. Also more realistic as it takes time to think through what someone else says and come up with a reply. Also this episode is over too quickly without having the time to more fully explore and expand all the details. We see the cult member "Marty" transform several times - how interesting it could have been if towards the end we saw him/her transform to his/her "real" form - also perhaps more of the sect leaving: glimpse of their craft or cut to a military base's radar operations in the area:
"Sir, I just notice an anomaly in sector 6." "Yes?" "Sir, object appeared on my screen at low altitude, then quickly shot up and out of range." "Identification?" "No sir, didn't match anything I'm familiar with and when it left, nothing I know of can move that fast."
The Invaders
(1967–1968)
Oh come on now...
9 December 2018
I can see a lot of positive, glowing reviews for this series which I vaguely remember watching on TV originally. Yes it was kind of interesting then, but in watching it now, I see why I only remember it vaguely, while other shows of that era like Twilight Zone, and The Outer Limits are much more memorable. The shows actually seem rather pedantic, repetitious, poorly written and the participants seem to sleep walk thru their roles. Even the effects are not all that great but as I recall Quinn-Martin was more into the detective/police squad/private eye lineup and the series reflects this. The three note musical "sting" heard wayyy too many times is certainly not Dominic Frontiere's best work. Episode after another, the main character played pedantically by Roy Thinnes is always having his life threatened by the Invading protaganists yet he doesn't carry any weapon (except his stunt double's fists) to protect himself. Sorry, but it really isn't anywhere near the best sci-fi or fantasy that tv offered.
Avatar
(2009)
Uhhhh...
7 September 2018
Yes, obviously a movie people either love or hate as the reviews here show. I can only add, I can't do either. Obviously incredible SOTA CGI but as others have said, very cliched. Point I want to add is it's rather insulting to adults since it's so obviously written much to appeal to 10 year olds - and down! Sheesh, write stuff on an adult level, let the kids either grow up watching it, or they have their own movies and cartoon shows.
Hey, were the tails really necessary? Hmmm. could be interesting if instead of CGI Navi', how about actors in makeup? Be a challenge building real set versions of Pandora. Oh well...
Hey, were the tails really necessary? Hmmm. could be interesting if instead of CGI Navi', how about actors in makeup? Be a challenge building real set versions of Pandora. Oh well...
Quatermass 2
(1957)
oh come on...
25 April 2018
It's just an overshoot, that's all. And those big things inside the domes? Well, they were just part of the process to make the wonderful synthetic food! Now you had to go and muck it all up. Well, we will just have to build another plant elsewhere to make more of the genetically altered food you are now buying at your local supermarket. Could you do us a favor too? If you find anymore overshoots, please return them to us at your earliest convenience. You will find the expiration date on the underside - yes that's it...turn it over and look...oops, now don't panic...ignore that old guy that tells you "put it down...on the floor" - there you'll feel better in a few moments. Bring the empty container to us and you'll get your very own rebreather mask and a machine gun that goes ratatatatatattat-KAZING! ENJOY!
By Dawn's Early Light
(1990 TV Movie)
Incredible(y) good film
18 December 2017
I've watched this movie several times. It is a very well done film, emminently believable and scary at the same time. The superb and realistic acting of all involved really is impressive - it alone makes the film. Shows what truly professional actors can do with a great story with an accompanying good story and effects. Very believable and the lead characters all deserve medals.
The Karate Kid
(1984)
Oh yeah, right!
19 August 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I know a lot of people love this movie and that's fine, but come on, really? Totally unrealistic and really very juvenile overall. A kids movie and I'm sorry, but the main character is just way too wimpy not only in his appearance, but with his "Oh please, don't hurt me" attitude thru the whole movie. Only time he showed some moxie was when he got angry about fixing up Miyagi's house and cars. He should have really transformed in the movie from a scared kid to a different person entirely having an inner strength and resolve gained from Miyagi's influence and gentle guidance. Sorry, but some other young actor could have been a better choice, along with some better writing and direction. I am only giving it a 3.
Monsters
(1988–1990)
Incredibly Good!!!
3 April 2017
I've been an aficionado of science fiction most of my life both written, TV shows, and movies and I have given this series a 10 for frankly having some of the best shows overall. Have been "blown away" from some of the shows not only from some very well done creature effects, but even more so from the stories themselves. As rarely happens the stories are on a par with written sci-fi short stories. Haven't seen all the episodes, but two in particular stand out - The Offering and The Outpost, the latter being especially touching at the end. Good acting too in many episodes. Overall even surpasses one of my favorites - the original Outer Limits. This show could have been named "The Outer Limits II".
The Langoliers
(1995)
Why do I (we) love this movie?
2 April 2017
Yes, why do I (at least) enjoy repeatedly watching this movie every now & then? What is there about it that makes this so?
Well, I think maybe I may have figured it out. I think there are several reasons: For one, is its simplicity. It kinda reminds you of an amateurish production, but a GOOD one at that. Maybe a secret desire in us to at last watch a GOOD amateur film and we wish ALL of them could be good.
Next are the characters - what a wonderful mix; each played pretty well, although maybe a bit amateurishly (but, remember we want to see a good amateur film). The main characters all have a pretty strong presence. Probably almost everyone can relate to one of the characters. The budding romance between Laurel & Nick is touching (especially, their parting scene - "remember the daisies"). I could certainly fall for someone as sweet as Laurel!
Third, the whole movie has quite a surreal feeling - the music track helps that - it is almost like a dream (or nightmare) - you can really kind of escape into this make believe situation.
Then there is a bit of humor - Mr Toomey is almost laughable in a pitiful way - Bronson's overacting is a hoot. And of course, when the title characters come on screen, you really got to cringe AND laugh at them at the same time.
Lastly, it just seems the entire cast enjoyed making this film - maybe not, but it seems that way.
How about a Langoliers II? Somehow the same characters coincidentally find themselves all together on another flight 20 years later. Are all the actors still available? Imagine the possibilities! Hey, Stephen!
Well, I think maybe I may have figured it out. I think there are several reasons: For one, is its simplicity. It kinda reminds you of an amateurish production, but a GOOD one at that. Maybe a secret desire in us to at last watch a GOOD amateur film and we wish ALL of them could be good.
Next are the characters - what a wonderful mix; each played pretty well, although maybe a bit amateurishly (but, remember we want to see a good amateur film). The main characters all have a pretty strong presence. Probably almost everyone can relate to one of the characters. The budding romance between Laurel & Nick is touching (especially, their parting scene - "remember the daisies"). I could certainly fall for someone as sweet as Laurel!
Third, the whole movie has quite a surreal feeling - the music track helps that - it is almost like a dream (or nightmare) - you can really kind of escape into this make believe situation.
Then there is a bit of humor - Mr Toomey is almost laughable in a pitiful way - Bronson's overacting is a hoot. And of course, when the title characters come on screen, you really got to cringe AND laugh at them at the same time.
Lastly, it just seems the entire cast enjoyed making this film - maybe not, but it seems that way.
How about a Langoliers II? Somehow the same characters coincidentally find themselves all together on another flight 20 years later. Are all the actors still available? Imagine the possibilities! Hey, Stephen!
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