Father of the Bride (20th Anniversary Edition) / Father of the Bride: Part II (1991)

In 1950, the American comedy "Father of the Bride" directed by Vicente Minnelli and starring Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett, Elizabeth Taylor was a big success in the box office and nominated for several Academy Awards. The film would inspire a sequel titled "Father's Little Dividend" in 1951.

Fast forward over 40-years later and a remake of the film co-written and directed by Charles Shyer ("Alfie", "The Parent Trap", "The Odd Couple") and starring Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Martin Short was released in 1991 and earned over $89 million in the box office. And like the original film, would also inspire a remake of the sequel titled "Father of the Bride Part II" featuring the original cast and would go on to earn over $76 million in the box office.

And now both films will be release together on Blu-ray courtesy of Touchstone Home Entertainment.

VIDEO:

"Father of the Bride" and "Father of the Bride: Part II" were released back in the 1990's. The video quality is much better than the previous DVD. While there is a good amount of grain and even some noise considering the age of this film, including some scenes that look soft, there were also scenes that featured a lot of detail. From the skin pores that can be seen on Steve Martin's face to the vibrant colors that can be seen throughout the film, there is definitely an upgrade in quality video-wise.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

As for audio, "Father of the Bride" and "Father of the Bride: Part II" is presented in English 5.1 DTS HD-MA and French 5.1 Dolby Digital and Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital. While the lossless audio features clear dialogue and the music sounds fantastic in lossless, it's not exactly a film that utilizes the surround channels all that much, especially during crowd scenes. But nevertheless, the soundtrack does sound very good, especially over its DVD counterpart for both films.

Subtitles are provided in English SDH and Spanish.

SPECIAL FEATURES

"Father of the Bride: 20th Anniversary Edition/Father of the Bride Part II 3-Disc Combo Pack" comes with the following special features:

Father of the Bride

An Invitation to Father of the Bride (13:36) Interview with director Charles Shyer and the cast of "Father of the Bride".

Martin & Short Interview Each Other (5:13) A humorous interview between Steve Martin and Martin Short.

Audio Commentary Featuring audio commentary with co-writer and director Charles Shyer.

Father of the Bride: Part II

Theatrical Trailer (2:28) The theatrical trailer for "Father of the Bride: Part II"

Production Story (4:21) Featuring behind the scenes of "Father of the Bride: Part II" and about how a few of the talents knew each other well.

Just Between Friends (3:53) Martin Short interviews Steve Martin for "Father of the Bride: Part II".

EXTRAS:

"Father of the Bride: 20th Anniversary Edition/Father of the Bride Part II" Blu-ray comes with a separate DVD for each film.

JUDGMENT CALL:

As a fan of Steve Martin comedies, I was pleased that both "Father and the Bride" films were released on Blu-ray.

First, let's talk about the first film "Father of the Bride". What I enjoyed about the first film is how it is a film that many parents can relate to. Seeing your children grow and then eventually getting married. As a father, I sympathize with the character of George Banks and I often myself looking at photos that seem like they were taken yesterday of my child. And realizing how quickly they grow up.

And for many fathers who have daughters, you worry that make good decisions when it comes to their lives, their careers and also the person that they marry. The film focuses primarily on the father's perspective and being a concerned father but also a fiscally conservative person, I can also sympathize with George Banks characters when the price of the wedding skyrockets.

But what this film had was a lot of charm. Aside from the crazy antics of George Banks snooping around the MacKenzie home, nearly everything else with the film, many people can relate to. From a parents noticing their child and their significant other being affectionate to that first meeting between a significant other and the parent. These emotions that George is feeling, many fathers can relate to. Although, the blow up in the supermarket as George feels he is being gouged in the wallet and then losing his temper when it comes to the number of hot dog buns in a package as a sign of release, was a bit over-the-top.

But what Steve Martin film isn't? You expect a lot of hijinks from his character and for the most part, Steve Martin delivers. Also, I felt that Diane Keaton was played the wife/mother remarkably well. It's one of those films to catch actress in a different role far from the roles we have seen of her back in "The Godfather" or Woody Allens films. She played the role wonderfully and both Martin and Keaton had wonderful chemistry.

And that leads us to new actress at the time, Kimberly Williams (before she married country singer Brad Paisley and would star in the ABC sitcom "The World According to Jim"). Kimberly brought innocence to her character and for her major film debut, it was important for her to portray a variety of emotions and for the most part, she succeed.

And then you have your supporting characters, Martin Short and Steve Martin always work great together, a young Kieran Culkin brought a bit of humor to his character as well.

So, the first film I enjoyed a lot because it's a storyline that was fun, enjoyable but also a story that parents can relate to.

As for the second film, "Father of the Bride Part II", while I enjoyed the storyline of the aspect of being a new grandfather, once again, something that parents who have children that are married, viewers can sympathize.

But by having two people pregnant, it took a bit away from the primary focus from Annie and her husband and while we know that George Banks can get out of hand whenever he is stressed out, while the first film was more believable, this one was getting a bit over-the-top. Perhaps people wanted to see more of Diane Keaton and Martin Short or the usual crazy Steve Martin character portrayal but I was hoping to see more of Annie and Bryan, but instead it became more about George and Nina.

The sequel was still entertaining but not as enjoyable as the first film. The whole "Selling the house, staying at the MacKenzie residence, getting the house back" scenes felt absolutely unnecessary and took away my enjoyment from the second film. I know the reason was to show this phase that George was going through and the irrational decisions that he tends to make while stressed out but it was a bit too-over-the-top for my taste.

As for the Blu-ray release, the video and audio quality is a step ahead of its DVD counterpart. Primarily visually, the film looks good, although it does show its age at times. But the film is well-detailed and vibrant, lossless audio was good but not as immersive as I was hoping during the crowd sequences. And both films have audio commentary and a few special features. Although, there is nothing new added to this Blu-ray release.

Overall, "Father of the Bride: 20th Anniversary Edition/Father of the Bride Part II 3-Disc Combo Pack" is a good double-film set that is lighthearted, fun and enjoyable. You're literally getting one film for the price of one on Blu-ray and if you are big fans of the films and own the previous DVD versions, the upgrade to Blu-ray is well worth it.

These are the modern remakes of 2 classics, yet I actually like these more. I don't seem to ever tire of seeing them. Both are heartfelt and very funny, well made entertainment. Steve Martin does his best work here. Martin Short is hilarious. The Banks' are the kind of family every girl (or boy) wishes they had. Even the inlaws are fun. For a good time, I recommend them. Enjoy! :-D

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This movie is the BEST movie ever ( besides of course Father of the Bride 2) ! A must have for any family!! Steve Martin is at his best, as well as Diane Keaton and Martin Short...destin to be a CLASSIC!!

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My whole family loves this movies. It's nice to have a movie the whole family can watch. Steve Martin is a great actor. We got both one and two.

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This is a movie that holds true to the American values of family. My wife loves these movies and I never watch " chick flicks" but these are great.

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Mysterious Girlfriend X: Complete Collection

Unfortunately, as too often happens, the people who write the product summary have either never watched the show in question, or are misguided enough to believe that sensationalism is the path to sales success. What I mean to say is the "Editorial Review" (which is rather a "official" product summary) is almost entirely misleading as to what this show is about.

Here's what Mysterious Girlfriend X is really about:

This is a low-key romantic comedy about a couple of high schoolers discovering love for the first time with each other. Although there are some unique circumstances as to how this comes about, the core of the story is not really about those oddities, but rather about how this couple grows together emotionally over time.

Mikoto Urabe is the titular "Mysterious Girlfriend" -and an intriguing mystery she definitely is. In the strictest sense she represents what is sometimes referred to as the "Magical Girlfriend" type of character... however this is played very low-key for most of the series, with the emphasis instead placed on how she handles developing her love interest (given her unusual attributes), rather than any stories focused on her "powers" per se.

Akira Tsubaki is the often bewildered protagonist -equally accepting and intrigued by Urabe. Probably the most important thing I can say about him is: he is normal, in the sense that he is neither an over-the-top pervert, nor does he recoil in fear whenever a female pays attention to him (unlike alot of anime male leads). His reactions are pretty understandable, and generally he is a pretty mellow guy.

There is drool exchanged, and alot of it -but this is reasonable when you consider how much drool is exchanged in your average french kiss (not to mention other bodily fluids in intercourse). Some people seem to haven a strong aversion to this, but that really comes down to some unrealistic ideas as to what is "hygienic" in human sexuality (which is not a terribly hygienic act). Mysterious Girlfriend X handles these realities with a very matter-of-fact honesty that is quite refreshing.

Overall, the series is heartwarming and humorous, and I think by the end of the series you will find yourself rooting for the couple to continue growing together long into their mysterious future.

Addendum: After I purchased the Blu-ray I was able to watch the entire series dubbed as well. I think it was a pretty good dub overall, and it could absolutely be enjoyable for someone who hates subtitles -but I still prefer the original Japanese cast, and would recommend watching the subtitled version.

There are techniques used by storytellers and others to grab the audience and to hold their attention;this crazy series grabs a "handful" and doesn't let go,even when it becomes clear the two are heading down the path to probable romance. The initial tasting of her drool may feel like a slap across the eyes to even the most hardy of otako's and cause the weak to run screaming from the room but if you take it as a French kiss... without the tongue...and the kiss...,well,it still is a bit off the wall.The tasting of drool,so goes the storyline,tells the taster the true feelings of the the drool doner that they are unable to express in words,but only if there is a "connection" to the other person.

What you will get is a great,well-drawn,dare I say,intelligent series about a male teenager that falls for a very strange teen-aged girl that,among other weirdness,carries a pair of scissors in her panties, even in her bikini while she sunbathes at the beach.For whatever reason,she pulls the scissors out and uses them to astonishing effect on whatever object that she targets.

Probably one of the best offerings from the anime "gods" this season and is on my "must buy" list. Easily PG-13 but probably aimed for the 16-17 age group. I got my copy quickly and it is a first-rate product. The "fan-serv" in this edition remains the same few times she pulls her scissors out and the "nudity" is,even without details,(ie,no nipples)the nude bodies are further shaded or blurred. As the story is the purpose of this series and not fan-service,it is most highly recommended.

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The initial impression I had from this anime is that this would be a really queer series to watch. I decided to give it a try since crunchyroll had it available for subscription and I actually enjoyed watching the story and seeing the characters progress through their problems.

Story:

The premise is that a new transfer student names Urabe comes into the class of the main character Akira and she ends up creeping everyone out by out bursting into laughter. One day Akria comes back into the class late and wakes up Urabe and tells her to go home and she ends up leaving a drool puddle on her desk. For some unknown reason Akira decides to lick that drool.

Throughout the series Urabe's drool has some mysterious effect on Akira. This is really out there with the drool thing, but the story does suck you in and makes you want to know what events take place each episode. I never found it to be predictable at all with a really unique character like Urabe. The series definitely has more a mature theme, but I never found it to be creepy, it's just how the characters are.

Animation:

The animation is pretty cool in this series. It has the high-definition quality of 1080p, but the character design have that classic 1990/2000's look to them a bit and it ends up blending together wonderfully. The locations they visit and the school setting all look amazing in HD and you never get bored watching the events taking place. The main characters themselves have their own unique look to them and you can tell who's who even if they are in the school outfits, or city clothes.

Soundtrack:

Some of the themes are really, really cool. The main one I love is the dream theme; which is the song that plays when Akira has a dream, or any dream like sequence that plays out during the anime. It was really nothing I have heard before and was stuck in my head for a while. The other themes are mainly a mix of the opening and ending themes.

Speaking of the opening and ending songs, the voice actress for Urabe actually sings both of them. I only found this out by looking at IMDB and I thought this was pretty cool that she can both act and sing really well. The opening theme reminds me a bit of Chobits though, since you can hear a bit of theme at the start of it. The closing theme is interesting to listen to as well.

Verdict:

I really enjoyed watching this anime and it's nothing like I have seen before. The memorable soundtrack, characters and story make this a series I really recommend to anyone who enjoys anime; especially those who like stories about relationships. Granted I know the droll thing can make some people not want to watch this anime at all, but is it really that odd compared to series that have aliens with superpowers that shoot beams, or giant robots fighting intergalactic wars? If you can get past the droll theme, you're in for one of the most unusual and great series out there.

Positive:

* Really cool story that sucks you in

* Never found it to be predictable

* Great mix of classic character design with High Definition Resolution

* Characters are identifiable with unique design

* Dream theme is amazing and extremely memorable

Negative:

* Drool thing might turn away some people

* Also has some mature themes in the episodes

Read Best Reviews of Mysterious Girlfriend X: Complete Collection Here

First, listen to the other reviewers and NOT the blurb on the back of the package. Though I like spit puns as much as the next person, that is a very inaccurate description of the tone of this show. It's actually a pretty serious and often sweet show, not just a gross-out comedy. Nothing really gets explained about Urabe's "powers" (no answers in the manga yet either) but it preserves her mystery. Anyway, when I first watched the show, I might has well have had some of Urabe's addicting drool: I marathoned all thirteen episodes in one day!

It is rated M, and rightly so, but it's pretty tame compared to most M-rated things I've seen. There is no sex, no violence to speak of, some nudity shielded by strategically placed shadows (edit: a bit more than I remembered, you can actually see some... topmost female body parts in the second episode, though they are shown in the shadowed side of a sunset), a few suggestive surreal dream sequences, and no bad language that I recall (at least in the subtitled version). The topics of sex and arousal are touched on, mainly to illustrate some of the embarrassing/confusing feelings, and honest wonderings about sex that most teenagers have. But one thing I really love about the show is that the main couple is taking their relationship very slow. I read an essay online calling it "the first pro-abstinence anime", and that sounds about right to me. I would say this show is appropriate for more conservative teens ages 16 and up.

Finally unless you really like the manga, I would not recommend buying this show without watching at least several episodes first. (At the present time, it's streaming legally for free on Crunchyroll.) I absolutely love it, but I realize that there are a lot of people who won't. There's a slowly building romance with no "payoff" in the traditional sense, so that may disappoint some viewers. And then there's the drool. And a lot of it. That kind of stuff doesn't bother me, but I have always kind of been labeled the weird one in my family... and at my school... and at my church... and, well... Try the show: you just might like it.

Update: Got the blu-rays, and just wanted to say that the picture and sound quality is fantastic. Had to watch the dub for comparison reasons and I LOVED it. Since I don't speak Japanese, I missed a lot of the nuances in the tones of voice the characters were (probably) using. I can actually discern them in the English dub, so I enjoy the show even more now than I did before. I thought the VA they picked for Urabe was perfect. Almost no special features, if you care about that. I found this to be a good release, and I'm sure going to get my money's worth out of it.

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I won't give a description of this, already available. The studio description doesn't do it justice and sells it short.

I finally got my copy of the DVD and have been watching the series over again. I have been enjoying the small, subtle hints and background character development. The story is actually rather sweet and the more I watch it, the better I like it. The drool doesn't bother me, or get in the way. There is no way that words could express the feelings that Tsubaki and Urabe have for each other. One realizes how intense (dare I say mind shattering) a real kiss might be!

Tsubakis frustrations at the pace of the relationships development is understandable. But I think he realizes what the true depth of Urabes affection for him is.

I still think that there are a whole lot of questions regarding Urabes background that would prove quite interesting. (The manga doesn't touch on that aspect either. I have enjoyed the manga, but after 77 chapters, I'm left asking for more background. I don't see a lot of development as a couple).

The only real disappointment I have with the DVD is the english dub. First, I didn't expect one. Nothing I read in the reviews or DVD decriptions led me to believe there would be one. That being said, the dub is poorly done.

Although it follows the sub titles pretty closely, the VA's chosen are hard to appreciate.

The VA's just don't give me the same feel as the subbed version does.

Tsubaki= Josh Grelle

Urabe= Genevieve Simmons

Ueno= Greg Ayers

Christofer Ayers is the ADR manager.

Oka= Brittny Karbowski

Youko= CArli Mosier

Not their best work.

If you liked it, the DVD is worth adding to the library.

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You Don't Mess With the Zohan (Unrated + BD Live) (2008)

Sandler goes back to his juvenile roots with this one. That is not a bad thing in my book, I find Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore a riot. In this movie, Sandler plays Zohan. Zohan is a tough as nails Israeli intelligence operative who fakes his death because he is sick of all the violence in the Middle East. He goes to America to become a hair dresser because he wants everyone to have silky smooth hair. Not every joke works, but the silly situations come fast and furious. If one doesn't get you, then maybe the next one will. Yes it is pretty stupid and juvenile stuff, but I found most of the movie amusing. If you like his first movies, then this one is for you.

Well, clearly, not everyone has the same sense of humor. You've got to walk Disbelief right out the door with "You don't mess with Zohan," but if you just need a fun summer flick and you have a very bent sense of humor, this could be it.

Story in a nutshell: Zohan (Sandler) is tired of the Israeli Army. He busts it to capture a terrorist, the Phantom (John Turturro) and the government merely trades the Phantom back. So--when his next opportunity to go up against his arch nemesis comes up, Zohan stages his own death and comes to America to become a hairdresser. He ends up falling for a Palestinian girl, Dalia (Emmanuelle Chriqui) and realizing there are worse things than his original enemies.

The humor's just as juvenile as you would expect, but if you need a good, hard laugh--and you don't mind gross, this is it. Be warned, you will never look the same way at hummus again!

Rebecca Kyle, June 2008

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If you were ever a fan of blazing saddles like I am, then you'd see the value in this movie a lot clearer. Blazing saddles used humor to tackle a situation of racism in america that was a major issue that everyone just tiptoed around because everyone was so scared of offending others, but Blazing saddles took racism and punched it in the nose with humor. You don't mess with the Zohan is an exceptional film with slapstick humor all throughout delivered in the same manner that Blazing Saddles delivered. It managed to take the middle east conflict and all the racism and hatred that is there hit it square in the nose, sure there was plenty of stuff some might deem as "Offensive" but I was never a fan of political correctness, it censors us and brings us to a point where free speech is taken away. I salute you Adam Sandler, you made a funny movie, and you managed to tackle a much bigger issue in the process. This movie was art, if people can't appreciate it, then they need to open up their minds some.

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This was a very funny movie. Not only are there a million laugh out loud moments, but I thought it was also a sardonic look into Middle East relations both there and in America. Not much about the Mid-East conflicts is funny, but this movie fearlessly finds the humor and delivers the laughs and even some messages.

I thought it was very original and unpredictable. This is a perfect Sunday afternoon fun-fest.

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While I've never been a -hugefan of Adam Sandler's films, I have watched them and laughed throughout most of them. I'm the type of guy who enjoys some slapstick, some raunchy humor, and a lot of zanyness.

I went into Zohan not expecting anything but pure frivolous humor. You don't go into films like this with any expectations, and I think that's where a lot of the reviewers prior to myself went wrong. They went in expecting to see an evolution of Sandler's humor, and while I would say that Zohan raised the bar a tad, it's still Adam Sandler. Yes, it's going to have a corny ending, a lot of physical humor, and a healthy dose of humor aimed at the more intelligent in the crowd as well.

Overall, I couldn't stop giggling, laughing, and chuckling throughout most of the film. After a long streak of not seeing any humor films, I thought it was the perfect thing to bring me back to comedies. The last few years, especially, have been incredibly lackluster in regards to comedies (if that's what evolution of the genre is, count me out, by the way), and I found Zohan refreshing.

I think another thing a lot of the other reviewers missed, is that the film in no way expected to take itself seriously. The only serious moments were cheesy, predictable, and ultimately corny, which is irony in itself and only contributed to my bemused chuckling. Yes, a lot of the humor bordered on racial stereotyping, there were a lot of over-the-top accents and allusions to the Middle East, so if you're the type to get touchy about that, feel free to skip. I found it to be a rather hilarious joke on the seriousness that everybody applies to the stereotyping. The stereotyping is, actually, rather fair and towards the end even shows plenty of "good stereotyping" (as accurate as stereotyping ever is, which is to say, rarely).

Really, the film laughs at itself. Are there some bum moments? Certainly, but it seems that's been the case for almost every film I've seen in the last few years, but it was grand seeing the cast and crew not try to make this the 'next great comedy' and just have a load of fun. And if the cast and crew are laughing at themselves (which you can clearly feel through the screen), you can't help but laugh with them.

If you want to spend an hour or two snickering and have an open mind, give Zohan a shot. Don't expect an evolution of comedy. Don't expect the bar to be raised, because that's not what this film was trying to do. It was trying to be ridiculous and make people utter that ever so fantastic groaning-giggle followed by the heart chuckle.

Don't let the other critics fool you, they've probably forgotten the meaning of the word 'satire'.

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Your Highness (Blu-ray + Digital Copy) (2010)

W.T.F. Why the hell are there so many bad reviews in here about this movie? This movie was hilarious! Think about it; Natalie Portman, a Minotaur raping a skinny little guy, a character created just so they can say "dick-less" servant, and a forest full of naked hotties are just a few elements of this film that make this a very good movie! If you had high hopes for this movie, then you're just not thinking right. That like grabbing a glass of 7-up and expecting water when you take a drink. I'm just saying.

Seriously though. Take it as it is. A fresh swing at a stoner type comedy. It isn't a re-make of any other movies, unlike a lot of the other movies on the shelves right now. You don't have to be high or drunk to enjoy it, although I'm sure it might enhance it. If this isn't your cup of tea, then chalk up your rental fee as a loss and STFU. As for the rest of us that liked it, I'm going to wait a couple months and watch it again and laugh my ass off...again. Btw, If Natalie Portman is reading this. "hi"

This movie reminds me of an online rpg; sword and sorcery setting (provided by the developers) mixed with very creative vulgarity (provided by a lot of the players). The attention to detail in the script and sets is extremely refreshing. I should think people with an uninhibited sense of humor will be laughing from start to finish. There are perhaps dozens of instant-classic lines and moments.

Those who don't like the idea of over-the-top adult themes mixed with their dungeons and dragons should steer well clear, because that's what this film offers in spades.

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So many reviews i've read say this movie is just stupid and pointless toilet humor. i say bull. it is freakin hilarious. since i've bought it i've watched it 7 times with different people, and every single one of them loved it too. is it the greatest comedy? no. is it funny? hell yes lol if you enjoy movies like pineapple express, waterboy, role models, etc. then you will love this movie. this is the funniest movie i've ever seen danny mcbride and james franco in. lol i highly recommend it. lol at the least, you'll walk away with many memorable quotes. lol but also watch the unrated version. the theatrical version may be why some hated it. definitely watch the unrated version.

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I enjoyed watching this movie it has plenty of laughs. As for all the bad reviews i dont really get it unless you just consider yourself an uber mature person (senior citizen) who will not subject yourself to this kind of comedy, if thats the case then stick to the history channel.

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This is a new combo I've not seen before a stoner fantasy movie. Great idea, Danny Mcbride is the best. Perfect for Saturday afternoon with a fat sack. This is not a movie to be taken seriously so don't expect a lavish plot or deep characters. Nonetheless if the title made you interested then by all means buy it.

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Harold and Maude (The Criterion Collection) (1971)

The editor's review of this film is a fair enough description of the plot. One should add that, despite being made in 1971, the movie manages not to look dated, precisely because it makes such fun of the early 70s style, and that the acting by the three main characters (Harold, Maude and Harold's mother) is simply inspired. Ruth Gordon is splendid of course, while Bud Cort gives a lifetime performance, but it is the portrayal of Harold's mother by Vivian Pickles (what a splendid name for someone in the role) that has to be the most undercelebrated aspect of this film. Her breezy blitheness, outraged exasperation, and British sensibility are all just too wonderful.

But before I go on ...

NOTE: It has been been pointed out to me that since some would consider this review to contain spoilers that I ought to warn people ahead of time. However, I'll add that it's hard to say how much spoilers actually spoil this movie; spoilers may help to make the movie's wisdom more readily apparent on a first viewing. In any case, there are several ahead.

ADDITIONAL NOTE: Some Amazonites have complained that they encountered spoilers in my review despite presumably reading my disclaimer and warning (above) that there are spoilers in my review. I find this odder than some of Harold's mother's behavior, and it makes me want to ask, without at all intending sarcasm, "If you didn't appreciate the disclaimer when you read it, how will reading spoilers harm your appreciation of the film?" ... To paraphrase Maude: "Ah people ...." (They're my species.) ... Meanwhile, back at the review:

Filling out a dating questionnaire for her son, in response to the question "Do you find the idea of wife-swapping offensive?" his mother answers, "I find the question offensive." In response to the question, "Do you feel the women's liberation movement has gone too far," she replies, "It cer-tain-ly has." Even "Harold, eat your beets" is delivered so wonderfully that it's memorable. Eric Christmas also makes the bit-part of a priest into something delightful and memorable, principally by one splendid monologue.

But is this really a black comedy? Personally, I think of black comedies as being morbid and mordant, which Harold & Maude certainly has elements of, but also ultimately cynical. One should not mistake grimness in a film as a sign of nihilism; as the Japanese proverb runs, the ending is all-important. The film ultimately is not about an intergenerational love affair (surely the most "shocking" aspect of the film), but about Harold learning to embrace life. And it is precisely to make as effective as possible Harold's decision to live life to the fullest (rather than continue to prefer to be dead) that it is first necessary to make his life miserable.

As insanely amusing as much of the movie is, it is also full of profundity after profundity from Maude, who is a nearly continuous font of wisdom, with laughter and humor being simply the most crucial values in her wisdom. When she asks Harold what he does for fun, he takes her to a picnic in a wrecking yard. She replies, "I'll grant you, it has a certain something. But is it enough?" When Harold declines her offer of wine, she replies, "Oh go on, it's organic." And most beautiful of all, when Harold says, "I don't want you to die, Maude. I love you," she replies with perfect calmness, "Harold, that's wonderful. Now go out and love some more." If you've been caught up in the genuine spirit of this movie, the line will not seem like some breezy brush-off, but may instead bring tears to your eyes.

The scene of Harold's grief after Maude's death, intercutting silent images of him waiting in a hospital room and driving recklessly around the Marin headlands in the Jaguar he has converted into a hearse while Cat Steven's song, "Trouble" plays, is very well-done and sets up the climax of the film beautifully. Cat Steven's soundtrack throughout, in fact, is a splendid selection of songs, and certainly makes clear that, however morbid things might seem, this film is ultimately life-affirming in a very profound way.

Having watched this movie many, many times and having yet to tire of it, it seems to me there is more to it than meets the eye. And not just because, when Harold gives Maude an engraved birthday gift, she says, "This is the nicest gift anyone has given me in a long time," and then throws it into the San Francisco Bay saying, "That way, I'll always know where it is." And not just because one eventually notices, in the briefest of passing shots, the tattoo of a concentration camp inmate on Maude's arm. In the final analysis, it seems to me that Harold is actually already dead. That his theatrical suicides aren't faked at all, but also don't succeed because he himself is not aware that he's actually dead. It's probably more accurate to say that the director pushes the narrative to the point where Harold seems to be actually dead and not just faking, precisely to make his choice of life at the end all the more inspiring.

And inspiring it is. Harold & Maude is not (alas) for everyone. A viewer who is hidebound like the movie's priest, colonel or mother (read church, state, authority) will find Maude's sometimes gentle, sometimes brash mocking of convention more annoying than enlightening, just as the (not depicted) sexual relationship between Harold and Maude is the thing many people who miss the point remember about the movie. To this, Maude might say, as she does to a police officer, "Don't be officious. You're not yourself when you're officious. That's the curse of a government job." Or as she says, when the priest replies that he didn't like the way she'd painted his statue of the Virgin Mary, "Give it time. It'll grow on you. Some things take a while to appreciate."

A lot of great movies have been poorly digitized or otherwise transfered to DVD without sufficient care and attention, but I was pleasantl surprised by the quality of this one. They found (or restored) a very clean and clear original print of the film and then digitally captured it beautifully. The soundtrack has also been enhanced with a remix of the Cat Stevens songs to take advantage of the stereo front speakers and the subwoofer. A wonderful movie, well presented.

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I had heard about this movie through friends but was never impressed by the story. A reclusive anti social kid who befriends and falls in love with an elderly (though young at heart) eccentric. I wrote it off completely til I saw a bit of it on television and thought it was hilarious and as it turns out I rented the movie and was extremely hooked. Harold is a rich kid with a high strung, selfish mother who tries anything to find a suitor for him, in turn Harold escapes from his home to overshadow funeral processions and memorials. At a number of these events, Maude is in attendence and she lights up the scene with her off the wall,and positively upbeat personality that horrifies and amuses Harold. After a while they become unlikely friends. Maude helps Harold live a little and in turn he develops true affection to Maude. With Ruth Gordon's charm and incredible acting abilites, and Cat Steven's classy soundtrack, its not hard to find yourself feeling happy and free after the movie is over. It really teaches you a message about being your own person and enjoying life.

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Harold and Maude is just a delight to see. Somehow, the wonderful acting of Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort seem to get away with their relationship (which at the time, was QUITE a scandal!)

What is so great about this show is that it was written so beautifully and sensitively. I don't know of any other movie that talks about life and death in such a sensitive, but yet lighthearted manner.

My favorite scene is when Harold and Maude are in a daisy field and Maude says: "You know Harold, I'd like to come back as a sunflower most of all. They're so big and hearty. What would you like to come back as?" Harold responds by saying "One of these" (meaning one of the daisies). Maude says "How come" and he replies, "Because they're all alike."

Then comes the Kleenex box when she replies "Oh no, Harold, They're not all alike! You see, some grow to the left, some to the right, some have even lost petals, all SORTS of observer able differences . . . You see, Harold, I feel that much of the world's sadness comes from someone who is this" (she picks a daisy from the field) -"but yet ALLOWS themselves to be treated as that" (gesturing to the entire field of daisies).

You can't beat this show for its marvelous acting by Ruth Gordon, especially. You will also never find another movie that can portray all of these intense subjects in such a carefree way that they seem commonplace.

Get this movie and watch it several times to really enjoy it. I've seen it at least 30 times, myself and have enjoyed it more and more each time.

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If such an irreverently offbeat film were to be made today, I wonder how the putative audiences would react. As was probably the case when the film was released, people would probably find the theme edgy, if not inappropriate. This anti-establishment cult classic quite openly explores themes of suicide, love, death and life with a fresh perspective.

The interesting part is how this film will likely find you. In most societies, an older man will likely fall for a woman years his junior. Here though, Harold (Bud Cort) -a shy teenager with an affinity for death -meets his 80-year-old true love Maude (Ruth Gordon), not at a dance or social event, but at funerals.

I guess 'Harold and Maude' plays on '60s-esque themes of turning maverick, challenging societal moulds, denouncing materialism. The story is strewn with delectable humor, and thankfully is not of your average garden variety. Cat Stevens' open-air, acoustic-driven rock 'n' roll makes for a cherishable soundtrack giving the film an authentic organic sound indicative of its demeanor.

A great movie with a warm heart -required collective for every self-respecting library!

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My Babysitter's a Vampire (2011)

My daughter loves this show and LOVES the movie. She stays up every night to watch the sows and if she misses them she watches them on youtube. She loves the movie and i hope that i can get it for her.

When I first heard a movie like this was being released under Disney Channel I, along with many others, thought "Oh now Disney Channel is going to help skewer the fascinting world of vampires...as if Summit Entertainment didn't do it enough."

I was pleasantly suprised, I have to say. This movie can appeal to almost anyone that watches it, that is if they are older than probably ten. Believe it or not, some of these action scenes have a lot of violence and blood and it could be a little scary to young kids.

Also, "My Babysitter's A Vampire" has a perfect balance of both cheesy and clever humor, plus the necessary action sequences of any good vampire movie. There is both physical humor as well as the typical clever jokes. And then they are followed by a violent action sequence.

That makes this movie perfect for both younger teens to laugh at the hysterical humor, and for older teens to both laugh and marvel at the shockingly violent vampire fight scenes. ONE OF MY FAVORITE VAMPIRE MOVIES OF ALL TIME!

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I love the movie and season one so I can't wait until season two comes out! I would put 6 stars if I could!!!!!!

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I really enjoyed this movie. I saw it when Disney aired it and was so wanting the DVD, which they are releasing. Vanessa Morgan is so gorgeous. Will watch it tonight when Disney airs it again. I was hoping I got it for Christmas and since it came up in search I just might.

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Tyler Perry's Meet The Browns + Digital Copy (2008)

Short Attention Span Summary (SASS):

1. Angela Bassett stars as a single mother of 3 kids struggling to make ends meet in inner city Chicago

2. A death in the family takes them to Georgia, where they meet the Browns

3. A quick Rick Fox jumps into the crazy clan

4. Over-the-top characters, prolonged punch lines and unnecessary family secrets lead to a predictable ending

This movie has an established talent pool of a cast, and usually they can be depended on to put the "dis" in dysfunctional, but this time the jokes fail to flow smoothly, wasting the comedic talents of Jenifer Lewis, David Mann and Frankie Faison. Tyler Perry appears briefly as his most beloved character Madea, but even this feels like an afterthought in the context of the movie.

Angela Bassett is out of place for this particular role, but excellent actress that she is, her character signifies hope for single mothers everywhere who may be feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of work, home and family.

Some good performances make for a movie with a strong message, but unfortunately it's hard to see through all the noise and confusion.

Amanda Richards, July 20, 2008

I cannot stop playing this DVD. I watched it for the first time on Christmas night and have been thinking about the Browns ever since. I went in expecting to obviously miss the presence of Madea, but I have to say that although I'm interested to know what kind of interaction she would have had with the Browns, Mr. Perry made the correct decision when he decided to give the Manns their time to rightfully shine. It's a wonderful, highly enjoyable play.

Going totally and completely out on a limb, I'm going to say that I think this is probably the best Tyler Perry play I've seen (I've seen 5 of 7, soon to be 8 with the addition of Madea Goes To Jail). To be clear, I'm not talking in terms of outright humor, because I didn't find it to be as funny as the others, but more in terms of better writing, better actors, and better subplots. It also included better singing/songs; this time I didn't fast-forward through any of the singing, which is rare for me, because I don't like musicals and random singing. (Yes, this means I hate Chicago and Mary Poppins.) My favorites would absolutely have to be Tamala Mann and Terrell Carter's solo performances and the final song in which the entire cast sang. Those are the ones I insert the DVD to play whenever I'm home, and those are the ones I find myself walking around at work singing to myself; they actually inspired me to purchase the soundtrack from tylerperry.com. I have to recommend this play to everyone I know (starting with whoever is reading this and hasn't seen it).

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I think Tyler Perry should give himself more time in between movies so that he can make a great movie every single time. I liked Diary, loved Family Reunion and Why Did I Get Married. I didn't care for Daddy's Little Girls nor this movie. It wasn't horrible...I just know he can do so much better.

*** The movie seemed too rushed/hasty and there were some parts that just did not go together. I am still confused how Brenda was able to bring all of her children on limited tickets with her down South. Did I miss it? At the theatre, I had to fill in the blanks myself.

*** I wanted to see more of the Browns. I thought this movie was going to actually be like Meet the Browns the play (which I LOVE) but where were Will and Kim? Sara and LB and Millie? I mean, I know they (I love Avery, lol) and LB were in it but their roles could have been bigger. This was just like What's Done in the Dark...even down to the "Brenda, I make 25/hr," and "I told you to get an abortion,"...Needless to say, I was disappointed.

*** For a struggling mother, Angela's hair was always on point! I love Angela Bassett though. She is an excellent actress who plays this role well but could have been better with more support. Angela speaking slang, however, was a little difficult for me because I don't speak slang and I am a black woman. Plus, Angela speaking slang is just weird. Did she have to? So, is it not possible/believable?? (these are actual questions)

*** I did not like Rick Fox in this role. I don't know why. Maybe the theatre I was in messed up the audio levels but he seemed to talk too soft and low and his grin annoyed me, lol.

*** Sofia Vergara was too extra. I also know she can be better. Plus, I think Mr. Perry should have done more research on bipolar disorder to hit her character just right. I have first hand experience with the disorder and if you go off your meds, holding down a job and retaining friends is next to impossible. Perhaps she is type 2??

*** I didn't like the pimp/ho joke. It was just uncalled for. It was distasteful.

The movie wasn't horrible...I just KNOW it can be better. He just needs to give himself more time to work on them. He is doing too much at once and is gonna run himself ragged!! I love Tyler Perry and his work, however, I am not going to blindly think all of his work is excellent. It's called constructive criticism. :-)

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This is just the same story Tyler Perry does over and over with just a different set of characters. He has another black woman who is horribly mistreated by a man only to be saved by a big muscular hunk. I'm often very unhappy with the sterotypical ways Mr. Perry portrays blacks. The ignorant banter of Mr. Brown sets us back by about 50 years. This time he threw in a loud, obnoxious Latino to add to the sterotyping. I do think I could get over that though if he would come up with a different storyline. I truly don't understand what the love for these movies is all about. They alway deal with poor mistreated woman, a very mean man, a very nice handsome man, a loud obnoxious relative or 2, and a beautiful wedding.

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This was THE BEST show that I have been able to sat down with my children and enjoy. Filled with laughter and real life circumstances with the right solution.

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