Elvis Collection (Jailhouse Rock / Viva Las Vegas / Elvis on Tour) (2010)

An earlier review points out, very accurately, "On Tour" is a lot of Elvis getting in and out of cars... etc. How true. It is disappointing NOT to have more performance footage.

However! (I may be very bias on this point.) The video snips we do get are very cool... at least to me... as the movie was filmed the year I saw him for the first time. Every time I see the movie, I'm trying to figure out if certain scenes were filmed the evening I saw him.

Also, the lack of video, and the multiple scenes of fans going wild, and more, should be blamed directly on Colonel Parker. If you've ever seen "That's The Way It Is" (Original Release), it's cut up almost as bad as "On Tour". Again, this was Parker's doing! Several years ago, "That's The Way It Is: Special Edition" was released. Virtually ALL the Colonel Parker touches were removed and the songs were completed instead of cut. In fact, I believe several songs could be added because of the removal of scenes of screaming fans and backstage BS. I highly recommend "That's The Way It Is: Special Edition" for anyone wanting a high quality Elvis performance video.

I have to give "On Tour" four stars because of the memories I have of that year's tour, and even though it lacks in many ways I'm still glad it was released. Maybe someone will attempt to restore it the way they did "That's The Way It Is: Special Edition".

one of my favorite Elvis movies and I would like to see more of his movies on blueray.there needs to be more behind the scenes of his concerts on the dvd.

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Thank you well taken care of box I cant stress it enough how much the condition of the box as well means to me my logic is if you buy a car you don't want any dings on it for full price we pay for something new also Elvis Fan thank you

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I was expecting more of HD concert footages on Elvis on tour but it seems mostly scene of Elvis getting in and out of cars, airplanes, and concert halls. The concert footages are also mostly edited into montage which seems distracting because too many scenes of fans cheering and getting histerical. It may be the intension of the editor who tried to present whole Elvis experience but in my pointof view it was poorly excuted.

Also, the documentary seems it is not really HD in may parts. It only uses part of screen so it appeals that pictures are little clearer. Some people can be really annoyed by this. The movie footages and small portion of concert used in documentary are HD though.

I guess if you are die hard Elvis fan and loves any Elvis stuff they throw at you, you will love this but it was not for me.

The good thing about this package is that it includes two Blu-ray movies discs that makes up for disppointment of the documentary.

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The Saphead: Ultimate Edition (1920)

The new Blu-ray disc (and re-issue DVD) from Kino Classics presents TWO DIFFERENT versions of THE SAPHEAD, derived from two different camera negatives.

I prefer watching the "Alternate" version, it is way better in the second half with better interior details.

The first version is the standard "Rohauer" version with his re-issues titles and film tinting. The "Alternate" version (accessible from the extras menu) presents what is believed to be the foreign camera negative version that would have been sent to other countries to have the 1-frame dialogue cards translated (Kino inserted the Rohauer dialogue cards that are long enough to read).

The "Rohauer" version has new Rohauer titles and a brief history of the story on stage before the movie starts. The "Alternate" version recreates what the original title card might have looked like. Unfortunately the original title cards have not survived over time.

The "Rohauer" version is 2 minutes longer than the "Alternate" version, but this discrepancy, demonstrated in a brief bonus documentary, is due to slightly shorter cuts of some scenes. Nothing major is missing.

The "Rohauer" version may look sharper at first, but you will notice much more detail in the dark areas of the "Alternate Version". The wedding scene is particularly dark around the edges, Kino tried to compensate for the edge darkness by raising the black levels on the edges, but this does not restore the details, It just gives a weird halo effect that looks unnatural. The "Alternate" version has all details and a smooth grey-tone.

The "Rohauer" version tints all scenes various colors (muted somewhat on this new re-release) while the "Alternate" version only tints the night scenes blue. Which version is correct is unknown as the tinting continuity log is lost. The negative of the "Alternate" version had all of the night scenes mounted on one reel for tinting while all other scenes were edited together. This hints that only the night scenes were originally tinted.

The bonus documentary "A PAIR OF SAPHEADS" compares selected scenes from the two versions, showing how the camera placement differs. Sometimes one version has tighter framing, other times it is the other version with tighter framing. It is obvious that two different negatives, filmed at the same time, survive.

Comparing this new Blu-ray to the old "Art of Buster Keaton" DVD (which only contains the "Rohauer" version) shows an overall sharper, stable image. The old DVD was not bad, this is just a little better. The tints on the old DVD are much more brighter, this new Blu-ray tones them down to a more natural look.

Aside form the above mentioned bonus, there is also an audio recording from May 5th 1962 of Buster Keaton at a private intimate party. The amateur recording is primitive and often hard to hear as the microphone is too far away, so turn up the volume. This peak into his off-screen world shows his joy in social parties.

There is also a collection of stills from the movie.

A miss-named, miss-leading bonus item called "Why They Call Him Buster" would lead you to believe this is a documentary about Buster starting out in show business. But NO this is only a promo for Kino's LOST KEATON DVD & Blu-ray release. Shameful! Why didn't they just call this a promo.

I am sorry there is no audio commentary, I especially like to listen to them on silent movies. They often help you understand out-dated jokes or forgotten cameos.

As far as the movie goes, this is Buster's first feature film. Since the original title card is lost we don't know if he got star billing in the title, but in the cast credits he is last.

While not his best work, Buster is still enjoyable here and this is a 'must-have' for his fans. Buster is the 'comedy hero' in this otherwise dramatic film.

If you are just getting to know Buster, i direct you to his classics like "The General"The General [Blu-ray] and "Sherlock Jr." Sherlock Jr. / Three Ages [Blu-ray].

This collection contains the first 3 films Buster made following the filmmaking apprenticeship he experienced under Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle from 1917-19. After seeing the dissatisfying results of "The High Sign", he was hired to do "The Saphead" while thinking up a better idea for his 2-reeler debut, which eventually came to be "One Week".

THE SAPHEAD (1920): "The Saphead" is based on the play "The Henrietta", which had been a hit on Broadway and starred Douglas Fairbanks in the role of Bertie "the Lamb" Van Alstyne. Fairbanks had recommended Buster for the role in this filmed version, retitled "The Saphead".

Buster's role doesn't start until about 10 minutes into the movie, where we see him wolfing down a big meal and being overly pampered by valets and servants. Bertie the Lamb is the son of a wealthy man who thinks his son is spoiled and soft. Because Bertie has read a book that states that the modern girl is more interested in a dangerous guy than a safe guy, he goes to a gambling parlor and then tries to get himself arrested. In this scene, fans of Buster's are given a rare treat: He opens his mouth and shows his teeth, which almost develops into a full smile! What a cutie!!

"The Saphead" is actually a drama that's peppered with the subjects of infidelity, illegitimate children, death, suicide, and financial ruin. The only comedic moments in the film are supplied by Buster, who is allowed to practice his trademark pratfalls in a few scenes, which help illustrate the depth of his inept character, the Lamb. But because of his role, the film is worth watching simply because he's in it.

THE HIGH SIGN (1920): "The High Sign", a 2-reeler that was shelved after its completion in January 1920, was actually released to the public after Buster had an unforeseen accident that derailed his filmmaking schedule, thus leaving him without a release to fulfill his contract obligations in April 1921. Buster intended "The High Sign" to be his 2-reel debut under his new contract, but was unsatisfied with the results, believing that his debut should have stronger material. "The High Sign" features him as a shooting gallery employee who is forced into the role of "button man" for a group of low-rent gangsters, who use a "high sign" for a password. Although "The High Sign" wasn't up to Buster's standards, it's as good as most of the 2-reelers he made in the future, and I think it deserved a better reason to be released than as an alternative because of the consequences caused by a broken foot.

ONE WEEK (1920): "One Week" is the second 2-reeler Buster made, which did pass his quality control inspection. It's also, to this day, one of his most popular 2-reelers, so he was correct in releasing it first. "One Week" is about newlyweds who are gifted with a house-building kit. Not knowing that the jealous former suiter of his bride has sabotaged the construction directions, they build what turns out to be a cockeyed house (and throughout the film, they don't seem to notice that anything is wrong with it). The gags center around this dysfunctional building until the end, when we get to see one of the most famous scenes of Buster's career (involving a train).

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Disclaimer: I am a huge fan of Keaton's work. This is why it pains me to say that "The Saphead" is weak, and not just by Keaton's standards. As much as I love this man skip this film. That said, I gave this DVD three stars because of the short features which follow it. "The High Sign," described by one reviewer as "a lark," is actually one of my favorites. Filled with enough gags for any short comedy, Keaton's acting is a pleasure and the plot is the sort of comedy/conspiracy narrative G. K. Chesterton might have made if silent films were his thing I'm always reminded of "The Man Who Was Thursday." "One Week" is another wonderful short. With the famed, surreal hobby-kit house and a perfect ending, it is another must see Keaton short.

So here's the problem: is it worth getting The Saphead just for the two shorts? If you're a Keaton fan and want to fill out the collection then go ahead, you won't regret it. If you're not a big fan, but like Keaton at his best, go for a DVD of more consistent quality I recommend the Our Hospitality/Sherlock Jr. double feature.

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THE SAPHEAD is a rather dull romantic comedy. I'm guessing that if it didn't have Buster Keaton in the title role, this film wouldn't have seen a DVD release for another twenty years. From a historical viewpoint, I suppose we must be grateful to the film, as it established Keaton as a bankable star, thus enabling him to go to bigger and better things. But judging the film on its own merits, I can only say that I was completely bored by it.

The movie has a few major flaws. The most annoying is the fact that Keaton (although the star) doesn't have enough screen time, and the other characters are one-dimensional and simply not interesting. The script is adapted from a play by the name of THE NEW HENRIETTA, and I can only hope that the material was funnier on the stage, because it certainly didn't translate well to the screen. The story takes too long to set itself up, the plot isn't terribly inspired, and, worst of all, most of the jokes aren't all that funny. Keaton does his best with what he has to work with, but, truthfully, there isn't much to this. He livens things up a bit on a handful of occasions, but for the most part, he is overwhelmed by the leaden script.

Also included on the DVD are two short movies. Unlike the main feature, these two were co-written and co-directed by Buster Keaton himself. The difference couldn't be any more staggering. Give the man some creative control, and he turns out material a thousand times better. While the main feature is slow, ponderous and dull, these two shorts are fast-paced and hilarious.

The first short film is THE HIGH SIGN. By cheating his way through at a shooting gallery, Buster finds himself employed as both a bodyguard and a hit man. The movie culminates in a large house with multiple revolving walls and trapdoors. Buster and company leap through them with reckless abandon. I'm quite torn by watching this. Part of me wants to admire the craftsmanship and the effort that went into designing the physical gags and the intricate set. The other part of me just wants to be engulfed by the sheer entertainment.

The second short on the disc, ONE WEEK, starts with a fun gag involving Buster Keaton and his new bride attempting to exit one car and enter another -while both automobiles are still moving. In any case, the newlyweds have been given a house as a wedding-gift. But there's one catch. The "house" is a kit, a do-it-yourself construction job. Thanks to some sabotage from the wife's ex, Buster builds himself a bizarre structure, with several features not found in ordinary homes. Anyone who knows anything about Buster Keaton's style of comedy should salivate at the thought of his baffled but determined character given over to that premise. And the result here is wonderful. The production crew built a giant house prop worthy of Keaton's comedy, and there's a fun gag that involves the moving of an unwieldy piano that rivals the problems that beset Laurel and Hardy in their Oscar-winning short film THE MUSIC BOX.

The picture quality is quite good considering that the material is over eighty years old. The DVD cover claims that the soundtracks are a modern recreation of the original scores, and while I can't independently verify that, it seems appropriate enough. I'm hesitant as to whether I should really recommend this DVD given that I was so utterly bored by the main feature. The two extras (of about twenty minutes each) are worthy of purchase though. Perhaps I should say that this disc will mainly be of interest to Buster Keaton fans. People looking for a solid introduction to the man's work should probably choose one of the other entries in the Art Of Buster Keaton DVD series.

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This DVD contains one feature and two shorts from Keaton's earliest work as an independent filmmaker after he ceased his three year partnership with Roscoe Arbuckle in 1920 after Arbuckle left the Comique company to sign with Paramount.

"The Saphead" does not showcase Keaton the filmmaker, but rather Keaton the actor. The script is from a play, the directors are individuals Keaton never worked with before or hence, and the studio was Metro, predecessor of MGM. Keaton plays Bertie the Lamb, mild-mannered and spoiled son of Nick Van Alstyne, "the Wolf of Wall Street". In spite of the fact that Keaton had no creative input to the film and isn't actually its centerpiece, there is much to like about this film and much that is so Keatonesque. Keaton plays an old-fashioned romantic and someone that is thrust into the role of the fall guy by the actual bad guy a theme he repeats in his own features. He also has down pat the part of being the well-dressed dapper man of the 1920's, which he repeats with more comic effect in "The Battling Butler".

"The High Sign" was Keaton's first two-reeler after he went solo in 1920, but it was not the first film he released. Here he plays a drifter who gets hired by a member of the gang "The Blinking Blizzards" to run a shooting gallery. In a turn of events that can happen only in a Keaton film, Buster winds up being hired to both kill the father of the girl he loves and also to protect him. The film ends with a funny chase sequence through a house that has a series of trick doors, false walls, and traps that could only be designed by the mind of Keaton.

Keaton disliked "The High Sign" and delayed its release. Instead, his premiere release was "One Week". Here Keaton is the groom in the story of a pair of newlyweds that receive a wedding gift of an assemble-it-yourself house. Unfortunately, the bride has a jilted suitor that wants revenge. He gets it by renumbering all of the containers of building supplies that come with the manufactured home. The result is a house that is incorrectly assembled to say the least. The roof doesn't fit, the kitchen sink is on the outside of the house, and the chimney is over the bathtub, among other faults.

I really like the score on all of the Kino Keaton DVDs, and the video, though not perfect, is better than anything you'll find in the public domain. The only bad thing I can say is that there are no extra features or commentary at all. In their earlier DVDs, of which this is one, it seems like Kino didn't really grasp the power of DVD to deliver extra features and just reissued the VHS tapes of many of their silents in DVD form with no upgrades.

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Brüno (2009)

I have to see Bruno more than once, most people probably do too. That's because Bruno is one of those rare movies where you're laughing so hard at some parts you know you're missing the next funny thing. As gay, Austrian fashionista and celebrity-wannabe Bruno, Baron Cohen continues his jaw-droppingly crass and outrageous stealth comedy antics. Purportedly, Baron Cohen has been beaten up while in character, so it only seems fair that he makes his audience laugh hard enough to hurt.

Of course the usual Baron Cohen caveat is in order: yes, its offensive, yes, its gross, yes, there is a LOT of nudity, mostly male. If any of this is not your cup of tea, that's dandy, no hard feelings. If you don't mind the occasional sight of literally bouncing balls in the name of comedy, Bruno is pure gold.

Post Borat fame has probably necessitated that more of this movie be staged, with at least some of the people (a talk show host, the driver of an oncoming car) in on the joke. But scripted or naturalits wickedly funny. And enough of it is genuineincluding Bruno's interview/sex tape with Ron Paul, parents of would-be baby stars volunteering their 12-month-olds to play Nazis, ex-gay ministers, straight-rally wrestling audiences and general bystanders to Bruno's public antics.

Bruno balances the line between social commentary and comedy like a model on a catwalk. As with Borat half the humor comes from people reactings (or not) to the character's outrageous behavior, and half from the eerily apt caricature Baron Cohen creates. Fame-hound Bruno is everything narcissitic, uninformed, vain and with the all-too-common undeserved sense of entitlement that makes up the worst of American pop culture. As with Borat, Bruno learns some life-lessons and grows as a person by the end of the movieas Baron Cohen always seems to want to better his audience, even if he has to beat them over the head with a dildo to do it.

This movie is *clearly* for those not easily offended. It is shocking and hysterical, but I don't think I could allow my parents to go see it.

Sasha Baron Cohen's latest creation, Bruno, makes his way to America to become uber-famous any way he can. And he goes through lots of different attempts on his way. Acting, interviewing celebrities, guesting on talk shows, becoming straight, he tries many methods, each with it's painfully funny result. You'll love the Paula Abdul interview, particularly.

The interactions with people are wonderful, and you will be appalled at what some parents will do to get their children into show business. Just stunning.

There are a lot of shocking/uncomfortable funny moments (be prepared for gratuitous male nudity), and I am no sure how they will hold up for repeated viewings, but in a crowded theater, it was a scream. The ending is worth the buildup, and stick around for the closing song.

I laughed so hard that my face was hurting, and my wife was crying from laughing so hard. It takes a while to recover, but soooooo worth it!

NOT for the kids.

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After the movie Borat in 2006 Sacha Baron Cohen returned to the big screen in 2009 with another of his characters, gay Austrian (you read that right, it's not Australian) Bruno. 19 years old Bruno is known for hosting what is said to be the most famous German speaking television show outside of Germany "Funkyzeit mit Bruno", a show about fashion and for his flamboyant style. Bruno is doing well in the world of fashion but when he gets fired, his assistant leaves him and his lover dumps him he decides to leave for America in order to become famous by any means.When he comes to America Bruno tries a talent agency to get to stare in a big Hollywood movie and become famous, he unsuccessfully tries to starts a new television show, he does an interview, interviews people and he even tries to become straight amongst other things. He will do anything to get famous and is not ashamed of it which will end up in hilarious situations . Bruno to me was really funny, there were some moments were I laughed, others were I was in shock and others in which I didn't quite know what to think which I think was Baron Cohen's goal with this movie. There is a lot of nudity and other shocking things in this movie so be aware it's not for children and not everyone will like it because of it. Bruno goes far with homosexuality and if you are not comfortable with this then Bruno may not be for you. I have no problem with it at all and therefore enjoyed the movie and thought the character was great.

You may not like what Baron Cohen does but you can't deny his ability to re-invent himself, from his Ali-G character to Borat and others and keep what he does controversial, fresh and interesting . Bruno stands on its own and is not a Borat clone, there are a few similarities but the two are very different while retaining the same style of humor Baron Cohen is known for. If you are easily offended don't watch this, it's a different kind of humor that not everyone can appreciate. When it comes to Bruno it's pretty simple you will either love it or hate it. The rating here on amazon may prove otherwise but it's because of the mix of very positive and very negative reviews, there is hardly any middle ground.

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I rented Bruno from NetFlix with mixed feelings. I had seen Cohen's other works, including Borat and the Ali G Show, both of which I found deceptively intelligent and political. His ability to make his characters' stupidity an incisive mirror which he holds up to society is mind-boggling. With Borat, I thought this form of comedy had reached it's highest point. I was wrong. Bruno goes further. Some are offended by the gratuitous male nudity. Deal with it. If looking at penises makes you deeply uncomfortable, you probably have issues that run deeper than Bruno. It's true that a lot of the content of the movie revolves around Cohen using his flamboyantly gay character Bruno to make conservative anti-gay types uncomfortable. This can be uncomfortable for the viewer as well, but with the ultimate pay-off of revealing America's deep-seated homophobia and questioning it.

SPOILER WARNING

The film's finale gathers a large number of red-neck cage-fight enthusiasts in an arena for an event hosted by "Straight Dave", Bruno's straight alter-ego. When they get a touching (if gratuitously gay) scene of male-male reconciliation and love, the fans go crazy with disgust. Some of the audience leave, some yell violent hate slogans, some throw drinks at Bruno and his lover. Several of the fans looks shocked and betrayed, several of them comically wearing "Straight Dave" T-shirts they'd gotten for the event. I even saw a few in the crowd who looked like they understood the point that Cohen was making. People who were suddenly more disgusted by the gross display of homophobic violence on the part of the fans than the homosexual love that was taking place within the cage.

While his methods may be questionable, I feel America is indebted to Cohen for his bravery, and that he is one of the single largest contributors to intelligent social commentary through comedy today.

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For those of you who may be "different" or gay and have been hurt, intimidated or shunned by society, you will love this fun-filled jab at your tormentors! As a gay person, I admit to a sadistic thrill out of seeing every single uncomfortable straight person in the film, and those watching it. The hillbilly's, the conservatives, the testosterone-filled and religious nuts all get a taste of their own medicine in this 'Borat-as-a-gay' fun fest.

Some of the scenarios are screamingly funny (the 'channeling Milli Vanilli' scene comes to mind) and you really have to admire the fact that Sasha Baron Cohen is a straight man creating these outlandish situations. So much of it comes off the top of his head, and he has an amazing ability to stay in character.

If you are "offended by male nudity"...then get a life! I saw that phrase SO MANY times in the reviews on here! How many times have you been asked if you were offended by "female nudity"? How many hundreds of movies have you seen with breasts (and "other parts") displayed across the big screen, larger than two-car garages? Did we gasp? Did we run home and complain about how "offensive" it was? I doubt it. Bruno has a penis and we see it, big deal! Well...it DOES have a urethra that talks...but still. He's an unconventional fella...

Why so many Sarah Palin-type Americans chose to view this film anyway, is a mystery. Bruno is UNMISTAKABLY gay on the cover, and they knew he was played by the same guy who was Borat. What were they expecting, a Liberace concert? The truth? Borat was offensive and STRAIGHT and everyone loved it. Bruno is offensive and GAY. And that, apparently, is 'not allowed.'

I say, buy this film. Play it when you're feeling down and it will guarantee you lots of laughs.

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Amélie (2011)

I have seen thousands of films in my life, and thought nothing could surprise me anymore on a screen. Amelie proved me I was wrong. Instead of writing another "best film ever" comment, I would like to give some indications for non-french speaking viewers, as the translation might have made some lines a bit obscure.

Amelie says to Colignon "Meme les artichauds ont du coeur" (Even artichokes have a heart). In french, "un coeur d'artichaud" (an artichoke heart) is a person that falls very often and easily in love.

Colignon calls Amelie "Amelie-melo" (pronounce "ah-may-LEE-may-low") which sounds like "un meli-melo", a muddle or mix-up.

In the cafe, people discuss about time and weather, as the same word "temps" means both "le temps qui passe" (time that passes) and "le temps qu'il fait" (the weather). So goes Hippolito's theory : they speak about the weather because they are afraid of the passing time.

Collignon says about his mother : "Elle a une memoire d'elephant, un elephant de mer" (literally: she has memory like an elephant, a sea elephant). A "sea elephant" is a sort of walrus, and "mer" (sea) and "mere" (mother) are pronounced the same.

When Amelie is in a theater, she watches "Jules & Jim", a movie by Francois Truffaut. There are many references to Truffaut in the movie : Claire Maurier plays the mother in "the 400 blows" and many scenes refer to "Bed and Board", which itself refers to Hitchcock's "Rear window". I still have to figure which was the movie whith Spencer Tracy driving without watching...

When Amelie watches her projected life on TV, a scene that refers to Woody Allen's "Zelig", the voice over is from Frederic Mitterand, nephew of his uncle, who is famous for commenting weddings or funerals of aristocrats on french TV.

The "likes/dislikes" narration was experimented by Jeunet in a short movie "Foutaise" with Dominique Pinon, that will be included in the collector edition of the DVD. It also refers to "La vie, mode d'emploi" (Life: a user's manual) from Georges Perec, although Jeunet admits he could never finish the book.

Most TV scenes are stock shots. The story about the horse running in the Tour de France is true. Most stories told in the film are true, including the one about collecting discarded pictures.

There are numerous references in the movie, including to other Jeunet films. The scene in the mystery train is almost a copy of a similar scene in Alien : Resurrection where Ripley has an almost tender behaviour with the alien.

Finally, "Amelie" comes from "Emily", as Emily Watson was supposed to play the role, and "Poulain" is both a young untrained horse and a chocolate brand. And this is not a coincidence.

Like the star of Chocolat, the title character of this magical comedy also wants to heal people inside. But this particular healer is a daydreamer with an irresistible smile, a Louise Brooks bob hairstyle or an Audrey Hepburn-like bun when it's tied up, and will charm the pants off the iciest of souls.

The only-child of a tight-lipped, hard-hearted doctor father and a neurotic schoolteacher mother, Amelie Poulaine grew up being too much unloved, with a not too happy childhood. As a young lady, she becomes a waitress at the Two Windmills cafe, but other times spends her time in an imaginative world of dreams, not forming close ties with people, being terribly shy.

One day, she is watching TV when Princess Diana's death is announced. From then on, she decides to be a healer of sorts, whether it be uniting a man with childhood memories he left in a cubbyhole in the skirting board long time ago, trying to soothe the hearts of people, make people's lives better, or being an avenging angel. The scene where she helps a blind man across the street and describes what's going on is simply magical.

Amelie is also befriended by artist Raymond Dufayel, known as the Glass Man because of a disease that has given him very brittle bones. They communicate indirectly through a painting he's working on, particularly a young girl that Dufayel's trying to figure out.

Amelie meets Nino Quincompoix, a man who collects discarded, frequently torn ID card photos from a photo booth and puts the reconstructed pieces in an album. Included in there many times is a stern bald man whose pictures are always torn up. Amelie finds Nino's album and wonders who the bald man is. This is a mystery included in the film.

There's Colignon the grocer, an obnoxious middle-aged man who delights himself in disparaging his assistant Lucien, who's slow-witted but nice and sensitive. Amelie feels sorry for Lucien and the scenes where she becomes his avenging angel at Colignon's expense are hilarious. At one point she tells Colignon, "You'll never be a vegetable. Even artichokes have hearts." Ouch, but well deserved.

Amelie's widowed father spends his life collecting garden statues to decorate his dead wife's shrine, instead of travelling around the world. Amelie steals one of them, a bearded garden gnome complete with red pointed hat, and then something weird happens. A few days later, her father receives a postcard from the gnome, who is apparently on holiday abroad!!! This goes on for a while and completely baffles him.

Audrey Tautou would've been my choice for Best Actress of the year. I simply melted everytime she smiled in the movie. She also bears a slight similarity to another Audrey--Hepburn. Both have in common black hair, a face brimming with charm, and irresistible smiles. Maybe that's why it was love at first sight with me.

Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet uses some quirky film techniques, mostly visual imagery, such as a scene when Amelie literally dissolves into water. The onscreen narration is also useful. At times, it sets the stage for turning points in the film. Earlier, it describes the likes and hates of the Poulaines and the one important characteristic of the Two Windmill employees. He creates an imaginative film that's a breather from the usual Hollywood grind. But it's his closeups of Amelie and her smile that make this worth seeing over and over.

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Before I urge you to rush out and revel in this romantic wisp of a movie, I must warn you that it is the kind of film that will make you either quake with bleary joy, or propel you out of the cinema with an ungovernable urge to smash things. If the words 'sugar', 'naive' or 'cute' are not in your vocabulary; if the mere sight of a bobbed gamine making eyes at you across the screen doesn't make your heart flutter; if scenes where lamps discuss their owner's love life with her paintings, or a young girl screams to save her suicidal goldfish don't enchant you, than, in the words of Gilbert and Sullivan, don't go.

If, however, you feel your spiritual home is in France, than 'Amelie' might just make you fall in love again. it is for those who love Paris in sunshine or rain; who palpitate at the very thought of tree-lined Parisian streets and cafes; who have experienced haunting musical epiphanies at night in empty Metro stations; who have read Raymond Queneau novels; who rejoice in street markets, Renoir paintings, or the sight of horses running in the Tour de France.

'Amelie' is a romantic comedy for those who prefer the chase to the clinch. its heroine is almost a ghost, unloved and friendless as a child, who presides disembodied over strangers' lives, linking characters, punishing baddies and deciding destinies in ways that seem supernatural to them. She can only observe others from a distance and act accordingly her own life remains emotionally dead. Of the various Queneau-like mysteries, red-herrings, non-sequiters and paper trails strewn throughout the film, the most pressing and emotionally charged is will Amelie find love and rejoin the real world?

The film is unashamedly nostalgic in its romantic vision of a vanished (never-was?) Paris, where musette is still played in sparse cafes, and funfairs and ghost trains become sites of erotic possibility. The CGI effects are used not for inhuman spectacle, but to do rich justice to individuals' inner lives. The idea of reworking the past; the comfort of myths, lies and delusions; the creation of one's own future these are some of the film's themes, and they encompass characters, culture and place. As such, the film has been condemned as reactionary. It's probably sexist (although I identified with Amelie, rather than simply fancying her).

It has reminded people of various reference points from the Oulipo writers to the early films of the French New Wave to Ally MacBeal. its most recent counterpart might be 'Magnolia', from the opening narrtion with its comic chaos theory, and its narrative about disparate people trying to connect, to the godlike force that contrives to do so. But it's much more treasurable than that. i loved this film. I loved the adorable Audrey Tautou, funny and smart, with huge melancholy eyes a 21st century Audrey Hepburn. I loved the way the film felt like a cinematic novel without being literary. I loved the way the mystery plots took on emotional dimensions the connection of clues to recover the past to restore happiness. I loved the colours, especially those rich reds; the wistful accordian music; the love of vignettes, photographs, chance, fantasy, dreams...

Read Best Reviews of Amélie (2011) Here

....P>I saw Amelie first in the theater, but my real appreciation is for the DVD. The transfer to DVD is almost legendary, it is done so well. It helps to start with the magical direction of Jean-Pierre Jeunet, who oversaw impeccable camerawork and a script loaded with charm into the film you will see on the DVD. It was obviously a labor of love, and Jeunet worked nearly as hard on the special features that accompany the film on the 2-disc set. The audition tapes, the story of the "home movies" within the film and the chats with Jeunet and the cast are all captivating.

Jeunet successfully uses voiceover as a tool in the film, allowing the viewer to quickly react to the situations encountered by both child and adult Amelie. He's artistically clever with his music, with flashbacks, and with dream sequence to give you a series of interconnecting events, all leading up to the theme of redemption and the enjoyment of life through the joy you give to others. In particular, the use of photos, the booby traps for a local grocer with a nasty temper, and the delightful traveling garden gnome are creative and funny.

There would be no story without Audrey Tatou, the whimsical actress who embodies Amelie. Audrey Hepburn at a young age, she is incredibly charming and quirky. It will be interesting to see if her career takes her beyond this, a signature role.

You'll love owning and watching Amelie, it is one of life's small treasures!

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Pour moi, this film is the gift that keeps on giving. A sweet, romantic and inspiring modern classic, this French film is like comfort food. If a bad day is plaguing you, pop this one in and revel in its instant catharsis. Starring doe-eyed, instantly charming Audrey Hepburn incarnate Audrey Tautou as the shy but quirky main character, the viewer is instantly transported into her delicately colored, imaginative world. Amelie leads a quiet life, working as a waitress in a restuarant filled with dysfunctional characters, occasionally caring for her friend's cat and indulging in simple pleasures. Then one fateful day, her life changes forever. Upon finding a childhood keepsake and returning it to the owner, she becomes a secret guardian angel to the people around her. But while she can make others happy, she just can't seem to make things click with handsome stranger Nino (the talented and good looking Mathieu Kassovitz). The story plays out in a magical Parisan backdrop that only adds to the story's charm. The film is slow, sweet torture when it comes to the unfolding romance between Amelie and Nino, but when it gets to the climax, you can't help feeling amazing. Even when I watch this for the 100th time I get that heart-pumping, mind-blowing feeling of true love. So make a list of your likes and dislikes and indulge.

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The Wackness (2008)

What an incredible film. Director Jonathan Levine's attention to detail in making sure that every aspect of the film looks and feels like the 90's really adds to the feel of the film. All of the actors work really well especially Sir Ben Kingsley and Josh Peck, who has a breakout performance in this film, showing that he's got a future in this business. With funny dialogue, nicely shot cinematography, and backed by an incredible soundtrack, The Wackness is definitely a film to see this summer if you loved the 90's.

Yo! Don't be whack!

The award winning film (Sundance Audience Award) "The Wackness" is now out on DVD and it's definitely one of the coolest and more pleasant coming-of-age films to come out in a long while and a DVD with features that embraces that non-traditional style courtesy of writer/director Josh Levine.

"The Wackness" stars well-known legendary award winning actor Ben Kingsley and "Drake & Josh" actor Josh Peck who appears to have shed his young teen Nickelodeon image for the character of 18-year-old Luke Shapiro. Both playing roles so different from what we have seen of them and both delivering an exceptional performance.

The year is 1994, A high school teenager in New York who doesn't have any friends but spends his time selling marijuana using his disguise as a person who sells ice in the park, while saving up all his money.

But all is not cool in the life of Luke, his parents are having some financial problems and in danger of being evicted, his mind is on getting laid and losing his virginity and the only person he can communicate his emotions to is one of his clients, Dr. Jeffrey Squires (Ben Kingsley). He wants some anti-depressants but Squires tells him to embrace his pain and more or less, he needs to find a girlfriend and get laid.

Dr. Squires is not exactly a role model for Josh. He's a product of the 60's, loves doing cocaine and marijuana and somehow, is able to connect with Luke and provides him professional advice for drugs. But like Luke, his life is not at all going that great. His relationship with his wife Kristin is not at all going so great and all they have is their memories of sex and doing drugs. Meanwhile, he notices that his step-daughter Stephanie (Olivia Thirlby, "Juno") is getting closer to Luke. But realizes that it's not love that she has for Luke, it's just a sexual fling.

Luke doesn't have much experience with people, love and thus he discovers himself while hanging out with Stephanie. Dr. Squires as a father doesn't want his stepdaughter to be around a drug dealer but at the same time, as his psychiatrist, he doesn't feel that Stephanie is good for Luke. But after their passionate time together, he develops feelings for Stephanie so strong that when he says the words of "I Love You" to her, Stephanie realizes that this fling has gone so far and ends their romantic fling and all communication with Luke. Around that same time, Dr. Squires wife Kristin decides to leave her husband.

Both men are obviously heartbroken but somehow, they find comfort in talking with each other and thus Luke and Dr. Squires form a friendship that would interestingly introduce Dr. Squires to Luke's world and for Luke, getting the needed therapy from his shrink. So, the story pretty much focuses on a young man (Luke) who is guided by an older man (Dr. Squires) but then the story starts to shift of the younger guy guiding an older man.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

The film is featured in anamorphic widescreen ala 2:35:1 ratio. The film is shot in different parts of Tokyo but oviously scenes such as the Twin Towers had to be put into the film. When you do a period piece, especially if it's 1994, with a busy city like New York, unless you have a huge budget, you got make do what with what you have. And thus a lot of the scenes are shot indoors but you do have some outdoor scenes with Luke and Stephanie at the beach or areas where Luke is dealing drugs.

As for audio, you get a English and French 5.1 Dolby Digital track and the film is primarily a dialogue driven film. But audio-wise, what makes this film shine is the fact that it's 1994 and the old school songs, especially the hip-hop songs of that time are what comes blaring out your speakers. Bass and all courtesy of artists such as Notorious B.I.G., a Tribe Called Quest, KRS-One, Nas, Biz Markie, etc.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

The DVD shines in its amount of special features offered. Included are:

* Commentary with Director Jonathan Levine and Actor Josh Peck A very casual and cool commentary and you learn important tidbits about the film. From Ben Kingsley giving advice to Josh, having to work with Mary-Kate in the amount of hours they had to work with her and how hard it was for Josh Peck to do his lovemaking scene with Olivia Thirlby. Levine and Peck have cool and fun commentary talking about blunts, the music, it's typically a commentary that is like hanging out with friends. Especially at the end when they talk about hanging out after the commentary and playing XBOX 360, you don't hear that on director's commentary, so it's all good.

* Keeping it Real: A Day in the Life of Writer/Director Jonathan Levine For this eight minute feature, Jonathan Levine is traveling around the country and London to promote "The Wackness" at film festivals and interviews at radio stations. Jonathan is joined by the cast and his girlfriend, production designer Annie Spitz and his brother and his girlfriend.

* Time in a Bottle: Behind the Scenes of The Wackness An 18-minute featurette featuring behind-the-scenes on the making of the film. Levine explains that the film is not 100% autobiographical and a screenplay that was based on an idea he had during filmschool. Also, featuring Levine's staff and how they were able to get that 1994 setting.

* The Luke Shapiro Show Episode 1 & 2 These are five minute short episodes that were created for cable access featuring Luke Shapiro and his doorman Miguel. The first featuring Luke, Miguel (on keyboards) and his super Tony. The second featuring Luke, Miguel (on keyboards) and a dancer.

* Deleted Scenes This scene features four deleted/extended scenes from the film. The total amount of deleted scenes is about five minutes long featuring "Luke Works in Cap and Gown", "Extended Squires Vacation", "Squires in Stephanie's Room" and "Dad's Walkman Scheme".

* The Wackness Trailers Featuring all five theatrical and teaser trailers

I have to say that "The Wackness" is a pretty cool coming-of-age film and yes, there have been many of these type of movies but a definitely, unique film. Having the film set in 1994, having the main character as a drug dealer, having his psychiatrist as one of his clients and also a hardcore drug user and just how everything just comes together is quite enjoyable.

But the performances by Ben Kingsley and Josh Peck was well done. Two roles by talents that I would never see coming. Ben Kingsley in so many serious roles in "Ghandi", "Schindler's List", "Rules of Engagement" to name a few and then Josh Peck who stars in the Nickelodeon teen show "Drake & Josh", these two taking on roles so different and to see them drinking alcohol and doing/dealing drugs, definitely it's quite a bit of a surprise. But the unique thing is that these two talents had tremendous chemistry and everything worked out quite well.

And there are also a good number of talent in this film. Olivia Thirlby did a great job as Squire's daughter Stephanie and Luke's love interest. Did a great job playing a sexual teen and then you have Mary-Kate Olsen as a pothead who just makes out with Ben Kingsley. Famke Janssen as Dr. Squires sexy wife, Method Man playing the character "Percy" as Luke's supplier and much more.

There are just these small moments in the film, from mannerisms to the small things that a character does, it really makes this film seem quite realistic and make it all work. Of course, the early 90's nostalgia and the music plays a big part in the film. When Luke and Olivia are making love, R. Kelly playing on the boom box to Luke playing Zelda on his NES, these small things are what many people who grew up at the time and listened to the music can related to. So, definitely a nice touch!

And the DVD, just makes you love the film even more with cool commentary, the featurettes and more. It's not all business-like and professional. You have Levine and Peck quite casual and as I mentioned in the commentary section, it's like hanging out with a few friends and just everyone having a good time.

Now granted, perhaps I may be a bit biased having grown up with the pop culture of the 90's and hearing the songs and the style from those years boosting my appreciation for the film but for an indie film, I have to admit that the overall presentation was quite non-traditional. Again, there are a bunch of "coming-of-age" films out there but this one was really thinking outside of the box and instead of getting a "revenge of the nerd" happy-feel good storyline, each of these characters have flaws but it's all about discovering one's self.

All in all, a solid DVD with a lot of humor, a lot of soul and all out fun!

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I have been waiting my whole lifetime for a movie like this... Everyone who I've shown it to has absolutely loved it, and yet I don't know why critics kind of swept it under the rug when it created so much uproar at the 2008 Sundance Film Festivals.

I think everyone should go into this movie not knowing what it's about. It's honestly not because I'm lazy and don't want to explain it to you, but I notice that in my opinion that when you heighten the expectations for someone who hasn't seen the movie, it makes the movie seem not as good as it really is.

Watch the clips Amazon supplied and that's all you need to know... It's a movie about how adults shouldn't be embarrassed to take advice from the younger generation, because it's not about age IT'S ABOUT KNOWLEDGE. And guess what? Sometimes they can be right.

It's a movie about not being afraid to live life; don't hide from it or bottle your problems. Don't look at the bad side of things, look at the good things. People say that's easier said than done, but the trick is to PRETEND!!!

When something bad happens you need to embrace your fears and embrace the pain that comes with it. If you run away from life with drugs (and by now everyone should know that includes prescription drugs) and not face your problems, you eventually just start to experience all the downs in life.

If what you choose is to embrace your pain, learn from it, and have the courage to not to be afraid to take chances & risks in your life-WELL THAT'S WHAT LIFE IS ALL ABOUT.

If it weren't for the pain in life, the joy wouldn't be so good. It's like the spoiled kid everyone went to school with, they got everything they wanted their entire lives and in the end nothing in the world can ever make them happy.

If you were even SOMEWHAT interested in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, American Beauty, Donnie Darko, I guarantee you WILL love The Wackness. Even if you didn't like these movies.....

WATCH THE WACKNESS!!!

Read Best Reviews of The Wackness (2008) Here

I haven't heard much about this movie besides seeing the name on Peck's list of films on wikipedia. Of course I judged the title thinking that the film would be some lame attempt of a superbad type comedy but man was I wrong. The wackness is actually quite easy to explain and although it contains a young man with an occupation that isn't known for such a lifestyle I feel a lot of teens can sort of relate to it. Luke Shapiro (Josh Peck) is a 17 year old just a day from graduation. He's an incredibly lonely drug dealer that is basically dieing inside from not living the life of having fun and being dumb. The film takes him on a small hip hop packed and smoke filled adventure to live some sort of a teenage life before the summers over. He eventually finds a friend in his psychiatrist Dr. Squires (Ben Kingsley) but it takes time for them to realize how important they are to each other.

I've grown up watching Peck on Nick although he played great characters in those films he was mostly the side man and fell under the radar until he started getting a little older. My point is that I think this guy is a pretty good dramatic actor, better than his comedic roles he played on Nick. The acting was solid especially the slightly self destructive pot smoking Ben Kingsley, loved the cast. The story itself was a kind of crazy, I mean I believe that drug dealers are usually depicted as these people that get love and hate but not a lot of loneliness or at least not the high school type guys. I love how they put that spin on it because somehow everyone is linked by this. Peck's character shares what a lot of us had or even have, that big chunk of life you felt like you missed or are about to miss and all that experience and life just falls into your lap at one time.

I mean overall I loved the movie, I think the insane but realistic characters even though the weed thing sends it over a bit but it pulls it to be a super cool movie. It also has one of the sickest soundtracks of all time. I love the fact that the movie didn't try and make cliche's or make fun of hip hop. It felt like it was truly paying homage to the music, another thing that helps ease through the times. If you're a fan of good movies period I know you'll love this film. It was hard to find anything to take away from it but it's definitely a must see.

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I just finished watching this movie...gotta say it was on point.

The older man learns from the young man and vice versa. The two were almost the same but at different points in life.

The older man searches for his youth and love from his wife knowing that he will never find it again, while the young man wants to gain love and a place to fit in but cannot find it.

They are the same as both are trying to run away from similar issues, such as the older man not getting what he needs from his marriage and the young man not getting what he needs from his parents. The moral: life is too short to worry about things that get you down. Don't let lifes roadblocks keep you from happiness as these issues are only short, albeit, painful moments that we (men and women) all will go through.

You probably will not understand unless you see the movie. Josh Peck and Ben Kingsley give outstanding performances. If you are on the fence about buying it give it a rent...however...it is worth the buy!

Those who thought this was wack (thats wack not wacked)...missed the whole point.

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The Fairy (2011)

My wife and I saw this move at the theatre and thought it was the craziest movie ever. It is almost a silent film a lot of physical comedy a lot a small clever details and romance. There are a few times when you are sure what is going to happen next but it doesn't happen. Something else heppens instead.

This is a small pearl of a film crossing through ballet, wordless acting, strange figures, peculiar storyline, wonderful acting and very memorable. It is full of humour and aesthetics a different film experience in a good way. It was like a blind date for me when I went to the movies to see this film and I was pleasantly surprised. Just sit back and let yourself enjoy highly recommended.

About the film:

"Dom is a night watchman at a small hotel in Le Havre, France. One night the mysterious Fiona appears, shoeless and without any luggage. She tells him she is a fairy and that he can have three wishes come true. The next day two of them are fulfilled and Fiona has disappeared. But Dom really wants to find her as she has opened a new world to him, a world crowded by fantasy and love."

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Fiona Gordon, just to look at, isn't who you might have cast as the fairy. You know, cute, young, ethereal, squeaky clean, pert'n'perky she's not that. That's OK. Dominique Abel, as the mortal to whom her three wishes are given, isn't much of a Prince Charming character, either. Fiona (in the role of Fiona) and Dom (in the role of Dom) have a wonderful, quirky chemistry, though. Her odd ways of making wishes come true, her penchant for shopping without the bother of payment, and his chronic lack of ambition play off each other nicely, with occasional caroms off the enjoyable supporting characters.

A few surreal moments pop in, like the two dance numbers (one underwater, the other with her rotundly pregnant) give plenty to laugh at, as do the moments and characters in the psych ward. This doesn't have the wacked-out frenzy or continuous patter of some other comedies I've enjoyed. It has a quiet charm all its own, though.

-wiredweird, reviewing the release to theatres.

PS: If subtitles give you hives, you probably want to skip this one French (it figures) with English subtitles.

Read Best Reviews of The Fairy (2011) Here

Every so often you come across a movie that you've never heard of that turns out to be an absolute gemthis is one such movie. Dom is a sad sack who works as the night manager in a small hotel. We first meet him as he's bicycling to work, in the rain, on a bike that keeps throwing its chain. His life is one of small pleasurea few undisturbed minutes during which he can enjoy his sandwich and an old movie. But such moments are hard to come by, as he finds himself repeatedly interrupted by curious travelers and an odd woman who appears at the door without any luggage, announces that she is a fairy, and grants him three wishes. Fionathat's the fairy's namedoesn't look like anyone's conception of a fairybut Dom is startled to discover his first two wishes come true, and that's when things start to get even stranger.

But to say things get strange is an understatement. The plot is really just a tenuous thread that ties together moments of comedy, dance, and music. The team of Dominique Abel and Fiona Gordon, who both wrote and star in The Fairy, are dancers, mimes, and performers who have collaborated for many years, both personally and artistically, and this film showcases both their wit and originality and their great physical skillthough in a way unlike anything you may have seen before. Like all great comedies, The Fairy is completely original, with characters and a plot that is like nothing you've ever seen in a movie, and that means that every scene, every turn of events is completely unexpected. I loved it, and if you can imagine liking a comedy that can be described as sweet, surreal, and completely original, you might just like it too.

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Ok, my top 10 is probably a list of 50 movies, but the Fairy is an excellent movie keeping you laughing at every turn. And if you can read french you'll find that signs and store names add to the grinning! Once watched this film will be on everyone's cult list!

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The Proposal (2009)

For some reason Amazon is not listing in Product Details what is actually included in the 2 disc DVD other than a movie description. So for those like me who like to know what Xtras (+ Digital Copy) you're getting here it is:

Alternate Ending

Deleted Scenes

Audio Commentary

Featurette

"Set Antics": Outtakes And Other Absurdities

Subtitles: French, Spanish

Disc Two: Digital Copy of Feature Film

I saw this at the theatre 3 times. It is so funny. I was laughing out loud all through the movie. This is not a chick flick. Lots of men were in the theatre with me and they were laughing louder than me and my girlfriends. The acting doesn't get much better than this. The director has to be pleased with this one because these actors showed up knowing just what to do. Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds were so good together. Ryan was great even when he wasn't speaking. Just his facial expressions were hysterically funny. He also gave singing a try which was even funnier. Betty White played his grandmother and was as good as ever. Sandra and Ryan try hard not to like each other but it just didn't work. Sandra Bullock looks great. Girl can't help it, she is just too pretty. I don't write much about the story because it is described on the Amazon listing and I don't want to spoil anything. Go watch this movie. It is the comedy of the year. I like spontaneous type comedy and not fake made up comedy and The Proposal is just that. You will watch this movie over and over.

Buy The Proposal (2009) Now

If you have just survived another tough week at the office and are looking for a weekend pick me up, "The Proposal" is your sure bet. Yes, I laughed outloud often, and so did most of the audience. The comment frequently heard as the credits rolled was: "Ooohhh, that was sooo goooood!".

The story: a tough lady-boss (Bullock) is being deported to Canada for willful non-compliance with the US immigration department. To save herself, she directs her doormat of an assistant (Reynolds) to marry her. He reluctantly agrees to play along, after she "helps" him understand the virtues of being employed. If you think you know where this story is going... well, you are right. The "happily ever after" cannot be avoided. 'Tis a comedy after all...What is fresh is how skillfully the writers and the director allow the story to veer away from the "happily ever after" course, keeping us on the edge of our seats until the satisfying end, which we have known all along was bound to arrive.

The chemistry between the two leads is another pleasant surprise. I am not a particular fan of either Bullock or Reynolds. Though each smoking hot and talented, neither has made many inspired project choices. However, the roles here suit the pair's natural acting styles reasonably well, which in turn further enhances the believability of their characters. The look of constipated doom on Reynold's face, as he's being informed he's engaged, is side-splitting! I do regret Bullock does not play "mean" better; the intended juxtaposition of her supposedly tough as nails character against her overly compliant secretary is lost at times. We are TOLD she is a witchy boss, and yet she comes accross nothing more then efficient (Sandra: call me! I'll give you some pointers. In return you can teach me how to find a secretary as hot as Reynolds ;0) ).

Another gem in this comedy is Ms Betty White (of "The Golden Girls" fame), an octogenarian in real life as well as playing one in "The Proposal". She has made an art of delivering "campy" with emotional intelligence. She does not dissapoint here either.

Final verdict? Will this film change the course of modern cinematography?

Not a fat chance!

Did it chase my blah's away until Monday morning?

AFFIRMATIVE!!! ...Till Wednesday... at least!

Read Best Reviews of The Proposal (2009) Here

There are two deleted scenes with optional commentary by director Anne Fletcher and writer Peter Chiarelli. There is a nice scene with Andrew's parents (Nelson and Steenburgen). We also see Margaret and Andrew getting a little more comfortable with each other. They are nice enough scenes but not essential and one can see why they were cut.

There is an alternate ending with optional commentary. Fletcher and Chiarelli talk about why they didn't use this ending and another one that they didn't use as well. The humour in this scene is much broader than the rest of the film and seems out of place.

"Set Antics: Outtakes and Other Absurdities from The Proposal" is a montage of the cast goofing around on set. It looks like they had a lot of fun making this film.

Finally, there is an audio commentary by Fletcher and Chiarelli. They start off explaining the dichotomy between the two main characters. Fletcher says that Bullock loved the screenplay and gave Chiarelli all kinds of notes to make her character nastier. He talks about the mechanics of the story while she talks about the challenge of working on location. This is a fairly decent track by two people clearly proud of their film.

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I am in no way a big fan of romantic comedies, but I found myself buying this film anyway. I had heard plenty of good things about the film (that I was very skeptic about)and these are two actors who I've got quite a bit of respect for. Most movies don't really get me to laugh. We're lucky if you even get a smirk out of me. Yet I found myself sitting on my living room floor laughing harder than I have in a long time. Now as for why I like this film:

There's something to be said for acting without speaking and Ryan Reynolds has this down. His facial expressions can tell some real stories.

I'm a fan of "The Office" and seeing Oscar in this role was a real treat despite how awkward it was at times. But awkward in a funny/good way.

Betty White is her usual adorable self. I can't think of anyone else to replace her.

Sandra bullock did an interesting job of making an evil boss lovable.

The location was interesting. How many of these movies are set in New York or the Bahamas? Not this one.

No sex scenes. As odd as it is for an 18 year old to say, "I hate sex scenes," I do. I want to watch a movie with my mom and not feel extremely awkward. Plus I find it really annoying when two people who hardly know each other are jumping into bed the first chance they get. I wouldn't really call that "Romantic". It just comes off as a cheap way to sell a movie. This movie had NONE of that.

And it isn't extremely predictable. I like to predict endings just from previews and I thought I had this one nailed, but 30 minutes in, I began to wonder if I bet on the right horse.

Now this isn't the kind of movie that's going to win awards for special effects or best musical number, but there's something about the simplicity that makes it all the more enjoyable. It really manages to stand on it's own.

Even my dad, "Hater of anything not made in the 70's," was laughing with us.

You'll see what I mean if you decide to see it, and I hope you do.

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Trotsky

"The Trotsky" is one of those films that I wholeheartedly loved for at least half of its running time. A deliciously dark comedy about a Canadian youth who imagines he's the reincarnation of Russian revolutionary leader Leon Trotsky, this film begins as a strong satire of idealism gone awry. The running joke, throughout, is that our hero has very little to rebel against--he's just in love with the idea that he is a relevant trailblazer. But, in fact, he's no trailblazer at all. He's just trying to mirror his life according to the facts of Trotsky's existence--right down to his love life. It's a sly and smart skewering of politics and teen rebellion. The fact that his activism has very little real world context is quite amusing as there is no obvious cause to be fought. But just as the picture had won me over--a subtle shift starts occurring and we're meant to take this arbitrary and absolutely meaningless struggle seriously. A completely implausible, and somewhat creepy, romantic entanglement doesn't help. Once I felt like the movie was asking me to embrace the student as a hero, my good will went south pretty quickly as the movie didn't seem to be in on its own joke anymore.

Jay Baruchel capably plays our wannabe revolutionary. The film begins as he organizes a hysterically inept hunger strike at his father's factory. The early family scenes work equally well as Baruchel verbally spars with his father (a great Saul Rubinek). The twist of seeing this privileged youth fighting for the teeming masses elicits many laugh out loud moments as he is seemingly disconnected from the hypocrisy of his lifestyle. His father takes a page from the real Trotsky and forces his son to attend (gasp!) public school. However, this being Canada--the school is quite lovely. For no discernible reason (slight dress code infractions are the only real issues apparent), a campaign to start an actual union to represent students is initiated. Still quite funny, the film has our hero rallying the troops for the most spectacularly inane rebellion. Soon, however, the film starts to take things a bit far and the student's apathy may turn to support. Why? Because school isn't fun. That ends up being the unifying force. Deep, huh?

Amidst the increasing nonsense, Baruchel stalks a 27 year old graduate student. Let's just say this really didn't add to my good will because you can imagine where this storyline is headed. And it's not a good place! Baruchel never comes to terms with the fact he's been an ungrateful tool to his father, but let's not dwell on the negative. Baruchel starts off as a awkwardly out-of-place antihero, but by the end--I found him insufferably self-involved AND we're meant to admire him for it! This satire started at a rollicking four stars for its first hour and ended at two stars for its shift of tone. A true disappointment. I guess I'll split the difference. It's a shame--I'd recommend the first hour to anyone, but I ended up hating it! KGHarris, 3/11.

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