AbeStreet Reviews

The Andy Griffith Show: Only a Rose (1966) Season 7, Episode 12

An episode that benefited from being shot in color!!

[8/10 · 13 August 2014]

Like most, I tend to think TAGS was better when viewed in b&w. The show was better suited to b&w and seemed to have lost some of its charm when the sixth season started with color film. However, this episode benefited greatly from color film. The beauty of the flowers really stood out in color. Aunt Bee's Deep Pink Ecstasy Rose really comes alive in color and just wouldn't have resonated with the viewer in b&w.

On a side note, watching Clara and Aunt Bee compete with each other and try to one up each other is something that most viewers can relate to. Good friends often have rivalries but in the end true friendship outlast such rivalries and are better because of them.

Lastly, how many of us can relate to Opie's accident and the difficulty in owning up to it. I felt this episode was probably one of the best ones to be filmed in color and it was an episode most viewers can identify with.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)

Wonderful Film!!!

[8/10 · 7 July 2014]

THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER (VotDT) is a relatively good film, even better than the story is the production attention to detail and development. Of all seven books that make up the Narnia stories I have long felt that VotDT is my second to least favorite. THE LAST BATTLE is my least favorite story. Anyway, while the book never quite engaged me I have felt that the 1989 BBC film production and Fox's recent film were both quite good and each is probably my favorite when compared with the other film productions they were a part of.

I saw VotDT in the theater and in 3D. The 3d didn't really do much for me. However I was really impressed with the attention to detail that went into costumes, scene location sets, and especially the Dawn Treader set itself. While the story didn't quite adhere to the exact details of the voyages contained in the book the ship itself was a thing of beauty. If you watch the extra features on the Blu-Ray DVD you will find just how much detail went into every little aspect of the ship. While I did not notice all the detail outright when first watching the film I can see, after watching the special feature, why I was so taken with the ship itself.

The teen actor that portrayed Eustace Scrubb did a remarkable job. If THE SILVER CHAIR is to be made I hope it is soon as I'm sure the actor will soon if not already become a young adult. Lastly, the end credits are beautifully well done. The song "There's a Place for us" performed by Carrie Underwood is perfectly paired with the original artwork from the novel, illustrated by Pauline Baynes. A perfect way to marry the novel and film together.

Flyboys (2006)

Time well spent!!!!

[9/10 · 1 July 2014]

To begin with I'll state that I found this film to be highly enjoyable. I know it bombed at the box office and was rated poorly by many critics but I can't help it, this is a good film. There are a couple of ways to evaluate this film and I'll list them below. 1. Historic perspective: As many reviewers have indicated in previous reviews this film suffers from many inaccuracies. For true history and war film buffs this may ruin the film them. Myself, I knew very little of the details, other than the German planes were not colored correctly, and so the story line kept me interested. In fact, this film sparked such an interest in the story of the Lafayette Escadrille that I did a lot of research reading on the topic. I would encourage people to read up on the actual events and people. 2. Film locations & special effects: I'm thought the costume design, set locations, props, flying sequences, and special effects were extremely well done. I was completely sold on the time period and setting in which this film takes place. No doubt the film relied on CG animation for some of the fight scenes. These effects were so well done that there is no jarring juxtaposition from real life to animation that the viewer is momentarily distracted from the film's story. 3. Story: I found the story to be very good. Not overly complex but that does not mean it is a simple color by number type story. The supporting characters are given enough attention and screen time, some more than others, that the viewer is emotionally connected to their fates. Lastly, I would say that the main reason this film works for me is that I'm drawn into the story. The writing was good, the acting was good, and the story was believable. Special Effects, good sets, and costume design don't make a good film, think PEARL HARBOR (2001). The story is the thing that links all these other things together and this film links them together pretty well.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Burton's best film!!!!

[25 October 2011]

While not a big fan of Tim Burton's films, most of his films don't move me as they do many. However, Sleepy Hollow (SH) is the exception. I really can find no fault with this film. I think Burton's take on a two-hundred year old story is, in my opinion, fresh. I prefer Ichabod Crane the constable to Ichabod Crane the teacher. In SH Crane is not only investigating the Headless Horseman but the less than supernatural conspiracy behind the murders taking place.

SH boasts an acting cast about as perfectly cast as can be had, with nary a bad performance to be had. Depp's portrayal of Crane is one only Depp could have delivered. What I enjoyed most were the set designs and locations. Burton was able to somehow create a sense of beauty and foreboding in this film. The special effects were spot on and even over a decade later do not seem dated.

SH is an excellent blend of story, imagery, special effects, and suspense. I watch it every October as it fits right in with the season as do apple cider and pumpkins. Watch this on a chill and dark autumn night and I bet you will get the wonderful scary sensation that will send you to sleep feeling nervous and leave you feeling frightened when you hear a board creek or the trees rustle.

The Time Machine (2002)

Enjoyable!!!!

[8/10 · 22 February 2010]

Having never read the book and only having seen the 1970's version of this story for comparison I really enjoyed this film. The set decorations were well done and the film for the most part seamlessly blended physical sets with the GGI locations. The actors all did a fine job. I fail to understand why so many dislike this film.

The story, while familiar to many, was still suspenseful and moved at a good pace. It's not an action film and so those expecting non-stop action may be disappointed. Still there is action and great special effects. Time travel is such an interesting concept and is something that most people have day dreamed about at one time or another. I'm sure there are things we all wish we could go back and change. The Morlock's are great and terrifying enemies.

Of course there are some nitpicks to be had. Will people still be speaking English 800,000 years from now? Unlikely! Could a computer still be running and functioning 800,000 years from now? I can't imagine how!!! Finally, given the way the geography changed over 800,000 years, which was well visualized by CGI effects, is it likely that the Time Machine would not emerge buried underground or underwater? I didn't find it at all credible that the Time Machine, which does not move physically but only through time, would materialize on the surface after so many millennia.

Still, this movie tells a good story and IMO is well worth watching. It may be a little scary for children under ten but in general is a good family film.

Punisher: War Zone (2008)

Works for Me!!!

[8/10 · 12 June 2009]

I don't really remember the 1989 version of this comic, probably not a bad thing, but I do remember the 2004 version. While I thought the 2004 version was not a bad film it felt nothing like the comic book character I grew up reading. My biggest mistake was thinking that this film (2008) was going to be like the 2004 one and so I avoided going to see it in the theater. My Mistake!! I recently viewed the film on DVD and was pleased. This film was better than the previous two in almost every way; from lead actor, to story setting, and to villains. The films ending was a bit rushed and weak but all in all a great adaptation.

The opening fight scene was the first indicator that this film was on the right track. The Punisher punished, without remorse or hesitation, those that needed punishing. The actor (Ray Stevenson) who portrayed the Punisher did a great job in portraying the Punishers hard side as well as his softer side, as when dealing with the victims, and seemed to be born to play this role.

My guess is that if you grew up reading the Punisher comics than this film will appeal to you. If you're first encounter with the Punisher was the 2004 film it may not appeal to you. Personally I hope Marvel gives this franchise one more chance and authorizes a sequel.

Class Action (1991)

Solid Film!!

[8/10 · 19 May 2008]

Sometimes I'm left with the impression that viewers think all films should be award winning material, as though the goal and worth of a film can be judged by the amount of award nominations it generates and brings home. I disagree, a good film should entertain, and that is what this film does very well. Nice on location sets give the film an authentic and attractive feel. The acting is top notch. The two main overlapping stories, the father & daughter relationship and the legal battle, tie in very nicely. This is a solid film that draws the viewer in and keeps his/her attention until final scene. There are many ways to waste two hours, this film is not one of them.

Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

Good script, good acting and good directing = a good film.

[10/10 · 31 October 2006]

We've all seen movies about underdogs and their struggles to beat the odds. When AKEELAH AND THE BEE first hit the theaters I made the mistake of thinking that this movie was just another run of the mill "underdog" movie, I was wrong. Just recently, after several positive reviews from family & friends, I finally saw the film on DVD. I was greatly surprised at how much I began to care for the characters in this film. In my opinion, the main characters quest to become the national spelling bee champion takes second place to the way her character, and the characters of those around her, evolve. The problems she faces are common to most people, both children and adult. I think the film correctly shows that overcoming obstacles and hardships can rarely be done alone. Acknowledging the need for support and accepting the help of a support network benefits not only the individual but those that make up the support network. I think the film correctly shows that the quest of an underdog can provided a rewarding experience, regardless of the final result of the quest. I loved the poem by Marianne Williamson, "Our Deepest Fear". This poem is beautiful, it not only describes the character of Akeelah perfectly but correctly points out the people in general should approach their own personal fears.

Lions Gate is a film company that grasps, in my opinion, what many major film studios seem to have trouble doing. Lions Gate may pump out action films but also recognizes that all films need not have fancy effects, explosions and hundreds of millions of dollars on actors, sets and FX. Sometimes all people want is a simple story that is well written, well acted and well directed. This film was made for 6 million dollars and still had well known performers in it. I applaud Laurence Fishburne & Angela Bassett, two well established performers that are probably capable of jointly receiving movie salaries greater than the entire production cost of this film, for taking an obvious pay cut to lend their services to a film like this. All the child performers were excellent. I have to acknowledge KeKe Palme, she really shined in the title role.

I realize no movie will appeal to all viewers but this one will appeal to most.

World's Finest (2004)

Not a bad trailer, seemed better suited for a television show than a theatrical movie.

[7/10 · 25 July 2006]

I really liked BATMAN: DEAD END, I thought that it had a theatrical feel to it and that given a chance Collora could make a fine film. This trailer didn't quite give me the same impression. The story line, or potential story line, was quite good but due to the acting and special effects left me feeling like this would have made a good TV movie or television show.

First, Michael O'Hearn is not that good a Superman. I actually thought he, in his brief appearance, made a decent Clark Kent. Sorry, I just don't think of SuperMan as being that buff. The suit Kent wore masked his size. Batman may have the body of a bodybuilder but not Superman. Supes is toned no doubt but not bulk. Anyway, I didn't care for all his posing and his transformation from Kent to Superman seemed cheezy. Now this may not be just O'Hearn's fault, Collora may have to take some of the credit for poor scripting and direction.

Second, the special effects for flying were cheezy. Superman flies through the sky. If was obvious that this Superman flew close to the ground, with the telephone cables and buildings visible above him. I don't think there were any full body shots of Superman flying. Evidently the harness and rigging supporting O'Hearn must have been located on his lower torso.

All in all it was a good trailer. I'd probably pay to see a film, if ever made, and would be sure to catch it on television. The story line, an alliance between Lexcorp and Wayne Industries, Superman jealous of Lois's attraction to Wayne, Lex and Twoface teaming to beat Superman and the joining of forces between Batman & Superman is a good one. I'm sure with a larger budget and approval for a full film Collora and company, even O'Hearn could deliver a decent film. Certainly one better than the most of the comic based crap coming out of Hollywood lately.

Batman: Dead End (2003)

Imagine what could have been done with a 10 million dollar budget?

[8/10 · 25 July 2006]

I guess I'm a little late in discovering this gem. Collora really took a leap forward by going back to the basics. Like many here I'm a comic fan that grew up with the various television shows and comic stories. Batman is a character that is constantly undergoing changes due to various writers, artists and medium representations (film, television, comics, books). Still I think Collora really focused on the basics. His Batman looks great in the old gray outfit, no body armor, or muscle padding. Personally I didn't have a problem with Bartram's acting. It wasn't like he was given a lot of dialog. He pulled the fight scenes off just fine.

That brings me to another point, Batman's fighting. As time has gone by Batman has become a great martial artists, the film BATMAN BEGINS does a good job of describing how he became such a skilled fighter. Still, in earlier versions Batman was more of a street fighter, less about martial art techniques and more about a hard hitting slugger. He had some training but wasn't the martial artist he is now ofter viewed as. I don't have a problem with Batman the martial artist, neither do I have a problem with Batman the street fighter. I think there is room for both representations. I don't know if this was Collora's intent or if he was just limited by time and money. Whatever the reason I like the way his Batman fought.

The story isn't well defined but it doesn't need to be. The idea of Batman taking of a classic villain like the Joker and then crossover characters like AVP was cool. I bet most viewers were caught off guard when the film suddenly ended, having forgot that they were only watching an eight minute film. We the viewers wanted more. BTW, I think Koenig did fine as the Joker. Perhaps, even if Collora doesn't get the nod for a Batman film, Koenig might find a place in the Nolan Batman films.

Obviously this film wasn't meant to have a beginning or an end, just a snippet of a story that makes the viewer wonder "What if?" With films often approaching or exceeding the 100 million dollar mark I often wonder where all the money goes. Collora made this film for a reported $30,000. If he were to have filmed a 2 hour film and kept the same level of effects, costumes and stage sets the cost would have been about $600,000. Now imagine if he were given $10 million to spend on sets and special effects, both CGI and traditional FX. My impression is that he could deliver a film that would appeal to many viewers and due to the low cost of production generate more money for the studios and DC than the Burton films, maybe even approaching the success of BATMAN BEGINS. It amazes me that studios give such men as David Goyer and Paul Anderson a shot at writing and directing while Collora has been passed over.

Starflight: The Plane That Couldn't Land (1983 TV Movie)

I can admit that I still enjoy this made for TV movie.

[7/10 · 25 March 2006]

When I saw this film during it's first airing back in 1983, at the age of 14, I thought it was a good movie. It had one of my favorite actors, Lee, the Six-Million Dollar Man, Majors in it. My generation also grew up on disaster films and this movie carried on the torch. Actually it is probably one of the last of the 70'ish type disaster movies. The plot, IMO, closely resembled that of AIRPORT-77, only this plane was stranded in space instead of underwater in the ocean.

I, especially now as an adult, can see why people may dislike this film. Although this film is supposed to be realistic it is about as realistic as and child's fairy tale. You know what, I don't care. I still enjoy this film. I don't watch a film like this for the real life science and technology. I watch it for fun and take the science and technology about as seriously as I do that of a Star Trek film or show.

Chezzy films may not be for everyone but for those that don't mind a little cheese this film will probably be worth viewing, at least once.

The Polar Express (2004)

I think this will become a Christmas Classic.

[8/10 · 1 December 2005]

I saw this film during it's original release in the theater. I had mixed feelings about the film. I recently saw it again on DVD and have come to the conclusion that this was a fine piece of work and is much better than I first thought. I'll comment of the film from various aspects.

1. Story/Plot: I have never read the book, although I recently ordered a copy and hope to read it shortly, and so I had no idea what the story was about prior to viewing the film. The story focuses on a young boy and Christmas Eve adventure that he becomes involved in. This young boy takes a train to the North Pole and along the way meets several other kids that he befriends. In one form or another, they all help each other learn more about themselves and each other as they overcome obstacles and face unexpected challenges and dangers. The main character, the original young boy, who is beginning to loose faith in Santa Claus finally comes to terms with what he believes in and reaches a conclusion on the matter.

2. Animation/CGI: Personally I didn't think it was all that great. The non-human animation was pretty good. The train, outdoor scenery, snow, and the village at the North Pole were all well done. However, the animated humans, elves and Santa Claus all seemed a little outdated. Not bad, but something that may have been more in line with the CGI animation of films made 6 or 7 year ago. There movements were a little to jerky and their clothing didn't have the right kind of texture. Actually, the human CGI animation seemed more like the kind you might find in a video game. One thing that changed for me when I watched the DVD was the look the human eyes had. In the theater they seemed large and devoid of life, as many others have stated. At home they seemed much more life like. Now this may be because the screen at my home is much smaller or it could be that the eyes were touched up for the DVD release after so many people commented on the "dead eyes" during the films original release. Whatever the reason they eyes no longer seem dead and lifeless.

3. Music: I've always appreciated the score. It's nothing special but it does fit the film perfectly and is pleasing to the ear. The soundtrack is okay. While I don't really care for films that through in musical numbers, I'll have to admit that I catch myself singing the "Hot Chocolate" song. Overall the songs are pretty good and don't slow the film down.

All in all it's a good story. The story focuses on just a few of the kids on a train loaded with kids. We grow to car for these kids and actually feel their pain as they say good-bye at the end of the joiner. Tom Hanks takes on so many roles it seems as though he's narrating the film. Personally I would have rather had him portray the Conductor and narrate the rest of the film. Other actors could have supplied the voices for Santa, Scrooge, and the other characters Hanks provided voices for. In some ways this movie reminds me of MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, the story is about charting one characters struggle to believe in Santa.

Lastly, I think dark setting may frighten some kids but for most it will help add suspense, fear and beauty to the various scenes. The darkness was necessary as the story takes place late at night. If the story took place during daylight I doubt the film would have the emotional impact that it does by taking place at night.

Working Girl (1988)

Not just a "chick flick."

[8/10 · 28 October 2005]

This film has no action scenes, involves a romance, and tells the story of a working class female and her struggle to better her personal and professional life. On the surface the film may seem as though it is targeted towards a female audience, not so! Basically this film is about an underdog and the underdog's desire to better herself. This is something both males and females can relate to. The underdog, Tess McGill (Melanie Griffith), is not pure of heart. McGill manipulates, lies and deceives people to get what she wants. I think all people, to some extent, have done these very same things at some point in their lives. What is somewhat unique about this film is that the underdog has to come face to face with her moral wrong doings. Once she does this she is able to face the reality of her situation and for better or worse move on. Does she persevere and come out on top? I won't tell, watch the movie.

I think Mike Nichols did a fine job of taking a somewhat common story (an underdogs struggle to advance/win), a cast of recognizable but (at the time of the release) non "A" list actors, and a nice but unspectacular song & score and produced a hit movie worthy of all the "Oscar" nominations it received, including a win for Best Song. In other words the sum of the parts was greater than a single part. Some movies boast big names or a great song but the film fails to have the emotional impact or appeal that WG does. Speaking only for myself, I heard "Let the River Run" by Carly Simon before I saw WG and I didn't think the song was all that great. After I saw the film the song took on an entirely new aspect and I loved it.

Lastly, with the exception of Harrison Ford, who at that point in his career had not shed his action hero image, many of the actors in this film were not quite famous. Look for Kevin Spacy as a sleazy would be hiring boss, Oliver Platt who uses his supervisor position to act as a pimp, Joan Cusak reminds us why the 80's are known for "big hair", and a young Alec Baldwin who was busy trying to establish himself as an actor and not passing on his political ideology.

Kojak: The Belarus File (1985 TV Movie)

As good as, if not better than, the series!

[9/10 · 18 April 2005]

A great story! Kojak investigates a series of recent killings that involve Russian Jews that worked with the Germans 40 years earlier to help imprison Jews in Hitler's concentration camps. Kojak is tied closely to the case by friends that are in the middle of the case. Susan Pleshette gives a great performance as Kojak's unofficial assistant and possible love interest. Max Von Sydow is, as always, great.

Perhaps now that the first season of KOJAK is now on DVD we can look forward to a DVD release for this film, as well as the several other KOJAK movies made in the late 80's and early 90's.

The Black Stallion (1979)

Almost as good as the book!

[8/10 · 2 March 2005]

This story has been with me in one form or another since I was a toddler. I grew up reading Walter Farley's books. I began as a toddler with the Little Black Pony stories and The Big Black Horse, which is a scaled down version of The Black Stallion. The Big Black Horse deals with the portion of the story that takes place on the boat and then moves to the island that Alec and the Black were stranded on. It ends with their rescue. As a pre-teen and young teenager I read almost all the Black Stallion books that had been written up to that point at time, the late 70's and early 80's. When I heard that a film was being written I was so very excited. However when I first saw the film I was disappointed. It was no fault of the film makers but rather a fault of my own imagination. After having read so many of the Black Stallion books I had created my own ideas of what everyone, everyplace, and everything should look like. This is one of the great things about reading, each reader creates their own unique images. The movie in many ways was at a disadvantage, in no way could it satisfy the thousand of fans who had been reading the books for nearly four decades. Anyway, I thought the film moved a little slow and while sticking fairly close to the book failed to capture my interest like the books did.

Jump ahead 25 years and I have a new take. I recently purchased the DVD. I figured what the heck, it's reasonably priced and I did like the story. As I watched the film as an adult I found that I really enjoyed it in a way I hadn't as a child. The movie lets the images tell the story, no need for narration or long drawn out dialogue . The sets are really well done and I never sensed that any portion of the film was made on a studio back lot. The story moves at a good pace and is not drawn out too long. The casting was very well done. Micky Rooney was great as the old jockey turned trainer, Henry Dailey. African American screen legend Clarence Muse did well in the role of Snoe. Muse was 90 years old when the film was made and died just before the film was released. This was really a well put together movie. I would suggest that you watch it when you're not busy doing something else at the same time. If you are able to sit down and allow yourself to focus your attention on the film you'll find yourself really drawn into the story.

Lastly, as for the DVD, I don't know who the DVD manufacturers thought they were fooling when they called this a "widescreen release"? Instead of releasing the true widescreen version they simply stretched the pan & scan version and added black bars to the bottom and top of the picture. I would suggest you, for those who are able, that you shrink the film and watch it in normal pan & scan mode. It is better viewed in this aspect ratio than the stretched version the DVD manufacturers try to have you watch it in.

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

A guilty pleasure of mine!

[7 September 2004]

As I indicated in my review of PD-1, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed that film. Basically PD-1 combines the story lines of PRETTY WOMAN & LITTLE LORD FAUNTLEROY. Despite the fact the story was not original the film was very good. I took my daughter to see PD-1 back in 2001 and have seen it several times since then on DVD. When PD-2 came out I suggested to my my 10 year old daughter that she and I go and check it out.

We saw it this past weekend and it turned out to be even better than PD-1. The story picks up in Genovia. The Queen, portrayed by Julie Andrews, is about to step down as Queen so that Princess Mia can assume the role. However, a challenger to the throne surfaces. He is the nephew of one of the legislative members of Genovia. John Rhys-Davies portrays the scheming Uncle who covets the throne. Hector Elizondo returns in his role as Joe, the head of security for the Queen. In order for Princess Mia to assume the throne she will have to find and marry her husband within 30 days. To sum it up. Princess Mia, has to find a husband and avoid the pitfalls that the other heir to the throne is setting up for her. She has to do all this under intense media scrutiny.

I really enjoyed this movie. It reminded me of the family movies Disney used to make back in the 1970's. Good clean fun for the whole family. There were a lot of noticeable supporting actors. Actors like Tom Poston, Larry Miller and Raven. I would have given this movie 5 out of 5 stars but I think the writers should have let Julie Andrews sing a song of her own rather than turning it into a duet with Raven. I'm sure kids, like my daughter, appreciated the addition of Raven but as an adult I felt it was hokey. So I give the film 4 out of 5 stars.

It's so nice to have a little girl to view movies like this with. If I didn't have one my macho male ego would have probably kept me from ever watching these films on my own.

The Princess Diaries (2001)

A surprise treat!

[7 September 2004]

When I was 32 years old, back in 2001 when this movie came out, I took my then 7 year old daughter to see this move. As a parent I often have to suffer through books my children read to me, music they like, and television shows & movies that I have no desire to see. The previews made this movie look like the standard Disney channel fluff I occasionally have to endure. However, I found that I actually enjoyed this movie.

Garry Marshall basically redressed his PRETTY WOMAN storyline for kids. He even brought in Hector Elizondo, the hotel manager in PW, as the head security officer for the Queen of Genovia, who is played by Julie Andrews. The story also has aspects of the LITTLE LORD FAUNTLEROY novel in it.

The story is not all that original. A long lost heir to the throne of Genovia has been identified as a klutzy teenager who lives in San Francisco. The Queen of Genovia goes to San Francisco and attempts to persuade her to come back to Genovia and take her place as a princess of the realm. From their the typical hijinks ensue. The princess gets an education in proper royal behavior & procedures. The Queen learns to loosen up and relax. Princess Mia also struggles between dating the school jock, who ignored her before she became famous and dating an unpopular guy who has been her friend for years.

The story is predictable and hold no real surprises. Despite this I still found myself enjoying the film. Julie Andrews did well in her role as the Queen and it was a treat to see her in another Disney film. I was surprised by how well Anne Hathaway did in her role as Princess Mia. She held her own against such performers as Andrews and Elizondo. This movie could have come off as cheezy but thanks to the director and skilled actors it proved to be a real treat. I remember back in 1990 when PW came out that girls thought it was so romantic that a hooker could find romance, true love and wealth. In my opinion PD is a much better role model. I'd rather have my little girl wishing she that she was heir to throne than a hooker who happens to find true love.

Anyway, thanks to my daughter I discovered a film that I really enjoyed It is also because of her that I just saw the sequel, PD-2. It was even better than PD.

The Thin Man (1934)

Nora's best film.

[30 April 2004]

As other reviewers have indicated this is a cute romantic mystery. Nick & Nora Charles broke new ground with their love bickering. The film is a nice break from the more typical hardboiled detectives of the 20's, 30's and 40's.

I think Nora (Myrna Loy) was at her best in this film. She is beautiful. Her cute nose, which as she aged grew less and less cute, and short dark hair came off as very sexy. This is the only film in which her desire to see Nick work as a detective came off as genuine. In the later films it seemed to be a little to scripted. I think my favorite scene is when Joe Morelli broke into Nick and Nora's bedroom. In order to keep Nora from getting shot Nick punches Nora in the jaw to knock her out of the line of fire. As a married man I can tell you Nick got to do what most men wish they could do at some point in time. (jk). Nora takes it like a champ. Instead being upset at Nick she's upset that she missed the action while she was dazed on the floor.

While not my favorite THIN MAN movie overall I do think it has the best romantic sparring between Nick and Nora. The plot is pretty good and the story moves at a good pace. If you're not familiar with that many 1930's films you'll get a kick out of the 30's lingo, especially some of the womens lingo, in the film. I don't know if recreational drinking was ever as carefree as it is with Nick but it doesn't come off as hokey and is quite funny.

The best thing about the film is the relationship between Nick and Nora. I wish there were more directors like Van Dyke around today. He, without lengthy dialogue scenes, was able to capture the love Nick and Nora had for eachother. He also kept the pace moving. He was able to deliver in a hour and a half what most directors spend 2 to 3 hours trying to do and not succeeding as well as he does.

The Thin Man Goes Home (1944)

So good I popped my vest buttons!

[8/10 · 29 April 2004]

This is the fourth sequel to the 1934 smash hit THE THIN MAN. Just when I would have thought the series was dead the producers and writers were able to add life to the franchise.

Nick goes home and of course gets dragged into another murder mystery. Nora, who by now should no longer be curious to see Nick solve a mystery, tries to get Nick to solve a murder mystery so he can impress his father the medical doctor. Nick's father had always hoped his son would have become a doctor and when Nick became a cop and then detective he looked down on him. As far as the mystery goes it follows the typical THIN MAN formula. A bunch of suspects are introduced and in the end Nick rounds them all up and reveals the killer.

The comedy is better than ever. Rather than have Nick always drinking and having jokes centered around his drinking Nick is now sober. The jokes are even funnier because everyone believes he is still a drunk and he just can't convince them otherwise. The scene in his Dad's parlor is hilarious. Nick is stone sober but due to a series of mishaps he is on the floor and appears to all to be drunk as ever. Also, when Nick recounts his childhood to Nora and tells her of his trips to the wood shed that brings back memories of my childhood and trips to the wood shed.

This is my second favorite THIN MAN movie. Right behind AFTER THE THIN MAN and just before the original THIN MAN. It is an almost perfect blend of mystery and comedy.

Shadow of the Thin Man (1941)

If it ain't broke don't fix it!

[28 April 2004]

SHADOW OF THE THIN MAN offers nothing really new but it does offer exactly what fans of the franchise expect. Nick and Nora get dragged into another murder mystery. They continue to bicker in their loving way. Nick and all his old street contacts help Nick do what the police cannot. Lt. Abrams (Sam Levene) last seen in AFTER THE THIN MAN returns. He is to Nick what Inspector Lestrad is to Sherlock Holmes. It's a treat to see a young Donna Reed in a film 5 years prior to her breakthrough performance in IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE and 2 decades prior to her self named sitcom.

As usual, Nick with Nora's help rounds up all the suspects and walks the viewer through his deductive reasoning and then announces who the killer is. As this was the third sequel it is plain to see the basic formula that is present in all the THIN MAN films. It, by this film, had become about as complex as a color by numbers coloring book. Little imagination but still fun to do. I would rank this my fourth favorite of the six THIN MAN FILMS.

Another Thin Man (1939)

Great stand alone film.

[28 April 2004]

I've always liked ANOTHER THIN MAN. I never quite understood what made it different than the other THIN MAN FILMS until I read some of the other reviews listed here at IMDB.com. I guess it, as some have described, is darker film or perhaps grittier would be a better word. Anyway, the next three THIN MAN sequels all followed a very basic formula. All that changes were the names and faces but the people were all the same. Those three films were, in my opinion, targeted at the current fans. No doubt the fan base was large and guaranteed a good return at the box office. However, the love bickering that went on between Nick and Nora was no longer fresh. The plots all followed the same formula and even Asta the dog was no longer as amusing as he first was. In general all the other sequels followed the time old Hollywood tradition of redressing the same old story to lure fans back to the theater and wring some more money out of them.

ANOTHER THIN MAN did seem to leave some of the overt comedy behind and focused on plot a little bit more. I didn't notice as big a change in the formulas as others have but it is clear that VanDyke was trying to approach the film from a different angle. As this was only the second sequel to the original THIN MAN the view, if he/she watches all six films in the order they were made, may not notice some of characteristic plot devices. More than anything else I think this is the last THIN MAN film that showed Nick and Nora's playful bickering and loving digs at each other and it still seemed believable to the viewers. By the fourth film it no longer seemed genuine or practical. Instead of falling into the dull married routine in later films Nick and Nora still playfully feel each other out and take pleasure in pushing each others buttons. To me this didn't seem that realistic for an old married couple but it was still fresh in ANOTHER THIN MAN.

This film should appeal to all THIN MAN fans as well as the more casual viewer. If this is the first film you've seen of the THIN MAN movies I suggest watching THE THIN MAN and AFTER THE THIN MAN before watching any of the other THIN MAN films.

After the Thin Man (1936)

Best of the Thin Man movies.

[28 April 2004]

The very first THIN MAN movie was so popular due to love bickering relationship between Nick and Nora. It was no doubt a treat to see a married couple pick at each other and all the while the love they shared for each other was evident to all. The murder mystery almost takes second place to the bickering between Nick and Nora. Not so in AFTER THE THIN MAN.

AFTER THE THIN MAN devotes the bulk of the story to the murder mystery. Nick, who is still supposedly retired from detective work, gets lured into another case. A relative of Nora's needs Nick to prove her innocent. The case seems iron clad and Lieutenant Abrams, portrayed by Sam Levene is sure who the killer is. Only Nick seems to be able to sift through all the circumstantial evidence and get to the real evidence. Nora dogs his every step as she attempts to convince her family Nick is a good man even if he wears a "blue" collar.

James Stewart, prior to becoming famous, does well as the rejected love interest of the accused murderer. He will do anything to help her...or will he? Penny Singleton, prior to her role as Blondie Bumstead in the BLONDIE movies and her providing her voice as Jan Jetson on the JETSONS, has an interesting role as 1930's sexy street sassy blonde. As she would tell you, she's not illiterate because her parents were married at city hall.

So, while the original THIN MAN was fresh and new AFTER THE THIN MAN has all the dents and dings banged out of the script. It is a much better and much more interesting film. It is my favorite of the six THIN MAN films.

Song of the Thin Man (1947)

The magic is gone!

[27 April 2004]

I loved the earlier THIN MAN movies. The chemistry between Nick and Nora was cute and new at the time the films originated. Nick, the former police detective, who loved to drink but had the deductive capabilities of Sherlock Holmes. Nora was the adventurous rich girl who proved to be more than a match for her street smart husband. This formula worked very well during the early movies but by the time SONG OF THE THIN MAN was released the magic was gone.

Now Nick, who is now sober, & Nora are now parents of Nick Jr. played by Dean Stockwell (QUANTUM LEAP's Rear Admiral Albert 'Al' Calavicci)and both clearly showing their middle age wear and tear. All the interplay between Nick and Nora seems old and tired. Nick continues to use his street connections to try and generate clues while Nora still seems to be curious about Nick's detective powers. Nick, as always, rounds up all the suspects and as everybody, except the criminal who must not be familiar with Nick's modus operandi, knows he revels the criminal and saves the day. I should have listed this as a spoiler but anyone familiar the THIN MAN movies will know how the film ends. The only mystery is who did it and not how it will be revealed.

I love THE THIN MAN movies. I really enjoyed THE THIN MAN GOES HOME. However the series should have ended there. SONG OF THE THIN MAN was an obvious attempt to ring a little more money out of the franchise.

Undercover Brother (2002)

I've rarely laughed so hard!!!

[17 March 2004]

I've read a lot of reviews that indicated this film was full of racial stereotyping and that is insulting for this reason and that. That's the point. The film makes fun of the various stereotypes, both black and white, that exist now and then.

The film starts out with both Undercover Brother, a modern day blaxploitation hero, teams up with the B.R.O.T.H.E.R.H.O.O.D., a secret agency seeking to promote black equality, to defeat the Man. The Man being the figure for the supposed white establishment that governs U.S. society. The Man is using a mind-controlled Black retired 4 Star General to introduce a mind controlling drug to the Black community via his chain of General's Fried Chicken (GFC) restaurants. All the U.S. loves the former potential presidential candidate General, he is so well spoken. Remind you of any other well spoken Black general who was a potential president candidate in 2000?

As the film progresses the Undercover Brother and the The B.R.O.T.H.E.R.H.O.O.D. track down the Man and after a series of hilarious confrontations with the Man's troops and agents. The final confrontation takes place at the Man's secret Island. The end of the film is good and promotes racial harmony as members of both races realize the benefit of working together.

I love Conspiracy Brother played Dave Chappelle. Chappelle hasn't been so funny since his role as Reggie in THE NUTTY PROFESSOR (96). The music is great (I also bought the soundtrack) and anyone who grew up in the 70's will be taken back to their youth. You know the time when music was original and hadn't been sampled and rapped over multiple times and then passed off as new and original. The one remake is Snoop Dogg's "Undercova Funk" but it's hardly a remake as his Uncle, the original performer, Bootsy Collins remakes it with him.

I hope they make an Undercover Brother 2 but don't see how it could be funnier than the original. Until then I think I'll sit down with my Nappy meal and rewatch UNDERCOVER BROTHER again.

Chiefs (1983)

Stuart Woods's best book and film!

[17 February 2004]

This film was made at a time when the big networks, in this case CBS, took pride in making tv movies and mini-series. Excellent attention to detail in just about every aspect of this 3 part movies. As the film movies from the 1920's to the 1940's and eventually the 1960's the viewer gets to see the town of Delano Georgia grow and change. It almost seems as though Delano is a real town. The costumes, settings and props for each time setting are well done.

This mini-series stick very close to the original story written by Stuart Woods. During a 40 year time frame 3 different police chiefs try to solve the various and ongoing murders that are taking place in the vicinity of Delano. Young male transients are being kidnapped and sexually assaulted before they are murdered. Racial tensions run high in Delano and add to the difficulty in solving the murders. Good acting by all who participated. Charlton Heston, Paul Sorvino, Brad Davis and Billy Dee Williams were at the top of their acting game in this mini-Series.

I was able to tape the original 3 part mini-series when it was first aired and despite some drop in quality due to age this mini-series is a favorite of mine and viewed at least once a year. For those who enjoyed the film they may want to read and or watch the story and film GRASS ROOTS. This story continues to follow the Lee family as one of their members attempts to become a U.S. Senator. During the race another racially motivated murder in Delano complicates matters.