Change Your Image
LorettaYeo-1
Reviews
*batteries not included (1987)
Always Worth Watching Again
In looking at other reviews I was amazed how many first saw "*batteries not included" as kids. I was 33 years old in 1986, and I got it on Beta, then LaserDisc before I bought the DVD. This is a movie you watch when you're in the doldrums because it will definitely cheer you up.
Yes, all the performances are great. Yes, the model filming by ILM is perfect - reality trumps computer generated images hands down; just look at the pudgy ENTERPRISE in the CBS "updates" of "Star Trek."
Where I disagree with some reviewers is in the plot. I think it is substantial enough to get you involved in the story, and using your brain and heart. Most of us don't need to be spoon-fed with too much detail; in fact data overload can rob you of the chance to imagine.
While I too love Spielberg's films, it would never have occurred to me to rank any of them as "not good," especially this one. While "Schindler's List" is amazing, honestly, can you watch it several times a year? Probably not, because it's just too intense. "ET" is one of those movies we can lip-sync the dialog while watching, we've seen it so often. But "*batteries not included" always seems new and fresh.
Next time you watch, see how the demolition/construction workers interact with the residents of 817 East 8th Street.
I would be more likely to recommend this movie to adults, although children can get the basics of it.
A Case of Libel (1983)
So good I've practically worn out my Beta tape
I have tried several times over the years to get Showtime to release this on DVD. I was able to record it on my Betamax when it aired in 1983. Luckily the VCR and tape still work so far.
That's how much I love this story. Of course it's a remake of the 1968 TV presentation that was based on a Broadway play and book. It highlights the McCarthy era and its numerous anti-Communist libels. But it's just as relevant today with leftist/social-justice liberals bashing anyone who doesn't conform with their views.
The fallback when you're not willing or able to coherently debate an issue is to try to destroy anyone holding an opposing view. The defendant uses cutesy memorable phrases to tell his lies, and the plaintiff and his attorney have the courage to call him out on them, even though his newspaper has the big bucks to pour into their defense.
What are the odds any liberal college professors would dare screen this in their classrooms today?