This film is a case of the black stereotyped bigotry of the time backfiring on the makers of this movie. Eddie (Rochester) Anderson a black driver set in what should have been a typical step-n-fetch it role quite literally stole this movie from the white cast. Don't get me wrong the rest of the cast do a bang up job making this movie at once old sckool erie, creppy and dark yet a constant humor runs so obviously down the middle of every scene that it refuses to be missed. It is just Rochester does a great perfect job of breathing a real life and fun into his character that has dignity of a sort that the others lack. At times Rochester becomes the straight man playing to the back drop of his cast mates silliness. Others got top billing as was the custom of that bigoted time but in this movie Rochester RULES Baby!

The movie starts as Cosmo Topper a New York banker on his way to his vacation home is ambushed by two ladies fresh from a car wreck wanting a ride to their destination a creepy old mansion estate on a huanted hill overlooking a tempest tossed sea. Cosmo Topper kind man that he is at heart takes the 2 ladies and their suitcases in his smallish car. On their way to the old mansion strange woman upon his lap it just happens husband Cosmo passes by his home where a stunned Mrs Topper is there to see a young lady sitting upon her husbands lap another in the back seat. Topper caught with a "Carload of Ladies" does the only thing he can do which is speed on to his destination. Now upset e-gad for her Topper did not even have the decency to return her wave as he rode past with a young lady on his lap Mrs. Topper remarks later in scorn! This Mrs. Topper is not the same actress as stared in the first Topper Movie and is not as good but is adequate. The first Mrs Topper had a killer voice and comedic timing so weird she could not be duplicated.

Well as is typical in a Topper movie the friend gets killed and her ghost needs closure with Cosmo Toppers help to move on. Only Cosmo Topper see's and interacts with this ghost. The rich lady who was the real target of a scheming greedy man is still at risk of death by murder. The ghost of this now murdered friend seeks out her one true friend (locally anyway) Cosmo Topper. Hey she did sit in Cosmo's lap after all sounds chummy enough to me. The madcap escapades begin there and never end as the ghost leads poor compliant dullish but dutyful friend Topper on one adventure after another following up leads to her murder till the murderer is exposed. The murderer is exposed no thanks to keystone cop like local police. The real hoot is throughout the movie Rochester see's "things", doors opening and closing by themselves, people talking to nothing and gettin answers, extra set's of footprints in freshly fallen snow he can't account for insights he shares with others even if he is ignored. Rochester reveals he had a brain by in effect becoming this movies voice of reason and sanity as all about him seem just a bit crazy in some weird odd ball way. There are over worked cheap shots where Rochester is played with by a seal but its done in a way that while demeaning are almost funny. All in all a good performance is done by all here. This third and final of the movie series while darker than the other Topper movies was in many ways the best in that it was killer funny while being enough of a mystery to keep you interested and focued on the murder plot.

The absolute funnest scene comes at the very end of the movie where the murderer is now a ghost and appolligises for drunking Rochester into the water. "Sorry for drunking you into the water old man" the murderer says... The response again while slightly demeaning is hallarious. This movie is a must for anyone who loves comedy or wants to see how racial stereotyping was used in mass media to promote the brutish ignorant bigotry commonplace in the United States of the 1930's\1940's.


One of my favorites of the 30's and 40's light comedy-mysteries. Spooky house, hidden passages and a murderer to catch. Carole Landis never looked better, and Joan Blondell is at her funniest. A shame that films like this one aren't seen much anymore. The B/W version is better to watch than the colorized version, but either is worth watching. Recently re-issued as a low cost DVD.


Having watched the mildly amusing antics of the first Topper movie and vaguely remembering an enjoyment of the Leo G. Carroll television series, I was unprepared for how terrible this episode of the long-running ghost story was. Joan Blondell as the ghost is constantly making wisecracks, none of which can be regarded as witty. Eddie "Rochester" Anderson is thoroughly wasted in a role that is overtly racist. Falling down a well not once, not twice but three times only to be inexplicably clubbed by a seal, has to be one of the low points of his comic career. The murder mystery angle is worthy of a bad Scooby Doo episode. And the whole thing seems only barely tolerable as fodder for the Mystery Science Theatre treatment.


I must I admit that the other two installments are very funny screwball comedies, but this one tops them all.

The mainstays of Roland Young and Billie Burke are back as the tentative couple who are always one-part bumbler and the other-part clueless. Their scenes are always funny as Young tries so hard not to let on to his clueless wife what is really going on!

But the star who carries this one is none other than that bombshell comedienne herself, JOAN BLONDELL. Just when you think she is only going to be a sidekick, she turns into THE kick. Her comic flair and range serve her well.

As do the talents of the Donald MacBride as the Police Captain. (It's amazing how many defenders of the law he actually played during his long career - which by the way goes all the way back to the silents.) [1914].

The other star in his own right is Eddie "Rochester" Anderson. He shines numerous times in this outing as the Topper driver. Every comedy needs a great last scene or last line. And this time, it belongs to Rochester. Many people do not know that he became a wealthy man and lived in the "Hills" alongside many of the film star greats of the time. No mean feat for a "man of color" in those days. What a great talent he was!

All in all, so many others also bring this ensemble work to work...notably the always underused Patsy Kelley, whose frumpish comedic gifts rounded out this wonderfully funny movie.

Sit back and enjoy this ghostly screwball gem!


I liked the first movie. It was funny I guess. But the second one, come on, my dad and I, movie lovers, almost lost our dinner watching it. At one point within this movie, Clara Topper who is looking through the creepy mansion for her husband is sitting at a table with her maid eating cake. My dad and I made a Mystery Science Theater out of it. I despised this movie. It was not good at all. And one women is constantly saying things like, "Well that killed all of that" this being a murder, she intended it to be funny which it is definitely not at all. I don't understand why some people who put reviews on this page appreciated this movie. I know that this is just my opinion and that you may not agree, but I hated this movie which others seemed to love.


I first saw this movie about five years after a miserable divorce. I had worked fifteen years supplying a monster home, Mercedes for her, Jag V12 for me, all for nothing. With everything now gone I saw this film not once but two days in a row. The actors, the plot and the Bee-Gee's background music was almost hypnotic. It helped me change my vocation from being corporate cattle, to one that I love doing. A copy rests in my video library and is viewed regularly. It's 5 star to me.


Is life-guarding a grown-up job? What does it mean to be a grownup, anyway? Who decides how people should spend their lives?

These are among the questions examined in this beautifully written character study of a man who has decisions to make.

They're not issues that will change the world, but the kind of small decisions we wrestle with every day. What is really important? Why do we do what we do? Who influences how we behave? Should we conform because that's what people want of us?

I remember once in TV Guide an ad that showed a buffed-out Sam Elliott with the caption, "He's every woman's dream--Lifeguard!" But this film has nothing to do with looks, and everything to do with character.

It's a terrific piece of work, ringing true in scene after scene.


This is one of the finest films of the seventies. It deals with the complexities of life and society, and forces you to make a decision on what's important in life. Do we need to conform and fit into a society that has its own set of rules?....or is it O.K. to do what makes you happy as an individual, in turn giving you a better sense of fulfillment in life. Sam Elliott, Kathleen Quinlan, and Anne Archer, are all wonderful. This movie is a wonderful portrait of Southern California and the 1970's. Don't miss the chance to see it, you will not be disappointed.


This film works as a nice little reality check for us "over-aged" surfers. We see Rick teased with getting a so called real job, and we see him doing what he loves to do....being at the beach. Nice direction for a 70's film and real nice character development. Ann Archer shows her acting skills and of course Sam Elliott steals the show.


Thank goodness Sam Elliott took his shirt off twice in "Frogs." The wife of Daniel Petrie supposedly saw "Frogs" while her husband was trying to cast the lead role in his new movie, "Lifeguard," and she suggested he consider a minor actor with a suntanned physique named Sam Elliott. Mrs. Petrie proved to be a shrewd judge of man-flesh because it's impossible to imagine "Lifeguard" without Elliott's presence. And thank goodness Elliott wasn't asked to shave his gloriously-hairy chest for that "Southern California" look! This is a movie made on that cusp between the turbulent 60s and the self-satisfied 70s, about a man who's happy with a job which others think is beneath him. Quiet, thoughtful, and with a career-high performance by its leading man, "Lifeguard" had little impact at the box office back in 1976 but over the years it's acquired a loyal and discerning following. (Of course, there is the matter of Elliott's character having sex with an underage girl played by Kathleen Quinlan.) Elliott spends much of the movie wearing red "Baywatch" style swim trunks but at one point, for a swimming race, he slips into a tight mini-pair of Speedos which clearly shows he's "reproductively-gifted."


Back in the 70s i had to have seen all those party movies , for example, The Van and The Gas Pump Girls, and lifeguard was so much of a breath of fresh air along side of those others, i grew up hanging out at redondo beach and Hermosa beach California which is where this movie was filmed, in fact on ricks tower u see the letters HR i believe that stands for Hermosa/redondo and this is also 1 of the beaches that mike love and Dennis Wilson of the beach boys used to hang out at as they lived in near by Hawthorne, I have this movie on VHS not available on DVD yet, and I watch it at least once a month, as i live in new york now and this movie brings back some special memories of my fun days, i even love that song time and tide in this movie, and watching him drive to the beach in his stingray passing all those very familiar businesses, wow, well if your nostalgic then i don't have to explain the feeling. LIFEGUARD is on my list SAM elliots #1 movie.


This is a movie I can never get tired of. You can watch it again and again, all day long. It's laid-back and entertaining, and doesn't ask much or expect much of you, the viewer. The story involves a thirty-something lifeguard who is naturally slick with the ladies, on and off the beach, and oh, saves lives too. Sam Elliot is a very cool actor and delivers otherwise simple lines with slow-burn perfection. Parker Stevenson is his young protégé who is in the film JUST enough, Anne Archer his perfect lady, and Kathleen Quinlin is a young girl, supposedly a teenager, who represents the last of Elliot's 'conquests' before settling down with Anne, who is his age. There is a part in the middle of the film that centers on Elliot's character feeling old and, after attending a 15 year high school reunion, trying to get a job selling cars. This is when he starts dating Archer, realizing she is someone he can settle down with and NOT just for 'fun'. In most films this part of the film would hinder the otherwise kickback feel, but in this movie's case, it flows along just as good as the beach scenes. It's a relaxing movie and you can play it on a loop on your DVD machine (now that it's finally on DVD) and I bet you won't get tired of it. If you do, just swim to shore a while... and I'm sure, soon enough, you'll want to see it again... and again... and again... LIFEGUARD!


Quintessential seventies claptrap features Sam Elliott as thirty-something LA lifeguard facing career and other life choices. Morality seems dated now, but story is still lots of fun if you're into the beach. Elliott is very good in the role, and a young and very charming Kathleen Quinlan has a substantial part as infatuated teen.


Though not a great movie,but very near, a very satisfying film about a summer at a California beach. Centering around Sam Eliot, a lifer lifeguard. This movie is most profound. Is Rick Carlson a child for foregoing responsibility or is he a martyr? On the surface , what seems like a shallow film takes us to the deep end of the ocean. Rick Carlson is perfectly happy and content being a lifeguard as opposed to being involved with more lucrative opportunities, that I shall not reveal here. He is as much a blue collar worker, albeit a chick magnet , being a lifeguard , as he is genuine , true to himself. Throw in a wet behind the ears Parker Stevenson as his sidekick, learning the ropes lifeguard and forever horny typical teen male, but harmless 'Machine gun', a regular on the beach and you have a fine cast of characters. Kathleen Quinlan, very young , is a confused teen , that seemingly has it all , but not. This is a psychological film , in many ways , and gets one to think. Going through life is not easy and this film has the characters pondering choices in their lives. A very '70s' effort and fitting that it is smack in the middle of this particular decade, none the less, a great film that takes you back.Salute to this great cast , including Anne Archer. I would be remiss if I did not mention her acting performance. Reminiscing has never felt so good.


Having performed the role of "Ruth" at secondary school, I have many fond memories of "The PoP". This hysterical Australian version of the operetta had me laughing aloud. How wonderful to see the art of Gilbert and Sullivan brought forward around 100 years! The jokes, the facial expressions, the modernisms, the tempo and lyric changes, the movement... all done to entertain. My classical musician husband also watched and thoroughly enjoyed the humour and theatricals. My young children watched, sang along and laughed - consider the effect a Victorian operetta would normally have on 3 kids more interested in SpongeBob and Yu-Gi-O?! Days later they were still singing away. The adaptation works for me. But I'm not a purist. I like to have a bit of fun and colour in my life, I appreciate good singing (being trained myself) and I see no reason why I should drag my kids into Victorian times when it can travel towards us!


This is one of my favourite videos in my collection. Jon English is fantastic as the Pirate King, and Simon Gallaher, Helen Donaldson and Derek Metzger all perform outstandingly. With great comedy and audience interaction thrown in, it is a joy to watch over and over again. I only wish I'd been able to see the show live!


Though nothing in the credits mentions it, this production is obviously based on the Tony-winning 1980 Joseph Papp Shakespeare in the Park production, which starred Kevin Kline and Linda Rondstadt and was a massive hit on Broadway and later in the West End in London. Eventually it was redone as a film which was very entertaining but lacked too much of the excitement of live stage.

Fortunately, someone decided to tape a live performance of this newer version, capturing much more of the energy and audience response which was missing from the earlier film. What makes both versions special is the approach to the original material. Too many G&S productions are stodgy, treating the music as sacrosanct and the humor as too dated to get a laugh. Here every bit of silliness in the script is brushed off and made funny again. The "orphan/often" misunderstanding early in the play has been cut from most productions for decades by directors who didn't have a clue how funny it could be if performed as high comedy. There are dozens of other similar moments in this production, which never for an instant lets the audience forget that this is a COMIC opera.

At the same time, it is a comic OPERA, with some of Sir Arthur Sullivan's most beautiful melodies. Helen Donaldson as Mabel and Simon Gallaher as Frederick particularly have lovely voices and sing their romantic songs beautifully.

I do feel that this production is frequently over the top in milking the humor, but that is one of the intrinsic problems of filmed live performances, and the audience was clearly having a great time enjoying the antics of Jon English. And Tim Tyler as the police sergeant is incredible. A cross between a Keystone Kop and a very long rubber band, he steals every scene he is in.

G&S purists generally dislike updated productions, but for the rest of us, this production is a treat.


I love 'The Pirates of Penzance'! Jon English, Simon Gallaher and Derek Metzger are all fantastic as their respective characters. My favourite person in this is Helen Donaldson, who is an absolutely adorable Mabel. Her voice is lovely and she hits every high note. She looks like a 10-year-old in 'When the Foeman Bares His Steel' though! Essgee have done a great job in updating a G&S show and I admit its not one for purists! Toni Lamond, the first woman to ever appear on Australian television, is a very sad, yet funny (!), Ruth. All of the songs in it are fantastic, even if they are all performed on synthesisers. Gallaher's rendition of 'Oh Is There Not One Maiden Here' is very sweet and heart-melting. Donaldson's 'Poor Wandering One' is AMAZING! Her coloratura is very well done. English's comic timing is great, especially 'Dear Pirate King I love your purple pants...' and he performs well with the other cast members, especially Toni Lamond, Helen Donaldson and Simon Gallaher. Any fan of musicals, especially Australian, should see this!


Just saw this for the first time (thank you Sky Arts!) I have always loved Gilbert and Sullivan so decided to tape it. I'm so glad I did! It was amazing! I've never seen any of the cast before so wasn't sure what to expect but they were all so good. Especially the purple-panted Pirate King, Jon English. His facial expressions had me in stitches and his energy!! I also loved the Police Sergeant, that man is made of rubber - is there anything he can't do!? They all looked as though they were having a great time hamming it up wonderfully! As someone said previously, if you're feeling down, watch it, I guarantee you won't be for long!


I first saw this show live with the same cast as in the movie (With the exception of the Soprano who played Mabel) in Adelaide, South Australia, for my 16th birthday. I loved it then and I love it now. Poor Frederic is the slave of duty and although he has lived 21 years is in fact a little boy of 5. Knowing this, he must return to the pirate band until 1940 and his Mabel promises to wait for him.

The show is very camp and the gags are hilarious, although some of them are very topical. Jon English plays to the audience as much as he does on the stage to great effect and the audience participation is well worth the fun.

I have only just managed to get a new copy of this production after having worn the old video out.....lol. It is my all-time favourite feel good movie, just perfect for cheering you up when you are feeling down.


This is by far the best production i have ever seen. The acting is incredible as are the vocals and even if the characters namely John English talk to the audience, it's still funny. The audience laughs. Why should it be bad. No matter what i hear about this. I absolutely adore this play.

I especcially think that the finale was a work of art. A ten minute rap of of the production is great. But i would have to congratulate The Major General for his excellent take on the Major general song. The song just makes me want to memorise the entire lyrics. All in all this was a fantastic play. My thanks to the people who put this together.


I only caught part of this show (from the Major General's entrance) on a recent showing on Sky TV in the UK and it restored my faith that G&S can be adapted with sensitivity for new audiences. I thought Jon English turned in a superb performance as the Pirate King and the comic scenes were played for all they were worth without (mostly) becoming unfunny. Choregoraphy - especially with the police in the second act was first class. A couple of minor quibbles - not sure why it was necessary to bring in the trio from Ruddigore - it seems fashionable these days to "cross-dress" so to speak and although this actually worked quite well it wasn't really necessary. The Swinglettes as a take off of the Andrews Sisters was superb but unfortunately it also meant that Edith was hardly distinguishable from the rest of the daughters when she has a decent part in the original score. Minor points, though, you could hear the audience absolutely loving it and it kept far enough on the traditional side of the line without being stuffy - Gilbert may have shuffled uncomfortably in his grave but he would not, I think, have turned right over. Well done all - even if it was thirteen years ago! Jonathon Clark, London


i've seen them all Live in Melbourne, didn;t see the original Pirates though saw the one they did for the Anniversary in January 2003 i got to Meet Jon English, Gerry Connolly, David Gould, Sheila Bradley& Carmell Parentel and they signed my Program Guide i meet them at the Stage Door :) they were extremely nice and happy to sign the Program for e i meet the Conductor Kevin Hocking after the Hms Penifor and he signed the hms book for me i loved what he did to Jon English in Pirates made him do a song about 4 times ;)

i like the Singletts their so good :)

i wrote to Simon Gallaher and he sent me a signed Photo :)

has anyone seen the one with Anthony Warlow i just saw it on Abc TV in Australia


This is the first of the three Gilbert and Sullivan operettas produced by the Australian Essgee company. It is not as bad The Mikado and HMS Pinafore. Presumably there was a learning curve before the company attained its peak of vulgarity. Some of the elements are already in place: there is, for instance, the orchestra consisting of three synthesizers, two percussion and bass. This ensures that, whatever the singers may do, the production can have no musical merit whatsoever. The women's chorus consists of three harridans who call themselves "The Fabulous Singlettes" who give a bloodcurdling rendition of "Climbing over rocky mountains". Jon English, as the Pirate King is truly repulsive. I have noticed in these productions that he tends to step out of character and address the audience with comments such as: "Colour and movement, that's what you need when the plot is sagging a bit". The implication is that he may have been attending a Drama 101 course during the making of this series.

Derek Metzger has the makings of a good Major General. He can handle the patter but is more concerned with stage business. During "I am the very model of a modern Major General" he conjures a bouquet of flowers from his anus and hands them to one of the Fatuous Singlettes with the remark: "Put those in some water and then wash your hands". Tim Tyler as the police sergeant spits ping pong balls while singing "When the foeman bares his steel", a performance that perhaps would be more fitting in a shady Bangkok nightclub. Helen Donaldson as Mabel really can sing, she has an excellent high register and easily accomplishes the coloratura pyrotechnics of the bel canto pastiche: "Poor wand'ring one". Sadly, it is to little avail with the pounding percussion and the Crapulous Singlettes bumping and grinding behind her.

Director Peter Butler has an uncanny knack of positioning his camera at the wrong place at the wrong time. Incredibly, this is the man who once directed Joan Sutherland in "Lucia di Lammermoor". I can just imagine the scene with La Stupenda saying "I know this is the mad scene Peter darling, but not the ping pong balls, please". The performance was filmed live in Queensland in 1994 and, I must say, the Queensland audience appears to love every minute. I suppose if I were watching my local amateur dramatic company performing in the village hall I would be more indulgent but there is really no reason why this amateurish production should be showing in the opera slot of the flagship, high definition Artsworld channel in 2006


I disagree with the majority: I enjoyed this series. I was also young when it aired. Two episodes stand out in my mind. In one, the government had chosen a family as a "model" to show off to some Western visitors. To this end, the familiar "KGB guy" showed up to move all sorts of fancy-shmancy furniture into the apartment--which was taken away as soon as the Westerners had completed their nickel tour. In another, the KGB investigated because Sasha scored a 99 on the state exam--something about science, math, transportation, etc. Re transportation in particular, he aced that section because his aunt--who lived with them--worked for the government train administration bureau or what-have-you. Oh, yeah, Ivan also had a dog that lived in the closet, and he kept kicking the closet door every now and then to shut the beast up.


This was one of my favorite TV comedy series' ever, ranking with Newhart and Carol Burnett. At the time I was disappointed that the series ended after so few episodes.

Unlike some reviewers, I found 'Ivan the Terrible' delightful for what it was: mocking Cold War-era satire, ridiculing an obscene communist political system, played entirely for laughs.

Of course it, like Hogan's Heroes, it was not intended to accurately depict the realities of the time and place depicted, nor their spirit. Doubtless life in Moscow was bleak, just as life in a WWII POW camp was grim.

It has been said that the most effective means to destroy an idea is to make it into a joke and lampoon the oh-so-serious pretensions of its adherents.

Just as the Wendy's television commercials themed on a Soviet fashion show delightfully derided the USSR's uncultured clunkiness, so did Ivan the Terrible. (The Soviet Embassy reportedly protested the Wendy's television commercials, so their sting was not lost on the oh-so-serious folks in Moscow. It wouldn't be surprising to learn of similar USSR protests against Lou Jacobi's sitcom.)

One thing nobody has alluded to and which does not appear in that late actor's credits on the internet, is the uncredited cameo appearance at the end of each episode of Harvey Korman as a stern uniformed Soviet bureaucrat.

The echo of unseen Carlton the Doorman from MTM's contemporary Rhoda series in the 'person' of Rasputin the dog was a nice touch, too.

Ivan the Terrible was for me the perfect Cold War comedy. Sadly it was about the only such, unless one counts the Boris and Natasha scenes in the various Rocky and Bullwinkle animations.

I would love to obtain tapes of the few episodes made, almost as much for Korman's walk-ons as for the rest of the show in its own right.


Hoverboy is a hilarious spoof of 50's Communist paranoia. The animation is first rate and the story line will leave you laughing. This film combines 1950's style comic book drawings with that eras "Red Menace" propaganda. This is a short film you'll want to see more than once!


I see by the copyright this thing is six years old but does it ever have a lot of relevance to today's scary post 9-11 world where a violent "superhero's" actions make the world safe by storying a lot of it. Ignore the people who rag on the "deliberately primitive" animation -- they clearly don't get it. Frankly the political and sociological subtext of Hoverboy is likely beyond them. Watch it with an open mind; you're bound to learn something about the human condition and may even realize that our leaders (from McCarthy to the current administration and politicians on both sides of the spectrum) have long used fear to push their own agendas.

Do yourself a favor: watch this thing if you can find it and tell your friends to do the same.

Long Live Hoverboy!


As a longtime fan of Rocket Robin Hood, Spider-Man and Captain Nemo, the references this film makes are hysterical. But where it really shines is in its take on Left vs Right wing ideologies. I see it was made in 2000, but is more relevant now in this post 9-11 world. I think the people who hated the style of animation missed the point; I thought it was traditional cell work until I found out it's all 3-D work made to look bad. THAT is GENIUS!

According to the website, it looks like the filmmakers are planning a Christmas episode; I wonder if unchecked consumerism will be skewered as effectively as politics. Incidentally, if you do go to their website Hoverboy-dot-com, you'll find lots of support material. These guys clearly love the types of cartoons they're parodying and you can see it in their brilliant homages.

Absolutely loved it!


Clearly someone trying to relive their youth, through bad animation, is behind this. I am not saying that this person can not make good animation but the wanted to pay tribute to really bad animation my mimicking these awful styles. These animations were done out of lack of care or lack of sobriety and now someone wants to painstakingly recreated that?! I think it's more of a let down than an homage. I chuckled once, the material is fairly good as far as story but I think a more refined style would have even made this better. I understand that this was created entirely in 3D and then forced to look 2D but I think the process is similar to using a nuclear bomb to kill a fly - which may be the next adventure of Hoverboy.


This is by far, one of the best Canadian animations ever. This guy is an absolute genius. I just hope one day he makes this into a TV show. The best part (in my opinion) was Hoverboy battling the Robot. Super funny.

A must watch!

Words really can't describe this obscure film's brilliance. The animation is brisk and flawed only when it should be for hilarity's sake, the actors are all obviously in love with their characters (that's what I get from their vocal performances) and it is even funnier for me, having been someone brought up on Spider-man and Rocket Robin Hood.


Low key but very well written drama, about a strange man (Trintignant) who is pretending to be pursued by the police and the army, because he knows a very dangerous secret. He met a couple (Jobert and always wonderful Noiret) and hide at their home. Noiret thinks that the man is very kind and decides to help him to go to Spain, where he will be safe. But the press tells that this man is a very dangerous psycho killer. The woman begins to have doubts about the man. This is a very seventies movie, with sometimes a lack of direction, but it's sure an intelligent movie. Spectators will know the famous secret at the very end of the movie. And it's a very surprising finale. By the way, whatever happen to the lovely Marlene Jobert?


The rude nature of the South West of France alongside the plot of the movie where three well known french actors give the best of themselves in a story that is taken of reality of those years of the 70's. Sublime shots and dialogues, good acting work, a movie that has no need to any Hollywood action and big budgets in order to entertain. If you like France and its mentality, then this movie is for you.


It's not that well known when great french films are discussed but this is a wonderful film, cunningly written and directed so that our expectations are constantly being changed. It works then as an entertainment but it has one of the greatest endings of any film. There's no way of describing it that won't spoil it. There's a time and a place for SPOILERS but there's nothing to be gained by putting them here. The end conveys love as well as anything I've ever seen. Not the joys of a quick affair but the sense that two people have been in a relationship which has matured over many years. Very special and well acted by the three leads.


Want to see a movie that leaves you uneasy, paranoid, makes you question the reality you're presented with? Scared to go out and scared to stay in? But at all cost, distracts you from mundane reality? This is one film that does that. Forget movies that rely on lavish helpings of gore and blood, gratuitous violence, habitual screaming and endless repetition of expletives. That's not scary any more. It was only ever shocking, really, and nowadays people seem to have become used to that. No, this is a French film. No clichéd devices such as explosions of discordant noise to startle you when you least expect it. Instead, something excruciatingly sinister somehow manages to silently creep out from this film, like a miasma. A chilling, clammy, atmosphere that's reinforced by subtle but compelling acting and directing. Did you hear a noise just then . . .?

I've seen this film only a few times over the years as an adult, but I was still left disturbed by it each time. I didn't exactly 'have to leave the light on' when I went to bed afterwards. But, let's say, it left a permanent impression on me. It's the way it's executed, you see. I'm too macho to admit to anything more. For connoisseurs of effective films of this genre, this is a must for the collection. You'll end up looking over your shoulder after seeing this film. Unless, of course, they come for you too . . . .


What a delightfully simple suspense film! From the opening scene in a "prison hospital" to a ride up an elevator to a small home in the country this Kafka-esqe story will grip you. I'm surprised this film has not been released on DVD considering it stars Jean-Louis Trintignant.

I saw this film on TV over 20 years ago. CBS offered a--sadly short-lived--cable channel that offered truly quality films. When I happened to catch Le Secret (probably 1982) I was stunned that I had never heard of it and had no memory of its release in the U.S. eight years earlier. Like Hitchock? Yes, but not completely.


Under mysterious circumstances a strange guy (well played by Trintignant) escapes from some underground asylum. He finds refuge with a couple of fringe people of 68 who seemed to have retired to a tranquil life somwhere in the south of France. The strange visitor revives old dreams and memories and represents new opportunities to make something more out of life. The couple, superbly played by Philippe Noiret and Marlène Jobert, have each their own reasons to be interested and intrigued by the visitor. After a series of sometimes menacing, sometimes hylarious events, always impregnated with a subdued tension, the movie ends somewhere in the emptiness of some isolated beach.

This is a very good movie. The images and the playing show a lot but also leave a lot to be guessed by the watcher. It makes a point (about Big Brother who is watching you) and is mysterious enough to remain full of tension.


1970 was a good year for children's sci-fi; Jon Pertwee donned frilly shirt and cloak to become the third 'Dr.Who', while over on the other channel Michael Mackenzie battled evil as the enigmatic magician 'Tarot' in 'Ace Of Wands'. Also around was this well-remembered series from A.T.V.

The premise of 'Timeslip' was this; a pair of young people - Liz Skinner ( Cheryl Burfield ) and Simon Randall ( Spencer Banks ) - discover the existence of a hole in time near the deserted naval base of St.Oswald. Passing through, they are spirited at first to World War Two, then to a scientific base at the South Pole in the year 1990, followed by a parallel universe where global warming has turned England into a sub-tropical paradise, and finally to the 1960's. Each time they meet future versions either of themselves or people they know, such as Commander Traynor ( Denis Quilley ). Their one link with 1970 is Mrs.Skinner ( Iris Russell ) who shares a telepathic bond with her daughter Liz.

The show was intelligently scripted, firstly by Bruce Stewart, then Victor Pemberton ( author of the 'Dr.Who' classic 'Fury From The Deep' ). It was refreshingly unpatronising towards its audience, amazingly predicting the coming of cloning, climate change, and virtual reality. The abuse of science was a major theme, embodied by the sinister Professor Morgan C.Devereaux ( John Barron ), who had created a drug - HA57 - designed to prolong human existence.

Memorable moments include Simon and Liz's first encounter with the time barrier ( which makes an eerie buzzing sound ), the naval base overrun by Nazis out to steal a top secret laser, Liz finding her dead father preserved in ice, Dr.Edith Joynton ( Peggy-Thorpe-Bates ) aging to death in mere minutes, the room where people are held in suspended animation while dressed in Elisabethan clothes, the aged Traynor emerging from a secret room to sabotage The Master Plan, and the sight of planets in the night sky ( later copied by the 'Dr.Who' episode 'The Stolen Earth' ). The final episode saw a major revelation about Traynor that shocked viewers.

All of which may make 'Timeslip' sound a bit on the heavy side. It had its lighter moments too, such as Simon's embarrassment on discovering that his future self was engaged at one time to Liz. But the tone was powerfully grim for most of the time.

'Timesip' had no need of special effects of the sort you find in modern productions. It had something better - ideas. Credit must go not only to the writers but Ruth Boswell, whose brainchild this was.

Burfield and Banks gave charming performances, while the late Denis Quilley exuded menace as 'Traynor'. Special mention must be made of the late John Barron ( better known as 'C.J.' from 'The Fall & Rise Of Reginald Perrin' ) whose 'Devereaux' terrified a generation of children ( myself included ).

It proved popular enough to run for an extended 26-part season and, although no further series were made, a comic-strip in the newly-launched 'Look-In' magazine provided fans with further adventures of the intrepid youngsters.

In spite of being made in colour, all but one of the episodes exists now in monochrome. Thankfully, the entire series is on D.V.D. Some reviewers who should know better ( such as Brian J.Robb of 'Dreamwatch' ) grumbled that it was 'boring'. While the 'Year Of The Burn-Up' drags a bit towards the end, I do not share that view.

'Babylon Five' and 'Battlestar Galactica' won praise for their use of 'story arcs'. Why not give 'Timeslip' a go and see for yourself that it is hardly a recent innovation?


Timeslip is one of many science fiction series from the 1970's. However, crucially it is also one of the best, standing the test of time better than say the excruciatingly cheap but entertaining romp that was the Tomorrow People or the imaginative fantasy series The Ace of Wands. Created by Ruth Boswell and husband James Boswell, the series focused on crucial issues in an increasingly technological age and did so all under the banner of a serious children's television drama, which for its time was really quite something. Aimed as a rival to the BBC's Doctor Who, the Boswell's and excellent television writer Bruce Stewart produced something entirely different from what was available on British television at the time. Doomwatch - the gritty and often rather lacklustre series covering moral, social and environmental issues was the only programme that came close to Timeslip at this time, but Timeslip was overall much more successful. The premise of the story - a young girl finding a time barrier at an abandoned naval station - is truly intriguing, add in some atmospheric direction from a team of excellent directors, sparse but brilliantly executed location footage and some solid performances - special note goes to the flawless and concentrated performance of Denis Quilley as Commander Traynor and you have a remarkably entertaining and memorable series. The regulars, intrigued by local gossip about the young girl and drawn to the time barrier were an excellent choice as central characters - as children from 1970 could instantly relate to them. Simon, portrayed by the excellent child actor Spencer Banks is the brainy one, interested in science and maths, with an instinct for discovery he single-handedly figures out all the crucial plot points for the audience to absorb, whilst (rather unfortunately) the naive and whining Liz, played by the admirable Cheryl Burfield, whines a little longer. In this respect the serial has dated - but the concepts and ideas put forward, and its ability to predict many future issues put the series way ahead of its time. Timeslip is quite simply 26 episodes of virtually flawless television. Throw away the minor grumbles about the sexist interpretation of Liz and the opening stories slightly laboured execution and delve in. The Wrong End of Time is a fantastic instalment in which one of our central protagonists encounters her father in a 1940's naval station - coincidentally where the time barrier stands in 1970's England - and with the first appearance of Commander Traynor - a character so crucial to the overall story. The Time of the Ice Box gives viewers a terrible insight into future earth - and Liz's alter ego Beth. One of the strongest stories of all - The Year of the Burn Up gives us an equally bleak presentation of future earth - Buckinghamshire turned into an Amazonian jungle, with the issue of climate change being brought to the fore - and all this occurring as a possible projection (like the Ice Box) of the Earth in 1990. The final story - written by the excellent Victor Pemberton - effortlessly following on from Bruce Stewart - addresses the importance of individuality and the limits of genetic progress - with another appearance of the excellent John Barron as Devereaux and a marvellous final twist concerning the malevolent and untrustworthy Commander Traynor. And so after 26 episodes, the series ended. Could it have ran for another series? ........ Quite possibly - but what we have is truly special, consistently brilliant, consistently thought provoking and remarkably well made for its small budget, skillfully avoiding ambitious special effects and concentrating on character, mood and atmosphere. Timeslip is a slice of television gold - one of the best TV series of its time. So sit back relax, and watch the excellent DVD set of all 26 episodes. Beware though, you might want to adjust your lenses for episode 12! To repeat a hideous, but fitting cliché - they don't make them like this anymore!!!


It was after a long time that I saw a good hindi action film. I was tired of the chick flicks and heros who threw punches but didn't draw out any blood.

It takes some time for Sanjay Dutt to rise to the villains. Except for the mujra songs the films does not go into boring time pass scenes. Fortunately there is no hero-heroine love BS except for a short unnecessary sub-plot of the villains daugher falling in love with a commoner.

When the violence finally starts it is good. Sanjay Dutt rises up and plans some good moves to carry out his revenge. Jackie Shroff is fantastic as a completely corrupt police officer. I just love the scene where he puts his lathi (staff) into the bullet wound of one of the villain's son and then twists it before taking it out.

See this movie if you are tired of watching Sharukh Khan dance and sing around or of Vivek Oberoi beating up a guy 3 times his size and still not being able to draw blood.


This film was well designed, produced and implemented...

The actors playing all the characters were well selected and did a magnificent job in this movie...

This film may seem ordinary and living in a fantasy to the western world but it is quite factual..

Working for the Takhur is common and fearing him is even more true...

The film displays corruption as it is happening in India, it is very visible, everybody knows who is getting bribed, why they are getting bribed and who is bribing who... ...this is quite different from the western world, were bribes are issued but are rarely seen...

This film touches on a hard subject rape and I would say paedophilia... This film makes you wanna sit up and watch this film without moving a muscle.

Omp Puri or takhur, tries to justify the act by saying the whore never gave them any and because the were intoxicated they could not tell the difference between a 9 or 90 year old. Rape has no excuses!

There are some issues of how Sanjay Dutt really managed to kill all those people but I'm content ignoring that... it is a Bollywood movie after all.

Superb performances and great delivery and end product. Well done!


I am a HUGE fan of Nandita Das. She is my favourite Indian actress, by a long way. When I bought this movie I knew that it would not be a Bollywood type cheese-fest. It wasn't. What I liked about it: The pairing of Sanjay and Nandita was very good. They were very believable as an ordinary married couple. Committed to each other and their children. No glamour, no implausible wealth for them. Just sincere, real people. Both were very good in their roles. Nandita is a beautiful woman, who seem literally luminescent, with her intelligence and passion radiating out from within. Sanjay was excellent as the tortured father. Om Puri was frighteningly good as the psycho Dad from hell, and the supporting cast all played their parts well. This movie doesn't pull any punches, either metaphorically or literally. It was one of the most taxing movies I've watched in a long time, but ti was worth it. If you're looking for Main Hoon Na or DDLJ, look elsewhere. If you want powerful, affecting cinema, with a good cast and great performances, give Pitaah a try.


Amazingly good, in the mould of a classic western, with Sanjay Dutt, who is maybe one of the best actors period. He is up there with Pacino, Bachchan, Brando, etc.

Nandita Das stood out, playing Dutt's wife, in a very powerful performance.

I enjoyed the slow build up to the climax of the film; Puri in one of his best "bad guy" roles was also great.

.. One warning, I had to buy this DVD three times. Both previous copies by Spark, where defective and would not play past the 70-minute mark.

Highly recommended.


EASY is not a "chick flick" (though women will definitely identify with the main character) and is not your standard Hollywood romantic comedy. EASY is the film all those Hugh Grant movies aspire to be - smart, funny, sexy, appealing to both sexes, not smug and patronizing.

Jaime (Marguerite Moreau) dates a lot of jerks and it never works out. She's beautiful, interesting, neurotic, and dates in all the wrong ways. Any 20-40-something woman who didn't grow up in a convent will smile and cringe as she identifies with Jaime's struggle to figure out who she is, what she wants and how to get it. She seems to take one step forward and two steps back with her family and friends getting all tangled up in the story (in brilliantly funny ways).

This movie isn't spoon-fed to it's audience with all the glossiness of Hollywood. The sex scenes feel real, with no soundtrack crescendo at the climax (or anti-climax); the characters are sympathetic and interesting; I especially liked Brian F. O'Byrne's performance. Weinstock showed playfulness in writing the overlapping relationships with a tongue-in-cheek humor, ala Shakespeare or modern British comedy.

EASY is a funny, emotional, sexy movie for thinking adults, not the lobotomized masses that can't get enough close-ups of Julia Roberts' smile or Meg Ryan's smirk. It's smarter than other films about contemporary relationships. It's also better acted.

Finally: If you don't fall in love with Marguerite Moreau after seeing this film, you're made of stone.


Look, I admit that I am a sucker for pretty, witty women who can pull off being cute without overplaying it. So, it makes sense that I would love this movie. But, if you are tired of standard Hollywood fare where everyone is either Hugh Grant or Sandra Bullock, then give this little movie a chance. Sure, it is designed to appear to the romantic in us, but what is wrong with that? Maybe we could use a little more romance and a little less cynicism these days.

And I know that some people will struggle with the difficulty in believing that a woman who looks like the star of this film could fall in love with the men co-starring opposite her, but the fact that the men don't look like Hugh Grant is another thing that appeals to me. Even the star looks like a real person, hair a mess, little make-up, swollen eyes. But, without the Hollywood veneer, she is even more real, more lovable because she isn't perfect.

Enough reading. Go watch the movie.


I saw this with some friends at the Nantucket Film Festival in June 2004 and we all loved it. This is a romantic comedy that even guys will like. One thing that really struck me is that the script was totally unpredictable without seeming contrived. It also conveyed a feeling of raw realism that was particularly well conveyed by Margeurite Moreau and Brian F. O'Byrne. There are some fairly graphic sex scenes in the second half of the film that contribute to this realism as well that are shocking but not gratuitous.

My only regret with this film is that it does not seem to have found a distributor for either a theatrical release or a DVD release. My fingers are still crossed!


After summarizing this movie in the Summary, I find little else to say except to repeat, to wit, this movie is a slow 97 minutes, but interest never flags, especially if you're hot for Marguerite Moreau, as she's in a large majority of scenes.

The action, as it were, moves forward less on plot than on slice-of-life vignettes while our heroine -- who had a history of poorly-chosen paramours, of men who didn't appreciate her, leaving break-up messages on her phone machine during the opening credits -- copes with the ups and downs of dealing with two who finally do. Watching Moreau's portrayal through these transitions lends a real-life atmosphere to the proceedings, and is the primary delight of this film. All in all, an easy watch.


Jamie Harris (Marguerite Moreau) is a young woman that works giving original names to different products. She has a promiscuous life, with affairs with "Mr. Wrongs", differently of her sister that has a steady relationship with her boyfriend. Jamie misses her mother, who committed suicide when she was a child, and her father blames himself for the death of his wife. When Jamie dates her former professor John (Naveen Andrews), for whom she had a crush, she believes she found her prince charming. Meanwhile she meets Mick (Brian F. O'Byrne), the host of a TV show, and they become friends. When John ends his relationship with Jamie, she decides to begin a celibate for three months, and she becomes closer to Mick. After some wrong decisions, Jamie finally commits with her true love.

"Easy" is a delightful and sexy romance, supported by a delicious and wonderful screenplay and great direction and performances, but mostly by this lovely actress Marguerite Moreau. The witty and sensual character of Jamie Harris is credible because of the magnificent performance of the expressive and gorgeous Marguerite Moreau, and I really felt in love for her. The director Jane Weinstock shows a tight and sensitive direction in her first feature, and I expect to see another work of this promising professional. My vote is eight.

Title (Brazil): "Easy  Sem Compromisso" ("Easy  Without Commitment")


Four Weddings and a Funeral meets the Duex ex machine monster. And wins! The first half of the film moves along nicely with warm characters and fairly hot action - but definitely with good taste. But in spite of a numerous the plot twists that are transparently inserted in the second half of the movie to move the viewers emotions along to a happy ending, the warm and clever performance by the female lead carries the day. Marguerite Moreau as the luckless and sometimes feckless and always sexy Jamie Harris makes it all worthwhile. While things should have been wrapped up a couple of scenes earlier, no real harm was done. Just watch it for the joy of her performance.


I actually saw this movie on TV a couple of weeks ago and I sort of enjoyed it.

This movie shows how powerful sex and attraction can be. It is so powerful that can lead even sisters to betray one another. To me this is quite accurate since our whole entire culture is filled with sex in advertisements, television, and movies. "Easy" somewhat represents how, much like the idea of sex rules in our society today (most of the time, without consequence), sex overpowered Jaime's life and everywhere she went she deceived by sex.

The sex scenes were VERY realistic and I even considered that perhaps I had turned the channel by accident. But despite how realistic they were, I don't think all the situations were realistic at all. Somehow Laura's sex crazed husband gets another woman pregnant(whats with the hat!) while at the same time, Mick gets his lesbian ex-girlfriend pregnant. Then Laura ends up sleeping with Jaime's(HER SISTER'S) past/present love interest, John, and so on and so on. Its kind of like a sleazy talk show. I thought the ending was a little strange too. It was your traditional happy ending that seemed somewhat out of place. This didn't seem like the type of movie that should have been full of "happily-ever-afters" and friends and family forgiving and rejoicing. I doubt that would have happened in the real world. It sure wouldn't have happened in my house! So it was a relatively good movie only because of the lessons she learned alone the way, but frankly, with this nauseating emotional carousel full of let downs and betrayals, I think Jaime should have sworn off sex forever.


This is not a movie for everyone, especially with the prominent LDS community here in Utah, but it can appeal to everyone who has dealt with the confusing and entangling situations of love. I was definitely struck by the authenticity of the love scenes and their awkwardness, which is so often accompanied with a new lover. Marguerite Moreau delivers a stand-out performance - I would love to see her in more films... she offers a unique innocence, like she's almost broken, but holding on to hope. She fits the character of Jamie Harris perfectly. The movie was longer than I expected, but without being long-winded. It moved with a mellow pace while adding unexpected, humorous and dramatic twists to the plot.

Worth a Look


I never was into the 'singles scene' nevertheless I was impressed with the realism depicted in this film.

its strongest point is its unpredictability, just like real life.

the lovemaking scenes are important but secondary, fully consistent with the realism in the rest of the film.

romance for 20 and 30 something singles is a veritable minefield and not getting any better. if you want insight into the sacrifices and rewards necessary to survive, starting with genuine loyalty topped off with a huge dollop of FORGIVENESS then watch this film.

and a happy ending to boot. likewise, very plausible.


I saw this movie at sundance and was really quite charmed by it considering that it is a "romantic comedy" of sorts which is not my genre of choice. The actors were all serviceable if not excellent in their comic, yet quite human, roles. margaritte (sp) is a spellbinding beauty who has always captivated in her film work... she had lost her voice at the screening, but even squeaking out a few words afterwards, she had me so in love with her. Beyond this, there were some pacing issues for me and the occasional clunky scene, but all in all, this was a smart and well-rounded sort of character piece. I don't agree with the reviewer who says it's not for "eastcoasters" since I live in NYC and felt that this film worked on many levels that resonated with me, in spite of the geographical differences. This is a fine piece of film-making that can work on its own terms and still fall into the framework of a good romantic comedy, so I hope that some genius out there picks it up for a direct to video release and it can deliver some punch on the home market. Margarritte needs to be a star and this movie proves she can deliver the good and the director holds the piece together with confidence and grace. Oh, and it was shot on DV and it looks like film. pretty cool.


A film of some skin, lots of sex, few funny parts, and very little substance. Not compelling and uninteresting from the open to credits. I wish I could say this film had more to offer than making me feel like being able to go without sex for 90 days is some great feat, but there was nothing else that I got out of this movie. The characters don't ever connect with the audience, and the subject matter is overdone. This offers little new for the audience.


Easy is an honest and sensitive film, with a good sense of humor. It has a simple story, but treated with special charisma and magic. Sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter, sometimes wild. But always soft and with a special flavor. Great acting and soundtrack (provided by Grant Lee Phillips). Nice ending and rhythm. If you're ready to fall in love, you're ready for it.


I am not one to sit down and write out my own personal review of a film. However, seeing the last review which was posted for "Easy", I felt compelled to get that ridiculous "east coast" "family values" freak's comments off the screen (jerk!) and recommend this film to women everywhere. It's a delightful, fun, realistic look at a young woman's journey of love. I believe the main character's (Jamie)behavior reflects many young women's today (especially those of us who were raised without a caring mother, or no mother altogether). Jamie is a young woman exploring her sexuality, her creativity and mostly love. Searching for, and understanding what love is, is I believe the primary quest of every person (young and old alike). This film is NOT "west coast" or "liberal". It's just a very realistic look at a 20-something woman struggling with growing up and being used by men...until she learns she can control her own choices, her body and ultimately her destiny.


This is the standard plot of "Which guy should should the girl choose?" The choices are: the correct choice, or the other guy. I won't spoil it for you. Even though the ending is predictable, I didn't care. I was just hoping she'd make her decision quickly so the movie would end. At least it's a short movie, something like 90 minutes.

If you're going to use a tired plot, you need to do better than this. Some folks might like the gratuitous sex scenes; they did help pass the time but not to the point where it made Easy entertaining. There are plenty of romantic comedies that are better than this; if you can't find one watch an episode of Friends or Coupling.


Never have the shades of modern dating, flashing too quickly from delicious to devastating and back again, been captured so well in film. Brava, Ms.

Weinstock, bravissima.

Marguerite Moreau's Jamie is so distinct, so rich with idiosyncrasies to a degree that would make most filmmakers nervous, worried to alienate the audience.

But the character is charming; it is soon clear that her weirdness is merely an accurate sketch of how distinct we all would be, if our most private moments

were recorded. So the effect, no matter how original, quite marvellously evokes the real, the normal.

While nearly every character boasts this unusual realness (an exception is

Jamie's older sister, who is the only major character that may be construed as a generic type), the situations and feelings they evoke are quite intimately familiar. This is not a typical romantic comedy to be accompanied with strawberry wine

coolers and dreamily horny sighs. No seduction is without awkwardness, and

the whole film might be subtitled "imbroglio." So it describes, as it were, real life.

Hope we see it distributed soon.


"Easy" is totally one of the best movies of 2003, if I am not mistaken, was the release date. The depiction of relationships, friendships, and actions of the human heart and condition are realistic, unflinching and uncompromising. Each scene that involves the "Jerk Magnet" Jamie, (Marguerite Moreau) and her two men, (Naveen Andrews, the hot Persian from "Lost" on ABC, and aka "Kip" in "The English Patient", Juliette Binoche's hot Indian stud); and Bryan F.O'Bryne as the lovable talk show host are all equally heartbreaking, warm, and humorous, ultimately human. The love scenes are very realistic, and uncomfortable to watch, truly making the viewer forced into seeing that sex and intimate acts in the bedroom are truly personal and uncompromising, unlike the mundane and choreographed love scenes we see in films like "Basic Instinct", "Color of Night" or "Body Heat". We see sex as it truly is, imperfect, but at the same time an emotional and physical need that everyone craves. Don't miss seeing a comedy-drama that is truly realistic.


An unoriginal wanna-be art house flop. I saw it at Sundance and I'm sorry I wasted my vouchers on it. I don't know why, but the people at Sundance last year were really pushing it on the people. The makers ever kept emailing us asking for our comments and suggestions. I told them just what I'm writing here. Don't waste your time or money. The characters were unoriginal. The story was full of cliches and uninteresting plot development. I walked out with only like 15 minutes to go because it just got worse and worse. If I can say one nice thing about it, there was....well...Sorry, I can't say anything that nice about it. If you want to see something like this that is more interesting, might I recommend "Party Girl" or "Monster". They're a lot more fun, and you'll enjoy them a hell of a lot more.


Jamie's foray into celibacy parallels the modern woman's foray into feminist sexuality. The last generation of feminists fought the battle of sexuality on men's terms: we can f*ck for fun just like they can! The emphasis was on doing what men do the way men do, in the workplace and in the bedroom.

Jamie is the an icon of the young women today who are reconsidering and rebelling against this "feminism" which is centered around a masculine idea of success. These women are staying home with their children and reclaiming control over their sexuality. Jamie's sexual adventures are emotionally unfulfilling so she takes a pledge of celibacy for 90 days. She falls in love with a quality man during this time, and through this relationship comes to terms with her past sexual behavior and its repercussions.

So far, sounds like a chick flick, right? The one relevant theme this film fails to illuminate is the universality of Jamie's journey. It is not a woman's journey, it is a human journey through the landscape of sexuality, and the value we assign to this most intimate of relations.


Have to concur with pythonking, a pretenious art house flop indeed ! Caught this feature at the Stony Brook Film Festival, last night. The "hollow" crowd reaction at film's end did indeed echo my own assessment of a cliche' ridden and drawn out relationship journey. I get the feeling that there may be more of a West coast-East coast dichotomy at work here. Free LOVE ( at a cost ! ), and a "lacking" morality.... when further delved upon , seem to stand out to those involved [like the brightest of highway billboards] , yet seemingly and blindly passed over by most of those involved , like non-stick teflon brain tissue ! Marguerite Moreau , although a talented actress , falls short in this faux pas , with a weak supporting cast. Again, perhaps us "eastcoasters" have a harder time grasping others missing the obvious and a lack of patience , there of. Gauged my own reaction to those of others in the mixed and diverse crowd screening it there. In discussion with many college students in attendance there, most left with gaping mouths, but waking up to the joys and truths of : Trust , family , monogamy & common sense and sensibilities !


This is a beautifully animated series format derived from the characters of the philosophically oriented movie 'Ghost in the Shell'. The animation is closer to the original concepts for the manga and adds amazingly gorgeous music to produce a show that is an instant draw. The characters draw some of the aspects familiar in the movie... Motoko's commitment to her job, Batou's casual-tough guy attitude, etc... though it adds some surprisingly refreshing characters like the blue child-like mini tanks Section 9 rides around in so much.

The same philosophical elements of the movie -consciousness in a cyber-oriented world- are present, but definitely take a back seat to plots focused on political wranglings, terrorism, and general lawlessness. The series seems to be more "all in a days work" themed than the cerebral current of the first film.

Overall I highly recommend this series to all fans, though hope they watch the movies as well.


Top notch! solid animation, catchy music. Great action. But above all intriguing characters and stories that make you think... Has a depth that no single movie can achive, the series format is used to its full potential. The stories treat issues of the future that are becomeing a reality, AI, cyborgs, technology acheveing more and mor of the impossible. But it is also about life... this series goes much further than the movie in all aspects. The only problem I had was the silly looking outfit our heroine seems to prefer, but you get used to it. Anyhow, a must see! Average 10(10)


The great writers at Production IG in Japan have done it again, not only have they made a great production in terms of storyline, and animation quality. They have even manage to give a in-depth view into a few of the major characters backgrounds (E.G. Motoko Kusanagi), and also how Public Security Section 9 was formed.

As usual there are a few episodes which are stated as Complex, meaning that they fit together to form a large scenario, and Individual episodes, which are stand alone stories. The main feature of this sequel are the return of the ever lovable SPOILER! - Tachikomas - which have been fully restored and are now stated as active members of Public Security Section 9. For those who have not watch the 1st Gig or 1st Season or any of the Ghost In The Shell Movies, do not worry, you don't have to have watch either of these to enjoy this exciting 2nd installment of Ghost In The Shell Stand Alone Complex.

Truly a must have or watched for any Ghost In The Shell, anime, Shirow Masamune or S-F Fan.


The interesting thing about this version of the Ghost in the Shell world is that the Section 9 team members often manage to get in a conversation about the philosophical implications of what's going on, even as things go haywire around them. Kinda weird from the standpoint of how you might expect a special ops team to act, but it really sells the idea of Section 9 as humane and ethical. Normal cyberpunk (anti)heroes -- the amoral, self-centered variety -- are the kinds of creeps Section 9 blows away every week, which is refreshing.

To the above two posters: I fully understand your preference for the movie; it's a great story and a great work of art. A couple of the things you complain about, however (such as Kusanagi's provocative dress habits), aren't a case of dumbing-down for television, but actually straight out of the manga -- Kusanagi's having to strip nude to use her camouflage in the film actually seems like fanservice compared to the manga original, where the cloak seemed to be part of the team's battle dress, not built into the Major's skin. The robots (a different model called Fuchikoma in the manga) are, in my opinion, a nice counterpoint to the main plot: while Section 9 defends the people of Japan from manipulation of their "ghosts," they don't know quite what to make of these increasingly sentient robots. Fuchikoma/Tachikoma were part of Shirow's original vision, but were dropped from the film for technical reasons. It was nice seeing them on screen at last.


There is one major problem with GITSAC and that regards the backgrounds and foregrounds. While the backgrounds, all computer rendered look stunning and detailed, the foregrounds and characters don't really blend into them. Its forgivable since this is a problem with pretty much all animation barring a very few but since it looks as though the producers are putting so much attention to detail, they should'nt have really overlooked that feature.

Another problem is unevenness. Not all episodes are equally good and some can be downright boring although the 2nd season/GIG does add more interesting stuff. The fact that each episode is "stand alone" and disjointed means that too much detail that doesn't always make sense, needs to be squeezed into limited time. There is too much attention given to computer generated virtual reality sfx rather than the action in real life.

While GITSAC is revolutionary in its own way, it can get quite boring at times. Give me shirow's Dominion tank police instead any day! GITSAC simply has no charm, no soul and seems quite dead at times.


Like its predecessors, this series hits the high notes extremely well. Everything you love about the first two films is here with Motoko and the gang facing new threats in a world that's almost a mirror image of our present-day society. It's not hard to realize that technology in GITS: SAC may someday become a reality rapidly, but onto the series itself, as Roger Ebert once stated "it's unusual and challenging sci-fi aimed at smart audiences", that statement alone clearly describes it all. I must say though I enjoy the series, however the plot is a little confusing and complex but upon repeated viewings I appreciated it even more. Not too many anime series have that kind of depth and replay value which is why I'm not a huge fan of anime in the first place; this series grew on me and I'll be looking forward to seeing more of this highly engrossing cyberpunk universe that our heroes dwell in for years to come. Highly recommended if you like deep and thought-provoking high quality stories and art.


Just a couple of things I thought were worth mentioning after reading the other comments. First of all, you have to remember that Kusanagi is a cyborg. Throughout the movies you as the viewer are constantly reminded that she feels a certain detachment from her body. She also takes getting shot up rather lightly. So with this in mind, I prefer to think of her body is more like clothing to her. It's not her real body after all. You almost don't notice how skimpy her wardrobe is if u can see it from this perspective.

Secondly the movies do give u a much better understanding of the characters and scenario and are worth checking out before you watch the series. Just keep in mind that the movies and series are two directors different takes on the Manga by Masamune Shirow.

Both the movies and series are beautifully constructed but as this is the comment area for Stand alone Complex that's what I'll rate.

(by the way; bare with the 2nd gig. Closter towards the end it will have you nailed to the screen)


I watched the entire series 1 and 2 whilst I was supposed to finish my thesis - nagging deadlines, raging teachers and what not could not dissuade me from watching this first, then finish my Master's degree - one has to set priorities! The series is brilliant for a number of reasons: 1. The animation. Admittedly not as brilliant as the movies, but I didn't expect that either: series work on a lower budget per minute of animation produced. Considering that, what they've achieved is just so magnificently well executed, it just took my breath away.

2. The soundtrack. Both title tracks are sung by Origa, and by Jove, are those song 'hooks': even if you donlt care for anime or watching TV anyhow, these tracks glue you to the screen form the first second you hear them. Good job.

3. The Plot & Philosophy. Even though I've seen series with a bit more 'driving' plots (these series being certain seasons of X-files, Millennium and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the overarching polt is just amazing. I spent half my days googling all the hints, reading 'Catcher in the Rhye' and Baudrillard and more, just to make sure I wouldn't miss any possible hint or twist.

4. Philosophy & the Future. Next to the philosophical underpinnings of the plot, there's also the technicological future the makers foresee. Whereas in the movies we got to see more of the development of 'individuality' under the advancements of technology, we get to see more of the development of 'society', harking back to the original manga-series a bit more. Here also the production team show their intellectual savvy. Although they saved the guest appearance for Donna Haraway for the movie 'Innocence', this series has 'Cyborg Manifesto' written all over it. But their vision goes even beyond these more airy abstract questions: the picture they paint of what the everyday details of future life would be like, are just so incredibly real and on target, it just blows your mind away.

I truly believe that this series accurately describes what our future looks like - and every time I hear a news item stating that 'scientists have succeeded in linking this and this computer programme directly to the human brain' or 'more and more shops are opening up in Second Life' or whatever, I now constantly think: we're one step closer to Ghost in the Shell. So, even if you don't like anime, go see this. You'll see your own future.


If there was one PERFECT anime, it would be none other than GitS:SAC, even words like 'Exceptional' or 'Brillaint' are understatement considering the kind of gem this show is. The Year is 2030, The story revolves around 'Section-9' Basically a Elite Squad where each member is a expert in one thing or another, Sectio-9 deals with special Cyber Crimes. Everything in GitS SAC is exceptional to say the least, the animation is crisp, fluid and has some amazing CG Effects while the Sound Effects as well as the voice acting is top notch. Put simply, GitS SAC makes most mainstream sci-fi adoptions look like a fluke (The Matrix included)If you're the kind who likes cheeky humor and silly big eyed characters then GitS SAC then you're barking at the wrong tree. however if you care for Plausibilty and Realism while watching and, want your Anime to be serious, then Your humble Quest has ended. GitS SAC is the candy for you! Kudos to Kenji Kamiyama for making, what is quite possibly the greatest anime ever.


For those who are a fan of the 1997 anime/Manga Movie "Ghost In The Shell", they maybe shocked to know that the Stand Alone Complex series is NOT a sequel or alternate version of that storyline. Instead it is set in a alternate timeline. However it doesn't make this a must avoid anime spin off.

The script and animation quality are the same standards as depicted in the 1997 anime/Manga movie. I personally find Stand Alone Complex has a more interesting and entertaining storyline than, that of the original movie. The main attractions in the series are the Tachikomas "Sential Tanks". I personally enjoyed the episodes, which featured these small "thinking" tanks, which possessed the personality of a small child! A true anime/manga classic in the making,superior to the original 1997 anime/manga movie.


The second improves greatly upon the animation standards. Although the drawing is done to geometric accuracy, too much CGI is used and looks weird at many places. It in fact, does not even look as good at the GITS movie. Technically speaking, the GITS series may be the best animated in the world but as far as the final perspective is concerned, it certainly does not look that or look that realistic or deep. It sometimes looks quite bland and more like computer rendering meaning that the CGI is way too obvious. Those flaws have been fixed to certain extents in the 2nd Gig which also pays homage to the original movie through certain scenes which should look familiar. The new intro is not great though.


If you enjoyed the film versions of Ghost in the Shell and are worried that a TV version will be an inferior product you shouldn't be, Stand Alone Complex is excellent, and as it takes place in an alternate time line to the films Major Motoko Kusanagi is once again leading the operational side of Section Nine.

Each series has twenty six episodes, some following a main story line, others which which are self contained, some of these tell us about the characters' pasts. The series is lighter in tone than the film but still exciting when it needs to be. Some viewers might not be too keen on the addition of the Tachikoma, small blue tanks with cute voices, I too felt that way initially but grew to like them more and more as the series progressed. As this was made for television the Major keeps her clothes on far more than in the film, she does however wear a rather revealing costume in the first series.

An exciting story well told is helped by really good animation accompanied by a great sound track. I really liked the characters, especially the Major, it was nice to get to know them better than the shorter film format allowed. I would certainly recommend this, not just to people who enjoyed the films but also to any fan of exciting science fiction.

Don't switch off when the end credits start as after the credits for each episode there is a short "Tachikomatic Days" story, a little comedy sketch featuring the Tachikoma.

These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.


I first saw the movie and I liked it, not that much, but it was entertaining (I haven't read the manga, so I couldn't enjoy the movie like others did). People had told me that the manga was a lot better and that I'd probably enjoy the series much more.

I don't read manga so I decided to check the series out. The first episodes were pretty good so I continued watching them and... by the time I was half way through, I couldn't stop watching them. The story was so well made that it had absorbed me in an addictive way.

The music is actually pretty good too and... after purchasing the Special Edition, I have to say... the English Dub is horrible. Stay with the Japanese version with English subtitles, you'll enjoy it a lot better that way.

In resume: a must see even for non anime fans, extremely addictive story and... stick with subtitles, the dubbing will kill the whole thing. (And I actually liked the fansubs better than the official subs, they were a lot more detailed and had nice explanations for very interesting things).


And that's because I'm not all that willing to give anime the same due many others appear to. Animation style and quality notwithstanding, the "classics" by popular acclaim invariably start out interesting, as you'd expect a pilot episode of any TV series to strive for, but gradually or quickly become weird, occasionally startling, mildly disconcerting, formulaic, or just plain tedious. I respect and enjoy Miyazaki's works and I'm a bit partial to those of Tezuka Osamu, the latter because Astro Boy made quite the impression on me when I viewed its American broadcast premiere. But for today's anime broadcast Stateside there are only two exceptions in my view. Cowboy Bebop is one, for reasons I'll provide among its IMDb comments. GITS:SAC is the other.

I first saw the American broadcast premiere of the first of the two GITS:SAC series quite by accident, at about halfway through the third episode. I roused from my insomniac stupor, sat up, blinked, and muttered, "Now this is different." Not a serial in the strict sense, no kids in the lead, no swordplay between mythical creatures or giant robots, no mutated dinosaurs, definitely nothing marketable (perhaps the Tachikoma, but I doubt Stateside), and unquestionably something you won't catch broadcast Stateside anywhere near prime time, though I sometimes think Stateside networks aim for that, whether the viewing public likes it or not

Mystery writers would call GITS:SAC "a police procedural," and science fiction writers would probably add "cyberpunk" to that label. Plots, subplots, arcs, you-name-it, all set in a future Japan that subtly requires you to try to figure out what's "different but the same" but not all at once. Nominally each of the two TV seasons has its own principal story arc; the first season features the way the world is, the second features someone who would very much like it different. Miss one episode, no harm done, but perhaps with a lingering enticement to be more certain that you truly did not miss anything. And then they'll have you!

Action, obligatory gore (albeit animated), some expletives and "cheesecake" (ditto), but all tempered with a captivating and truly surprising allotment of characterization, dialogue, insight, wit, and "breathing time." Exceptional music. Passing references to "the war," "refugee zones" and the "American Empire," while "all natural" and "puppet" take on entirely different (and frightening) meanings. The settings may look familiar and untouched, but every character is a survivor, and I think you'll catch on fairly early as to just how that's done.

I don't normally appreciate this kind of a challenge from a TV series. I frankly lack the patience of a regular viewer and, if I must get hooked, prefer that happen from the very start. But I haven't enjoyed a challenge in quite this way since my equally serendipitous introduction to Paddy McGoohan's The Prisoner many years ago. And I leave it to you to try to figure out the meaning behind the title as well.

Plenty Web sites if you want to cheat. Both televised seasons of 26 episodes each are available on DVD. (Catch the interviews with the production members and cast; Kamiyama Kenji is a thoughtful and articulate young man, and "production by committee" here is something to be proud of.) Two predecessor GITS movies to rent, each radically different from the other (one dubbed into competent English, the other subtitled) though essentially featuring the same characters. The TV series is no thematic sequel to the two movies but still another direction taken by the same characters. Besides a recent novelization that bridges the gap between the two predecessor movies and a sequel movie soon to arrive Stateside, two manga ("graphic novels," Stateside) are also available, but you might as well stick to GITS:SAC on the 'tube or DVD, for if the prospect of viewing anime gives you pause you'll probably also refrain from holding a fancy comic book.

Whether seasoned otaku, accidental viewer like myself, or just plain curious, take the plunge and draw your own conclusions, but, in a phrase, brace for intelligence.


For those not in the know, the plot surrounds an anti-terrorist group made of cyborgs in the future called Section 9, or basically CTU in the future. Like 24, each season has an overall story, but unlike 24, Stand Alone Complex has episodes that have nothing to do with the main story arc and are for the sole purpose of revealing characters and establishing a world (the latter is something that 24 doesn't need to do). The writing is excellent, and (continuing the 24 comparisons) makes the 24 writers almost like amateurs. For example in 2nd Gig, they actually make one of the terrorists seem human, something that they tried to do last season of 24 with the President, and failed horribly (Don't get me wrong, 24 is a good show, but I like this more). Everything is stated as the state of things, and there is one side versus another side, neither of which is good or bad, and Section 9 is right there in the middle trying to stop making the situation go from bad to worse. If action is all you care about, this show will only be good, but for the viewers who don't mind the talk, so that things can be explained such as why they're going to execute the plan and how, this will be great. Even if you were put off by the movie's incohesiveness in plot (and completely understandable if you were), this one's a lot easier to understand. Everyone should check it both seasons out, especially those into 24.


The Cannonball Run has been vilified by many critics over the years but I love this movie and have been watching it ever since I was little. This movie is what happens when a bunch of movie stars who just happen to be close friends in real life decide to make a movie just for fun. The plot is simple enough, race from one end of the country to the other for a million dollars and avoid the law on the way. The cast is jammed with big names and just about everyone in the movie that has a speaking part is a star of some stature. This movie is simply great fun and has a lot in common with the rest of director Hal Needham's films,i.e. Smokey and the Bandit. I can't really say that this film is full of great acting because the entire cast horses around through the whole movie. Jackie Chan makes his first appearance in a American movie with this film and both Hal Needham and writer Brock Yates have cameos. Don't expect a lot in the way of plot or acting or effects or anything like that and just enjoy the ride. The outtakes at the end of this and Cannonball Run II are hilarious and it makes it more fun for me anyway to know that this movie was just like a big meeting of old friends. Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. are great as Blake and Fenderbaum respectively. Burt Reynolds and Dom Deluise anchor this film (they're the main characters)and the give and take between these two make them one of the best comedy teams I have ever seen. Bottom Line: Buy this flick, drag it out every once in a while, and have fun watching it with family or friends. A truly fun movie to watch.


"The Cannonball Run" is a wild and crazy ride of a comedy about an illegal cross-country auto race. This movie was the third time star Burt Reynolds teamed up with director Hal Needham. Before "Cannonball Run" they made the first two "Smokey and the Bandit" pictures, and afterwards they made "Stroker Ace" and "Cannonball Run II". "The Cannonball Run" and the original "Smokey and the Bandit" are my favorites. Made back when Reynolds was hitting box office gold, "The Cannonball Run" auto race begins in Connecticut and features the goofy all-star cast passing each other up until they get to their final destination, California. In addition to Burt Reynolds, the movie also stars Dom DeLuise as Reynolds partner, Roger Moore pretending to be himself, Farrah Fawcett as the woman Reynolds and DeLuise pick up at the beginning of the race, and two late great entertainers: Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. as two phony priests driving a red Ferrari. All are involved in the race, and its a wild ride all the way to the finish. Adrienne Barbeau, Jackie Chan, Jamie Farr, Mel Tillis, and former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw also star. Great fun.

*** (out of four)


Captain Chaos, The Rat Pack, Terry Bradshaw and Mel Tillis! Burt, Roger Moore, and Mr...um...Foyt! Some say this isn't a masterpiece, there are no digital effects or Oscar nominated performances. Please! It's just fun watching some of the greats who have passed on and some others who were in their prime having a blast doing a movie that makes little sense and that's just the way I like it. I promise you will laugh and you won't know why, but you won't care! Great movie for anyone who wants to have a beer with his friends and watch a funny, pointless, silly movie. Unfortunately, I also recommend Peter Jackson's King Kong for the same reasons.


Okay, realistically speaking, it is not "excellent" in the grand scope of cinema history...It has virtually no plot, for example. But it's hysterically funny and just makes you feel happy all over. Could it be Sammy Davis Junior and Dean Martin paired as drunken priests in a red Ferrari that makes it so great? Is it the doctor of mysterious origin ("Don't you EVER tell me where you found him!" who seldom needs more than his middle finger for an examination? Perhaps it's Mr Uh, Mr Uh,...Foyt! No, the greatest reason for watching this film is for the sheer joy of experiencing Dom Deluise in orange spandex saving the world...and don't forget! "Hamsters are a big responsibility!"


This film is best summarized as a live action version of Wacky Races. Burt Reynolds leads on all star cast of freaky drivers competing in a no-holds-barred race competition called the Cannonball Run. The standouts in this film are Roger Moore who seems to enjoy spoofing his own James Bond character, Jackie Chan as a kung-fu foreign race champ, Jack Elam as the twisted doctor riding along in Burt's ambulance, and Jamie Farr as a mad sheik trying to show Islamic superiority by defeating his opponents.

This is not a movie to be taken seriously, especially with Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. cruising around dressed up like priests. There are a lot of good stunts and chase scenes in this movie, as well as a long brawl towards the end with all the Cannonballers against a gang of bikers, led by Peter Fonda!

To quote the Brain Gremlin from Gremlins 2: "Check it out one time, won't you!" You won't be disappointed.


I like car movies, so I am somewhat prejudiced, but this was a good movie. It was original, it had funny moments, it had those seemingly standard car jumps and wrecks for a car movie. I will admit that it has flaws, like the story does not explain why the Cannonball Run was started, or how it jumps between characters is a bit confusing, but I can live with that. It has a Lambourghini, a Ferrari, a couple of Trans Ams, an Aston Martin, a Rolls, and many other cars, so I enjoyed it. It is a pretty good movie. I liked seeing the various cars competing and even though the movie is a bit predictable, and sometimes the actors' lines seem cheesy, it is an enjoyable movie for a gearhead, a racing fan, or just someone who likes cars.


An unusual assortment of pilots converge for a cross country automobile race where breaking the rules and chaotic car chases are part of the game , and everybody competing for a grand prize in less than legal rally. In the car race participates the protagonists, McClure( amiable Burt Reynolds in similar role to 'Smokey and the Bandit' films) and his sidekick schizophrenic Victor (Dom Deluise who turn in moments into Captain Chaos) disguising themselves as paramedics, a duo posing as priests(the Rat-Pack ,Sammy Davis, Dean Martin) , two Chinese (a racer Jackie Chan and engineer Michael Hui), two Lamborghini sexpot babes (Adrienne Barbeau, Tara) and of course Roger Moore in a James Bond character-alike and several others. Along the way they elude police , crash into road-blocks, and meet-up with a number of roles.

This race chase caper is full of witless comedy with tongue in cheek, noisy action, Kung-Fu fighting, gratuitous star cameos and many other things. This nutty film with extraordinary star-studded cast achieved a huge Box-office hit, one of 1981's top grosser, in spite of its brief amusing moments and ridiculous, embarrassing situations. Most interesting for plethora of cameos as Peter Fonda, Valerie Perrine, Jamie Farr, Jack Elam and many others . At the end there are out-takes such popular and usual subsequently. It's followed by a languid sequel, less than illustrious its predecessor, with similar actors and artist equipment , adding more explosive girls as Marilu Henner, Catherine Bach and Susan Anton, furthermore more Rat Pack as Frank Sinatra and Shirley McLaine. Booth of them were badly directed by the ex-stunt Hal Needham. Other films dealing with mindless cross-country wheel spinning , are the following : ¨Cannoball(1976)¨ by Paul Bartel with Robert Carradine, Mary Wonorov , Joe Dante ,¨Death race 2000¨ again by Paul Bartel with David Carradine, Silvester Stallone, Simone Griffith ¨Gumball rally(1976) ¨by Chuck Bail with Michael Sarrazin Gary Busey and Raul Julia, among them.


This must be one of the most ridiculous movies ever made, but it actually works brilliantly! The Cannonball Run contains laughs aplenty, and is a wonderful over the top road race film. The storyline is highly unlikely and the acting not expertly carried out, but that's not the point! Upon first viewing I laughed out loud, and I still do, so many times I have watched it now! Released in 1981, The Cannonball Run has significantly dated and looks as if it was filmed in the 1960s, but because it's so lighthearted and fun, it doesn't matter. Burt Reynolds and Roger Moore are the main stars of the show, but everyone else takes part in just the same manner, and there's a whole host of TV and movie stars you can think of: Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, Peter Fonda, Adrienne Barbeau, Farrah Fawcett (looking beautiful) and Jackie Chan to name a few! The Cannonball Run was Fawcett's first major successful film after leaving Charlie's Angels in 1977. Shame she had to wait four years...

However, in a nutshell, The Cannonball Run is utterly over the top and looks significantly older than it is, but the sheer laughs and ridiculous moments you witness in everyone's objective to win this illegal road race across America is sure to be enjoyed!


Ok so this film was never going to win any awards. It was never going to stand out in history as an all time classic. In fact I doubt if it will ever even become a cult classic. It is however highly entertaining twaddle made with the intention of making money and having fun. And to that extent it works.


I remember watching Cannonball run when i was just a child, the opening sequence with the black Lamborghini simply blew me away, and i have loved that car every since. That sequence simply sets the tone for the rest of the film.

OK so it's dated now, and probably isn't very appealing to todays generation, but this is the original road movie epic and is crammed full of cheesy gags, road rage, fights, great characters, sexy women, sexy cars, and even the odd super hero (Dun Dun Darr - it's Captain Chaos) Oh i forgot to mention the all star cast - Burt Reynolds, Dom Deluise, Farrah Fawcett, Roger Moore, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnr, Jackie Chan; Oh! Sod it there's too many to name, just watch it and see for yourself.

Terrific Fun 7/10


Starring Burt Reynolds and company. I couldn't agree more that Burt is at the top of his game. He had the best 'laugh', in Cannon Ball Run. Whenever J.J. and Victor ( Reynolds and Delouise ) would get into it and be crackin' -up, everyone else would too. Now here is the original, we are all on strike (The actors) and this is where we are gonna hang out and party while being in this movie! The actor's strike, what an uprising! This is one of those non ' Politically correct.' you gotta love this one, type of movie. Jackie Chan in his early days before many knew who or even what he was....talented. From Roger Moore, playing himself, (no identity crisis there) you gotta love him, to the tree loving-Farrah Fawcett and her new beau, the 'Wild Bull' marching on Washington D.C. to ban the sale of colored toilet paper, due to irritation!

But the best being, all the speed hungry degenerates looking to qualify and get into the race. The major major running cross-country from sea to shining sea, in the shortest amount of time. The cast is heavily-packed with old-school 'giants', that came together and made the race more fun altogether. Two priests in a Ferrari 308. An English agent in an Astin Martin. A big man and a suave guy with a crazy-eyed doctor in an ambulance, along with a female -hostage passenger from an auto wreck, to an all female team in a black Lamborgini, that can get to a sailing pace of 220 miles per hour! Whoa. A Japanese racing team with night scope glasses and a rocket powered Subaru. This band of un-policed road-range nuts are out in full force and flying down the highway!! If you catch a glimpse I'm sure it will be accompanied by a deranged smile. Forget Jimmy Carter and sky-rocketing gas prices, this feature delivers more laughs per mile than a hybrid gets good mileage

In the whole simple plot-based laugh road rally, this is a fun and intoxicated comedy for the undiscriminating comedy viewer. The fun and hilarity is infectious!! The actors, since being in the middle of the actor's strike, had time to hang out and through-out the movie you see the uninhibited lunacy that putting all these personalities together, with a lot of alcohol will do. Then at the end credits its role 'Bloopers' more enjoyment with the ones who couldn't keep their lines straight! This is a staple comedic kill the 55' mile per hour speed limit and blow away the other racer out and out good time! A classic for decades to come. Sheer madness, but all in good company!

Recommended, oh yeah... ()***()


This movie isn't complicated, in fact it really doesn't have a plot other than the illegal cross country car race, but it's fast-paced and entertaining throughout. I've always been a Burt Reynolds fan, but Dom Deluise and Dean Martin in particular are hilarious. Roger Moore's parody of his James Bond persona is also amusing and it's great seeing 2 of the 3 Rat Pack members(Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.) share so many scenes. Also starring is the gorgeous Farrah Fawcett and even Jackie Chan has a role. Some of the best scenes are those involving Dom Deluise's alter ego Captain Chaos often referred to as "him" This movie wasn't made to win Oscars, it was just intended to entertain and it does.