I loved this movie! It moved me, made me laugh and cry and appreciate love, hate, and compassion. Juliette Binoche is the narrator of this story, she is the one who presents the events from her perspective, but incorporates other into it. This movie has wonderful symbolism that is expressed in so many ways. Whether it is a horse, a ship, or people marching, the different expression of movement and the implication of each and everyone of those is vividly portrayed. Also Binoche's view and adoration of her husband and her compassion to the prisoner is so real, so touching. At times, the viewer along with the narrator seems uncertain of feelings expressed toward Jean and Neel and the camera plays with the viewer's mind allowing him to suspect the worst and be pleasantly surprised. This movie has a very gloomy setting, but really the feelings expressed, the magnitude of love is so powerful that the dull surroundings do not strain the viewer. I thought this movie was phenomenal because it expressed the best of human nature in such real ways. It showed that not everything is black and white, not everyone is jealous and vengeful and finally people do have a sense of obligation and honor. I would strongly recommend this movie to anyone who is up for a serious, beautiful and sad movie.


(WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILERS! DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN THE FILM.)

 Daniel Auteuil and Juliette Binoche turn in fine performances in this killer-with-a-heart-of-gold melodrama. But the plot is unrealistic.

 Auguste Neel was in fact guillotined in Saint-Pierre in the nineteenth century after waiting months for the means of execution to arrive from Martinique. You can see the guillotine in Saint-Pierre's modern and beautifully designed museum. (Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, a French territory hard by the coast of southern Newfoundland, is an absorbing place to visit; I was there in 1999.)

 In the movie, Neel wanders around the island after receiving his death sentence for murder, performing one good deed after another -- some heroic, others mundane, but all saintly. Was the French penal system really so inflexible that no one would commute his sentence despite all his good works, including saving another's life? That's the way it's portrayed.

 Neel would have been even more saintly to take the islanders up on one of the many chances they gave him to escape to "les Anglais" (i.e., Newfoundland, 10 miles away across a channel). In the end, his self-imposed martyrdom proves foolish, for it leads not only to his own execution, but to that of Daniel Auteuil's character as well.

 Nevertheless, the film is beautifully photographed and the acting is fine. I give it 7 out of 10.


Patrice LeConte colors this intelligent film in subdued hues in taking on the somber issue of capital punishment. Juliette Binoche portrays Pauline, the sympathetic wife of the local garrison commander on a bleak French Island off Newfoundland. A man who has brutally killed another is sentenced to death, but the village must await the arrival of a guillotine and executioner. Those are the rules. As Pauline takes the cause of the murderer, Neel(Emir Kusturica), as her own, he wins the affection of the small, insular community with his good works. But the hide-bound, dour council members of the village insist they must carry out their duty. Pauline's husband, Jean (Daniel Auteuil) supports her every device to seek Neel's freedom. The sexual tension among the three is palpable; the danger that the fundamentalist Pauline poses to her husband sits on the film like an enveloping cloud seeking to blur this lucid discussion of the difficulties posed by capital punishment cases even where the prisoner is clearly guilty of a brutal crime. All of the acting performances are sterling, well contained and bearing the weight of the fatalistic outcome. For those who like a bit of intelligence in a beautifully acted and directed film, notwithstanding the sad story, this is a film to be seen.


Juliette Binoche gives a riveting performance as Madame La, the wife of a Captain of the guard on a small French-owned island(Saint Pierre)off the coast of Newfoundland. When a man (Emir Kusturica) is found guilty of a senseless murder and sentenced to death, the execution is postponed until a guillotine can be sent for. Meanwhile Madame La becomes interested in his fate, hoping for his rehabilitation. Daniel Auteuil gives another brilliant performance as her devoted husband. Well acted and beautifully filmed, the film is a pleasure to watch.


One must admit that the world should see more new French and Italian films, which notably differ to those coming from Hollywood. Yes, they are slow in their sequences, not as fast and simple as several Hollywood films, but the quality is there, the style is another thing and it is just a matter to get used to them. This is a very good film, where a convict becomes a kind of protegé of the captain of the French island. The convict notices the admiration of Captain's wife and the captain also noticed it, but left the things going as they were. A guillotine has to be brought to the island to kill the convict, but it was hardly difficult to find out a person able to manipulate the guillotine. Finally the captain, under the strong influence of his wife, decided not to allow this 'crime', he was arrested and later judged and killed. The convict was also killed. The captain's wife saw how difficult it is to survive in a 'civilized' society when you fight for good causes and the wealth for all.


This film will be a little slow for some American tastes, and the performances, which are uniformly good, may seem a little pretentious. But this marvelous film with its solid plot and timeless themes make it a good movie. What makes it a great one is the acting of Daniel Auteuil and, to a lesser extent, Juliette Binoche.

Many Americans are unfamiliar with the acting of the French actor, Daniel Auteuil. I have seen him in at least 20 films, in a variety of roles, and he is an accomplished actor, perhaps the most accomplished of our time. He has a difficult role in this film that requires a kind of underplaying and a certain stiffness in his performance. But he brings off his part magnificently.

The main theme will provoke empathy and reflection in the attentive viewer. This haunting film, which really deserves at least two viewings, will stay with you and shadow your own ideas of morality and right and wrong. See it.


This is a wonderful film. It captures characters in a profound dilemma and shows a study of the bureaucratic mind that will crush a truly good man for the ends of both personal advancement and political correctness. It is as much a statement on the evils of mindless bureaucracy as any I have seen. It is also a fine story of personal redemption and the decency that can allow it to thrive. I could not but think of such works as Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment or such films as Schindler's List, because I am fascinated by the portrayals of seemingly ordinary people put in situations of fundamental moral choice.


It seems to me that this movie was made as an attack on the death penalty. While I have no problem with the use of the death penalty, I strongly agree with the major contention of the film. That is, once a person is sentenced, by the time they are put to death a lot of time has passed and they may not be the same person--and may no longer deserve to die. In the case of the film, the delay was BRIEF compared to our modern penal system, as the delay looked to be about two years. During this interim time, the convicted man did so much to help those around him that there was little will, except among some idiots in the local government, to execute him. The film is very interesting and gives us insight into life on the isolated island of St. Pierre (a French possession near New Foundland) and because the story, it seems, is based on a true story! I liked the film because it dared to be different, had something to say and featured excellent acting and dialog--and this combination definitely doesn't happen very often.


1850, Saint-Pierre, a forgotten small island near Canada.

Neel Auguste is found guilty and condemned to death.

But, in Saint-Pierre there is neither guillotine nor executioner to carry out the sentence.

While waiting for a guillotine to arrive from France, Neel (Emir Kusturica), is placed under the custody of captain(Daniel Auteuil), and his wife, Madame La (Juliette Binoche).

She is particularly interested in Neel in whom she sees only goodness and simplicity.

Little by little the condemned man becomes indispensable and his popularity soars.

Buit when the guillotine arrives by boat, justice must be done and the battle to save Neels life escalates.


"The Widow of St. Pierre (Veuve de Saint-Pierre)" is a very unconventional relationship triangle, with resonances of "Dead Man Walking."

Juiliette Binoche is much more interesting and complex here than she is in "Chocolat" as a Lady Bountiful who is pushing redemption with more than a tinge of sensuality.

Daniel Auteil who usually plays hapless contemporary men at first looks as out of place in a period costume drama as Harvey Keitel does, but he brings the intellectual and moral sensibility of the 20th century to a true story from an earlier one.

Love and devotion--to a spouse and to duty-- are quietly played out against sophisticated political gamesmanship of a small town.

The cinematography in Atlantic Canada is beautiful; the pregnant pause close-ups are as claustrophobic as living on the island outpost. It was partly filmed at one of my all-time favorite historic recreations at Louisbourg in Cape Breton, Newfoundland.

(originally written 3/18/2001)


Setting: Island of St. Pierre off of France (part of French Republic) in the year 1849-50.

Plot: A guillotine named "the widow" is being brought over to the island from France to execute a man who at the beginning of the movie got so drunk he killed a man without any deep human evil as motive. The "problem" is St. Pierre is a gentle community and has no executioners that not even any of their sailors would bring any to the island. No executioner, no head.

Madame La (Juliette Binoche) is such a gentle soul living there who believes the man is good and useful to the community but also hidden under the surface is innocently sexually obsessed with the man before she even really meets him which is what much of the community thinks she is leaning toward, especially some bored debutantes which are like counterparts to Juliette's character. Her husband is the warden of the penitentiary (Daniel Auteuil) under Paris headquarters but technically has jurisdiction because they are not in Paris so he allows the condemned to be at his wife's disposal because he supports her and they love each other, which is seen as signs of weakness by the ferocious Paris French Republic putting pressure on the local Republic making such questions arise: do humans make the law or does the law make us? Surely nobody in St. Pierre not having endured the repression of France needs to make examples by collecting heads except for the cowardly governor and admirals who are paid to appear strong. Of course there's a quote (i forget who it belongs), and i'm paraphrasing saying "real strength is having the power to destroy, but choosing not to". Madame La's lust for the condemned is no exception to this rule--her love having conquered all.


French Canadian film based on a true story of a senseless killing by two drunken fisherman in the middle of the 19th Century. Setting is the French island of Saint Pierre off the coast of Newfoundland. Juliette Binoche is superb as "Madame La Capitaine" portraying the compassionate wife of the military commander (Daniel Auteuil) on the island. He is also in charge of the prison where the convicted killer, played by Emir Kusturica, awaits his death sentence. He must wait because the town has no guillotine and must get one from Martinque. Here's where Binoche carries the show and demonstrates her significant capability. An excellent story with superior performances that keep viewer's interest to the very end. It was very well worth watching even if I couldn't speak French.


I've watched this movie 4 times. What so unusual about that is, that I am for capital punishment. Based on actual events, this movie recounts the transformation of a man sentenced to death by guillotine or in French slang "widow". While he awaits to be executed, he performs "community service" for an army captain's wife.

There are two love stories I found in this movie. The most obvious one, the captain and his wife. He has so much faith and trust in her, that even as people rumour about his wife, he defends her to the bitter end. The other love story is that of human kind. Madame La, is fully aware of the horrible act the prisoner has committed, but she has enough guts and gumption to prove that behaviors can "change".

This movie leans towards anti-capital punishment but it does not preach that at all. Madame La, like Dead Man Walking's Sister Helen Prejan, is capable of seeing through even the worst evil, and finding compassionate remorse in their fellow human beings. I don't necessarily agree with them but I must admire them for they truly understand the best and worst of human nature. Maybe that's why I watched it so many times.


If Thirteen Days' is a picture that President Bush, USofA, praises as an example of good warring and political enterprise, and Traffic' is a film that the rest of us think can help resolve an American drug addition problem, then The Widow of St. Pierre' must certainly be the film that toys with issues of capital punishment, human rights, and the prison system in general.

There was a line in the script, spoken by Le Capitaine at a point when his fate is pretty much sealed as he takes a moral and compassionate stand in a challenge to those that govern this French island. That line stands out in my mind and goes something like this: "The person we send to prison is never the person that we execute."

The point therein is a pestering contemporary topic and social dilemma of this wonderfully written and directed film: should prisons be a tool towards rehabilitation as a primary task, with punishment as something much lower on the list of bureaucratic to-do's? Or is it the opposite or something in between that gets adjusted at whim in an attempt to be politically polite to those in power who can demonstrate being 'hard on crime'?

Those are the thoughts that I took with me after today's morning screening (actually across the street from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills which I think appropriate!!)


BEWARE OF SPOILERS!

In this French language film (with English subtitles), Juliette Binoche plays what some today might call a "bleeding heart liberal," maybe even a head-strong bleeding heart liberal. Her name is Pauline and her husband Jean (Daniel Auteuil) is the Captain of a troop of soldiers on the island of St. Pierre off the coast of Newfoundland. The year is 1849.

One night two of the local peasants get drunk and have an argument about whether a certain man of the island is fat or just big. As a joke they go to his cottage and rouse him from his dinner table with calls of "fat!" and "big" until comes out to investigate with a knife in his hands for protection. In the ensuing confrontation one of the men holds the big guy from behind while the other (Ariel Neel Auguste, played by Emir Kusturica) knocks the knife from his hand, picks it up, and in a kind of madness cuts the man open to see--as they later testify at the trial--whether he is really fat or just big.

As it happens, Neel is condemned to death, but can't be executed because the law requires that he be beheaded and there is no guillotine on the island, nor is there an executioner. Since he can hardly run away from this snowy island, Pauline wants him out of his cell and at work helping her around the house, maybe as a gardener. Jean, who loves Pauline extravagantly, agrees and Neel becomes Pauline's protégé. She wants to reform him and teach him to read, etc. The tension in the film builds as her good intentions run afoul of the island's governing authorities. Through it all Jean stands steadfast by his wife in a most heroic way.

I won't say anymore about the plot. What interests me more is the motivation of Pauline in helping Neel. Is she motivated by generosity of heart or by her desire to be a person doing good? This is an ancient question. Do we do good because that is our nature or because we are fulfilling a desire to be good? Furthermore, is Pauline's heart filled with human love for Neel or does she in fact have a yen for him?

Director Patrice Leconte gives us plenty of reason to be skeptical. When Pauline is sitting practically on Neel's lap while teaching him to read, the camera closes in on their fingers as they trace the lines in the text. The fingers get closer and closer together until they touch and even mingle a bit.

Cut immediately to a scene through a bedroom door: two naked figures in vigorous sexual union. At first we can't see who they are, and it is hard not to imagine that it is Pauline and Neel in adulterous embrace. However, it is Pauline and her husband, Jean.

In another scene the bored women of the island are seen talking about how close Pauline and Neel have gotten and how this must inspire Jean to be a better lover; but in fact we can see that what the presence of Neel is doing is lighting a fire under Pauline.

Captain Jean is an entirely admirable character who loves his wife. Neel is also admirable in that he loves Pauline but doesn't make any moves on her. He becomes something of a hero when he saves the building of a café on wheels being moved from crashing. She is of course the most talked-about person on the island, the source of most of the gossip. As we watch the film unfold there is a sense of doom coming. We know something terrible is going to happen; we just don't know what or to whom.

In the final analysis I guess we can say that Pauline--who, in the framing device, narrates the events from memory--got not what she deservedfor no one deserves what happened to her; nor can we attribute what happens to some kind of fatalism. Instead the tragedy can be seen as the direct result of her compromised behavior. Or perhaps we can make a more generous interpretation and say that no good deed ever goes unpunished.

This film can also be seen as a tract against capital punishment since Neel is basically a good man who made a bad mistake. He is clearly a worthwhile member of the community. He is also repentant even to the point of believing that he must pay for his sin in accordance with the law.

See this for director Patrice Laconte who has a nice touch with historical period pieces and directs with the kind of attention to detail and story that rank him among the very best auteurs of the French cinema. I also highly recommend his Ridicule (1996) and La fille sur la pont (1999).


I liked this film a lot. The story, based on real events, is tragic and beautiful. Juliette Binoche, IMO one of the finest actresses around, plays the wife of the captain in charge of a jail. She is determined to save the murderer housed there awaiting execution. Daniel Auteuil is absolutely wonderful as her husband, who loves his wife beyond all reason and common sense. It is performance that most stands out.


This movie expresses in a very special and interesting way what a passionate love can achieve. The strength of a men who stick to his ideal regardless to the fact that it may cost him life. The conviction of a woman who strongly believe in redemption. The corrupted side of politics which exists since it was born. All this is mixed in a tale that, despite of its slow pace, makes you want remain in your chair desiring for a happy final that you know has no place in the story. The widow of Saint-Pierre can be regarded as one of the best French movies of all times. Excellent photography. Beautiful colors. Reasonable plot. Do not miss it 8 out 10.


What a wonderful movie, full of quiet passion. "The Widow of St. Pierre" is a beautful and haunting film that tells the story of a man committed to death on a small French fishing island that does not have a guillotine and how he learns to repent his crime and becomes a useful member of the community. the judge obsevers, "We committed a murderous brute and we're going to top a benefactor." There is another story of the marriage of Le Capitaine (Daniel Auteuil) and his wife Madam La (Juliette Binoche). Of their love and understanding for each other. The play between these two actors is something to see, they just look at each other and you can see their feelings for one another. She feels for the prisoner and her husband sympathizes with her feelings and understands her. The director Patrice Leconte has done an admirable job portraying the time, place and atmosphere. Emir Kusturica who plays Neel, the murderer, Juliette Binoche and Daniel Auteuil all play their parts with a quiet understanding for their characters. I think this must be Juliette Binoche's best performance. This is a beautiful, disquieting movie and I highly recommend it to those who like an intelligent story, well told.


This is solid 7 out of 10. I felt as tho we weren't given enough details of the "story", before joining in on the movie. I think if there was flashback or two, or if the movie began about a year or two before the actions took place, the current situation would have meant more. I didn't feel I knew any of the characters, so I was not able to really care all that much to what happened to them. Acting was suburb, and the premise was right on. No sugar coating in the ending, and the costumes and "feel" of the scenery brought me to the 1800s. Overall, it was good, not great.


Neel Auguste is sentenced to death by the guillotine for the murder of a peasant on the island of Saint-Pierre, Newfoundland. Only problem is: there is no guillotine on the island. The instrument is sent for, and meanwhile Neel Auguste is put to work for Madame La, the wife of the captain in charge of the prisoners. She starts to teach the convict to read, and they become friends. He turns out to be a good man, and when he saves the life of a village woman, nobody wants to see him killed. But then the guillotine arrives... If anything sums up this movie, it is loving detail. Patrice Leconte has put three warm-hearted people in an icecold landscape and shows how much they care for each other in small things: fingers accidentally touching, a look, a smile.

Treat yourself and go see it!


I was going to give this a 4 but it gets a 10. Its hilarious! I got a feeling Drew Johnson (who starred, wrote and directed this film) is a big baseball fan. Assuming this is true, he should know better than this. I understand this is a chick-flick but to appeal to the male audience there needs to be some accuracy here. This movie is definitely not BULL DURHAM. PITCHER AND THE PINUP falls flat. Everything with baseball in this movie made me laugh. The sports clichés, stadium inaccuracies, and actors who don't look like ball-players make thishilarious. Among the the absurd highlights: -- "But coach, (I can't play third) I've pitched EVERY GAME this year!" -- The gypsy/scout who foretells the future with his deck of cards. -- The can't miss Major Leaguer who can't hit balls thrown at a speed meant for a 4-yr-old with a giant plastic red bat until he learns a poem to help him with his hitting. -- The star going AWOL for two weeks and being allowed back by a sympathetic manager because of a "woman." -- The best friend being offered a contract and a spot on the team after the manager sees him playing catch. No hitting, No workout, No interview. Just catch. -- "Congratulations on your 15 strikeouts and your 4 for 4 with a home run."

Basically, this movie is absurd, yet hilarious. You will only like this movie of you are female. If you are a real guy you will fine this funny.

My other gripes: -- Borrowed love story of Forrest Gump -- Why in the world was she always saying "I love this country?" Was she an immigrant? I guess so because she grew up in Vegas. -- Flashback overload. Enough of the Star Wars and Farrah Fawcett Tshirts. Also, if you use historical events to timeframe, use something astronomical, not the obscure highjacking of a cruise ship. My favorite timeframe placing was when one character goes, "Man, it is 1988!"

In the end, this movie HILARIOUS. Cheesy lines, bad casting, horrible acting, and inaccuracies ... Great for a laugh, I'm buying the DVD!


I have been to Sundance, Toronto, Venice, to name a few, and of all the independent films that I have seen (and I have seen lots!) I have yet to see a film with such heart. It's not a new story, but it captures the feeling of a first love in a way that is hard to not be moved. Although not the esoteric film that we usually see in the independent circuit, it is so well done that I looked beyond its minor flaws. Lovely film.


The movie portrayed to me, young love in it's purest form, lived unconditionally and with great courage. Too often people fail to love with such courage. They clutch at their hearts along with their pocket books and head for the door. I found myself feeling immense pride for this young man in his endeavor. We all know that too often in life things don't have a storybook ending but this one did and I enjoyed it. I loved the characters, the music, the settings and the humor injected. I would like to see more from these young people.


This film has a lot of heart in it, with excellent performances. It's clear these lead actors will be huge stars one day, especially the female lead Corinna Jones. The cinematography is simple and beautiful like the film. Why aren't there more films like this? I can't wait to see it again.


The Road Home is a delightful coming of age film that has just the right mixture of romance and baseball. What an accomplishment for this first time director! The cinematography was beautiful and the original score is something the behold. I think we can expect a lot more from Drew Johnson and his crew in the years to come.


I saw "The Road Home" more than a year ago, and the film, its themes, and its content, have stayed with me. This movie moved me deeply, and there are times I still think of it fondly. It had moments of intense humor, and moments of deep sadness. The emotional roller-coaster this movie put me on was one very few films can achieve, let alone sustain throughout the length of the movie. "The Road Home" is a movie that should be seen by masses. It is an exceptional film, one that deserves to be shown to the public at large. Drew Johnson has the markings of a major-league film-maker and with this movie he hits one out of the park!


I really enjoyed the film. I review 3 or 4 films per week and simply base my critiques, on the way they make me feel. I was recently at a film festival at the Palms in Vegas and watched 3 different films. I felt this film was probably somewhat based on a true story, and that the people behind the film put alot of heart into it. Great film and I recommend it for families.


this movie was terrible. i only purchased it because corinna harney is in it, but she doesn't even get naked!!! it always makes me laugh to see an indie movie like this with like 10 pages of glowing reviews- way to get your family involved, director guy!!

anyway, the fact that baseball is the main storyline will quickly be forgotten here as the scenes involving baseball are strange and unfitting, seemingly edited very poorly or having little or nothing to do with actual baseball. corinna looks hot in it, but i honestly am mad at myself for buying this off of amazon, even though i only spent $1. 1/10


Despite the few (mostly one) postings from people who clearly cannot get past their own inability to connect to a heartwarming film, for the official record I would like to add a few quotes regarding THE ROAD HOME from some well known and well respected film critics:

"The Road Home is a bold and stylish drama from newcomer, Drew Johnson. A filmmaker with a creative eye that bristles with intelligence, charm and imagination!" ...Jeffrey K. Howard, The Movie Guys

"The Road Home is a captivating film worthy of your attention, a well-written little film with a big heart. In this year filled with endless sequels and big-budget explosions, watching The Road Home is like finding a hidden treasure. Simply put - this is a wonderful and thought-provoking movie. Don't miss the opportunity to see it!" ...Tony Toscano, Film Critic, Emmy-Winning host Talking Pictures

"An enjoyable movie that brings together America's two favorite past times, baseball and being in love" ...Greg Russell, Film Critic WDWB Detroit

"A superbly crafted film...One of this year's best romances." ...David Giammarco, Film Critic Toronto Star, Elle Magazine

"An impressive Independent feature...It has the look and feel of a studio picture." ...Playboy Magazine

"I just got back from the CineVegas film festival and I saw a great film, The Road Home!" ...Casey Smith, Anchor, KLAS, CBS affiliate, Las Vegas

"I Love this movie! It's not your typical movie about people from 'Vegas, in fact it's not your typical "feel good" movie either. It's a great film!" ...Heidi Harris, Host KXNT, 840AM Talk Radio, Las Vegas

It would appear that they "Yeeech" comment from one lone person is the odd voice out regarding the quality and enjoyability of this film. What a shame that currently it is the lead comment on a film with otherwise stellar reviews from what appears to be various festival goers over the two years. Too bad so much weight has been given to that one review when others, including seasoned and film-weary professional critics, obviously feel this is an independent film of note.

Takes all kinds I guess....


It's a tale that everyone can relate to, warms the soul and leaves you smiling. Strong performances by the lead actors maintain your interest as well as surprise appearances by Brimley and Saxton. I hope it gets the national attention is deserves.


This film captures the spirit of America's official pastime, baseball and America's real pastime, romance and combines the two in a seamless, engaging and heartfelt manner. I entered the theatre with guarded optimism knowing this was the feature directorial debut for writer/director Johnson. I left the theatre very pleasantly surprised. This young filmmaker accomplished far more with fewer resources than most seasoned pro's accomplish with far more. But Johnson has succeeded in creating much more than a mere calling card. This film succeeds on it's own merits and deserves to be seen and to live on. A bit longish in spots, the engaging mood will cause all but the most jaded cynic to overlook this fact and give this gem the praise it so richly deserves.


This film is not for the jaded or the cranky film geeks that shriek whenever they see a mainstream independent movie about love and difficult emotions, and then go on to dismiss it as unoriginal or cliche. It is the filmmakers responsibility to please an audience with honest emotions, good or bad. If you don't like the way the characters act then take a look in the mirror and when do we ever like every character in a movie? In this movie most of the characters are redeeming, that's what matters. Some people can't deal with love and that's exactly what this movie is about. The characters in this film represent who we are, we get upset, we do cry out, we do make stupid decisions! There is no drama without those elements. It's our final decision that counts. This movie is about hope and reconciliation. It's tied together so well, it just made sense, I've been one of those characters and maybe that's why I connected so well with it. I mean I love this movie. It's crafted in a beautiful and moving way, so what if it's totally unoriginal so what if it's schmaltzy, it's good "American Corn." Audiences will love this movie. The use of baseball in the film is manifested in a brilliant way as it fuels the story within the characters intersecting lives. It's a completely original way of using baseball as a metaphor for who we are. It's not your typical feel good movie, it pays great attention to detail and the acting is very good. It's the first truly independent film I've seen with heart. To use a cliche proudly, The Road Home.


A universal story based on so many peoples lives, their first love, life experiences, growing up and most importantly discovering who loves them the most. It's about being young and feeling all those wonderful undiscovered feeling that we all humans feel for the first time. It's joyous to watch and reminisent about your own life as well as experiencing those moments one more time. After all we only live once.


I had the great fortune to watch the full-length version of this movie at a Hollywood screening. I am glad to see that it has been edited as the original dragged on just a bit though it did have good flow. My gauge was through my eleven year-old son who joined me for the screening as he is a baseball nut. Not only did he make it through but he couldn't stop talking about the movie for days on end. I think every kid in his elementary school is waiting for this to come out and with good reason.

A great family value movie with enough of a love story to hold the teenage to mid-twenty something crowd. There are enough feel-good moments to hold adults and seniors.

I would like to see this movie make it to the big screen. With a little promotion it would do well. Especially if it breaks out either just after the World's Series 2002 or early 2003 opening of the MLB season.


This coming-of-age, romance, baseball story has every smaltzy, sentimental, semi-mental, feel bad, feel good cliche that ever graced a 50's big studio or Disney flick. There isn't one original scene, situation, or piece of dialogue in the whole movie. To make it worse, every point made on the screen is hammered home immediately afterward by having a character tell us what we just saw. The acting is nearly as bad as the screenplay. How is 104 minutes of unlikeable characters whining, crying, and refusing to act with any intelligence supposed to entertain or enlighten us?

 I thought they didn't make them like this any more; unfortunately, sometimes they still do. If "The Natural" is a home run into the light towers, then "The Road Home" is a dribbler to first base.


I just finished watching this movie. Although it had a pretty weak budget, it didn't matter. That has to be one of the best movies I have ever seen. The movie made me think of my own youth, and the paths I have chosen to get where I am today. I highly recommend this movie to anyone.

The movie follows three kids from their youth, through their adolescence, and into adulthood. In some ways it reminded me of Forrest Gump. I won't spoil the movie for anyone, but if you watch it, you will know exactly what I mean.

I would say that if someone were to put this movie into a category of Baseball films this film would be right at the top with The Natural, and Field of Dreams.


As a filmmaker myself, I can honestly say we can continue to expect good things from Drew Johnson. The Road Home is an outstanding debut from this young director. The supporting cast is outstanding. And an often overlooked part of most films is the editing. Here the editing is particularly effective in telling the story. Check this one out!


What I really like about this storyline is it gives the viewer ideas of what to do if you happen to find yourself in this problem! I can't wait until this film is finally sold! I SEE MR. OSCAR IN YOUR FUTURE! This movie will make you cry and feel things that you have not felt in a long time. I sure wish I could have been a part of the crew, but I tell all my friends about this film! You just have to see it when it comes out! The behind the story is just as good as the film. You have to ask me about this. I had a chance to interview Corinna Harney and this is a story that you will never forget.


The best part about his movie for me is the story. I love how these characters are so real, how they change, it's really touching. I love the photography, the soundtrack and the simple true story that was told. Negative commentary about it for me is hard to do, because the choices the characters made in this film aren't always good ones, but it's what the character would do in real life. There's subtle moments and connections in this film that you might miss if you're mind drifts, but it all ties up so lovely and it gives us hope for our own lives. Many of the comments that I got from others was, they lived that, they can relate. I can say no more except that I was deeply touched by the sincerity of this film. Drew Johnson's heart is up on the screen and it's something we need right now in American Cinema.


Great coming-of-age movie. Has alot of heart and touches on real Americana - apropos for our times. Wonderful mix of love story and love of baseball.

I was routing for them all the way! Hopefully this director-writer team will get a chance to do something again with a bigger budget and more well known talent, but very enjoyable none the less.


I found this movie intense in a way I can't seem to find anymore. Too often, I find myself dosing off in the middle of the latest block buster only to wake up grateful that I missed it after hearing the disappointment experienced by those who stayed awake. This movie had characters that pulled me in and made me want to watch. I felt I knew them and had to know what happened to them. I laughed, cried and celebrated life's victories and cursed the curves as the plot took us through good times and bad. I smiled at the end when I realized that in the movie, as in life, we all end up exactly where we are meant to be, no matter how rough it can be getting there. The music also did an amazing job of being original and matching the mood/moment.


Dreams can come true but they don't occur the way you thought they would. That sums this movie up for me. I recently saw this movie "The Road Home," in Vegas and I really enjoyed it. There was a couple of slow scenes but I still will tell my friends to go see it. If you love baseball you have to see this film. My girlfriend cried a couple of times, she got wrapped up in the love story.


The plot of the film has our heroine shooting a man during a religious crusade. She hasn't been long out of prison and is thrown back on death row. While awaiting her date with destiny a minister arrives and she recounts her life. It is a life of pain and suffering that never quite goes right despite her best intentions.

Have you ever watched a film that you thought was extremely well done but which you couldn't not relate to at all? For me this is one of the few films I found that is beyond my scope of experience. The life and pain of this black woman simply did not connect with this white man. Don't get me wrong, I liked the film, I just couldn't connect emotionally with events on the screen.

That said this is very good movie. The acting is excellent. The story is compelling, even if I couldn't emotionally connect with it. This is a film to try if you run across it. You may not love it but you'll probably like it.

7 out of 10


This movie (as well as the book and play) addressed sensitive issues that touch the lives of men, women and children everyday. However, theses issues are usually not openly discussed and are often hidden, which leads to mental and emotional break-downs or destructive behavior.

The movie not only captured several issues, including sexual abuse, verbal abuse, abandonment, low self-esteem etc. It also demonstrated the negative effects of covering up the issues through lies, misplaced aggression and denial. I liked the way the movie displayed the effect that the revival incident had on each character that was involved. I was also touched by the positive and encouraging words offered by the minister which ultimately had an effect on the main character.


I really enjoyed the movie and got a chance to see Bishop TD Jakes from a different perspective. I believe this is the side of ministers that we don't see, where they visit the sick, prisoners, etc. And unless we have a crisis in our family probably will never see. Since I missed the first few moments I was a little confused by what was going on since the scenes jumped from the jail cell to the church to the past. However, the plot is not hard to follow. The characters were all great and did an excellent job in there parts.

I sure many feel its a movie for women and that is not necessarily so. After watching the movie I am definitely interested in reading the book.


When my girlfriend dragged me to this movie, I went with her to treat her to part of her Birthday present; but secretly, I was dreading to see this movie. I thought that here's another "Christian" made production, many of which seem to suffer from lack luster acting and weak direction.

None of those elements exist in this riveting drama based on the composite experiences of various women encountered by TD Jakes through out his ministry. From the stunning beginning of the movie to its hopeful and heart warming end, I was enthralled by the very realistic characters(especially the main character), their various struggles, and their varying Faith, or lack there of, in God.

This movie does not milk-toast the church or sugar coat those who are True Believers, but shows us for what we truly are; real sinners saved continually by real Amazing GRACE and the Great Mercy of God.

For those who think you have to be lilly white to be accepted by God, I highly recommend this movie as a big dose of reality. But for those who just see the church as full of hypocrites, you'll come away with an appreciation for how much God loves us imperfect beings and why the Church is full of us!


Renowned minister and author Bishop T.D. Jakes of The Potter's House of Dallas, Texas has brought to screen his best-selling novel that has been a major hit amongst women in his ministry for nearly 10 years. Written at a time in his life when he doubted if he could (read: should) be the 'voice' of the forgotten women, the broken woman, the fallen woman, ...the woman that is often invisible in most church congregations, after the release of his novel, the overwhelming answer was 'preach on, T.D., preach on'. And preach he did, to thousands in his Woman Thou Art Loosed conventions all across the country to sold out stadiums. It's not really a surprise when one knows the history of the journey that this project would be his first feature film effort. Some might argue that this is his most anointed work, especially given the numbers that most lower income minority households now are single parent households and that translates more than likely to often being led by mothers. What happens when these 'mothers' fall into hopeless situations that seem outside the confines of the normal assistance that most churches are only equip to handle? It's in that chasm that Bishop Jakes found his voice.., and calling.

Woman Thou Art Loosed, the movie, is an ambitious project. Well written, and acted by a stellar cast (more on that later), it only suffers from a few minor problems that are mostly cinematic issues. The lighting throughout the movie was uneven and could have benefited from an overall continuity of theme, but all in all, this problem is minor in contrast to the action and dialogue on the screen. The outstanding casting of Kimberly Elise as the troubled lead, Michelle Jordan, who opens this movie, pistol in hand, in the midst of an altar call at a revival meeting of Bishop Jakes, is both tragic and heroic as you learn of her desperation to make sense of her life's choices and conflicts. Kimberly brings a new definition to pathos, and in several scenes proves that she's an actress of great skill and technique, while never allowing the mechanics to be noticed. Adept at emoting with just a look or turn of her brow, she breathes life into Michele's often difficult and challenging scenes with the ease of someone who's really been 'there' in the depths of despair. At it's core, WTAL is a love story. Love gone bad, love gone wrong, love unrequited and love never fully developed. Michelle wants her mother, Cassie, to love her, to see her and acknowledge her. Formidable actress Loretta Devine, portrays a mother that needed mothering, and unfortunately can't give to her daughter what she's never experienced. Failing her daughter at a most critical moment in their journey, creates the rift between mother and daughter and sets into motion that incredible opening scene. Pay close attention to the scenes that include these two actresses, together, for a master's class in scene study.

But make no mistake, the heartbeat of this film is Bishop Jakes and his sermons. Whether being delivered in the pulpit or in a prison cell, his message of restoration is ever present. The moments that soar in this film are those that center on his fiery, common-sense sermons and his ability to touch the very core of issues in simple and succinct analogies. Much more could have been made of these moments and I think the direction in the services suffered a bit, but then again, how do you really direct the holy spirit? Director Michael Schultz is legendary and yet this might be the problem: his style is a little dated and isn't as edgy as some of the more modern films of our times. That being said, I did appreciate his use of the close-up that allowed us to 'see' every nuance of emotion.

It might prove a little difficult to find this film, but it's worth a diligent search. If for no other reason, for the sheer inspiration of the story and to observe major talent acting for once in material that they obviously believe in. I sensed that many of those tears that were shed, weren't all about the characters they were inhabiting. More than a few actors were most likely 'loosed' in the process, as well. It's that powerful of a movie. Highly recommended.


I have only just seen this movie and it really touched my heart because some of the things that Michelle went through I went through. The only difference was that her step-father was my step-mother and her mother was my father and the sexually abuse was physical and emotional abuse.(I didn't end up in prison though). Some parents, for some strange reason, think that their happiness comes before their children. I don't understand that. I think that a parent must always believe their child until they find out they are lying, not the other way around. When you have a child you pledge your life to providing for and being there for that child no matter what. There should be no compromise because that child is in the world because of your choice. I think that this movie gives hope to those who feel like they have none. It gave me some hope that my life doesn't have to be the endless black hole that my stepmother wanted it to be.


I had a chance to see a screening of the movie in Atlanta. It was a very powerful piece. Although it definitely has a religious theme, it is rooted in secular life. . The film does not sugarcoat the issues that the characters go through, but it depicts the issues in a tasteful,non-vulgar way that really hits home. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. There were even some counselors on hand to help people deal with the personal impact of the film. Kimberly Elise was outstanding. She is definitely a star on the rise... . I think has the potential be the modern-age version of The Passion of The Christ.


That is the real deal! I do not know way too many things about artistic side of the actors and how they suppose to act while a movie, but I know this: I've been in bondage and God has set me free This is what the movie industry should be all about. Movies that are powerful, inspirational, makes you take the right decisions after a life of wrong ones or after a life where other has done wrong decisions for you.

I know that Mel Gibson have done the Passion and there has been some others that are trying to be God's voice for this humanity that calls for a change of hearts. If the world will not pay attention, that will be its end. If the world will listen carefully to God's Word through these movies, and others like them, we can make this place a better place.

Gaby


I never saw the exposition of life like this in any movie as it goes on behind the curtains in the ghetto, and this movie showed me a small portion of just that. The ugly reality of life came to surface in this film. Typically black men in the ghetto don't show much respect toward women, abuse them on a regular basis for their selfish, immoral and degraded sexual perversions, as hinted, behind closed doors. I felt both surprised and disturbed by the portrayal of the conscienceless, shifty, two-faced and shameless men who very well painted the picture of life and the kind of men one would meet in the hellish world of drug abuse, prostitution, and poverty. In the end, we learn that there is a way out of there for all, but with a large price tag attached to it!


In this film, T.D. Jakes cites the statistic that a woman is "killed by a man who says he loves her" every 15 seconds. This is inaccurate. The statistic that he should have cited is that a woman is "battered" every 15 seconds. This was a major motion picture (and an enjoyable one at that)and so it is hard to believe facts like that were not vetted. If they were vetted, this would seem to be an intentional distortion.

The movie was impressively shot and presented, and I came away at least impressed with Jakes' acting ability (though perhaps that sort of ability is requisite for his line of work). This statistic misrepresentation, however, raises questions about Jakes' reliability.


I ordered this on OnDemand a few weeks ago and I wasn't at all impressed with the film.

I was, however, impressed with Kimberly Elise's and Loretta Devine's performances. Those two women alone carry this mess of a film.

The film is filled with clichés. And the way the story is presented is sort of mismatched and should've been shown in the proper order, from front to back, not from back to front (with the ending being first.) The film could've been a really great one if somebody touched up the screenplay and got a better director.

With that all being said, the film has a powerful opening and two powerful performances from Kimberly Elise and Loretta Devine.

It's sad how two actresses (both of whom are personal favorites of mine) are reduced to getting scraps like this for films.

Their immense talent is wasted on awful, forgettable movies such as this when it should be used in good quality films that zip them off to the Oscars.

It's sad that Hollywood has this bunch of actresses that they have no idea what to do with so the real talent is left to getting D-grade fair such as this.

I wouldn't say that it's a black or white thing as far as actors/actresses getting good roles but Hollywood sure has a lot of underused talent with black actors. The mentioned Loretta Devine and Kimberly Elise come to mind, as well as Whoopi Goldberg. After The Color Purple all she got was those pathetic comedies (with only sister Act and Ghost rising to the occasion.)

With that being said there are just as many white actors as there are black actors that Hollywood has no idea what to do with so I don't think it's a matter of Hollywood being racist anymore, just being stupid.


How can a preacher make a movie that doesn't offer the Grace of God?? How can he show all that misery, that happens all the time in this town, but not show Who the Answer is? During the sequences of "revival", at no time is the scripture referenced. T.D.Jakes is only about self-help. He has made himself a bishop. He comes off as just another fraud in this movie. Now they want more lines. Michael Boatman was GREAT, as usual. He is one of the finest African-American actors we have today! Loretta Devine is also one of my favorites. I see everything she is in. She did a good job with a horrible role/script in this, hopefully last, attempt at movies by the so-called "bishop" Is this enough lines?


Why, because Catholics are taught that the only way to God is through the priest and other Christians are taught that believing in God, his teachings and the teachings of Jesus Christ is what gives you salvation. So I don't have to buy into Jakes' vision of the world and black women in particular. I gave this movie a 4/10 only because I loved to see black actors working I only wish they could find some other films to exhibits their crafts. I know that life is not a basket of roses but I believe that man is basically good that he makes a lot of wrong choices but give a break every wrong choice in one movie! 25% of the black men were good, again dope and weakness is all we ever see of ourselves and oh yes beauty shops. I'm glad that God touched during this movie so that I could forgive the good Bishop and be glad that I never bought the book.


Naturally, being a warm blooded male, I don't typically seek out movies like this to watch. But often they come on TV and I happen to catch the first few minutes and then get swept up and, on occasion, thoroughly entertained. I'm happy to say this was one of those occasions.

Lindsey Lohan had me in tears in The Parent Trap, where she was completely charming and adorable, and she's continues in that vein here. Sadly the actress herself has become rather unappealing as an adult, both appearance and personality wise (just another shallow Hollywood party girl...) but here's a look at how sweet she was before things went wrong. I love freckles! Tyra Banks also stars, which is good because it's great to see an actress who had higher aspirations take roles like this to show they are humble and don't take themselves too seriously. Models (and wrestlers or rappers for men) who think they are serious actors are near the top of my most annoying list!

Well, the story of the film is pretty straight forward for a Disneyesque family feature, Casey (Lohan) loses her mother and attempts to resurrect her via voodoo magic, but instead manages to bring her new Eve doll to life, in the form of Tyra Banks. Not exactly a demanding role, but Banks is fun and appealing as the doll come to life trying to fit into the real world. Of course, I'll be a bit cheeky here and say that Type Banks is a perfect choice to play someone who is completely plastic! ;)

Anyway, there's not a whole lot of plot to spoil so I'll stop there, just watch this film for the feel good aspect (and young Lohan) and to remember and treasure the innocent (and fun!) years of youth. It's not only teenagers who shouldn't be in a rush to grow up, but adults too!


I think "Life Size" is a great movie. It's too bad that it is just a TV Movie and will not have copies of it sold in stores. I never would have known that Tyra Banks was such a great actress. She was excellent for the part of Eve. It's a great family movie and I hope that they decide to release a video of it in stores.


At first glance I bet 90% of people would under estimate it. But I tell you, this is one heck of a film. It should have been put into theatres because it is SO much fun, and you can watch it with Family, friends, Anyone...and it NEVER gets boring! The comedy is everywhere. Jokes, gags, everything! It is so hilarious and you could seriously laugh through out the whole film. The acting was GREAT! It was clear and good. Finally the PLOT. Truly original! It is simple but the film is truly GREAT! Overall I give it 9/10. A bit of work here and there and the film could actually be PERFECT! RENT the film, actually, BUY the film because whenever your bored or feeling low, this film has enough comedy to make you feel better again. Small Budget, Big Power!


Pleasantly surprised by Tyra's bubbly rendition of a doll's outlook and reaction to 'real life'. The situation of child angst and need for her mother can be handled seriously or lightly. Both help get the point across that in tough times, children need love and support. So what if it comes from a doll accidentally brought to life. The movie did not go too overboard on needing to correct the situation as other movies have. The doll's outlook on life based on infusion from commercial ditties and TV perfection helps to show the difference between TV and reality in a way kids can understand. Talk to you kids about this after the movie but enjoy Eve's bubbly attitude and style during the show.


A pretty good film, I really loved the cast rather than the scrispt, so I think that it's worth watching, especially when Lindsay Lohan stars in it. My second comment is that I didsn't really enjoy the script. It was quite childish. But, the rest was great.


Totally adorable! Lindsay Lohan and supermodel Tyra Banks are charming in this stunning supernatural drama brought to you by the way of Disney! Lohan's character is a young girl who is still stricken by the sudden death of her mother, if though it happened many years ago. She cannot forgive her mum for leaving so soon, and now as her father becomes more and more close to one of his female co-workers, she (Lohan) becomes more and more resentful and starts to exclude herself for the things she normally loves the most.

One day, she visits a magic shop and steals a book that promises to hold secrets about bringing back the dead. She takes the book up and performs a ritual from it. Earlier on in the evening, in an attempt to bond with her, her father's girlfriend had presented her with one of the most popular dolls in town, called Eve. The doll's hair accidentally gets mixed up with that of Lohan's character's mum's in a hairbrush and comes to life by way of Tyra Banks when the spell is complete.

The film then develops into a slapstick comedy as this fully life sized doll tries to fit in with the real world much to Lohan's shock. The real life doll begins to fall in love with Lohan's dad and they soon realise that if the doll is not returned to it's natural state, she will remain in the real world forever. Tyra/Eve doesn't have a problem with this, until one day on the news, she hears that her brand of Eve dolls is about to be canceled forever. Armed with the wisdom she had acquired from the real world, she returns to dolly-world, leaving a heartbroken Lohan, with whom she has formed a bond, behind.


Is there any other word you could think of to describe Tyra Banks other than fabulous? She's as beautiful as any doll you've ever come across...

And that's exactly what she is in this movie: A doll!

Casey is given a doll for her birthday by her widowed father's friend, but she's not interested. All Casey cares about is her dead Mum and she'll do anything to get her back. Casey finds a book which contains a spell to bring back the dead, a re-awakening spell and tries to use it to bring back her Mum, but it all goes horribly wrong! Instead Casey wakens her doll and brings her to life! At first Casey is very upset and hates Eve, her doll, for ruining her chance of having her Mum back, but then gradually she gets to know Eve and appreciates her... She even learns that she can't bring back her Mum, she's gone and she has to live with it and love her Dad with all her might, she still has him and needs to appreciate him more too... But then Eve goes too and both Casey and her Dad are distraught, but they still have each other!

This is a beautiful movie in my opinion, especially for little girls, but personally...

I can't wait to go and buy this movie in the shops!!!! A must see for any young family or for any young or teen girls! Especially Tyra Banks fans like myself, or Lindsay Lohan fans!

Awesome!


Don't you just love these lazy sunday afternoons ? Just laying around your house and do absolutely nothing but watching TV...Unfortunately, I couldn't find the remote when this thing started. I was laying in my couch and the remote was nowhere near...I didn't want anything to spoil my lazyness so I kept watching it.

It was...errrr...CUTE ! Being a 22 year old-fashioned male who wastes most of his time by seeing horror and foreign cult films, I don't think I was part of the target audience this movie tried to reach. So, I also see no reason in bashing it completely. The cast and crew tries so much to bring tears to your eyes. All typical elements are included : the poor girl who just lost her mommy, the workaholic dad who forgets his daughter's football match, the ugly duckling at the office who turns into a beautiful swan ... I'm not being cynical, I'm sure you will cry when you're a young girl (aged 8 - 14) or a lonely housewife ( age 30-55) but if you don't fall into any other category, you'll just watch at it and don't move a muscle. Either that or you have emotional problems...

The cast is filled with "I've seen him/her before somewhere" - faces but I couldn't put a name to those faces. Usually this means they're washed up actors and actresses who can only get jobs in inferior family Disney movies. Except for Tyra Banks of course...She's playing the role she was born to play. A life-size doll !! She's dumb, naïve, ignorant but oh so beautiful and perfect. Her job is to walk around and look hot and she can handle that perfectly well.

The overload of sentiment, morals, drama and unfunny comedy almost made me puke but still I didn't got up to look for the remote. ( That's a good sign by the way...it means this movie is "bearable" till the end )

The monday after, my little niece told me she saw it too and she said she never saw a better movie...so, you see, it's all relative


The idea of a little girl wanting to bring her mother back to life made me thought the plot and movie was going to be kind of cheesy. I was wrong. It was sad because of Casey's mother, but it made a great story of friendship. The first time I ever even heard of the movie (and saw it) was on Disney Channel. I wish it could be sold so other people can see it even if they weren't Disney Channel fans. I also did not recognize Tyra Banksat at first. She has been the host of reality shows(such as American's Next Top Model) made her own show, (the Tyra Show) made a music video, (shake your body) and now acting? Talk about talent.


I can't help but love this movie, its just so entertaining.Lindsey Lohan is so cute, and fun in this movie.Even Tyra Banks is good in this as Eve the doll that magically came back to life.Also this film is so sweet and somewhat depressing at times, in a sweet way.Also since its very entertaining at times and you can't help but like it.However I will say that it was cheesy at times, and at other times it was a little predictable, or at least to out there, in a way you almost can't take it to literal.Overall this film is good, its by all means no masterpiece but its very entertaining and good.

8.3 out of 10 stars


Lindsay Lohan was cute as a kid and as a teen, but personally, I didn't think she was that good. As she grew up, I think she became a better actress. Life-Size is probably above average. I used to hate it and think it was really lame, bad plot, blah, blah, blah, but after reading all the comments on the first page, it really got me thinking.

The plot IS original yet simple.

Tyra Banks DID do a fantastic job as Eve.

The movie WAS pretty funny.

Now I've realized that the movie was good and the actors all did a good job.


I am not going to give a synopsis, many reviewers already did that very well.

I ran into this made-for-TV movie in the sellout-bin from the local videostore. I have to admit I am shallow enough to pick it up, just for the nice pic of Miss Banks on the front.

Like most reviewers I did not have any high hopes about the acting ability of a former super- model (I did not know, at that time, of her heartbreaking performance in "Higher Learning")

I was, however, pleasantly surprised. The chemistry between Lindsay Lohan and Tyra Banks is there. Tyra Banks has great comical&physical talent. Her lanky legs&arms are totally uncoordinated in the beginning, but the longer the doll is human, the better it gets. Small detail, but her initial clumsiness makes a "living doll" even somewhat believable.

Miss Lohan is, as usual, very professional and convincing as the shocked girl who got something more than she bargained for. The actor playing her dad? Well. He's somewhat annoying with his constant "smooth lovable talking". On the other hand, the "loving Dad" is something of a standard mainstay in Disney- movies I guess.... Tyra Banks does an admirable job as Eve, the vapid, ever-beautiful doll-girl-with a heart, and her part has some subtle in-jokes about modeling for the grown-ups(f.i. her obsession with food..)and after the initial annoyance with her overdone stupidity in real-life, she started to warm to me. She's utterly charming in the end. But she cannot sing! Sorry to say but there is one little scene that really made me cringe.

One thing is obvious. All actors had a great time filming this little for-TV movie, never mind a cohesive story.

Yeah..The Story.. Well.. The script is quite inconsistent here and there. (SPOILER ALERT:How come Eve cannot read a Menu OR a computer screen, yet apparently CAN read ingredients on packages when trying to make a cake..with hilarious results...and THEN again is not able to read "The Book" ???) but the flow of the story isn't bad. Even though it seems that the script- writers couldn't really decide were to go: More fairy-tale or more real-life. Magic books?? Come on! This isn't Harry Potter!

Little niggles like that do not take away anything from the enjoyment of this rather charming movie though. The target audience(family with kids from 8 to 13)will like it, and it has some nice messages about equality of boys&girls strewn in here and there.

All in all it is typical, even "stereo-typical" Disney run-of-the-mill produce with some cringe-worthy moments, but for the price, quite enjoyable. And the ending? Well, a bit different from what I expected in a Disney-Movie.


Hungarians are people of wars of independence. They can't stand oppression for a long time. They had wars of independence against Ottomans, Habsburgs and in 1956 against the Soviets. However there are very many exciting stories of the Hungarian history, unfortunately there are very few movies about them. This one commemorates the heroic freedom fighters of Budapest. The Hungarian title "Szabadság szerelem" (in English: Freedom and love) is a historical reference to a poem of Petöfi Sándor, the famous poet and revolutionist of the Hungarian revolution and war of independence of 1848.

You must see this movie to understand peoples of Central and Eastern-Europe and their history. They are all victims of the worst and perhaps the cruelest dictatorship ever in the world. I love this movie. And after that I must say: I'm proud to be a Hungarian.


I'm so proud of all the Hungarian movie makers, actors, actresses, and sportsmen who took part in the creation of this great film. I've not seen such a flawless screenplay long time ago. It's shocking but glorious, full of emotion, will and act for achieving freedom and victory. Absulutely raises a worthy monument to the memory of the Hungarian revolution and war of independence and its heroes in 1956.

Few days before the 50th anniversary of 23rd October this is the best time to remember and meditate on. That's the reason why I think this film should be seen by everyone, and not just within the borders of Hungary.


First of all as a Hungarian patriot, I honor the makers of this movie (for honoring this event with a movie), and I recommend to see this for all of those, who would like to know a little more of how we suffered during the Soviet regime, but how we took up arms for our freedom, and showed the world that communism is not a historical alternative, rather than a bloody tyranny based upon a thousands of lies. This was truly a great moment of the 20th century worldwide history, and maybe the greatest moment in the whole history of our nation. But remember, the revolution of 1956 is not a movie. This movie intends to display this glorious event fit to Hollywood images, but trust me, it deserves more than that. Maybe you catch this movie than next week you forget it. But we don't and cannot forget, as we thank our whole life and freedom to these Hungarian heroes of 1956. May long live the memory of this revolution and show light to all those who suffer under same conditions!


I attended the screening for this movie at the Mann Bruin in Westwood. At the end of the movie I did not want to leave my seat. I wanted more. I am not quite sure what I wanted to see? Perhaps a commentary on the lives of the Water Polo Players? I wanted to know what they did after the game? I wanted to know how their lives turned out? I didn't want the movie to end.

The scenes about the AVO brought back sad memories. It was a brutal organization. My family had first hand experience with them. The movie is a "must see" for anyone, not only Hungarians. The sub-titles were easy to follow for anyone who does not speak the language.

The movie was emotional and especially meaningful to me. I left Hungary in 1956.

October 22, 2007. Does anyone have any idea why this movie is not available anywhere here in the USA? I have purchased 4 DVDs for my family on our recent trip to Hungary, only to find out that we cannot play them on our DVD players (Region 1) It is very disappointing.


I may not be objective since I'm a Hungarian and a patriot, and especially after the very sad 50th anniversary, this was some kind of relief for me.

First the bad, then the goods... Dobó Kata is the only bad thing happened to this, but she's really bad. I never appreciated her - never saw any movie where she didn't pose in lingerie - but after this I have to say, she has to run around in lingerie because in clothes, there's nothing touching in her, nothing that makes you believe what she says, no emotions on her face whatever. She cannot act, that's it.

But the movie had so many strong appearances and so many talented people behind the cameras, that you easily forget about Dobó.

Iván Fenyö; is no surprise, he's been in the Jake Gyllenhal movie Jarhead before (which I didn't like though), and he can act. He's enjoyable here, not his best and not the best in the movie though.

Károly Gesztesi is phenomenal in his role as the coach, one of the most likable characters here. The other of the greatest performances is brought by Sándor Csányi. He's well-known for his leading role in Kontroll, and he simply outshines everyone here as well. The leading lady - after Dobó's failure - is surely Viki Szávai, Eszter in the movie (Dobó's best friend). She's playing so easily you can believe she's not even playing, it's her true self... I liked the character so much thanks her playing that the loss of her was one of the saddest moments for me though it was almost obvious what has to happen to her.

Vic Armstrong did a great job with what he had... The few tanks and other limitations didn't stop him to recreate what was happening on the streets of Budapest. You'll be scared by thinking it through, it's so real...

Kriszta Goda's second movie direction here makes you need to see the first as well. She did an amazing job here.

After all, I was touched, and touched is such a cliché when talking about this movie and the story behind it.

1956 means something for everyone who has at least a little percentage of Hungarian blood in his/her veins... either you were here afterwards and saw the aftermath, either you live here now as young and have the same needs, feelings for freedom, or you're living abroad and were raised on stories about Hungary and how your family had to live, run through the border while they were shooting at them... Or you've heard about the story, you know someone who's Hungarian. Or even reading about it here, and seeing this movie it'll change you a little bit, in what you think about Hungary. I hope less people will laugh at those cheap jokes by comedians on the US national TV after seeing this little history lesson.

No matter how many stories you've heard it's not like being there and seeing this movie will bring you back as a watcher, you'll understand them more and appreciate them more. After leaving the theater you'll surely believe the people who died on the streets or in the AVO prisons were true heroes. Makes you feel the need to do something patriotic as well...

Thus I hope everyone of you goes out to see it, internationally. After so many touching movies about American history, here's your chance to see how those in the Eastern block struggled and fought for their lives. It's totally different and I hope it'll bring difference.

Wanted to give a 10, but -1 coz of DK.


This movie gives realistic snapshots, what happened on streets of Budapest in 1956. What people fought for, what people died for. It grabs human destiny by a love story of a young sportsman and a student girl who met first at the start of the revolution. This love story makes the spine of this film, with touching the heart of viewers, in many parts of it.

Maybe I have a soft spot for this movie, because it scened in my mother country. Maybe I could feel more the spirit of heroes who died in streets for their freedom, in that time. I don't know...

But a very strange thing happened after the film ended. Everyone left the cinema room in a complete silence. This has never happened in this cinema yet. Maybe I was not the only person in the room, who's been touched...


As an American living in Hungary, I thoroughly enjoyed this film and hope that many of my friends living in the states will see it to better understand the Hungarian culture.

As always in a film, there were a few liberties taken with historical facts, but these were not huge and did not destroy the film. It was particularly timely with the riots this year in the streets of Budapest. The courage displayed and the sense of hope in a seemingly hopeless situation made the film especially poignant.

A film worth seeing. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in European history, courage, and Hungarians.


This was a very touching film, especially for such a man as me who was only 4 years old at the 1956 revolution against the communist dictatorship supported by the Soviets. After the conquest of this revolution with the help of Soviets a tragic new dictatorship fell over my fatherland for another 33 years which was full with lying and falsification of history. It was terrible to survive this period. Unfortunately the Western countries did not give any help to overcome the Soviet aggressors, although in their feeling they sympathized with our revolution. This film gives some kind of gratification for all of these sad decades. It clearly shows that the truth and the moral victory was on the side of Hungarian revolutionists. Maybe therefore our present post-communist government is not so pleased with this film because they feel that their predecessors played a very brutal role in our history.


This film is about the uprising of the citizens in Budapest against the Russians in 1956, and the subsequent symbolic water polo match in the 1956 Olympics.

This movie is powerful and words can hardly describe it. From the beginning, the tension between Hungary and USSR is already very visible in the film. Patriotism build up quickly, leading to the uprising of the Hungarians. The initial optimism is portrayed in an effective manner, and the viewers certainly connect wit the characters with their sense of pride and achievement. Though the romance between the leading characters seem to have a weak foundation, the subsequent portrayal is strong. They are willing to risk their own life to protect another.

The plot is told in a precise and direct manner. The shooting scenes are highly graphic, possibly to remind the world what terror they have gone through. The persistence of Viki is remarkable. Her efforts in resisting the Russians is brilliantly portrayed, and viewers get to connect with the uprising through her. On one hand, the promise of a free Hungary drives them forward; but on the other hand, the well equipped USSR army showers them with bullets and grenades that obliterates all hope for a brighter future.

The final water polo match has such a symbolic meaning. Even though the Hungarians are losing the war, they can beat the enemy in other ways. Hope and glory are invested in the water polo team. Through tight editing, the match is so powerful and breathtaking that my heart pumped with every one of their moves.

I particularly find the ending very well done. With the same national anthem, we see the transition from despair in prison to glory in the sports hall. It is such an emotional scene, so intense and so moving.

I completely lost count on how many explosions this film has. In fact I think it must be the film with the most explosion scenes I have ever seen. The budget for this film must have been astronomical.

From my Hungarian friend, the movie is historically accurate. Is it right to die for a glorious cause? As this film points out at one juncture, "He didn't die for the country. He died because he was killed by a machine gun". This film is thought provoking. Are freedom fighters pursuing an impossible dream? Have they given up their lives for nothing? This is an exceptionally powerful film. It is compelling, touching and the most importantly, crystallises the spirit of the humankind's desire for freedom. It easily becomes one of my favourite films in recent years.


In Budapest, the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 is beginning while the water polo team is training for the Melbourne Olympic Games. The player Karcsi Szabó (Iván Fenyö) meets the revolutionary student leader Viki Falk (Kata Dobó) and they fall in love for each other. When the Soviet force withdraws Budapest, Karcsi decides to rejoin the team and travel to Melbourne to participate in the Olympic Games. However, a larger Soviet force returns and invades Budapest, killing thousands of Hungarians and suppressing the resistance. Meanwhile, Karcsi and his team dispute the "Blood in the Water" match against the Soviets.

"Szabadság, Szerelem" is an impressive movie about two historic facts: the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and the "Blood in the Water" match in the Melbourne Olympic Games. The director Krisztina Goda and the writers Joe Eszterhas, Éva Gárdos, Géza Bereményi and Réka Divinyi succeed in promoting the Fiftieth Anniversary of the bloody revolution in his country, unknown for many people, through an engaging and full of emotions movie developed in a perfect pace. The dramatic story uses the romance and chemistry of two charismatic characters performed by Iván Fenyö and the gorgeous Kata Dobó associated to sports, more specifically water polo, and a magnificent team of actors, actresses and stunts, to disclose the foregoing historic events. The cinematography, art decoration and costumes give a wonderful reconstitution of Hungry in the 50's, associated to a stunning and touching soundtrack and great special effects. The story concludes with golden key with the wise message that "freedom is the greatest gift of all". My vote is nine.

Title (Brazil): "Sangue nas Águas" ("Blood in the Water")


Right after I sat down and the initial title came up, flashes from a water polo match attracted my attention, and the story started immediately. Throughout the movie, somehow I never felt that I'm actually in a cinema, and all the two hours went by just like a single moment.

Sometimes, I don't like historical movies, because I know what comes next, but here, I never knew what can come in the following spot. The movie is not a history film, not a documentary, it's the story of Viki (Kata Dobo) and Karcsi (Ivan Fenyo) who fall in love in this fast moving always changing setting. We love the smooth lines of Kata Dobo's face, and we are a fan of her not because of her talent - so no complaints here... however, Ivan Fenyo excels throughout the movie and I'm looking forward a lot seeing his next title. Sandor Csanyi brings his usual very good form.

The movie is very authentic, all spots filmed at the proper real-life original scenes (buildings, streets), with real-life original guns, tanks, costumes. I guess, this movie must reveal a lot of emotions for people who were part of the revolution of Budapest 1956. (Hungarians raised againt the communist dictatorship, but the Red Army occupied the country and steyed in Hungary until 1990.)

As for water-polo scenes, you can expect the best, as all pictures were filmed with the national league of Hungarian water-polo players, a World #1 team!

This is a must see for water-polo fans, for people in Central-European studies and all those who have a Hungarian relative. Or see it just for the beautiful surroundings of Budapest. :-)


Nobody likes to be cheated against in sports, especially so when participating in national level events, and worse, having a supposedly neutral referee awarding dubious decisions that work against your favour, even if it's clear cut they're either receiving some kickbacks, or are genuinely blind. To the Hungarian water-polo team playing against their occupiers the Soviet Union in the 1950s, it meant bowing to rough tactics and having no respite at all.

Perhaps what took me by surprise, is how rich the production values are for this movie. Like films set against an historical backdrop, such as Black Book, Lust, Caution and the likes, Children of Glory never scrimped at fleshing out the masses who got themselves involved in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, where a simple protest in a university spiralled into armed resistance involving thousands marching through the streets, showing their dissatisfaction of mistreatment by the Russians, and the usual chants of "Russians Go Home!".

While on a macro level it introduced us to the era of Soviet occupation in most of the eastern Europe bloc, this is essentially also a love story, between a national hero of a water polo player Karcsi Szabo (Ivan Fenyo) and student activist Viki Falk (Kata Dobo). Naturally their relationship doesn't start off smoothly, with a clash of ideals given that Karcsi is in a privileged position for his value to the country in sports, and having more to lose if the status quo is changed. For Viki, it's change that she, and her fellow student leaders, want to initiate, no matter how small their actions are, but soon enough, it became a hydra that went out of control, giving them a little victory, before the big sledgehammer of a retaliation when any typical authoritarian regime respond with their military might.

I guess with those in power, and having those who privilege themselves under such conditions, change will always seem threatening, be it to current lifestyles, or fear for their lives. It might appear selfish as demonstrated by Karcsi's mother in self preservation, constantly reminding Karcsi of his duty to win medals for his country, and not to mix with negative influences such as Viki, associated with trouble for her bearing of arms, and being part of the inner circle of the change movement. But we know love can't keep these two apart, right?

What made Children of Glory a delight, was besides the scenes of historical value, and its recreation of street battles, it had possibly the first water-polo sports game in a movie I had watched, and filmed it with plenty of excitement that you can't help but to cheer the Hungarian team on as they battle for pride, and for their countrymen's struggles back home, as they meet arch nemesis Russia during the 1956 Melbourne Olympic games, resulting in what was a bloody match in the pool. I thought this segment was very well shot, though you had to really sit through the film to be rewarded for a segment toward the finale.

Wonderful acting, rich costumes and sets, together with a blend of history to lend some narrative gravitas, make Children of Glory an excellent movie on many fronts. I like it enough for it to make it to my highly recommended list, and contender for the top 10 movies of the year list.


'Szabadsag Szerelem' sets an old theme in an original setting: a love caught in the fire of revolution, against a ... water-polo scenery.

Truly original is the serious dealing with some ethics of sports. This film confronts us with questions like 'am I serving my country better by participating in the revolution, or by winning a gold medal at the Olympic games?' Or: 'am I a traitor to my team when I stay in Budapest to fight the Russians?'. Another one: 'do I have a moral obligation to those team-mates for whom water-polo is all they have?'.

Apart from this, 'Szabadsag Szerelem' reminds me of the famous 'Dr. Zhivago' from the mid-Sixties. However, I guess this is easy to say for someone without any emotional ties with Hungary. For those who have, I gather that watching this film still can evoke pretty strong emotions.


I feared this film highlighting one the most dramatic events in modern history would be hampered by bare stage sets and other shortcomings resulting from short funding in Hungary, or the portrayal of events would be marred by national self-pity. It turned out to be nothing short of a well-balanced, historically correct film that arouses great curiosity about what went on in the streets of Budapest (and elsewhere in Hungary) in October and November 1956, and in my mind provokes enormous sympathy for the Hungarian civilians at the time, and the country in general.

Director Kata Dobo has had every good reason to use certain elements familiar to commercial "western" films. It is an important story that should reach a wider audience. Far too many probably know little or nothing about these events. The Olympic games and the need for love are parallel stories in the film which we all understand, and yet are not melodramatic.

This leaves us to grasp just what the turmoil of revolution, secret police reprisals and finally the deaf ear of "the West" was about. I can imagine the Hungarians involved in making this film have put their souls into it. The least we can do is to listen this time to what they have to say. The film once over, I can't imagine anyone not getting the message.

It is inevitable that a film portraying a revolution without the massive (and often excessive) funding of "western" films, can only show examples of key ingredients - the Molotov cocktails, conviction and doubt, Russian brutality, divided loyalties, chaotic emergency services, daredevil teenagers, family divisions, honesty and deception. These true aspects come across not only sufficiently, but well, especially one of the most noteworthy of them: the women at the forefront of the fighting.

The modest colouring is in tact with the time, and the mood. The observer is carried from one realistic scene to the another as quickly as the bewildering swiftness of the revolution must have unfolded at the time.

At the time, in fear of making the cold war colder, the leaders of the West, with President Eisenhower at the top of the list, support for the Hungarian cry for freedom was shamefully guarded, but as the scenes from the Melbourne Olympics demonstrated, public opinion was not unguarded. This film presents an excellent opportunity for some to recall what really happened in Hungary in 1956, for others a first insight. Luckily the jury of the Berlin international film festival seized the opportunity.


I liked this movie not just because it shows an important part of our history, but because it helps others (non Hungarians) to understand us better. I even liked that the movie follows the typical Hollywood building schema which helps the North American population to get into the mood easier and follow the plot. I agree the actors were not always at the top of their game, but this is something easy to overlook with the excellent story leading and the world class visual effects. For me the most important part was the ending of the movie, when the Hungarian national anthem plays (pictures showing to very different places) and I turned to my friend (who is a born Canadian) watching the movie with me: "You can understand now, why we have tears in our eyes when our national-anthem plays... And he understood.


Szabadsag, szerelem was a wonderful cinematic experience. I though it was visually stirring. There is something for everyone, sports, war, a love story.... It was especially good to see some recent history made into film. It was even-handed politically and I feel it is a must see for everyone! I recently read James Michner's book on the 1956 revolution, so I was pleased to see the movie following the historical accounts very closely. The water polo matches were very believable and incredibly filmed from all angles! I have only seen water polo on TV during the Olympics, but these scenes were gripping. I wondered if the actors were real water polo players. I don't understand why this sport is not more popular in the US. It is fast paced and very grueling physically. Please make a point to see this movie


I love the idea of making a movie to honor 56 and i also love making the story accessible to worldwide audiences. I think the film was executed beautifully, the sets, the costumes, the props, everything fit perfectly, so no problem there.

I think the acting was also generally good, Csanyi never disappoints, Gesztesi comes through as always, etc. However, the two lead characters could have done a better job - both Fenyo and Dobo have a difficult time conveying emotions. Fenyo usually looks like a bored android and Dobo - well, whatever.

The biggest problem is the inane writing. The plot is just a cheap TV-movie template, predictable, clichéd and often gratuitous. What's even worse is the dialogue. It's comic-book level, sometimes even worse. I was at the point of leaving the theatre after several badly written lines that would have looked out of place even in a high-school essay.

Anyways, go see it for the pictures and for the great background story, if you are not familiar with Hungary's shining moment in 20th century history. But don't expect profound entertainment or a thrilling story.

As often, history is the best playwright. Too bad the human ones didn't live up to the job.


Children of Glory is supposed to render not just an utterly important event in Hungarian history but also how life tasted in an era of exasperation and unrest. Krisztina Goda's shameful piece succeeds in either of them. While watching the movie my feeling was that this could have been the feeble attempt of a low-rated American director to make a low-cost historical/action flick to be given away as extra DVD supplement of a cheap magazine. An attempt to make something he (or in this case she) has only read a few interesting columns about into a 120-minute feature film. It is also a shame on producer Andy Vajna to have discredited the suicidal courage of the revolutionists by applying his how-to-make-a-stupid-action-packed-blockbuster" kit while putting Children of Glory together. Sets are inexplicably false, lighting perversely attitudinizing and unrealistic. But what makes me want to cry out loud is that dailogs are entirely out of place, crammed with American common places and hip-hop age jargon that sound more ridiculous than a herd of hippos singing psalms to Billie Jane's melody. And they are cheesy. I am indignant. My only relief is Sandor Csanyi's reliable acting. Not much.


The jokes are stupid and Johnny Yune's acting is atrocious, but this is one of the funniest comedies ever made.

Best line- "I'm a sex object, when I ask women for sex, they object"

Trust me on this one.


I saw this movie for the first time about a week ago and it is the funniest movie I have ever seen! It can be goofy sometimes, but it is so ridiculously goofy that you still laugh. If you like comedies I HIGHLY recommend this movie for your viewing pleasure.

Lets ask Mikey to do it, he'll try anything


Reading some of the reviews here reminds of some critic reviews of various children's movies, wherein they complain about childish plots, low humor or movies that didn't hold their attention, forgetting that they are, in fact, reviewing a children's movie.

This movie falls into similar areas, although it's clearly not a children's movie. It is meant to be a spoof, a parody, and it pokes fun at all kinds of people, be they Asian, Caucasian, African-American, Italian, or what have you. It's not meant to be an Oscar candidate. It's meant to be plain silly, slapstick fun. And in that regard, it's perfect.

No, Yune looks nothing like Bruce Lee. No, he's not even Chinese. But therein lies the humor. It's as much a send-up of Western stereotypes of Asians as anything (ever watch the "Average Asian" skits on MadTV with another Korean, Bobby Lee?).

Overall, I have loved this movie every time I've seen it (although the sequel isn't quite the classic), and I would rate it as a fall - out - of - my - seat - and - wet - myself type of comedy. You just have to let your mind go and enjoy it for what it is. Pure, silly, goofball slapstick... :)


This is a classic movie filled with non stop jokes. 100% hilarity Guaranteed. See it as soon as possible.


All I can say is that this movie and its sequel "They still call me Bruce" are an integral part of any B grade movie night.

Johnny Yune and the rest of the cast pull off classic gags at all too regular intervals.

I guarantee that you will be laughing for months.


Watched at face value, this movie was decent. The jokes were sporadic enough to keep the otherwise monotonous story interesting. As this was a low budget, low production, small time movie, the expectations should not be too high.

As for the past comments on stereotypes and lack of plot, this movie was designed to be a spoof of the Bruce Lee/martial arts movies at the time. Yune's character is unable to live up to the stereotypes which have been given to him through Hollywood (eg. Bruce Lee's machismo) and struggles with his identity. As an Asian American, Yune cannot live up to the macho Asian image yet is rejected (possibly as a threat) by the so called "real" white Americans.

Unlike Hollywood movies, Yune's character is a regular Asian American male, neither hyper-masculine, feminized, asexual (by his many vulgar jokes), or a confused foreigner (Long Duk Dong). Though not overtly pursed, there seems to be some attraction by Pam Huntington's character towards Yune.

Yune's character follows no stereotype, and is instead just a regular Asian American male. In the process, he is able to attract the attention of a white female as well as receive an on-screen kiss  something Bruce Lee, Jet Li (as was cut out of Romeo Must Die), and the apparently three dimensional Jackie Chan have all been unable to achieve in mainstream American media. If this movie ever had the chance to become Hollywood, all the above would have been undoubtedly cut.

For the movie's failure to live up to preconceived images and stereotypes of males of Asian descent, alone, I give it an 8/10.

As for previous comments on how one should not draw conclusions from a comedy movie, one should not draw conclusions from any movie at all.


Get set for all the zany fun in this hilarious comedy about an Asian immigrant that everyone calls "Bruce," because of his resemblance to the legendary Bruce Lee.

Bruce unknowingly works as cook for the mob and is duped into making deliveries of "Chinese Flour" - which is really cocaine - all across the U.S.

It's a non-stop, rollicking romp when Bruce is persuaded by a wild and crazy assortment of characters - Texas sheriffs, Vegas hookers, rival mobsters, Kung Fu Krishnas, street punks, Urban cowboys and a host of other wacky, weird people interested in "flour."


I was asked to watch this, and just for kicks I watched it. I originally was not expecting much from this movie, but I really got a lot more than I originally had planned for. Johnny Yune is honestly one of the most underrated comedians I have ever seen. Most people may not find it funny, but his style of humor is very funny in this one. Something about the way his character says stuff, just makes for huge laughs. There is no reason to take this movie seriously, because it is just a straight up comedy with a very action parody style plot. Basically seeing this made me want to see a lot more from Johnny Yune, but this was honestly his biggest break in films. So at least give it a try for several cheap laughs. The laughs may be somewhat immature to laugh at, but they are consistent and truthfully very funny.

10/10


I decided to watch this again, after reading some of the other comments, and perhaps find a funnier movie than the one I remembered seeing, but it still wasn't there. "They Call Me Bruce?" does have some funny jokes in it, but also too many flat ones. The whole production looks clumsy and amateurish, but the film's biggest mistake is its overreliance on fight scenes and on the needless plot. Still, it's not the kind of movie you can genuinely hate, and Johnny Yune is not the most dislikable actor you could find.... (*1/2)


Johnny Yune stars in this rather unhumorous yet abundantly silly comedy spoof of Martial Arts films. For the most part this is just downright stupid and sometimes vulgar and distasteful. Still it is certainly better than anything Adam Sandler ever did.

There are two scenes I liked...early on in the bar when the "I'm an Oriental" line gets carried a bit too far and later when Bruce imagines himself as the real Bruce--Bruce Lee. Also the women Margaux Hemingway (what's she doing in this?!) and Pam Huntington deserve points for at least trying. There are a few clever lines here and there as well.