Stardust [2007]

Average customer rating:

Good family fun

Incredibly uplifting - classic movie

Let down

Not very good at all

A masterpiece

Stardust [2007]
Starring: Michelle Pfeiffer , Clare Danes , Charlie Cox , Robert De Niro , and Sienna Miller
Director: Matthew Vaughn
Manufacturer: Paramount Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Action & Adventure | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video
Romantic | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video
All Science Fiction & Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Categories | DVD | Video
Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Categories | DVD | Video
DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Beowulf - 1 Disc Edition [2007]

The Last Legion [2007]

The Golden Compass [2007]

The Invasion [2007]

Elizabeth: The Golden Age - Limited Edition Sleeve and Free Bookmark (Exclusive to Amazon.co.uk) [2007]

ASIN: B000Z2GQZG
Release Date: 2008-02-25

Amazon.co.uk Review

An adaptation of the Neil Gaiman novel of the same name, Stardust brings a strong cast together for an enjoyable family feast, with plenty to enjoy.

Stardust mixes in romance and adventure, all in a fantasy movie guise, as it follows Tristan on his quest to retrieve a fallen star for the beautiful Victoria. Only it soon becomes clear that there's a lot more going on as Tristan makes his journey (not least a companion more diverting than the aforementioned Victoria). Michelle Pfeiffer, for instance, returns to high profile movie making (after quite a break) in the role of the evil witch, while there's space too for Robert De Niro's pirate and an odd cameo from Ricky Gervais.

Seemingly one of a wealth of family films that made it out of the blocks off the success of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Stardust doesn't quite hit those heights, but it has quite a sporting go. It's an uneven tale, albeit one told with enough passion and enthusiasm to encourage you to cut it some slack. And when it gets to the end of the last reel, it's hard to feel shortchanged by what you've just seen.

For while Stardust has problems, it also has laughs, adventure, action and a whole lot in its corner to recommend it. And it is worth your time and attention. --Jon Foster

Customer Reviews:

Good family fun.......2008-03-04

Not being familiar with the original book I had no idea what I was coming to watching this film. I knew that Jane Goldman had written the screenplay (Jonathon Ross's wife). It would appear from the host of British comedy talent in supporting roles that Ross rang a few of his comedy chums. No bad thing. Gervais and de Niro are very good in this film, Pfieffer is stunning and the story rattles along at a good old pace. For reference think of the much hyped "The Princess Bride". If you liked that you'll love this. Definitely one to watch with the kids on a wet Sunday afternoon. Get the popcorn in.

Incredibly uplifting - classic movie.......2008-03-03

All I can say is watch this movie with no idea what to expect. I did, and came away elated. Definitely 5 stars.

Let down.......2008-03-03

Bought this because I liked the book but was greatly let down. The book was fun and avioded cliches the film did the opposite.

Not very good at all.......2008-03-03

Purchased this due to all the hype. Watched it the other day and thought it was very poor indeed.
Visuals are poor. Story line & acting very weak. Quite violent for young children to who i believe this film is aimed at. Certainly not for adults. Very dissapointed as i've been looking forward to see it for some time.

A masterpiece.......2008-03-03

A truly remarkable film - well written, shot, edited and excellent post-production.
This is a film for absolutely anyone and it will pull you into the fantasy world that it is set in and won't let you go.
It's funny, dramatic, intense and best of all, a film for all the family.
A must-see movie.

Average customer rating:

Jack Bauer jumps the shark!
Nice, but could have been so much more.
Absolutely Mind Blowing
24: Complete Season 6 [2007]
Average at best - not up to previous standards

24: Complete Season 6 [2007] [2002]
Starring: Kiefer Sutherland , Mary Lynn Rajskub , D.B. Woodside , James Morrison , and Peter MacNicol
Director: Jon Cassar , Brad Turner , Bryan Spicer , and Regina King
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

Thrillers | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

24 | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

All Television | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video

Box Set | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000NVLI70
Release Date: 2007-10-01

Amazon.co.uk Review

The further adventures of Los Angeles' Counter Terrorism Unit's finest initially sees Kiefer Sutherland's Jack Bauer in a Chinese prison and not in good shape. But, this being 24, it's not too long before the breakneck plot has revved into gear, and the wheels are turning again on a frantic real-time ride that's thoroughly in the tradition of what's become television's finest thriller.

You won't be finding plot spoilers here, because half the fun of 24 is not knowing what unexpected twist the scriptwriters have for you around the next corner. All that matters is that the world is under threat, and it's up to Jack Bauer to lead the fightback. And it's Kiefer Sutherland that's the real asset to series six; whereas particularly in season five he took a sideways step to accommodate stronger supporting characters, here he's shouldering a greater degree of the show's narrative thrust.

You'd be hard pushed to declare that season six is vintage 24, but that's more to do with the context of particularly the excellent run that preceded it. But few shows can match its audacious verve, and repeated ability to surprise and enthral. So while season six may have too many villains, and may ask you to bear with it through a few troughs, there's still nothing out there to match it. Jump aboard… --Jon Foster

Customer Reviews:

Jack Bauer jumps the shark!.......2008-02-29

Like a lot of fans, I loved the first 5 seasons and hated this one. I am honestly amazed that any body could enjoy it enough to give it even 3 stars.
The problems are pretty straight forward: in drama anything that throws you out of the story is a bad thing, and here it happens several times in each episode.
The script is to far fetched and just doesn't work: terrorist plots and potential wars are one thing, but to be told that Jack Bauer hasn't spoken in over 2 years and then see him gruffly shouting at baddies and barking instructions over his cell phone all within an hour takes the cake.
Fans will know that most of the familiar characters where killed off in the season 5, the `new' characters are lame efforts: never have I wanted to punch a TV `I.T. guru' as much as Morris .
But that's not all that's wrong, the plot totally looses momentum after the initial threat is defeated (nuclear suitcase bombs), but sadly there are another 8 episodes to go.
But the worst thing about this season was the total botch job they made of introducing Jack's wider family and bringing back Gregory Itzin who did such a brilliant job as President Charles Logan in the previous season. These plot elements should be fantastic; every fans dream! But instead they are leaden and delivered completely without emotion (unless you count shouting in a helicopter as deeply emotion).

The whole season has a desperate feel to it, like the production team have to keep things going incase the audience loose interest. I can imagine the scene in the writers room:

"We've seen Jack stop a nuclear bomb before, this time we have to make it go off."
"Nobody likes Morris, we better give him an alcohol problem this episode, that usually gets a bit of viewer sympathy. Who doesn't like a drink?"

I guess we're wasting our breathe with these reviews. 24 is the most addictive show on TV so if you are a fan there is no way you are going to miss this season just because I said so. But trust me, if I could wipe it from my memory I really would. If you're new to the show, you really ought to watch them in order, it's much better that way. But make sure you don't start with season 6!

Nice, but could have been so much more........2008-02-15

24 Season 5 was my favourite of the series so far, so naturally Season 6 had a lot to do in order to surpass it. Sadly it doesn't achieve the mark or close to it but is ultimately entertaining.

I feel 24 does the more personal threats better than big-scale disasters like Seasons 2, 4, and 6 do, so when I heard that the plot was about a bunch of Middle-Easterners wanting to nuke the US I had to roll my eyes a bit. Don't get me wrong, it's done decently but it's starting to run thin in this show. However, the dynamic between Jack and the terrorist leader Assad is interesting in the few episodes it presents itself in.

Speaking of Jack, he's the star of the show, and Keifer is as awesome as always, but I felt him getting out of China was too easy and could have opened up a whole new can of worms for the show, but nonetheless he is back in L.A. He's asked to sacrifice himself as Assad wants him dead after Jack did something to his brother, either torchered him or force-fed Pot Noodle into the poor sucker's mouth. Despite being battered after two years in a Chinese prison, Jack is a bit too soon able to be his old self, venting his anger of his wasted years on too few occassions. His family is thrown into the plot too, but seems to pop in and out of the story rather than a solid conclusion.

CTU is still in this, and houses plots a bit too familiar, some interesting characters in the form of Chole O'Brian and Morris, as well as Bill are the best here, the mistrust and incompetancy is still there. Nice, but too familar. The White House is a little more refreshing, D.B Woodside provides a decent President struggling to live up to his brother's legacy, whilst handling opposition inside the White House. Joining him are Karen Hayes, who is underused, but Tom Lennox, the chief of staff is the star here, his motives are shadowy but gripping.

The main criticism I have with this otherwise entertaining season is that nothing new is acheieved, it is the same plots in a different window dressing. The writing staff of the show appear not be united in what the plot should be about, and seem to be using a message board style way of organising the plot rather than figuring out what is great and makes sense when watching the show again. The show needs to evolve otherwise it will meet a terrible fate, I hate saying those words but it is needed.

Feel free to enjoy this season (I did), just don't expect groundbreaking material.

Absolutely Mind Blowing.......2008-02-08

Amazing. and even that word is an understatement for such a tense, gripping, nail-biting TV series, that you just cannot leave alone. The series starts with a bang, and the rest follows suit. Even a non 24 fan will get truly and utterly hooked on to this fantastic series. people of all ages will love it, and with this epic series so cheap, this is an opportunity that is too good to be true:you cannot refuse it. Every season just gets better and better, and you are left with a nail gripping finale, that leaves us with an antagonizing cliff hanger. My expectations for Season 7 (out later this year) are HUGE, i cannot wait for it's release date! Go ahead and get this, it doesnt matter whether you are a 24 fanatic or not, you will be truly amazed by this wonder piece.

24: Complete Season 6 [2007].......2008-02-05

24: Complete Season 6 [2007]:I really enjoyed the first 5 series but having watched the first disc I realized that I had reached my limit and couldn't go any further. The same shenanigans seem to be put in this series and there just wasn't enough to keep my attention- watching Kiefer run around like a headless chicken just won-t cut it any more neither will putting in middle eastern terrorists and ridiculous US plotting in the white house.

Jack Bauer it is about time you accepted your retirement- no then how about we make another series and send you to Russia where you can take on Putin's cronies and include some more white house plotting.

Average at best - not up to previous standards.......2008-01-22

The general concensus appears to be that this series doesn't quite live up to the expected standard, and that is completely correct. I am a loyal fan and have more-or-less overlooked some of the wobbles and irritations of previous series, but I'm afraid this one has probably been one daft leap of faith too far!

Without giving any spoilers on the plot twists (without which 24 would have relatively little left) I watched this series with a growing sense of annoyance and no small amount of déja vu. Despite being very willing to suspend my disbelief, 24 has finally taken it too far and has repeated too many storylines. My patience has finally been snapped with the dysfunctional, irritating, amateur misfits who are supposedly on the front line of the fight against terrorism.

On the plus side, Kiefer Sutherland remains compellingly entertaining, the action is occasionally breathless, the plot twists are as dramatic as ever and the quality of the production remain top class. There's more . . . just as I was getting bored they threw in one of the best episodes of any series (I think it was about no. 17) and a couple of new characters added value (especially the new action man sidekick).

I'm afraid this is a sad day, but it is going to take solid evidence of a radical overhaul to tempt me into watching another series.

Average customer rating:

Western Fans will Love It? Err, No, Fans of Dull Pointless Overblown Twaddle will love it, maybe
Right actors, wrong roles
Satisfying return to the Western genre.
Spaghetti western for action fans.
Think of Yuma as being Crewe Station

3:10 To Yuma [2007]
Starring: Russell Crowe , Christian Bale , Peter Fonda , Gretchen Mol , and Dallas Roberts
Director: James Mangold
Manufacturer: Lions Gate Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Action & Adventure | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

Westerns | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000Z63YPM
Release Date: 2008-01-28

Amazon.co.uk Review

Never let it be said that the Western is dead. Because every time its last rites are read, another filmmaker moves in and produces another fine entry to an enduring genre that'll simply never go away. In this case, the film is 3:10 To Yuma, and the filmmaker is James Mangold, straight off his Oscar-winning Johnny Cash biopic, Walk The Line.

3:10 To Yuma is, however, a far different beast, bringing together two of the most magnetic male leads in modern day cinema. On the one hand, there's Christian Bale as the law-enforcing Sheriff, and he's facing off against Russell Crowe's killer. Unsurprisingly, it's the conflict and sparks between these two that ignite the film, and turn it into a film well worth seeking out.

For what director Mangold realises is that the trick with 3:10 To Yuma (named after the prison train that Bale's character seeks to put Crowe's on) is to give his two stars room to work, and injecting plenty of action and excitement into the mix. The end result, while not a top-notch Western, turns out to be a real cut above most of the current multiplex fodder. Even if Westerns aren't usually your thing, it's well worth giving this one a try. --Jon Foster

Customer Reviews:

Western Fans will Love It? Err, No, Fans of Dull Pointless Overblown Twaddle will love it, maybe.......2008-03-03

I love all the Sergio westerns, and many of clints affairs, but this .....

what a waste, I fast forwarded half an hour, and found myself in the same place, nothing in the story had developed!!

What a waste of space.

Watch 'I Know I'm Not Alone' by Michael Franti, the first hour of that is worth a million of these sorry affairs.

Right actors, wrong roles.......2008-02-25

I was really, really looking forward to this; 3:10 has a superb cast and the story is a classic. dont get me wrong this IS a good film...but I was just a little disappointed with some of the storyline; everything seems a little too rushed and I really think James Mangold could have let things breath a little more so the characters could develop. As it is the conclusion doesn't make as much sense as it could have done and the characters seem to suddenly do an about turn for very little reason. It didn't sit well with me at all. For me one thing would have improved this immeasurably; a slight change to casting, in that both Crowe and Bale are playing the wrong parts; Crowe looks a bit too homely for the gang leader and would have made a much more believable stubborn rancher, whereas Bale looks far, far too dangerous to make his character completely believable.
A good film then, just not a great one.

Satisfying return to the Western genre........2008-02-24

The basic premise behind 3.10 To Yuma is can the actions and moral strength of one character influence the deeds and character of someone who on the surface at least appears to be utterly without any of those character trait's ? According to this film the answer would seem to be yes and whether you swallow that easily in one feel good lump or not the film does a fine job of convincing you through powerful characterisation and thumping good performances that it might just be so .
3 .10 To Yuma is adapted from an Elmore Leonard short story and was originally filmed way back in 1957.The screenwriter from that version Halstad Welles is given a credit on this script along with Derek Haas and Michael Brandt. Rancher Dan Evans (Christian Bale) is under severe financial pressure to sell his land to greedy Hollander ( Lennie Loftin) who in turns wants to sell it to the railroad. Evans land in Arizona is under drought conditions because Hollander has dammed up the water supply on his land but he needs to stay because the dry climate is perfect for his youngest son Mark( Benjamin Petry) who has tuberculosis. His oldest son Will ( Logan Lerman) just wishes his dad was more assertive and dynamic in dealing with the bullying tactics of Hollander while his wife Alice ( Gretchen Mol)is stuck in the middle.
When the father and sons are out checking their cattle they come upon the scene of a heist .Ben Wade( Russell Crowe) and his gang takes their horses but let them go and it's here we first see how ruthless Wade can be but also how articulate and charming and that he presides by some curious old west code of ethics despite his merciless streak.
When Wade is captured a $200 reward is offered for anyone who can transport the outlaw to the town of Contention and put him on the 3.10 train to Yuma where he will be tried and then hanged. Evans is accompanied by amongst others grizzled bounty hunter Byron McElroy(Peter Fonda) Doc Potter (Alan Tudyk) but this motley band are being pursued by Wades gang led by the loyal lunatic Charlie Prince (Ben Foster).To complicate matters Will disobeys his father and joins the men .
The film slowly evolves into a battle of will between Wade and Evans with the principled Evans determined that Wade will face justice and that for once he will see something through, and tackle the matter with moral courage. Wade is genuinely piqued by Evans and though we know he will happily kill everyone else we know he will not kill Evans.
Only the final twenty minutes stretch credibility with a brilliantly executed but outlandish gun battle and Wades final immiscible act perhaps pushing the point that nobility can be dragged out of anyone too far. The scripts other point that justice cannot be arbitrary , that you cannot act as judge , jury and executioner is well handled though in a society where justice is increasingly seen as not being done may not get the sympathy or empathy it once did. Honour you can find in yourself but justice depends on other people and they will often let you down.
The film is helped significantly by excellent performances with Crowe doing a great job of portraying a bad man with charisma to burn and Bale delivering the less showy dependable character with stern restraint. All the support actors do a great job as well with Logan Lerman showing huge promise. Its this , some stately direction and the script that make 3.10 To Yuma a satisfying cinematic experience and a welcome return to the western genre.

Spaghetti western for action fans........2008-02-18

I'm astonished that no one seems to have mentioned that this is a spaghetti western,or at the very least a homage to them.The soundtrack references Morricone's work for Leone throughout the film, the gunfights,far from being realistic,as some have claimed,are as ludicrously violent as any of the Dollar films,and the emotional journeys travelled by the central protaganists are even more unrealistic and juvenile than anything Italian cinema had to offer.
You might have guessed by now that I'm no fan of spaghetti westerns and you'd be right,however I am a fan of quality westerns and this certainly isn't one.When I think of great westerns that have been made in the last few years I think of Wyatt Earp,Open Range,The Unforgiven,Geronimo,Lonesome Dove and even Black Robe.Pictures that,although romanticising the Old West,manage to give the viewer an impression of the place and period that feels absolutely authentic.This film doesn't.This is like Tombstone compared to Wyatt Earp or The Quick And The Dead compared to The Unforgiven.If Russell Crowe's character isn't the fastest draw in the West and the dealiest shot then I dread to think who was - Superman?
We found this film action-packed,noisy,morally confused,unrealistic,unengaging and boring.Bale acts well,but still hasn't mastered an American accent,Crowe largely gets by on personal charm,and both are beaten in the acting stakes by Peter Fonda.Even the cinematography is unforgivably unmemorable.

I've never particularly rated the original,but I'd rather watch that again than this - at least it's moral message is consistent and mature.A film for fans of action movies,spaghetti westerns or Crowe and Bale.But if you want to see a really great western that you might not have seen try Geronimo or Black Robe,even though the latter is set in Canada.

Think of Yuma as being Crewe Station.......2008-02-17

Crowe Fab. Great performance
Bale Good. Character changes in second half of movie.
Storyline Pretty good. Road movie on horseback.
Worth an Oscar? Unlikely.

The Rambo Trilogy : First Blood / Rambo - First Blood 2 / Rambo 3 (3 Disc Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Rambo 4 is still in cinema's
Iconic 80's Action Trilogy
Action, Pure & Simple
BREAK OUT THE HEAD BANDS
John Rambo is coming - this is a great way to revisit his old adventures

The Rambo Trilogy : First Blood / Rambo - First Blood 2 / Rambo 3 (3 Disc Box Set)
Starring: Sylvester Stallone , Richard Crenna , Charles Napier , Steven Berkoff , and Julia Nickson-Soul
Director: George P. Cosmatos , Peter MacDonald , and Ted Kotcheff
Manufacturer: Momentum Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Action & Adventure | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

Heroes & Heroines | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video

Box Set | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000050YLW
Release Date: 2005-10-10

Amazon.co.uk Review

Sylvester Stallone never courted as much controversy as he did with the screen violence of the Rambo trilogy. From 1982 to 1988, they kept his name above Schwarzenegger's in the muscle hero league, with "Rambo" becoming a descriptive phrase in the language to describe gung-ho aggression (in Japanese, "rambo" means "violence"). The strangest part of the character's success is that originally he had none. Both David Morrell's novel and the original incarnation of First Blood had the Vietnam vet committing suicide after his rampage through small town America. The un-Hollywood ending was changed when Stallone and the producers recognised here was a character with possibilities.

First Blood: Part II was co-written by James (Titanic) Cameron, a man who has always recognised box office possibilities. Stallone took a very relevant (to 1985) issue of surviving POWs and created an alternative end to the Vietnam War. This was achieved courtesy of the Cold War animosity that still existed towards the Russians, embodied in a suitably vile cameo from Steven Berkoff. A little love interest helped ground the movie and prevent it from completely turning into a video game, as did the best of Jerry Goldsmith's stirring scores for the trilogy.

After saving himself and then his Country, Rambo III was simply about saving his friend Richard Crenna. The code of honour was by this point watered down into a song lyric, "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother". Nevertheless the final instalment continues to say something about the indomitable American spirit that will not accept defeat lightly. Patriotism may never have been portrayed quite so bloodily before Rambo's arrival, but at least a generation learned to question attitudes to war veterans, as well as the benefits of carrying a compass in your hunting knife.

On the DVD: The Rambo trilogy on disc brings together all three movies in crisp 2.35:1 widescreen transfers. Sadly the extras are a little thin considering how much more was on the old Laser Discs. The first film has but a trailer; the third has a few minutes of behind the scenes material; the second has quite a few mini-documentaries that could really have done with being edited together, and having repeated interviews cut out. But there's still fun to be had hearing how deep and meaningful the movies were in conception.--Paul Tonks

Customer Reviews:

Rambo 4 is still in cinema's.......2008-02-28

The greatest action trilogy available.

Though the first film is the best, it also includes an amazing stunt where he jumps of a cliff. The second film has an amazing helicopter scene. The third has a great one to one fight at the start.

I recommend British intelligence to study the third film, as he defeats the AFGANHISTAN forces.

I would not buy this, a much better package will probably be released when a Rambo 1-4 set is released.

I bought the dts versions from China.

Iconic 80's Action Trilogy.......2008-02-26

The original trilogy of Rambo movies in a 3 disc box set.

First Blood: ****

When John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) tries to peacefully pass through a small American mountain town the prejudiced Sheriff (Brian Dennehy) takes an instant dislike to him due to his unkempt appearance. When Rambo ignores the subtle warning to leave town, he is arrested for vagrancy, locked up, beaten and humiliated by the Sheriff and his men. What the men don't know is that their prisoner is a green beret Vietnam veteran and winner of the congressional medal of honour. He is a killing machine haunted by his war experiences and when they push him too far he snaps and escapes into nearby mountains. Using all his military skills, Rambo wages a one man war against his pursuers.

Sylvester Stallone's Rambo character is one of the most iconic of all the 80's action heroes. First Blood is the first and finest in the franchise and Stallones performance is arguably the best of his career.

Rambo: First Blood part II: **

After his violent rampage in First Blood, Vietnam war hero John Rambo is serving hard time breaking rocks in prison when he is offered a chance at freedom by his mentor Col. Trautman. If Rambo will agree to go back behind enemy lines in Vietnam to gather evidence that the Vietcong are still holding American POW's, then the President will pardon his crimes. Soon Rambo is parachuting into the jungle armed with nothing but a Bowie knife, bow and arrows and a red headband.

Whilst First Blood was a surprisingly good action thriller, First Blood part II is just an excuse for unimaginative violence. The dialogue is poor considering James Cameron co-wrote it (I wonder how much Stallone re-wrote?) and the story is as weak as Stallones performance. As it says in the Amazon review above, First Blood II was just an excuse for America to fight the Vietnamese and win. There are some decent action moments and anyone who was a kid in the 80's will no doubt enjoy it a bit, but unfortunately the franchise went downhill after the original.

Rambo III: **

After his rescue of American POW's from Vietnam in First Blood part II, Rambo has retired to a Thai monastery to live a peaceful life in a community he feels accepts him. When his mentor and friend Col. Trautman asks for his assistance on a mission into Northern Afghanistan to deliver weapons to 'freedom fighters' (the Taliban) so they can defend themselves against the Soviet invasion, Rambo declines. Unfortunately Trautman is captured when his team is ambushed and the United States won't take official action so Rambo decides to wage another unofficial one man war to rescue his friend.

I can't decide which is worse, this or First Blood part II. I think probably this one because it's truly laughable in parts. Rambo was a man haunted by war in First Blood which brought an interesting dimension to his character. In Rambo III he has become a caricature. A bullet dodging, indestructible killing machine who can't keep a vest on for more than 10 minutes. He is almost as ridiculous as his spoof alter ego, Topper Harley in Hot Shots. Again there are some good action sequences (Rambo on horseback vs. helicopter) but the film is let down by poor dialogue and weak story (Trautman goes to Afghanistan, gets captured and Rambo finds out before agreeing to go and arriving within a 5 minute window). Poor excuse for violent action.

Overall: *** because the sequels are pretty rubbish.

Like this? Try: Predator 1& 2 Boxset.

Action, Pure & Simple.......2007-10-04

These films have certainly been panned over the years, especially the last two films. But usaully the critics doing the panning have no interest or knowledge of the action film genre. Ok so they are not going to win any oscars for their acting or scripts but for slam bang action pure & simple you cant go wrong. They are certainly alot better than the rubbish Seagel and Van Damme churn out. They are also well filmed. The helicopter attack on the village and the Afgan horsemen charging the Russian army in Rambo 3 are two scenes in particular that come to mind. So if you want an afternoon(or evening)of great action these are the movies for you!

BREAK OUT THE HEAD BANDS.......2007-09-26

The first film, First Blood, was excellent and believable. John Rambo returns from an unpopular war (Vietnam) to find no work, no friends and a country who frankly shunned veterans. Rambo gets into trouble with the local Sheriff and is duely hunted through mountainous woodland. They've picked the wrong man to hunt however, as Rambo is a special forces soldier who quickly turns the tables on his hunters. Enter the national guard who swamp the whole area. Rambo escapes and exacts his revenge on the town Sheriff in a memorable machine gun fest. Rambo is captured and the trilogy continues.

In the second film we find Rambo sent to establish whether POW's are still being held in Vietnam. The third film sees him helping his old boss carry weapons into Afghanistan to help the Mujahaddin fight the Russkies. The second/third films are all action stuff, but lack the story of the original film.

Good set, however and recommended.

John Rambo is coming - this is a great way to revisit his old adventures.......2007-06-25

If, like me, you're looking to forward to Sylvester Stallone's upcoming John Rambo - which will hopefully follow Rocky Balboa's template and return to the more intelligent action of the first film - then this box set is a great way to revisit those earlier Rambo films you probably haven't seen in a while and discover whether they're any good or not.

Part one - which sees troubled Vietnam veteran John J Rambo staging a Vietnam mini-sequel in a small American town - is easily the best of the three, combining enjoyable action with a genuinely thoughtful reflection on the problems faced by returning Vietnam veterans.

Part two - in which our hero returns to Vietnam to shoot half the Vietnamese army, stab the other half, and blow up a bunch of Russians for good measure - is not serious at all, but is enjoyable enough if you're a fan of overblown eighties action.

Part three is the weakest of the films, and is of interest only because it sees Rambo teaming up with a group of Afghan freedom fighters to fight off the invading Russians. I bet he wouldn't do that these days.

Anyway, this box set is well worth it, because - as Meatloaf says - two out of three ain't bad. Plus it will get you all revved up and ready for the new film when it's released next year.

Average customer rating:

Not quite...
Mildly Entertaining
Copy and paste
Good Sunday Afternoon Film
Good entertainment

The Last Legion [2007]
Starring: Colin Firth , Ben Kingsley , Peter Mullan , Kevin McKidd , and John Hannah
Director: Doug Lefler
Manufacturer: Momentum Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Action & Adventure | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

Historical | Action & Adventure | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000YDAJHM
Release Date: 2008-02-18

Customer Reviews:

Not quite..........2008-02-28

The film is based partly on the novel by Manfredi and tells the partially fictionalised story of the real last western emperor of Rome Romulus Augustulus who reigned for 10 months and was retired on a senator's pension by Odoacer to Campania; and that of Ambrosius Aurelianus (said to be the base of the King Arthur myth) and Vortigern.

Although the story is fantastic film fodder, the film itself is a bit of a let down. The sets do look like the cardboard, plywood, plaster and the badly drawn buldings they are. The acting is not engaging or gripping despite some big names due to lacking direction and bad cutting.

Mildly Entertaining.......2008-02-27

Book to film is always a tricky one to pull off and this film didn't really manage it. There was probably just one core chunk of this film that was almost true to the book by Valerio Massimo Manfredi of the same title. The majority of this film was so different to the book, that I would have called the film something else and not mentioned that it was based on a novel.
The film was mildly entertaining. Colin Firth has too much of a voice over voice to have played the lead.
As always, books are better than the films made. Believe in the power of your imagination.

Copy and paste.......2008-02-25

Very poor movie. For me it has nothing to offer. The same plot, the same characters and the same action I've seen so many times in similar movies. And all that made in very silly way, I felt like watching Xena the warrior princess. The movie left me absolutely disappointed - vaste of time and money.

Good Sunday Afternoon Film.......2008-02-25

The most annoying thing about this film is the lack of character development, if the film had been about 30 mins longer then there would have been opportunity to develop a lot more, also if you get this DVD and watch the extras there is a scene with the director who quite frankly should be taken out and shot, he comments on how the film is not really for any one group in particular, its a bit of this a bit of that etc and it shows.

however for all that it is really quite a good story, there are some good moments of humour, some good oneliners and some superb fight scenes (yes some of them look a little staged). Firth is good as the tired commander returning home to take over the emperors guard, Rai is a nice piece of eyecandy and fights well. this film is never going to win awards but when its raining and you just want to veg out then this film is excellent.

Good entertainment.......2008-02-24

A reasonably good film if you don't expect too much. Better than 'King Arthur' but not on 'Gladiator' level.

Average customer rating:

Shameless - Absolutely Priceless

Shameless - Series 1-4
Starring: Jody Latham , Anne-Marie Duff , James McAvoy , Samantha Siddall , and Kelli Hollis
Director: Jonny Campbell , Mark Mylod , David Evans , Peter Lydon , and Dearbhla Walsh
Manufacturer: Channel 4 DVD
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Comedy | Comedy | Categories | DVD | Video

All Drama | Drama | Categories | DVD | Video

Comedy | Drama | Categories | DVD | Video

All Television | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

Comedy | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

Drama | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

Spring Deals - up to 70% off in DVD | DVD Bargains | Special Features | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video

Box Set | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000PC1MR8
Release Date: 2007-10-29

Customer Reviews:

Shameless - Absolutely Priceless.......2008-02-23

When series one of Shameless first showed on tv, I didn't really take much notice of it to be honest as I didn't really think it would be my cup of tea.

After hearing a couple of friends raving on about the show and catching a couple of the new episodes and a few re-runs of the series one, I realised how wrong my first impressions of the show was and decided to purchase the series 1-4 dvd from Amazon so I could catch up to date with the current series.

If you are new to Shameless like myself, the show is set on the fictional Chatsworth Housing Estate and follows the everyday lives of the Gallagher family. The first series mainly centres around Frank who is head of the Gallagher family, although from the second series onwards the writters centre each episode on a different members of the family and the Chatsworth Housing Estate to a certain degree.

Part of the genious of the show is just how spot on the creators have managed to nail the gritty realism of the rough life on a housing estate which is portrayed in the show. If you go to any city in the UK, I can guarantee you that you will be able to find an estate just like Chatsworth or a family just like the Gallaghers and this is what makes the show so special because it would not work unless the writters got the atmosphere and the storylines absolutely 100% true to life.

The show is full of a great collection of main characters. Everybody will no doubt like myself grow to have a favourite character, wether it be drunk and rambling Frank, daughter Debbie - the wise beyond her years and smart mouthed mother figure of the family or Carl who just appears to be obsessed with breast and constantly getting laid. Each and every one of the brilliant member of the family is creation of utter brilliance.

The entire series 1-4 boxset is made up of 11 discs cotaining a total number of 34 episodes which for anybody new to show should be more than enough to put you up until the fith series is release on dvd later this year.

If the 34 episodes housed in this boxset is not enough for you, the creators of this dvd set has also very kindly squeezed tones of special features including: Meet the cast, A feature lengh Christmass Special, Audio commentarys, Feature lengh New Years Special, Mockumentary: Being Alice Barry (Lillian Unpeeled) and much more.

whether your a new comer to the show like myself of a long established member of the already huge fan base looking for a worthy addition to your dvd collection, this boxset is a must have.

Absolutely the best British comedy series I have seen for a decade!

Persuasion : Complete ITV Adaptation [2007]

Average customer rating:

Beautiful ...
A lovely film of an immortal classic
Cringesome and disappointing
Really bad
Persuasion (new)

Persuasion : Complete ITV Adaptation [2007]
Starring: Sally Hawkins , Rupert Penry-Jones , Anthony Head , Alice Krige , and Tobias Menzies
Director: Adrian Shergold
Manufacturer: 2 Entertain Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Drama | Drama | Categories | DVD | Video

All Television | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

Drama | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000N6U0VU
Release Date: 2007-04-02

Amazon.co.uk Review

The work of Jane Austen is being confidently mined by filmmakers at the moment, and Persuasion is the latest to be visited. And while there are some fair issues raised about just how faithful the film is to the source material, it's nonetheless a lavish and enjoyable take on Austen's story, with much to admire.

Much of the reason as to why this version of Persuasion works well lies with its talented cast. Rupert Penry-Jones, for instance, tackles the role of Captain Wentworth with skill, and Sally Hawkins too gives a performance to be admired. Backed by a primarily good supporting cast, the romantic drama is both watchable and engaging.

Inevitably, parallels are going to be drawn with the similarly strong 1995 television adaptation, and the truth is that some will favour one, some will favour the other. For our money, the earlier version just about nudges it, but the two takes on Persuasion both have enough ideas of their own to make them suitable companion pieces.

Diligently directed and suitably lavish to look at, Persuasion then shows little sign of dampening the enthusiasm for bringing Austen to screens of all sizes. And on the basis of the charming 93 minutes on offer here, that's no bad thing at all. --Jon Foster

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful ..........2008-02-22

It is true that the BBC version of the novel is more true to the book and Tony Head's portrayal of Mr. Elliot in this version is entirely incorrect, and it is for this reason that I have given this version a four star rating instead of five. In all other respects I would say that this is a top-notch adaptation. The musical score resonates throughout the length of this production, providing for me the same feeling of anxious, tumultuous anticipation that had me holding my breath, hardly daring to read on, throughout the novel. The chemistry between Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones is almost tangible and the cinematography is exquisite. Certainly this version has been produced for a more contemporary audience but this is no bad thing. The only thing that lets this production down in my opinion is the dance between Anne and Wentworth at the end. What was that about?!

A lovely film of an immortal classic.......2008-02-02

When I first played this film I knew within the first ten minutes it was going to be something special. Sally Hawkins' portrayal of the sedate and easily swayed Anne Elloit convinced me she was going to live the part; resigned to the life of a spinster. I watched, becoming totally engrossed in the film, when suddenly, faced by a love from the past, Captain Wentworth, she is forced to stumble on through the early scenes- a witness to his soliciting designs on another. Superbly portrayed by Rupert Penry-Jones, he demonstrates graphically how Wentworth traps himself in a relationship while intending to express his hurt pride to Anne. As their relationship develops, the magical moments increase. One almost hears their hearts beating; the expression on their faces speaking volumes. The climax was well worth waiting for. In the closing scenes, we suffer the agonising wait on that passionate, soul-revealing kiss. When the camera focuses on a solitary tear squeezing out the corner of Sally Hawkins' eye, we emphatically know it is one of sublime happiness. A wonderful film that more than does justice to one of the timeless, classic novels of Jane Austen.

Cringesome and disappointing.......2008-01-25

I never got the chance to see this adaptation of Persuasion on TV so I decided to buy the DVD, thinking that even if it wasn't much good, the inclusion of Rupert Penry-Jones in the cast would at least buoy the production up.

Unfortunately, though Penry-Jones' performance was well-interpreted (with just the right balance of bitterness and tenderness which his part required), the rest of the performances were disappointing, particularly so Sally Hawkins, who left me feeling nothing for her character, who made Anne Elliot so miserable and uninteresting that it was a relief to me to finish the DVD- it actually made me feel quite down!

Maybe it's more a matter of taste but I found the times Sally hawkins paused to look longingly to the camera so utterly depressing it was almsot funny. And for me, the scene where she decides to go tearing around Bath (as if!) to find Captain Wentworth was completely hysterical (not in a good way) and unnecessary, and the kiss scene was actually quite revolting (you'll know what I mean if you see it).

The whole effect, therefore, of the leading lady's completely dour and tortured performance was utterly cringesome, completely switched off any interest I had in the DVD, and did not do Anne Elliot's intensely complex character any justice whatsoever. What a shame for RPJ's hero to have such a let-down for a heroine.

Only die-hard fans of RPJ should bother with this production. Of the three Jane Austin Productions that came out at the same time (Northanger Abbey and Mansfield Park), only Northanger Abbey is decent and worth buying. Buythat instead as it's a much more enjoyable satisfying adaptation.

Really bad.......2008-01-15

It was more like an episode of The Bill, with Anne Eliot sprinting around Bath, and the weird zooming in and out of the camera.

Persuasion (new).......2008-01-12

Why make a new adaptation of this? The one before with Amanda Root is 100 times better. The acting is awful in this, especially the male part, he is no hero to me, he is not even admitting being faulty in not contacting her sooner. I was mortified watching this.

Average customer rating:

Interesting movie on a very topical theme
Excellent comic book propaganda: the Lone Ranger would be proud
Proof that America is a colonial and imperial illusion...
One of the best films this decade
Somewhere between an action movie and a political comment...

The Kingdom [2007]
Starring: Jamie Foxx , Jennifer Garner , Chris Cooper , Jason Bateman , and Jeremy Piven
Director: Peter Berg
Manufacturer: Universal Pictures UK
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

Thrillers | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000Z63YOI
Release Date: 2008-01-28

Customer Reviews:

Interesting movie on a very topical theme.......2008-02-25

A little slow in part but overall a very worth while movie. Well acted and directed with a topical islamist terrorist story in Saudi, the film moves long at a jogging pace before a more exhilarting climax. I would suggest if your political knowledge of the Middle East is less than basic then yuo may struggle to fathom out what's happening.

All in all an enjoyable thriller.

Excellent comic book propaganda: the Lone Ranger would be proud.......2008-02-25

This movie has it all: action, heroes, shoot outs, and chases. The FBI team are investigating a terrorist attack in Saudi Arabia, which according to this movie is populated by royals, Islamists and their followers, and `loyal' troop/soldiers (the `goodies'). The FBI team is full of stereotypes - it is interesting picking them out. Some how this team manages to kill an incredible amount of terrorists whilst they are only scratched. The woman FBI agent averts a beheading and the rest kill anyone that gets in their way. Even old men and teenagers try to kill them. I am not sure what they achieve except killing America's enemies. This is brilliant propaganda of the `Behind Enemy Lines' ilk. Do not expect a sensible film - it is not. The only distraction is the appalling sound effects which dominate the actual plot and this makes it lose some of its appeal. But switch your brain off, ignore the annoying noises (difficult!) and enjoy the moving comic book.
PS Unfortunately, a hero does get killed: the loyal Saudi of course.

Proof that America is a colonial and imperial illusion..........2008-02-25

...this movie makes me both laugh and wonder at the sense of American injustice. It has some brilliant one liners, 'clean your mouth with soap' and other cross-cultural sensitivities. But the real theme of this movie is so biased so detached from the reality that it makes you feel disgusted (that's of course if you know anything about Saudi to begin with - otherwise it's your usual boring Rambo-style not-so-superhero nut!). The 5/6 odd Americans go off to the most dangerous part of Riyadh and apparently all come out alive killing a whole load of 'terrorists' in the process....YEAH RIGHT!!!

BORING!!!!!

One of the best films this decade.......2008-02-20

I first saw the trailers for this film at the cinema and was hooked. Unfortunately I could not get to see the film until it came out for sale. It was one of those films I was praying would be good so that all those months of waiting were not in vain.

The film delivered all my expectations and more. A relevant story to todays political climate this film told us a closer encounter than we would ever hear of on the news.

What I loved about the film was the relationship between the US and the Saudi's in this film and seeing close up the lengths our forices go to to help protect our people. It reminded me of our forgotten heroes.

It had a strong plot line that gripped me throughout, it moved me to tears when I was least expecting it. I constantly shouted at the screen whilst watching this film.

A definate in my film collection.

Somewhere between an action movie and a political comment..........2008-02-16

The movie starts sets out its stall right at the start, with the titles overlaying a potted history of Saudi so far, and how we came to the present time and the tenuous `alliance' between the US and Saudi. From there we have a terrorist event which takes place in Riyadh, targeting Americans, so that the FBI feel the need to send a team, led by Jamie Foxx, and including an unlikely but strangely believable crew including Jennifer Garner (Alias, Elektra) and Jason Bateman (Arrested Develoment). They have to work closely with the at first distant Saudi police Colonel whose job it is to protect them.
What follows is akin to any of a number of TV `procedural dramas', overlaid with the political backdrop of trying to function in the unique environment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. That is, until the last act of the movie, which then becomes a straight, but very effective, action movie. Indeed, the action is some of the most thrilling seen for some time - while the hand held camera approach is somewhat annoying during the build up and political backdrop being established, once in the action scenes there is a visceral quality to events that really make you feel part of the action. You can feel yourself ducking when the characters do, in effect!
Is it a politically aware movie spreading a message about Middle East relations? Well, yes and no. It is in most ways a straight forward thriller, done fairly well. Indeed, once the action starts, you pretty well know how the rest of the movie is going to go. However, the Saudis are not just presented as two dimensional bad guys, but a multi-tiered and multidimensional society, which is in itself an improvement on many other contemporary movies on a similar topic. And the final few minutes do espouse a level of political message not evident through the rest of the movie, allowing for some level of pondering and bar stool conversation after the movie has finished.
A decent thriller then, with just a touch of commentary on the subject of Saudi-US relations.

Average customer rating:

QUALITY SERIES
Great Series But....
Spooks still great television
thank god for spooks
BBC drama needs an overhaul!

Spooks : Complete BBC Series 5 [2007]
Starring: Peter Firth , Rupert Penry-Jones , and Raza Jaffrey
Director: Omar Madha , Julian Simpson , and Andy Hay
Manufacturer: Contender Entertainment Group
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

All Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

Thrillers | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

Spooks | Crime, Thrillers & Mystery | Categories | DVD | Video

All Television | Television | Categories | DVD | Video

Spring Deals - up to 70% off in DVD | DVD Bargains | Special Features | DVD | Video

DVD | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video

Box Set | Format (binding_browse-bin) | Refinements | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B000MR9A1G
Release Date: 2007-09-10

Customer Reviews:

QUALITY SERIES.......2008-02-17

THIS SERIES JUST GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH, JUST LIKE 24, BRILLIANT TO WATCH, SHAME THE BOX SET WAS TOTALLY SMASHED ON DELIVERY, DISCS OK THO

Great Series But...........2007-11-10

....the extras (or rather lack of) were very disappointing. A shame because - up until now - Spooks fans have been spoiled by the cast / director interviews and multiple (and very entertaining) audio commentaries. On saying that however, Spooks is still the best thing on the box and long may it continue.

Spooks still great television.......2007-10-12

I usually don't do these reviews but I felt I had to in this case. I'm from New Zealand & we've only just finished Series Five & I have followed the series from the very beginning & I think that this is up with the rest of them. I don't know what one reviewer was referring to when they mentioned a lack of likeable characters now that Ruth has left. Who is there not to like? Adam is now what you'd call an established character who you can't help but feel sorry for as he goes through the enduring turmoil of his wife's death & how to deal with bringing up his son Wes. And what about Harry?! How can he not be a likeable character?! I think Peter Firth is one of the best cast actors on television at the moment and has made Harry his own. And as for Spooks being compared to the show 24 its like comparing a play of Shakespeare's to a play written for a school production. 24 is just Hollywood rubbish being reworked season after season. What makes Spooks such a great show is that the characters are rooted in reality