Compelling, if flawed, documentary recounting the hardest professional boxing match ever fought: 'The Thrilla In Manila' (October 1st 1975) where 'The Greatest' Muhammed Ali defeated 'Smokin' Joe Frazier after 14 murderous rounds in the heat & humidity of Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City, Manila, Philippines. 'The Thriller In Manila' (the makers don't seem to have a clue about Ali's poetic sobriquet: "Its gonna be a ThrillA in ManilA when I get that GorillA!") claims to tell Joe Frazier's story, and its an interesting angle, seeing as most films are focused on 'The Greatest' yet in attempting to tell Joe's side, the film actually ends up doing a disservice to the ex-champion; who comes across as an embittered, somewhat senile, perennially exploited (this documentary included) pugilist. With only a handful of credible pundits available for comment, things take a noticeable turn for the surreal when Imelda Marcos pops up, but the former first lady is a veritable font of knowledge compared to the inane insights of a woman described only as Joe Frazier's 'companion' (i.e. groupie). 'Thriller In Manila' glosses over the political landscape of the time: Ali's conscientious objection to the U.S. occupation of Vietnam, his consequent ban from boxing, the government seizing his title and effectively putting him under national arrest are all sketchily covered in about ten seconds (completely useless to all but those who know the whole story) whilst the Ali vs. Frazier rematch is erroneously referred to as a tepid affair, completely failing to acknowledge the ingenious manner in which Ali switched styles to deactivate Frazier's punching power. Effectively curtailing the hard hitting brawler's ability to lash out with his devastating' trademark left hooks and forcing him to into a measured, technical bout, to outfox and reduce Smokin' Joe's fire to an ashen, damp squib that'd burnt itself out by Round 5. And in attempting to build up the Ali / Frazier rivally as some kind of blood feud, also chooses to ignore the fact that these great warriors were pioneering the kind of pre-match hype / hysteria which is all but compulsory in modern sport. Then again, director John Dower isn't exactly known for his Mailer-esque observations on the sweet science, and I suppose one can't expect too much a documentarian whose resume includes such lurid fare as 'Britney's Redneck Roots'. 'Thriller In Manila' is still an interesting watch, though one imagines Ali's post win interview, which isn't given so much a passing mention, was just a little too close to reality, and at odds with the misplaced sensationalism the director was going for: "Joe Frazier, I'll tell the world right now, brings out the best in me", said Ali, "I'm gonna tell ya, that's one helluva man, and God bless him: Joe Frazier is the greatest fighter in the world, next to me". In 1976, 'Ring' magazine launched a successful petition after Manila, in which fans stated that Ali & Frazier should never be allowed to fight each other again, I daresay a similar petition should be launched for anyone who wants to make a documentary about them, without doing some serious research.
Now I'll petty much see, read or play anything with 'Star Wars' in the title: films, cartoons, comics, games, spoofs, spin offs you name it. I refuse, however, to double dip DVDs or become a slave to memorabilia, for as far as I'm concerned; 'Star Wars' begins and ends with 'A New Hope', 'The Empire Strikes Back' and 'Return Of The Jedi', anything after that simply involves George Lucas having a bit of fun and making a small fortune along the way. And so we have 'Clone Wars'; a feature length introduction to the epic civil war first referenced onscreen by a young Luke Skywalker in Episode IV, the opening salvos of which were depicted in Episode II concluding with the end of the Republic, and the dawn of imperial tyranny in 'Revenge Of The Sith'. 'Clone Wars' charts the continuing adventures of Jedi master Obi Wan Kenobi, his soon-to-be-Sith-Lord Padowan Anakin Skywalker and wilful novice Jedi Ashoka in a frankly ludicrous quest to rescue Jabba The Hutt's infant son, whose being used in a dastardly plot by separatist front man; Sith Jedi master Count Dooku and The Ventress. Fans will enjoy the excellent, frantic battle sequences whilst older viewers and 'Star Wars' purists may baulk at 'Clone Wars' disregard for narrative continuity (Anakin a Jedi master in-between Episodes II & III?) not to mention one Hutt villain who sounds as if he's possessed by the ghost of Truman Capote! Character design remains loyal to Tartakovsky's classic animation style from the 2005 series, though Lucas gives it a sharp, glossy finish with a respectable CGI makeover. Christopher Lee and Samuel L. Jackson provide star voice talent, reprising their roles from the prequel trilogy whilst Catherine Taber does the best, albeit only, Natalie Portman impression I've ever heard. One of the things 'Clone Wars' does better than its live-action counterparts, is to humanise some of the clone troopers themselves, and all credit to them for making Clone Commanders Cody and Rex stand out from their carbon copy compatriots. Not an essential addition to the 'Star Wars' cannon, but a reasonably good start to what's sure to be an entertaining, action packed series.
Totally fab programme, great to have all the collection in one box and in order!! Wish it would come back on tv again!! miss it!
Friends complete series 1-10 dvd box set
Val Kilmer plays a strong character and is very capably supported by Michael Douglas.The story follows similarly to actual events and the terrain of the area where it is filmed is a strong feature of the movie.
The direction is very well done and the dialogue is written as to bring the viewer into the stories of the engineer and the hunter.
Even the politics of a diverse camp is covered,that is a camp diverse with multiple faiths and beliefs.
This film is skilfully made and all concerned should be proud of being associated.
There is a minimal use of CGI and as is said,less is more.
Highly reccomended viewing although the age of the younger viewers should be at the parents discretion.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable flick.
Action/Drama based directly on actual events.
The worst witch was on telly when me and my partner were little and we loved it. Now our five year old watches it and thinks its the best too. Its a great programme that gives us all time together in our busy days. Even when it does make you feel a little old it still makes us smile.
This spin off, of Big Brother, was a disappointment. Once you have seen zombie movies etc, they're all the same, a bit corny for me.
Johnny Depp really comes into his own in these movies, with a fabulously over the top performance which compliments the rest of the cast. Unlike some movie sequels, Pirates continues to be exciting, hilarious and thoroughly enjoyable. The trilogy box set is well worth the price, so excellent value. Top marks for me and my family.
Supernatural is now the best show on television, a masterstroke by the CW Network. One of the best and most original shows to come out for years, filled with action, comedy and moments of sheer genius from the writers, directors and cast. Season 3 kicks off a few months later after Sam and Dean let the Devil's Gate get opened, and with all them demons out its up to Sam and Dean to put them right back into hell. Great season, the most action packed so far and well worth a watch for regular Supernatural fans or newcomers.
A great movie. An amazing watch for all the family.
Watered down U.S. remake of the Pang brothers 1999 Thai hit: 'Bangkok Dangerous' sees world-weary assassin; Joe (Nicolas Cage and mullet) in town to execute four hits. A relatively straightforward agenda goes awry when complications arise in the form of an attempted double cross, Joe's blossoming romance with deaf pharmacist Fon (Charlie Yeung who, in case you're wondering; is a lady, not a lady boy) and an unlikely friendship with expendable assistant / erstwhile thief; Kong (Shahkrit Yamnarm). Episodic and humourless, 'Bangkok Dangerous' continues the Hollywood trend of re-imagining Asian hits but whilst Danny & Oxide Pang's low budget debut had a deaf mute killer in Pawalit Mongkolpisit, their remake sees Cage as a man who second guesses his date and mumbles his way through a variety of jobs, which play out like stages in a console game. This concept made more sense in the original; in that the reason Mongkolpisit was chosen to be a hitman was because his hearing impediment meant that he never recoiled from a gunshot. Joe isn't deaf thus we're saddled with bizarre subplots about how to not frame an Elephant picture and an entirely implausible training montage. Cage brings his trademark languid drawl and fidgety tough guy demeanour to the fore with some assassination scenes drawing upon Andy Lau's superior flick 'Full Time Killer'. Pang & Pang's impressive use of style and filters, the river boat market hit and political assassination scenes in particular, create some much needed suspense whilst making good use of location. 'Bangkok Dangerous' is divertive enough, with some decent action sequences and should appeal to Nic Cage fans, though its by no means a classic or a movie you'd ever want to reload. One-shot deal.
Alison Steadman (Gavin and Stacey, The worst week of my life) James Corden (Gavin and Stacey) Ruth Jones (Gavin and Stacey) and many more make up the cast for this brilliant comedy drama. Fat Friends addresses the difficulties of dieting and being overweight. Characters larger than life (mostly literally) are common in this drama, ranging from a husband who has a daughter suffering from anorexia and the struggles of becoming a divorcee, to a happily married women finding her son after being put up for adoption at the tender age of fifteen. This series is brilliantly written and really makes you feel for these characters. Fat Friends brings you tears and laughter, and there is not many series that can bring those emotions through to you in just one episode. Each episode being just under an hour, you really get a nice big chunk of the story each episode. I brought this DVD and watched the whole three series in just two days, the series really gripped me and after each episode it just left me wanting more, this is a highly recommended series.
I got into Prison Break about two months ago as my friend had all three seasons on DVD. It's the best TV show I have seen since X-files originally aired on TV. The story line is immense, although a tad confusing at times. However, it always keeps you gripped to the edge of your edge, as every episode ends on a cliff hanger in the classic tradition of the old Saturday morning serials. The acting is spot on as everyone gives it their all. In short, Prison Break is a breath of fresh air. Buy it.
Excellent romantic comedy that will have you laughing from beginning to end every time you watch this BAFTA award winning series!
It's not only Dickens that can give you that comforting safe "Sunday night" environment prior to the impending drudgery feeling looming around the corner on Monday.(when it was originally shown on terrestrial t.v.) Flora Thompson's idyllic portrayal of Oxfordshire life,if like me,will leave you hankering for times simpler and less complex.If you think ten hours may be too long to keep you wanting more - then think again;the time and plots progress effortlessly and enjoyably.Truly a "modern" gem.Enjoy.
Period drama that leaves you brimfull of nostalgia.
Before watching "Kidulthood" I was apprehensive. I had heard that it glamorised a ultra-violent, ultra-sexual(ised) portrait of today's youth, all in an absurdly short period of time (24 hours leading up to a party). In my opinion this is not a healthy type of image of young people to display, never mind glamorise. As soon as I had seen the first two bullying scenes I had dismissed the first of these trepidations. They carried a clear ethical voice of their own, the disapproval, yet fear, of some of the on-looking children. Simultaneously, the lack of (competent) adult guidance, one of the film's themes, was also marked. This, in my opinion, left no doubt that the film was not glamourising bullying or violence. The film was perpetually marked by this approach to its scenes. Although they portray cruelty, the ethical articulations of some of the children ensured that they were not cruel themselves, whilst the absence of a decent adult vision did the opposite of portraying youth as morally retrograde. Equally importantly, it never denied young people's agency, their ability to make choices, even in compromising situations. Once that was out of way, I could get on with enjoying the film's drama, of which it has much, almost everything - that is sex, prostitution, all sorts of prejudice, violence, drugs, gangsters, knifes, guns, and so on. As well as the accompanying physical and psychological trauma. And yes, this is a lot for 24 hours film time and less than 2 hours real time. But the film is not supposed to be 'real', but a 'hyper-real' condensed version what some children (feel they) experience, and I enjoyed it. Also, the film is well made and well acted, briskly paced and suitably brimming with youthful verve. I found "Kidulthood" to be, despite its flaws, a hopeful film, and am greatly looking forward to seeing the follow-up "Adulthood" in the near future.
My 3 year old loves these DVD's (now 4 and still her first request for what to watch) as there are 3 dvd's in the set it doesn't get too repetitive for me, we are buying another pingu boxset this year as even occassionally I and her 7 year old brother sit and watch. He's likeably naughty and his parents are a bit lax, which is fun for all to watch. Always ends well with a moral in each story.
Pingu generally being mischievous, picking in Pinga, tricking the seal, speeding on a sledge and hiding his dinner in his satchel.
This film is one of the the most enjoyable westerns I have ever seen, more spectacular than Sergio Leone's earlier more famous trilogy. Its scenery, music, plot and acting kept me enthralled through its 159 minute length. A very blue-eyed Henry Fonda shines in a rare performance as a villain, in cahoots with the corrupt railroad boss. Charles Bronson and Jason Robards turn in first rate performances as the two who stand against Fonda's character, and defend the recently widowed Mrs McBain,a woman with a past from New Orleans, played with her usual sultry voluptuousness by Claudia Cardinale. You can read a lot into it in terms of how North America was opened up by the development of the railroad, with all the negative aspects that ensued or you can just sit back and enjoy
A great movie, perfect for a wintry weekend afternoon.
After seeing the trailer in the month or so before release I eagerly awaited what I thought was going to be film of the year. How could it be bad?
The movie does a great job in creating an eerie atmosphere of a post apocalyptic new york, however frustration begins to set in with the snails pace at which smiths characters story begins to unfold.
That said Smith's acting is second to none even if he is talking to himself or his dog for 80% of the movie.
The CGI of the zombie creatures is abysmal and really does hurt the story of the film which in my opinion was the strongest element.
Zombie cliche after cliche, lousy dialogue and a terrible and worthless ending make this film as enjoyable as sitting on hot coals.
Avoid like the plague.
I have seem some reviews for this that were actually quite positive but I couldn't disagree enough.
The script is very poor and it is not helped in the slightest by the pretty poor editing and fairly bad acting from all involved.
I really wouldn't waste your time and definitely not any money. I caught this on TV and really wish I hadn't bothered.
Two 'big city' and one 'country' cop attempt to track down some murderous drug dealing criminals.
Before I went to see this film I hadn't heard much about so didn't rate it much. However this film is one of the funniest I have seen in a while. A lot of humour and good character voices was a real plus for this film! A definite watch.
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