Winged Migration

0FQC3W1E6ARQTK0N3RQJ1.33282613754272TrueGNew1documentaryLargeVideo51352B0000CGNEHhttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0000CGNEH%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0000CGNEH%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K602272http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000CGNEH.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6041http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000CGNEH.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14096http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000CGNEH.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475326Jacques Perrin1.85:1G (General Audience)Jacques CluzaudJacques PerrinMichel DebatsColorClosed-captionedWidescreenDolbyEnglishDubbedEnglishSubtitledPortugueseSubtitledEnglishOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 5.1HindiSubtitledSpanishSubtitled2695USD$26.951Anamorphic WidescreenDVD12003-11-1889Columbia Tristar Hom2001-01-01Winged Migration0433960024181859USD$18.591470USD$14.701951USD$19.5150254011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewkhOh6aHCerUkb%2BBWTw8iacH%2BfDN1qdCRxsh%2FhRTtN5vfw3oduG1gfuZbpDXYn7cH2l%2Fen1tps6E%3D2021USD$20.21Usually ships in 24 hours4.518137B0000CGNEH51A3FMCZC2DRJC5922005-03-07

Spectacular

For anyone who loves nature, wildlife and birds in particular, this film is a must-see. It was one of the most beautiful documentaries I've ever seen. It was clearly a real labor of love to make and one that I'm very thankful to have seen. Thumbs up to the French. B0000CGNEH49A1L8HRCM60W0W792005-01-21

A SIGHT FOR 'SOAR' EYES

All these gloating reviews are right on the nose, what an intimate tribute to our fine-feathered friends! And it's not merely your generic National Geographic visual of glorious flora and fauna from round the globe. If you savour a well-made film, or if you are an aspiring documentary producer, this one's a must-watch. I hesitate to call it a documentary, it's so riveting it's nearly a silent film with a cast of thousands. The production values are stunning and make you frequently wonder How They Did That. The answer to which is a combination of gliders, balloons, helicopters and a special type of aircraft known as the Ultra Light Motorized craft that had a camera tied to it. It took 2 years to film this hour and a half. If I may, the 'screenplay' is fantastic. Then there's the creative employment of sound. Often the only background score is the fluttering of wings; the cameras get so close we can see the birds' muscles straining as they thump the air. Nature's rhythm is so balanced one cannot help but wonder how magnificent its choreographer must be. One species of cranes does a sort of dance, almost ballet-like. At least until one of them tumbles over. There's something strangely elegant in the way a flock of predator birds swipe at other birds in the air, or do synchronized swimming on the surface of a lake. Even a relatively grotesque scene with crabs chasing down an injured bird carries along with it a struggle to survive on both ends. It isn't all pretty pictures though, the film has a subtle undercurrent against man's tinkering with nature. The freedom of flight is suddenly interrupted by hunting, and the score abruptly ends as a gun is fired and a goose falls struggling from the sky. One shot somehow makes a duck decoy in the water scary. Agricultural machinery invades the nest of a hatchling. In another scene, a company rests in an industrial plant, avoiding many obstacles but finding danger in an oily mess. The beauty of the film lies in how it achieves a sense of natural endurance. Birds have been doing this for as long as they have existed, but a juxtaposed shot of the World Trade Center reminds us how all of our technological and architectural wonders are, in the wider scheme of things, trivial and fleeting. I do have a minor gripe. The seasonal migration of birds is still quite a mystery (birds fly the same exact route, often thousands of miles, year after year) but the narrative provides little insight into its secrets, content instead in naming the different species and the distances they fly. This was perhaps a directorial decision, there's a lot in the film that needs no language, but still one that I shall deduct a star for. Treat yourself to it at least once, you'll be struck with awe and envy for those wings in the sky. And what an impeccable gift this DVD should make for your discerning friends. B0000CGNEH54A1SPB225CVTRUU42005-01-12

Bedazzled By All The Pretty Birdies.

Winged Migration is by far the most visually stunning documentary I have ever seen, and it stars some of the most beautiful birds of this continent. I actually saw it twice in the theatre, and I was so mesmerized to see what an amazing journey the birds endured during migration season. Aside from the impeccable cinematography when capturing the birds on film, it was also quite educational to learn how the birds survive the weather, finding food, and guiding the younger generation. The birds migrate in a group, and sometimes they may not make it to the final destination, because they get shot by the hunters in the wild. I was very disturbed to see that scene. There are some comical moments when the some of the birds have a peculiar behaviours, such as the way they dance or swim or sing. It really showed the characteristics of individual kind of birds. The soundtrack is very enjoyable, because it is well coordinated with the birds movements. The "making of" in the dvd's special feature is worth watching, because they show you all the behind the scenes and the complicated preparation and training of some the birds including the Canada Geese. It was kind of like Anna Paquin's Fly Away Home. B0000CGNEH59AKVF8XH092ZFK92005-01-05

Winged Migration

Winged Migration is a totally gorgeous film. The first time I saw it, it was actually breath-taking enough to make me remember some lines from Sarah McLachlan's Angel that I love: "In the arms of the angel, fly away from here..." Watching this documentary, you really do feel like you can fly. The music accompanying it is so dreamy that it really adds to the whole illusion of growing wings and flying with all the birds filmed here. Witness as swans, geese, grouse, terns, pelicans, and many other birds make their way from country to country and back again. A beautiful story told in a few words (text and vocal narration), Winged Migration is my favorite film of all time. There are many times when you find yourself wondering how in the world they did it. The scenes range from touching to breath-taking, from soaring to brutal. Many people complain that some of the scenes in the movie were not `real;' that some of the birds were imported and others were tame, and that many were saved from life-threatening situations. Perhaps the scenes were not real in the documentary, but the point is that they could still happen. Maybe they weren't able to get it on camera, but they do happen. This documentary is wonderful. Unlike many I have seen, this one kept my attention the whole time--I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, not wanting it to end. It's so beautiful, it will just take your breath away...B0000CGNEH55A3TJGR0YF3L5X062004-12-15

Moved to tears .....

As a "connoisseur" of nature films, I can honestly say that Winged Migration is above all the most soul stirring I have ever had the pleasure to view. Many times throughout the film I was moved to tears at the beauty that was unfolding before me, and with the addition of the exceptional score, I felt that I was being transported into the sky to fly among the graceful creatures. This is by far a brilliant piece of art! The supplemental feature included on the DVD that explained exactly how the film was made takes away nothing from the film itself, though I suggest that this be viewed only after watching the main feature. All who had a hand in the making of this film exhibit nothing but dedication and a pure love of the birds time and time again. Amazon.comFor earthbound humans, Winged Migration is as close as any of us will get to sharing the sky with our fine feathered friends. It's as if French director Jacques Perrin and his international crew of dedicated filmmakers had been given a full-access pass by Mother Nature herself, with the complete "cooperation" of countless species of migrating birds, all answering to eons of migratory instinct. The film is utterly simple in purpose, with minimal narration and on-screen titles to identify the wondrous varieties of flying wildlife, but its visceral effect is humbling, awesome and magnificently profound. Technically, Perrin surpasses the achievement of his earlier film Microcosmos (which did for insects what this film does for birds), and apart from a few digital skyscapes for poetic effect, this astonishing film uses no special effects whatsoever, with soaring, seemingly miraculous camera work that blesses the viewer with, quite literally, a bird's-eye view. A brief but important hunting scene may upset sensitive viewers and children, but doesn't stop Winged Migration from being essential all-ages viewing. --Jeff ShannonDescriptionThis awe-inspiring, critically acclaimed documentary of migrating birds through 40 countries and every continent was captured using planes, gliders, helicopters and balloons, allowing the filmmakers a spectacularly intimate look at their subjects. From Academy Award-nominated Director Jacques Perrin (Z, Black and White in Color). 2002 Academy Award® Nominee for Best Documentary.B0000CABBWWhale Rider6304501684MicroCosmosB00005M91KBaraka (Special Collector's Edition)B0002JL9N6Andy Goldsworthy's Rivers & TidesB00008V5TEWinged Migration (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452284685Nature & Wildlife163448Special Interests404276Genres130DVD139452441258Perrin, Jacques440340( P )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452573628All Sony Pictures Titles516494Sony Pictures Home Entertainment468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452579556( W )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD1394523LR78RCANIOQUMy Favorite Animal BooksOWAUWW2VBWSGMost Beautiful Films of All Time18J6J3S55N6P7Dialog without words2RBR45G63BE2GFavorite Movies of 20031O7LHCGMBAZUBMy Favorite Documentaries1QWP2BZK1KDQVThe best Movies of all time! (in no particular order)2T0XWU9JZZ7E7My DVD collection Part 3SHN8UBV4S3LPTop 20 Favorite Movies of All Time1X6V2CMMKTYDKFun, Fascinating Documentaries1APWMLICWGFJPThe Highest Grossing Films Ever (Documentary Edition)B0002OXVDWhttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0002OXVDW%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0002OXVDW%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K602725http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVDW.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6043http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVDW.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14099http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVDW.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg500352Gene KellyG (General Audience)Gene KellyBox set4992USD$49.924DVD2004-10-12374Warner Home VideoThat's Entertainment Trilogy Giftset0125696915203499USD$34.993500USD$35.003999USD$39.9945222011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewkr31VbnYsmKamXaTeLXZP4wwJ447Z04xvvoSxJtXDY76kBgLOtkecP4%2FdwOxD%2FY7XKWSPJZii%2FM%3D3499USD$34.99Usually ships in 24 hours4.5235B0002OXVDW40A3ET9OE3TQ9OEJ02005-03-05

In The Words Of Gershwin; "Who Could Ask For Anything More?"

Upon its release "That's Entertainment!" became the biggest and brightest money maker of 1974...and it's no wonder. For a little over two hours one had the enchanted experience of being teleported to a world just this side of over the rainbow. Here is a cornucopia of magical scenes and snippets from MGM's most magnificent musicals. Directed with adroit - if self congratulatory - wit and concision by Jack Haley Jr. (son of Oz's Tin Man), "That's Entertainment!" is the sort of blindingly spellbinding extravaganza that reinforces MGM's once galvanic mottos of "art for art's sake" and "more stars than there are in heaven." At its gala premiere Jack Haley Sr. was heard declaring, "This isn't nostalgia. This is art." Rightly so, by 1974 the MGM musical had been dead for some time and the studio itself was on the verge of a restructuring that would ultimately reduce its holdings to garage sale status. But at least in this film such forgotten treasures were resurrected from oblivion to their rightful place in film history. Variety gave "That's Entertainment!" a glowing review, trumpeting, "That while many may ponder the future of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, no one can deny that it's had one heck of a past!" Naturally, MGM just had to have a sequel. Two years later "That's Entertainment II" came out. But David Melnick's follow up was decidedly a let down on several levels. First, it removed the star cameos that so poignantly buttressed the original's vintage clips. Second, it presented the footage in a seemingly hap-hazard chronology. And finally, it interrupted the musical performances with a showcase from some of the studio's non-musical performers in a string of disjointed word play that neither enhanced the memory of their original performances or the film experience that was to be had. Though not nearly as successful as its predecessor, "That's Entertainment II" was nevertheless a box office titan. In 1994 MGM once again revisited its vaults for "That's Entertainment III" the final installment in the series. But by now the experience was vaguely beginning to resemble grave robbing. The new film's primary selling feature was that, in addition to showcasing another round of classic performances, it also dug deep into the coffers of outtakes for a series of deleted musical numbers which, until 1994, had either never or rarely been seen. Despite these innovations the final installment to the trilogy was the one most poorly received. It's the original that continues dazzle us all and it's the original that remains the cornerstone of this newly minted DVD box set. Warner's DVD transfers of all three "That's Entertainment!" films is a welcomed delight. After years of viewing parts one and two with poorly mastered vintage clips, these newly minted discs appear to have been the benefactors of some digital restoration. Beginning with the original film, there is a decide lack of grain and grit on this transfer that is most becoming. Colors (during the Technicolor clips) are vibrant, rich and deep. B&W images are very crisp, nicely balanced, with an often stunning gray scale and superior attention to fine details. There is only the slightest amount of edge enhancement for a picture that is very smooth. The audio has been remixed and remastered to stereo for all three films. Part II seems to suffer from slightly lower contrast levels overall, but the same review for Part I applies. The most outstanding example of digital mastering comes in Part III - a marvelously vibrant array of clips remastered (as they were for the theatrical engagement) in high def that positively glows off the screen. The audio is 5.1 surround and is remarkably aggressive throughout. Extras include a bonus disc of musical outtakes and extras, audio only catalogue of songs and dances, the original footage of the LA premiere with all of the old time musical stars in attendance and a series of short subjects that collectively perform like a documentary on the series. There are also the original theatrical trailers for each film to be had. In the immortal words of George Gershwin..."who could ask for anything more?"B0002OXVDW51A3ICHEO78NFE4Y22005-01-06

That's "Excellence"

Outstanding, breaktaking, incredible 5.1 stereo, beautful costumes, wonderful musical actors is only part of the wonders of this "That's Entertainment" Trilogy. I'll give you a brief but moving review of each film and the segment that i enjoyed the best. Part 1: "Show Boat" excerpt. The color is vibrent, the sound is outstanding and they play all the best parts that i love the most. Part 2: You stepped out of a dream sequence. It starts off with narration from Debbie Reynolds showing costuming then flashing to pictures of different MGM women in time to this music. This number ends with the screen enlarging and playing the production number from Ziefield Follies of 1941 with Tony Martin singing "You stepped out of a dream." Part 3: The Ester Williams sequence. What more can you say about this water beauty with a musical orchestrational number that all of a sudden opens up all stereo channels with this bellowing bass lows. Like i said these numbers are just my favorites that i can play over and over again but this whole set is wonderful and if you have 5.1 or THX sound system you'll hear what i mean. Now That's Entertainment!!!!B0002OXVDW53A2HIZWJKVL13F532004-12-11

The definitive MGM musical moments gloriously remastered!

My new 16x9 plasma widescreen television came alive this week with the purchase of this magnificent THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT COMPLETE COLLECTION gift set. Three phenomenally memorable compilations featuring the most beloved musical moments in film history, are now joined by a jam-packed bonus disc in this great collector's edition. I saw all three of these features in the theater when they opened (the first two in 70mm) and Warner Home Video has outdone themselves with these clean, sparkling transfers to DVD. These films have never looked so good, and the 5.2 surround sound will knock you out of your seat. If you're looking for the ideal gift for Xmas, either for your loved ones, or yourself, you can't beat the beauty!B0002OXVDW33AA9Y9SEYF8CPZ82004-12-10

Great Content, Dubious Mastering

Since this boxed set has already been critiqued extensively and in detail by others, my aim here is simply to echo the comments of those who praised the rich array of both original and supplemental material made available in the collection, while at the same time, concurring with those few brave contrarians who slammed the quality of the transfers. Indeed, the individual who emphasized the particularly woeful job done on Part 2 is right on the money; and the pan-and-scan side of the disc is even worse than the widescreen (those who rave about the great digital transfers should have either their eyes or their heads examined -- preferably both). The other volumes are substantially better, but considering the value of this footage, re-releasing it in the age of DVD without a thorough digital restoration represents a degree of parsimony and shoddiness that can only be termed disgraceful.B0002OXVDW55A1QO1PGIQNAPZE92004-11-29

PERFECTION! A must for any film lover...a great Xmas gift!

I am a huge MGM musical fan, and I loved all three of the THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT! films, especially the first and third. This boxed set restores the films to their original splendor and although I have am HDTV, they offer a full frame version (with letterbox parts) for those who still have square TVs. The sound is amazing..The extras are astounding. you get a whole extra disc of them with like 6 hours of goodies, including a boatload of outtake numbers you've never seen before. The icing on the cake is the classy Turner Classic channel host Robert Osborne to give nifty introductions. What a superb DVD set. A MUST-BUY!!!!!Amazon.comIn an era when we have an unprecedented number of movies and other diversions at our fingertips, is there still a need for a clip show like That's Entertainment? Certainly, because the film series, beginning in 1974, was an unabashed peddler of glorious nostalgia, not only collecting many of the most memorable moments in the magical history of the MGM musical--and therefore in the history of film--but bringing in many of the original stars to introduce them decades later. And another few decades after the series was released, the nostalgia is that much greater since many of those stars are now gone. In addition, the sheer number and variety of clips (though they're often too short) would be hard to match in any collection or in the span of an evening's viewing. Where else could you enjoy Gene Kelly singin' in the rain and also James Stewart crooning "Easy to Love"? Or follow fun trends like the Mickey Rooney-Judy Garland "let's put on a show" pictures, of which Rooney says "only our names seemed to change"? Following the surprising box-office success of the initial film, Part 2 was released in 1976 and it still had plenty of famous and obscure clips (remember Bobby Van?), and even a nod to the nonmusical films of the era such as the Hepburn-Tracy pictures. It topped everything off with the irresistible pairing of hosts Kelly and Fred Astaire, who share a dance--for only the second time in their careers--at the ages of 64 and 77, respectively (and a more graceful 77-year-old you never will see!). The third film wasn't made until in 1994 (host Kelly is strikingly older), but it offered more of the usual fare plus a variety of cut numbers by such stars as Judy Garland, Lena Horne, and Debbie Reynolds. A half-century later, Hollywood's valentine to the movie musical was still shining strong. The DVD trilogy set offers all three films with the choice of widescreen anamorphic or full-screen formats (don't worry, the clips are in their original aspect ratio). There's also a two-sided fourth disc with supplemental material, most interestingly the "musical outtakes jukebox," a 16-song, 49-minute collection of numbers that were cut from musicals of the era. None of the selections are Great Songs, but it's hard to discount any musical number from the MGM vaults, for example, three selections by Garland and two by Horne (only one of which, Garland's "Mr. Monotony," appears in TE3, and there in a slightly shorter form). The rest of the content is behind-the-scenes documentaries, the most significant being "That's Entertainment: The Masters Behind the Musical" (37 minutes, profiling the talent behind the films such as Arthur Freed and Michael Kidd), "That's Entertainment III: Behind the Screen" (1994, 53 minutes), and vintage black-and-white footage of MGM's 25th anniversary celebration (10 minutes). Not included in the set: the 1985 compilation That's Dancing, which is also deserving of a DVD release. --David HoriuchiDescriptionIncludes That's Entertainment, That's Entertainment Part 2, That's Entertainment III, and a bonus fourth disc entitled That's Entertainment: Treasures from the Vault, available exclusively with the Giftset featuring more than five hours of exciting extras including three great documentaries, premiere night coverage and salutes to the great behind-the-camera talents, TV specials, making-of featurettes, plus an extensive video jukebox of rare, star-packed musical outtakes from classic films, and more!B0002V7THYBroadway - The American Musical (PBS Series)B00005JKGZMeet Me In St. Louis (Two-Disc Special Edition)B0002TSZN8Broadway's Lost Treasures 2B0007939PWThe Classic Musicals Collection - Broadway to Hollywood (Easter Parade Two Disc Special Edition / The Band Wagon Two Disc Special Edition / Bells Are Ringing / Finian's Rainbow / Brigadoon)B000649YA2Broadway - The Golden Age, by the Legends Who Were There163425General508528Musicals & Performing Arts404276Genres130DVD139452163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452431034Kelly, Gene430468( K )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452524758General163428Musicals508528Musicals & Performing Arts404276Genres130DVD139452524760Classics163428Musicals508528Musicals & Performing Arts404276Genres130DVD139452579550( T )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452599828Documentary501230Boxed Sets694466Formats130DVD139452599846Musicals & Performing Arts501230Boxed Sets694466Formats130DVD139452600316Documentary515794Warner Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452600330All Titles515794Warner Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD1394521B2EYXXV8S8KOGotta Sing! Gotta Dance!2YZZ8YNDBZRG4Love 'em or Hate 'em: Movie Musicals 1965-19759D72BAMNRM5TSing Happy!3BE5GGEKYFPC0Movies You Should Own34D1O39GVBTU7DVD 2004 Fall Preview: Top Releases September & October1BEDBX09A0ZILEditors' Five Favorite DVDs for OctoberB0000WN13Qhttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0000WN13Q%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0000WN13Q%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6022015http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000WN13Q.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6041http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000WN13Q.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14096http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000WN13Q.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475325G (General Audience)Jeffrey BlitzColorEnglishDubbedEnglishOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 2.0 StereoFrenchOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 2.0 StereoFrenchSubtitled1994USD$19.941Pan & ScanDVD12004-04-27Columbia Tristar Hom2002-01-01Spellbound0433960304111300USD$13.00649USD$6.492294USD$22.9452391011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNew3ZSH%2BHiQI0QB0Xn7ib8doTmtIdeQ0ocaPQ%2BJN1WK7D4hMfSOqtUDj7zIhlFGQ9ci6aIhlV4hdfA%3D1595USD$15.95Usually ships in 24 hours4.58417B0000WN13Q41A6ADO7B6FUVN12005-03-12

A Powerful Documentary...

Spellbound offers an intriguing and thoughtful cinematic experience, which is slightly disconnected, as most people cannot even comprehend the stress that the children in the national spelling bee experience. Nonetheless, this review will try to muster a description of how it might feel to be one of the children in the national spelling bee in Washington D.C. What makes these children unique is that they have not spelled one word wrong, and some of the words have been jaw breaking or tongue twisters. Initially, there were approximately 9 million children from almost every classroom throughout United States while now there are only 249 left standing awaiting their word from the judge in Washington D.C. Grand parents, parents, siblings, friends, teachers, and the rest of community are standing behind while the children participate in national spelling bee. As a child there, overwhelming pressure rests upon your shoulders, as people you do not even know put up signs, or tell you that they wish you good luck. Day after day you remain indoors studying dictionaries from page to page while the pages are thumbed to unrecognizable jumbles of wrinkled paper. The day of the national spelling bee is drawing nearer, as you feel the amount of words that you are encountering continuously grow. From countless hours of studying you have discovered that you have only scratched a little on the tip of the iceberg. This feeds an internal anxiety that the judges will probably ask you a word you never heard of before. The anxiety feed by your wisdom in regards to vocabulary is augmented by additional best wishes, as you slowly turn into a lexicon junkie. Some of you do not get the same appreciation, as others do in their community. Maybe, the positive reception is diminished, as academic success might not be favored as it is in the accelerated programs that some of your peers in the spelling be come from. However, you share one thought with all the other competitors - you are not like the other 9 million students in United States. You are different, unique, and most of all you have far greater memory and intellect than most your peers in your hometown or neighborhood. Some observe you as a freak while others deem you a genius. All of you come from different walks of life with different ethnic backgrounds. Yet, when you arrive to Washington D.C. you feel at home with the other competitors, as they are just like you. You all feel the pressure while standing in front of the microphone. Some of you tremble in fear while others weep. You experience a new level of anxiety that you have never before thought possible while spelling out words letter by letter. A pause is common among your peers before the last letter, as all of you fear the possible sound of the bell that reminds you that you spelled the word wrong. If you do not hear the bell you feel an awesome rush of joy through your body, as the body's defense mode can relax while others might not be as lucky as you in their spelling. The agony of spelling continues until you have won, or misspelled. Nonetheless, after the national spelling bee you feel relived not to have to do this again, if you are in eighth grade. However, if you are in grades below eighth grade you might have to do this again next year, which means a whole year of further preparations for next year so you can once again experience the rush of fear and trepidation through your body. There was a moment in the film where a mother mentioned that someone had told her that the national spelling bee is a cruel form of child abuse. This seems be true to a degree, as each child comes from different homes with different kind of expectations. For some children, it seems worse than to others, as some parents take an exaggeratedly active roll in their child's performance while others are too neglectful of the talent that their child possesses. It would be interesting to see how the eight children that the film follows turn out in a documentary that would be made 15 years from now. This film has an attempt at doing this by interviewing pervious winners, but it does not show the emotional and psychological impact that the spelling bee had on the children. For example, there is one scene when a child is beginning to mutter incoherently while hives are breaking out around the temples of his head. Spelling is important to some degree, however, society might stress the importance of spelling a little too much while pushing our intelligent students in the 99th percentile to the limits.B0000WN13Q30A2UIH7H2653DFS02005-03-07

Entertaining Documentary

I wouldn't call this documentary "riveting", but its an interesting look at the children involved in the spelling bees. I give this only 3 stars because it was entertaining, but I was hoping to see a kid throw a chair after misspelling "Cornucopia" while the kid before him only had to spell "Aquatic". My favorite part is a brief interview with a 10-year old Georgie, who many considered to be the favorite in the competition. He's dressed in a suit and offers up some life advice - "Numba one, Twust in Jesus. Numba two, wove yo famiwee."B0000WN13Q54AWXH63WE2TL2S42004-12-13

Excellent educational movie about traditional spelling bee

Could you spell arcane and abstruse words like kookaburra and logorrhea? The young teenagers in this movie (between the ages of 8-12) could. This movie is about the American tradition of the spelling bee, which most of us have nostalgic memories of. This movie is about the National Spelling Bee, where the stakes are much higher and the words are much tougher. This movie inspired me because it was a movie that showed the great potential that the young people have. These kids in the movie were truly amazing and dedicated. They were all unique and very intelligent. There was the Indian kid who's father drilled him into studying very hard for the Spelling Bee. There was the shy girl who studied the dictionary all day and shunned going to shopping malls. There was the young 8-year old Indian boy who was home schooled and very smart. There was the girl from a small town in the country who's parents immigrated to this country with humble beginnings. This movie follows the lives of eight children who dreamed of being the National Spelling Bee champions-it's really a great movie. In an age when most of the movies being produced for children are tacky action thrillers devoid of any educational value and relevance, here's a movie that is rated G and shows children that they should be interested in reading and learning. All of these kids in the movie were diligent and persistent, and that's a lesson that can help any child today.B0000WN13Q42A2C9FXDJ8G24KS22004-12-05

Very Strong

When I rented this at the rental store, the girl behind counter made sure I knew it was a documentary. I had to laugh because I was renting it along with two other documentary films. I was very surprised when I viewed this one. The kids are great. The director has given us a look into the world of spelling bees. I remember being in one when I was in elementary school and I know why I lost now. Give this one a chance. It might sound a bit boring but you'll be glad to take the time. Next time the spelling bee is on ESPN you'll stop and watch for it. On the special features of the DVD you get a good update on where the kids are today. B0000WN13Q31A1UJVBXLB08HBG32004-11-27

Life as a Spelling Bee

Yes, it's a little slow, but interesting. They picked a very diverse group of kids to profile. The interesting thing to me was the different approaches each family took. Some of the families, like the Indian's boy's father, pulled out all the stops and really got involved to help his son. Other families were more passive in their support, and maybe somewhat baffled by their child's drive to compete. The one parent I thought missed the point was the Washington DC mom. She seems always to be looking for the negative. Even though she has a bright, healthy, self-motivated child, she is not happy. Not surpiringly her child takes it the hardest when she is eliminated from the competition. Three things were very clear and reassuring (since this was real life on file): - Intelligence alone, without hard work, falls short - Knowing how to handle defeat may be a bigger 'win' than the top prize - At the end of everything, no matter how the kids did, it was obvious that their parents loved themDescriptionSpellbound is the extraordinary documentary that follows eight teenagers on their quest to win the National Spelling Bee competition.B0000SXK0YCapturing the FriedmansB0001L3LUEThe Fog of War - Eleven Lessons from the Life of Robert S. McNamaraB0002OXVBOSuper Size MeB0000CGNEHWinged MigrationB0000U0X20American Splendor163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452565162Deals Under $20409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452573628All Sony Pictures Titles516494Sony Pictures Home Entertainment468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452579548( S )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452734044Deals Under $20734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores26552326UC0Q8QXKUQQBest films of 2003 YOU DIDN'T SEE1MLLR7976R3F5favorite movies seen in 20032RBR45G63BE2GFavorite Movies of 20031O7LHCGMBAZUBMy Favorite Documentaries38EM6FC2HB9DTBest films of 200310N8CUNS0EMSZ25 Awesome movies you must see! (not in any order)2INCE2KEE6CQT2003 - Top Ten List, mixed media.1X6V2CMMKTYDKFun, Fascinating Documentaries1APWMLICWGFJPThe Highest Grossing Films Ever (Documentary Edition)3OQGVP9YTU2JUThe Best Films of 2003B00005OSLNhttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B00005OSLN%2526location=/o/ASIN/B00005OSLN%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6022119http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00005OSLN.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6042http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00005OSLN.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14098http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00005OSLN.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475333Michel CamiloTito Puente1.85:1G (General Audience)Fernando Trueba21ColorClosed-captionedWidescreenEnglishDubbedFrenchDubbedEnglishSubtitledSpanishDubbedSpanishOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 5.1FrenchOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 5.11499USD$14.991Anamorphic WidescreenDVD12003-06-03105Miramax Home Entertainment2000-01-01Calle 54786936153675895USD$8.95967USD$9.671095USD$10.9543183011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewQLWMHcqrR0W2%2FK3karA8kUkwVE5G92CKbv4651We6YAo%2BBYKg081eKImR4I%2FgQThO51F%2BFSlYqY%3D1199USD$11.99Usually ships in 24 hours4.5296B00005OSLN52AEG3I82BVE2ZK22004-11-23

Amazing music, good fun

I saw this with no expectations. I had a free pass to see it in theaters and went on a rainy Tuesday night when I had nothing else to do. I walked out with a smile on my face and a dance in my feet. What can I say? The performances were amazing and the narration brief but giving sufficient background on the artists. In the theater, we found ourselves clapping after the performances, forgetting it wasn't live. At one point, I looked behind me and a middle-aged couple was dancing in the back of the theater! You can't get a better recommendation than that. Get this DVD and cherish it. Play the soundtrack in your car or in your office. Let it liven up your life.B00005OSLN52A1IANEBSMVGHS932004-10-13

Will make you addicted to Latin Jazz

From the opening remark by Trueba, you are hooked: "A principio de los ochenta, un amigo me regalo un disco que complico mi vida. Me volvi un adicto al jazz latino." (At the beginning of the eighties, a friend gave me an album that complicated my life. I became addicted to Latin Jazz.) Having read his introductory words, you may understand why the comparison between Fernando Trueba's "Calle 54" and Wim Wenders' "Buena Vista Social Club" is not only unfit but also unfair to both movies. While "Buena Vista..." focuses on a handful of Cuban legends, many of whom continued to make great classic Latin music in the island in spite of the passing of time, "Calle 54" introduces the viewer to how Latin music was embraced and transformed by a number of musical geniuses across the continent to give shape to what would later be known as Latin Jazz. Well known Paquito D'Rivera, Tito Puente, Bebo (and Chucho) Valdez, along with Gato Barbieri and many others showcase their brilliance and sense of innate connection with the genre's roots, while keeping an exquisite balance with the essence of jazz: improvisation. D'Rivera throws in a Venezuelan "cuatro" (a small form of a four-string guitar) into a "sabrosa" mix of metals and latin percussion. A nostalgic Baribieri comes across as a Miles Davis playing sax to latin rhythms. Puente introduces us to the fathers of Latin Jazz through the murals in his restaurant, while Valdez puts his heart into it all with his impeccable piano performance. Then again, some more improv, a fusion of Flamenco and Jazz -the miracle (as Trueba puts it) that Chano Dominguez accomplishes, blending Thelonius Monk and Camaron de la Isla. Eliane Elias hypnotyzing the listener with her beauty and her exquisite blend of bossa and jazz... There is so much to "Calle 54" that hours of writing about it would never do it justice. Trueba, a storyteller at heart, and a convinced fan of the genre, tells the tale of this exquisite music for those that are familiar with it, and to help guide by the hand those who don't into the fate that he ran into over twenty years ago: becoming addicted to Latin Jazz.B00005OSLN52AYN729WEONF8O22004-05-06

Incredible!

This is an incredible film. The music is fantastic. Do yourself a favor and get the DVD and not the VHS, or you will miss all the bonus stuff. As a cuban musician brought up on this music, I highly recommend it!B00005OSLN42A3W3XWWGX3JDGX32004-02-12

Awesome - Simply awesome!

Wow. I heard about this when it was released for a short time in New York City, but never got a chance to see it. Now, I'm not the type that normally goes for "Artsy/Documentary films", but Tito Puente was in it, so when it was released on Pay-per-view shortly after my son was born, I figured I'd watch it while feeding my 4 day old son at Oh-dark-thirty in the morning. ;)Wow. I was glued to the screen. I considered myself a fan of Latin Jazz and latin music in general, but I've never been treated to a dazzling display of talent such as the one that I saw and heard before my eyes. From the wonderful (And my all-time favorite song) Latin Jazz song 'From Within' performed by Michel Camilo, to the tour-de-force by Bebo Valdés, everything was awesome.Of course, there are problems that I noticed right off the bat. It seems as if the songs were recorded seperately from the actual performances, so you see the artists perform a few things that you don't hear reflected in the sound (Look at Hilton Ruiz using his elbow on the piano that isn't heard in the music during Tito Puente's 'New Arrival' for example), which takes off a star from my rating.As long as you come in as a music lover, you'll treasure this. If you're looking for a performance DVD, go elsewhere. Plain and simple. =)B00005OSLN15AS2W7OC6HFBOB282003-12-11

This is for Latin JAZZ Lovers. Not for LATIN MUSIC FANS

I liked the DVD but I can't say I'll watch it again, ever! It's too slow paced, too much narration. (Bein from the Caribean I didn't care for the spaniard's accent). It just lacked Heat! I honestly fell asleep watching it. Some parts I just pressed fastforward because it was just toooooo boooring!!!! Does not come close to Buena Vista's excitement. But if you like Latin JAZZ, then this is for you. The best part was seing the places where the performers grew up, going from streets in NY to Havana. Maybe I'll watch it again when I'm 50 and suffering from a bad case of insomnia.Amazon.comIn Calle 54, Madrid-based filmmaker Fernando Trueba explores the wide and wonderful world of Latin jazz: a hybrid genre that fuses the clave, samba, flamenco, merengue, and other rhythms from Africa, the Iberian peninsula, and the Americas. The film's Spanish title takes its name from Sony Music Studios located on 54th Street in Manhattan, where a who's who of musicians were filmed and recorded. They range from Brazilian bombshell keyboardist Eliane Elias and enigmatic Argentine tenor saxophonist Gato Barbieri, to the fiery rumba group Puntilla y Nueva Generacion. The music and musicians of Cuba and Puerto Rico dominate this documentary, and the most touching scene is the emotional father-and-son reunion of Cuban pianists Bebo and Chucho Valdés, who were separated by Fidel Castro's revolution. Sadly, the film features the last onscreen appearances by the late composer-arranger Chico O'Farrill and the legendary timbales master Tito Puente. Simply put, Calle 54 is a documentary that dances. --Eugene Holley Jr.DescriptionA behind the scenes glimpse into the lives of Grammy Award winner Tito Puente and some of the greatest Latin musicians of our times! Experience the passion of Latin Jazz. It is a musical journey that captures the heart and soul of an entire culture. It is an innovative tapestry of sound and imagery, styles and rhythms-from samba to pambiche to flamenco. B00002SWEMBuena Vista Social ClubB00007ELDQJam Miami - A Celebration of Latin JazzB00005ABEPRoots of RhythmB00005ASYTCalle 54B0000558NOBeats of the Heart - Salsa: Latin Pop Music in the Cities163326French193685By Original Language163313Art House & International404276Genres130DVD139452163390General163379Drama404276Genres130DVD139452163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452442374Puente, Tito440340( P )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452462966Trueba, Fernando462650( T )403502Directors130DVD139452468392All Titles468390Miramax Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452511448Documentary508528Musicals & Performing Arts404276Genres130DVD139452513190Documentary510698Jazz163420Music Video & Concerts404276Genres130DVD139452513192General510698Jazz163420Music Video & Concerts404276Genres130DVD139452513200World Music163420Music Video & Concerts404276Genres130DVD139452541280Foreign Spotlight468390Miramax Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452565160Deals Under $15409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452573536Spanish193685By Original Language163313Art House & International404276Genres130DVD139452579516( C )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452734042Deals Under $15734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores265523882766All Deals409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452883766All Deals734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores265523I3JXQLZF8VS3Cinema Peculiar I - Odd Art Films3A28NW6F04Y7WFavorite Music Documentaries2CBYBE5YKT3Z9Listen to the CD, Watch the DVD (Jazz)13AL1X146X00ZPerforming Arts DVDs for Your Home Theater22Y5HETATOAITLatin Jazz and Salsa on DVD2MW84GNQ2XT78Latin Jazz Cruise2OL7IEWL1S8ZVFilms I Recently Enjoyed 93PTW1B1X0YFW1Some of the stuff I likeUHZHKNCQFFIHMusic DVDs You Should GetBVOVUO16APFBAll Latin JazzB0000DZ3BShttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0000DZ3BS%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0000DZ3BS%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6024165http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000DZ3BS.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg7552http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000DZ3BS.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg160110http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000DZ3BS.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg500343Kristin Scott ThomasG (General Audience)Claude NuridsanyMarie PérennouColorClosed-captionedWidescreenEnglishDubbedSpanishDubbed1999USD$19.991DVD2005-05-0375Buena Vista Home Vid1996-10-09Microcosmos7869362331241399USD$13.99300011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNew1yogAw2xpYvBK%2F7O%2BGs9uE91n9olFmG1mv7puYL4O0EbHuthPH5l%2FR5EMIyvCsfvWtmPeOJJkv8%3D1399USD$13.99Not yet released5.0449B0000DZ3BS50A2FLNDKLZ0C8KY02005-03-06

I saw the snails 2 years ago and it still affects me today

I only hope to find a love like the two snails in this picture have. It was one of the most beautiful and touching things I've ever seen. It was like caressing the cheek of the person you love. Even if you're not the romantic type, it's something to behold.B0000DZ3BS23A3GHRWW5RS8J1N132004-10-09

Don't get this one for the kids.

The fascination of absolutely gorgeous photography wanes as the puzzling insect antics remain unexplained. My 6-year-old and I are great fans of all that's to do with creepy crawlers, but within 10 minutes, he lost interest. If your kid sits still and doesn't ask questions, this movie is fine; otherwise, buy this movie for the beauty of the best insect photography I've ever seen--but don't expect to be educated. And don't expect the kids to sit through it.B0000DZ3BS57A3G4FIUEPUP9ZJ72004-08-23

the most gorgeous nature film I've ever seen

I read so much about Microcosmos in Amazon reviews that I just had to get a copy and see it for myself. It's incredible! Count me among those who say, "how did they do that?" As a newly-hatched insect fan, I was delighted and stunned by the spectacular photography, the moments of comedy (caterpillar traffic jam, ladybug getting bounced off the leaf), the sheer beauty of the material, and the way the cinematographers were able to catch things from the insect's point of view. I also appreciated the lack of the typical nature-film voiceovers; the producers had the good sense to let the images, music and sound effects carry the film on their own. Don't miss this one, whether you love or hate insects. It's a revelation.B0000DZ3BS56AQ8DU6XVA3USJ62004-07-11

"where time is measured out in moments"

This is a mesmerizing look into the life of insects, with "real time" photography as well as slow motion and time lapse sequences. It also shows the predators who live off them, like the frogs, and the pheasant who gobbles up ants; flowers and how their life cycle is interconnected with the insects that pollinate them, as well as the carnivorous Drosera, as it devours a wasp-like creature. There is even a portion in the night, with the nocturnal activity seen in the glimmer of moonlight, and also a marvelous rainstorm, with close-ups of the droplets falling. The two most memorable scenes are the snails who mate with grace and abandon, and seem to become "one flesh", and the horned beetles in a battle that shows incredible violence and tenacity; both these segments seem to reflect "human" qualities, and fill the mind with wonder.There is a beautifully written but short introduction and epilogue, read by Kristin Scott Thomas, and a score by Bruno Coulais, which consists mostly of vocal music, sung by mezzo Mari Kobayashi, and the charming young voices of Hugo and Louis Coulais; much of the film is in silence however, with just the sound of the insects. A visual feast that is the creation of the Claude Nuridsany and Marie Perennou, who share credits as director/writer/cinematographer, and additional cinematography was done by Thierry Machado and Hugues Ruffel. Total running time is 80 minutes, and you will never look at a lowly snail in the same way again.B0000DZ3BS53A2XSXYU95TEN0042004-07-02

One of the best films I have ever seen

This movie begs to be seen on DVD. Why is it not available?Amazon.comUsing revolutionary cameras, the directors of this French film (with minimal English-language narration) have made an amazing chronicle of the insect world. There are at least a dozen fascinating, memorable images, and the carnage is held to a minimum. Some favorites include a caterpillar traffic jam, a frog's bout with a rain storm, and a bird that turns into Godzilla for a bunch of ants. Then there's the snail mating scene that must be seen to be believed. Great for families. --Doug ThomasB0000CGNEHWinged Migration6304474334National Geographic's The Invisible WorldB00005M91KBaraka (Special Collector's Edition)B00003CXAYKoyaanisqatsi / Powaqqatsi (2 Pack)B00000IZ80Death By Design163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452441258Perrin, Jacques440340( P )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452449378Thomas, Kristin Scott448792( T )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452565160Deals Under $15409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452579536( M )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452734042Deals Under $15734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores2655232MSA22GL194L3Uber-mentaries1XERXV9OAHAKRMovies with little or no dialogue...1X6V2CMMKTYDKFun, Fascinating DocumentariesC12H7GDA8HMNFeel Like a Double-Feature?B42CDCRM07KJMy Five Star Flicks part 52JW59PJMI0C5GEducate yourself without reading.2F2RX88WJAUTREnjoyable Recent Documentaries1S1JJ5PL0ZHLYWaiting for DVD Release I1X8Q6IZJZ1A45My Best Documentaries on DVD1PGA5GC9AKHT0Top 20 Favorite MoviesB0000D0YXWhttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0000D0YXW%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0000D0YXW%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K602298http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000D0YXW.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6033http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000D0YXW.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14078http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000D0YXW.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475265Jacques PerrinG (General Audience)Jacques CluzaudJacques PerrinMichel DebatsColorClosed-captionedNTSCEnglishOriginal LanguageFrenchOriginal Language1494USD$14.941Video2004-03-0289Columbia Tristar Hom2001-01-01Winged Migration043396002401779USD$7.79800USD$8.001274USD$12.74421011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewd%2Ffyu6QI%2BkqCntcazkI%2B8Y2QIe0pYmJmKV27yUPSsudolIWDlVkP3blhM%2FXxthk6wlrI4E6c8p8%3D1374USD$13.74Usually ships in 24 hours4.518137B0000D0YXW51A3FMCZC2DRJC5922005-03-07

Spectacular

A SIGHT FOR 'SOAR' EYES

Bedazzled By All The Pretty Birdies.

Winged Migration

Moved to tears .....

Help, Please, Shackleton story.

Just returned from my first Antarctic 'expedition'. Magnificent! For decades I have had most of the published and filmed material on Shackleton, Scott and others; several recordings of Ralph Vaughan-Williams' 'Sinfonia Antarctica' as well as John Mill's film portrayal of 'Scott of the Antarctic'- for which Vaughan-Williams composed the musical score and later developed it into that Symphony. This fall I bought the Kenneth Branagh 3 disc set -( first rate 'extra' materials-) as well as the earlier 'The Last Place on Earth'- really first rate on the 'Race' to the Pole. The liam Nesson I saw several time on the trip and will surely be addng it to my collection. Where I need help is on a version of 'Shackelton' which I recorded in the 1980s off-air from Arts and Entertainment in Betamax format - with no end of commercial interuptionson. I think it was a BBC production originally- and it really does well on the trip from Elephant Island to South Georgia. The tape is still good, but for some reason,I have lost the end and the credits. What I need to know is whether any of you 'Antarctic ' specialists can tell me details, whether it is or was available on VHS or DVD and where I can get hold of it. Amazon's listings, although fairly comprehensive, have left me in a white-out as to all the available materials. So please give me the best of your research and knowledge. And for those that don't know the Vaughan Williams 'Antarctic' Symphony or aren't musical - try it. Best wishes and keep warm. Ian Thomas. Mexico City B0000A7W1652AU69ERKOK9ZSJ52004-11-13

Great for evoking wonder of exploration in kids

My five year old son loved watching this documentary about Shackleton's Antarctic expedition, even though it's fairly slow, because we were able to talk about bad fortune, sacrifice, courage, and, yes, endurance. Shackleton may have failed in what he intended to do, but he succeeded incredibly in what he was called to do--save his men. This story has important life lessons.B0000A7W1636A2PCZQ0034QV7O72004-09-10

Good not great. But a great one does exist.

This version is good, no question. It accurately portrays the story of the Endurance. But if you are a true fan of this wonderful adventure, you must see the original Nova version. David Ogden Stiers narration is magnificent. His intonation and phrasing perfectly reflect the mood of the adventure and places you amid the expedition. Interviews with descendants are plentiful and seem almost as effective as if they were the participants themselves. Expert interviewees add insight into the natural forces that were in constant combat with the expedition. Last and not least, the soundtrack is a subject lesson in matching mood and music. I'm lucky enough to have a poor VHS recording of the original Nova production. I would buy a DVD of it in a heartbeat if Amazon could find it. B0000A7W1655AL8KY5MD92YE052004-05-22

The BEST Shackleton production--by far.

Far, far and away superior to both the Branagh and the iMAX versions of the story. Put together as a documentary featuring the hundreds (thousands??) of photographs and actual movie footage filmed by a member of the actual expedition. An awe-inspiring, spine-tingling tale of survival simply beyond imagination. "Endurance" indeed.B0000A7W16510A2NOZB6VZCTOI4102004-03-13

Amazing and Harrowing

'The Endurance' is a documentary originally aired as a 'Nova' special, and is one of the most amazing documentaries on any subject that I have ever seen. In the summer of 1914 Ernest Shackleton and his crew set sail on the 'Endurance' for Antarctica, with the goal of being the first expedition to cross the Antarctic continent. After becoming ensnared in ice their ship slowly disintegrated, and forced the survivors onto land, and eventually into their small wooden lifeboats in an attempt to make a perilous voyage back to civilization. The crew endured for 635 days and nights without real shelter or sufficient rations, frequently eating seal blubber and even their beloved dogs. As an animal lover, I came to realize the true depths of their situation when they had to shoot their cat and dogs, and ultimately eat some of their true canine friends.The story is one of tremendous hubris and heroism all wrapped up into one larger than life explorer. Shackleton's true gift was not in being a great explorer, but in being able to largely control the morale of the crew and provide leadership when it was most critical. Only thanks to that leadership did every man on the expedition survive. The documentary itself is a brilliant mix of the film shot by expedition photographer Frank Hurley (including a lot of motion picture film) and modern film of the sites in question, along with a bit of reenactment footage of recreated lifeboats identical to the originals. The work is seamless, deeply moving, and will give anyone a new appreciation for the powers of ice and the human spirit. In addition to the actual documentary the disc has several choice extras including a director's commentary track, interviews with children of survivors, and, best of all, a documentary on the making of the documentary, which I found absolutely fascinating. The most amazing thing that was revealed in the 'making of' documentary was the fate of the duplicate lifeboats, which under the control of the modern seamen ultimately sank in heavy seas, but seas far less than Shackleton encountered. This is in every way a spectacular production, and I would recommend it highly to anyone. You will never forget this film.Amazon.comSeveral films have documented or dramatized the incredible saga of Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated trans-Antarctic expedition, but The Endurance offers the most comprehensive one-source reference. Originally presented as a PBS Nova special and narrated by Liam Neeson, this excellent film--based on Caroline Alexander's acclaimed book, also titled after the ironic name of Shackleton's doomed ship--chronicles the astonishing events of 1914-16, when Shackleton and 27 crewmen survived against all odds after their ship was crushed in the polar ice floes. This is the only "Shackleton" film to incorporate new footage, expert interviews, dramatic recreations (without dialogue), and expedition photographer Frank Hurley's archival film and photographs. The cumulative effect of this extensive material gives the viewer an almost palpable sense of the expedition's hardship and unlikely survival, made possible in part by a man who had precisely the required experience and leadership skills, and in part by what can only be described as divine intervention. No matter how you interpret it, this is rightly called "the greatest survival story ever told." --Jeff ShannonDescriptionA retelling of Sir Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated expedition to Antarctica in 1914-1916, featuring new footage of the actual locations and interviews with surviving relatives of key expedition members, plus archived audio interviews with expedition members and a generous helping of the footage and still photos shot on the expedition. Narrated by Liam Neeson.B000063TONShackleton - The Greatest Survival Story of All Time (3-Disc Collector's Edition)B00006FMCAShackleton's Antarctic Adventure (Large Format)078670621XEndurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage6305943052South - Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance Expedition0375404031The Endurance : Shackleton's Legendary Antarctic Expedition163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452438940Neeson, Liam438726( N )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452565162Deals Under $20409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452573628All Sony Pictures Titles516494Sony Pictures Home Entertainment468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452579520( E )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452734044Deals Under $20734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores2655231O7LHCGMBAZUBMy Favorite Documentaries2FUHI3UH8HNDGForget the Oscars: Here Are My Picks for 20011APWMLICWGFJPThe Highest Grossing Films Ever (Documentary Edition)302I2KCFUFMEGMy DVDs List 31BZYBXIBJFB8HAdventure Movies3Q48PEWCQ3A1NWhat a surprise, more of the best movies you're not watching25VYF81PRIDS1great docs!3VP1I9CIKGK3EGreat Documentary FilmsB0002OXVD2http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B0002OXVD2%2526location=/o/ASIN/B0002OXVD2%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6025587http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVD2.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6051http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVD2.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg140118http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0002OXVD2.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg500420Fred AstaireGene KellyG (General Audience)Jack Haley Jr.ColorClosed-captionedWidescreenEnglishDubbedEnglishSubtitledSpanishSubtitledFrenchSubtitled1997USD$19.971DVD2004-10-12135Warner Home Video1974-06-21That's Entertainment0125695928271365USD$13.651363USD$13.631699USD$16.9942221011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNew%2BGwGiFpMi2Sgz5m7kFIlZOKYvAEK%2BHHdOdW0N2xgb7vi3bM7edYwbbePQYTss3b22RhOa%2F3%2BpxE%3D1499USD$14.99Usually ships in 24 hours4.5215B0002OXVD2511A30NVSLEMRKEW1142004-07-13

FINALLY! IT'S ON ITS WAY TO DVD! Spread the joyous news!

The dream is becoming a reality. All THREE of the THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT! films are coming to DVD in a boxed set from Warner Bros.Read the juicy details and get ready for a great Xmas!The musical of musicals makes its DVD debut on October 12, when Warner Home Video presents MGM's acclaimed musical anthologies - That's Entertainment!, That's Entertainment, Part 2 and That's Entertainment! III - in a special edition four-disc DVD giftset, That's Entertainment: The Complete Collection. Representing some of the most requested titles in WHV's vast library, That's Entertainment: The Complete Collection gets the "red carpet" treatment with each feature in the trilogy presented with a fully remastered picture and Dolby Digital 5.1 audio, and features both the 16x9 widescreen theatrical version, plus full-screen 4x3 version with letterboxed performance segments. That's Entertainment: The Complete Collection includes a bonus fourth disc entitled That's Entertainment: Treasures from the Vault, available exclusively with the giftset featuring more than five hours of exciting extras including three great documentaries, premiere night coverage and salutes to the great behind-the-camera talents, TV specials, making-of featurettes, plus an extensive video jukebox of rare, star-packed musical outtakes from classic films, and more! "Exuberant, extravagant..." - NewsweekThat's Entertainment! showcases 125 stars from nearly 100 films including superstars Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Mickey Rooney, Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Liza Minnelli, Peter Lawford, Donald O'Connor, James Stewart and many more. Originally released in 1974 to mark MGM's 50th Anniversary and to celebrate the golden era of the greatest movie musicals ever made, That's Entertainment! was an unexpected surprise smash at the boxoffice, grossing $28 million at the time and firmly establishing the MGM musical within the pantheon of greatness within American film history. Written, produced and directed by Jack Haley Jr., with Daniel Melnick as executive producer, That's Entertainment! uniquely blends newly-filmed accounts of the personal memories of 11 of the stars who were at MGM from 1929-1958 during the making of these classic films with a panoramic retrospective of unforgettable musical sequences from them. Film historian Robert Osborne provides a new introduction to all three films on DVD. "A wonderful movie...a priceless souvenir." - Pat Collins, WCBS-TVOriginally released in 1976, That's Entertainment, Part 2 continues the dazzling tradition of That's Entertainment! taking up where the other one left off, presenting fabulous sequences from movie musicals and highlighting such non-singing stars as Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and the Marx Brothers. Also featured are two of the champion song and dance men of all time, Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly (together for the first time since Ziegfeld Follies of 1946), acting not only as narrators but also as performers, singing and dancing in all-new numbers directed by Kelly just for the film. That's Entertainment, Part 2 was produced by Saul Chaplin and Daniel Melnick, with narration by Leonard Gershe and additional music arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle. "That's more than entertainment, that's pure gold." - Peter Travers, Rolling StoneReleased in 1994 in celebration of MGM's 70th Anniversary, That's Entertainment! III brings back to the screen the stars and musical numbers that have excited audiences for generations. In the acclaimed tradition of its two predecessors, That's Entertainment! III incorporates scores of famous songs and dances from MGM films and reunites nine of the performers who rose to international stardom through their MGM association. That's Entertainment! III features astonishing classic musical moments, great comedy and romantic teams and unearths rare footage with marvelous big-star scenes originally unseen because they were cut from their films. Gene Kelly opens and closes the picture as nine starry hosts including June Allyson, Cyd Charrise, Lena Horne, Howard Keel, Ann Miller, Debbie Reynolds, Mickey Rooney and Esther Williams present this must-see assemblage of Golden Era treasures, none of which has been seen in either of the previous films. Written, produced and directed by Bud Friedgen & Michael J. Sheridan, the film was executive produced by Peter Fitzgerald. An amazing fourth disc is an added bonus available only with the That's Entertainment: The Complete Collection giftset with more than five hours of extra content features sure to enthrall fans of the great MGM musicals. Entitled That's Entertainment: Treasures From The Vault, the exclusive disc includes rare extended footage from MGM's 25th Anniversary luncheon in 1949; "That's Entertainment: 50 Years of MGM" (1974 TV special covering footage from the original premiere of That's Entertainment! in Beverly Hills with Army Archerd as the `red carpet' master of ceremonies, rare interviews and the famous assemblage of legendary MGM stars on the stage. Unseen since originally broadcast thirty years ago); "That's Entertainment! III Behind the Screen" (1994 making-of documentary about the behind the camera talent); "The Lion Roars Again" (1975 MGM short); lengthy excerpts from "The Mike Douglas Show" TV special in 1976 that featured two days of premiere coverage of That's Entertainment, Part 2; "The Masters Behind The Musicals" (a brand-new half hour documentary with Ann Miller, Jane Powell, Angela Lansbury and others); "Just One More Time" (1974 THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT! featurette); and a dazzling MGM Outtake Jukebox which includes an impressive array of 16 rarely-seen deleted musical numbers from the cutting-room floor featuring such stars as Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Durante, Esther Williams, Lena Horne, Jane Powell, Mel Torme and many other legendary MGM stars.B0002OXVD242A3LU79BYMWZEW942004-02-19

MGM's Glory Days

When I re-viewed this film recently, I suddenly remembered how I was actually kind of suspicious of it when it first came out. What's there to be suspicious of? Well, you gotta remember, it was the early 70's, and people were just getting over their 60s hangover. The "silent majority" was gaining sway over the "counterculture," and the winding down of the Viet Nam war inevitably led to a kind of "cooling of America." And the Beatles had broken up. Janis, Jimi and Jimbo were all dead. And suddenly, what appeared to be "establishment entertainment" was reasserting itself with a vengeance. The Carpenters, Anne Murray, all this soft stuff. And to top it all off, MGM releases this ode to itself and tells us, by implication anyway, that REAL entertainment was not all that acid rock. The real stuff is MGM movie musicals from the 40s and 50s. To a young (would-be)hippie, it all seemed like cultural retrenchment and I wasn't having any of it.Well, actually, I was. I had to check it out. Hey, those Busby Berkeley styled numbers were pretty trippy after all! And those Esther Williams clips? Psy-kay-delic! And hey, it may not have been A HARD DAY'S NIGHT, but it was all good dreamy stuff from the Hollywood dream factory.Well, it's all a mystery now why I was even a little wary of the movie back then. Yeah, as someone noted below, it is indeed a bit self-congratulatory, but then what retrospective isn't? But the film's highlights show that such an attitude is warranted, actually. Astaire, Kelly, Garland, all those amazing talents, the like of which we'll likely not see again--not on AMERICAN IDOL anyway. Looking back, I don't know why I felt so threatened by this "establishment" product back in my salad days. I should have just taken it for what it was and is. Entertainment.B0002OXVD254AL2Q8YF4HB3352003-11-24

A must.

For many years, throughout my childhood, I watched this movie every single weekend. It's one of the most entertaining works I have ever watched and it's just part of my life. Many of the movie musicals they took the scenes from are a bore when you watch them from beginning to the end, but this offers you a best of that is never dull. The timing is excellent and it's great to see the star's comments. It's a gem. I didn't like the second one as much, although it's still worth while and I never got to see the third. But this first one is a must.B0002OXVD253A1M9DQDGE07Q0U42003-02-28

They don't make 'em like this any more!

When MGM decided to celebrate its past with a star studded documentary no one could conceive that the film would ultimately become the biggest box office draw of that year. With "more stars than there are in heaven", That's Entertainment! is the first and the best of the self-congratulatory tributes to the great MGM musical. Featuring clips from nearly 100 movies this is definitely a must have for anyone who considers themselves a film buff. Featuring cameo co-hosting turns from everyone from Elizabeth Taylor to Bing Crosby and with charming, if scripted, tales of "the good ol' days" in the words of George and Ira Gershwin, "Who could ask for anything more!" Enjoy this blindingly all star treck into a land over the rainbow that sadly, is very much a part of the past. One only hopes that Warner DVD will consider giving us this wonderful cornicopia in a newly remastered digital transfer very soon.B0002OXVD256A3N8RZSXKN1OR272002-10-13

Nostalgia Perfectly Done

"You can wait around and hope," says Frank Sinatra in one of his introductory spiels, "but you'll never see dancing like this again." The same could be said of almost every clip in this compilation of MGM musical highlights, ranging from an achingly bad chorus-girl number from the "Broadway Melody of 1930" (the first all-sound musical) to numbers from "Singin' in the Rain" and the climactic ballet from "An American in Paris." In between, the movie hits dozens of high spots in the 40-odd-year history of MGM as *the* studio for musicals--and also delivers a few surprises, like Jimmy Stewart and Clark Gable doing turns in the genre (surprisingly, not too shabbily). Energetic Busby Berkeley ensembles, black-and-white set-pieces from the '30's, a romantic duo by Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse, every type of musical number is represented. Whether you're an old buff looking to enjoy a few favorites without having to keep changing the video, or a novice wondering what all the fuss was about and what films might best serve as the foundation of your collection, this first of what turned out to be a four-volume franchise should definitely be on your shelf.6301977351That's Entertainment Part IIB00000694VThat's Entertainment IIIB00006DEF9Singin' in the Rain (Two-Disc Special Edition)B00005JKGZMeet Me In St. Louis (Two-Disc Special Edition)B00008AOWKBroadway Melody of 1940163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452411100Astaire, Fred409682( A )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452413576Bolger, Ray411316( B )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452419070Crawford, Joan416120( C )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452419194Crosby, Bing416120( C )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452424460Garland, Judy424172( G )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452425964Grey, Virginia424172( G )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452428514Horne, Lena426368( H )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452431034Kelly, Gene430468( K )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452432584Lanza, Mario432148( L )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452432812Lawford, Peter432148( L )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452437502Minnelli, Liza434574( M )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452439718O'Connor, Donald439610( O )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452442086Powell, Eleanor440340( P )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452443326Reynolds, Debbie442578( R )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452444230Rooney, Mickey442578( R )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452446788Sinatra, Frank444858( S )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452448118Stewart, James444858( S )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452449042Taylor, Elizabeth448792( T )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452457518Haley, Jack403504( H )403502Directors130DVD139452524760Classics163428Musicals508528Musicals & Performing Arts404276Genres130DVD139452565160Deals Under $15409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452579550( T )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452600316Documentary515794Warner Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452600330All Titles515794Warner Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452734042Deals Under $15734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores2655231038542DVDs Under $15515794Warner Home Video468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD1394523A4OVHPOBZOSVFavorite Films Of 19741IGUT7H727MC0The Top 10 Films of 197441OPWN2P5PRLGreat Liza Minnelli Movies3SYF3COMXKHVSI Love the 70s1A4G0W84XWAXMMovies I Used to Watch on a Daily Basis1MQYPWNNSADC8Frank Sinatra in movies and other stuff3LRUHQJGCFOVSSinatra on DVD: Some Surprises1ETQBEPUVEBRNElizabeth Taylor on DVD (UPDATED)B00007M5I3http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B00007M5I3%2526location=/o/ASIN/B00007M5I3%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6029092http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00007M5I3.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6041http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00007M5I3.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14097http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00007M5I3.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475328Willie E. SmithJohn P. HixonG (General Audience)Charles B. PierceColorEnglishDubbed1499USD$14.991DVD2002-12-0387Uav Corporation1973-06-07Legend of Boggy Creek084296404070789USD$7.89735USD$7.351299USD$12.991481011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewGg4lMOSHCoNcxVkFiJmHB4YdGkSQ4b1wvFhvYp3jsCr0xBsJx6z8Ve9iDqEqM5x3laN6O3qpbso%3D1199USD$11.99Usually ships in 24 hours4.06113B00007M5I340A29TXB7EPZCIQM02005-03-02

more true than you think

Although this movie is clearly low budget,it isnt meant to be a horror film as a lot of people think. Its a documentary with re-inactments . All of the storys are true to eye witness accounts.I myself did a lot of research into the fouke monster. Also what most people don't know is that the recorded howls in parts of the film are REAL!. They were taken by Pierce and witnesses though out the years before. Yes the hairy suit and acting are a little goofy but Pierce didnt have much to work with either. All of the storys can be found in text,but watching the movie is still creepy ,and good nostalgia too.B00007M5I350A3FUEP9EDRHKBR02005-02-18

scared me

I watched this movie and I am a big horror movie buff and it scared me I jumped a few times. Believe me if you weren't a believer before watching this movie you will be afterwards. B00007M5I341ADHIFAAQBY87A22004-12-19

LEGENDS LIVE FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was lucky enough to be able to witness this great classic. The story is based off of true happenings which gives you a spooky feeling as you watch it. Of course this movie doesn't have the greatest effects or actors but it is a great movie to sit around and watch with a nice bowl of popcorn with friends and family. I am fascinated by the Bigfoot phenomenoun and although I have never had an encounter I personally am a believer. I highly doubt so many people could see somthing that doesn't exist, unlike UFO'S AND LOCH NESS it is a very logical probability when you think about it. Anyway back to the review, this movie takes place in Fouke, Arkansas, and did I mention this movie has a great opening. It features the legendary Fouke monster and features many people who have seen the creature in an actual movie. Many raidings by the creature take place as well as a sighting by three women and a baby completly isolated twenty or so miles in the woods having a sighting(hows that for spooky), anyway they explain many different sightings and many interesting chases after the creature, who truly just wants to be left alone(they even have a sad song for the monster) in conclusion this is a good movie that I think is worth seeing, it goes out with a very good ending as well, but I won't spoil it for you, but the narrator(who saw the creature as a child)has some very good ending lines, and although the creature isn't really seen face to face it just adds to that creepy filling. The final line in the movie is "Yes he's still here, and if your ever in Fouke and you see somthing peering at you in the woods", or somthing like that. A movie about a true legends which like all legends will never die.B00007M5I350A2QHQPYOF5FPHU12004-10-20

Kid Stuff

I have not seen this movie since I was probably 8 years old. And the photo on the cover of the DVD was the one I cut out of the newspaper and placed on our kitchen wall for months. The movie freaked me out as a kid and each time I see Boggy Creek on a Florida map it reminds of that movie - it also made me wonder if anyone else remembered that movie. I guess they didB00007M5I353AMCNC5VLHARW942004-10-17

The weirdest movie in the history of filmaking.

You cannot put your finger on this film. While your viewing this you may ask "Is this a piece of garbage? Or is it brilliant?" The weird camera angles, the creepy people, and the way it cuts from documentary to dramatization is astounding. There are some pretty intense scenes in this most significant entry into "Cinema Du Sasquatch" There is a great scene where these girls and a baby are in a run down cabin deep in the woods, the one girl walks outside to get a pail of water from the well and notices some movement from beyond the timber. This particular shot is so impressive it is similar to "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" style of filmaking. The scene follows with with a dynamic episode where the "big ol' hairy monster" is scaring the poor girls half to death. But then that scene is followed by another of the monster walking through the swamp with a nice folk song being sung about him. Its almost like half the film was directed by Tobe Hooper and the other half by Cheech and Chong. Regardless, for any fan of Bigfoot genre-this is a must!! It is nightmarish, laughable and twisted but above all it is a very, very entertaining film. B00007M5I5Creature From Black LakeB0006H659CSasquatch Odyssey: The Hunt for Bigfoot6304544081Ancient Mysteries: Bigfoot6303917461The Town That Dreaded Sundown0743469755Bigfoot! : The True Story of Apes in America163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452439620Oates, John439610( O )404278Actors & Actresses130DVD139452565160Deals Under $15409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452579534( L )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452734042Deals Under $15734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores265523882766All Deals409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452883766All Deals734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores2655237HYJTLOJCYXLMy Favorite Movies!LS13MD7UNYGXGreat Horror Movies Part 1190RQXTK1GA1IMovies I'd Like To Watch While DyingJF6ZJPX471RNUnsung Horror2DTYXUWZQWL6PHillbilly Horror Show: Rural Exploitation in "B" MoviesB000068OCThttp://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?tag=ws%26link_code=xm2%26camp=2025%26creative=165953%26path=http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html%253fASIN=B000068OCT%2526location=/o/ASIN/B000068OCT%25253FSubscriptionId=0CNXJKY3C82HD479K6024190http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000068OCT.01._SCTHUMBZZZ_.jpg6042http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000068OCT.01._SCMZZZZZZZ_.jpg14098http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000068OCT.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg475333Philip Glass1.85:1G (General Audience)Godfrey ReggioColorClosed-captionedWidescreenDolbyEnglishOriginal LanguageDolby Digital 5.11495USD$14.951Anamorphic WidescreenDVD12004-09-0797MGM/UA Video1988-05Powaqqatsi - Life in Transformation027616878946786USD$7.86499USD$4.992000USD$20.0040271011ATVPDKIKX0DERhttp://www.amazon.com/gp/help/seller/home.html?seller=ATVPDKIKX0DERNewlmoCVbWkZY8rhKqpe%2FVXvPmu6Dh5id0CzbQk1ybHDZqaHzMWQjkTtofC921xSUYU28dSyMXyYMQ%3D1346USD$13.46Usually ships in 24 hours3.5174B000068OCT20AHNE32CGH9HJ32004-10-13

Sedating

I'm a tremendous Philip Glass fan. In fact, the Powaqqatsi soundtrack is what first turned me on to him. I also loved Koyaanisqatsi. But I've tried to watch Powaqqatsi twice now - once on the big screen, and once again at home - and it put me to sleep both times. The music is beautiful, as are the images. But whereas there was a good bit of variety in the imagery of Koyaanisqatsi (slow motion, fast motion, nature scenes, city scenes...) this film couples slower, more thoughtful music, with nothing but slow motion film. The combination of the two I found to be powerfully sedating. I must also say that the music on the CD doesn't seem to quite match what was in the movie, IIRC. I seem to recall the CD having quieter music interspersed with more powerful music. In any case, I found Koyaanisqatsi the movie far more fulfilling. (Though I still highly recommend the Powaqqatsi soundtrack!)B000068OCT55A3N65VID8C150H52004-06-16

A Film for Transforming Perceptions

Some reviewers have expressed confusion or displeasure over the message of this film. Having attended a question-and-answer session with the director, Godfrey Reggio, and having worked as an editor in the journalism field, I hope I can assist in interpretation. Here is mine in a nutshell: Exploitation produces poverty.The principle that the filmmakers were seeking to illustrate was that while colonization comes in diverse forms, it is always destructive in the end -- even if the means are through economic domination rather than brute occupation. So-called "civilized" societies prey upon the Third World for their own gain, thereby ravaging the spirit of its people, depleting the natural resources of its nations, and tainting the uniqueness of its cultures.The film reveals scenes that the U.S. media often fail to show -- the backbreaking labor and environmental destruction inflicted as offerings to the Almighty God of Profit. Worship at the altar of financial markets generates our wealth (the trilogy's first film, Koyaanisqatsi, covers technology- and consumer-based culture), yet as we acquire greater strength and contentment, our business practices shorten the life span and deteriorate the quality of life in weaker countries. The extraction and importation of their very vitality seems to be the fundamental wellspring for our Gross Domestic Product, essentially amounting to a lopsided transaction akin to parasitism.For contrast, the music for the soundtrack incorporates energetic elements of this highly valued commodity from faraway lands: pounding rhythms, intricate phrases, meditative passages, foreign melodies, exotic harmonies, and even a dynamic children's chorus. This soundscape was intended to provide a sense of the heart and soul of the camera's subjects, i.e., the people in the images.I highly recommend Powaqqatsi, especially since after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, it presents renewed significance and compelling insight. After all, what do Americans perceive about other cultures and the ways we affect them? For example, would not a survey of natural-born U.S. citizens indicate that only a small percentage of us know more than three common first names from the Arabic world? And how many of us are familiar with the opinions that other nations' citizens hold about our activities in their countries? For that matter, are we fully informed about the actions abroad by our government and our companies? Although a single film can't completely fill in all the gaps in our awareness, Powaqqatsi does help bring to our attention that such voids exist.As long as a lack of understanding and concern typifies the pursuit of "capitalism" and "freedom" by the world's greatest democracies, we should anticipate that this attitude will continue to cause suffering. Powaqqatsi is a call for compassion, the true front in civilization's ongoing "war on terror," otherwise known as the fight for humanity's survival.B000068OCT31A1D60G5IR9U5Z012004-06-02

I was disappointed . . .

I truly enjoyed the first film in this trilogy and expected similar thunder from Powaqqatsi and was disappointed. I think once one has seen Koyaanisqatsi, it will naturally follow that one will want to see the other two films in the trilogy. They will likely be disappointed as well. P and N are interesting but not profound and revolutionary in the same way that K was. cheers! RyanB000068OCT410A2Z1K2I2EYSKFA102003-09-09

Please watch this trilogy in order.

Powaqqatsi (1988) is the second DVD in the Qatsi trilogy, an I suggest that you consider watching this release second. The first to view is Koyaanisqatsi (1983); the third, Naqoyqatsi (2002). With the filming of the trilogy taking over 20 years to complete, the advances in the music, technology and filming makes me suggest that you start from the beginning to watch how things have changed in that time. POWA (Powaqqatsi) focuses on life for people mainly in the southern hemisphere. Please also view my review of KOYA (Koyaanisqatsi), which I will complete shortly after submitting this. I plan to soon purchase NAQO (Naqoyqatsi) and will review that as well (obviously I found the film concept entertaining).KOYA focuses on the northern hemisphere's lifestyles of living with technology in all aspecfts of their lives while POWA shows life that is more driven by manual labor. Yet as the movie progresses, you see more and more hints of the introduction of technology, which will inevitably wind up permeating and consuming the current culture. Watch for the placement of a SEIKO billboard, which really stuck in my mind.It can be difficult not to feel some sense of pain for the people's lifestyles, but please stay open- minded to an understanding that perhaps the lifestyle that DP's Graham Berry and Leonidas Zourdoumis documented is what the subjects being filmed are most comfortable with. Watching POWA first, however, may take the whole trilogy out of order and context for you. That's why I suggest that you purchase the two- DVD set. And I'm sure that plans have been in the works to release the trilogy as a boxed set. Make certain also to watch director Godfrey Reggio's comments (highlighted with composer Philip Glass). They give insight into filming and Reggio also addresses viewer/critic feedback. One sharp criticism I wanted to note was that Glass used some of the music in this film years later for the runaway hit "Truman Show" (Jim Carrey, 1998). How silly and petty to reuse a score in a completely different movie, which I feel should be a Cardinal sin. I had to try tuning out Truman in my mind while watching POWA, and I scold Glass for recycling his music. That was an absolutely pathetic decision for him to make.The transfer from the film to DVD (MGM/UA 1003767) was sweet. The colors seemed stunning and saturated. Make certain, however to try having your monitor calibrated to get the full impact of the hues, colors and tones.Tech specs: 1988, color, 97 minutes, 1.85:1 screen aspect ratio; optional French and Spanish subtitles for English text (there is absolutely NO dialogue in POWA), which is used at the end of the film to give description of term "Powaqqatsi" (and also for any prominent text on some billboards or televisions). A postscript: Baraka (filmed by Ron Fricke, 1992) isn't related to the trilogy, but should be in your collection if you enjoy any of these. However watch Baraka last, because to me it is the benchmark in this type of filmmaking. You may feel a slight letdown KOYA and POWA if Baraka is viewed first. Chronos (1985), another by Fricke, is an alternate choice, but the weakest of these.B000068OCT21A1AAPR91E3Y32E92003-05-11

A beautiful film that disappoints

I was looking forward to the "statement" on culture that the packaging promised, but instead I watched what turned out to be a very long music video with many extremely disparate images juxtaposed to give some message that I wasn't getting. In fact, I'm not sure there was much of a message--the filmmakers might have intended there to be one, but it's buried in a mix of visual images that are certainly striking, but definitely not cohesive enough to make the message clear.The filmmakers also have decided to focus solely on the grim side of culture, and there are so few smiling faces here that it makes you wonder if two-thirds of the people in the world live each day with grim, depressed looks on their faces. By using slow motion so much, they tend to pull the dynamic side of life completely out of the picture, and it grows old very quickly. Where are the playing children? And as another reviewer said, they left out the abominable side of the third world, such as beatings and executions, and they've also left out the graft and corruption that make it difficult for anyone to help people in these countries.I felt all along that I was being manipulated, forced to watch images of their choice so that my worldview would become what they desired my worldview to be. As a film, this is much better watched in segments, music piece by music piece, perhaps, as it does grow old after half an hour or so. All in all, this is a beautiful effort, but beauty, of course, does not make for substance and depth (or even cohesion), which are elements that this film is lacking.B00005JLIANaqoyqatsiB000068OCSKoyaanisqatsi - Life Out of BalanceB00005M91KBaraka (Special Collector's Edition)B00007G1ZCAkira Kurosawa's DreamsB0001Z48WUChronos (Special Edition)163395True Story291236By Theme163379Drama404276Genres130DVD139452163452General508532Documentary404276Genres130DVD139452565160Deals Under $15409298Today's Deals in DVD408328Special Features130DVD139452579542( P )579510Titles408328Special Features130DVD139452595276All MGM Titles468384MGM Home Entertainment468374Studio Specials498862Substores130DVD139452734042Deals Under $15734006DVD Outlet526028Categories517808Amazon.com Outlet285080Amazon.com Stores26552318J6J3S55N6P7Dialog without words1XERXV9OAHAKRMovies with little or no dialogue...3OJ5NESJMO175Sights and Sounds a la Amazon103ZEVULNXJROMovies II1PE453C3MV1ORfilms3HI7R8XVTE80WMis Películas más importantes.3L2D6Z6H2CVQGThe films that defy gravity136BZSS397OQPersonal Cinematic Metamorphoses (in no particular order)VJ9TCNHZGQZFavorite Film Noir Movies