Billy-Crystal Movie Reviews

I think we would all miss out on an excellent comidian.If for some reason Billy's grandmather would not leave Odessa on that train to Moscow? This is indead the most halerous performance of Billy not in US but reather in former Soviet Union's prestigeous concert hall. The peformance it self is the most artistic and keenly created act of Bily Crystal. Depicting the key elements of Russian culture and custom.

This is the most innovative, fun, yet deeply moving video that shows us how a community can put their money where their mouth is.

It truly shows the benefits of funding early intervention. It makes the point clear through the funny "skits" of many well known actors.

I love it and use it in the community to help prove that our money is best spent in early intervention.

THE PRINCESS BRIDE is more than a fantasy/romance. It has something for everyone; action, romance, adventure, heroics, treachery, villains, monsters, and magic. This is by far Rob Reiner's best movie to date as the direction, and story re-written by William Goldman makes it even more enjoyable than the actual novel.

Excellent choice of casting makes the characters firm and believable: Cary Elwes is Westley, the farm boy and swashbuckling hero. Robin Wright is Princess Buttercup, brave, rebellious, never afraid to die for her lover. Chris Sarandon is Prince Humperdinck, usurping, bold, evil to the bone, loves watching people tortured, and at the same time charming. Mandy Patinkin is Inigo Montoya, a Spanish Swordsman who seeks the Murderer of his Father. Christopher Guest is the 6-fingered Count Rugen, silent, sinister, and gives an excellent impersonation of Henry Daniell from THE SEA HAWK. Andre the Giant is Fezzik, fearsome and funny with some good rhymes to spare. Wallace Shawn is Vizzini, witty, volatile, and in many wasy "Inconceivable!"

Fred Savage is home sick with the flu, and Peter Falk as Grandfather reads the tale throughout. Film gets more exciting as voracious sea eels, gigantic cliffs, sword fights, quicksand, large rodents, and witches and warlocks, are only to name a few of the many obstacles throughout the quest. Special Edition DVD has great special features, commentary by Rob Reiner and cast members, and the color contrast is splendid and looks great in widescreen.

Relentless adventure and excitement. You're all going to love this one!

A hilarious mixture of Errol Flynn swashbuckler and Monty Python send-up, THE PRINCESS BRIDE works as love story, as adventure, and as satire. In the framing story, a sick 10-year-old (Fred Savage) is visited by his grandfather (Peter Falk), who reads him "The Princess Bride", a "kissing" story set in a medieval make-believe land. In it, the beautiful Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) reluctantly becomes engaged to a prince (Chris Sarandon) when her true love, Westley (Cary Elwes), disappears. Soon, however, she is kidnapped by a crafty Sicilian (Wallace Shawn) and his hirelings, Spanish swordsman Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin) and gargantuan Fezzik (Andre the Giant). Buttercup is rescued by a mysterious man in black, who turns out to be Westley; but after surviving the Dreaded Fireswamp, they are apprehended by the prince. Buttercup agrees to marry the prince when he promises to free Westley, but the dashing lad is actually tortured to death--or is he? With the help of a wizened miracle maker (Billy Crystal), Inigo and Fezzik join forces with Westley to fight the forces of evil.

With tongues in cheeks and hearts on sleeves, director Rob Reiner and scripter William Goldman create a dazzling adventure for viewers of all ages, while at the same time hilariously satirizing the same genre. Goldman's screenplay, adapted from his own novel, made the rounds for 14 years before finally making it to the screen. The wait was worth it. When it comes to pleasing both kids and adults, you can't do much better than THE PRINCESS BRIDE.

It's hard to come up with a movie little kids will enjoy that their parents can actually stomach sitting through. This one's a winner. It works sort of like the Winnie the Pooh stories: kids enjoy it on one level, while adults catch the stuff like puns, satire, hyperbole, double entendres, throwbacks that goes right over the kids' heads.
Every cliché of every swashbuckling romance is included in The Princess Bride, which contributes to the over-the-top hilarity - while the gentle romance that forms the core of the movie somehow manages to stay sweetly intact.
Here's the setup: Westley (a stable boy) loves Buttercup (the princess) but he's abducted and supposedly killed by evil pirates. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, er, palace, Buttercup's hand is given to an evil prince. Then Buttercup herself is abducted - and all the while, as we try to follow the various plots, there's a valiant Spanish swordfighter hovering in the background. Could it be? Could it be the stable boy out to protect the honor of his beloved?? See it yourself to discover the answer. Lots and lots of wonderful cameo roles by famous actors contribute to the overall high quality of the film.
And be sure to see it with a couple of little kids so you can enjoy it on their level, too. Top rating.

MONSTERS, INC. (G) DISNEY/PIXAR
Voices of: BILLY CRYSTAL, JOHN GOODMAN, STEVE BUSCEMI,
JENNIFER TILLY (& MORE).
***1/2 - FILM
***** - DVD

I just bought the DVD, watched it and can't help but sell-all-out on just how well done the film is and just how special the DVD edition was. I had heard mixed reviews from everybody; People who's taste I trust, people who hate movies like this one, and others who can't decide whether they enjoyed it or not; when the movie first came out in theaters.

My opinion:
I liked everything about both TOY STORY films, didn't care much for A BUG'S LIFE's story/plot though I still enjoyed the genre of completely computer composed cinema, but as for MONSTERS, INC., I am completely sold on Disney's wizards at PIXAR and permanently at that...they are the one's responsible for everyone else's computer/CGI movie-toons $ucce$$.
SHREK & ICE AGE <--- (which I've yet to see) are feeding off PIXAR's unique style & it's popularity due to critics and audience approval at the box office.
All of them are great to watch and especially interesting to see how they are put together. The time consumation involved is more than most mere mortals dare to bare. The perfection of this new art doesn't seem effortless - in the way that anyone with the CA$H could accomplish. The stories, characters, and overall production is always the foundation but, the quality of it's originality, awe-inspiring jaw dropping finesse & flow keeps all who still have "the child inside" begging for more. Even if it isn't Disney/PIXAR branded, the similair styled films companies know they have a mint and will continue to keep on trying to one-up the other.
Now, if you are a fan of the STAR WARS - Episode 1 DVD's features and mind boggling behind the scenes info & eye candies, MONSTERS, INC. will fill in that void/absense & fanboy NEED until STAR WARS - Episode 2 & SPIDER-MAN come out in November.
Sit back, watch the flick, set your opinions aside until the final scene is through...you'll realize & see the same thing I did. If you don't, you fall into the category of people who hate movies like this one and will be short-changed in the long run.
Watch and enjoy just how SCARY it is to feel like a kid again, seeing something new and original for the very first time redone, redone, & redone again until this film genre is narrowed down to perfection.

Monsters Inc is by far Disney and Pixar's best movie to date. What an incredible imagination the creators of this movie have, it just took my breath away. The storyline takes place in Monstropolis a city where monsters live beyond the human world, and in that city there lies the company called Monsters Inc where monsters work and their job is to scare children, and then they collect their screams as a source of energy for the city's electricity. The outrageous part is this, the monsters consider children to be dangerous even deadly and that if a child were to touch them they would be contaminated and the company would be in trouble. Mike Wazowski voiced by Billy Crystal and James P Sullivan voiced by John Goodman are a team at Monsters Inc, Mike assists him and Sully does the scaring, they are the perfect team and Sully who is the top scarer at the company is this close to breaking the all time scare record until something happens. One night when everyone has left work Sully enters in door that has been left and when he goes in to look and then comes back out a little girl follows him and Sully tries to put her back but she keeps following him. Soon everyone in Monstropolis is in fear because of the so called child security breach and the future of Monsters Inc is in jeopardy. The ending is pretty much predictable but the great comedic talents of Billy Crystal and John Goodman more than make up for that. There are other wonderful voice talents in this movie such as the hilarious Steve Buscemi as Sully and Wazowski's nemesis Randall Boggs, the late and wonderful actor James Coburn as the Ceo of Monsters Inc Mr Henry J Waternoose III, the funny Jennifer Tilly as Wazowski's girlfriend and Monsters Inc receptionist Celia Mae, and the hilarious John Ratzenberger as Yeti the abominable snowman. There are also two great shorts on the vhs edition "Mike's New Car" and "For the Birds" All in all Monsters Inc is a movie that is pure magic, anyone can enjoy this movie, there is not one thing I don't like about it. I even found myself in tears at some parts of the movie. Just the relationship that Sully develops with the girl who he names Boo is both endearing and sweet, it really was touching. It is a movie that teaches you about true friendship, being there for your friend no matter what. How wonderful and even intriguing it would be if there really was a world where monsters worked, had families, drove cars just like humans. Pixar really outdid themselves with this movie and the end result can be summed up in one word: amazing!

So...everything I thought about monsters when I was a kid is wrong, huh? I was scared of them, but it turns out there was nothing for me to be afraid of, because they're really afraid of us! Better yet, they need us, while we don't need them at all! And what do they need us for? To power their society from the screams coerced from children. I'll never be afraid of an open closet again. There is a cute film, with John Goodman as the voice of a gigantic, goofy blue monster, name of Sully, and Billy Crystal as the voice of a walking green eyeball. Throw in a two-year-old human girl, whom Sully calls "Boo" (ha ha) and you've got a charming movie that will appeal to children and adults alike.

MONSTERS, INC. (G) DISNEY/PIXAR
Voices of: BILLY CRYSTAL, JOHN GOODMAN, STEVE BUSCEMI,
JENNIFER TILLY (& MORE).
***1/2 - FILM
***** - DVD

I just bought the DVD, watched it and can't help but sell-all-out on just how well done the film is and just how special the DVD edition was. I had heard mixed reviews from everybody; People who's taste I trust, people who hate movies like this one, and others who can't decide whether they enjoyed it or not; when the movie first came out in theaters.

My opinion:
I liked everything about both TOY STORY films, didn't care much for A BUG'S LIFE's story/plot though I still enjoyed the genre of completely computer composed cinema, but as for MONSTERS, INC., I am completely sold on Disney's wizards at PIXAR and permanently at that...they are the one's responsible for everyone else's computer/CGI movie-toons $ucce$$.
SHREK & ICE AGE <--- (which I've yet to see) are feeding off PIXAR's unique style & it's popularity due to critics and audience approval at the box office.
All of them are great to watch and especially interesting to see how they are put together. The time consumation involved is more than most mere mortals dare to bare. The perfection of this new art doesn't seem effortless - in the way that anyone with the CA$H could accomplish. The stories, characters, and overall production is always the foundation but, the quality of it's originality, awe-inspiring jaw dropping finesse & flow keeps all who still have "the child inside" begging for more. Even if it isn't Disney/PIXAR branded, the similair styled films companies know they have a mint and will continue to keep on trying to one-up the other.
Now, if you are a fan of the STAR WARS - Episode 1 DVD's features and mind boggling behind the scenes info & eye candies, MONSTERS, INC. will fill in that void/absense & fanboy NEED until STAR WARS - Episode 2 & SPIDER-MAN come out in November.
Sit back, watch the flick, set your opinions aside until the final scene is through...you'll realize & see the same thing I did. If you don't, you fall into the category of people who hate movies like this one and will be short-changed in the long run.
Watch and enjoy just how SCARY it is to feel like a kid again, seeing something new and original for the very first time redone, redone, & redone again until this film genre is narrowed down to perfection.

Monsters Inc is by far Disney and Pixar's best movie to date. What an incredible imagination the creators of this movie have, it just took my breath away. The storyline takes place in Monstropolis a city where monsters live beyond the human world, and in that city there lies the company called Monsters Inc where monsters work and their job is to scare children, and then they collect their screams as a source of energy for the city's electricity. The outrageous part is this, the monsters consider children to be dangerous even deadly and that if a child were to touch them they would be contaminated and the company would be in trouble. Mike Wazowski voiced by Billy Crystal and James P Sullivan voiced by John Goodman are a team at Monsters Inc, Mike assists him and Sully does the scaring, they are the perfect team and Sully who is the top scarer at the company is this close to breaking the all time scare record until something happens. One night when everyone has left work Sully enters in door that has been left and when he goes in to look and then comes back out a little girl follows him and Sully tries to put her back but she keeps following him. Soon everyone in Monstropolis is in fear because of the so called child security breach and the future of Monsters Inc is in jeopardy. The ending is pretty much predictable but the great comedic talents of Billy Crystal and John Goodman more than make up for that. There are other wonderful voice talents in this movie such as the hilarious Steve Buscemi as Sully and Wazowski's nemesis Randall Boggs, the late and wonderful actor James Coburn as the Ceo of Monsters Inc Mr Henry J Waternoose III, the funny Jennifer Tilly as Wazowski's girlfriend and Monsters Inc receptionist Celia Mae, and the hilarious John Ratzenberger as Yeti the abominable snowman. There are also two great shorts on the vhs edition "Mike's New Car" and "For the Birds" All in all Monsters Inc is a movie that is pure magic, anyone can enjoy this movie, there is not one thing I don't like about it. I even found myself in tears at some parts of the movie. Just the relationship that Sully develops with the girl who he names Boo is both endearing and sweet, it really was touching. It is a movie that teaches you about true friendship, being there for your friend no matter what. How wonderful and even intriguing it would be if there really was a world where monsters worked, had families, drove cars just like humans. Pixar really outdid themselves with this movie and the end result can be summed up in one word: amazing!

So...everything I thought about monsters when I was a kid is wrong, huh? I was scared of them, but it turns out there was nothing for me to be afraid of, because they're really afraid of us! Better yet, they need us, while we don't need them at all! And what do they need us for? To power their society from the screams coerced from children. I'll never be afraid of an open closet again. There is a cute film, with John Goodman as the voice of a gigantic, goofy blue monster, name of Sully, and Billy Crystal as the voice of a walking green eyeball. Throw in a two-year-old human girl, whom Sully calls "Boo" (ha ha) and you've got a charming movie that will appeal to children and adults alike.

This is the romantic comedy by which all other romantic comedies are now judged. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan have undeniable chemistry and top notch timing. And surprisingly so do Bruno Kirby and Carrie Fisher who really have great moments that add fun to the film. This movie knows no one knows how to present Manhattan better than Woody Allen and heavily borrows from his traditions. Including the choice of pop romantic standards. As in Annie Hall, "It Had to be You" is the musical centerpiece for an inevitable coupling. The dialog is snappy and rhythmic with an ear for New York sensibility. And also knows how to show off New Yorks favorite trendy hangouts at their very best. Even Billy Crystal is a little nebbish. Still this film is an original and its style has been mimicked countless times by other films in hopes of capturing a little of its magic. Still none quite tops this. The cherry on the cake was the wonderful choice to interupt passing seasons of Harry and Sally's relationship with old couple telling stories of their first meeting. The way they talk over and take over each others stories is charming and authentic and forces smiles of recognition. When Harry Met Sally is a lighthearted and very very funny film that never gets tiresome no matter how many times it is viewed. It is a classic.

The DVD contains some 7 minutes of additional deleted footage. In this case it is pretty apparent why it was deleted. Watch at your own risk. Rob Reiner's audio commentary seems to have been delivered at gunpoint. Don't look for a lot of joyful anecdotes or insights into where he came up with all these great ideas. The commentary track is pretty slow paced and dry. The "Making of" documentary is quite a bit more fun and insightful so the extras are not a total wash. The sound and image quality are both bright and lush so the most important part of the disc, the film, is as enjoyable as it can possibly be. When Harry Met Sally has a lot of fun with men and women trying to figure each other out and makes us laugh a lot and even cry just a little in the process.

If you haven't seen "When Harry Met Sally," well then of course you must rent or buy this DVD. It is the one "date" movie that both genders can appreciate. It poses a critical questions: can men and women just be friends? It has beautiful, lush NYC settings in the late 1970's and 1980's. Plus, Nora Ephron wrote a witty, wonderful script. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan delivered her lines with panache.
If you have seen "When Harry Met Sally," even if you own the VHS tape, you still should buy or rent the DVD. Rob Reiner's commentary over the film is wonderful. At the time of the shooting of the film, he had been dating and had not yet met the perfect woman. He actually met her during the shooting of the film-in fact, he points out the scene that was shot on the day he met her-and this adds a personal note to a great classic.

I must admit, I got the title for this review from my wife, who long ago claimed "When Harry Met Sally" as her all time favorite and the best movie she had ever seen. When we were dating, I had to watch it and pass the test-- if I didn't like it, well, that would be the end of me.

But I did like it- a lot. The movie centers around Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan). We see them meet in 1977, when Sally is taking Harry from Chicago to New York as a favor for her friend (also Harry's girlfriend) They begin a conversation almost immediately after the trip starts where they discuss death, classic movies (Casablanca is discussed and even a section is shown throughout the film), and the ultimate question- can a man and woman be just friends?

The movie really is about answering this question. Crystal's first response is that it is impossible because "the sex thing always gets in the way". We see Harry and Sally five years later, in an airport, and then another five years later when both have seemingly moved on. Of course they will develop a relationship and put those friendship barriers to the test.

What makes this film so much fun is the frank way director Rob Reiner expresses what the average man and woman think about certain situations. Crystal is the everyman, who gives the typical chauvenist slant on all things, while Sally is as high maintenance as it gets, just watch her order something in a restaurant. The dialog never gets old, and you will find yourself smiling at the lines, probably remembering a time when you felt exactly the same way. Maybe that time is right now.

Both Crystal and Ryan are fabulous here, in roles that fit them perfectly. Ryan has never looked better. Along for the ride, providing valuable supporting help are Bruno Kirby and Carrie Fisher. Harry and Sally try to set each other up with these two, but they find that they are perfectly suited to be together and go off alone, eventually getting married.

As for the movie's most famous scene, Ryan's fake orgasm in the diner, it's a classic of course, and the movie is worth taking a look at if only to see it. Crystal's face is priceless while she is going at it. One funny piece of trivia--after she is done, an older woman remarks that she'll have what Ryan is having. Who is the woman? Director Reiner's mommy!

Had never heard of this movie when a friend rented it. Small budget documentary with no narration, the real-life characters pretty much do all the talking and a script couldn't have done it better. I honestly didn't know whether to laugh or cry sometimes because the honest portrait of these lives are so incredibly sad but also hilarious. Mike Shank is the most memorable character I've seen on screen in a long time, you gotta love him and wish this simple man will get some good luck. The film maker, Mark, is more manipulative and so driven by his film that one has to wonder about his motives whenever he deals with anyone, especially his ailing (but very funny) uncle who reluctantly funds the movie. It's rare to glimpse so deeply into someone else's life and this documentary does an incredible and loving job at it. Highly recommended.

American Movie

Reviewed by Bruce Cantwell (a-movie-to-see.com)

Mark Borchardt wants to be a filmmaker, to tell the story of what it means to grow up a poor working (or unemployed) stiff on the Northwest side of Milwaukee. He speaks passionately about hanging out with his friends who drink too much, trying to deaden the nagging thoughts of a bleak future. His film Northwestern will show this bleakness to reveal a glimpse of the human goodness that shines through even the toughest circumstances.

But to make his masterpiece, he first needs to sell 3000 copies of a direct-to-video black & white horror movie short entitled Coven. And before he can finish making Coven he has to pry $3000 out of his crotchety, cynical, trailer-living Uncle Bill who's tighter than his Poli Grip seal.

Chris Smith's documentary about "the making of" a low budget schlock horror movie is the kind of screwball comedy that Hollywood wishes it could make. Steve Martin tried earlier this summer: Bowfinger (which wasn't bad), just nowhere near as good.

Mark Borchardt, a cheesehead scarecrow with a look right out of the early seventies isn't your typical leading man, but he's a hell of a lot more interesting than a Brad Pitt or Keanu Reeves.

Smith captures the dynamics of Mark's complex relationship with Coven's 82-year old executive producer Uncle Bill.

Coven's score composer, Mike Schank, Mark's former drinking buddy (now sober) explains his involvement in this convoluted enterprise. He likes Mark and because Mark makes movies, he ends up making movies too. Mike's first love is the Wisconsin lottery.

Other friends, family and cast members find themselves putting up with Mark's insane, unfocused ambition not because they have any thought of personal gain but because they know it means the world to him.

His brothers admit that he has a gift for gab if nothing else. His actors add that he's persistent (Coven takes three years to complete, Northwestern has been in pre-production since the '80s). No one but Mark thinks that he'll be a success.

Smith records the film making mishaps with a sense of timing out of This is Spinal Tap but anyone whose been involved with coordinating the logistics of even a class project video will vouch for their veracity.

Strictly speaking, American Movie is a tragedy because its protagonist doesn't (and probably never will) make the movie of his dreams. On the other hand, his film about the underlying humanity of Northwest Milwaukee's set-upon residents has already been made. This is it: all the friendship and love and support a man could ask for are demonstrated in this film. On that score, Mark's a lucky man.

If you like this, try:

The Big Picture Christopher Guest's (This is Spinal Tap) hilarious take on the Independent film scene.

Living in Oblivion Steve Buscemi (Fargo) plays a Borchardt-esque director.

20 Dates another "documentary" about an ambitious film maker.

American Movie is ostensibly about Borchardt's quixotic quest to complete his independent film, Coven. However, the movie covers far more ground than just filmmaking. Interwoven with the plot are the existential themes of meaning, purpose, death, and life. Borchardt, whether he knows it or not, confronts major philosophical questions with a mix of sheer idealism and raw courage during his soliloquies that are fueled by 6 packs of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. Throughout the filming of the movie Borchardt encounters one "test" after another and bears his soul for all to see. His determination to overcome any obstacle is humorous at times and thoroughly inspiring. Whatever you do, don't give up on this film-watch it to the end. Even after considering all of his flaws, I believe the world needs more men like Mark Borchardt-men whose dreams may at times be flawed, but are committed to following them nonetheless.

To adapt a four hour play to the screen without cutting a word is an ambitious undertaking. The material that is so often cut actually paints a different portrait of the characters. Polonius is often played as a funny little bufoon, but the material restored for this version shows him to be a vindictive fellah. Still, much of the restored stuff almost seems out of place. Branagh's direction is very theatrical and he again does a good job working with non-Shakespearian actors. It's a star studded cast with a lot to offer. Most notably the wonderful performances of Derek Jacobi as Claudius and Michael Mahoney as Laertes. Kate Winslet is sufficient as Ophelia but I longed for the Helena Bonham Carter portrayal from Mel Gibson's take on the dane. The cast is speckled with superstars like: Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Judi Dench, John Gielgud, Charlton Heston, Brian Blessed and Jack Lemmon. Kenneth Branagh the director uses aggresive and often strange editing as he brings the story to life with amazing production value and his placement of the story in time is pure genius. Patrick Doyle papers the film with regal music scoring, once again adding a musical voice to Branagh's direction. But, the true star of this film is Kenneth Branagh the actor. His portrayal of Hamlet is the most startling to date. His knowledge of the language makes every line 'work', even on a first listen. One of his greatest contributions to the story is his 'youthful' portrayal of the young Hamlet (so often portrayed as a brooding, old man). Branagh, plays up the youth which adds to his characters arc when he finishes a much learned man. HAMLET is a great film, but, if you don't want to sit through a four hour version, check out Laurence Olivier or even Mel Gibson. But, if you have the patience, this is as close to what Will Shakespeare intended (at least through dialogue...) "Good Night, Sweet Prince."

Kenneth Branagh's version of Hamlet combines lush and breathtaking visuals with the complete, unabridged text of Shakespeare's masterpiece. In other versions of Hamlet, such as the ill-cast Mel Gibson film, the play is mistakenly cut down to a "more reasonable" two-hours-or-less atrocity. The unexpurgated method allows for the inclusion of important scenes that, if removed, take away from the overall effect of the drama. Despite its length of more than four hours, the film keeps the viewer entertained until the startling last scene. The stunning visuals can be attributed to the rarely used 70mm film on which the play was captured and the exceptional set design involved. The play is actually done in a 19th century motif, a unique departure from other versions of Hamlet. Impressive costume design add to the remarkable images in the film. The star-studded cast includes Derek Jacobi as Claudius, Kate Winslet as Ophelia, and Branagh, himself, as Hamlet, all parts delivered with brilliant authenticity. Other well known actors such as Robin Williams, Charlton Heston, and Billy Crystal also appear in small, but equally well-implemented roles. Some argue that Branagh's execution of the part was overdone, but it fits perfectly within the film and is, therefore, quite believable. The acting is overall a big plus to the end effect of the film. Beautifully executed in an outstandingly well-calculated manner, Branagh's film made Hamlet more accessible to modern viewers and will certainly remain popular for a long time to come.

I love Kenneth Branagh, and was especially hooked after watching Henry V. Here, with Hamlet, he doesn't succeed in creating the "definitive movie version" (as he did with Henry), but nevertheless creates a solid (and complete!) version that is easily the best out there thus far.

(...)

Anyways, as mentioned above, the movie has distinct flaws that may simply be quibbling. The death scene with Claudius is simply painful - Branagh throws a rapier like a dart and pegs Claudius in the back with it. Admittedly, the film is approached with an opera-like feel (suspension of disbelief is required), but dart-throwing rapier death is probably a bit much. Along the same lines, there is a bizarre blue screen moment that needed to be cut (Hamlet's decision to return to the castle). Also, the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia is made explicit through flashbacks, which while hot, is odd in relation to the play itself, which is filled with innuendo and ambiguity. Much more fun that way, I feel.

Okay, so they're quibbles. However, these are quibbles about key areas of the movie (such as the climax), so I think it merits pointing out. That aside, the acting is (mostly) brilliant, particularly on the part of Derek Jacobi. His Claudius is probably the best I've ever seen; almost outshines Hamlet.

This is a great movie. It's not everything I would have hoped for, but it's by far the best we have right now.

To adapt a four hour play to the screen without cutting a word is an ambitious undertaking. The material that is so often cut actually paints a different portrait of the characters. Polonius is often played as a funny little bufoon, but the material restored for this version shows him to be a vindictive fellah. Still, much of the restored stuff almost seems out of place. Branagh's direction is very theatrical and he again does a good job working with non-Shakespearian actors. It's a star studded cast with a lot to offer. Most notably the wonderful performances of Derek Jacobi as Claudius and Michael Mahoney as Laertes. Kate Winslet is sufficient as Ophelia but I longed for the Helena Bonham Carter portrayal from Mel Gibson's take on the dane. The cast is speckled with superstars like: Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Judi Dench, John Gielgud, Charlton Heston, Brian Blessed and Jack Lemmon. Kenneth Branagh the director uses aggresive and often strange editing as he brings the story to life with amazing production value and his placement of the story in time is pure genius. Patrick Doyle papers the film with regal music scoring, once again adding a musical voice to Branagh's direction. But, the true star of this film is Kenneth Branagh the actor. His portrayal of Hamlet is the most startling to date. His knowledge of the language makes every line 'work', even on a first listen. One of his greatest contributions to the story is his 'youthful' portrayal of the young Hamlet (so often portrayed as a brooding, old man). Branagh, plays up the youth which adds to his characters arc when he finishes a much learned man. HAMLET is a great film, but, if you don't want to sit through a four hour version, check out Laurence Olivier or even Mel Gibson. But, if you have the patience, this is as close to what Will Shakespeare intended (at least through dialogue...) "Good Night, Sweet Prince."

Kenneth Branagh's version of Hamlet combines lush and breathtaking visuals with the complete, unabridged text of Shakespeare's masterpiece. In other versions of Hamlet, such as the ill-cast Mel Gibson film, the play is mistakenly cut down to a "more reasonable" two-hours-or-less atrocity. The unexpurgated method allows for the inclusion of important scenes that, if removed, take away from the overall effect of the drama. Despite its length of more than four hours, the film keeps the viewer entertained until the startling last scene. The stunning visuals can be attributed to the rarely used 70mm film on which the play was captured and the exceptional set design involved. The play is actually done in a 19th century motif, a unique departure from other versions of Hamlet. Impressive costume design add to the remarkable images in the film. The star-studded cast includes Derek Jacobi as Claudius, Kate Winslet as Ophelia, and Branagh, himself, as Hamlet, all parts delivered with brilliant authenticity. Other well known actors such as Robin Williams, Charlton Heston, and Billy Crystal also appear in small, but equally well-implemented roles. Some argue that Branagh's execution of the part was overdone, but it fits perfectly within the film and is, therefore, quite believable. The acting is overall a big plus to the end effect of the film. Beautifully executed in an outstandingly well-calculated manner, Branagh's film made Hamlet more accessible to modern viewers and will certainly remain popular for a long time to come.

I love Kenneth Branagh, and was especially hooked after watching Henry V. Here, with Hamlet, he doesn't succeed in creating the "definitive movie version" (as he did with Henry), but nevertheless creates a solid (and complete!) version that is easily the best out there thus far.

(...)

Anyways, as mentioned above, the movie has distinct flaws that may simply be quibbling. The death scene with Claudius is simply painful - Branagh throws a rapier like a dart and pegs Claudius in the back with it. Admittedly, the film is approached with an opera-like feel (suspension of disbelief is required), but dart-throwing rapier death is probably a bit much. Along the same lines, there is a bizarre blue screen moment that needed to be cut (Hamlet's decision to return to the castle). Also, the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia is made explicit through flashbacks, which while hot, is odd in relation to the play itself, which is filled with innuendo and ambiguity. Much more fun that way, I feel.

Okay, so they're quibbles. However, these are quibbles about key areas of the movie (such as the climax), so I think it merits pointing out. That aside, the acting is (mostly) brilliant, particularly on the part of Derek Jacobi. His Claudius is probably the best I've ever seen; almost outshines Hamlet.

This is a great movie. It's not everything I would have hoped for, but it's by far the best we have right now.

To adapt a four hour play to the screen without cutting a word is an ambitious undertaking. The material that is so often cut actually paints a different portrait of the characters. Polonius is often played as a funny little bufoon, but the material restored for this version shows him to be a vindictive fellah. Still, much of the restored stuff almost seems out of place. Branagh's direction is very theatrical and he again does a good job working with non-Shakespearian actors. It's a star studded cast with a lot to offer. Most notably the wonderful performances of Derek Jacobi as Claudius and Michael Mahoney as Laertes. Kate Winslet is sufficient as Ophelia but I longed for the Helena Bonham Carter portrayal from Mel Gibson's take on the dane. The cast is speckled with superstars like: Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Judi Dench, John Gielgud, Charlton Heston, Brian Blessed and Jack Lemmon. Kenneth Branagh the director uses aggresive and often strange editing as he brings the story to life with amazing production value and his placement of the story in time is pure genius. Patrick Doyle papers the film with regal music scoring, once again adding a musical voice to Branagh's direction. But, the true star of this film is Kenneth Branagh the actor. His portrayal of Hamlet is the most startling to date. His knowledge of the language makes every line 'work', even on a first listen. One of his greatest contributions to the story is his 'youthful' portrayal of the young Hamlet (so often portrayed as a brooding, old man). Branagh, plays up the youth which adds to his characters arc when he finishes a much learned man. HAMLET is a great film, but, if you don't want to sit through a four hour version, check out Laurence Olivier or even Mel Gibson. But, if you have the patience, this is as close to what Will Shakespeare intended (at least through dialogue...) "Good Night, Sweet Prince."

Kenneth Branagh's version of Hamlet combines lush and breathtaking visuals with the complete, unabridged text of Shakespeare's masterpiece. In other versions of Hamlet, such as the ill-cast Mel Gibson film, the play is mistakenly cut down to a "more reasonable" two-hours-or-less atrocity. The unexpurgated method allows for the inclusion of important scenes that, if removed, take away from the overall effect of the drama. Despite its length of more than four hours, the film keeps the viewer entertained until the startling last scene. The stunning visuals can be attributed to the rarely used 70mm film on which the play was captured and the exceptional set design involved. The play is actually done in a 19th century motif, a unique departure from other versions of Hamlet. Impressive costume design add to the remarkable images in the film. The star-studded cast includes Derek Jacobi as Claudius, Kate Winslet as Ophelia, and Branagh, himself, as Hamlet, all parts delivered with brilliant authenticity. Other well known actors such as Robin Williams, Charlton Heston, and Billy Crystal also appear in small, but equally well-implemented roles. Some argue that Branagh's execution of the part was overdone, but it fits perfectly within the film and is, therefore, quite believable. The acting is overall a big plus to the end effect of the film. Beautifully executed in an outstandingly well-calculated manner, Branagh's film made Hamlet more accessible to modern viewers and will certainly remain popular for a long time to come.

I love Kenneth Branagh, and was especially hooked after watching Henry V. Here, with Hamlet, he doesn't succeed in creating the "definitive movie version" (as he did with Henry), but nevertheless creates a solid (and complete!) version that is easily the best out there thus far.

(...)

Anyways, as mentioned above, the movie has distinct flaws that may simply be quibbling. The death scene with Claudius is simply painful - Branagh throws a rapier like a dart and pegs Claudius in the back with it. Admittedly, the film is approached with an opera-like feel (suspension of disbelief is required), but dart-throwing rapier death is probably a bit much. Along the same lines, there is a bizarre blue screen moment that needed to be cut (Hamlet's decision to return to the castle). Also, the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia is made explicit through flashbacks, which while hot, is odd in relation to the play itself, which is filled with innuendo and ambiguity. Much more fun that way, I feel.

Okay, so they're quibbles. However, these are quibbles about key areas of the movie (such as the climax), so I think it merits pointing out. That aside, the acting is (mostly) brilliant, particularly on the part of Derek Jacobi. His Claudius is probably the best I've ever seen; almost outshines Hamlet.

This is a great movie. It's not everything I would have hoped for, but it's by far the best we have right now.