Christopher-Lee Movie Reviews

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It has been several years since I saw "It's My Party", yet I shudder at the thought of sitting through it again merely to refresh a distasteful memory. So relying on somewhat faded impressions to guide me, I'll add my voice to the small but sensible chorus of amateur reviewers who warn you away from this ghastly movie.

Tragedy may inspire great art, but distance from the tragedy is necessary. Without such perspective the resulting work of art, no matter how deeply felt by the artist, may seem as trite as a 12-year-old's diary.

"It's My Party" is a diary-entry film. It's about a gay man with an AIDS-related condition who knows he has only a few days before his mind succumbs to dementia. He therefore throws himself a farewell/suicide party. The attendees include an ex-lover, family members, and friends both gay and straight. Sharp-tongued Charlene (the comedienne Margaret Cho) is among the latter, but if you expect laughs from Cho or anyone else, you're in for disappointment.

In fact, given the comic caliber of many in the large cast (which includes Lee Grant, George Segal, and Bronson Pinchot), the resulting glum-fest seems intentionally perverse. Humor is desperately needed, but this film is too bland and politically correct to criticize the hero's -- or anyone else's -- solemn self-involvement. It's all terribly earnest and terribly treacly. Perhaps if it had been about another disease, it wouldn't have felt so condescending. As it stands, it's a movie that makes one want to take a hot shower when it's over.

One can wistfully imagine what a more accomplished writer and director would have done with this premise. The fact that this film has found an appreciative audience points to how "gay cinema" needs to grow up. That day will have arrived when gay films are judged by the same criteria as mainstream films, and films like "It's My Party" are, like its hero, quietly euthanized.

What a wonderfully written, beautifully acted movie.It is thought provoking & touching, raising questions about Aids,euthanasia & death with dignity.Eric Roberts, in a departure role for him as a usual bad boy of film, gives an OUTSTANDING performance as a victim of Aids who wants to die with dignity, so throws a party with all of his closest friends & family members. His ex lover who had previously left him since he was having difficulty dealing with the illness, ends up at the party, & they come to terms with their break up, & the inevitable. Fantastic performances abound in this movie: Gregory Harrison,Lee Grant,Olivia Newton John,Bronson Pinchot (Who provides the comic relief), Margaret Cho, Marlee Matlin, & of course, the ever fabulously talented Roddy MacDowell. I was worried that this movie would be terribly depressing...I had trouble with Philadelphia.Though that movie was well written & acted, I found it oppressive. 'It's My Party' is fantasic!You'll laugh, you'll cry, & the soundtrack is wonderful.Reminded me a bit of 'The Big Chill' because of the soundtrack, but this film is so thoroughly entertaining.'It's About Time'! Eric Roberts got a good role to showcase his amazing talents. What an incredibly talented actor! Just see it!

Randall Kleiser spent ten arduous years trying to make this film and, even with the resistance of Hollywood execs, he ended with a Masterpiece of film. Eric Roberts gives a standout performance as a dying AIDS patient wanting desperately to make ammends with his former lover and filmmaker Gregory Harrison.

The Film, shot sequentially, was marvelous from beginning to end with exceptional and marked performances by Olivia Newton-John (magical as always), Margaret Chou (perfect), Marlee Matlin (an endearing portrayal), George Seagal (understated perfectly), and the legendary Lee Grant (a wonderfully emotional performance fitting only a great actress).

Much akin to the illustrious Ordinary People, the film is finely tuned and timed perfectly with a verve unlike many films made today. Milla Jovovich's beautiful rendering (her album Divine Comedy's "It's Your Life") during a mystical scene half-way through the movie is so enchanting as to make one believe in Synchronicity, fate, and true loves. ...at the end, the passionate Olivia Newton-John's song perfects the moment and endures the legacy of Randall Kleiser's efforts to bring a cinematic treat to audiences drenched in tawdry sex, mindless violence, and myopic screenplays. It makes you cry, it makes you laugh, and it makes you realize that we all have to need each other and should love peace and tranquility above all else, and just be there for each other and respect each other as they are. What a place the world would be if we really followed the Golden Rule and tried only to regulate our lives rather than everyone else's.

F.C.R. Tear Drop Films

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It has been several years since I saw "It's My Party", yet I shudder at the thought of sitting through it again merely to refresh a distasteful memory. So relying on somewhat faded impressions to guide me, I'll add my voice to the small but sensible chorus of amateur reviewers who warn you away from this ghastly movie.

Tragedy may inspire great art, but distance from the tragedy is necessary. Without such perspective the resulting work of art, no matter how deeply felt by the artist, may seem as trite as a 12-year-old's diary.

"It's My Party" is a diary-entry film. It's about a gay man with an AIDS-related condition who knows he has only a few days before his mind succumbs to dementia. He therefore throws himself a farewell/suicide party. The attendees include an ex-lover, family members, and friends both gay and straight. Sharp-tongued Charlene (the comedienne Margaret Cho) is among the latter, but if you expect laughs from Cho or anyone else, you're in for disappointment.

In fact, given the comic caliber of many in the large cast (which includes Lee Grant, George Segal, and Bronson Pinchot), the resulting glum-fest seems intentionally perverse. Humor is desperately needed, but this film is too bland and politically correct to criticize the hero's -- or anyone else's -- solemn self-involvement. It's all terribly earnest and terribly treacly. Perhaps if it had been about another disease, it wouldn't have felt so condescending. As it stands, it's a movie that makes one want to take a hot shower when it's over.

One can wistfully imagine what a more accomplished writer and director would have done with this premise. The fact that this film has found an appreciative audience points to how "gay cinema" needs to grow up. That day will have arrived when gay films are judged by the same criteria as mainstream films, and films like "It's My Party" are, like its hero, quietly euthanized.

This is an excellant film. The acting is exceptional and the script is powerful. This drama draws you in and keeps you. I recommend it.

one of my favorite movies a heartwrenching tearjerker that will just tear you up. its about a man dying of aids who invites his friends over for a 2 day farewell party. but unexpectedly his ex shows up. Everyone did such an excellant job in the movie but i think the standouts were eric roberts as nick, greg harrison as nick's ex, marlee matlin as nicks sister, lee grant as nicks mother, and margaret cho and olivia newton john as some of nicks best friends. this movie will make you laugh and make you cry. every time i watch this movie i cry. I wish i couldve seen it in the theatres. also one of my favorite soundtracks with a beautiful score by basil poladeuris. and olivia newtons song dont cut me down at the end. i agree with another reviewer when you see the opening scene after watching it a second time you tear up already!
You should watch this movie whether you are gay or straight. it will teach you that love is forever. oh man im tearing up writing this! see this beautiful movie!

An extremly intense film, Romper Stomper pulls no punches. Shot in a kind of artsy blue haze, the movie revolves around a group of Neo-Nazi skinheads who are attempting to fight off a flood of Vietnamese immigration into Melbourne, Australia. The group is lead by 'Hando' - A strong and charismatic leader played by Russell Crowe. Crowe is amazing as he manages to convey a sence vulnerability beneath his uncompromising anger. A scene in which Crowe qoutes parts of Adolf Hitler's 'Mein Kampf' is mesmerizing. Things begin to disolve, however, when a love triangle begins between Hando, his girlfriend Gabe (Jaqueline McKenzie) and Hando's best friend Davey who is portrayed very low-key by Daniel Pollock. The situation is compounded when an attack on some Vietnamese immigrants back fires and the Skins are forced to defend themselves against a raging mob of immigrants resulting in the loss of their home.

Writer/Director Geoffry Wright came under attack by Leftist critics for not hitting everyone over the head, like American History X, with an anti-racist civics lesson - His position comes across as neutral. Indeed, one can almost sympathize with the group as they are convinced Australia's future depends on its racial and cultural purity.

Without a doubt, this movie is worth owning.

ROMPER STOMPER, the debut film of former film critic Geoffrey Wringht, stars Russell Crowe, in his break-out role, Daniel Pollock, who died in post-production in a heroin induced train "accident", and Jacqueline McKenzie, in her feature film debut. ROMPER STOMPER is the story of Hando (Crowe) and his gang of Mein Kamf spouting, violent, thug, neo-nazi skinheads, including his best mate Davey (Pollock). The gang lives in deep poverty in an abandoned warehouse, eating pathetic meals and drinking like sailors (not to mention swearing like them as well). Hando soon becomes involved with a young drug addicted ecliptic girl, Gabe (McKenzie). When the gangs secondary hangout, a local bar, is purchased by a Vietnamese immigrant and his sons, the gang starts an intense turf war resulting in the most violent, realistic 20 minutes fight scene in cinematic history. Once the cops come onto the gangs tail Hando leads them in a quest for money and guns, to get revenge on the Vietnamese community. During this sequence of events, Davey and Gabe become friends and soon more then friends resulting in a distorted love triangle. Rated NC-17 when first released this is one of the most provocative, intense, powerful films of the 90's. A stunning directional debut from Wright and an equally stunning acting job by Crowe.

The DVD's bonus feature's were so myriad that it took 2 discs to hold them all. Included is a talking track by Geoffrey Wright, in which he discusses about the filming of ROMPER STOMPER and interesting tid-bits about particular scenes as they appear on screen. Also included on the first disc is a music track where the nazi punk rock songs, excellently composed by Clifford White, can be heard alone.

On the second disc their is the theatrical trailer for the film, which is in my humblest oppinion the best trailer I've seen (it actually made me want to see the film again that night). There are the written reviews of major publications promoting the film and discussing how amazing and powerful it is. Biographies of all involved with project are included as well as over 60 minutes of interviews from 1992 when the film was first released and over 30 minutes of interviews with Geoffrey Wright from 2000, reflecting on the film and it's impact on society. As well as all those features a demonstration of how the film was restored from the first American edition of the film, which had 1/4 of the film cut of from sight and had the look of a 1940's television program. Finally there is a track of photographs from the film displayed accompanied by interesting facts about the film, it's battle with censorship, and about the stars of the film.

All in all a fabulous film, and a fabulous assortment of extras make this DVD a 5 star (if not 6 star) hit.

Romper Stomper begins as a movie about racism. The Australian white people feel as though the Asian immigrants are encroaching on their homeland, so violence quickly ensues. After a mass retaliation by the immigrants, the neo-nazis are forced to flee their home. Their numbers plummet as members are killed in run-ins with both the immigrants and the police. The movie ends with a love triangle between the two male leads and best friends, Hando and Davey, and the female lead, Gabe. So, the question rises: Did American History X rip Romper Stomper off? No, it did not. American History X focuses solely on racism, whereas Romper Stomper seems to deal with a woman ruining a friendship between two men, with the backdrop of racism. This point explains why Romper Stomper takes a sharp turn for its second half in dealing strictly with the love triangle and why the scenes of violence involving the immigrants seem so neutral, as previously pointed out by other viewers. So, if you are looking for a movie that has a lesson on racism, this may not be what you are looking for. However, I still recommend it since it does have a strong message attached, even though that message could be considered somewhat controversial in itself.

Kathryn Bigelow's adrenaline-fuelled thriller "Point Break" (1991) - co-produced by James Cameron - combines Californian mysticism with pulse-pounding action set-pieces and toplines the iconic figure of Keanu Reeves (fetishized here by Don Peterman's expansive cinematography) as an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates a group of itinerant surfers (led by Patrick Swayze) responsible for a series of daring bank raids. Despite the film's relentless macho swagger, "Point Break" aims for something more profound than your average summer blockbuster and is distinguished by some extraordinary visual conceits: From the glorious surfing scenes to the action highlights (most notably, Reeves' heart-stopping pursuit of a fleeing bank raider through a suburban landscape) to a show-stopping sky-dive sequence which lifts the film onto another plane altogether, far removed from the typical excesses of American commercial cinema.

Lori Petty ("Tank Girl") provides the nominal love interest - and very good she is, too - but W. Peter Iliff's script focuses almost exclusively on the ambiguous relationship between 'good guy' Reeves and 'villain' Swayze, drawing them together in adversity, while the supporting cast is rounded out by the likes of Gary Busey ("The Buddy Holly Story"), John C. McGinley, James LeGros ("Drugstore Cowboy"), and experienced surfers John Philbin ("North Shore") and Bojesse Christopher (co-writer and director of "Out in Fifty" [1999]), both exquisitely beautiful. However, Reeves dominates the movie with typical economy and grace, balancing his trademark 'cool dude' persona against the heavier dramatic requirements of his role as a dedicated FBI agent. The narrative stumbles badly toward the end (Swayze's abrupt deviation from established procedure during one of the climactic sequences is totally inexplicable, and the subsequent body count would almost certainly have prompted the FBI to dismiss Reeves from the service long before his final showdown with Swayze), but the film survives primarily as a unique combination of surfing, action and ultra-sexy young actors. Whether by accident or design, "Point Break" has 'cult movie' written all over it.

Not quite the collector's edition that some viewers might have been expecting, 20th Century Fox's region 1 DVD - which runs 121m 56s - reproduces the wide Super 35 frame in letterbox format (2.35:1), anamorphically enhanced. Picture quality is grainy in places, but generally OK. Subtitles and captions are provided, along with three audio options - 4.1 and 2.0 Dolby and 5.1 DTS, all of which are reasonably aggressive, though not quite as challenging as the 70mm version (blown-up from 35mm) which played theatrically during the film's premiere engagements. There's a number of trailers and an extremely brief (3m 30s) 'making of' featurette, and nothing more.

When this movie was released in the theatres, T2 was the #1 movie. I loved T2 and when someone told me Point Break was a better movie, I thought they were crazy. Now I own both movies and I watch Point Break all the time while T2 gathers dust. Point Break is about a struggle between a rebellious surfer tribe with chief Boudy (Patrick Swazye), who lives life by their own terms, and 'the system' lead byFBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves), who wants them to become productive members of society. You're never quite sure whom to rute for. You'll love to love these bad guys. Packed with action and even some comedy ..., this underrated movie ranks among my all-timefavorites. The beautiful beaches with powerful surf, one of the best chase scenes ever (right up there with Raising Arizona's) and high flying skydiving scenes make this movie perfect for DVD. I'm glad the producers have taken the time to create a quality DVD withwidescreen anamorphic picture and DTS sound. Pick this one up when you get the chance, it's a great movie with excellent replay value.

This 1991 film stars Keanu Reeves as Johnny Utah, an FBI agent trying to solve a series of bank robberies in the Los Angeles area. His partner has a theory that these robberies were committed by surfers. And so our hero goes undercover in the surfing world.

First, of course, he has to learn how to surf. And there just happens to be an attractive female surfer, played by Lori Petty, to teach him. Naturally a romance develops but what is surprising is the remarkably short time it takes him to learn to surf. There's conflict with the other surfers too, but as he was once a football hero, he plays football on the beach with them and wins the respect of Bodhi, played by Patrick Swayzee. Bodhi's into the spiritual side of surfing. And he's also into free fall sky diving, night surfing and the ultimate thrills riding the waves. The two men learn to respect each other. It's too bad that Bodhi is also a bank robber. And that he just happens to be Lori Petty's ex-boyfriend.

What follows is an action packed ride including chases on foot and with cars. There's several false leads and a bit of violence. The story follows a formula, which is to be expected, but yet it is done very well. The best part of the film though is the surfing. It was able to make me feel the thrill of it all while I was sitting comfortably in front of my TV. I'm sure they used a lot of stunt doubles and special effects. But I didn't care. I just let myself be swept into the excitement of it all.

Recommended -- especially for action film buffs.

It's always difficult to be objective about the filmed version of books as beloved as Peake's are. Many fans have complained indignantly that the BBC's Gormenghast was too rushed, too over-simplified, too comedic, all of which are legitimate objections. Still, it's best to treat the book and the film as separate entities, and viewed on its own merit, Gormenghast is a stunning bit of television.

Split up into four episodes, the story may indeed be initially difficult to follow for those unfamiliar with the books, but in time that ceases to matter, as the viewer is quickly swept up in the film's surreal and visually arresting world. My hat's off to the set and costume designers, who did a fantastic job at creating an intricate and beautiful set. As beautiful as Gormenghast is to look at, the primary attraction for me is the acting, which is, with only a few exceptions, superb. The excellent performances are too numerous to list, but standouts include Ian Richardson and Celia Imrie, who are wonderful and completely believable, a hilariously over-the-top Fiona Shaw, and John Sessions, who gives a funny and sweetly camp performance as Dr. Prunesquallor. My only major quibble is with the casting of the pivotal role of Steerpike. Although Jonathan Rhys Meyers is certainly a very pretty lad who no doubt makes the teenage girls swoon, I found his performance strangely flat and sometimes cringe-worthy, and certainly not strong enough to carry the weight of the series. Just my opinion, of course, and the quality of the rest of the cast, along with the general artistry of the film, make up for a somewhat lacklustre villain. Additionally, the DVD comes with some nice extras, including a "Making Of" feature with interviews of the cast and crew. Well worth purchasing, even in pan-and-scan format.

I have no novels to compare this film series to and am glad of it. This is a tour de force of UK acting talent. A Who's Who of casting takes over every role in this mythical tale of the kingdom of Gormenghast. It is ruled over by an elderly earl, who has just had a young son born to inherit the crown. However, he is plotted against by a young man who works in the kitchen, called Steerpike, who keeps steadily advancing himself by undermining one and all. Steerpike is brilliantly played by Jonathan Rhys-Meyers. He is the villain of the piece but in a strange way, also its hero, as you follow no one as intensely as you follow him and his attempt to break out of the rigid class system of Gormenghast (obviously patterned on the UK's own aristocracy). Everyone in the cast is similarly wonderful. Ian Richardson plays the elderly ruler, who is driven mad by Steerpike's destroying his library. Richardson's portrayal of an owl, what he thinks he is, nails an owl dead-on. Stephen Fry and Fiona Shaw as the romancing couple of Headmaster and Spinster almost steal the show with their high comic portrayls. This will take you at least two nights to view and you will enjoy it thoroughly as hubby and I both did.

I came upon "Gormenghast" while I was flipping through the basic cable channels one night. It was the second episode, almost halfway over, and I thought it was kind of tweaked at first. I only watched it during commercial breaks for the first half hour I saw it, but something drew me. Something made me look up times that it was going to be on and tape the whole thing. Maybe it was curiosity, I don't really know, but I do know that I'm thankful that I was ensnared into the world of "Gormenghast." The rich plot is believable and the characters well portrayed. Jonothan Rhys Myers (as Steerpike), while a very attractive man, managed to come across as something twisted, malformed and neglected. Neve McIntosh played the perfect brat and flippant princess, Fuschia, Jon Sessions a wonderfully frivolous Squaller, and Colin Powrie and Andrew N. Robertson the essence of Titus Groan, the young lord who is weary of his role thrust upon him with no recourse to his feelings. While much of the story is comedic, the ending is truly powerful and you might well find yourself crying and dazed. The actors emote very well, so much that you feel yourself a part of "Gormenghast." You can see that Steerpike only wanted to be loved. You can see that one determined individual can bring down an age old society. This film (not to mention the books) reflects not just the UK, but the world, and what could happen if we allow ourselved to rot.

This is a sequal that isnt bad, but wasnt done perfectly. The first movie "first blood" was so great that it deserves a perfect sequal, but this film was not. If I had my way, I would have done a prequal that showed Rambo and his military buddies during Vietnam and some of the problems he faced from American Society when he returned. This sequal however has Rambo returning to Vietnam to look for and rescue missing POWs. The premise wasnt that bad, and missing POWs in Vietnam is a very real and scary issue that alot of people today forget or dont know about. This movie just went to over the top and was far from realistic or meaningful like "first blood". It shows vietnam soldiers who seem like they are still in Vietnam war mode even 15 years later like they have nothing better to do. Somehow the Russians get thrown into the mix and the movie makes even less sense(obviously a cheap patriotic ploy during the coldwar era). Im actually suprised they didnt have the Iranians join the fight against Rambo.
Lets be honest; this film ruined the true meaning and greatness of "first blood". Looking back, there is no denying that "first blood" is still an amazing movie with meaning and stirs emotion to this very day. Rambo 2 took away from a truly great film "first blood" and turned Rambo into a killing machine. The only reason Rambo went into kill mode in the first film was because he was pushed too far. He was a man who lost his friends in battle and sense of home/belonging. He did everything he could do to evade violence and go his own way, but he was pushed around too far and too many times. In the sequal "Rambo 2", he is hardly even the same character. Still, I can see how some people could like the movie and it almost gets 3 stars for the great action. You may dissagree with me, but there is a reason why "First blood" cost more to buy then Rambo 2 and 3.
The Extra features in this DVD are pretty good. There is a documentary on the Rambo series and you get commentary from director George Cosmatos(but no Stallone commentary).

John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) is in a prison for the events of the previous movie (see FIRST BLOOD), when his mentor, Col. Sam Trautman (Richard Crenna) comes to see him about a mission back to Vietnam, where he has a pardon coming if he accepts. Rambo accepts and finds out the specifics: It seems that the government's looking for American MIA's in Vietnam that are still being held there. Marshall Murdock (Charles Napier), Rambo's superior on this mission, tells him two things: Take only photographs of the MIAs, and do not engage the enemy. Begrudingly, Rambo begins his mission, and not only takes photographs of the MIAs, but brings one with him. When Murdock hears about this, he orders the chopper supposed to fly Rambo back to pull out. Murdock was hoping for nobody. Rambo, betrayed by his own government, must now help the MIAs, with the help of Co (Julia Nickson), a renegade Vietnamese agent, get out of Vietnam. Of course there is opposition: The Russian army and the Vietnamese army.

The sequel had all but one thing. It had the action, dialogue quality, action, drama, and did I mention action? The only thing missing: the thriller quality of its predecessor. Still, a good film before rambo became completely superhuman in the next sequel, Rambo III (1988). The DVD, like all others in the trilogy, has excellent video and audio quality. The features start off with an good commentary by director George Cosmatos. He talks about the making of the movie, among other things. Next up is a documentary called "We Get to Win This Time: The Rambo Phenomenon", which focuses on elemenst of the film, like the Cold War era, why the Russians wre used, shooting in Mexico, and how James Cameron wrote the original screenplay (and Sly tweaked it) when the movie was still called "First Blood II: The Mission". Then you get your production notes, theatrical trailer, and either a video release trailer or TV spot (The quality of the second one makes it either one) All in all, a solid DVD release for any action fan.

RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II
(1985, R)
John J. Rambo: Sylvester Stallone
Col. Samuel Trautman: Richard Crenna
Marshall Murdock: Charles Napier
Lt. Col. Podovsky: Steven Berkoff
Co Bao: Julia Nickson
Ericson: Martin Kove

Director: George P. Cosmatos
Writers: Kevin Jarre (story), Sylvester Stallone, James Cameron

MOVIE: 4
VIDEO: 5
AUDIO: 5
EXTRAS: 4
MENUS: 5
OVERALL: 5

one man army mentalitty, beatuifull jungle, brilliant violent action and fantastic music.
a must see.
it's a brilliant idea to press wide- and full screen versions on one dvd.

I grew up with Rambo as a kid. Not FIRST BLOOD, the first movie, but this one. This was back in the 80's when R rated movies were aimed at kids and times were great. I mean, I had Rambo action figures. Nowadays, I'm twenty-four and I still get carded to see an R Rated movie.

Anyway, I just bought the DVD and I hadn't seen this movie in years. All I remembered was that I used to like it when I was young. Guess what? It's still cool. This is Sylvester Stallone at his very best (aside from COPLAND where he and everyone else were brilliant). First time viewers may have to take themselves back to the eighties to enjoy this one but this was some ground breaking action back in the day.

I also just realized that this was written by James Cameron too if that tells you anything. I guess when it came out originally I didn't even know who he was. If he's behind it then it has to be good right? Okay, forget SOLARIS, most of Cameron's stuff is quality. All in all, I liked this movie. It's a little dated but not much. I'm glad I bought it. Thanks Rambo. Thanks Trautman.

C+

Rambo II is one of those movies that in a way surpass its predecessor. It's more action oriented but with a somewhat cool plot. The movie itself is one of the most definitive action movies of the 80's. Directed by italian director, George Cosmatos, the movie was the one who put the name "Rambo" in common use in the USA. Also it was written by James Cameron (of the "Terminator" saga and Titanic) and Sylvester Stallone. The hidden subject in this movie is actually the idea of Rambo "winning" the vietnam war but there is more to it. When this movie opened in 85, the Cold War was as its best. Reagan used this movie to put himself into the "rambomania" frenzy, we all know that Reagan use all the media at his disposal but that's another story whatsoever.

The movie is rated R for violence mostly, there are a couple of bad words and blood but teens can get to it without much trouble. The whole idea of the "expendable" issue is a good theme for discussion between parents and kids or teacher and students.

Rambo: First Blood Part II (in some countries called "Rambo II: The Mission) now in this DVD format is a definitive movie for the action fan, specially if you are a fan of the 80's movie. This edition has clear image and excellent sound. The process for digitalization of the picture was done perfectly so you won't believe you are actually watching a movie almost 20 years old.
The documentary has a lot of cool info, even for those "Rambomania" fans would find this very interesting and with interviews with cast and crew including Stallone, the late Richard Crenna, and others. Also the director Cosmatos and the producers get into the documentary with interesting facts (the idea of pairing Stallone and Travolta as a sidekick was a novelty for me!!!) is a good source for inside info.
The trailers (some are TV spots) are also quite good but they haven't been "cleaned up" so they look like they are quite old and the sound in those is not remastered. There's also a section on the stars and the crew with filmography and stuff it's informative but that's it.
The extras are good. It would be fun if they throw a lot of deleted scenes into it, but there isn't. The audio commentary of Cosmatos is so-so there aren't much there either.

Finally I must say this edition contain both the widescreen version and the full screen version so you can go wrong there. The movie comes with subtitles in spanish for both versions.

From 1 to 5: Movie=4, Sound Quality=5, Video Quality=5, Extras=3.

one man army mentalitty, beatuifull jungle, brilliant violent action and fantastic music.
a must see.
it's a brilliant idea to press wide- and full screen versions on one dvd.

This is a sequal that isnt bad, but wasnt done perfectly. The first movie "first blood" was so great that it deserves a perfect sequal, but this film was not. If I had my way, I would have done a prequal that showed Rambo and his military buddies during Vietnam and some of the problems he faced from American Society when he returned. This sequal however has Rambo returning to Vietnam to look for and rescue missing POWs. The premise wasnt that bad, and missing POWs in Vietnam is a very real and scary issue that alot of people today forget or dont know about. This movie just went to over the top and was far from realistic or meaningful like "first blood". It shows vietnam soldiers who seem like they are still in Vietnam war mode even 15 years later like they have nothing better to do. Somehow the Russians get thrown into the mix and the movie makes even less sense(obviously a cheap patriotic ploy during the coldwar era). Im actually suprised they didnt have the Iranians join the fight against Rambo.
Lets be honest; this film ruined the true meaning and greatness of "first blood". Looking back, there is no denying that "first blood" is still an amazing movie with meaning and stirs emotion to this very day. Rambo 2 took away from a truly great film "first blood" and turned Rambo into a killing machine. The only reason Rambo went into kill mode in the first film was because he was pushed too far. He was a man who lost his friends in battle and sense of home/belonging. He did everything he could do to evade violence and go his own way, but he was pushed around too far and too many times. In the sequal "Rambo 2", he is hardly even the same character. Still, I can see how some people could like the movie and it almost gets 3 stars for the great action. You may dissagree with me, but there is a reason why "First blood" cost more to buy then Rambo 2 and 3.
The Extra features in this DVD are pretty good. There is a documentary on the Rambo series and you get commentary from director George Cosmatos(but no Stallone commentary).

John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) is in a prison for the events of the previous movie (see FIRST BLOOD), when his mentor, Col. Sam Trautman (Richard Crenna) comes to see him about a mission back to Vietnam, where he has a pardon coming if he accepts. Rambo accepts and finds out the specifics: It seems that the government's looking for American MIA's in Vietnam that are still being held there. Marshall Murdock (Charles Napier), Rambo's superior on this mission, tells him two things: Take only photographs of the MIAs, and do not engage the enemy. Begrudingly, Rambo begins his mission, and not only takes photographs of the MIAs, but brings one with him. When Murdock hears about this, he orders the chopper supposed to fly Rambo back to pull out. Murdock was hoping for nobody. Rambo, betrayed by his own government, must now help the MIAs, with the help of Co (Julia Nickson), a renegade Vietnamese agent, get out of Vietnam. Of course there is opposition: The Russian army and the Vietnamese army.

The sequel had all but one thing. It had the action, dialogue quality, action, drama, and did I mention action? The only thing missing: the thriller quality of its predecessor. Still, a good film before rambo became completely superhuman in the next sequel, Rambo III (1988). The DVD, like all others in the trilogy, has excellent video and audio quality. The features start off with an good commentary by director George Cosmatos. He talks about the making of the movie, among other things. Next up is a documentary called "We Get to Win This Time: The Rambo Phenomenon", which focuses on elemenst of the film, like the Cold War era, why the Russians wre used, shooting in Mexico, and how James Cameron wrote the original screenplay (and Sly tweaked it) when the movie was still called "First Blood II: The Mission". Then you get your production notes, theatrical trailer, and either a video release trailer or TV spot (The quality of the second one makes it either one) All in all, a solid DVD release for any action fan.

RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II
(1985, R)
John J. Rambo: Sylvester Stallone
Col. Samuel Trautman: Richard Crenna
Marshall Murdock: Charles Napier
Lt. Col. Podovsky: Steven Berkoff
Co Bao: Julia Nickson
Ericson: Martin Kove

Director: George P. Cosmatos
Writers: Kevin Jarre (story), Sylvester Stallone, James Cameron

MOVIE: 4
VIDEO: 5
AUDIO: 5
EXTRAS: 4
MENUS: 5
OVERALL: 5

one man army mentalitty, beatuifull jungle, brilliant violent action and fantastic music.
a must see.
it's a brilliant idea to press wide- and full screen versions on one dvd.

This is a sequal that isnt bad, but wasnt done perfectly. The first movie "first blood" was so great that it deserves a perfect sequal, but this film was not. If I had my way, I would have done a prequal that showed Rambo and his military buddies during Vietnam and some of the problems he faced from American Society when he returned. This sequal however has Rambo returning to Vietnam to look for and rescue missing POWs. The premise wasnt that bad, and missing POWs in Vietnam is a very real and scary issue that alot of people today forget or dont know about. This movie just went to over the top and was far from realistic or meaningful like "first blood". It shows vietnam soldiers who seem like they are still in Vietnam war mode even 15 years later like they have nothing better to do. Somehow the Russians get thrown into the mix and the movie makes even less sense(obviously a cheap patriotic ploy during the coldwar era). Im actually suprised they didnt have the Iranians join the fight against Rambo.
Lets be honest; this film ruined the true meaning and greatness of "first blood". Looking back, there is no denying that "first blood" is still an amazing movie with meaning and stirs emotion to this very day. Rambo 2 took away from a truly great film "first blood" and turned Rambo into a killing machine. The only reason Rambo went into kill mode in the first film was because he was pushed too far. He was a man who lost his friends in battle and sense of home/belonging. He did everything he could do to evade violence and go his own way, but he was pushed around too far and too many times. In the sequal "Rambo 2", he is hardly even the same character. Still, I can see how some people could like the movie and it almost gets 3 stars for the great action. You may dissagree with me, but there is a reason why "First blood" cost more to buy then Rambo 2 and 3.
The Extra features in this DVD are pretty good. There is a documentary on the Rambo series and you get commentary from director George Cosmatos(but no Stallone commentary).

John Rambo (Sylvester Stallone) is in a prison for the events of the previous movie (see FIRST BLOOD), when his mentor, Col. Sam Trautman (Richard Crenna) comes to see him about a mission back to Vietnam, where he has a pardon coming if he accepts. Rambo accepts and finds out the specifics: It seems that the government's looking for American MIA's in Vietnam that are still being held there. Marshall Murdock (Charles Napier), Rambo's superior on this mission, tells him two things: Take only photographs of the MIAs, and do not engage the enemy. Begrudingly, Rambo begins his mission, and not only takes photographs of the MIAs, but brings one with him. When Murdock hears about this, he orders the chopper supposed to fly Rambo back to pull out. Murdock was hoping for nobody. Rambo, betrayed by his own government, must now help the MIAs, with the help of Co (Julia Nickson), a renegade Vietnamese agent, get out of Vietnam. Of course there is opposition: The Russian army and the Vietnamese army.

The sequel had all but one thing. It had the action, dialogue quality, action, drama, and did I mention action? The only thing missing: the thriller quality of its predecessor. Still, a good film before rambo became completely superhuman in the next sequel, Rambo III (1988). The DVD, like all others in the trilogy, has excellent video and audio quality. The features start off with an good commentary by director George Cosmatos. He talks about the making of the movie, among other things. Next up is a documentary called "We Get to Win This Time: The Rambo Phenomenon", which focuses on elemenst of the film, like the Cold War era, why the Russians wre used, shooting in Mexico, and how James Cameron wrote the original screenplay (and Sly tweaked it) when the movie was still called "First Blood II: The Mission". Then you get your production notes, theatrical trailer, and either a video release trailer or TV spot (The quality of the second one makes it either one) All in all, a solid DVD release for any action fan.

RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II
(1985, R)
John J. Rambo: Sylvester Stallone
Col. Samuel Trautman: Richard Crenna
Marshall Murdock: Charles Napier
Lt. Col. Podovsky: Steven Berkoff
Co Bao: Julia Nickson
Ericson: Martin Kove

Director: George P. Cosmatos
Writers: Kevin Jarre (story), Sylvester Stallone, James Cameron

MOVIE: 4
VIDEO: 5
AUDIO: 5
EXTRAS: 4
MENUS: 5
OVERALL: 5

one man army mentalitty, beatuifull jungle, brilliant violent action and fantastic music.
a must see.
it's a brilliant idea to press wide- and full screen versions on one dvd.

At first it looked as if Van Helsing would be the center of attention. Peter Cushing reprised his role as Van Helsing in the mislabeled Brides of Dracula. Although the script was uneven (it passed through many hands before Terence Fisher held a final script), it made sense to proceed with Van Helsing; Cushing's portrayal was bold, vivid and powerful enough to make up for Christopher Lee's absence.

Finally Hammer talked Lee into reprising his role. While Lee is terrific in Dracula Prince of Darkness, the script (based on a story by Hammer producer Anthony Hinds writing as John Elder)is once again very uneven. In fact, what makes Prince arresting is Fisher's eerie atmosphere (there, I've said it again after other comments) and his ability to coax strong performances under adverse circumstances. Barabara Shelly shines in her role and, along with Lee and Andrew Keir, makes Prince more memorable than it has any right to be.

Dracula is silent throughout the picture. While it does add to the animalistic qualities of the character (making him substatially less human)it also removes an additional dimension to the character. Reportedly Lee refushed to utter the inane dialog given to him and, as a result, the Count became quiet. Given the constraints of the plot, it works fairly well although, again, one misses the charismatic qualities of Dracula so well played in Horror of Dracula.

The picture starts off well enough with the funeral of a young girl. But rather than burying her, the townspeople and elderly priest plan on putting a stake through her heart and burning her body. Andrew Keir's priest makes his first appearence with the ringing sound of gunfire as he shoots his rifle to get their attention. He criticizes the townspeople (my favorite line of dialog so well delivered by Keir that it works is when he calls the priest "an idiot, no you're worse than an idiot. You're an ignorant, superstitious idiot" or words to those effect)for their ignorance and saves the girl's body from being burned. He shows them that thee are no marks of the vampire and promises to give her a decent burial. When the priest refuses to do the rites, Keir states he'll do them himself. I have to admit I did chuckle when I first saw Keir on horseback as he reminded me of a priestly Lone Ranger with his hood. The scene works because of the conviction of the actors and Keir's delivery. Keir proves to be up to the task of replacing Cushing.

Prince is bloodier than Horror. In the 7 years that had passed, Hammer and horror films in general had become more gruesome. The additional graphic violence and gore works, again, to the film's advantage. It reflects Dracula's more sinister, animal like qualities. The conclusion at the Count's castle with Keir trying to kill Dracula with the unique use of his shooting skills is imaginative even if it does stretch credibility. It's not quite as powerful as the final scene in Horror but it is different.

The transfer is good although not up to the standards I've seen with some Anchor Bay releases. The print appeared jittery and there was a lot of compression artifacts in the earlier, darker scenes. Part of that is due to the fact that it's a single layer disc (although two sided) and part of this is due to the dark look of the film and high speed film used during the shoot. Prince has always been a bit grainer (from what I recall)than Horror and some of Fisher's other Hammer films.

The extras are appealing. First, let me note that there's no rule that says that a commentary can't ramble. Sure Lee does it quite a bit but what can one say about a film make 38 years ago? Barbara Shelly proves to have the most reliable memory about the making of the film. Lee provides a number of interesting (although not always relevant)stories about the making of Prince as well as other Hammer productions. Actor Francis Mathews also appears on the commentary track. Since he's still with us, hopefully someone will hire him to do the same for the other films he appeared in.

The picture quality is good although not outstanding and the mono audio decent. That's not a condemnation; Prince is a fine minor classic and Fisher still demonstrates his usual flair as a director.

It's a pity that the uneven series never got any better than the first film in the series but it's not surprising. Future Hammer scripts were routine and by the numbers for the most part (although Roy Ward Baker did show an imaginative flair in Scars of Dracula as did Peter Sasdy with Taste the Blood of Dracula). The quality of the scripts slid as time wore on. Still, Prince has many of the best qualities that made Horror so memorable. Although it's not king of the Dracula films, it's princely status shall go unchallenged.

Strangely, this film is referred to often as "the sequel" to Horrors of Dracula, when actually Brides of Dracula was the second in the series. Then it became know as the "prequel to the sequel"...whatever, it's one of the best of the Hammer vampire cycle and a great film for Lee - Cushing fans.

Hammer in it's early days tended to be shortsighted. In the first pairing of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing in Frankenstein, they ended up having Cushing dump Lee's monster into a vat of acid. Super ending - but it literally stopped Lee from returning in a sequel. Cushing did go on to reprise Frankenstein in a series of Films. And it looked like Hammer had repeated the same mistake at the end of The Horrors of Dracula. Wonderful ending of Lee turning to dust and the wind carrying him away...only, they once again stopped any hope of Lee returning in the next film. Cushing went on to make the critically acclaimed Brides of Dracula, many often site as the better film, but it lacked Lee and that lack really hurts the film. David Peel just did not have the power and presence Lee did in the cape!!

So Hammer put their thinking caps on and 8 years (and Lee refusing to put on the cape) they came up came up with a way to bring Lee back to "life" for a the sequel. Okay, a little stretch, but it worked! Hammer made sure never to kill of Lee "permanently" again!! The box office pairing of Lee and Cushing was magic.

Two English couples traveling through Transylvania end up spending the night at the Drac's Castle. Lee's servant brings the Count back to "life" and he is off and up to old tricks. The film is super, Hammer at top form with Terrence Fisher as director. Just a SHAME they kept Dracula mute with no lines.

christopher lee is back as the very sexy dracula.dracula was so sexy ,but I was disappointed that he didn't have any speaking roles.very good movie just needed a speaking role for dracula or christopher lee....................