James-Spader Movie Reviews


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VHS movie reviews for "James-Spader" sorted by average review score:

Tuff Turf
Released in VHS Tape by Starmaker/Anchor Bay (24 August, 1992)
MPAA Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Starring: James Spader
Average review score:

They don't make many movies like this anymore.
This was one of my favorite movies.It reminded me alot of the way I grew up. I would do just about anything to have this movie added to my collection. Have looked for it in numerous places and unable to locate anywhere. Please re-release it!!!!!!

This movie is awesome, why cant i find it anywhere?
i just viewed this movie for the first time on latenight television, and i beleive it to be one of those really great movies, yet it has slipped through the cracks for being a candidate for re-release

Simply the best movie of all time!
I find this movie to be full of excitement, and intense thriller. Please released this movie.


Tuff Turf
Released in VHS Tape by Starmaker/Anchor Bay (28 May, 1991)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Starring: James Spader
Average review score:

tuff turf review
This movie is awesome. Total 80's movie. I love this movie and would love to own it. Rent it today!


Tuff Turf
Released in VHS Tape by Anchor Bay Entertainment (12 March, 2001)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Fritz Kiersch
Average review score:

Great 80's Flick
Action, Adventure, Lust and Romance, this has it all. I owned it on VHS and wore it out, had to get the DVD!
James Spader is very convincing in his role and Kim Richards just complements him.
Robert Downey Jr. is quality as always in his understated roles.
This is a must for anyone who enjoys the movies of the 80's!

My top ten too!
BUY IT !!! IT'S A STEAL AT THIS PRICE. Besides it never was sold to television and I hear that Spader and the others may be embarrased by it since he and Downey Jr. went on to have "serious" acting careers. I have looked for it forever and I have never seen it on the late nite movies but it would be perfect for that. Former child star Kim Richards (Witch Mountain and numerous Disney Movies/Hello Larry sitcom/Meatballs II) plays a girl from the wrong side of the tracks who falls for a new boy in town played by James Spader. He is immediately befriended by a class clown played by Downey Jr. upon arriving to his new high school. When Kim's street-gang leader boyfriend played well by Paul Mones (actor/ writer/director of the excellent teen/coming of age flick: "The Beat", find it on vhs if you can, although I did catch it on late nite t.v. once) then all you know what starts between Mones and Spader. The movie plays out kinda like a cross between "Rebel Without A Cause" and "West Side Story". But overall "Tuff Turf" is truly alot of fun. The music is diverse and plentiful (Jim Carroll, Lena Lovich, Jack Mack and the Heart Attack) and really great throughout the movie as is the fine score by the now renowned film composer Jonathan Elias. Poet, Novelist, and Musician (The Basketball Diaries) Jim Carroll actually makes a rare cameo appearance and Kim always an angel to me gets to look sexy finally in a more mature acting(non-Disney) role. I have my old copy and I still to this day enjoy watching it. It's an underrated and lost gem from the 80's. Get it now!

pure adventure!
I am constantly being sucked into this movie everytime I watch. I spent the better have of 3 years searching for the soundtrack. Surprisingly, one of the most overlooked of its genre. The sophisticated soundtrack sets the tone of the whole movie. Spader at his best. Forget all the carbon copies, this one is a true gem.


The Music of Chance
Released in VHS Tape by Columbia/Tristar Studios (17 January, 1995)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Philip Haas
Starring: James Spader and Mandy Patinkin
Average review score:

OK.
This is an absorbing, but unforthcoming, film.

An intellectually bitter pill.
Not for all tastes, this film combines the unique film making approach of Philip Haas (Angels and Insects) with a story by one of our most profoundly intellectual novelists of the 20th century, Paul Auster.

Dramatically understated, 'The Music of Chance' chronicles one man's search (Mandy Patinkin plays Jim Nash) for himself, as he quits his job, loads his car and heads cross country. That his path crosses that of Jack Pozzi (James Spader) a drifter, card-sharp, down on his luck today, but eye's on the 'big score' ahead, is not exactly unpredictable. What they encounter as a result is indeed surprising, as well as strenuous, and all together inappropriate to be delivered in the fantasy medium of film.

When I read the book, I stumbled over the text, the words weighing heavy on my being. Reading and rereading, the labor of the learning was far more than that which had yielded the purchase price.

Every twist and turn of the plot deals more multiple metaphor. Don't look to walk away from this one with a pleasant taste in your mouth, but you may find yourself a better person having watched it. Look for a Paul Auster cameo at the end.

There's Something Fascinating to me About This Film
What a mysterious and subsuming story. This movie is so obscure and inconspicuous in its packaging it's lucky anyone has seen it at all. But I keep coming back to it. For me it begins with Mandy Pantinkin being such a subtle and sincere and moving actor. And his character, the way that he accepts his predicament and abstains from negativity, doing whatever his captors ask of him. And then his deep brooding silence late at night in the trailer. The obscurity of his background and his future. This is a very personal film to me. There is so much going on under the surface. And then James Spader, the somewhat shallow foil, but not insincere person, who is ultimately ruined by his inability to follow the rules. My only criticism is that there are too many loose ends toward the end of the picture. Somehow that doesn't lessen my opinion of the movie though. This one got me turned on to Paul Auster. I've now read several of his books and loved them.


White Palace
Released in VHS Tape by Goodtimes Home Video (02 August, 1999)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Luis Mandoki
Starring: Susan Sarandon and James Spader
Glenn Savan's depressing and self-loathing novel about a 27-year-old upper-class Jewish widower mired in self-pity after his beloved wife dies, and who finds love and sexual rebirth with a trailer-trash older woman, was brought to the big screen by the competent director Luis Mandoki (When a Man Loves a Woman, Message in a Bottle). But the savage irony in Savan's book has been face-lifted by screenwriters Ted Tally (The Silence of the Lambs) and Alvin Sargent (Ordinary People) into something else entirely: what passes for low-rent "slumming" in Hollywood means hiring sexy Susan Sarandon to play Nora Baker, the poor, uneducated 43-year-old waitress in a White Palace burger joint who strikes up an unlikely relationship with sad Max Baron (James Spader). Widower Max attends a bachelor party for best pal Neil (Jason Alexander) and discovers that the local White Palace has stiffed the boys a whopping six burgers. Max barges into the joint, bent on getting his money back, and meets a testy Nora, who is bemused at the young man's insolence. While driving home, Max stops abruptly at a bar for a drink. Inside, Nora is nursing a vodka and takes a shine to the tuxedo-clad, handsome, and morose younger man. He gives her a lift, she seduces him, and the rest of the movie examines how two such opposites in manners and morals can find happiness. The only common bond they have is great sex and a private tragedy. White Palace nudges at the dark journey and the smashing of illusion that was at the heart of the novel, but there is still a fairy-tale element to the film that negates the earthy essence that distinguished the book. In Mandoki's vision, White Palace is about overcoming class, family, and outside opinion to find true love. In Savan's book, Max wastes into decline while Nora ultimately thrives in the quest for truth, redemption, and self-forgiveness. She becomes his salvation only after he stops hating himself. But mainstream Hollywood shuns making "protagonists" so mad, bad, or sad, and as such, too much glitter is tossed on Spader, while Sarandon, as usual, is the only one who seems to embody and understand her character's angst. She deserved her Oscar for Nora, not the nun in Dead Man Walking. --Paula Nechak
Average review score:

Sarandon and Spader Sizzle....DVD Fizzles...
This review refers to the DVD edition(Goodtimes Video) of "White Palace".....

There couldn't be two people at more opposite ends of the poles than Nora Baker and Max Baron. He's a 27 year old upwardly mobile executive,obsessive and compulsive, he's neat as a pin, and Jewish. She's 43, is in the "food preparation business"(serves up greasy hamburgers) ,lives in the low rent district, in a house that doesn't get cleaned and has never even met anyone Jewish. They meet twice by happenstance and although it seems all they really have in common is that they are both from St.Louis, they discover they are really not all together different.

Max is grieving for his young and beautiful wife, and Nora her child. And although they handle their grief in very different ways, they take solace in each others arms. Their whirlwind affair, brings a renewed spirit to each of them, but when the relationship steps up to a new level, they wonder how they will fit into each other's world.

It's a believable, beautiful, and at times a funny love story.Susan Sarandon lights up the screen with her portrayal of the fiesty Nora. Spader shines in a role that seems to be made for him. Other notables in the cast include Jason Alexander,Eileen Brennan, and Kathy Bates.

The DVD could have a better transfer. Although there's nothing that will impair your viewing, it didn't seem as sharp and clear as it could be.The sound in Dolby Dig surround was very good, but the film has been "Formatted from it's original version to fit your screen"(pan and scan), and I didn't see a widescreen edition available, so we don't have a choice of how we would like to view it. There are however captions in English and subtitiles in Spanish and French and may be viewed in those languages as well.There are no other special features included.

The film is rated R and even that is pushing the envelope somewhat. The loves scenes are very steamy(this one is definately not for the kiddies), but you'll also find a beautiful story of fate stepping in and lending a hand. A romantic film that is worth the view in any format.

Thanks and enjoy.....Laurie

Romance Can Come When You Least Expect It.
James Spader, a personal favorite of mine, stars with Susan Sarandon in this entertaining adaption of the Glenn Savan novel. I own and read that too, and although a book is ALWAYS deeper in detail, I was not disappointed with this film. ................ Max Baron, a twenty seven year old Jewish widower coming from his buddy Neil's (Jason Alexander, pre Costanza) bachelor party, meets poor white anglo trash waitress Nora (Susan Sarandon) at "White Palace" restaurant. He has come to claim six empty boxes that should have had burgers in them. Instead he gets no burgers, just a refund and lots of attitude from a beligerent Nora behind the register. ............... After being thoroughly depressed and feeling sorry for his loss more than ever, Max gets drunk. On his way home, he stops in a country music bar for a nightcap. A few gulps later, he is spotted by a cigarette puffing drunken Nora, attracted to Max, she is therefore, swilling AND willing. I don't think ANYONE would actually need drinks to find Spader attractive though. ................ After Max relents and lets Nora stay and have a drink, despite being surlier earlier...they end up back at her place. It is then, that two consenting, inebriated adults begin their December/May romance. ................ What Max had intended as one night stand, somehow ends up being true love, despite the ethnic differences, social status disparity, and disapproving friends and family. Max and Nora make-up, and break-up, and come to a crossroads in their relationship, but true love conquers all. ............... All the performances from the leads are well executed, you feel for Max. His analogy at a party, where his friends are trying to find him a more suitable mate is terrific. When asked if he likes the girl, Max's says, "There's No dust in her dustbuster!" This sums up his feelings perfectly. He doesn't WANT a perfect young girl, he wants imperfect older Nora. ................ I found this to be a warm, enjoyable romantic comedy/drama. Luis Mandoki did a fine directing job, and the script adaption was fine in telling the story. Jason Alexander was good as Neil, Max's best friend. There were also many good minor roles of various friends in Max's circle of snobs that really made you root for Nora all the more. A fun cameo was Kathy Bates in a small role as Spaders boss............. All in all, a winner that is definitely worth seeing, and adding to the romance selections in your film collection.

steamy, yet funny.
I borrowed this video from a Library, not really knowing what to expect. It turned out to be a pretty steamy and hilariously funny movie. James Spader was really very sexy, playing the part of an upscale 27 year old Jewish widower. Susan Sarandon really played a convincing part of a poor conditioned living 44 year old woman. Both were lonely people looking for love. This is one very good steamy love story.


White Palace
Released in VHS Tape by Universal Studios (01 July, 1997)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Luis Mandoki
Starring: Luis Mandoki, Susan Sarandon, and James Spader
Glenn Savan's depressing and self-loathing novel about a 27-year-old upper-class Jewish widower mired in self-pity after his beloved wife dies, and who finds love and sexual rebirth with a trailer-trash older woman, was brought to the big screen by the competent director Luis Mandoki (When a Man Loves a Woman, Message in a Bottle). But the savage irony in Savan's book has been face-lifted by screenwriters Ted Tally (The Silence of the Lambs) and Alvin Sargent (Ordinary People) into something else entirely: what passes for low-rent "slumming" in Hollywood means hiring sexy Susan Sarandon to play Nora Baker, the poor, uneducated 43-year-old waitress in a White Palace burger joint who strikes up an unlikely relationship with sad Max Baron (James Spader). Widower Max attends a bachelor party for best pal Neil (Jason Alexander) and discovers that the local White Palace has stiffed the boys a whopping six burgers. Max barges into the joint, bent on getting his money back, and meets a testy Nora, who is bemused at the young man's insolence. While driving home, Max stops abruptly at a bar for a drink. Inside, Nora is nursing a vodka and takes a shine to the tuxedo-clad, handsome, and morose younger man. He gives her a lift, she seduces him, and the rest of the movie examines how two such opposites in manners and morals can find happiness. The only common bond they have is great sex and a private tragedy. White Palace nudges at the dark journey and the smashing of illusion that was at the heart of the novel, but there is still a fairy-tale element to the film that negates the earthy essence that distinguished the book. In Mandoki's vision, White Palace is about overcoming class, family, and outside opinion to find true love. In Savan's book, Max wastes into decline while Nora ultimately thrives in the quest for truth, redemption, and self-forgiveness. She becomes his salvation only after he stops hating himself. But mainstream Hollywood shuns making "protagonists" so mad, bad, or sad, and as such, too much glitter is tossed on Spader, while Sarandon, as usual, is the only one who seems to embody and understand her character's angst. She deserved her Oscar for Nora, not the nun in Dead Man Walking. --Paula Nechak
Average review score:

Sarandon and Spader Sizzle....DVD Fizzles...
This review refers to the DVD edition(Goodtimes Video) of "White Palace".....

There couldn't be two people at more opposite ends of the poles than Nora Baker and Max Baron. He's a 27 year old upwardly mobile executive,obsessive and compulsive, he's neat as a pin, and Jewish. She's 43, is in the "food preparation business"(serves up greasy hamburgers) ,lives in the low rent district, in a house that doesn't get cleaned and has never even met anyone Jewish. They meet twice by happenstance and although it seems all they really have in common is that they are both from St.Louis, they discover they are really not all together different.

Max is grieving for his young and beautiful wife, and Nora her child. And although they handle their grief in very different ways, they take solace in each others arms. Their whirlwind affair, brings a renewed spirit to each of them, but when the relationship steps up to a new level, they wonder how they will fit into each other's world.

It's a believable, beautiful, and at times a funny love story.Susan Sarandon lights up the screen with her portrayal of the fiesty Nora. Spader shines in a role that seems to be made for him. Other notables in the cast include Jason Alexander,Eileen Brennan, and Kathy Bates.

The DVD could have a better transfer. Although there's nothing that will impair your viewing, it didn't seem as sharp and clear as it could be.The sound in Dolby Dig surround was very good, but the film has been "Formatted from it's original version to fit your screen"(pan and scan), and I didn't see a widescreen edition available, so we don't have a choice of how we would like to view it. There are however captions in English and subtitiles in Spanish and French and may be viewed in those languages as well.There are no other special features included.

The film is rated R and even that is pushing the envelope somewhat. The loves scenes are very steamy(this one is definately not for the kiddies), but you'll also find a beautiful story of fate stepping in and lending a hand. A romantic film that is worth the view in any format.

Thanks and enjoy.....Laurie

Romance Can Come When You Least Expect It.
James Spader, a personal favorite of mine, stars with Susan Sarandon in this entertaining adaption of the Glenn Savan novel. I own and read that too, and although a book is ALWAYS deeper in detail, I was not disappointed with this film. ................ Max Baron, a twenty seven year old Jewish widower coming from his buddy Neil's (Jason Alexander, pre Costanza) bachelor party, meets poor white anglo trash waitress Nora (Susan Sarandon) at "White Palace" restaurant. He has come to claim six empty boxes that should have had burgers in them. Instead he gets no burgers, just a refund and lots of attitude from a beligerent Nora behind the register. ............... After being thoroughly depressed and feeling sorry for his loss more than ever, Max gets drunk. On his way home, he stops in a country music bar for a nightcap. A few gulps later, he is spotted by a cigarette puffing drunken Nora, attracted to Max, she is therefore, swilling AND willing. I don't think ANYONE would actually need drinks to find Spader attractive though. ................ After Max relents and lets Nora stay and have a drink, despite being surlier earlier...they end up back at her place. It is then, that two consenting, inebriated adults begin their December/May romance. ................ What Max had intended as one night stand, somehow ends up being true love, despite the ethnic differences, social status disparity, and disapproving friends and family. Max and Nora make-up, and break-up, and come to a crossroads in their relationship, but true love conquers all. ............... All the performances from the leads are well executed, you feel for Max. His analogy at a party, where his friends are trying to find him a more suitable mate is terrific. When asked if he likes the girl, Max's says, "There's No dust in her dustbuster!" This sums up his feelings perfectly. He doesn't WANT a perfect young girl, he wants imperfect older Nora. ................ I found this to be a warm, enjoyable romantic comedy/drama. Luis Mandoki did a fine directing job, and the script adaption was fine in telling the story. Jason Alexander was good as Neil, Max's best friend. There were also many good minor roles of various friends in Max's circle of snobs that really made you root for Nora all the more. A fun cameo was Kathy Bates in a small role as Spaders boss............. All in all, a winner that is definitely worth seeing, and adding to the romance selections in your film collection.

steamy, yet funny.
I borrowed this video from a Library, not really knowing what to expect. It turned out to be a pretty steamy and hilariously funny movie. James Spader was really very sexy, playing the part of an upscale 27 year old Jewish widower. Susan Sarandon really played a convincing part of a poor conditioned living 44 year old woman. Both were lonely people looking for love. This is one very good steamy love story.


White Palace
Released in VHS Tape by Umvd (22 February, 2000)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Luis Mandoki
Starring: Susan Sarandon and James Spader
Glenn Savan's depressing and self-loathing novel about a 27-year-old upper-class Jewish widower mired in self-pity after his beloved wife dies, and who finds love and sexual rebirth with a trailer-trash older woman, was brought to the big screen by the competent director Luis Mandoki (When a Man Loves a Woman, Message in a Bottle). But the savage irony in Savan's book has been face-lifted by screenwriters Ted Tally (The Silence of the Lambs) and Alvin Sargent (Ordinary People) into something else entirely: what passes for low-rent "slumming" in Hollywood means hiring sexy Susan Sarandon to play Nora Baker, the poor, uneducated 43-year-old waitress in a White Palace burger joint who strikes up an unlikely relationship with sad Max Baron (James Spader). Widower Max attends a bachelor party for best pal Neil (Jason Alexander) and discovers that the local White Palace has stiffed the boys a whopping six burgers. Max barges into the joint, bent on getting his money back, and meets a testy Nora, who is bemused at the young man's insolence. While driving home, Max stops abruptly at a bar for a drink. Inside, Nora is nursing a vodka and takes a shine to the tuxedo-clad, handsome, and morose younger man. He gives her a lift, she seduces him, and the rest of the movie examines how two such opposites in manners and morals can find happiness. The only common bond they have is great sex and a private tragedy. White Palace nudges at the dark journey and the smashing of illusion that was at the heart of the novel, but there is still a fairy-tale element to the film that negates the earthy essence that distinguished the book. In Mandoki's vision, White Palace is about overcoming class, family, and outside opinion to find true love. In Savan's book, Max wastes into decline while Nora ultimately thrives in the quest for truth, redemption, and self-forgiveness. She becomes his salvation only after he stops hating himself. But mainstream Hollywood shuns making "protagonists" so mad, bad, or sad, and as such, too much glitter is tossed on Spader, while Sarandon, as usual, is the only one who seems to embody and understand her character's angst. She deserved her Oscar for Nora, not the nun in Dead Man Walking. --Paula Nechak
Average review score:

Sarandon and Spader Sizzle....DVD Fizzles...
This review refers to the DVD edition(Goodtimes Video) of "White Palace".....

There couldn't be two people at more opposite ends of the poles than Nora Baker and Max Baron. He's a 27 year old upwardly mobile executive,obsessive and compulsive, he's neat as a pin, and Jewish. She's 43, is in the "food preparation business"(serves up greasy hamburgers) ,lives in the low rent district, in a house that doesn't get cleaned and has never even met anyone Jewish. They meet twice by happenstance and although it seems all they really have in common is that they are both from St.Louis, they discover they are really not all together different.

Max is grieving for his young and beautiful wife, and Nora her child. And although they handle their grief in very different ways, they take solace in each others arms. Their whirlwind affair, brings a renewed spirit to each of them, but when the relationship steps up to a new level, they wonder how they will fit into each other's world.

It's a believable, beautiful, and at times a funny love story.Susan Sarandon lights up the screen with her portrayal of the fiesty Nora. Spader shines in a role that seems to be made for him. Other notables in the cast include Jason Alexander,Eileen Brennan, and Kathy Bates.

The DVD could have a better transfer. Although there's nothing that will impair your viewing, it didn't seem as sharp and clear as it could be.The sound in Dolby Dig surround was very good, but the film has been "Formatted from it's original version to fit your screen"(pan and scan), and I didn't see a widescreen edition available, so we don't have a choice of how we would like to view it. There are however captions in English and subtitiles in Spanish and French and may be viewed in those languages as well.There are no other special features included.

The film is rated R and even that is pushing the envelope somewhat. The loves scenes are very steamy(this one is definately not for the kiddies), but you'll also find a beautiful story of fate stepping in and lending a hand. A romantic film that is worth the view in any format.

Thanks and enjoy.....Laurie

Wonderful Teaming of Actors
I just saw the edited version of "White Palace" and I remember how much I enjoyed the uncut version, with its gritty realism. Please note the description above says "starring Luis Mandoki," when he's the director! The star is the vastly underutilized James Spader who I just saw in a strange movie called "Secretary." Here he's in love with the older Susan Sarandon and it's magic. I also read the book, whick is quite different from the movie, but they're both quite enjoyable. Pop the popcorn and enjoy!

This One Will Stay In My Collection
The reason I got into this business of buying and selling DVD movies is simply to try to get rid of ones that I have seen. Everybody knows there's a lot of crap out there but I just love watching movies. So this morning after seeing my wife off to work, even after just less than three hours of sleep, I thought I'd slumber myself back to sleep with a movie. For that purpose, I picked up the wrong one.

I won't get into the story of this movie, you get that in the other reviews here. This, BTW, is my first ever movie review.

"White Palace" is as close to a perfect movie as one can get. How can it not be? I never was into the drama/love story genre; but this movie has the right balance between the lead characters, the story and the setting, the supporting cast, the music, and with the awesome partnership of James Spader and Susan Sarandon, got me stuck watching it and making me love Susan Sarandon more than before!

I've always liked Susan Sarandon more than James Spader in the movies they have separately made; but now that I've seen him in this move, I just had to find out more of his other movies. Now, I'm looking forward to getting my hands on "Storyville" and "Dream Lover".

Great job, Director Luis Mandoki! Now let me check your other work...


Dream Lover
Released in VHS Tape by Polygram Video (09 September, 1997)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Nicholas Kazan
Average review score:

Pretty Disturbing When You Think About It
If you ever thought you had a reason to suspect your significant other isn't all they claim to be, then this movie will definitely make you jumpy to find out more. The gorgeous Madchen Amick works her way into the heart of James Spader and starts him down a path of being everything he's ever wanted in a woman, yet there's things that she seems to be hiding from him. The paranoia keep growing throughout the movie as more and more clues are accidentally left for James Spader to find. It's disturbing how Madchen Amick's character is able to play Spader like a sap and trick him time and time again. Even when he catches onto her schemes, he's still not able to do anything about it because she has exit plans for everything she does. She gets away with all kinds of stuff and somehow gets people to blame James Spader's character for being unwarranted with his paranoia. It's not really an original story, but the movie is pretty disturbing. While I prefer different types of mysteries like The Courtyard more (another Madchen Amick movie), this movie provides a pretty good story with plenty of plot twists.

OK Movie...GREAT Acting by Amick
I saw this movie last night just out of nowhere because I like James Spader as an actor. Of course he did a phenomenal performance in this movie, but the actual movie was pretty played out. We've seen this plot line before! Guy meets girls, guy falls in love with girl, girl turns out to have a shady past and turns out to be a psychopath! Yada yada yada! The ending did sort of surprise me though...but Amick was amazing in this movie! This was my first time seeing her and she plays one of the best cold-hearted (actresses) I have ever seen on the screen! I would only recommend this movie if you like James Spader as an actor. Other than that...just let it sit on the shelves.

Don't Talk To Strangers, Or Marry Them...
Here is a quietly intriguing obscurity starring James Spader as lonely divorcee Ray Reardon, an architect looking to build a relationship. ............... A little too conveniently, Ray meets Lena Mathers, played by a convincingly mysterious Maedchen Amick (more recently seen in "The List"). Lena not so accidently bumps into Ray at a party, where he's been set up with a desperately shrill loser he is trying to politely ditch. After a hostile first meet due to a spilled drink, Ray sees Lena again at the local market, and there begins the end of a uneventful lonely life for Ray Reardon. .............. After a few dates, and some artful and acrobatic lovemaking scenes worthy of a "Kamma Sutra" addendum, the couple marries in a passionate whirlwind. (Incidently, I read that James Spader worked out heavily for the explicit nude scenes, and I must say, it was worth it to watch the film for that alone). After Ray makes Lena Mrs. Reardon, she soon has his baby, after which, some suspicions arise. It seems that the "Dream Lover" of the title, is not the same inside, as the "petite dark and beautiful" facade Ray assumed to be genuine through and through. Things aren't adding up, and soon Spader's Ray becomes insecure, anxious and riddled with jealousy. He sets out on a mission to clarify the facts, and alleviate the doubts. Does Ray accomplish this daunting task? You'll have to see for yourself. ............. As always, the softly handsome Spader, a personal favorite, makes a terrific victim for the stronger, more devious personality, much like in Curtis Hansons "Bad Influence"(see my review), or against rival John Cusack in "True Colors". We find ourselves rooting for Ray, even when he does things he shouldn't, because we are sympathetic to how he's been duped. Maedchen Amick is worthy of Hitchcockian ice-princess status as Lena Mathers, (although Hitchcocks were invariably blondes). She is darkly forboding, and deliciously sexy in her ingenious seduction of Ray. She hooks him with seemingly well practiced expertise, only to turn into an evil witch, thus ruining any "Ray" of hope for the fairy tale meeting and marriage. .............. As far as the subject of endings go, this one left me a bit puzzled. I'm not sure I buy it, but that's only my opinion. Let's face it, the story plot is not terribly original, yet somehow, it comes off that way regardless. ............. One thing is certain, "Dream Lover" is a very interesting character study, and a quietly sexy noir thriller that will not disappoint, particularly for those who enjoy the sympathetic character performances of James Spader.


Dream Lover
Released in VHS Tape by Polygram Video (09 September, 1997)
MPAA Rating: R (Restricted)
Director: Nicholas Kazan
Average review score:

Pretty Disturbing When You Think About It
If you ever thought you had a reason to suspect your significant other isn't all they claim to be, then this movie will definitely make you jumpy to find out more. The gorgeous Madchen Amick works her way into the heart of James Spader and starts him down a path of being everything he's ever wanted in a woman, yet there's things that she seems to be hiding from him. The paranoia keep growing throughout the movie as more and more clues are accidentally left for James Spader to find. It's disturbing how Madchen Amick's character is able to play Spader like a sap and trick him time and time again. Even when he catches onto her schemes, he's still not able to do anything about it because she has exit plans for everything she does. She gets away with all kinds of stuff and somehow gets people to blame James Spader's character for being unwarranted with his paranoia. It's not really an original story, but the movie is pretty disturbing. While I prefer different types of mysteries like The Courtyard more (another Madchen Amick movie), this movie provides a pretty good story with plenty of plot twists.

OK Movie...GREAT Acting by Amick
I saw this movie last night just out of nowhere because I like James Spader as an actor. Of course he did a phenomenal performance in this movie, but the actual movie was pretty played out. We've seen this plot line before! Guy meets girls, guy falls in love with girl, girl turns out to have a shady past and turns out to be a psychopath! Yada yada yada! The ending did sort of surprise me though...but Amick was amazing in this movie! This was my first time seeing her and she plays one of the best cold-hearted (actresses) I have ever seen on the screen! I would only recommend this movie if you like James Spader as an actor. Other than that...just let it sit on the shelves.

Don't Talk To Strangers, Or Marry Them...
Here is a quietly intriguing obscurity starring James Spader as lonely divorcee Ray Reardon, an architect looking to build a relationship. ............... A little too conveniently, Ray meets Lena Mathers, played by a convincingly mysterious Maedchen Amick (more recently seen in "The List"). Lena not so accidently bumps into Ray at a party, where he's been set up with a desperately shrill loser he is trying to politely ditch. After a hostile first meet due to a spilled drink, Ray sees Lena again at the local market, and there begins the end of a uneventful lonely life for Ray Reardon. .............. After a few dates, and some artful and acrobatic lovemaking scenes worthy of a "Kamma Sutra" addendum, the couple marries in a passionate whirlwind. (Incidently, I read that James Spader worked out heavily for the explicit nude scenes, and I must say, it was worth it to watch the film for that alone). After Ray makes Lena Mrs. Reardon, she soon has his baby, after which, some suspicions arise. It seems that the "Dream Lover" of the title, is not the same inside, as the "petite dark and beautiful" facade Ray assumed to be genuine through and through. Things aren't adding up, and soon Spader's Ray becomes insecure, anxious and riddled with jealousy. He sets out on a mission to clarify the facts, and alleviate the doubts. Does Ray accomplish this daunting task? You'll have to see for yourself. ............. As always, the softly handsome Spader, a personal favorite, makes a terrific victim for the stronger, more devious personality, much like in Curtis Hansons "Bad Influence"(see my review), or against rival John Cusack in "True Colors". We find ourselves rooting for Ray, even when he does things he shouldn't, because we are sympathetic to how he's been duped. Maedchen Amick is worthy of Hitchcockian ice-princess status as Lena Mathers, (although Hitchcocks were invariably blondes). She is darkly forboding, and deliciously sexy in her ingenious seduction of Ray. She hooks him with seemingly well practiced expertise, only to turn into an evil witch, thus ruining any "Ray" of hope for the fairy tale meeting and marriage. .............. As far as the subject of endings go, this one left me a bit puzzled. I'm not sure I buy it, but that's only my opinion. Let's face it, the story plot is not terribly original, yet somehow, it comes off that way regardless. ............. One thing is certain, "Dream Lover" is a very interesting character study, and a quietly sexy noir thriller that will not disappoint, particularly for those who enjoy the sympathetic character performances of James Spader.


Baby Boom
Released in VHS Tape by Mgm/Ua Studios (30 July, 2002)
MPAA Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Director: Charles Shyer
Starring: Diane Keaton and Sam Shepard
The writing-directing team of Charles Shyer and Nancy Meyers (Father of the Bride) made this sweet satire about a high-powered yuppie executive (Diane Keaton) who unexpectedly becomes a mom and finds she can't successfully integrate the role into her busy life. Typical of the Shyer-Meyers films prior to Myers taking the director's reins on the wonderful Parent Trap, Baby Boom is a little wooden and more sentimental than genuine. But there are entertaining moments, for sure, and Keaton is a delight. --Tom Keogh
Average review score:

I can't stop you from watching this, but...
Maybe you'd really like this film if you are nostalgic about the way Hollywood once portrayed rich people. It's amusing to watch Diane Keaton and spouse cooped up in a miniscule, overpriced Manhattan co-op filled with chrome and glass furniture and talk about how much money they make and how many hours per week they work. If you are the sort who likes watching dozens of women in dorky dark skirts and helmet hair trotting to their next power lunch, this movie is for you, Mister (or Sister). The script achieves a few high points in its unintended humor (or irony) when we hear that Diane is paid "zillions" a year to tell investors that a company must trim "operating expenses" in order to "become profitable".

Into this odd "business is evil" morality play comes a baby for whom Diane eventually develops maternal feelings, as well as a rugged country dude who can give her what she "really needs". Who knows? Even the bad 80's music groups have nostalgia value. Maybe this movie is next.

She Did It Her Way!
This review refers to MGM's DVD edition of "Baby Boom".....

They call her "The Tiger Lady". She's a woman of the 80's.She's a high powered ad exec,with a six figure income,has an apartment to die for, which she shares with her significant(but slightly dull)other(also a six figure income),and is about to become a partner in the firm.She's J.C.Wiatt,a real go-getter. She has it all. Or does she?

Diane Keaton turns in a touching and funny performance as this dynamic woman, whose life is suddenly turned upside-down by a surprising inheritance. No, not money or a family heirloom, this inheritance is "Elizabeth"....a bouncing bundle of joy who melts the heart of the Tiger Lady and will melt yours as well.A toddler was not part of J.C.'s plan.How will she juggle her career and motherhood? And what about romance,can that ever be part of her future now? It doesn't look good. But when life hands J.C. Wiatt lemons(and a baby)...she does it her way...she makes applesauce!

Written by Nancy Meyers and Charles Shyer(who also directed), it is a nostalgic look back at the evolving baby boomer.A marvelous supporting cast includes Harold Ramis, Sam Wanamaker,Sam Shepard, and James Spader as the protoge from hell. It's a sweet and funny feel good tale. The music by Bill Conti gives the perfect feel to the story.

The DVD is presented in widescreen(1.85:1) and the sound is in Dolby Digital stereo surround. The picture is good. Not the shaprest I've seen on a film this recent, but a nice view.The surround sound is nice. The music and dialouge both clear and disguinishable.There is a theatrical trailer and it may be viewed in French(also stereo) and has subtitles in French and Spanish, but none in English. If you are interested in this film and are needing English subtitles, there is a German edition(PAL)with English captioning out there. I did not see it sold here at Amazon though.

"Baby Boom" is a fun romantic comedy that was nominated for Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture(Comedy/Musical) and Best Actress(Comedy/Musical).4 stars.

Thanx and enjoy......Laurie

Carole's Review
Have watched twice now & enjoyed each time, very uplifting & funny. I would like to add this movie to my collection some day, because I don't think I'll ever get sick of it.


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