Salaam "Bombay Dreams"

Salaam "Bombay Dreams" Review

This is an excellent DVD if you accept what it is: the DVD extras without the show. There are several of the musical numbers, but it is about the genesis of the show, it is not the show itself. I missed the actual show when it came through and, having watched this, I am very disappointed. I am equally disappointed that it seems to be playing nowhere in the world, and that the book (mentioned in the interviews) does not seem to be available either. I ordered the CD Bombay Dreams (2002 Original London Cast) as a result of this and look forward to watching more Bollywood releases.

Salaam "Bombay Dreams" Overview

In June 2002, London’s West End was taken by storm when Andrew Lloyd Webber presented a new musical phenomenon – AR Rahman’s Bombay Dreams. This lavish and breathtaking production which combines the glamour of the movies, heart-aching romance and epic spectacle, won the acclaim of audiences and critics alike. It was labelled as London’s "hottest most exotic new musical", "one of the wonders of the West End" and "the best musical since The Phantom of the Opera".

Salaam Bombay Dreams is an exclusive and exciting look behind the scenes of the musical and includes footage and interviews with the team behind this spectacular epic. From Madras and Mumbai, to London, you can follow the producer, the creative team and the cast as they bring together this lavish production. Glimpse into the world of phenomenal Indian composer AR Rahman, of magnificent sets, glittering costumes, inspirational choreography, superb script writing and brilliant lyrics.

From rehearsal to opening night and a Gala Performance with a visit by Her Majesty the Queen, Salaam Bombay Dreams also features the sights and sounds of the show providing a fascinating journey through this Bollywood musical hit.

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Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni Review

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Quest for Camelot / Cats Don't Dance

Quest for Camelot / Cats Don't Dance Review

I purchased this DVD for the movie Cats Don't Dance but my nephew liked Quest for Camalot too. Cat's Don't Dance had an original plot and nice animation. Both are great for younger children.

Quest for Camelot / Cats Don't Dance Overview

Your quest for family entertainment is fulfilled! A young girl who wonders why only boys can become Knights of the Round Table proves her heroism as she joins a blind hermit and a hilarious two-headed dragon on a journey to recover King Arthur's magical sword, Excalibur. Frederik Du Chau (Racing Stripes) directs Quest for Camelot (Disc 1), with voices by Cary Elwes, Jane Seymour, Pierce Brosnan, Eric Idle and more. A star-struck feline steps out to become a dancer in 1930s movies in Cats Don't Dance (Disc 2), a romp that's part Hollywood salute, part wisecracking comedy and part paw-tapping musical. Mark Dindal (Chicken Little) guides this imaginative funfest featuring songs by Randy Newman and voice

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The Beatles - Help!

The Beatles - Help! Review

When I watch this movie (again), I remember how I loved the Beatles in the 60's. The plot is inane, the music is classic Beatles, and the Beatles play themselves. Leo McKern (later Rumpole of the Bailey) was hilarious in this film. When my grandchildren, who are ages 6 and 9 come for an overnight stay, they love to watch this movie with me. The 9 year old is now a true Beatles fan - the 3rd generation!
Watch this movie again just for fun and remember the good times in the 60's.

The Beatles - Help! Overview

After the worldwide success of A Hard Day's Night, the Beatles and director Richard Lester reunited for a follow-up film, Eight Arms to Hold You. Well, that wasn't the final title; a pleading Lennon-McCartney tune provided the catchier handle: Help! A loose semispoof of the globe-trotting James Bond pictures, Help! has always been considered a somewhat disorganized comedown from its predecessor; but it presents "the famous Beatles" even more clearly as the English cousins of the Marx Brothers. The plot has an Eastern religious cult declaring that the new ring on Ringo's finger is the key element in a human sacrifice; they will stop at nothing to obtain it. Meanwhile, a mad scientist (crazed Victor Spinetti, who also appeared in A Hard Day's Night and Magical Mystery Tour) believes that if he has the ring, he could--dare we say it?--rule the world. The songs, including "Ticket to Ride" and "You've Got to Hide Your Love Away," are filmed with gleeful ingenuity, in locations such as the Bahamas, an Austrian ski resort, and the Salisbury Plain. The relentless nonsense becomes nearly the equivalent of a swinging-'60s Alice in Wonderland: for instance, Paul shrinks to the size of a gum wrapper, John fishes a season ticket out of his soup, George wears a top hat on the ski slopes, the lads sing the "Ode to Joy" to a lion. Oh, and the film is dedicated to Elias Howe, "who in 1846 invented the sewing machine." Brilliant. --Robert Horton

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Mozart - Famous String Quartets / Gewandhaus Quartet

Mozart - Famous String Quartets / Gewandhaus Quartet Review

Recorded for the recent "24hours Mozart" broadcast celebration of his 250th birthday, this excellent DVD presents 3 major Mozart string quartets along with the ever popular Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. Watching this EuroArts DVD reminded me that there are great stylistic differences inevitably imposed by geography on the performance of Classical and Romantic era music. Listening to the Emerson Quartet play two of these quartets, for example, one hears forceful, analytic Mozart. Not inauthentic, just different: Mozart for the New World, perhaps. Listening to the Hagen Quartet play another one of these quartets, on the other hand, one hears a more ambiguous, lyrical Mozart with darker hues in the strings. The Gewandhaus-Quartett are in the latter category. Their Mozart is lyrical, laid-back, somewhat blithe, emotionally ambiguous with darkness at the edges. This seems to be a Mittel Europa style, perhaps a true Mozartean style born of two centuries of experience with this glorious music.

These performances were filmed 11-13 May 2005 in the beautiful Baroque castle of Rammenau in Saxony. The Gewandhaus-Quartett are certainly poised to provide a "true" Mozartean performance style. Amazingly, they are the longest continually active string quartet in existence. There has been a Gewandhaus-Quartett in Leipzig since 1809, and since the 1838-39 season it has been an official adjunct of the famous Gewandhaus Orchestra. The present line-up hasn't been together quite that long. Rather, they have been performing together since 1993.

The program begins with one of the two "Haydn Quartets" that are presented on this disc: the string quartet no.19 in C Major K.465 "Dissonance". This is followed by the string quartet no.21 in D Major K.575, the first "Prussian" quartet, composed for the cello playing King Friedrich Wilhelm II of Prussia, who had commissioned six quartets following his introduction to Mozart in April 1789 by Prince Karl von Lichnowsky. Next on the program is the Serenade in G Major K.525, "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik". Finally, first of the "Haydn Quartets", string quartet no.14 in G Major K.387 "Spring". It is a well chosen program of Mozart's finest quartets. I've watched this disc many times and I never tire of this sublime musique du chambre. The Gewandhaus-Quartett seem to hit all the right buttons, emphasizing the lyricism as well as emotional ambiguity and drama that is the hallmark of Mozart's finest mature work. If you have any interest in Mozart's string quartets, or if you desire a good introduction to the glorious music that awaits you, this disc is a fine place to start.

The picture format of this DVD is NTSC with a region code of 0 worldwide. The film is shot in 16/9 anamorphic widescreen and looks beautiful. The sound formats available are PCM stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1 Digital Surround. The DTS 5.1 sounds crystalline with rich presence and superb spatial localization of the strings. The Dolby 5.1, slightly less focused is nonetheless equally present and clear. PCM stereo is also excellent, though obviously less spatially deep. There are the usual menus. Extras include a short photo documentary about the recording: Behind the Scenes. Running time of this disc is 102 minutes.

This is an excellent DVD of some of the finest string quartets ever composed. I enjoy this disc immensely. Very strongly recommended for everyone, especially for lovers of Mozart and chamber music.

Mike Birman

Mozart - Famous String Quartets / Gewandhaus Quartet Overview

W A MOZART:FAMOUS STRING QTS - DVD Movie

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Savage Garden - Superstars And Cannonballs: Live And On Tour In Australia

Savage Garden - Superstars And Cannonballs: Live And On Tour In Australia Review

Taken from the Brisbane concert on the Affirmation World Tour of 2000, "Superstars and Cannonballs" captures the amazing energy of Darren Hayes and Daniel Jones onstage as well as behind-the-scenes. The very complete concert portion features a mix of songs from Savage Garden (Break Me Shake Me, I Want You, Santa Monica, To The Moon And Back, Truly Madly Deeply) and Affirmation (The Best Thing, The Lover After Me, Hold Me, Two Beds and a Coffee Machine, Crash and Burn, You Can Still Be Free, The Animal Song, Gunning Down Romance, Chained To You, I Knew I Loved You, Affirmation), clocking in at a hefty 110 minutes. The concert can be played all the way through or you can select individual songs.

Also included is the band's commentary, displayed via a pop-up window in the lower right-hand corner of the screen regarding their feelings on the new songs from Affirmation, three music videos (two studio versions of Crash and Burn and I Knew I Loved You and a concert montage of Affirmation), several multi-angle songs, a discography, and the intriguing documentary "Parallel Lives" that traces Savage Garden's roots in Brisbane (Darren revisits his childhood home with original carpet and fence), life on the road, the price of fame, and silly moments with the band. We see Darren at press conferences and meet and greets, and it's clear from both Darren and Daniel how much their fans mean to them personally and not just as (Australian) dollar signs.

Special mention goes to the awesome title menu. So often, boring, static backgrounds are used, but there is a minute-long animation of fascinating imagery (Russian religious icons, tribal sculptures, botanical prints) that introduces the DVD and the concert itself. The concert is beautifully photographed as well, with the mind-boggling lighting and special effects. A real treat for Savage Garden fans and anyone looking for those elusive "Finally, a concert DVD done justice!" moments.

Savage Garden - Superstars And Cannonballs: Live And On Tour In Australia Overview

SUPERSTARS & CANNONBALLS:LIVE & ON TO - DVD Movie

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The Music Never Ends (Two-Disc Special Edition)

The Music Never Ends (Two-Disc Special Edition) Review

Wow! Though i wasn't a big fan of this style of music i can't help but be blown away by this man's amazing vocal range. The older i get the more i appreciate talent and here is one that is loaded with it. He is a living example and pattern for all other singers to watch and listen and learn from. This DVD is lovingly directed by one of my favorites Clint Eastwood and it shows beautifully the almost magical talent and charismatic charm of Bennett as he proves that he's one of our greatest singers even at 80 and still going strong. This DVD is as warm and inviting as a fireplace on a cold night and this crooner deserves all the accolades he gets and like fine wine and time he has truly stood the test and God has definatley smiled down on Tony Bennett, just watch this concert/interview film for living proof.

The Music Never Ends (Two-Disc Special Edition) Overview

Brings together rarely seen archival clips, exclusive new performance footage of Tony's Monterey Jazz Festival premiere and revealing conversations with interviewer Clint Eastwood. The two legendary entertainers share an easy on-screen rapport as they reflect on the singer's life and career. Woven together masterfully by director Bruce Ricker, the film brings Tony Bennett's warmth, heart and soul to the screen just as he brings it to each of his songs.

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Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Review

Not only do they taste good, but they're fun to look at.

Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (1971) has captivated audiences for the last four decades. I remember this movie would be shown on TV once a year. It was kind of like The Wizard Of Oz - it was something everyone would look forward to once a year. This was before there were VCRs and cable television. How spoiled we all are nowadays.

Gene Wilder was brilliantly cast as Willy Wonka. The sets are outstanding considering this movie came out in '71.

My favorite scene in this movie has always been when Violet turns into a blueberry and the Oompas roll her out of the room. It still makes me laugh to this day.

Another one of my favorite scenes is when Charlie and his grandfather are floating up in the room with the fan and the bubbles and they burp their way down.

This widescreen edition contains a documentary called Pure Imagination: The Story Of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, audio commentary from the actors in the movie, four sing-along songs, a Vintage 1971 Featurette, a stills gallery, and the theatrical trailer.

This movie's a classic that I recommend to anyone who hasn't seen it.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Overview

A poor little boy wins a ticket to visit the inside of a mysterious and magical chocolate factory. When he experiences the wonders inside the factory, the boy discovers that the entire visit is a test of his character.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Specifications

Having proven itself as a favorite film of children around the world, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory is every bit as entertaining now as it was when originally released in 1971. There's a timeless appeal to Roald Dahl's classic children's novel, which was playfully preserved in this charming musical, from the colorful carnival-like splendor of its production design to the infectious melody of the "Oompah-Loompah" songs that punctuate the story. Who can forget those diminutive Oompah-Loompah workers who recite rhyming parental warnings ("Oompah-Loompah, doopity do...") whenever some mischievous child has disobeyed Willy Wonka's orders to remain orderly? Oh, but we're getting ahead of ourselves ... it's really the story of the impoverished Charlie Bucket, who, along with four other kids and their parental guests, wins a coveted golden ticket to enter the fantastic realm of Wonka's mysterious confectionery. After the other kids have proven themselves to be irresponsible brats, it's Charlie who impresses Wonka and wins a reward beyond his wildest dreams. But before that, the tour of Wonka's factory provides a dazzling parade of delights, and with Gene Wilder giving a brilliant performance as the eccentric candyman, Wonka gains an edge of menace and madness that nicely counterbalances the movie's sentimental sweetness. It's that willingness to risk a darker tone--to show that even a wonderland like Wonka's can be a weird and dangerous place if you're a bad kid--that makes this an enduring family classic. --Jeff Shannon

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Blues Vocals:Ultimate Beginner Series

Blues Vocals:Ultimate Beginner Series Review

The banter in some sections can be downright annoying. I think this is an attempt to make it more entertaining, but if you are not a professional entertainer, stick to what you know. It is a lame attempt to make the video more colorful but simply fails and makes the tape seem less professional. Having gotten that out of the way, I think this is a very good resource for someone wanting to learn to sing the Blues. It has some very logical and useful exercises and approaches to understanding and executing the Blues. I do recommend it for these reasons. One thing to be aware of is that the keys are switched at some points between what I believe the piano player is playing and what the vocalists later sing, and this might confuse you so be aware that this will happen later in the tape. I thought that this could have been thought out, or at least explained, a little more professionally as well.

Blues Vocals:Ultimate Beginner Series Feature

• DVD
• With Carol Rodgers and Masta Robert Edwards, Jr.
• Format DVD

Blues Vocals:Ultimate Beginner Series Overview

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER ON DVD NOW FOR PROGRAMS ON ONE. THIS DVD CONTAINS VOCAL BASICS ONE, VOCAL BASICS TWO, BLUES VOCALS STEP ONE AND STEP TWO ALL IN ONE. TOTAL RUNNING TIME OF 135 MIN.

DEVELOP YOUR BLUES STYLE AND PHRASING USING THE BLUES SCALE, MAJOR PENTATONIC SCALE, CALL-&- RESPONSE, EXPAND YOUR BLUES STYLE AND PHRASING, WRITE AND SING YOUR OWN BLUES, SING ALONG WITH B.B. KING, ALBERT COLLINS AND ROBBEN FORD AND MUCH MORE!

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Natalie Dessay - Greatest Moments on Stage

Natalie Dessay - Greatest Moments on Stage Review

If I wanted a DVD to show friends why they should even consider the idea that they could enjoy opera, THIS WOULD BE THE ONE!

Among many other vignettes, this contains three different performances, over the years of the "Olympia, the doll" scene from Tales of Hoffmann. They each have something to add to the repertoire. For me, the outdoor performance of 2000 was dazzling with Dessay's expressive face, voice, light feet, delightful sense of humor, AND her interaction with a half dozen gigantic dolls! Comparing the three performances might be a great way to introduce friends to the splendid art of opera.

All the arias are wonderful, but I also have to mention her Lucia di Lammermoor: it is so dramatic and heart-wrenching that I was afraid she was going to collapse. It really does bring back thoughts of Maria Callas.

Whether you've seen Natalie Dessay, or just read the reviews, you will soon see that she is everything we dream of in an opera singer: great (amazing!) singing, outstanding dramatic and humorous acting, and a bundle of energy that just can't be contained.

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Spinout/Double Trouble

Spinout/Double Trouble Review

It's nice to re-release these 2 films, at a very good price, considering they are .99 each at the moment. However it would be better if they released movies that are not yet released... "Kissin' Cousins", "Girl Happy", "This is Elvis", to name a few... Just the same old repackaging job again. Mind you, this has been the story of Elvis' career (while alive and especially now): re-release, re-package, again and again. There is still quite a bit of stuff not on DVD yet (I forgot to mention "Elvis on Tour' and "Elvis in Concert"), so why not them instead?

Spinout/Double Trouble Overview

Elvis Presley is at the wheel and headed for a romantic Spinout! The renowned pop icon plays a racecar driver who aims to keep his eyes on the road instead of the ladies. But dangerous curves are ahead in the persons of three lovely, marriage-minded women (including Shelly Fabares). Songs: Stop, Look, Listen plus eight more. In Double Trouble, Presley portrays a singer who discovers two intriguing beauties are tailing him during his European tour. But they aren't the only people following him after a stash of hot diamonds ends up in his suitcase. Songs include the very lively, very Elvis Long Legged Girl. Have fun!

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You Cannot Start Without Me: Valery Gergiev, Maestro

You Cannot Start Without Me: Valery Gergiev, Maestro Review

From the time of his emergence on the scene in Western Europe and North America, conductor Valery Gergiev has been controversial. His almost spastic conducting style, his incredibly full schedule seemingly more than one man could fulfill and, most of all, the musical results of his efforts have led to divided opinions among music lovers. This documentary, made originally for New York's public TV station WNET, does a pretty good job of drawing a portrait of the man, delving into such things as his origins, his devotion to the music and culture of Russia, his rehearsal style, and his hectic professional life (and resultantly meager private life). There are ample clips of rehearsals and performances including concert performances of Mussorgsky's Russian Easter and excerpts from many other Russian standards by Stravinsky, Rimsky-Korsakoff, Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky. Among the extras are sections about the reconstruction of St. Petersburg's Mariinsky Theater, the Moscow Easter Festival and the like, as well as Gergiev holding forth on topics such as conducting, opera, ballet and management of musical organizations. He is clearly shown to be a force of nature both within and without his native Russia. There are commentaries by his manager, members of the London Symphony, soprano Anna Netrebko and others.

The visual aspects of this DVD are delightful. I had some difficulty understanding some of the spoken parts of the film, at least partly because Gergiev himself has a rather low-pitched gruff voice and his English, while fluent, is highly accented and there are no helpful English subtitles for his spoken English. There are subtitles for the non-English portions of the film.

I would recommend this film to those who are already fans of Maestro Gergiev. And perhaps those who are new to him would find it interesting, although possibly a bit less so. Certainly one has an opportunity to experience the sometimes electric results he gets from orchestras.

Total timing: Documentary 87mins; extras 69mins; Subtitles: English, French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish; Sound: PCM Stereo; Dolby Digital 5.1; Picture format: DVD 9 NTSC, 16:9; Region code: 0 (worldwide) playable on NTSC and PAL machines

Scott Morrison

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All About Rhythm Mandolin!

All About Rhythm Mandolin! Review

All About Rhythm Mandolin! Overview

Sam Bush s rhythm playing is without peer in the world of the mandolin - part bluegrass, part reggae, part rock n roll. Here, he shows all aspects of his style: Chopping, strumming, accenting, damping, subdividing beats, keeping good time and more. The art of rhythm mandolin starts with Bill Monroe, and Sam passes along powerful insights into getting your chop together. Once you ve got the basics down, he shows a myriad of rhythmic variations that you can use to add drive, power and excitement to your playing. Sam details his accompaniments for two of his most popular performance pieces. On Bob Dylan s Girl From the North Country, he explains what to do when you want to create an interesting accompaniment to your singing. His performance tour de force, Little Feat s Sailing Shoes, encompasses rhythmic strumming, bluesy licks, octave soloing and other dynamic mandolin grooves. Extra! Sam provides important tips on tuning up and gives you a close look at "Ol' Hoss," his 1937 Gibson mandolin, with its unusual finish, cut-off fingerboard, pickups and other unique details.

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The Wiggles: Wiggly, Wiggly World!

The Wiggles: Wiggly, Wiggly World! Review

I think this is the best of the Wiggles videos. It's really neat to see Australian singers who usually sing to adult audiences sing and interact with the Wiggles to child-themed songs. A huge warning to all adults - these songs will stick in your head and you'll find yourself singing them in the shower if you're not careful! You've been warned - these songs are seriously addictive. :-) My 4-year old keeps asking for this DVD. Would definitely recommend it.

The Wiggles: Wiggly, Wiggly World! Overview

Imagine a world where everyone is smiling and laughing. It's a wonderful, wacky and whimsical world. It's a Wiggly, Wiggly World! Join Greg, Murray, Anthony and Jeff as they welcome many friends from around the world who've come to share their own special styles of music. Aussie country music legend Slim Dusty will be there. So will Tim Finn from Crowded House and Split Enz with some fun-filled songs for children. And thanks to Dorothy the Dinosaur and Captain Feathersword, there will be plenty of Wiggling. Welcometo the Wiggly, Wiggly World! of The Wiggles. SONGS In The Wiggles World Here Come The Wiggles In The Big Red Car We Like To Ride I Love To Have A Dance With Dorothy (Featuring Slim Dusty) Taba Naba (Featuring Christine Anu) Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport (Featuring Rolf Harris) Sing With Me (Featuring Kanahl) Hey, Hey, Hey, We're All Pirate Dancing Another Cuppa Starry Night Six Months In A Leaky Boat (Wiggly Version) (Featuring Tim Finn) One Little Coyote Blow Me Down Let's Go (We're Riding In The Big Red Car) Morningtown Ride (Featuring Jimmy Little) Haru Ga Kita (Featuring Atsuko Arai)

DVD Features:
Featurette
Other

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Real Wild Child: Joan Jett Video Anthology

Real Wild Child: Joan Jett Video Anthology Review

As any rocker knows, Joan Jett was the ORIGINAL "Rock Chick" and set the standards for all future fem rockers to follow in her wake. After leaving The Runaways (which also featured super rock chik Lita Ford)and forming the Blackhearts, Joan Jett carved out a niche that only she could stand in. There was literally no competition from "Lite rock" girl groups ala VIXEN. This 2 dvd set contains a mind staggering amount of videos that span her entire career. With Joan & Kenny introducting each vid and interspersing little anecdotes here and there, it's absolutely the definetive Joan Jett fan's dream. BUT, HERE'S THE FLAWED PART. Whereas the introductions and interviews sound and look fantastic, some of the videos themselves weren't remastered and look grainy and SOUND ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE! The vids for "Do ya wanna touch me?", Cherry Bomb, Everyday people, and many more sound as if you've covered your speakers with blankets! The sound is muffled and flat and the volume differences between clips is erratic from one clip to the next. as a J.J. fan, I can handle it, but would love a proper remaster that would LOOK and SOUND great enough to pump the stereo up to 10 and rock the neighbors! Unfortunately, when I pump the stereo up to 10, it sound like it's on 6. I would have given this 5 stars easily, but the sound quality belittles the fantastic content. REMASTER!!!!!!!SOON!!!!!! Otherwise, Joan Jett Rocks and this collection is amazing!

Real Wild Child: Joan Jett Video Anthology Overview

2 DVD set featurng over 35 videos from Joan Jett's amazing career. Contains some rare videos and live performances. Total Track Listing: Bad Reputation (concert version)Bad Reputation (original video)Do You Wanna Touch Me? (original video)Do You Wanna Touch Me? (Euro TV)I Love Rock N' Roll (original video)I Love Rock N' Roll (color video)Crimson and Clover (original video)Crimson and Clover (Euro TV)Boardwalk CommercialFake FriendsEveryday PeopleThe French SongCherry BombI Need SomeoneI Love You Love Me Love (original video)I Love You Love Me Love (Live NYE '85)Making of the "Good Music" video Good Music I Hate Myself For Lovin' You Little Liar (original video)Little Liar (concert version)I Wanna Be Your Dog Dirty Deeds Love Hurts Have You Ever Seen The Rain? Backlash Don't Surrender Don't Surrender (video remix)Only Good Thing Go HomeEye To Eye As I Am FetishLight Of DayI Love Rock N' Roll ('92 version) Love Is All Around Unfinished Business (courtesy Madison Square Garden, L.P.)Real Wild Child Cherry Bomb (featuring Cherie Currie '01)DVD Bonus Material:Blackheart/MCA CommercialProjection Background Reel Fit To Be Tied Commercial (TV ad)Fit To Be Tied Commercial (TV ad)

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The Original Kings of Comedy/ Queens of Comedy Gift Set

The Original Kings of Comedy/ Queens of Comedy Gift Set Review

i watched this with a friend of mines years ago. i watched it again and i enjoyed it then and enjoy it now. everybody does their best however cedric and bernie mac steal the show. bernie mac is especially good. be warned, he says what he wants with language that is hard to swallow. i loved his performance and realized what talent we lost a couple years ago. watch it and enjoy.

The Original Kings of Comedy/ Queens of Comedy Gift Set Overview

Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 01/25/2005 Rating: R

The Original Kings of Comedy/ Queens of Comedy Gift Set Specifications

The Original Kings of Comedy achieves the seemingly impossible task of capturing the rollicking and sly comedy routines of stand-up and sitcom vets Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Bernie Mac and the magic of experiencing a live concert show. Director Spike Lee and his crew plant a multitude of cameras in a packed stadium and onstage (as well as backstage, as they follow the comedians) to catch the vivid immediacy of the show, which is as much about the audience as it is about the jokes. And the jokes are funny.

All four riff fast and furiously (and with much swearing) on the world in terms of race, family, sex, and in one routine, outer space. Hughley takes comedic aim at extreme sports and eating disorders, while Cedric harks back to the day when gang fights meant calling opponents out onto the dance floor. Bernie Mac, the self-confessed id comedian of the group, presents a routine that is simultaneously offensive and hilarious--an apt reminder that comedy can and should be vicious if we are ever to learn to laugh at ourselves and hopefully be the better for it. Harvey, who acts as the MC for the show, has some transcendent moments with the crowd (a '70s slow jam sing-along, anyone?) that have to be seen to be believed. There's no doubt as to why Kings was a hit with concert and movie audiences; the laughs keep coming, in the tradition of Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy, with a sharp eye on the nuances of today's racially affected culture. --Shannon Gee

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Rejoice & Be Merry

Rejoice & Be Merry Review

I already knew I would enjoy the choir combined with the Temple Square orchestra, but the overwhelming beauty of these arrangements surpassed all of my expectations. On top of that, it would be an enormous understatement to say that the King Singers were icing on the cake. What a pleasant surprise! While I had not heard them before, my whole family was completely moved to tears by these marvelous vocalists, their harmonious treatment of our holiday favorites, and the warm personality they added to what was already a delightful show. I have other Christmas CD's by this world-class choir and orchestra, but far and away "Rejoice and Be Merry" is my favorite yet. But get the DVD; you must see the faith and sincerity in the faces of the choir members as they sing such moving hymns as "The First Noel". And the lively, colorful and humorous rendition of "The 12 Days of Christmas" by the young dance group is uplifting and heartwarming, and will forever linger on as a seasonal favorite in my family. We watched this DVD a dozen times during the Christmas season, and I even ordered a second one a few weeks later as a gift for my 86 year old dad, who was so bowled over by the King Singers, especially, that he expressed an interest in acquiring a copy for himself.

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The Magic Flute - Criterion Collection

The Magic Flute - Criterion Collection Review

This movie is visually stunning. It's weak and under orchestrated in places. The Queen of the Night is visually extravagant and should be, but suffers vocally in this movie. Her arias are sublime and not treated so. Sarastro is magnifique-beautiful baritone.
If one could overdub the 1980 Deutsche Grammophon(Herbert Von Karajan,cond.,Karen Ott as Queen of the Night) recording over Ingmar Bergman's film prowess it would be an absolute masterwork.
It's still not bad. I'd recommend it, but it could have been done better.

The Magic Flute - Criterion Collection Overview

Ingmar Bergman puts his indelible stamp on Mozart's exquisite opera in this sublime rendering of one of the composer's best-loved works: a celebration of love, forgiveness, and the brotherhood of man. The Magic Flute (Trollflöjten) stars Josef Köstlinger as Tamino, the young man determined to rescue a beautiful princess from the clutches of parental evil. Criterion's edition features the film's glorious soundtrack in the original stereo format.

The Magic Flute - Criterion Collection Specifications

Ingmar Bergman's vision of The Magic Flute (sung here in Swedish) remains oneof the indisputable classics in the opera-as-film catalog, its charm and enchantment undiminished since the film's initial release in the 1970s. This is a case not of competition between two geniuses (and two media) but of affirmative, graceful, and enlightening synergy. Instead of simply filming a staged run-through of the opera, Bergman chooses to play with the framework around such a performance (given in Stockholm's elegant Drottningholm Theatre)--and he moreover rearranges the order of the scenes in the final act. Intermittent shots of audience reactions--including those of a young girl infectiously involved in the story--and sudden, psychologically probing close-up angles result in a richly textured, multilayered effect.

Certainly Bergman renders the fairy-tale aspects of Mozart's mise-en-scène with such buoyant detail that the film makes an excellent entrée both for youngsters and for anyone who is uneasy about how to approach an opera. Yet there is much food for thought to be savored by the already initiated as well. One of Bergman's more brilliant interventions is to depict Sarastro and the Queen of the Night as a divorced couple engaged in a bitter battle over daughter Pamina. The director supplies plenty of energetic wit and arabesques of allusion (in addition to his Prospero-like demeanor, the high priest Sarastro is shown at one point during the intermission perusing the score of Parsifal), and--as might be expected of one of film's greatest symbolists--teases out the opera's weightier allegorical levels with hauntingly beautiful effect. Brilliant chiaroscuro and contrasted lighting patterns, for example, offer ongoing visual commentary on the contest between darkness and light. The cast is exceptionally photogenic, their abundant youth and obvious chemistry more than compensating for the often no-more-than-mediocre vocal performances (with the exception of Håkan Hagegård's utterly disarming, still-fresh portrayal of Papageno). For a desert-island audio recording, try Thomas Beecham. --Thomas May

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The Little Princess

The Little Princess Review

This has always been my favorite Shirley Temple movie. I have the B&W VHS version, but this colorized version really brings the movie to life. It is excellent viewing for all ages and highly recommended. Thanks, Amazon, for the FAST shipping.

The Little Princess Overview

Studio: Gaiam Americas Release Date: 08/13/2002

The Little Princess Specifications

Shirley Temple stars in this 1939 version of the Frances Hodgson Burnett novel about a little, motherless girl left in the care of a girls boarding school by her soldier father, and then made into a servant there when he's missing in action during World War I. The fine tear-jerking film is a good vehicle for the famous moppet, and director Walter Lang (The King and I) makes a memorably lavish production of the Victorian milieu. The final scene, in which our Shirley is helped by one of the most famous women in history, brings down the house. The DVD release contains a theatrical trailer and Dolby sound. --Tom Keogh

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The Verbier Festival & Academy 10th Anniversary: Piano Extravaganza

The Verbier Festival & Academy 10th Anniversary: Piano Extravaganza Review

Invaluable info and opinions have already been given, with which I largely agree. And of course I bought the disc for the Bach, which did not disappoint in the least. Here's what I have to add:

The Mozart K521 (duet with Argerich and Kissin) has always struck me as pretty trite. But these two play the hell out of it, and it is truly fascinating to watch their technique up close as well as their cheerful interaction.

The camera-work is at times overly busy, but mostly quite a good balance of tasteful and interesting. They showed me quite a bit of what I wanted to see, which is no small feat when navigating 4-8 pianos.

I'm afraid Lang Lang doing seemingly everything in his power to get more attention than his 7 costars (by sheer theater) was rather nauseating. Thankfully, he is completely absent from the serious works on this disc! He only plays in the big 8-piano arrangements. I much prefer the humble approach taken by... well, everyone else on stage. They are consummate professionals. It's really fascinating to watch their faces as they respond to their own and others' playing; it's like a mini personality survey of the major players in the piano world.

The Rossini, Wagner, Benjamin, Gottschalk, and Rimsky-Korsafov offer no surprises and little value beyond the novelty, unless you just love background music, medleys of bland popular melodies, Lang Lang, and that sort of thing.

However, the Morton Gould "Stars and Stripes Forever Suite" (arranged by Michael Rot) was a delightful surprise! Musically, again, nothing to write home about (though more substantive than the pieces I just mentioned), but here's where the camerawork and the ensemble dynamics really came together. When I think of the unique texture and visual possibilities of a piano extravaganza, this is what I imagine. For example, lovely shots across the four keyboards aligned on each side, showing eight arms at once (or sixteen in a gimmicky but effective split-screen shot) in synchronized/syncopated movement. And lots of technique to wow at, since Gould/Rot demands quite a few pianistic tricks, which are accomplished with zeal and joy.

So I'd hazard to say if you are looking at this page in the first place, you will probably get a lot of enjoyment out of the disc. One last thing: I actually found a clip from this concert (from the Bach) on youtube before I even knew the DVD was available. Poor quality of course, but a great way to see if this stuff will strike your fancy.

The Verbier Festival & Academy 10th Anniversary: Piano Extravaganza Overview

PIANO EXTRAVAGANZA - DVD Movie

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Le Corsaire

Le Corsaire Review

Had I written this review 10 years ago, I would have given it the full five stars. The masters of this DVD could have actually re-processed it a bit to make it a little clearer. Just pure laziness and a 'take it or leave it' attitude I guess.
This performance has just about every mark of greatness of execution that can ever be expected. Seeing Asylmuratova and Pankova together.... that is what great stuff is made of. Music has been performed quite well and given the fact that it was recorded eons ago,very very acceptable recording.

I know people have gone gaga over Ruzimatov. Frankly, he just doesn't compare well enough with ever so many others. In fact the old tape of Rudolph Nureyev dancing the slave dance is about the ultimate one can think in terms of this. I have seen another recording of Ruzimatov's performance in London of the same stuff in the Makarova's first reunion with the Kirov with practically the same cast. Ruzimatov has this totally unacceptable expression on his face as though he troubled by a nasty smell all the time. Just observe it next time you watch it..

There is only that much you can do with this ballet, and I don't think I shall BUY another even if it comes out in High Definition and wide screen, UNLESS the newbies come up to Asylmuratova/Pankova standards. The men other than Ali don't have too much to do anyway, with the exception of that one slave dance, which has so far never matched the old Nureyev recording. Not to my knowledge.

Le Corsaire Overview

Magnificent scenic effects and dramatic choreography have ensured the popularity of Petipa’s exotic ballet Le Corsaire, a story of pirates and shipwreck, set on the Ionian coast. This production features the Kirov Ballet with Altynai Asylmuratova and Faroukh Ruzimatov who give exuberant and extroverted performances. "…the leading dancers were little short of sensational". THE STAGE. With the Kirov Theatre Orchestra

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Keeping Score-Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique [Blu-ray]

Keeping Score-Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique [Blu-ray] Review

Those of you classical music buffs who read the Penguin Gramophone Record and CD reviews for bedtime will know that only very special discs are awarded the coveted rosette. Why do I think this disc is so special ?
Well, for starters Michael T Thomas, the conductor, comes up with an educational yet very entertaining introduction and analysis of Berlioz's "Symphonie Fantastique", an inspired musical dream, if ever there was one. In an informal, partly serious, partly gossipy style, MTT narrates the the passion of Berlioz for Harriet Smithson, his muse and idee fixe for this melodramatic symphony, accompanied by high definition video of Paris and the French countryside. The analysis is not profound musicology, but just enough to enhance one's understanding and appreciation of the structure of the piece, and the character of this Byronic megalomaniac.
Secondly, this disc sets the future standard for video work for orchestral recordings, thanks indeed to state of the art camera technology and the great coordination between the score reader and the camera team. The video is spot on the various sections of the large orchestra as the complex symphony unfolds and it's as if one were reading the score, pictorially. This disc fulfills the the raison d'etre of classical music on video most elegantly, and that is that one should "see the music"
Last and most importantly, we are treated to a complete concert performance of the Symphony by the San Francisco Symphonic Orchestra, enthusiastically conducted by Thomas, in an audio recording to take one's breath away. In either Dolby TruHD 5.1 or Tru HD 7.1 format, the recorded sound is truly stupendous! The sound stage is full in height and breadth within which musical instruments or sections are boldly 'imaged'. In the 1st movement (Reverie), listen to the the leitmotiv with the high flutes and woodwinds underpinned by the growling cellos and basses. Some conductors emphasize the mysterious aspect of this passage, Thomas emphasizes the delirious ! The "Ball" is played wonderfully in a lilting, rhythmic fashion, with shimmering strings augmented to great effect by the two harps. The "Scene in the Field" opens with a delicious back and forth by the cor anglais, echoed by an oboe off stage, and the Alpine horn melody is then passed on to flute and then to the horns all the time counterpointed by the lower strings. Beautiful.I feel this is the best movement, quiet , pastoral and tender. MTT gives us one of the most exciting "March to the Scaffold" and the sound is really spectacular, especially the drum rolls. But the sonic pyrotechnics are at their peak in the last movement "Witches Sabbath". Audiophiles should have their hearts' delight with the fabulously recorded bass strings, screeching bassoons and flutes; the passage with the bells and the sonorous tuba is worth noting, but above all the drums. Tight,full and deep the drums give a visceral punch and on a system with a good subwoofer you can almost feel the air move. This has to be the best recorded classical music disc, period.
One may argue here and there over points of interpretation, but overall MTT gives a most satisfactory account and this rave review is in no small measure influenced by the fantastic audio and standard setting video/camera work. Friends this is a very special disc.

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Hendrix

Hendrix Review

a lot of people put this movie down. i'm here to tell you that i saw it about a month ago & i dont know much about hendrix, but this movie made me so curious about him that i've purchased 3 books, and 2 dvd's just to learn more. he was so unique--in one book someone called him a beautiful butterfly that people tried to cage. he was bad to the bone and yet so vulnerable. he went thru hell never seeming to find the serenity he needed. anyhow i gave this movie 5 stars cuz i've been buying jimi hendrix material ever since i saw it, and will buy more. he was amazing!! FAST FORWARD...IT IS NOW 5/08, and i looked at this movie again after watching berkely, monterey, isle of wight, etc. and after viewing so much of the real thing, i can now see where they went wrong with the movie. for instance, the wording was all backwards when Harris tried to say what Hendrix really said "I can say thank you, thank you, thank you," before he performed wild thing. nevertheless, Harris really tried after all Hendrix was so unique & beautiful. I can imagine that it was difficult trying to play him. And this is the movie that made me so curious about the real man that I now have books and dvds all about his life. and i'm glad to know that Hendrix may have been vulnerable, but he was still a man and put ppl in their place when he needed to. his only fault was signin those contracts, but he wanted to get that outta the way so he could play his music. thats all he wanted.

Hendrix Overview

On stage, Jimi Hendrix electrified audiences with his powerful guitar playing and mesmerizing performances. But behind the scenes, this rising star was on crash course with destiny. Filled with the boundary-pushing music that made him an icon and starring a fantastic ensemble cast, including Wood Harris (Remember the Titans), Billy Zane (Titanic), Dorian Harewood (Sudden Death) and Vivica A. Fox (Independence Day), Hendrix is an eye-popping "re-creation of theera of peace, love and psychedelic guitar riffs" (The Hollywood Reporter)! Raised on the wrong side of the tracks, young Jimi Hendrix knew that his music was going to be his ticket togreatness. Discovered by an unscrupulous manager (Zane) and put on an exhausting world tour, Hendrix was pushed to the limit but it paid off. Stunning audiences at Monterey and Woodstock, this ground-breaking artist was clearly on his way up. Until fame led him into a dark haze of drugs and alcohol a course that would fatally end his euphoric rise to the top.

Hendrix Specifications

Most television movies about real-life rock & roll heroes are a deadening mix of biographical bullet-points and sensational recreations of outré behavior. Rarely does the essence of a pop artist, great or otherwise, come into focus within the spuriously tragic atmosphere of the kind of TV bio-pic that has made fools of the likes of the Beach Boys and John Lennon. Happily, that's not the case with Leon Ichaso's Hendrix, a remarkably sensitive film, originally broadcast on cable, that refuses to exploit guitar legend Jimi Hendrix's mythic appetites nor reduce his prodigious genius to bite-size drama. It is, instead, a portrait of the artist as a field of incongruous energy, sprawling everywhere and nowhere at once, remote from his roots and pained by the disruptive, implacable force of his awesome talent. Wood Harris (Remember the Titans) is wonderful as Hendrix, masterfully capturing the rock god's legendary shyness, unabashed sexual adventurism, and constant redefinition of his purpose and sound. Keeping him on a short tether is Hendrix's management team, which insists he keep up a grueling schedule for the money and throws obstacles onto the path of his creative freedom. Cuban director Ichaso (Sugar Hill) makes clever use out of a fictional, black-and-white interview Hendrix supposedly gave a journalist on the day he died. In it he talks about everything that comes to mind: playing guitar for African American singers on the old rhythm & blues circuit, the thrill of his triumphs during the London blues scene in 1967, and his efforts to mollify advocates of black militarism without becoming involved in it. Terrific support work by Billy Zane as Hendrix's would-be puppeteer, Christian Potenza as former Animals bassist- turned-rock-manager Chas Chandler, and Dorian Harewood as Al Hendrix. --Tom Keogh

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Live In Montreal

Live In Montreal Review

Being a huge John Scofield fan, I must admit that my review may be biased. Having said that, I found this concert to be excellent! There is so little video of John available that there isn't much to compare it to, but this one is well done for being recorded in 1992. Video is good, sound is good, my only complaint would be that it is not available in hi-def.

While all the musicians in this combo were excellent, I found the drummer in this combo to be very impressive. Great jazz chops. At one point he is hitting the snare with the palm of his hand during a solo.

I also own John Scofield - Live 3 Ways. I thought this DVD is better, but mainly because it is longer.

If you like John Scofield, you will love this DVD regardless of the price. Great performance.

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Duran Duran - Classic Albums: Rio

Duran Duran - Classic Albums: Rio Review

This DVD Documentary on the FAB FIVE'S greatest album of all time....RIO....is a must have for all DURANIES!!! I'll admit, my first one had the "skipping" issues and flaws (bought it at Virgin Megastore), but once I purchased it through Amazon, I had no further problems! It is such a wonderful "look back" at a great album (my personal favorite out of all their albums). The guys look great and give some wonderful insight to the songs and the music. My only "down side" to the disc was that they did not discuss every song on the album(apparently for time purposes). Two of my favorites that were not discussed were "Lonely in your Nightmare" and "Last Chance on the Stairway". I guess since they were not "hits', they were passed by. To bad....those are great songs! But, the disc is wonderful and it is loaded with alot of information and history that every Duranie can their teeth into! So buy it and enjoy.........I love mine!!!! Bye...Donna "RHO" Rasco/Yucaipa, CA

Duran Duran - Classic Albums: Rio Overview

This latest addition to the acclaimed Classic Albums series takes us to the early eighties and the release of Duran Duran's second album "Rio". Released against a backdrop of riots, record unemployment and the Falklands War this optimistic and celebratory album would generate a string of hit singles and groundbreaking videos and catapult Duran Duran to global stardom. This DVD tells the story behind the writing, recording and subsequent success of the album through newly filmed interviews, musical demonstrations and both new and archive performances.

TRACK LISTING: Features excerpts from: Rio, My Own Way, Hungry Like The Wolf, New Religion, Save A Prayer, The Chauffeur & more...

Bonus Features: Brand new session performances filmed in Boston especially for this DVD of: 1) Save A Prayer 2) The Chauffeur 3) New Religion 4) Hungry Like The Wolf 5) Rio. Additional interviews and demonstrations not included in the broadcast version.

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Cyrano de Bergerac

Cyrano de Bergerac Review

I saw this on Broadway just moments after the stagehands strike ended in December 2007. Kevin Kline takes a very understated approach to Cyrano, a character usually played with bravado and bluster. Such an approach might seem at odds with the character as written, but it really worked for me (it might be that I'm a Kevin Kline fan). His Cyrano was almost embarrassed by his acclaim, as if the people around him had built him up into a legend that he didn't want to be. Jennifer Garner and Daniel Sunjata, unfortunately, are just so-so. Roxane is such a cipher that it's hard to see what about her Cyrano is so attracted to, and without a strong personality in the role, she just kind of disappears.

I'm looking forward to seeing what was captured on video.

Now all they have to do is release "The Seagull" from Shakespeare in the Park 2001: Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Christopher Walken, Natalie Portman, John Goodman, Marcia Gay Harden, Stephen Spinella, Larry Pine, Debra Monk, directed by Mike Nichols. Best thing I've ever seen on a stage.

Cyrano de Bergerac Overview

Now on DVD, this romantic Broadway hit starring Oscar winner Kevin Kline (A Fish Called Wanda), Jennifer Garner (Juno) and Daniel Sunjata (TV's Rescue Me), wowed both critics and audiences. This classic tale of romance and tragedy tells the touching story of the big-nosed poet and philosopher Cyrano who feeds the handsome but empty-headed Christian the honey'd words to win the love of the beautiful Roxanne.

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Pee-wee's Playhouse #2 - Seasons 3-5

Pee-wee's Playhouse #2 - Seasons 3-5 Review

Excellent show. Not for everyone or for every moment. But when something a little odd is what you want, this show fits it. Pee Wee is strange and interesting at the same time. The charactors are pretty unique and the "story" each show is quick paced and constantly changing so kids never really lose attention. It also helps if there's some part of the show you don't like since you can wait 2 minutes and it will move to something else.
Definitely woth having in the collection. Price was cheap for a great quality set that is a must have in the library.

Pee-wee's Playhouse #2 - Seasons 3-5 Overview

Now you can see Miss Yvonne, Cowboy Curtis, Jambi the Genie, Reba the Mail Lady, Captain Carl, Tito, the King of Cartoons and the rest of the gang for the first time ever on DVD! Join the fun and scream the secret word to every great episode! It's side-splitting hilarity in never-before-seen clarity! Hey, that rhymes! Get 'em while they're hot if you wanna be cool! Winner of an amazing 22 Emmy« Awards! During its six-year run, this show has enchanted millions of children and adults alike! Starring Paul Reubens, Larry Fishburne, S. Epatha Merkerson, Lynne Stewart. VOL. 2 EPISODES: Pajama Party, I Remember Curtis, Reba Eats and Pterri Runs, Conky's Breakdown, To Tell the Tooth, Mystery, Dr. Pee-wee and the Del Rubios, Front Page Pee-wee, Fire in the Playhouse, Tango Time, Love That Story, Playhouse Day, Sick, Did Someone Say Sick?, Accidental Playhouse, Miss Yvonne's Visit, Fun, Fun, Fun, Rebarella, Camping Out, Heat Wave, Something to Do, Chairry Tee Drive, Playhouse for Sale, Let's Play Office Includes 6 Never-Before-Seen Lost Episodes!

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Mary Poppins (Disney Gold Classic Collection)

Mary Poppins (Disney Gold Classic Collection) Review

First let me say that I like this movie. I'm British by birth so I am duty bound to deduct one star for the most unsuccessful attempt at a British accent ever to be immortalized on film. It shows how much the standard of acting has improved when you hear the flawless British accents of actors like Rene Zellweiger or Johnny Depp. Dick Van Dyke simply can't do a British accent and should never have been cast in the part. There was a British actor/singer at the time called Tommy Steele, who already had an impressive stage and screen resume and who would have been perfect in the role. However, he was overlooked for the bigger name (in the US) of Van Dyke. Ironically, Julie Andrews was passed over a year earlier for the movie of 'My Fair Lady' for the non-singing, but better-known, Audrey Hepburn (whose cockney accent was almost as bad as Van Dyke's). Andrews showed what a mistake that was by winning an Oscar for this film. However, that quibble aside, this is a joyous, entrancing movie.

The funny thing I referred to in the title of this review is that in most movie adaptations of books, like say the Harry Potter series, angry reviewers spend much time and energy complaining that the movies don't follow the books. Hardly anyone (I did find one such review) says that about 'Mary Poppins', even though the movie bears little resemblance to the book and, in particular, the character of Mary Poppins is completely changed.

Personally, I've never felt that movie adaptations need to follow the books on which they were based. Movies are a totally different medium and the only criterion should be whether the movie works as a movie. In that respect, 'Mary Poppins' works admirably.

Mary Poppins (Disney Gold Classic Collection) Overview

There is only one word that comes close to accurately describing the enchanting Mary Poppins, and that term was coined by the movie itself: supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Even at 2 hours and 20 minutes, Disney's pioneering mixture of live action and animation (based on the books by P.L. Travers) still holds kids spellbound. Julie Andrews won an Oscar as the world's most magically idealized nanny ("practically perfect in every way," and complete with lighter-than-air umbrella), and Dick Van Dyke is her clownishly charming beau, Bert the chimney sweep. The songs are also terrific, ranging from bright and cheery ("A Spoonful of Sugar") to dark and cheery (the Oscar-winning "Chim Chim Cher-ee") to touchingly melancholy ("Feed the Birds"). Many consider Mary Poppins to be the crowning achievement of Walt Disney's career--and it was the only one of his features to be nominated for a best picture Academy Award until Beauty and the Beast in 1991. --Jim Emerson

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Art of Singing: Golden Voices of the Century

Art of Singing: Golden Voices of the Century Review

This is an unbelievable collection of performance footage from some of the greatest singers of all time. I am very grateful to NVC Arts/Warner Music Vision for producing and distributing this DVD. Whether you are an opera singer or an opera lover (or both!), you will love this DVD. This DVD has rare footage that you are not likely to see anywhere else. I particularly recommend this DVD to opera students, as there is so much to be learned from watching and listening to these elite singers, not to mention the insightful commentary from Magda Olivero, Thomas Hampson, and others.

There are 28 artists featured here, and the DVD runs for almost 2 hours. Virtually everything in this DVD was enjoyable, so comments on each and every section would make this review very lengthy indeed. Thus, I'll stick to my favorite sections.

I loved the footage of Enrico Caruso from the early 20th century. It is entirely fitting to begin this DVD with opera's first true superstar. I really enjoyed the commentary of Magda Olivero in the features of Beniamino Gigli and Tito Schipa. She is incredibly charming and insightful. Of course, the peformance footage of these two phenomenal tenors is fantastic, with Gigli singing "Ombra mai fu" from Xerxes, and Schipa singing "M'appari" from Martha. There is the ONLY footage of legendary Luisa Tetrazzini. She is at a retirement party (age 61), and singing along to a recording of Caruso singing "M'appari". It is poignant.

There is rare footage of Rosa Ponselle. You get to see her MGM screen tests, singing "Chanson Boheme" and the "Habanera" from Carmen. She pulls off very committed performances, even though she was all alone in front of the camera. She was 21 at the time, beautiful, and in great voice. You get Kirsten Flagstad singing "Hojotoho!" from "Die Walkure" in a live performance from 1938 introduced by Bob Hope, and accompanied by the Met orchestra.

Being a big "La Boheme" fan, I was flabbergasted to see a live peformance of the final scene from Act I, sung by the dream team of Renata Tebaldi and Jussi Bjorling. It was a live broadcast in 1956, and they were both fabulous.

The DVD ends with some legendary Maria Callas performances. You get a clip of the duet "Parigi, o cara" from the famous 1958 Lisbon "La Traviata", sung with Alfredo Kraus. Then, you get the duet and "Vissi d'arte" from the equally famous 1964 Covent Garden performance of "Tosca" with Tito Gobbi. There is intermittent commentary from Nicola Rescigno. Callas was an amazing performer.

In addition to the above, there is some wonderful footage of Martinelli, de Luca, Tauber, Tibbett, Stevens, de Los Angeles, Sutherland, Price, Olivero, Corelli, Vickers, and more. This is a true cornucopia of operatic legends.

Highly recommended.

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Elvis Presley Musicals: 4 Film Favorites (Kissin' Cousins / Live a Little Love a Little / Girl Happy / Tickle Me)

Elvis Presley Musicals: 4 Film Favorites (Kissin' Cousins / Live a Little Love a Little / Girl Happy / Tickle Me) Review

A fun collection with excellent audio-video. This is a blast for those baby-boomers who saw these Presleys in the movies in the 1960s, then watched facsimilies on TV (bad reception, tinny sound) in the 1970s; then passable dubs on VHS in the 1980s. You know the storylines and the songtitles.

Best: LIVE A LITTLE, LOVE A LITTLE. Must be surmised that the powers-that-be finally decided to make a contemporary vehicle for the star: although production values approximate a Made-For-TV in 1968, we have an adult movie with adult themes, and just three songs in the course of the story. The only fantasy part is a production number of a dream scenario. Although Elvis could have cut loose a bit more, he looks fantastic, hair in a '50s pompador, trimmed way down. No "Do The Clam" here! His acting at times is surprisingly strong - he must have appreciated the change, the maturation of his screen character. His comic timing and body English surely evaded those lazy critics at the time. I doubt Brando or Cary Grant fans would find any issue with what Elvis accomplished here.
An interesting aspect is in the location shots, I surmise, in and around Beverly Hills. Gives one a chance to imagine what an Elvis TV series might have looked like! We see Elvis driving down a real street, running on a real beach. It's different!

Worst: GIRL HAPPY. As a Beach Movie, it's one of the best, but for a star seriously near age 30, and for his co-star, an excellent actress, Shelley Fabares, also past the age to play a 20 year old, it's pretty embarrassing. A plus, however, are some production numbers with real '50s Rock and Roll - when the camera decides to focus on Elvis for more than two seconds, it's pandemonium. But Gary Crosby faking bass and the other band guys mugging it up are too much.

Funniest: TICKLE ME features Elvis in great form, doing physical comedy as well as anyone, then or now. A curious mix of slapstick and adult situations but the thing hangs together. Although it's been said he had to be dragged onto the set, something kicked in, and we have a pretty solid comedy.
(For those who analyze in depth, that risque line Lonnie says to Mrs. Radford in the jeep is cut).

Grooviest: KISSIN' COUSINS, another non-favorite amongst the literary elites, has a great soundtrack and a funky, off-kilter feel about it; a decent script, though things go a little haywire in the last 10 minute or so; strong performances by Jack Albertson, as Elvis' Military superior, also Cynthia Pepper Typist sent from the Pentagon to keep records - turns out she becomes the only one to keep a semblance of order, as the mission to secure a military site on a Mountain inhabited by reluctant mountaineers constantly veers off course; only about *one* too many songs.
Though it's apparent Elvis is not as engaged as he could be - but it's not surprising, as this was the first official "quickie" in his career - involved Elvis playing his own cousin and wearing a blonde wig. Producer Sam Katzman, known as "The King of the 'Quickies'", did his thing: this film was reportedly completed in 18 days.
For those who study the music, "Smokey Mountain Boy" is on the soundtrcak - was not on a VHS edition; and, disappointingly enough, a great meium soul rocker, "Catchin' On Fast", shows up in the *record album* version! (The movie version is heard in the "Extras", featuring original movie trailors).

Elvis Presley Musicals: 4 Film Favorites (Kissin' Cousins / Live a Little Love a Little / Girl Happy / Tickle Me) Overview

Studio: Warner Home Video Release Date: 11/11/2008 Run time: 382 minutes

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THE TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI JAZZ ORCHESTRA: Strive For Jive

THE TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI JAZZ ORCHESTRA: Strive For Jive Review

THE TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI JAZZ ORCHESTRA: Strive For Jive Overview

This live, full-length DVD concert performance of the 16-piece Big Band, which includes Frank Wess and Lew Tabackin, provides an additional dimension by infusing the concert with interviews from Akiyoshi and Tabackin. The definitive record of the world's foremost modern Jazz orchestra, this DVD is contemporary Big Band music at its best!

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Camelot (Broadway Version)

Camelot (Broadway Version) Review

This version is better then the movie I waited 215 years for "this" version "HBO" to come out,

This is just like being in the theater, so "go out to dinner and the go to the theater for the evening.

You will not forget the first time you watch this, and will watch it over and over again.

Before this came out there were websites requesting a VHS copy including Professors teaching theater, on the web. A good VHS copy ran as high as 0.00 and it was worth it

Camelot (Broadway Version) Overview

Experience Camelot’s "one brief, shining moment" as Lerner and Loewe envisioned it—live on a Broadway stage. Working at the top of his talent, Richard Harris heads an all-star cast in one of Broadway’s wittiest, most literate musicals, filled with memorable tunes. Recorded at New York’s historic Winter Garden Theatre in 1982, this production captures all the immediacy and intimacy of a live performance viewed from the best seat in the house.

Idealistic King Arthur longs to create a perfectly principled kingdom, but sees his dream undone by a tragic love triangle involving Queen Guenevere (Meg Bussert) and his best friend Lancelot (Richard Muenz). In this thoroughly engaging Tony®-nominated production, the medieval monarch’s vision—a place where "violence is not strength, and compassion is not weakness"—speaks to our time and for all time.

Recommended for family viewing by the National Education Association

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE original Broadway PLAYBILL® (DVD-ROM) and bios of Lerner & Loewe and Richard Harris.

Camelot (Broadway Version) Specifications

A live-on-stage performance filmed for HBO in 1982, Camelot returns Richard Harris to the role he immortalized on film in 1967. Harris replaced the original King Arthur, Richard Burton, in this revival production as it was on its way to New York's Winter Garden Theatre, which turned out to be Harris' only role on the Broadway stage. Fifteen years later, he's an older and wiser Arthur, a little more world-weary but still with a twinkle in his eye. He's paired with Meg Bussert, whose Guinevere is not as beautiful as Vanessa Redgrave in the film, but a better singer and appropriately younger. Bussert, who was Tony-nominated for her role in Brigadoon the year before, sounds eerily like original Broadway star Julie Andrews at times. Richard Muenz (The Most Happy Fella revival) plays Lancelot, Barrie Ingham plays Pellinore, and Richard Backus is Mordred. Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe's score is still a great classic, and here two songs cut from the movie are restored, "Before I Gaze at You Again" and "The Seven Deadly Virtues," but inexplicably cut is "Then You May Take Me to the Fair." Not surprisingly the production has a more stagebound feel compared to the sumptuous feature film, but it's good to have a more faithful version of the show available on DVD. --David Horiuchi

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Georges Bizet - Les Pecheurs de Perles / Massis, Grassi, Nakajima, De Donato, Viotti, Pizzi (Teatro la Fenice, Venice)

Georges Bizet - Les Pecheurs de Perles / Massis, Grassi, Nakajima, De Donato, Viotti, Pizzi (Teatro la Fenice, Venice) Review

This creative production is very well sung, danced, conducted, staged, and filmed. Annick Massis has a world class voice and the baritone Luca Grassi also has a major beautiful voice. Yasu Nakajima is better than some of the other reviewers state, but just not a true world class tenor. Truthfully he doesn't act and often is looking at the conductor not relating to his fellow singing actors at all. He is however much better than just adequate. I've seen and heard a lot worse. The unit set works very well and the choreography most of the time is quite creative and highly effective; especially during the great Tenor and Baritone duet. I also found the camera work interesting and not distracting. It may be a long time before we get another DVD of this delightful score so let's be thankful for what we have. It works and has many fine moments. The conductor Marcello Viotti is excellent. In conclusion: very well sung and creatively produced and filmed.

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Blue's Clues - Blue's Big Musical Movie

Blue's Clues - Blue's Big Musical Movie Review

I first rented this from Netflix and we ended up keeping it for more than a month. My girls (10m,2 1/2 and 4) couldn't get enough of it. I got it for my 4 year old on her birthday (Dec 25, 2009) and even after seeing it a gazillion times she wanted to watch it as soon as she saw the cover art. It is very entertaining and has a lot of re-playabilitly, even for parents. It is definitely great for those rainy days when they are bored. They really like the segment with G clef. It teaches a few music basics but don't expect your little ones to walk away with any understanding of music from this video, it is just good clean entertainment. Everything you expect from a Blue's Clues production.

Blue's Clues - Blue's Big Musical Movie Overview

Movie DVD

Blue's Clues - Blue's Big Musical Movie Specifications

Blue bounds into her first feature-length film ready to sing. She gets sidetracked along the way, of course, but that's part of the brilliant Blue's Clues formula. Each half-hour TV show presents engaging, easy-to-grasp mini-mysteries that are within toddlers' reach. This time Blue; her huge-eyed, slightly loopy human companion, Steve; and their cadre of talking-object friends are scurrying around, preparing for a backyard music show that day. Everybody picks a number to perform; Blue's is a duet with Tickety Tock, but the clock contracts laryngitis. Who will be Blue's new partner? A game of Blue's Clues reveals the hardly reluctant replacement. The standard discovery of three clues followed by the usual wind-down song would add up to a colossal disappointment in a feature film, so substantial rounding-out is provided. Steve stumbles onto a keyboard inhabited by a note called G-Clef (the unmistakable voice of Ray Charles), who gives a tour of how to make a song. First you pick the notes, then you work on rhythm, then comes tempo, and, last but not least, "you've got to give it soul." This movie's themes include perseverance (Tickety Tock can't sing but finds a way to contribute anyway) and self-empowerment. Blue's Big Musical Movie is a feast for little eyes and ears; the sets are so colorful they hurt grown-up eyes, and the songs--especially the one that gets the Charles treatment--are all sing-along-with-me winners. --Tammy La Gorce

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Dane Cook: ISolated INcident

Dane Cook: ISolated INcident Review

Controversial, yes. Funny, most definitely. Not for the faint of heart though because Dane tackles many taboo subjects; which is why I loved this so much. I've said it before and I'll say it again, one must see the funny side of a situation, or something, to get the full perspective. Without it (the comedic side) we don't see the whole picture. I love this show. He is fearless and histerical as always.

Dane Cook: ISolated INcident Overview

After his last two highly rated specials and multi-platinum selling albums, Dane reinvented his act and took it to the stage in front of 400 people at the Laugh Factory in Hollywood. This intimate show was performed in a nightclub atmosphere where Dane shared the audience's energy in a real-time performance, without a safety net. Here, he showcases a darker and more personal set with cutting edge material that pushes the envelope.

DVD Features:
- 30 Premeditated Acts
- ISolated INterview

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VeggieTales - Lyle the Kindly Viking

VeggieTales - Lyle the Kindly Viking Review

Lyle the Viking is a timeless story that all 3 years olds and under need to hear. The vikings think that everything belongs to them. Sharing is a ridiculous notion that only fools follow. Lyle understands that in order to recieve a real gift, you have to give. And eventually you will get something back in return when you most need it.

The best thing of this video is that it teaches a timeless tale without getting overly religious. Some people are turned off when religion is brought into the equation but no one need fear this story. The message is a truth we all need to hear. Especially children in the "mine" stage. Plus it's filled with singing. My son loves singing (and so do I). Definitely a must own for any parent.

VeggieTales - Lyle the Kindly Viking Overview

Studio: Genius Products Inc Release Date: 09/14/2004

VeggieTales - Lyle the Kindly Viking Specifications

Well, it had to happen--Archibald Asparagus is hosting his own VeggieTales show. The 15th video from this groundbreaking Christian-lite company gives us plenty of what makes the series so much fun: leader Bob the Tomato, daffy Larry the Cucumber, catchy songs, and scattershot humor. Tired of the wacky ways of the normal VeggieTales shows, Archibald wants to inject an element of class. First up: an all-vegetable staging of Hamlet. Unfortunately, the only script that can be found is a slightly different version called "Omelet." The Bard's famous lines take a beating with the usual Monty Python-esque humor of the Veggie crew. Next, after an Archibald-influenced "Silly Songs with Larry" segment, the featured event of the evening proves to be the lost Gilbert & Sullivan musical Lyle the Kindly Viking. This brawny band of Vikings love their job (and have an affinity for big-screen TVs) but cannot understand why the meek Lyle (Junior Asparagus, natch) wants to share his meager belongings with their victims. Certainly, the sharing ways of Lyle will win the day. After such experiments as the Larry-Boy shows, which dropped the series' familiar opening and even Bob himself, this familiarly structured VeggieTales video is a joy to watch and illustrates how far the creators have come while sticking to their roots. For ages 4 and up. --Doug Thomas

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Verdi - Otello / Domingo, Fleming, Morris, Croft, Levine, Moshinsky, Metropolitan Opera

Verdi - Otello / Domingo, Fleming, Morris, Croft, Levine, Moshinsky, Metropolitan Opera Review

I really want to give this DVD 5 stars because of the jaw-dropping performance from Placido Domingo. It is easily the most powerful acting performance by a tenor I have ever seen in an opera. I also heartily disagree with reviewers criticizing his voice. If you want to hear a crappy Domingo performance, watch the Karjan Trovatore! He is sublime here. Equally so is Renee Fleming, so perfectly cast. The sets, orchestra, and chorus are stellar. There are only two things wrong here. One, is James Morris as Jago. He's a great bass, but he leaves off the top notes in "Inaffia l'ugola," which is hugely disappointing. By no means is he terrible, but his acting was minimal at best and he lacked the upper register of better Jago's like Leo Nucci. The other disappointment is that when Otello stabs himself, there is no blood. I know it's asking a LOT from an opera house to either show some blood or hide the wound, but here they do neither. It's a very distracting way to end the opera, if you ask me. But this DVD will be watched many times!

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My Dream Is Yours

My Dream Is Yours Review

Oddly depressing Doris Day film story has more in common with proto-noir type movies like POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE or A STAR IS BORN than later Day musicals. This one definitely concentrates on "Day of the Locust" spectacle of talent flocking to Hollywood for their big break, only to meet shabby treatment and disappointment. The movie leaves a sour taste in one's mouth. I'd say a good 3/5 of this film is all about how hard Jack Carson sweats to get Doris a chance as a singer, but nobody wants to take a flyer on an untried talent. And you feel for him, but it doesn't change the fact that he's sort of a florid "death of a salesman" sort of loser.

Scene after scene, beautifully directed by Michael (FOUR DAUGHTERS) Curtiz, plays up the angle of the beautiful scenery (has Los Angeles ever looked so dreamy>) versus the shattered dreams of movieland wannabes. I;ve never been a huge fan of S Z Sakalln, the Austrian actor known as "Cuddles," but he's especially repulsive here as a radio sponsor with absolute, godlike powers over the little people who toil on his show, "The Hour of Enchantment." He has only one soft spot, a tiny dog he calls "Sally." He's creepy here, like Charles Coburn in THE PARADINE CASE. Every time Jack Carson has to approach him to ask him to listen to Miss Day one more time, you cringe, for Cuddles doesn't show a single sign of humanity, his self-aborption and selfishness reach Bunuelian levels.

And what is with the all girl orchestra, dressed in flimsy pastel togas, run by that martinet conductor? How lesbian were they trying to get? The conductor is stern enough to make Eve Arden, the radio producer who oversees their work, seem like a femme next to her.

As many have noted, the surreal part of the film is an animated sequence, set at Easter time, in which Doris' little son Freddie, who doesn't otherwise play much of a part in the action of the film overall, is left alone in a fancy bedroom crowded with stuffed rabbits and Easter eggs. He's sleepy and the film changes to a Dali evocation of his nightmares; the walls pull back, the toys grow huge, and suddenly Bugs Bunny (and Tweety) appear singing this crazy "Wake Up" type number that terrifies the little boy. It's so anxiety provoking that even watching it I broke out into a sweat. It just gets worse and worse as two stuffed rabbits turn into Doris Day and Jack Carson, who sing faster and faster while dressed in Uncle Wiggily rabbit costumes. I haven't seen anything as frightening in years, not since the SCREAM movies came out. And yet the grim, anxiety-filled mise-en-scene of MY DREAM IS YOURS is a fertile hatching ground for the birth of monsters.

Bring to DVD, please!

My Dream Is Yours Overview

An agent discovers a talented singer who's also a single mom and tries to make her a radio star, not expecting to fall in love with her.

My Dream Is Yours Specifications

This backstage showbiz saga was quickly put into production at Warners when Doris Day proved to be the breakout star of the moment in her first film, Romance on the High Seas. And although Doris has a basket of tuneful numbers and the movie itself boasts a crazy Bugs Bunny sequence, it has the look of something rushed into service. Doris spots the main chance when talent agent Jack Carson needs to replace his egotistical client, crooner Lee Bowman. Some conventionally enjoyable climbing-the-ladder scenes follow (which bear a resemblance to Doris Day's real-life struggles to catch on as a band singer, such as trouping while raising small child). Equally conventional, but less convincing, is a romantic contrivance to delay the inevitable Day-Carson pairing. The movie is awash in Technicolor, and director Michael Curtiz crams some wonderful vintage landmarks of Los Angeles into the picture: the Brown Derby restaurant, Schwab's Drugstore. The color also shows off Eve Arden's red hair, although her sardonic style requires no color enhancement. Martin Scorsese has acknowledged My Dream Is Yours as a key influence on his musical, New York, New York, and the unhappy romance and candy-colored photography give a hint why. And the Bugs Bunny thing is a live-action/cartoon blend (à la the Gene Kelly-Jerry the Mouse dance in Anchors Aweigh), directed by Friz Freleng, that puts Day and Carson in rabbit suits. That's the most inspired sequence, so be advised. --Robert Horton

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Classic Albums - The Grateful Dead: Anthem to Beauty

Classic Albums - The Grateful Dead: Anthem to Beauty Review

I was spellbound by this when I got it. Great archvial footage, interviews with the band, and just a great look at their transformation from Anthem of the Sun to American Beauty (hence the title). Includes live footage, studio footage, and them talking about track layers, and how a lot of the songs came together (including Robert Hunter talking about his inspiration with a lot of classic songs). I especially loved when Robert Hunter talked about going to London for the first time and the songs that came from his first few hours there (hint: Ripple is one of them!) Pick this up, light up and kick back. Heartwarming.

Classic Albums - The Grateful Dead: Anthem to Beauty Overview

The Grateful Dead are a unique phenomenon. One of the most successful live touring bands in the world, their longevity is founded on their desire to play music their way, coupled with an extraordinarily close relationship to their huge following. From Anthem to Beauty tells the story of the band and their journey from the experimental "Anthem of the Sun" (recorded in 1967/1968) to the accessible, countryish "American Beauty." It is told in the band's own words and includes a rare interview with lyricist Robert Hunter. The film also features a wealth of rare vintage film footage of the Grateful Dead in their prime, including television appearances, home videos, and classic recordings like "Ripple," "Box of Rain," "Truckin'," and "Mountains of the Moon," and it all adds up to a riveting portrait of one of the rock world's most controversial bands. 75 minutes.

Classic Albums - The Grateful Dead: Anthem to Beauty Specifications

This installment of the Classic Albums series follows the making of two Grateful Dead albums, the fiercely experimental Anthem of the Sun and the understated masterwork American Beauty, which spawned melodic gems like "Sugar Magnolia" and "Ripple." Between the archival scenes and contemporary interviews with band members, the DVD shows a band making seismic inroads in pop music--and five young guys coming to terms with artistry, mortality, and, yes, the pursuit of happiness. There is priceless footage of Neal Cassady driving Ken Kesey's bus and of the Dead, surrounded by martini-sipping hipsters, on Playboy After Dark. The best scenes involve band members talking about specific songs (you will never hear Phil Lesh's "Box of Rain" again without thinking of it as a gift to his dying father) or deconstructing a tune by playing each track separately. Intimate and surprisingly cohesive, Anthem to Beauty is a rare glimpse into how the Dead's magic was made. --Anne Hurley

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