70'S TRIPLE XXX MOVIE HOUSE TRAILERS (Something Weird Video) 39 trailers for adult films are included here including many first or early films by big-name porn stars. There are trailers for classic films such as Seven Into Snowy, The Journey Of O, Cry For Cindy, Skin Tight and Thoroughly Amorous Amy as well as many films that have disappeared over the years. Great as part of a history of adult films or for those who want to see at least 100 sex scenes included here without having to sit through entire movies. (Netta Gilboa)
3 NINJAS KICK BACK (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 93 minutes) Fans of martial arts will enjoy this comedy about three kids who go visit their grandfather in Japan. They are forced to battle three thieves and an army of adult ninjas. I lost interest but it's really intended for younger viewers. It's worth noting that it does a great job of showing that people interested in martial arts are well-rounded individuals and that they hesitate before fighting. (Netta Gilboa)
...AND GOD SPOKE (Live Entertainment, 82 minutes) Billed as a "mockumentary," this film is done in the style of This Is Spinal Tap! It's about two filmmakers who try to get a Bible epic financed and shot in 90s Hollywood. While Bible films are not my cup of tea, it's special. See it if you can. (Netta Gilboa)
ANGEL 4: UNDERCOVER (LIVE Home Video) Angel's a retired hooker who works as a cop now. Another former hooker comes to visit her and reports that she is now hanging around with a top rock band. When she dies Angel goes undercover as her former self to catch the murderer in the band. Well done for the genre and it's not necessary to have seen the previous films. (Netta Gilboa)
ANIMAL INSTINCTS 2 (Academy Entertainment, 92 minutes) A sexually liberated woman has sex with numerous men while her neighbor watches her.
She is an exhibitionist and he is a voyeur. Things get complicated when she meets another man she really likes. Lots of sex and unimportant dialogue. (Netta Gilboa)
ANIMAL MUNDI (Miramar, 30 minutes. Available from The ARK Group (800) 727-0009) Philip Glass provides instrumental music for this letterboxed documentary about animals made with the cooperation of the World Wildlife Fund. There are apes, snakes, bugs, frogs, tigers, eels, and other creatures great and small. Also lava, trees, waterfalls and sky. Breathtaking photography leaves the viewer feeling connected to nature and hopefully wanting to preserve it. There is no preaching here, just a subtle reminder on the box cover to preserve "the Earth's species, the environment, and the relationships that bind them" Very unique and special. (Netta Gilboa)
ANNE RICE: BIRTH OF THE VAMPIRE (CBS/Fox Video, 45 minutes) Anne Rice is the author of the book the hit movie Interview With A Vampire is based on. This documentary focuses on her life and her vision. It includes dramatic reading from the book, interviews with Rice and with her family and friends. (Netta Gilboa)
BEANSTALK (Paramount Home Video, 80 minutes) What would you do if you found a beanstalk growing in your backyard? The film's hero decides to climb it and runs into a giant. Features great stop-motion animation and stars Richard Moll, J.D. Daniels and Margot Kidder. (Netta Gilboa)
BECOMING ORGASMIC (The Sinclair Institute, available from Focus International (800) 843-0305 , 83 minutes) Many women have trouble reaching orgasm which is partly a result of how women's anatomy is designed and partly a result of ignorance and/or misinformation. This tape can be used alone or with a partner and provides explicit information that can help you be your sexual best. If you already orgasm easily, it's still useful for watching with partners in order to get them more interested in touching you. Well done. (Netta Gilboa)
BEING HUMAN (Warner Home Video) Robin Williams stars as a man who travels through time and philosophizes about the state of the universe and the people he interacts with. The film is a series of poignant vignettes where Williams is more serious than funny. It's absolutely wonderful, although somewhat hard to describe. Worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
THE BIRDS II: LAND'S END (MCA/Universal Home Video, 87 minutes) Tippi Hedren is back in this superb sequel to the famous Hitchcock film. It's got a great plot, terrific cinematography and comes across as a very plausible storyline. Highly recommended if you liked the original or if you like horror movies. (Netta Gilboa)
BLANK CHECK (Walt Disney Home Video, 103 minutes) A mobster's car hits a kid on a bicycle. The mobster is in a hurry so he hands the kid a signed blank check to cover expenses. Due to a bizarre set of events, the kid ends up with a million bucks in cash. The kid buys a house while dodging the mobster, the bank that cashed the check and his parents. A movie the whole family can enjoy starring Brian Bonsall and Tone Loc. (Netta Gilboa & David Watson)
CABIN BOY (Touchstone Home Video, 90 minutes) Chris Elliott stars as a young boy attending a private school. He's a rich, snobby troublemaker going on vacation. He pisses off his limo driver and gets dumped on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. David Letterman plays a cameo role of a guy who steers Elliott towards his cruise ship. The plot takes shape as Elliott boards a fisherman's ship by accident and is put to work doing menial tasks in order to stay on the boat. Cabin Boy falls in love and learns about life outside of his fantasy world. Very funny. (David Watson)
CAROLE KING CONCERT (White Star, 85 minutes) Filmed in Hartford, CT in 1993, King performs all her hits including "So Far Away," "It's Too Late" and "You've Got A Friend." King is a passionate performer who weaves some of her songs into medlies, dances onstage while singing, and yet knows when to let the lyrics carry a song and just sing it quietly. Well done. (Netta Gilboa)
A CENTURY OF WOMEN (Turner Home Entertainment, 95 minutes) This moving documentary includes narration and interviews with luminaries such as Jane Fonda, Carol Burnett, Roseanne Arnold, Jessica Lange, Sally Field and Maya Angelou. There are in-depth portraits of trailblazers like Amelia Earhart, Bessie Smith and Lucille Ball as well as segments on the role of female beauty throughout history such as corsets, beauty pageants, cosmetics, plastic surgery, etc. Highly recommended for the empowering feeling you will get watching all these women who have successfully bucked the system. (Netta Gilboa)
THE CHASE (Fox Video) Charlie Sheen stars as a man who is charged with a crime he did not commit. In frustration, he takes a woman hostage. She turns out to be a famous heiress which leaves Sheen's character in deep trouble. They end up falling for each other while avoiding the police, the media and driving at top speed. Great! (Netta Gilboa)
CLASSROOM SCARE FILMS Vol. 1 and 2 (Something Weird Video) If you took hygiene in high school, you probably saw these or similar films. Volume 1 contains six films on drug abuse which explain and inadvertantly glorify pills, sniffing glue, heroin, marijuana, LSD, etc. Volume 2 contains eight films on health horrors such as venereal disease, the dangers of smoking, alchoholism, gum disease, etc. All are fascinating in their attempts to use fear to keep viewers from behaving in a deviant manner. While the films are dated (most are from the 1970s), the same social issues are still societal concerns. I hope today's films offer more diverse viewpoints and allow the viewer to come to their own conclusions. Don't count on it though. (Netta Gilboa)
COFFIN JOE'S VISIONS OF TERROR (Something Weird Video, 90 minutes) We tend to think of horror and slasher films as an American industry. This video contains 14 trailers made by Jose Mojica Marins who made splatter films in Brazil. The trailers use English subtitles. Films sampled include Macabre Nightmare and Hallucinations of a Deranged Mind. If you like gore, thi s is a good introduction to a body of work by a foreign director you may not be familiar with. (Netta Gilboa)
COPS & ROBBERSONS (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 93 minutes) Chevy Chase, Jack Palance and Dianne Wiest star in this comedy about a family asked by police to allow a stake-out of their neighbor's home. When police move into Chase's home they discover he has always fantasized about being a supercop. Needless to say, he screws up the stake-out by trying to help. Pretty funny. (Netta Gilboa)
CRONOS (Vidmark, 86 minutes) Scarabs are the theme here in this bloody, but not violent, horror film. Good use of bugs and ancient history at the outset, but alas quickly deteriorates. You end up watching the main character injecting himself contantly with scarab blood to stay alive. Yawn. (Netta Gilboa)
CROOKLYN (MCA/Universal Home Video, 114 minutes) Spike Lee directed this uplifting movie about a black family living in Brooklyn, NY. It follows their lives during one eventful summer. It has an awesome soundtrack, great plot and although I was warned the Lee's films are "too pro-black," I saw no evidence of that. I grew up in Brooklyn myself and found the movie relevant to any family. Worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
THE CROW (Miramax Home Entertainment/Buena Vista Home Video, 127 minutes) Brandon Lee stars in this action-packed film about a musician and his fiancee who petition against their abysmal housing unaware that a gang of powerful criminals is at the root of the problem. The criminals kill him and his fiancee. A year passes and Lee comes back to avenge their deaths as an immortal. Great acting, plot, effects and a cool soundtrack too. Highly recommended. (Netta Gilboa & David Watson)
D2: THE MIGHTY DUCKS (Walt Disney Home Video, 107 minutes) This sequel focuses mostly on hockey scenes which start almost from the film's beginning. The Ducks get back together to win another hockey competition. This time the coach is the one who needs his attitude adjusted. Cute, but not as captivating as the original. (Netta Gilboa)
DANGEROUS TOUCH (Vidmark, 103 minutes) A radio talk show hostess gets stalked by a professional blackmailer. He involves her in lesbian sex and bondage. Great sex scenes and better than average plot and acting will keep you absorbed. I thought this was superb for its genre. (Netta Gilboa)
DARK SIDE OF GENIUS (Paramount Home Video) Moon Zappa has a small role in this mystery about L.A.'s art world. It's about a muderer who paints, the patron who sponsors him, the gallery clients who buy his work and a reporter who thinks she is onto a great story about the dark side of the art scene. (Netta Gilboa)
DAZZLE (Miramar, distributed by The ARK Group (800) 727-0009, 45 minutes) Several issues back we raved about a computer screen saver called Dazzle. Here it is on video for those who aren't computerized or for those who'd like to be entranced in other rooms of the house. This absolutely awesome video includes two million colors in kaleidoscope patterns. A fitting background soundtrack is provided by Jonn Serrie. Highly recommended. (Netta GIlboa)
DON'T HANG UP (Water Bearer Films, 84 minutes) Rosanna Arquette and David Suchet star in this British film about an actress and a playwright who fall in love. They must overcome trans-Atlantic phone costs, severe health problems and their own fears about becoming involved. This is a must-see for anyone who has ever tried to carry on a long distance relationship! Well done. (Netta Gilboa)
DRAGONWORLD (Paramount Home Video, 84 minutes) A little boy befriends a baby dragon and keeps him as a pet. A great plot and believable stop-motion animated effects earn this film my highest recommendation. After a slow start until the dragon shows up, this film sucks you in and captures your heart. You cannot go wrong watching it. (Netta Gilboa)
DRAWING THE LINE: A PORTRAIT OF KEITH HARING (Kulter International Films, 30 minutes) Keith Haring was an artist who died several years ago of AIDS. He started off as a grafitti artist, working with white chalk in the subway walls of New York City and being arrested for defacing public property. Eventually his work became so popular that he ran a retail store which sold full color buttons, t-shirts and posters. If you've seen some of Haring's work, here's a chance to see it all. This documentary includes early footage of Keith doing graffitti art as well as large sculptures he was commissioned to do in later years, and a wide range of art about social issues such as AIDS, crack and apartheid. Proves that one man can make a huge impact with only a piece of chalk and the guts to stand up to a law. (Netta Gilboa)
DREAM A LITTLE DREAM 2 (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 91 minutes) Corey Feldman and Corey Haim star in this video about two pair of sunglasses which allow the people wearing them to think like the other. They receive the glasses by accident and spend the film using them and being chased by the people who invented them. Amusing, but not great. (Netta Gilboa)
DREAM GIRLS (Penthouse Video/A*Vision, 60 minutes) Several Pets disrobe for the camera and touch themselves while they talk to you. Alas this presents a stylized form of sexuality in which all of the girls kind of moan alike. The point is to show beautiful, posed models rather than to be realistic. If you're willing to believe these girls dress like this every time they masturbate, then you'll probably enjoy viewing it. It was artificial enough to me that it destroyed my appreciation for the photography. (Netta Gilboa)
ENDANGERED (Academy Entertainment, 91 minutes) A bunch of drug runners hang out in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. They spend a few days stalking a female after killing her male travelling companion. Listed as an action/suspense film, it also has elements of a horror/slasher film. Nothing special. (Netta Gilboa)
FAST GETAWAY II (Live Home Video, 94 minutes) Corey Haim is back in this sequel. I never saw the original film but it didn't matter at all. Haim works as a security consultant who robs banks and then reports security leaks to management. A few good twists kept up my interest and Haim's acting is terrific as always. (Netta Gilboa)
THE FLINTSTONES (MCA/Universal Home Video) I never expected to like this movie based on the hit TV show. Boy, was I wrong! Every detail of life in Bedrock is here, from Betty and Wilma's giggles to the cute prehistoric animals used as common household tools. Granted a bit too much emphasis was placed on working McDonald's movie promotions into the plot, but overall this is a masterpiece for Flintstones fans. I loved it and found myself laughing out loud several times. (Netta Gilboa)
THE FLINTSTONES: BEDROCK 'N ROLL (Turner Home Entertainment, 50 minutes) Fred Flintstone stars in two animated episodes from the TV show which are new to video. In one he performs by lip-synching for a rock star who is struck by allergies and can't perform in Bedrock. In the other he becomes a successful rock star known as "Hi-Fye." The episodes have been digitally remastered and include restored footage. Even better, the commercials have been edited. (Netta Gilboa)
THE FLINTSTONES: DINO'S TWO TALES (Turner Home Entertainment, 50 minutes) Here are two more never-before-released classic episodes of the animated TV show. These involve the family's pet, Dino. In one episode he runs away from home and in the other he becomes a TV star. Both were great and fans should be aware that animated cartoon tapes like these tend to go out-of-print and become collector's items. If you like Bedrock's purple dinosaur, be sure to grab this! (Netta Gilboa)
FLYING SAUCERS ARE REAL! (Stanton Friedman, P.O. Box 958, Houlton, ME 04730. 84 minutes) Although this publication has devoted some space to UFOs, I must confess I am not concerned about them one way or the other. Watching this video, however, it's hard not to get interested. Whether you decide there must be life elsewhere, or that it can all be explained away scientifically, or just use this tape as a launching pad to begin your own search for information, the video delivers. I saw some "actual footage," learned even Nightline has covered UFOs and watched journalists explain why they had printed UFO stories in the headlines of major newspapers. Highly recommended for beginners. (Netta Gilboa)
FOREIGN STUDENT (MCA/Universal Home Video, 96 minutes) Robin Givens stars in this drama about a teacher and a student who fall in love. It's set in the '50s with a soundtrack that includes Howlin' Wolf and Sonny Boy Williamson. The film was a bit too serious for my mood, but is recommended for those who like the blues as well as those who like deep films as opposed to light fluff. (Netta Gilboa)
GETTING GOTTI (Academy Entertainment, 93 minutes) What a surprise to see a movie in which there is no happy ending! This film is about the prosecutor who built a case against John Gotti in New York. It should particularly appeal to those who like gangsters, courtroom dramas, true crime and law, but is worth seeing by anyone who likes good movies. Highly recommended. (Netta Gilboa)
GETTING IN (Vidmark Entertainment, 94 minutes) Andrew McCarthy and Kristy Swanson star in this comedy about a guy trying to get into Johns Hopkins Medical School. He turns to burglary, bribery and extortion after being placed on a waiting list. One by one the other waitlisted students die or suffer misfortune. Cute ending. (Netta Gilboa)
GHOULIES IV (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 84 minutes) In this horror sequel, a Satan-worshipping dominatrix tries to find a jewel which she needs in order to bridge the gap between the two worlds she lives in. The Ghoulies are good guy ugly-looking midgets who end up helping people they come across who are in danger. It's a not-too-violent black comedy that's way better than most horror films. (Netta Gilboa)
THE GIRLS OF FLASHDANCERS Vol. 1 (ExperTease Video, 119 E. 23rd Street, NY, NY 10011, 45 minutes) This tape kicks off with a bang when six of the club's nude dancers stroll down a street in New York City dressed in raincoats. Yes, they flash. The rest of the tape gives you a feel for what a visit to the club is like (lots of girls who will come sit on your lap), as well as showing a photo session and a steamy shower scene between two of the dancers. Having grown up in New York, I felt right at home watching this. Flashdancers is way less sleazy than some of the clubs in the Times Square area and this seems like a club you can bring your friends to rather than one you would be sure to seek out alone. In the meantime, if you can't get there in person, this tape will give you a taste of over 25 of the women who have worked there. (Netta Gilboa)
THE GIRLS OF PRIVATE EYES (East Coast Entertainment Group, 60 minutes) People who find it erotic to see nudity combined with food will love this tape which features a girls only Cheri magazine photo party. The girls smear cake on each other and themselves and also play nude Twister. Private Eyes is a club in NYC that features nude exotic dancers. The tape is full of things you probably haven't seen girls do on video before. Enough said. (Netta Gilboa)
GREEDY (MCA/Universal Home Video, 113 minutes) Michael J. Fox, Kirk Douglas and Nancy Travis star in this comedy about a rich man and how all his relatives and friends despise him and take advantage of him for his money. His nephew, played by Michael J. Fox, stands alone in his interest in the old man as a person and so he is put through a series of tests while the old man attempts to determine if he is worthy to inherit his business and its assets. Worth seeing both for its funny scenes and for its message about valuing people for who they are and not just what they have. (David Watson)
HAIL CAESAR (Prism Entertainment, 104 minutes) A rock 'n' roller dates a socialite and has to prove himself to her dad. He almost gets killed in the process. Stars Anthony Michael Hall, Robery Downey, Jr. and Judd Nelson. Cute. (Netta Gilboa)
HONG KONG '97 (Vidmark Emtertainment, 91 minutes) In a few years the political climate of Hong Kong will change drastically. This action film takes a futuristic look at what might happen. There are lots of fight scenes with utterly realistic, unexpected attacks. These sounded so great my TV seemed like I had added speakers to it. In other words, better than average for its genre. (Netta Gilboa)
HOT TUNA: 25 YEARS AND RUNNING (Vestapol Productions, distributed by Rounder Records, 60 minutes) We previously reviewed this tape after it appeared (once) on public television. It's now out on video and still highly recommended. Includes 11 songs and guest stars Bob Weir and Maria Muldaur on "Maggie's Farm." If you like the music of Hot Tuna, the Jefferson Airplane or the blues in general, track this release down and you won't be sorry. (Netta Gilboa)
THE HUDSUCKER PROXY (Warner Home Video) A youth with no work experience gets hired as an executive by Hudsucker Industries. They hire him as a fall guy but he launches a new toy, the hula hoop, which is so profitable that it takes everyone by surprise. Stars Tim Robbins, Jennifer Jason Leigh and Paul Newman. (Netta Gilboa)
I'LL DO ANYTHING (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 116 minutes) Nick Nolte stars as an unemployed actor who suddenly gains custody of his six-year-old daughter when his ex-wife (played by Tracey Ullman) is sent to prison. The girl is a brat who misbehaves, screams and acts up constantly. Nolte doesn't help the situation any as he initially has no time to be a parent. Also stars Albert Brooks and Julie Kavner. Splendid plot and casting earn this one a solid recommendation. (Netta Gilboa)
I LOVE TROUBLE (Touchstone Home Video, 133 minutes) Nick Nolte and Julia Roberts star in this comedy about two competing newspaper reporters who become targets to be killed. They must team up to survive and although they are both attracted to each other, cooperation is not their forte. Great plot, casting and acting. (Netta Gilboa)
IMAGES OF CHAOS (Industrial Street Productions, 53 minutes. Available from The ARK Group (800) 727-0009) This awesome tape of fractal images contains original psychedelic background music. I found it mesmerizing and imagine it's probably among the best of these tapes around. Like a cross between a lava lamp, a screen saver and a kaleidoscope, these images blend, swirl and fade into one another. Highly recommended for relaxation, meditation, as a backdrop for parties and, of course, to sit and watch like a movie. Simulates parts of a drug trip legally. Simply incredible. (Netta Gilboa)
IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER (MCA/Universal Home Video, 133 minutes) Nominated for seven Academy Awards, this film is about an innocent man who is imprisoned for fifteen years in Ireland. Almost no time is devoted to showing prison life, as the film focuses instead on political struggles in Ireland and the effort to get the man released. The plot didn't interest me per se, but the acting is indeed first rate. Not to be missed by people interested in politics and the struggles in Ireland. (Netta Gilboa)
IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 101 minutes) Nicolas Cage and Bridget Fonda star in this romantic comedy about a cop who promises a waitress he'll split his lottery winnings with her if he wins. He does win and his wife files for divorce because he does the right thing and gives the waitress two million dollars to cover her share. A great exploration into human motivations and how money can unite and divide people. (Netta Hilboa)
JIMMY HOLLYWOOD (Paramount Home Video, 118 minutes) An actor who cannot get work (played by Joe Pesci) becomes a vigilante instead. He attracts a partner (played by Christian Slater) and rave reviews from the media. It's a wild comedy until it becomes suspensful after Pesci's character decides to make public who he really is. The home video version contains additional footage not shown in the theatres. (Netta Gilboa)
JOAN RIVERS: ABROAD IN LONDON (Paramount Home Video, 58 minutes) This superb comedy tape features Joan's stand-up act which includes making fun of fellow celebrities, involving audience members and revealing personal details that somehow make you laugh with Rivers rather than cry for her. It is a rare person who can survive her husband's suicide and get on stage and make jokes about life since. If you've never seen her in action before, grab this tape. If you are already a fan, I think it's some of her best work. (Netta Gilboa)
JOHNNY LEGEND'S UNTAMED VIDEO (Something Weird Video) Unusual movie trailers are the theme here. Described as a "Teenage UFO Rock 'n' Roll Monster Show," there are lots of music films included from the 1950s-1970s as well as horror films, sci-fi hits and even two complete featurettes: Twist Crazy and Teenage Crusader. Weird, wacky and wonderful. This held my interest even when if seen one-at-a-time many of these clips would not have interested me. Highly recommended if you like compilation tapes. (Netta Gilboa)
KAMA SUTRA II: THE ART OF MAKING LOVE (Penthouse Video, 60 minutes) I gave a good review to the first Kama Sutra video. As time went on I found myself watching it a lot with friends who asked me questions about sex. Even after seeing it a dozen times or so, with people I did not become intimate with, I still found it arousing.
Along comes the sequel which is equally as hot and contains all new tips. If you don't mind seeing explicit sex, these are both exciting and educational. My highest recommendation. If you are lucky enough to watch this with a partner, it will be hard to wait until the film is over to grab them. (Netta Gilboa)
THE LAND BEFORE TIME II: THE GREAT VALLEY ADVENTURE (MCA/Universal Home Video, 74 minutes) This animated sequel has been released direct to video. It loses Spielberg's name and includes a few syrupy songs to hold the attention of very young viewers. Still, the old characters are all back, the animation is excellent and the plot is fairly realistic for its genre. It's worth seeing if you liked the original with the caveat that the sequel has really been created to teach messages to young children. While this was also the case with the original, it was disguised better there. (Netta Gilboa)
LAST CALL AT MAUD'S (Water Bearer Films, 77 minutes) Before it shut its doors in 1989, Maud's was the world's longest running lesbian bar. This documentary traces the history of the bar and shows how it underwent changes to match the political times. I was particularly intrigued by the section on the 1960s complete with a story about a visit to Maud's by Janis Joplin. Don't miss this is you are interested in history, San Francisco, gay rights or films that make you think. (Netta Gilboa)
LITTLE GIANTS (Warner Home Video) Rick Moranis and Ed O'Neill star as two bickering brothers who must resolve their differences for the sake of the children. Both funny and poignant it makes some great statements about good sportsmanship. Also stars John Madden. (Netta Gilboa)
LOVERS: Volume II (Femme Distribution, Inc., 75 minutes) Here's something innovative in adult films. This series uses real-life lovers who are interviewed about why they were attracted to each other and how they keep the passion alive. In this volume we meet Jennifer and Steve. Jennifer works as a stripper and her comments about the industry and why she does it fascinated me. The couple also perform several sex acts in this film with an emphasis on oral sex and female submission. Candida Royalle introduces the tape and gives her viewpoint on dominance and submission. Well done. (Netta Gilboa)
LUSH LIFE (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 106 minutes) Jeff Goldblum, Forest Whitaker and Kathy Baker star in this drama about professional jazz players and their lives backstage and offstage. Goldblum is superb in one of his best acting roles ever. Lots of great music, great lines and great acting. Recommended even if jazz is not your favorite genre of music. (Netta Gilboa)
MAGIC EYE THE VIDEO Vol. I and II (Cascom Int. Inc., 806 4th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37210. 30 minutes each) We raved last issue about those 3D images on posters, cards and in books where you can see 3D without special glasses. Along come these videos for those who need extra time to learn to see the pictures and for those who enjoy this type of art and want to see more of it. The tapes work best on smaller televisions and I could not see them on my 53" projection TV. Still, I was able to enjoy nice one-dimensional pictures going by and an original soundtrack produced in Dolby Surround. The tape got better on a 20" TV and I was able to see 3D effects. Each tape has over 100 images. Way cool. (Netta Gilboa)
MAGIC KID 2 (PM Home Video) He's a teen idol who stars as "Ninja Boy" on TV. Yet when he decides to leave the show to take school more seriously, he encounters much resistance from those who make money from his acting. Well done. (Netta Gilboa)
MAJOR LEAGUE II (Warner Home Video, 105 minutes) Goes backstage into the competitive world of professional baseball as you watch a team try to win games and be profitable. Stars include Charlie Sheen, Corbin Bensen, Randy Quaid and Tom Berenger. Builds on the first film but does not require that you've seen it. Worth seeing even if, like me, you could care less about sports. (Netta Gilboa)
MATHEMATICS FOR LOVERS: MANDELBROT SETS AND JULIA SETS (The ARK Group 800-727-0009, 120 minutes) Super colorful computer-generated fractals are shown here with good instrumental music added. It's a great tape for everything: watching it straight through; making love while it plays; setting a background mood at parties; meditation and relaxation purposes. Truly unique. (Netta Gilboa)
MEDIUM COOL (Paramount Home Video, 111 minutes) I first saw this film in a college course on "Films of the 1960s." Written and directed by Haskell Wexler, it's about a love affair between two people. The man is a TV news cameraman and he is sent out to shoot the infamous '68 Democratic Convention. A decent plot, but a not-to-be-missed portrayal of the time period including a few minutes at a Frank Zappa concert. This has been out-of-print for years. Don't miss it if you are a fan of the sixities. (Netta Gilboa)
MIDNIGHT EDITION (MCA/Universal Home Video, 98 minutes) A reporter becomes the voice of a convicted murderer and each becomes emotionally involved with the other. This one hit very close to home and is definitely worth seeing. Will Patton and Michael DeLuise star in this better-than-average suspense film based on a true story. (Netta Gilboa)
MILK MONEY (Paramount Home Video, 110 minutes) Ed Harris, Melanie Griffith and Malcolm McDowell star in this awesome film about three curious kids who chip in to purchase a hooker so they can see the female body nude. They end up deciding to fix the hooker they choose up with one of the kid's dads. A realistic portrayal of both prostitution and suburban life. Don't miss it. (Netta Gilboa)
MISS NUDE WORLD INTERNATIONAL (Borghese Entertainment Group, 120 minutes) Venus De Light hosts this nude beauty pageant where women from around the world compete on the basis of physical attributes. The approach is a lot more honest than clothed beauty pageants. If you want to see beautiful women parade around nude and in costumes and say a little bit about themselves, this tape will not disappoint. (Netta Gilboa)
MISTRESS CHERRI'S POOL PARTY (Carter Stevens Presents, 60 minutes) This adult film features four women who engage in lesbian sex, bondage, nudity, spanking and verbal humiliation. Mistress Cherri acts as the dominant and she gets serviced in different ways by each of her three slaves. It delivers what it promises and then some. Although I had seen many bondage films before, this one is more stylized than the commerical adult films and is clearly appealing to specific fetishes. If you taste runs in this direction, or you're just curious like me, this was worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
MONDO MOD (Something Weird Video) Filmed in Hollywood, CA in 1966, this documentary film explores surfing, fashions, Hell's Angels, political protests, dirt bikes, etc. There is rare footage of now-defunct clubs like the legendary Whiskey-A-Go-Go, Pandora's Box, The Fifth Estate, etc. Since there is no cohesive plot or point, this is best used for background footage at parties after you watch it in its entirety once. A must for 60s collectors, those who lived in Hollywood at the time and those who like cult films. (Netta Gilboa)
MOTHER'S BOYS (Miramax Home Entertainment, 106 minutes) Jamie Lee Curtis stars in this drama about a mother who abandoned her children temporarily and now wishes to reunite with them. It turns into a suspenseful thriller when Curtis's character resorts to lies and violence to get what she wants. (Netta Gilboa)
MOVING PAINTINGS VOLUME 1 (New Era Media, distributed by The ARK Group (800) 727-0009, 27 minutes) Artists and art lovers will enjoy this video which combines animation, music and fine art using the work of artist Stuart Ellis and the audio from six musicians and poets. Utterly unlike any paintings you have seen before because of the way they blend, swirl, merge and flow into each other. Makes a strong case for the use of computers in art. (Netta Gilboa)
MY GIRL 2 (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 99 minutes) Jamie Lee Curtis and Dan Akroyd star in this moving film about a teenage girl who goes to visit relatives as she hunts down information on her real mother. Not to be missed by adopted children, this film examines the concept of family and what makes a mother successful. It's also about dating when you're still a kid. Both plots will suck you in. I loved it. (Netta Gilboa)
MY FATHER THE HERO (Touchstone Home Video, 100 minutes) A teenage girl is dragged away on a trip with her dad. She makes up horrid stories about him in order to impress a local boy. The stories travel and the father notices people judging him and treating him like a leper. Finally the daughter reveals what she has said and the father ends up playing along to a point. Not your typical family. (Netta Gilboa)
NAKED GUN 33 1/2: THE FINAL INSULT (Paramount Home Video, 83 minutes) O.J. Simpson, Priscilla Presley, George Kennedy and Leslie Nielsen star in this slapstick comedy about an attempt to bomb the Academy Awards ceremony. Lt. Frank Drebin (played by Nielsen) crashes the Academy Award ceremony trying to stop the bomb from exploding. Fans of the Naked Gun series won't be too disappointed. The comedy is in the same vein but not as good as the first film. (David Watson)
NEXT DOOR (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 95 minutes) Do you hate your neighbor? James Woods, Randy Quaid and Kate Capshaw star in this black comedy about an escalating war between two neighbors. It starts off with an argument over a misdirected water sprinkler and turns to physical violence. This is one of those rare movies that sucks you in and leaves you thinking about humanity. Worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (Touchstone Home Video, 76 minutes) Incredible! I watched this movie several times and I saw things I missed each time I watched it. Every part of the screen is filled with interesting characters and scenery. I don't know exactly how they did it, but I understand they used computers as well as conventional animation techniques. The music was written by Danny Elfman, also known for Batman and the Simpson's theme. He also sang the part of Jack, the main character of the film. This movie is definitely one for your video library. You won't be disappointed. (Jeff Wampler)
ON DEADLY GROUND (Warner Home Video) Steven Seagal's latest battle against the forces of evil is his first attempt at attacking a real world problem. This film is set in Alaska at a drilling site for oil. The president of the company, played by Michael Caine, has plans to destroy one of the rigs for the insurance money. Needless to say, this would cause an environmental disaster. Of course, as always, Seagal's mission is to stop the bad guys and get revenge for somebody's death. Personally, I enjoy this film and all of Seagal's other films for one main reason, martial arts action and lots of it! As this film also had a message which was well addressed in the ending shots of the film, it is definately worth seeing. (Jeff Wampler)
THE PAPER (MCA/Universal Home Video, 112 minutes) Michael Keaton, Glenn Close, Randy Quaid and Robert Duvall star in this film about the employees of a daily newspaper. It's also about what makes the best headline, how to work with other people (and how not to), balancing marriage and career and man's search for the truth. Lots of funny and poignant scenes as well as a semi-realistic idea of how newspapers are put together. Worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
PARALLEL LIVES (Paramount Home Video, 105 minutes) An all-star cast gathers together for a weekend college reunion. How can you go wrong with a cast of 19 stars including Liza Minelli, Dudley Moore, Jack Klugman, Treat Williams, Patricia Wetting, James Belushi, Jill Eikenberry and Ally Sheedy? Worth seeing. (Netta Gilboa)
PENTHOUSE: 25TH ANNIVERSARY SWIMSUIT VIDEO (Penthouse Video, 60 minutes) Swimsuits, what swimsuits? I'm kidding. There were swimsuits, but they didn't stay on long and I don't think anyone will mind. These swimsuit models could put Cindy Crawford to shame. (Jeff Wampler)
PENTHOUSE: SEXIEST AMATEUR VIDEO CENTERFOLDS (Penthouse Video, 60 minutes) These women look pretty good for amateurs. You wouldn't even know that they were if, Penthouse hadn't revealed it on the tape case. If you're looking for some beautiful women, this video is a good place to start. (Jeff Wampler)
POLICE ACADEMY: MISSION TO MOSCOW (Warner Home Video) The gang is back in this sequel that involves a video game which has a trojan horse in it allowing the game company's owner to access the data on the computer of anyone playing it. This evil man makes sure to get copies of the game to the mayor, police and other key places whose computers he wishes access to. The Police Academy team must save the day. I couldn't stand the phony Russian accents but the plot was unique. (Netta Gilboa)
PREHYSTERIA! 2 (Paramount Home Video, 81 minutes) Best suited to a younger audience, this film uses stop-motion animation to bring five dinosaurs to life. They become pets owned by children and make themselves useful by opening locked doors with their tails and making logical suggestions with body language which the children never fail to understand. In other words, a not very believable plot. Great dinosaurs though. (Netta Gilboa)
PSYCHO COP 2 (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 80 minutes) This slasher movie revolves around a bachelor party held in a high-rise office building. One by one the attendees die. No need to have seen the original. If you like these kind of movies, you can already guess what happens. Not bad for its genre but short on originality. (Netta Gilboa)
PUPPET MASTER 5 (Paramount Home Video, 81 minutes) Seven deadly puppets are loose and must be stopped. It's a formula horror film that holds your attention due to its incredible use of stop-motion animation. I can't rave enough about the special effects used in this film. PM5 was good enough to make me lose sight of all the people I was watching being dismembered. You can't pay a horror film a much better compliment than that. (Netta Gilboa)
RENAISSANCE MAN (Touchstone Home Video, 138 minutes) Danny DeVito stars in this comedy about a guy who accepts a teaching job in the military and then discovers how the recruits live after he gets there. Normally this wouldn't interest me, but the level of personal growth shown in teach character as well as the interactions between them were priceless. Superb. (Netta Gilboa)
RING OF THE MUSKETEERS (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 86 minutes) Corbin Bernsen, David Hasselhoff and Cheech Marin star in this modern day adventure about four people bound together through ownership of a ring who practice ancient ideas of assisting the innocent. They go up against the mafia here and have to coax Marin's character into wanting to take his vows seriously. Much better than you'd think, this is worth seeing if you're a fan of Cheech Marin or enjoy suspense-filled comedies. (Netta Gilboa)
THE RIVER WILD (MCA?Universal Home Video, 112 minutes) Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon star in this action film about some men who need help navigating the rapids from a woman and her family. It's a survival film, more entertaining than most. It's worth seeing if you are a fan of the outdoors (great scenery), or of Streep, or if you like the suspense of watching films where you do not know who will die and who will live. (Netta Gilboa)
ROBERT RIPLEY: BELIEVE IT OR NOT (Turner Home Entertainment, 95 minutes) I had no idea how much I would learn from this video. I have not stopped raving about it to my friends.
Most o f us know of Ripley through visiting one of his museums or through seeing a few of his comic strips or his TV show. Ripley collected trivia and made a career out of illustrating it. He searched for the bizarre, the fantastic, the incredible and the gray in people, places and cultures around the world. For over forty years, Ripley taught us about people who eat live mice, smoke pipes through their eye and have other unique skills.
This video is not to be missed when you come across it. It's an opportunity to study the man who publicized gray people no one else would have dared to without judging them. (Netta Gilboa)
SCHINDLER'S LIST (MCA/Universal Home Video, 197 minutes) Based on Thomas Keneally's documentary novel about a cynical opportunist, the Nazi Oscar Schindler, who in spite of himself saved the lives of 1250 Jews, Schindler's List was produced and directed by Steven Spielberg in consultation with and with the full cooperation of those who survived, 700 of them because their names were on this list of slave laborers. Briefly, in 1942-44, this otherwise selfish, amoral ethnic German from Bohemia made a fortune out of his Jewish slave laborers and then, moved even he by their plight, put their names on a list and paid with all his earnings for the life of every one of them; i.e. he bought and paid for them when the labor camp where they were kept prisoners was about to be liquidated, all its inhabitants to be sent to Auschwitz/Birkenau to be gassed and cremated.
Thanks to that uncharacteristic generosity, though he never again achieved the monetary "success" slavery had given him, he did fare
much better after the liberation than most other Nazi Party members and users of slave labor.
The movie is an accurate reproduction and representation of the places and events, with the correct names and deeds of the real people.
Cracow is as it was. Auschwitz, though, is not.
The buildings are the same, and the electrified fence, the gas chambers, the crematorium, the uniforms ... but from start to finish, we are looking at actors--very good ones, but union members who eat three meals a day, and nowhere is that more incongruous than in Auschwitz. They are more like the Hollywood ideal of size and shape than like slaves, most of whom died of privation and exhaustion. Still, there is truth despite the softening of its harshness, and authenticity wherever it is achievable without a recreation of the very horror.
Schindler's List is now available in videotape, in two parts, because it is a very long movie. The two parts are different enough to make
the division not only logical but advisable. It comes at just the right point. One can stop in the middle and think about it, talk about
it, come to grips with it. For most of us with home video equipment, that means the picture is greatly reduced in size from that of the big screen of the original movie presentation that draws us into it, inserting us inside the experience.
Watching the videotape, one is physically and critically distanced from it, weighing and judging, aware that that was then and this is
now; that was there and this is here. In this movie much more than in others, the location of the audience makes a very big difference. Also, one can stop it, to back up and see something again, like the women piercing their fingers to smear the blood on their cheeks in an attempt to look healthy enough to be left to continue to work and not be sent to the gas. Such moments go by so quickly one barely catches them.
The videotape is the same movie, but watching it is not the same experience. For those for whom being inside the holocaust--or
going back to it--is too painful, for whom an SS officer larger and more powerful than life is as he once was, the videotape makes it
possible to see this extraordinary movie while retaining the hard-found distance of 50 years. The tapes are also especially good for those coming face to face with the holocaust for the first time, who may not get it all in one viewing.
The holocaust, even in just this one detailed segment of it, is almost beyond human comprehension. Those who want to know and understand will have to see this movie more than once, and then read and keep on learning about it.
In addition to the human account of the people focused on is the explanation and illustration of the whole slave labor system on which the economy of the Third Reich was based. Schindler's workers were making arms, almost everywhere the work of slaves. They made the rifles, the grenades, the rockets, the bombs, in Cracow, in Bohemia, in Germany, even right underneath the concentration (i.e. slave labor) camp at Dachau. They even loaded the shells into the artillery for the soldiers to aim and fire. The forced labor of captives--Jews, Poles, prisoners of war, dissidents,
homosexuals, trade unionists--was the basis of the Nazi economic system modeled on the economy of ancient Rome and, incidentally,
also of ancient Greece and Egypt. Jews not deemed suitable for slave labor--children, old people--were killed. The rest were worked to death. In detailing the workings of this industrialized slave economy, this movie contributes significantly to our understanding of the holocaust, of Nazism, and of what a military/industrial complex actually comes down to.
See it, one way or the other, or both ways. (Carolyn Chiterer Gilboa)
SCORNED (Prism Pictures) Shannon Tweed and Andrew Stevens star in this film about a woman whose husband commits suicide. She is therefore unable to collect on his insurance and seeks revenge from his employer and fellow employees. Gets into the grayest areas of business where wives perform sexual favors to impress their husbands clients, etc. Far better than average for its genre. (Netta Gilboa)
SEXUAL POSITIONS FOR LOVERS: BEYOND THE MISSIONARY POSITION (The Sinclair Institute, available from Focus International (800) 843-0305) Designed for couples who wish to improve their sex lives, as opposed to simply those who wish to watch explicit sex, this adult tape focuses on various sexual positions with an emphasis on positions best for deeper penetration, for prolongued intercourse, for couples with physical limitations and for G-spot penetration. This is so well done it can be used by couples at any experience level and the tape can be paused if you wish to study something in detail or get carried away. Highly recommended. (Netta Gilboa)
SHRUNKEN HEADS (Paramount Home Video, 86 minutes) Three teens stand up to neighborhood punks and get murdered. They are revived by a Haitian who uses voodoo magic. Once they are revived, the special effects kick in and they fly around seeking revenge. Superb for its genre and not too violent for the squeamish. (Netta Gilboa)
SILK N' SABOTAGE (Academy Entertainment, 73 minutes) Three female roomates use their bodies in a con to recover stolen computer software. Lots of nudity and romantic sex here. Also lots of lingerie scenes as two of the roomates work as undergarment models. Recommended for the sex scenes which are intense for a Hollywood film. (Netta Gilboa)
SISTER ACT 2: BACK IN THE HABIT (Touchstone Home Video, 117 minutes) Whoopi Goldberg is back as a sister teaching music in a Catholic school. She's recruited away from her position as a Vegas singer and the school's administration is not told her real background. They discover it on their own and the trouble starts. Highly recommended if you want something lighthearted. (Netta Gilboa)
SLEEPING WITH STRANGERS (Paramount Home Video, 103 minutes) Two competing hotels are given the ultimate challenge when a rock star and actress pull into town and check in. They vie for the celebrity guests for income, prestige and even romance. It all works out in the end and holds your attention from start to finish. Not bad at all for a movie with no big names starring in it. (Netta Gilboa)
THE STONED AGE (Vidmark Entertainment, 90 minutes) Billed as a drug movie in the style of Dazed & Confused, this film is about the use of drugs to pursue girls rather than about using drugs for pleasure.It features an awesome soundtrack which includes Blue Oyster Cult, Black Sabbath and Foghat. It also stars China Kantner, daughter of rock stars Grace Slick and Paul Kantner. Makes many good points about trying to get laid but almost none about drugs. (Netta Gilboa)
TAUROBOLIUM (WesselMania, P.O. Box 1611, Manhattan Beach, CA 90267-1611, 108 minutes) This is a documentary on the gray sport of bullfights. Filmed in Tijuana, if you have been to a bullfight there you'll know what to expect. This is a superb visual example of what you saw which you can now show your friends. If you have never been to a bullfight and are curious, you may walk away disgusted from viewing this, but it does not censor and will not disappoint. Some of the scenes utterly grossed me out, but this film was so good I continued watching anyway. That's as high a compliment as you can pay a film, is it not? (Netta Gilboa)
THREESOME (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 93 minutes) Two male college roommates find a female named Alex assigned to the third room in their dorm suite. They warm up to the idea and become sexually involved as well. Superb plot, direction and acting. You simply can't go wrong with this film.(Netta Gilboa)
THUMBELINA (Warner Home Video) The classic Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale is animated by Don Bluth. It's full of delightful characters and songs by Barry Manilow. Worth seeing for the colors and the quality of the animation. It 's nice to be able to throw a tape on, forget life's problems and disappointments, and feel like a kid again for a little while. (Netta Gilboa)
TIMECOP (MCA/Universal Home Video, 99 minutes) Jean-Claude Van Damme stars in this sci-fi action thriler. It's about futuristic time travel in which returning to the past allows you to change details you are unhappy with in the future. Has less special effects than you'd think, but made great use of what it did include. Not really my taste, but it did hold my interest. (Netta Gilboa)
TRADING MOM (Vidmark, 83 minutes) Sissy Spacek stars in this terrific film about three kids who decide they are unhappy with their mother's rules and nagging. They discover a mommy market where unhappy children can try their luck with a new parent. Not surprisingly, there are many unappealing mothers there to choose from. A great examination of the gray reasoning behind how parents supervise and discipline children differently. Don't miss it. (Netta Gilboa)
A TROLL IN CENTRAL PARK (Warner Home Video, 65 minutes) From animator Don Bluth comes this adventure tale about a troll who teaches children to believe in themselves. Featuring the voices of Chloris Leachman, Hayley Mills, Charles Nelson Reilly and Dom Deluise, this has a good plot and great characters. The animation is best in the fighting sequences where good and evil are at war. A must to see if you have kids you can share it with. Even though I don't, most of it held my interest. (Netta Gilboa)
VIRTUAL 60S (White Star, three tapes approx. 50 minutes each, available from Kulter (800) 458-5887) Tim Leary narrates this three-tape budget-priced set focusing on Peace, Love and Consciousness. It contains live concert footage of Canned Heat, Melanie, Country Joe McDonald, Buddy Miles, Blood, Sweat and Tears and Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad. The footage is taken from various sources circa the 20th anniversary of Woodstock. If you like these bands at all, it's a must to own. The set contains one of Melanie's best performances on video and certainly Country Joe's as well. The musical acts are scattered throughout the tapes so you do want to get all three. The 60s focus and commentary is well-done and not sappy. Highly recommended, especially for the low price. (Netta Gilboa)
WHEN A MAN LOVES A WOMAN (Touchstone Home Video, 136 minutes) Meg Ryan and Andy Garcia star in this bittersweet film about a woman who comes to term with her alchoholism. Highly recommended for its treatment of alchoholism as well as the romantic relationship between the couple which evolves over time. Ryan is superb as usual. (Netta Gilboa)
WHORE 2 (Vidmark Entertainment, 85 minutes) Real prostitutes are interviewed in this superb sequel that does not build upon the original film. The women are quite candid and analytical as to why they do what they do and what their role is in society. Highly recommended to anyone who has ever visited a prostitute or thought about becoming one. (Netta Gilboa)
THE WHO'S TOMMY: THE AMAZING JOURNEY (Buena Vista Home Video, 60 minutes) This terrific documentary covers many aspects of the Who's recording career. I wasn't sure it could be any good because The Kids Are Alright, also about the Who, is simply my favorite rock film. What more remains to be said? But, while utterly different, this tape is quite enlightening. Everything from the child abuse scenes in Tommy (so revolutionary for its time that the band was dissed by the media) to the deaths of band member Keith Moon and concert attendees in Cincinnati is discussed. There are quotes from band members as well as other musicians like Elton John, Phil Collins andTina Turner who reveals that when she accepted the role of The Acid Queen in the film Tommy she had no idea acid was a drug. Highly recommended. (Netta Gilboa)
WITH HONORS (Warner Home Video) A student at Harvard has his thesis stolen by a homeless man who arranges to return one page for every favor done for him. They become friends and the student is forced to examine the value of his education in light of the homeless man's plight. Highly recommended. (Netta Gilboa)
WOLF (Columbia Tristar Home Video, 121 minutes) Jack Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer star in this thriller about a man who becomes a wolf after receiving a small bite from one. Unlike other movies of this type, the focus here is really not on special effects and frequent transformations from man to beast. Rather, there is a strong plot which changes to adapt to the wolf situation. Much more artsy than most films it could be compared to, Wolf is worth seeing if you like Nicholson or if you like vampire or horror films. (Netta Gilboa)
WOODSTOCK 94 (PolyGram Video) A sampling of the major acts who performed at last summer's Woodstock festival is included in this compilation tape. The focus here is on the music more than on explaining the event. Classic rock fans will enjoy seeing Bob Dylan performs "Highway 61," John Sebastian join CSN onstage for "Deja Vu," Traffic perform "Pearly Queen" and Joe Cocker belt out "Feelin' Alright." Watching this video I also got to see a lot of bands I'd never been exposed to before. I found myself wishing I had a copy of the full pay-per-view broadcast. But, even if I did, this video is the one you'll reach for when the mood hits to crank up the stereo and hear a bunch of bands rather than spend the evening listening to and watching just one. Highly recommended, even if some of the bands listed don't initially interest you. (Netta Gilboa)