5 comments about Michelangelo: Self-Portrait.

1. Having just returned from Italy, I was very interested in seeing this program. I wish I had been exposed to it before my trip, I would have better appreciated Michelangelo, the person.

   When I visited the Sistine Chapel, it was a hot day in August and the first thing I remember was that it was air-conditioned, what a blessing. There were hundreds of people standing but I managed to get a seat in the middle and meditated for 1/2 hour on the beautiful ceiling and in particular Michelangelo's " Last Judgment". It was quite noisy and the loud speakers in various languages continued to tell us not to speak, take pictures etc. These announcements were worst than the people around us.

   In viewing this marvelous video, I realized that Michelangelo was about 32 when he was commissioned by the Pope to paint the Sistine Chapel . It took 7 years and afterwards, Michelangelo writes in his letters that he felt and looked like an old man. He was 21 when he sculptured "The Pieta". At the age of 60 he thought he had lived a long hard life. He lived until the age of 87.

   This program took 10 years to complete and you realize that this effort will be received with tremendous gratitude. You not only get a wonderful avenue for his paintings and most importantly, Michelangelo's sculptures but the letters that he wrote have been preserved and are delivered orally to us in a very believable manner. Having experienced this wonderful program, I am so much more appreciative of this man, Michelangelo.




2. After viewing the film, I was left with an incredible sense of hope. To see how Michael Angelo's life had changed on his journey of faith, showed me that it was in his struggle to use his gift to serve God that brought him right into the presence of the Lord.



3. Based to a large extent upon the 1950 Academy Award winning documentary "The Titan: Story of Michelangelo" which is included on the DVD, this wonderful film takes that work to a higher level and is a work of art in itself. The photography is stunning, the commentary intelligent.
   
   If you're planning a trip to Italy, be sure to view this before you go.



4. This wonderful DVD offers two complete Robert Snyder documentaries on the life and work of Michelangelo.
   
   I opted to watch the black & white, 1950 Oscar-winning "The Titan: Story of Michelangelo" first, and am very happy I did so. It runs about an hour, and provides a fairly straightforward account of the artist's life and work, while also exploring some of the regional artistic influences on young Michelangelo, and the political and religious discord that existed during the Renaissance. Narrated by Frederic March, it is highly melodramatic in places and features a dated, tinny soundtrack. The most striking and memorable footage is a recreation of David being moved through the streets of Florence (which plays very like a Spaghetti Western showdown). This original documentary is a terrific set-up for the main feature to follow...
   
   Michelangelo's work almost-literally comes to life as you see it all again (and more) in living color in the 1989 film. Obviously, there is a lot of overlap with "Titan," but this film, "Self Portrait," is narrated in first-person, using Michelangelo's letters, diaries and poetry to tell his story in a more intimate and insightful way than its 1950 predecessor. What a treat to hear Michelangelo's own descriptions of his work! It changed the whole experience for me. His personal struggle to balance Christianity and Classicism mirrored the turbulence of the Renaissance and fueled his creativity; it may also strike a familiar note in modern times...
   
   This film is much more complete than the first, both in the number of works shown and the exploration of the artist's life. It is beautifully photographed and scored, and it offers closer-than-you-can-get-in-person views of Michelangelo's sculptures and the pre-renovation Sistine ceiling and Last Judgement. No real people appear in either documentary--no narrators, curators, actors, townspeople or tourists are present to distract from the artwork or the environs. My one complaint about this is that we never get a good sense of scale as a result. Many of Michelangelo's creations are monumental, and I'm not sure that truly comes across--especially on a TV screen.
   
   Most fine art DVDs seem not to have any extra features, so the fact that this one does is a real bonus. The original 1950 documentary, "The Titan," is actually found under the Extras Menu and, as mentioned above, should be watched even before the main feature. In addition, there is a short but worthwhile interview with Robert Snyder in which he reveals where he found some of the original footage used in both films (I won't spoil it for you). Finally, there are short excerpts from a series of other Snyder documentaries featuring creative icons of the mid-20th Century: Buckminster Fuller, Pablo Casals, Anais Nin, Claudio Arrau, Henry Miller and Willem de Kooning.
   
   This is one of the most engaging and worthwhile art DVDs I've seen so far. Anyone interested in Michelangelo, Rome, Florence, Renaissance history or the Vatican should enjoy this over and over again.



5. Another fine effort to capture the ocean in a teacup! I'm sure most Michelangelo fans will welcome every frame, but again, the man and the art each need their own attention.

1 comments about Ernest Borgnine on the Bus.

1. One of the most pleasant video experiences in recent years:hop on board "The Sunbum",a customised luxury bus touring the heartland of the US with your driver(and host)Ernest Borgnine and his son Cris.As you tour past the corn fields,down the interstate highways,through the trailer parks,hear Ernest spin stories of Hollywood past - just sit back and relax and take the trip with him.Hear how he managed not to be typecast immediately after his 1955 Academy Award performance in "Marty"(no actor these days would be brave enough to do what he did!)How he successfully talked himself out of the lead in "McHale's Navy"-and who made him come to his senses.And how he successfully managed to talk himself out of being mentioned in Shelley Winters' autobiographies.Hear stories about his favorite movies,the people he's worked with and views on life in general as we thunder through Iowa,Milwaukee and the surrounding states and meet many of the locals he comes across in his travels.The one drawback is that one wishes Ernest could tell his stories without the distraction of driving a 40 ton bus at the same time!Don't expect a film as if it was shot by Gregg Toland--the filmic style here is more like an MTV music video(the soundtrack includes songs by The Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive among others)--and it is not judgmental on anyone involved(you will be amazed at the jaw dropping lack of pretence--all lovely people,all funny stories).Whilst it may only be 45 minutes long,Jeff Krulik's "Ernest Borgnine On The Bus" would be a welcome addition to any serious movie buff's home video library--as well as those who want to rent a tape to hear a tale or two,see some great scenery,and have a good laugh on a cold night.

5 comments about When the Forest Ran Red: Washington, Braddock & a Doomed Army.

1. A very good review of George Washington's experiences in Western Pa. during the French and Indian War is shown on this tape. I learned things that I didn't know before (such as that Daniel Boone was in Braddock's Army).

   I would recommend this tape to all history teachers in the schools who are teaching American and Pennsylvania history.




2. When the Forest Ran Red is a long overdue account of the events leading up to the French and Indian War. The video has a balanced presentation of artwork, commentary by historians, and reenactments. It relates the early, and largely unknown to most Americans, military career of George Washington. The account of Braddock's expedition to Fort Duquesne moves like a thriller. The viewer fully expects Braddock's troops to take the French fort with little effort, but is shocked when the French and their Indian allies surprise and soundly defeat the British in the forest. This video is not your run-of-the-mill documentary. Well worth the price. For both the historian and layman and should be shown in every American history class. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment.



3. This is an one of the best French and Indian War Videos on the Market Today. It combines historical accuracy, period costumes and settings, action-packed battle scenes and a great story line that holds the interest of military buffs, and anyone interested in the history of pre-revolutionary America. Robert Matzen brings together a great cast of re-enactors, writers and historians to make this documentary an unequaled success. This film is NOT your run of the mill off the shelf documentary. It reveals facts about Braddock, Washington and the other major players that were even new to me after studying this topic for over 20 years. I give this film the highest rating of 5 stars because it is a great film and reveals an important part of our history at a time in our own history when every American should be learning about our heritage.



4. "When the Forest Ran Red" is an impressive, interesting documentary on an often overlooked period of North American history, The French and Indian War. It details the war ravaged continent where three major contenders fought for control of the land, and thus their way of life. It is very objective, casting a neutral light on the British, French and Indian participants. This allows the viewer to see both the good and bad, as well as the inherent differences found within their respective cultures and how these differences were critical in the outcome of the war.
   It is a very visual presentation, illustrating maps, troop movements, historical figures, etc. Most notable is its footage of historical forts/towns which "dissolve" into what it looks like in the present day. It really brings history to life!
   Overall, it is most certainly a "must have" for anyone interested in this historical era. Also, it would also be very beneficial to use in the classroom. Get a copy today!!



5. "When the Forest Ran Red" is an impressive, interesting documentary on an often overlooked period of North American history, The French and Indian War. It details the war ravaged continent where three major contenders fought for control of the land, and thus their way of life. It is very objective, casting a neutral light on the British, French and Indian participants. This allows the viewer to see both the good and bad, as well as the inherent differences found within their respective cultures and how these differences were critical in the outcome of the war.
   It is a very visual presentation, illustrating maps, troop movements, historical figures, etc. Most notable is its footage of historical forts/towns which "dissolve" into what it looks like in the present day. It really brings history to life!
   Overall, it is most certainly a "must have" for anyone interested in this historical era. Also, it would also be very beneficial to use in the classroom. Get a copy today!!

1 comments about Strokes of Genius: Arshile Gorky.

1. Truthfully, before watching the film on Arshile Gorky, I did not know anything about the man or his art. I had seen some of his pieces but had no idea of the history or meaning behind them. The film was a bittersweet surprise to me.
   I was genuinely delighted to hear pieces of letters he had written to friends and family. It is always great to hear from the artist directly. I found his words and also his personality to be quite poetic and romantic. I was particularly taken by the story his wife told of his response to people mowing the fields, "they're cutting down the Raphaels." His way of thinking was purely artistic and I admire him for that.
   The film spoke of Gorky's troublesome past which gives some needed insight into the artwork he created. At a young age he was exposed to the horrific genocide of his people by the Turkish Empire. His mother died in his arms due to starvation. It was not long after that he and his sister moved to the United States but his memories of Armenia would stay with him forever and frequently if not always influenced his art. In a letter to his sister in 1943 he speaks of their father's garden and the remembrance of the shapes it took.
   It was unfortunate to learn of the cancer that grabbed hold of him and the car accident that rendered him almost unable to paint. Both combined probably led to his severe depression. He was in such a state that his wife and children had to move out. He remained alone and eventually committed suicide by hanging himself in 1948, his "return to the dot of birth." I cannot help but wonder what beauty was left uncreated with the death of this man.
   Although his story is a tragic one, there are good points to be seen. Gorky gave something new to the world. Some believe that it was his work that began the abstract expressionism movement, which in turn, influenced many future artists. His effect is immeasurable.
   All in all, the program was enjoyably educational and I believe that a significant appreciation for the man and his art was born in me.

2 comments about Dr. Bernie Siegel in Fight For Your Life.

1. ...

   There are DEFINITE techniques that survivors of cancer utilize in recovering from their particular type of cancer--GET THIS TAPE and LEARN THEM!!!! Even advanced cancers respond to these techniques. The tape included an advanced lung, blood, brain, & ovarian cancer person who are ALL in remission after being given months to live!! (My oncologist said I'd have "enough time to get my affairs in order," which was like waving a red flag in front of a bull). I have been digging furiously for information since my tumor returned with a vengeance. I was much too complacent during and after my first round of treatment. So don't make this mistake yourself.

   There are TWO "must" items you should get for yourself or a loved one with cancer: This tape and the book Beating Cancer With Nutrition - Revised. Go read about them--both are rated 5 stars. Order them today and get busy taking an active role in your Cancer experience!! I am determined to prove to my oncologist that there are definite additional things one with cancer can do to augment treatment and assure STAYING ALIVE WITH QUALITY OF LIFE!!




2. I was diagnosed with bowel cancer last year. I've been told I have no more than 6 months to live. I plan on proving them wrong.
   
   I read Bernie Siegel's book "Love, Medicine and Miracles" last month and it excited me and gave me the hope that I can beat this cancer. So, I wanted to know more, more, more and I ordered this video.
   
   What I received was obviously a copy as it had a photocopied cover on it. Nevermind, that didn't bother me too much. It's the message that counts, right? Packaging, Shmackaging!
   
   I started watching it and found it very good. Very encouraging. And then the tape ran out before it was over. I'm guessing I'm missing about 20 minutes of it.
   
   I paid nearly $40 for it plus paid the shipping to get it sent clear over to Ireland. It's not worth paying the cost to have it sent back, and to tell you the truth, I've got more important things to do.
   
   If I'd been sent the product I ordered I'd be delighted. Instead I got a second rate bootleg.

1 comments about Dietrich Bonhoeffer Memories and Perspectives.

1. In the middle of this fine documentary is a series of film, shot in black and white, and taken through the front window of an old vehicle as it bounces along a lonely country road in the dark of the night. One can almost get vertigo, as the camera bounces up and down the ill kept roads, the only illumination is from the thin, twin beams of the antiquated headlights. There is no background music to this scene, only the grinding and surging of the vehicles' motor. Here a sharp turn, there a wall, a lonely tree, another twist in the road, this goes on for what seems to be a long time but in reality this segment of the movie probably only takes 90 seconds of film time at the most. The footage ends abruptly, with the sound of vehicle brakes, a jolt of the camera, and the headlights glaring, in silence, on four, bare, cement steps that lead to what you know is more than likely death.
   The imagery of the scene just mentioned is a metaphor for a life journey. The last few months of the life of Deitrich Bonhoeffer in particular. The movie then goes on to further illuminate Deitrich Bonhoeffer's journey, using interviews with friends and family to flesh out his works and theology. This is a powerful and memorable film that every college student, in every industrialized country should be required to see. College students are typically idealistic and passionate enough to make a difference in the world. The message in this movie, of being human, yet making a difference in the world, accepting self-sacrifice to become a living example of Christ's teaching, is extremely inspiring. If even just one person who watches this movie can be moved to action: the action of being gloriously, and fully alive through the word of God, than the impact of the movie will have been profound.
   The movie is filmed in black and white, though color film technology was available at the time of the production. The black and white photography lends a solemnity and seriousness to the subject matter. That subject matter is the history of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life, he was a German university professor with a doctorate in theology, a Lutheran pastor, a participant in early ecumenical movement, a prolific writer, and a central figure in the Protestant church struggle against Nazism.
   The film opens with waves crashing on a sea shore, the strains of a piano piece by Beetoven struggle to be heard through the ocean noise.
   The main bulk of the movie is interviews with friends and family of the the man himself, some are bittersweet and sometimes even funny, but all are moving. I was left feeling empowered by the idea that we are filled with God's grace. I highly recommend this movie. The only reason I did not give it five stars is that the interview footage could probably have been broken up a little more often with other interesting aspects of his life.

No comments about Golden Age of the Automobile.

2 comments about Damned Engineers at Remagen.

1. At first I thought this was going to be another rehash of the caputre of the Ludendorf bridge at Remagen. However, the bridge is captured within the first ten minutes or so of the video. The rest is what happened *after* the capture.

   It chronicles the Engineers' efforts to build pontoon bridges before the Ludendorf bridge collapses. This was no easy accomplishment because the bridge needed to be built under enemy fire from artillery, air raids, siege mortars, underwater demolition teams, and more!




2. Great film of an engineering feat, building a treadway bridge across the Reine River under direct fire from small arms, 88's, and even German jets (the 262's). It's amazing to see a World War II military operation from start to finish.

No comments about God's Will.

No comments about David and Goliath.