2 comments about Toy Trains & Christmas Parts 1, 2, 3.

1. Your five years old and its christmas-wow what a gift!! These video's are enchanting for any age. You know you've always wanted a train running around that tree-but this is much more!! Buy this and enjoy remembering!



2. A delightful compendium of toy trains running at Christmastime. Very nostalgic and almost as good as running one yourself.

5 comments about Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker.

1. This production of Tchaikovsky's evergreen ballet "Nutcracker" is very fine, but I have some reservations about the camera work. This is a wide screen production, and having a small (13 inch) television makes it difficult to watch, as many shots are taken from a distance to see the dancers on stage interacting with each other, and in a counterpoint to one another - the architecture as a whole. I suppose the answer would be to buy a larger TV set, but this is hardly cost effective to playback of one DVD...
   
   That said, the Kirov orchestra plays very well under conductor Fedotov, and the precision of the dancers is very engaging, especially in Act 1. I was impressed and intrigued with the dancing of Herr Drosselmeyer. The "Dance of the Snowflakes" and "Waltz of the Flowers" are beautiful and very moving. However, in Act 2, tempos seem really slow, especially in the "Dance des Mirlitons" and the omission of "Mere Gigone and the Clowns " (The old woman who lived in a shoe) seems curious to me: it's one of my favorite pieces from "Nutcracker" and I was disappointed not to see/hear it in this production.
   
   Still, the sound is top notch digital, warm and enveloping, and it would sound terrific on Surround Sound systems. There is much to enjoy here, and I recommend this DVD with a few reservations.



2. I regard this version the best by far of all Nutcrackers. It makes clear that the ballet is about a young girl's awakening to sex. The phallic Christmas tree that enlarges and rises, the battle with the "dirty" mice who represent her fears of sexuality, and the overcoming of them via the love of a faithful prince who helps her to conquer them and send them fleeing, are all spot on. Most versions don't get or convey the sexual meaning of the ballet, but rather turn it into a anodine children's story with toys. Lezhina is marvelous, so sure in every movement, and with such energy. The way she bounds across the stage in the love duet and jumps into Baranov's arms is bravura ballet at its best. The whole thing is near perfect. Just---one is sure---as Tchaikovsy intended it.



3. I read all the reviews for this DVD, and chose it based on that; I had decided not to go for the "star" power of some of the others, and this one sounded good. I was disappointed however, that the nutcracker doll did not look like a soldier, it was very ugly, and looked like some kind of chinaman laborer, with a que! What!? Also, the boys were all played by girls in the party scene, somewhat distracting, and why is the main character called Masha, instead of Clara? Also, the Christmas tree was white, and then in the dream it was green, and you didn't see it grow. All these things bothered me, but the dancing and sets, and most of the costumes were good. A couple of things other people mentioned that bothered them, I either didn't notice, or did'nt detract from my enjoyment as much as the other things. I didn't notice if someone's feet were cut out of the frame, and the conductor's hands in the bottom of the frame, only reminded me that there was a live orchestra there, which is, after all, part of the performance. I kind of liked it.



4. My 2 year old daughter loves this DVD!! She puts on the Nutcracker anytime that she thinks of it and dances, marches, and twirls! Great entertainment for both parents and kids! I watch her instead of the DVD. Even better when she wants to put on her leotard, tights, and ballet skirt!



5. The sets are gorgeous, music and sound is fantastic, the costumes are very well done overall, although I agree with the other criticism of the Nutcracker looking ugly and not like a nutcracker at all. True, the children were all played by adults, and the boys were played by girls, it was a little distracting, but not a huge problem for me. You can see the orchestra director's hands waving around sometimes, but it made me smile and reminded me that - after all - it was performed live.
   My problem was that so much of the dancing seemed to drag, as though they struggled or had no power behind the movements. The main performances were fine enough, but not very moving. There was little emotion from the dancers' faces to pull me in or make me feel, and they generally seemed lethargic, although it was probably due more to the choreography, than the dancers' abilities.
   I would not recommend this version, and if I had watched it first, I would not have bought it. I prefer the dancing from the super-70's version with Baryshikov to this.
   
   Overall, gorgeous sets, lovely costumes generally, wonderful orchestra and sound with live audience.
   But strange lighting issues that were dim and pinkish was distracting, the dancing lacked power and emotion for me.

5 comments about Christmas with Chanticleer - An Orchestra of Voices.

1. Beware... This is a very talented group that only a small minority of people will ever appreciate. Their artistic take on Christmas is cold. There was little to enjoy visually on the DVD. I did not like the song selection or poetic license taken. This is a group of tenorists that are more interested in precision than passion. I had to laugh.



2. A DVD from a live performance, you'll be amazed at the outstanding performance from this group, and charmed at the simple Christmas quality it delivers. (None of the overblown, sequin-filled extravaganzas that bury you in forced Christmas cheer.)
   It you enjoy the reflective warm feeling of Christmas, this is the DVD for you. You won't hear musical performances better than this.



3. Christmas with Chanticleer was originally a Christmas gift from my son and became a gift for several friends who had a love of music as we do. I first listened/watched this DVD as we were together Christmas morning and had to completely stop the festivities to focus completely on the music and the movement on the DVD. Chanticleer's style is pure and transporting. The venue - the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC - was the perfect venue for resonance and mystery. The music was haunting and lovely. A favorite.



4. This was Chanticleer prior to the departure of most of its members, and their sense of ensemble, nuance and dynamic shading are a wonder. A group can only achieve that kind of precision and sensitivity by singing together for months and years. They have so refined the art of listening to one another that they phrase and breathe almost as one organism rather than 12 separate singers. Some of my favorite selections are Rosas Das Rosas, Village Wedding, Christmastime Is Here, and the spirituals medley of Joseph Jennings at the end is both exhilarating and inspiring. My only minor disappointment was that one solo and refrain of Biebl's Ave Maria were ommitted in the editing .. perhaps they had an off night in this performance of it. I heard them perform it live in their first Carmel Mission performance and it was stunning.



5. I happened upon this performance on PBS several years ago and was mesmerized. The music itself is gorgeous, but listening to it while viewing the Medieval and Renaissance art is exquisite.
   
   This is a must-have in my Christmas collection, and I have bought it for several friends as well!

No comments about A Wonderful Christmas.

5 comments about The Ladies Sing the Blues.

1. They had prepared the way for so many female singers of today. Billie Holiday, Bessie Smith, Dinah Washington, Peggy Lee, Sarah Vaughan, Lena Horne, Ethel Waters, and many more. With the stars that are jam packed inside this video, makes the video worth seeing. So if blues and the ladies that sing them interests you, then by all means, take advantage of this must see video; you'll be glad you did.



2. The songs may be "complete" as the DVD claims, but what isn't mentioned is the inane narration over the beginning of just about every clip on the disk, which spoiled much of the enjoyment for me. I bought the DVD for the Connee Boswell clip (love those Boswell Sisters), but after the narration there's just eighteen seconds of the song left. By the way, even accounting for the age/rarity of the clips, the quality of them often leaves something to be desired, as well.



3. I have to agree with one of the earlier reviewers: the complete "videos" on this tape are fantastic, but the narrated voice-over (delivered in a near-monotone) during the opening bits isn't of much use. Still, I use portions of this tape in my Jazz History class, and at least the narration backs up the info that students are given in their textbooks. In all, I like certain clips in here better than the Burns "Jazz" anthology simply because they ARE complete.



4. I used this as resource and display for a workshop on Jazz vocalists for the Sitka Jazz Festival. It worked out just fine-the footage and commentary was first rate.



5. I have to address the voice over first. I use this dvd for my class to inform students who never heard of most of these singers. I find the voice over puts the era in perspective. The dvd is a knock out. Beautifully sung throughout. There's style, intimacy and passion. I don't know a better example to show young adults the great and original singers the 30s were turning out.

5 comments about It's a Wonderful Life.

1. Although it didn't impress much at the time of it's release, this film probably more than most others, goes to show that eventually the cream always rises to the top. It's just a charming, heart-warming film with a nice mix of comedy, drama, sadness, despair and joy which makes it difficult for any human being to not be touched emotionally in some way by this film. The screenplay is very good, the casting excellent and James Stewart shows why he is considered to be among the greatest screen actors of all time.
   
   The DVD though isn't all that much to shout about. The Special Features are pretty decent with a very good documentary about the film hosted by Tom Bosley of "Happy Days" fame being the standout but it's placed on the the "B" side of this single disc. Fortunately with the advent of Blu-ray and the much greater capacity such a format affords, we don't have to put up with this inconvenience any longer. The sound quality is in the original mono format which has been THX mastered which makes it the best possible mono quality that you can find. However, it would have been nice if they were to provided Dolby or otherwise 5.1 Surround Sound Options as well. The picture quality has been restored but not very well as visual imperfections exist throughout the film suggesting either a poorly preserved master or that the restoration job wasn't the best.
   
   I note at the time of writing that a Blu-Ray version is out there and I wonder if they made any more audio and visual restorations and if so, I will certainly put it on my list of Blu-Ray titles to get in the future. If you are not too picky about the "dirtiness" of the picture quality, this DVD is certainly one for your collection that bears the test of repeated viewing and enjoyment.
   
   Recommended.



2. For many, "It's A Wonderful Life" is a staple to their holiday traditions. With all major networks vying to get their hands on this mediocre blockbuster, this little film transforms from ordinary to cult status every holiday. As a viewer, outside of the final act, this Jimmy Stewart classic is more than just a Christmas movie, but instead a powerful Capra film that demonstrates an America from long ago. It shows a small-town America, without the plowed Wal-Mart roads or big-box makeovers. For this critic, it demonstrates the power of independent business, and why we may never find this type of service ever again. As an independent, downtown shop owner of about a year and a half myself; "It's A Wonderful Life" transformed this viewing from holiday pastime to dedicated film exposing the corruptive nature of capitalism as well as the realism of independent business. With this change in tact, Jimmy Stewart's words become more emotional, Donna Reed's actions become more honest, and our little Christmas film transforms into a man's journey to search for himself. I cannot denounce that this is a holiday film, Stewart screams "Merry Christmas" throughout the entire ending, but before that final conclusion there are about two hours of small town America and one man's struggle to escape. "It's A Wonderful Life" is a powerful blend of realism and fantasy, individualism and community, dreams and truth, as well as frustration and joy. The cast is superbly placed in their respective roles and Capra's action behind the camera stands boldly in place. This is not just a movie, but an experience coupled with foreshadowing - giving George not just a glimpse of a world without him - but also a glimpse of a world without small business
   
   "It's A Wonderful Life", the film itself, is beautifully crafted. With new editions being released each season, one can easily see the crisp beauty of Capra's image. Its characters; George Bailey, Mary, Sam Wainright, Potter, Bert and Ernie, and even Clarence seem to jump from the screen, giving us imaginative citizens to this quaint town of Bedford Falls. Capra not only gives these characters spirits and souls, but also the town. Capra built three blocks of Bedford Falls so that he could capture the honesty of the town that Stewart so adamantly wanted to leave - and upon doing this gave this little town a soul of its own. Watching this film, Stewart's portrayal of George Bailey runs the gambit of powerhouse acting. Stewart, freshly back from the war, was worried if he could carry the weight of Bailey's cynicism. His ability to care for Bedford Falls, while always dreaming of wanting to escape could only be portrayed through Stewart's Americana eyes. When he screams at Mary, denouncing his desire to be on the ground floor in plastics, or when he yells at Potter's bid to join him - we scream with him. This film works from an acting standpoint because we believe in the characters - we trust the actors to give us a slice of their souls for these roles - and they do. One cannot fault anyone in this film for their acting and that is a rarity in today's Hollywood.
   
   Capra's eye in this film seems far more advanced than the credit he has received. His enormous sets, the birth of a new "snow", and his ability to create a world we care for without having to travel the globe. What I enjoy about "It's A Wonderful Life" is that Capra tricks you by the end. Here we believe, outside of the brief opening, that this is just your typical drama, a man's life is shown in scope so that he can see his full worth, but then sneakily Capra brings in (depending on your religious basis) a huge science-fiction element that was unheard of during the time. One cannot argue the validity of science fiction vs. religion in this film - since Joseph is portrayed by the stars and planets. Sure, Clarence was an angel, but there is this aura of the supernatural. Clarence offers no evidence that he is, in fact, sent by the man upstairs, so one has to question the time this film was released, the faith in spirituality, and the fact that Capra's Clarence could be alien, vegetable, or mineral. This film teeters between drama and science fiction, while so many critics award this film the "feel-good" holiday movie during December; I find it a bit strange that perhaps this film lead to so many other science fiction movies of the same nature. Perhaps the "Cloverfield" monster could be considered a Clarence to someone in New York City? I may be stretching a bit, but what pulls me into this film time and time again is the fact that Clarence is not of Earth, yet George easily believes. He listens, follows, and - with some resistance - does what Clarence orders. This is a film without guns, without explosions, without the President getting on his red phone - but instead a film where a celestial being can visit someone without fear, anger, or confusion. This is why I collect the "Alf" television series.
   
   Overall, "It's A Wonderful Life" remains in constant rotation no matter the time of year in my home. The acting is superb, the sci-fi element seems fresh every time, and the growing fact that George Bailey is pro-independent business means quite a bit in this rushed Wal-Mart world. Bailey, and this film, is the voice for the little man, the quiet shopkeeper who doesn't want to sell to Potter, but instead dreams of keeping their home-style values. The spark between Potter and Bailey can be seen in every facet of today's growing world, as the rich continue to get richer - the less fortunate work harder and feel more held back. Dreams are traded for jobs - communities are strengthened by friendships. This film is a time capsule for the future, as we discover convenience overcomes customer service; it is nice to look back and see a world like Bedford Falls. The science fiction element to this film, yep - that is what I am considering it - comes in sharp and remains powerful throughout. Did anyone else see Jimmy Stewart's eyes throughout those scenes? Brilliant! While this film will remain a staple through the holidays, I persist that you watch it away from the holiday to see the real message behind the film. Capra was a genius in creating this film, and subsequently crafted a cult film that will remain forever. Even today, nearly thirty years since my first viewing, I am more impressed that ever. It is a film that grows with you, and that is quite a rarity in today's cinema.
   
   Grade: ***** out of *****



3. This film, starring the brilliant James (Jimmy) Stewart, is one of the best movies made since film first started rolling. I don't know that words can really capture the magic of this film.
   
   A true holdiay classic, and a great movie! A must have for your collection!



4. This is by far my favorite movie of all time. George Bailey is so real. I have been that man. A guy looking for the glitz and the glamour only to settle for small town life raising kids and going to work everyday. He is never the richest in terms of money, but when it comes down to it you finally realize money is not all that matters.



5. Every home should have this movie in their DVD library and watch it every year. It has been my all-time movie favorite for many years that everyone can name my fav.
   
   The moral of this story is so touching to help someone realize how 'wonderful' their life is and the people in it. It will help remind you of your true gifts in your daily presence.
   
   A must own movie!
   
   Merna
   
   Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!

2 comments about Glacier National Park, 2nd Edition.

1. As one of my top 5 favorite national parks, I was excited to buy this one and I knew I've made the right choice even when I was just in the middle of the film playing.
   
   The most popular spots in the Glacier National Park can be seen in this film, including Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Going-to-the-Sun Road, and even the Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. The lakes and glacier-shaped valleys and peaks are the most distinguishing features in this area and they are all shot with high quality. In addition, you can see some scenes in different seasons, which is difficult for most tourists to do in this park.
   
   The wildlife also shares certain run time in this film. Although these animals are in this park, you still need some luck to see all of the cute scenes there. This film may ease your thirst somewhat in this aspect.
   
   I also like the Glacier Music Video in the DVD Extra. It is the highlight of this film and is enjoyable to watch as a review or preview.
   
   The Finley-Holiday is indeed good at making this kind of film after I've watched many of their films, including Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain, Mount Rushmore and this one. It is good for both preparation, before you go there, and review, after you've been there. They really know how to capture the points of the topics and tastes.
   
   I recommend this film to any one interested in Glacier National Park. It is worth spending.



2. I purchased this DVD as a birthday gift for my Mother. She had to cancel a planned vacation to Glacier National Park this year, so I decided to send her via DVD as a consolation. She absolutely loved the DVD, the narration and filiming were spectacular.
   
   Hopefully she can plan a trip in person in the future, but for now she feels like she has been there. Awesome!!

3 comments about Sing With Doc Holliday - America's Premier Vocal Coach.

1. Don't expect a real training video, with plenty of exercise material. But it's a good short introduction to basics. For the price it's nice.



2. What a great taste of professional studies for those seeking voice training. If you are willing to devote the time to see it through, who knows? I loved it.



3. It's helpful for singers, especially beginners. You'd probably like to work with other books, dvd's and cd's ( Voice Lessons To Go V.3- Pure VowelsVoice Lessons To Go V.4- StaminaVoice Lessons To Go Volume 1: Vocalize and Breath along with this one. For instance Singing for Dummies which gives you the basics and more, plus, Singing Coach Unlimited.
   
   The opening of this DVD is about 5 minutes of info on Doc Holliday, his accomplishments, who he's worked with etc.
   
   Then, the lessons follow and they aren't arranged in a very organized manner. But this dvd does have good breathing and vocal exercises. I like that he has artists doing the exercises so I can see how others do it too.
   
   I'll check out more of Doc Holliday's work, it's nice to see techinques from different vocal coaches out there.

5 comments about Recess Christmas - Miracle on Third Street.

1. I wish I had read everyone elses' reviews before buying this. I saw the dvd out and was so excited about getting it for Christmas. As soon as it started I knew it was going to be "flashbacks" of episodes that were already on TV. And none of them had anything to do with Christmas. The only bonus on the DVD was the reports done by Gus, Spenelli and Mickey (I love Mickey). They were very funny but not worth the money.



2. This is a fun Christmas tape for fans of Recess. I think the last story featuring James Earl Jones as Santa was quite touching and funny. At least one other reviewer, who said there was "no Christmas content" on the tape, must not have actually watched it. I guess technically some of the material comes from the episodes they have produced but unless your child has taped every episode this is unlikely to be redundant in your collection.



3. Then make your children watch this movie . The last segment of this movie will forever alter your child's perception of Santa's existence . If you want to treasure the last few years of your child's innocence ,then protect them from watching Recess Christmas. I found the movie entertaining , but the way they presented the doubt about Santa really caused problems for my 5 year old.... We watched the movie last night and today my 5 year old is still asking questions. Should have carried a warning for parents.



4. I loved this movie it was very funny and entertaining.



5. "Recess-School's Out" was really pretty awesome, & although I never saw the Christmas version, I'll bet that it was also very charming, in a sense.-Earl

1 comments about Silent Night / Peace on Earth.

1. This is my favorite Christmas movie, even if it is a was a war movie. It shows how enemies can become friends.