5 comments about Scrooged.

1. Love this movie. Good off beat christmas tale. Best part of the movie is when Carol Kane actually hit Bill Murry with the toaster.
   
   Great fun movie!



2. this was a last minute christmas gift and it arrived just in time and in excellent condition. thank you



3. I love this movie. Its one of the traditional Christmas movies that I watch every year.



4. This is a great Christmas movie! It is a new take on an old favorite that stars Bill Murray. He plays the sharp tongued Frank Cross, and he is really good at being mean. David Johansen was scary as the ghost of Christmas past, Carol Kane was the ghost of Christmas present, and Chaz Conner was the ghost of Christmas future. Carol Kane was a scream, and I am sure Bill Murray had a bruise or two when they finished filming.



5. 4.5 stars
   
   Murray is flat-out perfect here, his first really nasty role and he nails it. Allen is a good foil for him, and there are many excellent twists on Dickens' tale. This may be a little too accurate for some in its portrayal of our materially-obsessed shallow natures, but hey, Jesus would certainly agree.

5 comments about The Little Drummer Boy.

1. The collaborative work of Katherine Davis, Henry Onorati and harry Simeone, "The Little Drummer Boy" is delightful retelling of a classic Christmas story and song wonderfully combined with the glowing, full-color illustrations of Ezra Jack Keats and the iconic music and vocals of John Jennings in superbly produced, flawlessly recorded, six-minute DVD format. A very highly recommended addition to family, school, and community library Christmas DVD collections, "The Little Drummer Boy" is also available from Weston Woods in a Paperback/CD format (NPCD124, $18.95) and a Paperback/Cassette format (NPRA124, $14.95).



2. When I was a little boy, Christmas time was never complete until I had the opportunity to see "The Little Drummer Boy" on TV. Now that it's out on DVD I don't have to wait to see it on TV. That's right, I still consider it a pinnacle of my Christmas traditions. It's a beautiful, but sad story about a little boy who loses his parents in a house fire deliberately set by some roaving thieves. He, along with his camel and sheep, teams up with a wondering junk dealer and low and behold winds up being at the stable in Bethlehem on the night of The Savior's birth. Since he lost everything he owned in the house fire, he decides as a gift for the new born King he would play his drum. Again, this is a beautiful story that leaves me in tears each time I watch it.



3. This is a fairly short Christmas special but it was made in the old days when a half hour on TV contained only four minutes of commercials. The best part about The Little Drummer Boy is its wholesome simplicity. The fact that it is so unabashedly religious is its strongest point in my opinion. Chasing the hate out of your heart and replacing it with love is a valuable lesson for all children, so I agree with another reviewer about its being a timeless family classic. It begins rather slowly but the last five minutes are absolutely outstanding and worth scanning back to watch a second time. The quotations from scripture give it its oomph but this also means that it would never be televised today on any of the big three networks. This might be a good DVD to buy because you probably won't catch it for free.



4. The movie is as good as I remember from my childhood but unfortunately the quality of the reproduction is very poor. My mother-in-law happens to have a copy of it on VHS that must have been made before the producers lost the 35mm original, because her VHS reproduction is much clearer than what's on my DVD. It's a real pity the 35mm was lost because it makes a big difference to watch it with the original quality. I imagine if someone redid the story from scratch it would be saccharine and puerile just like all the christmas movies made these days.
   
   Anyway, as far as I can tell from searching for this item on other sites, this DVD is as good a copy as anyone is going to be able to find.



5. Probably the only true spiritual Christmas movie. Excellent story line and thought provking meaning of Christmas. Hope that it is some day remastered.

2 comments about Perry Como's Early American Christmas.

1. Growing up in the '70s, I used to look forward to the Christmas season with great delight. Not only did I see those wonderful Rankin-Bass shows (Rudolph, Drummer Boy, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, and The Year Without a Santa, etc.), but I loved the variety shows, too. Perry Como and Andy Williams were my favorites.

   A couple of years ago, my mother ordered a double set of Perry Como Christmas videos: Early American Christmas and Christmas in Israel. I was overjoyed. The Early American Christmas video is set in Williamsburg, Virginia, and opens with a rousing adaptation of "The Twelve Days of Christmas." Boy, the memories sure flooded back as Perry takes the viewer through the colonial town. The people who work in the shops of Williamsburg are dressed in period costumes and show their trades (blacksmithing, glass blowing, candle making, haberdashery, baking, etc.)

   I believe this show was filmed in 1978, so it looks a little dated; but if you're like me, and you love that retro look, you won't mind at all. This show features Miss America (1978 or 1979) and John Wayne, who died not long after this show was made. The songs are wonderfully sung by Perry and company, especially "The Twelve Days of Christmas" and "Ave Maria."

   I would highly recommend this 48-minute video to those of you, like me, who miss the variety shows (especially the Christmas ones) from the '60s and '70s.




2. If you remember his specials, if you just like his voice or you love Williamsburg - this is entertaiment. Buy it - enjoy it now and tomorrow and tomorrow. Really fun! Good songs, great shots of Williamsburg, cheerful and a touch historical. A must for every Colonial or Como fan!

5 comments about John Denver and the Muppets - Rocky Mountain Holiday.

1. I've loved this movie since I was a little kid and was thrilled to get it on DVD, since our old taped copy wasn't in the greatest condition and was missing some portions. The special effects aren't that amazing--Fozzie is attacked, at one point, by "wasps" that look like drawn-on yellow blobs, and some of the backgrounds look pretty disconnected from the action--but some of the little details are fantastic! The trees, the lake, and Robin's movement are examples of the implementation of impressive forethought.
   Rocky Mountain Holiday is not nearly as cheesy as the John Denver & the Muppets Christmas movie, and there's so much to love about it. Highlights include a Ford truck, a giant maneating chicken, a disgustingly pink Jeep for Miss Piggy to ride in, hilarious jokes, a cozy campfire scene, lovely scenery, enjoyable songs (some of them John's, others not), and the opportunity to see the familiar Muppet characters in flannel and down. John is completely natural with the Muppets--he doesn't seem to be one of those people who's uncomfortable around puppets.
   I am kind of disappointed that the scene where John took Rowlf up in a plane to cure his hiccups was removed. Still, it wasn't my favorite part of the movie, and we still have our old copy, so I guess it's not that big a deal to me. Plus, after watching that bit again, I guess I can see why it was taken out. Rowlf mentions "Amelia Airedale," and his fear of flying just isn't as funny given the way John died.
   The DVD presentation is simple but effective. This movie is a good buy for the whole family--snatch it up while you can!



2. We really enjoyed watching John Denver & the Muppets, it made us feel we were in Colorado with them. It's worth watching just to see John sing Durango Mountain Caballero by the campfire, which we think is one of his greatest songs he ever did.There was all sorts of fun with the muppet gang, plenty of traditional songs & more of John's famous songs. We can definitely recommend this video if you are a John Denver fan.
   Paul & Val Gilbert.



3. If you saw the episode of the Muppet Show where John Denver was the guest, you know he was trying to get the muppets to go on a camping trip with him, but it was not to be. (Well, at least until some years later.) It is virtually impossible to not see this special as a sequel to that episode. John Denver and the muppets go to the Colorado mountains. Overall, there is a good combination of story and music. John and the muppets begin their walk to the campgrounds; Fozzie has some typical mishaps. (But nothing too dangerous.) Statler and Waldorph are present to provide some heckling. John and Floyd go fishing. There is one sad moment in how John asks Robin to do something he is too short to do. (Setting up the clothes line.) John for a moment gets frustrated, but of course, they reconcile, and Robin is able to tie the clothes line if John can hold him high enough. This is one of the few Muppet gatherings that does not include Miss Piggy. But in her absence, there is a comical flashback of her trying to bring her photographers, flatterers, and hair dressers on a previous camping trip. (If you saw the episode with John Denver, then you will recall she was planning to go camping in a high fashion outfit, and a gold plated backpack.) The story is charming enough, and of course John Denver's songs are in their element with the background of the wilderness. To top of this gathering, there is a climactic (but still hilarious) moment when John tells the story of a man eating chicken who might be roaming the area. Some of the muppets begin to fear that the story is true. This does of course sound silly. And even John (the story teller) tries to explain that it was just a story. But Gonzo finds some evidence that would suggest the story is true. Overall, this is a good story that has comedy, a touch of drama, nice scenery, some of John Denver's great acting and musical skills, and just the right touch of suspense. If you liked the episode of the Muppets with John Denver as the guest star, you will not want to miss this special.



4. I love John Denver, I love the Muppets. I was searching for The Christmas show these two did, But you can only get the Cd. I found this and bought it
   Its ok, Its cute. But the songs are forgettable except the first one "Hey old Pal" and for those who like her I think Miss Piggy only did a cameo. Way to much of Kermits little nephew
   The best suggestion I can give you is, If you have some kids about five or so, Buy it, Watch it with them, so you can visit some old friends like; John Denver and Kermit and Fozzie when they are not at their best but still good to be with.



5. I love this DVD.
   
   I have taken a bit of abuse from the unenlightened
   for adding this video to my collection,
   being a "grown-up " and all, but it is great entertainment.
   
   The muppets on a camping trip in the Rocky Mountains with John Denver.
   It doesn't get any better than that.
   
   Lots of beautiful scenery, gags and great music.
   What is not to like.
   
   Children will love this, and for you "grown -ups",
   touch base with your inner child
   and go to your happy place.

5 comments about Twas the Night Before Christmas.

1. I will be 35 in December. This is still my all time favorite Christmas cartoon....I often will (especially during the Christmas season) hum the tunes or quote the lines while watching (could quote the whole movie while watching), or even when cleaning the house.....ditto to most of the above comments, including, WHERE IS THE DVD???



2. I just want lovers of this show to know that it did indeed get released on DVD...I have been waiting for a long time and never would have known had I not come across it by chance...It is not out on DVD by itself, rather, it is on the DVD "Frosty's Winter Wonderland" (The Rankin Bass Version) If you want this DVD, check it out and pick it up, it will not let you down...It is the same version as we all know and love



3. This is one my favorite Christmas cartoon specials. My only problem I have is now that the Family Channel shows it each year. The song, "There's more to the world that meets the eye" is always edited out. I guess to make room for commercials. Other then that complaint. The cartoon is excellent!



4. I love this special, mostly because it has some great songs in it. It's meant for kids, and it's good for kids, but it's not limited to kids. No matter what age someone is, I believe they can appreciate this great work of art. Adults can go beneath the surface and find deeper meaning in the message sent out. For instance, Albert doesn't believe anything he can't see. His father tells him, "You don't know as much as you think you do because you only think with your head." Then he sings a song about the beautiful things in the world you can't see or touch. This short film shows how important it is to consult your heart in life and it sends out a very hopeful and entertaining message. It makes you aware that miracles ARE possible, but you need to be at least a little active to get them going. Even when Santa bypasses the town because of doubters, there are those in the town that refuse to give up hope and do whatever it takes to bring Santa back. It's inspiring. There are just so many great things to ponder in this short little song-filled Christmas film.



5. It's My Favorite Christmas Movie. I Just Love It. The Movie Starts In A Snowy Town Called Junktionville. In A Clockmaker's house We See A Fireplace With Two Stockings And A Note Between The Two Stockings. And A Thin Christmas Tree. Then We See Two Children. A Boy And A Girl Sleeping In The Bed. Then We See The Clockmaker Named Joshua Trundle Reading A Book By Candlelight While His Wife Is Sleeping Beside Him. Then Joshua Trundle Was Reading A Book Called Twas The Night Before Christmas. Then He Said If Only He Could Sleep, If Only He Knew. Then He Looked At The Clock. Then We See A Mouse Hole. And We See Two Mice Children Sleeping In There Beds. Then We See Father Mouse Also Reading A Book By Candlelight. And His Wife Is Sleeping Too. Then Father Mouse Was Remanising Of What Happened. Then We See That It's Morning In The Town. And The Mailman Came. And A Mouse Was Delvering The Mail Too. Then The Two Mice Children Said That The Letters Were From Santa. Then In The Joshua Trundle's Living Room. His Two Children Also Got There Letters Back From Santa. So If You Want To Know What Happens Next. Then You Should Buy This Movie. It's A Great Christmas Present.

2 comments about Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse & The Black Hills.

1. By Far This Is A MUST HAVE !!it shows the Black hills and all it has to offer ( its not a biker dvd ) just a good dvd and very well done .. cant wait to see Yellowstone and all the GREAT PARKS that America has to offer ... keep em comming ty. From Mn..



2. This film covers the most attractive scenic spots in the region of Black Hills. These include Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, Badlands, Devils Tower, Custer State Park and Mammoth Site. Generally speaking, the strength of this film is the coverage of Black Hills rather than the depth or the story behind it.
   
   Most emphasis is on Mount Rushmore. You can see majestic footages of the four presidents carved on the mount. The narration for the story of Mount Rushmore is adequate. The reason to choose Jefferson, however, is not accurate. The main reason is the Louisiana Purchase, which is never mentioned in this film. Since this is a tour guide type film, don't expect the depth as the similar one released by THC or PBS.
   
   Custer State Park and Crazy Horse also share decent run time of this film. The focus of Custer State Park is the wild life such as bisons and prairie dogs. Crazy Horse is another story of carving the rock, which is even tougher than Mount Rushmore. Similar to Mount Rushmore, the screen shots are good but the depth is the last to expect.
   
   Other scenic spots are covered briefly, about 3 to 5 minutes for each.
   
   I've been to all these sites during the past 3 years. I think the arrangement and sharing for the total run time is well-organized. If you've never been to Black Hills before, it may be a good idea to plan your trip according to this film.
   
   Touring Black Hills is one of my best sightseeing memories and I'm glad to see there is a film covering all these. It is not only good for an introduction, but a review after you've been there as well. You can even send this as a gift to whomever is interested in touring Black Hills, before or after.

1 comments about The Wiggles: Wiggly Wiggly Christmas.

1. My kids (3 and 18 months) are HUGE Wiggle Fans! They got this from St Nick and love to watch their favorite dancers on the tv.

5 comments about A Matter of Principle.

1. This is probably one of the best movies made. My only copy was "kept" by a neighbor who borrowed it. That copy was off PBS from nearly a decade ago. I have searched all around for this movie and am thrilled to finally find it.



2. We had an old VHS copy of this wonderful program taped off TV. We wanted to upgrade the quality to a DVD so we ordered this one. The DVD we received is very poor quality. It is so dark at times it is hard to make out the characters. Returning it would not give us a full refund so we are stuck with it. Very disappointing.



3. I second the reviewer below on the DVD. Apparently they did not solve the problem that appeared when this was released on VHS, which was the nighttime scenes are so dark, it is hard to watch. I gave this DVD to my dad for Christmas, and he said the problems with it being too dark (almost unwatchably so) are no better than the ealier VHS version release. His home-recorded VHS, off a rooftop antenna in 1984, is of better quality than the DVD.



4. 5 Stars if this was a good copy of the movie. This is a great story, but I am extremely dissapointed in the DVD version. As two of the other reviewers said, the night time scenes are so dark, it makes it difficult to enjoy. I have a VHS copy I made from TV which is a little grainy, but it is far better than the DVD version. If I had read the reviews before, I never would have purchased the DVD.



5. Years ago, I saw this film on PBS. I thought it was wonderfully written, acted and cast. Only recently, I wondered if it had been released on DVD. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it was available. I've read that time decides what is a masterpiece and I wondered if this movie had weathered well or would I discover that as I had matured my opinion of this movie would alter substantially.
   Much to my delight, I still found this film to be a wonderful holiday offering. Slightly sentimental, it is not, however, strictly treacle. This movie made me a fan of Arkin. Madsen is believable and remarkable as the daughter fighting for her Mother's emancipation from a life of servitude to her Father's principles. Warm, funny and endearing, it will become a part of your holiday traditions.

3 comments about Lena's Holiday.

1. There's only 1 thing to view in this movie, her perfect and beautiful body. Don't you think so?



2. This is a cute movie that is entertaining enough to keep your interest, but not one that ranks among the great romantic comedies of our time. There are a number of lesser-known bit actors in it (how long has it been since you've seen Bill Dana in anything?), and Nick Mancuso is clearly enjoying himself as he overacts playing the lecherous, famous, and rich Hollywood photographer. But the beautiful Felicity Waterman steals the movie with her charismatic charm. I'm surprised she hasn't become a more famous actress, as her presence lights up every scene (even if her fake German accent gets annoying after a while).

   The widescreen transfer to DVD is decent, but not great. This movie is worth a viewing, and you may fall for Felicity Waterman, as I have, but it probably isn't one you'll add to your collection.




3. Released in '90 'Lena's Holiday' is a unchallenging but well-intentioned, mildly entertaining film. Predictable storyline, plodding script and no surprises at the end. However what it does have and the reason why it receives a 3 star rating is solely for the presence of the exceedingly lovely Felicity Waterman as Lena Jung. Who could resist falling in love with this naive, vulernable beauty with the cute accent who finds herself all alone in Hollywood with the wrong suitcase and a couple of murderers in hot pursuit. Also starring Chris Lemmon (Jack's son) as Lena's love interest. His physical resemblance, mannerisms and voice are so like his Father it's spooky.
   
   Make no mistake about it, if you watch this film to its conclusion it's because you, like me, have fallen completely in love with Lena.

5 comments about The Year Without a Santa Claus.

1. Originally a claymation holiday film made almost forty years ago, THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS gets remade into a live action movie. THe plot is simple and the solution is relatively simple as well, but the fun of this film is getting through the story. Sure, you know everything will work out in the end, but that takes some of the worry out of the entertainment process. You can sit back and enjoy the lighthearted festivities just in time for the holidays.
   
   John Goodman delivers a solid and entertaining version of Santa. Delta Burke plays Mrs. Claus with dignity and grace, and an understated love for her husband. Chris Kattan stars as an obnoxious elf. Ethan Suplee and Eddie Griffin star as Jingle and Jangle, two of Santa's favorite elves.
   
   The plot stays much the same in the remake as it was in the original version. Santa is tired of the commercialization of Christmas and thinks of going off to retire. (In the original he got sick.) Where Mrs. Claus saved Christmas in the first movie, Jingle and Jangle are largely responsible for the events that pull Santa back to the Christmas spirit. The movie has a lot of funny bits, especially with Jingle and Jangle as they try to prove they're elves to Iggy, the mayor's son. He wants to believe in Christmas and bring it to the people in his town, but he's struggling with his own doubts. Vixen, Santa's reindeer, is also on hand to bring a few laughs.
   
   Although the movie can keep the adult attention, it's too simple to do justice to that audience. But that isn't the audience THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS is going for. The movie is for the kids, and it succeeds well.
   
   THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS is a good addition to the family DVD collection. It will become a holiday favorite that the kids will want to see again. And again.



2. A great addition to my Holiday Collection. Goodman is outstanding as Santa and the story line does follow the cartoon enough to remind you of the original. The supporting cast made it interesting and entertaining! Recommend for the entire family!



3. The original version of The Year Without a Santa Claus may not have been one of the absolutely best couple of Christmas classics -- it wasn't The Grinch or Rudolph or A Charlie Brown Christmas. But, it wasn't terrible. TYWASC was one of my childhood favorites, though I suppose it wasn't as popular as some others (given that it took a while to come out on DVD, and was packaged with a couple of other obscure holiday titles when it did). Still, I think it was among the better Christmas specials. And it definitely didn't deserve the lame remake.
   
   John Goodman as Santa was about the only good casting choice.
   
   Delta Burke? Chris Kattan -- Mango as Elf? Eddie Griffin as a streetwise elf? Jack LaLanne as a retired Hercules? Yes, Hercules. He and some other non-Christmas-related mythical figures appear in the movie. Maybe it was a clumsy homage to The Santa Clause, which featured the Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny, etc.
   
   Carol Kane (the abusive Ghost of Christmas Present from Scrooged -- "the b**** hit me with a toaster") plays Mother Nature, and does basically the same character as in Scrooged. She abuses Heat Miser, Cold Miser, and Chris Kattan's elf character in the same way she abused Bill Murray's character in Scrooged. Come to think of it, maybe that was a clumsy homage to Scrooged.
   
   Examples of "updates" to the plot and lines:
   
   * The plucky mayor of Southtown is faced with a couple of slick salesmen trying to sell a big retail center (read: WalMart or large mall) in the town, but refuses them because "this town has a history" (the shysters' reply: "ghost towns have histories, too"). Gag. The town must hold a Christmas festival to raise money for their "endowment," so that they don't have to let the retail center into town. ("Hollywood has no agenda," part 1)
   
   * In the remake, Iggy is the neglected child of the too-busy Mayor. In the original, Iggy had a non-dysfunctional family, the mayor was unrelated. In the original, the snow in Southtown is for the sake of convincing the Mayor of the elves' sincerity; in the remake the snow is intended to shut down the town so that the Mayor will have to spend time with his son. ("Hollywood has no agenda," part 2)
   
   * Jingle: "What are we doing here?" Jangle: "It's a school; it's where kids hang out. Don't you watch South Park?"
   
   * Heat Miser (attacking Cold Miser): "How's that for Shock and Awe?"
   
   * In the original, Heat Miser and Cold Miser's "minions" were smaller versions of themselves. In the remake, they're scantily clad dancers. Seriously.
   
   * In the remake, Jingle and Jangle end up in an arcade playing, among other things, Dance Dance Revolution Extreme. The elves can break the laws of physics -- jump high a la The Matrix, get astoundingly good scores on video games, etc. In the original, they were lost and stuck, but in the remake their super powers make it harder to believe that their predicament is dire.
   
   * Heat Miser vs. Cold Miser in a boxing match.
   
   * Instead of Mrs. Claus going to Cold Miser for help, Santa Claus confronts the Miser Brothers over shooting down his elves. Instead of going to Mother Nature as a last resort, Santa summons her into the boxing ring to deal with her problem children.
   
   * When Santa goes to pick up Vixen from the dog pound... Santa: "I remember you from when you were young." Dogcatcher: "I'm still waiting for that BB gun, Santa." Santa: "You'll shoot your eye out." (A lame homage to A Christmas Story?)
   
   * In the original, Santa proves he is real by making it snow in Southtown. The Mayor declares Christmas a holiday for Santa, and all the kids around the world send letters and presents. Santa is moved to not skip Christmas by this outpouring of Christmas spirit. In the remake, Santa is first moved by the mention of how the kids in the homeless shelter will miss him. ("Hollywood has no agenda," part 3) Come to think of it, shouldn't The Kinks' song "Father Christmas" have been playing in the background -- pointing out that the kids in the homeless shelter don't generally get anything for Christmas anyway?
   
   * The second-best song from the original ("So You're Too Old For Santa Claus") is missing from the remake. And the best song ("Heat Miser / Cold Miser") is butchered. The best "borrowed" song (Elvis Presley's "Blue Christmas") isn't there, either.
   
   * Chris Kattan's elf character tries to take over Christmas delivery, in the absence of Santa ("Sparky was my slave name; I'm Extreme Santa now"). He's sort of the head elf -- "the CEO" of the toy-making company. But he is picketed by several elves who demand the real Santa make the deliveries, and then threatens to fire all elves who don't cooperate with him. ("Hollywood has no agenda," part 4). Apparently the remake is not "The Year Without A Santa Claus" so much as "The Year With A Substitute Evil Elf Santa Claus." I wonder why they didn't go with that more honest title.
   
   I wonder, who could have read this script and believed it was a good idea to get involved with this project? Sure, I can see Delta Burke taking anything she can get these days. But John Goodman? He shouldn't be hurting so much as to need to participate in this sort of crap-fest. And, unbelievably, it's already available on DVD. This thing is Plan Nine From Outer Space awful.
   
   My recommendation if you're looking for a DVD, buy the original version The Year Without a Santa Claus / Nestor, The Long-Eared Christmas Donkey / Rudolph's Shiny New Year instead: it's one-third the cost and about a thousand times better. And if you want to just listen to the Heat Miser song, check out Big Bad Voodoo Daddy's version Everything You Want for Christmas.



4. great re-make, stellar cast, beloved story! I am so dissapointed that this is not showing on tv this year :( I will have to buy it now. this is one of my new favorites. As for others not liking the casting choices, perhaps they do not like these actors. I think it was perfect as a christmas movie the kiddos can enjoy, while parents get to see actors who they have loved for years!



5. live action was just as much fun as the original stop motion diferent but fun!