5 comments about The Raymond Briggs' The Snowman.

1. Good Golly, It's been years since I saw this movie!!! I first remember watching it in my first grade class. I came home and told my mom and then we watched it on the local public television station. Loved it when the snowman tried to ride the motorbike...lol. I'd forgotten how bittersweet the ending was though. A real trip to the wayback machine!!!



2. I first saw this video with my daughter on a pay-channel when she was about five. We were both charmed by the wordless story, and the pretty little boy-soprano song as they fly over the winter landscape. But I was always puzzled about the David Bowie reference, until I saw the youtube video with Bowie's sweet and sappy, very English introduction. It would be five stars to me if they put Bowie back in; as it is, this is still a great video. My daughter is 20 now, and I recently bought it for her, to remind her of what a fine human being I am. The jury's still out of my fineness, but the Snowman was a hit.



3. As a child I used to watch this all the time and I had not been able to find a good copy since. this video is exactly what I remember it being, I'm so happy.



4. I ordered the version that this company "advertises" which has David Bowie doing an opening narrative. What I received does not have the David Bowie narrative as I ordered and paid for. I know that there are two versions of this same story - one with David Bowie and one without. I know what I ordered and what I received is not what I ordered. I just read prior comments in which fellow purchasers experienced the same issue.
   I am not very happy and not going through the headache of trying to return the item and start all over again somewhere else. Just know that if you do buy this, you are purchasing the standard version, NOT the version that is advertised with David Bowie. Other than this, the story is beautiful, one of my favorites.



5. Many people complained that the DVD they ordered did not include the David Bowie introduction they loved as children. Having seen both introductions, I can't really say that one is better than the other. I grew up with the Raymond Briggs introduction (which happens to be the original). I purchased the DVD here in the hopes that I would get the same "wrong" introduction so many people have complained about, and Amazon is still selling DVDs with Raymond Briggs, despite the product description. There also used to be a version of this film in which "Walking in the Air" only appeared as an instrumental in the film. Fortunately, this DVD does include Peter Auty's performance in the movie.
   
   Two things on a technical note: the film starts with an aspect ration note: "This film has been modified from it's original version. It has been formatted to fit this screen." I'm not sure why it says that. This film has only ever been full screen (it was made for TV in 1982, so there was no widescreen audience to cater to). When you see this message, don't worry that your DVD has been modified in any way. It couldn't be any closer to the original release in 1982. Also, you might experience some trouble if you try to play the DVD on your XBox 360. The audio would not play on mine. I'm not sure if it's a problem with my XBox, or with XBoxes in general, but I tried several times, and the audio never worked on the XBox. It worked flawlessly on my DVD player and on my roommate's computer, however.
   
   Finally, the movie; there's not much to say that hasn't already been said. It truly is a brilliant classic. The animation is amazing, the story is wonderful, and the soundtrack is incredible. This is a Christmas special you will want to watch AT LEAST once every Christmas. Don't worry about the reviews that say it has a sad ending. It's really a matter of opinion - I'd call it bittersweet. Either way, it's the best way to end the story.

5 comments about Holiday Heart.

1. This movie really moved me and those that were watching with me. Some violence and drug use but not Gorey, relevant to the plot. Well acted by Ving Rhames and Alfre Woodard. Rated "R" and they mean it. Children should not see this unless over 18. You can sometimes find it playing on the "BET" channel. That is ware I first saw it. Enjoy



2. Great movie. Ving Rhames and Alfre Woodard truly acted their parts. This is a movie that will touch your heart.



3. This was actually a very good movie. I would always walk by it at Block Buster and never pick it up because I just cannot see "big-burly" Ving as a transvestite. But while at a friends house she had it and I watched it. It was very good.
   
   It's worth adding to your collection.



4. This was a great movie. I bought it for my girlfriend. I watched it with her and loved it.



5. I really enjoyed watching this movie, it was so touching and brung out the true meaning of Love and Forgiveness. The acting was wonderful and on point.

5 comments about Tokyo Godfathers.

1. very well done, like most of kon's films this has a number of twists and turns. and is beautifully animated.



2. The phrase in the title came from one of the three homeless characters when they found a baby in the trash, but it also applies to anime fans and this film. There are not many cases in this genre in which you can watch a story that has the effect this one has on the feelings of the viewer. I do not pretend to be an expert on anime, far from it, but the only anime production that had a similar effect on me was Grave of the Fireflies. Just the mere fact that "Tokyo Godfathers" can be put in the same echelon as that masterpiece should be telling.
   
   When an unlikely trio of homeless people finds a very special Christmas present, their world is shook in ways in they do not think possible. Thus, a bitter old man, an ex-drag queen and a teenager with a grudge towards her family embark in a quest to find the parents of the beautiful baby girl they found in the trash. The story starts out slow, but it gradually draws you into it, until you are hopelessly hooked. Little by little we come to understand the facts that led the three characters to their current situation and we are mesmerized by their search, which leads them to interact with an array of characters that range from desperate to happy to be alive.
   
   I particularly enjoyed the graphics of this movie, but you need to understand that these differ from the common benchmark for the genre. In the film we get drawings with a good amount of detail in the main characters and in the background when it is close-up. But the general background and people that are not as relevant to the story are drawn with a lot less details. I interpreted this as a way to highlight what is important, but different people will have different interpretations for its purpose. Another aspect that surprised me is how good the tone of the voice of the different characters blended with the mood. I have seen many anime films in which the voices of the characters are a monotonous high-strung dialogue, and this one is not like that at all.
   
   This is a movie that portrays the worst and best in human nature, and many layers in between. Therefore, there are portions that are heart-wrenching and others that are uplifting. It definitely has all the components of a great dramatic story. There is even humor sprinkled throughout the story, helping alleviate the mood at times, but not detracting from the seriousness of the plot. Simply put, this is a masterpiece that you cannot miss.



3. I didn't know what to expect when I watched Tokyo Godfathers, but loved it by the end. I've seen Millennium Actress and Perfect Blue, neither of which sincerely moved me, although the animation was beautiful.
   
   I loved this film because it was set in the everyday, making it much more accessible for the viewer. I cared for the characters and was touched by the small miracles the movie centered around. It had a great blend of drama and humor, and in the end it inspires hope, which I don't normally associate with Satoshi Kon's anime. All in all, I was pleasantly surprised!



4. The lives of three homeless people are plunged into chaos when they find an abandoned baby on new-year's eve. Do they keep it or do they start an impossible search for the parents in snowbound Tokyo?
   
   Diverting, but felt like it was not explored as fully as it could have been. The characters are definitely fascinating, but seem to lack something in depth.



5. Tokyo Godfathers is the third film created by Satoshi Kon. Those who are familiar with his works, knows how complicated it can be to follow them. They usually require 2 to 3 watches to come close to understanding. His nonlinear style of storytelling usually leaves the viewer confused. Tokyo Godfathers on the other hand is very straight forward with a few plot twist.
   
   Tokyo Godfathers is a comedy drama. The story is about three homeless people who find an abandoned baby while digging through trash. They take the child and begin trying to take care of it until they decide to find the real parents. During their travels they come in contact with familiar faces plus reflect on their past.
   
   The characters is the biggest attraction for me. They seem almost too real at times and it's hard not to like them. I mean, their bums and they never really let you forget that. The dialogue at times is hilarious and the voice acting is very solid. There isn't much character development but I feel they have some depth. The writing is done very well in some areas. The peoples reactions on a crowded train with smelly bums is very easy to relate to. Me living in NYC, I understand that situation all too well when I use to ride the subways.
   
   The animation and artwork is very well done. This film shows another side of Tokyo that alot of anime titles don't even touch. You get a good look at the dark and gritty landscapes. Heavily polluted alley ways, full of garbage and cardboard boxes being used as homes.
   
   Now the film does have deeper themes that will touch most people. One of them being divine intervention. This is something that came into play many times. I have to admit this did grate on my nerves a bit and I felt it just happended too much. I just don't believe in it and I felt it kind of stretched logic a bit much. I really didn't care for the soundtrack even though it did fit well for this type of film.
   
   This is still a great anime film that I toss on once in awhile for that feel good feeling. Even I get tired of massive violence and angst at times. I highly recommend this to those searching for something more mature and light hearted. The film is also sub titled. There is no english dialogue for those who hate to read.

5 comments about Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (50th Birthday Deluxe Remastered Edition).

1. I love this movie. I have watched it over each year since I was little. Now our tradition is to watch it on Christmas Eve night just before bedtime. I love the message it brings about how love makes your heart fill with compassion and gratitude. The Grinch's dog Max is hilarious and I love Cindy Lou Hoo. It is a family tradition for sure.



2. My daughter watches this movie all year round and knows it by heart. I think Jim Carey did a great job.



3. What can I say, everyone knows it's a classic and the reproduction quality of this remastered edition is worth buying even if you have the original.



4. I got this for my granddaughter and she loves it! she is a big Grinch Fan.
   I would reccommend it for any viewing age.



5. I'm looking for the original (60's or 70's) television version of Horton Hears a Who that have the songs and chants like "Boil that dustpeck..."
   Is that the version of Horton that is on this?

5 comments about The House Without a Christmas Tree.

1. As a girl, I watched this show when it was on TV and loved it. Now that I'm a grandma, I've had a video of it for years and my daughter and I watch it every year.
   
   I remember there was a Thanksgiving one also, but have never been able to locate that one.
   
   I will always have this and watch it every year.



2. A wonderful holiday story about loss and family and dreams. A cute little movie to watch around Christmas.



3. This is pretty good movie, with some pretty sweet scenes. I'll say even that it's pretty awesome. Finally, a movie the entire family can watch.
   Lucky!



4. This is an excellent movie for pre-teen children. I saw it when I was in my late teens,and have never forgotten it. The tv networks should show it every year before the Christmas season starts.



5. The House Without a Christmas Tree is a story of faith restored. The father is devastated over the loss of his wife and loses all the faith in beauty, magic and innocence with which we are born. His daughter, Addie, is as vehement in her faith in magic as her father is not! With a steadfast stubborness the daughter redeems the father much to the approval of grandma. This is a must-own and a must-see for all families during the yule season!

5 comments about The Vicar of Dibley - 10th Anniversary Specials.

1. I love Dawn French, a comic genius, and marvelous as the Vicar of Dibley. Like so many television series, the first year is fantastic, the second year is pretty good and each successive attempt is like a xerox machine copy, growing more feeble as you go along. The Christmas episode makes a very good effort at entertainment, although there are crude moments. Geraldine was never mean in season one, and here she becomes unpleasant. We all knew David was a Tory but now there is a sense of outright hostility toward him. But never mind by the New Year's episode he is well and truly put in his place by looking at sad-eyed children (do I hear echoes of Edina Monsoon?). Yes, all the world's ills will be cured if only our penurious politicians donated enough money to the poor--ignoring the fact that billions have been donated to Africa. Still in the middle of a comedy show we have to be preached to. I'm surprised a knitting pattern for a Burundi Bear wasn't included. I enjoyed the first 2 seasons because each episode was a 45 minute break from the world, but there's no necessity to be slapped in the face during the holiday season. While I don't have high praise for this dvd I am glad I saw it. Do buy The Wholly Holy Ending to see the resolution to all of Geraldine's problems, it's very satisfying.



2. Anyone who enjoyed the British series "Vicar of Dibley" should enjoy the specials and extras on this DVD. The Vicar herself has gained weight, and Alice looks a bit old to be the resident dingbat, but the cast continues to entertain, reprises just enough of the series' recurring elements, and adds to the overall story of the woman vicar who, against great odds, becomes the beloved servant of a crazy but endearing community. The humor is sometimes irreverant but always entertaining.



3. The Vicar of Digbey is one of my all time favorites. Dawn French is funny and well worth watching. I'm glad they put together another set of episodes about her time at the village!



4. One can only imagine what it would be like to live in Dibley. I have watched the Christmas special 8 or 9 times this week. Still funny, even ten years later. They haven't lost any of their charm or wit and each character is funny and unique in their own way. You will find yourself waching over and over as I have. It's like visiting old friends, you never get tired of them. The Vicar of Dibley is simply one of the best british comedies ever to grace the small screen. You will instantly fall in love with everyone. Start with the original series and work your way up to the specials and the wedding, you won't be dissapointed....I promise!



5. Being a DVD owner of the complete "Vicar of Dibley" series, I was astonished to find myself watching a never-before-seen episode on PBS one night, and when I checked on Amazon, I found this Anniversary Specials DVD. It is absolutely fantastic Vicar material, they haven't lost their touch, and the assembled cast still has that magic chemistry. I would be thrilled to see more, so come on, Geraldine - you're married now, let's see you juggling church and home duties, or even having a baby!

5 comments about Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas.

1. My 3 year old watched this movie every day and sometimes several times a day during the holiday season. It has a wonderful message. This is the type of movie I can take out every holiday season and make part of her tradition.



2. The is so great, my daughter loved it! I gave it to my nephew for Christmas.The best of the Mickey Christmas stories!!



3. I am so glad that I found this movie so that I could buy it. My daughter has to rent this movie everytime we go to the movie store, she loves it so much! She will actually sit down and watch the movie from beginning to end and not get up which is very unusual for her. Where other movies don't seem to keep her attention the whole time, this one does. Lovely show, thank-you!



4. This one isn't as good as the first one(that's why it's a four star) but it's still a must have for your collection. It's Christmas and Mickey...you really can't go wrong!



5. My daughter Rylin is 18 months and she absolutely LOVES this movie!! I do too considering I love mickey and minnie. I dont know what it is about this certain movie,but her and my 4 yr. old nephew love it and have to watch it all the time!! She even does all the moves that minnie and daisy do in the first story;)

5 comments about Santa Clause 2 (Full Screen Edition).

1. Okay, I loved the first one. One of my all-time favorite movies. So it would be really hard to meet the criteria required to be as good as that movie. Having said that, this one isn't bad. There are enough great pieces in it to make it a good movie. My 3-year-old likes it better than the first because of the whole idea of Santa getting married - she's into weddings, princesses, things like that. I like it well enough that I didn't mind watching it with her every day for a week.



2. This was a perfect addition to our christmas movie collection. The kids and adults enjoy this movie.



3. Bought the trilogy and love it, very entertaining. Product was well-packaged and received in record time.



4. A nice follow up to the huge Tim Allen hit. The story was fun and original--A must own Christmas classic!



5. Tim Allen will forever be our Santa with his personality and memorable voice. This is a must see and own movie to watch for every Christmas to come. Your children will LUV it and so will the adults. [If they admit it]
   
   Merna
   
   Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!

5 comments about December Boys.

1. Cute little movie setup in Australia about four boys growing up in orphanage in Australia's outback. They are known as "December boys" since all four of them celebrate their birthdays in the same month. Due to unexpected generosity of one of the orphanage patrons, these boys get to spend a little vacation in the little cove away from their environment. When one of the boys learns that there is a couple considering adopting one of the boys, the inevitable race and competition between the boys ensues. What happens in the process is what defines the true friendship between these four boys. The bond they make in the summer will remain for the rest of their lives in spite of the fact that they grow up and live all over the world.
   While the story is heartwarming, the references to Virgin Mary, etc. are a little too much. That is why I gave this film only three starts.



2. December Boys was only premiered in four theatres, one was in Boston where I viewed it with a very eager audience to see Daniel Radcliffe break out from the forever mold of being Harry Potter his whole life. Sadly, he fails in every attempt to try to bring some sort of professionalism to his career. Just because someone is plucked from obscurity, like Eddie Furlong, does not make them an actor. Even with the proper training, a person can still blow at the craft, and although Daniel does have some potential, as his timing is good and his voice is solid, he finds no solid ground amongst an ensemble of other youth, who far carry their roles and the movie much better than he did as the eldest 'December Boy.'
   
   Based upon the crown jeweled-award winning Australian Novel by Mike Noonan of the same name (more or less the equivalent to our (U.S.) 'Catcher in the Rye'), the screenplay missed the wonderment of the novel that so many kids and adults fell in love with and the boys (Fido, Spark, Misty and Maps) who escaped their hell of catholic oprhanage waiting for parents to bring them a home.
   
   While the cinematography is breathtaking, the movie fails to ignite a fire in wanting the boy to find a home. The movie had no wide release, and clearly it shouldn't have, and while Daniel tries to escape from the eventual end of his Potter life, one wonders where his next turn will be.
   
   December Boys is a family film, which lacks conviction and detail to directing, not only does it have a mediocre DVD cover, but the potential of this being a film to cherish for the ages, left me wondering what it would have been like with a director who has visionary capabilities. What a shame.



3. An older couple decides that it would be nice to have some youthful energy around and offers four young, orphan boys the opportunity to spend the summer with them on the beach. As the boys get a taste for what life would be like with the family they have always wanted, they begin to understand how much they mean to each other.
   
   December Boys was not the most sophisticated movie. It was actually very simple in most aspects, but that was all it needed to be. It was just a touching story about four boys who, when they had no one else, always had each other. But I will warn you that it might take one giant tug at your heartstrings at the end.
   
   I hope you have one or more people in your life for which you are thankful. If you have that, this movie should remind you somewhat of how fortunate you are. I thought it was comforting in how the movie reinforced the importance of family while encouraging you to look beyond constraints of legal relation when you consider who your family is.



4. i <3 dan so i figured this would be worth owning and i was right. Great film!



5. December Boys is a movie about the bonds of friendship, and what genuinely makes a family.
   Maureen

5 comments about Dr. Seuss - How the Grinch Stole Christmas/Horton Hears a Who.

1. I love this movie. I have watched it over each year since I was little. Now our tradition is to watch it on Christmas Eve night just before bedtime. I love the message it brings about how love makes your heart fill with compassion and gratitude. The Grinch's dog Max is hilarious and I love Cindy Lou Hoo. It is a family tradition for sure.



2. My daughter watches this movie all year round and knows it by heart. I think Jim Carey did a great job.



3. What can I say, everyone knows it's a classic and the reproduction quality of this remastered edition is worth buying even if you have the original.



4. I got this for my granddaughter and she loves it! she is a big Grinch Fan.
   I would reccommend it for any viewing age.



5. I'm looking for the original (60's or 70's) television version of Horton Hears a Who that have the songs and chants like "Boil that dustpeck..."
   Is that the version of Horton that is on this?