5 comments about Robin Hood.

1. The best movie version of this tale by far. The acting, directing, especially the stage direction, the incredible camera work, the splendid screenplay, and the witty dialog blend artfully with the production to create magnificent historical verisimiliture (do read John Holt's Robin Hood). There is a wonderful cameo by Edward Fox as Prince John, which by itself is worth the price of the film.



2. Love Robin Hood the story is good, I didnt find it great. I found Uma a little lacking it was not really believable when she leaves and joins the band of merry men. I prefer Kevin Costner's version some of the older versions as well, but that isnt saying that this version is bad there just isnt as much chemistry as in some other versions in my opinion. It is worth watching gives a bit of a different perspective which i found enjoyable



3. I purchased this movie to help me get in the mind frame of the Middle Ages for my Western Civilizations class, and I am glad that I did!
   
   This is a very realistic account of Robin Hood and his merrymen. The actors are believable, and the set scenery is incredible! It's just the right mix of drama and action, loved it!



4. Does anyone (including Amazon's editors) notice that most of the 200 other interviews are actually for the KEVIN COSTNER version, and NOT THIS VERSION!
   
   This is actually a pretty good film and Patrick Bergin and Uma Thurman deserve more stars for their work here that what reviewers are giving (but, again, they are reviewing another movie)!



5. This version of Robin Hood is by far the best and most realistic of the 1980s versions. It goes back to the classic Saxon vs Norman tale that we remember from the old Errol Flynn version. Instead of Prince John as the main villian, we have the noble Baron Brian DeGuerre, Robin's old friend. The interesting twist of the story and why it is so realistic compared to the others is the fact that at first, Robin is not waging some kind of guerilla war against the Norman overlords. No, he is just surviving as an outlaw. The reason he gives to the poor is to prevent them from selling him out. His motivations and his decisions are based in the gritty realism of this medieval world. Also of note, is Uma Thurman's protrayal of Marion, DeGuerre's niece. She is not the victim or prize that the previous Marion's have been. She, well, watch the movie and see for yourself. Like the mini-series Invanhoe, this movie shows more of how the medieval world really was without the whole modern perspective of "free men" and social equality being thrown in. The ending is a little trite, but overall the movie is a great adventure escape. Patrick Bergin is a charming Robin Hood and does a great job in the title role. Not quite the classic that the Errol Flynn version was, but much better than the Kevin Cosner version.

5 comments about Skateboarding Explained: The Instructional DVD.

1. this learning dvd is is great as help many young skate boarders learn how to do tricks right saves time so they know there doing it right, and he breaks it down in slow motion step by step. i highly recommend it for the young skater or even a not so young skater who wants to learn the tricks. Scott Geiger,Sr. Projectskate



2. I got this DVD for my 10 yr old son. Everything is clearly and well explained, easy enough for my son to understand. It even made me feel maybe I should try skateboarding, too!



3. My son found this to be very helpful. It started with the basics explaining and showing things well. He was quite pleased with the DVD.



4. This is a GREAT video for anyone learning to skate, up to those wanting to learn the more advanced tricks. My six year old got a skateboard and really caught the bug - he desperately wanted to learn how to skate and do tricks, but I had no idea how to help him get started. This video was a god-send! It spells out very clearly how to start, teaches the fundamentals, what bad habits to avoid, the lingo, and breaks down all the tricks. The menu allows you to easily skip right to the trick you want to see. It's really one of the better instructional videos I've ever seen for any sport. Almost makes this 40-something year old mom feel like she could learn to ollie...



5. I am a keen but uncoordinated "extreme" sports addict...generally takes me a long time to build up the skills, and there's always a few hilarious incidents along the way.
   
   I often find instructors are very poor at getting the point across to someone who needs to internalise and translate in their own way - for examlple I gave up ski lessons and found a few instructional books that worked for me...then it was just a case of working it.
   
   Having skated as a youngster on a plastic board - and having the kids show interest recently, we went out and did our best, but I struggled to get the kids motivated over being scared.
   
   As for myself, found the balance wasn't what it used to be! And thought i could take a few steps toward some "tricks" or skills as well (as opposed to just bombing down slopes when I was a kid). I was looking for a product that:
   a) broke these skills down to the basics then built up on them
   b) motivated the kids
   c) explained at a level we all could understand
   
   and this is it.
   
   The way in which Dan takes you through the connected skills that build up to msatering skate park or street showoffs is great, and I found myself happily tic tacing and 180'ing first on the rubber mats in my lounge room and then with the kids (although they are still building up to riding confidence). I am yet to have the confidence to take it to the park, but I am sure this DVD will lead through that just as easily (and safely).
   
   Even made me feel less guilty for early days spent as a mongo pusher...
   
   Of course - watching Dan do the "tricks" Dad had just done, that both motivated the kids and raised their opinion of me!
   
   Well thought out, well broken down into each individual step that builds up to a complete repertoire, worth having unless you are a guru (then you can still learn from this re breaking these steps down to teach your friends piece by piece).
   
   My only criticism is that Dan goes through the same thing (the key important items) so often that he sounds a little bored - I can certainly understand that given how far back to the beginning he goes...
   
   Outstanding.
   
   Thanks

5 comments about The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) [HD DVD].

1. This film is excellent, especially considering when it was produced. The colors are beautiful; quite a nice HD film. Recommended highly, especially if your looking for a clean, no bad language film.



2. Flynn is the classic Robin Hood, a charming, cunning rogue who steals the show as easily as he stills rich men's gold. Modern audiences may be quite cynical regarding this version; however, I find it to be a great, "non-preachy" escape from today's technology-dependent, big-budget films.



3. Went to play this DVD, and it got half way through and just stopped. Then this error message popped up stating, "Cannot play the disc, error code 408bc504." I tried several times to restart, and the same thing happened. I would like to return it, please.
   
   Sincerely,
   Barbara E. Rogerson



4. The 3 strip technicolor is glorious; it looks good on the SD DVD and better here. The resolution is so good you can clearly see the house on the hill behind the archery field! Ripping good story. A real classic; the kind you will watch several times.



5. Nothing I can add to this Classic Flynn adventure that has not been said previously. Bursting with Stars and spectacular scenery. The HD version adds a bit of sparkle and updated sound quality. If you have somehow missed this movie or DVD then the HD version is a great choice.

5 comments about The Professionals (Special Edition).

1. good actors good story good enviroment keeps you glued to your seat.that's entertainment. no hesistation in recommending this movie. you do'nt have to be a western fan to enjoy this . regards ken



2. The Professionals (special edition)by Lee Marvin,Burt Lanchester,Jack Palance.What can I say loved this movie when I first saw it and still do.For me the actors and story are fabulous.



3. I've always loved Westerns, but The Professionals far exceeded my expectations. David Brooks both wrote the script and directed this 1966 adventure, based on a book by the great Western writer, Frank O'Rourke.
   
   The story takes place shortly after the Mexican Revolution, a transitional period in U.S. history, when men who fought beside Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders, served in the Philippine campaign, and joined ranks with Pancho Villa, suddenly find their skills and heroics out of style, leaving them with nothing else to do but try to survive on the fringes of a diminishing frontier.
   
   No sooner does the title of the movie fade, as soon as the opening credits roll, Brooks gives us a quick sketch of the four main characters. Rico Farden (Lee Marvin), ex military officer now reduced to demonstrating automatic weapons; Ehrengard (Robert Ryan), ex cavalry man, now working as a cattle boss, wrangler and pack master; Jake (Woody Strobe), a sharp shooter, scout and tracker - specialist with the long bow - now a bounty hunter; and, Bill (Burt Lancaster), Rico's best friend, once a genius with dynamite, now a shady prospector and wildcatter, and always, a lover of women ("Any size, any age, any color. Any woman.")
   
   These four men are brought together one last time by a corporate landowner, H.G. Grant (Ralph Bellamy), to undertake a dangerous mission only men with their unique experience could hope to achieve. They're offered a large reward to successfully rescue Grant's beautiful Latin wife (Claudia Cardinale) kidnapped for ransom by the notorious Villa bandit, Jesus Raza (Jack Palance), who is hiding somewhere in the barren desert of Mexico.
   
   Each character's special skills are called into play. Each faces a test that reveals a surprising turn. Underneath this fast moving, entertaining, witty action film are deeper questions. Are there winners in the battles for freedom? Does anything really change? Who are the good guys? Who are the bad?
   
   The cast makes a perfect ensemble. I think this is Burt Lancaster's best film. Not only does he steal the show as rogue, cynic, and trickster, but his part gives him a chance to show off the agility he developed as a circus performer, before he became an actor.
   
   If ever you've considered writing an action adventure film that's tight and lean with sharp edged minimalist dialogue, or to direct a fast moving story with surprising plot and character twists, incredible cinematography, and an understated blend of music and natural sound, Richard Brook's The Professionals is a film that will teach much about what makes this art form great.
   
   And if all you want is to see a really entertaining western, The Professionals is a great ride.



4. I haven't seen this film in years, but when it came out, I remember seeing it several times in one week. The script is quick and witty, the use of the correct weapons is a great technical and historical triumph and the acting under Richard Brooks direction is flawless.
   
   
   It truly is one of the great classic action films.



5. This action packed western set in the early 1900's boasts a star cast of he-men only rivaled by "The Dirty Dozen"(which Marvin was also in) and "The Wild Bunch" (Robert Ryan). Along with Ryan and Marvin for the ride is Woody Strode, Burt Lancaster, Ralph Bellamy and Jack Palance as the former buddy of Lancaster & Marvin, now a wanted bandido. Also the luscious Claudia Cardinale is the crew's bounty and she still looks great in her '60s or early 70's (she's featured in interview section on Special Features). The plot may be old-hat but the execution by director Richard Brooks isn't. There's plenty of room for some character development and also some tart dialogue--things that are missing from a lot of the action movies nowadays --particularly Bruokheimer's and Bay's films. Cardinale has been kidnapped by Palance and it's up to the Marvin-Lancaster-Ryan-Strode team to get her back and deliver her to her husband (Bellamy). But all is not what it seems to be for this quartet and treachery abounds along the way. I saw this flick back in '65 while en route to the military (Air Force) and it's been shown countless times on TCM. This film still holds up and I strongly recommend this to all action addicts since the Blu-ray version will be out as June 10th. Definitely put this on your "must have" list!! Also though Lancaster is billed ahead of Marvin in the credits it's Marvin who is the prime mover in this flick just as he was in "Dozen"--he'll be missed as well as Ryan, Lancaster & Strode (the mysterious gunman in "Once Upon a Time in the West"). So go see it for these heroic men of honor!! As a further update on this review, I've already viewed the new Blu-ray edition of this action classic--and like it's heroes--it delivers with a great picture!!

5 comments about Robin Hood - Prince of Thieves (Two-Disc Special Extended Edition).

1. I can't review this product, since I have never received the DVD. I was suppose to have it by May 9th and as of now May 20th it still hasn't arrived.



2. I was pleased with the efficiency in which I received my movie and the quality of the product.



3. You know what I'm talking about; "The Adventures of Robin Hood" starring Errol Flynn. Comparing that classic film with this Costner drek is like comparing "Road Warrior" with......"Water World"? The Flynn version is fun and light hearted. It has a great score and incredible colors. Costner's version is only pandering to modern sensibilities.C'mon, the movie reeks of political correctness Maid Marion fighting in black armor? Great a strong female character, Morgan Freeman as Robin's sidekick? Hey, the wise token ethnic character.(Sorry Morgan,you were good, but unnecessary)Christian Slater? Stick him in for more youth appeal. This movie adds nothing really to the Robin Hood mythos. If you must watch it, fast forward through any parts that don't feature Morgan Freeman or Alan Rickman.



4. Then again, wasn't Robin Hood really gay?
   They were called "The merry men" for a reason people!!!
   Robin's sexual orientation aside.......
   Good movie.
   Historically accurate?
   Doubt it.
   Who cares, it's a fun woodland romp.
   The sheriff is awesome as he always is. I'm sure you've seen him as Professor Snape in the Harry Potter movies.
   The guy rules no matter what the role.
   Costner is........nude but I guess they used a body double, thank God!!!
   The story is the usual fairy tale, Robin steals from the rich to give to the poor and fights bad guys along the way. You know the drill...........
   Morgan Freeman is fantastic, the whole cast is good except for Mariann, who plays the usual helpless damsel in distress nonsense that I hate.
   I would have loved to see her give the Sheriff a roundhouse kick to the noggin.
   All in all.............. a fun popcorn movie, check your brain at the door, beat em up.
   It's a fun movie that doesn't take itself too seriously, and neither should you.
   Is it a must see?
   I say yes, it's a nice change of pace from the usual dark depressing movies Hollywood tosses at us.
   Recommended!!!



5. The legend of Robin Hood is a myth but its based on a number of real political and historical issues. This awful mean spirited movie substitutes modern political notions for ancient ones.
   
   The first modern agenda is the exaltation of blacks and moslems and the denigration of European whites. Simply put this is a racist movie. Morgan Freeman - an African American - is shown to be wise and civilized and the red headed Irish are portrayed as mindless savages. Not only is this offensive but it is bizarre. Islam to this day embraces the slavery of black Africans. Islam at the time of the crusades was not a place of racial harmony and enlightenment. Millions of blacks were marched across the Sahara for centuries. Most died. Those that didn't were given the most menial tasks. In Islam blacks were the least valued of slaves.
   
   During the crusades, this movie would have you believe that an African who is also a Muslim could wander around England and be well accepted. He is shown giving a Caesarian operation to peasant's wife with his dagger. Really?
   
   The second agenda is anti-clericism. The religious figures are depicted as impossibly evil. The medieval church had a lot of faults but these churchmen are laughably villianous. They seem modeled on Snidely Whiplash. Everything we know about the high middle ages tells us of the extreme devotion of the people to the Church. This ugly caracature of a history is agressively anti-Christian and pro-Islam.
   
   It has been said that the all the inventions of Islam were by either Jews, Christians or Persians. The Arabs served to transport ideas from India and China toward the West, but like those other conquering people, the Mongols, they themselves made few contributions to civilization.
   
   This propoganda movie turns all that on its head. Morgan Freeman is portrayed like a visitor from another planet with miraculous products of their advanced culture. This is just an anti-Western agenda. The creators of this film want to spread the notion that the roots of civilization were not European but Islamic.
   
   There was of course a real political context to the Robin Hood legend. It revolved around the Norman - Saxon rift. It involved language - Germanic Saxon versus Norman French. It involved the very bad English King John and his conflict with the nobles leading to Magna Carta. It involved Richard Coeur de Lion.(This goofy movie has Richard who couldn't speak English at all speak with a Scottish accent. Ha!).
   
   You would think that these real historical issues would provide enough material for a screenplay but instead we get a lecture on modern American race relations and the evils of Christanity. The plot seems to have been devised as an exhibit for Black History Month.

5 comments about Blade - Trinity (New Line Platinum Series).

1. The action wasn't on par with the Blade series at all, the plot was absurd, and Ryan Reynolds, who I'm usually alright with, was just annoying and simply does not fit into the Blade series. Like this movie as a whole.
   
   The opening sequence was alright, but from there it just went downhill. About the only good parts of this movie are the fact that Wesley Snipes and Kris Kristofferson are both in it again.
   
   So, it comes down to a lot of trilogies--the first two are great, but the third you should only buy if you absolutely LOVE the character, regardless of how bad the movie they put him/her into is. I just picked this one up because it was dirt cheap and I hadn't seen it.



2. Blade Trinity completes the trilogy of films that features Wesley Snipes as Blade, a vampire who has all the powers of one but does not bow down to the weaknesses that most succumb to. This "Daywalker" has a sole mission of slaying all Vampires in order to keep the Earth from becoming one big bloodbath.
   
   Trinity gets more to the surface and streets of the everyday humans, somewhat taking the viewer away from the futuristic, sheer walled complexes and ancient fictional gothic styled architecture that was an almost constant backdrop of the first two movies. The additions of recognizable actors in major roles also seems to slightly change the mood for the film, but does not necessarily hurt it. Jessica Biel stars as Abigail Whistler, who of course is the daughter of the man who raised Blade and continually outfit him with his much needed serum, shelter, and weaponry. Dominic Purcell, known primarily for his starring role in the Fox series "Prison Break", is cast as Dracula himself (named Drake in this film). The Dracula storyline of course gets some much needed historical uplift from the common Bram Stoker story, but it nor Purcell's stone faced acting ability really don't do enough to make his character intriguing, original or even daunting despite his seriously out of this world powers.
   
   Blade Trinity seems to be a jack-of-all-trades, master of none storyline. The fight scenes seem to have somewhat less impact in certain scenes than they have with the first two films of the trilogy, but if any props can be given to this film, it is the fact it tries harder than the first two to incorporate more major characters within the storyline and have their goals and overall intentions bring a greater impact to the final, bloody outcome. The film does a good job to portray a certain symbolism, like the character of Drake and what he means to Vampire mythology in general trying to fight Blade. With the Blade trilogy in general, it was not always about Blade hunting vampires but the struggle for overall power on all sides, which in Trinity is done fairly well with the continual theme of Blade being not only a catalyst for the vampires but also an ultimatum of sorts, forever revolving as their worst enemy in some instances, but in others being their only hope for a future.



3. perfect shipping and was priced right, couldn't find this video anywhere Amazon always helps me find what I need



4. I enjoyed this movie. Blade seems to be a cold blooded killer because he is taking on a nation of vampires.



5. I wasn't all that crazy about the first Blade movie. I really loved the second Blade movie, but this one was a complete joke! It became less about Blade and more about Whistler's "sexy daughter". But even, that wasn't the problem.
   
   The dialogue was terrible, the acting wasn't all that either. But even THAT wasn't the problem.
   
   The plot was atrocious. First off, aren't vampires supposed to get stronger the older they are? So why is the first vampire running from Blade? Why do they seem matched in power? Dracula should have wiped the floor with Blade.
   
   Also, in the beginning when Whistler's daughter was setting a trap for the vampires by using the fake baby. Shouldn't the vampires have been able to tell it was a fake baby?
   
   Basically a lot of lame scenarios to try to pull this movie off. So not good.

5 comments about The Professionals [Blu-ray].

1. good actors good story good enviroment keeps you glued to your seat.that's entertainment. no hesistation in recommending this movie. you do'nt have to be a western fan to enjoy this . regards ken



2. The Professionals (special edition)by Lee Marvin,Burt Lanchester,Jack Palance.What can I say loved this movie when I first saw it and still do.For me the actors and story are fabulous.



3. I've always loved Westerns, but The Professionals far exceeded my expectations. David Brooks both wrote the script and directed this 1966 adventure, based on a book by the great Western writer, Frank O'Rourke.
   
   The story takes place shortly after the Mexican Revolution, a transitional period in U.S. history, when men who fought beside Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders, served in the Philippine campaign, and joined ranks with Pancho Villa, suddenly find their skills and heroics out of style, leaving them with nothing else to do but try to survive on the fringes of a diminishing frontier.
   
   No sooner does the title of the movie fade, as soon as the opening credits roll, Brooks gives us a quick sketch of the four main characters. Rico Farden (Lee Marvin), ex military officer now reduced to demonstrating automatic weapons; Ehrengard (Robert Ryan), ex cavalry man, now working as a cattle boss, wrangler and pack master; Jake (Woody Strobe), a sharp shooter, scout and tracker - specialist with the long bow - now a bounty hunter; and, Bill (Burt Lancaster), Rico's best friend, once a genius with dynamite, now a shady prospector and wildcatter, and always, a lover of women ("Any size, any age, any color. Any woman.")
   
   These four men are brought together one last time by a corporate landowner, H.G. Grant (Ralph Bellamy), to undertake a dangerous mission only men with their unique experience could hope to achieve. They're offered a large reward to successfully rescue Grant's beautiful Latin wife (Claudia Cardinale) kidnapped for ransom by the notorious Villa bandit, Jesus Raza (Jack Palance), who is hiding somewhere in the barren desert of Mexico.
   
   Each character's special skills are called into play. Each faces a test that reveals a surprising turn. Underneath this fast moving, entertaining, witty action film are deeper questions. Are there winners in the battles for freedom? Does anything really change? Who are the good guys? Who are the bad?
   
   The cast makes a perfect ensemble. I think this is Burt Lancaster's best film. Not only does he steal the show as rogue, cynic, and trickster, but his part gives him a chance to show off the agility he developed as a circus performer, before he became an actor.
   
   If ever you've considered writing an action adventure film that's tight and lean with sharp edged minimalist dialogue, or to direct a fast moving story with surprising plot and character twists, incredible cinematography, and an understated blend of music and natural sound, Richard Brook's The Professionals is a film that will teach much about what makes this art form great.
   
   And if all you want is to see a really entertaining western, The Professionals is a great ride.



4. I haven't seen this film in years, but when it came out, I remember seeing it several times in one week. The script is quick and witty, the use of the correct weapons is a great technical and historical triumph and the acting under Richard Brooks direction is flawless.
   
   
   It truly is one of the great classic action films.



5. This action packed western set in the early 1900's boasts a star cast of he-men only rivaled by "The Dirty Dozen"(which Marvin was also in) and "The Wild Bunch" (Robert Ryan). Along with Ryan and Marvin for the ride is Woody Strode, Burt Lancaster, Ralph Bellamy and Jack Palance as the former buddy of Lancaster & Marvin, now a wanted bandido. Also the luscious Claudia Cardinale is the crew's bounty and she still looks great in her '60s or early 70's (she's featured in interview section on Special Features). The plot may be old-hat but the execution by director Richard Brooks isn't. There's plenty of room for some character development and also some tart dialogue--things that are missing from a lot of the action movies nowadays --particularly Bruokheimer's and Bay's films. Cardinale has been kidnapped by Palance and it's up to the Marvin-Lancaster-Ryan-Strode team to get her back and deliver her to her husband (Bellamy). But all is not what it seems to be for this quartet and treachery abounds along the way. I saw this flick back in '65 while en route to the military (Air Force) and it's been shown countless times on TCM. This film still holds up and I strongly recommend this to all action addicts since the Blu-ray version will be out as June 10th. Definitely put this on your "must have" list!! Also though Lancaster is billed ahead of Marvin in the credits it's Marvin who is the prime mover in this flick just as he was in "Dozen"--he'll be missed as well as Ryan, Lancaster & Strode (the mysterious gunman in "Once Upon a Time in the West"). So go see it for these heroic men of honor!! As a further update on this review, I've already viewed the new Blu-ray edition of this action classic--and like it's heroes--it delivers with a great picture!!

5 comments about Robin Hood - Prince of Thieves.

1. I can't review this product, since I have never received the DVD. I was suppose to have it by May 9th and as of now May 20th it still hasn't arrived.



2. I was pleased with the efficiency in which I received my movie and the quality of the product.



3. You know what I'm talking about; "The Adventures of Robin Hood" starring Errol Flynn. Comparing that classic film with this Costner drek is like comparing "Road Warrior" with......"Water World"? The Flynn version is fun and light hearted. It has a great score and incredible colors. Costner's version is only pandering to modern sensibilities.C'mon, the movie reeks of political correctness Maid Marion fighting in black armor? Great a strong female character, Morgan Freeman as Robin's sidekick? Hey, the wise token ethnic character.(Sorry Morgan,you were good, but unnecessary)Christian Slater? Stick him in for more youth appeal. This movie adds nothing really to the Robin Hood mythos. If you must watch it, fast forward through any parts that don't feature Morgan Freeman or Alan Rickman.



4. Then again, wasn't Robin Hood really gay?
   They were called "The merry men" for a reason people!!!
   Robin's sexual orientation aside.......
   Good movie.
   Historically accurate?
   Doubt it.
   Who cares, it's a fun woodland romp.
   The sheriff is awesome as he always is. I'm sure you've seen him as Professor Snape in the Harry Potter movies.
   The guy rules no matter what the role.
   Costner is........nude but I guess they used a body double, thank God!!!
   The story is the usual fairy tale, Robin steals from the rich to give to the poor and fights bad guys along the way. You know the drill...........
   Morgan Freeman is fantastic, the whole cast is good except for Mariann, who plays the usual helpless damsel in distress nonsense that I hate.
   I would have loved to see her give the Sheriff a roundhouse kick to the noggin.
   All in all.............. a fun popcorn movie, check your brain at the door, beat em up.
   It's a fun movie that doesn't take itself too seriously, and neither should you.
   Is it a must see?
   I say yes, it's a nice change of pace from the usual dark depressing movies Hollywood tosses at us.
   Recommended!!!



5. The legend of Robin Hood is a myth but its based on a number of real political and historical issues. This awful mean spirited movie substitutes modern political notions for ancient ones.
   
   The first modern agenda is the exaltation of blacks and moslems and the denigration of European whites. Simply put this is a racist movie. Morgan Freeman - an African American - is shown to be wise and civilized and the red headed Irish are portrayed as mindless savages. Not only is this offensive but it is bizarre. Islam to this day embraces the slavery of black Africans. Islam at the time of the crusades was not a place of racial harmony and enlightenment. Millions of blacks were marched across the Sahara for centuries. Most died. Those that didn't were given the most menial tasks. In Islam blacks were the least valued of slaves.
   
   During the crusades, this movie would have you believe that an African who is also a Muslim could wander around England and be well accepted. He is shown giving a Caesarian operation to peasant's wife with his dagger. Really?
   
   The second agenda is anti-clericism. The religious figures are depicted as impossibly evil. The medieval church had a lot of faults but these churchmen are laughably villianous. They seem modeled on Snidely Whiplash. Everything we know about the high middle ages tells us of the extreme devotion of the people to the Church. This ugly caracature of a history is agressively anti-Christian and pro-Islam.
   
   It has been said that the all the inventions of Islam were by either Jews, Christians or Persians. The Arabs served to transport ideas from India and China toward the West, but like those other conquering people, the Mongols, they themselves made few contributions to civilization.
   
   This propoganda movie turns all that on its head. Morgan Freeman is portrayed like a visitor from another planet with miraculous products of their advanced culture. This is just an anti-Western agenda. The creators of this film want to spread the notion that the roots of civilization were not European but Islamic.
   
   There was of course a real political context to the Robin Hood legend. It revolved around the Norman - Saxon rift. It involved language - Germanic Saxon versus Norman French. It involved the very bad English King John and his conflict with the nobles leading to Magna Carta. It involved Richard Coeur de Lion.(This goofy movie has Richard who couldn't speak English at all speak with a Scottish accent. Ha!).
   
   You would think that these real historical issues would provide enough material for a screenplay but instead we get a lecture on modern American race relations and the evils of Christanity. The plot seems to have been devised as an exhibit for Black History Month.

5 comments about Henry V.

1. This movie is one of the best ever made. The story is one of Shakespere's few up-beat plots. Kenneth Brannagh plays Henry masterfully and the whole cast is a pleasure to watch. The fnal battle with france is superbly done and heart-wrenching. Love this film.



2. The film is wonderful. The sound track is superb. However, the DVD was supposed to come with a booklet but didn't. It would have been helpful in following the story line and understanding the British language. Shakespeare isn't easy to grasp.



3. Kenneth Branagh's directorial debut in this film, which he also wrote the screenplay for and played the title role, is nothing short of amazing. From Branagh's performance as Henry to the rest of the cast, to the music, cinematography, sets and battle sequence, Henry V has it all. It's a masterpiece in very sense of the word.
   
   Kenneth Branagh plays Henry V, a young king thrown onto the throne. In many respects Branagh is much like his character as he, at the age of 28, led up the monumental effort to make this film. Branagh is nothing short of amazing to watch as henry. He plays menace when needed, emotional when needed, an action hero at times, and the rallying point of his army. His speeches are done so well that you might cheer with his men at times.
   
   The rest of the cast is just as good as Branagh. Derek Jacobi's Chorus serves as the films narrator and his opening monologue in the film studio is nothing short of amazing. Judi Dench, Robbie Coltrane, Robert Stephens, and a young Christian Bale all do very well as commoners who knew the king in his youth. Emma Thompson does well in the role Katharine and while her and Branagh do lack chemistry, their scenes together is still fun to watch.
   
   The rest of the films elements are just as amazing. Patrick Doyle's score is an amazing piece of work, film score or not. His music at the end of the is incredible to listen to and fits the scene perfectly. The cinematography by Kenneth MacMillan is incredible throughout the film from the opening monologue to the end of the battle and the films final scenes are all visually stunning. The films sets all bring to life the era of the film convincingly as do the Academy Award winning costumes.
   
   The highpoint of the film is the climax: the battle of Agincourt. This sequence remains one of the most brilliantly executed and visually stunning film sequences ever created. The acting during the battle, the mud on the actors, the horses, the music, the editing, and everything come together perfectly. This sequence alone makes this movie an instant classic.
   
   The DVD itself is lacking, though. The film is great but comes only in mono. This is one of those films that really need to be in 5.1 and it's a shame there isn't one on this disc. Also the only real special feature is a single trailer for the film. Could we not have gotten Branagh to do a commentary? Him looking back on his first film and some of the choices he made in adapting it from the original play would make for an interesting listen. But this is a case where the film is the star of a DVD release.
   
   Henry V is, for lack of a better description, flawless. The acting is perfect from everyone, especially from Kenneth Branagh. The music, cinematography, sets, costumes, editing and the like are all incredibly well done. This film qualifies as a classic with the battle sequence alone, but with all of these elements together you can not call this film anything other then a masterpiece.



4. Henry V
   Amazingly good version of Henry V with lots of background story of ordinary soldiers that followed him. The St. Crispin's day speech seems woven into the fabric of the play and not apart from it. This is not a sanitized war. As the end of battle draws near, the Henry V is barely recognizable underneath all the blood and mud. There is also the pertinent discussion of morality of following orders - who bears the burden of bad order, the king or the soldiers that follow it. A disguised Henry answers that the soldiers owe the king their obedience, but they are responsible for their own souls. A wonderful movie, excellent cast, and memorable music.



5. "This story shall the good man teach his son; and Crispin Crispian shall ne'er go by, from this day to the ending of the world, but we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he to-day that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile, this day shall gentle his condition; And gentlemen in England now-a-bed shall think themselves accurs'd they were not here, and hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks that fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day."
   
   It seems pointless to add to the overwhelming supply of positive reviews for this film. But as Amazon.com requests it...
   
   A review close to this one remarks that teachers should put down their books and show this movie to their students instead. I can not agree more. Please attend:
   
   SHAKESPEARE PLAYS WERE MEANT TO BE SEEN & HEARD, not -read-! Iambic pentameter is a difficult enough meal to acquire a taste for, as heard. To -read- it is the height of boredom. And reading a script of any sort (which Shakespeare's plays -are-) is deadly dull.
   
   Henry the 5th is one of the true gemstones in the bard's treasury, and Kenneth Branagh should be rightly hailed as a genius in his directing & performing of any of Shakespeare's works.
   
   If you hate Shakespeare, give one of Branagh's movies a try, and if only one, chose this one. You won't be sorry.

5 comments about The Adventures of Robin Hood (Two-Disc Special Edition).

1. What can I add to what has already been said about this film. But, there is some perspective I would like to give regarding Mr. Flynn.
   
   Errol Flynn was not regarded as a good actor by many people. He never received an Oscar but was a much better actor than he got credit for. How many people could have played this role? When you look at Flynn's career, Captain Blood, The Sea Hawk especially, but also his later roles, he was a very good actor who was just not given the opportunity to move beyond that style. When he did Elizabeth and Essex (with Bette Davis), she didn't want him because she said he was not an actor. I totally disagreed with that. He was good. Of course, in Robin Hood, he had some very good people around him like Basil Rathbone, Claude Rains (John Gieguld's teacher at RADA), Olivia (who was an extremely good actress besides good looking) and Paulette as Friar Tuck.
   
   The music was great, the script was great but what made this movie was Errol Flynn. He was the center of the picture and he carried it. Of course, it was an ensemble picture, but Flynn was very good. He was a natural actor. In Charge of the Light Brigade, or even Santa Fe Trail, he was much better than he was given credit for. I think because, like Robert Mitchum, he was never caught acting. There are actors like that and he was one of them. Curtiz, the director, saw this in him and it is no coincidence that he directed him in his greatest performances.
   
   An especially good scene in the film is where Errol Flynn enters the castle in the major opening scene. Cagney? I don't think so. It took someone who not only had the look but the ability to project that look from inside the character. Not only did he do it, he did it well.
   
   As movie historians know, Errol Flynn did not like the way he fenced in the Sea Hawk. He took lessons and became very good. Being a good fencer is a staple for British classical actors, but Flynn really had to learn and he did it well. Unlike Richard Greene (who played Robin Hood in the TV series and was captain of his school's fencing team), Flynn took it to heart that he looked like an amateur next to Basil Rathbone (who was a great fencer) in his first film.
   
   Although Errol Flynn's personal life matched his life on stage, and he died young because of his lifestyle, one only has to think of Robin Hood and know that he was born to play this role, and it would be this role that keep him alive for years after his career was over.



2. Warner Brothers has gone all out in theit DVD presentation of 1938's The Adventures of Robin Hood starring Errol Flynn and Olivia DeHavilland. Robin Hood is one of the greatest examples of Technicolor film making from Hollywood's Golden Age. The great thing about this film is that at 70 years old it does not feel dated. It is an hour and forty minutes of pure escapism. What you see is what you get. There are no hidden agendas no subtexts just simple romance and swashbuckling adventure.
   
   The film was perfectly cast with a young Flynn as the lead but kudos need to be given also to Basil Rathbone, Claude Rains, and Alan Hale. The score by Erich Wolfgang Korngold won the Academy Award that year and is still a great example of how effective scoring enhances a film experience. The direction by Michael Curtiz and William Keighley is crisp and strong.
   
   The highlight of the presentation is Warner's selection of extras that really places the film in perspective. There is an audio commentary by Rudy Behlmer that is one of the best that I've heard. Included is Leonard Maltin's Warner Night at the Movies 1938 which attemps to present the film as it would have been back then with trailers, short subjects and cartoons. The package includes the hour long documentary Technicolor Glorious Technicolor that gives an insiders view of the film process.
   
   This is one of those classic films that needs to be seen and Warner Brothers is to be complemented for putting together such a great package.



3. This is a wonderful classic adventure film, which can be enjoyed by the whole family despite the fact a number of persons meet their end by the sword or bow and arrows of Robin Hood. The action scenes are well staged but there is little in the way of blood spilled on the silver screen. Errol Flynn does a superb job of filling the role of the hero and the other actors are also well cast and rise to the occasion.
   
   As for my criticism, Robin seems a little too over confident at times during the situations he places himself in but I guess being familiar with the script helped Errol with this point. For someone who can split an arrow in half with his own from many yards away it is also difficult to believe that Robin could not recognize King Richard from a few feet away. Finally, some of the costumes seem more suited for a high school play.
   
   If you can overlook these latter points and just going along for the ride I am sure you will enjoy this film.



4. My dream since I saw it when it first came out has been to own my own copy of this film, and DVD now makes that possible. It is in surprisingly good condition after all those years.



5. Well acted and enjoyable. Done in the days when the story depended on good acting and no special effects.