5 comments about Baby Einstein - Baby Mozart - Music Festival.

1. My 8 month old son loves this dvd!!! We have a few of the Baby Einstein dvds and this is by far his favorite! It is constant music with colors and shapes and toys!!



2. My baby is not a great napper. When she'd come home from "daycare" and needed to unwind I've put this on to try to get some stuff done in the kitchen for dinner just to keep her occupied. Instead of it keeping her occupied it actually puts her in a trance and she's usually asleep by the 12 min marker. For this reason alone I will take it! She just sometimes needs something calm and soothing to get her to come down from her busy day. This also helps because i dont have to feel bad that she's watching too much tv if it actually puts her to sleep. I have to add that it doesn't put her to sleep because its boring, but because its so soothing. I love it. The Lullaby Time DVD hasn't even worked as good as this one.



3. The video itself is great, but I find it abhorrent that it begins and ends with ads (for other products by the Baby Einstein company). If some beancounter at Disney felt that they really had to include ads, they could easily have added a menu choice offering information on their other related products. But no, they placed a video announcement for these products right within the play -- as the first thing you see after selecting play, and the last thing after the video itself ends. So you'll get to hear those ads each and every single time you play the DVD.



4. Nothing new. It's your typical Baby Einstein. With Backyardigans, Dora, Blues Clues, Little Einsteins, and other interactive cartoons, Baby Einstein doesn't really offer anything.
   
   With today's technology and computers for families, I almost feel I could make a video of the same caliber that would offer more images for my children to relate to.



5. Your child would love watching this video, but she'd also love eating cotton candy and drinking grape soda. Many pediatric and psychological studies have shown that young children know FEWER words for every hour they spend watching videos like this one. Why? Because they aren't spending time with YOU, practicing their language and social skills. There's also evidence that young children who watch TV have a greater risk of developing ADHD. Last, toddlers who grow up in homes with the TV always on in the background literally seem to have more trouble hearing themselves think. This hurts their developing linguistic abilities and consequently their abilities to engage silent reasoning.
   
   Please protect your child -- don't let her watch any TV during her early, crucial, developmental years. We only watch TV when our little girl is asleep.

5 comments about The Secret (Original Edition).

1. When i first watched this movie, it didn't impress me much. But i noticed that watching it made me smile more often. I had been working overtime for months and was in pretty lousy condition at the time. Then i watched it again and became reminded of these little coincidents that we all experience, but can't put our finger on. In short: i can honestly say that it does work. But it can take some time to change thought patterns you have been walking in for years. It feels stupid to write this, but the movie actually just reminds us of things we already know, deep down. But we keep forgetting it because of the limitations we impose on ourselves. Of what is right, and what is wrong.
   
   I am fully aware that the concept of attraction is just one of many (it is also called the law of love). But what impressed me with this product is how clearly it defined the boundaries we deal with. It is practical rather than idealistic. Also, it is a breath of fresh air, concidering the avalanche of negative "truth" movies that has surfaced over the past few years.
   
   We need movies like these to remind us that life is good. We have a tendency to put up a wall to protect ourselves from stress and harm. But that same wall also isolates us from everything we hold dear. Including the divine.
   
   If i were to point out anything negative, it would have to be that the first 10 seconds after the intro - is like watching a commercial. They should have jumped straight to proctor and the view of our planet.
   
   Highly recommended for a world in need of release.



2. WE NEVER RECEIVED OUR COPY and despite many attempts to find out why and whether we could get our money back, AMAZON was not helpful in tracing the responsible party and we were sent from pillar to post and NEVER GOT ANYWHERE closer to finding it.
   SEEMS Amazon has a secret way of messing its customers around!!!



3. Actually read the book first and after seeing the movie, I feel you should watch the movie and then the book. I feel the movie is an intro to the book so that I was slightly bored since all the info I had known already. But, did enjoy both and went on to read my favorite on The Law of Attraction called Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbookbecause the Secret told while this book shows from an educational viewpoint and gives exercises to follow with.



4. I rented the movie first from Netflix...why not? I am paying for a membership, right? Well, it was SO GOOD that I bought the DVD that day. Not only did I buy one for myself, but I bought 2 additional copies and sent them to my best girlfriends. I have watched it 3 times within the past week and I am sure I will watch it again tomorrow. The first time I suggest you just sit back and take it all in. After that, be ready with paper so you can take notes. I have learned something new every time I watched it. It really has changed my outlook on life. There is power in positive thinking and the Law of Attraction. A must BUY, not just a must see! Oh and I glanced at the book in the store...it is the same as the DVD, but to me not as powerful as someone talking to you.



5. My husband and I both found "The Secret" to be wonderful. We watch it over and over. If we can live our lives just half as well as is suggested we will be better people. As for the "power of attraction", to me that's an added bonus, and one that has worked somewhat but we are still working on it. It has helped me to be stronger in my faith.

5 comments about Equilibrium.

1. In this movie from 2002, starring Christian Bale, It had the most creative fighting scenes ever! I loved the fighting scene at the end, where Christian Bale took on like 80 guys at once by himself and seems unhurt at the end. In comparing this movie to George Orwell's 1984, I found notable comparisons, from Christian BaLE'S CHILDREN, TO The Parson children in the novel. Both had children whom by apperances seemed loyal to the party, and willing to turn in thier parents. Likewise, the book and movie, have monitored coversations, i.e., through tvs. In both, the main character is drawn away from the desired living, and rebells. I like how Chrisitan Bale's character turns, when he accidently destroys a dosage of medicine he has to take. His orginal partner is like Syme or Julia, because they were also drawn to rebelion against the goverment.



2. First off, this tendency for comparing this film to the Matrix should cease. I feel that Equilibrium is a under-rated movie and deserves more of a better rating, i was surprised to discover that this movie came out in 2002, i heard about it only last year!
   I enjoyed watching the "Gun Kata" fight sequences and Christian Bale kicking pretty much everybody's rear with a Katana Sword.
   As far as the story goes, although there is nothing ground breaking, it was directed reasonably well, without being excessively cheesy and Chrisitan Bale as usual rocks.
   
   Recommend to own. Good Movie.
   
   ---"Now the who the devil is Mr. Yochum ???"-- (check the last three reviewers)



3. Being a sci-fi movie fan, I recently rented Kurt Wimmer's EQUILIBRIUM. Not expecting much I sat down to watch the picture and less than 10 minutes into the film I was convinced that this was going to be a GREAT MOVIE. By the time the movie ended I couldn't have been more right. EQUILIBRIUM, while not Academy Award material, is, nonetheless, an excellent science fiction film with a wonderful "classic sci-fi B-movie" feel. Set in a futuristic, post-World War III era, a new "war-less and peaceful" society has gradually risen from the ashes of a nuclear-decimated early 21st century world. Things, however, are not as peaceful as they may appear. The brave new world is not without its flaws. In an effort to prevent WW IV and to maintain "peace" at any cost, the entire population is under the control of Big-Brother Government through a zombifying, emotion-killing drug known as "prozium". The film chronicles the journey of one man - a high-ranking, highly trained, government enforcer known as John Preston - who comes to realize the serious errors (and crimes) of the supposedly "utopian society" which he's sworn to protect. In the vein of classic science fiction films like, METROPOLIS, 1984 and FAHRENHEIT 451, EQUILIBRIUM delivers the goods in terms of excellent film production, set and costume design, special effects and acting. A must-see film for any sci-fi fan that stands on it's own and apart from comparative films like MATRIX and MINORITY REPORT ( a much, much better film than Minority Report! ). A+ Highly Recommended!



4. Like all good sci fi, Equilibrium is about the world of today, not tomorrow. How much of our souls are we willing to trade for physical security? As our government continues to strip us of our freedoms in order to "protect" us, like the Cleric we need to seriously consider what we have lost.
   
   When I first saw this film at its first release, I confess that I would have given it only maybe 3 stars. But it has haunted me over the years and when I watched it again just recently I saw so much more in it.
   
   And the action sequences, especially the famous Gun Kata, have a terrible beauty.



5. At the dawn of the 21st century, society was faced with a great Third World War, and knowing that something had to be done to prevent further problems, humanity was faced with the dilemma of solving all of man's troublels. As a result, they created a new enforcer of the law, the Grammaton Clerics, a collection of warriors who practice gun kata to improve their lethality while executing their sole task of eradicating any instance of feeling within humanity.
   
   To control the general public, daily dosage of Prozium are self-administered, similar to the daily dosages of Soma in Brave New World, except this opiate of the masses elimites melancholy, rage, hate, and jealousy, as well as the suppressing positive feelings of pathos, joy, and love. Similarly, destruction of all that creates feeling, literature, art, all that gives us emotion, just like the firemen in Fahrenheit 451. Large-scale indoctrination is accomplished through the visualized, Apple commerical-esque, Big Brother screens of 1984 (used later in V for Vendetta). The combination of the three classic dystopian tales is flawless, each blending into the other, and the collective producing realism and fear for what could easily be a not-so-distant future.
   
   Two Grammaton Clerics, John Preston (Christian Bale) and Errol Partridge (Sean Bean), have worked together to "protect" society. However, Errol has been confiscating sense offender material. Eventually, John catches Errol because he had been sneaking outside of the city to commit sense crimes. When he is eventually uncovered face-to-face, John must bring his partner in for justice. His partner would rather die than be captured or give up feeling, and in a final act of defiance he quotes a passage from his book and raises his book to cover his eyes.
   
   Partridge's final words would later haunt John in a dream, as they serve as the catalyst for his finaly memory of his wife, the moment of her sense crime incarceration and eventual incineration, and he remembers with horror his still, emotionless inaction.
   
   The following morning John drops his dosage of Prozium. His sone recommends a trip to Equilibrium for a replacement dosage. Only, John doesn't go, and he begins to feel, to sense and perceive all the wonderful feelings previously unknown. Soon, he enjoys the touch of an intricately designed vase, cries at the sound of Beethoven, and risks everything by protecting a puppy from extermination.
   
   The gun battles are equisitely designed and choreographed, a little Matrix crossed with a little Jet Li action. Christian Bale delivers an impressive performance as a man who is initially wooden, and later severely troubled by his actions.
   
   Eventually John must face the battle between his logic and his emotions, his allegiance and his freedom, as he comes to terms with what he has done, what he has become, and what he wishes for the future.

5 comments about Kill Bill - Volume Two.

1. I loved the movie KILL BILL VOLUME 1. I thought it was not only a great tribute to the films that director Quentin Tarantino loved seeing in those grind houses long ago, but a fantastic action film in its own right. And now the final chapter in the story (so far), the second film reaches screens around the world. And...it is different.
   
   Suffice to say that if you walk into this film expecting the first, you will be terribly disappointed. The gore fest bloodshed has toned down, the massive amounts of swordplay, gone. Instead we find a more philosophical Tarantino film, a movie more about wordplay than swordplay. And while taken aback by it at first, I found that the more I thought about it the better it was.
   
   Having finished off the first two targets on her list, The Bride (as Uma Thurman's character is known so far) sets out to finish the job she started. The film opens with her making this statement and then flashing back in this chapter to what brought it all about, the massacre that we witnessed in the first film and why it came to be.
   
   We discover that she was the love of Bill's (David Carradine) life and that he was torn apart by her leaving him. So much so that he made the decision that if he couldn't have her no one could. He refused to let her leave the ranks of the assassination squad he had formed. At least we think this for now.
   
   With each chapter we are given more information as we discover who it was that trained the Bride. It was Bill's former master, Wei Ping (Gordon Liu). He takes on the task of training the Bride, something that comes in handy later on when she finds herself buried alive by Bud (Michael Madsen) after she attacks him.
   
   Bud, who we discover is Bill's brother, is down on his luck, working as a bouncer in a low class strip joint in El Paso. Having spoken with Bill already, he is waiting for Uma. Thinking he has done her in, he contacts Elle (Daryl Hannah) to sell of her sword. But Elle has different plans for Bud. And Uma has plans for her.
   
   A face off between Elle (Daryl Hannah) and the bride occurs in Bud's trailer. The swords fly and the movements are swift while confined to the small space of the trailer. But a winner emerges. By death? We are left to figure that out on our own.
   
   And finally, Uma heads out for a contact that will put her in touch with Bill. The final confrontation, begun with the release of the first film, unfolds. Not only that, but the surprise that Bill has in store for Uma as well. And as the surprises are revealed, conversation between these two combatants unfold the entire story that we have only been given portions of to date.
   
   Tarantino took much flack with the first film in that the dialogue that he is noted for was kept to a minimum while the action took the forefront. Critics blasted him for this. He has stated that the film wasn't complete with that one and keeping that in mind while watching makes the film a better experience for the viewer. When he finished, he realized that he could not release the entire picture without it being a 4 hour opus. Instead, he cut it in two and released the stories separately making them unite as a whole. Keep this in mind while watching and it makes a difference.
   
   The acting in this film is wonderful, especially from David Carradine. Though never quite a fan of his, he does a great job here as Bill, offering his philosophies on life and love and the results of the same. Michael Madsen is underused but does a great job with what little time he has onscreen. And Hannah makes one of the meanest villains on screen in some time.
   
   But the role of the Bride (whose name is revealed finally....but don't expect me to give it here) as played by Thurman is what makes this film. It is not only the emotions that she must convey, but the physical aspects of it and delivery of dialogue in a way that makes it all believable. And Thurman does each one of these with an ease never seen before.
   
   KILL BILL VOLUME 2 is a good movie and an entertaining experience. See part one on DVD before watching this though and take it in as a whole film. Those who do will find more rewards than those who see it as two different films.



2. The Good Things
   *Some good action and fighting.
   *Some good visuals. Still a smooth and clear picture.
   *Still a good story, with a very good conclusion. Also fills in lots of gaps from the first film.
   *Still an excellent group of characters that you can relate to. It is especially interesting to see Bill for the first time.
   *Dialogue is strong and interesting.
   *More interesting music.
   *Lots of homage to westerns, kung fu, and anime. These elements are blended together to make a very unique picture.
   
   The Bad Things
   *It's longer and there's much less action.
   *Still has some absurd, unrealistic parts (but this can be a good thing, because it makes the film stylish and fun).
   
   This is a definate must-see for anybody who has seen the first film. All of the missing story elements are present, and brings everything into clarity. The conclusion is excellent (even if there is no fighting). I don't think this is as stylish or exciting as the first film, but it is definately worthwhile to see the complete story.



3. This is a really good sequel. It has lots of action and answers questions not answered in part I.



4. And I just feel like laughing at it. KILL BILL. Short simple amusing little title for such a long drawn out oddly serious film. So long in fact that it had to be chopped in two, as we all know. Looking at separate pieces I see nothing to gripe about whatsoever. Most every scene seems perfect. Taken as a whole, I find an overly self-serious, bloated, pretentious film. IMHO, KILL BILL would have benefitted greatly as one film under 2 hours and done more as a comedy rather than a revenge drama.
   
   I guess I wanted a revenge comedy. Or a revenge dramadey. And maybe a little bit more focus on just telling this story instead of on what the project was really about, which was a grand tribute to various genres the director grew on. I like trash, and I like art, but I like my trash best when there is no confusing it with anything other than what it is. I don't have as much love for the cr*p as Tarantino. But who really does? That guy is a mutant, a real life "Cable Guy" that spent his entire youth in a movie theater. So maybe that's why I lack a little bit of appreciation for this homage to cr*p. Don't mean to offend the faithful here. Tarantino is still the man, although I wish he'd quit talking so damn much and work more --I mean, have you ever seen someone as brilliant at self promotion? KILL BILL was six long years after what was that film? And what's he up to now? (I'll look online in a minute.) I still think it's great though, but not as fun (for lack of a better term) as I personally would have preferred. Your maybe thinking, what the hell are you talking about? I mean, I wanted to laugh my a-- off with this one. I wanted BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA sillyness. But that's just my 2 cents.
   Some highlights from Volume 2:
   Pai Mei is my favorite character. Michael Madsen gave an Oscar worthy performance as Bud, Bill's brother. Great performances all around. Great soundtrack as always. Visually just a gorgeous picture.
   From Volume 1:
   The anime and watching hundreds of Japanese chodes having their limbs removed.



5. I love this movie and I was very happy to find it with this seller. I am very pleased.

5 comments about Kill Bill - Volume One.

1. From the moment when the b/w Bride swam into view, drawing desperate gasps of breath, black blood splattering her face and neck, I knew that Kill Bill would be a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. This homage to kung-fu and spaghetti-western movies is more than just a two-hour smash-fest, however. It's a prime example of artistic cinematography and story build-up, taking what seems like a linear and predictable revenge-plot and constantly surprising the viewer. In fact, I don't think there are many movies out there that centre on revenge and violence and still manage to hold such an artistic quality.
   
   Kill Bill started out as a premise shared by Quentin Tarantino and Uma Thurman on the set of Pulp Fiction. An ex-assassin (Thurman), on her wedding day, is brutally beaten by her ex-coworkers and shot to death by her ex-boss... or so it seems. She survives by the smallest of margins, falling into a four-year coma. When she wakes up - and discovers that she's no longer pregnant - she intends to make them all very sorry. Thurman deserves all the credit she gets for her performance; she is heartwringingly convincing as the heartbroken but unwavering warrior. Her dialogue often takes the backseat to her sheer emotional acting. Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox and Daryl Hannah are also inspiring in their characteristic, while diverse, roles.
   
   When watching the movie, I'm constantly torn over whether I should feel bad or fascinated. The theme is a ruthless, brutal one, yet presented in such an aesthetic manner that I can't help but appreciate its beauty. Indeed, the flick is quite a cunning piece of art. I'll leave others to interpret the various connections to old marial arts/spaghetti western movies found in Kill Bill, but I think it very much succeeds as a modern-day version of such a film, enhancing the beauty and brutality of both. Volume One of the Kill Bill saga mostly pays homage to the old kung fu movies. The big fight scene goes from colour to black-and-white in a really satisfying manner, adding to the film's ambience as both old-school and modern. And the climax of the movie, of course - the confrontation with O-Ren Ishii - has to be one of the most beautiful fight sequences I've seen. The soundtrack compliments the entire movie perfectly; whether its the bouncy rock-funk of the 5-6-7-8s, the beautiful piece of hymnic Japanese music as the Bride looks at swords, or the classic "Urami-bushi", not a song in the movie feels out of place. This is not to say that Tarantino doesn't keep his humour up - indeed the fight scenes (the last excluded) are not always so serious. Blood gushes to an insane amount (anatomy is to no importance here) and chuckling slapstick moments frequently pop up.
   
   The choreography of almost every scene is spot-on, as well; and I don't just mean the downright dance the Bride makes as she cuts her way through the Crazy 88. A particularly clever piece of camerawork is an almost two-minute long uncut shot at the House of Blue Leaves, transitioning from the Bride to the proprietor to Sofie Fatale to the Bride again. This sequence is so seamless and spotless, it's downright hard to believe it.
   
   The character introduction is flawless, too. The prime example, of course, is the Japanese animation (not really anime, though) chapter dedicated to O-Ren's past. Her backstory adds to the sympathy of her character, and as such to the power of the confrontation between her and the Bride. O-Ren's isn't the only example, though. The hospital scene where the one-eyed Elle Driver 'visits' the comatose Bride is one of my favourite scenes in the whole movie, if not my absolute favourite. It is a very important, profound scene as it introduces what will be a key character in vol. 2, and the significance of her character. From the tune "Twisted Nerve" to the very cinematography of the scene, it couldn't be more obvious that Elle is one of the most significant characters in the story. As soon as the scene was over, I wanted to see her again, and knew she had a large role in what was to come.
   
   My only real beef with the movie is that I have a hard time connecting to the Bride's motives. Is she getting back at her ex-coworkers (and all who stand in her way to them) for the wrong they did her? Is she avenging her daughter? Or the people who died at the chapel? All of these, perhaps? I feel it could have been presented better. On the other hand, perhaps Tarantino wishes the Bride to develop as a character as well, maybe even show just how ugly revenge can make you. Who knows?
   
   Kill Bill is, on all accounts, a terrific film. It succeeds and exceeds at everything it attempts to be. Tarantino has a real talent in showing us beauty in even the most ugly things. And in my opinion, Elle Driver emerging from the ladies restroom in her nurse's outfit with her white, red cross eyepatch is one of those iconic female moments in cinema, like Ursula Andress rising from the sea in Dr No. A brutal film it may be, but you'd be hard put to find one with a more artistic edge.



2. Much to violent. This is a sick glorification of both untrammeled and pointless killing and maiming. The picture ought to be banned. Even I myself felt gloomy and irritable the next day.



3. Kill Bill Vol. 1 sets the bar for the genre of violent, action films. Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, David Carradine and others did a spectacular job in their roles. And a special appearance by 1960's J-Pop band the 5678's was really part of the films best moments. Quentin Tarantino should have won an Oscar for best director for Kill Bill Vol 1. I love it and I am look forward to buying Vol. 2.



4. This movie is a must see and a must have for all you Tarantino fan. This movie to overly violent and bloody. Normally I don't like movies like that. However, it ranks among one of my favorite movies.



5. -The greatest pure action flick ever made-
   
   This is the cinematic weapon of mass destruction, the dream girl orgie of film ecstasy, the Tiger Woods of action-driven movie mania. Kill Bill is in a class all its own, an experience like you've never witnessed before. Tarantino pays homage to many of his favorite films, directors, and genres while incorporating his own distinct style. I'll use my W.U.S.S.training (Whiteboys Understanding Samurai Sensibilities) to write my first novel.
   
   The story is simple--a lady samurai seeks to avenge the murders of her husband and unborn child. her name is Beatrix Kiddo, aka Black Mamba. She's also referred to as The Bride, which was a character from Q & U. The plot was also inspired by the movie Lady Snowblood, an outstanding female samurai flick.
   
   Other obvious influences:
   
   SAMURAI FICTION--The silhouetted warriors duel with a bright colore background. QT extends this scene drastically, and the results are amazing. This contrast of colors and swift, elegant swordplay make for an awesome visual implosion that will blow your senses away.
   
   HARAKIRI--An undeniable gem of Asian cinema, QT draws heavily from the astounding bloody climax. The Bride fights valiantly against nearly insurmountable odds. She also scales walls and railings with impressive acrobatic agility. The choreography is utterly brilliant as the blood sprays in excess. You will not see a more exciting, dramatic melee in samurai cinema ever. Bold statement, but oh so true.
   
   SHADOW WARRIORS--A T.V.show from the 80's starring the great samurai Hattori Hanzo. In this movie, Hanzo(played by the legendary Sonny Chiba) breaks a blood oath and crafts another deadly blade of steel.
   
   JAPANESE ANIME--This animated sequence totally rules!!! There is some top notch artwork with unique, clever angles. Plus a plethora of blood, murder, and mayhem. Awesome.
   
   GIALLO/DEPALMA--There is a sweet split screen sequence, ala Brian DePalma, that completely kicks butt. There are some closeup shots of the murderer approaching the comatose Bride. With the powerful sound effects blaring the tension is elevated and a dark, desperate atmosphere takes over. A nice touch.
   
   YAKUZA--There are some Japanese mobsters sitting at a table having a meeting. I'll admit, mixing samurai and yakuza seems odd. With the gangstas packin' heat, a samurai chick might not last too long. But hey, this is an action flick, so you can't think too deep into it.
   
   SPAGHETTI WESTERN--There's a brief scene shot in Texas. It involves tumbleweeds, a sheriff, and a bloody shootout. No Clint Eastwood though.
   
   Now, this movie does have some questionable components. Like all the members of the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad. Quite a ragtag group. None of them are overly convincing as deadly samurais, but still the story somehow works. QT also overdoes it with the American pop culture references (silly rabbit, Trix are for kids). They sometimes seem out of place. But still this doesn't hamper the entertainment value. All in all, it's a wonderfully shot, incredibly action packed motion picture. The 5,6,7,8's provide some perfect songs, and Wu Tang Clan does some spectacular sound effects. There's also humor, wit, great character development and dialogue, shots of womens feet--all of QT's trademark stuff. And the action sets the bar sky high.
   
   Tarantino shows he's more than just some film geek. He's an expert at his craft.
   
   Now, I encourage any of you, always in a respectful manner, to question my logic. I assure you, no topic will ever be taboo. Unless of course you bring up this movie as a negative. The price you pay for such an action is--I collect your freakin head!!!!!!!! Now if any of you have anything to say, now's the freakin' time.

5 comments about Planet Earth & The Blue Planet Seas of Life (Special Collector's Edition).

1. This DVD set is a must have for anyone who got to see this on TV when it first aired. Now you can rewind and pay more attention to what you may have missed. Great quality and not a bad price. Gave it to my dad, and he was VERY happy!



2. Planet Earth set was excellent but Blue Planet Seas of Life set had some problems. Special Collector's Edition was a disappointment because 2 of the DVDs were defective; so, I sent them back for a replacement. The replacement set now had 3 defective DVD's (unreadable). Amazon did very well in replacing the set, but people in charge of quality control had to be "out to lunch". I was forced to ask for a refund.



3. Every bit as fantastic as advertised. Every member of the family has learned something new about our incredible planet. Great learning tool, great entertainment.



4. I recently bought and LCD TV and played this DVD series on it in 1080P. It was awesome! Some of the pictures they took were unbelieveable, and they even showed you how they got them with the additional footage.
   
   Highly recommend.



5. so far our family has only watched two thirds of the first discs of this series (there are a total of ten discs), and already I can say the whole family enjoys it. (even our 7 year old who whines when we tell him we are going to watch planet earth, and not a re-run of "family guy" for the 20th time)
   
   each segment has jaw dropping shots that make you wonder how in the world they were ever able to film that, and so far at the end of the first two episodes, there is a short segment of "planet earth diaries" that details the planning and effort that went into getting some of the shots.
   
   one more thing to add, I have noticed several questions or comments about whether this series is narrated by david attenborough, or sigourney weaver. this package that we got from the bbc has david attenborough.
   
   I would highly recommend this for anyone who has an interest in nature. it is so easy to develop tunnel vision and get caught up in the daily grind of commuting and working and doing household chores. this reminds us of what an amazing and delicate planet we inhabit.

5 comments about Robin Hood - Season One (5DVD).

1. I had been clicking through my channels one night when I came across the show being played on BBC America. At first I wrote it off as some silly thing, but then after I had watched the episode, I couldn't wait to get my hands on more. After watching only a few episodes, I went to purchase the series. It's brilliant. There is no way to truly be historically accurate with Robin Hood. At one point, it was history, but now it has become legend and will one day become myth, just like Troy. The balance of humor and action are perfect, and the costumes add a certain charm to it. Who knows, maybe Lady Marian was a fighter. It is possible, look at Joan of Arc. I love the series, and even though we don't get it as quickly as those in the UK do, I pre ordered the second season as soon as I could. I would definitely recommend it. By all technicalities, it's the only TV show I actually watch. Other shows just don't hold my interest at all and the plot seems to become too thick. Robin Hood on the other hand, sticks to the same plot without all of the ridiculous intricacies to make it seem more exciting. It simply doesn't need it.



2. I was very disappointed in the first season of Robin Hood. Way too many lame attempts at humor. Huge plot flaws. Distracting and stupid use of modern words and phrases (it's supposed to be England in 1192). Some terrible casting; the woman who plays Marian is so boring and not cool enough to be the highly compelling, strong woman she's supposed to be. Stultifyingly repetitive plot: "We have to rescue so-and-so from the dungeon!" happens in almost every episode. Lame attempts to mirror modern issues (e.g., conflict between Christinity and Islam). They spent a lot of money on sets and costuming, which all look freshly made, not "worn in", and are thus distracting. The actors don't look like they're believing in what they're doing (no wonder, with the lame script and episode plots), but a good director could have helped the actors be more convincing. Lousy sound engineering; we often had to turn on the subtitles to understand what they were saying (also partly the director's fault, for not requiring the actors to speak clearly). I must learn not to trust glowing reviews from other Amazon customers.



3. This Season 1 set is a really good buy. There are plenty of extras profiling the actors, characters, sets, costumes, stunts and series production. This Robin Hood is a treat--recommended for Hood fans with a wry sense of humor and an enjoyment of twisted history. Not for children under 12.



4. Love this series! Clean, Fun, and engaging! Love the characters good and bad; and the stories too! Even my older boys enjoy them!



5. We first saw this last year on BBC America and enjoyed them as a family (I have five boys!). The characters were developed well and though Maid Marion is more modernistic and feministic than the period of the 12th century would ever allow,(she looks more and dresses like a modern Brit than a 12th century lady) its all in good fun if they dont get carried away into political correctness. Can't wait to get the second season!!

5 comments about The Matrix.

1. Before seeing this movie, I didn't even know there WAS a red pill.
   
   Thank you brothers W



2. The great thing about this movie is that the first time you watch it you will appreciate maybe the more superficial aspects of it like the special effects. The second and subsequent viewings will entertain and intrigue you much more as you understand the story and what it represents, and maybe you'll even begin to ask yourself important questions about the meaning of life. The more you grow and try to understand the world around you, the more interesting this movie becomes. There are many aspects of this movie to appreciate, and I'd buy it again if I lost my copy, and again if I lost that one, then I'd call the police if that one came up missing.



3. I remember the hype surrounding this movie, how it was the best sci fi movie since the Star Wars saga.
   I wasn't really prepared for just how bad this movie is.
   Keanu is, well.............KEANU!!!!!!!
   The guy just CAN'T act!!!
   He ruins what could have been a decent movie.
   The story itself is brilliant, the entire human race exterminated and being used as fuel for the robots.
   And all of our lives is a huge collective dream.
   I'm giving the movie four stars just for the idea.
   I'm taking a star away for Keanu. UUGH!!!!!!!!
   Still, I recommend The Matrix for its innovative visuals and its interesting story line.



4. So let's take the Man vs Society theme, set it in a sci-fi plot, and use the latest special effects.
   
   Slo mo bullets and super-slo-mo blood splattering. How many bullets and corpses can we get in a scene? What can we do to out special/effect all the other movies that have come out?
   
   It ends up being a pandering effort at those who love a gore-fest.
   
   Not even worth one sequal, much less two.



5. I liked this movie, I mean its worth watching, but its all the while a question of "suspend your disbelif", because this is just so unlikely. i dont know if the problem is the genre that its science fiction or what, buyt its hardly credible. pure fantasy. but fun

5 comments about The War - A Film By Ken Burns and Lynn Novick.

1. As a major history buff, I enjoyed this Ken Burns documentary on WW2 and I recommend it. There's alot of great war footage never seen before. Also, there are many excellent war stories that bring home the horror and brutality of war.
   
   However I have 2 criticisms. I felt that that focus on the four towns was ponderous and caused the film to drag at times. Also, I would have liked it better if there was less human interest/home front coverage and the documentary was shortened to ~ 4 DVDs, instead of 6.
   
   Overall, this is worth watching but not great like Burns's Civil War documentary.



2. We really wanted to get the DVD set. We saw it on PBS and were captivated by it. I was a little disappointed at the cost of the DVD set, when it was a PBS special. It was much more affordable on Amazon, but was double at Barnes and Noble. I would also like to get the coffee table book that accompanies it, but will maybe get that a later time.



3. After seeing how well Ken Burns handled the documentaries on Jazz and the Civil War, I was pleased to view The War and see how it continues his fine treatment of what are historical subjects. The archive materials are very clear, the narrative informative, sympathetic, yet not too obtrusive. It gives a very clear account of what it was like to have been a soldier and a soldier's family throughout 1941-1945.



4. "The War," like Burns' other projects, places his subject squarely within the context of the times, creating an accessible, thought provoking and stimulating view of the defining five years of the American Century. This set of films provides an unequaled summary of the events of the war years with special emphasis on their impact on the home front. I use many clips from the series in my college modern American history class, not only to provide background on the war but to set the stage for events after the war and up to the present day. This series reaches students in ways no other can. I never have enough time to show all the clips I could, and the students always leave class wanting more. This is a keeper.



5. Thank You for sending the copy of "THE WAR" a PBS special. It was informative and well done. 5 stars

5 comments about The Secret (Extended Edition).

1. When i first watched this movie, it didn't impress me much. But i noticed that watching it made me smile more often. I had been working overtime for months and was in pretty lousy condition at the time. Then i watched it again and became reminded of these little coincidents that we all experience, but can't put our finger on. In short: i can honestly say that it does work. But it can take some time to change thought patterns you have been walking in for years. It feels stupid to write this, but the movie actually just reminds us of things we already know, deep down. But we keep forgetting it because of the limitations we impose on ourselves. Of what is right, and what is wrong.
   
   I am fully aware that the concept of attraction is just one of many (it is also called the law of love). But what impressed me with this product is how clearly it defined the boundaries we deal with. It is practical rather than idealistic. Also, it is a breath of fresh air, concidering the avalanche of negative "truth" movies that has surfaced over the past few years.
   
   We need movies like these to remind us that life is good. We have a tendency to put up a wall to protect ourselves from stress and harm. But that same wall also isolates us from everything we hold dear. Including the divine.
   
   If i were to point out anything negative, it would have to be that the first 10 seconds after the intro - is like watching a commercial. They should have jumped straight to proctor and the view of our planet.
   
   Highly recommended for a world in need of release.



2. WE NEVER RECEIVED OUR COPY and despite many attempts to find out why and whether we could get our money back, AMAZON was not helpful in tracing the responsible party and we were sent from pillar to post and NEVER GOT ANYWHERE closer to finding it.
   SEEMS Amazon has a secret way of messing its customers around!!!



3. Actually read the book first and after seeing the movie, I feel you should watch the movie and then the book. I feel the movie is an intro to the book so that I was slightly bored since all the info I had known already. But, did enjoy both and went on to read my favorite on The Law of Attraction called Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbookbecause the Secret told while this book shows from an educational viewpoint and gives exercises to follow with.



4. I rented the movie first from Netflix...why not? I am paying for a membership, right? Well, it was SO GOOD that I bought the DVD that day. Not only did I buy one for myself, but I bought 2 additional copies and sent them to my best girlfriends. I have watched it 3 times within the past week and I am sure I will watch it again tomorrow. The first time I suggest you just sit back and take it all in. After that, be ready with paper so you can take notes. I have learned something new every time I watched it. It really has changed my outlook on life. There is power in positive thinking and the Law of Attraction. A must BUY, not just a must see! Oh and I glanced at the book in the store...it is the same as the DVD, but to me not as powerful as someone talking to you.



5. My husband and I both found "The Secret" to be wonderful. We watch it over and over. If we can live our lives just half as well as is suggested we will be better people. As for the "power of attraction", to me that's an added bonus, and one that has worked somewhat but we are still working on it. It has helped me to be stronger in my faith.