5 comments about Thunderbirds Are Go (International Rescue Edition).

1. , 4, 3, 2, 1 ...................... THUNDERBIRDS ARE GO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
   This is an excellent movie guaranteed to entertain the entire family.
   If you love famed SUPERMARIONATION creator Gerry Anderson's series THE THUNDERBIRDS, you will be in for a treat watching this movie. All the elements which made the series a huge hit is here in this movie.
   This MOVIE was made just after The Thunderbirds television series was cancelled. Many of the props, puppets, vehicles etc appear in this movie, giving the movie a hidden lost episode FEEL. The DVD is in widescreen format as was released in movie theatres back in 1966. The DVD transfer is pretty clean, but since the movie was shot in 35mm format and letter-boxed back in '66, the movie is not as clear as one could hope for. I would say the quality is about the same as the television series, which is not too shabby. There is a few extras including about 3 short documentarys about the movie with interviews from Sylva Anderson. These interviews are OK, but I would have like to see more, They run very quick (about 10 minutes apeice).
   The actual PLOT of THUNDERBIRDS ARE GO is not exactly very inventive. Some of the series premises and plots are rehashed, given a new coat of paint and reused. But, in my opinion, if you are a Thunderbirds fan, this movie is a MUST. You will enjoy it. Also, famed rock and rollers CLIFF RICHARD JR. and The SHADOWS appear in cameos as MARIONETTES !!!!!!!!! This is very strange. They even do a song which is very mid 60's Beatlish. and accompanying this some is a,, believe it or not, MUSIC MARIONETTE VIDEO of the whole band !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Trust me, it will put a smile on your face.
   THUNDERBIRDS ARE GO is a MUST.



2. Between September 1965 and December 1966, British TV viewers had the opportunity to watch a program featuring a family (the Tracy's) represented by marionettes. The family members had devoted themselves to rescuing others (also played by marionettes) who had gotten themselves into various forms of trouble, usually due to some type of technical difficulty, weather or sabotage. Calling themselves "International Rescue", the Tracy family was more popularly known by the various high-tech vehicles that they used: the Thunderbirds, which was also the name of the TV program.
   
   Consisting of 32 episodes (26 during its first season and 6 during its second), BBC-TV cancelled "The Thunderbirds" early into its second season. Knowing that their show had been cancelled, the show creators, Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, produced a feature length film entitled "Thunderbirds Are Go" that was released in British theaters 10 days before the final television episode aired on December 25, 1966. The film's fictional story was about the first manned space flight to Mars using a spacecraft called "Zero-X". On take-off, the Zero-X crashes. Two years later, an investigative committee concludes that the crash was due to sabotage. With the impending take-off of the second Zero-X mission, mission commanders decide to ask International Rescue for assistance with security. However, International Rescue has never provided security, as its mission has been limited to helping those who are already in trouble. After thinking it over, John Tracy (voice of Ray Barrett) decides to assist. Involved in the security efforts are Jeff Tracy (voice of Peter Dyneley), Gordon Tracy (voice of David Graham), Brains (voice also done by David Graham), Scott Tracy (voice of Shane Rimmer), Alan Tracy (voice Matt Zimmerman), Virgil Tracy (voice of Jeremy Wilkin), Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward (voice of Sylvia Anderson) and her chauffeur Parker (voice also by David Graham). After the launch of Zero-X, its crew makes an interesting discovery on Mars before returning to Earth; but their return landing may require the International Rescue's assistance again. Keeping up with what was then popular 1960's culture, the Anderson's created marionette versions of the British pop band "Cliff Richards and the Shadows" and featured the band's song "Shooting Star" in the film.
   
   Two years after "Thunderbirds Are Go" was released, one more Thunderbirds feature-length film was released two years later: "Thunderbird Six". Though no new Thunderbirds episodes or feature-length films were ever made using Gerry and Sylvia Anderson's "supermarionation" technique, a steady cult following of the show that has lasted nearly 40 years brought about the production of a live-action version that was released in theaters in 2004. Aptly titled "Thunderbirds" and directed by long-time "Star Trek" actor Jonathan Frakes, the 2004 film did not live up to most Thunderbird aficionados' expectations.
   
   Overall, I rate the 1966 supermarionation film "Thunderbirds Are Go" with 4 out of 5 stars. It continues to be a very entertaining film even after nearly 40 years, though it may seem somewhat campy by today's standards. Other TV series that the Anderson's successfully produced using supermarionation include "Supercar" (1960-1962, supermarionation), "Fireball XL5" (1962), "Captain Scarlett and the Mysterons" (1967) and "Joe 90" (1968). After that, the Anderson's started producing live-action TV series that include "U.F.O." (1970-1971) and the more familiar "Space: 1999" (1975-1977).



3. I read a review that this dvd was worth the purchase if only for the dream sequence. That person was right, but really the whole thing was well worth the purchase. You have to watch the interviews at the end as well. Every person who watches this finds something interesting, entertaining and amazing in it.



4. This is a classic collection of the old Thunderbirds - marionette wires and all. My four year old son invites all of his neighborhood buddies to watch - all have become huge fans.
   
   Hours of peace and quiet. A parent's dream.



5. Anybody who grew up watching Thunderbirds, as I did, will welcome the chance to see this movie version, which runs to 89 mins. The start is as we all remember, the marvellous music by Barry Gray, with slightly amended opening credits. The picture quality is pretty good and of course this being a Cinema release its in full widescreen 2.35:1 ratio (although originally even wider apparently), which is much better than the 4:3 of the TV series.
   
   The story is typical Thunderbirds material stretched out to make it into a movie length film. This its one failing. The elaborate launch of the zero-x occurs twice in the film, the first time is interesting as the models and ingenuity are fabulous, but the second time through I just felt this was filler and could have been cut considerably. However this is a minor quibble.
   
   The commentary is very good, making this an essential purchase for anybody interested Thunderbirds or Gerry Anderson in general.

5 comments about Japan: Samurai, Geisha and Technology.

1. No doubt Japan is a wonderful country but this video is far from it. It is a very basic and simple introduction to Japan and in the modern times of high tech videos this one seems to be 40 years old.



2. The Japan video was amazing. I have not been to Japan and it definitely makes me want to go. I now know of a few locations that are on my visit list thanks to this DVD.



3. I run a small family Japanese restaurant in northern England and we show this video to my customers (we got permission to show it from the producer). This video is the perfect Japanese tourist guide and it is a great way to get our customers to spend more time in my restaurant.



4. Having lived in Japan over twenty years ago, I am getting ready to visit again for the first time with my wife. In an attempt to inspire her with the beauty and culture, I searched for a reasonably priced DVD. This DVD is clearly a great price, but it is also quite uninspiring. I think you would be better off investing a little more to find a well-produced option.



5. Japan: Samurai, Geisha & Technology" is an impressive DVD video that has unique benefits for both first time and repeat visitors to Japan. The narrator provides "been there. done that" observations that complement the eye-catching videos. Having made several previous visits to the country I was impressed by the wide range of venues covered by the video; some that I definitely plan to visit in the future!

4 comments about Canyonlands: A Southwest Desert Oddyssey.

1. I was hoping for something that would give me some info on these places. Instead it is just video (a lot of time lapse photography), some of which is pretty cool, with music playing in the background. There is no narration - you have to figure out on your own the location being shown. So if what you are after is something that is relaxing and beautiful to look at then you might find this enjoyable. If you are looking for something that is more informative, look elsewhere.



2. This is NOT a narrated travelog. But if you've had a bad day at work, pour yourself a glass of wine, settle into a comfortable chair, turn down all the lights, take a few deep breaths and play this video. If, at the end of the video, you are still tense or depressed, you MAY need professional help. This is probably the most beautiful, relaxing experience you can have while watching a television.



3. If you love nature, you will love Canyonlands: A Southwest Desert Odyssey. Don't expect any narration, because there is none. When I first watched this film (I've seen it several times), I anticipated a Patrick Stewart or Alec Baldwin voice-over somewhere along the way, but alas it never happened. And I'm all the more grateful.
   
   The only thing you will find in this spectacular odyssey through the American Southwest is an abundance of awe-inspiring and utterly wondrous scenery. The manner in which the desert world is captured in this film is mesmerizing, and there is a non-terrestrial quality to many of the scenes throughout the film's journey.
   
   The images are so beautiful at times I found myself doubtful that these places were actually a part of our planet. I was thoroughly impressed with the way in which many of the scenes were processed on film and for anyone interested in time-lapse imagery, this is your chance to see this process in action in some of the most beautiful places on earth.
   
   Have you had a bad day at work? Is your life in the dumps? Girlfriend/boyfriend-Wife/husband left for good this time? Has your cat just ran away? Is the world closing in around you? If so, put this dvd in your vcr and lose yourself in the beauty, majesty, and serenity of our natural world....



4. Time lapse video on steroids ! Beautiful footage of the Southwest set to music. Like the place you see ? Turn on subtitles and it tells you where it was shot.

No comments about Washington the Beautiful [Blu-ray].

No comments about Scenic National Parks: Grand Canyon [Blu-ray].

5 comments about Star Trek - Nemesis (Widescreen Edition).

1. The Good Things
   *Lots of cool action and special effects.
   *Very different filming style. Much more vivid and interesting use of colors and camera angles. Also a bit darker and more dramatic.
   *Storyline is interesting. It's cool to finally see the Romulans in a film.
   *Characters are smashing. There are lots of paralells involved; Picard vs his clone, Data vs B-4 (his clone), Troi vs that ugly alien, Riker vs the same ugly alien, and so on. Duality is the key point, and it makes for some very interesting interactions and dialogue.
   *Writing is good. Not so much comedy, but definately lots of drama.
   *As mentioned above, strong themes of duality.
   *Okay music.
   
   The Bad Things
   *The ending is a little dissapointing. Data is dead, the Enterprise is destroyed again, and everybody moves onto different paths. It almost warrents a whole new Star Trek TV series.
   
   The Questionable Things
   *It's almost too different. Definately a strange departure from previous films.
   
   I didn't really like this one at first, but I'll be darned if it didn't grow on me. The action and special effects are very slick and cool. Above all, there are a lot of interesting issues involving duality between the characters, with the Romulans, and overall light and dark. It's dark and deep, but also a little too dreary and different. Still, it's very interesting and entertaining.
   
   The one-disc version had good video and sound quality, and had some deleted scenes and featurettes. The two-disc version has good quality still, some of the same extras, plus additional featurettes.



2. My apologies up front, but my review of this film, and reaction to some of the other reviews present, is more personal and less detached than reviews of this type usually should be. But where Star Trek is concerned, my opinions are more emotional, and even deeply more personal than usual for TV and film subject matter. If this will derail you, read no further.
   After watching so many people regurgitate their semi-informed views on the state of Trek and recent projects, and this film in particular, I have abandoned my "to each their own" stance on the subject, and will have my say.
   Another reviewer writes: "I'm simply amazed at how many Star Trek fans abhor this movie! I guess I'm not enough of a Trekkie to understand the hatred, though I have been a fan since the 1970's."
   I was thinking the opposite. I myself have been a fan since the '70's. I believe that makes people like us "real" fans, and provides sufficient credentials to have an opinion. At first I also wondered why so many bad reviews. Then, I realized, in settings like this, you are not seeing the opinions of Star Trek fans. You are getting the opinions of "a majority of the people." Big difference. Star Trek never was truly appreciated by a majority of the people. A majority of the people apparently thought the original series should be cancelled....
   Asking people who probably did not truly "get" Trek, and what made it work to begin with, to rate which movie is the best, is like asking my mom and dad (children of the 50's) if Iron Maiden is a great band, and just taking their word for it. Not the proper audience.
   You have people that are too young to appreciate the original, and wish it were more like Babylon 5, or folks that think Sci-Fi should run like a reality show. But, I digress....
   Nemesis is, along with Star Trek II, probably one of the best of all Trek films. (As a true cinematic artwork, and excellent overall expression of the "Great Bird" 's original concept for ST without the limitations of weekly serial TV, Star Trek: The Motion Picture tops them all, and has not been surpassed. But, it lacked the sting of battle, heat of conflict, and the shrill squeal of phaser fire that fans craved.) Like Star Trek II, Nemesis has its share of flaws and inconsistencies, but like STII these are out shined by the action, drama, and spirit of adventure. These were seriously lacking in TNG episodes and films, and this final TNG piece seems to have been given a major transfusion of TOS blood. Ironic that yet again, when Paramount finally gets it right, they again nip it off at the bud because box office returns weren't exactly what they wanted, after trying this exact formula with newer TNG cast a total of ONE time. Those of us long suffering fans have come to expect nothing less from them. If it is time to let Star Trek be, it is not because its potential is gone, it is because those to whom the reigns have passed do not know how to utilize it creatively, and refuse to listen to the people who really watch it loyally: Longtime Fans. Not the "bloggers" online that tune in now and then when taking a break from World of War Craft, or there is nothing good on Sci-Fi Channel. I hate to say it, but: If you don't like this film, you probably just don't like Star Trek anyway, and should just go watch your old episodes of "Earth2", and leave this fine film, and its fans in peace.



3. What a sad, depressing way to pretty much end an amazing franchise, Star Trek Nemesis, the tenth film in the series, finally ended the Trekkie theory that every even numbered movie was colossal while the odds were medicore at best. The early 2000's weren't a good time for the franchise, with ST:Voyager ending it's run less than a year earlier and leaving ST:Enterprise alone and not doing a good job ratings or storywise. This was the third solo Next Generation film (not counting '94's Generations which was old with new casts), and the appeal was stating to really, really wear thin.
   
   Once again the Next Gen crew are sent on a typical mission (much like the previous film, the "hippie-like" Insurrection) to speak to a missionary representative of a subrace of the Romulans known as the Remans, who look nothing like them with their white disfigured bat-like faces. But when Captain Picard and crew get there, they find out their new leader is actually a twenty-something clone of the Captain known as Shinzon. He says all he wants is peace between the three parties, but of course in true Star Trek fashion his real mission is to destroy the Romulan Empire, the Federation, and his dopperganger Picard himself.
   
   Sure, the special effects are up to typical Star Trek fashion but that's all they reach, which is typical. Not much new is going on here except for an out-of-place, land based, dune-buggy race (in Star Trek?) and many endings/beginning of the ST:TNG storyline. After a twenty year courtship, Riker and Troi are getting married and leaving the Enterprise (with Riker getting his own command), and Data discovers another android like him, though not as intelligent, that he refers to as his brother known as B-4....get it, "before"....all while glossing over the fact that Data's had a brother before in the series known as Lore that this movie completely ignores.
   
   I think that cast and crew knew when making this film that the franchise truly had dried up at this point. There just wasn't much more to do with this crew and it shows all around. While die-hard Trekkies will find this entertaining, this was not the way they should have ended it. Tom Hardy as the younger Picard clone does look & sound alot like Patrick Stewart (minus a much larger upper-lip), but as a main villain he has no spark or appeal like ones in the past and Sci-Fi favorite Ron Perlman as his viceroy doesn't make things any better. And in true desperate writing fashion, one important main cast member dies, though like Spock earlier yet alot easier, could come back just like nothing ever happened.
   
   As for the Paramount 2 Disc Special Edition, like the others it's filled with amazing CGI menus, detailed behind-the-scenes footage, and tons of extras, but after seeing the film realizing that it didn't work as well as Picard and crew are now forever in drydock, you might not want to see them to know more of what went wrong. Though, even if you're a somewhat Star Trek or Sci-Fi fan, you'll should see this to know how it all ends, but don't expect a great warp into the sunset like Shatner's cast did in Part Six. Seeing Nemesis, it will probably explain to you why it's taking seven years to make another film, plus being a reboot going back to the Original Series storyline instead of continuing this one. But you never know in the world of Star Trek, maybe in the future we'll see Picard, Riker, and Data again....yes, even that third guy.
   (RedSabbath Rating:7.5/10)



4. First, let me state I dislike about two thirds of the classic, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise content out there. Still, I'll watch them, because scene to scene they have their moments and there are some very stellar (no pun intended) episodes scattered throughout.
   
   Next, I want to dis this film for some legitimate reasons. To have Wil Weaton in the reception scene sitting next to his mom and then not use him in any other part of the film was ridiculous.
   
   Also, considering Tasha Yar's daughter is Romulan, it seems rather idiotic not to have included her as one of the Romulan commanders we encounter later in the film. Since this is the final "future" Trek film, that would have been extremely fitting.
   
   The scene with Data and Picard in his Ready Room drinking wine and speaking of human ritual & bonds (I think that's what it was, it's been a while) should not have been cut. It's essential for both showing the audience more of the friendship between those two, the significant of the Chateau Picard wine toasted later in the film, and the poignancy of Data's sacrifice. That cut was not only unnecessary, but detrimental to the film's arc. Forget the "tempo", "momentum", or "rhythm" of the film. We're not talking action scenes, here.
   
   The bat imagery and inspiration was a bit, how do I put this mildly, overt. No, that's too kind. It was beating me over the head with a big, dead, stinky bat, like some junior high student short story's grand creative stroke. Less is more, folks.
   
   Finally, my biggest issue in the film, and one I probably let get in the way of my enjoyment of it, was the whole WMD, terrorism, and pro-Iraq invasion slant I perceived. Now, the virgin terrorist bent on world domination with an awful WMD is something clearly Spiner and friends intended in the script. The Iraq part was probably just my distaste with what was happening in the media at the time being unjustifiably channeled into the viewing. I can't be sure, but I suspect that was unintentional and was just some bad luck in the timing of the film's release. But, hey, maybe my first instincts were right.
   
   Nonetheless, like I said, I was too harsh on the film in the theater. I was fuming, pissed even. For the seeming Iraq slant, for Data's sudden death without the proper preparation and arc, for the soft, overly-groomed (common recent Trek problem), cheesy-looking Romulan Senate cgi scenes. However, in retrospect, and especially considering that one scene I mentioned previously that should not have been cut, I think the film is mostly in the right place. The ship to ship battle sequence at the end is masterful, combining all the techniques originated in the earliest TNG video games and novels, giving realistic division-of-tasks on the bridge, and presenting the events with a "truthiness" (finally, a use for that word!). They were 3D, dynamic, nuanced, and believable within the established rules and technologies of this franchise.
   
   The short-hand and camaraderie between this troop of actors is here in full force. I think they're right up there with the cast of MASH, quite frankly, and I'd put these actors in an echelon above that due to the serious and challenging subject matter they've dealt with over the years, not to mention the films. I really can't think of any other ensemble that's of this caliber, each and every one of them. I'm still not certain the best aura of the series was ever captured in any of the films, but in this one I almost felt they arrived at something more. Some of the kidding was put aside. Not all, but more than most of the episodes and films. There was a mature professionalism exuded by the characters. Individuals well into the prime of their professional and personal lives, dealing with the threats, changes, growth, and loses life entails.
   
   The film's look, I have to point out before wrapping this up, is gorgeous. The textures, lighting, pure white lights to subtle colors, those lens flares, the fascinating hue of Data's skin and eyes. This is without a doubt not only the finest-looking Star Trek outing, but a striking visual achievement, by any standard. It is not a five star film in my book, but in my opinion it was worth another look. I know I'll be returning to it some more. With reservations, but worthy nonetheless.



5. Some of these reviews are pitiful and mean spirited.
   I have been a Star Trek fan since the early 1970s as a child, but am not a trekkie.
   I enjoyed this movie and do not nit pick it apart !
   I pray for at least one more Next Generation movie !

5 comments about Discovery Atlas: China Revealed [Blu-ray].

1. It is a shame that there are people who don't bother to READ what these documentaries are about BEFORE they buy them and are disappointed.
   
   The oft-stated aim of Discovery Atlas is not a history lesson ... it is a unique look at countries through the eyes and personal stories of a select group of individuals.
   
   What better ways to learn the true feelings and emotions than by this manner.
   
   Exquisitely shot, wonderfully narrated, these videos provide a unique look into each of these nations that one would not otherwise EVER be party to.



2. This video has all the great HD quality in 1080i, but I was not too thrilled after viewing, it is basically about urbanized China, little on nature view. Excellent picture on cities; however, if you looking for landscape, mountains, terrains, etc.. for your HD TV, not recommended, because you will see none and disappointed.



3. Having studied and lived in China for over a year I was delighted with the fact that it focused on China's true treasure, its people. There are many books and videos that will give the tourist views of the Great Wall, Forbidden City and the many sites of Shanghai. This DVD will put a face to the country we across the world hear so much about and brings back fond memories of the friends I have made while in China.
   
   Unbiased and well executed but if you are looking for the history of the Great Wall look elsewhere. This is a story about the people of China and the daily struggles and triumphs they have in becomming a modern, industrialized nation.



4. I fell in love with this series on Discovery HDTheater, and was one of the first discs I ordered on BluRay. Unlike most documentaries, Discovery Atlas follows the lives for a year of a handful of people in this country. All the footage was filmed with state-of-the-art HD cameras, with the result being the single most beautiful thing ever shot in HD, with a story that will keep you glued to the set.
   
   Being an early BluRay release, and a disc version of a TV show, some may be turned off by the lack of HighRes sound, and the 1080i source, but do not let that turn you off. The high-bitrate of the video means much higher quality than anything you will see on your satelite or cable HD feed, and unless you have a 70 inch 1080p screen and are looking for the differences, you will not notice the difference between 1080i and 1080p. The audio track is quite agressive for a Dolby Digital Plus soundtrack, and amazing considering its a documentary.
   
   Being a direct transfer of the original HD source, you will see no pixelation, the edges are sharp, detail is thrown at you from even the tiniest of objects in the background, colors are vibrant, and blacks seem to be true.
   
   Bonus features include the making of the series, and a few promotional clips that were shown on the Discovery Channel. Bonus features are identical on each disc in the series.



5. "China Revealed" follows several individual Chinese as the oldest continuous civilization on earth transitions into a leadership position. Its 1.3 billion people are expected to become the next superpower, and the world's largest economy within twenty years. All despite being comprised by over 50 different peoples and 7 major languages, fortunately united by the common ability to read and write Chinese.
   
   Viewers begin by seeing incredibly terraced 8 century-old rice fields in a mountainous region, and learn that less than 10% of China is arable (large desert and mountain areas). The "good news" is that peasant income has increased 1,500% since they were given control of their lands in 1978.
   
   Urban residents, however, have fared even better. Shanghai is 8X the size of NYC, with 20 million inhabitants, vs. NYC's 8 million. One new immigrant from the rural areas is followed as he works long hours cleaning skyscraper windows and saves his money for his family back home.
   
   "China Revealed" also follows a 12-year-old girl selected for training in gymnastics beginning at age two, a young female computer worker who undertakes cosmetic surgery to improve her chances of promotion, Inner Mongolians following traditional ways while worrying about change, and a rural female police chief who has risen above traditional Chinese sexism.
   
   Overall, "China Revealed" is an impressive depiction of an impressive people moving forward.

5 comments about Timecop [HD DVD].

1. A time cop races through time to right the meddlings of a corrupt politician in the past. Van Damme is a cop whose wife has died and becomes a time cop. A corrupt politician is messing with the past to get enough money for his political campaign. The movie has pretty good fight scenes which are basically showing off Van Damme and his body. It has an interesting premise for the time it was done (1994) although the special effects were not that good, even for the time. The acting is better than other Van Damme movies though.



2. All in all, Timecop held up pretty good. There are a few FX shots that don't look as good as they should but for the most part the film looks real good on HD-DVD. The only real bad part is that, like the first dvd's that came out, there are no extras. Also, it was delivered to Canada in about 4 days(with 2 of those being the week-end) and I am not in a major city!!! Gotta love that.



3. If you were a Van Damme buff like me when you were younger, then you swear by and worship films such as Bloodsport, Kickboxer, and Lionheart. Timeless late 80's early 90's films that were immensely popular at the time and quite enjoyable as action movies during that era. However, Van Damme's reputation quickly faded because he was type-cast as the brute karate guy who was hell-bent on just kicking you in the face at an 120 degree angle.
   
   Timecop is Van Damme's glory film in his acting career. A wonderful and entirely believable futuristic story of time travel that with a little better directing and production could have been a darn good action flick. Van Damme plays a futuristic cop who witnesses his wife's murder and is determined to do something about it. Coincidentally, he's the top time travel cop for the time travel program that the government currently has implemented for national security reasons. Of course he's going to use that to his advantage. What ensues is a mixture of other time travel movies all brought into one but with that Van Damme flair. While the overlying message is that the past is a terrible thing to alter, Van Damme's life has never been the same since the loss of his wife. The only way to survive his mundane existence and to save the country in the process is to go back in time, alter it, and kill a few bad guys in the process. Van Damme is not over the top here, however. He plays a darker character who displays believable emotion as a result of his surroundings. If you're a fan of time travel movies ala Back to the Future, The Butterfly Effect, The Time Machine, then Timecop should be right up your alley.
   
   Time travel will always be an interesting topic of conversation or subject of a major motion picture.



4. I'm not going to bore you with a plot synopsis you can get off the back of a box. If you like Van Damme you'll like this movie. It's not filled with mindless action, and the plot is strong enough to carry the the film. It comes off slightly goofy, but only because of the 1990's take on what the future would be like.
   
   If you are looking for some decent/classic Van Damme action check it out. For under $10 how disappointed could you really be?



5. In my opinion, this is Jean Claude Van Damme's best movie that he ever made. The plot is good and his acting is actually very good and somewhat believable. He also looks really great in this movie.

5 comments about Reader's Digest - America's Most Scenic Drives (4 Discs).

1. Reader's Digest really outdid themselves with `America's Most Scenic Drives'. Where else can you see so much of the beautiful United States without leaving your own living room? Practically nothing is left to the imagination with a 4 disc set covering 5 hours worth of material. There are plenty of special features also that make this set even more appealing. The first 3 discs contain maps of all the drives, a music video, a bonus program, and photo slide show. Each of these offerings is unique for each disc. The last disc is a 55 minute presentation called `America the Beautiful Music Tribute' and is 19 songs set to a picture montage that compliments our landmarks, citizens, and landscapes.
   
   The video footage throughout these programs is quite distinct and it is all very nice to look at. The narration, in my opinion, was smoothly paced and not so loud that it detracted from background music. Also, the information described about all the visited locations is interesting in and of itself. Having the choice of either 2.0 Dolby or 5.1 surround sound was a nice option too.
   
   I've seen other DVD sets on the market that contain similar material comparable to this but in a much smaller scale and without any bonus material to speak of. For the asking price and for what you receive, this Reader's Digest set is an excellent deal for sure. If you like programs like this one, this is highly recommended viewing.



2. I bought this for my parents as a gift. They have traveled, by RV, all over the US. While they have seen move of these places, they said it was just wonderful to see them again. Brought back a lot of memories and they had some rather nice conversations about what we did while on these journeys. Also, being older, my parents have started having health issues and this has made them feel a little better! Highly recommend.



3. This collection has some of the most beautiful views and also some of the most breathtaking views I have seen. Hat's off to Reader's Digest for a well documented production.



4. Great Road Trips without the high cost of gasoline! Watch in the comfort of your home. J.Pantaleo



5. What a waste of money! It looks as if was done in the 40s. It sounds like it was done in the 40s. Amazon should take it off the market. I bought it for some friends from Europe who were planning a trip here, needless to say I didn't send it.

5 comments about Rocketship X-M.

1. If you listen to the music for the movie it sounds like a grand adventure is taking place and then it all ends on a crash of sour notes. What do I mean? Well, they embark on the grand adventure of being the first ones to take ship for the moon--and wind up on mars. On their way back they crash...just like the music. I liked it. It shows just how serious people took the possibilitly of space flight back in the early fiftys.
   
   PROS:
   
   1. None of the attempted indept characterization you usually get in todays movies where you have fifty main characters and only two hours to tell each ones' story--they use that for filler today, somebody told those
   hacks in Hollywood it was good writing. No, 77 minutes of short, sweat, and to the point. They do use characterization but they don't use it as filler.
   
   2. An interesting idea and the actors are acting.
   
   3. The required meteor swarm--all science fiction movies seem to have them. I seem to remember they put them in because they really didn't know what else bad could happen to you up there. (Just remember, I didn't say Heinlein wrote this.)
   
   4. Through a twist or two of fate they wind up making a landing on Mars. By the way, its starts raining when they stop. I think someone should have muttered '...ionizing the atmosphere as we came down....' might have passed the pop science of the day.
   
   5. Another interesting thing was they discovered life on Mars and it had been destroyed by atomic wars. The question was if a big meteor had smashed them...no everything is being radiated so it was war destroyed them.
   
   six. They find the destroyed remains of a civilization. Interesting in that they pick up a few objects and look at them. What were they...who knows? You remember the time machine with Rod Taylor and how the spinning rings were a big interesting thing and help make the movie because they told of how it all happened. Well, the artifacts are that kind of 'interesting'. Too bad there were not more. I figured that first one they uncovered was a tomb stone.
   
   7. They find the remainder of the humanoid-like people of Mars. The one who threw the ax and killed the scientiest appeared to still have blisters on his back and the girls is blind. Obviously the dying remainder of the thousand year dead civilization still live close to their nuclear blasted cities. I've got to tell you all, this is actually original stuff for hollywood. Despite having rain, dry gulches that must sometimes have water, human like people, no space suits and a space ship capable of reaching Mars -- using chemical rockets-- but less than a hundred feet tall...it is still interesting. I guess it's that short, sweat, and to the point thing.
   
   I don't think I'll tell you any more and ruin it for you.
   
   CONS:
   
   1. Humm. I don't find movies that are dead serious cheezy or campy...this movie is 'dead serious'.
   
   Therefore, I give this movie five stars because they tried hard to make it a serious movie with limited facts about the surface of Mars. The actors did a fine job, the idea is fine and interesting and carried out seriously. No, I don't think more money would have helped. No, they need more information about space, acceleration, and the surface of Mars.
   All sins are forgiven, it is a fine movie and should be view as science fiction drama. No popcorn this time...I think I'll read the bible.
   
   I meant to give it five stars, not four--thanks Karen!
   
   BYE!



2. Ferde Grofe, certainly one of the best known American symphonic composers, was hired to write the music score for ROCKETSHIP X-M. He was paid $1500 to turn in what may be the best sci-fi score for the movies. When you watch the film, tune in to the heroic main title (which is repeated, in part, later), the "weightless" sound in certain scenes, the romantic theme for Floyd and Lisa, and the eerie sound as the crew discovers they are headed for Mars. After the landing, Grofe uses part of some music he wrote for his "Symphony in Steel," and combines it with the use of the Theremin to create an unworldly sound indeed. On the trip back, the solar opera aspect of this movie is emphasized with the music setting the exact mood it should do for the tragedies encountered. This is a great score, worthy of re-recording in today's sound.
   And, if you want to hear another score Grofe wrote for the same studio (Lippert) in 1950, get a copy of THE RETURN OF JESSE JAMES, another worthy listen.



3. What an absolutely great way to spend an evening. These older Sci-Fi movies are gems. Sure...they can't touch todays computer generated spectaculars...but they are great just the same. Those guys did a great job with what they had to work with. Spend an evening watching this movie and some of Ray Harryhausen's work...then you'll realize just where the "Force" came from!



4. Yes the science is not accurate and the female stereotypes are a bit hard to swallow for 21st Century viewers but this was one of the first films (Destination:Moon being the other) that made a serious stab at science fiction. Unfortunately Cat Women on the Moon and other Grade Z films hit after that, but I digress....
   
   Four men and a woman (who should settle down and have kids, what's wrong with that?) have a press conference a few minutes before take-off, explaining how they will go to the Moon. After blast-off, the engines aren't working for some reason having to do with fictional chemicals not mixing. They hit a meteor storm where the rocks are zooming by at high speeds. Amazing not one hit. They are knocked out by incredible velocities and arrive in about a day on Mars. And they're not all that excited about it, either ("Well, what do you know, Mars!") The sepia tone cuts in at this point and it is really well done! The red tint, the music score especially sets the tone. Mars was civilized once until nuclear destruction sent it to the Stone Age. That's when the blind cavemen crawl out with rocks and axes, surrounding the landing site!
   
   The film has a message about military might and where nuclear might may lead us. But also, it communicated to me about our own NASA program and the sacrifices made to make the space program work, rather than pull back after the Challenger disaster. Where's the never say die attitude?
   
   Historical film, should be shown at NASA's next board meeting!
   
   Lloyd Bridges went on to Sea Hunt and made an appearance on Battlestar Galactica. High O'Brian later made himself famous with westerns such as Wyatt Earp, as I recall.



5. This film beat the more highly publicized Destination Moon into the theatres in 1950 and thus kicked off the tidal wave of science-fiction movies that followed. It may not have been as realistic as the latter, but it was sure as heck a lot more fun. Despite some really hokey dialog and wildly improbable developments (aim for the moon, but hit Mars!), Rocketship does what every good movie should-- it holds interest throughout.
   
   The opening scene is especially impressive with its well-stocked news conference and especially the booming countdown to blast-off. Already there's an air of thrills to come. Sure, the characters are a collection of movie stereotypes-- the jet jockey (Bridges), the likable yokel (Beery Jr.), the sexy scientist (Massen), the stern chief (Emery), and the rather unsteady engineer (O' Brien). Nonetheless, each is played with conviction, and in a real casting coup, there's the lordly Morris Ankrum back at command central.
   
   Lippert Pictures was a budget-minded company to put it kindly. Thus it's to producer-writer-director Kurt Neumann's credit that he gets so much out of the material. Note the early scene where the crew climbs up to the control compartment. The opening shot of the rocketship interior could have simply placed the crew already in that central compartment and saved money. But it doesn't. Instead Neumann has the crew climb through the rather impressive guts of the ship, thereby creating a more believable and eye-catching transport. It's touches like this that help compensate for the occasional triteness.
   
   Speaking of touches, how well I remember audience reaction to the Martian girl when she opened her eyes to reveal two blanks. The audience let out a collective shriek. Of course, that was 1950, and still a long time before today's super-sophisticated special effects. But I doubt if any of today's effects produced a stronger reaction than those two all-white lenses. (Question-- is that lipstick I see on the girl in this 1976 enhanced version?)
   
   There's also a subtle subtext in the movie's latter half. 1949 was the year the Soviets first tested an atomic bomb, thus establishing the possibility of the Cold War going nuclear. Note the pointed comments crew members make about the destructive potential of radioactivity once they discover its effects on the Martian civilization. That would appear to be writer Neumann making some timely observations on a menace then beginning to emerge. On a similar note, Ankrum's closing insistence that space exploration must proceed despite an ill-fated first effort is years ahead of its time, and likely the first such declaration in the movies or any other popular medium. Then too, it was rather gutsy to crash the survivors on their way back to Earth. That unhappy ending warned audiences of the human cost that exploration would inevitably take.
   
   Setting aside the strictly commercial aspects (the hokey romance, for one), the movie does a lot better than would normally be expected of a Lippert production, becoming rather prophetic in its own modest way. I think that's one reason for both the movie's cult status and general durability long after most contemporaries have faded away. I can't say that whatever changes the 1976 enhancements made on the original print are that noticeable on my new copy. But, then again, maybe that's a good thing. Rocketship X-M remains a minor milestone to this day.