2 comments about NOVA: Lost at Sea - The Search for Longitude.

1. It seems to be trivial to know where you are, especially when the era of GPS (global positioning system) starts in 1995. It is, however, a challenge to know this at sea in the 1700s. Although one can tell the latitude by measuring the angle of the sun at noon, there is no practical way to know the longitude at that time. This makes navigation unreliable and deadly.
   
   Most people, including Isaac Newton, think this problem must be solved by astronomers, or professors in famous universities by measuring the stars or the moon. It is John Harrison, an unschooled carpenter and watchmaker from the country, to get this job done and win the 20,000 pounds (millions in today's dollars) by his custom-made clock.
   
   The key to know where you are is to know what time it is. This is still the principle that GPS works today. The clocks in GPS are atomic. However, the clocks then are mechanic and are very difficult, if not impossible, to maintain its precision at sea due to the shaking of a ship. In addition, the gravity, temperature and friction are also factors to make a clock imprecise when traveling a long distance. Finally, it took John Harrison 58 years to overcome all these and make longitude predictable at sea.
   
   What we think straightforward may go through long struggles. What we think a reasonable and better idea may turn out impractical. It is fun to learn the above while watching this film. And it would be good if more people know about this history.



2. This is a super dramatization and historical account of the sometimes less than scientific search for a way to find longitude at sea.
   
   The video is beautifully produced and the acting is great. The science is accurate and engaging for all levels of understanding.
   
   Harrison's genius is expertly portrayed and his contribution to the scientific method is well documented. The prejudice of the so-called learned academics against the practitioner is a reminder that we can still miss the boat with preconceptions.
   
   Highly recommended.

5 comments about Mystery of the Nile (IMAX) (2-Disc WMVHD Edition).

1. The little robotica video works, the menu loads, however the video will not play. When I try to open the video file from the DVD media player encounters a license key error. I will probably not buy any more WMVHD DVDs.



2. It is an excellent documentary with a high level of quality and well planed.
   I had seen another kind of documentaries about the Nile, but none like this.



3. Once again the Macgillivray-Freeman company have produced a superb film. The trip down the Nile is a wonderful adventure.



4. good but I would like to see more land and river ,less of the people making the boat trip...show more of the head waters of the nile...not just 30 sec.



5. You are there.... well, almost. I am going to buy this DVD. Bravo! Wish it were twice as long!

5 comments about Africa the Serengeti.

1. I watch many blu-ray disks and documentary, must admit this one was probably the third best documentary in blu-ray beside planet earth and Galapagos. Is kinda short, but boy it has some of the best scene; especially at the end. Will really make your remember that scene 4ever. The video transfer is great, consider 14 years old. Audio is not HD or 5.1 but has so many language. No extra as usual for most documentary. This is must rent probably worth buy since is pretty cheap.



2. This is one great DVD and very well narrated by the Darth Vader guy of Star Wars - James Earl Jones. He spoke so clear I didn't opt to use the subtitles. Very well photographed in the IMAX large format film and the sound is very good both in 5.1 Dolby Digital and DTS although the latter is a bit louder. I recommend this DVD to all.



3. This is not a comment on video quality nor producer's skill. Just a warning. Often folks buy animal stories - and now videos - for young kids. Indeed, one great naturalist recently bemoaned that in a test of identification, most young children cannot identify real animals - only the cartoons. This kind of video would seem like a natural remedy.
   
   But somehow the psyche of the producer is fixed on the 'cycle of life' (translation: one animal ripping another animal's throat out). We have to make a distinction between real educational value (How much land does a carnivore require? What is the ecology mix here? What weather or land qualities are at play?) vs. an animal snuff movie.
   
   I am not sure this video has made that leap of insight.
   
   Not for tots.



4. The DVD was really good. Great color ect. I have a rather large TV and it showed well, but I was constantly thinking how much better it would be at the IMAX theater. I guess once you have watched a movie or show at the IMAX then it spoils their videos for home use a little. All in all thought, it was worth the watch.



5. This is a fantastic armchair look at the Serengetti, a place I'll never see on my own and can only rely on professional cinematographers to make it live. It appeals to all ages and the photography is so vivid, it seems like the animals can come directly through the screen. James Early Jones is the perfect narrator.

5 comments about Mysteries of Egypt (Large Format).

1. This must have been excellent in IMAX.
   The combination of the wrap arounds done by Shariff ( sp? ) and a lesser actress, work superbly with this very good general introduction to Ancient Egypt.
   I think even the Omnipresent Zahwi Hawass ( Sp?) makes an appearance in this work. If ever a man straddles the line between a godlike omnipresence, and amazing self-promotion, Zahwi achieves this, but despite that, its a great watch, and a useful addendum to any collection if you want to start a collection about egypt.



2. This was an excellent documentary on Egypt, with stunning footages and photography. But if you are looking for real Mysteries of Egypt and the investigative report on them, this surely is not the video you shall look for. From historical point of view and general overview of ancient Egypt, it certainly is a good one.
   
   The title is rather misleading......



3. This is a favorite DVD in our house. It has stunning camera work, wonderful information and an excellent narrative. It portrays the glory of Ancient Egypt and the pride modern Egyptians still feel towards their heritage.
   
   Like all Imax documentaries it's only 40 minutes long and written at a fourth grade level. If you have a problem with those preconditions, don't watch Imax. We're homeschoolers and we love it. My children pay close attention, break out the Legos and start building pyramids of their own.



4. The narration is by a grandfather (Omar Sharif) to his grandaughter. He
   tells a simple story of the history of ancient Egypt.
   The images are awesome and of IMAX quality, and the music
   is lovely.
   The Nile is followed from its beginning as it encounters water
   falls, rapids, river wildlife, many gorgeous views of ancient ruins.
   There are some reinactments and computer special effects located throughout.
   The dramatization of the discovery of King Tut's tomb by
   Howard Carter is well done (portrayed in black and white).
   I wish it had been a little longer! I recommend it to anyone who
   likes IMAX DVDs.



5. Mysteries of Egypt, a production by IMAX, introduces viewers to Ancient Egypt. The aerial photography of the river Nile is spectacular and is worth the purchase of that production on its own. Unfortunately, the authors of Mysteries of Egypt spend too much time covering the supposed curse of Pharaoh Tutankhamun's tomb. To its credit, Mysteries of Egypt can give some viewers a taste for a more substantive, visual overview of Ancient Egypt. Think for instance about Egypt: Beyond the Pyramids by The History Channel or The Mysteries of Egypt by Kultur.

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

5 comments about Michael Palin - Pole to Pole.

1. What can one say about Mr. Palin and his enlighting series of discovery and adventure. Pole to Pole and Around The World In 80 Days were the eye opening quests that brought a new look at adventure and the world around us. I first saw these at University and just new I wanted to see the world as Mr. Palin has. Which I now have. He takes the journeys beyond the documentary range of The National Geographic. His, take things as they come and if it can go wrong it mostly likely will, coupled with his wonderful sense of humor. Can only lead one to smile and laugh. His style taught me the value of adventure and that all folks are just folks. Give respect and most of the time you get respect in return. Thanks to this gentleman the world is a little closer. Enjoy Pole to Pole and go see for yourself. It's all an adventure. Thank you Mr. Palin



2. This travel documentary is exceptional, showcasing great landscapes and
   various cultures with an element of uncertainty. But what makes it
   inspirational is Michael Palin with his spirit of adventure, great sense
   of humor and ability to connect with local people.
   
   Palin's journey shows us how people across different ethnicities and
   cultures have one thing in common - the 30 degree longitude (as he
   travels along this route from North Pole to South Pole). It gives us a
   sense of how in spite of our differences in race, religion and culture
   we still share the same planet.
   
   We can learn the political, social and economic situations unfolding in
   those countries during early nineties. The world has changed a lot since
   Palin's journey but his adventures will always be relevant regardless of
   time.
   
   This vicarious experience inspires me to embark on a real adventure.



3. "Pole to Pole" was the second of former Python Michael Palins great travels around the world after the groundbreaking series "Around the World in 80 days", and is equally exciting, thrilling, and entertaining.
   
   This time the team travels along 30 degrees east longtitude from the North Pole through Scandinavia, Russia and the Soviet Union, Africa, (and forced by fate South America) to the South Pole, this being the route covering most land. As with 80 days, and his subsequent travels, "Pole to Pole" is filled with a great, warm spirit of enthusiasm, interest, and real, honest, good humour. Palin guides us, the viewers, through the many different countries and cultures with his usual witty and insightful commentary, and does what the travel industry calls 'the Palin effect' (that you want to go where Palin has gone) great honour.
   
   Describing Palins travel programmes in one word is impossible, but if I had to choose or be beaten to death with a shoe, I'd describe them as inspiring. Truly, utterly, completely, magnificently, and really inspiring. And there cannot possibly be any other quality in a travel programme that is better than that.
   
   The extra material on the DVDs are, as with all the other series, abundant. Lots of clips and segments that didn't make it to the final cut and a half hour interview with Michael Palin.
   
   Highest possible recommendation.



4. Some fascinating cultural studies in this travel video, but it tends to be overly-long, and frequently gets bogged down in inane sequences such as Palin kicking back endless shots of illegal vodka in Russia, etc. The FULL frontal nudity at the mud bath could also have been clipped, as well as the nude men at the sauna. I don't know if Palin was aiming at Pythonesque humor with this, but it didn't work for me.
   Something like 'Hemingways Travels' was far for fascinating, clean, and better edited. This one needed editing badly.



5. A brilliant documentary, the interview with Michael Palin is worth watching after you watch the doco

5 comments about The Reluctant Astronaut.

1. The Reluctant Astronaut is as worthy of repeated viewings as The Ghost and Mr. Chicken. I watched both of these films thanks to a summer movie program offered in my town during my childhood. Both films were written by people who wrote the classic Andy Griffith Show episodes. Classic character actors from the Andy Griffith Show appear throughout both films as well. You should own these two finest of Don Knotts' movies.
   My favorite moment from The Reluctant Astronaut (as a child AND as an adult) is the absolutely surreal scene where Royal Fleming (Knotts) has a welcoming home party, and Pingo the dog jumps in the cake and starts eating it. Everyone at the party is shocked except the lady who owns the dog. She seems delighted. When I saw this scene again for the first time in 25 years, I laughed so hard I cried! This is great writing, a great cast, and CLASSIC Don Knotts!



2. Great movie. This is for all fans of Barney Fife and Don's previous films like Ghost and Mr. Chicken. My favorite part is when Don comes back home after some training at NASA and he is at home with friends and family who are congratulating him. A little kid is the only one in the room who isn't buying Don's astronaut exploits. He grills Don about certain specifics and the rest is classic. PHONY!



3. The Reluctant Astronaut is one of the truly classic Don Knotts films, consistently hilarious while also sporting some touching scenes between a father and his son. Roy Fleming (Knotts) is just about the last person you would want to shoot into space: I seriously doubt he could pass NASA's physical requirements, for one thing; he knows next to nothing about the requisite technology; and he is so terrified by heights that he can't even stand in a chair by himself. Fleming is just a below-average regular guy simulating space flights for kids at a carnival, trying to win the heart of the hot dog girl, and still living with his parents at the age of 35. His father has what you might call a dominating personality, and poor Roy proves unable to convince him that he does not want to be an astronaut. His father submitted the application for him, though, and he has already spread the word all over town that his son has been accepted. With great trepidation, Roy leaves for Houston (which is a funny bit all by itself), meets up with famous astronaut Fred Gifford (Leslie Nielsen), and is more than a little surprised to find out that he is actually going to be an assistant janitor. He tries to tell his father the truth, but the old man is so proud of his astronaut son that Roy begins living a lie. Of course, the truth will out in the end, and it looks like there will be no happy ending in sight. Then, in the depths of failure, a light of opportunity suddenly shines on Roy, and he gets the chance to make things right- if he has the courage to do what is asked of him.
   
   This was a role seemingly tailor-made for Don Knotts. He's thoroughly convincing as the small-time loser pretending to be something he is not. While the film itself is openly silly, Knotts plays the scattered serious moments in a wonderfully sympathetic way and transforms his character into a hero of sorts even before he sets foot in the space capsule. It goes without saying that he is a comic genius, as well, so you can imagine just how funny his outer space scenes are. I wish I could catalogue every funny moment in the film, but that would deny viewers the pleasure of experiencing them all for themselves. Suffice it to say that The Reluctant Astronaut features one of history's funniest actors in one of his funniest movies - and it's good, wholesome entertainment, to boot.



4. I only do reviews on the quality and content of DVD's. There is plenty of
   information about the plot, stars and directors etc. in the Product Description and other reviews.
   
   Viewed on high quality DVD player and 86cm Plasma screen.
   
   Packaging plain and simple with no inserts. Menu system is simple, static and has no music or sound. Bonus materials are just the trailer and other recommendations, which are pics only. The trailer looks pretty good though. I can remember seeing this trailer on the big screen, when I was a kid, on a Saturday afternoon at the movies.
   
   When the movie finishes, the menu goes to the Bonus Materials screen. Obviously to try and sell you more stuff.
   
   Sound is brilliant with perfect synchronization.
   
   DVD transfer is excellent. Film quality is absolutely superb.
   The picture sharpness is one of the best I've seen on DVD.
   
   A great Saturday afternoon matinee family movie.
   
   Do yourself a favour. You won't be sorry.



5. I found this movie was good but I have seen better from Don Knotts. If we sent anyone into outspace like this charactar, it would have sent space travel back decades.

5 comments about Sarah Brightman - Harem Desert Fantasy.

1. Sarah has outdone herself in the DVD. I recommend it to all my friends. Get it. You will not be sorry



2. Fun and very interesting where and how and the hard work it takes for a final production we can sit in our easy chairs and enjoy.



3. The DVD would be breathtaking if:
   for God's sake, why the video picture is not sharp? Why most of the video picture is kind of blurry? It's a pitty! It spoils all beauty of this DVD.
   With todays technology even average quality of picture should be much better.
   Next time I am buying CD.



4. I recommend this to all fans of Sarah's fans. The DVD is beautiful. Gorgeous videos. Sarah is amazing. She has an incredible voice. She is beautiful. And she has a real class about her that makes her look SEXY, not sleezy, even though some of her outfits are a bit skimpy. She is an amazing women and such a refreshing change from the naked teenage bimbos that populate music today.As far as the songs go, "Free" is a melodic lovely song that she sings with such emotion. If you are looking for something more upbeat, "It's a beautiful day" is like a modern pop/rock vocal. "Mysterious days" has a Middle Eastern rhythym to it. So there is a little something for everyone. If you want to give your favorite Sarah Brightman fan a nice gift, combine this DVD with the Harem CD.



5. I fell in love with Sarah Brightman's voice even before she sang in the Phantom of the Opera. Each new album by Sarah had a special place in my heart tied to a particular time in my life.
   
   Now, that I'm enhancing my music/movies collection, I thought why not spoil my self and buy all Sarah's DVD? I ordered all Sarah's concert DVDs including her Harem DVD; what a shock my heart endured...!!!! Being a great singer doesn't imply that you are a great dancer or a fabulous speaker. Simply put, no body can have it all, and dear Sarah needs to understand that.
   
   In Harem, Sarah admittedly looks great. Apparently she thinks that she's a Goddess and wants every body else to believe that and focus on her looks and not her music, her vanity has tarnished the glow of her voice and music.
   
   Belly dancing is an art, best left to professionals, not amateurs. Sarah insisted on showing too much skin and moving her arms annoyingly throughout the DVD, which greatly detracted from the great words and the enchanting music. What happened to just looking good and slightly swinging gracefully while performing? Did Britney Spears and other" shaking it kids" mantra actually invade good music and sane people too? Does Ms. Brightman truly believe that her recently acquired belly is a greater asset than her voice and music making ability? She might, but please not the constant arm movements.
   
   I'll happily go back to playing Sarah's music and skip watching her DVDs. Compared to Sarah, the Il Divo boys look modest and well grounded.
   God bless any singer who is realistic enough to know that he/she is not all that and stick to what they are good at.

5 comments about Shackleton's Antarctic Adventure (Large Format).

1. An inspirational story of endurance and true leadership. After watching it, I used it as a team building seminar for my staff. Kevin Spacey's narration was excellent.



2. I know it's weird that a kid is reiwing this but i am. this was a good film i saw it in imax and my dad liked it so much he bought it on dvd. so this movie is good for aldults and kids.
   it was great!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 5 stars!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



3. This film is one for the ages. A good synopsis of the Shackleton story that focuses on the leadership and togetherness that took place on this adventure. I am a corporate leadership trainer who has used this film to teach hundreds of people about true leadership and teamwork. This film is a must see for anyone in a leadership role or hoping to one day attain one. It is also a very good story for families, adventurists, historians, and more. Definitely worth the time and money.



4. Shackleton was a great leader in impossible circumstances and this story high lights some of those leadership skills. Saw it first on Imax and was very impressed. That is what prompted the purchase.



5. This item, along with "The Endurance", are fantastic multi-media resources for a unit on Shackleton's adventure. These DVDs pair wonderfully with the book we cover with our seventh graders: "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World". Both are highly recommended for teachers as well as lovers of documentaries. The original photographs and film from expedition photographer Frank Hurley are amazing and really neat for the kids.

5 comments about NOVA - Everest: The Death Zone.

1. David Breashears was the director of photography on both this film and the Imax film made the year before. In my opinion, this film was more successful, at least as viewed on VHS on a medium-size old tv. That's probably because the equipment for Imax was so bulky and the filming process so cumbersome that just taking the footage was an accomplishment.
   
   On this video, the purpose of the expedition was to study the effects of altitude on the human body, so it really focused in on the human aspect. As Breashears explains in his book High Exposure, the massive film size in Imax films requires that you not pull in close to a human face, because it will not make a good image when projected on a 7-story screen.
   
   So in terms of home viewing, I really enjoyed this video and thought it helped me visualize the things I have read about so many times. The Khumbu Icefall and the treacherous ladders, the Hillary Step, the summit itself--I could truly feel that I was there. The images were crystal clear and very beautiful.
   
   If I were only going to watch one video to help me get a picture of what a Himilayan expedition looks and feels like, this would be it.



2. Excellent DVD on Everest! Have read a lot of books on the Himalayan Mountains (especially Mt. Everest) and this gives you a beautiful view of the area and what it is like to climb in the Death Zone. A DVD you can watch many times!



3. I guess I am jaded because I watched the IMAX Everest video (which seems to get the best reviews) first and can't help but compare them. Still this video had some good participants i.e. Ed Viestur's and such. Interesting view point but the testing didn't do much for me but provide information. Would have liked more extra's on dvd to. All in all ok.



4. In a word for anyone planning on going high--ominous. The medical realities of making an attempt to climb higher than 8,000 metres are graphically illustrated in this excellent presentation.



5. FASCINATING, PLUS I ORDER FROM AMAZON FOR EVERYTHING I WANT THAT IS AVAILABLE. YOU'RE GREAT!