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- Review count67
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- First reviewNovember 4, 2007
- Last reviewMay 28, 2011
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- Average rating4.1
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![Kill Bill Vol. 2 [DVD] [2004]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6680/6680969_sa.jpg)
The vengeful Bride returns to cross a few more names off of her rapidly shortening list in Miramax Home Entertainment's release of Kill Bill Vol. 2, and though it feels like only a precursor to the inevitable feature-packed release that will follow soon after, this release does offer a few choice gems in addition to a solid presentation of the feature attraction. Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the image offers even skin tones, solid blacks, and vivid colors. Though the occasional intrusion of edge-enhancement may prove somewhat distracting to some viewers, the overall commendable visual presentation is generally solid. Audiophiles will be happy to note the inclusion of both an English-language Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1 track, both of which are accompanied by closed captioning and provide a rich, full-bodied listening experience without any notable distortion or hiss. In addition to an alternate French-language audio track, Miramax has also seen fit to include optional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish subtitles. Of course, fans of both Kill Bill films are no doubt aware of Miramax's plans to release them at first separately and then with a super deluxe combo package following at some point in the near future, and though the extra materials provided on this disc are indeed satisfying, they do seem more like an appetizer than a hearty meal. A three-and-a-half-minute deleted scene in which Bill faces off against a vengeful gang of thugs whose boss he previously killed finds Tarantino's Shaw Brothers fanaticism in full effect. A 25-minute behind-the-scenes segment offers interviews with Tarantino, Uma Thurman, Daryl Hannah, and David Carradine in which they discuss the appeal of the characters and the manner in which Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Kill Bill Vol. 2 compliment one another. Though those looking for in-depth details regarding the production may walk away with a slight pang of disappointment, viewers simply looking for a little fun will surely enjoy the featurette. Rounding things out is a solid performance by Chingon at the Kill Bill Vol. 2 premiere, in which the band (featuring director Robert Rodriguez on guitar) strums one of the tunes from the film's soundtrack.
Customer Rating
5
Better than Vol. 1
on November 9, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
I rate this movie higher than Vol. 1 because it actually has the true plot...we get to see the Bride get her training and her motive for wanting to kill Bill.
In my opinion I felt this film was much more superior then the first one.
I felt a greater connection with the character of the Bride and you sympathize with her because of the situation. This film explains it all and although it might not have as much action as the first one, it still has VERY good fight scenes, specifically one between the Bride and Elle
In my opinion I felt this film was much more superior then the first one.
I felt a greater connection with the character of the Bride and you sympathize with her because of the situation. This film explains it all and although it might not have as much action as the first one, it still has VERY good fight scenes, specifically one between the Bride and Elle
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Kill Bill Vol. 1 [DVD] [2003]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6184/6184899_sa.jpg)
The first installment of Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino's hyper-violent revenge epic makes its DVD debut courtesy of Miramax Home Entertainment. Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, the image sports even skin tones and bright, vivid colors, offset by deep, solid blacks. Some unfortunate evidence of moderate edge-enhancement seems to be the only drawback to an otherwise near-flawless visual treatment. Sound is presented in English Dolby Digital 5.1, English DTS, and an alternate French-language track, with optional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish subtitles. It is in regards to sound that this disc truly excels, with Tarantino's exhausting, eclectic soundtrack offering an ideal auditory backdrop to the onscreen mayhem. Limbs are detached and swords clash with resounding fury and clarity, while the roar of motorcycle engines and airplanes push the low-frequency capabilities of one's home-theater system. As The Bride makes her final decent into the House of Blue Leaves, it's hard for viewers not to be seduced by the slick sound editing and driving score that accompanies the eye-popping battle. If there's one aspect of the disc that disappoints, it has to be the lack of extra features. Though the promise of a massive special edition DVD release when Kill Bill Vol. 2 hits the home-video market looms on the horizon before the concluding chapter has even hit theaters, it's hard not to feel slighted with the sparse offerings here. Despite the offering of the occasional interesting tidbit, "The Making of Kill Bill Vol. 1," when all is said and done, is little more than a cog in the ever-present hype machine -- an extended, 20-minute commercial for the film that is similar to the brief previews shown in-between movies on pay cable. A pair of bonus songs by infectious House of Blue Leaves rockers the 5.6.7.8's at least entertains, though it's all-too-brief, and aside from the intriguing "Bootleg Trailer" for the film (also included on the soundtrack CD), the trailers offered here are nothing that Tarantino fans haven't already seen a million times before.
Customer Rating
4
One of the Best Action Movies Ever
on November 9, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
This is by far one the greatest action movies ever.
If your looking to be told the story of "The Bride" and why she wants to "Kill Bill" then this is the wrong movie...watch Vol. 2, but if you want to watch a movie filled with action then this is it. By far another great achievement by Tarantino.
If your looking to be told the story of "The Bride" and why she wants to "Kill Bill" then this is the wrong movie...watch Vol. 2, but if you want to watch a movie filled with action then this is it. By far another great achievement by Tarantino.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![GoodFellas [Special Edition] [2 Discs] [DVD] [1990]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6682/6682182_sa.jpg)
Martin Scorsese's gangster epic Goodfellas originally appeared on DVD in the early days of the format. This two-disc special edition replaces that first release as the definitive DVD of the film. The movie itself is presented in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1. This is a difficult film to transfer because of the deep reds, but this disc looks as good as one could possibly hope. The English soundtrack is rendered in Dolby Digital 5.1, while a Spanish soundtrack has been recorded in Dolby Digital Stereo. English, Spanish, and French subtitles are accessible. The extensive supplemental materials include one of the finest commentary tracks ever recorded. Featuring just about every major figure involved in the film (both in front of and behind the camera) , the track offers comments from Scorsese that reveal how every aspect of production figures into every shot. Listening to him explain why the famous "What's so funny about me" scene would not work in a film with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 is a master class in film directing. A second commentary track features Henry Hill, the real life gangster played in the film by Ray Liotta, and an FBI agent who spent his career tracking down gangsters. A second disc contains an information packed documentary on the making of the film, and a short featurette in which directors Richard Linklater, Jon Favrau, and Allen and Albert Hughes discuss the film's influence. Simply stated, this is one of the best DVD releases of 2004.
Customer Rating
5
How do you review perfection?
on November 6, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
How is it that one reviews the perfect mob film? The only thing I can do is praise it.
This film is another masterpiece under the direction of Martin Scorsese.
The characters, locations, and story is gripping and the performances are great.
This film is another masterpiece under the direction of Martin Scorsese.
The characters, locations, and story is gripping and the performances are great.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Requiem for a Dream [Unrated] [Director's Cut] [2000]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/prescaled/500/500/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/53cd61e6-50a6-4de2-beea-5f0f813c5f17.jpg)
Darren Aronofsky's harrowing tale of drug addiction, Requiem for a Dream comes to DVD with a widescreen anamorphic transfer that preserves the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The closed-captioned English soundtrack is rendered in Dolby Digital 5.1. Supplemental materials include a commentary track featuring the director, a second commentary track by the cinematographer Matthew Libatique, deleted scenes with director commentary, a making-of featurette, production notes, theatrical trailers, television promos, and Ellen Burstyn interviewing Hubert Selby Jr., who co-wrote the screenplay that was adapted from his novel. This is a superb disc for both the film's many fans and DVD collectors.
Customer Rating
5
Haunting.
on November 6, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
Wow. That's one word to describe this film. This is a moving, sad, depressing, and psychological film.
It explores the horrors of drugs and their effect on people, families, and society.
Aronofsky exhibits his style perfectly in this film and is at the height of his filmmaking abilities.
This is an unforgettable film, as is Ellen Burstyn's performance which is sure to leave you in tears. Although it's an amazing film, it's not one you would want to watch over and over again.
It explores the horrors of drugs and their effect on people, families, and society.
Aronofsky exhibits his style perfectly in this film and is at the height of his filmmaking abilities.
This is an unforgettable film, as is Ellen Burstyn's performance which is sure to leave you in tears. Although it's an amazing film, it's not one you would want to watch over and over again.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Million Dollar Baby [P&S] [2 Discs] [DVD] [2004]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/7170/7170036_sa.jpg)
Customer Rating
4
Another Great Film by Eastwood.
on November 6, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
This is another small masterpiece by Eastwood. It's absorbing, sad, and realistic.
He takes the time to create these characters and in the end it hits the spot with the viewer. He humanizes Hilary Swank's characters so much, that when her trouble arises you sympathize with her and feel so much love for her character.
Some might criticize it for being slow, but that's the beauty of it...it's slow, beautiful, and moving.
He takes the time to create these characters and in the end it hits the spot with the viewer. He humanizes Hilary Swank's characters so much, that when her trouble arises you sympathize with her and feel so much love for her character.
Some might criticize it for being slow, but that's the beauty of it...it's slow, beautiful, and moving.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Memento [DVD] [2000]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/4247/4247425_sa.jpg)
Director Christopher Nolan's clever, and at times puzzling, thriller Memento is presented on DVD, but the real mystery is why more wasn't done with this acclaimed film on a format that practically invites innovation. On the bright side, the image is first-rate, with an anamorphic transfer framed at the original aspect ratio of 2.35:1. There are few signs that this was a lower budget independent film, as the picture is sharp, with little wear, and constantly conveys the theatrical experience. Offering both Dolby Digital 5.1 and two-channel surround tracks, the sound on this release is also well defined. Though there is a very limited use of the rear speakers, all other sounds are clearly reproduced up front. Fans of this intelligent film highly anticipated a special edition, but their hopes were quickly squashed by the reality that supplemental materials are unfortunately rather thin. The main extra is a 23-minute IFC interview with director Christopher Nolan covering this film, his previous movie Following, and his influences. The remaining features are brief and less interesting, including a comparison of the tattoos with original concept art, a section that allows viewing of elements from the movie's website, theatrical trailers for this film and the aforementioned Following, a television spot, and some brief cast and director biographies. Finally -- and curiously not mentioned on the box -- the full original story from Jonathan Nolan that inspired the movie is included. This is unquestionably a film that begs for an audio commentary, or at least an in-depth documentary. Sadly, they are not included, though with the way things work, expect a special edition sometime down the line.
Customer Rating
4
Not so great, but nevertheless interesting.
on November 6, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
I'll start off by saying that this film isn't perfect. In fact, I think it's a little overrated.
The story revolves around a man with short-term memory who tries to find his wifes murderer. The movie creates some problems for itself and at times gets you thinking ahead which is a good thing, but then again the more you pay attention the more you realize its flaws.
I think Nolan was trying to create a smart film, but instead overestimated himself and pushed it too far.
The story revolves around a man with short-term memory who tries to find his wifes murderer. The movie creates some problems for itself and at times gets you thinking ahead which is a good thing, but then again the more you pay attention the more you realize its flaws.
I think Nolan was trying to create a smart film, but instead overestimated himself and pushed it too far.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![The Constant Gardener [WS] [DVD] [2005]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/7600/7600624_sa.jpg)
Customer Rating
4
Good Socio-Political Thriller.
on November 6, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
A wonderful socio-political thriller! It comes from the same director of City of God. The story is interesting, which revolves around Ralph Fiennes character trying to get to the bottom of a secret involving his wife's murder, big business, and corporate corruption.
Rachel Wiesz's Oscar was well-deserved. This film will not disappoint if you enjoy these types of films.
Rachel Wiesz's Oscar was well-deserved. This film will not disappoint if you enjoy these types of films.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Batman Begins [DVD] [2005]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/7580/7580325_sa.jpg)
Customer Rating
4
Good Revival On An Already Dead Series.
on November 5, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
If you're a fan of Batman, then you won't be disappointed.
But, if you just absolutely loved the Burton films then you will be...while Burton took a more of a fantasy approach towards the movies, Nolan takes a much more realistic one.
Christian Bale delivers a good performace as the tormented Bruce Wayne, and of course who can forget Michael Caine, serving as the comic relief.
The movie takes you to the very origins of Batman...from his martial art training...to his taking over Wayne Enterprises and finally saving Gotham City from breaking into chaos.
But, if you just absolutely loved the Burton films then you will be...while Burton took a more of a fantasy approach towards the movies, Nolan takes a much more realistic one.
Christian Bale delivers a good performace as the tormented Bruce Wayne, and of course who can forget Michael Caine, serving as the comic relief.
The movie takes you to the very origins of Batman...from his martial art training...to his taking over Wayne Enterprises and finally saving Gotham City from breaking into chaos.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![In the Time of the Butterflies [DVD] [2000]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/4581/4581884_sa.jpg)
Mariano Barroso's drama about a woman who works to bring down a totalitarian leader, In the Time of the Butterflies comes to DVD with a standard full-frame transfer. The English soundtrack is rendered in Dolby Digital Stereo. There are neither subtitles nor closed captions on this release. There are no supplemental materials of any consequence. MGM/UA has done a poor job with this title, ensuring that few people will take in this already little-seen effort.
Customer Rating
3
Not as bad as I thought it would be...
on November 5, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
Since I read the novel I was rather anxious to see this movie, not expecting much...
Although I was rather disappointed, the movie wasn't that bad.
It gets most of the subject material across and the acting is actually really good.
If you haven't read the book, then you won't have a problem with this movie...
Although I was rather disappointed, the movie wasn't that bad.
It gets most of the subject material across and the acting is actually really good.
If you haven't read the book, then you won't have a problem with this movie...
About the Mirabal sisters who are fighting against Trujillo's dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. The story revolves around the 3 main sisters, Minerva, who started the tragedy by refusing Trujillo; how Patria became an opponent through the church itself; how Maria Teresa joined the revolution because of love.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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![Marie Antoinette [WS] [DVD] [2006]](https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/8211/8211231_sa.jpg)
Customer Rating
4
A Visual Feast for the Eyes.
on November 4, 2007
Posted by: arnieb
from Redlands, CA
This misunderstood film comes from the mind of writer/director Sofia Coppola. It centers around the young archduchess, Marie Antoinette and her journey in become queen.
The film begins with Marie being handed over to the dauphin of France, Louis Auguste. She is given a fixed marriage to ensure the alliance between Austria and France.
So begins the young woman's journey from Dauphine of France to Queen of France. In the process we see her grow from a young girl with no responsibilties to a older woman in charge of leading a nation.
She's hated, loved, and then despised. But this film leads us on a journey and we are as clueless as to what's to happen next as the main character is.
Don't miss out on this film...and note one thing, it never tries to be historcally accurate, it just tries to show a more human side to Marie Antoinette and the struggles might have been through as a teenager being thrust into the spotlight.
Coppola truly achieves her purpose.
The film begins with Marie being handed over to the dauphin of France, Louis Auguste. She is given a fixed marriage to ensure the alliance between Austria and France.
So begins the young woman's journey from Dauphine of France to Queen of France. In the process we see her grow from a young girl with no responsibilties to a older woman in charge of leading a nation.
She's hated, loved, and then despised. But this film leads us on a journey and we are as clueless as to what's to happen next as the main character is.
Don't miss out on this film...and note one thing, it never tries to be historcally accurate, it just tries to show a more human side to Marie Antoinette and the struggles might have been through as a teenager being thrust into the spotlight.
Coppola truly achieves her purpose.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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