Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Hilarious Comedy) 『This movie is deservedly a classic, but to me it's one of the great comedies of all time. I saw it in the theater when it was released, since on TV. I first saw it with 2 Catholic close friends. They were terrified. But when Linda Blair's head started spinning around, I just could not stop laughing. They looked at me and wondered, "What's wrong with him?" There are films I find really scary, most of which my wife is too afraid to watch (Hitchcock's Psycho, Jaws, Halloween, Alien), but The Exorcist always makes me laugh.』
(Scariest Movie..) 『Scariest movie yet Inaccurate and Offensive(antiCatholic-nasty scene) loosely based on a true story about a boy many years before. Lots of profanity and vomit, Yet yes it is very Creepy and Scary.』
(The scariest movie ever, reviewed on the scariest night of the year) 『Well, considering it's Halloween night and this is the last of my "31 Reviews For 31 Days of October" review-fest, I figure I'll end this countdown with one of the absolute most well-known horror movies of all time, and certainly one of the most horrifying, "The Exorcist". Although many quotes, stunts and ideas from this movies have been taken and parodied ("The power of Christ compels!" comes to mind.), this movie nevertheless has the power and terror that basically defines the horror movie genre.
Watching "The Exorcist" all the way through is more like an experience than watching a movie. For one thing, the general idea of the movie is a plausible concept, and having been to a paranormal speaker just last night, who ironically spoke of and showed a video of an exorcism for which she witnessed, this sort of thing is not entirely impossible, although it almost never happens. I don't want to dwindle on this part too much, but also regarding that I'm Roman Catholic, this movie definitely hits home with me.
But back to the movie itself. It kicks off with a scene that takes place in Egypt if I'm not mistaken, on an excavation dig with the foreign scenery setting a mood and atmosphere that carries throughout the whole movie. Starting the movie like this is an interesting idea, and a concept that hasn't been done too much by other movies, even though it works here. The acting throughout is phenomenal, alongside the special effects, which goes without saying. The whole movie plays out like a terrifying, dark, atmospheric nightmare and never loses its intensity or interest, even in the slower moments. I must say, even though I personally sometimes find it tedious to sit through a movie that goes over two hours long, I think "The Exorcist" definitely has the hudspah (spelling?) to make it pull you in for the whole thing. As dark and terrifying as this movie is, it most certainly still packs a brilliance, alongside talented writing and directing that makes it worth the watch.
In short, "The Exorcist" is a film that's just as horrifying as it is both groundbreaking and vastly interesting. Such a movie deserves to go down as one of the greatest horror movies ever made, and considering I'm a guy who's seen countless horror movies, I agree with that statement. Well, the review's about up, but for those that haven't seen such a heart-pounding, groundbreaking, interest-stirring movie yet, this is very highly recommended. And before you sleep, say some prayers just for safety!!! Happy Halloween, everybody, I'm off to smother myself in Halloween candies, household props and going around all evening in my pajama pants. Thanks for the time, and peace.』
(Try sleeping at night after watching this . . .) 『It's really hard to name every single horror film that's ever been made. Many deal with zombies, ghosts, serial killers, classic monsters like Frankenstein, and mutated species. Some are classic, others are mediocre, and several are ridiculous and dull. Out of all of them, only a few have been recognized as the greatest in the genre. The Exorcist, Psycho, and The Shining have been rightfully praised for the terrors that they have conveyed. Dozens of others have never topped them ever since they were released. While my favorite horror film of all time is actually The Shining, I can perfectly understand why The Exorcist is considered the best. First of all, is has an unusual storyline (back in the 70's, at least). Instead of ghosts or zombies or werewolves, it's demon possession. The body of a young girl is being controlled by a spirit from Hell. With every medical analysis being inconclusive, the mother has one last chance of bringing her daughter back. She brings in Father Karras, who has a crisis of faith, and Father Merrin, who has seen this sort of prediction when he visited Iraq.
So why is it that this is considered the scariest movie of all time. Well, the shock effects may be outdated to some, but it's the eerie atmosphere and the thought of being possessed that makes it truly horrifying. The silent, quick shots of the infamous "Captain Howdy" are also an addition to this ghoulish nightmare. You don't need loud and abrupt music or hardcore gore, all you need here is a creepy environment, a slow pace, and some fiendish dialogue from Regan/the demon. Mind you, there are some great modern horror films (such as Rec, The Evil Dead series, and the original Thai version of Shutter), but The Exorcist, The Shining, and Psycho are in top form when it comes to scaring the s*** out of you. The Exorcist, especially, is one that is truly scary because of its controversial subject matter. The finest, no doubt.
Grade: A+』
(Blu ray , In her soul ???!!!!) 『Ive watched the original VHS tape in 1991 , and then i saw the movie on dvd digital remastered , and thought there would be nothing better or could spread my heart ou like this dvd version .
WOOOOOOOW Bluray???? did we just saw the exorcist on blu ray , cant you imagine how it would be in Full HD with up to 7.1 surround and DTS true hd ?????
nope me too , just cant wait to see the blu ray version , yes yes dont miss it』 『Director William Friedkin was a hot ticket in Hollywood after the success ofThe French Connection, and he turned heads (in more ways than one) when he decided to makeThe Exorcistas his follow-up film. Adapted by William Peter Blatty from his controversial bestseller, this shocking 1973 thriller set an intense and often-copied milestone for screen terror with its unflinching depiction of a young girl (Linda Blair) who is possessed by an evil spirit. Jason Miller and Max von Sydow are perfectly cast as the priests who risk their sanity and their lives to administer the rites of demonic exorcism, and Ellen Burstyn plays Blair's mother, who can only stand by in horror as her daughter's body is wracked by satanic disfiguration. One of the most frightening films ever made with a soundtrack that's guaranteed to curl your blood,The Exorcistwas mysteriously plagued by troubles during production, and the years have not diminished its capacity to disturb even the most stoical viewers. Don't say you weren't warned!--Jeff Shannon』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (HEAD GONE BAD) 『This was rather a Mystery Science Theater milestone, as the first Mike Nelson hosted episode (replacing Joel). Mike does a fine job.
MST3K provided Mike great source material. The Brain That Wouldn't Die is an infamous painful '50s sci-fi B-movie. An overview . . .
Brilliant surgeon is moonlighting in full body transplantation research -- girlfriend is decapitated in car crash -- surgeon preserves her functioning head in a pan in his lab as he scouts a replacement body for her (by functioning, I mean talking and the whole bit). She really has a bad personality now, sitting there in her little pan, with tubes running in and out. (Mike and the 'Bots get a lot of humor mileage out of the pan juice thing). Somehow she "communicates" verbally and telepathically with her new soul-mate, the frankensteinish goon locked up in the closest. Goon eventually eascapes, havoc ensues.
This is a very good MST3K effort, but I think the comedy, although good, was slightly tenuous due to the transition from Joel to Mike. I also think that they missed a great opportunity for a sketch with one of the robots heads functioning in a pan. Enjoy!』
(best ever) 『this or pod people was, next to soem of the shorts, the finnuest episode i ever saw. the first time i watched it i laughed so ahrd i ahd to watch it twice mroe jsut to ehar all the stuff i was busy laughing over the first and second time i watched it』
(Pure Fun) 『If ever I need a good laugh, I watch this. Mike Nelson and friends rip this cheesy film to ribbons. This is my favorite MST3K movie (and I've seen a lot). After experiencing Mike, I find his predecessor Joel listless and not nearly as funny. Mike is so sharp with his sardonic humor and his fantastic pop culture references. Who wouldn't want to watch b-movies with him? There are so many quotable, fun lines throughout this movie, you have to experience it for yourself. This is a highly recommended helping of silliness.』
(A Must See. No Question.) 『Well, this is the first MST3K episode with Mike Nelson as host. But that's not the only thing that makes this episode a must see. The jokes are simply hilarious from the beginning, and get even better all the way through to the end. And the movie itself just has a sense of importance to it. I read on the internet somewhere that it couldn't get released for 2 years after it was made because of the sheer violence contained in it. And yeah, the movie is pretty darn violent. But MST3K makes the violence beyond hilarious. After a monster in the closet tears the lab assistant's arm off, he stumbles around slamming his wound into the wall, and Mike says, "Now he's going to fall into a pan of lemon juice."
Also the movie brings up a lot of philosophical issues I don't see raised in other MST3K movies. Or if they are raised, they're so bland and trite that they're not worth paying attention to. However, this movie is different. You really do think about, "Hmm, is the desire for medical progress extreme enough to be classified as playing God?" and, of course, the old Frankenstein scenario, "If a bunch of human parts formed together to make a living creature, would it have a soul?" This movie's like Frankenstein in a lot of ways, but the MST3K crew doesn't care. They just make fun of everything on the screen. Sure, the monster just lit the place on fire and bit the doctor's neck off, but look, his mask is just tied in the back!』
(Great show, good price) 『Any review of Mystery Science Theater 3000 written by me is boilerplate. MST3K was one of the funniest and most intelligent TV series ever to inhabit the ether. I am proud to possess a copy of every episode (except the missing K0-K3 titles, and you Misties know of what I speak). The Brain That Wouldn't Die is one of my personal favorites.』 『Mystery Science Theater 3000experienced a changing of the guard with this fifth-season episode. Departed series creator and lead Joel Hodgson was replaced by head writer Mike Nelson, playing a hapless temp named... Mike Nelson, who was sent into space to cover for Hodgson's escape. The opening credit sequence and title theme (warbled by Nelson) were also new, but the show's basic premise--poking fun at atrocious B movies--remained the same.
Nelson's debut "experiment" is the delirious 1960 head-transplant horrorThe Brain That Wouldn't Die. And while Nelson is occasionally stiff, particularly during the invention exchange (a longtime Hodgson staple, and soon to be excised), he and robot pals Crow and Tom Servo rise to the occasion during the film, which is filled with memorable zingers (Crow: "He's keeping her alive with Grey Poupon!"). Rhino's DVD presents the uncut, slightly gory version ofBrainwith and without theMST3Ktreatment.--Paul Gaita』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (lin227piano) 『One movie I never forgot.....1968 stars Hunky Christopher Jones as the leader of the youth movement to take over America.. I said "Right On!" (I was 15 when I saw it) My 16 year old now who saw it shakes his head and said "What were you thinking?" Finding irony at the end....we all get old (if we are lucky!)... Richard Pryor, Hal Holbrook and the recently deceased Shelly Winters also star in this classic representation of the 60's youth. Enjoy the trip back in time! Very interesting...A "Boomer's movie...Peace!
』
("Youth power, that's where the whole thing's at now!") 『Ever conscious of cashing in on whatever trend might have been fashionable at the time, American International Pictures (AIP) focused their sights on the ever-growing youth movement of the mid to late 60s with this frightening (if you were over 60) tale of youthful revolution in Wild in the Streets (1968). Directed by Barry Shear, whose primary credits include TV shows like "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.", "Ironside", and "Hawaii Five-O", to name a few, the film stars Christopher Jones (The Looking Glass War), an actor once thought by many to be perhaps the next James Dean or Marlon Brando, but whose fortunes and star potential faded due to, what some speculate, the strain of having to live up to the expectations beyond his grasp...oh yeah, that and the all the drugs, as highlighted in `Christopher Jones: The E! True Hollywood Story'...also appearing is Oscar winner Shelley Winters (The Diary of Anne Frank, The Night of the Hunter, Lolita), Diane Varsi (I Never Promised You a Rose Garden), Hal Holbrook (Creepshow), Millie Perkins (The Diary of Anne Frank), Ed Begley (12 Angry Men), Bert Freed (Nevada Smith), and Richard Pryor (Silver Streak, Stir Crazy).
As the story begins, we witness an intelligent and precocious boy named Max Flatow (played by Barry Williams, better know as the character Greg Brady, from The Brady Bunch), Jr. grow into a disillusioned young adult who decides to leave home, severing his family ties, and make it own his own (given his mother, played by Winters, I didn't blame him). By the age of 22 we learn he's not only changed his name to Max Frost, but that he's also become a famous recording star, and with the help of his entourage (none over the age of 25), become the head of a multi-million dollar empire. Max is so popular he's courted by congressman Johnny Fergus (Halbrook) to assist him in his senatorial bid by playing at a rally and throwing a good word Fergus' way, hoping, I guess, to rock the vote, or some such thing...Max agrees, but the performance leads to pressure in the form of massive `sit ins' to force Fergus to introduce legislation that would lower the voting age to 15 (the `Establishment' balks but their power quickly fades). Fergus acquiesces (dreams of political power swirling in his mind), and the voting age lowered, and Fergus wins his senate seat, but he has unwittingly opened Pandora's box as soon the once disenfranchised youthful population, who can now vote, begin electing their own candidates (Max eventually takes the presidency) and pushing their own hedonistic agendas towards a groovy future where adults are forced to retire by 30 (hey, that doesn't sound so bad) and then shuffled off to `Mercy Camps' where they are plied with LSD treatments, or `therapy', to keep them on a permanent acid trip (okay, that doesn't sound too appealing). The revolution has begun...and the kids aren't all right...
I enjoyed this movie, although for the first 20 minutes or so I wasn't sure where it was going, but it seemed to find its footing and present an entertaining tale (unless you were among the older generation, to which this might have been a cautionary or every scary wake up call...yeah, right)...Christopher Jones seems to fit his role perfectly as the charismatic Max Frost, the millionaire rock star rallying the angry youth of America, and beginning a movement in California (figures) which ultimately spreads worldwide. Holbrook was also very good as the liberal politician thinking he could harness this untapped power towards advancing his career by schmoozing the youth, but quickly learning his folly once the beast was unleashed...and then there was the stodgy Ed Begley, playing the ultra conservative Senator Allbright..."Youth is not only wasted on the young, it's become a disease!"...'nuff said. I think my favorite sequences involved the scenes where Max and his cohorts, in an effort to get legislators to amend the constitution and lower the age requirements for holding political offices, spike Washington's water supply with acid...which resulted in all these politicians head tripping and unknowingly voting themselves out of existence (Ed Begley pretending to be on acid is quite the experience). This was actually a real-life fear at the time that prompted the mayor of Chicago at the time, Richard J. Daley, to call out some 5,000 national guardsmen to protect the cities water reservoirs, as the 1968 Democratic National Convention was taking place, and protesters were in abundance in the Windy City. There was a creepy, reverse Oedipal vibe coming off Shelley Winter's character towards her son, one that increased as Max's power grew...her desperate attempts to fit in with a generation she didn't belong, so in need their approval and attention, became very annoying, but viewers are rewarded as she couldn't escape her age or the animosity of youth. Ms. Winters is an accomplished and respected actress (I really liked her in Night of the Hunter), but most of the roles I've seen her in involved her playing often obnoxious, annoying, overbearing characters, and here is not different. There was a slightly dark, comic tone ever present throughout the story that later turns ominous as Max become president, using his administrative powers to effect some really radical changes (hey, if it means putting Shelley Winters behind bars, I'm all for it). There's some good music to be had here, if you dig on late 60s rock, with original music provided by Les Baxter and songs by legendary writer Barry Mann...check out Max Frost and the Troopers' performance of the song `The Shape of Things to Come', which would later covered by The Ramones. The ending, despite being completely predictable (and virtually telegraphed), still worked well.
While this film is not available on its own on DVD, it is featured on a MGM Midnight Movies double feature DVD, available at Amazon, paired with the psuedo youth counterculture film Gas-s-s-s (1971), which is the lesser of the two, in my opinion.
Cookieman108
By the way, see if you can spot Bill Mumy ("Lost in Space") and Peter Tork ("The Monkees") in their bit parts... 』
(ONE OF THE BEST AMERICAN MOVIES EVER MADE!) 『RICHARD PRYOR WAS A GENIUS, AND THIS WAS A BLACK MAN'S MOST FAMOUS AND OUTSTANDING AMERICAN FILM CINEMATOGRAPY 'MOVIE ROLE' PRESENTATION. PRESENT DAY MOVIES ARE A FARCE COMPARED TO THIS TIMELY RELEASE. ONLY GEORGE CLINTON, JIMI HENDRIX, DICK GREGORY AND MINISTER LOUIS FARRAKHAN COME CLOSE TO THE PRESENT DAY 'ALIENS' NOT OF THIS PLANET BUT OF ANOTHER WORLDLY MOTHER SHIP! THESE GREAT MEN ARE MORE THAN DESERVING OF A FILM-SCREEN TRIBUTE OF THERE LIFE PRECIOUS WORKS. WE ARE STILL TODAY, WILLING PARTICIPATES FULLY INVOLVED IN THE POLITICAL ESTABLISHMENT OF "WILD IN THE STREET" CHARACTER'S OF 21ST CENTURY RESIDENT EVIL DESTINY. PEACE TO HUEY P. NEWTON AND THE FORMER PROPHETS! WHAT'S EVER HAPPENNED TO DIRECTOR "BARRY SHEAR?" WAS HE BLACK LISTED AND BLACK BALLED?』
(This film may have been made as a lightweight youth flick...) 『...but believe me, for a lot of us back in the late 60's, it became a manifesto. Let's face it, one feature of the late-or-post-adolescent mentality is an obsession with rights that others have but they don't. We were potential cannon fodder in Nam, all guys who could be drafted were getting drafted, but back then we couldn't vote. This film offers a scenario where rock singer Max Frost (Chris Jones), bush league Jim Morrison who sings more like David Cassidy, child of a disfunctional home himself, runs for President. His retinue consists of black power soldier Stanley X (played by Richard Pryor in an rare non-comic role) and a girlfriend Sally LeRoy (Diane Varsi). Those who think Hillary was bad, picture a First Lady wasted on acid 24/7. On the other side of the Generation Gap is Max's own mother (Shelley Winters), not exactly the couragious middle-ager Winters would later play in "Poseidon Advanture". Max's direct opposition is the crotchety Senator Albright (Ed Begley Senior--yep, the "St. Elsewhere" star is second-generation). The premise here is that the Older Generation has all the power, starts all the wars and sends their children off to fight them. Yes indeedy, the Boomer Liberal mentality is in full force--the Establishment runs the whole show and the have-nots get less than zero, any war America is in, we started, hey man, what a lousy country we got here. Sound familiar? So Max takes over by getting Sally elected to the Senate because she's over 21, they slip acid to the rest of the Senate and all the excesses of youth become required by law. I hope the producers of this flick didn't really mean it to be taken seriously because a lot of us airheads did just that. Kin yew say "wet behind the ears"? I knew yew could. You'll notice a "meet the new boss, same as the old boss" touch in the ending, which I won't give away here. It's probably the one scene in this flick that makes the most sense.』
(Available at last on DVD but difficult to find) 『During the 1960s, American International primarily introduced low-budgeted movies geared usually for drive-ins. By some mistake, "Wild in the Streets" turned out to be both a hit and a perennial cult favorite. Deservedly so. It is probably one of the most subversive satires ever produced for the American screen. In September of 2004, it was finally released as part of a double-sided MGM Midnight Movies selection on DVD. (The flip side is one of Roger Corman's worst movies, GAS-S-S-S-S, a sophomoric comedy doubtless inspired by "Wild in the Street"'s success. Skip it.)
What is particularly strange is that "Wild in the Streets" appears to have been unreleased as soon as it was released. If you check MGM's website, you will not find it listed in MGM's inventory. Nor will you find it listed as available on Amazon or most places. In fact, the only retail place online you can find it is at BestBuy. However, it does not appear to be available at most of BestBuy's actual stores. Did the idea of a fascistic dictatorship taking over America somehow offend the current Administration or offend executives at MGM? Just a question since I'm not privy to why it's being censored.
At any rate, I would suggest that the movie's admirers buy the DVD when or where they can, since they might not have a second chance. The movie itself was released in 1968 while the Vietnam War raged on -- and on and on and on. This is important to understanding the film in its historical context. "Wild in the Streets" has several premises. The first is that the old fogies in Washington are destroying the country. Although Vietnam is not mentioned (read Iraq, if you want to bring the premise up to date), the draft certainly is on the moviemakers's minds.
The second premise is that 52% of the population is aged 25 or younger, and that America as a nation idolizes youth and spends considerable time and money pursuing the fountain of youth. Young people in "Wild in the Streets" are represented by the tuned-out hippie generation, who, thanks to a charismatic leader, soon become tuned-in.
A popular young rock performer, Max Frost (played by Christopher Jones, who as an actor, always seemed to be channeling James Dean, which was perfect casting for this role), decides that young people are fighting and dying for the country but do not even have the right to vote. In a satirical progression, Max first manages to get the voting age dropped to 14. Next, he succeeds in getting an ex-childhood actress-current acid-freak, Sally LeRoy (brilliantly portrayed by Diane Varsi of "Peyton Place" fame) elected to Congress. Since Max wishes to run for President himself, he needs to get the requirement age dropped from 35, which he succeeds in doing with a little terroristic help involving the lacing with LSD of the Washington, D.C., water supply. Once Max becomes President, he manages to make 30 a mandatory retirement age and 35 an age for people to be incarcerated in concentration camps, where they can spend their remaining days forcibly tripping, thus no longer being a danger to themselves or others. Soon Max realizes that he may one day get his own comeuppance since what goes around comes around.
For a low-budget movie, "Wild in the Streets" managed to acquire a top-notch cast, including Hal Holbrook as a Kennedy-like senator, Millie Perkins ("The Diary of Anne Frank") as his wife, Shelley Winters as Max's monstrous mother (her screams of "I'm young! I'm young!" as she's carted off to a concentration camp are never to be forgotten), Ed Begley as one of the old fogey politicians, and a youthful Richard Pryor as one of Max's entourage, in his first screen performance. The period rock score is equally impressive.
As a major part of Max's political agenda, he intends to make the world safe -- from America: "America is now planning to withdraw from its international commitments to the relief of many, the despair of few. In addition, your armed forces are to be disbanded."
Folks who don't get the satire will most likely hate this movie with a vengeance (and probably hate this review as well). But those who get it, will also get it with a vengeance and will contrive to buy up all the copies they can to give as gifts for like-minded friends.
price：$4.96
Rhino Theatrical
Usually ships in 1 to 2 days Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Hilarious) 『IF you are a fan of MST3K then you know the deal. If not, this DVD is a great example of what they did. What a shame this show ended. There is certainly no lack of bad movies to lampoon.』
(There is nothing funnier than Santa Claus conquers the Martians) 『It doesn't get any funnier than MST3K, and Santa Clause Conquers the Martians is just about the funniest, stupidest movie ever made.
In fact, the clue you need is right under Santa's feet!』
(MST3K FIRST YEAR INTRODUCTORY CLASS) 『These are two classic stinkers from the early years of the MST3K catalogue. I give it five stars of course, because its so BASIC for any fan of the show. If you have NEVER seen any Mystery Science theater on TV before, and sadly, this is true for more and more people, as the years since SCIFI channel removed their shows from saturday morning reruns, then this is a good taste of what you are in for. BEST BRAINS (the writers) know these are some of their best shows, so they used this inexpensive 2DVD set to rev up interest in their DVD products. In many ways, MANOS is so terrible, that the horrible quality of that film, might overwhelm the jokes being said about it. HOWEVER, if you really want a taste of the very WORST movie ever made, and therefore the favorite of the MST3K writers, you MUST buy MANOS. PLOT? Well, its almost like BLAIR WITCH in the lack of production quality, plot, etc. But compared to MANOS, the BLAIR WITCH PROJECT seems like Citizen Cane. These are GREAT episodes for SCIFI channel fans to discover JOEL ROBERTSON (who founded the show, and was the first astronaut on the SATERLITE OF LOVE). As for the other movie, SANTA CLAUS CONQUERS THE MARTIANS, it functions more like therapy for why you are afraid of Christmas movies. The basic SCIFI Xmas film, about Marian Kids (including Pia Ziadoa) who wish they could have SANTA CLAUS too. In order to make this 2DVD set more enticing, you get an extra called "BLOOPERS", a 20 minute compilation of bizarre outtakes and screw ups, that you used to have to buy directly from BEST BRAINS via mailorder, on VHS. Its funny, and a great inside look at the personalities that bring you the show. If you only know the SCIFI channel shows, then this 2DVD set, is a great way to find out how the COMEDY CENTRAL concept of the show worked. The inexpensive price, makes it an obvious first buy, incase you DONT like one of the two films that much.
However, a couple of cautions to the buyer, about the CONCEPT of MST3K. First off, this show started 20 years ago. The early JOEL years, were formed from the PUNK-NEW WAVE esthetic, which was very "Do It Yourself". Check out the set, which the COMEDIANS made themselves. The show still had its local, cable access FLAVOR to it, even tho it was produced by comedy central. The humor is COOL and very hip. But at times, dated, at least with its cultural references. Outside of the timeless irony, or tearing apart bad production values of the films, TONS of current (ie 1992) pop references, as well as very obscure pop references from the 60s or 70s, flood the show. The writers didnt shy away from making allusions to their city's culture, or other running jokes from the show, which might make the humor at times hard to get. If you are 18 years old, remember that these writers were born around 1960, so their cultural life was formed by TV shows, many of which were NEVER in syndication in your lifetime, or music you have NEVER heard of. In other words, one's AGE and CULTURAL awareness, is a HUGE factor in whether you will enjoy all the humor. However, its catching these quickly delivered, obscure jokes, that makes this show so well loved by the MSTies. (FANS) It's no secret that kids always loved this show too. The SKITS, and the invention exchanges, etc, deliver enough humor, that you wont feel culturally insulted if you DONT get some obscure jokes. However, If you are under 25 years old, consider that the SCIFI CHANNEL shows, are more likely to deliver more recent cultural references, which form the core of the "IN" humor. MST3K is so much more than "IN" humor, tho. You really NEED to love that BAD, CRAPPY part of our culture, in an ironic, snarky way. All the MST3k Shows skewer POP culture, like bad childrens programing that used to have a creapy guy who'd introduce the cheap Saturday night horror film, the local channels would show. Its also based on bad children's programming, the wierd puppet/robots, for example, which was also the jumping off point for PEE WEE HERMAN's gimick. IF you dont like that humor, or dont' have a certain LOVE for the garage punk qualities of cheap HOLLYWOOD films, then you might not enjoy any MST3k shows. In the end, its the MOVIES that provide the jumping off point for the humor, because the skits are based on the films, as are the cutting remarks from the ships "audience", and the way the robots, the MAD scientists, and JOEL interact. I have watched these two MST3K treatments OVER and OVER. Its always fresh and funny. I have noticed recently that HBO has shown the MST3k MOVIE almost every saturday night. If you enjoy the MST3K film (based on THIS ISLAND EARTH), you'd certainly get your entertainment dollar with this set. Get ready for MOVIE SIGN!!!!!!』
(Manos Shows Joel At His Best) 『Manos is every bit as bad as you've heard, but the comedy is so good. Santa is fun ride through the wackiness of space.
I have long been in the Mike Nelson camp of Msties and still keep my feet firmly planted therein. But finally watching Manos, The Hands of Fate made me change my opinion of Joel from "boring, sleepy-eyed creator who should have never hosted" to "sorta funny, sleepy-eyed creator, who should only host after drinking a Red Bull".
Manos is so poorly shot and the "why not" catfights so numerous that I was already laughing at the awkward pauses and confusing wardrobe even before the riffing began. Almost every minute of dialogue is covered by constant riffs(which is just the way I like it) and the Torgo impressions are never a let down. The Pizza Delivery scene with Mike as Torgo had me on the floor-good times!
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians is just a goofy movie and the riffing is sufficient, but I feel like a later Sci-Fi Channel Mike episode would have been more appropriate so as to provide "The Essentials" of of both eras of the show.
Manos is available as a single disc, so I would suggest just picking that up on its own, unless you are a completist.』
(Really not the best of MST) 『I paid for this one based on my love of the show but this one really isn't their best- by far. Not as many jokes as the show usually had&the jokes that are there just aren't that funny. Even the movies aren't that entertaining (cheesewise I mean). There are better episodes you can purchase out here. I'd go with just about any of them before this one. Still love the show, but in this case they really missed the mark on funny.』 『Are you ready for best of the best (well in this case... the worst of the worst)? Join host Joel Hodgson and his robot pals in two of the finest feature-length episodes of this hilarious award-winning series.Whether it s sharing a family vacation with Torgo from Manos The Hands Of Fate or helping Santa fend off the not-so-terrifying Martians in Santa Claus Conquers The Martians you ll be laughing alongside those wisecracking silhouettes.System Requirements: Running Time 190 MinFormat: DVD MOVIE Genre: TELEVISION/SERIES&SEQUELS Rating: NR UPC: 603497034420 Manufacturer No: 970344』
price：$2.49
Universal Studios
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Watch They Live or start eating that trash can.) 『The characters, The cuts, The dialogue, The FX (sound&visial), The balls, humor, and intelligence. They Live is the greatest B/cult film ever by numbers.(.)』
(Open Your Eyes!) 『Roddy Piper plays a down out guy, unemployed, who believes in America and though life is down, there is always hope. Until he sees some suspicious activity in a church. Turns out it's a front for terrorists fighting alien creatures bent on our submission. Somehow these aliens have created a ray or some treatment that makes us see them as human, and the subliminal messages are a riot.
Is that a Woman's Day magazine? Not really. Ads that subliminally say "Obey", "Marry and Reproduce" and "Sleep" are all good ones.
A parody of sorts of our consumer culture -- more fun than science fiction. The gun battles are fair, but very one-sided. What Roddy's character has to do to convince people to wear these special sunglasses is interesting as well.
Lots of plot holes dragged the movie for me. I can buy humans cooperating in order to make money, but why so few really know and how widespread the alien influence is not made clear. And their transport technology and other scientific marvels, why do they even need the Earth?
Anyway, too much thinking. Enjoy this piece of shoot-em-up fluff!
My DVD had NOTHING in the way of special features, sadly.
Other DVDs by Roddy Piper:
Jungleground WWE - Born to Controversy: The Roddy Piper Story
』
(A Modern Gullivers Travels) 『Ever wonder why the government is predatory and doesnt operate in the interest of the little guy? This film exposes all :-)』
(Before There Was The Matrix, There Was . . .) 『They Live prefigured "The Matrix" with a much more low-tech and low-budget version of the same idea. More fun too, in a way, because it does not take itself quite as seriously. Roddy Piper's character is wonderful, especially the scene of his first encounter with the sunglasses. I loved his shootout in the bank, and his fight with Keith David in the alley that goes on for ten minutes is truly a classic. If you liked The Matrix, this is definitely worth a look.』
(Obey the Piper) 『Here's a bare-bones DVD of a good Carpenter flick. 20+ years later, They Live actually looks better, perhaps more quaint, more retro than I would expect after all this time.
What is this movie? Basically, it's Carpenter's 'ode' to Reaganism, which would make it very relevant today (I do expect a remake, over-budgeted and over-produced, but the themes beg for one). In what is supposed to be the 'near future', times are tough, the economy is bad, the poor class is growing and society is becoming more polarized between the wealthy and everyone else...sort of like what's always happening in the USA. A drifter shows up in town (looks like LA), and he finds some construction work. Soon enough, he notices something strange going on at the local church, where some kind of underground movement operates. Inside, he discovers special sunglasses that 'reveal' what is really going on: a race of ugly, skeletal-faced aliens is living among us, and all advertisements are really veiled commands to 'OBEY', 'CONSUME', 'BUY', and have 'NO THOUGHT'. This matches the message in some pirate broadcasts where a man talks about the subservience of the masses, the permanent sleep-state that allows the owners to turn everyone into 'livestock'.
Carpenter's movies definitely changed when he lost cinematographer Dean Cundey, but this one still looks very much like an earlier Carpenter entry. In a lead role one can easily see written for favorites Kurt Russell, or even Tom Atkins, Carpenter uses WWF icon 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper. And you know what? For the most part...it works. (Today, they would use The Rock, er, Dwayne Johnson). This is not an actor's role, and Piper's face is perfect for portraying the beaten down 'everyman' laborer. In fact, he'd have been a good choice for The Running Man, which this story resembles in some ways (setting and theme). And Keith David, who literally needs to be beaten into 'seeing' (oh, the metaphors), is reliable as always (and as tough as Piper).
The effects can be cheesy, yet there's something plainly effective in those black-and-white sunglass POV shots---dull matte paintings depicting the landscape (BUY, CONSUME, KEEP SLEEPING) that reminds one of a 60s painting. There's a lot of action, too, as an enraged Piper looks to take revenge of the monolithic aliens by blasting them on his way to subverting their all-powerful signal that masks their 'ugliness'. And the ending is pure, bittersweet Carpenter.
I think the movie holds up well and is relevant today, even if we've taken this for granted and have accepted the 'new cynicism' alluded to in the film (spoken by a politician-alien). The themes would have gone over a youngster's head back in the day, yet the basic story was appealing. Now one can appreciate Carpenter for being a quasi-Hawks-out-of-time figure in Hollywood. Born too late, as he said. The film is not overly preachy, and not overly talky, either. There's a long fight scene between Piper and David where they really do look like they're beating the crap out of each other. That metaphor, like the others, is not difficult to read.
The DVD? The DVD is absolutely bare-bones. Nice to have this movie in the format, but no doubt this needs a proper version, perhaps when they get around to asking Carpenter, who always does good commentaries on his films. You can find this very cheap, and for Carpenter fans, a no-brainer. Actually, for anyone who enjoys angry commentary on 80s Reaganism, highly recommended. Am waiting for the super box set with Blu Ray, DVD, VHS, video disc, and a pair of those sunglasses. And maybe an 'OBEY' shirt.』 『An economic crisis brings unemployed Nada (Roddy Piper) to L.A. in search of work. What he finds instead is that the ruling elite of the world are aliens in disguise, their aim being to keep humans in a state of mindless consumerism. His discovery comes when he dons a pair of special sunglasses made by a resistance group and sees for the first time reality unadorned. Billboards, store signs, magazine covers--all bear subliminal messages to OBEY, to CONSUME, to have NO INDEPENDENT THOUGHT. Money itself says THIS IS YOUR GOD. But worst of all, with these glasses you see which of us are really hideous, bug-eyed aliens. The conceptual breakthrough is hilarious while keeping its roots in darker matters. Although some fault the film for settling into its action plot, the ending has a great payoff. And the direction by John Carpenter is handled with superb workmanlike aplomb. One unforgettable set piece has Piper in a back-alley fistfight with a friend who won't put on the glasses that goes on and on, and just when you think it's over it goes another round. One of the most subversive films ever made in Hollywood,They Livewas released on the eve of the 1988 elections. The first TV ads had two hideous alien politicians debating, then one accusing the other of being "No John Kennedy!"--Jim Gay』 『They influence our decisions without us knowing it. They numb our senses without us feeling it. They control our lives without us realizing it. Horror master john carpenter directs this action-packed sci-fi thriller about one mans battle against aliens who are systematically gaining control of the earth. Studio: Uni Dist Corp. (mca) Release Date: 09/23/2003 Starring: Roddy Piper Meg Foster Run time: 98 minutes Rating: R Director: John Carpenter』
price：$10.00
Lions Gate
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Great movie, disappointing Blu-ray) 『Saw is a great movie, all the sequels can be skipped. However the video quality on the Blu-ray is pretty disappointing. Very grainy, never once really looked like a high-def video even in bright scenes. But what makes it even worse is that there are no extras whatsoever. No commentary, no deleted scenes, nothing besides some previews. Sad,sad,sad. At least it was cheap.』
("I've Given Your Life a Purpose") 『Initially I will admit that I had no desire whatsoever to watch 'Saw'. My expectations were that it was going to be nothing more than just another one of those splatter films whose sole aim was to nauseate and repulse the audience.
Miracle of miracles, I happened to be wrong. While the gore element is there, for the most part it is an anticipated horror more than an actually realized one (at least by today's standards). For most of the film the terror and dread is psychological in nature and proceeds from an intelligent storyline and a thought-provoking script which dialogues with the audience on such concerns as the nature of life, death and what a person would be willing to do to retain ones life.
For me what really makes the film work is the protagonist nicknamed Jigsaw. While his actions are indeed horrific and grotesque his reasoning comes across as rational, his goals subtle and his attention to detail flawless. Well worth a watch, or two.
My Rating: -3 1/2 Stars-.
』
(Great Film, One Of My Favorites) 『I love the Saw series, and I noticed that this was a really great price on the UMD format of the film. Overall I am satisfied with the product and I would recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys an intense, gruesome movie experience with a shocking ending!』
(Bloody but good!) 『The whole series is very, very gory, but at the same time has a very plausible plot line. Definitely falls within the "Psychological Thriller/Horror" genre. Plus, it has the cute Cary Elwes of "The Princess Bride" one of my favorite movies.』
(Most people are so ungrateful to be alive, but not you, not any more...) 『Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R34GA1TG3PBOPT』 『Lionsgate Saw (Blu-ray)Adam (Leigh Whannell) and Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Cary Elwes) wake up chained to pipesat opposite ends of a dirty utility room. They soon learn that they have become the victims of the Jigsaw, a serial killer who devises intricate situations to get his victims to kill each other. Pitted against the clock and each other, the two must work to outwit their captor and save Gordon's family, who have been taken hostage by the killer.』 『Adam (Leigh Whannell) wakes up in a dank room across from Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Cary Elwes) and the body of a guy who has blown his own brains out. Not a happy place, obviously, and it gets worse when both men realize that they've been chained and pitted against one another by an unseen but apparently omniscient maniac who's screwing with their psyches as payment for past sins. Director James Wan, who concocted this grimy distraction with screenwriter Whannell, has seenSevenand any number of other arty existential-psycho-cat-and-mouse thrillers, so he's providedSawwith a little flash, a little blood, and a lot of ways to distract you from the fact that it doesn't make a whole hell of a lot of sense. Wan and Whannell (who's not the most accomplished actor, either) pile on the plot twists, which after some initially novel ideas become increasingly juvenile. Elwes works hard but looks embarrassed, and the estimable Danny Glover suffers as the obsessed detective on the case. The denouement will probably surprise you, but it won't get you back the previous 98 minutes.--Steve Wiecking』
price：$5.76
Vertigo
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (A bit of a letdown.) 『Mike Carey, Lucifer: Evensong (Vertigo, 2007)
The war in Heaven is over. Lucifer and Elaine have averted the worst, but at what cost? With the strength of the overall series, Evensong felt a bit like a letdown; too many loose ends were tied up too quickly, and too neatly, to be comfortable. That said, though, it's impossible to really call it bad; Lucifer is a series that stands almost as high as the original Sandman from which it spun off, and it's a remarkable accomplishment. The entire series is very much worth reading, and I highly recommend it. ***½
』
(The final volume of one of the best stories ever.) 『The Lucifer series is for serious readers. Please note that I said serious READERS, not comic fans. Even if you've never read a Superman or Spider-Man comic, consider this series. It's intelligent, entertaining, thought-provoking, philosophical, emotionally charged, powerfully written and drawn, and overall one of the finest miniseries ever set to paper. When I rank my list of All-Time Best Miniseries or Series, it's a short list: Watchmen, Kingdom Come, Lucifer, and Seven Soldiers of Victory (the Grant Morrison version). Yes, Lucifer is that good. It might even be better than Watchmen. This particular volume, number eleven in the series of collected issues, is the final volume. As such there's a sad quality to it, but it ends on a perfect note. All our favorite characters return, things are wrapped up, and a very fitting finale awaits this book's reader. When I finished it the first time, my immediate thought was regret, since I knew this story had come to an end. But the more I thought about it, the ending is why we read the story to begin with, and the ending to this series has all anyone could want.
At eleven volumes, Lucifer isn't for the faint at heart. It's a long series that requires you to think, remember, and be willing to challenge your beliefs. However, at no point should this book be considered "satanic" or some form of black/evil magic. It's a story, pure and simple. It presents a different view of the cosmos and makes any reader reconsider her or his beliefs, but at the end it rewards persistence and actually can renew a reader's faith, as it did with mine. Come to this series with an open mind and remember that it is not for children, and I think you'll be quite pleased with what you find. I recommend reading it in order if at all possible, but you can pick it up anywhere in the order and still have an excellent read.』
(On Lucifer 11) 『Excellent wrap-up of a fine series of graphic novels on the theme of God and Lucifer. The treatment is deep enough to interest philosphers and theologians.』
(Excellent ending, irritating coda) 『This wraps up most of the loose ends in the "Lucifer" series in a satisfactory way. The open-ended nature of Lucifer's fate is appropriate and suitable, and the mood and method of his final parting from his father Yahweh is ...hmm, properly consistent with his character; so is his farewell gift to Mazikeen. Elaine's choice of immanence rather than transcendance as her path of Godhead is well-justified and portrayed.
Unfortunately, the pretty but meretricious separate episode "Nirvana", which is a sort of filler to the whole thing, spoils the mood. This piece of orientalist trash should have been mercifully forgotten, rather than resurrected here. Surely it would not have hurt Carey to have actually talked to a few Buddhists to find out what Nirvana is actually conceived to be, rather than inflicting his own ignorance on his readers.』
(That's all, folks...) 『The Lucifer series is over. And if you know Mike Carey, when he finishes something, he likes to make sure nobody can ever pick it up again. In a word, this really is it. I'd like to start off by saying a few words about the entire series. Lucifer is easily one of the best comic series Vertigo has ever produced, in part because Mike Carey is one of the best writers I have ever had the pleasure to know. I place him on a level with Gaiman in terms of inventing characters and settings that have never been used before, and utterly without peer for keeping his plot threads tightly wound. More than once I have stood in awe of the way he manages to pull things back together for a startling climax. Evensong has many things in common with the last book of the Sandman series, The Wake, in that it occurs after all the action has taken place, and exists mainly to wrap things up. Therefor, it should not be surprising that the big "go out with a bang" comes and the end of the last book, and Evensong is, if not exactly a whimper, then perhaps only the fading echo of the bang that was. In true Carey fashion, all major characters drift off where it would be difficult, if not impossible, to pick them up again. I have no wish to spoil the endings, but Jill Presto lives happily ever after, Elayne decides to start taking her God roll seriously, and even Gaudium enjoys some level of respite. Then there's Lucifer, easily the most entrancing character to ever walk through literature. In the final comic, Lucifer comes full circle with his past, and has the final confrontation with his father that we have been expecting since the first book. As you might imagine, Lucifer cannot help but be himself, and nothing is resolved. The last comic even manages to force you to sympathize with God's position, and the ending is more than a little sad as Lucifer fades away into the sunset (or lack of sunset, as the case may be). Now, I hate to nitpick, but when someone with Carey's reputation for thoroughness misses anything, it's easy to be critical. My number one complaint over the entire series is that, back many novels ago, when Lucifer is searching for the ship made of dead men's nails, he promises Loki to hold him up over the side of the ship come the day of Ragnorok. This is a small thing, but because of Lucifer's penchant for never being forsworn, I at once assumed that he was going to fullfull this oath before the end of the series. Come the last issue, Loki has never again made an appearance, and Lucifer has placed himself in a position to make it obvious he no longer cares. I find it hard to believe I am the only one to notice that Lucifer has been foresworn, and as with anything, one mistake ruins the formula. The other notion I have issue with is the entire storyline of the Japanese death goddess. Evensong deals extensively with her, being the only true enemy of Lucifer's left alive, and she acheives what could be best termed a stalemate with him. Somehow, her final meeting with him is referenced as though it foreshadows her doing something very important, and very detrimental to Elaynes cosmos, but the book doesn't go into any detail, and it doesn't finish her story very satisfactoraly. These two small things are the reason I have to give this book four instead of five stars. Given the scope of the series, and the way Carey has impressed us before, I think fans were expected something truly spectacular. What we see is an impressive feat any other author would be proud to call his own, yet still not par with Carey's other works. In spite of this, I will be reading the series again and again. Because as I said, this is it, and it's more than a little sad now that it's over. For the last time, "that's all folks..."』 『From the pages ofNeil Gaiman's THE SANDMANcomes the story of Lucifer Morningstar, the former Lord of Hell who is unexpectedly called back into action after he receives a mission from Heaven.
In this final volume, the war is over and a new order is rising from the ashes. His own fate now decided, Lucifer begins to settle his affairs -- only to discover that he still has one deadly enemy unaccounted for.』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (DEAN KOONTZ'S FRANKENSTEIN BOOK ONE: PRODIGAL SON BY DEAN KOONTZ) 『In the Frankenstein trilogy, bestselling author Dean Koontz goes on a tangent from his usual novels with this short series taking on arguably one of the two most famous horror novels of all time (the other being Dracula, of course), but putting a whole new spin on it that will leave readers reaching for the sequel.
In a world much like our own just about everyone knows about Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. What everyone doesn't know is that it was based on a legend about a scientist known as Dr. Frankenstein. Only he somehow managed to make himself immortal and is now alive and well in the twentieth century, living in the United States. And over the last century he has been busy. His new and improved "creatures" now walk the streets as ordinary looking humans with extraordinary powers. Only some of them are starting to "malfunction," killing innocent human beings in the process. Victor Helios, as the doctor is now known, doesn't care, continuing to create, with the goal of taking over the world with a perfect race.
Then there is Deucalion, Frankenstein's original monster, who is now forced to come to the Untied States to face the growing evil and put a stop to it. Meanwhile detectives Carson O'Connor and Michael Maddison get to deal with all the mangled and destroyed bodies that keep showing up, trying to put the pieces together and figure out what is really going on.
Prodigal Son is a strong start to the trilogy that reveals Koontz still has some great stories to tell. With an abrupt end, readers will be grabbing for book two, City of Night, and book three, Dead and Alive, which is now available.
[...]. 』
(Frankenstein in the modern world) 『Did you know that Mary Shelley actually wrote Frankenstein based on facts - actual events? Dr. Frankenstein really did create a monster from body parts of murderers, thieves and other hooligans. He did - true story. Oh, and did you know they are both alive today? In New Orleans.
Leave it up to Dean Koontz, with Kevin J. Anderson, to hatch a story where characters created years ago are alive and well and wreaking havoc to this day. Frankenstein: Prodigal Son is an entertaining look at how these two well-known characters would behave in the modern world. The monster (Deuclian) has learned to control the violence within him. The doctor (Victor Helios) has learned that advances in science and technology will allow him to create a Utopian society in which he will be God.
There are some grisly murders, possible serial killers, bantering detectives (think a male/female Lethal Weapon with some sexual tension), Stepford-like creations with super-human strength and speed and an autistic boy whose smile may very well cause his demise. The book is a fast-paced read with short chapters (not a very Koontz thing) that jump from one set of characters to another in a coherent fashion.
This said, not my favorite Dean Koontz. The idea is great and the basic elements were there but parts of the story and characters were very cliche. I realize the banter between the detectives was an effort at character development but it was over the top and distracting at times. I truly enjoyed the sections concerning Dr. Frankenstein/Helios and his attempts to create a super race. His relationship with his "wife" and descriptions of his household were very enjoyable and did create a diabolical character that I had no problem disliking and fearing.
I would recommend this book to a Koontz fan or anyone who likes a good, easy monster story. I will be reading the next two books in the trilogy since there was nothing concluded in Prodigal Son and I am interested enough to want to see what happens.
Other Koontz and Frankenstein info:
Frankenstein: Prodigal Son actually started as a screenplay written by Mr. Koontz for the USA cable network. When the television show strayed so drastically from his vision, Mr. Koontz pulled-out of the project and decided to write his story as a novel. The original Frankenstein actually gave the author nightmares into his thirties. He describes this in his Frankenstein website:
From the time I saw the best of the Frankenstein films on TV when I was eleven-the original featuring Karloff's remarkable performance, Bride of Frankenstein, and Son of Frankenstein-I relished them even though they gave me the worst nightmares of my life. In fact, I continued to have Frankenstein-themed nightmares into my thirties, a few times a year crying out in my sleep and waking in a sweat. Interestingly, when the Frankenstein dreams stopped, I ceased having nightmares of any kind; and for many years, my sleep has been undisturbed.』
(Finally!) 『My sister has impatiently waited to start reading this series again. :) She received her book and was very happy with it.』
(Another great book!) 『Dean Koontz books never leave you bored. If you want action packed horror books then buy his. All of his books have exceeded my expectations. There are 3 of the Frankenstein books, buy them all and spend time enjoyimng yourself!!』
(Just God Awful) 『Koontz turns the Frankenstein mythos into a cop story. The single, hot, emotionally distant cop...her laugh a minute partner who secretly loves her...the gruff rival detectives with questionable motives... No cliche is left unturned. The most interesting character...the first monster...gets the least "screen time". And the ending?
This was just awful.』 『From the celebrated imagination of Dean Koontz comes a powerful reworking of one of the classic stories of all time. If you think you know the story, you know only half the truth. Get ready for the mystery, the myth, the terror, and the magic ofâ¦
Dean Koontz's Prodigal Son
Every city has secrets. But none as terrible as this. His name is Deucalion, a tattooed man of mysterious origin, a sleight-of-reality artist whoâs traveled the centuries with a secret worse than death. He arrives as a serial killer stalks the streets, a killer who carefully selects his victims for the humanity that is missing in himself. Detective Carson OâConnor is cool, cynical, and every bit as tough as she looks. Her partner Michael Maddison would back her up all the way to Hell itselfâand that just may be where this case ends up. For the no-nonsense OâConnor is suddenly talking about an ages-old conspiracy, a near immortal race of beings, and killers that are moreâand lessâthan human. Soon it will beclear that as crazy as she sounds, the truth is even more ominous. For their quarry isnât merely a homicidal maniacâbut his deranged maker.』
price：$7.99
Roc
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Called back into the fray, Magiere and Leesil must do battle once again with the Noble Dead.) 『This is the second book in Barb&J.C. Hendee vampire series with Magiere Leesil the fearless vampire hunters, now for a bit of the story.
We start back in the small fishing town of Miiska, Magiere and Leesil have rebuilt their inn after the battle with the noble dead, just as life was getting better they receive a message from the near by city of Bela, here they will face new perils in the form of new noble dead as well as the evil blast from the past, we also see Leesil learning more about his past and also being hunted by elvin assassins, with Magiere we see her learning more about her powers as the Dhampir and the new mortal threats to her life and lives of her friends.
As with the first story we see a well written novel, filled with action adventure and great characters, this book is a bit better than the first, i'm just about to start book three and i'm hoping it will be as good if not better the the previous two.』
(On par with Dhampir) 『I found Thief of Lives to be about on par with the first book in the Noble Dead series. The story picks up not long after the end of Dhampir, with Magiere and Leesil living their version of domestic bliss, running their rebuilt tavern. As you might guess, that doesn't last long: the mysterious Welstiel sets the wheels in motion for another confrontation with the undead. In Thief of Lives, we learn more about our characters, especially Leesil and, yes, Chap. We find out a bit more about what makes Welstiel tick. And, we're treated to some good scenes of suspense and general vampire hunting mayhem! Still -- the pacing is a bit languid for my taste. There is a bit too much time spent on the trio of undead characters. Some of the other character-based scenes become repetitive as well: we're given too many internal monologues revealing feelings of which we, as readers, are already aware. But the battles between dhampir and undead are sharp and compelling, there is some pretty good mystery at work, and the relationship between Magiere and Leesil remains interesting, always on the edge of...something. My reviews tend to focus on the negative, but I'm already looking for the next book in the series, so that should tell you something. Yes, I enjoyed Thief of Lives, even if I can throw tomatoes from the peanut gallery. (Hey, at least my mixed metaphors make a good stew!)』
(A step up) 『Thief of Lives is the follow up to Barb and JC Hendee's Dhampir, which centers on the beautiful Vampire Hunter Magiere, her Half Elf companion Leesil, and their extraordinary dog, Champ.
This story picks up about two months after that last book ended, which Magiere and Leesil reopening their inn after the fire that consumed it in the climax of the last book. The town is in dire straits due to the destruction of their main warehouse, and commerce is dwindling, which is slowing strangling their economy. An opportunity to make some money for the town has presented itself at the city of Bela, across the sea. Magiere is reluctantly forced out of retirement, as Bela's frustrated city council searches her out for her help. Some of Bela's most notable and wealthy are being savagely murdered and all signs point to one of the "noble dead" being the culprit.
This novel is pleasant surprise in that it is an upgrade over Dhampir in nearly every area. The characters are far more developed. Leesil and Magiere are more actualized than the first and especially Leesil is more explored in this novel than the last. Even the dog Champ, is more cultivated! I found the tension that was present between Leesil and Magiere far more believable and understandable in this novel as well. Also, with the development of the character's persona comes a refinement of their mythos.
Some of this elaboration is undoubtedly due to the authors' holding back on the first novel in order to continue the mystery. However, there is real narrative maturation here in both writing skill and story.
The Hendee's have take the Vampire mythology and put their own brand on it, and have even carved their own niche from the Buffy the vampire slayer/Bloodrayne/underworld "girl power" genre. Magiere is unenthusiastic about her role, even downright unwilling, but she has demons to kill within herself and she is trying to exorcises. Not only that, but she isn't quite she WHAT she is. That mystery as well as secrets from Leesil and Champs past are a big part of this installment.
Thus, Thief of Lives does not fall into the "filler" category that so many second novels do, or the let down after the first. The Hendees have established a strong foundation upon which to build upon and they took a step in the right direction with this novel. Thief of Lives is an enjoyable read. It may not be Tolkien, but that is part of what makes it compelling. What it does, it does well.』
(Perfect title) 『This book is great. The title fits it so perfectly! I reccomend this to anyone who likes your typical fantasy novels, for not only does it deal with vampires, but all sorts of fantasy stuff.』
(A very good sequel) 『This second installment of the series started with Damphir is every bit as good if not better than the first. The trio of half-elf, half vampire and Spirit possessed dog continue to grow as characters as they are forced by circumstances to live up to the role of vampire hunting team that they first created simply as a way to swindle gullible peasants. Good Fantasy with a strong and increasing stable plot line.』 『On the heels of DHAMPIR, Barb and J.C. Hendee's acclaimed Fantasy debut, comes THIEF OF LIVES, the new novel featuring Magiere and Leesil, Slayers of the Undead....
Magiere the dhampir thinks that her nights of hunting vampires are over. After settling down in her newly adopted village of Miiska now vampire-free, thanks to her and her half-elf partner, Leesil she looks forward to quiet days tending to her tavern.
But far away in the capital city of Bela, a prominent councilman's daughter has been found dead on her own doorstep... and all signs point to a vampire. Knowing that the battered and burned village of Miiska could use an infusion of cash, Bela's town council offers a generous bounty to the dhampir if she will slay their vampire. Magiere resists, wanting nothing more than to forget her past and ignore her half-vampire nature. Only Leesil can persuade Magiere to follow her destiny before more innocent lives are claimed by darkness.』
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