Guy143 Reviews

Betsy's Wedding (1990)

Like "Parenthood" and "Moonstruck" and almost better!!!

[30 August 1999]

Like "Parenthood" and "Moonstruck," Betsy's Wedding is a funny, feel-good movie about a wonderfully eccentric family and their hilarious trials and tribulations - it's about everything but their daughter's wedding!

This movie has it all! The mob, crazy romances, and outrageous revenge schemes! The cast is so wonderful and I give a thumbs up for Mr. Alan Alda's direction. I loved Madeline Kahn as always, Ally Sheedy was her sexiest, Molly Ringwald was great, and a special gratitude for Catherine O'Hara and Joe Pesci for making me roll of my seat laughing.

If your a fan of "Father of the Bride 1 and 2" or "Runaway Bride," your sure going to enjoy "Betsy's Wedding."

SCANDAL. LUST. DISASTER. INTRIGUE. ...and the invitations haven't even gone out yet!

Enjoy the show!

Tiny Toon Adventures: How I Spent My Vacation (1992 Video)

My favorite animated movie of all time!!!

[22 August 1999]

When the film was first released me and my friend had rented it (being Tiny Toon fans) and boy were we shocked! Not only did we fall out of our seats laughing so hard, we watched it six times that weekend. About two years ago I found it at Blockbuster previously viewed so I own the film and its become a classic to me. I just wish Warner Bros. would hurry up and release it on DVD so I can have it for all of my time. It's a great film for your kids to see when they are a little older because it does have a lot of sick humor and your typical cartoon slapstick jokes.

My most favorite part in the movie is when they go to the movies. The sound system "Thud" was a laugh riot because that's exactly what people experience at the movies. I love it! I want to give a special thanks to Steven Spielberg for creating the hilarious series and wonderful full length video. I would love to see more! MY advice to you is go buy it if your a fan of classic Warner Bros. cartoons.

Available now on video for the entire family =)

Man of the Year (1995)

"Man of the Year" is the Movie of the Year!

[9 June 1999]

Never has a documentary film pleased me in so many ways before. I laughed so hard through the whole movie. It was a wild ride from start to finish and let me take the time to recommend this for any movie lover.

"Man of the Year" is a hilarious mock documentary about Dirk Shafer's reign as Playgirl Magazine's 1992 Centerfold of the Year. There's only one problem, he's gay. Labeled as the "ideal man for every woman," Shafer finds himself living the lie of a lifetime. Dirk finds himself living a double life that he never intended to have and he doesn't like it at all.

As the year goes on, Dirk finds himself being interviewed by every talk show host on TV and one minor screw up could cost him his fame. While woman are fantasizing him, men are getting a little suspicious. The husbands and boyfriends of the woman along with the gay community think he's gay and they will go through hell to find out the truth.

Though the film isn't top quality and it's just like watching an hour long interview, I would have to say its the best interview I have ever seen. It's really funny, witty, and crude and I almost cried to see it end. Dirk Shafer did a wonderful job bringing what had to be the most thrilling adventure in his life to the independent screen. If you ever come across this film, watch it. It's interesting and at the same time entertaining.

Blue River (1995 TV Movie)

Beneath the surface lies the truth...and entertainment!

[9 June 1999]

If you're a fan of films like "The War" and "Now and Then," you'll love this made for TV movie. It has a great cast and superb acting and direction.

In a small Wisconsin town of Blue River, secrets run deep. And for Henry Howland, (Sam Elliott), high school principal and repressive moral Beacon of his community, they are about to explode in a shocking series of events that will shatter the smooth surface of his life forever.

Nick Stahl plays the young brother of the family slowly learning the secrets that the family and community holds hostage. His wildly brilliant brother (Jerry O'Connell) isn't what you call a good son. But when Henry Howland finally gets to him you will start to see the soft side that will destroy him bit-by-bit. Nick's best friend (Patrick Renna - The Sandlot) is a wild child also. He also has a mysterious side too. He loves to set old shacks and buildings on fire, likes to look at woman undress, and loves to take his mother's car out on the town while drinking hard liquor. What's so wild about that!?!

You're probably thinking this is one big messed up film but it isn't. It's one of the best Hallmark Entertainment movies I have ever seen. You'll laugh, cry, and be swept away as the secrets unfold in this mysterious drama. I recommend it for anyone who likes the drama genre (like me) and whenever you see it in the video store, rent it!!!

Taking the Heat (1993 TV Movie)

I Recommend "Taking the Heat!"

[30 May 1999]

I have always seen "Taking the Heat" at the video store but never cared on seeing it until one day finding it for $3 bucks at Wal-Mart! I thought to myself, Tony Goldwyn and Lynn Whitfield, $3 dollars, and full-length, what the heck!!! Right when I got home I popped it into the VCR and for some odd reason I didn't move for the next 91 min. New Yorker Michael Norell, played great by Tony Goldwyn, suddenly finds himself hunted by both hit men and police after he witnesses a brutal murder committed by a crime kingpin (Alan Arkin). Now only a beautiful detective (sexy Lynn Whitfield) can get him to court alive - and convince him to testify against the murderous mobster. With a superb supporting cast including George Segal, Alan Arkin, Will Patton, & Peter Boyle, what more could you want from a simple made for cable movie!?! I'm not telling you to go rent or buy it ASAP but if you ever come across it, it's worth 91 mins. of your time!

The Perez Family (1995)

A movie to die for!!!

[14 May 1999]

I can't begin to describe the truly exotic and sensual feeling behind "The Perez Family." The direction was at it's best starring top stars like Marisa Tomei, Angelica Huston, & Alfred Molina, and a great supporting cast including Chazz Palminteri, Trini Alvarado, & Celia Cruz.

It's the story on a family trying to move to the land of the free, America, in the 1980's. But upon departing, the father is arrested and must let the family go. Years later when he is released, he climbs on board and heads to the U.S. hoping to find his family. On the way there he meets a sexy woman that slowly changes his life. Upon arrival in the states, Miami seems to be a much bigger place than he imagined and hopes of finding his family seems a lot harder than expected. It's romantic, sensual, and funny & if you believe in fairy tales, this movie is made for you. Go ask your local video store if they carry it and if its in there, get it! You're going to love it, trust me!

Casper Meets Wendy (1998 Video)

Excellent Video Surprise!!!

[13 May 1999]

"Casper" is one of the best live-action family films to me. It has the best special effects ever and the cast was superb. On the other hand, "Casper : A Spirited Beginning" was one of the worst made for t.v. family films I can remember. I couldn't believe top stars like Rodney Dangerfield, Steve Guttenberg, & James Earl Jones would star in slop like that. Anyway, I was really scared to try out "Casper Meets Wendy" but now I'm glad I did. I fell in love with the cast and excellent special effects the first time watching it. Shelley Duvall, Cathy Moriarty, & Teri Garr are Wendy's three hilarious witch aunts. The basic plot: Wendy the Good Little Witch and her three witless witch aunts hide out at Sunny Brite Resort trying to escape from the evil warlock Desmond Spellman, played wonderfully by George Hamilton. The ghostly trio has also vacationed at the resort and naturally Wendy meets the lonely Casper the Friendly Ghost, where they begin a boo-tiful friendship that's out of this world. If you thought the original Casper was good you are destined to enjoy this one. Great cast, special effects, and direction will please the whole family. Go rent or buy this film when you have some time. It's worth it! Available on video now from 20th Century Fox.

Gordy (1994)

Almost better than Babe...almost!

[13 May 1999]

It's the talking pig who made it big! This is a truly delightful surprise from Miramax Family Films and Disney. It's become an instant classic in the family library. Although it isn't made with top direction and special effects as in the Academy Award winning "Babe." I totally agreed in the saying "Charming...Charlotte's Web meets Forrest Gump" (Boston Phoenix). No language, violence, or sexual content in any form was portrayed. This is a movie you can let your kids watch over and over again.

If you have never seen it before, remember this film was released over a year before Babe. The cast doesn't have well known stars but really its the story that makes a movie...sometimes. Bottom line, it's great fun and hilarious in many ways, so go check it out today. Directed by Mark Lewis

Next Door (1994 TV Movie)

Good stars...bad movie!

[10 May 1999]

What would you do if your neighbor was killing your flowers with too much water? James Woods takes justice into his own hands when Randy Quaid won't turn his water off because he's killing his flowers. Woods takes it upon himself by stepping into Quaid's yard to turn his water off causing a war between the two families. Kate Capshaw & Lucinda Jenney are the wives that seem to have the only sense of ending the war. I just don't like seeing the tough and mean James Woods character taking hits from Randy Quaid.

The main reason I disliked the movie is everything Randy Quaid did would come back and hit James Woods in the face. Like Woods would hose down his lawn with water and then Quaid would fill up his car with water. So when Woods learns his lesson and wants to stop the feud, Quaid acts like nothing ever happened. And where is the police in all this? They never show up until the end and then they think their all psycho fighting over something childish. It had its moments and maybe if the silly background music didn't exist, it might of been good. Showtime Pictures has its moments too. Sometimes they can release a great movie and next its a dud.

Amos & Andrew (1993)

Very few words can describe a perfect comedy!

[5 May 1999]

When Samuel L. Jackson moves to a quiet little island to get away from the city, he's in for a lot of trouble. Arriving to the house one late afternoon, his white neighbors doesn't know he's moving in and when they see the once empty house occupied, all heck breaks loose. The neighbors run to the police to tell them a "black" man has broke into our neighbors house. Now the police, FBI, reporters, & Black Christians (don't ask) are surrounding the house. The only man who can save the night is Cage.

This film has comedy, action, and adventure just the way I like it. Nicholas Cage is hilarious and Samuel L. Jackson is superb. Great supporting cast and direction make this an instant contemporary classic. If you liked "Honey In Vegas" then you will love "Amos & Andrew". A Castle Rock Entertainment/New Line Cinema Release.

Kickboxer 3: The Art of War (1992)

Okay Kickboxer flick but no Bloodsport!

[5 May 1999]

It's been a while since I've seen it but what I remember of it is positive. I love the exotic locations photographed in the film and the action is okay. The way I see "Kickboxer 3 : The Art of War" is a little indie film with top direction and up and coming movie stars. I haven't seen the first Kickboxer with one of my all time favorite star, Jean Claude Van Damme, but I give the third installment 3 stars out of 4. The film is light on language containing just a few curse words but high on action. That's why the film is rated R. Don't worry though, compared to recent flicks, like "Lethal Weapon 4" or "Knock Off", its very mild. See it with a positive attitude.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Movie (1998)

Great Christmas Classic for Everyone!

[2 May 1999]

An instant Christmas classic! Great cast (voices) and decent animation make this a family classic for any Christmas occasion. Considering the fact that this film isn't Disney, it belongs in the category of excellent animated films. On a Friday afternoon of September 1998, I came across "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer : The Movie" opening today in limited release. Fortunately my movie theater was playing it and with a cast including Whoopi Goldberg, Bob Newhart, Sarah Jessica Parker, Debbie Reynolds, & John Goodman, I couldn't resist. Why Legacy Releasing opened a Christmas movie in the fall I'll never know, but if you haven't seen it with your kids, get it this Christmas season. Soundtrack includes a special musical performance of "A Wonderful Christmas Time" by Paul and Linda McCartney. Now on video from Goodtimes Entertainment.

Species II (1998)

Many flaws...few surprises!

[2 May 1999]

The special effects were no better or worse from the original. The only thing I maybe loved about this sequel is everyone revised their roles. The worse thing about the movie is a man going to mars in 1998??? Sorry guys, maybe 2098! They could have made it on the moon, why not!?! The other thing that got on my nerves was the extreme sex and nudity. I mean, its okay to a certain extent but don't turn it into a sci-fi porno. Maybe a third one will do to make a trilogy, but quit after that. Who knows, you may see "Species : Resurrection" some day. I give it 2 stars out of 4.

Deadlocked: Escape from Zone 14 (1995 TV Movie)

Almost better than the original.

[29 April 1999]

Like "Speed 2 : Cruise Control" & "Under Siege 2 : Dark Territory", "Deadlock 2" has nothing to do with the original. Why can't they just re-name the sequel. That's why I loved "U.S. Marshals" title instead of The Fugitive 2. Anyway, great performances and action keep you going. It should be called "Action on Plains, Trains, & Automobiles" because the film has them all. I can't wait to get it on DVD. A great TV movie to watch on video uncut. See it!

Volcano: Fire on the Mountain (1997 TV Movie)

It's just as good as Dante's Peak & Volcano!

[27 April 1999]

I'm a critic but a very strange one. Some movies click to me and some don't, but "Volcano : Fire on the Mountain" pleased me all the way. Dante's Peak was too slow, Volcano was too unreal, but Volcano : Fire on the Mountain combined a little of both and got a great TV movie. The acting is no better than any other natural disaster film and the special effects are excellent! I just wish other made for TV films could be this good.

Pretty Woman (1990)

My favorite movie of all time!!!

[27 April 1999]

I still remember watching the movie in theaters for the first time. I fell in love with it and its classified as my favorite movie of all time to this day. Julia Roberts and Richard Gere gave a superb performance and Hector Elizondo, Laura San Giacomo, & Jason Alexander played great supporting roles. Garry Marshall is one of the best directors around and its all because of this amazing and unexpected Cinderella fable made in Hollywood Heaven.

Me and the Mob (1994)

A movie Sandra Bullock may want to forget!

[23 April 1999]

Now I am not going to dog this movie all the way because being the little indie film it is, it entertained me. Though Bullock's role is very little and her only two scenes are dealing with sex, she still made the screen light up when she appeared. The acting isn't top quality and the director could have done better, but if you want to see it go right ahead. It's a crime comedy, reminding me of an indie 'Analyze This' type, but its main category should be drama. It was boring in some parts and you might not want to watch the whole movie in one sitting. Over all, I say it was a good movie to help Bullock on her way, but if she wasn't in it, I might have never bought the movie.

Sweet 15 (1990 TV Movie)

Sweet Movie...Sweet 15!

[21 April 1999]

Being 15 is hard enough, especially when your parents decides who you can date and not. "Sweet 15" is an adventurous and distinguished family film that has been well directed and acted. If you're looking for a great family movie to watch with the family, get this one tonight.