Rubbish

I love Will Smith but he was miscasted in this film. It is a SILLY film with a SILLY story.

A return to form

I thought seasons 7-10 of Stargate SG1 were a bit of a disappointment, quite frankly. But this film was actually very good. Lots of team interaction and humour, plenty of action, and it tied up all those flying loose ends. No O'Neill, but for once he wasn't missed. I am so looking foward to Continuum now!

Sparkles like the stars

What a lovely film. Was very impressed with Claire Dane's English accent and Charlie Cox seemed to turn from a gawky awkward teenager to a handsome young man - this lad has bucket loads of charisma, he will go far!

My only gripe about this film and it is only a small criticism is Ricky Gervais who just seemed like he was playing another version of David Brent.

Although I loved this film, I am knocking a star off for the disappointing extras. Why, when this film was so popular at the UK box office, do we only get commentary and the rest of the world gets bloopers, making of and deleted scenes?!

I Am Legend(arily poor).

I thought this film was terrible. I haven't read the book (and they're always better) but I'm sure this is a very weak interpretation of it. I even felt robbed of the time it took to watch the film and both endings.

Another reviewer mentioned that the CGI was poor and I agree. Many sub-standard films are saved by their effects but this one is, in fact made even worse. I feel someone at the studio should be shot for allowing the film to be released like it was. In terms of animation"Who Framed Roger Rabbit" was more convincing! It probably is in terms of story and entertainment as well.

One to rent if you have no paintwork to oversee the drying of.

Harry Potter in good order

Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix

Starring Daniel Radcliffe
Directed by Peter Yates

This series just gets better and better and though a lot of the credit must go to the writers and directors, much of it can go to the increasing maturity of the leading actors.
Daniel Radcliffe is superb, showing a real understanding to the role. He gives Harry Potter a very real presence and is fast becoming a very accomplished actor. He is ably supported by Rupert Grint and Emily Watson as well as a whole who's who of the theatre world who offer vital support to the vast world of witches and wizards.

The original book was rather a heavy going and forgettable one from what I remember, the only part that stood out was the fight and the demise of...!
I am pleased to say that though the fight is superb, the whole film keeps going at a great rate with Luna Lovgood proving to be a wonderful addition.

Peter Yates really brings pace to the story and a sense of reality. I am pleased that he has been asked to carry on. That is not to say that previous directors have done a bad job, but he seems to have a handle on the realism that these stories have. The sense on loneliness and frustration that HP feels. It is a story of growing up and can be translated into any field, fantastical or not. Previous directors caught the wild universe that Rowling created, Peter Yates has placed that firmly in the here and now.

One thing I did remember from this book was the awful Dolores Umbridge and Imelda Staunton is fantastic in this role, really bringing the Nanny state of New Labour to this world and giving us a kind of weird female version of Gordon Brown and his ridiculous meddlings (that almost sounds like a book in itself), I almost wanted to `boo' and `hiss' her every scene. She is great, everyone is great and I look forward to the next.

sylar will not steal your brain

If you do not buy this sylar will not steal your brain because you are most definitly not special, Best thing i have seen since Fire fly or Battlestar worth the money bring on season 2

Fantastic

Absolutely fantastic series. Gripping story, intelligently written and with some wonderful dry humour. Can't think of anything bad. Well done to everyone involved.

Worst Will Smith movie ever

I can honestly say that this is the worst movie I have ever seen in the last 10 years. At the begining the story seems interesting but then it turns into a stupid zombie ridiculous film and the end does not make any sense. Do not even boher to buy. Rent it if you feel curious...

Careful: May induce cramps

Okay, so I admit I am a film school graduate and having been born in the mid seventies, Star Wars is a film that I have watched countless times. How wonderful it is to a have an all-time fave spoofed so well that it merits a re.watch just to make sure you caught all the gags and inside jokes. It's just SO funny!

Pure gold, rivalled only by American Dad's 'Tearjerker'.

One To Watch

If you're a fan of anything supernatural, scary or just a bit 'strange', then this is the show for you. The leads are well cast, both playing off each other perfectly, most of the time with humour, but when it's needed with incredible sensitivity.

The best example of this is the episode 'Heart' which sees the boys tackle the problem of werewolves, and how to cure a person of lycanthropy. If you only watch one episode, watch this one - But make sure the lights are down, and you won't be embarassed to shed a tear! For something lighter, try 'Tall Tales' or 'Folsom Prison Blues'.

One good thing about the Season 2 box set is that is has all the extra features on - In the season one (UK version) these were left out, but they're firmly in place this time round, just to confirm for those wondering :)

With Season 3 starting next Sunday, you should have enough time to watch it all to either catch up or refresh your memory before it starts up again. Definatly worth the money!

Didn't like some basic aspects....

I can see how this is very popular with many people, and bet that I'll get a lot of"unhelpfuls" out of this. There is some polish and some good writing with this series, and that's even before you get into the series proper, which improve.

However, as a certain type of fan of the original, I was very disappointed. Yes, I'm glad things are a lot more grown up, but that's where much of the plusses end. If I'm an existing fan, I don't necessarily like change for change's sake. From the original, certain characters have been overly changed, including their gender. Sorry, Dirk Benedict's Starbuck is still the best. Even my wife thinks so! It's not that I am an old fuddy-duddy where boys have to have all the fun. They had female characters that could simply have been reworked and/or updated. Cass., Andromeda, et al. Or, do more about creating new characters, which they have done (nearly got as far as three stars for that!), but not enough.

But for me the worst, worst thing, are some of the baddies. One of the worst cliches in sci-fi are"changelings". Well, that and blase time-travel. Why spend so much on making a series, then... I can just see the meeting now. "Oh wait, what about the bad guys? I know, let's make them look like the main characters and be able to pass off as them, until some contrived plot device exposes them." A lazy way to get away from creating an original race, I think. The only time when this sort of thing can work, is when it is used sparingly. Star Trek: Deep Space 9, did a better than average job with it.

Summary: This is not bad quality sci-fi or drama. It's just that from where I'm coming from, I didn't enjoy it.

For BSG fans (not for others)

The current re-imagined and updated"Battlestar Galactica" is, in my opinion, the best sci-fi series currently on air. Its sweep, the depth of its storylines, the characterisation and acting, the ability to create societies that are both alien and familiar at the same time, above all its ability to hold interest and provoke thought - there is nothing to match it, and there hasn't been for a few years. (I was a great fan of"Firefly" but wouldn't see these two series as going head-to-head,"Firefly" had its own universe and its own, very different, strengths.)
For fans of BSG"Razor" is a welcome addition to the DVD collection. It fills out the"side story" of Admiral Cain and the Battlestar Pegasus, and goes some way (not all the way) to explaining why she acted the way she did. The production style and dark gritty atmosphere were typical"BSG" and it was interesting to see the"old style" Cylons and ships, familiar to viewers of the original series, popping up in the obsolete and ostensibly abandoned Cylon base. It ended on a teasing note that will certainly whet the appetite of those who have just watched season 3 for the developments of season 4.
My only complaint: even for a fan it's a bit pricey for what you get.
Those who have not been following"BSG" are likely to be totally lost; certainly they will miss most of the nuances and the plot aspects relevant to the story arcs of the main series. They should avoid"Razor" and instead go and buy the mini-series so they can get orientated and hooked.

At last!

Unlike a few of these reviews, I'm writing this after actually seeing the Final Cut 2 disc DVD.

I won't say too much about the film itself. The"Final Cut" is basically the Directors Cut (i.e. no voiceover) plus tweaked special effects and a few minor changes (it's been some time since I've seen the Directors Cut, so I can't give precise details, but it didn't seem drastically different) And"yes", the unicorn scene is there and the"happy" ending is missing.

The picture quality is probably as good as could be expected for a film of this age. Perhaps not quite as sharp as a modern release and some black levels are very slightly off, but overall a good picture, with no noticable dirt, scratches or grain.

The 5.1 mix is particularly impressive. Vangelis' soundtrack fills the room. There are also some nice ambient effects of rain etc, plus the rocket ships have real oomph and zoom from left to right speaker.

The documentary is also worthwhile (not the usual promotional stuff) and is certainly something you can watch more than once.

Overall, a classic film, with good picture, extras and very good sound.

Unless you're a sci-fi geek or completist, I'd opt for the 2 disc edition, rather than the 5 disc.

My favorite heroine on TV of all time

Now I remember when I first saw Buffy it was 1998, on BBC2 i loved it from day one but I sometimes missed it due to schoolwork commitments. I have to say this is one of the best tv shows to ever grace our TV screens. The teenage angst ridden story lines with great sypnosis all about growing up with pain, guilt and emotional baggage that comes with life. Even though we know that Vampires dont really exist an if they did my dream job would be to be a vampire slayer (:P). Seasons 1 starts off with getting to know the scooby gang and what the hellmouth is all about - the earlier days (bad hair and clothes) was a little"trying to hard" with dimissable effects. Season 2 kicked and in and became more dark and watchable, as we start to feel the burden of our chosen one, being a teenager falling in love, losing your love, difficult relationship with mothers etc which most teenagers can relate to. We get introduced to music that is heartfelt and totally works with the episodes. season 3 - all about growing up, making tough choices, making mistakes that could risk losing people that matter to you the most. season 4 saw buffy all grown up in college with the introduction of the ever so tall Riley , who does kinda resemble Angel, Tara (soon to be willows girlfriend)Anya making the credits and the exit of OZ. The emmy nominated episode (hush) was an acolade to the season. This season also sees what Buffy is about to become and how it will chnage her life forever as she searches for answers about who she is. Season 5 we find out (Shock,horror!!!) Buffy has a sister that has been missing since season 1! not to fear there is an explanation which I wont spoil for the people who havnt watched the series yet (I cant think how not) but Buffy makes the ultimate sacarfice in this season and with Christophe Becks composure of music makes the final episode of the season truly touchin and leaves tearsin the eyes and my favorite episode the body with well deserved applause to all the cast. Season 6 yes! magic, darkness evil and a lot of comedy from the"baddies" we see our beloved Willow transform into summat scary - (episode 22 with the evil gothic music)hate/love/lust filled obsession with Buffy and Spike and the death of another loved one.Season 7 the final season (sobs) I loved the show so much that I cried! - Season 7 starts off with Lessons for our lil mini wannab slayer with big sis Buffy showing the ropes we also see"the First" make a comeback after last time we saw the being in season 3 - with the actually great quote of"from beneath you it devours" we see a one off return of our fave baddies from all seasons to reveal the plans for our ever so lovely heroine Buffy and we see Spike go doolally, the school being reopned wierd monks and yay! Angel makes an appearance and the rogue slayer Faith herself!. It would have been nice to reuinte Angels gand with our Scoobies. But ultimately the last episode goes out with a sensational bang!!! overall a good buy and honestly u will cherish this boxset cos I have i love it - and I also know its a little sad!

skul lover - peter pan

pure escapism - love all the cast - fascinating stories -
can't wait for series 3!!!!

anomalous anomalies

second season of primeval, a show about a group of people who hunt dinosaurs and monsters that get loose in present day britain via anomalies in time that bring the creatures through from either the past or even the future.

If you haven't seen season one then go and watch that first, because the first episode of this continues right from where that left off, which was a major cliffhanger that altered the status quo of the show, and it doesn't make any concession to new viewers. so you'll be better off starting there.

But for those who are familiar with the show, this is season one refined. more monster hunting, but the characters now feel more rounded and better developed, and there is an intriguing ongoing storyline as well. This is good solid and entertaining tv with some appealing characters and it's the kind of thing that the whole family can sit down in front of the tv together and enjoy. just like doctor who. and that's the only similarity it has to that show!

The dvd spreads the entire series of seven episodes over two discs. the first disc contains the first three episodes, english language subtitles, and go to the extras menu to access a commentary from the writer and producers for episode one, and a documentary about the making of the show. this was written and directed and is presented by andrew lee potts, who plays the character connor. he does all the links in the documentary in character which looks as if it might be annoying at first but actually you'll find quickly that it works very well. running for over forty minutes it's a good and comprehensive documentary and very entertaining watching.

a minor annoyance is the way the menus are presented as it scrolls all the options up and down. so miss what you want and you'll have to wait a few seconds for it to come back. but that's a minor irritation nothing more.

disc two has episodes four to seven. for the commentary from the writer and producers on episode five, there's no extras menu, you just access it via the episode selection menu.

An entertaining show, and a good dvd package for it

Utterly compelling - classic Tom Baker

Utterly compelling - classic Tom Baker

Barcode: 5014503258627

I went into this serial not knowing what to expect. From having a quick look over some of the other reviews on here, it seemed many were not overly keen on this serial. And as I started watching, I could kind of see where they were coming from. The premise is slightly confusing as a lot of information is restricted from the viewer and you are very much thrown into the middle of things. For those still relatively new to the classic series, this could be disconcerting, but really, give this serial a chance as when viewed in its whole 6 part epicness and you realise the intricacies behind what is presented in the opening, it is truly awesome.

By the end of the first episode, I was completely won over. You see, there is something irresistible about the overall look and feel of this serial and it is testament to the quality of writing and production that this serial succeeds so well, all the elements coming together to deliver a thoroughly entertaining slice of intrigue and Gallifrey based fun. The afore-mentioned confusion actually becomes integral to the serial, the Doctor's strange behaviour is intentional designed to be disconcerting, his anger and absolute authority quite shocking in its extremity - and when you realise why the Doctor is acting this way you are simply in awe of his courage and intellect.

The pacing is perfectly done too, again, the throwing you into the midst of things right from the start means the tension in this story never lets up and the cliff-hangers that bookend each episode hook you completely. Tom Baker of course is in his element here, every line packed with such intensity, whether seriousness or yet another witty one-liner, his performance draws you into the action and you are completely involved in the story. The sets look particularly fantastic, both on Gallifrey and in the TARDIS and I really like how we get an extended look into some of the other rooms in the latter in episode 6 (yes, it even has swimming pool!)

Where this serial really succeeds though is the dialogue. The acting is top notch and some of the witty sophisticated wordplay between the Doctor and the various other Time Lords will put a smile on your face again and again - not least the repeated jelly baby mentions (which is fine by me, they're one of my favourite sweets). And the Doctor's election ceremony as he becomes president is undoubtedly moving in its extravagance.

The adorable Leela is used really well here, her feisty attitude serving as the perfect juxtaposition against the pomp and strictness of the Time Lords and she seems very keen to keep whipping that little silver knife of hers out every second! Equally, K-9 is utilised really well too - all in all, both companions serving the story in a significant way, always at the heart of the action and always ready to help the Doctor. Rodan is a nice little touch too, filling out that kind of quasi-one-off-companion style role and acting as a friend for Leela to chat with.

In terms of the Time Lords, Borusa, Kelner and Andred all work brilliantly here and the way they play off each other is fantastic to watch. As for the villains, I was actually quite surprised, as being a Sontaran story, they only really feature in the last 2 episodes although Commander Stor's halting, half-whispered Cockney voice is pretty eerie. No, on the whole I actually found the Vardans to be a far more interesting villain here - in their crinkly, ghost-like tin foil forms they are haunting, their apparent alliance with the Doctor only adding to their sinister nature.

All in all then, a completely fascinating episode which succeeds again and again. If I were to be picky, the only glaring fault I'd pick up on is the stereotyped and poorly used savages from the Gallifreyan wastelands. But aside from that, I'd say give this story a chance - released as a 2 DVD set and packed with all the usual brilliant extras we have come to expect with the Doctor Who DVD releases, this is well-worth getting if you're a Who fan.

AVP 2 REQUIEM.

AVP 2 REQUIEM IS THE SOME AS ALENS IN 1986 AND I LIKE THE NEW ALIEN IN AVP 2 MOVIE. I WILL GET THE DVD FO MY ALIENS MOVIE COLLECTOR'S AND I AM A ALIEN SUPER FAN.

FORM JAMES DAVIES

Better than series one but still not really cutting it.

The original Doctor Who was about ideas. That has gone. The original series lasting for 27 years manage to keep the feeling, mantras, and backstrory/culture(mostly). In this revamp all that is thrown away. This is worse even than the Peter Cushing movies for losing the plot. Science Fiction is escapism. The more you try to bring in gitty reality and ordinary people's unbalanced personalities, the more it becomes something else. In science fiction you travel to other worlds. In this, you never leave Earth (unless its to go to New Earth or New New Earth). Aliens are replaced by horror movie products such as were-wolves or the devil or zombies. I guess this is what happens as our society because more"educated" but less aware of what science is about. The so called"high-points" of all the series so far is to bring back old creatures for the classic series. Without that this series would have almost no new ideas. I have kept watching these series as I have always been a Doctor Who fan but without the name it would just be a fusion of James Bond and bad horror. The creators of this series eliminated all the back-story from the previous series (ie. the other Timelords, Gallifrey etc). This series has better stories (mostly) than series one but is still dragged down by Billy Piper's poor acting. Once again this series relies on bringing back something from the classic series to keep interest from old fans who might otherwise turn off in disgust. This time it is Liz Sladen and cybermen. The cybermen are rubbish versions of the original. For me, growing up with Doctor Who, the cybermen were unforgettable. They were human and yet not - alive but somehow soul-less. The new ones are just metal machine men. Amazing how the same idea can become a legend in one situation and forgettable rubbish in another.