Quality Control and Tracking Movie Reviews

During the first few moments of this film, it is a little hard to really appreciate the story. What these three characters (a wild animal trainer, a gardner who sculpts wild animals, a scientist, and a sci-fi looking robototics engineer) have in common is that (a) they all have a unyielding desire to do what they do irrespective of monetary rewards; (b) they are curious individuals who hold a great deal of skill in learning and applying their craft; (c) thus, they are, in all senses of the word, "experts," since they have learned their craft through education, experience, and unusual, rare, knowledge.

The producer of this film has a keen eye for knowing how the human mind works, because often times there would be scenes during the documentary where a speaker was talking about their craft, yet scenes from the other dedicated careerist's work life was being shown. For instance, the scientist would be speaking about real, live animals, yet there would be scenes of robotic instruments at work. This definitely is a film to go to; it will make you more creative, and there are many scenes that serve as effective eye candy.

Michael Gordon
Los Angeles

a story of four guys who have very fascinating things to say about some relatively obscure fields. vague connections between their fields are made, and that was interesting, but the disjointed editing was a little over the top. for example, often while the guys talk, we are shown long cutaways of circus scenes. the dvd is described as an examination of the thin line between genius and madness, but i didnt find any of these guys to be even close to mad. especially rodney brooks, whom the amazon review descibes as a wacko, but is actually extraordinarily thoughtful and rational. so this movie isnt entertaining as an examination of genius/madness, but more simply an entertaining profile of 4 noteworthy men in unconventional fields.

This film reminded me of two different writers whose ideas I find compelling: Joseph Campbell and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Campbell is well-known for his saying "Find your bliss," while Csikszentmihalyi's research examines the phenomenon of "flow." Both concepts highlight the importance of finding challenging things you enjoy doing, and keeping at them until you've attained some level of proficiency. Campbell and Csikszentmihalyi argue that once you achieve this, you'll have found meaning in life through doing something that is not work, but play. To have challenging, absorbing activities in which we can lose ourselves is perhaps one of the greatest pleasures of being alive, and it is this idea which Errol Morris illustrates in Fast, Cheap & Out of Control.

What the four men in the film do--create topiaries, build robots, tame wild animals, and study mole-rats--is not the point of the documentary. The point is that each of them has found something in this world which completely engages him. The more he gets involved with his calling, the more he learns about it, and the greater the drive becomes to delve deeper and deeper into his chosen passion. Watching this documentary, I found myself thinking "how lucky these men are...!" Really, though, their circumstances have almost nothing to do with luck. It was by working hard that they developed their interests into full-blown passions. In the end, Errol Morris proves that it doesn't matter what you're interested in, or how weird or boring it may seem to others. If you find something to do in this world that lights a spark within you, and you work to turn that spark into a four-alarm blaze, then you've made the shift from merely living to being alive.

Let's face it, Speed(5 stars) is a wonderful Action movie, problably the best Action movie of the year, but Speed 2(3 stars) doesn't live up to the original as well as I thought it would. The movie would be so much better if Keanu Reeves reprised his role as Jack Traven. Dennis Hopper was a great villian in the original.

Speed is my favorite Sandra Bullock movie. She is just...phenominal in it. And Keanu Reeves...what a hunk!!
The way they put this film together was great: the stunts, the action, the suspense and thrill of it all! Jan DeBont needs to get back together with Sandra to do another action movie. That would be cool!! I CANNOT think of another movie that is better that Speed! It's definitely #1 on my list.

Despite what some may say, these two films offer an endless supply of edge-of-your-seat action, some of the most amazing stunts, and very good special effects. THE ACTION FILMS OF THE 90's!

I'm not a ground controller, so I won't even try to analyze the technical aspects of this movie. I fully admit that I purchased "Ground Control" mainly because Kiefer Sutherland is the star and I love his acting. Even in movies that aren't the "best", Kiefer always delivers a fine performance, and "Ground Control" is no exception. I could list some negatives about the movie, such as the inclusion of Kristy Swanson in the cast. This woman adds nothing to the plot and isn't the least bit convincing, except when it becomes obvious that she has her eye on Jack (Kiefer)and follows him around, even during what should be private moments for him. Nothing personal against Kristy, but most of her contribution could have ended up on the cutting room floor and it would have been no loss. Kiefer Sutherland, however, proves again what a versatile actor he is as the tormented Jack Harris, a top notch ground controller, who years later, still feels responsible for a crash that was not his fault. Now, as a favor to his friend, Jack comes to lend a hand at Phoenix ground control, and soon finds himself in an all too familiar situation. This movie would fall apart if Kiefer Sutherland had not been in the role of Jack Harris. This is Kiefer's movie all the way, and every facial expression and word and action is totally Kiefer. He had me thoroughly convinced of what Jack Harris had gone through, and was still going through. I actually learned a lot from this movie. I learned that being a ground controller is NOT a cushy job, and the controllers who keep thousands of planes safe every day are more often than not overworked and in danger of burnout.....but they keep going. I know I couldn't be that dedicated......this is not a job I could handle. I give "Ground Control" high marks. Sure, it may not fit the definition of "award winning", but Kiefer Sutherland plows through the weaknesses of the film and he simply makes it work!

Not the action packed thriller, but a great character study into the life of an air traffic controller, after having lost a plane due to no fault of his own. Jack Harris, is called back to duty after 5 years, when an old friend needs help. Can he pull the job off?

I found this film to start off ok, then move into slow gear for awhile while giving the viewer an idea about what Jack Harris is thinking and going through. The whole, I want to be doing this, but having the fate of hundreds of people on your shoulders holding you down. Then the film drags you for a climatic, finale.

I am an air traffic controller and this movie is a comedy to me. It is so far removed from reality it is absolutely hysterical. This movie makes "Pushing Tin" look like a documentary. I think airline pilots will also be highly entertained by the flight sequences....especially where the airplane transforms into at least 3 different types during the flight. The only thing in the movie that is realistic is the different ways controllers handle stress. The rest of the stuff....equipment, procedures, phraseology is total fantasy. People in the aviation industry will love it as a comedy, while people not in the know seem to enjoy it as a drama.

The ones who say that this season isn't all that. They happen to be right. There are a few good episodes (written by takahashi) and a lot of bad episodes (written by amateurs) and a few should-have-been-good episodes written by takahashi that were butchered to fit in one episode.And the art/animation quality? Don't get me started. The few episodes where they flashback to the beginning of the series painfully demonstrate how far the series has degraded. In fact, if you really want to see how far this series falls short, watch 2-3 of the OVA's THEN watch this. They were producing this season on the cheap, that's for sure.I got it, because I intend to collect the whole series. Non-collectors should think twice. And if you're looking for a Ranma gift for someone, pick season one or two. They're better.

Its not as bad as people have made it out too be. The only episode that I didn't care for was the first one. I don't see what the problem was with Richard Cox doing the voice. He's the closest that they can get without Sara Strange.

Ranma does it again! The 4th season of the show is great! It's funny, crazy, and likeable! ^__^ There are some very good breakout eps for Ranma in this one. And some very funny and GREAT eps for Ranma and Ryoga fans! *I am one* But I often read at places this is the season where the show lost some of it's edge. I don't think so,Ranma 1/2 to me gets funnier as the seasons go on. I also know Ranma got a different voice-over. Well the first Ranma voice-over did a WONDERFUL job! But the guy taking over Ranma also to me does a WONDERFUL job as well. True it might sound different but it is still Ranma and to me the new voice-over is doing just fine ^__^ *And I don't say that for most people taking over a role* Anyway GREAT season for Ranma I'm truly glad I got this season. Now on too Season Five!

85% is nothing special. Same as game highlights. Watch Inside the NBA plays of the week and save...bucks. The music...is bad... too, but not as bad as the hosts. This is all fluff.

i thought this video was pretty sweet!,but the hosts were actually a little boring.it seemed like they were trying to waste film in between the parts,ya know what im sayin,.but over all the basketball footage was awesome

this dvd was tight you had a lot of great ballers on it. from the rising to KOBE the heir to AIR!!! you had the infamous IIT from da CHI, you had the RUCKERS' you had the up and coming ICKES' tournament. you had future stars Sabastien Telfair, Labron James, Sean Dockery watch out for the Dukies. Dajaun Wagner. The Paul Mcphearson dunk from the free throw and the blocked shot at the top of the sqaure were sick and much more if your from Da CHI you gotta check this out we are truely represented we need a little Will Bynum, Luther Head, Ronnie Fields and Michael Hermon to make this complete though but this is gonna make you get the nextt one holla back!!!! remember the last two years we been givin it to New YORK!!!!! JAY WILL is HERE NOW!!!

I was up late and happened to catch this on Cinemax...I was drawn in by the soft-core aspect, but suprised at the acting qualities of Kira Reed..and the plot! After watching it, I had to see when it was on again..not scheduled, so I looked it up and bought it.

This DVD is cut and censored HORRIBLY! Huge chunks are missing, and I do NOT understand why. Even the case reads 93 minutes, the UNCENSORED time.

I would recommend seeing this film on cable, but avoid purchase at all costs...

Why would they ruin the film? Would have been a 4.

I find that the best way to review a movie is in the context of what it is trying to be. I have a different set of expectations for a Hollywood Blockbuster than I do fo something from the Sundance Film Festival and I have a different set of expectations from a romantic comedy and an erotic thriller. Losing Control fits squarely in the Erotic Thriller category.

I am familiar with the work of the films two headliners, Doug Jeffrey and Kira Reed and while I believe they have both done better work (for instance Maui Heat, an Erotic Comdey I feel they both shine in) they both perform more than adequately in this movie.

Sadly, they don't have all that much to work with. There are far better written Erotic Thrillers in the world (The first "I Like to Play Games" starring Lisa Boyle and Ken Steadman comes to mind) but there are far worse ones as well.

The writing leaves something to be desired. The supporting actors (Anneliza Scott and Clay Greenbush) deliver sub-standard performances. The cinematography is adequate for a piece like this.

If you are a fan of Reed and Jeffrey or if you enjoy the psychological aspect of a sexual mindgames this might be a film worth looking into. If you are looking for something more titilating or something of a more intellectual thriller, there are better choices.

Because the film accomplishes someof its goals very well, and others at a sub-par level, I am compelled to give it a completely average and solid 3.

One of Kira Reed's best. In case you don't know, Kira Reed, a former playmate who besides being beautiful, is a very good actress. The movie has a plot you can follow and keeps you intrigued til the very end. If you've never seen the uncut version on cable you won't know what you're missing, if you have, than avoid buying this movie, you will be disappointed.

If an exercise hater like I used to be can do this - so can you.

I was introduced to Pilates a couple of years ago. The slow pace appealed to my couch-potato nature. I started with the "Body Control" video and then bought this one.

If you are looking for a high-impact workout then this is not for you. There is a great deal of thought going into the position of each part of your body while carrying out the slow (yes that word again) controlled movements.

Lynne Robinson has a very calm teaching style and I don't mind using hand weights, tennis ball and a body-band (I don't own a scarf!)

I do one set of exercises each day and have never felt like not bothering. The results, a flat stomach, toned arms and a firm bum. I would recommend this video to anyone young or old (I'm in my mid thirties) the results speak for themselves.

I've been doing the Weekly Workout for about six weeks now - I'm a middle-aged bookworm, had never found an exercise program that I could stick with. I started this program not for weight loss, but for stiffness and muscle-tone, and it's amazing. I sleep better, I wake up with no stiffness, I can feel my posture improve day by day as I sit at a desk at work. This is *not* an aerobic workout, but that's what I like about it.

The instructor explains everything very clearly, the slow movement is very meditative, and the relaxation segment is a great finish. If you're a beginner, like I am (although some of the exercises have advanced versions), who hates to exercise, this is the perfect workout.

Can I first say: "I love Pilates." I am just at the start of reshaping my body, but already I notice so many changes and my husband also has noticed and likes the fact that I'm talking care of my body and fitting into smaller outfits.

It is fun to go buy smaller clothes after years of trying all sorts of exercise programs and never seeing dramatic results this soon. I have also changed my diet and I think that also helps quite a bit.

Since I started Pilates again this year, I already dropped two sizes and that makes me feel really good about my future. Now I look forward to shopping where before I had started to really dread looking for clothes that would fit well, let alone look cute.

If you have already learned all the Pilates exercises, you might be slightly disappointed when purchasing this workout. This is for beginners and I would recommend this for age 40-60 or for when you want to relax. I am 35 and find this to be more of a "relaxing" workout. There is no stress on your back and this workout literally helps me get to sleep fast. I feel very sleepy and relaxed after doing any of the workouts late at night.

The music sounds like the ocean and you hear waves and subtle tones which lull you into a serene state. The exercises are not done quickly and that makes you feel that you are not getting a good workout. That is what the other reviewers seem to be complaining about.

Really, what happens is you don't feel stressed doing the workout and then while you are walking around the house, you notice your posture has changed and you feel a deep sense of relaxation and peace. This is what it is all about. This is not an aerobics, get stressed, feel the pain type workout. This is a "feel good" workout. If you want a "faster" workout, I'd recommend "Winsor Pilates" of "Pilates on the Go." Still, this workout also has its place in the Pilates world.

I think this was created for people who have had injuries or are looking for an exercise program which does not strain the lower back. With that in mind, you will notice a caring attitude through and lots of detailed explanations you won't find in most workouts.

Lynne Robinson is the world's top-selling Pilates author and her ability to teach and explain the details shows. She takes her time explaining all the main exercises and the principles behind this method of working out. You really focus on the breathing and positioning.

By the time you have done the Body Control and Weekly Workouts (three sections), you have a new understanding of the basics of this holistic approach to exercise.

The first day I did just the Body Control workout and then the next day I did the entire 75 minutes of the three workouts called: Weekly Workouts. I think anyone in normal health could do all 75 minutes. However, you can just do 25 minutes if you wish. It depends on how fast you want to see results.

Body Control includes: Principles of Pilates, Before you Begin, Relaxation Position, Lengthening away from Strong Center, Knee Circles, Stretch the Ham Strings, Stretching the Hip Flexors, Shoulder Drops, Neck Rolls, Side Rolls, Pillow Squeeze, Spine Curls, Standing at Ease, Floating Shoulders, Pole Raises, Waist Twist, Tennis Ball between Ankles, Roll Downs, Curl Ups, Curl Ups with Towel, Oblique Curl Ups, Static Spine Stretch, Pelvic Roll Backs, Pillow Squeeze, The Star, Diamond Press, Heel Kicks, The Cat, Rest Position, Single Leg Stretch, Double Leg Stretch, Ankle Circle, Stretching Inner Thighs, Feet Mobility, Arm Openings, Relaxation.

Weekly Workout includes: About the Program, Alignment, Centering, Breathing, Workout 1, 2, 3, Relaxation.

Relaxation - includes a few minutes of deep relaxation. Lynne is on a mat surrounded by votive candles. Nice relaxing segment.

Most of the time you will be on a mat flat on your back, but there are also standing exercises and she even uses weights. You will need a mat, small cushions, pillows (so comfy), ankle weights, a scarf, a tennis ball and rolled towel. You don't really have to have a tennis ball, but it does help with some of the exercises. She also uses a bamboo pole, but you could use an old broomstick. Good thing I had one in the garage.

The exercises are built around the principles of relaxation, co-ordination, alignment, stamina, concentration, centering, breathing and flow of movement. You are working the deep architectural structure of the body and rebalancing your muscles. You will notice the changes in your posture and strength within a few weeks. You will start to feel better after the first session. Your flexibility will increase and you will just start to feel good all over.

I would recommend this particular Pilates workout for:

Anyone who is new to exercise and wants to try pilates.

Anyone who wants to learn some unique moves. There are exercises in this workout I had not seen before, and rather enjoyed.

Anyone recovering from injuries which would not appreciate aerobic type exercises.

Those wishing to prevent and treat osteoporosis.

Those who are under a lot of stress and suffering from tension type headaches.

Anyone who enjoys quite evening workouts to help them wind down into a peaceful calm. This really will knock you out. I mean, it will relax you so much, you will
want to go to sleep.

I don't recommend this workout for early mornings. I did the second three workouts in the morning and almost couldn't get going even with a big cup of tea. It is just too relaxing for the morning. Maybe walk on the treadmill in the morning, and do this workout in the evening.

Gentle Controlled Movements for a Relaxing, Simple and Deeply Effective Workout.

On the day we got this my son (age 6 1/2) watched it three times, and he laughed at a lot of the gags, even the third time around. Adults may be able to chuckle once or twice but mostly they will wish they were watching the 1950's TV version of Dennis, which in my opinion was much funnier and had more charm.

Although the DVD is region code 1, there were no problems playing it on a European DVD player which had been switched to codefree use.

im a fan of Jason Patric and this is my lesser favorites of his. man im glad Keanu "Neo" Reeves left because if he made this one he would be like, well you all would know what would happen. here's the story, Patric works for the same guys as Keanu worked for(lucky turnout) and what do you know, Sandra Bullock finds out about this. Patric takes Bullock on a cruise ship where Willem Dafoe comes and wrecks havoc on the ship and then in the end it crashes into a mainland. you getting me so far people because this movie makes the original look like watergarbage but the original isnt, its way the hell better then this one. Glenn Plummer, Termurea Morrison, Joe Morton and Colleen Camp are all wasted in this washedout sequel. Jason Patric...what the **ck!!!

it was alright, but i can't say it was better or as good as the first. i strongly recommend watching the first, then watching the second.

Ok i will admit the movie does have its flaws here and there. just because Keanu(iam the one neo)reeves is not in this movie does not mean it is bad they actually do a good job of tying the lose ends up.the main flaw of the picture is basically jason patrics bland acting he has an atitude like he knows the sequel will fail.in most ways sandra bullock is better then the first. the film has a load of action and SPEED as you might say so before you neglest this fallen gem you may want to add it to you library.

im a fan of Jason Patric and this is my lesser favorites of his. man im glad Keanu "Neo" Reeves left because if he made this one he would be like, well you all would know what would happen. here's the story, Patric works for the same guys as Keanu worked for(lucky turnout) and what do you know, Sandra Bullock finds out about this. Patric takes Bullock on a cruise ship where Willem Dafoe comes and wrecks havoc on the ship and then in the end it crashes into a mainland. you getting me so far people because this movie makes the original look like watergarbage but the original isnt, its way the hell better then this one. Glenn Plummer, Termurea Morrison, Joe Morton and Colleen Camp are all wasted in this washedout sequel. Jason Patric...what the **ck!!!

it was alright, but i can't say it was better or as good as the first. i strongly recommend watching the first, then watching the second.

Ok i will admit the movie does have its flaws here and there. just because Keanu(iam the one neo)reeves is not in this movie does not mean it is bad they actually do a good job of tying the lose ends up.the main flaw of the picture is basically jason patrics bland acting he has an atitude like he knows the sequel will fail.in most ways sandra bullock is better then the first. the film has a load of action and SPEED as you might say so before you neglest this fallen gem you may want to add it to you library.