Veterans Day Movie Reviews

These DVD's from A&E represent the best known and certainly the most popular era of the long running British TV fantasy-adventure series "The Avengers." Made between 1965 and 1966, all 26 episodes of the fourth season of the show are available here on four discs.

When Honor Blackman (Mrs. Cathy Gale) left the series after season 3 to take up the lead role in the Bond movie "Goldfinger," the producers had already made the decision to start filming the series, moving it out of the TV studio and giving it a much glossier and dynamic feel. John Steed (Patrick MacNee), the debonair British government agent stayed on and his new partner was devised by the production team to be another tough, all-action girl with "Man Appeal." M-Appeal (geddit?) Elizabeth Shepherd was cast as Mrs. Emma Peel and two episodes were filmed before it was mutually agreed that she didn't meet the expectations of the production team. A quick replacement was sought and in stepped Diana Rigg. A TV legend was born.

The relationship between Steed and Mrs. Gale had always been haughty to say the least. With the introduction of the widowed (or seemingly) Mrs. Peel, the relationship between the two leads became much closer. Mrs. Peel was as intelligent, quick thinking and emasculated as her predecessor, and initially at least shared her penchant for leather outfits, but she was also certainly softer and more readily prepared to act as Steed's partner in their adventures.

The stories were certainly becoming much more fantasy bound, and the use of diabolical masterminds and organizations with bizarre acronyms became the norm for the stories from this series on. The fantasy and sci-fi elements of the show were highlighted more than before and the fashions and design of the show took on a much more stylish and indeed 'stylized' look. The success of these elements was immediate, and huge ratings in the UK followed, plus overseas transmissions of the show followed for the first time. Such was their success indeed that another 26 episodes were soon commissioned, this time to be made in color.

The stories have supposedly been digitally re-mastered for these DVD releases, and indeed the picture quality is pretty impressive, but there is still sparkle and dirt on the prints that may detract from the quality for some viewers. The 26 episodes are presented in the same order of their original UK transmission.

This for me is the very best season of the show, with great style and wit accompanying the excellent scripts, direction and production values. I'd certainly recommend this release to anyone.

This set is a classic! This has some of my favorites on it. Patrick Macnee as John Steed and Diana Rigg as Emma Peel are my favorite duo from the Avengers. This set includes The Danger Makers, A Touch of Brimstone, What The Butler Saw, The House That Jack Built, A Sense of History, How To Succeed at Murder, and Honey For the Prince. These are some of the all time best episodes.

For anyone unfamiliar with the stylish, tongue-in-cheek 1960s spy series, `The Avengers,' these episodes make the best introduction to the show's Diana Rigg years.

As Emma Peel, the tall, lithe Rigg made a strong female partner for Patrick Macnee's suave, polite agent John Steed, the lifeblood of the series.

Macnee provided brilliant support for all his leading ladies, and crisp, buxom Honor Blackman originated the role of leather-clad, judo-chopping woman warrior. But those show were not originally broadcast in the US, where viewers first tuned in and were turned on by Macnee's sparkling chemistry with the modelish Rigg.

A few caveats: this never more than a cult show in the U.S., and the shortcomings of its shoestring budgets are sometimes obvious. The writing varies in tone from intense action to silly comedy. The quality of the disks is generally quite good, but not always great. The A&E disks have few extras compared to the Contender series available in the UK. American fans: the checkerboard intro is missing, because these disks were made from UK masters, where the lead-in wasn't used.

That said, these episodes present several high points for the series in writing and direction, and also several of Rigg's more notorious costumes.

All that applies to the atmospheric historical thriller, `A Touch of Brimstone.' Diana Rigg is poured, padded and pushed up into black dominatrix gear, with boots, corset and snake. But the plot is ingenious, and Pat Macnee holds his end up, outwitting as well as outfighting particularly nasty villians.

Perhaps the best episode, though, has Peel trapped in a computerized house, trying to `reason her way out' of the predicament. Compared to the typical damsel-in-distress plots of other TV shows of the time, `The Avengers' women were decades ahead of their time.

`The Dangermakers' is another thriller, as the heroes infiltrate a group of thrill-seekers, military men who don't get enough buzz from civilian life.

`Honey for the Prince' presents nefarious goings-on with a lighter touch, and includes sterling performances by the best gallery of eccentric supporting characters ever assembled. Still, some fans fast-forward to Emma's dance of six veils. Her unpadded bustier does nothing for Diana Rigg's waifish bust _ think Kate Moss, not Pam Anderson. But her Emma Peel character does does think, and Rigg also shows endearing spunk in something as simple as tugging on her Turkish trousers. Scantily clad, she still takes out the bad guy.

In a fashion sense, the boyish Rigg does better dressed as Robin Hood in `A Sense of History.' Diana still saves the day in a costume that flatters her thin figure and shows off her legs. The plot is not quite as sharp as `Brimstone,' but there's another off-beat villain to provide a surprise.

`What the Butler Saw' is a bit fluffy, but gives Patrick Macnee a chance to have some fun in various undercover guises, including, of course, a true gentleman's gentleman.

The only real clunker in the lot is `How to Succeed.. at Murder,' a tiresome and condescending take on feminism that is even more dated now.

Six out of seven isn't bad, especially as part of a charming series that greatly influenced the `X-Files,' `Dark Angel,' `Alias,' `Charlie's Angels,' maybe even `Ed.' If you're curious about `The Avengers,' this is the place to start.

These DVD's from A&E represent the best known and certainly the most popular era of the long running British TV fantasy-adventure series "The Avengers." Made between 1965 and 1966, all 26 episodes of the fourth season of the show are available here on eight discs in four sets, or two at a time.

When Honor Blackman (Mrs. Cathy Gale) left the series after season 3 to take up the lead role in the Bond movie "Goldfinger," the producers had already made the decision to start filming the series, moving it out of the TV studio and giving it a much glossier and dynamic feel. John Steed (Patrick MacNee), the debonair British government agent stayed on and his new partner was devised by the production team to be another tough, all-action girl with "Man Appeal." M-Appeal (geddit?) Elizabeth Shepherd was cast as Mrs. Emma Peel and two episodes were filmed before it was mutually agreed that she didn't meet the expectations of the production team. A quick replacement was sought and in stepped Diana Rigg. A TV legend was born.

The relationship between Steed and Mrs. Gale had always been haughty to say the least. With the introduction of the widowed (or seemingly) Mrs. Peel, the relationship between the two leads became much closer with a great deal of sexual tension. Mrs. Peel was as intelligent, quick thinking and emasculated as her predecessor, and initially at least shared her penchant for leather outfits, but she was also certainly softer and more readily prepared to act as Steed's partner in their adventures.

The stories were certainly becoming much more fantasy bound, and the use of diabolical masterminds and organizations with bizarre acronyms became the norm for the stories from this series on. The fantasy and sci-fi elements of the show were highlighted more than before and the fashions and design of the show took on a much more stylish and indeed 'stylized' look. The success of these elements was immediate, and huge ratings in the UK followed, plus overseas transmissions of the show followed for the first time. Such was their success indeed that another 26 episodes were soon commissioned, this time to be made in color.

The stories have supposedly been digitally re-mastered for these DVD releases, and indeed the picture quality is pretty impressive, but there is still sparkle and dirt on the prints that may detract from the quality for some viewers. The 26 episodes are presented in the same order of their original UK transmission. Unfortunately, as with all the A&E Avengers releases, there are no extras at all. Not even production notes. However, there are menus included, which are nicely done.

This for me is the very best season of the show, with great style and wit accompanying the excellent scripts, direction and production values. I'd certainly recommend this release to anyone.

This Avengers is a must have DVD!Steves Helarious! Emma Rocks! It's an all round funny show.

John Steed must have felt like Gulliver in the three worlds of Kathy Gale, Mrs. Emma Peel and Tara King. 'The Avengers" was a popular 1960's British fantasy-adventure series that focused on the exploits of a male-female duo in the service of the British government. The series underwent several changes of its female lead but its one constant male lead was John Steed always portrayed by the debonair Patrick Macnee (Originally the John Steed had two male partners but that format eventually changed). Kathy Gale portrayed by Honor Blackman became Steed's first female partner. However, when Honor Blackman departed the series and Diana Rigg entered as Mrs. Emma Peel, the show became an international sensation. Rigg brought sophistication, wit, charm and beauty, which hid her lethal and highly visual judo and karate abilities. Macnee and Rigg complemented each other beautifully with their carefree witty and charming exchange of dialogue. The show distinguished itself with bizarre and futuristic villains and fantastic plots. Popular at the height of the James Bond craze, the show was able to distinguish itself with its simply over-the-top visual style. Laurie Johnson's catchy and sophisticated main title theme matched the visuals of the show and still conjures up an image of the series when listened to today. When Diana Rigg left the series, Linda Thorson entered as John Steed's new partner Tara King. The series soon went off the air in the United States. It was a shame because the episodes with Tara King were quite good. The King episodes seemed to be a little more down to earth and contained some very good writing and intricate plotting. In any event series definitely left its mark amongst the finest. These DVD copies are gorgeous and they sound great in Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono.

I am still kind of angry that A&E releases TV shows in episode groups instead of season sets, making all the sets way too expensive, even knowing they are all bare bones with no extras at all! (They recently got it right with the upcoming THE NEW AVENGERS: COMPLETE FIRST SEASON)

Well, this set is one of the best. Diana Rigg is not my favorite Avenger girl (Joanna Lumney as Purdey in THE NEW AVENGERS is) but she shows here why she became the most popular all around the world (Except for France, they like Tara King) and probally Steed's favorite.

THE MURDER MARKET- An excellent dark but funny episode. The Hitchcockian direction is superb like the fantastic aquarium murder during the intro. Funny moments include Steed imitating a fish and Emma dancing around her coffin. However, there are a few cons: This was Diana's first episode, and the writers were trying to make her a Cathy Gale-type of character who argues with Steed. Don't get me wrong, I love the Cathy Gale episodes as well, but this isn't Emma! It's Cathy! The other con is the embarassing use of a male stunt to replace Diana Rigg during a fall. (4/5)

A SURFEIT OF H20- This episode's plot was taken to do the mediocre movie in 1998. It deals with A DIABOLICAL MASTERMIND who creates a weather-making machine! Quite overrated. The villain is too nice and his diabolocal plan is rather weak. There is also the annoying Noah-like character that screams through the entire episode. There are still some good moments, like the slippery fight at the end. Let's not forget the way victims die: It makes no sense! (3.5/5)

THE HOUR THAT NEVER WAS- This starts off as a Twilight Zone episode, with Steed and Emma inside a deserted airbase trying to figure out what is going on! It is soon explained, only at the end. This is a very fun episode. The first half, with nothing but dialogue between Rigg and McNee is very amusing. (4.5/5)

DIAL A DEADLY NUMBER- Before the pager was invented, there was the bleeper! Businessmen are dying from heart-attacks and Steed tries to crack the case. They all were carrying a pager-like device inside their pockets. What could it be? If you love the Cathy Gale episodes like me, you are going to love this one. Very dark episode with excellent funny moments like the wine-tasting contest. Only con: The plot is quite confusing after a while. (4.5/5)

THE MEN-EATER AT SURREY GREEN- This episode puzzles me. It is a very funny take at the many Sci-Fi and B-Horror flicks from the 50's. There are many hilarious moments here (Was that "moon vegetation" line intentional?) and the old lady always cracks me up. But there are some moments that are way too dark and sad for such an apisode such as the electrocution. Let's not forget the Laura sub-plot that is dropped out half-way through. If you excuse the horrible stuntwork during the climatic fight, (The stuntman from THE MURDER MARKET is back again!) you will have a fun time. But it is still a silly "bad" episode. (3/5)

TWO'S A CROWD- This is a quite good episode. The doopledanger issue is done quite well here. The actio sequence at the end featuring model bombers is excellent. (4/5)

BONUS: TOO MANY CHRISTMAS TREES- Simple: This is one of the best AVENGERS ever! You have a fair X-Files plot, good villains, excellent creepy Christmas atmosphere, some horror movie elements, silly dream sequences, hilarious dialogue, and the great relationship between Steed and Emma. The tag scene is not to be missed! (Did they kiss?) One thing however: What happened to the psychic villainess? Well, enjoy the show! (5/5)

These DVD's from A&E represent the best known and certainly the most popular era of the long running British TV fantasy-adventure series "The Avengers." Made between 1965 and 1966, all 26 episodes of the fourth season of the show are available here on eight discs in four sets, or two at a time.

When Honor Blackman (Mrs. Cathy Gale) left the series after season 3 to take up the lead role in the Bond movie "Goldfinger," the producers had already made the decision to start filming the series, moving it out of the TV studio and giving it a much glossier and dynamic feel. John Steed (Patrick MacNee), the debonair British government agent stayed on and his new partner was devised by the production team to be another tough, all-action girl with "Man Appeal." M-Appeal (geddit?) Elizabeth Shepherd was cast as Mrs. Emma Peel and two episodes were filmed before it was mutually agreed that she didn't meet the expectations of the production team. A quick replacement was sought and in stepped Diana Rigg. A TV legend was born.

The relationship between Steed and Mrs. Gale had always been haughty to say the least. With the introduction of the widowed (or seemingly) Mrs. Peel, the relationship between the two leads became much closer with a great deal of sexual tension. Mrs. Peel was as intelligent, quick thinking and emasculated as her predecessor, and initially at least shared her penchant for leather outfits, but she was also certainly softer and more readily prepared to act as Steed's partner in their adventures.

The stories were certainly becoming much more fantasy bound, and the use of diabolical masterminds and organizations with bizarre acronyms became the norm for the stories from this series on. The fantasy and sci-fi elements of the show were highlighted more than before and the fashions and design of the show took on a much more stylish and indeed 'stylized' look. The success of these elements was immediate, and huge ratings in the UK followed, plus overseas transmissions of the show followed for the first time. Such was their success indeed that another 26 episodes were soon commissioned, this time to be made in color.

The stories have supposedly been digitally re-mastered for these DVD releases, and indeed the picture quality is pretty impressive, but there is still sparkle and dirt on the prints that may detract from the quality for some viewers. The 26 episodes are presented in the same order of their original UK transmission. Unfortunately, as with all the A&E Avengers releases, there are no extras at all. Not even production notes. However, there are menus included, which are nicely done.

This for me is the very best season of the show, with great style and wit accompanying the excellent scripts, direction and production values. I'd certainly recommend this release to anyone.

This is the BEST of all the Avengers sets. Every one is a gem! Patrick Macnee as John Steed and Diana Rigg as Emma Peel are "Superly" Fabulous! This set includes: The Murder Market, A Surfeit of H20, The Hour That Never Was, Dial A Deadly Number, Man-eater of Surrey Green, Two's A Crowd, and EVEN FOR A BONUS, they give you: Too Many Many Christmas Trees! THIS IS THE BEST SET OF THE AVENGERS!

These DVD's from A&E represent the best known and certainly the most popular era of the long running British TV fantasy-adventure series "The Avengers." Made between 1965 and 1966, all 26 episodes of the fourth season of the show are available here on four discs.

When Honor Blackman (Mrs. Cathy Gale) left the series after season 3 to take up the lead role in the Bond movie "Goldfinger," the producers had already made the decision to start filming the series, moving it out of the TV studio and giving it a much glossier and dynamic feel. John Steed (Patrick MacNee), the debonair British government agent stayed on and his new partner was devised by the production team to be another tough, all-action girl with "Man Appeal." M-Appeal (geddit?) Elizabeth Shepherd was cast as Mrs. Emma Peel and two episodes were filmed before it was mutually agreed that she didn't meet the expectations of the production team. A quick replacement was sought and in stepped Diana Rigg. A TV legend was born.

The relationship between Steed and Mrs. Gale had always been haughty to say the least. With the introduction of the widowed (or seemingly) Mrs. Peel, the relationship between the two leads became much closer. Mrs. Peel was as intelligent, quick thinking and emasculated as her predecessor, and initially at least shared her penchant for leather outfits, but she was also certainly softer and more readily prepared to act as Steed's partner in their adventures.

The stories were certainly becoming much more fantasy bound, and the use of diabolical masterminds and organizations with bizarre acronyms became the norm for the stories from this series on. The fantasy and sci-fi elements of the show were highlighted more than before and the fashions and design of the show took on a much more stylish and indeed 'stylized' look. The success of these elements was immediate, and huge ratings in the UK followed, plus overseas transmissions of the show followed for the first time. Such was their success indeed that another 26 episodes were soon commissioned, this time to be made in color.

The stories have supposedly been digitally re-mastered for these DVD releases, and indeed the picture quality is pretty impressive, but there is still sparkle and dirt on the prints that may detract from the quality for some viewers. The 26 episodes are presented in the same order of their original UK transmission.

This for me is the very best season of the show, with great style and wit accompanying the excellent scripts, direction and production values. I'd certainly recommend this release to anyone.

The Avengers, Patrick Macnee as John Steed and Diana Rigg as Mrs. Emma Peel are a classic two from the Avengers. This is a great set. It has some very good plots and these episodes are always fun to watch. From finding out about a new star from trading enemy agents into England, the Avengers are always on the tail of the enemy. This set includes: Silent Dust, Room Without a View,Small Game for Big Hunters, Girl From Auntie, The 13th Hole, and Quick-Quick-Slow Death. This is a fine Avengers sets... but not the best.

It is very difficult to review the Avengers DVD sets. Each set of disks has its own set of highlights and just when you think that they must have exhausted all of the clever ideas, they reach out and tap you with yet another inspired script superbly performed by well trained actors.

And this disk is no different. It ranges from the highly interesting Girl from Auntie (with a "costume" for Mrs. Peel which it is hard to believe got by censors from the period) in which Steed steps forward and takes the primary focus to the rather strange "The 13th Hole" which brings a new outlook on the game of golf as a life and death struggle. Not a weak episode in the bunch.

(One of the best parts about these old avengers episodes is seeing future stars of stage and screen in roles unlike those for which they achieved fame. )

yeah both these are good but its really all about the photo. great to see some of milt hinton's cine footage from the day and other fotos too. the stories are all good from the musicians interviewed even if the photographer does come across a bit of a pratt sometimes. well worth it if you are a jazz fan or appreciate modern history.

This is a documentary about the golden age Jazz greats. These are the stories and sounds of the legends in the Jazz industry. The famous Picture of the great Jazz musicians and singers combined on the sidewalk of a street in Harlem, N.Y.. The kids that were sitting on the curb with Count Basie, wasn't supposed to be in the shot; but was used to add a realistic setting to the picture. Then there was the spitball story, told by Dizzy Gillespie himself. Dizzy was always shooting spitballs on the stage when they would be doing a show. He coaxed another band member into shooting them also, and Cab Calloway knew Dizzy had been shooting the spitballs and gave Dizzy plenty of warnings to stop. In one show, while Cab was on stage singing and dancing with some girls, a spitball landed on stage in front of Cab and the girls; right in the spot light. Mr. Calloway stopped the show and yelled at Dizzy, but it wasn't Dizzy that time; it was the other band member. When the other band member admitted to the spitball, Mr. Calloway still claimed it was Dizzy's fault, and fired him. Mr. Gillespie and Mr. Calloway got into a heated argument. The argument turned into a fight, and Dizzy pulled a switch blade on Mr. Cab Calloway; slicing him on the hand. Mr. Calloway, lunged at Dizzy and banged his leg against a large luggage trunk; forming a large bleeding wound on his leg. Mr. Gillespie said in his own words, "That was the best thing that had every happened to me" The fact that Mr. Cab Calloway fired him from the band, Mr. Dizzy Gillespie went on and formed his own band, and created his own success. This is an historial documentary that shouldn't be ignored. I recommend it.

A Great Day in Harlem: This is a great documentary about one of the most famous jazz photos. With interviews from the photographer, musicians, and even one of the kids sitting next to Count Basie in the front, it gives you a nice background about the photo. Also, there is even some color film footage that was taken by Milt Hinton's wife, along with sequences of photographs that give the feel of motion.

The Spitball Story: A nice mini-documentary about the story behind the spitball that led to Dizzy Gillespie being fired from Cab Calloway's orchestra. Lots of commentary from Diz himself is included (plus Milt Hinton and Jonah Jones), and during the end credits, there's some film footage of Dizzy performing "He Beeped When He Should Have Bopped."

I'll be to the point. If you like Vic than this is a worthwhile buy because the bass playing is great. However, if you're looking for a good guitar trio like Vital Tech Tones or the Mike Stern band (if you saw the tour), you will be disapointed. Regi Wooten leaves somthing desperately desired as a guitarist. Actually, HE'S TERRIBLE. It's still a good buy just for the bass though, and Regi doesn't come on until a good way through the show. I recomend the DVD but I take away a star for the guitar work.

The video is excellent for any bass player. Victor goes over his slap technique in a very easy-to-learn manner. It's awesome just to watch him in action. Now that his tab book is out the video will also be a good reference for learing some great tunes such as "Amazing Grace" and "Norwegian Wood."

I also want to reply to a completely ridiculous comment made saying that Regi was "terrible." I have seen Regi live as well as on this DVD and Victor Wooten's VHS Bass Technique video and you have to be completely devoid of any musical appreciation and recognition of skill, for that matter, to say Regi is terrible. In my and MANY peoples opinion Regi is without a doubt one of if not the finest electric guitar players out there. I would put him up against Satriani, Malmsteen, Patrucci, Anastasio...anybody. I myself am primarily an electric guitar player and Regi is absolutely incredible. It really aggravates how someone can make such an ignorant comment about this incredible person and musician. Anybody playing with Victor Wooten is going to be world-class...including J.D. Blair, Joseph Wooten, Derico Watson, Divinity...especially the person who taught him how to play...which is Regi.

Anyway, this video is worth every penny. I encourage anyone to go check out the Victor Wooten band if they are playing in your area. The Flecktones are awesome but Vic playing with Regi and Joseph and JD or Derico is absolutley incredible.

Before I purchased this dvd I had read reviews that said it was a great dvd but not to buy it if you were looking for vic to show you how to play like him. Having watched the dvd many many times since then I have to DISAGREE. Just watching this monster in action has given me more tricks & insights into how to do many of the thing he does. Taking the sound I once thought were magic and impossible and making me see that they are not impossible or magic just hard to do (ie require lots of practice). I highly recommend this dvd to anyone especially if you are like I am, not having any exposure to good bass players. We learn from each other so we need to watch each other play. I would say that just from watching Vic play (& practicing) my skill level has double over the past 6 months, and I've been playing for 8 years now.

Crest of the Stars is a Science Fiction drama that anyone with leanings toward the genre should enjoy.

Jinto Lin, the son of a man who gave up his planet to the Abh - a race of elven appearance and a 200+ year life span - is emerging from a difficult childhood. When we meet him, he is waiting for the small transport vessel that will start him on a journey leading to his grooming by the Abh as a diplomatic figure who will hopefully help to deflate tensions between the races.

Although Jinto doesn't quite know what he thinks the Abh will be like, he certainly doesn't expect what he gets when he meets his escort. He's delighted when Trainee Lafiel turns out to be a friendly young woman, as curious about humans as he is about the Abh, who even keeps the ball rolling when he attempts a joke.

They're both obviously happy when Lafiel is the staffer assigned to him once they reach their mother ship. They turn out to have eerily similar childhoods and start to bond quite quickly, when complications arise. The Abh ship is attacked, and Lafiel is ordered to escape with Jinto and get him to his destination at all costs. Their adventure has begun.

A story like this depends on the chemistry between the two main characters, and it works. First of all, the gender role reversal adds an interesting element - the fact that it's Lafiel protecting Jinto instead of the other way around leads to a different dynamic than usual. Lafiel is quite likable, surprised but never condenscending when Jinto often misunderstands basic Abh psychology and - although she never says this outright - obviously keeping enough of a thin line between them so that she can do her job while still becoming his friend.

If Lafiel is likable, Jinto is even moreso. He's a wonderful narrator - thoughtful, sensitive and open. In short, the type of person you would indeed want to see acting as a diplomat in a few more years. He also doesn't sink into self-pity when he realizes that he's starting to fall hard for Lafiel in spite of the fact that he's completely aware that nothing will ever happen between them, as - barring a tragedy - he'll be long gone when Lafiel is still fairly young.

There are also some interesting moments involving Human-Abh differences. My favorite is when Lafiel, planetside for the first time in her life, bravely tells Jinto to leave her and carry on, as she is going blind - which she can tell because the stars are twinkling! (Jinto quickly and gently explains to her the effect of planetary atmosphere on light).

With two strong main characters and an interesting premise, the series is recommended. Just be aware that it has an open ending, leading to Banner of the Stars.

Crest of the Stars is a anime based on a novel and it shows. Lots of details, lots of background, lots of characters and lots of action. Jinto Lin, a Abh by title, and Lafiel, a Abh by birth, are the focus of the 13 episodes. They are thrown into the chaos of a galaxy about to explode into a war, but they always stay the focus of the story even when the events shown are light years away.
The Abh are a race who live in space and use genetic engeering to improve themselves. They believe that to bring peace to the galaxy that they have to control it - why else would they have massive battle fleets and take over planets that couldn't be a danger to their Empire? Of course, the other Human Empires don't agree with their viewpoint and also fear the Abh who they see as organic machines who have gone nuts.
The anime gives us the impression that the Abh have the edge in spaceships and military weapons, yet also show that even the Abh can be selfish and unsure of themselves. At one point, in the last few episodes, a Abh officer did not understand why the enemy fleet would attack him even after realizing that he had the bigger fleet. The idea that the normal humans might prefer to die in battle than retreat or become 'slaves' seemed to be beyond his grasp.
This is the FIRST part of a Epic of stories, starting with Creat of the Stars. I plan to get them all. I want to see who wins, even if I'm not to sure who is the Good Side and who is the Bad Side. Much of the story is seen from the Abh's point-of-view.

Firstly I would like to start off by saying what an incredible value this collector set is...Crest of the Stars is a beautiful anime worth more much more than what you will be paying for.
People looking for mindless action like that of anime like Gundam and Dragon Ball Z will be very disappointed with Crest of the Stars. Crest of the Stars is not an action anime; it is an adventure, love story and political drama all in one. The story of Crest of the Stars is its strongest point along with its characters. Many of the episodes in this series are spent on character development instead of focusing on the actual plot. The animation quality is great but since the anime is a few years old it isn't as good as most of the recent BANDAI/Sunrise projects such as Cowboy bebop. The music is excellent but it is not typical of most Japanese anime as it has a more sci-fi feel. At only 13 episodes, Crest of the Stars is hardly complete, which is why viewers of this anime who like it should check out the sequels Banner of the Stars and Banner of the Stars II. Most people who are past the age of 13 and who don't consider Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball Z the best of anime will most likely like this series.

As a big fan of Celine, of course this is a "must have" for my collection. But I'd say Sony should have included more on this DVD, such as music videos of songs other than just "A New Day Has Come."
Also, the remix version of "A New Day Has Come" plays when viewing the photo gallery, but the slide show ends before the song goes to the end, which is a pitty! For the benefit of all Celine lovers, Sony really should think more for the consumers and add more onto this DVD.

'A New Day Has Come' marks Celine Dion's comeback after 2 years of abscense from the music scene. This EP/DVD Single features the title song, a beautiful clip with a wonderful theme. (5.1 surround sound) If you have a good surround system, you will sure enjoy this one. Also includes extra features: The Making of the Video, The Making of the Album & other stuff.
Recommended.

This dvd single is a must for every celine dion fans... It contains unpublished footage, as photo shootings, studio recordings, and interview, and lots of stuff!
It great!

This collection would be improved by inclusion of the early Dreyer comedy The Master of The House. I have seen Gertrud and The Day of Wrath in the cinema several times and Gertrud is on my list of all time top ten. The severity minimal means achieving maximum effects are the essence of what director/critic/screenwriter called "the transcendental style". The story of a woman's' love that was never requited by those who loved sounds simple enough but then, Dreyer would not be the master he is if he had not turned it into something beautiful that is intrinsically tied to the means of the film as medium itself. I thin that this film has only 57 shots. Yes 57! Long camera takes and static camera setups are what make this particular film and unforgettable experience. Definitely not for all tastes but once you see it you will probably be hooked.

Dreyer was concerned with truth, which he defined as being true to life. Words, voice quality, movement, lighting all had to reflect the script as refracted through a realistic exposition of human nature. Dreyer achieved this truth. There is no denying he was a genius at directing. Yet all in all, these stories are uninteresting. After the first half of Ordet, the remainder of the plot is fairly predictable. And I hate to say it, but Gertrud is just plain boring. We learn a bit about the meaning of love, but hardly enough to recompense our time. Yet Gertrud exemplifies the problem with the material. Dreyer's concern for truth was for truth in detail, yet the deep truths expressed in Gertrud are of a philosophical nature, i.e. the larger truths that represent the summary wisdom gained over a lifetime. If it is true, as Dreyer said, that we enter the theater and are transported into a different experience, it seems obvious that we would not want it to be "real" in the sense of that which seems like our common, everyday lives. Some of the "reality TV" shows that give us a glimpse into the life of ordinary people only reveal that these people are...well, ordinary. In fact, most of those people are darned uninteresting, their ideas pedestrian, and their conversation dull. While I shun movies loaded with special effects, explosions, and artificial tensions predictably resolved, I also expect the movie to open a window into the imagination by presenting a plot that has a germ of something unreal. These three movies are thoughtful, but not thought provoking. The photography is excellent and, in fact, the most exciting part of the production. The staging is meticulous. And the transfers are superb (Thanks again, Critereon!). I want to make it clear that my disappointment with these films issues from neither the usual American impatience with slow expositions and pacing, nor from unfamiliarity with foreign films. I loved Afterlife, and have many other foreign films in my collection. Again, Dreyer was a genius. But the material he chose and his literal treatment of it make this set a disappointment. Of the four discs, only the one about Dreyer (My Metier) was truly interesting. Day Of Wrath is mildly interesting, but one I could easily miss.

This great package contains films by one on the masters of modern cinema. Dreyer's work provides a marvellous antidote to what passes for cinema in today's world. Dreyer's films are in effect works of art.
Of this set, my two favorites are Ordet and Gertrud. All of Carl Dreyer's film manage to magically combine the physical and the metaphysical. It takes time to get into the pace of these films, but one into them, they are totally absorbing. The pace required is that of real time. These films restore real emotion and humanity to film, so very different from what passes for emotion and feeling in most of today's Hollywood productions.
To understand these films it is necessary to work from the inside out as it were. We are required to do the work for ourselves. We have to think and feel for ourselves as we watch these films. They are theraputic in the sense that the viewer has to slow down and pay attention. Everything counts in a Dreyer film.
These film are at one and the same time abstract and very personal. I can see how they have influenced fellow Dane Lars von rier.
For anyone is looking for action and external excitement in their films, I would suggest that they look elsewhere, but if they are want to see meditative works of art, this is the place to find them.

There's been a murder here, but it's not the one you think. The adaptation of Colin Dexter's "The Remorseful Day" has left a stinking corpse of what was a masterful story, an exquisite exposition of the "Parsifal" like heart of Endeavour Morse. The culprits? Rebecca Eaton and her doltish cadre of American PBS writers who have distinguished themselves in missing the entire point of the book.
Mind you, if you have not read the book, you'll enjoy this video. All the great elements are there: John Thaw essays Morse brilliantly, Kevin Whately turns in a terrific performance as Lewis, although he is compelled to deliver a totally ridiculous and melodramatic "Morse is dead!" proclamation. He acquits himself and moves on. All the supporting players, the family intrigues, the score, the filmwork - all executed brilliantly. So, you'd have little reason to suspect something is awry.

But there is and it is as great a disservice to a book as I can ever remember. Now, that argument can be made about a lot of transfers from book to film, but in this case, and with this series, which has been so faithful to Dexter's works, it is just incomprehensible. I can only conclude that it is due to the American fascination with smoothing out any sense of nuance in order to champion the easily digestible. I should tell you where the crime lies, but that's not fair to anyone who really would enjoy what actually happened in the story. Suffice it to say that much of the story turns on the Parsifal legend, and how in fact the pure of heart are vindicated with vision of the grail, whatever form that grail may take. So, Endeavour Morse is vindicated in a coda that lingers with you long, long after you put the book down. Throughout the film, there are efforts made to quote not only Wagner's theme for "Parsifal", but Han Knappertsbusch's direction of it in the 1962 score. Why? Well, Morse makes reference to it in discussion with Lewis, and it fits with the T.S Elliott quote that includes the title of the story, plus Knappertsbusch was himself the most Morse like of conductors in every way imaginable, and in 1962 was well aware that he was dying. So with all of the main clues in tact, why on earth Eaton and her merry band of nitwits elected to miss the point is not only unimaginable but unforgiveable.

Certainly, enjoy this DVD for what it is. I assure you that if you read the book, you will want, as I want, to grab the murderous crutch and shove it where PBS don't broadcast. The most heinous murder in Oxford was committed in Boston. Shame on Eaton. Perhaps one day Dexter will insist on a reshoot, although Thaw is not well, and Whately may have no interest in any further casting as Lewis. Somehow, the record, as it is in the book, needs to be set straight.

Sad to see that the great actor, John Thaw has passed away from esophageal cancer.

This episode is on par with all of the other great episodes of this outstanding series. Thaw's portrayal of an intellectual, world-weary British detective who confronts often complex and involved cases of murder and other crimes.

Now episode to this point really brought home to me how much I loved Inspector Morse. I was actually quite angry to see the great Inspector face such health problems (an understatement), but in light of John Thaw's actual illness, I guess it is to be expected.

My only regret is that there are not 100 more episodes hidden away somewhere. Inspector Morse and John Thaw will be sorely missed.

This is probably one of the best (if not *the* best) Inspector Morse television episode. I admit to alot of that bias *not* going toward it for being the final installment of the series, but more for it being such a WELL-DONE final installment of the series.

The obligatory murder plot/premise has to do with the re-opening of a case involving the death of a middle-aged temptress/nurse named Yvonne Harrison. Lewis and Morse tackle the case, with the latter acting particularly strange concerning many aspects of the matter. There are a plethora of suspects, one of whom is Morse's own doctor, which conveniently leads to scenes showing how the great Chief Inspector's health is deteriorating rapidly. The Harrison case, while definitely being worked-through carefully, isn't the real focus of the story.

Morse's plight is the prime meaning behind "The Remorseful Day". Never before has the character been rendered so human, and so pathetic. His lady-friend (appearing in recent TV adaptations) has apparently left him, and so Morse is utterly alone. There are poignant scenes between he and Lewis, of him making final preparations, and of him sitting alone in his home listening to profoundly sad classical music. John Thaw as Morse gives a veritable tour-de-force, in the most subtle and gracious way possible, of the great detective in his declining days.

Special note should be given to all involved in the television adaptation, for they have, in my opinion, surpassed the novel. Colin Dexter's book was fine, but it dealt more heavily with the actual murder case, and the illness of Morse was left for small parts, usually at the end of each day. Here, with the version made for the small screen, we have the situation of Morse's closing life brought to the forefront. It is done well, and an experience to watch.

The last scene is terribly moving. I always make it a point to realize that when I sit down to watch a movie or television show, NOT to get too emotional, because there are only actors upon the screen - nothing is real. I thought I would be able to hold forth with said beliefs while watching "The Remorseful Day". But the very last scene, involving just Lewis and Morse, brought tears to my eyes. The swelling music and the starkness of the scene was a wonderful way to end the series.

The impression left is one not easily forgotten.