A pleasing documentary
928253
It is important to be aware that this is a career-spanning documentary, not a collection of Abba videos or concert performances. There are snippets of videos and concert footage, but the major portion of this DVD is a history of the band - before, during, and after their heyday - with extensive interviews of the four members. This documentary was produced for television as a promotional tie-in with the musical "Mamma Mia", so there is coverage of the conception and preparation of that show. Extra footage, about 30 minutes worth, not shown on television is included here. A fine keepsake for fans. Still waiting for the collection of videos, but this is a nice place to start.
1226721
This is a lovely documentary/film made in conjunction with the 2002-3 exhibit "Degas and the Dance," the curators of which are featured commentators:  one is an art historian, the other a former dancer and ballet instructor who specializes in late 19th Century French dance.  Together, they paint a vivid and informative picture of Degas' life-long relationship with the Paris Opera.

This is not a biography of Degas; it is an exploration--through his art--of his fascination with dancers and his obsession with perfection.  The program features many of his well- and lesser-known paintings and pastels, with enough intelligent discussion and close-ups to keep most viewers happy.  It goes further, though, to show  (through re-enactments) Degas' working methods and his restless experimentation with alternative mediums and techniques.  We see him meticulously pose models in his Montmarte studio, then use the sketches of individual dancers to compose complex classroom and backstage scenes--often over and over again.  We're treated to a demonstration of  Monotype printing, and examples of  how he sometimes used these as underpaintings for pastels.  We get a peek at lovely fan-shaped paintings, a glimpse of an etching, and a very cool side-by-side look at actual photographic negatives and the corresponding finished works of art.  We watch Degas creating the wax model for his "Little Dancer" bronze, and learn why his subsequent sculptural efforts were for his personal use only.  This film does a reasonably good job of showing both the breadth of Degas' dance works (oils, pastels, prints, sculpture, etc.) and their chronological progression from realistic to abstract.

"In art, one is never entitled to disregard what is true." Degas had seemingly-unrestricted access to the Opera and its dancers, so this film goes into some detail about the world of the dancers in the artist's time.  He disregarded the glamor to focus on their reality of long hours, hard work, sore feet and unnatural movements. We get a fairly un-sugarcoated depiction of wealthy patron/predators who frequented the performances--then understand why they show up in the shadows of Degas' paintings.  The works of art and re-enactments are interspersed with scenes of present-day dancers and the glorious Paris Opera House.  The commentators are knowledgeable and they clearly love Degas and the ballet; and the film is beautifully presented and scored.

The DVD extras, while not extensive, are well worth viewing.  There are brief, but informative, audio dialogues on nine of the featured works;  as well as deleted scenes, including one showing original set models (maquettes) for ballet productions Degas attended, a trip to the artist's pastel supplier, and extended discussions of the artwork.  I was disappointed in the "Timeline" feature, which promised a detailed timeline with 30 rarely-seen works of art--but this just wasn't the case (or maybe I was simply unable to access it...).  The only black mark on this otherwise-terrific disc.
2871000
This documentary gave sizeable presentation to gay men, lesbians, and transgendered people.  The topic covered Asia, Africa, and Latin America.  Interviewees were English-speaking and non-English-speaking.  (It was amusing to hear such heavily British-influenced English and how people would stress the "ed" in past tense verbs, as if they were all pronounced like 'learned' or 'affected.')

There is a big argument among gay academics about whether all gays are alike or different; it's called essentialism versus constructionism in academese.  Most experts favor the latter and go into detail about how gays abroad or in the past differ from those in the West today.  However, this documentary shows numerous gays of the developing world saying how happy they were to hear the word "gay" or "transgendered" instead of epithets, how pleased they were to meet other gays for the first time, or how excited they were to see gay films.  This is very similar to the coming-out stories of modern, Western gays.  Further, many gays and lesbians of color in the West have suggested that white culture may promote or enforce homophobia in communities of color.  (You can hear this in the independent documentary "Our House: Gays and Lesbians in the Hood.")  Here, one Pakistani man notes that homophobic laws were not in Islamic legal books, but were handed over by the British.  Several commentators wonder if the West is to blame for homophobia, rather than for gay rights.

This documentary does tend to suggest that what is happening now in the developing world happened in the West 30 years ago.  The Cairo 52 controversy is portrayed as the Egyptian Stonewall Riots.  However, this idea is worked against because homoerotic art from Ancient Egypt, India, and Japan is shown.  Gay rights may be new in this region, but not gay desire or relationships.  I hate to contradict myself, but whereas Western gays can join gay-exclusive activist organizations, this documentary mentions that AIDS activism, feminism, and the Internet are often the only ways, though circuitous, that gays in this region can fight for freedom.

Unfortunately, too many people, in the West and outside of it, think that gay rights is just ephemeral, nebulous, marginal politicking.  Especially in nations worried about starvation, civil war, and lack of health care, gay rights often take a back seat.  However, this documentary shows how homophobia is no joke.  It focuses upon people that have been arrested, almost raped, and lashed just for consensual, non-violent behavior.  Furthermore, it shows how the bigotry of leaders often floats down to the masses to make the lives of everyday gay men, lesbians, and transgendereds dangerous.

There are small comments from IGLHRC staff members and Congressman Frank.  Still, this documentary is wonderful because gays and lesbians from the developing world got to speak for themselves.  To be truthful, Janeane Garofalo's narration gives a straight, white, Western stamp of approval.  However, I thought she was being a pro-gay ally by performing here.  Also, she is not seen whereas non-Western gay activists are.

When the documentary ends, it notes that many gay rights activists in the developing world have to migrate to the West.  (They show many individuals now in Canada or the UK, but rarely in the US, CIS officials wake up!)  They do note that most gays and lesbians from those regions will not be able to immigrate.  I wish they would have added that some developing countries do have strong gay rights laws.  South Africa and Ecuador are examples.

I was incredibly moved by this documentary.  I want to thank the makers for putting it together.  This work must be publicized more than it has been.  This will make you want to write a check to Amnesty or IGLHRC in a second.  All gay men and lesbians of color, regardless of their citizenship, should buy this work and share it with their allies.  All progressive individuals, regardless of sexuality or nationality, should peep this piece as well.
916146
This early Stanley Kubrick documentary was fascinating to watch. As many of us have watched Kubrick's films over and over it is with an educated eye that you will likely view this for the first time. Can you see the future Kubrick director style? Yes, I believe so. There are several clever shots you'll appreciate.

I also must recommend playing the secondary audio track- narration by directors Roger Avary & Keith Gordon (Dexter, Waking the Dead) They have a really much more insightful, amusing dialog than I imagined. Definitely play the second track after watching the original audio. They wander off topic a lot, but it is with amusing consequences.

Nice slice of the Kubrick world for us to finally watch. My collection is complete now- This is actually a cool DVD, the packaging and production values are really slick - nice artwork.
2496084
Documentary goes through notable times and people of history that occurred in Hampton Court. I thought this was very nice visually and appealed to my sense of history appreciation. Camera crews weave around and into all sorts of nooks and crannies while others discuss what they may have been used for, or if an important event was suspected to have happened there. I may well never see this place, or a great many others, so I enjoyed the opportunity to peek inside using this short.
66027
This is such an incredibly beautiful film and I cannot recall ever being so moved by a documentary.  I know in recommending it, there will be those who will not fully comprehend its beauty and meaning--two and a half hours of near total silence watching a group of men who have devoted their entire lives to loving and worshiping God.  The silence may make this film difficult for some to watch; we moderns are used to so much more from a film: lush musical score, bone-rattling sound and visual effects--none of that here.  Part of the film's beauty is its simplicity.  There are no special effects or lighting tricks--only natural sounds and natural light, which is sometimes only candles.  There is no music except when the monks gather in chapel to sing the hours.  Into Great Silence is so "un-Hollywood" it causes me to rejoice at what film can do in the right hands (congratulations Philip Grning--well done!).  When watching this film, I would recommend setting aside time when you can limit distractions and be fully present, watching the entire film in a single viewing. You will not be disappointed.
2829768
A very likable documentary about Stevie Nicks. Many rock documentaries seem to be filled with sycophants having endless praise about the featured artist. This documentary has some of that, but also buffered with critical commentary about Stevie's life and times.

The documentary starts from her early days pre-Fleetwood, and spends most of the time in her glory years, then a quicker summary at the end of her current period...which is less popular. It becomes evident in the documentary that her success is solely due to her drive as a strong song and music maker. She obviously is strong willed, and that comes out too. I'm kind of amazed she was able to do so well with all the cocaine, alcohol, and barbituates she went thru. But those are rock and roll times.

An odd thing I noticed. In the first half there is are some scenes with Christine McVie, and Christine hardly physically opens her mouth when she talks. Kinda weird, almost like a ventriloquist.

This really was an well produced documentary. They didn't leave stuff out. It is obvious that Stevie was (or maybe still is) a prima donna. Maybe that happens to a lot of rock and rollers. I don't think it happened to Tom Petty, whom she used to sing with. Anyhow, the fast forward button didn't get touched until near the end. The documentary is that engrossing. I hope you enjoy it as well.
4968435
I really enjoyed this documentary/play! Without focusing too much on Thoreau's personal philosophy, which I obviously adore or I likely wouldn't be writing this review, I'll run through the film itself.

I can't comment on any special features that may or may not be on the DVD, because I watched it at a friend's house, and we didn't explore the disc. BUT, the film itself is certainly enjoyable. It starts out with a Thoreau historian who seems to have a genuine appreciation for Thoreau and his philosophy. He then gives us a bit of history about Thoreau, and his life before his 2 years on Walden pond.

Next, it shifts to a filming of an exhibition of the play itself. I really enjoyed this bit. The actors were all quite talented, and I think they were all a good fit for their respective roles. The man that was picked to play Ralph Waldo Emerson was probably the best fit of the entire cast, in my respectful opinion. It was a real treat to see two of my idols on screen (and stage) together. Very cool.

At the end, like a well written essay, there is a bit of a conclusion from the previously mentioned historian, and the film ends fittingly enough.

I think Thoreau would be well pleased with this production.
135802
Rembrant is my favorite artist, so I like most anything about him.  This documentary had a lot of interesting information from his personal life, which for me always provides a greater depth to the art.  It is always interesting to see just how "human" a famous person was, to know about their flaws and addictions gives us all hope I suppose?  Hopefully someday someone with remake this one in a little more lively format, as the information is presented in what I'd call a "lecture" format, which works fine if what you want is information.  But if you want a little entertainment (a little) this is not the type of film for that.  Overall I think it is well organized and a well made film, as it is always a challenged to present anyone entire life is one sitting.
2734971
I was impressed with the quality in this DVD presentation.  This documentary succeeds in many ways and preserves for all time some integral interviews of those who knew the Stooges.  Some of the rare photography (including much from the Larry Fine family) was amazing, to say the least, and the DVD is well worth the purchase. It's much better than any previous or current documentaries on the comedy team or Ted Healy. The radio interviews with the Stooges add a nice touch as supplemental materials.
2214419
Watching a documentary movie is a tricky thing, perhaps as tricky as making one. Sometimes we like (or dislike) the film simply because we like (or dislike) the subject matter it features, even though we know the film should be evaluated on merit, or how they present the subject matter.

I say this because most viewers would find the star of Lauren Greenfields documentary The Queen of Versailles unlikable. Some may say unlikable is a too weak word. Anyway, the film is a very honest portrayal of the lives of Jackie Siegel and David Siegel, CEO and founder of Westgate Resorts.

I don't repeat the story of a billionaire couple and their unfinished 90,000-square-foot mansion. You can easily find it elsewhere. The Queen of Versailles offers an intimate picture of their life during both pre and post Lehman Brothers collapse.

The film is sometimes funny, sometimes depressing, mostly interesting because of the King and the Queen of the film. It is also hard to resist a touch of Schadenfreude here. At the same time, however, the film does not offer an insightful look into what made them what they are.

Some refer to the film as a sort of rags to riches to rags story. Yes, the phrase succinctly summarizes the content apparently, but the truth is we are not really sure about the second rags part. Perhaps we need more time to look at the subject matter more clearly and objectively.
2861397
I thoroughly enjoyed this little documentary, "Iguanas After Breakfast". I found it both educational and charming! Young Connor makes a fine host and adds a refreshing perspective to the explorations of San Cristobal island, in the Galapagos.

We meet animals and people, see the town, a farm, the woods, the countryside, and the seashore. I've never been to the Galapagos islands and didn't know much about them, only that they are home to certain unusual animals, which fascinated Charles Darwin. I did not have a clear picture in my mind of what these islands are really like. I learned that people live there too, more about the animals, and how lovely it is. The documentary is filmed from a very natural point of view that provides many satisfying glimpses of the island and its residents as they go about their daily lives. The narrative adds interesting snippets of history and local character. I now have a much better understanding of the Galapagos islands and what life is like there.

This is a perfect documentary for children; I am sure they will love a travel adventure with animals, nature, and another child as guide. As a former child myself, I, too, found it fun, and I also recommend it for adults who enjoy travel films and learning about our natural world.
2901621
This black and white travelogue-styled documentary takes the viewer on an international journey to countries such as Peru, Cuba, Brazil, Chile, the Philippines, Colombia, Israel, Italy, etc. Jos Luis Guerin, director and filmmaker, interacts with people on the streets in both urban and suburban areas  focusing on lower-class locals with an even greater focus on the wacky human phenomena known as the street preacher. The frantic, desperate presence of these preachers brings an entertaining 'freak factor' to the film, adding balance and variety to what would have otherwise turned out to be a picture solely devoted to the commoner. Guerin has a knack for prompting his subjects to share their experiences, interests, problems, hopes, and concerns, all of which contribute towards making an earnest film that's interesting, amusing, (at times) bizarre, serious, playful, questioning, spontaneous, and relatable. If you enjoy unscripted documentaries with a sensitive, astute eye on people that reveals a deep understanding of humanity, I recommend Guest. (3.5 stars)
4812899
This portrait of Star Wars fans awaiting the opening of Episode One is entertaining, often hilarious, strangely endearing, and just generally a very well done documentary.  The slice of life quality is only enhanced by the sometimes rough shooting conditions.  While I like Star Wars, I'm not quite a "Starwoid," yet I still found the film emminently watchable and a great deal of fun.
For DVD viewers, the extras section is far better than I have seen in many high-budget releases.  Although subtitles might have been a useful feature that is missing, make sure you catch the Kevin Smith interview, the out-takes from the Star Wars musical, not to mention the delightful and often side-splitting bantering during the director's commentary.
Overall, this documentary is more than worth its price.
2514819
Thoroughly enjoyed this well done documentary and Labor of Love.
4391302
"The Unknown Peter Sellers" is a fascinating documentary about the great comedic actor.  This film is produced, written, and directed by John Scheinfeld and David Leaf.  The filmmakers incorporate clips from Sellers' film and television work, as well as interviews with a number of individuals: biographer and film critic Alexander Walker, Sellers' "Being There" co-star Shirley MacLaine, Monty Python's Michael Palin, director Richard Lester, and more.  MacLaine's memories of Sellers are particularly mesmerizing.

The documentary provides a general overview on the brilliant Seller's personal life and career.  The film covers his family background, his extensive career in radio comedy, his television work, and the ups and downs of his career in theatrical films.  We get insight into how Sellers developed the character of Inspector Clouseau, and learn what happened behind-the-scenes of his triple role in the classic "Dr. Strangelove."  Also covered are Sellers' TV commercials and his artistic triumph in "Being There."

As the title indicates, this documentary emphasizes Sellers' lesser-known artistic achievements.  The filmmakers cover television programs and films that I had never heard of, and include a sampling of clips from this remarkable body of "unknown" work.  This material includes such oddities as a 1964 TV film, written by Rod Serling, entitled "Carol for Another Christmas."  The narrator notes that this film aired once and "vanished"; included is a fascinating clip showing Sellers in character as a frighteningly intense cult leader.

The DVD includes some intriguing special features.  I especially enjoyed Sellers' TV commercials for Barclay's Bank and TWA Airlines; in these ads the versatile Sellers gets to play some colorful characters, such as a hilarious Italian swinger.  There is also a fun behind-the-scenes featurette about the making of the TWA ads.  Another extra is an engrossing 1971 TV interview with Sellers.  He talks about working on TV, the characters he portrayed in his radio career, and more.  This interview offers a funny and touching view of Sellers; it's especially fun to watch him clowning and causing the interviewer to laugh.  The DVD also includes a filmography of Sellers' work.

I have admired Sellers' work since I was a child, and this superb documentary left me admiring this great talent even more.  He truly was a one-of-a-kind performing artist whose best work remains as entertaining and as relevant as ever.  This documentary is the perfect companion to the award-winning biographical drama "The Life and Death of Peter Sellers," in which Geoffrey Rush brilliantly plays Sellers.
1497135
I give this wonderful documentary 4 1/2 stars. It puts forth the concepts that we are not bound by our skin, that we are each surrounded by an electromagnetic field that can be used in healing, and that we are made of "information," which is not a brand-new concept, yet I think they did a very good job of providing an actual epiphany to the open-minded viewer. Beautiful.