Tobey Macguire in "Seabiscuit"
courtesy of Universal Home Video
"A Great Horse; A Great Movie"

Who would have thought that a movie about a horse could be so good. Well "Seabiscuit" is a movie about a great horse and it is a great movie. Jeff Bridges, Chris Cooper and Tobey Macguire bring to life the story of the fabulous racehorse and his owner, his trainer and his rider.

The look of the film, the music that supports the acting, and the acting itself; these elements all combine to make this movie viewing of the best kind. Even the racing scenes are filmed in such a way that they bring maximum suspense and enjoyment to the viewer.

So rush out and get a copy of this wonderful movie. It will bring hours of excitement and joy as you watch the true story of one of America's legendary heroes. Seabiscuit was a horse that wouldn't quit, and his story gave encouragement to a nation during the depression.

If you have seen the film "Love Actually, then you have observed how nine different stories can be tied together in one movie. Another example of this is "Love In the Time of Money." In this movie, now on video, there are also nine stories tied together.

All of these stories concern New Yorkers who are trying to make a connection with someone in the City. There are people like an artist, a psychic, and a streetwalker. Each has his/her story to tell and each one is spelled out in this collection of events.

The two most recognizable actors in the film are Steve Buscemi and Rosario Dawson, but the remainder of the cast is also talented. As the stories unfold, the theme of our all being connected is demonstrated.

A twist on the Pygmalion story is found in the movie "Henry Fool." In this movie not so talented writer named Henry Fool (Thomas Jay Ryan) strikes up a friendship with a garbage collector named Simon Grim (James Urnaiak). Henry schools Simon in some social graces and lets his culture rub off on him.

Simon becomes a well-known talent and Henry's career goes down the tubes. It is a case of reverse fortune for the two men, and makes for an interesting story. Hal; Hartley wrote and directed this movie and it is one of his best. Especially when you consider that Parker Posey is also in the cast.

For those of you who are addicted to battle simulation games, there is a movie about the dangers of being too addicted. It is titled "Avalon" and takes place in the future. The game in the movie is also called Avalon and it is potentially deadly for the players. One player feels up to the challenge and plunges into the game.

The movie is in Polish with English subtitles, but there is so much action that the dialogue doesn't matter. You will be able to just absorb the action/drama and still have a good time with it.

You will also have a great time with "Rugrats Go Wild." Well at least the kids in your family will. In this animated movie the "Rugrats" meet "The Wild Thornberrys" on an adventure. This combination of two sets of popular cartoon characters makes for a fun-filled family film.

An added attraction is Bruce Willis doing the talking (and singing) for the dog Spike. His voice actually fits the part quite nicely.

Your smallest kids will enjoy "Barney's Happy, Mad. Silly, Sad: Putting A Face To Feelings." The loveable dinosaur is in top form with loads of good lessons and a few songs to help it all be entertaining. Kids love Barney and they listen to what he has to say - so get this one and bring it home. You will find your small fry will be fascinated.

Finally there are new "Recess" and "Power Rangers" videos. The Recess title is "Recess: All Growed Up" and "Recess: Taking Down the 5th Grade." The Power Ranger titles are "Power Rangers Ninja Storm: Samurai Journey" and Power Rangers Ninja Storm: Cyber Clash." Kids love both these groups, although they are entirely different in their appeal, and will eat these videos up!

 

 

 

 

 

©2003 Jackie K. Cooper

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