ADORA Reviews

Goodnight Moon & Other Sleepytime Tales (1999 TV Movie)

Magical!

[10/10 · 5 December 2008]

Ten years ago this was my son's favorite tape to watch. Now as he sits down to watch the DVD with his baby sister, he loves it for all new reasons, & so do I.

It's the perfect mix of "Kids Say the Darnedest Things" & a star studded variety show. You are first transported to dreamland by Tony Bennett's short & sweet lullaby. Then Susan Sarandon narrates Goodnight Moon, one of the greatest children's books ever written. It feels like you crawl inside the book to go exploring. And if by this point in the show you haven't been completely sucked in, then there's just no hope for you. The celebrity narrations and songs are separated by adorable kids talking about what they think dreams are and where they come from. The kids unrehearsed chatter is my daughter's favorite part.

The best thing about this DVD is that it passes the parents test - it can be played over and over again without driving Mom and Dad insane.

I hope your family enjoys this as much as mine!

The Shining (1997)

Wonderfully creepy! Great adaptation of the novel!

[10/10 · 21 July 2001]

It truly is a shame that more people didn't watch this. Unfortunately too many viewers were married to the Kubrick version. I'm so pleased that Stephen King chose to remake it. It followed the book almost perfectly(well look who wrote it)The subtle build up of Jacks insanity which was totally lacking in Kubrick's version, was restored in this Mini-series.

Rebecca De Mornay was wonderful as Wendy. Finally a strong advisory for Jack, and the hotel. I was truly terrified of the bathtub ghost. She lived up to my expectations. Steven Weber was amazing. You actually felt bad for him as he struggled to keep control his mind.

The ending was different from either the book, or Kubrick's version, but it was excellently done! I hope that this version will soon be available in the states. I would love to add this to my DVD collection.

And to Stephen King if you ever find yourself reading this I think this was a great success. Please keep favoring us by adapting your stories for Television, and by creating new ones like Storm of the Century! Thank you!

Hello Again (1987)

A Truly lovely film! =o)

[10/10 · 26 April 2001]

It is my opinion that Shelley Long is a very fine comedic actress, & she certainly doesn't disappoint as Lucy Chadman, a happy homemaker who even on her best day is less than graceful. This movie is utterly adorable, & it leaves you with one of those satisfied feelings when it's over. It has a great deal of heart. Gabriel Bern is fantastic as the doctor who may be Lucy's last chance for true love, & you just want to strangle Sela Ward. Overall this movie (light and fluffy as some may call it) asks a poignant question if you had a second chance...what would you do with it?

Heidi's Song (1982)

MMMMMM...... brings back memories =o)!

[10/10 · 9 June 2000]

Oh I loved this when I was younger! This has wonderful animation. It has all the color, & tender edges of one of my other favorites Charlotte's Web! The music is beautiful too! The nightmare sequence is not to be missed! This is one of the best cartoon movies the 80's has to offer. So if you get the opportunity you should really give it a look. You won't be disappointed!!!!!!!

Cocoon: The Return (1988)

A Wonderful Final Chapter!

[10/10 · 17 October 1999]

I found this movie to be an unexpected delight! It was engaging well written and executed, and it left me with a great feeling when it was over! What more could you ask for? Well how about the endearing performances, and chemistry between Hume Cronyn, and Jessica Tandy? Not to mention Don Ameche and Wilford Brimley. All together you have a fine film with many levels of warmth, and good humor. You'll love it! Watch and see!

Witch's Night Out (1978 TV Movie)

Adorable NON-scary fun!

[10/10 · 11 October 1999]

Great for kids! A classic must have for your Halloween munchkin. A wonderful look at a washed up witch, & a town that has forgotten how much fun Halloween can be. Gilda Radner is hilarious! The animation although a little outdated is still engaging. So pick up a copy, & enjoy!

You're in Love, Charlie Brown (1967 TV Short)

Sweet!!!!!!=o)

[10/10 · 11 October 1999]

I used to pretend I was the little red headed girl....seriously=o) Who doesn't feel an "ouch" moment when thinking back to that first crush. Well Charlie Brown's life is one huge "ouch" moment. But that's why we LOVE him!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966 TV Movie)

A Yearly Halloween Must!

[10/10 · 11 October 1999]

This should definitely be a part of your Halloween tradition; especially if you have kids! This is a wonderfully endearing classic that will have you sitting in your nearest pumpkin patch hoping to catch a glimpse of the Great Pumpkin!

The Halloween Tree (1993 TV Movie)

Classic seasonal favorite!

[10/10 · 12 August 1999]

Ray Bradbury's cartoon adaptation of his own celebrated book is exquisite, and makes an excellent Halloween treat for kids & adults alike. The are many changes from the book, most notably in the creation of the strong female character of Jenny,(In Bradbury's original work there were many more children characters and they were all boys, boys who for the most part hated girls.) but when you watch the film all of these enhancements and modern additions not only fit but make it include a much larger audience. None of the changes feel forced. And with Ray Bradbury not only writing but narrating, this is a treasure not to pass up. It's value, as an educational tool for cultural diversity, can't be denied. The imagery is thrilling and beautiful as you travel around the world learning how Halloween came to be and how this very popular holiday was and is celebrated. Leonard Nimoy gives an outstanding performance as the spooky, and eccentric tour guide, Moundshroud. But most importantly this movie is fun. The story and animation are rich and lush and it's easy to see why this scary delight is a seasonal favorite and a must have in many households. Mine included.

The Return of the Native (1994 TV Movie)

Beautifully done!

[10/10 · 27 April 1999]

This movie is very well done! The acting is exceptional! It is a wonderful adaptation of the novel. I was enthralled from the beginning. The gorgeous landscapes, & beautiful period costumes help to make this movie a must see! I highly recommend it!

Thumbelina (1994)

This is adorable! Very underrated!

[10/10 · 13 April 1999]

This is a triumph for Don Bluth! I really enjoyed it. The songs are sweet, & memorable. Jodie Benson (Ariel, The Little Mermaid) plays the title role, & she has such a great voice. I would recommend this movie to any family who is stuck in the Disney collection only rut. Give Thumbelina a chance!

The Haunting of Seacliff Inn (1994 TV Movie)

Creepy!!!!!!!!!!!

[10/10 · 6 April 1999]

Boy this one really gave me chills! Don't watch it by yourself! When you do see it watch out for the dog he is eeeevil!

Supergirl (1984)

A true example of Girl Power!

[10/10 · 6 April 1999]

I loved this movie! It was my favorite as a young girl! Don't be fooled by its cheesy appearance. This movie is a classic! Its a must if you have young daughters! So don't be afraid give it a shot.

Somewhere, Tomorrow (1983)

A beautiful movie!

[10/10 · 6 April 1999]

I really hope they bring this back out someday its a very worth while movie. It has a wonderful yet odd twist of romance. This is a good family picture as well. I highly recommend it!