CountessM Reviews

The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)

One of Disney's best live-action films.

[8/10 · 21 May 2004]

One of the best live-action Disney movies. A sweet story about misplaced children, an unwilling but good-intentioned gambler as a foster parent and two bumbling crooks as the comic foil. Bill Bixby, of "My Favorite Martian" and "The Hulk" fame, plays Russell Donovan, the roaming gambler who is unwittingly stuck with some "valuables." Tim Conway and Don Knotts, a little past their prime, play the hapless crooks known as the "Hash Knife Outfit." Susan Clark plays the tomboy stage coach driver who fills in as the kids mother. It also stars Harry Morgan as the town sheriff. Beautiful scenery, lots of action, comedy, and a fabulous saloon brawl that is the highlight of the film.

The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)

One of Disney's best live-action films.

[8/10 · 21 May 2004]

One of the best live-action Disney movies. A sweet story about misplaced children, an unwilling but good-intentioned gambler as a foster parent and two bumbling crooks as the comic foil. Bill Bixby, of "My Favorite Martian" and "The Hulk" fame, plays Russell Donovan, the roaming gambler who is unwittingly stuck with some "valuables." Tim Conway and Don Knotts, a little past their prime, play the hapless crooks known as the "Hash Knife Outfit." Susan Clark plays the tomboy stage coach driver who fills in as the kids mother. It also stars Harry Morgan as the sheriff. Beautiful scenery, lots of action, comedy, and a fabulous saloon brawl that is the highlight of the film.

All About Eve (1950)

It deserves its reputation.

[10/10 · 21 May 2004]

This film has a legendary reputation and it certainly lives up to it. All the catfights, the backstabbing, the blackmailing... What an exhilirating film! The cast is beyond superb and the ending is eerie, but sublime. George Sanders alone is worth the price of admission. Those heavenly voice-overs keep changing the point of view, but it is always done so perfectly. It is truly a cinematic masterpiece that hasn't aged a bit and still revels in all its glory. Set in the world of the theater, we listen to all the various characters talk about Eve, and not surprisingly, there is no shortage of things to mention. There's a reason why that "bumpy night" is still being talked about!

Adam Had Four Sons (1941)

Excellent sophomore effort by Ingrid Bergman

[7/10 · 21 May 2004]

*** Possible Spoilers*** When Adam needs a new governess for his four sons, he and his wife hire a French governess to take care of them. The wife soon dies and over the years she becomes the mainstay of the home, in spite of a stock market crash, World War I and the straying wife of one of the boys. A good effort by all, including a young and manipulative Susan Hayward. Given the era, some of the content was surprising and the story was by no means a conventional epic. It had been some time since Warner Baxter was a big star, so this fine performance by him is a welcome reminder of his previous successes.

The Lost World (1999–2002)

Wonderfully Energetic with Completely Engaging Characters

[25 September 2002]

One of the best Saturday afternoon action series, The Lost World is a fast-paced show with alive and sympathetic characters. The special effects are quite good and and the action never stops. While the plots are not totally believable, the premise of the book envisions a world were things aren't as they are supposed to be. The characters are fabulous and the actors who portray them are believable and engaging. Currently the shows 4th season has been delayed until January, 2003. I would definitely recommend it and still enjoy watching all the reruns currently filling their time-slots.

Ada (1961)

Soapy Melodrama Not Worth the Fine Talents of Its Stars

[6/10 · 18 September 2002]

"Ada" has a good premise, but unfortunately does not evolve into a good movie. The soapy melodrama about a "puppet" gubernatorial candidate married to a prostitute does not due justice to the talents of its stars. The fine talents of the three main stars are not fully explored, and their characters are likewise underdeveloped. The ending is hardly probable, and as a resolution, it leaves a lot to be desired.

The cast do the best they can with the material they have. Dean Martin and Susan Hayward are both quite credible in their highly emotional performances. Wilfrid Hyde-White is also good in portraying a grasping and stifling villain, an unusual role for him.

Fifth Avenue Girl (1939)

Fun, Witty, and Timeless

[9/10 · 15 September 2002]

This film is one of my favorites, with a charming cast and fabulous characters. Ginger Rogers plays her trademark sassy and street-smart heroine effortlessly. Other standout performances are by the hapless and bewildered Walter Connolly and the often hysterical Verree Teasdale. Their children are well portrayed also, and Tim Holt has become one of my favorite actors, though he was largely undervalued throughout his career. A refreshing comedy about life and success, no matter what side of the tracks you come from.

20,000 Years in Sing Sing (1932)

Smart and Stylish, especially for 1932!

[7/10 · 15 September 2002]

One of the best movies from the early era of sound. Both Spencer Tracy and Bette Davis display the wonderful talents that made them legends. In a time when most films were simplistic and performances still laced with pantomime, this movie truly stands out. The script is clever and engaging and director Michael Curtiz displays his vision and prowess in creating one of the first great crime films.

The Ace of Hearts (1921)

Political Melodrama with Expressive Score

[6/10 · 15 September 2002]

Although the plot is definitely one of its weaker points, it is nevertheless an entertaining and well done movie. Turner Classic Movies has recently re-mastered, restored and re-scored the film and it is quite an impressive effort. The political basis of the plot is rather hard to believe, but the love triangle is quite touching. Lon Chaney's character is very convincing, if a bit over the top (which can be quite common in silent pictures.) Leatrice Joy and John Bowers are also quite good as the lovers who second guess their original political beliefs.

Kristin (2001)

adorable new comedy!

[5 June 2001]

I just saw the premiere of "Kristin" and was really impressed. They could have made it sappy or too cynical, but it was a great balance between the two. The stars had a great feel for their roles and their characterizations were fun to watch. I'd recommend it as a great new show to keep your eyes on.

The Mummy Returns (2001)

absolutely fabulous!

[10/10 · 2 May 2001]

I went to the sneak preview last night, and the movie well exceeded my expectations. The special effects were phenomenal and the story and action never stop. Just when you think you can stop holding your breath, they catch you completely by surprise. The casting is simply perfect and the new characters only complement the original cast and further add to the character development. Definitely a must see. I'd give it 5 out of 5 stars. Don't miss it!

Boy Meets World (1993–2000)

one of the best family shows of the '90s

[12 October 2000]

BOY MEETS WORLD is one of the most positive and impressive shows of the 90's. In an age where sex and violence are a prerequisite for good ratings, this show is a marvelous example of how to be a good influence on today's youth. With its positive portrayal of morals and the wonderful life lessons portrayed, taught by the excellent character of Mr. Feeny, the show never succumbs to the soap-opera like tendencies of "Buffy" or "Dawson's Creek", whose characters never seem to have normal lives. It's a real shame that they cancelled the series. Another positive attribute is the way the writers allowed the characters to grow into maturity. I definitely recommend watching reruns.