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3
NAKED NAUSEA
The fertile imagination of veteran debauchee William Burroughs is here exposed to the utmost extreme by director David Cronenberg. It's about a bug exterminator who gets addicted to the roach poison. He starts to hallucinate and what he sees is so gut-wrenchingly nauseating, it makes you pale: giant roaches that speak from fleshy holes in their abdomens, an alien with fleshy tubes that oozes addictive milky substances into a cup, typewriters that turn into bugs and other assorted "lunch." All these critters have one purpose: to persaude the author that his wife is actually a secret agent and must be killed. This he does in a "William Tell" fashion, aiming at a glass pitched on top of her head. He misses and she goes down. Bye bye Joanie. I like Burroughs' writing, especially Junky & Queer, but this is just too much. Technically very good, the movie has some truly sickening and potentially psyche-damaging scenes. If you have a sensitive disposition, give this one a miss.
984
[ "The fertile imagination of veteran debauchee William Burroughs is here exposed to the utmost extreme by director David Cronenberg.", "It's about a bug exterminator who gets addicted to the roach poison.", "He starts to hallucinate and what he sees is so gut-wrenchingly nauseating, it makes you pale: giant roaches that speak from fleshy holes in their abdomens, an alien with fleshy tubes that oozes addictive milky substances into a cup, typewriters that turn into bugs and other assorted \"lunch.\" All these critters have one purpose: to persaude the author that his wife is actually a secret agent and must be killed.", "This he does in a \"William Tell\" fashion, aiming at a glass pitched on top of her head.", "He misses and she goes down.", "Bye bye Joanie.", "I like Burroughs' writing, especially Junky & Queer, but this is just too much.", "Technically very good, the movie has some truly sickening and potentially psyche-damaging scenes.", "If you have a sensitive disposition, give this one a miss." ]
3
Half excellent, half bad
I love Steve Vai's music, don't get me wrong but this a bit patchy. Bad Horsie is just a generic sqealling rock tune, Ya Go Gakk is a novelty record with his child sqealing on it, (it gets annoying very quickly), and the travesty that is Kill the Guy With The Ball... that has to be his worst ever song. It's so repetitite and tuneless and after 2 minutes you want to throw the stereo through the window. Not good at all.The other songs are fantastic, Juice is like Satriani's Satch Boogie, Die to Live is just amazing, it's hard to describe but it has a serious tone, great. The Boy From Seattle is a funky tune which is mint and the last song, Tender Surrender is nearly a masterpiece, it just gets ruined at the end by some weird nosies.All in all, buy Passion n' Warfare first, then Fire Garden. If you have a fiver spare, buy this if it's in a bargain bin. I think I paid 4.99 for it and that's all it's worth really. Good in parts but severly let down by weirdness. A big shame.
984
[ "I love Steve Vai's music, don't get me wrong but this a bit patchy.", "Bad Horsie is just a generic sqealling rock tune, Ya Go Gakk is a novelty record with his child sqealing on it, (it gets annoying very quickly), and the travesty that is Kill the Guy With The Ball... that has to be his worst ever song.", "It's so repetitite and tuneless and after 2 minutes you want to throw the stereo through the window.", "Not good at all.The other songs are fantastic, Juice is like Satriani's Satch Boogie, Die to Live is just amazing, it's hard to describe but it has a serious tone, great.", "The Boy From Seattle is a funky tune which is mint and the last song, Tender Surrender is nearly a masterpiece, it just gets ruined at the end by some weird nosies.All in all, buy Passion n' Warfare first, then Fire Garden.", "If you have a fiver spare, buy this if it's in a bargain bin.", "I think I paid 4.99 for it and that's all it's worth really.", "Good in parts but severly let down by weirdness.", "A big shame." ]
3
Plano Tackle Box
The box is roomy but the subdivisions are not very flexible. That is, the drawers are divided into fixed width compartments each having only one groove into which a partition may either be placed or not. If the lengths they chose are not compatible with the lengths of your items, then too bad.The box is constructed of a soft, rather flexible plastic, not the rigid fiberglass that was used in my box from the 90's (I think it was a Plano too). Anyway, I couldn't get the bottom drawer to open on this box. I sent Plano an email asking if there was a place where I could shave a little off or lubricate in order to make the bottom drawer work. THEY NEVER REPLIED. After fiddling with it for a month or two, I can now get the drawer to open and close. The box didn't cost much, and I *am* using it so maybe it's worth what it cost --- but you still want your stuff to work right.My recommendation is, if you have time, check boxes out in a brick and mortar store before you order one.
984
[ "The box is roomy but the subdivisions are not very flexible.", "That is, the drawers are divided into fixed width compartments each having only one groove into which a partition may either be placed or not.", "If the lengths they chose are not compatible with the lengths of your items, then too bad.The box is constructed of a soft, rather flexible plastic, not the rigid fiberglass that was used in my box from the 90's (I think it was a Plano too).", "Anyway, I couldn't get the bottom drawer to open on this box.", "I sent Plano an email asking if there was a place where I could shave a little off or lubricate in order to make the bottom drawer work.", "THEY NEVER REPLIED.", "After fiddling with it for a month or two, I can now get the drawer to open and close.", "The box didn't cost much, and I *am* using it so maybe it's worth what it cost --- but you still want your stuff to work right.My recommendation is, if you have time, check boxes out in a brick and mortar store before you order one." ]
3
High Intensity
"A Team Boot Camp" is one of those workouts where you collapse at the end and can't believe you actually made it through such a tough set of exercises. This is definitely an advanced workout that will make you sweat and test your endurance. You do need quite a few things like a stability ball, 3- and 5-pound weights, a weighted bar, a mat and a step. I used my Transformer step and it was fine. Most of the exercises can be modified if you are intermediate like me. If you've been doing workouts for years it will be very easy for you to figure out how to make some of the more high-impact exercises into low-impact exercises. By using weights in this workout you can target your upper and lower body. There are six aerobic intervals each followed by a toning section. If you are advanced you are going to love the challenges. If you are intermediate you will have fun being creative. If you are a beginner - run! This is too intense and moves at too fast a pace!~The Rebecca Review
984
[ "\"A Team Boot Camp\" is one of those workouts where you collapse at the end and can't believe you actually made it through such a tough set of exercises.", "This is definitely an advanced workout that will make you sweat and test your endurance.", "You do need quite a few things like a stability ball, 3- and 5-pound weights, a weighted bar, a mat and a step.", "I used my Transformer step and it was fine.", "Most of the exercises can be modified if you are intermediate like me.", "If you've been doing workouts for years it will be very easy for you to figure out how to make some of the more high-impact exercises into low-impact exercises.", "By using weights in this workout you can target your upper and lower body.", "There are six aerobic intervals each followed by a toning section.", "If you are advanced you are going to love the challenges.", "If you are intermediate you will have fun being creative.", "If you are a beginner - run!", "This is too intense and moves at too fast a pace!", "~The Rebecca Review" ]
3
So close, but yet so far
This, the last properly released Pumpkins studio album, could well have been classic. The first five songs indicate this--"Raindrops + Sunshowers" and "I of the Mourning" are two of the best songs Billy Corgan's ever written--but then the album falls prey to Corgan's usual excess. "Heavy Metal Machine" is a good example of this, an overproduced, underwritten, six-minute monstrosity that oozes and seeps but is too weighted down to actually go anywhere. Things don't get much better from there, either. "Glass and the Ghost Children" is another ten-minute prog-rock experiment, in the vein of a much less successful "Porcelina of the Oceans Vast" from Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.Unfortunately, the band never regains its early momentum after these two songs, although the faux-Broadway "With Every Light" gives a valient effort. It's too bad that this will be known as the band's swan song--a little bit of trimming on Corgan's part, and it could have been a lot better.
984
[ "This, the last properly released Pumpkins studio album, could well have been classic.", "The first five songs indicate this--\"Raindrops + Sunshowers\" and \"I of the Mourning\" are two of the best songs Billy Corgan's ever written--but then the album falls prey to Corgan's usual excess.", "\"Heavy Metal Machine\" is a good example of this, an overproduced, underwritten, six-minute monstrosity that oozes and seeps but is too weighted down to actually go anywhere.", "Things don't get much better from there, either.", "\"Glass and the Ghost Children\" is another ten-minute prog-rock experiment, in the vein of a much less successful \"Porcelina of the Oceans Vast\" from Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.Unfortunately, the band never regains its early momentum after these two songs, although the faux-Broadway \"With Every Light\" gives a valient effort.", "It's too bad that this will be known as the band's swan song--a little bit of trimming on Corgan's part, and it could have been a lot better." ]
3
Round-up of non-album tracks
Perfecly complementing their two essential studio albums, Unknown Pleasures and Closer, this expanded compilation re-issue rounds up their legendary singles, including Transmission/Novelty, Love Will Tear Us Apart/These Days and Atmosphere/She's Lost Control, none of which appeared on the albums and are rightly regarded as among their greatest works.Substance also contains their first release in full, the EP An Ideal For Living (recorded in December 1977 at the point when they changed their name from Warsaw, but only released privately by the band in a limited edition the following summer), two tracks they recorded for the EP A Factory Sample (their first work with producer Martin Hannett), both sides of a freebie flexi-disc single (Komakino/Incubation), a French B-side (Dead Souls) and two outtakes from the Unknown Pleasures sessions.This is not a complete round-up but in its more complete CD edition will probably satisfy most of the less obsessive Joy Division punters
984
[ "Perfecly complementing their two essential studio albums, Unknown Pleasures and Closer, this expanded compilation re-issue rounds up their legendary singles, including Transmission/Novelty, Love Will Tear Us Apart/These Days and Atmosphere/She's Lost Control, none of which appeared on the albums and are rightly regarded as among their greatest works.Substance also contains their first release in full, the EP An Ideal For Living (recorded in December 1977 at the point when they changed their name from Warsaw, but only released privately by the band in a limited edition the following summer), two tracks they recorded for the EP A Factory Sample (their first work with producer Martin Hannett), both sides of a freebie flexi-disc single (Komakino/Incubation), a French B-side (Dead Souls) and two outtakes from the Unknown Pleasures sessions.This is not a complete round-up but in its more complete CD edition will probably satisfy most of the less obsessive Joy Division punters" ]
3
Originals Preferred
Some of these remixes work nicely, others less so, but none equals the original version in sonic complexity, lyric wit, or -- curiously enough -- danceability. Best is Felix da Housecat's recreation of "Je t'aime melancholie"; also likeable are the remixes of "Californie," "Optimistique-moi," and "Libertine" -- her very first hit single (1986) and one that she herself has frequently re-arranged (including as a power rock song, on the LIVE A BERCY cd). Much less succesful are the new versions of "Pourvu qu'elles soient douce," "Sans contrefacon," and "L'ame-stram-gram." As for Thunderpuss's remix of "Desenchantee," I disagree with Woofbear; the sonic overkill of the remix -- overkill is a Thunderpuss specialty -- squashes all the subtlety, and almost all of the disillusionment, out of Farmer's original -- and a Farmer song without subtlety is like Gerard Depardieu without a nose.Note to Woofbear: "Desenchantee" appears on 1991's L'AUTRE, not on the 1988 CD AINSI SOIT-JE.
984
[ "Some of these remixes work nicely, others less so, but none equals the original version in sonic complexity, lyric wit, or -- curiously enough -- danceability.", "Best is Felix da Housecat's recreation of \"Je t'aime melancholie\"; also likeable are the remixes of \"Californie,\" \"Optimistique-moi,\" and \"Libertine\" -- her very first hit single (1986) and one that she herself has frequently re-arranged (including as a power rock song, on the LIVE A BERCY cd).", "Much less succesful are the new versions of \"Pourvu qu'elles soient douce,\" \"Sans contrefacon,\" and \"L'ame-stram-gram.\" As for Thunderpuss's remix of \"Desenchantee,\" I disagree with Woofbear; the sonic overkill of the remix -- overkill is a Thunderpuss specialty -- squashes all the subtlety, and almost all of the disillusionment, out of Farmer's original -- and a Farmer song without subtlety is like Gerard Depardieu without a nose.Note to Woofbear: \"Desenchantee\" appears on 1991's L'AUTRE, not on the 1988 CD AINSI SOIT-JE." ]
3
Works ok, but too big
This case is ok and does the job fine. But if I didn't have to buy a case in a pinch, I would not have selected this one, as it is too big and hence represents some problems. But if you have a large bag or are desperate (like I was), it is a fairly good value for the $.Good:* Strong case w/ wheels* Lots of room for a big bag, shoes and plenty more* Locks work good (I have had no issues with the locks, unlike other comments)* You can take it apart easily to mitigate the large size in the rental car and storageThe Bad:* It is very large (especially wide) and on the heavy side, both of which can be a pain for travel* Weight at check-in can be an issue (over 50 lbs = $25+ fee at most airlines). This basically takes away from the extra space- don't pack too much.* The case stands out. This could be a security issue, as a potential thief could (mistakenly) believe this nice case contains expensive clubs. Also, I hear lots of comments and jokes about my golf bag "rocket ship".
984
[ "This case is ok and does the job fine.", "But if I didn't have to buy a case in a pinch, I would not have selected this one, as it is too big and hence represents some problems.", "But if you have a large bag or are desperate (like I was), it is a fairly good value for the $.Good:* Strong case w/ wheels* Lots of room for a big bag, shoes and plenty more* Locks work good (I have had no issues with the locks, unlike other comments)* You can take it apart easily to mitigate the large size in the rental car and storageThe Bad:* It is very large (especially wide) and on the heavy side, both of which can be a pain for travel* Weight at check-in can be an issue (over 50 lbs = $25+ fee at most airlines).", "This basically takes away from the extra space- don't pack too much.* The case stands out.", "This could be a security issue, as a potential thief could (mistakenly) believe this nice case contains expensive clubs.", "Also, I hear lots of comments and jokes about my golf bag \"rocket ship\"." ]
3
Searching for an education
The Autobiography of Henry Adams details his lifelong search for a useful education. It takes some time to see that Adams is poking fun at himself for how little formal education takes with him. There are certainly some great truths in this book--how what we learn is not always what we start out to study, how the most valuable lessons often come from unexpected sources and even from great failures, how education is truly a lifelong pursuit, and how much of what one would like to know concerning the meaning of life is ultimately unknowable. At the same time, Henry seems to have been overwhelmed by the accomplishments of his ancestors and the autobiography is something of a justification for a life not fully lived. I could not help feeling that had Henry had a real need to work for a living, he might have gotten more out of his education, both formal and otherwise. Some of the events and historical figures that Adams discusses are relatively obscure for a modern audience.
984
[ "The Autobiography of Henry Adams details his lifelong search for a useful education.", "It takes some time to see that Adams is poking fun at himself for how little formal education takes with him.", "There are certainly some great truths in this book--how what we learn is not always what we start out to study, how the most valuable lessons often come from unexpected sources and even from great failures, how education is truly a lifelong pursuit, and how much of what one would like to know concerning the meaning of life is ultimately unknowable.", "At the same time, Henry seems to have been overwhelmed by the accomplishments of his ancestors and the autobiography is something of a justification for a life not fully lived.", "I could not help feeling that had Henry had a real need to work for a living, he might have gotten more out of his education, both formal and otherwise.", "Some of the events and historical figures that Adams discusses are relatively obscure for a modern audience." ]
3
Really it should be a 2.5
Well, let me begin with some praise first. I felt the first four books in the Enders Saga series were extremely interesting and well written. I very much enjoyed hearing of Enders life and the story just got better and better with every book.Then came along Enders Shadow. With this book I felt that Card did an interesting thing artistically by rewritting the first book but through another characters perspective. This I felt was quite unique and quite a good read.However, by the end of the sixth book I found Beans story to be drawn out...and by the 7th redundent. I felt that there was really no reason to have a 7th book. The plot could have ended by the end of the sixth.Now I wont lie, if Card publishes an eighth novel, I will read it. But...really, at that point, it can no longer be treated as part of Enders Saga...it will have become its own series.All in all, I felt the 7th book was ok. You cant give it a half a star, so I bumped up my rating to 3 (In honor of Ender).
984
[ "Well, let me begin with some praise first.", "I felt the first four books in the Enders Saga series were extremely interesting and well written.", "I very much enjoyed hearing of Enders life and the story just got better and better with every book.Then came along Enders Shadow.", "With this book I felt that Card did an interesting thing artistically by rewritting the first book but through another characters perspective.", "This I felt was quite unique and quite a good read.However, by the end of the sixth book I found Beans story to be drawn out...and by the 7th redundent.", "I felt that there was really no reason to have a 7th book.", "The plot could have ended by the end of the sixth.Now I wont lie, if Card publishes an eighth novel, I will read it.", "But...really, at that point, it can no longer be treated as part of Enders Saga...it will have become its own series.All in all, I felt the 7th book was ok.", "You cant give it a half a star, so I bumped up my rating to 3 (In honor of Ender)." ]
3
'Closer' is both Good and Bad
This is an odd movie; one worth seeing, but not buying. Natalie Portman is completely unbelievable as a stripper. I don't understand how she was nominated for an Oscar. I think she really whimped out in not having any nude scenes. It only made the character less believable. Mike Nicholas, the director miscast her. Julia Roberts looks very, very homely, and I am being kind, yet the 2 men in the movie keep saying how beautiful she is. Jude Law is good, but Clive Owen if terrific. He commands the screen, and is the main reason to watch this movie. He is sexy and doesn't make a false move, well maybe one, where he tells Alice to stop smoking. Anyway, I didn't believe the storyline one bit. It was absurd, but somehow it is still an interesting movie. The scene between Law and Owen on the sex website is hilarious.PS If you are a Clive Owen fan, buy 'Beyond Borders' with Angelina Jolie. He is so good that words fail me, and the movie, despite bad reviews, is very entertaining.
984
[ "This is an odd movie; one worth seeing, but not buying.", "Natalie Portman is completely unbelievable as a stripper.", "I don't understand how she was nominated for an Oscar.", "I think she really whimped out in not having any nude scenes.", "It only made the character less believable.", "Mike Nicholas, the director miscast her.", "Julia Roberts looks very, very homely, and I am being kind, yet the 2 men in the movie keep saying how beautiful she is.", "Jude Law is good, but Clive Owen if terrific.", "He commands the screen, and is the main reason to watch this movie.", "He is sexy and doesn't make a false move, well maybe one, where he tells Alice to stop smoking.", "Anyway, I didn't believe the storyline one bit.", "It was absurd, but somehow it is still an interesting movie.", "The scene between Law and Owen on the sex website is hilarious.PS If you are a Clive Owen fan, buy 'Beyond Borders' with Angelina Jolie.", "He is so good that words fail me, and the movie, despite bad reviews, is very entertaining." ]
3
a very serviceable release...
when i read the reviews of this album, it seems that everyone harkens back to the "glory days" of Automatic for the People, and declares himselve or herself a longtime fan. well, the first e.p. came out in 1980, and the band released a slew of great albums in that decade. nothing they have done in the 90's comes close to such great albums as Reconstruction of the Fables or Document. and Reveal is no exception. yes, there are some good mid tempo songs, but, as has been the case with the last several albums, i feel disappointed and unfulilled. the album doesn't feel cohesive, unless sameness = cohesion. i rue the day Man in the Moon was released as a single, as it no seems to be the model for the future.don't get me wrong. i am a huge rem fan, and i appreciate the fact that they continue to move forward. i will continue to buy all of their releases. let's just hope next time they make it a little more interesting, and stop trying to recreate their "successes" of the 90's.
984
[ "when i read the reviews of this album, it seems that everyone harkens back to the \"glory days\" of Automatic for the People, and declares himselve or herself a longtime fan.", "well, the first e.p. came out in 1980, and the band released a slew of great albums in that decade.", "nothing they have done in the 90's comes close to such great albums as Reconstruction of the Fables or Document.", "and Reveal is no exception.", "yes, there are some good mid tempo songs, but, as has been the case with the last several albums, i feel disappointed and unfulilled.", "the album doesn't feel cohesive, unless sameness = cohesion.", "i rue the day Man in the Moon was released as a single, as it no seems to be the model for the future.don't get me wrong.", "i am a huge rem fan, and i appreciate the fact that they continue to move forward.", "i will continue to buy all of their releases.", "let's just hope next time they make it a little more interesting, and stop trying to recreate their \"successes\" of the 90's." ]
3
And Then There Were None
The book And Then there Were None was very interesting. This book was about ten people that were invited to go to a mansion on Indian Island. Through the book they all end up dieing one by one in the same way as the indians in the childrens poem Ten Little Indians. The mystery is to find out who is the person that is killing them off. The book gives you hints to who the the killer my be, and just when you think you know who the killer is that person may get killed. To find out who the killer is you have to read it for yourself.I thought that this wood was very interesting and a great mystery. To many people this may be the kind of book that you can't put down,but to me it was the kind of book that i liked to put down. Then when i finished it I thought over all it was a good book. I donbt think i would read it again. I think many people may think different because i am not the kind of person that reads a lot of books, and it talks a lot for me to really to into the book.
984
[ "The book And Then there Were None was very interesting.", "This book was about ten people that were invited to go to a mansion on Indian Island.", "Through the book they all end up dieing one by one in the same way as the indians in the childrens poem Ten Little Indians.", "The mystery is to find out who is the person that is killing them off.", "The book gives you hints to who the the killer my be, and just when you think you know who the killer is that person may get killed.", "To find out who the killer is you have to read it for yourself.I thought that this wood was very interesting and a great mystery.", "To many people this may be the kind of book that you can't put down,but to me it was the kind of book that i liked to put down.", "Then when i finished it I thought over all it was a good book.", "I donbt think i would read it again.", "I think many people may think different because i am not the kind of person that reads a lot of books, and it talks a lot for me to really to into the book." ]
3
The pigs screwed it all up
We had to write a report on a book, and the teacher passed out the list. When I went to the library they were all out of "The Red Pony," so I had to read this one, which had the second smallest number of pages. This one seems to got pictures, but the one I got sure didn't. I read Shaq's book and it was a lot bigger than this but this book took a lot longer to read, for sure. My teacher said I did an OK report, but she thought I missed the point about the socialism society and all. But to me it was just about some pigs. Like those Narnia books by CS Lewis, except CS Lewis had that cool monkey in the last book. I skipped to the end, cause I got bored, (it's ok to say that now, cause I already got the B minus,) and plus I had to go to practice. But I liked the donkey and I was sort of cheesed when the horse bought it. Anyhow, the long and short of it is if you get the choice of this book or the red pony, maybe you should pick the red pony because this one is too damn hard.
984
[ "We had to write a report on a book, and the teacher passed out the list.", "When I went to the library they were all out of \"The Red Pony,\" so I had to read this one, which had the second smallest number of pages.", "This one seems to got pictures, but the one I got sure didn't.", "I read Shaq's book and it was a lot bigger than this but this book took a lot longer to read, for sure.", "My teacher said I did an OK report, but she thought I missed the point about the socialism society and all.", "But to me it was just about some pigs.", "Like those Narnia books by CS Lewis, except CS Lewis had that cool monkey in the last book.", "I skipped to the end, cause I got bored, (it's ok to say that now, cause I already got the B minus,) and plus I had to go to practice.", "But I liked the donkey and I was sort of cheesed when the horse bought it.", "Anyhow, the long and short of it is if you get the choice of this book or the red pony, maybe you should pick the red pony because this one is too damn hard." ]
3
Double Twisted!
Don't let the cover fool you, this book has nothing to do with sexy women and ice cream. Double Dippin' is a straight up TRIP! The story picks up when a set of twins, Shane and Tariq are subjected to life as foster children, after witnessing the death of their Mother. While Shane is described as the handsome boorish twin I found both of them to be equally demented, along with everyone else introduced in this story. While the book is a good read, it lacked climax. The pages of this novel are filled with raunchy, obscene, sickening events that the twins put people through or in Tariq's case, were subjected to. While I enjoyed Allison's attempt to keep us all intrigued with the lewd events that made up Double Dippin' it was lacking 'something'. The ending was a total shock, and was for sure the best part of the book. This was a slow read for me, and I times I felt guilty for reading it..LOL I give this book a 3.5, and I will pick up part 2 by Allison Hobbs, Big Juicy Lips.
984
[ "Don't let the cover fool you, this book has nothing to do with sexy women and ice cream.", "Double Dippin' is a straight up TRIP!", "The story picks up when a set of twins, Shane and Tariq are subjected to life as foster children, after witnessing the death of their Mother.", "While Shane is described as the handsome boorish twin I found both of them to be equally demented, along with everyone else introduced in this story.", "While the book is a good read, it lacked climax.", "The pages of this novel are filled with raunchy, obscene, sickening events that the twins put people through or in Tariq's case, were subjected to.", "While I enjoyed Allison's attempt to keep us all intrigued with the lewd events that made up Double Dippin' it was lacking 'something'.", "The ending was a total shock, and was for sure the best part of the book.", "This was a slow read for me, and I times I felt guilty for reading it..LOL I give this book a 3.5, and I will pick up part 2 by Allison Hobbs, Big Juicy Lips." ]
3
Works great for single-turtle
The filter works great for single-turtle tanks, but if you have a turtle you know they are messy creatures. It is more challenging to use with two turtles in the tank. Definitely keep the water level higher--more toward the max level rather than "minimum" level listed on the side of the filter, or it'll run the pump dry when the filters clog from gunk it's pulling from the turtle water. I've even had to pull up the filters, letting some water go by unfiltered, to get it to work sometimes. You must take the filters out and rinse WELL, FREQUENTLY (at LEAST every 2 or 3 days, with something like a pulsating shower head or sprayer of some sort that has some good pressure) or it will clog. Other than that and being a it nubbly and therefore challenging to clean, I really like this filter and have had two. They sound pretty and look great. The turtles love to try to climb them (as turtles do!) but it's just steep enough to prevent that at my turtles' current size (7" and 6").
984
[ "The filter works great for single-turtle tanks, but if you have a turtle you know they are messy creatures.", "It is more challenging to use with two turtles in the tank.", "Definitely keep the water level higher--more toward the max level rather than \"minimum\" level listed on the side of the filter, or it'll run the pump dry when the filters clog from gunk it's pulling from the turtle water.", "I've even had to pull up the filters, letting some water go by unfiltered, to get it to work sometimes.", "You must take the filters out and rinse WELL, FREQUENTLY (at LEAST every 2 or 3 days, with something like a pulsating shower head or sprayer of some sort that has some good pressure) or it will clog.", "Other than that and being a it nubbly and therefore challenging to clean, I really like this filter and have had two.", "They sound pretty and look great.", "The turtles love to try to climb them (as turtles do!", ") but it's just steep enough to prevent that at my turtles' current size (7\" and 6\")." ]
3
a good story
This tale is loosely linked with Ann's Lord of the Keep. The hero from that story is friends with the hero from this tale.Lord of the Mist starts out with the hero, Durand, burying his unfaithful wife and trying to come to grips with the baby girl she left behind. He knows the child is not his but is willing to raise her as his own. In the chapel he finds a woman who he needs for his soul as much as the child needs her for nurishment. The woman, Cristina, is the child's wet nurse. Cristina is the wife of Simon le Gros, a horrid man who uses Cristina to furthur his own causes.Cristina is a healer who not only tries to help those who are sick and needy but she also tries to bring light and love back into Durand's life. Durand has a very hard time learing to trust again but soon realizes that Cristina is the only one who can make him live again.This is a very sweet story. I have enjoyed many other books by this author since this book. I am looking forward to more from her.
984
[ "This tale is loosely linked with Ann's Lord of the Keep.", "The hero from that story is friends with the hero from this tale.Lord of the Mist starts out with the hero, Durand, burying his unfaithful wife and trying to come to grips with the baby girl she left behind.", "He knows the child is not his but is willing to raise her as his own.", "In the chapel he finds a woman who he needs for his soul as much as the child needs her for nurishment.", "The woman, Cristina, is the child's wet nurse.", "Cristina is the wife of Simon le Gros, a horrid man who uses Cristina to furthur his own causes.Cristina is a healer who not only tries to help those who are sick and needy but she also tries to bring light and love back into Durand's life.", "Durand has a very hard time learing to trust again but soon realizes that Cristina is the only one who can make him live again.This is a very sweet story.", "I have enjoyed many other books by this author since this book.", "I am looking forward to more from her." ]
3
Good Ideas, but outdated.
Just finished reading this book. First, the book itself is very well written and easy to understand, but not as "instructional" as I would have hoped.I believe this book was written a few years ago and even in that short of time frame, almost everything that is covered is already cheaper and outdated. Almost everything he covers is at the oldest technology end of what can be purchased today. For example he highly recommends Windows XP as the best operating system to have (We all have Windows 7, and 8 will be out shortly).The actual how-to part of this book basically is a review of each item he has. Not really how to use it or the best way to run them. And any instruction he does give can easily be learned with a quick google search. I'm not downplaying the book or the author. With technology like this, anything written a few years ago will be very outdated today.Overall, he presents a few good ideas that you might not have thought of. But other than that, not much else.
984
[ "Just finished reading this book.", "First, the book itself is very well written and easy to understand, but not as \"instructional\" as I would have hoped.I believe this book was written a few years ago and even in that short of time frame, almost everything that is covered is already cheaper and outdated.", "Almost everything he covers is at the oldest technology end of what can be purchased today.", "For example he highly recommends Windows XP as the best operating system to have (We all have Windows 7, and 8 will be out shortly).The actual how-to part of this book basically is a review of each item he has.", "Not really how to use it or the best way to run them.", "And any instruction he does give can easily be learned with a quick google search.", "I'm not downplaying the book or the author.", "With technology like this, anything written a few years ago will be very outdated today.Overall, he presents a few good ideas that you might not have thought of.", "But other than that, not much else." ]
3
Average paranormal story.
An intelligent young man (Justin Chatwin/Nick) is "presumably" killed and his body left hidden in a remote place by a kind of bad girl from his school (Margarita Levieva/Annie) as she thinks he reported to the police a jewellery robbery she had committed. Then, he wanders the streets and around his school and home as his soul is trapped between heaven and earth. Nobody sees him. He tries to communicate with anybody, unsuccessfully. The film has plenty of nuances, such as the behaviour of Nick's mother played by Marcia Gay Harden/Diane, the tenderness and concern of Annie for her baby brother. Nick, horrified, thinking he is really dead, discovers in a clever way (I won't tell) he is not dead at all. From this moment on, Nick decides to take some action despite nobody sees him. Alex O'Loughlin plays Annie's boyfriend, an ex-convict in a small role very different from the lovely vampire from the "Moonlight" series. Watchable film even though it is not a "Sixty Sense" one.
984
[ "An intelligent young man (Justin Chatwin/Nick) is \"presumably\" killed and his body left hidden in a remote place by a kind of bad girl from his school (Margarita Levieva/Annie) as she thinks he reported to the police a jewellery robbery she had committed.", "Then, he wanders the streets and around his school and home as his soul is trapped between heaven and earth.", "Nobody sees him.", "He tries to communicate with anybody, unsuccessfully.", "The film has plenty of nuances, such as the behaviour of Nick's mother played by Marcia Gay Harden/Diane, the tenderness and concern of Annie for her baby brother.", "Nick, horrified, thinking he is really dead, discovers in a clever way (I won't tell) he is not dead at all.", "From this moment on, Nick decides to take some action despite nobody sees him.", "Alex O'Loughlin plays Annie's boyfriend, an ex-convict in a small role very different from the lovely vampire from the \"Moonlight\" series.", "Watchable film even though it is not a \"Sixty Sense\" one." ]
3
Dissapointing
I had read the first 2 books in this series. I liked them. Then came this one. Apparently no one proofreads these books. First: Nina picks up a cell phone and hears a dial tone???? Second: Nina spots Joe the gardener wearing a straw cowboy hat, minutes later Joe and Nina are talking and Joe is holding his baseball hat in his hand. Third: The trial begins and the name Jason Thomas De Beers is announced. Towards the end of the trial his name becomes Jason Quentin De Beers. OK it's trivial but it bothers me. Shows lack of respect for the reader. In addition to all that, the character "Paul" is a true pig. Sees women as his inferiors who would never dare resist his sexual demands. In one memorable passage, he wonders to himself why he did not rape "Kim" while he had the chance. I liked Nina and Collier and specially Sandy but not sure I will read the next entry in this series. OK maybe if there is absolutely nothing else for me to read...maybe...I may consider it. Not sure.
984
[ "I had read the first 2 books in this series.", "I liked them.", "Then came this one.", "Apparently no one proofreads these books.", "First: Nina picks up a cell phone and hears a dial tone???", "?", "Second: Nina spots Joe the gardener wearing a straw cowboy hat, minutes later Joe and Nina are talking and Joe is holding his baseball hat in his hand.", "Third: The trial begins and the name Jason Thomas De Beers is announced.", "Towards the end of the trial his name becomes Jason Quentin De Beers.", "OK it's trivial but it bothers me.", "Shows lack of respect for the reader.", "In addition to all that, the character \"Paul\" is a true pig.", "Sees women as his inferiors who would never dare resist his sexual demands.", "In one memorable passage, he wonders to himself why he did not rape \"Kim\" while he had the chance.", "I liked Nina and Collier and specially Sandy but not sure I will read the next entry in this series.", "OK maybe if there is absolutely nothing else for me to read...maybe...I may consider it.", "Not sure." ]
3
Good, but not great
The ZO is a good machine, but not a great one. The ZO is my second bread machine, I had an Oster before it. I bought the ZO because a good friend has one and I was impressed with its quietness and speed. The ZO is much quieter AND faster than the cheaper Oster was, but I'm not impressed with the quality of this expensive machine. The breadpan and the blades are losing their non-stick coating and seem to be easily damaged, a disappointment since the ZO was at least twice the price of the Oster. I, too, have trouble removing the bread from the pan. The crust is often too dark and thick for my liking and you cannot adjust the crust settings when using the whole wheat options. But I do like the horizontal loaf shape and the fact you can have a hot loaf of bread in about 2 hours. This is a good bread machine and anyone buying it will probably like it. However, if all you are going to do is make bread dough with it, you'd be better off with a bread mixer, like the KitchenAid.
984
[ "The ZO is a good machine, but not a great one.", "The ZO is my second bread machine, I had an Oster before it.", "I bought the ZO because a good friend has one and I was impressed with its quietness and speed.", "The ZO is much quieter AND faster than the cheaper Oster was, but I'm not impressed with the quality of this expensive machine.", "The breadpan and the blades are losing their non-stick coating and seem to be easily damaged, a disappointment since the ZO was at least twice the price of the Oster.", "I, too, have trouble removing the bread from the pan.", "The crust is often too dark and thick for my liking and you cannot adjust the crust settings when using the whole wheat options.", "But I do like the horizontal loaf shape and the fact you can have a hot loaf of bread in about 2 hours.", "This is a good bread machine and anyone buying it will probably like it.", "However, if all you are going to do is make bread dough with it, you'd be better off with a bread mixer, like the KitchenAid." ]
3
Too much Hype?
I'm not sure but I think this book is a little over-hyped.I collected comics for a while and this series came out when I did, as individual issues. Even then this series got incredible critical acclaim. I never collected them but through the years I've always wanted to read this book. So when I saw the preview for the film I thought now is the time so the movie doesn't ruin it for me.Perhaps it was the hype back in the day or the hype on this site and others or the hype on the book jacket itself."One of Time Magazine's 100 Best English-Language Novels since 1923"That's a lot of hype.I just don't think it lives up to it.In any way.Or perhaps it did live up to it when it was first released and just hasn't aged that well.Either way it is interesting enough to check it out but if I had a do-over I would borrow it or buy it used.I know this won't go down well with the devout but their reviews are much too biased to be taken seriously.P.S. I thought V for Vendetta was better.
984
[ "I'm not sure but I think this book is a little over-hyped.I collected comics for a while and this series came out when I did, as individual issues.", "Even then this series got incredible critical acclaim.", "I never collected them but through the years I've always wanted to read this book.", "So when I saw the preview for the film I thought now is the time so the movie doesn't ruin it for me.Perhaps it was the hype back in the day or the hype on this site and others or the hype on the book jacket itself.\"One of Time Magazine's 100 Best English-Language Novels since 1923\"That's a lot of hype.I just don't think it lives up to it.In any way.Or perhaps it did live up to it when it was first released and just hasn't aged that well.Either way it is interesting enough to check it out but if I had a do-over I would borrow it or buy it used.I know this won't go down well with the devout but their reviews are much too biased to be taken seriously.P.S. I thought V for Vendetta was better." ]
3
DEADLY RUBBERNECKERS
The main thing going for THE GATHERING is its unique plot: the titular characters are rubberneckers from the crucifixion of Jesus who watched merely from morbid interest than any concern for the Christ. They have been cursed to wander the earth for all eternity to witness the atrocities of mankind: Kennedy's assassination, the Hiroshima bombing, etc.Christina Ricci stars aa a young backpacker on her way to a small English village, where she is hit by a distracted driver and recuperates in the driver's home. She starts thinking something evil is happening in the village and that the young boy she is staying with may be in some kind of danger.The movie is lethargic compared to modern standards, reflecting back to the psychological Hammer films of the 60s and 70s, but it maintains an undercurrent of evil. Ricci doesn't put a lot into her role, she seems uncomfortable at times. Ioan Gruffold fares better as her mysterious new friend.Not a classic horror film, but enjoyable.
984
[ "The main thing going for THE GATHERING is its unique plot: the titular characters are rubberneckers from the crucifixion of Jesus who watched merely from morbid interest than any concern for the Christ.", "They have been cursed to wander the earth for all eternity to witness the atrocities of mankind: Kennedy's assassination, the Hiroshima bombing, etc.Christina Ricci stars aa a young backpacker on her way to a small English village, where she is hit by a distracted driver and recuperates in the driver's home.", "She starts thinking something evil is happening in the village and that the young boy she is staying with may be in some kind of danger.The movie is lethargic compared to modern standards, reflecting back to the psychological Hammer films of the 60s and 70s, but it maintains an undercurrent of evil.", "Ricci doesn't put a lot into her role, she seems uncomfortable at times.", "Ioan Gruffold fares better as her mysterious new friend.Not a classic horror film, but enjoyable." ]
3
Pogroms
This is a 192-page, small size (4.5"x7") paperback containing about 400 instances since the death of Jesus whereby some Christian mob has molested, maimed, tortured, killed and looted the property of Jews (for being collectively condemned as `Christ killers') - primarily in Europe. Each incident is described in a brief paragraph: the number assaulted, which city, when and what caused to pogrom to occur. Besides noting locations, anti-Semitic utterances or publications by specific authors are listed (St. Augustine, various popes, Martin Luther, etc.) Specific anti-Jew sentences in the New Testament are listed, too. After reading this, one realizes that the 1930s German Nazi movement was not an aberration. Few WWII massacres are noted, simply too many for this small booklet. Not in chronological order. Just enough info here to entice a reader to begin searching for more scholarly books. While each instance is not specifically referenced, a 3-page bibliography is included.
984
[ "This is a 192-page, small size (4.5\"x7\") paperback containing about 400 instances since the death of Jesus whereby some Christian mob has molested, maimed, tortured, killed and looted the property of Jews (for being collectively condemned as `Christ killers') - primarily in Europe.", "Each incident is described in a brief paragraph: the number assaulted, which city, when and what caused to pogrom to occur.", "Besides noting locations, anti-Semitic utterances or publications by specific authors are listed (St.", "Augustine, various popes, Martin Luther, etc.) Specific anti-Jew sentences in the New Testament are listed, too.", "After reading this, one realizes that the 1930s German Nazi movement was not an aberration.", "Few WWII massacres are noted, simply too many for this small booklet.", "Not in chronological order.", "Just enough info here to entice a reader to begin searching for more scholarly books.", "While each instance is not specifically referenced, a 3-page bibliography is included." ]
3
Pogrom
This is a 192-page, small size (4.5"x7") paperback containing about 400 instances since the death of Jesus whereby some Christian mob has molested, maimed, tortured, killed and looted the property of Jews (for being collectively condemned as 'Christ killers') - primarily in Europe. Each incident is described in a brief paragraph: the number assaulted, which city, when and what caused to pogrom to occur. Besides noting locations, anti-Semitic utterances or publications by specific authors are listed (St. Augustine, various popes, Martin Luther, etc.) Specific anti-Jew sentences in the New Testament are listed, too. After reading this, one realizes that the 1930s German Nazi movement was not an aberration. Few WWII massacres are noted, simply too many for this small booklet. Not in chronological order. Just enough info here to entice a reader to begin searching for more scholarly books. While each instance is not specifically referenced, a 3-page bibliography is included.
984
[ "This is a 192-page, small size (4.5\"x7\") paperback containing about 400 instances since the death of Jesus whereby some Christian mob has molested, maimed, tortured, killed and looted the property of Jews (for being collectively condemned as 'Christ killers') - primarily in Europe.", "Each incident is described in a brief paragraph: the number assaulted, which city, when and what caused to pogrom to occur.", "Besides noting locations, anti-Semitic utterances or publications by specific authors are listed (St.", "Augustine, various popes, Martin Luther, etc.) Specific anti-Jew sentences in the New Testament are listed, too.", "After reading this, one realizes that the 1930s German Nazi movement was not an aberration.", "Few WWII massacres are noted, simply too many for this small booklet.", "Not in chronological order.", "Just enough info here to entice a reader to begin searching for more scholarly books.", "While each instance is not specifically referenced, a 3-page bibliography is included." ]
3
Effective upper body workout
I love the upper body work in this compilation video (compiled from the Firm Classics series). However, since I usually do a Firm total body workout first, I don't care for all the dance moves added in to the workout. If you have already done a full body workout you may want to ignore the leg work and just do the upper body exercises. I found the leg moves distracting so I took pen in hand and wrote down the upper body exercises and amount of sets on paper and just do them without the video. I found the instruction good, but Sandahl Bergman is somewhat cloying and Janet Jones-Gretsky's warmups may be too difficult for beginners. I've noticed all the Firm classics "guest instructors" tend to use dancers moves that are too difficult or too "choreographed" for people who want a workout, not a jazz dancing lesson and these two instructors are the worst about that. Rent it first to be sure you like it. Better yet, rent it, write down the exercises and don't bother buying it.
984
[ "I love the upper body work in this compilation video (compiled from the Firm Classics series).", "However, since I usually do a Firm total body workout first, I don't care for all the dance moves added in to the workout.", "If you have already done a full body workout you may want to ignore the leg work and just do the upper body exercises.", "I found the leg moves distracting so I took pen in hand and wrote down the upper body exercises and amount of sets on paper and just do them without the video.", "I found the instruction good, but Sandahl Bergman is somewhat cloying and Janet Jones-Gretsky's warmups may be too difficult for beginners.", "I've noticed all the Firm classics \"guest instructors\" tend to use dancers moves that are too difficult or too \"choreographed\" for people who want a workout, not a jazz dancing lesson and these two instructors are the worst about that.", "Rent it first to be sure you like it.", "Better yet, rent it, write down the exercises and don't bother buying it." ]
3
Amazon Fixed the Problem
When I got the FreeAgent 250GB hard drive it was dead. I contacted Seagate support and they just sat there on the phone after telling them the problem. I could here people in the background, so I just hung up. I contacted Amazon to return it and literally the second day a new one was on my door step. Before the broken one got to them,lol. Now that's sevice and support!!Now the drive is nice. The back up his really nice to have but the software on the drive with a back up takes up almost 80GB. What I really like about it is the sleep mode, so when your not using it you don't have to shut it off because of it wasting energy. Like other hard drives there loud and don't go into sleep mode if not using it. This one does. No loud noise and no reason to shut it off. Very happy with the speed of file transfers and navigating the folders, where some lack. I have now 3 external hard drives and this is my favorite on by far. 1) sleep mode. 2)automatic back up. 3)slim quite design.
984
[ "When I got the FreeAgent 250GB hard drive it was dead.", "I contacted Seagate support and they just sat there on the phone after telling them the problem.", "I could here people in the background, so I just hung up.", "I contacted Amazon to return it and literally the second day a new one was on my door step.", "Before the broken one got to them,lol.", "Now that's sevice and support!!", "Now the drive is nice.", "The back up his really nice to have but the software on the drive with a back up takes up almost 80GB.", "What I really like about it is the sleep mode, so when your not using it you don't have to shut it off because of it wasting energy.", "Like other hard drives there loud and don't go into sleep mode if not using it.", "This one does.", "No loud noise and no reason to shut it off.", "Very happy with the speed of file transfers and navigating the folders, where some lack.", "I have now 3 external hard drives and this is my favorite on by far.", "1) sleep mode.", "2)automatic back up.", "3)slim quite design." ]
3
This was a pretty good movie
We would've given this a higher rating, but the freaky bugs, george washington chickens, punk ox, the can-can birds, the dog and the bird (Jacquapo, and if that's not how you spell his name I couldn't care less). Cornelius could really lose the cowlick and thumbelina's weird bang thing could use an adjustment. Their romance blossomed very quickly. The only songs we liked "Let me be your wings" and "marry the mole!" THe mouse was so cute, but the mole was really freaking us out.And Thumbelina's hairdo at the end could change. But the best character has to be the pink-haired frog. ANd the beetle. Though i must say, the frog who wants to marry Thumbelina made up his mind quicker than Cornelius (which is saying something). Just two seconds, and he says "Mother...I love her" (even though I don't know anything about her).Disney could have made it better.We know and understand that this review probably wasn't the best or most convincing one, but we felt like writing it anyway.
984
[ "We would've given this a higher rating, but the freaky bugs, george washington chickens, punk ox, the can-can birds, the dog and the bird (Jacquapo, and if that's not how you spell his name I couldn't care less).", "Cornelius could really lose the cowlick and thumbelina's weird bang thing could use an adjustment.", "Their romance blossomed very quickly.", "The only songs we liked \"Let me be your wings\" and \"marry the mole!", "\" THe mouse was so cute, but the mole was really freaking us out.And Thumbelina's hairdo at the end could change.", "But the best character has to be the pink-haired frog.", "ANd the beetle.", "Though i must say, the frog who wants to marry Thumbelina made up his mind quicker than Cornelius (which is saying something).", "Just two seconds, and he says \"Mother...I love her\" (even though I don't know anything about her).Disney could have made it better.We know and understand that this review probably wasn't the best or most convincing one, but we felt like writing it anyway." ]
3
They are ok
I just purchased these shoes needing a replacement for the Bostonians that I have been wearing for more than a year now. I am on a budget and didn't want to shell out too much money for a pair of shoes. They look a lot better in the picture than in person. They look cheap compared to the shoes I am used to wearing. They fit well but don't allow much breathing and my foot got really overheated. I do like their comfortable sole and the rubber has much better traction and less noise than the leather soles I am used to. I have only worn them once so I can not attest to durability, but I would doubt that these last more than a few months and I am curious as to how well these will respond to shoe polish.Update 12-14-10. OK. I am sorry. These shoes are better than I thought. They still look kind of cheap, but have held up really well for 8 months now. They are super comfy too. I think owe Stacy Adams an apology. These shoes are a bargain. They can pass for dress shoes alright.
984
[ "I just purchased these shoes needing a replacement for the Bostonians that I have been wearing for more than a year now.", "I am on a budget and didn't want to shell out too much money for a pair of shoes.", "They look a lot better in the picture than in person.", "They look cheap compared to the shoes I am used to wearing.", "They fit well but don't allow much breathing and my foot got really overheated.", "I do like their comfortable sole and the rubber has much better traction and less noise than the leather soles I am used to.", "I have only worn them once so I can not attest to durability, but I would doubt that these last more than a few months and I am curious as to how well these will respond to shoe polish.Update 12-14-10.", "OK.", "I am sorry.", "These shoes are better than I thought.", "They still look kind of cheap, but have held up really well for 8 months now.", "They are super comfy too.", "I think owe Stacy Adams an apology.", "These shoes are a bargain.", "They can pass for dress shoes alright." ]
3
An Evangelical Perspective
As an evangelical, I read this book wanting to know more. SDAs and I disagree on many issues such as the Sabbath, the doctrine of Hell, the doctrine of the intermediate state, and doctrines related to Ellen G. White of course. However, I found refreshingly that there were many orthodox statements. This work largely came due to the interaction of Walter Martin and Donald Barnhouse with SDA leadership. It would be good if the SDA would hold on to the essential doctrines taught in this book like the deity of Christ, the Trinity, justification by faith, and the physical resurrection of Jesus from the dead. I would, of course, like to see the other doctrines that I disagree with changed. However, for now, I do believe that if an SDA held to this book, I could only at worse call him heterodox. Of course, there can be heretics in the SDA church as there can be in any church. Hopefully the SDA movement will stick more to this book and less to contrary teachings. Time will tell.
984
[ "As an evangelical, I read this book wanting to know more.", "SDAs and I disagree on many issues such as the Sabbath, the doctrine of Hell, the doctrine of the intermediate state, and doctrines related to Ellen G.", "White of course.", "However, I found refreshingly that there were many orthodox statements.", "This work largely came due to the interaction of Walter Martin and Donald Barnhouse with SDA leadership.", "It would be good if the SDA would hold on to the essential doctrines taught in this book like the deity of Christ, the Trinity, justification by faith, and the physical resurrection of Jesus from the dead.", "I would, of course, like to see the other doctrines that I disagree with changed.", "However, for now, I do believe that if an SDA held to this book, I could only at worse call him heterodox.", "Of course, there can be heretics in the SDA church as there can be in any church.", "Hopefully the SDA movement will stick more to this book and less to contrary teachings.", "Time will tell." ]
3
WWE Title Match rocked!
Tag Team Titles Bashams, Shaniqua vs. Scotty 2 Hotty, RikishiI hate shanquia anyways this match wasn't all that good only like 6 mintues the ending was my favorite yeah big kish!{6/10}Jaime Noble vs. Nidia Blindfold MatchStupid and retarded didn't like at all plus Noble cheated{2/10}World's Greatest Tag Team vs. ApaAnother boring match come on we need better matches{3/10}Hardcore Holly vs. RhynoNo why have this match it's just ruining the PPV{4/10}Triple Threat Match for No. 1 Contender's Spot at Wrestlemania 20 Kurt Angle vs. John cena vs. Big ShowEnjoyable to watch I thought it was fun to watch real good triple threat match w/ a lot of finishers{9/10}Cruiserweight Title chavo Guerero vs. Rey Mysterio{10/10}WWE Title Brock Lesnar vs. Eddie GuereroIn this match it was cruiserweight facing power and cruiserweight won with Goldberg interfereing and more I loved the beggining to end of this match{10/10}This ppv get's a 44/70 not so good it's alright though Smackdown rocks!
984
[ "Tag Team Titles Bashams, Shaniqua vs.", "Scotty 2 Hotty, RikishiI hate shanquia anyways this match wasn't all that good only like 6 mintues the ending was my favorite yeah big kish!", "{6/10}Jaime Noble vs.", "Nidia Blindfold MatchStupid and retarded didn't like at all plus Noble cheated{2/10}World's Greatest Tag Team vs.", "ApaAnother boring match come on we need better matches{3/10}Hardcore Holly vs.", "RhynoNo why have this match it's just ruining the PPV{4/10}Triple Threat Match for No.", "1 Contender's Spot at Wrestlemania 20 Kurt Angle vs.", "John cena vs.", "Big ShowEnjoyable to watch I thought it was fun to watch real good triple threat match w/ a lot of finishers{9/10}Cruiserweight Title chavo Guerero vs.", "Rey Mysterio{10/10}WWE Title Brock Lesnar vs.", "Eddie GuereroIn this match it was cruiserweight facing power and cruiserweight won with Goldberg interfereing and more I loved the beggining to end of this match{10/10}This ppv get's a 44/70 not so good it's alright though Smackdown rocks!" ]
3
Threw it across the room...
So... lusting after a road trip of my own, I picked up thisbook and shot through it in a pretty short amount of time. It waspretty captivating at first, and I loved the breakneck pace andnon-stop action. But...it soon grew quite old. I kept expecting Deanto develop (to change as initially promised by Sal), to morph into acomplex, interesting character by the end of the novel-- but it didn'thappen. Dean ended up a broken record, ditching the same situationsagain and again, only to have Sal and the gang react in the same tiredways. As a wise man once said, "Pretty words...but come toconclusion...!" The last 100 pages or so were incredibly hard tofinish...I spent a couple of hours on those alone! Frustrations ranso high, I threw it across the room after reading the last page. Styleover substance, undoubtedly. I also got a little bit tired of thebrainless angst... Whine, Whine. Still an enjoyable read, and aninteresting technique...but not a well-rounded book, by any means.
984
[ "So... lusting after a road trip of my own, I picked up thisbook and shot through it in a pretty short amount of time.", "It waspretty captivating at first, and I loved the breakneck pace andnon-stop action.", "But...it soon grew quite old.", "I kept expecting Deanto develop (to change as initially promised by Sal), to morph into acomplex, interesting character by the end of the novel-- but it didn'thappen.", "Dean ended up a broken record, ditching the same situationsagain and again, only to have Sal and the gang react in the same tiredways.", "As a wise man once said, \"Pretty words...but come toconclusion...!\" The last 100 pages or so were incredibly hard tofinish...I spent a couple of hours on those alone!", "Frustrations ranso high, I threw it across the room after reading the last page.", "Styleover substance, undoubtedly.", "I also got a little bit tired of thebrainless angst... Whine, Whine.", "Still an enjoyable read, and aninteresting technique...but not a well-rounded book, by any means." ]
3
Sad!
Very strangely, there are similarities between this book's storyline and Barak Obama's Dreams of my Father: a short, not particularly fruitful meeting between a son and the father he had never met, a black child brought up in a white family who ends up with a white sibling, Chicago as a set for major scenes.The outcome is however completely different in that Jimmy Corrigan, certainly NOT the smartest kid on earth, is incapable all the way to the end of the book of any accomplishment whatsoever, neither personal nor professional. Overall, this makes for a very sad work, enlightened only with the author's occasional rye humour.The graphics are pared down, except for buildings which are very realistically detailed. In particular, the images of the 1893 Chicago World Fair are simply breathtaking. This is a bonus for anyone interested in that city's architecture or urban design.This however is not enough for me to recommend giving this book high priority on any reading list.
984
[ "Very strangely, there are similarities between this book's storyline and Barak Obama's Dreams of my Father: a short, not particularly fruitful meeting between a son and the father he had never met, a black child brought up in a white family who ends up with a white sibling, Chicago as a set for major scenes.The outcome is however completely different in that Jimmy Corrigan, certainly NOT the smartest kid on earth, is incapable all the way to the end of the book of any accomplishment whatsoever, neither personal nor professional.", "Overall, this makes for a very sad work, enlightened only with the author's occasional rye humour.The graphics are pared down, except for buildings which are very realistically detailed.", "In particular, the images of the 1893 Chicago World Fair are simply breathtaking.", "This is a bonus for anyone interested in that city's architecture or urban design.This however is not enough for me to recommend giving this book high priority on any reading list." ]
3
Funky But Too Derivative
I love everything I've heard on the Daptone label up to this one, think they're doing great stuff (especially with The Budos Band). But I've got to kind of blow the whistle on this release. The funk offered here is raw, is tight, has a nice groove . . . but somehow it leaves an emptiness at the end. It's just too perfect, too pat, too much exactly what someone trying to sound funky in that Famous Flames way should sound. The Mighty Imperials are quite adept at aping the sound of James Brown and his band in their prime, and maybe should just rename themselves something gimmicky and become a Famous Flames tribute band. They have a song called "Cold Sweat" and another one with the word "Popcorn" in it - geez!! The worst part is when the vocalist comes in - absolutely meaningless, unconvicing funk platitudes sung by someone just mailing it in. These guys know how to play but they need to either find a way to create their own identity or hang it up and become a tribute band.
984
[ "I love everything I've heard on the Daptone label up to this one, think they're doing great stuff (especially with The Budos Band).", "But I've got to kind of blow the whistle on this release.", "The funk offered here is raw, is tight, has a nice groove.", ".", ".", "but somehow it leaves an emptiness at the end.", "It's just too perfect, too pat, too much exactly what someone trying to sound funky in that Famous Flames way should sound.", "The Mighty Imperials are quite adept at aping the sound of James Brown and his band in their prime, and maybe should just rename themselves something gimmicky and become a Famous Flames tribute band.", "They have a song called \"Cold Sweat\" and another one with the word \"Popcorn\" in it - geez!!", "The worst part is when the vocalist comes in - absolutely meaningless, unconvicing funk platitudes sung by someone just mailing it in.", "These guys know how to play but they need to either find a way to create their own identity or hang it up and become a tribute band." ]
3
Same o' Same o'
Im all for scott kelby's books but this is geting rediculous. I have been a scott kelby's fan for a while now and every book he wrote i bought.I actually read every page and bookmarked all the good effects thats why i can tell you this with a straight face, if you previously own a photoshop book for digital photographer written by Mr. Kelby then please, do your self a favor by not wasting your money on this one. He just use the SAME EXACT techniques from his previous books, slap on new pictures add maybe 3 new tricks that are not so impressive.The new tricks he include in here are mostly how to make your image look like a frame... wich translate to adding a black background under your image THATS THE ONLY NEW THING. This book is good for those who havent seen a book by scott kelby before thats the only i gave it 3 stars... it should really be 0 star i am trully disapointed in scott kelby for practically stealing 30 bucks from me and sorry to say he just lost a loyal fan
984
[ "Im all for scott kelby's books but this is geting rediculous.", "I have been a scott kelby's fan for a while now and every book he wrote i bought.I actually read every page and bookmarked all the good effects thats why i can tell you this with a straight face, if you previously own a photoshop book for digital photographer written by Mr.", "Kelby then please, do your self a favor by not wasting your money on this one.", "He just use the SAME EXACT techniques from his previous books, slap on new pictures add maybe 3 new tricks that are not so impressive.The new tricks he include in here are mostly how to make your image look like a frame... wich translate to adding a black background under your image THATS THE ONLY NEW THING.", "This book is good for those who havent seen a book by scott kelby before thats the only i gave it 3 stars... it should really be 0 star i am trully disapointed in scott kelby for practically stealing 30 bucks from me and sorry to say he just lost a loyal fan" ]
3
AT IT AGAIN
I have been a Kiss fan since 1978 when my uncle bought me Gene's solo album. After that I bought Alive and then began collecting everything I could get my hands on. I saw my first concert in 85 for the Asylum tour and the first video I saw was Live: Uncensored. Those were the good days. Once Kiss removed the make up, they entered a different realm and should have remained there. There style shifted with the trends, but that was ok. I admit I was slightly dissapointed when they put the make up back on but still remained a fan. The "Rock the Nation" DVD should have been filmed with all original members and not this way. Singer and Thayer are awesome, but they are not Ace and Peter. Although this DVD illustrates that these guys still have it, it is a slight dissapointment to the original fan base and shows that they are still marketing the name Kiss and not considering what true Kiss fans really want to see. If you are gonna wear the makeup, you need to have peter and ace.
984
[ "I have been a Kiss fan since 1978 when my uncle bought me Gene's solo album.", "After that I bought Alive and then began collecting everything I could get my hands on.", "I saw my first concert in 85 for the Asylum tour and the first video I saw was Live: Uncensored.", "Those were the good days.", "Once Kiss removed the make up, they entered a different realm and should have remained there.", "There style shifted with the trends, but that was ok.", "I admit I was slightly dissapointed when they put the make up back on but still remained a fan.", "The \"Rock the Nation\" DVD should have been filmed with all original members and not this way.", "Singer and Thayer are awesome, but they are not Ace and Peter.", "Although this DVD illustrates that these guys still have it, it is a slight dissapointment to the original fan base and shows that they are still marketing the name Kiss and not considering what true Kiss fans really want to see.", "If you are gonna wear the makeup, you need to have peter and ace." ]
3
Mixed blessing
I owned my previous Westclox Travelmate for more than 12 years. It was the only alarm clock I owned - or needed. Very reliable & accurate - for most of those years. It began to go screwy only the last couple of years I had it.So I replaced it with another Travelmate, just a couple of months ago. At first I was very pleased with my purchase, but this one is already exhibiting the bugs of the first Travelmate - almost right out of the gate. The time setting and alarm setting often change - spontaneously and mysteriously - all by themselves, sometimes several times during the same day! Since the problem has not gone away, and since I cannot depend upon it to process time accurately (a core requirement for an alarm clock, wouldn't you say?), I have decided to replace it with something better. Since it cost only a few bucks, it simply is not a good use of my time to go through the hassle and expense of returning it for a refund.Westclox, are you listening?Westclox Travelmate
984
[ "I owned my previous Westclox Travelmate for more than 12 years.", "It was the only alarm clock I owned - or needed.", "Very reliable & accurate - for most of those years.", "It began to go screwy only the last couple of years I had it.So I replaced it with another Travelmate, just a couple of months ago.", "At first I was very pleased with my purchase, but this one is already exhibiting the bugs of the first Travelmate - almost right out of the gate.", "The time setting and alarm setting often change - spontaneously and mysteriously - all by themselves, sometimes several times during the same day!", "Since the problem has not gone away, and since I cannot depend upon it to process time accurately (a core requirement for an alarm clock, wouldn't you say?", "), I have decided to replace it with something better.", "Since it cost only a few bucks, it simply is not a good use of my time to go through the hassle and expense of returning it for a refund.Westclox, are you listening?", "Westclox Travelmate" ]
3
Now! 1 Gets Things Started
This Now! 1 album started a string of hits albums thats have become important albums and all 5 albums have landed in the top 10, but like Now! 3, Now!1 just loses something, maybe because there is not enough good material on it, this album does deserve 4 stars for having Janet(Together Again)-great song, and BackStreet Boys(As Long As You Love Me), and Fastball(The Way), just to name a few but those three song just can't stand with some of the other songs that are on here like "Barbie Girl" by Aqua, "Shorty" by Imajin a song I had never even heard of much less know who the artists' is, then there is the ever annoying "Zoot Suit Riot" by Cherry Poppin' Daddies who had one hit wonder written all over them, and finally Tonic's ever irritating "If You Could Only See" a song to this day I can't stand, Now! 1 is in no comparisons to Now! 4 and 5, where those album here enough good songs to over come the bad, and Now! 6 is ready for release and that album looks very promising.
984
[ "This Now!", "1 album started a string of hits albums thats have become important albums and all 5 albums have landed in the top 10, but like Now!", "3, Now!", "1 just loses something, maybe because there is not enough good material on it, this album does deserve 4 stars for having Janet(Together Again)-great song, and BackStreet Boys(As Long As You Love Me), and Fastball(The Way), just to name a few but those three song just can't stand with some of the other songs that are on here like \"Barbie Girl\" by Aqua, \"Shorty\" by Imajin a song I had never even heard of much less know who the artists' is, then there is the ever annoying \"Zoot Suit Riot\" by Cherry Poppin' Daddies who had one hit wonder written all over them, and finally Tonic's ever irritating \"If You Could Only See\" a song to this day I can't stand, Now!", "1 is in no comparisons to Now!", "4 and 5, where those album here enough good songs to over come the bad, and Now!", "6 is ready for release and that album looks very promising." ]
3
Soft and Smelly
This foam topper does the trick - adds a soft cushion to a hard mattress. I am 7 months pregnant and my extra firm mattress is a little too firm for me right now so got this foam topper for the remainder of my pregnancy. I am sleeping better with the extra cush BUT I have to say the foam really smells. Its scented with what the packaging calls a "green tea" sent but it smells more like mint chocolate chip ice cream to me. It's a very strong odor that has not gone away after 48 hours of airing the foam outside in the wind and another week of actually using the thing on the bed. The scent is a major bummer - its tolerable - but its always there and you smell it when you go into the bedroom, when you move at night adjusting the covers, and any other time you are around the thing. Upon further reflection I probably should have gone to some place like company store or garnet hill or some other online retailer that was a little nicer - their foam may not have smelled so much.
984
[ "This foam topper does the trick - adds a soft cushion to a hard mattress.", "I am 7 months pregnant and my extra firm mattress is a little too firm for me right now so got this foam topper for the remainder of my pregnancy.", "I am sleeping better with the extra cush BUT I have to say the foam really smells.", "Its scented with what the packaging calls a \"green tea\" sent but it smells more like mint chocolate chip ice cream to me.", "It's a very strong odor that has not gone away after 48 hours of airing the foam outside in the wind and another week of actually using the thing on the bed.", "The scent is a major bummer - its tolerable - but its always there and you smell it when you go into the bedroom, when you move at night adjusting the covers, and any other time you are around the thing.", "Upon further reflection I probably should have gone to some place like company store or garnet hill or some other online retailer that was a little nicer - their foam may not have smelled so much." ]
3
Good Design, Poor Workmanship
The design of the easel is nice and assembly was a snap. The workman ship of the easel is where this product lacked BIG TIME! The paint looked like it received one really quick coat on almost all the pieces. Most pieces had the paint chipped and cracked. Now with all that being said, it was really easy to get replacement parts. My opinion is that it is a known problem that workmanship is weak due to the fact how easy it was to order replacement parts. KidKraft has a sheet included in the box with a website to order parts. I thought about returning the product right after opening the box, but I assembled it anyway and ordered replacement parts. After it was assembled the easel is very sturdy and the kids LOVE it! The imperfections of the easel don't stand out after it was assembled (thought not an excuse for the chipped, cracked poor coverage of the paint). I would purchase again only due to the fact ordering replacement parts was so easy and the kids really do enjoy it.
984
[ "The design of the easel is nice and assembly was a snap.", "The workman ship of the easel is where this product lacked BIG TIME!", "The paint looked like it received one really quick coat on almost all the pieces.", "Most pieces had the paint chipped and cracked.", "Now with all that being said, it was really easy to get replacement parts.", "My opinion is that it is a known problem that workmanship is weak due to the fact how easy it was to order replacement parts.", "KidKraft has a sheet included in the box with a website to order parts.", "I thought about returning the product right after opening the box, but I assembled it anyway and ordered replacement parts.", "After it was assembled the easel is very sturdy and the kids LOVE it!", "The imperfections of the easel don't stand out after it was assembled (thought not an excuse for the chipped, cracked poor coverage of the paint).", "I would purchase again only due to the fact ordering replacement parts was so easy and the kids really do enjoy it." ]
3
Not Blown Away
I read lots of great reviews for this razor and ordered it with high expectations. I've been using it for about three weeks now and I have to say that I'm not nearly as impressed as everyone else seems to be. Maybe I got a bad unit or something. It feels nice in the hand and it seems quite powerful and the pop-up trimmer works great. But I'm just not getting a very close shave at all with it. I have to go over all parts of my face and neck two or three times, stretching the skin in every way possible, and even then I still find areas that could have been closer.I really wanted to like this razor, especially because it's so expensive. I've had great Braun razors before, but this isn't one of them. I'm sorry that I can't agree with everyone else on this one.BTW, I'm sure that part of the reason this razor is so expensive is because Braun really overdid the packaging. You'd think the packaging was for some precious family heirloom or valuable jewels, not an electric razor.
984
[ "I read lots of great reviews for this razor and ordered it with high expectations.", "I've been using it for about three weeks now and I have to say that I'm not nearly as impressed as everyone else seems to be.", "Maybe I got a bad unit or something.", "It feels nice in the hand and it seems quite powerful and the pop-up trimmer works great.", "But I'm just not getting a very close shave at all with it.", "I have to go over all parts of my face and neck two or three times, stretching the skin in every way possible, and even then I still find areas that could have been closer.I really wanted to like this razor, especially because it's so expensive.", "I've had great Braun razors before, but this isn't one of them.", "I'm sorry that I can't agree with everyone else on this one.BTW, I'm sure that part of the reason this razor is so expensive is because Braun really overdid the packaging.", "You'd think the packaging was for some precious family heirloom or valuable jewels, not an electric razor." ]
3
Research Lacking Faith
Paula Fredriksen's latest work provides a compelling look into the life and times of Jesus of Nazareth. The research is complete, detailed, and not lacking for specific theological information. However, there is a definite attempt in this book to seemingly strip away the most important and vital element of Christianity itself: FAITH. If one examines the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus without faith, it quickly becomes a fruitless effort. If, however, we preach Christ crucified and resurrected, we have the core of our Faith. Modern theological research has, for the last 30 years, sought to divorce faith from scriptural analysis, thus producing the quest for the "Historical Jesus." I believe this search is empty and not worthy of pursuit. However, it must be said that Paula Fredriksen presents a complete and worthy attempt to uncover this "Jesus of history." I am left only with one question: does Paula Fredriksen believe Jesus is just a man or the Christ?
984
[ "Paula Fredriksen's latest work provides a compelling look into the life and times of Jesus of Nazareth.", "The research is complete, detailed, and not lacking for specific theological information.", "However, there is a definite attempt in this book to seemingly strip away the most important and vital element of Christianity itself: FAITH.", "If one examines the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus without faith, it quickly becomes a fruitless effort.", "If, however, we preach Christ crucified and resurrected, we have the core of our Faith.", "Modern theological research has, for the last 30 years, sought to divorce faith from scriptural analysis, thus producing the quest for the \"Historical Jesus.\" I believe this search is empty and not worthy of pursuit.", "However, it must be said that Paula Fredriksen presents a complete and worthy attempt to uncover this \"Jesus of history.\" I am left only with one question: does Paula Fredriksen believe Jesus is just a man or the Christ?" ]
3
I Like Maysa, But.....
....Shanachie Records isn't helping matters! I just recieved Maysa's new 'Feel The Fire' CD, and it only took a few plays for me to write this review. Before Maysa landed on Shanachie Records to record the previous 'Sweet Soul Music' CD in 2006, she released a string of GREAT CDs on the Rice & N-Coded Labels ('All My Life', 'Out Of The Blue', and 'Smooth Sailing'). While Maysa's vocals are stellar on 'Feel The Fire', the music & production cannot touch the quality exhibited on her pre 2006 CDs.IMO, Maysa was doing fine at her previous recording home (also as the featured vocalist for Incognito!), and to relegate her to this 2nd rate record label should be a crime! Please, don't get me wrong, I have all of Maysa's CDs (as well as those by Incognito), but these 10 track Shanachie CDs are worth NO MORE THAN $9.99...SERIOUSLY. Maysa, PLEASE return to a record label that will help you release CDs up to your high standards.You deserve much better!!!Peace, SD(of 'Chakasworld')
984
[ "....Shanachie Records isn't helping matters!", "I just recieved Maysa's new 'Feel The Fire' CD, and it only took a few plays for me to write this review.", "Before Maysa landed on Shanachie Records to record the previous 'Sweet Soul Music' CD in 2006, she released a string of GREAT CDs on the Rice & N-Coded Labels ('All My Life', 'Out Of The Blue', and 'Smooth Sailing').", "While Maysa's vocals are stellar on 'Feel The Fire', the music & production cannot touch the quality exhibited on her pre 2006 CDs.IMO, Maysa was doing fine at her previous recording home (also as the featured vocalist for Incognito!", "), and to relegate her to this 2nd rate record label should be a crime!", "Please, don't get me wrong, I have all of Maysa's CDs (as well as those by Incognito), but these 10 track Shanachie CDs are worth NO MORE THAN $9.99...SERIOUSLY.", "Maysa, PLEASE return to a record label that will help you release CDs up to your high standards.You deserve much better!!!", "Peace, SD(of 'Chakasworld')" ]
3
Fairly fascinating
As I've read a number of vampire books, this one I had to read, too. A fascinating, academically-oriented twist on the Dracula story. As an aside note, however, I highly recommend anyone interested in vampires to read the progenitor "Dracula," by Bram Stoker. It is one of the most marvelously written and scary books of all time. A must-read for Dracula fans. As for "The Historian," I enjoyed Kostova's historical depth and the many historical and mythical facets she wove into this story. I didn't find the immigration patterns of the monks boring or pace-stopping as other reviewers have noted because these discoveries were a clue to the mystery. Kostova weaves some generally frightening descriptions of vampire activities and places, and her description of the cities, Budapest, Istanbul, makes me want to visit them. This is the kind of book you take your time with and get into--a "curl-up-with-a-good-book" book. It's not a fast read, although you won't want to put it down.
984
[ "As I've read a number of vampire books, this one I had to read, too.", "A fascinating, academically-oriented twist on the Dracula story.", "As an aside note, however, I highly recommend anyone interested in vampires to read the progenitor \"Dracula,\" by Bram Stoker.", "It is one of the most marvelously written and scary books of all time.", "A must-read for Dracula fans.", "As for \"The Historian,\" I enjoyed Kostova's historical depth and the many historical and mythical facets she wove into this story.", "I didn't find the immigration patterns of the monks boring or pace-stopping as other reviewers have noted because these discoveries were a clue to the mystery.", "Kostova weaves some generally frightening descriptions of vampire activities and places, and her description of the cities, Budapest, Istanbul, makes me want to visit them.", "This is the kind of book you take your time with and get into--a \"curl-up-with-a-good-book\" book.", "It's not a fast read, although you won't want to put it down." ]
3
Maybe just for Garbo fans
This is a pretty average melodrama that I found a little dull and lifeless, despite the "exotic" locale and star power. Frankly, I don't think the Garbo "mystique" holds up so well over the decades, and she doesn't add anything special to this "weepie", as they use to call them. Herbert Marshall is past his prime as the substantial but boring husband, and so is his acting style. George Brent as tall, dark, and handsome is... forgettable, as he was in so many of the Bette Davis flicks.The familiar plot of a woman torn between an exciting lover and a "good" husband; and the consequences and heartbreak wrought by her infidelity needs stronger performances to make this story more interesting or engaging.I just saw "Now, Voyager" and I would recommend that film as a far better example of the genre. I am not even a Bette Davis fan, but her personality and mannerisms seem much more genuine and accessible to contemporary tastes than Garbo's. I give The Painted Veil 2 1/2 stars.
984
[ "This is a pretty average melodrama that I found a little dull and lifeless, despite the \"exotic\" locale and star power.", "Frankly, I don't think the Garbo \"mystique\" holds up so well over the decades, and she doesn't add anything special to this \"weepie\", as they use to call them.", "Herbert Marshall is past his prime as the substantial but boring husband, and so is his acting style.", "George Brent as tall, dark, and handsome is... forgettable, as he was in so many of the Bette Davis flicks.The familiar plot of a woman torn between an exciting lover and a \"good\" husband; and the consequences and heartbreak wrought by her infidelity needs stronger performances to make this story more interesting or engaging.I just saw \"Now, Voyager\" and I would recommend that film as a far better example of the genre.", "I am not even a Bette Davis fan, but her personality and mannerisms seem much more genuine and accessible to contemporary tastes than Garbo's.", "I give The Painted Veil 2 1/2 stars." ]
3
overall, a good collection
In this collection from Seven Stories Press, Linh Dinh has collected together twelve works of fiction by Vietnamese writers. Some of these works are quite sharp, like Nguyen Thi Am's "Sleeping on Earth," a story that by itself is worth the sticker price of this book. Other stories, like The Giang's "A stagnant Water Place," are inventive, but ultimately unfulfilling.But I do applaud Linh Dinh for the scope of this collection--in this, he puts together works from both literary and popular authors. Though Vietnam is clearly a place torn in its artistic identity (as we learn in the introduction, one of Vietnam's most famous writers, Duong Thu Huong, is banned), this collection is a good intro to let you learn of some names that hopefully will be a little more available in English in the near future (and they are--check Amazon for Nguyen Huy Thiep, Thu Huong Duong and others). Linh Dinh set out to expose a new landscape in literature, and his collection certainly does that.
984
[ "In this collection from Seven Stories Press, Linh Dinh has collected together twelve works of fiction by Vietnamese writers.", "Some of these works are quite sharp, like Nguyen Thi Am's \"Sleeping on Earth,\" a story that by itself is worth the sticker price of this book.", "Other stories, like The Giang's \"A stagnant Water Place,\" are inventive, but ultimately unfulfilling.But I do applaud Linh Dinh for the scope of this collection--in this, he puts together works from both literary and popular authors.", "Though Vietnam is clearly a place torn in its artistic identity (as we learn in the introduction, one of Vietnam's most famous writers, Duong Thu Huong, is banned), this collection is a good intro to let you learn of some names that hopefully will be a little more available in English in the near future (and they are--check Amazon for Nguyen Huy Thiep, Thu Huong Duong and others).", "Linh Dinh set out to expose a new landscape in literature, and his collection certainly does that." ]
3
Fun for a little while.
This game is alright, but my biggest complaint is that this is a 2 player game instead of 4. The volleyball section itself is fun for a little bit, but really needs to be played with other people because playing by yourself gets kinda old.Besides that, there's also a casino to go play. The games are Poker, Blackjack, Roullette, and some slot machines. And me being a fan of those type of games (2 more years until I'm 21! Look out Vegas!) this is where I myself have the most fun. But sadly, this feature is not multiplayer! *shakes fist at Tecmo*The rest of the game is just a kind of friendship simulator where you must give gifts to the girls in order for them to like you and receive other gifts they might not normally want to keep. You make money from winning volleyball games, and winning from the casino. You'll spend most of your time just buying and collecting items, and just staring at the girls doing their thing.If anything, this game is at least worth being a rental.
984
[ "This game is alright, but my biggest complaint is that this is a 2 player game instead of 4.", "The volleyball section itself is fun for a little bit, but really needs to be played with other people because playing by yourself gets kinda old.Besides that, there's also a casino to go play.", "The games are Poker, Blackjack, Roullette, and some slot machines.", "And me being a fan of those type of games (2 more years until I'm 21!", "Look out Vegas!", ") this is where I myself have the most fun.", "But sadly, this feature is not multiplayer!", "*shakes fist at Tecmo*The rest of the game is just a kind of friendship simulator where you must give gifts to the girls in order for them to like you and receive other gifts they might not normally want to keep.", "You make money from winning volleyball games, and winning from the casino.", "You'll spend most of your time just buying and collecting items, and just staring at the girls doing their thing.If anything, this game is at least worth being a rental." ]
3
Nice toy but......
This is a really cute bath toy which my 1 1/2 year old daughter loves. However, I'm not as crazy about it as she is. It is much smaller than it looks. The little sea creatures are about an inch long, and my daughter thinks it's so funny to "eat" them, just like the pelican does. They fit entirely in her mouth which is scary. The pelican fills with water in every crack and crevace, and takes forever to drain out. All the water in it makes it really heavy. Too heavy for her to handle. Also, the "rear" of the bird has a hole that lets the sea creatures fall out as soon as she (finally) gets them in the mouth. Very discouraging. I have taken the pelican out of the tub and put it away since she doesn't even play with it. I have to watch her like a hawk with the little critters. There is a K's Kids Pelican that is not a bath toy that is the same thing only LARGER and plush. I have this and I think it is a much better toy, and is almost the exact same thing. Get the plush one.
984
[ "This is a really cute bath toy which my 1 1/2 year old daughter loves.", "However, I'm not as crazy about it as she is.", "It is much smaller than it looks.", "The little sea creatures are about an inch long, and my daughter thinks it's so funny to \"eat\" them, just like the pelican does.", "They fit entirely in her mouth which is scary.", "The pelican fills with water in every crack and crevace, and takes forever to drain out.", "All the water in it makes it really heavy.", "Too heavy for her to handle.", "Also, the \"rear\" of the bird has a hole that lets the sea creatures fall out as soon as she (finally) gets them in the mouth.", "Very discouraging.", "I have taken the pelican out of the tub and put it away since she doesn't even play with it.", "I have to watch her like a hawk with the little critters.", "There is a K's Kids Pelican that is not a bath toy that is the same thing only LARGER and plush.", "I have this and I think it is a much better toy, and is almost the exact same thing.", "Get the plush one." ]
3
Moe. progress with Dither
Moe's album Dither is their first since they parted ways with Sony 550 after their last album. From first listen it seems this new freedom has refreshed them and let them feel free to experiement in the studio. It has long been a problem for "jambands" to create solid studio works and Moe has always been aware of that. This time around it seems their getting closer to balancing what makes their magic live and utilizing the studio to layer and build their sound. Track 4(T6orm), Can't seem to Find, Rise, and Opium are standouts. Chuck and Al are definately 2 of the best guitarists live I have ever seen and Rob's(bass) vocals are really emotive and soulful. IT will be interesting to see what Moe does with this huge hole in the jamband scene by the Hiatus/demise of Phish and of course the grandaddy of them all The Grateful Dead.Moe are a band trying to find an identity in this sea of imrov rock bands and I really hope they survive. Dither is an excellent CD for any Moe fan.
984
[ "Moe's album Dither is their first since they parted ways with Sony 550 after their last album.", "From first listen it seems this new freedom has refreshed them and let them feel free to experiement in the studio.", "It has long been a problem for \"jambands\" to create solid studio works and Moe has always been aware of that.", "This time around it seems their getting closer to balancing what makes their magic live and utilizing the studio to layer and build their sound.", "Track 4(T6orm), Can't seem to Find, Rise, and Opium are standouts.", "Chuck and Al are definately 2 of the best guitarists live I have ever seen and Rob's(bass) vocals are really emotive and soulful.", "IT will be interesting to see what Moe does with this huge hole in the jamband scene by the Hiatus/demise of Phish and of course the grandaddy of them all The Grateful Dead.Moe are a band trying to find an identity in this sea of imrov rock bands and I really hope they survive.", "Dither is an excellent CD for any Moe fan." ]
3
Hundred Acre Wood Gang.
Surprisingly these three movies bring up the question of tolerance. Piglet is looked down upon initally for his small size. The Tigger Movie shows Tigger's initial pride in being the "Best Thing About TIggers" (supposing that he's the only one). But then he begins to mope as his friends don't seem to be as manically into bouncing about as he is.Pooh's Heffalump movie is perhaps the best of the bunch. The elder animals become frightened of a loud noise they hear at night. Roo, Kanga's son, thinks the noise is cool. So having made provisions, the elder animals go on an expedition to catch the Heffalump. (Hilariously, it falls upon Eeyore to carry most of the luggage and so he must shoulder a pack the size of a house.) Roo ofcourse finds the Heffalump first, well atleast a younger version of one anyway. This is a first for fans: in all the history of the TV show and movies, we've never before been granted the opportunity to meet a heffalump. And "Lumpy" doesn't disappoint.
984
[ "Surprisingly these three movies bring up the question of tolerance.", "Piglet is looked down upon initally for his small size.", "The Tigger Movie shows Tigger's initial pride in being the \"Best Thing About TIggers\" (supposing that he's the only one).", "But then he begins to mope as his friends don't seem to be as manically into bouncing about as he is.Pooh's Heffalump movie is perhaps the best of the bunch.", "The elder animals become frightened of a loud noise they hear at night.", "Roo, Kanga's son, thinks the noise is cool.", "So having made provisions, the elder animals go on an expedition to catch the Heffalump.", "(Hilariously, it falls upon Eeyore to carry most of the luggage and so he must shoulder a pack the size of a house.) Roo ofcourse finds the Heffalump first, well atleast a younger version of one anyway.", "This is a first for fans: in all the history of the TV show and movies, we've never before been granted the opportunity to meet a heffalump.", "And \"Lumpy\" doesn't disappoint." ]
3
Back To Basics
Radiohead get round their songwriting poverty by developing initially startling soundscapes that simply don't belong on a rock record. U2 did a similar trick after they dried up following Achtung Baby and kept it up for almost a decade. While this kind of thing keeps the critics happy, it erodes the fan base, so the next rabbit out of the hat is a 'back to basics' approach. This album is basically U2 sans the smokes and mirrors. Gone is the messianic energy of the War and Joshua Tree years, leaving behind a group of skillful, glitzy, jaded musicians with some unfortunate affectations. Bono still thinks he can cut it as Marvin Gaye on 'Grace.' The main problem is that the melodies are pulling their punches trying not to step on the toes of other tunes, a sure sign a band is treading water. The two tracks carrying the album are the soaring, windswept 'Kite' and the recent single 'Beautiful Day' which struggles to break away from a looped feel, but doesn't quite manage it.
984
[ "Radiohead get round their songwriting poverty by developing initially startling soundscapes that simply don't belong on a rock record.", "U2 did a similar trick after they dried up following Achtung Baby and kept it up for almost a decade.", "While this kind of thing keeps the critics happy, it erodes the fan base, so the next rabbit out of the hat is a 'back to basics' approach.", "This album is basically U2 sans the smokes and mirrors.", "Gone is the messianic energy of the War and Joshua Tree years, leaving behind a group of skillful, glitzy, jaded musicians with some unfortunate affectations.", "Bono still thinks he can cut it as Marvin Gaye on 'Grace.' The main problem is that the melodies are pulling their punches trying not to step on the toes of other tunes, a sure sign a band is treading water.", "The two tracks carrying the album are the soaring, windswept 'Kite' and the recent single 'Beautiful Day' which struggles to break away from a looped feel, but doesn't quite manage it." ]
3
Words move Mountains
A single man's words can move the greatest nation in the world. Sicilia and Cruikshank portray Alan Greenspan as one of the most powerful men in society today, while also showing him as a simple and honest man. The power held by Greenspan's words not only move a nation, they move the world as he moves the dollar.The book itself is a decent enough review of Alan Greenspan's economic career, from its inception at Townsend-Greenspan & Co. until his illustrious tenure as chairman of the Fed. Complete with speeches Greenspan himself gave, along with commentary by Sicilia and Cruikshank, this book helps to explain the economic trends of the past decade and put into perspective the exact role that Greenspan played in those trends.Honestly, the book itself became a little tired. The format of teh book rarely changes, and, as a high school student, I found myself scrying for ways to keep myself awake during the reading. Recommended if you really like economics or Alan Greenspan.
984
[ "A single man's words can move the greatest nation in the world.", "Sicilia and Cruikshank portray Alan Greenspan as one of the most powerful men in society today, while also showing him as a simple and honest man.", "The power held by Greenspan's words not only move a nation, they move the world as he moves the dollar.The book itself is a decent enough review of Alan Greenspan's economic career, from its inception at Townsend-Greenspan & Co.", "until his illustrious tenure as chairman of the Fed.", "Complete with speeches Greenspan himself gave, along with commentary by Sicilia and Cruikshank, this book helps to explain the economic trends of the past decade and put into perspective the exact role that Greenspan played in those trends.Honestly, the book itself became a little tired.", "The format of teh book rarely changes, and, as a high school student, I found myself scrying for ways to keep myself awake during the reading.", "Recommended if you really like economics or Alan Greenspan." ]
3
It's Not WrestleMania
I loved the WWF in the 1980s and early 1990s. Survivor Series was always a memorable part of Thanksgiving. But watching this anthology, 20 years removed from it, and with a number of other events succeeding it, didn't rekindle the original spark it had. Volume 1 is probably good for one viewing; I might watch the 1990 and 1991 events again.I certainly wouldn't encourage anyone to use the early Survivor Series Antologies to introduce younger wrestling fans to a previous age of the sport. The match quality just isn't fantastic, and some of the talent and their gimmicks are ridiculous. Most 9-12 year-olds might have a hard time enjoying these events.Volume 1 does include peak Hulkamania, which I did enjoy. Undertaker's debut can't be overlooked either.But for the best wrestling of this era, and a better way to introduce younger kids to the era, would be the WrestleMania anthologies. The match quality (even if short in length) and production values are significantly better.
984
[ "I loved the WWF in the 1980s and early 1990s.", "Survivor Series was always a memorable part of Thanksgiving.", "But watching this anthology, 20 years removed from it, and with a number of other events succeeding it, didn't rekindle the original spark it had.", "Volume 1 is probably good for one viewing; I might watch the 1990 and 1991 events again.I certainly wouldn't encourage anyone to use the early Survivor Series Antologies to introduce younger wrestling fans to a previous age of the sport.", "The match quality just isn't fantastic, and some of the talent and their gimmicks are ridiculous.", "Most 9-12 year-olds might have a hard time enjoying these events.Volume 1 does include peak Hulkamania, which I did enjoy.", "Undertaker's debut can't be overlooked either.But for the best wrestling of this era, and a better way to introduce younger kids to the era, would be the WrestleMania anthologies.", "The match quality (even if short in length) and production values are significantly better." ]
3
it's just ok
The color of the pan is a positive however I have noticed that it is difficult to press the graham cracker crust into place because the bottom is so flexible- it flexes as I press on the bottom causing it to pop back into place and cracking the crust. I have also found that the edges of the cheesecake cook faster than the middle which causes the cheesecake to be very brown around the edges and very undercooked in the middle. I make cheesecakes for my nieces restaurant (they dip the small cut cheesecake "bites" in funnel cake batter and deep fry them) so they don't need to look perfect and this pan gets the job done. If I needed to make a cheesecake that needed to be asthetically pleasing I would invest in a pricier pan but for my purposes it get the job done for a decent price. This pan cleans up easily and the latch works great. If anyone can recommend a nice springform pan that is NOT a dark non stick pan please let me know (basically a nice aluminium springform pan).
984
[ "The color of the pan is a positive however I have noticed that it is difficult to press the graham cracker crust into place because the bottom is so flexible- it flexes as I press on the bottom causing it to pop back into place and cracking the crust.", "I have also found that the edges of the cheesecake cook faster than the middle which causes the cheesecake to be very brown around the edges and very undercooked in the middle.", "I make cheesecakes for my nieces restaurant (they dip the small cut cheesecake \"bites\" in funnel cake batter and deep fry them) so they don't need to look perfect and this pan gets the job done.", "If I needed to make a cheesecake that needed to be asthetically pleasing I would invest in a pricier pan but for my purposes it get the job done for a decent price.", "This pan cleans up easily and the latch works great.", "If anyone can recommend a nice springform pan that is NOT a dark non stick pan please let me know (basically a nice aluminium springform pan)." ]
3
not good for winter climate
I just installed my Driveway Patrol last night. It worked great inside and it worked well outside... for a while. However, a problem arose after the transmitter was left outside, in wintertime Vermont for several hours, with temperatures in teens.My son drove in the yard setting off the chime, as anticipated. However, the chime continued to go off for several minutes as I went back outside and retrieved the transmitter. I brought it inside to warm. After a few minutes of warming up it worked fine again.I have since decided to place the transmitter indoors, near the main entrance, until spring when I will, again, place the unit outdoors beside the driveway as originally intended.The price on the unit is too good to send it back, so I will keep it and use it when the weather is warm enough.The chime is somewhat annoying with two volume settings... loud and wicked loud.As a whole, though, it is fun to have around and will be useful in various applications around the house.
984
[ "I just installed my Driveway Patrol last night.", "It worked great inside and it worked well outside... for a while.", "However, a problem arose after the transmitter was left outside, in wintertime Vermont for several hours, with temperatures in teens.My son drove in the yard setting off the chime, as anticipated.", "However, the chime continued to go off for several minutes as I went back outside and retrieved the transmitter.", "I brought it inside to warm.", "After a few minutes of warming up it worked fine again.I have since decided to place the transmitter indoors, near the main entrance, until spring when I will, again, place the unit outdoors beside the driveway as originally intended.The price on the unit is too good to send it back, so I will keep it and use it when the weather is warm enough.The chime is somewhat annoying with two volume settings... loud and wicked loud.As a whole, though, it is fun to have around and will be useful in various applications around the house." ]
3
A Little Disappointing
This series came highly recommended to me from friends. I enjoyed the first two books of the series as they both worked towards a climax, and delivered. For the third and final book (this one), I anticipated an intriguing plotline that would capture the essence of the characters, placing them in situations which would test their development.This, of course, did occur - but I found the climax to the trilogy unsatisfying. The story unfolded slowly allowing characters to be developed. The characters were tested in the end, but I felt there wasn't enough political intrigue - unlike the first two books - to truly make this series great. In other words, it just wasn't clever enough.I also felt the end of the Red Ship war didn't receive enough treatment, especially considering this was the threat to the Six Duchies, and that the quest was based on eliminating the Red Ships.Robin Hobb is a good writer and I definitely will read her future books in the hope of something special.
984
[ "This series came highly recommended to me from friends.", "I enjoyed the first two books of the series as they both worked towards a climax, and delivered.", "For the third and final book (this one), I anticipated an intriguing plotline that would capture the essence of the characters, placing them in situations which would test their development.This, of course, did occur - but I found the climax to the trilogy unsatisfying.", "The story unfolded slowly allowing characters to be developed.", "The characters were tested in the end, but I felt there wasn't enough political intrigue - unlike the first two books - to truly make this series great.", "In other words, it just wasn't clever enough.I also felt the end of the Red Ship war didn't receive enough treatment, especially considering this was the threat to the Six Duchies, and that the quest was based on eliminating the Red Ships.Robin Hobb is a good writer and I definitely will read her future books in the hope of something special." ]
3
too dark
I was skeptical. The reviews I had read were mixed but also gave advice on how to make this primer work. I followed all of the guidelines as best I could (frequent mixing, smooth roller, multiple coats, rare earth magnets), and I had a strong magnetic surface when the primer coats were complete. However, the final guideline - only one coat of paint over the primer - was impossible. This primer is very dark - think chalkboard gray. It is very difficult to cover. I had to use 2-3 coats of paint over the top, which considerably weakened the magnetic effects. I can still get single sheets of paper to stay up when held by multiple rare earth magnets, but I had hoped for better.My advice - if you have a lot of time to apply the primer carefully and have a very dark color scheme, you'll probably be successful. If you aren't interested in compulsively painting multiple smooth layers or don't intend to use battleship gray in the surface coat, you should save your time and money.
984
[ "I was skeptical.", "The reviews I had read were mixed but also gave advice on how to make this primer work.", "I followed all of the guidelines as best I could (frequent mixing, smooth roller, multiple coats, rare earth magnets), and I had a strong magnetic surface when the primer coats were complete.", "However, the final guideline - only one coat of paint over the primer - was impossible.", "This primer is very dark - think chalkboard gray.", "It is very difficult to cover.", "I had to use 2-3 coats of paint over the top, which considerably weakened the magnetic effects.", "I can still get single sheets of paper to stay up when held by multiple rare earth magnets, but I had hoped for better.My advice - if you have a lot of time to apply the primer carefully and have a very dark color scheme, you'll probably be successful.", "If you aren't interested in compulsively painting multiple smooth layers or don't intend to use battleship gray in the surface coat, you should save your time and money." ]
3
Mixed Bag...Mostly Coal
As you can see from the other reviews, this album seems to have a track or two for each listener, while the rest is apparently garbage. For me, the hands-down winner is, oddly enough, Sigue Sigue Sputnik's "I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man." I honestly can't get enough of it, and it makes the whole album worth the price of admission. Honorable mentions go to Rebecca Romijm for "Darling Nikki," which isn't exactly brilliant, but the backing band is solid and her delivery is suitably sexy, and Dead Or Alive's "Pop Life," which sounds exactly what might have happened if Prince had offered this song to an '80s synth-pop band. Not brilliant or anything, but interesting. And that's this album in a nutshell - not brilliant, but interesting. Two stars for the bulk of the tracks, five stars for Sigue Sigue, so a three star overall. Well worth the buck from the used sellers, particularly for people who make mixes and like to have a library of odd-ball covers to pull from.
984
[ "As you can see from the other reviews, this album seems to have a track or two for each listener, while the rest is apparently garbage.", "For me, the hands-down winner is, oddly enough, Sigue Sigue Sputnik's \"I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man.\" I honestly can't get enough of it, and it makes the whole album worth the price of admission.", "Honorable mentions go to Rebecca Romijm for \"Darling Nikki,\" which isn't exactly brilliant, but the backing band is solid and her delivery is suitably sexy, and Dead Or Alive's \"Pop Life,\" which sounds exactly what might have happened if Prince had offered this song to an '80s synth-pop band.", "Not brilliant or anything, but interesting.", "And that's this album in a nutshell - not brilliant, but interesting.", "Two stars for the bulk of the tracks, five stars for Sigue Sigue, so a three star overall.", "Well worth the buck from the used sellers, particularly for people who make mixes and like to have a library of odd-ball covers to pull from." ]
3
3D Review by a 3D Connoisseur
My ratings are based mainly on the QUALITY OF THE 3D, not the video content.There are about 45 out of screen effects that extend about 10% of the way, from the screen to the viewer. 18 made it to 15%, 10 more at 25% and 2 extended to 30%.The 3D of the computer generated animations are fairly consistent from scene to scene. I was pleasantly surprised that unlike most `originally ... IMAX' films, the 3D in this movie is NOT riddled with spurts of excessive parallax. However I did experience slight eye fatigue from this title. Not great 3D, not bad 3D.*** 3 star ***MY 3D RATING = GOOD (poor, fair, good, very good, excellent)Note: As far as the percentages go, everyone's eyes are different. What I see at 25% you may see at 15% or 35%. To fully realize how far something is out of the screen for you, pause on an effect and direct a partner with an extended finger to the tip of what you are seeing. You may be surprised.Click on `See all my reviews' for the lowdown on other 3Ds
984
[ "My ratings are based mainly on the QUALITY OF THE 3D, not the video content.There are about 45 out of screen effects that extend about 10% of the way, from the screen to the viewer.", "18 made it to 15%, 10 more at 25% and 2 extended to 30%.The 3D of the computer generated animations are fairly consistent from scene to scene.", "I was pleasantly surprised that unlike most `originally ... IMAX' films, the 3D in this movie is NOT riddled with spurts of excessive parallax.", "However I did experience slight eye fatigue from this title.", "Not great 3D, not bad 3D.*** 3 star ***MY 3D RATING = GOOD (poor, fair, good, very good, excellent)Note: As far as the percentages go, everyone's eyes are different.", "What I see at 25% you may see at 15% or 35%.", "To fully realize how far something is out of the screen for you, pause on an effect and direct a partner with an extended finger to the tip of what you are seeing.", "You may be surprised.Click on `See all my reviews' for the lowdown on other 3Ds" ]
3
OH DEATH WHERE IS THY STING?
My wife cried during some of the scenes in this movie, so it can't be all bad, cause she doesn't cry that often. Anyway, DRAGONFLY is an okay film that attempts to deliver a spiritual message in its own roundabout way. Kevin Costner holds his own, but he doesn't put enough true grief into his portrait, and there are times when he looks extremely bored. Joe Morton is wasted as the one dimensional hospital administrator; Susannah Thompson is effectively heroic and beautiful; Linda Hunt is Linda Hunt in a nun's habit; catch "General Hospital's" Peter Hansen in the dinner scene; and of course, the real stars of this movie are the two brilliant child actors who play Jeffrey and Ben. They are so warm and convincing in their roles--they should have great careers as adults. The direction is moody and intense; and despite the sometimes incredibility of the plot, it holds your attention and ends on a supremely upbeat note.RECOMMENDED TO THOSE WHO LIKE A THREE OR FOUR HANKY MOVIE.
984
[ "My wife cried during some of the scenes in this movie, so it can't be all bad, cause she doesn't cry that often.", "Anyway, DRAGONFLY is an okay film that attempts to deliver a spiritual message in its own roundabout way.", "Kevin Costner holds his own, but he doesn't put enough true grief into his portrait, and there are times when he looks extremely bored.", "Joe Morton is wasted as the one dimensional hospital administrator; Susannah Thompson is effectively heroic and beautiful; Linda Hunt is Linda Hunt in a nun's habit; catch \"General Hospital's\" Peter Hansen in the dinner scene; and of course, the real stars of this movie are the two brilliant child actors who play Jeffrey and Ben.", "They are so warm and convincing in their roles--they should have great careers as adults.", "The direction is moody and intense; and despite the sometimes incredibility of the plot, it holds your attention and ends on a supremely upbeat note.RECOMMENDED TO THOSE WHO LIKE A THREE OR FOUR HANKY MOVIE." ]
3
not that good
this was no where near as good as i hoped it would be1st)fatal fourway tag team championship-3/5 not as much action as i was hoping for2nd)edge vs a-train-2/5 would have been so much better if it were no dq3rd)kane vs batista-2/5 way to slow should not have been on the card4th)chris beniot vs edde guerrero-5/5 great match but they were even better at vengeance 035th)triple threat womens title-3/5 could have been a great match if it were longer and without the cheating from victoria6th)big show vs kurt angle-3/5 this was pretty much a squash match because big show just destroyed angle for most of the match well till the end ne way with help from brock7th)2 out of 3 falls match-5/5 this was the best match on the card but thats not much to brag about i wouldve like to seen more blood and more use of the barbed wire and it shouldve been alot longer the cage and the ladder matches it wouldve made em better all in all not really worth your money except for 2 or 3 matches23/35
984
[ "this was no where near as good as i hoped it would be1st)fatal fourway tag team championship-3/5 not as much action as i was hoping for2nd)edge vs a-train-2/5 would have been so much better if it were no dq3rd)kane vs batista-2/5 way to slow should not have been on the card4th)chris beniot vs edde guerrero-5/5 great match but they were even better at vengeance 035th)triple threat womens title-3/5 could have been a great match if it were longer and without the cheating from victoria6th)big show vs kurt angle-3/5 this was pretty much a squash match because big show just destroyed angle for most of the match well till the end ne way with help from brock7th)2 out of 3 falls match-5/5 this was the best match on the card but thats not much to brag about i wouldve like to seen more blood and more use of the barbed wire and it shouldve been alot longer the cage and the ladder matches it wouldve made em better all in all not really worth your money except for 2 or 3 matches23/35" ]
3
Hmmmm....
This book was a surprise to me given that Susan May Warren wrote it. Typically, I really love the characters she writes and can't wait for the next book to be published. This book though had me scratching my head thinking, "What happened?" The plot was great and most the time I really got into the book, but what drove me crazy was the wishy-washy attitude of the two main characters, Anne & Noah. I finally gave up counting about the 5th time they had a miscommunication meltdown and their relationship was off again... and this is within weeks of meeting each other in Deep Haven! It didn't make Anne & Noah' budding relationship credible to me... I don't know too many people that could withstand that wishy-washy stuff so early in a relationship - it's usually a sign to bale while the getting is good.Overall, I suggest you read this book in keeping with the series. Hopefully, you like it and it won't bother you like it did me. The other two books in the series are very good.
984
[ "This book was a surprise to me given that Susan May Warren wrote it.", "Typically, I really love the characters she writes and can't wait for the next book to be published.", "This book though had me scratching my head thinking, \"What happened?", "\" The plot was great and most the time I really got into the book, but what drove me crazy was the wishy-washy attitude of the two main characters, Anne & Noah.", "I finally gave up counting about the 5th time they had a miscommunication meltdown and their relationship was off again... and this is within weeks of meeting each other in Deep Haven!", "It didn't make Anne & Noah' budding relationship credible to me... I don't know too many people that could withstand that wishy-washy stuff so early in a relationship - it's usually a sign to bale while the getting is good.Overall, I suggest you read this book in keeping with the series.", "Hopefully, you like it and it won't bother you like it did me.", "The other two books in the series are very good." ]
3
Didn't feel productive...
This dvd is hard to follow, and reminds me of a gym class workout in highschool. The production is pretty lame, the music is hard to hear, and I had the same complaint about Complete aerobics, why do they put the women for beginners all the way in the back? How can someone who has no idea what they are doing follow someone they can barely see?But just in defense to the instructor, who cares that she has tattoos? And I wouldn't say she is out of shape, I would much rather be a full figured, toned woman then some of the other women in these tapes. Don't make up excuses for not working out, the tape is hard, but the tattoos didn't make it hard.If you want a good workout I would try Complete aerobics by The Firm. It will seem hard in the beginning but if you stick with it, you will definetly see results, and feel good about yourself when you finish.Maybe I will try this dvd again but my first impression of it was that the production made it impossible to follow the routine.
984
[ "This dvd is hard to follow, and reminds me of a gym class workout in highschool.", "The production is pretty lame, the music is hard to hear, and I had the same complaint about Complete aerobics, why do they put the women for beginners all the way in the back?", "How can someone who has no idea what they are doing follow someone they can barely see?", "But just in defense to the instructor, who cares that she has tattoos?", "And I wouldn't say she is out of shape, I would much rather be a full figured, toned woman then some of the other women in these tapes.", "Don't make up excuses for not working out, the tape is hard, but the tattoos didn't make it hard.If you want a good workout I would try Complete aerobics by The Firm.", "It will seem hard in the beginning but if you stick with it, you will definetly see results, and feel good about yourself when you finish.Maybe I will try this dvd again but my first impression of it was that the production made it impossible to follow the routine." ]
3
WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!
This book is nothing more than PART of the history of mankind itself. If any of you were to actually do more reading into history and the origins of man, you would know that the first civilization (Sumer) "worshiped" "gods" that "happen to have" the same names as the "mad arab" Abdul Alhazred refers to. It astounds me how naive and gullible you people truly are. I doubt VERY serioulsy if we will EVER truly know the origins and history of mankind but, this book axplains some of where we came from and how "crazy" we as individuals can truly become. The next time any of you "envokes" any of the "demons" from the "spells" in this book, I suggest you ask them what there home world is and why they have chosen to not come back to earth and "teach" us as they did in the ancient times.If you want more proof, just do some research on the "gods" and dieties of ancient Sumer and the civilization itself. If you can't see the connection, then your all sadly blind.I bid you all Adieu.
984
[ "This book is nothing more than PART of the history of mankind itself.", "If any of you were to actually do more reading into history and the origins of man, you would know that the first civilization (Sumer) \"worshiped\" \"gods\" that \"happen to have\" the same names as the \"mad arab\" Abdul Alhazred refers to.", "It astounds me how naive and gullible you people truly are.", "I doubt VERY serioulsy if we will EVER truly know the origins and history of mankind but, this book axplains some of where we came from and how \"crazy\" we as individuals can truly become.", "The next time any of you \"envokes\" any of the \"demons\" from the \"spells\" in this book, I suggest you ask them what there home world is and why they have chosen to not come back to earth and \"teach\" us as they did in the ancient times.If you want more proof, just do some research on the \"gods\" and dieties of ancient Sumer and the civilization itself.", "If you can't see the connection, then your all sadly blind.I bid you all Adieu." ]
3
You get what you pay for
The bed took about 2 hours to put together with 2 people. It came damaged (one of the boards that you lay the mattress on itself had a corner w/ particle board broken off), and there isn't really anything you can do about it. The molding around the bed didn't come with holes drilled into it, but it is soft so you have to force the screws into the molding itself, all the while from the bottom up (hardest part of putting it together). Some screws don't screw in tightly to the base boards. The molding is only held on by about 6 screws on the very edge of a board, and putting any force on it at all bends it/break it.Overall, you get what you pay for. It is made from cheap particle board for the most part, with visible unpainted/uncovered bits at certain places. However it does its job and looks decent. Spend a few extra dollars and buy a platform bed from a local furniture store instead so you don't risk not being able to return damaged goods and can have a real look at it.
984
[ "The bed took about 2 hours to put together with 2 people.", "It came damaged (one of the boards that you lay the mattress on itself had a corner w/ particle board broken off), and there isn't really anything you can do about it.", "The molding around the bed didn't come with holes drilled into it, but it is soft so you have to force the screws into the molding itself, all the while from the bottom up (hardest part of putting it together).", "Some screws don't screw in tightly to the base boards.", "The molding is only held on by about 6 screws on the very edge of a board, and putting any force on it at all bends it/break it.Overall, you get what you pay for.", "It is made from cheap particle board for the most part, with visible unpainted/uncovered bits at certain places.", "However it does its job and looks decent.", "Spend a few extra dollars and buy a platform bed from a local furniture store instead so you don't risk not being able to return damaged goods and can have a real look at it." ]
3
You've Been Warned
I absolutely love English period pieces and this one sounded like a gem especially since there isn't much film on Winston Churchill's mother. I couldn't wait for the June 10th release and was able to get a copy reformatted so I could play it in the U.S. Big potential. Remick did win the Bafta award for this role. I wonder what she was up against. You can see she's acting. Not in the same league as Sense and Sensiblity, Duchess of Duke Street, Six Wives of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Poldark, North and South, Wives and Daughters, Howards End, Emma, etc. Course Remick is no competition for Emma Thompson, Gwyneth Paltrow or Glenda Jackson. And Ronald Pickup as Lord Randolph - at least a half dozen spots you wonder how unreal his behavior was for an educated Lord. Hard to describe the way he portrayed getting his way at times. Do wonder where the glowing reviews come from - distributors? Better to spend your money on one of the ones I listed above. If not you HAVE BEEN WARNED.
984
[ "I absolutely love English period pieces and this one sounded like a gem especially since there isn't much film on Winston Churchill's mother.", "I couldn't wait for the June 10th release and was able to get a copy reformatted so I could play it in the U.S. Big potential.", "Remick did win the Bafta award for this role.", "I wonder what she was up against.", "You can see she's acting.", "Not in the same league as Sense and Sensiblity, Duchess of Duke Street, Six Wives of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, Poldark, North and South, Wives and Daughters, Howards End, Emma, etc.", "Course Remick is no competition for Emma Thompson, Gwyneth Paltrow or Glenda Jackson.", "And Ronald Pickup as Lord Randolph - at least a half dozen spots you wonder how unreal his behavior was for an educated Lord.", "Hard to describe the way he portrayed getting his way at times.", "Do wonder where the glowing reviews come from - distributors?", "Better to spend your money on one of the ones I listed above.", "If not you HAVE BEEN WARNED." ]
3
Rough, but entertaining
Two of the previous reviewers are both right about this book. It's a nice story about a woman coming to the realization of what she wants in life, namely a relationship with another woman and not her husband, and the younger woman who is waiting for the older woman to understand herself. It also needed an editor badly. This is partially a problem with the publisher she chose. First Books is a very small concern and is infamous for doing very little to polish its authors' books. There are numerous misspelled or misused words in this book and the same words and ideas are repeated too often. A good editor would have straightened out a lot of this. If you can put that aside though, and sometimes it's not easy, you can enjoy the story. And there is a somewhat humorous twist to the story. What is more humorous than two women who are trying to decide whether to accept or reject each other being stuck in the same house, in the same bed? It certainly is an interesting situation.
984
[ "Two of the previous reviewers are both right about this book.", "It's a nice story about a woman coming to the realization of what she wants in life, namely a relationship with another woman and not her husband, and the younger woman who is waiting for the older woman to understand herself.", "It also needed an editor badly.", "This is partially a problem with the publisher she chose.", "First Books is a very small concern and is infamous for doing very little to polish its authors' books.", "There are numerous misspelled or misused words in this book and the same words and ideas are repeated too often.", "A good editor would have straightened out a lot of this.", "If you can put that aside though, and sometimes it's not easy, you can enjoy the story.", "And there is a somewhat humorous twist to the story.", "What is more humorous than two women who are trying to decide whether to accept or reject each other being stuck in the same house, in the same bed?", "It certainly is an interesting situation." ]
3
well done, but...
I thought the book was very well done, some nice touches, some unexpected layers. But two things just don't ring true, small, but annoying: first, the Jewish ex-wife. I don't see Tom's character as having any attraction at all to ... Rachel was it? Nor would she to him. I don't see them even looking at each other and how Evans describes their relationship only seconds that. To me it smells of a first-time author trying to maximize his chances of getting published. Second, Tom's funeral, how hundreds came. Doesn't ring true for a couple of reasons; first, it doesn't seem plausible he would have come in contact with that many people (that many Annies) to have established such great relationships that they would have made such an effort to attend his funeral. (The many people who attended his clinics would not have gone.) And also, how would they have heard about his death in time for them to attend his funeral? He was heroic enough, I felt, without the church overflowing.
984
[ "I thought the book was very well done, some nice touches, some unexpected layers.", "But two things just don't ring true, small, but annoying: first, the Jewish ex-wife.", "I don't see Tom's character as having any attraction at all to ... Rachel was it?", "Nor would she to him.", "I don't see them even looking at each other and how Evans describes their relationship only seconds that.", "To me it smells of a first-time author trying to maximize his chances of getting published.", "Second, Tom's funeral, how hundreds came.", "Doesn't ring true for a couple of reasons; first, it doesn't seem plausible he would have come in contact with that many people (that many Annies) to have established such great relationships that they would have made such an effort to attend his funeral.", "(The many people who attended his clinics would not have gone.) And also, how would they have heard about his death in time for them to attend his funeral?", "He was heroic enough, I felt, without the church overflowing." ]
3
Read Like Homework
My ongoing quest for knowledge of the force prompted me to purchase this novel. The story explains some of the events that occurred in The Phantom Menace, but after completing the book I felt like I had been reading a homework assignment in a textbook. In my opinion James Luceno does not adequately place the reader in the action. Throughout the novel I felt like I was reading the story after the fact. The writing did not grab and hold my attention, and I was unable to become part of the story.For the die-hard Star Wars fan, the information in this novel is vital to the events leading up to the Clone War. There is a plot twist in the book that will surprise, but it seemed like it took forever to get to it.For the casual reader I do not recommend this book. If you are not intrigued by the events of the Star Wars saga this book will only be marginally entertaining. I do however recommend Shadow Hunter (Star Wars: Darth Maul) by Michael Reaves. A very thrilling novel it is!
984
[ "My ongoing quest for knowledge of the force prompted me to purchase this novel.", "The story explains some of the events that occurred in The Phantom Menace, but after completing the book I felt like I had been reading a homework assignment in a textbook.", "In my opinion James Luceno does not adequately place the reader in the action.", "Throughout the novel I felt like I was reading the story after the fact.", "The writing did not grab and hold my attention, and I was unable to become part of the story.For the die-hard Star Wars fan, the information in this novel is vital to the events leading up to the Clone War.", "There is a plot twist in the book that will surprise, but it seemed like it took forever to get to it.For the casual reader I do not recommend this book.", "If you are not intrigued by the events of the Star Wars saga this book will only be marginally entertaining.", "I do however recommend Shadow Hunter (Star Wars: Darth Maul) by Michael Reaves.", "A very thrilling novel it is!" ]
3
Weird, odd and unique!
I found this book to be very fast paced and easy to get into. This is probably the fastest I've read one of Little's books (except maybe Dominion which is one of my favs)and it only took me about 3-4 days to read it b/c I wanted to know what was going to happen. Like most of Little's books he takes something as everyday as writing letters and turns it into the plot of a sinister, weird tale. Jason is a Letter Writer (yes with capitals) who with the power of his letters get free food, entertainment, better jobs, school scholarships and even causes a few deaths along the way. When Jason is offered a job that opens his eyes to the fact that he is not the only Letter Writer, the story gets even more bizarre. Like many of the books I've read of Little, his build up is sometimes better than the conclusion, but overall it's still one of his more interesting books. Probably one of his weirdest novels, and goes well with The Mailman, which both make letters and mail frightening!
984
[ "I found this book to be very fast paced and easy to get into.", "This is probably the fastest I've read one of Little's books (except maybe Dominion which is one of my favs)and it only took me about 3-4 days to read it b/c I wanted to know what was going to happen.", "Like most of Little's books he takes something as everyday as writing letters and turns it into the plot of a sinister, weird tale.", "Jason is a Letter Writer (yes with capitals) who with the power of his letters get free food, entertainment, better jobs, school scholarships and even causes a few deaths along the way.", "When Jason is offered a job that opens his eyes to the fact that he is not the only Letter Writer, the story gets even more bizarre.", "Like many of the books I've read of Little, his build up is sometimes better than the conclusion, but overall it's still one of his more interesting books.", "Probably one of his weirdest novels, and goes well with The Mailman, which both make letters and mail frightening!" ]
3
It's decent
I'll not be the first to say that it starts off brilliantly, but goes a bit downhill. There are parts that make me cringe because as much as I hate it, I recognized those feelings and scenarios in my own life. Some parts were pretty unrealistic. La Perla shopping spree, really? I didn't get the impression her job was THAT lucrative, and one little bra is out of the price range for most single working girls. The weekend she spent at her friend's country home made my jaw drop. Someone PLEASE tell me uppercrust Brits are not that rude to their guests! They were horrible, they treated guests like petulant children at a boarding school. Some polite society maven that mother was, what a b*!This book isn't fluffy enough to appeal to some who just want something light and funny, it definitely has a dark side. I'd say it's worth killing time on a rainy afternoon, but that's about it.P.S. I also own the Dariaux book, delightfully campy but also some surprisingly good information.
984
[ "I'll not be the first to say that it starts off brilliantly, but goes a bit downhill.", "There are parts that make me cringe because as much as I hate it, I recognized those feelings and scenarios in my own life.", "Some parts were pretty unrealistic.", "La Perla shopping spree, really?", "I didn't get the impression her job was THAT lucrative, and one little bra is out of the price range for most single working girls.", "The weekend she spent at her friend's country home made my jaw drop.", "Someone PLEASE tell me uppercrust Brits are not that rude to their guests!", "They were horrible, they treated guests like petulant children at a boarding school.", "Some polite society maven that mother was, what a b*!", "This book isn't fluffy enough to appeal to some who just want something light and funny, it definitely has a dark side.", "I'd say it's worth killing time on a rainy afternoon, but that's about it.P.S. I also own the Dariaux book, delightfully campy but also some surprisingly good information." ]
3
Proven bad reception (FIXED!)
New-----I Read the reveiw about the new antenna and ordered the unit. It's well worth the price. And now reception is as good as any other radio out there. It's playing CD's and MP-3's as I type. and I get all the stations I need on the radio. Kudo's to Bosch for the quick fix. I wish I could increase the actual rating, 5 Stars, no question.--------I saw the radio in the store and had it in my cart. I thought I should read the reviews prior to purchase and put it back. After reading the reviews I went back to home depot and with the Dewalt on one side and the Milwaukee on the other I performed the reception test. Don't buy the Bosch. I'm a great fan of their tools but the Bosch would not pick up ANY FM stations while the others would tune clearly to 8-10 local and not so local stations.The Good- The MP3 function puts 11 hours of music on a disk, and with 12vdc and 4 outlets of GFCI It's still a good tool. I may need to take it apart to put an external antenna on it tho'
984
[ "New-----I Read the reveiw about the new antenna and ordered the unit.", "It's well worth the price.", "And now reception is as good as any other radio out there.", "It's playing CD's and MP-3's as I type.", "and I get all the stations I need on the radio.", "Kudo's to Bosch for the quick fix.", "I wish I could increase the actual rating, 5 Stars, no question.--------I saw the radio in the store and had it in my cart.", "I thought I should read the reviews prior to purchase and put it back.", "After reading the reviews I went back to home depot and with the Dewalt on one side and the Milwaukee on the other I performed the reception test.", "Don't buy the Bosch.", "I'm a great fan of their tools but the Bosch would not pick up ANY FM stations while the others would tune clearly to 8-10 local and not so local stations.The Good- The MP3 function puts 11 hours of music on a disk, and with 12vdc and 4 outlets of GFCI It's still a good tool.", "I may need to take it apart to put an external antenna on it tho'" ]
3
robotechnique.
i seem to enjoy buying robots just so i can make them work.I had the battery problem. had to put in some light lithium batteries, then this little guy shot off like a rocket. a rocket with a permanent lean to the right, but im working on it.Ive already done reconstructive surgury to my robosapien, increasing his flinch and track responses to several feet. the reptile though, has just got a paint job so far.i mean this little guy cant go straight. im tinkering with balancing it, and adding stilts to the feet. left to roam, though, he just goes in circles. his sensors seem only to work part of the time, and he has yet to "chase" anything. (how can he, when he can only go in circles?)no idea if i can fix this apparent factory defect. no idea also how many are like mine.he is fun though, and like everyone says, worth half the price they asked for him on release. fire him up and let him go, an in minutes he'll be causing problems. tangled or stuck or in trouble with the dog.
984
[ "i seem to enjoy buying robots just so i can make them work.I had the battery problem.", "had to put in some light lithium batteries, then this little guy shot off like a rocket.", "a rocket with a permanent lean to the right, but im working on it.Ive already done reconstructive surgury to my robosapien, increasing his flinch and track responses to several feet.", "the reptile though, has just got a paint job so far.i mean this little guy cant go straight.", "im tinkering with balancing it, and adding stilts to the feet.", "left to roam, though, he just goes in circles.", "his sensors seem only to work part of the time, and he has yet to \"chase\" anything.", "(how can he, when he can only go in circles?", ")no idea if i can fix this apparent factory defect.", "no idea also how many are like mine.he is fun though, and like everyone says, worth half the price they asked for him on release.", "fire him up and let him go, an in minutes he'll be causing problems.", "tangled or stuck or in trouble with the dog." ]
3
Overrated.
Our book club just finished discussing this book. None of the 7 members thought much of it, though it was a fast and easy read. The best that can be said about it is that it made us think about other things, like our profligacy, and how much we would miss chocolate. It also made us reminisce about other books we'd read which handled the subject better (like Memoirs of a Survivor by Doris Lessing). Much of the story was gratuitous: the lesbian episode, the rape and subsequent pregnancy. There were a lot of loose ends and unfinished directions. The ending (not to give too much away) was unsubstantiated. Most irritating of all, perhaps, was the sucking up to current political/multicultural correctness. The white-girls-being-saved-by-Indian-lore is old hat. Just so you don't think we're a bunch of sour pusses... Our book club's most recent favorites: A Fine Balance (Mistry), and, also a first novel, Behind the Scenes at the Museum (Atkinson). -- The Vulcan Foundry Book Club
984
[ "Our book club just finished discussing this book.", "None of the 7 members thought much of it, though it was a fast and easy read.", "The best that can be said about it is that it made us think about other things, like our profligacy, and how much we would miss chocolate.", "It also made us reminisce about other books we'd read which handled the subject better (like Memoirs of a Survivor by Doris Lessing).", "Much of the story was gratuitous: the lesbian episode, the rape and subsequent pregnancy.", "There were a lot of loose ends and unfinished directions.", "The ending (not to give too much away) was unsubstantiated.", "Most irritating of all, perhaps, was the sucking up to current political/multicultural correctness.", "The white-girls-being-saved-by-Indian-lore is old hat.", "Just so you don't think we're a bunch of sour pusses... Our book club's most recent favorites: A Fine Balance (Mistry), and, also a first novel, Behind the Scenes at the Museum (Atkinson).", "-- The Vulcan Foundry Book Club" ]
3
Great idea
The conceit is music associated one way or another with the great artist Francisco Goya. Stylistically it ranges from early 19th century Fernando Sor to the prominent modern composer and educator Angelo Gilardino.The idea works very well as a concept, and I think it would work as well as a recital program.Unfortunately, William Feasley cannot really pull it off. Some of this music is very technically difficult, and Feasley often finds himself on very thin ice. Anyone who has heard Julian Bream's recording of transcriptions of Albeniz and Granados is bound to be disappointed (for example) by Feasley's renderings of excerpts from"Goyescas".Still, as an intermediate guitarist who could stand to learn more about repertoire, finding the "Caprichos de Goya" by Castelnuovo-Tedesco was a delight.I would recommend this album to anyone who would appreciate a well-constructed program of interesting music, who is not going to be put off by the more than occasional clams and errors.
984
[ "The conceit is music associated one way or another with the great artist Francisco Goya.", "Stylistically it ranges from early 19th century Fernando Sor to the prominent modern composer and educator Angelo Gilardino.The idea works very well as a concept, and I think it would work as well as a recital program.Unfortunately, William Feasley cannot really pull it off.", "Some of this music is very technically difficult, and Feasley often finds himself on very thin ice.", "Anyone who has heard Julian Bream's recording of transcriptions of Albeniz and Granados is bound to be disappointed (for example) by Feasley's renderings of excerpts from\"Goyescas\".Still, as an intermediate guitarist who could stand to learn more about repertoire, finding the \"Caprichos de Goya\" by Castelnuovo-Tedesco was a delight.I would recommend this album to anyone who would appreciate a well-constructed program of interesting music, who is not going to be put off by the more than occasional clams and errors." ]
3
Blood and Chocolate
Vivian's decision to run against the pack places her new boyfriend in mortal danger in BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE, adapted from the popular teen novel by Annette Curtis Klause. This pre-TWILIGHT romantic Horror film finds trouble balancing the two genres, and often delivers more unintentional humor than terror or suspense while forging several regretful similarities to AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN PARIS. The unconvincing cast causes the film to fall flat on more than one occasion, especially throughout the passionless performances by the two young lovers. In the rush to introduce the players and establish the growing conflict within the pack, director Katja von Garnier neglects to develop any form of rapport between Agnes Bruckner and Hugh Dancy, and even less of an emotional connection between the characters and the audience. What we are left with is a Horror movie without any scares, and a Romance that is rife with cliches, but lacking in true love.-Carl ManesI Like Horror Movies
984
[ "Vivian's decision to run against the pack places her new boyfriend in mortal danger in BLOOD AND CHOCOLATE, adapted from the popular teen novel by Annette Curtis Klause.", "This pre-TWILIGHT romantic Horror film finds trouble balancing the two genres, and often delivers more unintentional humor than terror or suspense while forging several regretful similarities to AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN PARIS.", "The unconvincing cast causes the film to fall flat on more than one occasion, especially throughout the passionless performances by the two young lovers.", "In the rush to introduce the players and establish the growing conflict within the pack, director Katja von Garnier neglects to develop any form of rapport between Agnes Bruckner and Hugh Dancy, and even less of an emotional connection between the characters and the audience.", "What we are left with is a Horror movie without any scares, and a Romance that is rife with cliches, but lacking in true love.-Carl ManesI Like Horror Movies" ]
3
A "Made for TV" novel...
"Eye of the Needle" was one of my favorite spy novels, so I was excited when I received "Code to Zero" for Christmas. As others have said, it is an amazingly quick read and an interesting story, albeit remarkably similar to Ludlum's "Bourne Identity."The one thing that struck me throughout the book was that I felt like I was watching [reading] a made for TV movie. I suppose part of the reason could be the layout of the book - each chapter is one of three sub-stories, and you get a piece at a time. Since every third chapter (roughly) is a continuation of one sub-story, it's quite a page-turner. I think the other reason it felt like a "Made for TV Movie" is that the quality just wasn't there. "Eye of the Needle" was a much better book, and I would bet Follett spent twice as much time writing it.On an airplane? Need a "quickie" for a vacation? This is the book for you. A good story, a quick read, but not one you'll be thinking about after you put it back on your bookshelf.
984
[ "\"Eye of the Needle\" was one of my favorite spy novels, so I was excited when I received \"Code to Zero\" for Christmas.", "As others have said, it is an amazingly quick read and an interesting story, albeit remarkably similar to Ludlum's \"Bourne Identity.\"The one thing that struck me throughout the book was that I felt like I was watching [reading] a made for TV movie.", "I suppose part of the reason could be the layout of the book - each chapter is one of three sub-stories, and you get a piece at a time.", "Since every third chapter (roughly) is a continuation of one sub-story, it's quite a page-turner.", "I think the other reason it felt like a \"Made for TV Movie\" is that the quality just wasn't there.", "\"Eye of the Needle\" was a much better book, and I would bet Follett spent twice as much time writing it.On an airplane?", "Need a \"quickie\" for a vacation?", "This is the book for you.", "A good story, a quick read, but not one you'll be thinking about after you put it back on your bookshelf." ]
3
Art Rock Review lV
This is a mere rating for those of you that might have be into art rock music,Yes,Tangerine Dream,Rick Wakeman,Mike Oldfield, looking for something a bit on the classical side, to relax to, and quite possibly enjoy.Having come from a family of piano teachers and knowing before hand alot of Bach, and others who have several classics on this double cd.I have to admit that the 2nd cd( side 2) is better than the first, but that is just my thoughts.Had I a little more insight I might had passed this cd up, and went out and boughtRick Wakeman Night airs, or Wakeman & Wakeman, for the type of classical music I was looking for.If your my dad's age of Seventy something and your much into the old classics I think this cd might just be for you, but if your like me, and into art rock music, looking for a Sunday morning relaxing piece, look futher, or piece together something yourself.Hope this helps in your knowledge for a taste of the most relaxing classical music in the universe.
984
[ "This is a mere rating for those of you that might have be into art rock music,Yes,Tangerine Dream,Rick Wakeman,Mike Oldfield, looking for something a bit on the classical side, to relax to, and quite possibly enjoy.Having come from a family of piano teachers and knowing before hand alot of Bach, and others who have several classics on this double cd.I have to admit that the 2nd cd( side 2) is better than the first, but that is just my thoughts.Had I a little more insight I might had passed this cd up, and went out and boughtRick Wakeman Night airs, or Wakeman & Wakeman, for the type of classical music I was looking for.If your my dad's age of Seventy something and your much into the old classics I think this cd might just be for you, but if your like me, and into art rock music, looking for a Sunday morning relaxing piece, look futher, or piece together something yourself.Hope this helps in your knowledge for a taste of the most relaxing classical music in the universe." ]
3
Disappointing
I have been a stop the world Grey's is on fan since the beginning, however, this season was no longer "must see TV" for me. Callie is not(and has never been) my favorite character and she seems to have been the featured character for many of the episodes. I really didn't care about her, her drama with Mark, Arizona and the entire baby business. I actually turned it off...really couldn't stand it.The music episode was unwatchable...turned that one off, too. What were you thinking?I agree with one of the other reviewers that they seemed to have lost touch with the original interns and they're the ones who made the show what it was.April is the annoying person at work that you just can't stand to be around and now, she's chief resident??? Really? Callie was selected over Bailey, too, and they undid that. There's still hope.I watched the finale last night and thought it was the best episode in a long time. They came back to their roots and redeemed the entire season for me.
984
[ "I have been a stop the world Grey's is on fan since the beginning, however, this season was no longer \"must see TV\" for me.", "Callie is not(and has never been) my favorite character and she seems to have been the featured character for many of the episodes.", "I really didn't care about her, her drama with Mark, Arizona and the entire baby business.", "I actually turned it off...really couldn't stand it.The music episode was unwatchable...turned that one off, too.", "What were you thinking?", "I agree with one of the other reviewers that they seemed to have lost touch with the original interns and they're the ones who made the show what it was.April is the annoying person at work that you just can't stand to be around and now, she's chief resident???", "Really?", "Callie was selected over Bailey, too, and they undid that.", "There's still hope.I watched the finale last night and thought it was the best episode in a long time.", "They came back to their roots and redeemed the entire season for me." ]
3
Has its moments
I normally do not read derivative fiction, but I like the Star Wars universe, and Zahn's books have been recommended to me for years. The biggest problem I have with his writing is he seriously overuses certain phrases and words, and this persists throughout the trilogy. I won't say what they are, in hopes that you won't notice. Another small objection - as someone who has seen the original Star Wars trilogy countless times, whenever a character says something in these books that they said in the movie, it really jumps out at me, and if it's a stretch to make them say it in the particular situation, it's really obvious. There were several such points in the Thrawn Trilogy. What Zahn was good at was setting a good pace, believable characterization, generally good dialogue, a competence at describing settings, and generally good plotlines. A couple of the main characters were weakly drawn, but were not distractingly bad. Overall I found the whole trilogy fairly enjoyable.
984
[ "I normally do not read derivative fiction, but I like the Star Wars universe, and Zahn's books have been recommended to me for years.", "The biggest problem I have with his writing is he seriously overuses certain phrases and words, and this persists throughout the trilogy.", "I won't say what they are, in hopes that you won't notice.", "Another small objection - as someone who has seen the original Star Wars trilogy countless times, whenever a character says something in these books that they said in the movie, it really jumps out at me, and if it's a stretch to make them say it in the particular situation, it's really obvious.", "There were several such points in the Thrawn Trilogy.", "What Zahn was good at was setting a good pace, believable characterization, generally good dialogue, a competence at describing settings, and generally good plotlines.", "A couple of the main characters were weakly drawn, but were not distractingly bad.", "Overall I found the whole trilogy fairly enjoyable." ]
3
A melodic collection of songs
Unison, Celine Dion's debut American English language album, was released in 1990. There are ten tracks. The songwriting is good, the musicianship is tight, and the sound quality is polished. The material is in a pop musical direction. Dion does a solid job with the vocals--they're smooth and attractive. There's more keyboard than guitar work throughout. Examples of songs that I enjoy are "Where Does My Heart Beat Now," "The Last to Know," "I Feel Too Much," and "If We Could Start Over." The pretty ballad "Where Does My Heart Beat Now" supplies industrious, soaring singing from Dion. The nicely tailored, charming ballad "The Last to Know" furnishes ethereal keyboard playing. "I Feel Too Much" is engaging and lively, while the well-crafted, tuneful ballad "If We Could Start Over" provides diligent vocals from Dion. The CD booklet contains the lyrics, and the back of the CD jewel case displays a color photo of Dion. The CD is just over 43 minutes. Unison is a catchy disc.
984
[ "Unison, Celine Dion's debut American English language album, was released in 1990.", "There are ten tracks.", "The songwriting is good, the musicianship is tight, and the sound quality is polished.", "The material is in a pop musical direction.", "Dion does a solid job with the vocals--they're smooth and attractive.", "There's more keyboard than guitar work throughout.", "Examples of songs that I enjoy are \"Where Does My Heart Beat Now,\" \"The Last to Know,\" \"I Feel Too Much,\" and \"If We Could Start Over.\" The pretty ballad \"Where Does My Heart Beat Now\" supplies industrious, soaring singing from Dion.", "The nicely tailored, charming ballad \"The Last to Know\" furnishes ethereal keyboard playing.", "\"I Feel Too Much\" is engaging and lively, while the well-crafted, tuneful ballad \"If We Could Start Over\" provides diligent vocals from Dion.", "The CD booklet contains the lyrics, and the back of the CD jewel case displays a color photo of Dion.", "The CD is just over 43 minutes.", "Unison is a catchy disc." ]
3
great gate - LOUSY hardware
I have read alot of the reviews here and the problem with the gate is neither the installation nor the gate itself. The problem with the gate is the hardware. the extra wide, and therefore, extra heavy gate attaches to the wall on each side with metal screws. these screws are held in place by plastic. for the most part this is fine until an accident occurs, which is when you want to gate to work the best. unfortunately, the plastic holding the gate onto the wall broke, not the screws, and not the metal gate itself, but the plastic mounting hardware. the fix to this is simple, get rid of the plastic and use brass or stainless steel. at the very least, make the replacement parts available on-line through the company's web site. If I am paying 60, 70 or more dollars for a gate, I would pay an extra five for better hardware. fortunately, when the gate came down, with my wife, she suffered a bruised ego and some black and blue marks, but it could have been much more serious.
984
[ "I have read alot of the reviews here and the problem with the gate is neither the installation nor the gate itself.", "The problem with the gate is the hardware.", "the extra wide, and therefore, extra heavy gate attaches to the wall on each side with metal screws.", "these screws are held in place by plastic.", "for the most part this is fine until an accident occurs, which is when you want to gate to work the best.", "unfortunately, the plastic holding the gate onto the wall broke, not the screws, and not the metal gate itself, but the plastic mounting hardware.", "the fix to this is simple, get rid of the plastic and use brass or stainless steel.", "at the very least, make the replacement parts available on-line through the company's web site.", "If I am paying 60, 70 or more dollars for a gate, I would pay an extra five for better hardware.", "fortunately, when the gate came down, with my wife, she suffered a bruised ego and some black and blue marks, but it could have been much more serious." ]
3
3 for ten
The most popular album by a band I really like isn't exactly my favorite but what can you do? huh? Stop comparing Nirvana to pearl jam and then liking the other and then hating the other, Nirvana and PJ are very very different, Nirvana had a more punkish sound and then pearl Jam was very stadium-like. Another band who you can't compare to is Soundgarden, they are a metal band for people who don't even like metal. The album is not too shabby but personally i think the early 90s grunge scene got too out of hand and made a few bands turn into successful giants and rock gods and then by 1994 they were unknown. If I were to choose a good PJ album stick with the later stuff, they got more musically talented and it's evident, Vs. is a tad better than Ten but it has a lot of that sound, Vitalogy, No Code, and Binaural make PJ look very good though, if you were to buy a PJ album just to see where PJ started buy this, but to get introduced to the band, start with the later stuff.
984
[ "The most popular album by a band I really like isn't exactly my favorite but what can you do?", "huh?", "Stop comparing Nirvana to pearl jam and then liking the other and then hating the other, Nirvana and PJ are very very different, Nirvana had a more punkish sound and then pearl Jam was very stadium-like.", "Another band who you can't compare to is Soundgarden, they are a metal band for people who don't even like metal.", "The album is not too shabby but personally i think the early 90s grunge scene got too out of hand and made a few bands turn into successful giants and rock gods and then by 1994 they were unknown.", "If I were to choose a good PJ album stick with the later stuff, they got more musically talented and it's evident, Vs.", "is a tad better than Ten but it has a lot of that sound, Vitalogy, No Code, and Binaural make PJ look very good though, if you were to buy a PJ album just to see where PJ started buy this, but to get introduced to the band, start with the later stuff." ]
3
Okay.
First, I'll like to comment on the termiology. I'm PhD specializing in stochastic simulation in operations researcn and I've found the book is written in a language that's not quite standard (it might have something to do with his background in Statistics). Some people may argue that "names" are just "names" but it could cause confusion. And, in the chapter of stochastic approximation, the author failed to mention a couple of well-known existing methodology (somehow show a poor literature review in the field.) Strong emphasis has been given on importance sampling on that particular chapter, but author failed to mention in what context will importance sampling work. If you assume Bayesian approach and have prior on the parameters, then it works. But, if you're a frequentist, it's not necessarily working for your model.Going back to the first chapter, I found the construction of MCMC is presented much more clearly in Sheldon Ross's Probability Model rather than this book.
984
[ "First, I'll like to comment on the termiology.", "I'm PhD specializing in stochastic simulation in operations researcn and I've found the book is written in a language that's not quite standard (it might have something to do with his background in Statistics).", "Some people may argue that \"names\" are just \"names\" but it could cause confusion.", "And, in the chapter of stochastic approximation, the author failed to mention a couple of well-known existing methodology (somehow show a poor literature review in the field.) Strong emphasis has been given on importance sampling on that particular chapter, but author failed to mention in what context will importance sampling work.", "If you assume Bayesian approach and have prior on the parameters, then it works.", "But, if you're a frequentist, it's not necessarily working for your model.Going back to the first chapter, I found the construction of MCMC is presented much more clearly in Sheldon Ross's Probability Model rather than this book." ]
3
Cane Review
Since there are lots of other reviews, I would like to limit my comments to a few remarks that are not always addressed by others.The cane is strong enough to support weight. The hand grip is some kind of foam, not very comfortable. It gives a good grip but will probably become grubby. I prefer a grip that fits the hand better and that is easier to wash.The second point is that the rubber tip is fine on a super clean floor but if there is anything on the floor, it will slip. I spilled some herb powder and nearly took a dive.All-in-all, if I had it to do over again, I would buy a completely different cane.Update: I did buy another cane, same company but foldable and with a wooden handle (and less expensive). I like it better except for one detail. The foam handle and curve in the cane make it easier to hang from a counter. However, unless this is important, I would definitely say the foldable cane is more comfortable and more aesthetic. Moreover, it does not seem weaker.
984
[ "Since there are lots of other reviews, I would like to limit my comments to a few remarks that are not always addressed by others.The cane is strong enough to support weight.", "The hand grip is some kind of foam, not very comfortable.", "It gives a good grip but will probably become grubby.", "I prefer a grip that fits the hand better and that is easier to wash.The second point is that the rubber tip is fine on a super clean floor but if there is anything on the floor, it will slip.", "I spilled some herb powder and nearly took a dive.All-in-all, if I had it to do over again, I would buy a completely different cane.Update: I did buy another cane, same company but foldable and with a wooden handle (and less expensive).", "I like it better except for one detail.", "The foam handle and curve in the cane make it easier to hang from a counter.", "However, unless this is important, I would definitely say the foldable cane is more comfortable and more aesthetic.", "Moreover, it does not seem weaker." ]
3
a little too preditcable
This is the story of Angie, an actress and customer service rep.It's a typical chic lit read, about how she's 31 and wants to marry herboyfriend, so she goes off on thiswild ride of popping his top off so that he'll propose to her.Right from the start you just know that Kirk isn't the one she should bewith, even though he's "perfect". In the typical chic lit formula she goesthrough all the phases of discovering her true self, and deciding if Kirkreally is Mr Right, or if she just has it in her mind that he should be.She asks the question, does she love him enough? To which she normallyreplies yes...when in the reality the question is does he love her enough toallow her to be who she wants to be?While I enjoyed the story, it wasn't one that I loved. It was too obviousin a lot of ways. However, the last 40 pages or so were the best in myopinion. There is a second story involving the same characters which willbe read shortly, and I hope there is "more" to it than this one.
984
[ "This is the story of Angie, an actress and customer service rep.It's a typical chic lit read, about how she's 31 and wants to marry herboyfriend, so she goes off on thiswild ride of popping his top off so that he'll propose to her.Right from the start you just know that Kirk isn't the one she should bewith, even though he's \"perfect\".", "In the typical chic lit formula she goesthrough all the phases of discovering her true self, and deciding if Kirkreally is Mr Right, or if she just has it in her mind that he should be.She asks the question, does she love him enough?", "To which she normallyreplies yes...when in the reality the question is does he love her enough toallow her to be who she wants to be?", "While I enjoyed the story, it wasn't one that I loved.", "It was too obviousin a lot of ways.", "However, the last 40 pages or so were the best in myopinion.", "There is a second story involving the same characters which willbe read shortly, and I hope there is \"more\" to it than this one." ]
3
Santa on Trial
'Miracle on 34th Street' is still an enduring holiday movie. There is a lot of novelty to draw upon. A man from a nursing home takes over the Santa helm at Macy's Department store and has all the charm and warmth to replace his drunken predecessor in a pinch. He's liked well enough until he takes the role seriously enough to proclaim he is 'the' Santa Claus and even writes it on his job form. Although endearing, he alarms his employer who objects when he insists to his daughter (Natalie Wood, who looks the same when she's grown up, only smaller) that Santa is the real and he's the real McCoy. The cynical won't have it, and Macy's psychiatrist and a local politician behind the judge (William Frawley, later Fred of 'I Love Lucy' fame) analyse the situation until it becomes a ticklish affair among the press. With some realistic acting by key players and a fun premise that is both fanciful and true-to-life, 'Miracle on 34th Street' is believable enough to keep us all going.
984
[ "'Miracle on 34th Street' is still an enduring holiday movie.", "There is a lot of novelty to draw upon.", "A man from a nursing home takes over the Santa helm at Macy's Department store and has all the charm and warmth to replace his drunken predecessor in a pinch.", "He's liked well enough until he takes the role seriously enough to proclaim he is 'the' Santa Claus and even writes it on his job form.", "Although endearing, he alarms his employer who objects when he insists to his daughter (Natalie Wood, who looks the same when she's grown up, only smaller) that Santa is the real and he's the real McCoy.", "The cynical won't have it, and Macy's psychiatrist and a local politician behind the judge (William Frawley, later Fred of 'I Love Lucy' fame) analyse the situation until it becomes a ticklish affair among the press.", "With some realistic acting by key players and a fun premise that is both fanciful and true-to-life, 'Miracle on 34th Street' is believable enough to keep us all going." ]
3
a puppy with bite
The first cut here, "I Don't Know," sounds like it could be Jeff Foxworthy, so contrived and mannered is its self-proclaimed redneckism. The various high harmonies remind one a bit of Gram Parsons/Chris Hillman, but his true sound-alike is Jimmie Fadden, the nasal and sometimes annoying voice among the high harmonies of '70's- era Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.All of which is to say that this is Callow Country. BUT, without even listening carefully one can hear the genes of grandpappy. Not as imitation or homage, but as bred in the bone. Parts of this CD will make a Hank Williams, senior fan sob.This boy could be great. When his voice gets a little muscle and, if he decides to just sing, rather than sing "like a badass country guy," we could be in for major country soul. The question is: how does a third generation Nashville royal develop as an artist? How will his talent get a chance to grow? This will take years to discover and this CD makes a most interesting first chapter.
984
[ "The first cut here, \"I Don't Know,\" sounds like it could be Jeff Foxworthy, so contrived and mannered is its self-proclaimed redneckism.", "The various high harmonies remind one a bit of Gram Parsons/Chris Hillman, but his true sound-alike is Jimmie Fadden, the nasal and sometimes annoying voice among the high harmonies of '70's- era Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.All of which is to say that this is Callow Country.", "BUT, without even listening carefully one can hear the genes of grandpappy.", "Not as imitation or homage, but as bred in the bone.", "Parts of this CD will make a Hank Williams, senior fan sob.This boy could be great.", "When his voice gets a little muscle and, if he decides to just sing, rather than sing \"like a badass country guy,\" we could be in for major country soul.", "The question is: how does a third generation Nashville royal develop as an artist?", "How will his talent get a chance to grow?", "This will take years to discover and this CD makes a most interesting first chapter." ]
3
Something for Everyone
This book has something for everyone from beginning researchers to seasoned professionals. Unfortunately, it's not particularly easy to find the sections most likely to be of interest to any given reader. As noted in the Amazon description, the book is organized into six parts. That structure is only slightly helpful because the range of topics discussed within each part is very broad, no attempt is made to integrate the chapters, and because the chapters are written by different people so they don't progress from the basic to the sophisticated but rather skip around. There's an index, but that's only helpful if you know exactly what you're looking for. The only other alternative is browsing through the book for the sections of interest to you and skipping the rest. That places a greater burden on the reader than is necessary; however if you're involved in marketing research, you're likely to find enough that interests you to make it worth both the effort and the price.
984
[ "This book has something for everyone from beginning researchers to seasoned professionals.", "Unfortunately, it's not particularly easy to find the sections most likely to be of interest to any given reader.", "As noted in the Amazon description, the book is organized into six parts.", "That structure is only slightly helpful because the range of topics discussed within each part is very broad, no attempt is made to integrate the chapters, and because the chapters are written by different people so they don't progress from the basic to the sophisticated but rather skip around.", "There's an index, but that's only helpful if you know exactly what you're looking for.", "The only other alternative is browsing through the book for the sections of interest to you and skipping the rest.", "That places a greater burden on the reader than is necessary; however if you're involved in marketing research, you're likely to find enough that interests you to make it worth both the effort and the price." ]
3
It works!!!
I originally ordered this for my wife for her birthday and it got lost in the mail.Amazon of course replaced it immediatly i got it but it did not have an sd card that holds the maps so it would not work.I went back and forth with tom tom trying to get one they said it was amazons fault so i just broke down and bought a 1 gb card for 10 bucks.It was not amazons fault thatTomTom was being stupidAnyways The unit tself is small,portable and can even be used walking or biking.The only problem i have had is the fact that the directions will take you thru residential streets if its the fastest and in some cases down dark dirt roads in the middle of the night.My wife is pretty scared the first time she encountered this issueThe device only see the quickest way it does not know if its a dark country road or a neighborhood with 50 stop signs and speed bumps.I really wish they would route you thru major roads but it only sees the fstest or shortest route depending on the settings
984
[ "I originally ordered this for my wife for her birthday and it got lost in the mail.Amazon of course replaced it immediatly i got it but it did not have an sd card that holds the maps so it would not work.I went back and forth with tom tom trying to get one they said it was amazons fault so i just broke down and bought a 1 gb card for 10 bucks.It was not amazons fault thatTomTom was being stupidAnyways The unit tself is small,portable and can even be used walking or biking.The only problem i have had is the fact that the directions will take you thru residential streets if its the fastest and in some cases down dark dirt roads in the middle of the night.My wife is pretty scared the first time she encountered this issueThe device only see the quickest way it does not know if its a dark country road or a neighborhood with 50 stop signs and speed bumps.I really wish they would route you thru major roads but it only sees the fstest or shortest route depending on the settings" ]
3
3/4 wonderful, 1/4 dismal
I just finished reading this book and started it with a great deal of anticipation and wonderment. The characters were so well drawn, the weaving of historical fact and fiction expertly done, the language so precise and beautiful, with a compelling story that had me turning pages as quickly as I could, and constantly thinking and dreaming about this beautiful island in a turquoise sea and the people who lived there.I was fully prepared for Corelli to die. Far preferable for the the author to give him an honorable death than to resort to such a cliched, unlikely, completely unbelievable and out-of-character ending! I was heartsick, and for reasons I surely wasn't expecting from the first part of the novel. Disappointing in the extreme!I can't imagine what the author was thinking. Perhaps it was his editors? Perhaps it was part of the movie deal? I'll never know, but I do wish that I had stopped reading before this wonderful novel became mired in so much implausible muck.
984
[ "I just finished reading this book and started it with a great deal of anticipation and wonderment.", "The characters were so well drawn, the weaving of historical fact and fiction expertly done, the language so precise and beautiful, with a compelling story that had me turning pages as quickly as I could, and constantly thinking and dreaming about this beautiful island in a turquoise sea and the people who lived there.I was fully prepared for Corelli to die.", "Far preferable for the the author to give him an honorable death than to resort to such a cliched, unlikely, completely unbelievable and out-of-character ending!", "I was heartsick, and for reasons I surely wasn't expecting from the first part of the novel.", "Disappointing in the extreme!", "I can't imagine what the author was thinking.", "Perhaps it was his editors?", "Perhaps it was part of the movie deal?", "I'll never know, but I do wish that I had stopped reading before this wonderful novel became mired in so much implausible muck." ]
3
Identity Crisis
This movie suffers from an identity crisis. It doesn't know if it wants to be a "feel good" movie or a martial arts movie. The parts about Sam and Victoria were touching, but they seemed out of place with the violent fighting elements.Also, the fact that Danny was a slave to his "uncle" seemed unbelievable. It's hard to believe that a grown man could be that docile unless he was mentally impaired. Danny wasn't completely isolated, he saw the outside world and I think that he would rebelled a long time ago.My last comlplaint is that the death of Danny's mother was never fully explained. Why exactlty was she killed? She was a young and talented piano prodigy. Why would she be mixed up with those thugs? Where was Danny's father during all this? And most of all, how in the world was the uncle able to live through that horrendous car accident and shooting? I can suspend disbelief at times, but this movie was asking too much!I have no idea why so many people liked this movie.
984
[ "This movie suffers from an identity crisis.", "It doesn't know if it wants to be a \"feel good\" movie or a martial arts movie.", "The parts about Sam and Victoria were touching, but they seemed out of place with the violent fighting elements.Also, the fact that Danny was a slave to his \"uncle\" seemed unbelievable.", "It's hard to believe that a grown man could be that docile unless he was mentally impaired.", "Danny wasn't completely isolated, he saw the outside world and I think that he would rebelled a long time ago.My last comlplaint is that the death of Danny's mother was never fully explained.", "Why exactlty was she killed?", "She was a young and talented piano prodigy.", "Why would she be mixed up with those thugs?", "Where was Danny's father during all this?", "And most of all, how in the world was the uncle able to live through that horrendous car accident and shooting?", "I can suspend disbelief at times, but this movie was asking too much!", "I have no idea why so many people liked this movie." ]
3
Good but Not Great
I bought this case to use with my Sony-Ericsson W580i cell phone. It does work with this phone (and in fact AT&T; sells this case for more at their website and lists is as being compatible with this phone) but there is about a half inch of extra space in depth inside the case. In other words, you could put two of these phones in the case, that's how much extra space there is.The case is well made, but annoying. The belt clip is hard to get off of your belt. It does NOT swivel as some other people have indicated. The belt clip is plastic and has a lip (or hook) on the underside to grab your belt. The problem is that it won't let go easily so taking it off is a real problem. I've had many belt clips before and have worried that some might come off. That won't happen with this one. It is too good at gripping.Additionally, the velcro flap doesn't line up well with the main case, so you only get about 40% coverage.Overall, I would get a different case if I had to do it over.
984
[ "I bought this case to use with my Sony-Ericsson W580i cell phone.", "It does work with this phone (and in fact AT&T; sells this case for more at their website and lists is as being compatible with this phone) but there is about a half inch of extra space in depth inside the case.", "In other words, you could put two of these phones in the case, that's how much extra space there is.The case is well made, but annoying.", "The belt clip is hard to get off of your belt.", "It does NOT swivel as some other people have indicated.", "The belt clip is plastic and has a lip (or hook) on the underside to grab your belt.", "The problem is that it won't let go easily so taking it off is a real problem.", "I've had many belt clips before and have worried that some might come off.", "That won't happen with this one.", "It is too good at gripping.Additionally, the velcro flap doesn't line up well with the main case, so you only get about 40% coverage.Overall, I would get a different case if I had to do it over." ]
3
Is this really about Banks?
I saw this movie pretty much because of "The Social Network". I thought it would be interesting to see Eisenberg in a pre-Social Network college film. I watched the audio commentary of Social Network and Fincher said he had seen Charlie Banks prior to making Social Network.I don't know much about Durst but found it funny that he was the director of this. He definitely has ambition and you can tell he put a lot of work into this. The acting is pretty good. I was happy to see John Ritter's son turning in good work. The movie starts out about Charlie but becomes more about the Ritter character. Kind of uneven, and there's not enough story. What's there is fine, but it just seems undeveloped, kind of like its young characters.So it's an affectionate thumbs down. With a better script, Durst might really surprise us one day.P.S. (spoiler) There is the threat of violence in a scene that made me cringe. It was really well done. Scorsese would nod his head in approval.2 out of 4
984
[ "I saw this movie pretty much because of \"The Social Network\".", "I thought it would be interesting to see Eisenberg in a pre-Social Network college film.", "I watched the audio commentary of Social Network and Fincher said he had seen Charlie Banks prior to making Social Network.I don't know much about Durst but found it funny that he was the director of this.", "He definitely has ambition and you can tell he put a lot of work into this.", "The acting is pretty good.", "I was happy to see John Ritter's son turning in good work.", "The movie starts out about Charlie but becomes more about the Ritter character.", "Kind of uneven, and there's not enough story.", "What's there is fine, but it just seems undeveloped, kind of like its young characters.So it's an affectionate thumbs down.", "With a better script, Durst might really surprise us one day.P.S. (spoiler) There is the threat of violence in a scene that made me cringe.", "It was really well done.", "Scorsese would nod his head in approval.2 out of 4" ]
3
Very nice, but...
It's indeed, a very NICE album. It's nice to listen to when I am reading, going to sleep, trying not to think of anything, but upon further inspection... it doesn't really hold up. My father once said to me that his problem with minimalism was that, they wrote really nice introductions but it never went anywhere. I never agreed with him, but I feel that that statement applies well to this record. They have a wonderful knack for making nice arrangements with shifting seventh chords and whatnot, but it basically comes out in the end not really MOVING me in the least. Though they have their own sound, the comparisons come rolling off my tongue so easily. Certainly, the new Radiohead is not far off... I've found it reminds me most of Rachel's "The Sea and The Bells", only it doesn't hold as much depth. So, in the end... a very nice album, I'd be interested in seeing them live and possibly hearing some of their other records, but it doesn't really leave me feeling fulfilled.
984
[ "It's indeed, a very NICE album.", "It's nice to listen to when I am reading, going to sleep, trying not to think of anything, but upon further inspection... it doesn't really hold up.", "My father once said to me that his problem with minimalism was that, they wrote really nice introductions but it never went anywhere.", "I never agreed with him, but I feel that that statement applies well to this record.", "They have a wonderful knack for making nice arrangements with shifting seventh chords and whatnot, but it basically comes out in the end not really MOVING me in the least.", "Though they have their own sound, the comparisons come rolling off my tongue so easily.", "Certainly, the new Radiohead is not far off... I've found it reminds me most of Rachel's \"The Sea and The Bells\", only it doesn't hold as much depth.", "So, in the end... a very nice album, I'd be interested in seeing them live and possibly hearing some of their other records, but it doesn't really leave me feeling fulfilled." ]
3
Cheap, but cheap.
This is a good "value" grater, but that's what you're getting. For around $10, it's hard to beat the multiple attachments and storage container, but a couple of misses:1. It just isn't that sturdy. Trying to grate a block of cheese on this requires you to attempt to place your hand somewhere on this box to keep it from sliding around. It's not that easy, and causes grating to be more difficult than it should be.2. It's too narrow. As others have said, big blocks of cheese are difficult to grate with this, as it is oddly narrow across the face.Although those are the only two complaints I have, they're relatively major so it's docked a few points. And for something that has a lot of attachments that you'll need to store somewhere, you'd want to make sure you don't have to buy a second grater for larger pieces of cheese. All in all, a good buy for small jobs and for people who have the space to store it, but I'd recommend a larger box grater if you plan on getting serious.
984
[ "This is a good \"value\" grater, but that's what you're getting.", "For around $10, it's hard to beat the multiple attachments and storage container, but a couple of misses:1.", "It just isn't that sturdy.", "Trying to grate a block of cheese on this requires you to attempt to place your hand somewhere on this box to keep it from sliding around.", "It's not that easy, and causes grating to be more difficult than it should be.2. It's too narrow.", "As others have said, big blocks of cheese are difficult to grate with this, as it is oddly narrow across the face.Although those are the only two complaints I have, they're relatively major so it's docked a few points.", "And for something that has a lot of attachments that you'll need to store somewhere, you'd want to make sure you don't have to buy a second grater for larger pieces of cheese.", "All in all, a good buy for small jobs and for people who have the space to store it, but I'd recommend a larger box grater if you plan on getting serious." ]
3
Same old..
First of all, for the guy below me, no u cant be reggie bush in NCAA 07...hes not in the NCAA anymore. I can ask Madden to let me have TO and McNabb on the same team in their game. They put graduated stars on the cover so they can actually be paid for it. Anyways...same game again from EA. For those of you that buy this every year because you have nothing to do until Madden comes out, or just live for the dynasty mode, youll be dissapointed. Gameplay has some new animations, but they are off set by RB's celebrating 1 yard gains and the same pre/post game cut scenes theyve had for 3 years. For you dynasty players, prepare to once again go back to muting the TV and running winamp on the computer due to the fact that its back to the fight songs. EA comes out with some really good music on their games and i dont know why they dropped the music again for this game (zzzzzzzzz). Its a 3 at best because its last years and the year before thats game, with new rosters....as usual
984
[ "First of all, for the guy below me, no u cant be reggie bush in NCAA 07...hes not in the NCAA anymore.", "I can ask Madden to let me have TO and McNabb on the same team in their game.", "They put graduated stars on the cover so they can actually be paid for it.", "Anyways...same game again from EA.", "For those of you that buy this every year because you have nothing to do until Madden comes out, or just live for the dynasty mode, youll be dissapointed.", "Gameplay has some new animations, but they are off set by RB's celebrating 1 yard gains and the same pre/post game cut scenes theyve had for 3 years.", "For you dynasty players, prepare to once again go back to muting the TV and running winamp on the computer due to the fact that its back to the fight songs.", "EA comes out with some really good music on their games and i dont know why they dropped the music again for this game (zzzzzzzzz).", "Its a 3 at best because its last years and the year before thats game, with new rosters....as usual" ]
3
The Ear, The Eye, And The Arm
It's the world of the future turned inside out, beyond anything you have ever imagined...The year is 2194 in Zimbabwe. The Matsika children are like prisones in their own home. Their father, General Matsika, has destroyed all gangs in Zambabwe but one- The Masks -how are out to get the Matsika children so they can break down General Matsika and become powerful. Against their parents wishes, the children decide to take a trip outside of their home because they are in Scouts. the main characters, Tedai, needed only one more badge to become an Eagle scout and he is determined to get it.Ocne the three children finally get out of the house, they face many dangers on their journey. first they were kiddnapped and escaped, but they might not be so lucky in the end. General Matiska and his wife call upon Africa - the Ear , the Eye , and the Arm - to find their children.From evils of the past, to technology of the futre. Can the Matiska children escape from the haert of it all???
984
[ "It's the world of the future turned inside out, beyond anything you have ever imagined...The year is 2194 in Zimbabwe.", "The Matsika children are like prisones in their own home.", "Their father, General Matsika, has destroyed all gangs in Zambabwe but one- The Masks -how are out to get the Matsika children so they can break down General Matsika and become powerful.", "Against their parents wishes, the children decide to take a trip outside of their home because they are in Scouts.", "the main characters, Tedai, needed only one more badge to become an Eagle scout and he is determined to get it.Ocne the three children finally get out of the house, they face many dangers on their journey.", "first they were kiddnapped and escaped, but they might not be so lucky in the end.", "General Matiska and his wife call upon Africa - the Ear , the Eye , and the Arm - to find their children.From evils of the past, to technology of the futre.", "Can the Matiska children escape from the haert of it all???" ]
3
Witty but disturbing
Eric Jerome Dickey's style is unsurpassed. I applaud him for taking on a subject that is still taboo and very seldomly publicly aknowledged, especially amongst African American women (interracial dating). However, even though I enjoyed his style and depth of characterization, I could not help but feel demonized by the African American female characters especially J'Nette, her sister and friends and Wanda. There were few redeeming qualities amongst the group. This disturbed me. Once again I felt the characteristics of these Black women justified, Black, Jordan Green's relationship with White, Kimberly Chavers rather than it being about these two people getting through their own personal tragedies, including the hows and whys of how they and others will view their relationship. However, Mr. Dickey is very witty and his depth truly pulls you in. I say this is a must read that will spark some discussion. I urge each individual to read it and make assessments for themselves.
984
[ "Eric Jerome Dickey's style is unsurpassed.", "I applaud him for taking on a subject that is still taboo and very seldomly publicly aknowledged, especially amongst African American women (interracial dating).", "However, even though I enjoyed his style and depth of characterization, I could not help but feel demonized by the African American female characters especially J'Nette, her sister and friends and Wanda.", "There were few redeeming qualities amongst the group.", "This disturbed me.", "Once again I felt the characteristics of these Black women justified, Black, Jordan Green's relationship with White, Kimberly Chavers rather than it being about these two people getting through their own personal tragedies, including the hows and whys of how they and others will view their relationship.", "However, Mr.", "Dickey is very witty and his depth truly pulls you in.", "I say this is a must read that will spark some discussion.", "I urge each individual to read it and make assessments for themselves." ]
3
Golf Ball Not Included
My cat loves it. The three stars are all from her.I bought this toy because a friend has two cats who have enjoyed their Turbo Scratcher for a decade.Two problems with the one I received:#1 - The ball wasn't round. Badly molded plastic that went far too slowly around the track with an egg-like wump wump motion. I replaced it with a golf ball, and that works fine, maybe even better than a properly formed plastic ball would.#2 - The color. It wasn't possible to choose the color of this toy when ordering. My cat may not be offended by a pukey shade of turquoise, but I am. I was hoping for dark green, gray, even red--anything but pukish turquoise. I may hide it when friends come over. I'm pretty sure the hue has already decreased the resale value of my home.I suppose it's marginally unfair to gripe about the color when the product title includes "colors may vary." But if colors may vary, colors are therefore varied, and why can't a customer choose among those varied colors?
984
[ "My cat loves it.", "The three stars are all from her.I bought this toy because a friend has two cats who have enjoyed their Turbo Scratcher for a decade.Two problems with the one I received:#1 - The ball wasn't round.", "Badly molded plastic that went far too slowly around the track with an egg-like wump wump motion.", "I replaced it with a golf ball, and that works fine, maybe even better than a properly formed plastic ball would.#2 - The color.", "It wasn't possible to choose the color of this toy when ordering.", "My cat may not be offended by a pukey shade of turquoise, but I am.", "I was hoping for dark green, gray, even red--anything but pukish turquoise.", "I may hide it when friends come over.", "I'm pretty sure the hue has already decreased the resale value of my home.I suppose it's marginally unfair to gripe about the color when the product title includes \"colors may vary.\" But if colors may vary, colors are therefore varied, and why can't a customer choose among those varied colors?" ]