MISFITS Video Picks for November 27, 2000

Robin and the Seven Hoods
pick by Ishmael Williams

Musicals masquerading as gangster flicks are always a good time, in my opinion. Think of Guys and Dolls. This one has the same kind of charm. It stars part the famous Rat Pack of Hollywood - Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bing Crosby along with Peter Falk, Victor Buono and Barbara Rush. The story is about Guy Gisborne's (Peter Falk) attempts to take over the gang leadership of Chicago, un-seating follow boss Robbo (Sinatra). There's a lot of very funny back and forth as each gang takes a shot at the other, with a rousing scene set in a revival meeting. Remember, you've got the great voices of Sinatra, Martin, Davis and Crosby. I love this film as it is not meant to be taken seriously, except for the fun, good time it is.

James Bond 007 Collection Volume 1
pick by Michael Lee

The arrival of DVD has meant that many films are being rereleased with additional commentary and special features, and the James Bond Collection in particular is a highlight. The first set features Goldfinger, Thunderball, Live and Let Die, For Your Eyes Only, License To Kill, Goldeneye, and Tomorrow Never Dies. It's all of the additional features that make this set great -- nearly all of them have two commentary tracks, a documentary or two on whatever film in question, various trailers and commercials, and for those more modern films, music videos that make these a real treat, taking advantage of the potential of DVD for fans of a particular movie.