The Nazis: A Warning From History

The Nazis: A Warning From History Review

We mostly look for movies and documentaries to supplement our regular studies for homeschool. We've been watching The Nazis: A Warning from History over the past couple of weeks and it's the best documentary I've watched on WWII, particularly in regards to Germany's role in the war - including what led up to the war, which is very important.

My opinion is that every aspect of the documentary is appropriate for all ages of your family except for the section entitled "The Road to Treblinka." Obviously there are some things in there that are very difficult to see and you'll need to stop and explain some things to your younger children. There were also a couple of areas that weren't appropriate for younger kids, but for the most part I thought they handled it well and if you're planning to teach this, you have to decide what, when, how much to expose / present to your children at what age.

Otherwise, this particular documentary shares more video, interviews, photos and information than ANY I've ever watched and I've seen quite a few. They were actually able to do a lot of research and use a lot of new videos and documents that have only been obtained from Berlin and other locations in recent years. It's amazing to hear some of the documents - file papers, memos, letters, commands, etc. - that have only just been uncovered. I have NEVER seen these before and I've researched much of this. Also, the interviews are amazing.

But anyway, if you would like a good documentary series to supplement WWII studies, I would highly recommend this one.

As a side note, I would also recommend The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (which is also acceptable for all family members other than one short part where a Nazi soldier is beating an older Jewish man. This video is extremely mild as far as violence. The emotional impact is great, however. It's an amazing film that tells the story with more emotional impact than any I've ever seen.)

Sonya Haskins, homeschool mom, author and advocate
Homeschooling for the Rest of Us: How Your One-of-a-Kind Family Can Make Homeschooling and Real Life Work

The Nazis: A Warning From History Overview

How could a political party as fundamentally evil and overtly racist as the Nazis come to power? This remains one of the most enigmatic questions of the last century. Acclaimed historian Laurence Rees examines what led a cultured nation at the heart of Europe to commit the atrocities it did. In so doing, he exposes popular myths and encourages understanding of the real forces that led to one of the darkest chapters in modern history. Was it simply the hypnotic power of Hitler's rhetoric? Did the Gestapo really impose themselves by terror on an unwilling population? Through interviews with witnesses and perpetrators, along with archive film and records, this six-part series unveils a more chilling reality.

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Red vs. Blue The Blood Gulch Chronicles: The First Five Seasons

Red vs. Blue The Blood Gulch Chronicles: The First Five Seasons Review

You can't go wrong here. Red vs Blue was one of the best Machinima's I ever watched. To think I used to watch them at 360p and then 480p. I remember watching the older, un-remastered versions where the cross-hair is still present and you actually are missing 1/2 the image (they had to crop out the arms/weapon of the camera man!). The remastered set is fantastic. The video looks great in HD widescreen and the audio has been improved as well. Any Red vs Blue fan won't be dissapointed. Any Halo fan won't be either. If you are a gamer you can't miss this show/DVD

Red vs. Blue The Blood Gulch Chronicles: The First Five Seasons Overview

In the distant future, ten soldiers battle for control of the least desirable piece of real estate in the known universe a box canyon in the middle of nowhere. Red vs. Blue chronicles the misadventures of two hapless armies as they wage a war that few understand and no one wants to fight.

It all started with a simple question, 'You ever wonder why we re here?' But in a place called Blood Gulch, the answers aren t always what you expect. What began as a six-episode video project created by a group of avid HALO fans quickly took on a life of its own. Five seasons, 100 episodes and millions of downloads later, Red vs. Blue: The Blood Gulch Chronicles has become known as one of the funniest and most popular Internet video series of all time. This 6-disc DVD set includes all 100 episodes from the five seasons (remastered for Seasons 1-4), as well as hours of exclusive bonus material.

Red vs. Blue The Blood Gulch Chronicles: The First Five Seasons Specifications

Though this irreverent animated series from Rooster Teeth Productions is inspired by the blockbuster Halo video game franchise, one doesn't need to be familiar with the game--or gaming in general--to appreciate Red vs. Blue's skewering of action tropes, military bravado, and science fiction in general. A prime example of the modern art form known as machinima (the use of video game graphics engines to create new animation), Red vs. Blue is also essentially a sitcom set in the eponymous Halo scenario, with two teams of soldiers in constant pursuit of each other's flag, yet completely unaware of the reason for the competition. Stuck in a repetitive and pointless scenario from which they appear to have no escape, the Red and Blue teams become embroiled in an absurdly elaborate game of one-upmanship that involves a Spanish-speaking robot who falls in love with a sentient, trigger-happy tank; a short-tempered talking bomb; frequent flashes backwards and forwards in time; an alien savior; and constant bouts of possession by various artificial intelligence. If this sounds like the densest chunk of science fiction ever presented, keep in mind that it's all delivered in rapid-fire bursts of snarky, slapstick humor over the course of 100 five-minute episodes; think a futuristic version of Stripes, not Dune.

Since Red vs. Blue was created for web broadcast using the Halo engine, image and quality tends to be somewhat low resolution, but picture-perfect visuals aren't what fans are expecting with this five-disc set. Rather, it's the chance to have the entire series run in one set, along with an impressive collection of extras. Chief among the latter are multiple audio commentaries from the cast and crew for each season (all have been featured on previous releases), including a new anniversary commentary recorded for this set. Two special productions--the Xbox Live miniseries Out of Mind and Recovery One--are also a highlight, as are a barrage of special videos, including the show's hilarious public service announcements, voice-over outtakes (many of which have been deliberately flubbed), and deleted scenes. Faux DVD menu content, including fake FBI warnings and nonsensical language options, is evidence of the appreciation for the show's fans that went into this set, as is a new sixth disc of rarities, including early dialogue recordings, award-show footage, and even a version of the series executed completely with Legos. It's hard to imagine a show that plays on paper like Red vs. Blue deserving such a deluxe presentation, but the sheer quality of the imaginations behind the program clearly warrant this impressive set. --Paul Gaita

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Nothing But Trouble

Nothing But Trouble Review

This is another one of those fun comedies that always put a smile on my face and gets me laughing. I love these!

Nothing But Trouble Overview

Get spooked silly when Chevy Chase and Demi Moore take a wrong turnpike exit and find "hanging judge" Dan Aykroyd and "constable" John Candy in a bizarre New Jersey burg. Year: 1990 Director: Dan Aykroyd Starring: Chevy Chase, Dan Aykroyd, Demi Moore, John Candy

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Everwood: The Complete Second Season

Everwood: The Complete Second Season Review

This is a great television series about a doctor who loses a wife in a accident and tries to get back on his feet by moving to a different city - a non-fictional town called Everwood, Colorado - along with his son and daughter. I really recommend that you watch it. You'll be satisfied.

In this second season of the series things get a little spicy with Amy, a girl Ephram meets at his new high school in the first season, and it turns out that he likes her, but still they haven't gone out yet because of her boyfriend who was in a coma in the first season comes out of it in the second season but later dies later in the season. You'll enjoy it, I guarantee it.

Everwood: The Complete Second Season Overview

Follows Dr. Andy Brown and his son as they adjust to life in Everwood, Colorado, after relocating from Manhattan.

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Emma

Emma Review

I read Emma by Jane Austen. In this case, the title Emma means snobby, rude, and self centered. This meaning portrays itself throughout the book because of the way the main character, Emma, acts. This story takes place in the small town of Highbury, England in the early 1800's. This is significant because the story would have been very different if it took place in Draper, Utah in 2010. Manners and social standing would not have been as important as they were back in the 1800's. The language, dress and customs were so different back then but human nature is still the same. The protagonist of this book is Emma Woodhouse. She is a wealthy, snobby, clever girl who is content with the way her life is. The antagonist is Mr. George Knightley; a trusted friend of the Woodhouse's and is the only person Emma knows who is openly critical to her. Emma lives with her father at their estate called Hartfield. She was not interested in marriage because she feared that if she did marry, her life wouldn't be as wonderful as it was at the present time. Miss Taylor, Emma's governess however, did want to marry. Emma's father, Mr. Woodhouse had a friend named Mr. Weston. Emma encouraged his visits and introduced him to Miss Taylor. After long talks and numerous dinners, Mr. Weston proposed to Miss Taylor. Emma decides she needs another project and puts her sights on her friend Harriet. Emma, over proud of her match making skills, tried to match Harriet with a man named Mr. Elton. He showed signs of really liking Harriet, but in the end he was in love with Emma instead. Emma finally realized she needed to end her career as a matchmaker after hurting many people along the way.
The style of Emma is a satire of social class. Jane Austen makes fun of the importance of social propriety with her characters. For example, Emma felt that the Cole family was beneath her and wasn't willing to dine with them until she found out she wasn't invited to a party they were having, and then she wanted to go. Also Mrs. Elton was constantly made fun of because she was too informal. Jane Austen does a really good job of describing the characters and the scenery. I have a very vivid mental image in my mind of what everybody and everything looks like. The theme is "Love is complicated and doesn't always go as planned." Emma had to learn this the hard way. I would recommend this book because it is unpredictable and even though it is set in a different time period people are essentially the same regardless of time and place. Human nature is ageless.

Emma Overview

This delightfully fun and lighthearted comedy is based on the story that inspired the hit movie CLUELESS! Dazzling Gwyneth Paltrow (SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE, THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS) shines as EMMA, a mischievous young beauty who sets up her single friends. Funny thing is ... she's not very good at it! So when Emma tries to find a man for Harriet (Toni Collette -- THE SIXTH SENSE, ABOUT A BOY), she makes a hilariously tangled mess of everyone's lives. You'll enjoy all the comic confusion ... until Emma herself falls in love, finally freeing everyone from her outrageously misguided attempts at matchmaking.

Emma Specifications

Most people didn't mind Gwyneth Paltrow's English accent in this charming, 1996 adaptation of Jane Austen's novel (which also inspired Clueless). But even if it doesn't sound quite right to you, there are plenty of authentic and wonderful Brit thespians in this film by screenwriter-turned-director Douglas McGrath (co-author of Woody Allen's Bullets Over Broadway), including Juliet Stevenson (Truly Madly Deeply), Alan Cumming (Buddy), Phyllida Law (Much Ado About Nothing), Ewan McGregor (the Scots star of Trainspotting), and Sophie Thompson, outstanding and finally heartbreaking as the chattering Miss Bates. Paltrow plays Austen's benign busybody, Emma Woodhouse--so busy trying to arrange the lives of others that she is sidestepping her own. McGrath brings a kind of pretty and light touch to the production, his best move the wise delegation of creative authority to the actors themselves. --Tom Keogh

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Cinderella (Two-Disc Special Edition)

Cinderella (Two-Disc Special Edition) Review

I bought this DVD for my daughter who is into everything Princess this year. She wanted to watch Cinderella in the worst way but it's not for sale in the stores so this was a nice alternative. I am so glad I found it and my daughter loves it. I would buy it again.

Cinderella (Two-Disc Special Edition) Overview

The most celebrated of all the Disney classics, CINDERELLA, is also known as one of Walt Disney's all-time favorite films. CINDERELLA has enchanted generations with its spellbinding story, charming music, and endearing characters that live in your heart forever. The beloved fairy tale becomes pure Disney magic as beautiful Cinderella shares her dreams of romance and a better life with the lovable mice Gus and Jaq. When Cinderella's cruel stepmother prevents her from attending the Royal Ball, the delightful Fairy Godmother appears! With a wave of her wondrous wand and a bouncy "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo," the Fairy Godmother transforms a simple pumpkin into a magical coach -- and Cinderella's rags into a gorgeous gown. At the ball, Cinderella falls in love with Prince Charming, but must flee before the stroke of midnight breaks the spell! Now with an all-new digital restoration, Disney's Enhanced Home Theater Mix, and all-new games and music videos, this 2-Disc Special Edition of Cinderella is the perfect fit for everyone who believes dreams really do come true. Also available on Video.

Cinderella (Two-Disc Special Edition) Specifications

Worry not, Disney fans--this special edition DVD of the beloved Cinderella won't turn into a pumpkin at the strike of midnight. One of the most enduring animated films of all time, the Disney-fied adaptation of the gory Brothers Grimm fairy tale became a classic in its own right, thanks to some memorable tunes (including "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes," "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo," and the title song) and some endearingly cute comic relief.

The famous slipper (click for larger image)

We all know the story--the wicked stepmother and stepsisters simply won't have it, this uppity Cinderella thinking she's going to a ball designed to find the handsome prince an appropriate sweetheart, but perseverance, animal buddies, and a well-timed entrance by a fairy godmother make sure things turn out all right. There are a few striking sequences of pure animation--for example, Cinderella is reflected in bubbles drifting through the air--and the design is rich and evocative throughout. It's a simple story padded here agreeably with comic business, particularly Cinderella's rodent pals (dressed up conspicuously like the dwarf sidekicks of another famous Disney heroine) and their misadventures with a wretched cat named Lucifer. There's also much harrumphing and exposition spouting by the King and the Grand Duke. It's a much simpler and more graceful work than the more frenetically paced animated films of today, which makes it simultaneously quaint and highly gratifying. --David Kronke

DVD Features

For another of its classic films, Disney delivers another dazzling DVD with a gorgeous, razor-sharp picture and 5.1 sound. (Note: the 1949 film is properly presented in full-screen format, 1.33 aspect ratio, because widescreen films weren't made until the '50s.) The best part of the supplemental features is the archival material, the absolute highlight of which is two unused songs, "Cinderella's Work Song" (in which Cinderella imagines multiplying herself à la the Sorcerer's Apprentice) and "Dancing on a Cloud."

Bippity-boppity-boo! (click for larger image)

Because these numbers were never animated, they're accompanied by stylish illustrations from the Disney artists, and they're simply marvelous to look at. The artist of much of that material, Mary Blair, gets her due in a 15-minute featurette, while the better known "Nine Old Men" are the subject of a round-table discussion among some of today's top animators. In addition, a 38-minute documentary covers their contributions to specific characters of Cinderella as well as the film in general and the vocal cast. Also on the historical side is "The Cinderella That Almost Was," tracking the development of the project through decades of original Disney concepts, characters, and songs, including the 1922 silent "Laugh-o-Gram," which is also included in its entirety.

The pumpkin transformed (click for larger image)

Additional musical material includes three radio programs and a short promo of the movie by Perry Como, in which he summarizes the plot amid some songs by the Fontaine Sisters, star Ilene Woods, and the host himself. Seven other unused songs (17 minutes total) are available in audio-only. The material for kids is on the sparse side, consisting of two music videos, Disney Channel personality Sally (from "Mike's Super Short Show") learning how to become a princess with the help of the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition crew and others, a minor dancing-princess feature, and a DVD-ROM design studio. Oddest extra: ESPN's "top Cinderella stories," including the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team and Joe Namath's New York Jets, although stories on Mia Hamm and tennis's Williams sisters should appeal to the film's primary target audience of young girls. --David Horiuchi

Cinderella Throughout the Years

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1957 Television Production)	Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1965)	The Slipper and the Rose (1976)
Faerie Tale Theatre - Cinderella (1982)	Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella (1997)	Ever After - A Cinderella Story(1998)

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Home Alone (Family Fun Edition)

Home Alone (Family Fun Edition) Review

MOVIE #1: CHILDREN LEFT BEHIND/ALONE .... CARELESS SUPERVISION BY PARENTS GOING ON VACATION ....
MOVIE #2: CHILDREN LEFT BEHIND .... CARELESS SUPERVISION BY PARENTS GOING ON VACATION....
MOVIE #3: CHILDREN LEFT ALONE .... CARELESS SUPERVISION BY PARENTS WORKING WITHOUT A NANNY IN HOMEE.....
MOVIE #4: not yet watched by me....

Home Alone (Family Fun Edition) Overview

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) has become the man of the house, overnight! Accidentally left behind when his family rushes off on a Christmas vacation, Kevin gets busy decorating the house for the holidays. But he's not decking the halls with tinsel and holly. Two bumbling burglars are trying to break in, and Kevin's rigging a bewildering battery of booby traps to welcome them!

Home Alone (Family Fun Edition) Specifications

Now and forever a favorite among kids, this 1990 comedy written by John Hughes (The Breakfast Club) and directed by Chris Columbus (Mrs. Doubtfire) ushered Macaulay Culkin onto the screen as a troubled 8-year-old who doesn't comfortably mesh with his large family. He's forced to grow a little after being accidentally left behind when his folks and siblings fly off to Paris. A good-looking boy, Culkin lights up the screen during several funny sequences, the most famous of which finds him screaming for joy when he realizes he's unsupervised in his own house. A bit wooden with dialogue, the then-little star's voice could grate on the nerves (especially in long, wise-child passages of pure bromide), but he unquestionably carries the film. Billie Bird and John Candy show up as two of the interesting strangers Culkin's character meets. Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern are entertainingly cartoonish as thieves, but the ensuing violence once the little hero decides to keep them out of his house is over-the-top. --Tom Keogh

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