Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts

Dare to Dream: The Story of the U.S. Women's Soccer Team (2005) Review

Dare to Dream: The Story of the U.S. Women's Soccer Team (2005)
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Last year, I began coaching my daughter's U-8 team. The girls knew nothing about the glories of the USWNT. I told them about Mia Hamm and got them to read a brief bio on her, but this HBO documentary was the best teaching tool ever.
It is a great story that uses the retirement game for Hamm, Fawcett and Foudy to lok back at the history of the WNT from the first WC in 1991 through the 2004 Olympics.
This movie can't help but increase the self esteem of any young girl just starting the sport to see how good the Americans can be at soccer. Because the Men's World Cup gets more publicity, my girls all thought that Americans just weren't very good at soccer and that it was dominated by a half dozen European and So. American countries. This video points out that historically the US WNT is the best. It really got my daughter interested in the current WNT and we even went to see a game in San Jose last month.
The release is being timed to come just after the beginning of this year's Women's World Cup in China. (The first game for the US team, who are #1 ranked again, is Sept. 11th.
HBO is also selling it directly through their website, but for $5 more.


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From their meager beginning in the 1980s as "the red headed stepchild" of sports through four World Cups and three Olympic games, Dare to Dream examines how Mia Hamm broke through as a media phenomenon, why Brandi Chastain's celebratory moment stirred so much controversy, and how Julie Foudy, Michelle Akers, and Joy Fawcett overcame daunting obstacles to help the team step into history, and in the process lift the aspirations of all young women.

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I Shouldn't Be Alive (2006) Review

I Shouldn't Be Alive (2006)
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I loved this show when it was on, and then it just dissappeared and the discovery channel website said nothing about it which was frustrating. I was thrilled to see that the show was being released on dvd. There are like 24 episodes in this set and they are all good. I have given this as a gift to several people and it is very popular. Many people never saw the show when it was on and so it is all new to them.
The survival stories are amazingly recreated with actors and on camera interviews with the real life survivors. Not everyone survives in these stories and you can kind of quickly figure that out when that person never shows up on screen in an interview. It is sad. I highly recommend this set if you enjoy shows like this. I had a few problems with the dvds skipping (right out of the box) but it tolerable and did not happen on each disc.

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Survivors of harrowing life-and-death situations relive their terrifying experiences in this addictive, thrilling series. From a father forced to abandon his son in a hidden cave to a crew of inexperienced sailors struggling to survive in shark-infested waters, these are ordinary people pushed to the limits of human endurance. Under the same circumstances, would you have the raw courage, the nerves of steel, the sheer luck required to make it out alive? With these 20 episodes, you'll be amazed at the power of the will to survive in some of the most extreme situations you could ever imagine.

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Mother Teresa Review

Mother Teresa
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Surely most everyone has at least some sketchy knowledge of the legacy of Mother Teresa. There is great power in grace, in kindness, in doing good unto others with little or no regard for oneself. But I've long been curious to know more: who is this selfless woman? is it really possible to be completely altruistic? or, is doing good for the pleasure it brings us to be good, or for our reward in the afterlife, motive that negates true altruism? and, what kind of background gave birth to such a modern-day saint?
The movie, "Mother Teresa," directed by Fabrizio Costa and with Olivia Hussey in the lead role, did little to answer any of these questions for me. Indeed, that it begins with Mother Teresa already in Calcutta as a nun, quite disappointed me. I gained no knowledge of what kind of background had formed this remarkable woman. Nevertheless, I was enthralled. Hussey's careful and completely believable portrayal (the viewer forgets it is an actress on the screen and not indeed Mother Teresa herself, which is surely the goal of any actor) matched any actual history I had glimpsed in media during the latter years of her life.
From what was shown in this portrayal did entice to find out more. This woman is surely as awe-inspiring as I had expected. I found myself thinking back to this movie, to her life and her deep faith, days, even weeks, after watching it. In an age of violence and self-indulgence, of pleasure seeking and materialism, to view this life and all the lives affected by hers lifts one out of the mire for a moment and gives great pause. We can do better.
Mother Teresa teaches us not with words but with actions. How she lived her life, devoted to helping those who were too weak or poor to help themselves, in a manner of strength and simplicity, unfalteringly trusting that God will provide, inspires all, and of whatever belief system.
Highly recommended.

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In a powerful portrayal, Golden Globe winner Olivia Hussey illuminates the life story of Mother Teresa, the selfless missionary who brought hope, love and salvation to the poorest of the poor. A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable force, Mother Teresa is unwilling to accept what others deem impossible, fearlessly fighting for the unloved and the forgotten. Her good works transcend hardships and ultimately earn her international acclaim, including the Nobel Peace prize. The small miracles and humble triumphs of Mother Teresa will inspire you in this poignant tale of a modern-day saint.

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The Ron Clark Story (2010) Review

The Ron Clark Story (2010)
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With education being so very key in determining the path of a child's future, teachers obviously play integral roles as educators, advisors, mentors, and surrogate parents. Ron Clark is an outstanding example of the underappreciated and underpaid teachers who quietly, selflessly ply their trade the world throughout. Ron Clark has garnered national attention for his tireless work with the rural North Carolina and inner city Harlem school systems. He's been invited to the White House on 3 separate instances and has been honored by the President and Mrs. Clinton. He has been on the Today Show and the Oprah Winfrey Show. His book The Essential 55, about his classroom rules, is a New York Times Best Seller and has been published in over 25 countries. This Johnson & Johnson-sponsored television movie, shown on TNT, tells his story.
SPOILERS begin: In 1998, teacher Ron Clark (Matthew Perry) leaves rural North Carolina and moves to Harlem, New York to toil in the inner city school system. But he finds it difficult to get a teaching position and must, in the meantime, work as a lowly costumed waiter at a theme restaurant. A door finally opens when a disgruntled teacher quits his job at the Inner Harlem Elementary School. Specializing in raising the standardized test scores of his students, Clark opts to educate the most unruly class of the 6th grade.
Initially, he has a hard time trying to reach his hardbitten kids, suffering their scorn and lack of interest. There are even bets taken by the kids as to how long he'll last. But Clark perseveres, continually asserting his "we are family" creed and enforcing his multiple classroom rules. His attempts to get the class's attention prompts him to develop fresh teaching techniques, such as his chugging down chocolate milk every 15 minutes if the students were quiet (with the possible reward of Clark puking for the kids' entertainment), or having them promise to try to learn if he takes up double dutch. He even has a try at rapping to help them learn the U.S. Presidents. Slowly, gradually, after some rough spots, his class warms up to him as the students discover that their teacher actually cares and that learning could be fun. But the biggest challenge lies ahead as Clark preps his kids for the May aptitude exams.
The film is mostly about Clark's exploits in school, with little time given over to his personal life. During the length of the film, he maintains his waitering job at the restaurant, all the while carrying a torch for lovely waitress Marissa (Melissa De Sousa), who already is saddled with an actor boyfriend. Thankfully, while the romance is touched on, it doesn't take precedence. End SPOILERS.
This is a Matthew Perry vehicle all the way, and he drives this film with a self-assurance that isn't really a revelation. His acting talent has been apparent for a while now, as shown in his turns on Friends, his various feature films, and his acclaimed guest star spots on the West Wing (let's just ignore Serving Sara, shall we?). Here, he eschews his Chandler Bing goofball role and turns in a concertedly earnest and sincere effort. Good job, Matthew Perry.
These kids are certainly depicted as more disruptive and more rough-house than those in tamer films such as To Sir, with Love and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. The kid actors are uniformly superb and real. Standouts are Hannah Hodson as the sassy Shameika (really excellent) and Brandon Smith as the troubled Tayshawn.
The Ron Clark Story merits superlatives of the highest order. The film is poignant, gentle, heartwarming, and inspirational. True, the ending is a bit hokey, but what the hey. Films like The Ron Clark Story, Stand and Deliver, and Lean On Me need to be made and put out every now and then, just to remind everyone of the importance of our society's oft overlooked linchpin - the school teacher. And Ron Clark - for his dedication, his diligence, and his caring - needed to have his story told.
Even if he really shouldn't rap.


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In an Emmy and a Golden Globe Award nominated effort, Matthew Perry (17 Again) delivers a "...tour-de-force performance" (Boston Herald) as real-life inspiration Ron Clark, a passionate and innovative teacher who leaves his small hometown to teach in one of Harlem's toughest schools. But to break through to his students, Clark must use unconventional methods, including his ground-breaking classroom rules, to drive them toward their greatest potential.

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Touched By An Angel - The Fourth Season, Vol. 2 (1994) Review

Touched By An Angel - The Fourth Season, Vol. 2 (1994)
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Touched By An Angel is a show that can stand the test of time. For those that say the show is repetitive, they've missed the whole point and purpose of the show. The show dealt with the human condition, and I think touched based with every experience one could go through; always delivering the message that God loves us through it all. This is the second half of Season 4 with episode descriptions below. The season is thought to have been split because at it's height, the show was extremely popular and had numerous Promise Land crossover episodes, giving the season(s) an abnormal amount of episodes. The show hasn't been fairing as well financially as say Sex & The City or Lost so I encourage everyone to support and buy these season sets if they can. I enjoy and learn something from every episode I watch.
14. Deconstructing Harry
Monica and Tess arrive at the DMV where Tess has been instructed to obtain a driver's license. Her instructor is Doris (Lainie Kazan). Midway through the driving test, Doris tells Tess to follow a hearse, which leads them, both to the funeral of Harry Applegate. Doris enters the funeral and steals the ashes of her former lover with the wife chasing after them.
15. The Trigger
As Monica gives Tess an ice skating lesson we meet the seemingly happy Craig family at the rink where the son, Alex is finishing hockey practice. This family is Monica's next assignment as she gets a lesson that things aren't always what they seem with the family.
16. Doodlebugs
After the death of his wife, small town miister Erskine gave up his ministry and his lack of faith has spread to the rest of the townspeople. His children, Andy & Bits are loners, not knowing who to turn to with their problems. But when a man says God miraculously helped him win the lottery over the phone the children wait by their phone to hear from God, and they miraculously get an answer!
17. Redeeming Love
As Monica and Tess take a walk through the city streets, they stumble across Monica's next assignment, a young woman sleeping under a pile of garbage. The woman's name is Lydia and while she is a tenderhearted person, she is a crack addict. After giving birth to an unexpected baby Monica and a choir of angels help Lydia through her 7 day withdrawal.
18. Flights of Angels
Richard is an artist diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease, a terminal sickness that has a debilitating effect on one's motor functions. Richard is in denial about the prognosis but his wife Sally is not, and she prays for guidance for her family. Richard is a painter and it's Andrews job not only to help him finish the painting but help him not take for granted the time he has left with his family.
19. Breaking Bread
A timid baker named Matt Colletti is closing up his bakery one evening when two white men attack his black assistant in the street. Matt witnesses the crime but is too frightened to come forward. Tess tells Monica that is their job to help him take a stand against the criminals, members of a white supremacist group.
20. God and Country
Rafael enters the army in an attempt to befriend a bitter soldier named Tomas. Tomas hates the army, in particular his commanding officer Colonel Victor Walls who the angels later find out is related to Tomas.
21. How Do You Spell Faith?
Monica and Tess arrive in the life of a single mother, Mary, to help her reconcile her relationship with her son Aaron. Herself a former athlete, Mary relates to her eldest son Michael, who is the star wrestler of Olympus High School. Aaron, on the contrary, is more cerebral and spends the majority of his time spelling out words to hide the pain he feels for not having a father and not being closer to his mother. When Michael (whom Aaron looks up to) dies, Aaron is distanced from his mother more than ever.
22. Seek and Ye Shall Find
Can Angels get amnesia? Well Monica does when she falls and hits her head outside a bus station in Savage, MI. Dr. Chester Crayton reluctantly treats Monica's injuries inside rather reluctantly. The doctor is on the way to a prison to watch the execution of a man who murdered his wife, whom he cannot forgive.
23. Cry, and You Cry Alone
Four aging comics sit around a diner table reminiscing about their careers and celebrating the fact that one of them is soon to leave on a cruise ship gig. One of the men offers to tell the story of Salt and Pepper, a famous comic team who suddenly broke up before they hit it really big. In the story Monica is a waitress at a Diner who tries to bring Salt and Pepper back together.
24. Perfect Little Angel
Monica and Tess meet their next assignment, Tracy Beringer as she achieves some very bad news via a letter in her mailbox. When she sees an ad in the paper for the Miss Colorado pageant, she tries to sign up to raise money. But she is worried that she could be kicked out and forfeit the winnings if the information contained in the letter is discovered.
25. Elijah
Jacob Weiss, a bitter slumlord, is sentenced to spend two weeks in one of his own tenements and the angels arrive to help him understand the error of his ways.
26. Last Dance
The pressure to abstain from sex before getting married is almost as great for teenagers Greg and Jill, as the pressure from their mothers to be perfect students. Jill's mother, Candace, still dealing with issues with her own past, demands complete chastity from her daughter. It is Monica and Tess' assignment to make sure these relationships don't self-destruct.
27. The Spirit of Liberty Moon
Perhaps the landmark episode of the series, The Spirit of Liberty Moon is a 2-hour special. The angels escort Edward Tanner CEO of Tanner Toys to China where Edward will decide if he should start manufacturing toys in Beijing. He brings along a worker, Jean Chang, who claims to be Korean but knows Chinese. After arriving in Beijing it is learned by the angels and Edward that Jean is really Chinese and searching for her husband, who got taken and "reformed" during the Cultural Revolution. Jean is considered an outlaw by the Chinese government and when taken and tortured Monica stays forever by her side. This episode is considered by many to be the most violent and the most heart-wrenching episode of the season.
Touched By An Angel is a show for people of all ages and generations. It speaks of the unchanging truth that God loves and watches over us along with his angels.


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A trio of angels Monica (Roma Downey), Tess (Della Reese), and Andrew (John Dye) are dispatched from heaven with a special mission: to inspire people facing sometimes unseen crossroads in their lives. Monica, an angel who at times still needs some guidance with her earthly assignments, reports to Tess, her tough, wise and always loving supervisor. Also on hand is Andrew, who, in addition to his duties as the Angel of Death, now helps out as a caseworker on carious assignments. Gloria, an angel for the 21st century, continues to seek guidance from Monica performing her angelic duties. While the angels may not bring solutions to every problem, they always deliver a message of hope.

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The Nativity Story (2006) Review

The Nativity Story (2006)
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You know the plot: After young Mary is betrothed to an older man, she is told by an angel that she will bear God's son. She could be stoned for this pregnancy, but Joseph has a dream explaining the situation, and he takes her as his wife. They must then make the difficult journey to Bethlehem for the census, and they arrive just in time for the baby's birth in a stable.
It is a lovely story, told quite simply and tastefully. The costumes and village sets are rough-hewn and authentic-looking in earth-tones. The international cast features Keisha Castle-Hughes as a straightforward and uncomplaining Mary, used to hard work and Roman tyranny. Oscar Isaac is a warm and protective Joseph. Shohreh Aghdashloo is wonderful as Mary's cousin Elizabeth; in fact, the entire cast is excellent.
The movie is suitable for all ages and I hope it becomes a tradition to show it on television every Christmas. It sticks to the Bible story and is happily lacking in Hollywood razzle-dazzle. The photography is beautiful and it is respectfully directed. Highly recommended.

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It was the cruelest of times. Under Herod's torturous reign, families struggled to survive and yet, in the midst of utter turmoil, a young woman's faith is put to the test. Join Mary (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and Joseph (Oscar Isaac) on an incredible journey of hope and discovery. Epic in its scope, yet intimate in it's portrayal of this historical family, this "wonderful film" (Bill Zwecker, Chicago Sun Times) is "a family feature that will be cherished for years to come!" (Greg Russell, WMYD-TV, Detroit).

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Touched by an Angel - The Third Season (Vol. 1 & 2) (1994) Review

Touched by an Angel - The Third Season (Vol. 1 and 2) (1994)
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My husband refers to this as my "Boo-Hoo" show because I always cry when they state they are angels. It was such a beautiful show, encompassing not just the Christian religion, but all religions. God is always referred to as "The One True God". Some of the shows hit right on target such as "Monica Has A Bad Day". That show was all about how one act by one person can touch off a string of events, either good or not. You can watch the show with young children. My children will make fun of it at times ( after all teenagers have to be cool) yet will sit and watch. My grown daughters when all come to my house at once settle in with snacks and we will watch episode after episode. I do not think there are any shows now that portray anything like this. And Della Reese, I love her and would like to see her on something now, she is such a warm person. Whoever had the idea for this show BRAVO it was wonderful.

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Item Name: Touched by an Angel - The Third Season (Vol. 1 & 2); Studio:Paramount

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Touched by an Angel - The Fourth Season, Vol. 1 (1994) Review

Touched by an Angel - The Fourth Season, Vol. 1 (1994)
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I thought I would update this review. Many people are complaining about the Seasons being split up and the cheaper packaging. Home Improvement has started down this path as well (with cheap packaging) because previous seasons have not been selling well. I can only guess the same is happening with Touched By An Angel. I don't think any of us want to see TBAA dissapear off the radar. We really need to support this show and make sure they release future seasons.
Here is the list of episodes in this set:
Joe's Return-
Nathaniel's father suddenly returns and wants to be a part of Nathaniel's life again. His past is uncovered and why he has been on the run is revealed. (2 hour episode)
Great Expectations -
The angel Taylor (Chris Burke) is back with Monica, Andrew, & Tess to help minister to a couple who finds out their unborn baby will be born mentally retarded.
Nothing But Net-
Rafael (Alexis Cruz) and the angel trio help a rude and cocky All-Star basketball player who is hiding his weaknesses from the world and is a bad influence to a special young fan.
Children Of The Night-
The Angels guide a group of teenagers who live on the street and are on the run in fear of being returned to their families.
Jones vs. God-
After a long drought and poor crops a man decides to sue God in a professional court hearing. A ridiculous premous but a touching ending as always.
The Pact-
The angels minister to a camp of girls designed specifically for young girls with HIV and AIDS.
My Dinner With Andrew-
Andrew is auctioned off as an eligible bachelor and the woman who wins the bid turn out to be the angels assignment.
Charades-
The angels arrive to help Libby Glaser, a powerful Hollywood agent, learn the truth about her Blacklisted father's last days.
The Comeback-
The Angels minister to Lillian (Carol Burnett) and give her self confidence after having a discouraging past in theater.
Sandcastles-
The angels search for a man named Benjamin (William Devane) and learn the truth of his past.
Venice-
Tess and Monica arrive in Montana to help the elderly Annie Doyle (Piper Laurie) reconcile her life before she loses her failing eyesight.
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear-
The angels return to Wayne and Joey and Monica tells Joey an assignment she had with Mark Twain.


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A trio of angels Monica (Roma Downey), Tess (Della Reese), and Andrew (John Dye) are dispatched from heaven with a special mission: to inspire people facing sometimes unseen crossroads in their lives. Monica, an angel who at times still needs some guidance with her earthly assignments, reports to Tess, her tough, wise and always loving supervisor. Also on hand is Andrew, who, in addition to his duties as the Angel of Death, now helps out as a caseworker on carious assignments. Gloria, an angel for the 21st century, continues to seek guidance from Monica performing her angelic duties. While the angels may not bring solutions to every problem, they always deliver a message of hope.

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The Christmas Card (2006) Review

The Christmas Card (2006)
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I'm usually not so sappy when it comes to Christmas movies, but I loved this movie.
A beautiful woman sends Christmas cards to the troops, with pictures of her hometown. A sergeant receives one of these cards and after going on leave following a fellow soldier's death, he finds himself in Washington timber country. I loved the cute little scenes in the diner where they both find they love curly fries and the tasteful flirtations. The church scene was so nostalgic and made me want to head straight to church. The only disbelieving part was where she breaks up with her shallow fiance and he takes it so well and gentlemanly.
A Boyfriend for Christmas and Eve's Christmas are also movies I've seen recently that I'm also purchasing. Take a look at them as well.

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Once in a while, a movie comes along that reminds us how powerful love can be.In the midst of war in Afghanistan, Captain Cody Cullen (John Newton, "Desperate Housewives") is touched by lovely card sent by Faith Spelman (Alice Evans, "The Chris Isaak Show") from the small picturesque town of Nevada City, California.As months pass, the card never leaves his side, giving him the strength to survive and setting him on a mission to find her.The Christmas Card has received massive critical acclaim and audiences are raving.Now for the first time on DVD, Emmy-nominated (TBD) The Christmas Card is available with great bonus features and is the perfect gift for this holiday season!

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Princes in the Tower (2005) Review

Princes in the Tower (2005)
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This DVD is pretty close to a dramatized documentary. If you are looking for a movie, this isn't for you. However, if you like historical documentaries, this is a fascintating retelling of the mystery of the Princes in the Tower and what became of the younger prince, Richard, who later emerged as the pretender to the throne.
Most of the story unfolds as a re-enactment of a supposed interrogation of Richard IV by the Tudors, specifically Margaret Beaufort and company.
This DVD would be more interesting to people very well versed in the War of the Roses and Henry VII's reign. If you aren't familiar with Henry VII's reign and the Perkins Warbeck affair, you might not enjoy it that much.

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The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 12 year-old King Edward V and his brother Richard, Duke of York has been the cause of speculation and fascination for over five centuries. In 1491, eight years after the Princes in the Tower were presumed murdered, a young man told an astonished world that he was Richard, back to claim the throne of England. Was this man Richard, Duke of York, or was he Perkin Warbeck, a brilliant imposter? There are many versions of what might have happened during his final interrogation in the Tower of London. This riveting drama presents one of them.

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Olivia: Olivia Review

Olivia: Olivia
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My toddler and I actually saw this TV show on Nickelodeon before we even knew about the books. We fell in love with the show, so I bought the book and it is my daughter's absolute FAVORITE. One of her first words is actually "Olivia". So of course, we give this DVD 5 stars. I've been hoping and waiting for months for them to release a DVD of it and I was so excited when they did! I just wish it had a few more episodes, of course ;) but it is a nice length for the price.
Here are the episodes included:
Olivia Acts Out
Olivia and Grandma's Visit
Olivia Plays Piano
Olivia Trains Her Cat
Olivia and The Crystal Ball
Olivia Plays Soccer
Olivia Packs Up
Olivia Is Invited To Dinner
Hopefully they will release more episodes on DVD soon! We can't get enough of Olivia :)

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Olivia is an all-new pre-school series from the creators of the Max & Ruby television series, based on the beloved books. The series is designed to invite preschoolers into the life--both real and fantasy--of an adventurous, can-do 6-year-old girl, her family and friends. Olivia is innately playful and imaginative. She moves in and out of fantasy and reality, imagining herself as a super hero, a pop star, or a mommy. Pre-schoolers love fun and creativity and no one embraces creativity and dramatic play like Olivia. Olivia\'s world is created in CG animation, giving the show a 3-D look and feel. The series launched on Nick Jr and Noggin January 26, 2009.

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The Waltons: The Complete First Season (1972) Review

The Waltons: The Complete First Season (1972)
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With so much junk on TV these days,it is so refreshing to see The Waltons with it's honest basic family values on the screen again. It's nice to see a show that isn't mean spirited as so many American shows are these days.
The Waltons made it's debut in the US on Sept 14th 1972 and continued on for nine seasons.
At first it struggled in the ratings but picked up speed after getting many good reviews and went to number one in the ratings. This first season won five Emmy awards including best series,best actor Richard Thomas,best actress Michael Learned and best supporting actress in Ellen Corby.
It went on to win many more.
The First Season episodes are-
The Foundling- A six year old deaf girl is found abandoned on the Waltons doorstep.
The Carnival- When the carnival manager leaves with their money,four stranded carnival members are helped by the Waltons.
The Calf- Jim Bob and Elizabeth take a calf to save it from slaughter.
The Hunt- John-Boy reluctantly goes on a hunt and saves John's life during a bear attack.
The Typewriter- John-Boy borrows the Baldwin's sisters typewriter to type a manuscript and loses it.
The Star- When a meteorite falls,Zeb believes it is an omen of his death and takes to bed.
The Sinner- The new preacher Matthew Fordwick(John Ritter)arrives and upsets John with his strict preaching.
The Boy From The CCC- A boy from the CCC who is found with an injured ankle is taken in by the Waltons and causes trouble.
The Ceremony- Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany come to Waltons Mountain.
The Legend- John's WW1 buddy comes to visit and is obviously living in the past. He accidently starts a fire.
The Literary Man- John Boy meets a writer and gets distracted from cutting timber therefore jeopardizing a timber contract.
The Dust Bowl Cousins-The Denby family,distant cousins,arrive on the mountain and upset everybodys life by stealing and fighting.
The Reunion- The Baldwin sisters cousin arrives for a visit and tries to scam the sisters out of their "recipe".
The Minstrel- Mary Ellen feels trapped in her surroundings and runs off with a travelling minstrel.
The Actress- A famous actress finds herself stranded on Waltons Mountain with car trouble. Her driver absconds with the money.
The Fire- Lutie Bascomb objects to Miss Hunter teaching the theory of evolution to her students. He sets fire to the school.
The Love Story- John Boy discovers love in the form of Jenny Pendleton.
The Courtship- Olivia's uncle Cody Nelson,laid off from his job,comes to visit the Waltons.
The Gypsies-a stranded Gypsy family refuses help until Grandma saves their babies life.
The Deed- The Waltons must raise money to register a deed to Waltons Mountain to stop a company from mining their mountain.
John-Boy goes into town to get a job and gets mugged.
The Scholar- A neighbor,Verdie Grant,asks John-Boy to teach her to read and write.
The Bicycle- John Boy agrees to help blacksmith Curtis Norton to write letters to his pen-pal fiancee.
She arrives to find him much different to the letters.
The Townie- After going on a date with John-Boy,Sarrah Simmonds(Sissy Spacek)sees him as a way to escape her boring lifestyle.
The Easter Story- Coming home from church,Olivia collapses and is diagnosed with polio.
After The Waltons was cancelled in 1981,there were some telemovies made,three rather average ones made in 1982 and another three much better ones,with Richard Thomas back as John-Boy,made in 1993,1995 and 1997. The final movie had John-Boy as a reporter on TV covering the 1969 moon landing.
One negative point-in what must have been a production error,the subtitles are in French only. There are no English subtitles.
Obviously someone at Warners Home Video has made a bad mistake in production. This makes it difficult for any elderly viewers or hard of hearing that might want to watch this show.
Subtitles are supposed to be standard on all DVD box sets and I note that overseas versions of The Waltons have corrected this mistake(just not the American version).
Hopefully,they will get that right when Season Two one day gets a release.

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They built their home on the timeless mountain that bears their name. They built their lives on even stronger stuff: the bedrock of family. This 5-disc set features all 24 Year-One episodes of the beloved series that ran 9 years and won 5 Emmy Awards its inaugural year, including Outstanding Drama Series. Richard Thomas plays the key role of John-Boy Walton, a youth on the verge of manhood during the Great Depression and a fledgling writer whose observations are filled with the growing-up lessons and love he receives from father John, mother Olivia, Grandma, Grandpa and all the rest of The Waltons.

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