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I actually bought the Dumas novel after seeing the 1975? Hallmark Hall of Fame production starring Richard Chamberlain, so I was prepared to be disappointed by this remake. But it started off well, and through the halfway point I was still into it. Then the story deviated sharply from the book, the Count was merely killing off those who'd done him wrong... not the suave, clever Agent of Karma of the novel or the Hallmark version who set wheels in motion to let the wrongdoers create their own downfall. The only reason I didn't eject this tape thinking it a waste of time was Luis Guzman's performance... how about a new Oscar category for Best Bit Player Who Steals Every Scene? He'd have a dozen for the roles I've seen him in.

O Brother is about what I've come to expect from those incredible Coen brothers - the completely unexpected. Like their previous The Big Lebowski, this movie is full of surprises, utter foolishness, wry humor, and remarkable performances. Another wonderful soundtrack, carefully mixed and mastered. One viewing is not enough, this video goes into my permanent library for pulling out again and again.

It's been 25 years since Closed Mondays was released, and at least 20 since I've seen it... so my fond memories of this short are a testament to it's lasting impact. I too lament it's unavailability on video. I just saw the Wallace and Gromit series, and would love to see Closed Mondays again to remember all the little details.