Rating: 
Summary: a beautiful, sweeping film
Review: While I do agree with the viewer from DC that the attraction between Julia and Brad's characters seemed to be purely based on the physical and that Aidan's character seems to fall for her because she's the only woman around and possibly because he wants to take her from Tristan, this was still a beautiful and entertaining movie. Brad Pitt was very good as the passionate, haunted Tristan, and all the other actors did equally well in their parts. Anthony Hopkins was, true to form, wonderful--his playing of his character post-stroke was so real. The cinematography definitely deserved the award. After seeing this movie, I want to live wherever it was shot. All in all, this movie is lovely and tragic. Anyone who appreciates passionate characters and beautiful film-making should enjoy it.
Rating: 
Summary: Visually Stunning, Emotionally Engaging Film
Review: According to the ancient lore of Native Americans, there is a story within each of us; the story of a life often guided by some inner voice, which some hear with great clearness. Some live by what they hear-- and such people become crazy. They become legend. And so it was destined to be for a young man named Tristan Ludlow, who was born toward the end of the Nineteenth Century and grew up in the wide open spaces of Montana, where his father, Colonel William Ludlow, had taken his family to escape the imperfections of a society ruled by a government he could no longer respect. "Legends of the Fall," directed by Edward Zwick, is the story of Tristan (Brad Pitt) and his brothers, Alfred (Aidan Quinn) and Samuel (Henry Thomas); a tragic story of the life they shared and the wounds they suffered, many of which were never to heal. And it's their father's story, as well, for it was he who raised his boys with only the help of his loyal friend, One Stab (Gordon Tootoosis), after his wife, Isabel (Christina Pickles), unable to withstand the harsh Montana winters, had left her family for the more civilized East Coast, never to return.Colonel Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins) had served his country during the Indian Wars, after which, disheartened by the government's treatment of those they had suppressed, the proud people of the Indian Nations, he turned his back on the "civilized" ways of his own people and carved out a niche for himself and his family in Montana. And it was there, on their ranch, that the boys learned the ways of the West and the ways of the Indian, under the tutelage of their father and One Stab. But of the three, only Tristan eventually heard that inner voice with such clarity that he could neither deny nor ignore it, and it awakened a passion within him that he embraced, and which set him upon the path he was seemingly destined to follow; a path that would ultimately affect the lives of everyone he had ever loved. By 1914, Europe was at war, and the very tenets of truth and justice that had driven Colonel Ludlow away from society now compelled his sons to take a stand according to their own beliefs. Despite his recent engagement, Samuel decides to go to Canada and enlist in the army in order to fight for England. Alfred and Tristan refuse to let him go alone, and enlist with him. And in the desolate, muddy trenches of France, they soon learn the harsh truth and the reality of war-- just as their father had before them-- and by the time the war has ended for them, their lives have changed forever; Tristan's most especially. Back home, Tristan tries to settle down to life on the ranch, but the restlessness of his soul speaks to him of things he must do and places he must go, and the voices are too strong to resist. So despite the ties that bind him to the home and the people he loves, he sets out on a journey of self-discovery that eventually takes him, physically and emotionally, into places he never knew existed-- and away from the woman who loves him the most. Director Edward Zwick delivers a sweeping saga of life and love with this film that is every bit as big and grand as the country in which it is set. He presents his story through the recollections of One Stab, the one who saw it all unfold, first hand. And it gives the film a narrative quality that is storytelling at it's best. Zwick had a vision of how to bring this tale to the screen, and he realized it magnificently, aided by John Toll's breathtakingly beautiful cinematography (for which he received an Oscar), Lilly Kilvert's superb set designs and James Horner's compelling, dramatic score. And most importantly, through the tremendous performances of Hopkins, Pitt, Quinn, Thomas and the lovely Julia Ormond. Hopkins anchors the film with a brilliantly understated performance, creating a three-dimensional character who personifies the very iconoclastic ideals and principles he espouses. And Pitt gives one of the best performances of his career as Tristan; watching him, you feel that restlessness and conflict raging within his soul, and you can sense his passion as he seeks his direction in life. Quinn is also extremely effective as Alfred, the older brother, delivering an emotional and convincing performance, as does Julia Ormond, as Susannah, a young woman conflicted inside as she tries to sort out her feelings for the Ludlow brothers. Zwick knew exactly what he needed from his actors to tell the story he wanted to tell, and he managed to get it all, from the principals to the least of the supporting players; and it's all there on the screen-- the passion, the intensity, the love and the care. It's quite simply a beautiful piece of filmmaking by all concerned. The supporting cast includes Karina Lombard (Isabel Two), Paul Desmond (Decker), Tantoo Cardinal (Pet) and Robert Wisden (John T. O'Banion). A visually stunning film that will touch you emotionally and stay with you long after the screen has gone dark, "Legends of the Fall," perpetuates the tradition of classics like "The Big Country" and "Giant." Engaging and memorable, it's a transporting experience, courtesy of the magic of the movies.
Rating:
Summary: Love It
Review: I love this movie its a wonderful love story, you can watch with your boyfriend, and he'll actually like it!It has just enough action in it and plenty of romance. If you can get it in the Target store its a few dollars cheaper BUY IT ITS GREAT
Rating:
Summary: Magnificent Cinematic Journey
Review: This review refers to the Special Edition DVD(TriStar/Columbia)
Right from the start of this film, Director Edward Zwick and Cinematographer John Toll, take us on a magnificent journey through some of the most breathtaking vistas,shot mostly on the Stoney Indian Reserve near Calgary.Viewed throughout with James Horner's score is a beautiful experience right in your own living room.
Three brother's, their love for each other,their father, and for one woman is the main focus of the story. Tristan is the middle son, his father's favorite, he is as wild as the Montana country where they live in the early 1900's. It is he who we follow on a journey of darkness, enlightenment and finally self-discovery.It is an epic story,that follows the lives of the Ludlow family for many years, through WWI,passion, secrets,tragedies, and bonds.
The tale is narrated by Gordon Tootoosis, a Chief of the Cree nation, who was mentor to Tristan and taught him well the ways of becoming one with nature.
Starring in this Cinematic treat are Brad Pitt(Tristan), Aidan Quinn,Henry Thomas, Sir Anthony Hopkins(Col. Ludlow), and as the woman they all love Julia Ormand(Suzanne).All turning in superb performances.
The DVD is as much of a treat as the film itself. The film won an Academy Award for Best Cinematoghraphy in 1994 and it really shows on this edition. Colors are perfect,picture immaculate, and the sound(in 5.1 Dolby Digital)completes the total home theatre package.
It is in widescreen. There's a ton of special features, including the making of featurette, some great commentary by Zwick and Pitt, and more. The movie can be played in several languages or with subtitles.
If you've never seen it,this film has something for everyone, war, romance,western adventure,action,drama It will sweep you off your feet, and you will want to watch it again. If youve already seen it you will not be dissapointed with the transfer to this DVD
Enjoy.....Laurie
Rating:
Summary: Family Ties
Review: LEGENDS OF THE FALL, may be set in a time of the past, but its themes of family, betrayal, and redemption are universal. The story centers around the Ludlow family. Tristan (Brad Pitt), Alfred (Adian Quinn), and Samuel (Henry Thomas) are the three sons of patriarch Colenel William Ludlow (Anthony Hopkins). When war separates the family, each one must struggle to deal with the consequences, of their actions. When the love of a beautiful woman (Julia Ormond) drives a wedge between the young sons, that only serves to complcate things. This sweeping family saga is the film that helped make Pitt a star. Despite its high romantic quotient, its not your typical "chick flick" I was surprised at how un-sappy the film is. There is more to the story than just a love triangle...anyone who is as skeptical as I was, about the movie, is in for a shock. The performances are solid, even though there are times when I thought Hopkins, seemed a bit out of place. Directed by Edward Zwick, the film works because things never get out of hand, too melodramatic, or over the top (like some recent epic/romance movies). It stays well grounded. The film's Oscar for Best Cinematography is well deserved. The expansive landscapes from John Toll are breathtaking and really add to the epic quality of the movie. The "special edition" DVD has 2 audio commentary tracks. The first features Pitt and Zwick, while the other one features Toll and production designer, Lily Kilvert. Both are pretty good but the one with Pitt/Zwick is "breezy" and easier to get through. There a 2 "Making Of" featurettes that don't offer much. It also contains 3 deleted scenes, talent files, production notes, an isolated music only track with music by composer James Horner, (of TITANIC) and theatrical trailers. All in all, its a good disc, for a better than expected film. Recommended
Rating:
Summary: Legendary
Review: This movie seriously kicks ass. It's been my favorite movie for years and it makes me cry everytime.
Rating:
Summary: Legend of the Fall
Review: Family values, brotherly love, Legend of the Fall is an epic which depicts every side of both.
Watching this film, it is easy to believe that Brad Pitt, Aidan Quinn and Henry Thomas are brothers and the sons of Anthony Hopkins. The love-hate relationship between Tristan, Alfred and Samuel is almost too realistic. The iron hand of a domineering father who only knows the army way leads to desparate struggles for independence and identity.
Tristin (Brad Pitt) is the middle son, favored by the father (Anthony Hopkins) because of, as well as inspite of, his wild nature. Alfred(Aidan Quinn) is the eldest son. He feels he should be most privilaged, and since he can't get honor and respect from his father, he struggles his entire life to acheive success and out do his brother. Samuel is the youngest son who is looked after by all the family. It is Samuel who brings the woman into the picture.
The struggles of life and death, love and hate weave their way in and out of the story.
Edward Zwick did an excellent job of blending the story with the talents of the actors.
Legend of the Fall is an emotional dramatic ride. The scenery of the remote wildernes is the perfect back drop to support the legend as it unfolds.
I would recommend this film to anyone who wants a good emotional drama with all the twists and turns of real life.
Rating:
Summary: It Gets Better With Every Viewing
Review: This film is Brad Pitt's best movie and role ever. The shear magnificence of the sceneries, the ultimately fatalistic beauty of all the characters, and the emotional bond you develop for each of them makes for a totally enjoyable movie experience. Brad Pitt, Julia Ormond, Aidan Quinn, Anthony Hopkins, and Henry thomas are the epitome of the tragic family which renders heartbreak into an artform. You truly feel the pain of a disintegrating family that never quite loses it all. You cheer for them at the end, after having obtain their redemption. Julia Ormond is classically gorgeous, and Brad Pitt plays the role of the noble tragic hero to flawlessness. Henry Thomas, although a short presence on film, still plays a character which still haunts the other characters and the audience long after his death. You can't help but to feel for and cheer for Aidan Quinn's character. He epitomizes the "nice guy finishes last" philosophy, and his heartache is palpable. Anthony Hopkins is the noblest of father figures, although his Scrooge transformation after his stroke almost made him laughable. I like the way the film touches on so many other themes, such as discrimination against American Indians, prohibition, the inherent evil of government, love and war are often the same, and the timeless theme of how life is filled with tragedy and heartbreak. Tristan's character epitomizes these themes, and he is indeed the rock that everyone shatters against. Everyone around him dies young, while he gets older. His is the kind of character that remains in your mind long after the credits end, and you're left always wondering whatever happened to him. Gorgeous filmmaking indeed.
Rating:
Summary: A Movie That Almost Lives Up to Its Grand Title
Review: This is one of the most moving films I have seen in a long time. Believe me, unless you have a heart of stone, you will cry long and loud over the anguish of the two main characters, played beautifully by Brad Pitt and Aidan Quinn. Family values are at the root of this anguish, and there are many powerful and engaging scenes. I wanted to give this movie five stars, but it didn't quite live up to the implications of its grand title. The ending was a bit of a letdown as well, although it's an appropriate one for Pitt's character.
Rating:
Summary: Melodrama at its finest
Review: When people ask me about my favorite movies I give them a quick run down of my top ten: 1. The Godfather and The Godfather part II (tie), 3. The Shawshank Redemption, 4. One Flew Over the Cukoo's Nest, 5. Schindler's List, 6. The Silence of the Lambs, 7. Amadeus, 8. The Princess Bride, 9. Legends of the Fall, 10. Goodfellas. I am always surprised when they laugh at the 9th movie on my list. I can't understand why people think this movie is a joke. Yes, it's melodramatic but it works beautifully. Let me also say that I am not the biggest fan of Brad Pitt. His acting pales in comparison to some of the other fine actors of his generation (ie. Ralph Fiennes, Gary Oldman, Sean Penn). That said, he is perfectly cast in this movie. His ruggedness and wildman image were established in 1992's A River Runs Through It and his role as Tristan in LOTF seems almost like an extension of his role in River. I've heard that Johnny Depp, an actor whose talents I find superior to Pitt's, was originally offered the role of Tristan. I'm glad he turned it down for no one other than Brad Pitt could have BEEN Tristan. I've always appreciated great acting. To me, there is nothing more entertaining than watching a De Niro, Pacino or Nicholson work his magic. There is only one truly great actor in Legends of the Fall - Sir Anthony Hopkins. In my opinion, he should have won an Oscar for this supporting role. A lot of reviewers criticized the second half of his performance (after the stroke) as being a bit excessive. I thought it was necessary in this type of film.
It was because of Legends of the Fall that I took an interest in acting. Not because of Anthony Hopkins...i know I could never be half as good as he. LOTF taught me that it doesn't take great actors to make a great movie. I thought Aidan Quinn, a talented but by no means gifted actor, was brilliant in the film as the tortured victim of unrequited love. It's my opnion that Quinn delivered a top-notch performance in the film, second only to Hopkins. The scene in which Alfred (Quinn) redeems himself in his father's eyes is particularly endearing. Also, the casting of Julia Ormond as Susannah was a stroke of genius. She has such classic beauty and is wonderful at conveying emotions without speaking a word. I often wonder where the hell she disappeared to. Finally, I cannot say enough about James Horner's breathtaking score. I first became a fan of Horner's when I saw this movie and I believe him to be the top composer in the film-scoring business (yes, even better than the great John Williams). Don't listen to the critics. This movie is amazing. They just don't make 'em like this anymore.
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