Always

Considered by many to represent a low point in Steven Spielberg's career, 1990's Always did suggest something of a temporary drift in the director's sensibility. A remake of the classic Spencer Tracy film A Guy Named Joe, Always stars Richard Dreyfuss as a Forest Service pilot who takes great risks with his own life to douse wildfires from a plane. After promising his frightened fiancée (Holly Hunter) to keep his feet on the ground and go into teaching, Dreyfuss's character is killed during one last flight. But his spirit wanders restlessly, hopelessly attached to and possessive of Hunter, who can't see or hear him. Then the real conflict begins: a trainee pilot (Brad Johnson), a likable doofus, begins wooing a not-unappreciative Hunter--and it becomes Dreyfuss's heavenly mandate to accept, and even assist in, their budding romance. The trouble with the film is a certain airlessness, a hyper-inventiveness in every scene and sequence that screams of Spielberg's self-education in Hollywood classicism. Unlike the masters he is constantly quoting and emulating in Always, he forgets to back off and let the movie breathe on its own sometimes, which would better serve his clockwork orchestration of suspense and comedy elsewhere. Still, there are lovely passages in this film, such as the unforgettable look on Dreyfuss's face a half-second before fate claims him. John Goodman contributes good supporting work, and Audrey Hepburn makes her final screen appearance as an angel. --Tom Keogh

1 Spielbergs' worst?
Well, it didn't appeal to me personally -the story, the characters, no, usually I am such a big fan of Steven Spielbergs' various masterpieces, and despite "Always" I'm really impressed with his talent of making such different movies, and so well. Jaws, Close Encounters, Schindlers' List, Minority Report -you name it! The man is a genious, no argue there -but this movie simply hasn't got the touch nor the style.

2 What A Beautiful Movie!
When I saw this movie, I immidiatley got close to Richard Dreyfuss's character. However, his wonderful life with his soon to be wife and best friend(John Goodman) quickly ends as Dreyfuss's plane blows up like the forests that he use to put out. Just when you think that this is the last time you see Dreyfuss he comes back as great as ever. However as a spirit to guide a totally different pilot. Richard Dreyfuss then observes his past life with his wife drift away as she falls for the man of whom he is watching over. However, his wife does not seem to want to let Dreyfuss go away from her. This movie is a painfull one to watch but the fact that somewhere inside of Dreyfuss's wife tells her that he is right here and will be there in her heart always.

3 Charming Movie of an Honest Spirit
Wildland fire air-attack pilot dies in an airplane explosion and is dispatched back to earth by an angel to mentor a rookie pilot. Pete (Richard Dreyfuss)is the spiritual coach and he is not entirely confident about his mission, but he gives it a try and soon gets more than he bargained for when the girlfriend (Holly Hunter) he left behind begins to fall in love with his student. Pete tries to derail the affair with his angelic power, but instead learns about true love when his girlfriend contemplates death in a suicidal air mission to rescue smokejumpers trapped by a massive wildland fire.

This is one of Steven Spielbergs's more humble movies, a contemporary remake of "A Guy Named Joe," and it is a charming and humorous story. John Goodman is Pete's lovable best friend as the air-attack school commander, and Audrey Hepburn has a very nice role as Pete's supervisory angel. The movie features a beautiful backdrop of forest wilderness with wildland fires combatted by smokejumpers and World War II-era attack bombers.

4 A film which promised much more !
It is a real pity that such interesting initial premise has fallen in common places without creative flight.
You can notice this work as a crossroad between the wings of desire and Heaven can wait but with a great difference the movie still remains in a contemplative mood and the worst of all : it has not any substance .
The tears can not become in a river . I still wonder how this film has the sign of Spielberg .
I love Holy Hunter acting . She loads the screen with her expressive force , but Dreyfus does not seem run parallel to her . Hunter as Frances Mc Dormand need a stronger presence actoral due her inner spontaneous force . We can think in that age in Daniel Day Lewis , James Caan , Ray Liotta , Tom Berenger or Robert Downey Jr , the results could be different .
Brad Johnson looks inexpressive, and James Spader, Rutger Hauger or William Hurt were perfect for this demanding role .
The script is too obvious and unnecesary tearful. You notice the absence of secondary characters and parallel secondary lines which supported the story . To make that poetic film you need mich more than simply special effects ; you need poetic tapture and commitment .
The original idea was very promising . The hommage to the brave flying fireman simply does not appear .
Audrey Hepburn made her last appearance in screen and after watching all this film you miss her undoubtly and I would have wished a best result in this sense .

5 Always
This is one of my favorite movies. Simple, moving - it makes me laugh and it makes me cry. I tell people that it's a movie that slipped through without being noticed, and I'm not sure why.... Whenever I need to feel at home - I watch it.

6 One Of Williams's Most Enchanting Scores
John Williams has created a very beautiful score for, in my opinion, Steven Spielberg's most underappreciated film. Williams's score is very subtle and heavenly since we're talking about a dashing air firefighter (Richard Dreyfuss) who dies while trying to save his best friend (John Goodman), thus leaving behind the woman he loves (Holly Hunter).
After a string of good songs, -The Platters' 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes' is included here, along with a very nice version by J.D. Souther -Williams's score begins with 'Among The Clouds', a lovely piece that has something like an overture before giving way to a full treatment of the main theme, itself repeated in cues like 'Pete And Dorinda', 'Saying Goodbye', and 'Seeing Dorinda'. There is also a fun moment with 'Follow Me' where Williams uses one of his trademark techniques: allegretto, if I'm not mistaken. We have also an element of suspense with 'The Rescue Operation', in which the fire flyers are getting ready to put out a big forest fire; in here what I call the "farewell theme" is heard for the first time when the Dreyfuss character is ready to say goodbye to his loved one. That "farewell theme" is better represented in the final cue 'Dorinda's Solo Flight'. However, we have sort of a "heaven-like motif", especially when the Audrey Hepburn character is present, and I'm not quite satisfied with it; somehow it makes the album feel a bit long.
In general, "Always" is a beautiful and touching score. A fine work by John Williams.

7 The air is full of surprises
Now this I stumbled across at the library. I didn't expect much of it, there were only three reasons I got it. One: I really like flying. Two: it had Richard Dreyfuss in it, one of my favorite underrated actors, and Three: An appearance by the lovable Audrey Hepburn. After watching it, I knew I had to have it. You'll like it too. The acting is superb by some of the greatest actors of our time. A surprising movie that will definitely keep your interest soaring.

Fires are raging out of control in the forest. As one of the particapants of the containing of the fires, Pete (the likeable Richard Dreyfuss) is torn between his true loves, his tomboy girlfriend, Dorrinda (the beautiful Holly Hunter), and his career. His choices would be made too soon. When his friend Al (John Goodman, hilarious as ever) is in danger when his plane engine catches fire, Pete heads for the rescue, only to get killed himself.

Not aware that anything has happened to him, he meets up with a strange yet kind angel named Hap (Audrey Hepburn's last role) who tells him what really happens. Pete has one more duty to do before leaving Earth. Hap gives gim an assignment, six months after his death, of helping a rookie fire fighter pilot named Ted (Brad Johnson in his first movie) in the ways of getting the job. Things don't go too well for Ted, for it is obvious he has a lot of work to do after dumping red fire retardent all over Al. Things begin to go for Ted, but bad for Pete as he begins to fall in love with Dorrinda. Pete soon realizes that he has to help Ted with his blossoming relationship with Dorrinda, his firefighting carrer, and that it's not his time anymore, and that life must go on, for them anyway.

I loved the movie from the start and immediately purchased it. Some people may not like it, but it is their choice. I will Always love this movie, and I suggest it to anyone who needs a little drama, and laughter rolled together in a movie. 5 stars to a great Spielberg movie once again.

8 Mr Spielberg, is that you?
"Always", starring Richard Dreyfuss as Pete Sandich, Holly Hunter as Dorinda Durston, Brad Johnson as Ted Baker, John Goodman as Al Yackey with a special appearance by the late Audrey Hepburn as an "angel" Hap. Dreyfuss plays a firefighter who lives life on the edge, flying his plane precariously into danger and causing his girlfriend much grief in the process. He soon comes to grief in a horrific accident and is sent back by an "angel" to help out a young pilot (Brad Johnson).

I really did not enjoy this movie. Being a Spielberg film and one that I was not familiar with, I gave it a shot. This was a fairly weak effort, Holly Hunter does not make a good leading lady at all. I like Richard Dreyfuss, but his creepy stalking of his old girlfriend was just that - creepy. I like Brad Johnson, he's an ok actor and he did well with the poor script he was given. The film was very melodramatic and Hunter delivered her lines as if she was in a high school play.

Audrey Hepburn was still as lovely as ever playing the character "Hap" who sends Dreyfuss' back. The writer's understanding of the afterlife and angels was very poor though, (I know it's only a fantasy film). I have seen the original with Spencer Tracey but did not find that memorable at all either.

Allow me to go up on my soapbox for a moment (cause I feel like it). Yes I know it's just a movie but it got me thinking. You will not learn anything of the afterlife from watching Hollywood movies. This one, like Ghost, show that if you are what the world considers a "good person", you will go to a good place when you die. In Ghost, the baddies got dragged of by demons when they died whilst the goodies went off to God. In reality, it's only through Jesus' death and sacrifice that we are made ready for heaven and those who live in wilful sin (such as Dreyfuss and Hunter shacked up in a fornicating relationship), show no true faith or repentance and would not enter heaven. As far as good or bad people, only Jesus was a perfect human being, everyone else is sinful and needs God's forgiveness which is available to all who will sincerly come to Him and ask Him for it, (you don't need to go through a priest either, there is only one go-between, his name is Jesus). All of us have broken God's ten commandments, (the first one is to love Him with all our hearts, who has done that?).

In conclusion, Always is a mediocre film that could have been great had the script been more interesting and even theologically sound (...)that everyone goes to heaven and that there are many ways to God. Check out a christian movie "escape from hell" if you want to see a film that is based on fact and that shows the afterlife as it could be. (...)

9 winner of the best bartendar in a movie
This movie is the best for many reasons. The most important reason is because it contains the winner for the "best bartendar in a movie". It isn't a major role however it is a winning role and worth seeing just for that. Watch for the bartendar who asks the infamous question "is that with or without an olive?".
Loren K Smothers has been recognized for his talent in this movie. This was the last movie Loren K Smothers and Audrey Hepburn appeared in before their untimely passing. Take time to watch this movie and think about your life. Do you have someone watching over you, like the character Richard Dryfuss played? This movie makes you think about the after life and how our love ones continue to communicate with us after they are gone.

10 Still one of my favorites
I just re-watched Always - again. The cast is marvelous. The movie and script are memorable and touching. "It's not the dress, it's how you see me." or Dorinda shopping in her sleep or Audrey Hepburn playing an Angel. This movie is one of my favorites and I rewatch it again and again and again.

11 OF "UNDYING" LOVE AND LETTING GO
Do you remember "Ghost" with Demi Moore? I have a sneaking suspicion that that was an ultra-Hollywood version of this movie, and yet this 1989 wonder from Spielberg is such magic on film that I bet it'll enter your list of personal favorites on the very first viewing.

The very moving theme revolves around Dreyfuss' character who has a hard time letting go of his significant other, played by the irridiscent Holly Hunter. Above all, what'll linger in your mind is an exquisite bittersweet bond of tenderness and sexual tension between Dreyfuss and Hunter, one that parallels Goodbye Girl. Such maturity and understanding is very rare in your average Hollywood fare. With the immaculate cinematography and background score, at times you can feel what their characters were feeling.

And yet, the movie manages to be pretty funny, not your "American Pie" kind of schtick but an intelligent witty kind of humour. Plus there's a bit of thrilling action too, especially towards the end.

Of love, passion, friendships, letting go -- without giving any further away, this is a delectable family movie that you can (and probably will) see again and again.

12 Buy it and Watch it!
Always is a smart movie, with great lines all the way through. John Goodman shines in his role as Pete's best friend. Holly Hunter and Richard Dreyfuss make a great pair - the dance scene is a classic, with Holly in that great white dress, the song Pete requests from the band, and the dirty firefighters wanting to dance with "the dress." The only problem I have with the movie is the last sequence, when Dorinda is flying and loses oil pressure, then crashes into the water. The whole thing is too surreal to reconcile with reality. The movie as a whole, however, is among my favorites of all time.

13 Popular fan movie
I know that the critics panned "Always", but I enjoyed this movie quite a bit. Here's a telling sign. Numerous people have Spielberg movie lists published on Amazon(.com); "Always" has a customer rating of 4.5 stars. Of Spielberg's other movies, only two of the Indiana Jones movies have higher ratings.

14 No words...
This, movie, to describe, there are no words. To many people it may semm a "low point in stielbergh's career', but to everbody else, it is the high point. This is a movie you will rent again and again until you finally buy it. the characters are perfect, and they match who they play, it is just a great allround movie

15 Always, may not be the best, but it is worth watching......
This is a remake of a classic Spencer Tracy film. Speilberg admits that " A Guy named Joe" was one of his favorite movies. So like most people who , if given the oppurtunity pay tribute to such things in their life. He did it thru his genre, a remake. This movie is slow in spots but overall has wonderful moments. I think if the critics would ever just go to the movies to be entertained, this movie would have received much better reviews.
I will not go to deep into the film, only to say it does have good acting and terrific scenes, especially if you want to make a girl "go weak in the knees"
This film makes you both shout and cry, and I can't help but think , if you watch it, just for the joy of watching a movie, you will not be disappointed.
I throughly enjoyed this film the first time I saw it and everytime after. But don't take my word for it, rent it today, and I think you may just come back and buy it for your collection.

16 Well...
Richard Dreyfuss is a pilot, and kind of a wild card when it comes to his fire fighter flying. This concerns the people around him, girlfriend Holly Hunter and best friend John Goodman, but Dreyfuss shruggs it off because this is what he does. Finally Hunter convinces him he should take a job in Flat Rock, Colorado training pilots to do what he does. Unfortunately he never makes it to Flat Rock, at least not in the flesh. Not trying to give too much away, Dreyfuss comes back as a sort of guardian angel, forced to deal with two things: his love for Hunter and his duty to a young pilot she falls for.

Always is a well made picture. From Spielberg we expect nothing less, though I think his name hinders this film**. The cinematography and the score are excellent as in all his films, as are the action sequences involving the planes. However, the acting is the strongest part of this film. This is the kind of role Dreyfuss shines in. His fusion of wit and sincere emotion is wonderfull and he delivers some difficult monologues which would seem trite is lesser hands. Holly Hunter and John Goodman are excellent as the people dealing with his loss. Also Audrey Hepburn makes her final screen appearance in two scenes as an angel (how fitting).

**I have this theory about Always. It was almost universally panned by critics, but I think the criticism is directed more at Spielberg than at the film. Certainly Spielberg has made better pictures, and perhaps this film was made on a grander scale than it needed to be, but I think if any other director had done this film it would not have received so much scrutiny. But, I also believe in the hands of a lesser director this movie would not be as good. Always combines action, humor, genuine sorrow, and happiness , and it combines them well, which is no small achievement. Spielberg made a good film, let it go.

17 Magical and Sentimental
I really love this film. It beautifully
captures so many aspects of life.
Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter act so
well together. Everytime I hear
"Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" by The Platters, I
cannot help but think of this film.
I think Ebert had smoke in his eyes,
though, when he reviewed this film. Why did he give
it such a tough review? I will never understand that.
If you believe in love, watch this film! It is quite
a fantasy-tale, but can be very comforting to a lot
of people. You'll see what I mean.
Trust me-- watch it!

18 A great movie, no doubt about it.
I find it interesting that anyone would say this is a low point in Speilberg's career. This movie is well thought out and there is a ton of attention to detail in it. Anyone who thinks about everyday life and some of its difficulties will get this movie. It's wonderful.

19 An underrated classic
I really enjoy this movie. The cast was fabulous. This was Audrey Hepburn's last appearance on the big screen as well, in a role as "Hap", the angel who Pete (Richard Dreyfuss) first encounters after dying from his plane exploding.

Holly Hunter shines as Dorinda, Pete's girlfriend, who tries to come to terms with Pete dying. John Goodman is also funny and loveable as Al, one of the pilot trainers.

I was really disappointed when "Ghost" (although Ghost is a good movie in and of itself too) came out a little while later, because it seemed to have stolen many themes from "Always", such as male lead having problems saying "I love you", male lead being able to have an influence on surviving loved ones after dying, lead female being able to be told eventually "I love you by lead male. Ghost seemed to get more of the rave reviews and sentimental following than Always, because it was a "sexier" movie. acted by "handsomer" actors. Always was told more like a fairy tale. Anyway, I digress.

I found this movie to be magical and I really enjoyed it.

20 good but cheesy
one of the complaints i do have of Speilberg is that he does get cheesy in his films. this one is probably one of his cheesiest. it is a well done film and has some great acting. plus i'm a big fan of stories dealing with the afterlife. it's a great reminder to us all that life doesnt end at death. but it gets cheesy as the film progresses.

21 ALWAYS--An Unfairly Maligned Movie
A loose reworking of Victor Fleming's 1943 World War II drama A GUY NAMED JOE, ALWAYS has to rank as perhaps director Steven Spielberg's most unfairly maligned movie. Even though it has a very old-fashioned feel updated to the late 1980s, this is still a fine movie done with real poignancy. This is nowhere near the bottom of the Spielberg canon; that dubious distinction belongs to "1941" and HOOK.

Richard Dreyfuss stars as Pete, a dare-devil aerial firefighter with a penchant for taking a lot of unneccesary chances in his line of work. As much "fun" as he has, he is worrying not only his partner Al (John Goodman), but also his one true love Dorinda (Holly Hunter). After much pressure, including Hunter's threat to leave him, he agrees to settle down and become an instructor for up-and-coming flyers in Colorado after one last mission. But on that mission, in the process of saving Goodman when his plane catches fire, Dreyfuss loses his life when his aircraft explodes. Goodman is horrified, and Hunter devastated.

In heaven (or a burned-out section of forest), Dreyfuss is met by a guardian angel (Audrey Hepburn, in her final role). He comes back to earth as a spirit, to help a rookie fire-fighter (Brad Johnson) learn the tricks of the trade. Johnson does this and more; unfortunately, he also falls head over heels for Hunter, and Dreyfuss feels the pain of having to watch this, not being able to let go. But Hepburn gives him very good counsel, and he is redeemed by saving Hunter from a fiery death in a flight through a nightmarish firestorm.

One of Spielberg's most touching movies, ALWAYS was unfairly castigated by critics as being heavy-handed and manipulative. I, however, am extremely cynical of such critics who only analyze certain films and don't really FEEL anything. This is a film of pure emotions, ranging from comedy, both dark and slapstick, to tear-jerking drama to a suspense and terror-laden climax. The cinematography and the special effects are typical for Spielberg--convincing and top notch. Spielberg, however, wisely, does not stint on the drama. Dreyfuss and Hunter are excellent, as are Goodman and Hepburn. Johnson, often heavily trashed, does a fairly good job with his role, complete with his John Wayne imitation (specifically borrowing a line from John Ford's THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE).

A typically fine score by John Williams, which presages his work for Spielberg's controversial 2001 sci-fi drama A.I.: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, tops off ALWAYS, one of the most misunderstood movies of recent times. For poignant romantic drama, this is an essential movie, a true must-see.

22 An wonderful fantasy drama.
When a daredevil pilot (Oscar-Winner:Richard Dreyfuss), who died, after saving the life of his best friend (John Goodman) and leave behind his darling fianc�e (Holly Hunter) until he comes back as a guardian angel to give advice to his Successor (Brad Johnson) but his Successor ended up falling in love with his fiancee, he still loves.

Directed by Four Time Oscar-Winner:Steven Spielberg (Empire of the Sun, Schindler`s List, A.I.-Artifical Intelligence) remade this from a 1947 film named A Guy named Joe. Dreyfuss is in Top-Form here. John Goodman is good in this supporting role, so is Holly Hunter as the second lead of the film. Two-Time Oscar-Winner:Audrey Hepburn (in her last film) is also great as Dreyfuss Guide. DVD has an sharp non-anamorphic Widescreen (1.78:1) transfer and an excellent Digitally Remastered:Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. This is a touching, funny, life-affrming and lightweight. Fine music score by John Williams (Fiddler on the Roof). Grade:A-.

23 Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!
This remake of A Guy Named Joe is far superior. Guys would call this a chick movie but it's a story about friendship, love, and rebirth. Richard Dreyfuss and John Goodman are a riot.

24 Fly to the Heavens
John Williams never seems to lose sight of what kind of film he is scoring. No matter what the subject his is tackling he manages to find the humanity and spirit of it. His score for "Always" is one such example. The main theme is reflective and sad. One the envokes losing someone who was loved, but at the same time having the courage to let go and live. Williams may not have had the best film to score, the film itself has many flaws, but standing alone this is a fine album that is worth the buy.

25 this is Spielberg's worst film.
Made the same year as Ghost. Always was the thrid teaming of actor Richard Dreyfuss and Director Steven Spielberg,(after Jaws and Close Encounters of the Thrid Kind) but this movie is entirely forgettable as there is a weak script, full of characters we don't care about, and the love story is really corny and unbeliveable. John Goodman is miscast in this movie while Holly Hunter plays a thankless role too.

26 I thought this was Spielburg's finest flick...
The acting was wonderful. A solid cast with Dreyfuss, Hunter and Goodman. The messages were potent. If you're one of those deep thinkers, you'll like those little quiet "meanings of life" messages that are interwoven throughout the movie.

Hep, the angel says to Dreyfuss, (paraphrasing) Einstein knew time was a funny thing, but he didn't know HOW funny it was.

Surely, this is a reference to Mr. E's famous quote, "To those of us who are committed physicists, the past, present and future are only illusion, however persistent."

"Always" is a movie about perfect, unconditional love. According to Angel Hep, the only pain we carry with us to heaven, are the memories of the love we could have given away on earth, and didn't.

There are many layers to this movie. It's quite something.

27 The master doesn't "Always" get it right.
I love Spielberg movies. He is a director in an echelon all by himself. Much of the negative criticism about his work is that his pictures are too happy: good wins over evil. That is the very reason Spielberg's films are so successful. The catharsis is always complete. However, even Speilberg can't save some films. Such is the case with ALWAYS.

The film stars three great actors (John Goodman, Richard Dreyfuss, and Holly Hunter), has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in any Speilberg film, and a special appearance by Audrey Hepburn. The movie has a great beginning. At first viewing I thought to myself, "This is going to be awesome, a movie about Forest Service pilots and Smoke Jumpers! No one has ever done anything like that before." The great humor during the first thirty minutes (subtly making fun, among other things, of movies and even Speilberg himself) further deluded me. Of course, I knew Richard Dreyfuss' character was going to die, but I thought the movie was then going to focus on how the people in his life coped after his death. I was partially right, but wasn't counting on him to continue starring in the movie as an "unseen" spirit. After his character's final moment alive on Earth, the movie went downhill like a plane on fire. It quickly left its humor and adventure, entering the territory of the non-believable, extremely sappy, romance. From then one out there is very little hope. There are a few memorable scenes: Holly Hunter "cooking" dinner, the dead bus driver who is revived, and the final shot of Richard Dreyfuss walking out of the film. However, these scenes don't feel right together. The feel like different pieces of a jigsaw puzzle glued together: they fit but don't really belong. Even the master can't ALWAYS save a film.

28 Angels not ghosts reminds us love ALWAYS triumphs
First, compare this masterpiece to "the 6th sense". One is an uplifting story of reality where good does triumph, the other is a dark, sordid, dangerous lie about angry, departed spirits.

This film is one of Spielberg's finest on the same level of Saving Private Ryan because of its truthfullness, and the reviewers who missed this, I hope I can explain why. We all have loved ones, and most of us have lost some at some point in life, that they could come back on a special mission as angels (not wander aimlessly in place) is a fascinating concept not without merit. The film stays true to this throughout. Certainly this is Richard Dreyfuss' and Holly Hunter's best movie. Its beautifully filmed and has awesome aerial action sequences that remind us all of the dangers the forest fire fighters go through. Now then, you have Richard D losing his life to save John Goodman, NOW THAT HAPPENS IN REAL LIFE.

But Holly Hunter is devastated, so Richard comes back to reinvigorate her life she deserves. What's beautiful is that Richard realizes that there is beauty in all of us, in that if you REALLY LOVE SOMEONE, you will want them to be loved, and if you can't be there to do this, there is uniqueness in other people that can fill this need. Richard realizes that Holly is, yes "his girl", but that that doesn't mean she couldn't find love with another person for the remainder of life--its not a competition in order to have something unique, we are all unique, its "apples" and "oranges". The exclusivity arrogance that Richard thinks makes him the "best" pilot is really not that but self-confidence, and when he takes Brad Johnson's character under his wing (pardon the pun) he realizes as a responsible LEADER that he needs to infuse his courage into him. Its an amazing thing to watch Richard/Holly/Brad change before your eyes on the screen.

The ending for me is what makes this film one of the greatest films, ever. I didn't expect it actually. My eyes water recounting it. Read no further if you haven't seen the film!

But it is realistic and true-to-life. A team of "Smoke Jumpers" are trapped by fire in the mountains. Brad must fly and water bomb drop to shield them to escape to a nearby river. Holly Hunter is a pilot, so she hops in and flies the mission for him! She will NOT stand to see him die. Now that's LOVE. And determination. WOW! That's realistic--women are known when the time calls for it to---display tremendous courage when required, for example when my mom and I were driving in fog she hit the brakes before hitting a truck and her FIRST INSTINCT was to extend her arm to stop me from flying into the windshield; now THAT'S HEROISM. Holly's character is of the same mold, she flies the mission and Richard talks her through it, the Smoke Jumpers are saved in the nick of time but her plane is hit and she is going down...into the water. She finally gets through to Richard in the process but doesn't want to live anymore...she doesn't budge from her seat. Richard talks to her and tells her she has a life to live, others are counting on her and he helps her to the surface! I believe that. I know for a fact that in your hour of need goodness will come through for you, she reaches the surface and runs to Brad Johnson.

What a great movie true to life!

29 FALLS FLAT
A hot shot dare devil pilot just loves to take chances in fighting fires. His best friend and his "girl" are chatterboxes who verbally spar with one another until ad naseum. Our hero decides to take one chance to many an the predictable happens. He leaves "his girl" in total grief and his best friend stunned. Oh, and he failed to tell "his girl" that he loves her.

You have three good actors and a predictable, sappy story which even they can't rescue. Sure, the scenes are great and the action good but the story never gets off the ground. Our hero's return to say goodbye makes you want to say so what? Holly Hunter's character was not convincing. She sounds like a hot shot one moment and then a little girl the next. Even Dreyfuss and Goodman didn't pull off their roles convincingly as dare devil pilots. The best that can be said for this film is that it falls flat though it had great potential with some fine actors. It is an average run of the mill B movie which is good for a rainy or snowy day.

30 Always
This movie is geared to max out a woman's emotions. I still hurt just thinking about this movie. Such love, such depth, such loss, such humour! And Audrey Hepburn adds the final classy touch to this poignant movie. Gotta have it in the collection! Also, made me think about and realize that some of our national heroes don't get much recognition. Never thought about what a pilot does to help put out fires and what they go through in training. Way cool!

31 Loved it then -- love it now
First time I saw this movie I was pulled to it in a very mystical way. Some may call it soft compared to the strength of some of Spielberg's work. However, I prefer to view it as another example of the well rounded capabilities of the creative genius. No, it's not the epic tragedy of "Schindler's List" or "Amistad", rather it's as the Beatles put it ... "a silly little love song ...?" All part of the human tragedies both epic and personal.

Life and death have many facets and in this movie Spielberg demonstrates again the breadth of his story telling ability. Obviously, I'm quite a fan of Spielberg's -- the irony of it all was I loved the movie from the first time I saw it, a long time ago. I didn't find out it was Spielberg's until some time later when I thought-- "should have figured." It always was and always will be one of my favorites.

Having experienced events similar to this movie almost two years ago, the movie now has a more personal meaning. Within days after my loss, the movie was aired on cable. It movie moved me again in a deeper way. On August 17, 2000 I ran across the movie (quite by accident.) I was looking for "I Claudius" at a reasonable price. Now available on DVD, I ordered the series. Then I remembered my other favorites --"Duel", "ET", "Henry V", and "Always" and decided to replace my aging VHS copies, where possible, with DVD. In a rush I opted for overnight delivery. Later, realizing how stupid I was,

I knew that an order placed late in the day was not likely to arrive "next day". That meant the order was not likely to leave Amazon until Friday. BOY was I really stupid, paying those overnight charges for an order not likely to arrive until Monday August 21. Checking the status of my order, my suspicions were confirmed. Oh well live and learn. Well it's now Monday and the order hasn't arrived. Checking the order status I thought -- "I'm not paying those high shipping charges now!" Following up on the shipping costs I became aware Amazon had reduced the charges which made me feel better. I scrolled back up to see when I was to expect the order. There it was -- the arrival date had been delayed again to tomorrow August 22, 2000 -- two years to the day when Michael died in the car accident.

So, all you jaded critics take care. This "silly little love movie" has meaning to those singular hearts that hurt. Steven Spielberg is not too big to tell the small tales for us too. Tales that in some mystical way touch the heart.

32 Some souls burn brightly even after death.
Let's face it, there's damned few chances in life to root for the dead guy. And when the deceased is a fire fighting hero, a pilot and Richard Dreyfuss, you know your have to love him. But before I become too premature, let's lay the groundwork. Actually that term is only half correct for "Always", as a lot of the action takes place in the air. You see we are dealing with airborne smokeys, fire fliers who pilot Air Tankers and dump thousands of gallons of water on forest fires for little pay, even less public recognition and no future.

So there's no prizes for guessing the outcome when we are introduced to one of the more reckless pilots, Pete Sandich, who is in a non-committal relationship with a beautiful Radio operator back at base, Dorinda Durston, played by Holly Hunter. But before the inevitable, tragic accident, we are treated to some quite romantic scenes. The best of which involves Pete gifting his love with a stunning white cocktail dress. The timing could have been better as she then has to dance with every roughneck fire-stomper in the base.

Pete's best friend, the improbably named Al Yackey, is played by John Goodman. He actually has the best role in the film and whilst he does offer much comic relief, there is much more meat on the character's bones than just humour. In fact he is an integral part in putting all the pieces back together following Pete's death.

Interestingly, the story doesn't really take off until Pete is ashes to ashes. You see the afterlife is not all cheese and biscuits, laying back on fluffy clouds. There's work to do, inspiring the living to be the best they can be, or at least to stop being such losers. Pete gets some on the job training from an angelic supervisor called Hap, (Audry Hepburn), and is then pushed out into the world to assist a wayward member of Gods great flock.

This particular sheep is called Ted Baker and he gets one of the best descriptions in any film when Dorinder claims he is not her type, (too much twisted steel and sex appeal). You see, it's Teds destiny to be with Dorinda and hers to be with him. Unfortunately, Pete doesn't work that out for some time because he is too busy trying to be a part of Dorinda's life.

There's a lot of room for emotional moments in this film, so don't forget the tissues. I love the whole idea of the film. It's great to watch Richard Dreyfuss weave his magic with a touching script. And John Goodman is the perfect buddy for, first Pete and then Dorina. In the end we have to forgive Ted for wanting to take Pete's girl. It is hard because we can see Pete is still desperately in love with her. But when he turns the corner and starts pulling for Ted, we can't help but follow.

33 My very best,
This is the best romantic movie EVER done, I think that Steven Spielberg Directed his best movie, the actors were so pefect, Holly Hunt were marveleous, Richard Dryfoss acted the best in his whole life, the Directing of the movie were spectaclure, it is uncomparable with any other romantic movie, I' ve watched it more than 6 times in theater, 20 times in video and still cries with my wife every time. I am wondering how they said it is a weak point in spielbergs career. I couldn't find words that can describe how perfect this movie is....for me it's no.1 for the whole time.

34 An imaginary tale of love and loss.
A very warm and mystical movie. Mr. Spielberg has made a film that will tug at the hearts of those who just want to cozy up and share a tear or two with someone special.

35 NOT your average "girl clothes"
An all-time favorite true love, soul mates story. My husband and I love this film. Dorinda is a great character that I adore, (I don't do "girl clothes" often either!) John Goodman's performance as the sidekick-best buddy-big brother-confidant and all around caretaker/good guy is one of his best efforts! Richard Dreyfuss does humility quite well. So, see it, you'll love it too.

36 Emotional Overload!
I have to give this movie 2 thumbs up! I was fighting tears while watching this. But when the guy that I'm dating ended up sobbing harder that I did, I knew that it was an INCREDIBLE movie.

37 It's Always-a classic
Romantic, slightly suspenseful, and certainly whimsical, the film focuses on the after-life and the chance at good-bye a hot-shot pilot (Dreyfuss) is given after he dies saving the life of his close friend (Goodman). He comes to understand that he should have done a lot of things in life, but the only way to make up for them in death is to see that his loved ones, namely Dorinda (Holly Hunter), are able to move on and achieve a full life again. Definitely romantic for any romance fan, but human enough to provide some thoughtful entertainment. Awesome.

38 One of my All Time Favorites!!
If you've never seen this one, or if it's been a while since you've seen it, get it now!! I was so happy when it was released on DVD. It has been on the top of my "must-own when released" list ever since I bought my DVD player. Steven Speilberg is truly visionary.

39 A plethora of emotion
I havent seen the original movie that this movie is derived from, but this movie is a sleeper, it has everything a person could want in a movie without force feeding it to you. Dreyfuss and Hunter are great together, a real chemistry there.

40 Dissapointing
Spielberg's remake of "A Guy Named Joe" was truly dissapointing because of one unexpressive actor: Brad Johnson. But Mr. Dreyfuss, Mrs. Hunter and Mr. Goodman really save the day. Don't forget to watch over and over again the opening sequence, as well the fire scenes.

41 The ultimate girl movie!
I know this may sound corney, but guyshave Brian's Song as their feel good crymovie and now we girls have the ultimategirl movie. It has everything you needto experience every emotion. Action, adventure, romance, laughter, sadness,and an ending that leaves you spiritually uplifted. So girls go andhave that slummber party, that glass ofwine, and that box of tissue, becauseyou are in for a big treat!

42 Always is fun, sad, and subtle like a wild fire
I've read a review or two that refer to "Always" as a movie that's something it's not, and I agree. It's undeniable, with minor flaws Steven Spielberg's masterful reworking of "A Guy Named Joe" pretends to be a funny simple adventure story. At first glance it depicts a bigger than life attitude that vividly paints the scope, danger, thrill, and camaraderie of high risk fire fighting in the Pacific Northwest. It invokes ideals embodied in unity of purpose, while providing two very likeable, dynamic, yet quirky characters in Pete (Richard Dreyfuss) and Dorinda (Holly Hunter). But this serves only as a backdrop, because "Always" in fact portrays something quite rare and extraordinarily special. The real story is about good people, the kind that will always be there for you living on the edge, and a life-changing event, the type that rarely jumps out at you, even as it happens. Mostly, they appear in the rear-view mirror, or you catch a fleeting glimpse as the turns been taken. Afterwards, if your still standing you may say; I didn't see that coming.

If you need a hint it's not St Pete's untimely departure, as Dorinda spouts "your number is definitely up." The real story is about the tragic loss of true love, holding on, and letting go. For Dorinda this plays out as a soul numbing heartbreak that follows Pete's catastrophic dead. Hunter portrays this as only one whom has experienced it can. As the story jumps ahead almost one year, Dorinda's life slowly spiraled out of control as sure as a plane crash. Time loses all meaning, all focus, and all purpose; until she's rescued by Al the pal (John Goodman) and later healed by Ted Baker (Brad Johnson).

In the same way, only different, the self-assured wise cracking Pete suffers a fate laced with heartbreak, regret, and pain, but again time has no meaning. When it finally comes for him to ante up, he slips a little, stumbles, falls and for a dead guy gets totally out of line, "Right Rudder, Right Rudder...!" But, eventually with the help of his guardian angle Hap (Audrey Hepburn) and the guy that takes his place only better, he does the right thing and saves then frees the woman he still loves from the pain of his memory.

At the very least "Always" has several classic comedic routines that are used to grow the story. These include "Cross Wind over the Trashcan" and "Umbrella Slurry Drop," both brilliantly pulled off by Goodman, as well as the "Runaway Follow Me Truck." Add to this Hunter's defining lines that frame this film; "It wasn't my birthday, Pete remembered it wrong", "He's too much twisted steel and sex appeal. I can't be with a guy that looks like I won him in a raffle", and "The town was awash. Fire, famine, and flood, he was one disaster short of the four horseman of the apocalypse in one PBY." What can I say, I love this movie because clearly it's something it's not. It's funny, it's sad, but most of all it's subtle, like a wild fire.

43 The Ultimate Romance Movie You'll Watch Over and Over Again
My all-time favoirte movie! Although Dryfus is billed as the star, Holly Hunter is a believable actress who carries the emotion of the movie. Audrey Hepburn appears as a wise (and beautiful) angel who guides Dryfus through the heart wrenching process of moving on. John Goodman is the added touch that makes this a sweet, funny romance flick. Keep it in your collection for those days when you need a good laugh and a cry all at the same time.

44 My favorite all-time movie.
Has it all, it's a love story, a comedy, a drama and an action movie all rolled up in one. Pairs a couple of my favorite stars, Dreyfuss and Hunter. Their on-screen chemistry is perfection. This movie has been extremely under rated, probably because it was directed by Spielberg before he was truly respected in the industry. Don't miss it.

45 Romantic, heart-warming, adventuresome, funny
Holly Hunter & Richard Dreyfus were wonderful in this film. John Goodman was the added ingredient that helped blend this into a funny romantic show.

The scenery and special effects were great.

46 "Always" is a movie that gets better each time you watch it!
You'll laugh, you'll cry but you will "always" enjoy watching this movie!

47 Heavenly music
Steven Spielberg's epic love story is accompanied by some of the best written music, ever! A real masterpiece

48 One of those movies that you hate to love!
Great Movie! Spectacular and moving performances. The story will make you sob, watch it with a pint of ice cream and a box of tissues!

49 It's a 3-hanky tearjerker with class
Dreyfuss has a knack for being really good (Mr Holland's Opus) or really bad (Moon Over Parador). This is a good one. There are some cute moments, some funny moments (esp John Goodman), some touching moments, and one particular moment that will drag your heart through a wringer until you just can't cry anymore. I was an emotional wreck for two days after seeing this film, but loved it nonetheless.