1 Truly Heartwarming, Soulful and Inspiring
This movie revolves around one question "What one thing, if you did it, would've made a difference in your life?"
It is a good question for all of us to consider in the course of our daily lives. In this movie, four people die prematurely in a bus accident - OK, four people plus the bus driver whose mind was preoccupied with sex and instead of watching where he was driving, he swerved off the bridge. All of these four people had some unfinished business, so they remain earthbound. They find themselves attached to a body of a kid and stick around until he's all grown up. Not knowing at first what to do, or the reason for them being earthbound, they are attempting to be of help to the kid, but seeing that they are causing him more problems than help, they stop interfering with his life and mind their own business, still wondering why are they stuck.
Eventually, it is revealed to them that they were still earthbound so that they could resolve one thing that would've made a difference in their lives. Now, the challenge begins, because it is not just a matter of doing the thing, but about overcoming inner obstacle, and having guts to follow one's heart. After all, that is what life is about, that is what every day is about - having the courage to follow one's heart, having the courage to listen to one's soul - and in this movie it is a team-spirit of one individual helping another to do that one thing that would've given meaning to his life, that would have left him enriched and empowered in some way, that would've justified the reason he had the body in the first place. One may here also developed a new appreciation for one's body and one's life on earth because there are some things that just can't be done without it.
The characters and the cast in this movie are utterly delightful and as you watch the movie, it's not only that you may enjoy the movie, but perhaps it helps you to look at your life in a different way and consider what it is that you would like your life to stand for and to just go for it.
The movie is not only heartwarming but also full of humorous tidbits and at the end of the movie there's a part with B.B. King playing that sent thrills and shivers of delight throughout my body.
2 One of my all-time favorite movies
I can't remember when I first saw this movie, but I absolutely loved it from the moment I did. I recall that just left the city (San Francisco) and the fact that this movie takes place there had that going for it from the start.
The second was Robert Downey, Jr. Say what you will, he's always been one of my favorite actors and he is immensely talented. Troubled, certainly, but judge not, etc. I don't particularly want to become mired in the personal lives of Hollywood actors anyway, good, bad or indifferent.
This movie has fantastic additional actors in it as well. Charles Grodin, Tom Sizemore (another troubled one) and Elisabeth Shue. The prinicple of the movie is that these four people are accidentally killed in a bus crash (5 including the bus driver) and they then get connected - ghost/spirit wise - to a baby being born at that instant (Robert Downey, Jr.). They follow them through his life, only learning very late in the game what they are there for. I won't go into too much, and I haven't read if any of the other 29 reviewers already gave it away. But, I won't.
This movie really does have it all. Humor, sadness, touching emotion. I mean, it's truly a beautiful and moving film that has never failed to please anyone I have shown it to. I'm certain, if you haven't seen it, it will have the same effect on you. I am just so thankful it is now FINALLY on dvd as I have been playing and playing my VHS copy for years - it was the only copy I had. Definitely get this before it goes out of print.
3 Played me like a violin
This movie is definitely schmaltzy, of this there can be no question. However, as another reviewer so eloquently stated said, it works. After all, it's not so often that one feels quite so shamelessly manipulated by a movie yet remains wearing a smile to the end.
The four actors comprising the four "limbo-ed" souls are excellent in their own right, with Tom Sizemore being especially good in a comical role quite unlike his other star turns. Elizabeth Shue must be one of my favourite heroines (you could tell she had it even back in "The Karate Kid"), and it is downright unbelievable that she hasn't appeared in any major releases as of late. She is utterly winning in her appearance here. Still, even her performance is eclipsed by Robert Downey, Jr., whose ability to capture his fellow actors' personal mannerisms (or I should say their characters' mannerisms) is a lesson in the art of imitation/impersonation. The sheer talent of Mr. Downey is a joy to behold, and it is a tragedy for the acting community (and the audience) that such a phenomenal actor has been so shackled by drugs and forced to act in such dreck as "Gothika".
"Heart and Souls" is a marvellous movie, well worth the 5 stars given. It reeled me in hook, line, and sinker.
4 Heart And Souls (1993)
This is one of my favorite movies. I was only eight years old when I first saw it and ever since then, it has been on of my favorite movies.
A bus accident claims the lives of Harrison (Charles Grodin) (a frustrated opera singer is overcome by stage fright), Julia (Kyria Sedgwick) (a young woman who has let the love of her life walk out on her), Milo (Tom Seizmore) (a burglar with a guilty conscience), and Penny (Alfre Woodard) (a single mother who must leave her kids to work the night shift). The accident occurs at the exact moment a newborn baby boy was brought into the world: Thomas Reilly. Harrison, Julia, Penny, and Milo become ghosts and are immediately drawn to Thomas. They become friends with Thomas. The problem is, only Thomas can see and hear them.
When Thomas turns seven years old, the four ghosts realize that they are getting Thomas into trouble. They must sadly fade out of his life. 27 years go by and Thomas (Robert Downey, jr.) is a hard-working business man, who is in a relationship with a young woman (Elisabeth Shu). The relationship isn't going well, for he is driving her away. The four ghosts realize why they are connected to Thomas: They need him to help resolve one thing in their lives before they died. The problem is, in order to help them, they must take over his body.
You'll all enjoy this heart warming comedy. I have many times. Buy this and you'll be watching over and over again.
5 Heart and Souls
This is a funny yet simple movie, great for the whole family since there is not a lot of bad language or sex. Just a great, fun, cute film to enjoy over and over. Robert Downey Jr does a great job as do all the other players in this movie.
6 But it works!
There is nothing in this movie that should be more than ordinary. It's sentimental. It's a tug on every heart string that's been tugged too often before. But it works. It works because of the grace and gracelessness of Robert Downey, Jr. in the lead role and because of his interaction with the ghosts who guide him to his enlightenment. Alfre Woodard (especially), Charles Grodin, Tom Sizemore and Kyra Sedgewick give Downey the life lessons he needs and find their own release. It's a sweet and lovely movie.
7 Well worth buying
An excellent fantastic comedy with never a dull moment and little known in Europe ( in France at least ). The music is beautiful and the sound quality of the DVD superb. Picture quality is good but film is in widescreen so doesn't fill your whole tv screen. One would have wanted more different language tracks and subtitles than those provided but I suspect the film is destined for an American and not European audience. Anyway, I loved it and could watch it again and again. Resembles in some ways "Ghost Dad" and Heaven Can Wait - Version 2 ( W Beatty )
8 Guarnateed to make you smile.
This film is not for everyone, 'cause people are afraid to smile today. This story casts cynicism aside, but it takes a bit of patience to follow. Downey is the only cynic in the film (at the beginning), but after his special encounters with four 'heavenly' strangers, his life and our outlooks are changed a bit- maybe forever. That's the beauty of this movie. It is handled with deft comedy (Downey's physical comedy as the result of souls invading his body is on a par with Chaplin and Keaton), but it is also one of the most loving stories, with truly loving characters, I've ever seen. The four vignettes with Sizemore, Grodin, Woodard, and Sedgewick are quite nice- and for me, the final two with Sedgewick and Woodard are bewitching. This film will make you shed a tear or two (if not downright bawl), but you'll be smiling- and that's no matter how many times you watch. So watch, hokay?!!
9 My original favorite movie of all time!
I've been loving this movie since I was probably 12 years old, and I still do to this day... It is the epitome of the sweet and touching comedy. The major theme of the movie is DEFINATELY second chances...
Four people are killed when a bus crashes, and their souls become linked to a baby who is born right at the same time. That baby is to become their chance at doing the things that they never got to do in life, when he grows up (into Robert Downey Jr)-- if they can just get him to cooporate!
This movie is sweet. There is no other word for it. It is funny, and touching, and SWEET! I introduced it to a bunch of my friends who'd never even heard of it before, and it was a smash hit with all of them... It's a little cheezy, but oh-so feelgood! Give it a looksee if you haven't before!
10 Magical Tale of Man "Possessed" by Friendly Spirits
Robert Downey Jr. is wonderful as the man who became the medium for 4 people who died in a bus accident at the same moment the hero was born. As a child these "friends" were known only to him, eventually leading to psychiatric evaluations because paretns, teachers et al insisted something had to be wrong with this child. While still a small child, the "spirits" decide it's time for him to be "without his special fiends"...until at about age 30 they suddenly make contact again. They need a favor. 4 favors. Each one of the foursome died before they could take care of some importnat unfinished business. In order to go to Heaven and rest in peace, their "little friend" would need to allow each of them to enter his body (since they are only souls) to accomplish their missions. -- The 4 scenarios are beautiful expressions of love and kindness, and although disrupting the young man's (love) life emmensely, in the end he too is richer from the turbulances. -- This is a wonderul fantasy, a big winner with romantic movie lovers. I have watched this film several times and will enjoy it again and again. The widescreen DVD version is particularly enjoyable. Five stars for this gem of a movie! *****
11 A step beyond the line.
Heart and Souls is a simple story of "the great beyond" and the posablity that crossing over may not be some great leap,but only a short step.The cast is very good and they play well off each other.It`s a fun watch.
12 Definitely a Five Star Movie
I absolutely loved this movie. I first saw it when my grandmother brought it over from my cousin's house, where she was staying at the time. I was a little hesitant to watch it at first. As a matter of fact, when I looked at the back and saw the dancing people, I actually thought it was a musical!! Now this movie is among my favorites of all time. Robert Downey Jr. is a great comedian and one of my favorite actors. I rewind back to see the group of friends singing "Walk Like A Man" over and over. My favorite ghost is Milo. Tom Sizemore is very charismatic, and he shouldn't have taken so many serious parts (in Bringing Out the Dead and Red Planet) afterwards. Or I guess I should say "parts in serious movies" because his character in Bringing Out the Dead wasn't that bad and I haven't seen Red Planet. But the long and short of it is, rent the movie. It's hilarious, wonderful, and inspirational, and I highly recommend it.
13 An unashamedly old fashioned fantasy
Ron Underwood (City Slickers) has delivered a thoroughly entertaining fantasy with Heart and Souls. Robert Downey Jr plays a man inextricably linked with four people who all died at the very moment he was born. This is a great springboard for Downey Jr's talents, as he is taken over by each personality in turn, in their search to find the one thing they missed when alive. This is a funny, sweet and romantic film that is well worth checking out. It's the kind of movie guaranteed to cheer you up and leave a slight lump in your throat. All the main performances are great, though sadly Elisabeth Shue is given very little to do. Any person with an aversion to slushy fantasies should stay away, the rest of us can sit and enjoy!
14 Most Heartfelt Film Ever!
Let's be blunt: There are better-made films out there. This film is cheesey and preposterous. But who the hell cares? We don't go watch films to see perfection in cinematography; we watch films to be absorbed by a story that takes us on an emotional journey with the characters, at least most of the time. This movie is MY FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME simply because I couldn't imagine being more touched on a heartfelt level. Not only is this film absolutely hilarious and exciting and a rollercoaster ride throughout; but it is also an emotional-powerhouse film told with so much heartbeat to its rythm that it feels like music. A MUST SEE for anyone who's looking for a beautifully original story of love and friendship. Enjoy!
15 Heart and Souls: One of my favorites....
I'm not someone who usually watches these types of movies, but after the first time I saw Heart & Souls it seemed to have left a mark on me. It left me with a good feeling inside. I bought it on VHS a few years back and now own it on DVD. This movie wasn't really big at the box office which is kind of a shame since you don't see movies of this quality every day. This movie is good to watch with your family, your spouse, or just by yourself if your looking to feel a little bit better. I would definatly reccomend that you watch this movie and let it make it's mark on you.
16 Heart and Souls
An excellent movie, entertaining, funny and heartful! This movie, although a comedy, touches deeper issues of the heart that are like a rich tapestry of what is good in man. Very colorful and excellent acting from every one. Something to watch over and over again.
17 Every emotion in just one movie!
First off, oh my goodness! Let me just say that I absouloutley LOVED this movie! At first, when my mom told me that we were going to rent it and told me the name, I was like "'Heart and Souls?' Sounds pretty dumb to me, probably the typical romantic comedy, I'll hate it," and then I watched it! I couldn't take my eyes off the screen! I laughed, I cried, I jumped for joy, it was an all over fantastical film! Robert Downey Jr. gives and excellent performane (as always, and Alfre Woodard and the rest of the cast just dazzles! One of my favorite parts (and one of the funniest) is where Downey's character is dancing down the middle of the street with the ghosts (Kyra Sedgwick, Charles Grodin, Alfre Woodard, Tom Sizemore) singing "Walk Like a Man." It would be strange to see, conisdering that the only one who can see that ghosts are Downey himself, so all the rest of the world would see would be one crazy man walking down a street singing to himself! Oh, this movie is definitley in my favorites collection! I'll never get tired of it! :) Buy it, rent it, just watch it! You won't be disappointed!
18 Fun wonderful film
this film made me laugh , smile & cry. a very delightful made film, another must buy.but i'm bias it's one of my favorites. i loved part with b.b king in it that was fun to watch,but i like whole film . happy watching!
19 A Touchingly Good Movie That Fills Your Heart With Warmth
Ron Underwood directs (Tremors) this warm-heartidly movie about a comedy that deals with second chances. It makes you think about the meaning of life and what might happen if you were in a world of imagination. In the beginning a couple is about to recieve a new born baby, but just as a stupid bus driver who "accidently" drives off the bridge and kills some people who had a job and kids to take care of. When they get out of the bus wreck, they don't know if they're dead yet. But suddenly the start to float in thin air and out towards the roads to the little boy that was being born. Why were they doing this, they seem to wonder? But they soon find out that the little boy's paretns had a terrible accident and the four people are forced on takeing care of the child until their time has come to move on. Nicely done, Ron Underwood! Enjoyed it very much. And you should enjoy it too!
20 LOVE THE MOVIE
I am only giving this DVD a 3 star rating not for the content of the MOVIE but the encoding. Very poor quality, there are 'artifacts' throughout due to the poor job they did. I LOVE the movie itself.....Get the VHS if you get it (which I hate to say because VHS blows)
21 Excellent movie, very touching, funny, and charming
This is one of my favorite movies. It was very touching and very funny. Robert Downey Jr. was perfect for this role. He was very funny. This is the best Robert Downey Jr. movie. If you havn't seen it yet, I remcommend you to. It is a great movie.
22 Another good film from Robert Downey Jr.
I loved this movie ever since the first time I saw it as a kid. Until now, even though I have watched this movie a thousand times, it still makes me cry. Robert was very good for this part as the mortal who helped the four souls he befriended. The four souls, from the time Robert was a baby, they were his best friends. When they came back when Robert grew up, they found out that they can finish their unfinished businesses on their time here on earth. So, in their race against time and the pesky bus driver, the whole cast gave us viewers a movie that we will never forget.
23 IT?S INCREDIBLE!
I thought that Robert D.J. is one of my bests! And this movie convenced totally, it was so romantic and lovely, if you have a good heart and sould, then be sure that you?re gonna love it!
24 Good Family Movie
Heart and Souls is a charming movie about second chances and friendship that instantly endears itself to any viewer. Robert Downey Jr. gives an excellent performance that is both comical and dramatic at the appropriate moments. I would reccomend this movie to anyone who believes in love and eternal friendship.
25 A heaven-sent movie
When my friend told me about this movie,I didn't think twice to see it. I immediately ran to the nearest video shop and rent this feel-good movie. Robert Downey is so handsome and Elisabeth Shue is really pretty. There was never a scene that didn't touched my heart (and soul, actually). And I really love the soundtrack. All the cast were so made for the film. I hope that I can watch one movie like this again. I doubt though because this is the greatest.
26 A heaven-sent movie
When my friend told me about this movie,I didn't think twice to see it. I immediately ran to the nearest video shop and rent this feel-good movie. Robert Downey is so handsome and Elisabeth Shue is really pretty. There was never a scene that really touched my heart (and soul, actually). And I really love the soundtrack. All the cast were so made for the film. I hope that I can watch one movie like this again. Though I doubt, this is the greatest.
27 absolutely excellent!!!
I thought this film was excellent. I cried at the little boy who was losing his friends, but marvelled at how the story and the characters progressed. Robert Downey Jnr was brilliant and I actually think it is one of his best films. It is a pity it didn't get more publicity. This is a must see for everyone and will melt the hardest of hearts. If you do not see this, then shame on you! It is a lovely warming, lifting film. So go get it NOW.
28 Will touch anyones heart
This was a movie that would touch anyones heart It shows just how people can love and care about each other. A FIVE star rating from me and my whole family.
29 Heartwarmed story and Robert's talent!
The story is a little curious and strange,but nice. The 4 ghosts are not scarely,but kind and unique. The boy playing as the childhood is excellent! My brother,mother,and I was moved with his acting and had a tear dropped within the first 30-40 minutes of this film. And Robert Downey Jr. plays remarkably well. I admit he is one of the greatest actors in the world. He could brilliantly change his voice,ways of talking/walking for 4 ghosts and his own role. His singing is good,too. He is a gifted and talented actor. I hope he never will abuse any drugs. Anyway,I really liked this movie. It's truely recommends.
30 Robert Downey and the cast are hilarious and charming!
I'll never understand why this film didn't get more recognition. It truly is a sweet and funny movie. Robert Downey Jr. has a talent for physical comedy. The supporting cast is excellent, especially the motherly Alfre Woodard and the young actor who plays Downey as a boy.
31 Where else can you find five happy endings in one movie?
Despite his recent problems with the law, Robert Downey, Jr. proves that he can be one of Hollywood's greatest actors when given the right screenplay and the correct frame of mind. This touching comedy displays some of Downey's best work. The range of his acting abilities takes center stage when he becomes inhabited by some "friendly ghosts".
If you're the type that liked "Sleepless in Seattle", you won't be disappointed with this selection. END
