1 Decent Hayley Mills Adventure
Fullscreen edition but a good price. This is one of several wonderful movies Hayley Mills made during her stint with Disney. Here she plays Nikky, a young woman visiting Crete with her Aunt Francis, played by Joan Greenwood. During their stay she meets a young man named Mark that has been snorkeling near Porpoise Island. He seems to have his mind on other things and when she tries to find out what, he is secretive. When he becomes injured she finds out he is looking for stolen emeralds and is being hunted by Stratos the man that stole them. The adventure becomes deadly, but has a happy ending as in most Disney movies.
The cast
Hayley Mills ... Nikky Ferris
Eli Wallach ... Stratos
Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford
Pola Negri ... Madame Habib
Joan Greenwood ... Aunt Frances Ferris
is superb and the scenery is beautiful. The directing is good, and the music is appropriate. The DVD does not include any extras, but it is well worth owning. The picture and sound quality are great. I recommend this to any classic Disney or Hayley Mills fans.
2 Moon-Spinners is a beloved classic, but Disney DVDs STINK
It's mind-boggling that Disney doesn't get it. Here is a company that's sitting on one of the most extensive film libraries in existence -- and that built itself on MOTION PICTURE QUALITY, INNOVATION, AND CREATIVE SPIRIT (just look to Disney's amazing string of successes from Steamboat Willie to the Silly Symphonies to Snow White to Sleeping Beauty, with so many more) -- and they continue to produce these horribly dull, penny-pinching, artistically bogus DVDs of such enjoyable, lovely films as "The Moon-Spinners" (HOW can they still be producing pan-and-scan versions of these beautifully shot live action films -- it's inexcusable!). There are so many possibilities for the DVD of this film, such as a comparison to the travel/nature shorts they produced (and the Cretan setting of this film certainly grew out of the travel genre popular through the middle decades of the last century), or promos Disney produced at the time, and of course contemporary cartoons which would have run during television showings of this movie. And these extras would come from THEIR OWN LIBRARIES! So -- what about "The Moon-Spinners?" It's the cinematic equivalent to the engaging, spirited books for the middle-aged child by authors such as such as Jane Langton or E.L. Konigsberg. I'm always astonished by the obtuse reactions to this film in regards to Hayley Mills: this story and its treatment are woven into a compelling and lively depiction of a young girl of her age, as she moved from child roles to those of a teenager. The movie really captures the starry-eyed and energetic romantic young girl, and the mixture of naivetŽ and resourceful maturity of a bright teenager. In addition, the performance of Peter McEnery is full of genuinely interesting choices, and he is quite spontaneous and charismatic. James Neilson was able to mix the various elements, including the strong influence of Hitchcock's brightly colored "fun" pictures -- particularly "To Catch A Thief" -- in a very convincing way (despite the classic Disney day-for-night color shooting, where they just can't seem to avoid that big, saturated Mediterranean blue sky). Not only that, but he did it with verve and not a hint of condescension, unimaginable in today's ludicrously jaded youth market. It is a genuinely delightful mix, with moments of real subtlety, and if your children haven't been spoiled by the frenetic pacing of contemporary editing and dulled by the vapid characterizations and situations of recent PG pictures, it can be a real favorite for your family.
3 A great film no matter what the format!
I keep reading reviews of new and old films and the one constant complaint is no widescreen editions- Can someone tell me if they recall seeing the Moon-Spinners on the Wonderful World of Disney? Was it in widescreen??? NO!!!! And who cares... when I saw the DVD edition, which I by the way purchased, I was brought back to a kinder and gentler time when the excitement of the week was watching a movie on the Wonderful World of Disney on Sunday night. I could recall all the fun I had seeing this film for the first time as a pre-teen. I think we are all too hung up on technology and rather than focus on the inadequacies why not look at the fun we can once again have watching the incredible Hayley Mills! I am sorry, but we watched movies for years on TV and never worried about what was cut off- So why not just enjoy seeing this entertaining turn by Hayley!
4 Fifth of the First Six Hayley Mills Movies for Disney
Hayley Mills made six movies for Disney in the early 60s: "Pollyanna" in 1960, "The Parent Trap" in 1961, "In Search of the Castaways" in 1962, "Summer Magic" in 1963, "The Moon-Spinners" in 1964, and "That Darn Cat" in 1965. All six of these movies are enjoyable and frequently humorous family fair. However, "The Moon-Spinners," a story about stolen jewels and a falsely accused bank employee, is the weakest of the six movies.
Nikki Ferris (Mills, about 18 years old at the time) and her Aunt Francis Ferris (Joan Greenwood) are in Crete to record regional music for a BBC show. The pair travels to remote Arghios Georghios where they are initially turned away from a small hotel. It seems that while Alexis (Michael Davis) and Sophia (Irene Papas) would prefer the pair stay, mean Uncle Stratos (Eli Wallach, who in a few years would be one of the three title stars in "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly) seems set against having anyone stay at the hotel. Sophia overrides Stratos and allows the pair to remain, though the friction with Stratos is continuous.
Nikki is outgoing and energetic. She soon encounters Mark Camford (Peter McEnery), a handsome young man who Nikki seems at least mildly attracted to. After initially enjoying the environment in Crete, Nikki becomes aware that there is something unusual about Mark. We also quickly learn that there is something sinister happening between Mark and Stratos. Soon Stratos and Mark are fighting, though over what we are at first unaware, and Stratos then wounds Mark. Stratos is portrayed as a very ruthless individual.
There is one scene in this movie that was sufficiently well done to cause a jump for the first time viewer. As Nikki searches for Mark at one point in the movie Mark's appearance was sufficiently startling to make me jump. Once you are aware of the scene you are no longer affected, but the first time around you may be caught.
There is another scene where Alexis enters a windmill via the blades of the windmill and then helps Nikki exit the windmill the same way that is one of several tense moments in the film. This particular scene would also make a good "Fear Factor" stunt, though not for anyone else.
While there is mild tension throughout this movie, and there is mild romance between Nikki and Mark, the scenes are all mild enough that I consider this movie to be family fare for all but young pre-school children, who may be frightened by the shooting scene, a later scene featuring cats, and the several fights. However, all of this action is sufficiently tame for nearly everyone else.
I have enjoyed this movie each time I have watched it, but it is the least of the early Disney Hayley Mills movies. Disney continued to have Mills appear to be younger and goofier than she really was, and the more jaded teenage audiences of today may be frustrated by her apparent lack of sophistication and maturity. If you can ignore her occasional overacting and her excessive innocence, this movie could be a family treat.
Also appearing in this movie are several well-known actors. John Le Mesurier plays Anthony Gamble, supposedly a British consul. Le Mesurier was a veteran of about 150 film appearances between 1938 and 1984, the year after his death. Pola Negri plays Madame Habib in her last movie appearance of about 60 movies, most made from 1914 through the 1930s.
This movie is currently offered in both VHS and DVD. However, the DVD version at the time of this review (March 2005), was in full screen format, and the movie desperately needs re-mastered. While I plan to keep my VHS version for now, if Disney does re-master the movie and expand to a widescreen format, this movie is, in spite of my three star rating, sufficiently good to have in a collection of Disney movies or Hayley Mills movies.
5 Now I want to go to Crete and have an adventure!!!!
The Moon-Spinners has to be one of my favorite movies of all time. Hayley Mills is the all-american girl....err...except for the fact that she's English (it makes no sense, but it is completely true). She gives a genuine performance and most girls can relate to her. I will not deny that this movie is completely cheesy, but it is all in the best way. This movie has everything; adventure, romance, drama, mystery, and is set in the beautiful isle of Crete. The love story is unique and original and will make you smile all over. This movie was acclaimed for being Hayley Mill's first onscreen kiss and I have to admit that it's a good one. I love how this movie embodies the essence of crete, with the beautiful beaches and little villages. I recommend this movie to people of all ages.
6 I love this movie, but...
I will not buy the DVD until I can get it in a W-I-D-E-S-C-R-E-E-N Edition!!! What good is beautiful Crete if it's panned, scanned,sliced, diced, and squashed? I want the whole picture, not 2/3rds!
7 Great movie! Full of exitment and adventure!
I think this is a wonderful movie that can be seen again and again! The acting is very good and there are some exiting moments to add suspense.
Hayley Mills and Peter McEnerny are both exellent in their roles and the acting of Irene Papas and Eli Wallach was also very good. You should get this movie and watch it with your children, it will be a great experience!
8 lousey hayley mills film
We love hayley at our house but not this film!She seemed dull,stilted and unnatural.The plot was strange and unbelievable.It wasn't even really appropriate to watch with your children one scene shows Hayley drunk.Rent and don't buy and watch it before your children do.It's more foe adults and children won't really enjoy it much.
9 DISNEY DOESN'T GET IT!!!!!
No wonder the company is about to be taken over and broken up -- DVD was introduced to be an alternative to video, to offer more than video: better picture, more extras, and most importantly, more picture. Letterboxing. Widescreen. The complete image. So what does Disney do? They take some of their most beloved live-action films such as this one, and dump it on DVD in full-frame editions. What is the point of that? Who isn't used to widescreen DVDs yet? Why should I waste my money replacing my old Disney videos with the same crappy full screen image as before? Disney just doesn't get it, and their sales show it.
10 "Moon-Spinners" a welcome DVD release
This is a first-rate video of "The Moon-Spinners" if you take into account that it's a "full-screen presentation" only which cost it a rating star from me.
The folks at Disney apparently don't think their "lesser" live-action titles merit any special presentation...and, consequently,their fans are let down.
"The Moon-Spinners" was a very good summer release in 1964 based on a mystery novel by Mary Stewart and starred the always appealing Hayley Mills who made a mint for Disney when its animation unit was only so-so, despite "Mary Poppins."
The location of Crete, alone, should have warranted a widescreen presentation. The video is crisp and clean and the sound is fairly good throughout. The video bears the Dolby Digital trademark. Aside from subtitles, there are no audio choices.
Greek actress Irene Pappas, though way too underused, lends an authenticity that is not too severely distracted from by Eli Wallach in one of his patented bad-guy-in-dark-makeup roles. He doesn't chew the scenery, but he stops just short of doing it. The ever-delightful Joan Greenwood is appropriately British with a touch of ditz as Mills' aunt who is collecting folk tunes. Mills is very good as Nicki Ferris, a gal with a 60s sensibility who thinks nothing of doing the twist at a Greek wedding, and Peter McEnery is first-rate as a British man of mystery with a dangerous secret that Mills tries to unravel as she helps him elude some dangerous men.
This is a movie that resonates for me on many levels, not the least of which is that it perfectly captures some of the flavor of the Mediterranean with its evocative photography and music. The location is a very important character in this tale. Key, too, is the part of Alexis played by Michael Davis as an earnest, ostensibly Greek, boy with a Disneyesque tendency to throw Americanisms into every situation for comic relief. The comments are more than transparent if not annoying. He helps move things along, though, and that's a plus.
There are a couple of wonderful small parts: John LeMesurier passes himself off as a consul; he and Joan Hancock, whom he identifes as his wife, are extremely convincing. Hancock has quite a nice under-the-influence scene that hints at dipsomania.
Last but not least is silent screen legend Pola Negri as "Madam Habib" -- a wealthy woman who buys rare jewels and who is the target of Wallach, LeMesurier and McEnery. Negri is wonderful as the rich woman with a conscience but with a greater love for rare jewels. She more than holds her own in her scenes with Mills and Wallach and should have been making films on a regular basis. A showdown on her yacht "Minotaur" -- with all turning out well for the hero and heroine -- ends the film.
This film features a very impressive music score by Ron Grainer -- intensely atmospheric, moody, evocative and definitely among the best for the mystery genre of the 1960s....and given John Barry's James Bond entries for that period, that's saying something!
As for the ratio, there is a specific scene where it is quite obvious the theatrical presentation was wider than it is on DVD.
Hayley is following a blood trail in a church on Crete. As she spots each drop of blood, there is an orchestral punctuation (Grainer uses his main theme and each punctuation is on the first note of a melodic line). As she goes down some stairs, you get the punctuation before the blood spot enters the frame, and if you watch it over and over (as I did), you see that someone was thinking, "Oops, gotta get that blood spot in there."
I remember seeing it in a wider perspective in a theater. It may not have been much wider, but we might have been given what the director intended us to see.
This is a no-frills release that could have been exceptional with more care from the studio. I think it's a lot of fun and a good story. It's not mindbending or thought-provoking, but it's a good entertainment for almost any time of day or night.
11 Fun Mystery and Prime Hayley Mills!
"The Moon-Spinners" is a great treat. It blends Hitchcockian mystery and suspense (Disney style) with light humor and romance in an exotic, beautiful locale (the island of Crete). It reminds me of some of the other better Disney mysteries like "Escapade in Florence" with Annette Funcinello that also mix appealing teen-aged protagonists with delicious mystery in a scenic location. All elements work well and I appreciate that they intertwine authentic local culture into the mix. Hayley Mills is also at her best. She was one of the most engaging young actresses of the 60's -- pretty, spirited, fun. I like the guest appearance by Pola Negri in an over-the-top role. That is also very common to the 60's -- older stars appeared in many of the Funicello "beach party" flicks and in Doris Day comedies like "The Glass-Bottom Boat." That was a nice aspect to these films -- that older stars were honored and given a place among the popular young stars. Like some of the other reviewers here, I saw this film first as a kid probably on "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color" and I was not at all disappointed in revisiting it. As a Hayley and mystery fan, it fills the bill admirably with any cloying aspects (like the Greek boy who misuses American expressions) kept to a minimum. And I adore Hayley's wardrobe with the big headbands, "I Dream of Jeanie" hair twists and falls, and cool clothes. The DVD itself has no extras, but many times I find extras gratuituous and not of much value.
12 Not all boy-girl romance
Disney needed a new male teenager for adventure leads: James Macarthur was getting too old, and Tommy Kirk just wasn't masculine enough. So he tried out Peter McEnery, a 21-year old British actor then acclaimed for his role as a gay boy who commits suicide in "Victim" (1961). But after two starring roles for Disney, Peter was fired and moved on to play a gay Russian prince, a hustler who seduces both men and women, and a lot of edgy hetero characters, usually on British television.
Why didn't things work out? "The Moon-Spinners" was written as a tame spy-thriller with Peter and the teenage Hayley Mills involved in a minor boy-girl romance, and the colorful island of Crete providing most of the interest. But, when he is not falling in love with Hayley Mills, Peter plays Mark Camford as obviously and overtly gay, with so many longing gazes at men and witty double-entendres that one wonders why the director didn't demand that he play the role straight. (The same thing happens in "The Fighting Prince of Donegal.)
13 I'm scarred for life!
Hayley Mills was such a cute precocious child-actress - what happened? She looks like she is on steroids or other substance that made her look quite pudgy around the face - not to mention having bad skin. A downside of DVD picture quality, I guess...
The movie? To be honest, I fast forwarded it after the first couple minutes. Hayley's character was getting nauseous from smelling fish on a bus, and I was also feeling the same way. I'm pretty sure I missed nothing of importance. I saw some running around by various people, some nice rocky shoreline shot in obvious "day for night" technique, some closeups of various characters, some rather oddball outfits, and an escape from a windmill - not necessarily in that order.
I've read elsewhere that there was a jewel robery and a murder. Golly!
I'm glad some people liked it. Unfortunately, I could not tolerate it. I guess "The Parent Trap" is where I get off the bus.
14 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
15 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
16 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
17 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
18 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
19 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
20 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
21 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
22 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
23 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
24 Innocences at it's BEST
Darling and sweet. Hayley Mills is one of Disney's best! An old fashion tale with the the innocence of youth in mind. A little Drama, a little Romance and of course a little Suspense. Located in the quaint location of Crete with an impressive cast(within the PG rating). Adventure takes its course. Eli Wallach is the quintessential bad guy (which he excels at!). Peter McEnery ... Mark Camford is the "love" interest and is proven innocent until found guilty. He allegedly claims that he was wronged in a jewelry robbery back in England. Hayley Mills... Nikky Ferris on vacation with her aunt dares to believe him and jets off in an adventure to prove his innocence with the retrieval of the missing jewelry. Cheesy... YES, but a great movie for the young at heart. This movie was originally filmed in the early 60's so bear in mind the intent of the year. Highly recommended for all of those who love a little adventure.
25 Good Clean Fun
My DVD was widescreen and excellant quality. I remember seeing this movie almost forty years ago. It was a treat to see it again. Hayley Mills only had five good box office years but in that time she truely entertained us. Moon Spinners was fun and even a little suspense throw in.Check it out for family fun.
26 You can't go back
I saw this movie when I was about 13 and thought it was fabulous. I always had such fond memories of this film that I bought it for my daughters, 8 & 13. We watched it together so I could relive the experience through their eyes -- we were bored silly! The movie dragged, the plot was infeasible, the acting overdone. I have never been so disappointed in my life. I still gave it a "3" because for the past joy it gave me, but the movie itself did not age well.
27 Such a Waste on DVD!!
why... why... why?
Disney could own the marketplace with spectacular DVD's, and yet their hit & miss approach leaves everyone baffled by such spectacular failure.
It's the Special Features that matter. Let's change the old addage: "If at first you don't succeed... Please Stop!" The dumbing-down of Disney is painful to watch.
28 I'm TOTALLY confused!
Once again, Disney misses the mark with an inferior DVD release. Why do we crave seeing our favorite stars on DVD? Picture clarity, extra features, restored prints, optional commentary... none of which are evident on this poor release of a wonderful Hayley Mills film. Disney's inexplicable inconsistency becomes evident when poor efforts such as this one are compared to stellar, awe-inspired efforts such as "The Parent Trap" and "Pollyanna", multi-disk sets released with quality and features on par with Criterion Collection releases. I give up on buying Disney. Next time, I'm going to rent the DVD first. Why waste money on new Disney DVD's that are inferior in quality to the VHS versions I already have! Hey Disney, wake up!
29 Oh no, not again!
For the life of me, I'll never understand Disney. Buying DVD's from them is worse than gambling. One time I get a beautiful widescreen version of "Pollyanna", "Swiss Family Robinson", and "The Parent Trap" and the next time I get this piece of garbage with a disgusting transfer in the hated full screen format. This is not the first time I've been fooled by Disney, but rest assured it will be the last. I should have known better after being burned in the past when I ordered "Castaway Cowboy" and "Blackbeard's Ghost". Both of those two also came dressed like this version of Moon-Spinners. Disney, I have ordered my LAST DVD from you until you get your act together.
30 What is the matter with those people?
I have just acquired the new Disney DVD release of The Moonspinners. What is the matter with those people? Last year, they released three excellent, high quality DVD sets of The Swiss Family Robinson, Pollyanna and The Parent Trap. I can understand not producing two disks each time - there is only so much extraneous material available, but this new DVD is inexcusable. It looks like it's been recorded straight off a video tape - the quality is appalling; indeed, I have an old video that is superior in quality. And not to issue the film in it's original screen format (or both!) is just insulting. After all, one of the main attributes of DVD is that it can reproduce film quality for the TV screen, and it seems very silly of Disney not to take advantage of that. It seems to be impossible to contact Disney to express my disappointment, and if I could get a refund I would.....
31 What is the matter with those people?
I have just acquired the new Disney DVD release of The Moonspinners. What is the matter with those people? Last year, they released three excellent, high quality DVD sets of The Swiss Family Robinson, Pollyanna and The Parent Trap. I can understand not producing two disks each time - there is only so much extraneous material available, but this new DVD is inexcusable. It looks like it's been recorded straight off a video tape - the quality is appalling; indeed, I have an old video that is superior in quality. And not to issue the film in it's original screen format (or both!) is just insulting. After all, one of the main attributes of DVD is that it can reproduce film quality for the TV screen, and it seems very silly of Disney not to take advantage of that. It seems to be impossible to contact Disney to express my disappointment, and if I could get a refund I would.....
32 too bad it is not in widescreen
First off this is a wonderful movie, and very unique in its Island setting of Crete. It is a mystery, and a fun one. I give this movie at least 4 stars, but it lost stars due to the dvd treatement that Disney gave it. Save your money and buy the VHS version, it is identical and cheaper.
Come on Disney, how do you take such a great movie and dump it like a piece of Junk. The lack of widescreen or quality sound is really sad for a company that makes more money than any other at re-releasing it's old material.
Also no extras? Not even some outakes, gallery stuff, theatrical trailers, cartoons. I refuse to buy any of the new disney DVD if they are not in widescreen, and tons of people I know from disney clubs and message boards feel the same way.
33 Yet another Disney classic ruined on DVD!
This is so sad! When will the Disney people understand that it is NOT the young kids of today who want to buy this movie? The willing consumers for a film like "Moon Spinners" are those who were kids when this film opened in theatres. I'm one! And I want my fond memories to look they way they did then! Which means sharp, fresh, colorful, and in the correct aspect ratios! This DVD is colorful! The rest is lacking! As a matter of fact, this disc is an exact copy of the old laserdisc issue. The Disney folks have not lifted a finger to clean dirt or scratches from the earlier transfer. Very annoying, not to mention the tight and ugly framing we get when the widescreen original is ignored. This is not a "scope" film, but there are still quite a lot of picture information missing on the sides. That also explains the foggy look. I often get the impression that the Disney organization care about their consumer products. But then I watch DVD:s like this one, "The Absent Minded Professor" and several others, and completely loose my faith. We fans want ALL Disney films on DVD to look like theatrical screenings. If not, we will simply refuse to buy any more. Period!
34 Well golly, gee - full screen format again!
MICHAEL EISNER - YOU JUST PLAIN STINK! If you really want Disney to make money on DVD sales, release them in their OAR. Anything less is totally unacceptable. The quality of the majority of the DVD's being released is just pure greedy, bush league garbage. But then again maybe you just don't care what the consumer really wants...
35 Love this film!
I have no words other than wonderful!
36 EXCELLENT MOVIE
I first read the novel "Moon Spinners" by Mary Stewart and enjoyed the book thoroughly. When I saw that there was a movie based on the novel I was a little skeptical, but Disney usually does a great job so I decided to give it a try. If you like Trixie Belden, Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries, you will definitely enjoy this movie. Hayley Mills is wonderful as usual and the movie contains great suspense and mystery with just a touch of romance. I liked it so much, that I purchased the movie so that I could watch whenever I wished.
37 One of my favorite movies!
When I was a child the only time I saw this was in 3 segments on the Wonderful World Of Disney. We didn't even have a color tv. I was absolutely fascinated by it. This is real adventure. I especially liked the windmill sequence when our heroine has to ride a moving windmill to safety. It has an excellent plot I even wrote to Disney about releasing this film before it was released. As soon as it was released I bought my copy. Need I say more.
38 Hayley Mill's Finest Film
Based on the mystery novel by Mary Stewart, THE MOON-SPINNERS is Hayley Mill's finest film. She is a tremendously talented actress. The story is action-packed and filmed on location in Greece, making it very beautiful. The supporting cast does an excellent job, including Eli Wallach as the villain. My niece, age 5, even enjoys the clean-cut story. A great Disney film to share with the entire family.
39 Hayley in her element
Hayley Mills stars in the Disney thriller THE MOON-SPINNERS, a sinister and menacing story set against the dramatic backdrop of the island of Crete.
Nicky Ferris (Hayley Mills) and her aunt (Joan Greenwood) are travelling through Europe. Her aunt is a music historian from the BBC and is recording folk songs from the remote villages.
They travel into Crete, staying at the Moon-Spinners Inn, run by a kindly lady (Irene Papas) and her young son. However, some shady dealings are being done, with the owner's brother (Eli Wallach) heavily into astrology and smuggling.
Nicky finds herself thrown into a world of espionage and theft, and finds the love of her life.
Also featuring Pola Negri in a rare film appearance, THE MOON-SPINNERS is one of Hayley Mill's best Disney films.
40 Hayley Mills: "The Moon-Spinners" is a success!
HAYLEY MILLS' GREATEST DISNEY MOVIE EVER. AS NIKKI FERRIS,SHE GOES TO GREECE WITH HER AUNT,BUT THERE'S MORE TO IT THAN MEETS THE EYE. WHEN NIKKI MEETS MARK (Peter McEnery),SHE FINDS OUT SOMETHING DIFFERENT IN GREECE. STRATOS TRIES TO SHOOT MARK AND TIE NIKKI IN A WINDMILL. ALEXIS (Michael Davis) COMES TO THE RESCUE TO SAVE NIKKI. MY BEST SCENE IS WHEN NIKKI AND MARK ARE IN THE HEARSE. WHEN HAYLEY GOT PREPARED FOR THE KISSING SCENE,SHE WAS NERVOUS,AND DIDN'T CLOSE HER EYES. DURING SHOOTING,HAYLEY HAD A EATING DISORDER AT 18. SHE DIDN'T TALK ABOUT THE BULIMIA,SO HAYLEY KEPT IT A SECRET FOR 10 YEARS.
THIS IS ONE OF MY BEST DISNEY MOVIES EVER TO PUT ON THE HAYLEY MILLS COLLECTION. I HOPE YOU GET IT,TOO!
41 The Moon-Spinners!
This was a great movie. It had suspense, mystery, and even a little romance. I was glad there were no commercials when I saw it so I didn't have to wait for what happened next. What was it all about? It had to do with stolen jewels and attempted murder (or was it murders?) Let me just say I'm glad I wasn't living it in real life...
42 Cute Movie - But don't read the book first
I read the book "The Moon Spinners" by Mary Stewart when Iwas younger and loved it, so I was more than pleasantly surprised when I found that a movie version of the story had been made. The movie is cute, but if you have read Mary Stewart's book, you will be disappointed in this "Disney-fied" version. A number of key elements of the story that make it good are changed for the movie and events that do not take place in the book at all are added in for no apparent reason. It's a cute movie, and I like Haley Mills, but it's not "The Moon Spinners". END
43 Hayley Mills Rocks!
She is awesome! What has she done lately?
44 A movie with something undefinable that makes it special
I like many people had seen quite a few Disney and Hayley Mills movies but somehow I missed this one until I saw it on the Disney Channel while vacationing on Maui. In its own way this is such a great movie. Anyone who grew up on Hardy Boys or Nancy Drew mysteries will love this film. Action and adventure set in this wonderful setting of Crete. Plus Hayley Mills... how can you go wrong. If you have never seen it and are a thirty-something now, buy it, you'll enjoy it.
45 Fantastic!
One night my friend, her little sister and I were looking for something to do. So we turned on the t.v. in her dark basement and cuddled up under a down blanket. We turned the channel to Disney and became hooked on The Moonspinners! It was so good. We all adored it! It kept us guessing and we became worried about the characters. It is now one of our favorites!
46 Enjoyable, suspenseful film; Disney's answer to Hitchcock
I enjoyed this film very much. There was suspense and mystery at all the right moments and comedy in the characters of the aunt and Madame Habib, played by silent-screen star Pola Negri. Good performances from Eli Wallach, Hayley Mills, Peter McEnery and Negri, as well as the gorgeous scenery of Crete. The conclusion doesn't ahve any surprise twists, and is in fact very uneventful, but you can easily overlook that. This film was Disney's answer to Hitchcock, and though the master could surely have topped this film, it's still worth watching.
47 An Incredible Movie!
I think that this is one of the most fascinating movies that I have ever seen! There's action and a splash of romance mixed in. This is truly a movie for all ages...Not many movies like these :) I'm 12 and I absolutely adore it!
48 This movie was a thrilling adventure with a little romance.
I enjoyed this movie very much. It had a handsome lead man with the ever adventurous lead lady, Haley Mills. The scenery is beautiful. The plot is exciting. It is a very enjoyable movie to watch. Haley Mills came out with another great movie.
49 the way a movie should be made
This and other disney movies of the era bring back memories of movies on weekends. No matter how many times you see this movie, you are still on the edge of your seat in spots and you can't wait to see what happens next. Its older than my kids. Its great you can get these movies now for your own. As far as I am concerned there will never be actresses of the caliber of Miss Mills again. The times for real acting is long gone.
50 A true Disney Classic
It seems I have waited my whole lifefor this movie to be available on video. Hayley Mills is as much of a Disney heroine as Cinderella or Snow White. It's not just a children's movie, I'm 30 and still love it!
51 A truly BRILLIANT movie with a WONDERFUL actress!
Hayley Mills is a truly brilliant actress, and her enthusiasm is contagious. She will have you laughing at her personality, and I guarantee that you will love her. Set on the island of Crete in Greece, Nikki (Hayley) and her aunt visit the inn called the Moon-Spinners and become involved in a mystery. It is quite an adventure, but I really can't say more for fear of giving away part of the climax. But this is truly a great movie! I highly recommend it. I was thrilled to see that amazom had it because many movie stores don't. I love it! P.S. This is a children's movie, but I am 15. Some might say I am odd, but I truly think that this movie can be enjoyed by all ages. My 13 year old brother just makes fun of me though, so perhaps you ought to rent it before purchasing. I wouldn't want to have the pressure of misleading you and having you buy a movie that wouldn't fit your standards.
