... This was almost the case with Anchorman, but not quite. It's a real grower, and for the benefit of those who haven't seen the trailer, (it's not one of the extras) here is some more information...
I think I laughed out loud once in the first half hour, once in the second, and lots in ... Read review
Will Farrell followed up his star-making vehicleElf, which matched his fine-tuned comic ... more
obliviousness to a sweet sincerity, with a more arrogant variation on the same character: Ron Burgundy, a macho, narcissistic news anchor from the 1970s. Along with...
Postage & Packaging: £1.21 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
Will Farrell followed up his star-making vehicleElf, which matched his fine-tuned comic ... more
obliviousness to a sweet sincerity, with a more arrogant variation on the same character: Ron Burgundy, a macho, narcissistic news anchor from the 1970s. Along with...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 24 hours...
Will Ferrell (Old School, Elf) is Ron Burgundy, a top-rated 1970's San Diego anchorman who ... more
believes women have a place in the newsroom - as long as they stick to covering fashion shows or late-breaking cooking stories. So when Ron is told he'll be work...
Will Ferrell (Old School, Elf) is Ron Burgundy, a top-rated 1970's San Diego anchorman who ... more
believes women have a place in the newsroom - as long as they stick to covering fashion shows or late-breaking cooking stories. So when Ron is told he'll be work...
Comedy - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: Tessa Peake-Jones, Buster Merryfield, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst
Comedy - Director: Richard Boden, Mandie Fletcher, Martin Shardlow - Original Language: English - Classification: 15 years and over - Starring: Hugh Laurie, Miranda Richardson, Stephen Fry, Brian Blessed, Tim McInnerny, Tony Robinson, Rowan Atkinson
Comedy - Director: Tony Dow - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: John Challis, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Tessa Peake-Jones, Gwyneth Strong
Advantages: Moustaches! Gang war! Disadvantages: Best jokes unevenly spread
If you've seen the trailer for this and were interested, then it's pretty safe to say you'll enjoy it. Need I say more?
"Yes, or the other Ciao users will disrespect your opinion and never read anything you write again!" said my conscience.
"OK," said I. And thus, more was said...
> Warning <
The film is based around the career of Channel Four News presenter Ron Burgundy. For ... ...reasons, I must point out that this is a film about the presenter of a different Channel Four News to that with which we are accustomed in the UK. The film, which will be of some disappointment to many, is not about Jon Snow or Krishnan Guru-Murphy. This film is set in San Diego, California in the 1970's, long before Richard Whiteley (RIP) and Vorderface kicked off the British station.
OK, now that's cleared up, back to my review. more
If you've seen the trailer for this and were interested, then it's pretty safe to say you'll enjoy it. Need I say more? "Yes, or the other Ciao users will disrespect your opinion and never read anything you write again!" said my conscience. "OK," said I. And thus, more was said...
> Warning < The film is based around the career of Channel Four News presenter Ron Burgundy. For those of you interested in the film for the wrong reasons, I must point out that this is a film about the presenter of a different Channel Four News to that with which we are accustomed in the UK. The film, which will be of some disappointment to many, is not about Jon Snow or Krishnan Guru-Murphy. This film is set in San Diego, California in the 1970's, long before Richard Whiteley (RIP) and Vorderface kicked off the British station.
OK, now that's cleared up, back to my review.
> The Review! < I'd missed this film in the cinema for one reason or another, so after favourable word-of-mouth recommendations, I got hold of it on DVD and gave it a razzle-dazzle on the ol' disc-o-box. And I wasn't disappointed.
The thing about comedies is that you need to be of a light-hearted nature to want to see one in the first place - that's half the battle! If you've seen the trailer and still want to see it, then that's a sure sign of you liking the film - unless the film is worse than the trailer. The trailer can occasionally ruin a comedy - sit through 60 seconds of one-liners and you might just have seen all the funny bits, or had them ruined for you. This was almost the case with Anchorman, but not quite. It's a real grower, and for the benefit of those who haven't seen the trailer, (it's not one of the extras) here is some more information...
I think I laughed out loud once in the first half hour, once in the second, and lots in the final half hour. The film keeps simmering away with its own facetiousness for an hour until a riotous event occurs which keeps the pot cascading with flow after flow of comedy juice.
It is a very handy thing that comedy juice is easy to clean up afterwards.
I recognised the attributes of a comedy that will provide lasting appeal - and probably get funnier on subsequent viewings. The main thing likely to do this is the character Brick, weatherman of the Channel Four News team. He's not too bright, really stupid in fact, and although this is a ploy used often in other films to get cheap laughs, it seldom works. But, as this film goes on, your bad-comedy defences lower and he becomes quite likable by the end of the film.
Brick is played by Steve Carell, who also plays fake David Brent in the American version of The Office. In that show, however, he looks a lot more like the UK's Major League Baseball co-host, "Drippin" Dave Lengel...but I digress.
I wasn't a big fan of Will Ferrell, particularly after 'Old School', but he's quite convincing in this role. For the remainder of the cast, the acting, like most comedies, is not great and pretty over the top, but that's excusable. There are a few good cameos as stars crop up as rival anchormen - Vince Vaughan, Luke Wilson and Ben Stiller, who looks incredibly fetching in long hair and moustache, as the Spanish-language news Anchorman. Tim Robbins, as he did wonderfully in High Fidelity, steals the show. He plays the curly-haired, pipe-smoking PBS Anchorman.
The soundtrack contains some pretty good 70's number to get a groove on to.
But what's with all the smoking and the scotch? Winners don't take drugs!
> Extras < One huge drawback is the commentary. Whilst the film itself gets funnier as you get used to the characters, the writers (Will Ferrell and director Adam McKay, who do the commentary) bumble along embarrassingly in the belief that they are being funny. They're not. When singer Lou Rawls becomes involved (for no known reason) it becomes partially interesting.
The short 'Making Of' documentary reminds me of how the word 'poo' can be used as an adjective, and I didn't find the 'Afternoon Delight' music video particularly enjoyable. Ron Burgundy will fight me for saying that! That's no lie!
The 'Trailers' section is a complete misnomer. It is ONE trailer, and is for 'Meet The Fockers'! There are many deleted scenes to view, and most of them are very good. It's a shame that more weren't in the movie. Bloopers don't normally impress me at all, but there were some good ones on this disc.
If you pause it on the close-up of the newspaper, Ron gets dubbed 'the Michael Jordan of eating contests".
> Highlights / Summary < I feel strongly compelled to tell you about my favourite bits of the film - there are several very strong scenes or moments in the film - but I will hold my nerve and avoid spoiling it for those who've not seen it. For those who have seen it, the following keywords might alert you to my favourite bits: flames, killed, punt, and milk. The film is great to talk to your friends about, and if you're anything like me, you'll adopt one or two of Ron's phrases. I couldn't help it!
It's a very enjoyable film; I've seen it a few times now and will be giving the disc a few more spins in the future. It's restored my faith in moustaches, which was waning since David Seaman announced his retirement. The occasion a while back when a bunch of Village People rejects nearly set fire to my car didn't help. I have asked my mum if I can have a pet moustache. She said that if I'm good, I might have a nice surprise on my birthday. Yippee!
> £ < Best price: £7.99 + free delivery from play.com
> Recommendation < If you like moustaches and comedy, this is the film for you! There are loads of funny moments and they seem funnier each time. You'll have tremendous fun!
Advantages: The best bit are the ned credits although you have to wait a long time for them Disadvantages: Poor story, awful acting, not funny, a total waste of time
...well known, and highly respected anchorman based in San Diego in the 1970s. A traditionally male dominated society the world of news reporting has a shock when a feisty and ambitious reporter in the form of Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate) joins the team.
At first Ron is not threatened by the new reporter, especially since she covers fashion, cooking and other “female” interests, however this feeling soon changes when Veronica stands ... ...Frank Vitchard (Luke Wilson) – Anchorman for a rival channel
There are also many cameos including Ben Stiller, Tim Robins, Jack Black, Jay Johnston, Paul Tompkins, Seth Rogan and Judd Apatow amongst many others.
None of the other characters give outstanding or memorable performances and are equally as bad as the main cast, so they play a consistent supporting role. In most movies there are some good supporting actors but there aren’t in this movie ...
yackers1 09.09.2009
· Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Anchorman (DVD)
Advantages: Hilarious, quotable script and great performances Disadvantages: A bit weird and silly for some
...first ever female co-anchor.
Anchorman is an evocative trip back to the 70s, complete with pastel-coloured polyester suits, big hairdos and pool parties. Even if you weren't around then, it really makes you feel a bit nostalgic.
The humour comes thick and fast, and it really is a laugh-out-loud film. The characters are all brilliant and strangely realistic, but it's the bizarre and surreal writing that really makes this stand out. The film starts ... ...the style of humour in Anchorman and decided if it's for you or not. The plot isn't that great, but it does at least make sense and it's really just there to provide opportunities for more jokes (the closing events are very funny indeed). It is a very funny film: it's packed with visual gags, surreal humour, some clever word-play, physical humour, and a fair bit of pastiche, and there really are a lot of laugh out loud moments and quotable lines ...
l-m-n-o-p 22.02.2007
· Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Anchorman (DVD)
Advantages: Hilariously funny, 70's sexism and idiocy. What more could you want? Disadvantages: Some of the language may offend but that's it
I have just arrived back home having visited my globe-trotting brother and, as well as looking through his latest collection of photographs, this time of Bulgaria, we sat and watched the film 'Anchorman'. To be honest, apart from 'Elf' I had never seen a Will Ferrell movie but had been regailed of his talent from my bronzed relation.
Ferrell was born on the 16th July, 1967 in Irvine, California and eventually became the highest paid member of the ... ...year. He has starred in many films such as the above mentioned 'Elf', 'Talladega Nights', 'Zoolander' and 'Blades of Glory'. He also produced the movie 'Hot Rod' an hilarious film detailing the rise and many falls of a teenage stunt rider.
In 'Anchorman' Will plays the part of Ron Burgundy, 5 times (local) Emmy award winning journalist for KVWN where is the main anchor on the Channel 4 news team. He is a typical 1970's male chauvanist who loves ...
david_1967 19.03.2008
· Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Anchorman (DVD)
Advantages: More entertainment for those Ferrell followers Disadvantages: Storyline and comedy are rough around edges
Is this really what happens behind the scenes on the news? Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy follows the tale of San Diego's top newsman.. Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell) along with the remains of his nitwit news team. The film is situated in the 1970's, a time where it is apparently cool to have as much hair as possible. Ron can get away with even the ugliest suits however, as the San Diegites/San Diegons love him. That is until the story of the ... ...this is infact a true story, only the setting, characters and events have been entirely changed. Oh I get it, that was a joke. Christina Applegate plays second to Will Ferrell in this film, as her character Veronica Corningstone is the thorn in Ron's side. That thorn represents the pain she causes to him in the film, as well as the rose thorn of his love as there is definitly some chemistry between the pair. Once again Will Ferrell has brought his ...
Nathan_Innit 11.01.2007
· Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Anchorman (DVD)
Advantages: Great humour and quick wit Disadvantages: Can be offensive to some
Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy is the first film in The Mediocre American Man Trilogy, also known as The Colon Trilogy. It stars some of the actors from the Frat Pack group of actors, in a 'stupid' type of comedy that pokes fun at everything that is wrong with society and picks on stereotypes. Essentially, the actors, writers and director spend the entire film opening themselves up to abuse at the same time as trying to entertain. The result? ... ...Ron Burgundy is the toast of San Diego - the news anchor on the most successful news programme and channel on air in the city. Untouchable almost. Then in walks the sexy Veronica Corningstone, the only woman in a male newsroom, and backs are up instantly, with hialrious effect. Burgundy is at first willing to work with Veronica, until she lands a position with him on the news desk - then it's war!
The Cast and Performances
Will Ferrell takes the ...
pmcds 03.06.2008
· Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Anchorman (DVD)
Did you enjoy it?
Story
Characters / Performances
Special Effects
How does it compare to ...
Similar reviews »
Reviews which might be of interest for "Anchorman (DVD)"
Advantages: Very funny Disadvantages: Old School not as good as the other 2
That a fantastic box set!
I have never been a big fan of Old School (Aside from one or two bits), but Blades of glory and the anchorman are excellent films that deserver to be purchased on their own anyway!
Will Ferrell is absolutely brilliant in the Anchorman, but its his news team supporting cast that really make this film such a hit. Without ruining anything, there is an excellent clip where The Channel 6 news team (Ferrell and co) are going to buy new suits, on way they get into a fight to the death with several other news crews, brilliant!
Will Ferrell's on screen back and forth moments with Jon Heder in Blades of Glory are pure comedy Gold and warrant purchase of this product alone!
I purchased this DVD from Play.com a few months back for about £12, which is an excellent price for 3 DVDs.
in conclusion - Anybody who ...
Advantages: Great if you are in need of cheering up Disadvantages: NONE!
I am a massive Anchorman (The legend of Ron Burgundy). I saw it at the cinema when it was first released and was in histerics throughout the whole film! This is a very silly type of humour- mostly appealing to young people that would enjoy similar films such as Dodgeball or Zoolander. This is definately a film that you can fish out when you are in need of some cheering up- even if thats every sunday! This is a hilarious films with jokes that will never grow old! I watched the twin film (Wake up, Ron Burgundy) for the first time last weekend. This was a very odd set-up, as it was filmed simultaneously with 'The Legend of Ron Burgundy', so contains many similar scenes with script variations. This was no match for the first film, but if you are a hardcore fan, definately worth a watch! ...
Advantages: Will ferrell is in it Disadvantages: Script, cast, lack of laughs
As a fan of Will Ferrell in films as Anchorman and Zoolander, I bought this DVD on a whim and was very disappointed with the standard of the film and found myself checking my DVD player to see how much longer i would have to endure it.
Will Ferrell himself provides a decent acting performance, but is made to work very hard for his money in a script bereft of the wit or charm of Anchorman. Unfortunately there are no real stand out performances among the supporting cast to help the film along.
The DVD itself has plenty of extra features to keep fans of the film happy, but if you are considering buying the film without having seen it, I'd recommend renting it first, so you know what you will be getting for your cash. ...
It's the early 1970s and the local anchorman is not only a source of news but a revered local hero. In San Diego, Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell), a mustachioed bachelor with a taste for scotch, unparalleled passion for the jazz flute, and a near-telepathic connection with his spirited mutt, Baxter, is that man. Rounding out Ron's testosterone-heavy news team are his close friends--cologne-obsessed man-on-the-street Brian Fantana (Paul Rudd), sports reporter Champ Kind (Dave Koechner), and mentally challenged weatherman Brick Tamland (Steve Carrell). Their male camaraderie is challenged, though, when producer Ed Harken (Fred Willard), pressured by changing times, brings the first female reporter, ambitious Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate), to the team. Ron finds his chauvinistic ideals compromised further when he starts falling in love with her. Fuelled by Ferrell's singularly loopy persona, ANCHORMAN joins the long list of comedies which have successfully poked fun at the styles and mores of the '70s. Here, with Ferrell's script and Adam McKay's direction, the character of Ron Burgundy becomes a full-bodied comic creation whose possibilities for laughs aren't nearly exhausted by the end credits. The result is an often hilarious celebration of moustaches, wide neckties, alcohol abuse, and good, old-fashioned sexism.
Video Category
Feature Film
Country Of Origin
United States of America
Release details
DVD Region
DVD
Studio(s)
DREAMWORKS HOME ENTERTAINMENT; PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT, DREAMWORKS HOME ENTERTAINMENT; UNIVERSAL MUSIC OPERATIONS, PARAMOUNT HOME ENTERTAINMENT; TECHNICOLOR DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
Deleted Scenes, Bloopers, The Making Of, Commentary, Afternoon Delight Music Video, Interactive menu
Dubbing Sound
Dolby Digital 5.1 English
Professional reviews
Review
Move over Austin Powers, there's a new big screen Love Machine in town. (News Of The World, )
I loved Anchorman...So packed with laughs it should come in a barrel. (The Sun, )
DVD Description
It's the early 1970s and the local anchorman is not only a source of news but a revered local hero. In San Diego, Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell), a mustachioed bachelor with a taste for scotch, unparalleled passion for the jazz flute, and a near-telepathic connection with his spirited mutt, Baxter, is that man. Rounding out Ron's testosterone-heavy news team are his close friends--cologne-obsessed man-on-the-street Brian Fantana (Paul Rudd), sports reporter Champ Kind (Dave Koechner), and mentally challenged weatherman Brick Tamland (Steve Carrell). Their male camaraderie is challenged, though, when producer Ed Harken (Fred Willard), pressured by changing times, brings the first female reporter, ambitious Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate), to the team. Ron finds his chauvinistic ideals compromised further when he starts falling in love with her. Fuelled by Ferrell's singularly loopy persona, ANCHORMAN joins the long list of comedies which have successfully poked fun at the styles and mores of the '70s. Here, with Ferrell's script and Adam McKay's direction, the character of Ron Burgundy becomes a full-bodied comic creation whose possibilities for laughs aren't nearly exhausted by the end credits. The result is an often hilarious celebration of moustaches, wide neckties, alcohol abuse, and good, old-fashioned sexism.
![Anchorman - The Legend Of Ron Burgundy [DVD] [2004]](http://picnica.ciao.com/uk/78512654.jpg)
