Del-Con

Full of plot holes and expensive excesses, LEGAL EAGLES wouldn't be much without the genuine star power it receives from it's first class cast.

Redford is very charming as the assistant D.A. whose becomes involved with defense lawyer Winger (terrific as always) to solve a case that includes arson, stolen paintings, insurance fraud, and even murder.

The chemistry between Redford and Winger is very much like Spencer and Tracy and is very enjoyable to watch. However, Daryl Hannah steals the show as the slightly off center performance artist who is in the middle of the complex case.

The film's story will not hold up under much thought and the many shots of buildings on fire will only appeal to pyros. Still, this film is fun entertainment and is a must-see if you are a fan of one of the three stars.

I'd rate this a good 6 out of 10.

The third film version of the often recycled story is given good treatment and receives a change from the world of acting to the popular music scene. The film's production values are overblown and sometimes a bit garish, but given the setting (the drug-induced rock world of the 70's) it seems to work. Kristofferson, though a competent actor in many respects, is completely miscast here. He is completely unsympathetic, his actions come off as asinine, and he can't even sing!

Although her character is poorly defined by the screenplay, Streisand comes off much better. Although her motives sometimes seem silly (why would such a nice gal love such a loser in the first place), she nevertheless gives a commanding and compelling performance as Esther.

The music in the film could be a bit better. All of Kristofferson's tunes are horrid misfires that all sound the same. Streisand sings three really good numbers, "Evergreen," "The Woman In The Moon," and "Everything," but some numbers, such as "Queen Bee" and "I Believe In Love," fall flat.

Even though I've payed more attention to the movie's shortcomings, it's not a bad film, though it could have been much better. The strength of the central storyline and a good performance from Streisand carry the film over some of it's weak spots. However, I agree with a previous viewer that the 1954 Judy Garland version is superior on all accounts. Sill, I'd rate this film a respectable 7 out of 10.

I can remember seeing THE WAY WE WERE when I was in high school and being surprised by how much I had enjoyed it. Romances were never really my thing, but I had always enjoyed the work of Robert Redford, so I decided to give it a try. I was floored by the power and beauty of film! My initial reactions to the film were, once again, how natural and charismatic Redford is as the classic example of the college golden boy, who feels slightly trapped. After the credits began to roll, I knew right then that I had seen something special, something that would pass the test of time. I assume others felt the same way, the film went on to become an international blockbuster and the top grosser of the year.

Years later, I watched THE WAY WE WERE again. Now older, I had a new perspective on the film, and to be completely honest, I enjoyed it even more! While I still think Redford is great in this film, I discovered that it is actually Barbra Streisand who gives the better performance. As the political activist Katie, Streisand has one her best roles since Fanny Brice in the original FUNNY GIRL and she provides a show-stopping performance. She displays both strength and vulnerability, she is at once both scorned and innocent. Her's is one of the best performances of the 70's.

The final verdict: THE WAY WE WERE stands the test of time as one of the best films of it's kind. Watch this film for the most moving finale in film history, for the knock out performance from Streisand, for the long-lasting chemistry between Redford and Streisand, and for one of the most famous and touching love stories of this century.

Out of 10, I'd rate THE WAY WE WERE a solid 10!