America: A Tribute to Heroes

The stars of all the categories of the sports and entertainment

industries combine their efforts to raise money for those deeply

affected by the multiple tragedies that took place on September the 11th. In the form of a 2-hour marathon, the celebrities involved did their parts by giving anecdotes about the victims in the buildings and planes, and the brave people who risked their lives trying to save total strangers. Other activities done by the stars in the show were helping out in the telethon's phonelines, and to play heartfelt music in reference to that grave day.

A truly amazing tribute to America and the strength and character that made this country what it is today, especially in the wake of 911. The actors and musicians are incredible in their performances and relaying the stories of those heroes that gave beyond what was humanly possible on that day. Outstanding performance by Céline Dion, Bon Jovi, Sting, and Billy Joel. Julia Roberts emotional tribute brought tears to my eyes. And nobody performs "New York State of Mind" like Billy Joel. The audience, who remained silent after each performance couldn't contain themselves when Bill sang this song. They started clapping. They also clapped after Jon Bon Jovi gave his heartfelt performance of "Livin on a prayer." Fabulous DVD. It's the first time I've seen it, and you can be sure I'll watch it again!

Syndicated throughout the world to raise funds for the families of persons deceased or injured after the horrific bombings of September 11, this tele-special raised an exobernant amount of money for such a noble cause. It demonstrates Hollywood's quick response to the tragedy, and a extremely wide range of actors and musicians are featured. Teary eyed Chris Rock, Halle Berry, Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, and Lucy Lui are among many who reveal the many personal experiences of those killed or suffering as a result of the day of tragedy. World-reknown musicians are also featured, either covering or performing original numbers in an attempt to uncover some sense amidst the travesty, Neil Young for instance performs an captivating - even if sacrilegious - version of "Imagine". In the finale, the wide range of actors and musicians sing the American Anthem.

This is by far one of the best concerts I have ever seen. The way everyone came together for America is by far outstanding. I would give this movie a 1000 if I could, but I can only go up to 10!!! The best performances were by Mariah Carey (actually the best one in the concert) and Celine Dion whose performance of "God Bless America" was truly awesome!!!

America: A Tribute to Heroes (2001)

There's really no reason to put a star rating on this tribute show that was done so closely after the terrorist attacks on 9/11. I didn't watch most of the show when it originally aired but watching it nearly a decade later you can still feel the sadness, power and emotion. A number of celebrities speak to the camera as they try to raise money for victims of the families and they share stories about some of the people who were lost on that tragic day. One of the most heartbreaking stories is about a man who could have escaped the building but instead decided to stay with his crippled friend who wasn't able to escape. They both ended up dying together. The tributes are incredibly touching but I guess one of the main reasons to watch this document all these years later are for the musical performances and we've got some pretty strong stuff here. Bruce Springsteen starts off with an incredibly powerful version of "My City of Ruins" and we also get strong performances from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on a reworked version of "I Won't Back Down" and Billy Joel with "New York State of Mind". Another strong performance comes from Paul Simon on "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and the entire cast gathers around Willie Nelson to close the show with "America the Beautiful". Perhaps the most touching moment came from Neil Young who does an unforgettable version of John Lennon's "Imagine". I've always felt this classic song was butchered by everyone other than Lennon but Young was able to do a remarkable job with it.