As a reviewer, I do my best to insure that I am accurate on the length of a feature and I also list whatever time the box has as well. I agree with the quality over quantity issue myself but I also base my "extra's" ratings partially on length of feature. If a movie is 72 minutes long and only has a few trailers-it'll get a worse score than a movie that is 117 minutes long with the same two trailers.

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HoustonDon - I haven't read many reviews thus far, mainly because the movies I usually search for haven't been reviewed yet. But, I've got to tell you, I can't wait to read more of yours because from what I've seen so far had me laughing so much that my sides hurt! But then, I admit to searching for your lowest rated ones, just to see how God-awful these flicks were, 'cause I know you won't mince words. You put the pertinent information up front,with just the right amount of detail, good or bad. Plus, I like it that you tend to rate on the low side, which is where they belong, let's face it. When too many 5*s are given out, they tend to lose meaning, I think they should be witheld for an absolutely top-drawer, almost a breakthrough film. I know, if you give something a 4*, it's probably pretty damn good. You don't waste a lot of my time & yours with all the painful details of an alleged plot, realizing that NOBODY CARES! Usually, as soon as they even start talking I'll reach for the remote, because it spoils the mood. If I want acting and plot, I'll watch a Meryl Streep or Robert DeNiro movie. Thank you for all your hard work, yes, it's got to be torture sitting thru some of those, but keep 'em coming!

I hope you don't mind that I cut & pasted a few samples of your reviewing style for those who may not be familiar..Sure, they're out of context, and from a few different reviews, but I wanted to throw something together quickly to be more in keeping with the quality of the films involved.

1)None of the women looked to be having a good time and everyone's acting sucked.
You said a mouthful there, HoustonDon!
2) I have had better luck with a handheld tape recorder than this production did with whatever they used (two cups and a string?!?). The video quality ranges from fair to piss poor.
Tell us how you really feel!
3)Oh man did this one hurt to watch!
Stop already, you're killin' me!
4) I'd rather start reviewing gay movies than watch this one again
Uh, I'll take that as a thumbs down?
5)The redeeming factor of this short is that Roy wears a condom. Of course having seen Selena's privates up close, I can't blame him.
Don't beat around the bush, HoustonDon!
6)If you like tattoo's, ass pimples, and razor burn as a fetish, there might be something
in this for you. Otherwise steer clear of it.
Ouch!

Houston "Tear 'em a New One" Don Rules!
He takes NO prisoners!
He's no studio whore!
He CANNOT be bribed or bought! At least, not until his price goes up.

Edited by - dumblonde on Oct 12 2000

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I'm honest to a fault and think that adding in some humor about it makes for a better review. If that makes me mean spirited or hostile-so be it. I'd love to see someone defend some of the crap out there against my rants. I'll do it on a forum or in the ring if need be. (MachoDon!)

I also try and distinguish between a couples movie (ie: ones that aren't usually hardcore and have plots) and a regular hardcore gonzo movie. My highest rating is for a couples flick because it looked like some thought, energy, time, and money went into it. My personal preference is for some of the gonzo stuff and when it's good-I won't hesitate to admit it (although much of it seems made as an afterthought).

As far as using my comments-technically they are Steph's to do with as she pleases. When we submit reviews, we sign over rights to them (it's in the disclaimer). She loves to spread the word about ADT and probably lets anyone use whatever we write as they see fit but it's up to her. I have no problem with that as she doesn't edit my reviews.

I'm not a studio or etailer hack either. If any of them want to provide me with review copies, I'll willingly take them as my budget is tight these days. The only condition that I'd apply would be that I must be allowed to be honest. I think that's why you don't see too many websites like ADT (amateur reviewers are usually fairer than "professional" reviewers because they depend on continued goodwill-IMHO). Most sites look like cheerleading squads in their reviews-except for the rare bone they throw to the truth.

So, while I can't be bought-I can be rented. ;) My reviews will reflect what I think about a dvd, nothing less. I doubt anyone here thinks it should be another way. Take care and thanks for the nice comments.

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