Mask - Director's Cut [DVD]

[Minor Spoilers] At first glance, this doesn't seem to be a film that would radiate heartwarming and life-affirming qualities, but the Oscar-winning "Mask" (1985) actually improves with each viewing, as only the very best movies do. Hollywood embellishments and minor changes were, indeed, made to this true story (which has seemingly become more of a formality these days with most movies based on true stories), but anything lost in translation from true life to film is reclaimed by this film's yield as such an everlasting cinematic treasure. And the foundation of my claim here is Cher's delivery of what should be considered the best performance in movie history by a female without an Oscar nomination (and even one of the best in general), surely the snub of the century (what a cinematic travesty). Another testament to Cher's truly remarkable performance is her manner of elevating her character to such a level that she almost steals the movie from the central character, by no means an easy task. In "Mask," Cher plays Florence "Rusty" Dennis, the biker mother of young Roy "Rocky" Dennis, the also outstanding but sometimes forgotten Eric Stoltz ("Fast Times at Ridgemont High," "Some Kind of Wonderful," "Pulp Fiction"), though only because of heavy makeup and a facial prosthetic worn throughout the film (which won a special Oscar), who develops an extremely rare, disfiguring, and potentially fatal bone disease that causes calcium to build up in his skull. In fact, doctors gave him little chance for survival, since most patients with the disease rarely survive beyond childhood. Just the same, however, Rusty remains steadfast in seeing to it that Rocky has as normal a life as possible, even though that usually involves exceptional love, fittingly punctuated in an opening scene in which Rusty tells Rocky's junior high school principal, "Mr. Simms" (Ben Piazza), that it's a public school, not a "special" one, that fits Rocky's needs. And as Rusty exits the room in a huff because of Mr. Simms' reluctance to want to enroll her son, Rocky so naturally complements the unique bond he has with his Mom by saying, "Don't worry, Mr. Simms. I look weird, but otherwise I'm real normal." Sam Elliott, similarly overlooked by the Oscars, as Rusty's on-again-off-again boyfriend Gar (and Rocky's father figure for his absent biological father), also turns in his career-best performance, a mighty weighty statement considering his plethora of career roles, mostly westerns. But in "Mask," Elliott shows just enough of a tender side (i.e., always acknowledging Rocky's needs; helping Rusty write an I-miss-you letter to Rocky when he's away at camp because she's just too emotional to do so; telling Rocky the story of when his Mom took him to get his picture taken and how proud and beautiful she was on that particular day; and Gar just being there for the both of them when they needed him most, etc.) while simultaneously and convincingly displaying every ounce of his character's machismo. The film is diligently directed by Peter Bogdanovich ("The Last Picture Show"), and Bogdanovich fought (with surprising difficulty) to keep the film's original music, mostly Bruce Springsteen (with some Lynyrd Skynyrd and Steely Stan), when the studio wanted to go with the less expensive Bob Seger in the 11th hour, with Seger's music ultimately contained in the theatrical release and initial DVD release. The real-life Rusty, who passed away in 2006, always had agreed with Bogdanovich regarding the music, reportedly saying that Rocky didn't even know who Bob Seger was. But, thankfully, the original music was finally restored for the DVD Director's Cut (which also contains two additional, though not necessarily essential, scenes not in the original cut: Rusty and Rocky singing a mother-son duet around a campfire with their friends and a separate funeral scene). The supporting cast is equally strong, including a young Laura Dern as Diana, Rocky's love interest, and Dennis Burkley as Dozer, their mostly mute family friend, as well as the rest of Rocky's surrogate biker family. It doesn't take long for the viewer to realize that not only is Rocky loved but that he's just like one of us, someone with hopes and dreams (we even see Rocky's world-map tacks strategically pinned on his bedroom wall, denoting his dream destinations). We also see that his Mom's unwavering love has become instilled in Rocky when he, in turn, worries about Rusty's drug problems and sometimes reckless lifestyle, as well as covering up for his Mom's behavior when her parents arrive (the smartly cast Estelle Getty of "The Golden Girls" and Richard Dysart), essentially becoming the parent himself in these scenes. But, as intended, it's Rocky's extraordinary trials and tribulations that bring the sweetest fulfillment, in countless scenes, but especially in the school-awards ceremony, one of the most unforgettably moving moments you'll ever see on film, and Dozer's proud and poignant moment with Rocky outside the school afterwards. And, of course, the film's enduring message is that we're all the same on the inside, no matter what we look like on the outside and no matter who we call our family, for ultimately it is our hearts for which we will be judged. [Note: Although snubbed at the Oscars, Cher did get the smaller consolation of being nominated by the Golden Globes for Best Actress in "Mask" and would, indeed, get the last laugh, with her performance in "Mask" winning her Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival, considered by some to be even more prestigious than the Oscars, since Cannes is international, not just national. And, as a kind of apology for the "Mask" snub, the Academy Awards would eventually award Cher with an Oscar for Best Actress, although it was for the less memorable "Moonstruck" in 1987.]

The film "MASK"is a film that gives our generation a positive voice.A voice that says,"In the negative side of Life where there is often pain,despair,discouragement.""MASK"is a lift for the heart and spirit of humanity.This film is a true story.A story of courage,hope,determination against incredible odds.It shows how cold and judgemental society can be,especially when they lack the understanding of the afflications and suffering of their fellow humans.Rocky Dennis was an individual to admire,love,and be inspired by.Eric Stolz is a stellar actor whom I feel put his heart and soul into the portrayal of Rocky.He is one of my favorites along with Sam Elliott and Cher.Sam Elliott,perfect in the role of Gar,is a excellent father figure and has never disappointed with his acting talent.I've loved every film he has done.It's hard to nail down which film is his best,but I think this film should definitely be considered for him receiving an oscar.Cher,whom I've loved since her days with the "Sonny and Cher"show has definitely reached far beyond her talent into the acting realm ,and has not only achieved great fame as a singer and performer in concerts,but knocked fans out with her many great films.She is also a huge talent and success as a actress.This film,where she portrays Rocky Dennis mother,is very well done,she really gets into every role she takes on.Rusty Dennis had a big heart full of love and hope for her son Rocky.It was a moving experience because Cher played the role,and did it well.This film is definitely one of Cher's best.I hope that anyone who watches this film,isn't just entertained,but deeply moved and inspired as I have been.The music of Bob Seger and Bruce Springsteen makes the impact of the film even stronger.I,by the way have Cerebral Palsey.I've had it since birth.I know what it is to be treated unfairly by cruel,ignorant people,who think you're weird because you look different,don't walk "normal".Disabilities are in all of us.They don't show as much in some as they do in others.I like to think of mine as "A Little Inconvienance"Rocky Dennis triumphed over his,touching lots of hearts and lives.God Bless you Rocky,Rusty,Gar,for showing us all how to really live,beating the odds.Thanks to a compassionate mother for letting Rocky's story be told.Thanks too to a stellar cast,and a director with likewise hearts,to tell Rocky's story so warmly on the screen.To all of you fellow film buffs out there,count your blessings open your hearts,buy this film.I guarentee,you will be impressed,moved,inspired,and will never feel that you got a tougher break in life.This film speaks for all generations past and present.It is,in my opinion a blockbuster classic!

Wonderful movie!

Love it.

What a great movie

One would have thought that after her performance in "Silkwood" Cher would have received her props in Hollywood. The Academy would later make up for overlooking her in this film by presenting her the Best Actress Oscar for "Moonstruck." But it is in "Mask," where Cher proves her acting mettle. Cher acts and even looks the part of Rusty, the mother of a severely disfigure child; but that is almost a side note. What gives the film its ability to relate to its audience is the tension between this beleaguered woman and her on-again/off- again boyfriend Gar (Sam Elliot, delivering a subtly cool performance); and Rusty and her staunchly old-fashioned parents. Cher takes advantage of the opportunities to flaunt her acting chops without being over the top. It is here where she proves that she can more than hold her own against any of Hollywood's so-called A-list actresses. Eric Stolz plays Rocky Dennis (upon whom the story was based), and the chemistry between he and his older co-star is unmistakable. Their relationship comes off as real, without any of the parents vs. teenager cliches. Both Rocky and Rusty feel things deeply and it is that trait that binds them. Rusty is a single mother struggling with drug addiction, but never lets it get in the way of loving her child. Interesting contrast between Rocky's world and the world of the "typical teen," so much so that you don't put Rocky nor feel a need to root for him, but you enjoy him. You know that his puppy love will not end happily, but you know that Rocky will weather the storm. Moreover, her biker friends serve as an extended family to Rocky, who is played by Stolz as a kid who is all heart, and who sees himself not as one desperate to fit in, but who waits for the rest of the world to catch up to him. Wonderful performances by the actors who make up the biker gang of which Gar is a part of. They are men of depth and compassion as they embrace Rocky as one of their own. The climax delivers one of the more emotionally charged scenes you'll ever see--comparable to "Beaches" and "Imitation Of Life." It is heart-wrenching without being sappy, showing the depth of a mother;'s love for her offspring. This is definitely one of my all-time favorite films and a must-see for those who love films that have the power to pluck an emotional chord. Good date flick because it has what it takes to touch men and women equally deeply without beating you over the head with sentimentalism. Cher and Stolz keep it real.

This was a fantastic movie when it came out in 1985 and remains a beautiful film now almost 30 years later. The true story of a teenage boy who suffers from a cranio-facial deformity was touching and tragic. The performances were outstanding- Cher in her first leading role was incredible. Many people have made reference to the fact that her performance was wrongly overlooked by the Academy Awards and I have to agree. She should have won an Oscar- I thought her performance here was even better than in "Moonstruck." Eric Stoltz should also have received a Best Supporting Actor nod. Everything about this movie worked on so many levels. If you haven't seen it, it is definitely worth seeing. Sam Elliot is always wonderful to watch (and to hear!) too. For a price of about $7 this is a good buy. There are some great bonus features such as a featurette with director Peter Bogdanovich as well as his commentary throughout the film. Both are very interesting. However, if you are a fan of the original theatrical release you should be aware that this is NOT that. This dvd is the director's cut which means it is presented the way he had originally intended it to be seen. Some of the scenes that were cut out of the theatrical release have been restored to the movie- literally reinserted to where he had intended them to be, not added later as "deleted scenes" like in most dvd bonus features. I was skeptical when watching this because many times I want to be loyal to the original and don't want to see any alterations. However in this case it did not interfere with the story or my enjoyment of it. It would have been nice though if both versions had been put on the dvd so that each was available for the viewer. The other big difference is that the original movie's songs by Bob Seger have been replaced here by Bruce Springsteen's music which was the director's first choice. According to the director's commentary, Springsteen's songs were to be used throughout the movie as the singer himself and his music played a small part in the story. For whatever reasons and despite the fact that Springsteen himself gave his permission to use his songs, the songs were removed from the original theatrical release and replaced with songs by Bob Seger. Oddly, Bogdanovich never once in his featurette or commentary thanks Seger for his contribution or even mentions the fact that Seger was nice enough to allow his songs to be used in the movie. I thought this was rude but I suppose he had his reasons? Anyway, being a Bob Seger fan (as well as a Bruce Springsteen fan) I loved the songs originally used and to this day think of Rocky Dennis looking longingly at his map of Europe whenever I hear Bob Seger singing of getting out of here in "Katmandu..." I guess I just really like Bob Seger's music and since that is what ended up being used in the film it seems a little weird to hear Springsteen instead. Maybe some people would prefer that. I guess if you are gonna have to hear different songs then Springsteen is certainly not a bad choice, but again, it would have been nice if both versions of the film were made available on this dvd so that we could have the original film with Bob Seger's music and the director's cut with his choice of Bruce Sprinsteen's songs. One interesting thing Bogdanovich mentions in the commentary, which by the way is pretty cool itself, is that Rob Lowe came very close to getting the part of Rocky before Eric Stoltz secured it. I always like to hear behind the scenes stuff like that... Anyway, I'd give the movie itself 5 stars but because they changed it here from the original theatrical release to the director's altered cut and replaced some great Bob Seger songs with some also great but different Bruce Springsteen songs, I could only give the dvd 4 stars. It looks like the 1998 dvd with the theatrical release of the movie is no longer being made and is only available used and way overpriced at over $17. I'm glad I at least have the VHS version- sure hope my vcr never gives out!

I loved it! Makes you more appreciative!

Un bellissimo film di un regista, Bogdanovich, che deve molto al cinema classico americano e ha imparato da grandi autori come Lubitsch a mostrare la diversità come una risorsa, come metafora dell'autenticità di tutti noi. Un inno alla diversità, quella dolorosa e sofferta, ma soprattutto quella allegra di chi sa vedere la parte di vita che ha, non quella che gli manca. Un film che in questo senso è anche una lezione di vita. Indimenticabile la scena in cui Rocky fa capire alla ragazza cieca di cui è innamorato cosa sono i colori.

Bogdanovich sorprende, en su errática trayectoria, con el relato de una historia que podría desembocar en el sentimentalismo fácil, en la reivindicación tópica del diferente, y consigue controlar el drama hacia lo humano, hacia el pudor con que se observa a unos seres que lidian con sus problemas, sus diferencias y realidades poco heroicas. El resultado es una obra emocionante, basada sobre todo en una dirección sutil e invisible, con ese gusto tan propio del autor por la banda sonora que acompaña y define a sus protagonistas, o por las secuencias de una sola toma en que se deja al espectador observar al personaje. Y especialmente con una interpretación memorable de Cher (sin esta película no hubiera existido su MOONSTRUCK, otra película humana de seres fallidos): su rostro, sus reacciones llenas de emoción sin prácticamente mostrarla (también Máscara), su entrega al amor de su hijo y de la banda de moteros, son rigurosamente inolvidables... La edición en DVD carece, por desgracia, de los extras de ediciones extranjeras (especialmente de una de las especialidades del autor de PAPER MOON, sus jugosos audiocomentarios).

Film à posséder absolument tiré d’une histoire vrai et des acteurs formidables, magnifique et émouvant

The movie is excellent with a great cast. Actress Cher is good as Rusty, a mother who is there for her son even though she did drugs. Actor Eric Stoltz is terrific as Rocky Dennis, a young boy whose face is disfigured. I cried when Rocky was teased at school, when he met Diana at summer camp and her parents were very cruel that their daughter should not date Rocky. I cried when Rocky passed away and people can be very cruel when it comes to people who may look different. I haven't seen the movie in a very long time and the acting is fantastic. REST IN POWER to the following actors and actresses: Mr. Roy Lee 'Rocky' Dennis (December 4, 1961-October 4, 1978); Mr. Dennis Henry Burkley (September 10, 1945-July 14, 2013); Ms. Estelle Getty (nee Gettleman) (July 25, 1923-July 22, 2008); Ms. Micole Diana Mercurio) (March 10, 1938-January 19, 2016); Mr. Richard Allen Dysart (March 30, 1929-April 5, 2015); Mr. Harry George 'Henry' Carey, Jr. (May 16, 1921-December 27, 2012); Mr. Ben Piazza (July 30, 1933-September 7, 1991); Mr. Steve James (February 19, 1952-December 18, 1993); Mr. Ivan J. Rado (June 15, 1931-June 27, 2018); Mr. Louis Waldon (December 16, 1934-December 6, 2013): 'You all may be gone but you will never, ever be, forgotten.'

Es war genau dass was ich wollte. Vielen Dank für die schöne Service. Warum man soviel schreiben muss weiß ich auch nicht. Sehr zufrieden.