Goin’ South

This one has great commentary

"This one has great commentary in it. The video is well done with an excellent transfer. It's a s fun film that unites a great cast. It's also directed by Jack Nicholson which adds to It's historical value."

— Bradley T. (5/5)

Fantastic film and debut of

"Fantastic film and debut of Mary Steenburgen. This cinema classic goes in order directed by jack nicholson."

— Michael P. (5/5)

superior cast, subpar writing; SPECTACULAR 4K presentation

"The writing is not funny. That is a problem when you're making a comedy. Fortunately, Goin' South stars Jack Nicholson, Mary Steenburgen, John Belushi, Danny DeVito, Christopher Lloyd, Ed Begley Jr. , and Veronica Cartwright—a cast so effortlessly watchable that they almost convince you you're having a better time than the screenplay deserves. Nicholson, who also directs, throws himself into the role with infectious commitment. He's at his broadest here, mugging shamelessly, embracing physical comedy, and proving once again that sheer charisma can carry a scene a long way. The problem isn't Nicholson. It's the material. The premise has genuine comic potential. Nicholson's outlaw Henry Lloyd Moon escapes the gallows when Julia Tate (Mary Steenburgen, in her film debut) marries him through a legal loophole, expecting him to work her struggling gold mine in return. It's an enjoyable setup, but the screenplay rarely develops it into sustained comedy. Most of the laughs arrive courtesy of the supporting cast, and they're spaced surprisingly far apart. Steenburgen is terrific from the outset. Even in her first film, she has an unmistakable screen presence, balancing exasperation, intelligence, and warmth. As the relationship gradually softens into something more affectionate, the movie briefly finds an emotional footing that the comedy often lacks. Visually, however, the film is consistently rewarding. Néstor Almendros's cinematography is beautiful, and Vinegar Syndrome's Cinématographe restoration presents the Western landscapes with remarkable richness. Like many releases in the line, it's the sort of presentation that reminds you how rewarding physical media can be. I don't think the film's shortcomings rest entirely on Nicholson as a director. The screenplay itself feels too thin to fully capitalize on the remarkable talent assembled in front of the camera. Even the excellent essays included with Vinegar Syndrome's release spend as much time placing the film within Nicholson's fascinating 1970s career as they do arguing for Goin' South on its own merits. Even so, I'm glad I watched it. Sitting at the crossroads of New Hollywood, Nicholson's directorial career, and the evolution of American screen comedy, it's an interesting curiosity. It's a gorgeous-looking film full of exceptionally funny people. I just wish they'd been given a funnier movie."

— Jonathan M. (3/5)

A cute movie

"Pretty good movie. Well acted. Story is predictable though. Nicholson is always fun to watch. Artwork could be better"

— Anthony G. (3/5)

Perfect transfer & Packaging 🤩

"Perfect transfer & Packaging 🤩 Love the hard bound book packaging"

— Jacob Z. (5/5)

"Great looking print. Love the extras."

— Joseph (5/5)

Goin' South

"Great film and performances. Excellent 4K video and audio presentation."

— Peter D. (5/5)

New to me, Great release

"Another great cinematographe release!"

— Nathanial P. (5/5)

Goin' South had my smile goin' north

"Incredible cast (Belushi, Nicholson, AND Steenburgen?!), beautiful sound and landscapes. Doesn't age perfect but it's still a fun ride! And I love when Jack is behind the camera! Nicholson! Nicholson! Nicholson!"

— Richie O. (5/5)

Goin’ South

"Jack Nicholson turns the Old West into a horny, dusty sitcom where outlaw survival depends entirely on a marriage of pure inconvenience."

— Phil L. (5/5)