Robert Guillaume Movies
The product of a tough, impoverished upbringing, African American actor Robert Guillaume fought his way out of the St. Louis slums by virtue of talent, persistence and an unwillingness to bow down to anyone. After military service and college, Guillaume held down short-term jobs ranging from cook to streetcar conductor, all the while training his voice for potential musical comedy work--training that paid off with his first Broadway show, 1961's Kwamina. Among his many stage credits were the musical versions of Golden Boy (with Sammy Davis Jr.) and Purlie Victorious, and the long-running review Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris. When New York stage work was scarce, Guillaume created his own opportunities by giving one-man concerts. After guesting in several of the black-oriented TV sitcoms of the 1970s, Guillaume was cast in 1977 as the imperious, outspoken family retainer Benson in the daytime-drama parody Soap (the actor would be first to admit that many of Benson's more contentious traits sprang from Guillaume's own prickly personality). The role won Guillaume a 1978 Emmy as "Outstanding Supporting Actor." In 1979, Guillaume carried over his Soap role into his own starring series, the now classic sitcom Benson, which ran until 1986 and which won Guillaume another Emmy, this time as "Outstanding Lead Actor." Robert Guillaume also headlined the appropriately titled 1989 series The Robert Guillaume Show, wherein for approximately five months he starred as divorced marriage counselor Edward Sawyer. In the several years to follow, Guillaume would star in shows like Sports night, as well as a number of films like Big Fish and Satin. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
- 2011
Destitute Las Vegas performer Jack Satin (Hamilton vonWatts) sets his sights on Atlantic City after fate deals him an unkind hand, and learns that sometimes we find belonging in the last place we would expect after his car breaks down in the sleepy town of Lost Springs. Now, without a dollar to his name or a set of wheels to keep moving, Jack strikes up a friendship with Doc Bishop (Robert Guillaume), a former jazz great and Lost Springs' best mechanic. Meanwhile, Jack's budding romance with local bar owner Lauren Wells (Melissa Joan Hart) soon leads him to realize that life is defined by much more than sold out shows and laughing crowds. But later, just when Jack starts to think that he's left Las Vegas behind, his shady past returns with a vengeance. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Melissa Joan Hart, Hamilton von Watts, (more)
A reclusive Manhattan heiress finds her carefully structured world beginning to crumble after her elderly neighbor dies, and a young couple moves into the vacant apartment. On her 18th birthday, Abigail Clayton (Selma Blair) received a staggering inheritance from her late father, an affluent industrialist. That same day, Abigail also escaped the probing lenses of the paparazzi by sealing herself away from the world in her massive loft. Nearly twenty years later, the only people Abigail interacts with are Klandermann (Kevin Pollak) the Concierge, and Dr. Raymond Fontaine (Beau Bridges), a trusted family friend. One day, Abigail's elderly neighbor dies under mysterious circumstances, and Homicide Detective Frank Giardello (Giovanni Ribisi) comes knocking on Abigail's door looking for answers. Concerned that the open apartment could provide a perfect perch for prying eyes, Abigail inquires about purchasing it to no avail. Shortly thereafter, Abigail spies Charlie (Jason Lee) and Lillian (Amy Smart) moving into the apartment. In the weeks that follow, Abigail begins religiously using her peephole to scrutinize her new neighbors' every move. But she can't stay locked away forever, and the moment Abigail meets Charlie and Lillian in person, the nightmare begins. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Selma Blair, Beau Bridges, (more)
- 2008
- PG
- Add The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry to Queue Add The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry to top of Queue
Robert Guillaume, Jansen Panettiere, and Gavin MacLeod headline director Richard Christiano's period drama set in the 1970s, and detailing the efforts of a devoutly religious septuagenarian in converting a trio of youngsters to the teachings of Christ. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Gavin MacLeod, Jansen Panettiere, (more)
Ten years after The Lion King shot to the top at the box office and first introduced the characters of Simba (Matthew Broderick) and his pals Timon (Nathan Lane) and Pumbaa (Ernie Sabella), Disney presented this retelling of the Academy Award-winning animated musical. Switching the perspective to that of meerkat Timon and warthog Pumbaa, The Lion King 1 1/2 puts a new spin on the events of the original film. This time around, the comic duo are conveniently at the center of much of the story. Along with returning cast members Moira Kelly, Whoopi Goldberg, and Cheech Marin, The Simpsons' Julie Kavner and Seinfeld's Jerry Stiller lend their voices to newcomer characters Timon's Mom and Timon's Uncle Max, respectively. The straight-to-video film also features the never-before-heard song "That's All I Need." ~ Matthew Tobey, Rovi
- Starring:
- Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, (more)
Tim Burton directs the fantasy drama Big Fish, based on the book Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions by Southern writer/illustrator Daniel Wallace. Billy Crudup plays William Bloom, a young man who never really knew his dying father, Edward (Albert Finney) outside of the tall tales he told about growing up, making his way, and meeting his mother (played as a young woman by Alison Lohman and in older age by Jessica Lange). During Edward's last days, William and his wife Josephine (Marion Cotillard) hold bedside vigil as the old man recollects elaborate memories of his youth (in which he is played by Ewan McGregor). Still doubting the the legends and folklore, William makes a journey to meet a mysterious woman (Helena Bonham Carter) from whom Edward had bought property. Steve Buscemi and Danny De Vito also star. ~ Andrea LeVasseur, Rovi
- Starring:
- Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, (more)
- 2002
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Among the tasks undertaken by the WPA's Federal Writers' Project in the 1930s was to transcribe the memories of those former African-American slaves who were still living. The result was a massive collection of notes, documents, and recordings, all of which found their way into the Library of Congress. Co-produced by the Library and the HBO cable channel, Unchained Memories: Readings From the Slave Narratives features a truly impressive array of black actors and actresses verbally recreating the reminiscences of those who lived under the yoke of slavery. The performers themselves appeared in modern dress, standing before a neutral background as they read from the transcripts, while directors Ed Bell and Thomas Lennon complemented the words with vivid and disturbing images culled from contemporary photographs of the years 1850-1935. Tied in with a traveling museum exhibit of photos and recordings, Unchained Memories was telecast during Black History Month, 2003. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
- 2002
- G
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After being raised by a normal sized family, tiny Tom Thumb (voiced by Elijah Wood) sets out to find others of his diminutive stature. He happens upon Thumbelina (Jennifer Love Hewitt), a former circus performer, who is not only his size and age, but is also looking for others like her. But just as they meet Thumbelina is taken prisoner by the comically sinister Mole King (Peter Gallagher), who wants to make her his bride. ~ Buzz McClain, Rovi
- Starring:
- Jennifer Love Hewitt, Elijah Wood, (more)
- 2001
- G
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The seventh sequel to Don Bluth's The Land Before Time is subtitled The Big Freeze. In this direct-to-video entry in the series, Littlefoot and friend sing new songs while experiencing an adventure involving a snowstorm. Fans of the other films in this warm-hearted family series can expect more of the same from this new entry. ~ Perry Seibert, Rovi
- Starring:
- Robert Guillaume, Kenneth Mars, (more)
- 1999
This imaginative video helps the reader discover answers to ancient spiritual questions. Featuring dramatic readings by Joanna Cassidy, Martin Sheen, and Robert Guillaume, Deepak Chopra: The Crystal Cave - Lessons from the Teachings of Merlin presents the ancient legend of Merlin and King Arthur. Spiritual author and speaker Deepak Chopra introduces the legend, then follows up by leading the viewer in the interpretation of the ideas and myths of the story.
~ Sarah Block, Rovi
~ Sarah Block, Rovi
- 1999
Hal Linden hosts this musical special and salute to the American way of freedom and liberty. Many special guest stars appear in this video, including performances by The Beach Boys, Tony Danza, John Denver, and Martin Sheen. Also featured are Lee Greenwood, best known for "God Bless the USA", Curtis Mayfield, the immortal Woody Guthrie, The Young Rascals, and footage of other performers. Robert Guillaume, Stanley Kramer, and Mike Love also appear. ~ Leslie Birdwell, Rovi
Jonathan Quint stars in this tale of corporate crime and espionage directed by Serge Rodnunsky. Charlie Cook (Quint) suddenly finds himself promoted to an executive level position at Silicon Towers, only to receive a frightening anonymously-sent E-mail a short time later. The letter reveals a highly unlawful scam Silicon Towers has been conducting that involves hacking into banks around the world thanks to a top-secret computer chip the company created and planted into the equipment it sells. When the powers that be at Silicon Towers learn of Charlie's inside knowledge, the corporate security force is unleashed to track him down. Charlie is thus forced to run for his life, while attempting to unveil the scam to the authorities. Brian Dennehy, Daniel Baldwin, and Robert Guillaume, while not starring in the film, are featured in minor roles. ~ Ryan Shriver, Rovi
- Starring:
- Jonathan Quint
Darrell Rooney directed this direct-to-video sequel to Disney's 1994 The Lion King, which climaxed with Simba (voice of Matthew Broderick) enthroned as the ruling king of beasts following the death of the evil Scar. With the spirited tune He Lives in You, Simba and his mate Nala (Moira Kelly) issue a triumphant announcement of the birth of Lion Princess Kiara (Neve Campbell)! Given to misadventures and mischief, Kiara wanders into the forbidden Outlands, the haunt of Scar's exiled minions, and there she encounters another mischievous cub, Kovu (Jason Marsden), son of lioness Zira (Suzanne Pleshette), once a close friend of the late Scar and now the leader of the exiles. Zira plots against Kiara, drawing her son into her scheme. Kovu has divided loyalties as his love for Kiara deepens. Several original characters (and original voices) from the 1994 film return. ~ Bhob Stewart, Rovi
- Starring:
- Matthew Broderick, Neve Campbell, (more)
- 1997
Tess (Della Reese) serves as counsel for the defense when farmer Justinian Jones (John DeLancie) brings about a class-action lawsuit--against God. Speaking on behalf of his neighbors in a dying, drought-stricken South Dakota community, Jones holds the Almighty totally responsible for their plight, and demands immediate "payment" for their undue suffering. Perhaps inevitably, Monica (Roma Downey) is called in as an expert witness, but even this does not resolve the crisis. In the end, it looks as if God Himself will have to take a hand in matters...but will He? ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
A family facing a grim fate finds succor in a tale of Jesus Christ in this installment in the video series The Storykeepers, which recount tales from the Bible in animated form for the whole family. Ben The Baker is a humble Christian living in Rome during the reign of Nero with his wife Helena and a handful of adopted kids. As power-hungry Nero and his minions continue their ruthless persecution of the city's Christian community, Ben and his family seek shelter in an abandoned catacombs. To comfort his loved ones during this time of crisis, Ben recounts the story of Easter, and as they relive the tale of Jesus Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, and this moving tale of sacrifice and faith becomes a vital inspiration. The Easter Storykeepers features the voice talents of Robert Guillaume, Tim Curry, Debby Boone, Adam Wylie, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and others. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi
- 1997
Along with Hush Puppy, Charlie Horse, and Lamb Chop, Shari Lewis offers children an introduction to the history and traditions of the Jewish holiday Passover in Shari Lewis: Shari's Passover Surprise. Guest star Dom DeLuise cooks the traditional Seder per Charlie Horse's request, while Lamb Chop rehearses her Four Questions. Hush Puppy, meanwhile, is busy trying to sniff out the hidden matzo bread. ~ Tracie Cooper, Rovi
- 1996
In 1988, Gail Devers was one of the best female sprinters in America, and seemed assured of a place on the United States Olympic Team to compete in the 100-meter hurdles in that year's games in Seoul, South Korea. However, tragedy struck Devers in the form of Grave's Disease, a rare ailment that causes swelling and bleeding in the feet. Devers' illness not only prevented her from competing in the Seoul Olympics, it also continued to spread and nearly forced her to have her feet amputated, until a new form of therapy led her to a miraculous recovery -- and a spot on the U.S. Olympic team for the 1992 games in Atlanta. Run for the Dream: The Gail Devers Story is a made-for-TV drama based on Devers' remarkable true story; Charlayne Woodard stars as Gail Devers, with Louis Gossett Jr. co-starring as her coach, Bob Kersee. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi
- Starring:
- Charlayne Woodard, Louis Gossett, Jr., (more)
The first of several sight gag and slapstick-rich comedies he produced without the team of Jerry Zucker, David Zucker, and Jim Abrahams, this lowbrow comedy from executive producer and star Leslie Nielsen suffers by comparison to his work with the "ZAZ" team. Nielsen plays Dick Steele, secret agent WD-40, called out of retirement to stop the world-conquering plans of his old nemesis, General Rancor (Andy Griffith), an armless madman determined to avenge himself upon Steele (who is responsible for Rancor's lack of appendages). With the help of Russian agent Veronique Ukrinsky (Nicolette Sheridan), Steele prepares to battle Rancor at his tropical island lair, where the daughter of Steele's long-ago love is being held captive. Along the way, such films as True Lies (1994), Speed (1994), Jurassic Park (1993), Pulp Fiction (1994), and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) are spoofed. Director Richard Friedberg had previously directed Nielsen in a series of automobile rental commercials and goofy "how-to" golf videos. ~ Karl Williams, Rovi
- Starring:
- Leslie Nielsen, Nicollette Sheridan, (more)
- 1996
In this video, popular writer and physician Deepak Chopra explains the Holy Grail's importance as a symbol of spirit, rather than as an object capable of being possessed. Included is a narrative of the Grail legend, dramatized with help from such actors as Robert Guillaume, Martin Sheen, and Joanna Cassidy. Through the use of this dramatization, Chopra shows how the symbol of the Grail can be useful in everyday life. Fans of Chopra's philosophy or those with an interest in a contemporary view of ancient myth will find this of use. ~ Rob Ferrier, Rovi
- 1996
- PG13
In this suspenseful drama, a commercial jet filled with passengers becomes a potential agent for widespread death after it is discovered that terrorists have loaded it with a deadly virus. While government officials wrestle with ways of handling the situation and try to avoid the most logical solution -- destroying the plane to save more lives -- the pilot contends with a dangerously low fuel supply. No airport in Europe will allow him to land, and he is too far from the U.S. to return home. At the same time, the passengers grow increasingly restless. ~ Sandra Brennan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Richard Dean Anderson, Jane Leeves, (more)
When an airborne lightning strike kills the entire flight crew of a Europe-bound Boeing 747 during take-off, it is up to a brave senior flight attendant and a host of people on the ground to see the passengers to safety. The stewardess finds assistance from a passenger, and together they figure out that their best hope lies with the plane's sophisticated autopilot system. Unfortunately, it is working indiscriminately and guiding the crippled jet towards airports not large enough to safely land the giant craft. They are on the own when radio contact is lost. While the two them try to handle the jet and keep passengers calm, federal officials on the ground are faced with a horrendous decision. With no working autopilot and no experienced person to land the jet, the loss of life could be disastrous if the plane goes down in a heavily populated area. The officials are therefore faced with the prospect of shooting down the jet before that happens. But what about the passengers on board? ~ Sandra Brennan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Kate Jackson, Ed Marinaro, (more)
Some say that to be the leader of a country is one of the loneliest jobs in the world. But being the child of a world leader can be doubly so. Constantly surrounded by security officers, restricted in movements and having almost every waking moment carefully monitored makes normalcy an impossibility. No one knows this better than young Luke Davenport, the son of U.S. President Davenport. He vents his loneliness, frustration and feelings of isolation from family and friends by being a brat to his private Secret Service agent. When the agent snaps from the strain in front of the First Lady, a new agent is assigned to Luke. He turns out to be the enormous Sam Simms, a bit of a rogue who managed to rise through the ranks by sheer determination rather than strict adherence to Secret-Service protocol. At first, Luke tries all his old tricks upon Sam. But instead of getting angry, Sam seems to actually understand. This touching comedy follows the eventual friendship that forms between the two misfits. ~ Sandra Brennan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Sinbad, Brock Pierce, (more)
- 1995
Happily Ever After always presents a non-traditional look at classic fairy tales. Children learn to look beneath the surface in the African-American version of Beauty and the Beast. An all-star cast populates this story, with Vanessa Williams playing Beauty, Gregory Hines as the Beast, and Paul Winfield playing the father. When Beauty must keep company with the Beast to save her father's life, she is surprised by her change of heart. She soon learns that true goodness can lie beneath a rough exterior. The video features "Could She, Would She, Will She" and "Wave Goodbye." This family friendly program is recommended for ages four to nine. ~ Sarah Ing, Rovi
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