27 reviews
- ironhorse_iv
- Apr 13, 2016
- Permalink
- japanagogo
- Aug 17, 2005
- Permalink
I have to say that because I am a real fan of this movie, I read through all the comments on it here, just because I am really curious to see what people think of it. Most of the people I've showed it to (and believe me, this tape saw some heavy action during college years at St. John's in Santa Fe; some of you out there may vaguely remember something like that) have really enjoyed it. A lot of people, like myself, seem to be drawn to it as if by some kind of strange drug, so that when it is showing somewhere we will manage to wander in and see it. After seeing it about 50 times, I have begun to wonder whether it has permanently altered my mind, and if that is for the better or worse.
Well, what can I say about it? It's a truly great cult movie with a very small cult -- mostly because it's very hard to find copies of this film on video at present. Someday there'll come along an 80s retro period strong enough to bring this film back into distribution, and on that day -- may the forces of the disrespecting, momma-hating, punks fear because Mr. T will be back to teach them how to behave.
I won't go through all the advice that Mr. T gives in this film -- suffice it to say that Mr. T shows us how to use our anger and imagination to our own advantage and how to make it look like we mean to do everything we do and are always in control, even when we're confused or making horrible mistakes. Reading his autobiography (which was obviously written by Mr. T himself; if you don't believe me pick it up) which came out about the same time as this film has convinced me that he is sincere. He truly lives his life by the words he says and by what he shows in this movie, and if you and I follow it we will all be powerful, independent, individuals and probably rich ones too. We'll ALL "BE SOMEBODY"
This is not a bad film. This is a film of genius.
Well, what can I say about it? It's a truly great cult movie with a very small cult -- mostly because it's very hard to find copies of this film on video at present. Someday there'll come along an 80s retro period strong enough to bring this film back into distribution, and on that day -- may the forces of the disrespecting, momma-hating, punks fear because Mr. T will be back to teach them how to behave.
I won't go through all the advice that Mr. T gives in this film -- suffice it to say that Mr. T shows us how to use our anger and imagination to our own advantage and how to make it look like we mean to do everything we do and are always in control, even when we're confused or making horrible mistakes. Reading his autobiography (which was obviously written by Mr. T himself; if you don't believe me pick it up) which came out about the same time as this film has convinced me that he is sincere. He truly lives his life by the words he says and by what he shows in this movie, and if you and I follow it we will all be powerful, independent, individuals and probably rich ones too. We'll ALL "BE SOMEBODY"
This is not a bad film. This is a film of genius.
This piece gives us an in-depth look into the philosophy and psyche of this modern-day thinker and performer, Mr. T. The film demands our attention and with repeat viewing the metaphors in his performance become clear. We see Mr.T's struggle for attention and respect mirrored in his struggle with the cello. We see a man of great vunerability trying to gain acceptance with his gold. We see a man searching for his lost child-hood. This is more than a movie. It is a moving experience and one not easily forgotten.
- keithmiller_se23
- Apr 13, 2004
- Permalink
"Hey you, you with the teeth"...any film beginning with the incomparable Mr. T addressing you in such a way can safely be deemed a classic. If you haven't yet had the privilege of seeing "Be Somebody", your life is sadly incomplete. "T" solves all of the social ills plaguing, not just the youth of the 80's, but all of mankind in only 52 minutes; can you think of anyone else who could do that? The mere suggestion is "absiludicrous".
Parents, there is no doubt that you want your children to grow up to be somebody. Do them the ultimate favor, show them that you truly love them, and watch this video together as a family. Remember, if you don't, they may wind up being someone's fool.
Parents, there is no doubt that you want your children to grow up to be somebody. Do them the ultimate favor, show them that you truly love them, and watch this video together as a family. Remember, if you don't, they may wind up being someone's fool.
- TheAngryRobot
- Apr 12, 2004
- Permalink
Although all agree that this movie is hysterically funny and not to be missed, I am compelled to defend it from the implication that it's one of those "So-bad-it's-good" movies, a la Showgirls or the one where Rupert Everett gets Madonna pregnant. When the video started rolling, I was really ready to make fun of Mr. T, to suggest he was on drugs when he filmed this, or that he had to make it to pay off gambling debts, but this movie is truly good, good lessons, good feelings, good attitudes, good fun. I just ordered 4 copies: one for me, 2 for gifts for friends, and one to keep around for whomever might need it. I only hope that more people find out about it so it can get the recognition it deserves, and so that more people (especially kids) will be exposed to Mr. T's lessons of self-esteem, his perpetually hopeful spirit and his silly sense of humor.
- tedcoconut
- Jun 2, 2004
- Permalink
Next to Caddyshack, the Blues Brothers, Animal House, and most of the early stuff from John Hughes, this might be the most comedically entertaining films to date. Not only does it feature one of the greatest human beings ever to live, but, unlike most films released in modern Hollywood... this piece has a fairly legitimate moral(actually, several of them). The one thing that sets this cinematic masterpiece apart from the group mentioned above, is, that for the most part, "Be Somebody, Or Be Somebody's Fool" wasn't created to be intentionally funny... it just kind of turned out to be what it is through clever evolution... which gives the consumer a reaction that is violently side-slitting (that's a good thing). The scenes are perfect, the quotes are memorable, and the acting isn't that great, but that didn't really bother me, since I was laughing to hard to notice. As I close, I'm going stray from the normal tendency of others reviewers on this page, by not attempting to describe any of the scenes in this delightful little PSA from the early eighties. Instead, with genuine sincerity, I'm going to urge anyone who hasn't seen this gem to do so immediately.... Otherwise, you are never going to experience the supreme sensation of pure un-adult
Mr. T's Be Somebody or Be Somebody's Foo! Teaches little kids that in order to be somebody, you have to learn how to break dance, wear absoludicrous clothing, make up stories about your hair, and above all respect your mother (all while avoiding peer pressure, and walking through the surf in all your clothes).
Mr. T did not make this movie to help little kids. He made it to prove to little kids that ex bouncers and television personalities are more socially inept than themselves. For example, Mr. T pretends to be a doctor, and forgets to put on pants. What does he do to stop himself from being embarrased? He strips down to red hot pants and works out.
Another example, Mr. T trys to play the cello. First try, he cannot stay in the chair, I repeat, MR. T CANNOT SIT IN A CHAIR.
Mr. T also offers kids advice, such as: Use anger, don't loose it! respect your mother, and if you trip while skipping down the street and you happen to be wearing a jumpsuit, just breakdance, you won't look like an idiot then....
The best part is the Styling part (pronounced stylin). Here the kids give a fashion show, but Mr. T tells them that Calvin Klein wouldn't wear clothes with your name on them so you shouldn't wear his name on your clothes, or something like that. So the kids all tape their own name over the designer label. Anyways, Mr. T. narrates, just like a regular fashion show announcer, who is reading from cue cards. He comes up with some great ones like "Xena and Zena are dressed up for that exciting walk to the grocery store" and "In her mustard socks and ketchup sash, she's a real hot dog" I am not making this up.
This segment single-handedly made 80's fashion so awful. The best part of the segment is Jeff who is about 25 years old, wearing a plaid shirt, suspenders, and pegged jeans who dances around like he's doing a cross between ballet and epilleptic seizures.
Anyways, what have we learned? That Mr. T wants you to be a better person, and you'd better be, or he'll beat you up, or at least throw tato salat at you, foo.
Mr. T did not make this movie to help little kids. He made it to prove to little kids that ex bouncers and television personalities are more socially inept than themselves. For example, Mr. T pretends to be a doctor, and forgets to put on pants. What does he do to stop himself from being embarrased? He strips down to red hot pants and works out.
Another example, Mr. T trys to play the cello. First try, he cannot stay in the chair, I repeat, MR. T CANNOT SIT IN A CHAIR.
Mr. T also offers kids advice, such as: Use anger, don't loose it! respect your mother, and if you trip while skipping down the street and you happen to be wearing a jumpsuit, just breakdance, you won't look like an idiot then....
The best part is the Styling part (pronounced stylin). Here the kids give a fashion show, but Mr. T tells them that Calvin Klein wouldn't wear clothes with your name on them so you shouldn't wear his name on your clothes, or something like that. So the kids all tape their own name over the designer label. Anyways, Mr. T. narrates, just like a regular fashion show announcer, who is reading from cue cards. He comes up with some great ones like "Xena and Zena are dressed up for that exciting walk to the grocery store" and "In her mustard socks and ketchup sash, she's a real hot dog" I am not making this up.
This segment single-handedly made 80's fashion so awful. The best part of the segment is Jeff who is about 25 years old, wearing a plaid shirt, suspenders, and pegged jeans who dances around like he's doing a cross between ballet and epilleptic seizures.
Anyways, what have we learned? That Mr. T wants you to be a better person, and you'd better be, or he'll beat you up, or at least throw tato salat at you, foo.
- spooky_trix
- Aug 23, 2001
- Permalink
Just as everyone else has said, this is a classic!
It is a genuine tragedy that Mr T no longer works regularly. I guess there's more money in filthy mouthed, mother hating, thugs than a man who wants to help, educate and make the world a better place.
However the other comments are a bit in error, there's plenty of places to find this gem online, you just have to look around a fair bit.
I guess this tape is long since out of reproduction and if they ever figured out who owns the rights I doubt if they'd care if there was a market for a DVD release, but it is out there! So by fair means or fowl get out there and find it. It's worth it!
Be Somebody!
It is a genuine tragedy that Mr T no longer works regularly. I guess there's more money in filthy mouthed, mother hating, thugs than a man who wants to help, educate and make the world a better place.
However the other comments are a bit in error, there's plenty of places to find this gem online, you just have to look around a fair bit.
I guess this tape is long since out of reproduction and if they ever figured out who owns the rights I doubt if they'd care if there was a market for a DVD release, but it is out there! So by fair means or fowl get out there and find it. It's worth it!
Be Somebody!
I discovered this film in High School. My folks were out of town, and my friends were at the house. I'm sure we were up to no good. Then it happened. Randy showed up with this video and said that we had to watch it. Growing up in the eighties, we all had a pre-existing place in our heart for Mr. T, so we were game. The tape started to roll, and then we started to roll. Man, it was the funniest thing I had ever seen. Being the creative bunch of musicians that we were, we decided to start a tribute band. What better name for the band than "Mr. T's Be Somebody Or Be Somebody's Fool"? So there it was, we learned all the songs from the movie, and went for it. We were pretty serious too. We would rehearse twice a week, and play shows regularly. We even had matching t-shirts made with the movie's poster on the front.
Those were some good times, inspired by a life changing film.
Thanks Mr. T! And remember: "Everyone's gotta wear clothes. If they don't, they could get arrested".
Those were some good times, inspired by a life changing film.
Thanks Mr. T! And remember: "Everyone's gotta wear clothes. If they don't, they could get arrested".
- davepweinstein
- May 19, 2004
- Permalink
Perhaps the greatest work of American cinema in the last fifty years. Bravo T. You have constructed a work of genius that can be treasured be afficianados of film and children alike. Also T, thank you for teaching us such important lessons as; "Mother, there is no other."
- crashnburnkelly
- Jan 11, 2004
- Permalink
This is 80s cheese at its best. The only thing that can make a retarded, 80s, after-school special on being yourself any better is to include Mr. T. Mr. T is a pillar of the 80s--an icon on par with Duran Duran and Ronald Reagan. In this film, he delivers his macho-est, corniest, most hilarious performance I've ever seen. The acting, musical numbers, and overall message are brilliantly inane. It even includes a pathetically written and executed rap number featuring the rhyming of Mr. T himself. This movie is essential to any fan of stupid campy crap, which I am indeed. If you're looking for something that you can really get into, rent Schindler's List. If you're looking to play Mystery Science Theater 3000 The Home Game, this is your film. The unintentional laughs (which I think are some of the best laughs out there) are non-stop.
- brianquinn1
- Jul 7, 2004
- Permalink
I'm giving this a 10 for entertainment value. Of course it isn't entertaining in the way it was meant to be, but its definately great to watch! Where do I start? Well for one you get Mr. T explaining the chains he wears around his neck, and how they are about his roots. Notice how he says it, "these changes" - yes he's talking about "chains" but says "changes" just cause thats Mr. T talk! Also, when fussing about kids eating junk food, you get the great line "Whats this? Popcorn! Tato Chip!" Then you have the great scene where the kids find a full, unopened beer, AND a pack of cigarettes, in the trash can! If only I was so lucky! Then the kids of course sip on the beer and smoke the cigarettes, and try to talk the only "smart" kid into doing it, while Mr. T is off to the side shaking his head, apparently only seen by the one kid. Then enters the line of black guys singing "peer pressure!" Oh and I cant forget the scene where Mr. T gets mad at a fly and slaps his hand into the potato salad, then into his own face, covering himself in potato salad. And, ok, just one more thing! There is a part where Mr. T talks about being yourself, and not worrying about brand names, cause they are stupid and meaningless, just wear what clothes you like! Then in the very next segment he's sporting a jacket with a huge Adidas logo on it! Trust me this stuff is GREAT! Go find a copy now!
This is a truly inspirational video that brings Mr.T's collective talents to the small screen. In this video Mr.T raps, dances, sings, and acts, all using his classic T-style. He teaches you to respect other people, whether they are male, female, black, white, or your mother. Mr.T also inspires all, young and old, to get up off of their behinds and start working out. After watching this video I now have the motivation and the drive to get my own icecream sandwich on hot days, instead of asking my mother to get me one. Way to go Mr.T! You turned this ground chuck into a london broil.
Funniest video ever. Cheese-factor of a 1000. Pure 80s nostalgia. Out of print. Try eBay. Trat you mother right song is funny. Seeing T breakdance....or try to is even scarier. Some parts don't even make sense. But with T, you better respect, or he'll throw you hellva' far.
- damnbigfeet
- Jul 18, 2003
- Permalink
Somehow when human history is said and done Mr.T will be remembered along the lines of the greatest human beings of all time. I have a strange feeling that his 1984 film, "Be Somebody" will have an affect on the future like Bill and Ted's "Be Excellent to each other" statement. This film is utterly the best thing ever committed to celluloid. Here are some of the lessons taught-- 1. Instead of falling when you trip, breakdance to break the fall. 2. Treat your momma right because M is for the is for the pain and miserable groans when I was born. 3. Table the Label, wear your own name. 4. Mr. T wears gold chains to represent the chains of his slave ancestors. 5. A boombox and a bag of popcorn can be used in place of barbells for weightlifting. 6. Mr.T can play the cello.
This film is worth twice it's weight in gold and diamonds.
I'd be remiss if I didn't say, "I pity the fool who don't buy this tape."
This film is worth twice it's weight in gold and diamonds.
I'd be remiss if I didn't say, "I pity the fool who don't buy this tape."
- hoopscardillo
- Feb 9, 2002
- Permalink
For those of you who choose to forget, Mr. T was an icon of the 1980s--a tough guy who could act sensitive when he needed to, or when a paycheck depended on it. If you ever watched the A-Team, you'd see his character repeatedly clobbered in the head with lead pipes and he wouldn't flinch; but he also tried to branch out into a strange kind of motivational programming for children, even inspiring a tasteless breakfast cereal. "Be Somebody, or be Somebody's Fool" is one of Mr. T's bizarre efforts to teach little kids how to be better people. Either this show is incredibly bad, or it's just too deep for me to comprehend. The 80s answer to Huggy Bear leads the viewer through a long string of unrelated pearls of wisdom, the values of which are reinforced by small children who can't act. The philosophy of this show really is encapsulated in its title--the watchcries never stray beyond this level of simplicity. This show really is insane--you have to wonder who thought it would be a good idea. Mr. T is no Mr. Rogers; he presents his lessons to children without seeming to care at all. If you can find this tape, it's worth watching just to see how bad children's programming can get. Plus, the hilariously bad rap songs may inspire you to donate something to the "Blacks Without Soul" fund.
I love this video. It's bad, but it's funny and makes a few good points. T tells you to treat your mother right, workout, daydream, and whole bunch of other things that make sense. You just gotta see it, some parts of the video are hilariously lame. I've started taping over the label on my clothes and writing my own name, you should too!
this is the best movie of all time. why? because Mr. t says so foo. hey uh Ricky uh bobby uh hey you wanna see some break Danzig. don't drink the beer no no no. and now for a fashion show Tina and Tina are from Sana Bernadina. STAY COOL JEFF. Mr.t shockingly cannot play a cello. i tried to insert some of Mr' t's awesome vernacular but they have a automatic spell check. absolutely ludicrous merges into the best word of all time i'll call it OK well i can't use fake words, so i guess you'll have to check it out yourself. . this movie makes about as much cents as my review. GO TO EBAY, FIND THIS MOVIE, DUST OFF THE VHS PLAYER AND LAUGH YOUR SWEET LITTLE TUCKUS OFF. i love you.
- Woodyanders
- Nov 30, 2006
- Permalink
Mr T. really wants to help! He really does! Does he succeed? Well... urm.. not really, but as you could've seen in his TV show "I pity the fool", his energetic character struck like lightning into the pitiful situations where the families in that show sank into a long time ago. But where should the education start? Of course at childhood, ya foo'! "Be somebody..." was aimed at children in the 80's. On this tape Mr T shares us his experiences, and ideas, how to become somebody. For he is the one to ask!!! He's really done it! The film goes on, and Mr T. is getting more and more embarrassing, and I really don't know if it is due to the 80's era, or his very own personality. Honestly, this film, is pretty horrendous. Very cheap, very silly, and dated. ...But you still gotta love it! You gotta LOVE Mr T. ! He's so overwhelmingly serious at "educating" those children, you wont doubt it for a minute, that he does it totally honestly.
So, despite it's a B video, give Mr T. a chance, I'm sure you'll like it. And if not, you still gonna crap yourself from laughter:)
So, despite it's a B video, give Mr T. a chance, I'm sure you'll like it. And if not, you still gonna crap yourself from laughter:)
- standardbearer
- Nov 9, 2007
- Permalink
- As_Cold_As_Ice
- Jun 13, 2007
- Permalink
There are a thousand things I could say about this film. Mr. T is cool. This video teaches values and will show the young'ns the right way towards life. Through many song and dance routines, Mr. T enhances the way of living for all that watch. Mr.T was heckuva break dancin' . How does his neck support dem chains? This is one T-riffic movie!
This video is hard to come across, but if you do, snag it. It is too funny. Mr T. teaches kids the importance of being honest, dealing with anger, and of course, the art of RAP. "We all have a rap," he says, "we just have to find it." Wow. What a profound statement. It's almost as profound as the wonderful wardrobe and hairdressing departments. If you find it "foolish" to laugh at Mr. T singing and rapping, you can always laugh at the classic 80's getups.