Amazon.com: He will be forever remembered as a former Monkee (and son of the inventor of Liquid Paper), but Elephant Parts is a reminder that Michael Nesmith was also a pioneer in music and long-form videos. Produced in 1981, the same year MTV made its debut, the hourlong program consists of 41 comedy bits and videos for Nesmith tunes. Of the former, most star Nesmith himself and are short and silly in an inoffensive, slapstick kind of way, poking fun at TV commercials, rock stars, drug use, and more in a style reminiscent of Saturday Night Live or the now-defunct SCTV. The music videos, which include "Rio" (one of Nesmith's best songs) and four others, are clever and visually rich, making skillful use of the medium well before the advent of computers and other modern techniques. Monkee business? Sure, but darned amusing, and the first video Grammy winner to boot. --Sam Graham
Flying to Rio I have seen this movie so many times I think I can talk along with Michael. Maybe it's my sense of humor but this is timeless comedy. The mugging, the silly effects, and then the music. Michael Nesmith has a great voice and a genius for lyrics. Adding visuals makes the music really come to life. I watch the DVD for the songs, then the skits and then just to laugh my butt off. It's one of those things you dig out to show people who never saw it and then they want a copy. Maybe it's a movement, maybe innocent fun can come back! Where is Elephant Parts 2, "A New Hope" or Elephant Parts 3, "Return of the Jokers"?? Just kidding, they haven't been made yet.
elephant parts I first saw this movie when I was about 5 years old on laserdisc. 20 years later, it's still as funny as before. If you like any of Ray Stevens videos, you'll love this movie. It is a collection of the funniest, wierdest videos you'll ever see. I especially love the "Neighborhood Superiority" skit. This is a must-see.
Hard to Find, Tough to Beat This was a really pioneering work.
It exemplifies the best and worst of the end of the 1970s. For sure, though, it showcases the seemingly inexhaustable creativity of Michael Nesmith.
For better or worse, he pioneered a contemporary "art form" and bequeathed it to us. He also is a good composer, singer and (as we see here) dancer. Some of the songs featured here are quite listenable.
So, where is he now?
the multi-talented Mr. Nesmith Very creative, excellent social commentary. Exceptionally hilarious. No joke, Michael Nesmith knows exactly what he is doing.
Add me to those who love it.... Almost all the previous reviews convey my feeling. Way before it's time, funny, and the music video portions are excellent. Unlike another reviewer, I even enjoyed the commentary with Mr. Nesmith.
I think there will be many folks who may not "get it" even though it came out in 1981. I guess it depends on your sense of humor. Mike is, to me anyway, a visionary. Elephant Parts is proof. Over 25 years later, it is still a viable work. Like another reviewer mentioned, I too am speaking about the Anchor Bay version, if that is a factor.
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