First off, they billed this movie originally (I believe) as a Comedy. It's not. Not in the slightest. There's a little humor sprinkled in here and there, but this movie will most likely not make you laugh unless you're a complete flake. What it is about is waking up. It's about unwittingly going through life with your eyes almost fully closed and learning how to open them. It's a sublime demonstration of how a person might cast off their pre-conceived notions- the chains that bind them- and begin to live with awareness and intention. Most of all, it's about discovering what love really is and finding the courage to be a whole person. There's actually some blatant symbolism here and there, and the dialogue is quite good and quite intentional- almost every word. If you watch this without thinking about it, it could be perceived as a pretty frivolous movie. But if you can appreciate that it has a message- a message of hope and the hidden potential that we all have within us- it's a very profound and satisfying piece of work. The most important things in life are often subtle. Whether you're grasping them or miss them entirely, it's possible not to ever truly comprehend what you're doing. Joe Versus the Volcano is that way, too. It doesn't beat you over the head with its point- it uses a very light touch. Check it out. Wake up.Read full review
I saw this once and thought it was ok, watched it again and caught myself laughing at things I missed. After watching it a couple of times after that I realize that this is one of the silliest, funniest movies I've ever seen. I am not a fan of Meg Ryan so I was surprised how much I liked her in this. She plays 3 characters and does them very well. Tom Hanks is always great as the regular guy caught in extraordinary situations. Joe is a hypochondriac who after being told he has a "brain cloud" and does not have long to live decides to jump into a volcano. A rich man offers him the trip of a lifetime if at the end of the trip he jumps into the volcano to appease the gods and save a tribe who loves orange soda. Meg Ryan pays 3 different women who Joe seems to like, and he actually falls for the third one. Very funny and smart, highly recommended. Still, may not be for everyone but it deserves a shot - the more you watch it the better it gets!Read full review
Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in the prime of their lives help to make this a truly wonderful viewing event. The plot is a bit far-fetched but entertaining nonetheless. Our hero goes from the "prison" of a factory worker to the freedom of the open seas. Ironically, a death sentence set him free from his self-induced emotional imprisonment. After he learns of his "pending death" he agrees to throw himself into a volcano. On the way their, he undergoes a delightful transformation. His new life brings him into contact with three versions of Meg Ryan. The first two are bazaar but cute. It's the third version that ends up capturing his interest. There's not much actual romance in this movie and the chemistry isn't very strong. But the movie is fun throughout, which maintains the viewer's interest. And the end has an fun, ironic twist that completes the entertainment.Read full review
"Joe Versus the Volcano" is one of those movies you can watch--you WANT to watch--once a year for the rest of your life. Quirky, intelligent, irreverent, witty, brilliant--you name it, this movie's got it. Not to mention great acting by Tom Hanks, Abe Vigoda and Meg Ryan in triplicate. A desert island flick, for sure!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is a romantic comedy, made when Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan were relative newcomers, which balances the clever and comedic elements with a sweet, almost innocent, romantic theme. The musical score is enchanting. A real testament to the movie is that it can be experienced over and over, and enjoyed equally each time.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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