Customer Ratings & Reviews

"Isthar" became a punchline almost before it received its release back in the 80's. Its production and cost overruns, Elaine May's insistence on particulars--what was envisioned as a sort of updated "Road" picture spiraled into a overproduced, very expensive comedy that received very lukewarm reviews and little BO. I saw it back in the day and rather liked it.Viewing some years later, I like it even better. Yes, it is a bit of a mess and over produced, but at heart it is a dry and very funny comedy with great performances from Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty as the dumb and dumber wannabe songwriters, Rogers and Clark. Jack Weston and especially Charles Grodin are terrific in support. A very underrated film--not a "bomb" at all. The PQ & AQ are adequate but Vittorio Storaro' cinematography is let down. There are no extras whatsoever .

Ishtar is a "classic" 80's movie - an era not known for great cinema. Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty are good together. You have to approach this movie with the right mindset that it is slow but will give you some great laughs here and there and the plot significantly improves in the latter half of the movie. Some people are going to click with this movie and end up repeating one-liners; others will find it sophomoric and wonder what others see in it. I liked it and so did my 19, 21 and 24 year old - which actually says a lot. I don't think any of us have this great desire to watch it again soon - but I think it will creep into the play list every 5-9 years or so.

One of the most underrated movies I've ever seen. I think the understated way it was acted by two wonderful actors, Warren Beatty and Dustin Hoffman (three if you count the blind camel) was hysterical. One of my favorites no matter what the professional critics say.

Ishtar was pretty good. A couple of good laughs. Starts off different than I expected. Dustin Hoffman does a fine job with the role. I think the reason the movie was not a hit was the director's fault. The film loses its focus several times and the blind Camel gag falls flat. Sometimes seems like a cheap movie.

I was happy to get the movie but supremely disappointed that there was no digital copy available with my purchase even though the it is advertised as having it.

Movie has a lot of fun with talented cast. Some great scenes and good time at the movies.

The movie’s reputation as the worst ever is overblown. Most of Bruce Willis’s output from the mid-2010’s has to be worse. This one probably had a bigger budget and profile than those, though. It has some funny spots, but a lot of unfunny parts, too. Worth watching

I purchased this movie for my collection because it is considered one of the greatest box office failures of all time. Plagued with production problems it cost 55 million dollars to produce and only made 14 million at the theaters. Considered a dreadful movie, I own and enjoy it simply because of the scathing negative reviews for such a major production with stellar actors Warren Beatty and Dustin Hoffman.

Definitely a different story than most. Has its funny moments, and Dustin Hoffman is always watchable.

I am surprised at how low this rates by most critics. It's a very funny movie and has lots great one liners and memorable quotes. Great show!

Despite the fact that it is generally considered one of the biggest bombs of all time, I love this movie.

I love Dustin Hoffman, but did not like this comedy. Writing was poor. Too much emphasis on bad singing/song writing.

I love this movie. Unlike most critics that slam this movie, I have watched it. The costs went over budget, so what! It didn't increase the cost of tickets at theatres, where it did well. Finally a Region 1 DVD for us American Ishtar Fans. Enjoy everyone.

Ishtar is not as bad as the reputation holds. It is like a Hope and Crosby Road movie with a contemporary, likeable cast. The plot doesnt work but it has beautiful locales and a great cast. The Disk looks good and is fun with a fast forward button.