Civilisation: The Complete Series (1969) Review

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(More customer reviews)If you have never seen this series before and are interested in art history, you just landed in a honey jar. Clark takes us on a 1,500 year journey through Western Civilization starting roughly at the end of the Roman Empire and ending in mid 20th century. He tells us straight out that his aim was to follow the history of Western European civilization as seen through the eyes of its artists. Why the limitation to only Western European civilization? Apparently, Lord Clark wanted to keep the series to a manageable length. The series is over 13 hours long as it is, and one can only wonder what it would have gone on to become had he included the Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Asian, African and Pre-Columbian cultures. The mind boggles. With Civilisation, Clark has done an incredible job of showing us the amazing cultural legacy left by our European forebears. And at the end he reminds us that this is only a fraction of what was actually achieved. You will recognize many of these works. Others will not be so familiar. But they carry the weight of historical significance, and everyone with at least a four year college education should be aware of the general drift of Clark's presentation. He finished this program for the BBC in 1969. It was an immediate success and you can also find the book of the same name which was a popular spinoff of the series. I recommend it also. The series came along in the midst of some of the most tumultuous scenes of civic strife of the last 50 years. Against this background, Clark laid out his thesis that Western civilization has consisted of a series of catastrophes and rebirths. He indicates that our depression over the events of the twentieth century should not lead us into abandoning the cultural legacy which has been bequeathed to us. For example, if the Black Plague of the 14th century were to strike us with the same force it did before, over a hundred million Americans would die. The Thirty Years war devastated parts of Europe even worse than World War 2. And yet, the will to survive and rebuild society was always there. It is a prescient reminder for the current generation of thoughtful people.

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The eminent art historian Sir Kenneth Clark was commissioned to write and present an epic examination of Western European culture, defining what he considered to be the crucial phases of its development. Civilisation: A Personal View by Lord Clark would be more than two years in the making, with filming in over 100 locations across 13 countries. The lavish series was hailed as a masterpiece when it was first transmitted in 1969.

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All Creatures Great and Small: The Complete Collection Review

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(More customer reviews)Having the entire All Creatures Great and Small collection is really terrific in that you can view all episodes in order including the specials. This series is not just a vetinary saga but the life of a North country community and how this changes over time. Sensitively filmed, it is a timeless portrayal - history in a fun way if you like.

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Experience the phenomenally successful series, All Creatures Great and Small, based on the best-selling books by James Herriot. Set in the fictional Yorkshire Dales town of Darrowby, the series offers comforting reflections of a much gentler time when life moved at a somewhat slower pace. This collection features every episode, tracing the endearing career of this country veterinarian, from the 1930's through World War II and the hopeful 1950s. It's a joyful journey that will warm the hearts of fans everywhere.

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Simon Schama's Power of Art Review

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(More customer reviews)I was fortunate to be able to see the BBC (Region 2) version of this series and I found it very compelling and interesting. Simon does a very persuasive job of explaining how and why (he feels) these greats (Caravaggio, Bernini, Rembrandt, David, Turner, Van Gogh, Picasso) standout in the annuals of art. A very easily accessible series for even the most uninitiated in the subject; highly recommended by this art novice. I only wish there were more episodes in the series!

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Beautiful. Fascinating. Emotional. Art is all of the above. But only a few are powerful. These are the works that not only lift you off your feet in their sheer artistry, they forever alter the human psyche. Focusing on eight iconic works of art, Power of Art reveals the history of visual imagination through the ages, from the murderous world of baroque Rome to paranoid, revolutionary Paris; from the carnage of civil-war Spain to the paradox of 1950s New York, caught between Cold War jitters and Manhattan glitter. A combination of dramatic reconstruction, spectacular photography and Simon Schama's unique, personal style of storytelling transport the viewer back to the intense moments that great works were conceived and born. The eight works of art profiled in this series are: Caravaggio's David and Goliath; Bernini's The Ecstasy of St. Theresa, Rembrandt's The Conspiracy of Claudius Civilis; David's Death of Marat; Turner's The Slave Ship; Van Gogh's Self-Portrait; Picasso's Guernica and Rothko's Seagram Building Murals.

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All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series 3 Collection (Repackage) Review

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(More customer reviews)This series "All Creatures Great and Small" is special beyond a doubt. The Third season of episodes finds our friends concerned about the coming war and is contemplative about life changing soon among the dales. It is the most delightful of the 3 with wonderful flute music and genuinely funny plots that have Tristan taking over kitchen duties with his usual haplessness and we are also given another "dose" of Dr. Granville Bennett,a repeating character who constantly gets our heroes drunk. Another features a dog that is subject to "gas" straying into an afternoon tea party and stinks the place up while a stock character colonel is explaining the benefits of "curry powder" in the diet. Siegfried is distant at times and eventually reveals his feelings about the coming war to James. In the end, the obligations of duty summon them both while Tristan holds up the home vet practice (Finally passing his tests.)Things were never the same again after this season and for that and the reasons stated above I believe this to be the best. Well worth your time and investment. A sure tranquilizer for our hurried times.

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All Creatures Great and Small Series Three brings a rich new trove of James Herriot tales to the screen. Set in the windswe dales of Yorkshire, England, the series perfectly captures the warm drawing room fires and freezing wintry barns of the English countryside of the thirties. While this remote area cannot remain untouched by the threat of impending war, there are still plenty of battles to be fought on the home front: on the farms, in the fields and hand-to-hand in the surgery.

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Charlie and Lola, Vol. 1 (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)My daughter LOVES Charlie and Lola. She was 2 (now 3) when we first started to see them on the Disney Channel and was instantly drawn to them. My husband also loves them. I am American and my husband is British so it was great to have a show where they talked like Daddy. Lola is so funny and my daughter mimics her and has actually picked up the accent a bit (which my husband loves) She loves to say "never ever eat a tomato" which is funny b/c tomatos are one of her favorite foods. It is nice to see a bit of her father's culture introduced here. She eats a lot of the food that they talk about on the show (like sausage rolls and marmite sandwiches) and has even started calling the dog Sizzles. My 17 month old son is even starting to get into it. We have taped all of the episodes off of the tv but have been hoping for a DVD so we can play it in the van. We have bought the books and even got some sticker books from the UK when my mother in law went back this past spring.
As far as the show itself, it is a creative animation which conformed from books to tv rather well. It touches on many subjects from not getting the staring role in the school play to waiting for the first snow. Keeping with the Snoopy tratition, you never seem to see grown ups. It is all from the prespective of the 4 & 7 year old. It is captivating entertainment for your pre-schooler. I give it 5 stars.

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Charlie has this little sister Lola. She is small and very funny. Lola will NEVER eat a tomato! She is also not sleepy and will not go to bed. And how will she cope when she is not well and may never smile again? It falls to Charlie to win her around, and he uses every trick in the book ? logic, humor, but mostly, the power of his imagination. Using 2D cel animation, paper cutout, fabric design, photomontage and archive footage, all the distinctive style and exuberance of Lauren Childs award-winning picture books come to life. Glorious music and sound effects help to conjure up fantastical worlds that only a child could invent, while realistic dialogue, voiced by children, ensures these magical adventures really resonate with kids.

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All Creatures Great & Small - The Specials (1983) Review

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(More customer reviews)The reason that this DVD of the "Specials" has been teamed with Series 3 is that it picks up exactly where Series 3 leaves off with James Herriot going off to war in a car. The Special has him returning the same way and resuming the practice that he left before the war. The cast is virtually the same save for the housemaid, who is shown to have passed away in a slightly touching scene. This 2 special DVD shows Siegfried with a moustache and slightly older and Tristan as a now successful government employee in a town nearby. We are updated unexpectedly (unless you had read the novels) of James's family with a son and eventually a daughter. The pleasantness and wonderful country atmosphere remain as if we had never left and the specials conclude the series in a nice way. A sure pill for our times and relaxing to watch.

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1983 SPECIAL: James returns to Darrowby following his wartime service in the R.A.F. Though little has changed in the Dales in the intervening six years, James finds it difficult to adjust to the peacetime routine and to friends and family who seem like strangers. 1985 SPECIAL: Siegfried waxes lyrical about the accelerating rate of scientific progress as James proceeds to plod along with tried and trusted remedies. For how long can the practice and the surrounding countryside resist the oncoming tide of progress?DVD Features:BiographiesFeaturette

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Daniel Deronda Review

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(More customer reviews)Having a familiarity with the field of psychology, I have always found morality plays fascinating. If you delight in thought-provoking films with careful layers of morality and virtue, Daniel Deronda will be just your cup of tea. In addition to being a magnificent piece from a purely artistic perspective (the gowns, horse-drawn carriages, and exquisite English countryside will stir the hearts of even the most ardent modernist), it also offers a magnitude of ideal conversation starters.
The miniseries is based on the classic novel by George Eliot, and is essentially two plots woven into one. The first is an utterly heartless and wretched marriage for a spoiled young Gwendolyn in the form of the evil Grandcourt, a landowner whose sole pleasure lies in torment. Be it his wife or dogs, our heartless villain never takes greater pleasure than in dangling something before them and tearing it away again, only to feed it to someone else. We see a kind of barbarism in this act, be it with the family spaniel or his impoverished, abandoned mistress.
The second plot line is about the film's lead, Daniel Deronda, a presumed illigitimate boy who has been raised a country gentleman. One day while out boating he saves a Jewish singer from drowning herself, and sets out to discover his own true identity through finding her family.
The acting is very stellar. There's not a weak link in the cast, although I have to say seeing Barbara Hershey seemed a little out of place in this Victorian paradox. The film makes numerous contrasts between good and evil, selfishness and humility, lies and deception. It's actually quite an achievement, and I was pleased at the amount of restraint showed by the filmmakers. The sexual tension between man and wife will go over most younger viewer's heads. From rationalizing and defending one's wrong choices to showing the difference between attraction and subtle, strong love, Daniel Deronda is a gem not merely for its beauty but also its hideousness. Filmmakers have done a tasteful film which deals with many heavy subjects without becoming vulgar or crass. The costuming is absolutely gorgeous, and there's not a weak link in the cast, which includes screen knowns such as Barbara Hershey and Gretta Sacci, as well as the exceptionally talented Hugh Dancy, Romola Garai, Hugh Bonneville and Jodhi May. Fans of other period films will recognize actors from Pride & Prejudice, Persuasion, and Emma.
It's rare to find a wonderful Victorian bodice ripper where the bodice actually stays on.

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Daniel Deronda is a sensitive, intelligent young man, the illegitimate son of an aristocrat, haunted by the secrets that shroud his birth. Beautiful, vivacious Gwendolen Harleth is a gambler and short on cash. When they meet at the roulette table, sparks fly. But Gwendolen needs money more than passion, and the self-centered aristocrat Henleigh Grandcourt is happy to provide. As her situation becomes more and more oppressive, she turns to Daniel for help, only to discover his involvement with the young Jewish singer Mirah Lapidoth.Torn between his devotion to Gwendolen and his passion for Mirah and the plight of her people, Daniel is forced to look at his own mysterious past and find out who he really is...and who he wants to be.DVD Features:Biographies:Cast and crew, plus author George EliotPhoto gallery:Featuring pictures from behind the scenes

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Cranford: Return to Cranford Review

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(More customer reviews)I was able to watch this follow-up to Cranford thanks to a particular website and I promptly pre-ordered the DVD as I loved "Cranford" and its host of interesting and eccentric characters (and yes, I am a period drama fan, especially of BBC productions). This is actually a 2-part special that is not only inspired by the original Cranford, but also two other stories by author Elizabeth Gaskell, i.e. "The Moorland Cottage", and also "The Cage at Cranford", see Three Tales of Cranford: Cranford, The Cage at Cranford, and The Moorland Cottage. Besides the familiar and beloved cast of the original Cranford such as Miss Matty (Dame Judi Dench), Miss Pole (Imelda Staunton), Mrs Forrester (Julia McKenzie), Miss Tomkinson (Deborah Findlay), etc. several new characters are introduced, such as Lady Glenmire (played by Celia Imrie), and the conjuror Signor Brunoni(Tim Curry).
The first part is set in summer 1844 - it has been two years since dear Miss Matty (Dame Judi Dench in another luminous portrayal) lost her beloved sister Deborah, and a year since Sophy Hutton married Dr Harrison (these two characters are no longer in this show). Miss Matty seems content with the presence of her brother Peter (Nicholas Le Prevost) who is home from India, and helps look after Tilly, the baby of her maid Martha and carpenter Jem Hearne. The continuity from the original Cranford is seen in the railway project which still looms menacingly over the town. Things are also made more exciting with the arrival of Mr. Buxton, a wealthy widower who lives with his ward Erminia (Michelle Dockery) and his son William (Tom Hiddleston who is quite the eye candy). Life in Cranford is always full of surprises and when Lady Ludlow's long absent son Septimus (Rory Kinnear) arrives, things take unexpected turns, precipitated by a tragedy in the family. The old tensions are there - especially between those that are against the railroad project and those ,like Captain Brown and young William who feel that modernization is essential to Cranford's long-term survival. Miss Matty, in her usual subtle fashion, gets involved in some of these village proceedings, with some rather startling results.
The second part is set later in the year 1844, October up till Christmas - Miss Matty and her friends are predictably excited at the visit of Lady Glenmire (Celia Imrie) but when Mrs Jamieson (Barbara Flynn) feels no one amongst her peers is of suitably high rank to meet her, she and Lady Glenmire get snubbed by Matty and company and it is left to Lady Glenmire to set things right in a most memorable way. Matty also faces some challenges that involves a falling out amongst her circle of friends,a serious romance between William and a young woman deemed unsuitable by his father (which has Matty pondering the wisdom of her 'involvement' in bringing the pair together), and more tragedy on the horizon, affecting the citizens of Cranford.The magic of the original is still evident and this follow-up (of sorts - it's not strictly a sequel though some story arcs from the first Cranford get developed here) is still charming and engrossing. A fair note of warning, this particular installment in the Cranford franchise is much more subdued than the original and there's quite a fair bit of tragedy - there's death (involving a couple of familiar characters who were also in the original), grief, tension, family drama, imperiled friendships, the age-old battle between those opposed to change and those who embrace the challenges of modernization,etc., but there's also romance, lighthearted moments and even a bit of magic!The comic and the tragic are seamlessly blended into the story, resulting in an immensely satisfying viewing experience. I loved it though I can understand how this particular follow-up might disappoint purists who loved the original and how well it adhered to Gaskell's novel. As for the production qualities - they are excellent. The cinematography is gorgeous, capturing the beauty of the village surroundings as well as the period details, and the score complements the story perfectly. I wish I could be so lucky as to live in a place like Cranford!

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Welcome to Cranford, where all changes and all remains the same. Miss Matty's house is full of life and bustle. Her dream of having a child in the house has been realised in the birth of Tilly, daughter of her maid Martha and carpenter Jem. The shadow of the railway still looms but, to the relief of Matty and the Amazons, the line has been halted five miles outside of Cranford because of Lady Ludlow's refusal to sell her land. Elsewhere Miss Matty\'s friend Mr Buxton returns to town with his son, William, and his niece, Erminia. Miss Matty decides to introduce them to Peggy Bell, a young woman who lives in an isolated cottage with her mother and domineering brother, Edward, in the hope of building friendships. But, when tragedy strikes, she comes to believe that she has opened Pandora's box and fears Cranford will never recover.

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Doctor Who: The Black Guardian Trilogy (Mawdryn Undead / Terminus / Enlightenment) (Stories 126-28) Review

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(More customer reviews)For the 20th season of "Doctor Who," producer John Nathan Turner wanted each storyline to feature a callback to the past of the show, whether it be a returning villain or monster or a familiar face or two coming back across the Doctor's path. In addition, Nathan-Turner wanted a new face to join the TARDIS crew-a school boy with a mysterious past and possibly an alien heritage.
Those two elements led to the creation of a three-story arc during the twentieth season, loosely referred to as The Black Guardian trilogy. The overarching theme saw the Black Guardian seeking revenge on the Doctor for denying the Guardian the Key to Time at the end of season 17. Out for vengeance, the Guardian procured the services of an English school boy named Turlough, who in exchange for killing the Doctor would be suitably rewarded.
Released on DVD for the first time, this loosely connected arc of stories makes up the latest box set of classic "Doctor Who."
The first story, "Mawdryn Undead" sets up the Turlough storyline in the midst of one of the more insightful looks at time travel and its implications the classic series ever did. Multiple time zones play a factor as do the intersecting time lines of returning favorite Brigadier Alastair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart. Visually stunning (even without the CG updates) and featuring a catchy and driving musical score, "Mawdryn" is the highlight of the set and may be the best story from the twentieth anniversary season.
Next up comes "Doctor Who" wrestling with the creation of the universe and saving us from the next big bang with "Terminus." Much derided by some of the "Who" community, the story is probably best remembered for companion Nyssa living the TARDIS crew and, in episode two, shedding her skirt. It's a shame that the story is probably only remembered for these moment and not for some of the more interesting ideas its trying to put forward on screen. Unfortunately, the story is let down by a the famous "Doctor Who" cliche of running around a lot of corridors and a ton of technobabble. It's also the story that feels the most forced into the trilogy concept once the first episode is complete (Turlough sabotages the TARDIS to get the TARDIS crew to the station).
Finally there's "Enlightenment" which is one of the most unique stories from the classic run. The TARDIS comes aboard a racing ship in space where immortal beings called the Eternals are racing for the ultimate prize-enlightenment. The story has a lot of nuances to it and it's easy to see why it's a fan favorite from the season. It's got a lot to offer from the ideas of the Eternals who exist as almost vampires on the emotions of the human crew to the superb direction on the serial itself.
It's also interesting that on the new set that this story is the one that gets the biggest extra treatment-namely in the form of a new director's cut. On several recent commentaries, various participants have wondered if classic "Who" could work under the guidelines of new "Who." The most obvious point being-could you tell a classic "Who" story in the 45 minute time slot?
"Enlightenment" decides to try and answer that question with a new edit that was supposed to be under an hour but ends up being a bit longer. It's probably due to the complexity of having to set up some things for the final leg of the trilogy, but it could also be that the story is a rich one that fully utilizes the screen time across four episodes. Whatever the case, the new shorter edit is a fascinating experiment and it looks and sounds great (they pull out all the stops with new CGI of the space race). And while it's good, it may not be something classic "Who" fans return to time and again along the lines of the extended cuts of "Battlefield" and "Curse of Fenric" we got as extras on those releases.
As for the rest of the extras, they're up to the usual standard of that the "Doctor Who" restoration team is known for. The biggest is the new CGI effects for all three stories. Since the team began tackling these for certain stories and projects with "Ark in Space" years ago, the quality has risen with each release and what we see here is no exception. The new effects and exterior shots on "Mawdryn Undead" alone are worth a look and may be the new way that some classic "Who" fans watch the stories from now on.
There's also commentaries on each episode, anchored by Peter Davison and Mark Strickson. It's interesting to hear the two discuss the character of Turlough and the limitations placed on him early by having him being opposed to and trying to kill the Doctor. The two, along with script editor Eric Saward, agree that having a companion whose chief goal is the death of the Doctor limits how you can use the companion-either he's failing or locked in a room away from the main action. As always with stories from this era, I wish that producer John Nathan-Turner was around to offer some counter-point and his motivtions for decisions made during his tenure.
The set also includes a documentary on each story, though a lot of the anecdotes tended to crossover from the commentaries. But if you're a classic "Who" fan, it won't take away from the enjoyment of any of these extras.
Were it not for "The War Games" release during the same month, this latest set would be in the running for one of the best classic "Who" releases of the year. And it's still a good one with two solid stories, one a bit dodgy one and a wealth of great special features. What else could a classic series "Who" fan want?

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DOCTOR WHO:BLACK GUARDIAN TRILOGY - DVD Movie

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As Time Goes By - Complete Series 3 Review

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(More customer reviews)Series 3 begins with Jean and Lionel filling their dream of a holiday in Paris. Unfortunately, bad weather forces them to spend most of their time in the hotel.
Next Lionel's father is getting married again...at his age? Rocky and Madge are not your usual senior citizens. So when their wedding is rescued by bikers, it just seems appropriate.
Episode 3, Lionel and Jean decide to move in together. But each thinks the other is moving to their flat.
Episode 4, Jean's meddling ex-sister in law Penny is visiting. But Jean doesn't want to admit her situation with Lionel. This includes keeping up the lie about Lionel's profession.
Episode 5, Jean and Lionel finally move in together and find out that living together has adjustments required.
Episode 6, while Jean expands her company, Lionel has financial problems.
Episode 7, Alister comes to Lionel's rescue again. He has pitched Jean and Lionel's story to the "Americans".
Episode 8, Jean and Lionel travel to Hollywood to discuss the miniseries. This is the British version of Hollywood including a gun toting crazed writer.
Episode 9, back from Hollywood, Lionel and Jean have severe jet lag but Jean must resolve who is going to run Type for You 2
Episode 10, Jean and Lionel start on the miniseries but they have different memories.
This is not the best in the series but it has some very funny moments. And this in one of the best TV shows of the 90's. Buy the entire series!!

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"As Time Goes By" stars Judi Dench & Geoffrey Palmer. Long ago Lionel, a dashing young British Army officer met Jean, a lovely student nurse and fell deeply in love. When Lionel was shipped off to fight in the Korean war the two lost touch. In the first episode of Series One they meet again and slowly begin to rekindle their romance. The wonderful series that ensues is simply a pleasure to watch.

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Doctor Who: The War Games (Story 50) Review

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(More customer reviews)There are so few Patrick Troughton episodes out there. His stories were ravaged by the BBC many years ago, and only a handful have been recovered. The first story is missing, important episodes like "The Highlanders" and "The Enemy of the World" are gone. Even episodes with popular villains such as the Daleks and Cybermen are missing.
Thankfully one of the few stories still intact is the last story. The ten part masterpiece, "The War Games", is the swansong for the Second Doctor, Jamie and Zoe. It also introduces the Time Lords as a group, shows us a rival Time Lord to the Doctor in the form of the War Chief, and has a nice, epic feel to it that hasn't really been captured in too many other stories. It was also the last of the black and white stories.
There are certain problems with the story. For one, it's quite well-padded and redundant in parts. Truth be told, it could've been done as a four-part story and worked every bit as well, but that's a minor gripe.
Special features on this three-disc collection include such things as commentaries, features on the Target novels and the comic strip, and much more!
Overall this is a heck of a story and a great collection. Worth every penny!

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The TARDIS arrives on a planet where a race known only as the Aliens have gathered soldiers from a number of different wars in history, brainwashed them and put them to battle. Their aim is to form an invincible army from the survivors and use this to take over the galaxy.

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Jonathan Creek - Season One (2001) Review

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(More customer reviews)It's about time..!!!.....this is a series of mysteries involving Jonathan (who designs magic tricks for a magician) and Maddy who is a journalist. Maddy always seems to get into situations where she needs Jonathan to bail her out. VERY good scripts and acting. If you like real British mysteries with lots of twists then this is the series to buy. Can't wait to see them again.

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Meet the magician with the trick of solving impossible crimes. Jonathan and Maddy investigate crimes which seem to have no rational explanation. Jonathan Creek is a bit of a nerd, but he is also a bit of a quick-witted genius. Maddy Magellan is an investigative crime writer, and the pair join forces to unravel a series of mysteries. Among their many adventures, Jonathan and Maddy encounter the powers of voodoo and dream-predictions, and cases involving strange disappearances, an alien life-form and tricks of time.

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Last of the Summer Wine Review

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(More customer reviews)Anyone who has ever watched Open All Hours or Keeping Up Appearances will already be familiar with writer Roy Clarke's distinctive brand of humour, and if you've enjoyed the type of humour in either of these two shows, Last of the Summer Wine is certainly worth checking out. Humour aside, however, this series is somewhat different from the other two. It's overall a very laidback, gentle series filled with some extremely scenic views of the Yorkshire dales and the loveliest theme music of any Britcom. One ought not to expect, therefore, to find a powerhouse (like Arkwright or Hyacinth) leading the show (oh, they are here--and in greater numbers than in the BFS boxed set which contains the earliest episodes--but they're relegated to supporting roles!). Rather, the series revolves around the humorous adolescent antics and "philosophical" musings (if one can call it that) of three carefree, lay-about geriatric men.
Most memorable is the tatty, peg-toothed Compo Simonite (Bill Owen, who sadly died at age 85 of pancreatic cancer in 1999--like most, he was with the show till the very end), who's spent his life on the dole, is the most rangy-tang and mischievous of the lot, and is forever dreaming of his neighbour, Nora Batty--wrinkled stockings and all. Then there is Norman Clegg (Peter Sallis), a man who's terrified of women--which is unfortunate as he is constantly called upon by his neighbour Howard (the epitomy of a hen-pecked husband) to assist Howard in communicating with his "young lady" friend, the man-eating Marina. Lastly is Foggy Dewhurst (Brian Wilde), a humorously regimental (but totally inept) ex-military man, without whom the other two would never do anything and there'd be no show! Wilde, who left the show for a brief period from 1985-90, retired permanently in 1997.
Though series is still in production after more than 30 years, the years from 1990-1997 (the Howard & Marina/Foggy Dewhurst years) were among the strongest for the series. This BBC boxed set, subtitled Vintage 1995, falls within that classic era and includes ten 30-minute episodes (the complete second series of episodes to be filmed during 1995) plus the 60-minute Christmas special entitled "A Leg Up for Christmas."
Special features include "30 Years of Last of the Summer Wine", a 60-minute look back at the show, the characters, how the series came about, the scoring of the music, etc.--even the odd blooper is included. The producer, writer, and many of the actors share their thoughts. Also included are a 6-minute skit entitled "The Funny Side of Christmas" (which dates between 1976-1985) and an enjoyable 30-minute "Tribute to Dame Thora Hird", who was unforgettable as the "motor-vehiclely challenged" Edie Pegden, the battle-axe wife of Wesley (who rarely appeared without his greasy overalls and could always be found tinkering in his shed with something mechanical--usually to a disastrous end!). Sadly, Gordon Wharmby (Wesley) passed away at age 68 in 2002 from lung cancer, whilst Dame Thora died at age 91 in 2003 after suffering a stroke.
This series is a classic example of British character comedy--and what a wealth of characters there are. Apart from the aforementioned, who can forget wily Auntie Wainwright, who sells antiques like a venus flytrap catches flies; or the hilarious antics of blind-as-a-bat Elie (sadly Danny O'Dea also died in 2003 aged 91). From the ladies' coffee mornings, to Compo's amorous advances towards Nora Batty, to Howard's ill-fated clandestine romance with Marina, this is a series our entire family enjoys (it's my dad's favourite). Although we enjoy the current episodes, with the loss of so many memorable characters, the 1995 Vintage hails back to a time when the series was truly at its zenith. One can only hope the BBC will continue to bring more episodes to DVD.

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An endearing trio of aging delinquents enjoy their second childhood in this gentle comedy set in a small town in England.

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William and Mary: Seasons 1 & 2 (2003) Review

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(More customer reviews)As a midwife, I have no time to watch television - but I watched this series, every minute of it - and loved it. It was alternately warm, funny, silly, ridiculous, predictable, not predictable, and wonderful! In addition, with the exception of one very short segment, it portrayed the life of a midwife extraordinarily well. The writing was terrific, and the juxtaposition of Mary's work as a midwife, and William's work as an undertaker, especially in episodes 6 and 7(or was it 7 and 8?!)was brilliant. The acting is great and the characters (okay, Mary's mother is a little overdone!) engaging. The development of the relationship between William and Mary is outstanding, and her portrayal of midwifery noteworthy. I made time to see every episode, and it was well worth it each time -relaxing, fun and touching. My partner liked it, too - when it was all over, he asked if now I would sit and watch 12 episodes of something like "The Terminator" with him - of course, the answer was no! - but he actually was the one who would often say to me, "So, do you want to watch the next William and Mary tonight?"

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William Shawcross (Martin Clunes, Shakespeare in Love, Men Behaving Badly) is looking for love, but few women are excited at the prospect of dating an undertaker. William sees Mary on a dating service video and is captivated - only she's too busy bringing people into the world as a midwife to date someone whose job is to see them out. Julie Graham (Dirty Tricks, Butterfly Collectors) co-stars in this brilliantly written, quirky and often moving British TV comedy about two people tripping down the imperfect path of romance together. You'll laugh, cry and cringe with embarrassment through the six episodes of this complete set!

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One Foot in the Grave - Season 1 (1994) Review

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(More customer reviews)Meet Victor Meldrew, who seems to notice everything annoying in life and feels the need to constantly comment on it, and his long suffering wife, Margaret, who is weary of Victor's diatribes. Along with the Meldrews, you meet a host of friends and neighbors that add to the side splitting fun. If you have never seen this Britcom before, you've truly missed a masterpiece. This is definitely one to add to your collection. For those interested, here is an episode guide:
EPISODE GUIDE
1.Alive and Buried.
Victor Meldrew, upon turning 60, is forcibly retired when he is replaced by a talking machine.
2.The Big Sleep
Rampant hypochondria brings on a near death experience for Victor.
3.The Valley of Fear
Victor finds himself the victim of a mugging and a vandalism attack so he decides to hold a crime prevention meeting.
4.I'll Retire to Bedlam
Victor encounters a day of one trial after another when he is locked in the shed for three hours, forced to keep his eyes closed all day after an appointment with the optometrist, and then forced to babysit!
5.The Eternal Quadrangle

Margaret is displeased when Victor takes up a hobby - painting nudes.
6. The Return of the Speckled Band

After helping Mrs. Warboy's through a food poisoning attack and having problems with the electricity man, the Meldrews feel they have earned a relaxing vacation? But will they get one?!


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The BAFTA-nominated series about the growing pains of growing old is finally on DVD! Forced into early retirement, Victor Meldrew optimistically tries to adjust to years of leisure with his wife Margaret. If only events -- coincidences, misunderstandings, bureaucratic inefficiencies and sheer bad luck -- didn't conspire against him.

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Only Fools and Horses: The Specials 1991-2003 Review

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(More customer reviews)If you are from london England and now living across the otherside of the pond, you will just love the christmas specials of only fools and horses. Nothing better than having a few mates round and watching this with a few pints. I loved evey second of this collection. well done my son!!

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Britain's best-loved comedy series returns to DVD in this incredible collection of specials! Next to the Queen's Address to the Commonwealth, nothing signifies the holidays in Britain quite so much as an Only Fools and Horses Christmas Special on the telly. This collection brings together all ten specials that ran between 1991 and 2003, including the 2-part "Miami Twice," "Mother Nature's Son," "Heroes and Villains," "If They Could See Us Now," the classic Only Fools and Horses series finale, "Sleepless in Peckham" and more! Del-boy and Rodney are up to all their usual tricks in over 11 hours of programming that will leave you in stitches! Complete your Only Fools and Horses Collectionwith The Specials 1991-2003.

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All Creatures Great & Small: The Complete Series 7 Collection (Repackage) Review

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(More customer reviews)Season seven is a great completion to the series, bringing back Tristan in most of the episodes, and of course James and Siegfried lead the cast. Lynda Bellingham continues the role of Helen, which is my least favorite actor on the show (I enjoyed the prior Helen - Drinkwater - much more). Also some of the old characters are brought back, such as, Granville Bennett, Mr. Biggens, Mrs. Pumphrey and Hodgekin, etc.
The story lines are reminiscent of the later book, with young Rosie wanting to be a Vet, James' bad purchase of netting, as well as, his attempt to build a small greenhouse. Then of course that is topped off, with Helen's bad choice of a carpet from a door to door salesman. Also, we have the young farmer with sensitive nostrils, wearing a red bandana to buy his fish and chips and gets arrested, with James bailing him out. Then we have the famous Wolfie dog that chases off the two young thieves that rob several old age pensioners, as well as many other fine examples.
There is the obvious repeat of some of the old story lines, but they are enjoyable - What is nice, is that the old incident is referenced and smoothly added to the episode. The show does take some liberties and there are several incidents that are not true to the books, but the episodes are most enjoyable.
Too bad there are only seven seasons.... Episode twelve provides a meaningful ending to the series, with our three main characters together, leaving the viewer, to find their next adventure.
The 1990 Christmas special (Brotherly Love) is very good, but more like two additional episodes - There is not much related to a Christmas season. One distracting point of the special is the music - When there is an ironic or funny incident, the music is like - Waa -Waa -Waa; which just does not seem to fit. (There is a little bit of that music in a few episodes too).
The 2003 cast reunion is enjoyable, but much of the interview material is known through past DVD commentaries, etc, and there is not much new information. The attendees have aged well - Tristan (Peter Davison) is not in the reunion, due to other commitments. The best part is the off set Vet who provided guidance to the cast through the years is interviewed as well.
Overall, a definite purchase and is far better than the 4 - 6 series, and brings back the feel of the original seasons 1 - 3.

Series 7
(September-December 1990)
1.The Prodigal Returns
2.Knowin' How to Do It
3.If Music Be the Food of Love
4.A Friend for Life
5.Spring Fever
6.Out with the New
7.Food for Thought
8.A Cat in Hull's Chance
9.A Grand Memory for Forgetting
10.Old Dogs, New Tricks
11.Hampered
12.Promises to Keep


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Based on the bestselling books by James Herriot, this long-running series is a perennial PBS hit. All Creatures Great and Small Series Seven wraps up the final installment of this heart-warming tale from the Yorkshire dales with James Herriot (Christopher Timothy), his wife Helen (Lynda Bellingham) and his volatile but warm-hearted partner, Siegfried Farnon (Robert Hardy). Life at the small veterinary practice continues to challenge the partners, whether by neglected animals or tight-fisted farmers. But through all the trails and tribulations, the social upheavals and the years gone by, friendship and family prove themselves as strong as ever.

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