A Room with a View (1986) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)...if you have the least interest in this film-BUY the new DVD. It's simply amazing. I've scanned these reviews here, and apparently there was an earlier DVD issue that wasn't up to par at ALL-but rest assured, this reasonably-priced "Special Edition" looks and sounds crisp, clean-and stunningly beautiful. Obviously I loved the film when it was originally released, and plenty of others did as well-see reviews below. But watching this new DVD the other night, I was struck at how amazing this movie really is: in the first place, it's rare(to put it mildly!)for a film nearly 20 years old to not look "dated" at ALL-this one doesn't. It could have been shot yesterday. I'd be willing to bet that in 15 years "Shakespeare in Love" *will* look somehow "late '90s"-it's the norm for period costume pieces to wind up reflecting the styles of the times they were made, even if we can't see it without the distance of years passing. What an achievement, then for James Ivory, Ismail Merchant, and the designers/cinematographer/costumer...and the actors-! Superb, all of them. The second audio track is, I'm afraid, a little superfluous(although it was enjoyable to hear the producers chatting away with Simon Callow-"the Rev. Beebe"-and the only actor to record commentary, alas)...but it doesn't matter a whit. Truly one of those things where everything came together perfectly. If you buy this, you'll have a great shot at converting a few jaded kids(assuming you've got some around the house)to the glories of another time and place, and *real* romance(and just about the sexiest kisses you could ask for). Enjoy!

Click Here to see more reviews about: A Room with a View (1986)

Nominated for eight Oscars in 1986, including Best Picture, and winner of three (Costumes, Art Direction and Adapted Screenplay), A Room With a View is the film that defined Merchant-Ivory as the masters of the romantic period piece. A brilliant adaptation of E.M. Forster's novel, A Room With a View tells the story of the coming of age of Lucy Honeychurch (Helena Bonham-Carter). Longing to burst free from the repression of British upper class manners and mores, she must wrestle with her inner romantic longings to choose between the passionate George (Julian Sands) and the priggish but socially suitable Cecil (Daniel Day-Lewis). Boasting a brilliant supporting cast, A Room With a View isone of the most romantic of romantic comedies ever filmed.DVD Features:Audio CommentaryFeaturetteOtherPhoto gallery

Click here for more information about A Room with a View (1986)

Cranford: Return to Cranford Review

Average Reviews:

(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!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cranford: Return to Cranford

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.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about Cranford: Return to Cranford

Shakespeare's An Age of Kings (Richard II / Henry IV / Henry V / Henry VI / Richard III) (1960) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)By any standard I can think of this series stands out in memory as the finest television treatment of Shakespeare that exists. If for nothing else the performances of Connery as Hotspur, Hardy as Hal and Harry in Henry V, and Richard Daneman as Richard III are worth owning this. Robert Hardy's St. Crispin's Day speech rivals Olivier's and Brannagh's, Daneman's Richard III also rivals Olivier's and the great Stratford performance of Antony Sher. At no time in his long career did Sean Connery ever exceed his incomparable interpretation of Hotspur. I have wished for, prayed for, hoped for an opportunity to see this again, and NOW! Thanks to all the gods of drama.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Shakespeare's An Age of Kings (Richard II / Henry IV / Henry V / Henry VI / Richard III) (1960)

In this fifteen-part inventive series based on William Shakespeare's history plays, the turmoil, power, mystery and frailty of the English crown in the medieval ages is laid bare in epic style. This series originally aired as live broadcasts and was recorded on film. Starring Sean Connery, Julian Glover, Eileen Atkins, Robert Hardy, Angela Baddeley, Judi Dench and John Warner.

Get 50% OFF

Click here for more information about Shakespeare's An Age of Kings (Richard II / Henry IV / Henry V / Henry VI / Richard III) (1960)

The Elizabeth Gaskell Collection (Wives and Daughters / Cranford / North and South) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)"North & South" alone is reason enough to buy this dvd collection. This coupled with two other period drama powerhouses "Wives & Daughters" and "Cranford" makes this a collection that any period drama/classics/romance fan should be without. These dramas by author Elizabeth Gaskell represent the finest that BBC drama has to offer.
** "North & South" is the spectacular adaptation of the novel that centers on John Thornton (who represents the industrial north) and Margaret Hale (who represents the idyllic, agricultural south). Theirs is a war of words, cultures and personalities as Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby Ashe) and her family struggle to adapt to life in the dirty, noisy, mill town of Milton after a carefree, comfortable life in the southern town of Helstone. There her family meets manufacturer John Thornton (played by the unforgettable Richard Armitage) and his family and it is dislike-at-first-sight for Margaret. She finds Mr. Thornton a rough, proud and haughty man who treats his employees with disdain. Mr. Thornton, however, is instantly smitten with the outspoken and fearless Margaret. But as Margaret gradually learns to appreciate Mr. Thornton, events take place that threaten to divide them from each other forever.
** "Wives and Daughters" is the story of young Molly Gibson (Justine Waddell) and her widowed father (Bill Paterson). Molly lives a carefree life, until her father remarries and brings home his new wife, Hyacinth (Francesca Annis). She and her lovely daughter Cynthia (Keeley Hawes) bring change and sometimes chaos to the Gibson's lives and Molly finds herself in competition with Cynthia for the affections of Roger Hamley (Anthony Howell), the son of the local squire (Michael Gambon). We soon find that all is not as it seems and long-kept secrets are unearthed which threaten the love lives and reputations of both Molly and Cynthia.
** The splendid "Cranford" starring a bevy of British acting greats led by Judi Dench, Michael Gambon, Eileen Atkins, Francesca Annis and Imelda Staunton. The story centers around the locals in the sleepy town of Cranford, where everyone makes it their business to know everything about their neighbors. Their lives are turned topsy turvy when a handsome young doctor (Simon Woods) with new ideas arrives and rumors of the railroad threaten to destroy their idyllic town. This is truly an ensemble cast, as all stories intermingle and each character makes an impact of the lives of others in the town. Judi Dench and Eileen Atkins play the Jenkyns sisters; Lisa Dillon play their cousin Mary Smith; Deborah Findlay and Selena Griffiths play the Tomkinson sisters; Imelda Staunton is the quirky and nosy Miss Pole; Barbara Flynn is the elegant Mrs. Jamieson; Julia Sawalha is the quiet spinster Jessie Brown and Jim Carter is her outspoken father; Francesca Annis plays the haughty and aristocratic Lady Ludlow; Greg Wise plays her cousin Sir Charles Maulver; Phillip Glenister plays Lady Ludlow's land agent, Mr. Carter; and Alex Etel is a young man that Mr. Carter takes on.
What sets these apart from other costume dramas is the consistency of the acting, the high production values, the compelling stories, and memorable characters. I dare you not to feel John Thornton's pain as he says "Look back at me" as he watches Margaret climb up the carriage on her way back to London, or Harry Gregson's pain as he says goodbye to a beloved mentor, or the thrill as Roger Hamley sees Molly's transformation at the Cumnor's ball. These are wonderful stories that you will want to watch over and over, which make this dvd collection an absolute gem.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Elizabeth Gaskell Collection (Wives and Daughters / Cranford / North and South)

Three BBC miniseries adapted from Mary Gaskells classic novels. Cranford, a market town in the North West of England, is a place governed by etiquette, custom and above all, an intricate network of ladies. It seems that life has always been conducted according to their social rules, but Cranford is on the cusp of change… North & South follows Margaret Hale, the daughter of a middle-class parson who uproots the family from rural southern England to start a new life in Milton - a northern mill town in the throes of the industrial revolution. Wives and Daughters is set in a richly portrayed society well-stocked with eccentric nobles and gossipy villagers. The well-ordered world of 17-year-old Molly Gibson becomes complicated when her father, a respected country doctor, remarries after many years of widowhood.DVD Features:Audio CommentaryBiographiesDeleted ScenesDocumentaryInterviewsProduction Notes

Get 46% OFF

Click here for more information about The Elizabeth Gaskell Collection (Wives and Daughters / Cranford / North and South)

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 3 Review

Average Reviews:

(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!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 3

"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.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 3

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 5 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)"As Time Goes By" is the gentle, funny story of Jean Pargetter and Lionel Hardcastle, two people who used to be in love in the early fifties. When Lionel went off to fight in the Korean War, the two lost touch. They meet again 38 years later, quite by accident, and what is at first an awkward friendship slowly morphs into a warm romance.
Series 5 of "As Time Goes By", originally produced and aired in 1997, finds the show taking a slightly new direction, all the while retaining the warmth and charm that made it a favorite in the first place. A new set of characters are introduced, old regulars return, and a semi-new locale becomes more of a focal point. All of this comes together splendidly to bring us a fresh, funny, and delightful new series of episodes.
Episode 1 finds Jean & Lionel taking advantage of their recently acquired country house (Lionel's father, Rocky, had given it to him in the previous season). The couple soon meets up with a rather bothersome group of people in the village known as the 'county set'. To add to their annoyance, Jean's sister in-law Penny, and her husband Stephen, suddenly show-up.
Episode 2 is rather poignant. Lionel's ex-wife shows up. This particular episode shows off the depth of Bob Larbey's writing for the series, as the ex-Mrs. Hardcastle is a somewhat complex woman, underneath all of her glitz. It also displays the fine acting talents of the leads and the guest stars. I'm sure some couples can relate to what goes on in this story.
Episode 3: Lionel is bored, and takes up a hobby. One of the more simplistic episodes, but nevertheless funny. You'll never look at model ships in the same way again!
Episode 4 finds Jean & Lionel back at their country house. This time, they discover a more sinister side to the county set. When one of the newer characters, Lol Ferris, gets hurt, the fiery Hardcastles decide it is time to put their foot down.
Episode 5: The ongoing story arc of Lionel's mini-series, titled "Just Two People", finally comes to an end as the final product airs in America. Alistair, Sandy, and Judith fly to the States to watch the broadcast. The results? You'll have to watch the episode to find out!
Episode 6 is probably one of my lesser favorites. Whilst I typically enjoy Penny & Stephen stories, this one is a bit of a downer. Penny is going into hospital for surgery, and she basically makes it out like she won't be surviving. There is a lot of talk of "taking care of Stephen" once she is gone, and so on and so forth.
Episode 7 is a wonderful way in which to end the season. Jean & Lionel find that there is a whole other side to the village near their country house, and that some of the people there aren't so bad. Rocky and his wife Madge make a wonderful addition to the episode, and Madge's rendition of "Tie a Yellow Ribbon 'Round the Old Oak Tree" is so charming, that it alone makes getting the DVD a must for me.
There isn't another show like "As Time Goes By" anywhere. Not in the UK, and most certainly not in America. It manages to balance comedy, emotion, and realism with such a deft hand that one just has to watch and enjoy it while all the time wondering: "How do they do it?" The writing, the acting, even the set design - it all comes together so well. The show is excellent. Hands down.

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 5

Once upon a time, a dashing young British Army officer and a lovely student nurse fell deeply, magically in love. Then he was shipped off to Korea and they never heard from one another. Forty years later, fate brings them together again? with hilarious results. In this fifth installment of the popular series, Jean and Lionel adjust to life as newlyweds.

Get 45% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 5

The Noel Coward Collection (BBC) (1968) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)THE NOEL COWARD collection....is simply a treasure. Yes, we will each
have slightly different favorites...but...there is not a dud in the whole box. And, there is a monumental ammount of material...and all of it first rate. I becan with disc TWO and ran one dvd a night...and
THEN did disc ONE and watched "The Vortex" last...and indeed, it was not a personal favorite...but it was well done and beautifully mounted like everything in this collection. Yes, there were nine plays in TONIGHT AT 8:30...and only EIGHT are included on this disc. Joan Collins is a total delight in all of them...and she plays a wide variety of roles
from glamourous through frumpy. All I can say...is...I have never bought a BOX so full of treasures and so entertaining throughout. I have
watched everything and still have all the audio only features to examine.
You will NOT get more BANG for your BUCH anywhere. THIS IS IT.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Noel Coward Collection (BBC) (1968)

No�Coward was a master playwright whose prodigious talent dominated the theatre of the 1920s & 30s. "The Vortex" made him an immediate hit and controversial sensation. "Hay Fever," "Private Lives," and "Design for Living" are as popular today as when they were first performed. His series of one-acts "Tonight at 8:30" which he performed with Gertrude Lawrence have become a treasure trove for modern theater companies. This collection features star-studded BBC productions of Coward's full-length plays, one-acts and short stories plus bonus features including several radio plays, interviews and profiles of Coward. It's a must own collection for lovers of great theatre!DVD Features:InterviewsOther

Get 46% OFF

Click here for more information about The Noel Coward Collection (BBC) (1968)

Henrik Ibsen Collection (Hedda Gabler / Ghosts / Little Eyolf / The Wild Duck / The Master Builder) (1963) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Because one of the earlier posters asked, the titles included in the set are "Brand", "A Doll's House", "Hedda Gabler", "The Wild Duck", "Ghosts", "Little Eyolf", "An Enemy of the People", "The Lady from the Sea" and two versions of "The Master Builder." Also included are the following plays in radio versions: "Peer Gynt", "The Pretenders", "Emperor and Galilean", "The Pillars of Society", "Rosmersholm", "John Gabriel Borkman", "When We Dead Awaken" and "A Meeting in Rome" by Michael Meyer (a play about a meeting between Ibsen and August Strindberg).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Henrik Ibsen Collection (Hedda Gabler / Ghosts / Little Eyolf / The Wild Duck / The Master Builder) (1963)

The Henrik Ibsen Collection features ten star-studded BBC productions of Ibsen's most famous plays, together in one six-disc box set. Considered the father of modern realistic drama, Henrik Ibsen is one of the most important playwrights of all time. His plays attacked the values of the Victorian society in which he lived and were considered scandalous during his lifetime. Yet many of his themes are thoroughly modern today. The Henrik Ibsen Collection features stellar casts in Ibsen's best-known works, including Ingrid Bergman and Michael Redgrave in Hedda Gabler, Judi Dench and Michael Gambon in Ghosts, Anthony Hopkins and Diana Rigg in Little Eyolf, Denholm Elliot in The Wild Duck, Sir Donald Wolfitt and Leo McKern respectively in two extraordinary productions of The Master Builder, and much more. It's a quintessential part of any theater lover's library.

Get 49% OFF

Click here for more information about Henrik Ibsen Collection (Hedda Gabler / Ghosts / Little Eyolf / The Wild Duck / The Master Builder) (1963)

The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (2000) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)When Elizabeth's (played by Judi Dench) husband dies, she contemplates where she should go with her life. She starts by returning to the music she played during World War 2, when she belonged to an all-girl band called The Blonde Bombshells. However, when she runs into Patrick (Ian Holm), the drummer from The Blond Bombshells (OK, they couldn't find a girl drummer), she hits on the idea of bringing the Blonde Bombshells back together. However, that's easier said than done--some are dead, some have left the country, one has lost her sanity, one has found God, and all are scattered. However, Elizabeth is not a woman to give up easily. This is the story of nostalgia, overcoming, the love of music...and so much more! [Color, released in 2000, with a running time of 1 hour, 24 minutes.]
I absolutely loved this movie! It is star-encrusted, and even though I am an American, I kept recognizing just about everyone in it. The story is touching, and yet not maudlin. I loved the music (so very timely again), the acting, and the story. The one warning I will give is that the movie earned its PG-13 rating due to swearing, with the "F" word being used all too often. That said, though, this is a great movie, one that I highly recommend.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (2000)

LAST OF THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS - DVD Movie

Get 25% OFF

Click here for more information about The Last of the Blonde Bombshells (2000)

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 4 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)"As Time Goes By" stars Judi Dench & Geoffrey Palmer as Jean Pargetter and Lionel Hardcastle, who were once lovers in the early 1950s. Lionel went to fight in the Korean war, and the two lost touch. In the very first episode of the series, they meet again and slowly begin to rekindle their romance. The wonderful series that ensues is a pleasure to watch.
This DVD contains all 10 episodes of the 4th season of "As Time Goes By". This is quite an important, funny, and emotional season in the show's history. And, oh, how wonderful it looks on DVD!
Within the 4th season occurs the 25th wedding anniversary of Penny & Stephen (in-laws of Jean), a new "boy"friend for Jean's daughter Judith, Jean's secretary Sandy moving-in to the household, the completion of Lionel's script for a mini-series based on his & Jean's young love affair, and, most importantly, the wedding of Jean & Lionel.
And as for how it looks on DVD: WOW. Now, I have watched British television shows on DVD before, but never has one looked so stunning. The colors are brilliant, the lines are crisp, the picture comes alive. There is one scene in particular, in the episode where Jean & Lionel are on their honeymoon in the hills of Scotland. It looks STUNNING. I'm sorry to gush, but I was just *very* taken aback. By all means, if you are able to, I would recommend getting the 4th season on DVD.
Well, there you have it. If you want a nice, gentle, warm, romantic and funny series with sincere characters and an interesting, hilarious plotline, then by all means start watching "As Time Goes By" today.

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 4

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.

Get 42% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 4

The Cherry Orchard (1981 and 1962 Versions) (1999) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The cast in both versions handle Chekhov's material with the utmost care. The direction in the 1962 M. St.Denis version is rather beautiful. One can't really go wrong with a cast like Gielgud, Ashcroft, Dench, Tutin, etc. They all just give the most stunning performances of this material. Chekhov is actually incredibly timeless, and the cast is absolutely thrilling to watch. Richard Eyre's 1981 version is a bit more stoic, but his choice to bring Judi Dench on as Mdme. Ranevsky was like finishing a luxurious necklace with the Hope Diamond. Judi Dench has the unbelievable ability to let a story and character filter through herself like an incredibly adept translator. Both of these versions are magical. The more theatrical version of 1962, and the "made for film" version of 1981. Both should not be missed, if even only for the experience of the remarkable performances, but certainly for the well handled telling of the genius Chekhov.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Cherry Orchard (1981 and 1962 Versions) (1999)

This two-disc set presents both BBC's 1962 and 1981 productions of The Cherry Orchard Set in fin-de-siecle Russia, these adaptations of Anton Chekhov's famous play chronicles a noblewoman's return to her family estate after a five-year absence. She finds that the family fortune has dwindled to practically nothing, and that she and her brother are faced with the difficult choice of selling the family's treasured cherry orchard or losing everything.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about The Cherry Orchard (1981 and 1962 Versions) (1999)

Acting Shakespeare (1982) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I saw this video in my high school British Lit. class in 1986 and was mesmerized. I was not a particular fan of Shakespeare at the time, was in fact one of those kids who found Shakespeare mostly boring and irrelevant, but this turned me on to all that Shakespeare can be and why he has remained popular for so long. I have been a huge fan of Ian McKellan ever since; he is superb in this. I have been looking for this video for years, checking McKellan's website, ebay and everywhere I could think of, so I was so excited when I googled the title today, and found it on Amazon! I cannot recommend McKellan's _Acting Shakespeare_ highly enough. It remains, in my memory, the best theatre -- Shakespeare or otherwise -- that I have ever seen. It is just Ian McKellan on a bare stage, no props or costumes as far as I remember, performing monologues from several Shakespearian plays and commenting on the plays and characters and how he approaches them. The simplicity is perhaps part of what makes this so beautifully done.As it hasn't been released yet, I cannot comment on the technical quality of the sound or video. My hope is that the reason they took so long to release it is because they were picky about getting the audio and video quality right. Anyway, it is superb.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Acting Shakespeare (1982)

A masterful tour de force from "one of the most distinguished performers of his generation" (The New York Times).
Alone on stage, without props or costumes, Ian McKellen performs some of Shakespeare\'s most striking monologues and offers his own personal anecdotes about life in the theater. From Henry VI to Macbeth, McKellen demonstrates the incredible universality of Shakespeare\'s plays with wit and humor – skillfully revealing the actor behind the writer in this celebrated one-man show.
Produced by Andrew Susskind and presented at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City.
Also includes an 8-page booklet with reflections by Ian McKellen.

Get 50% OFF

Click here for more information about Acting Shakespeare (1982)

Cranford (2009) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I ordered this from Amazon UK to be able to view this prior to its release date. I was not disappointed! Sadly, I had to watch it by myself because my husband didn't think he'd like it. He would have been wrong, by the way. It was exquisite in every way.
I watched it over 2 nights. It's a 5 hour miniseries and it is broken up into five 1 hour-long episodes.
The first 3 hours were very very good. Excellent, even. But the last 2 hours were absolutely perfect.
In Cranford, we meet many of its residents with most of the focus on 2 spinster sisters and their surrounding friends and relatives. Everyone is kind here and look out for their neighbors and generally want to live correctly and do the right thing. Their village has been like this for ages and the citizens have all known eachother since birth. It is an idyllic place and a happy place. They welcome new residents, too, with every bit of friendliness.
Cranford has existed in the same way for years, even though times are changing. A railroad may come through the town and most residents are against this type of change. For with the positive changes-- such as information, goods, and knowledge, there would also be negative changes-- more transients, less safety, etc.
The intertwined story lines here involve the two sisters, class distinctions, entitlements and expectations, a very funny love triangle, and accepting change and modernity.
One of the best stories involves the young son of a poacher (one who kills animals on others' land). The manager of the aristocrat's large estate takes the young boy under his wing and wants to teach him to read and write. The aristocratic Lady finds out and believes that those of this underclass should not attempt to learn skills outside their "class". Maybe worse, the boy's father finds out of the boy's desire to read and also disapproves. We find out later that the Lady isn't cold-hearted. On the contrary. She's kind-hearted and full of pain, yet it's difficult for her to recognize the times are changing and that some of her ways must change, too.
When a new handsome doctor moves to town, he immediately falls for Sophy. Sophy returns his admiration, yet so do 2 others who misunderstand his general kindness for more romantic intentions. This culminates in expected confusion, but the outcome is happy at the end.
Those watching Cranford from the beginning may take it to be an old-fashioned chick-flick. It's really not, though. It does focus on the women of Cranford more than the men, but the stories depicted cross gender lines. Change-- industrialization-- is the antagonist here, along with fear of change. However, as new medical practices save several lives, and a member of the trade class saves a member of the Upper class, it's also obvious that change, by itself, isn't bad. It can be positive for everyone involved.
This is a fantastic series. The only disappointment was that it was only five hours! I definitely could have watched another few episodes with the same interest these five held. Beautifully acted, filmed, and scored. The entire film was thoroughly enjoyable.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Cranford (2009)

It's the 1840s, and Cranford is on the cusp of change. The railway is pushing its way relentlessly towards town, bringing fears of migrant workers and the breakdown of law and order. The arrival of Frank Harrison, a handsome new doctor from London, causes a stir, not only because of his revolutionary medical methods, but also because of the effect he has on many female hearts in the town.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about Cranford (2009)

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 8 & 9 (2002) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've watched the entire series a number of times on PBS and BBC America. VHS or DVD videos of all series now available have a prominent place in my video library. If you are totally fed up with the foul language, gratitious sex and nudity and the absolute stupidity of 99% of American TV fare this series is for you. The subtle humor, tenderness, and great acting by Judi Dench, Geoffrey Palmer and the rest of the cast make for an unforgettable story that will have you rolling on the floor and/or shedding a few tears. I admit to being completely hooked!

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 8 & 9 (2002)

Once upon a time, a dashing young British Army officer and a lovely student nurse fell deeply, magically in love. Then he was shipped off to Korea and they never heard from one another. Forty years later, fate brings them together again ... with hilarious results. In this collection of final classic episodes, Alistair and Judith prepare for their wedding. Harry gets an offer to start a new life in Canada, but will Sandy be a part of it? As the younger generation starts to move on, the house begins to feel empty for Jean and Lionel. But a mystery woman on their doorstep and a surprise reappearance ensure things won't be dull for long. DVD Features:Biographies:Cast biosInterviews:Interviews with members of the cast (Geoffrey Palmer, Moira Brooker, Philip Bretherton)

Get 42% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 8 & 9 (2002)

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 1 & 2 (1992) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Imagine my excitement when I found that the first two seasons of "As Time Goes By" are heading for the DVD format. It is simply a wonderful series, well-deserving of such good video treatment. The previous season to be released on DVD (season 4) looked absolutely stunning in the crystal clear format. The images just came alive. Very beautiful. I already own these episodes on VHS, but there is no question that I will more than happily re-buy them.
"As Time Goes By" begins here with Lionel Hardcastle (the sublime Geoffrey Palmer) needing a secretary to help type-up the manuscript to his new book "My Life In Kenya". The secretarial agency he hires is run by Jean Pargetter (the great Judi Dench). Lionel and Jean meet, and realize that they used to be sweethearts 38 years previous, in the few short months before Lionel was sent away to the Korean War. After they parted, they lost touch, got re-married, and moved on with their lives. Now Jean is widowed and Lionel is divorced, and the stage is set for a possibly warm reunion.
Warm is not the word to describe the first season, however. The romance is very up and down, and there are actually other *possible* love interests that come into the fray. But the season does have its positively sweet moments -- pre-cursors of the enjoyable situations to come. And I found the up & down nature of the romance at first one of the more believable elements. Relationships aren't always easy, whether new or old, and to show that two people who are really meant for each other may hit some bumps along the way, almost makes the romance that much more satisfying when things start working out.
I love "As Time Goes By". There are very few TV series that I can say that about - less than I can count on one hand - but this is one of them. The writing is always impeccable, the acting superb, and the stories warm and funny. And on DVD, it all looks great. I wish more shows were like it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 1 & 2 (1992)

"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.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 1 & 2 (1992)

As Time Goes By - Complete Series 7 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is just a fabulously entertaining television series -- funny and sweet. Although the seasons are short compared to US Shows (This set has 7 episodes), they're enjoyable enough that they're worth it. (Great things come in small packages.) Here's a quick summary of the episodes:
1. Jean suspects Lionel is going deaf, but he resists going to the doctor. Meanwhile, Lionel becomes convinced that Jean is having problems with her eyes.
2. Jean & Lionel take a parental interest in Harry, Sandy's policeman boyfriend. Yet the affairs of the younger generation seem to diminish in importance when Jean receives a phone message from an old flame.
3. Jean undertakes some strategic snooping to discover what the new neighbors are like. How is it they show up at the pub with black eyes?
4. The whole gang heads out to the country for the weekend. But road construction is about to throw the travelers for a loop.
5. Jean's brother, Stephen, and his wife are expected for another visit. To the Hardcastles' surprise, they arrive via separate modes of transportation to announce that they are having a tiff.
6. Jean gets everyone, including Lionel's father and stepmother, to help out with her old-age party at the church hall. Lionel is anxious about the whole idea, especially after being told to watch out for Mrs. Thrupp.
7. The Duncans abruptly vacate the dwelling next door, and Judith has the wonderful idea that she and Alistair move in. Lionel has his reservations, but they are nothing compared to the reservations of Judith when Alistair makes a surprising proposal.

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By - Complete Series 7

Once upon a time, a dashing young British Army officer and a lovely student nurse fell deeply, magically in love. Then he was shipped off to Korea and they never heard from one another. Forty years later, fate brings them together again... with hilarious results. In this collection of classic episodes, Jean has issues with her new neighbors, Lionel deals with his hearing loss, and Judith and Sandy both have memorable encounters with their suitors.

Get 42% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By - Complete Series 7

As Time Goes By: Complete Original Series Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is truly a series not to be missed. Rarely does a comedy come along with such gentle sweetness that it touches our hearts forever. And that is exactly what this series does. Join Lionel and Jean, who fell deeply in love once upon a time, and accidently rediscover one another 38 years later. The love and hilarity that follow will make you both laugh and cry. Follow the rocky love adventures of Judith, Jean's daughter, and her friend Sandy. And speaking of rocky, don't miss Lionel's hilarious, eccentric father, Rocky and his darling bride, Madge. There's also Mrs. Bales and her constant weather forecasts in the Channel, Alistair and his flash ways, and Jean's sister-in-law, Penny, and her husband, Stephen, all of whom provide much enjoyment and many delights along the way. The acting is so well done and the characters so well developed that they will become your friends and your family along this pleasant journey. This is truly a show that you will want to watch and watch and watch again... as time goes by.
This complete series is contained on eleven discs. If you buy this set, or season 8 and 9, you won't need the additional DVD entitled, "You Must Remember This," as it is contained in both these sets. This is a great price for the entire series at one pop. Also, don't miss the "Reunion Special" that was subsequently released.
So once again, if you're looking for a show with plenty of love, laughter, and charm, then this is definetly the one to try. Go out and get a copy today; you won't regret it.
Smash B

Click Here to see more reviews about: As Time Goes By: Complete Original Series

Item Name: As Time Goes By - Complete Original Series; Studio:BBC Warner

Get 47% OFF

Click here for more information about As Time Goes By: Complete Original Series