Reviews Written By: APBNLLYCJM8YEprovided by Amazon.com |
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 | The Man Who Would Be King | |
 | "Excellent movie - spoiled by uncontrolled subtitles." | 2009-06-30 |
| 'The Man who would be King', is a classic tale - and this movie makes just about the best of it quite easily. The acting, the script, the direction and the all round production OF THE MOVIE, is superlative. The actual movie warrants a full Five Star rating. HOWEVER, the copy I received split the movie into two halves. This is far from satisfactory - even if there are no other faults, omissions and production problems. My DVD started with bang, but had sub-titles emblazoned under the picture. This was extremely distracting and ruined full enjoyment of the wonderful movie. I tried, many times, to find an 'editing' page (as is so often available) whereby I could delete the sub-titles, but none was available. BUT WAIT - After turning the disc and watching the entire second half, there appeared on screen a 'Title Page' - such as I had sought earlier. It appeared possible to cancel the sub-titles - except that when one returned to the first half, the sub-titles returned to mock me!! I am truly at a loss to understand how this complete 'Horlicks' could come to exist. Many things come to mind - including the thought that maybe, just maybe, a madman had edited the movie! I repeat, the story and the movie are truly first class. If one enjoys a good rollicking adventure movie, this is definitely your 'cup of tea'. Caine and Connery are superb - truly superb. However, sadly, you need to steel yourself to suffer endless subtitles throughout this DVD. | ||
 | The Man Who Would Be King | |
| "Excellent movie - spoiled by uncontrolled subtitles." | 2009-06-30 |
| 'The Man who would be King', is a classic tale - and this movie makes just about the best of it quite easily. The acting, the script, the direction and the all round production OF THE MOVIE, is superlative. The actual movie warrants a full Five Star rating. HOWEVER, the copy I received split the movie into two halves. This is far from satisfactory - even if there are no other faults, omissions and production problems. My DVD started with bang, but had sub-titles emblazoned under the picture. This was extremely distracting and ruined full enjoyment of the wonderful movie. I tried, many times, to find an 'editing' page (as is so often available) whereby I could delete the sub-titles, but none was available. BUT WAIT - After turning the disc and watching the entire second half, there appeared on screen a 'Title Page' - such as I had sought earlier. It appeared possible to cancel the sub-titles - except that when one returned to the first half, the sub-titles returned to mock me!! I am truly at a loss to understand how this complete 'Horlicks' could come to exist. Many things come to mind - including the thought that maybe, just maybe, a madman had edited the movie! I repeat, the story and the movie are truly first class. If one enjoys a good rollicking adventure movie, this is definitely your 'cup of tea'. Caine and Connery are superb - truly superb. However, sadly, you need to steel yourself to suffer endless subtitles throughout this DVD. | ||
 | The Man Who Would Be King | |
| "Excellent movie - spoiled by uncontrolled subtitles." | 2009-06-30 |
| 'The Man who would be King', is a classic tale - and this movie makes just about the best of it quite easily. The acting, the script, the direction and the all round production OF THE MOVIE, is superlative. The actual movie warrants a full Five Star rating. HOWEVER, the copy I received split the movie into two halves. This is far from satisfactory - even if there are no other faults, omissions and production problems. My DVD started with bang, but had sub-titles emblazoned under the picture. This was extremely distracting and ruined full enjoyment of the wonderful movie. I tried, many times, to find an 'editing' page (as is so often available) whereby I could delete the sub-titles, but none was available. BUT WAIT - After turning the disc and watching the entire second half, there appeared on screen a 'Title Page' - such as I had sought earlier. It appeared possible to cancel the sub-titles - except that when one returned to the first half, the sub-titles returned to mock me!! I am truly at a loss to understand how this complete 'Horlicks' could come to exist. Many things come to mind - including the thought that maybe, just maybe, a madman had edited the movie! I repeat, the story and the movie are truly first class. If one enjoys a good rollicking adventure movie, this is definitely your 'cup of tea'. Caine and Connery are superb - truly superb. However, sadly, you need to steel yourself to suffer endless subtitles throughout this DVD. | ||
 | The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes | |
 | "I'd give it 6 stars - if I could!" | 2009-06-23 |
| This must be up among the top 50 films of all time - really! Only those people unfortunate enough not to enjoy quiet humour, will disagree with my assessment of this wonderful film. Wilder excels at Directing and the actors all perform with high ability. The cameo role of Mrs Hudson, as played by that gem of an actress Irene Handl, shouldn't be missed! This is a super movie. The story rolls easily along and the viewer is transported back in time to a much more pleasant era - but one not without diabolical crime and criminals. Holmes is sorely pressed to solve the crimes; which he does, of course, in spite of Dr Watson. | ||
 | The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes | |
| "I'd give it 6 stars - if I could!" | 2009-06-23 |
| This must be up among the top 50 films of all time - really! Only those people unfortunate enough not to enjoy quiet humour, will disagree with my assessment of this wonderful film. Wilder excels at Directing and the actors all perform with high ability. The cameo role of Mrs Hudson, as played by that gem of an actress Irene Handl, shouldn't be missed! This is a super movie. The story rolls easily along and the viewer is transported back in time to a much more pleasant era - but one not without diabolical crime and criminals. Holmes is sorely pressed to solve the crimes; which he does, of course, in spite of Dr Watson. | ||
 | My Favorite Wife | |
| "Classic - in the age of Classic movies.." | 2009-05-19 |
| Since this film was made, the plot has been copied, changed around and generally abominated, by more than one script writer, film-maker, or author. I would be lying if I pretended to KNOW that this version was the original. I CAN say, it is the best I have seen, of the many copies. Both Cary Grant and Irene Dunne 'feed' off one another remarkably well and produce a movie that is truly enjoyable - bearing in mind the age it was made. Modern film-makers have the advantage of high technology to enhance even the most mundane of movies. This film was made honestly, with old fashioned methods and 'in the available light'. It is a Classic, in the age of Classics. It deserves being seen. | ||
 | My Favorite Wife | |
| "Classic - in the age of Classic movies.." | 2009-05-19 |
| Since this film was made, the plot has been copied, changed around and generally abominated, by more than one script writer, film-maker, or author. I would be lying if I pretended to KNOW that this version was the original. I CAN say, it is the best I have seen, of the many copies. Both Cary Grant and Irene Dunne 'feed' off one another remarkably well and produce a movie that is truly enjoyable - bearing in mind the age it was made. Modern film-makers have the advantage of high technology to enhance even the most mundane of movies. This film was made honestly, with old fashioned methods and 'in the available light'. It is a Classic, in the age of Classics. It deserves being seen. | ||
 | Sweet Smell of Success | |
| "A truly great, no nonsense movie!" | 2009-02-15 |
| The very first movies, relied upon exaggerated acting and the actors' good looks. Then, along came the 'talkies' - and voices assumed great importance. With the advent of 'talkies' came the necessity to tell a good story - cinematically. Today, the emphasis is all on 'special effects', 'shock value', 'sex, and foul language. For a relatively brief period between the coming of talkies and the modern cinematographic masterpieces, there was a halcyon period where excellently acted and expertly directed films were made of exceptionally good stories - often based on first rate novels. 'The Sweet Smell of Success' is one such movie. The actors are highly competent, the acting is superb, the story is great and the direction is first rate. 'The Sweet Smell of Success' comes together exceptionally well and is a first rate movie in all respects. I would recommend it to anyone who wishes first rate entertainment. | ||
 | Sweet Smell of Success | |
| "A truly great, no nonsense movie!" | 2009-02-15 |
| The very first movies, relied upon exaggerated acting and the actors' good looks. Then, along came the 'talkies' - and voices assumed great importance. With the advent of 'talkies' came the necessity to tell a good story - cinematically. Today, the emphasis is all on 'special effects', 'shock value', 'sex, and foul language. For a relatively brief period between the coming of talkies and the modern cinematographic masterpieces, there was a halcyon period where excellently acted and expertly directed films were made of exceptionally good stories - often based on first rate novels. 'The Sweet Smell of Success' is one such movie. The actors are highly competent, the acting is superb, the story is great and the direction is first rate. 'The Sweet Smell of Success' comes together exceptionally well and is a first rate movie in all respects. I would recommend it to anyone who wishes first rate entertainment. | ||
 | Something's Gotta Give / As Good as It Gets | |
 | "Very entertaining movie." | 2009-01-07 |
| The great cast make this movie genuinely outstanding. Nicholson and Hunt, in particular, are truly superb. The script is well crafted and, at the end, one is aware that one has viewed a hugely entertaining film. | ||
 | The Maltese Falcon | |
| "Movie mastery throughout" | 2008-09-07 |
| How do you review an acknowledged classic movie? One must say that, of its kind, 'The Maltese Falcon' is justifiably classified as among the very best. I refer, of course and only, to the Humphrey Bogart, Sydney Greenstreet and Peter Lore version. These 'old' black and white movies probably appear very 'out of date' to many younger people. This might be, but the films themselves are masterpieces. They rely on acting, directing and a good story to carry them along. Today, with all the bells and whistles - particularly the 'special effects', absolute rubbish is often considered good entertainment. Not so in the days gone by. Then, quality HAD to be evident, or the movies flopped. The Maltese Falcon, Bogart edition, is supremely good in all respects and the colour doesn't matter in the slightest. The surplus and absolutely redundant 'extras' included can, without loss, be left unopened! | ||
 | Poirot Collection (4pc) | |
| "Perfect Poirot,- perpetually personifying perspicacity." | 2008-09-07 |
| David Suchet is the quintessential Poirot. It will be a long, long time before anyone will again be able to play the role convincingly, after the superlative portrayal of the splendid Belgium Detective dreamed up by Agatha Christie.br /br /To see Suchet as Poirot, is to believe the character has come alive before your very eyes. None could give the Christie stories more credence, than David Suchet - a consummate actor. | ||
 | Agatha Christie's Miss Marple - The Classic Mysteries Collection | |
| "Marvellous Miss Marple." | 2008-09-07 |
| There have been many Miss Marples, throughout the time since Agatha Christie first fictionalised the character. Stage, films and television have all been vehicles for the portrayal of the elderly sleuth. Each of the actresses, portraying the venerable character, will have their champions of course. In my time, there have been three main portrayals of Christie's competent and cognitive character. Margaret Rutherford played a slightly 'dotty' version excellently. Lately, we have had Geraldine McEwan playing the part superbly well. However, my favourite has always been Joan Hickson's portrayal. Hickson manages, excellently, to maintain the elderly and slightly uncertain character that I feel Christie intended. However, her occasional dithering doesn't deter her from displaying her devilishly sharp wits, when it comes to the 'crunch'! A true delight to view. The Series is excellent value. | ||
 | The Apartment | |
| "Delicious 'Lemmonaid'!" | 2008-08-03 |
| It SHOULD be sufficient to report that Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine feature in this superb classic movie. These two superb actors, carry this brilliant story and script along, effortlessly. Supporting cast members also contribute although to be honest I, personally, have never liked Fred McMurray in 'bad guy' roles. This doesn't detract from his acting ability, though. This is a super movie and there must, in all honesty, be something wrong with anyone who doesn't find it a rattling good tale - brilliantly acted and Directed throughout. | ||
 | Agatha Christie's Poirot - The Classic Collection | |
| "Perfect Poirot!" | 2008-08-03 |
| This Hercule Poirot series - starring David Suchet as Agatha Christie's famous Belgium sleuth - is superb for all who enjoy a good story, excellent believable acting, and authentic backgrounds. Suchet plays Poirot in such a manner that it is truly doubtful that, anyone will attempt to play Poirot again, for a very long time. Suchet, has made Poirot his own. This collection has Captain Hastings, Inspector Japp and Miss Lemon, all doing their part - most ably - but Suchet steals the show with his brilliant portrayal of Christie's character. If one enjoys a wonderful story, intriguing plot and superb acting, none can be disappointed in this brilliantly acted series. | ||
 | A Guide for the Married Man | |
| "Not top drawer - but close." | 2008-08-03 |
| This movie lacks only one thing - believeability. The acting, especially by Mattheu, is tremendous but the storyline leaves one shaking one's head. I am aware that fantasy and 'stretching the point' is acceptable in films, but somehow, one hopes for better when Mattheu is involved. It is good enough entertainment, but I feel unable to grant the movie any more than four stars - it would have been three stars, except for Mattheu's performance. | ||
 | The Fortune Cookie | |
| "Lemmon and Mattheu - who needs more?" | 2008-08-03 |
| Walter Matthew and Jack Lemmon can't have made many bad movies - at least, not until the end of their careers when the 'Grumpy Men' duo rather spolied their (previously superb) record. 'The Fortune Cookie' is, likely, one of their best - although they made so many 'bests'! This movie has a great script, possible storyline and brilliant acting. Nothing else is needed, surely? It is simply a great and classic movie. | ||
 | The Apartment | |
| "Delicious 'Lemmonaid'!" | 2008-08-03 |
| It SHOULD be sufficient to report that Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine feature in this superb classic movie. These two superb actors, carry this brilliant story and script along, effortlessly. Supporting cast members also contribute although to be honest I, personally, have never liked Fred McMurray in 'bad guy' roles. This doesn't detract from his acting ability, though. This is a super movie and there must, in all honesty, be something wrong with anyone who doesn't find it a rattling good tale - brilliantly acted and Directed throughout. | ||
 | The Fortune Cookie | |
| "Lemmon and Mattheu - who needs more?" | 2008-08-03 |
| Walter Matthew and Jack Lemmon can't have made many bad movies - at least, not until the end of their careers when the 'Grumpy Men' duo rather spolied their (previously superb) record. 'The Fortune Cookie' is, likely, one of their best - although they made so many 'bests'! This movie has a great script, possible storyline and brilliant acting. Nothing else is needed, surely? It is simply a great and classic movie. | ||
| The Fortune Cookie | |
| "Lemmon and Mattheu - who needs more?" | 2008-08-03 |
| Walter Matthew and Jack Lemmon can't have made many bad movies - at least, not until the end of their careers when the 'Grumpy Men' duo rather spolied their (previously superb) record.
'The Fortune Cookie' is, likely, one of their best - although they made so many 'bests'! This movie has a great script, possible storyline and brilliant acting. Nothing else is needed, surely? It is simply a great and classic movie. | ||
 | Midway (Collector's Edition) | |
| "Midway was quite some ride!" | 2008-07-05 |
| WW2 movies abound. They vary in worth from considerable to worthless, in as far as historical value goes. Some score high marks for entertainment value, while others stick more to the truth. I suppose which is more worthy of acclaim, depends upon what the viewer wants. Personally, I want truthful movies, when they purport to be such. THIS IS ONE SUCH MOVIE, in my opinion. Bearing in mind that a movie that is 100% accurate is virtually impossible, this movie does exceedingly well in the truth stakes. Sadly, a few scenes are not as clear to the viewer, as might be thought desireable. These are few - happily. By paying full attention, most of the action - and the reason for it - can be followed. One picayune point, caused by the inclusion of actual war-time film footage, is that some shots of the action are seen which have appeared in other movies. In particular are some shots shown, also, in the movie Tora! Tora! Tora! However, maybe not everyone notes such things, when they view movies. MIDWAY was a pivotal sea battle. Of this there is no doubt. Had the Americans lost it, it is more than likely that the war in the Pacific would have lasted much, much, longer. American production capabilities, at the time, would have assured the eventual winning of the war, but that would have taken time - much time! The movie MIDWAY does much, to show exactly how and why this battle was so pivotal. It also doesn't shirk the fact that, like almost all pivotal battles on land and sea, luck plays an important and unforeseen part - one way or another! However, it was men who made the various decisions and many of these decisions were critical to the successful outcome - for the Americans. This movie tells the story very well indeed. In my humble view, this movie ranks in the top twenty of war movies of all time. | ||
 | Midway | |
| "Midway was quite some ride!" | 2008-07-05 |
| WW2 movies abound. They vary in worth from considerable to worthless, in as far as historical value goes. Some score high marks for entertainment value, while others stick more to the truth. I suppose which is more worthy of acclaim, depends upon what the viewer wants. Personally, I want truthful movies, when they purport to be such. THIS IS ONE SUCH MOVIE, in my opinion. Bearing in mind that a movie that is 100% accurate is virtually impossible, this movie does exceedingly well in the truth stakes. Sadly, a few scenes are not as clear to the viewer, as might be thought desireable. These are few - happily. By paying full attention, most of the action - and the reason for it - can be followed. One picayune point, caused by the inclusion of actual war-time film footage, is that some shots of the action are seen which have appeared in other movies. In particular are some shots shown, also, in the movie Tora! Tora! Tora! However, maybe not everyone notes such things, when they view movies. MIDWAY was a pivotal sea battle. Of this there is no doubt. Had the Americans lost it, it is more than likely that the war in the Pacific would have lasted much, much, longer. American production capabilities, at the time, would have assured the eventual winning of the war, but that would have taken time - much time! The movie MIDWAY does much, to show exactly how and why this battle was so pivotal. It also doesn't shirk the fact that, like almost all pivotal battles on land and sea, luck plays an important and unforeseen part - one way or another! However, it was men who made the various decisions and many of these decisions were critical to the successful outcome - for the Americans. This movie tells the story very well indeed. In my humble view, this movie ranks in the top twenty of war movies of all time. | ||
 | Midsomer Murders Set 6 | |
| "Murder mysteries in magnificent Midsomer" | 2007-11-09 |
| If British Detective stories are to your liking, the Midsomer Murder Mysteries will completely captivate your attention and your pleasure.
Set in the most English of English countrysides, Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby (played, admirably, by John Nettles) solves the most devious of crimes with intuition, common sense, luck - and humour. Occasionally, a bright suggestion from his Sergeant leads to the solution and, if this happens, Barnaby is the first to admit it. Barnaby's Sergeant, his 'side-kick', plays an integral part in every story. In the beginning Detective Sergeant Troy, played by Daniel Casey, was Tom Barnaby's 'bag carrier' but, later, Detective Sergeant Dan Scott (played by John Hopkins) took over the role. Both these men were admirable in the part - although each had an individual slant to it. Barnaby's devoted and supportive wife, and his intelligent daughter, both play a role in the series' - to advantage. Without intruding, they manage to instill a realism to the story which is pleasing. If British Detection stories are your 'thing', this magnificent series' is for you. You will NOT be disappointed. You have my word for it! | ||
 | A Private Function | |
| "Palin deals with pig's feet - and a class conscious community." | 2007-05-25 |
| This is such a good and well crafted film, it is difficult to accept that it is also a very factual history lesson. The setting is a small North of England town in 1947. Although WW2 has been over for 2 years, Socialism has greedily kept its iron, war-time hand, on the country as a whole. Shortages are severe and restrictions are strict. Food rationing is still very much in force and government inspectors are plentiful. The upcoming wedding of Princess Elizabeth to Prince Philip prompts the local 'big-wigs' to engage in actions that are far from legal, in an attempt to hold a civic feast to mark the occasion. A newcomer to the community (Palin), while carrying out his chiropodist's function with much success, doesn't 'fit in' with the local dignitaries - in particular, with the Local Doctor (Denholm Elliott). After a series of odd - and often hilarious - escapades, Palin and his Class obsessed wife (Maggie Smith) find themselves invited to the civic feast after all. This film is a true gem of English film humour and genuine acting talent. As a social history of England and its class-conscious society, prior to (say) 1970, it is of the greatest interest and veracity. The acting, throughout, is first rate and Richard Griffiths, Pete, Postlethwaite and Bill Paterson give exemplary performances as they lead a very talented cast of extras. | ||
 | A Private Function | |
| "Palin deals with pig's feet - and a class conscious community." | 2007-05-25 |
| This is such a good and well crafted film, it is difficult to accept that it is also a very factual history lesson. The setting is a small North of England town in 1947. Although WW2 has been over for 2 years, Socialism has greedily kept its iron, war-time hand, on the country as a whole. Shortages are severe and restrictions are strict. Food rationing is still very much in force and government inspectors are plentiful. The upcoming wedding of Princess Elizabeth to Prince Philip prompts the local 'big-wigs' to engage in actions that are far from legal, in an attempt to hold a civic feast to mark the occasion. A newcomer to the community (Palin), while carrying out his chiropodist's function with much success, doesn't 'fit in' with the local dignitaries - in particular, with the Local Doctor (Denholm Elliott). After a series of odd - and often hilarious - escapades, Palin and his Class obsessed wife (Maggie Smith) find themselves invited to the civic feast after all. This film is a true gem of English film humour and genuine acting talent. As a social history of England and its class-conscious society, prior to (say) 1970, it is of the greatest interest and veracity. The acting, throughout, is first rate and Richard Griffiths, Pete, Postlethwaite and Bill Paterson give exemplary performances as they lead a very talented cast of extras. | ||
 | The Rockford Files - Season Two | |
| "Rockford rocks!" | 2007-01-03 |
| 'The Rockford Files' was one of the first blockbuster shows on TV - in my opinion. Millions tuned in every week, to view the latest episode. Seldom were they disappointed. At last the public had a human detective - not an invincible paragon. Garner's acting played a large part in the show, but the supporting cast was excellent. Jim Rockford found his way into many hearts - and almost as many homes! On this DVD, the wholesome excellence of the show shines through and the delight obtained from the TV series lives on. One of the top North American Detective programmes - ever. Only a few British detective gendre productions are superior. Praise indeed, for 'The Rockford Files'. One serious criticism - which has NOTHING to do with the show - Universal Studios, with customary greed and avarice, pack so many 'commercials' into the DVD one wonders if the paid-for show will ever appear! Shame on these money grubbing corporations! | ||
 | The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete First Season | |
| "Moore of the same, please!" | 2006-11-05 |
| In the golden years of Television - indeed in the golden years of Entertainment - quality was important. Performers on TV had honed their skills, during years of endeavour in halls and theatres across the country, perfecting their work. Musicians - of all forms of music - played proper instruments with virtuoso ability. Lyrics could be understood and the musical sound replicated - because it was written down and 'scored'. Actors, musicians, dancers, etc., all had 'great ability'. Even in this milieu, some performers stood out as exceptional. When thoroughly competent TV directors and skilled television technicians were able to work with these outstanding performers, shows of exceptional quality and were produced. Mary Tyler Moore had an ability and an aura about her that was rare. The 'situation comedy', a long cherished and much loved TV art-form, seemed to have been made for her and her many skills. Moore's first great TV success was in the Dick Van Dyke Show. Then, when she starred in her own shows, Moore was magnificent. The Mary Tyler Moore Show was produced and directd by consumate experts. Add to this a particularly high standing of casting, which ensured only the best supporting actors,and the Mary Tyler Moore Show was destined to be in the 'Top Flight' of its gendre. Importantly however, unlike the crass and peurile content of so much 'entertainment' today, the Mary Tyler Moore Show ( and other great shows of the era) contained no gratuitous violence, no explicit sex or nudity, and no foul or blasphemous language. The show was humourous without being coarse and was, truly, a delight to watch. | ||
 | The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete Third Season (1972) | |
| "Moore of the same, please!" | 2006-11-05 |
| In the golden years of Television - indeed in the golden years of Entertainment - quality was important. Performers on TV had honed their skills, during years of endeavour in halls and theatres across the country, perfecting their work. Musicians - of all forms of music - played proper instruments with virtuoso ability. Lyrics could be understood and the musical sound replicated - because it was written down and 'scored'. Actors, musicians, dancers, etc., all had 'great ability'. Even in this milieu, some performers stood out as exceptional. When thoroughly competent TV directors and skilled television technicians were able to work with these outstanding performers, shows of exceptional quality and were produced. Mary Tyler Moore had an ability and an aura about her that was rare. The 'situation comedy', a long cherished and much loved TV art-form, seemed to have been made for her and her many skills. Moore's first great TV success was in the Dick Van Dyke Show. Then, when she starred in her own shows, Moore was magnificent. The Mary Tyler Moore Show was produced and directd by consumate experts. Add to this a particularly high standing of casting, which ensured only the best supporting actors,and the Mary Tyler Moore Show was destined to be in the 'Top Flight' of its gendre. Importantly however, unlike the crass and peurile content of so much 'entertainment' today, the Mary Tyler Moore Show ( and other great shows of the era) contained no gratuitous violence, no explicit sex or nudity, and no foul or blasphemous language. The show was humourous without being coarse and was, truly, a delight to watch. | ||
 | The Mary Tyler Moore Show - The Complete Second Season | |
| "Moore of the same, please!" | 2006-11-05 |
| In the golden years of Television - indeed in the golden years of Entertainment - quality was important. Performers on TV had honed their skills, during years of endeavour in halls and theatres across the country, perfecting their work. Musicians - of all forms of music - played proper instruments with virtuoso ability. Lyrics could be understood and the musical sound replicated - because it was written down and 'scored'. Actors, musicians, dancers, etc., all had 'great ability'. Even in this milieu, some performers stood out as exceptional. When thoroughly competent TV directors and skilled television technicians were able to work with these outstanding performers, shows of exceptional quality and were produced. Mary Tyler Moore had an ability and an aura about her that was rare. The 'situation comedy', a long cherished and much loved TV art-form, seemed to have been made for her and her many skills. Moore's first great TV success was in the Dick Van Dyke Show. Then, when she starred in her own shows, Moore was magnificent. The Mary Tyler Moore Show was produced and directd by consumate experts. Add to this a particularly high standing of casting, which ensured only the best supporting actors,and the Mary Tyler Moore Show was destined to be in the 'Top Flight' of its gendre. Importantly however, unlike the crass and peurile content of so much 'entertainment' today, the Mary Tyler Moore Show ( and other great shows of the era) contained no gratuitous violence, no explicit sex or nudity, and no foul or blasphemous language. The show was humourous without being coarse and was, truly, a delight to watch. | ||
 | Ballykissangel - Complete Series Two | |
| "'Heavenonearth'" | 2006-07-08 |
| In a show which appears to abound with possible anomalies, unexpectedly comes the most profound commonsense and, with it, immense enjoyment. In a most unlikely Irish village, live a most unlikely group of villagers. A group which includes the good, the bad, and the rather stupid. Overseer, at the top of the hierarchy, is a non too pleasant, but feared, senior Priest. The foregoing would hardly make an aceptable show - let alone a great one. Ballykissangel is made great, truly great, by the inclusion to the above characters of a raw English born Priest, an attractive but atheist female Publican, a conscientious but fallible Policeman, a caring Schoolmaster and, lastly but crucially, a lovable rogue of a Businessman. It would be unfair to pick any one actor as superior. The main characters are superbly played by the cast, while the 'lesser lights' are no less deserving of high praise. Ballykissangel is a 'Fairy Tale', in that good invariably triumphs over evil but, the convoluted stories which evolve from the behaviour of the residents of this small community are suspenseful and highly entertaining. The writing, like the acting, is first rate. This must be one of the most viewable of all the Drama/Comedies ever produced. One wishes one could live in Ballykissangel! | ||
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