The film itself has a very gothic feel, filmed at night so there are plenty of shadows and blacks. I actually watched this on Blu-ray and to be honest the picture quality was stunning. Blacks were Black and there was grain whatsoever to the picture.
The Blu-ray edition has two versions of the film, a theatrical version and Directors Cut version. Although this film is several years old now, it really has been bought back to life and feels like a film that has been made recently. The plot is very good, the characters are well played. The 7.1 Soundtrack sounded amazing even though I had it playing through a 5.1 system.
There are a few special features to get a bit more value for what you pay, but two versions of the film present this disc as a really worthy purchase.
As standards of Blu-rays get better, this is definitely a disc to set the standard by.
John Murdock wakes to find himself in a bath, having no recollection of who he is or why he is there, only that a dead womans body is also in the room with him with a blood covered knife. Searching to try and clear his name puts him on a path to that could effect the whole of the City.
This is a excellent film, all ages can watch it and when it's is finished you'll feel great - it makes you feel happy about life!
Due to circumstances beyond his control, Will finds himself having to adapt quickly to a new life. He moves from a private school to a modern Comprehensive and has to handle the cruelty that plagues every teenage boy. He gradually makes several new friends and together they attempt to deal with everyday life in the sixth form.
Unfortunately for Will his new found mates are more idiotic than he is. Simon is madly in love with the girl he grew up with. Jay is utterly obsessed with the opposite sex and Neil simply put, isn't the sharpest knife in the box.
The Inbetweeners manages to fit in lashings of insults, smut and bad language, but manages to intelligently combine this with everyday teenage situations with a clever witty script. It sits comfortably between Two Pints of Lager and Peep Show.
Cringe worthy moments throughout the show bring Alan Partridge to mind. These include inadvertently injuring the disabled, vomiting over a young child and basically not knowing anything when it comes down to sex. In fact there are far too many of these moments to mention but Will, played by the excellent Simon Bird is at the centre of most of the situations and deals with them tremendously badly.
Damon Beesley and Iain Morris have written a great piece of comedy that is still fun to watch over and over again. It will obviously appeal to teenagers and young adults. But even those of us who left school many years ago will see some moments that will make us squirm, as we remember what growing up was really like. The girls, the drinking, the embarrassment and the frustration. The Inbetweeners sums up all the disappointment of adolescent life on one disc. Hilarious!
Steve McQueen's directorial debut is a brave and uncompromising attempt to chart the hunger strike led by Bobby Sands. Now, you must be warned, this is far from happy viewing. If you watch this expecting a cinematic race of emotions similar to that of Mamma Mia, you'll come away from this gruelling experience feeling assaulted, abused and stamped on. But it's important not to get hard-to-stomach images confused with bad film making, and this is certainly not the latter. Arguably the best British film of last year, and certainly the best Irish film, Hunger stays clear of the biopic clichés and takes a fairly neutral stance on the issue of the 1981 hunger strikes, which were targeted at the British Government in a protest after the prisoners where refused to be treated as "political prisoners". At times free from dialogue (a daring decision in itself), cinema and art are blended together by McQueen to make a fearless portrait of a complicated man. Of course, the images of Sands's food-starved body and prison abuse are powerful, but it is the central part of the film that is the real wonder to be appreciated here - a twenty minute conversation. If violence and nudity are the starter, and starvation is the dessert, this conversation is the main course, and proves why Steve McQueen is a talent to watch. Allegedly shot in just one take, this conversation is between Sands and Father Dominic Moran, and completely captivates as the two opinionated men pick over subjects such as suicide, martyrdom and the will of God. Heavy subjects for a heavy film, but by keeping this extended meeting as the prize scene in a film drawn from such extraordinary talent, McQueen manages to capture Sands's motive and drive without giving us an IRA soap-opera. Although proclaimed by many (including, to an extent, myself) as a hard-to-watch ordeal, Hunger is more than just a film, but an artistic event - an achievement that is equally as hard to ignore as it is to stomach.
The Children's Film Foundation commissioned and distributed films throughout the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Culturally their contribution is minor but there is undeniable historical interest. This collection packages two 55-minute 'supporting features' directed by Jan Darnley-Smith with three shorts.
Go Kart Go, a black-and-white effort from 1963, featuring rival street gangs (one nice, one nasty) in competition to win a race, could have come straight out of a contemporary comic like The Victor. Although formulaic, simple-minded, and overlong it is a reasonably entertaining diversion, depicting a world now long vanished, where children with names like 'Jimpy', 'Squirt', 'Stiggy', and 'Basher', spent all their time mucking about in sheds and on the local 'rec', using their energy and ingenuity to build contraptions, instead of spending all their time using their energy and ingenuity to build high scores on Playstation. At one point the kids add up the number of parents they have between them: "Let's see, there are six of us so that makes 12 parents." Yes: a world long ago.
Cue scenes of innocent fun in which children cause havoc by riding down the High Street in soapbox carts or a souped-up lawn mower goes berserk, creating comic chaos as it knocks over ladders and policemen. Fascinatingly, the cast includes Dennis Waterman (age 15), latterly of The Sweeney and New Tricks (how time flies!), and Frazer Hines (18) of Doctor Who and Emmerdale Farm. The action is well-staged and Ron Goodwin contributes a jolly and very contemporary score.
A Hitch in Time, though made 15 years later and in colour, looks cheaper and cruder. It was evidently shot on 16mm and both print and sound quality are poor. In the lamentably childish script (by T.E.B. Clarke, of all people) a 'mad inventor' uses his time machine to catapult two children through history, stopping off at various eras, encountering the same people or their ancestors. In a rather sad touch, Patrick Troughton (in this case post-Doctor Who) plays the inventor.
The opportunity to present an entertaining and educational jaunt through history is thrown away in favour of reprehensible caricaturing ("the Dark Ages - witches and things") and cheesy slapstick. In place of the Tardis, Troughton gets OSKA, a talking computer which blows a fuse with tedious predictability, and, in place of a decent score, Harry Robinson contributes some banal electronic burblings. If Go Kart Go does indeed represent the best of The Children's Film Foundation, A Hitch in Time is closer to the worst.
The two comedy shorts from the late 1960s, A Good Deed in Time and The Astronoughts, feature a gang of bungling kids known as The Magnificent Six and 1/2. A chore to sit through, they are short on talent and long on dismally unfunny pratfalls where people fall off things and get stuff thrown over them.
In this complete set, relive or why not try for the first time 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' from start to finish. The series will captivate almost any audience who are willing to give it a try. Become engulfed in this thrilling sci-fi set and along with Buffy and friends study the life of a 'Slayer' who holds the weight of the world on her shoulders and fall in love with the entire cast. In a world where vampires roam and unimaginable demons haunt the night, join the gang in the fight against evil. Do not be fooled into thinking that this is just a feel-good, teen action series. You can undoubtedly witness a deeper degree of meaning to the show as different metaphors for life arise episode by episode: high school is hell, power and the responsibility that comes with it, good and evil, innocence and experience, loss and sacrifice. The show can often explore further profound concepts and as much as it is a series about fantasy, it can also be very much about reality: relationships, purpose, solitude, suffering, life's lessons and even fate/prophesy. Many fans of the show will argue that it is also very easy to get emotionally invested in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' both the characters and the concept and it can be addictive - which some people really like. This set is filled also with bonus features enhancing it, though nothing more than can be found on the single season box sets. The set is also well-presented and the most reasonable way currently to own the entire series. The show ran for an admirable seven seasons and remains mostly fresh, entertaining and exciting throughout. I highly recommend it and feel assured that largely, you will not be disappointed.
Atmosphere
Cavalcanti's film, lays on the gas lit, smoke laden, beer-swilling atmosphere with great relish, and managed to really capture the boisterousness of a less restrained age, as well as giving both Tommy Trinder and Stanley Holloway a chance to deliver several songs, some of them contemporary, such as the title number which was a Victorian favourite, others musical numbers were especially written for this motion picture by Lord Berners and Tibby Clarke. The George Leybourne and The Great Vance feud was based on actual fact.
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Not Strictly Accurate.
This motion picture was not entirely accurate in its depiction of mid Victorian Music Halls. In reality these venues were large public houses. It was not until later in the 19th century that the United Kingdom saw emergence of the variety theatres with attained much greater respectability. Many reviewers have said this Ealing Studios depiction of 'Music Hall' was far too light-hearted and genteel, and missed poverty, sordidness, of the Dickensian period.
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One must however remember this motion picture was made in 1944 - during World War 2 - and cinemagoers wanted something to lift their spirits during those dark days of food rationing, identity cards and restrictions. This excellent British motion picture is notable for showing details of the audiences, venues, and staff complete with copious quantities of food and drink forming a vicarious delight for wartime audiences.
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One of the Music Hall venues in the motion picture is a fictional one called:- 'The Mogador' and the other venue used to really exist in London, England, United Kingdom. The Real Music Hall in the Motion Picture was the 'Oxford Music Hall London.
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About The 'Oxford Music Hall'
The site of the 'Oxford Music Hall, opened 26th March 1861, was located on the corner of Oxford Street & Tottenham Court Road, Westminster, London, England, United Kingdom. The site originally housed a public house called the Boar & Castle. The hall quickly became one of London's most popular music halls and was famous for its lively barmaids. The hall burned down on 11th February 1868 and again, 1st November 1872. Each time it was rebuilt and over the years the hall was enlarged. 1873, a square proscenium arch was installed and benches were replaced the supper tables. 1891 the Oxford became a 'Syndicate Hall' under the management of the company that also managed the Tivoli and London Pavilion. The theatre was rebuilt to a design by Wylson and Long, with a conventional stage, seating capacity:- 1,040 (including boxes), domed ceiling, opulently decorated interior, and reopened 31st January 1893.
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It was converted into a legitimate theatre during 1917. In 1921 the theatre was renovated by Charles Cochran, and a mixture of motion pictures and plays made up the entertainment programme. 1926, the theatre closed, and then was demolished. A large Lyons Corner House then occupied the site. Today, this much modified building is occupied by the first Virgin Megastore opened in 1979.
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Forget About The X Factor & Canned Entertainment.
This motion picture captures an era in which you had to be good to survive when performing to a 'live' audience. No backing tapes, microphones, etc. Artistes of the Music Hall Days had to know their business and how to handle audiences, who, if they disliked you they would show it in no uncertain manner. For me this motion picture evokes memories of my days in the 'Orchestra Pits' - On the Stages - In The Projection Boxes - of many theatres. Any student of theatre, performing arts, of cinema should not miss this gem of British cinema.
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Studio Recreation.
The 1860s stage and bar of the 'Oxford Music Hall' was recreated in Ealing Studios, London for the motion picture: "Champagne Charlie".
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In the gas lit music halls of the 1860's George Leybourne (1842 - 1884) a popular performer of the day, and his rival, Albert Vance (a.k.a. The Great Vance 1838 - 1888) try to outdo one another as performers and the bitter feud culminates in a crazy duel. Unfortunately, the very source of their livelihood - the Music Halls - are under threat from legitimate theatre owners who try to have them shut down as being disruptive, disorganised, disorderly, boisterous, venues. The rivals unite and succeed in satisfying the theatre inspectors there is nothing wrong with the hurly burly music halls.
Another great film of the Bourne Trilogy. Better than James Bond as no unnecessary dialogue and vague scenes we think Matt Damon is great in the role as Jason Bourne (or whatever his name ends up to be). The subtleness of filming and not overloading the film with dialogue produces a watchable film that you actually chase the plot in. So many action films are served on a plate and the obvious happens - not this one.
Great film
I never thought that it would be possible for a film to capture the essence of CS Lewis books, however, it has been done.
The film is not just about the special effects which are obviously very good but the spirit of what Lewis was trying to bring across the struggle between good and evil. Even though the storyline has been changed in places with different emphasis to make it 'filmable' it is entirely understandable.
We all loved the film as a family (10 - 43 in age range) and it is one of those films we have watched again and again as a family.
This is excellent family entertainment
Season 6 of Scrubs; though it remains amusing does suffer some lower points and signs that the show (unfortunately) may be wearing thin. This said, it's still Scrubs(!) which can mean both great comedy moments and dramatic, thought-provoking moments. My highlights this series include: The Laverne arc, 'My Musical' and different more inventive episodes like 'Their Story' and 'His Story IV.' On the other hand this series was a slight letdown for the following reasons: 'My Night to Remember,' the 'Kim/JD' plot and several mere 'average' episodes. It perhaps can also be too fantasy orientated (which some fans love) and absent of the real dramatic storylines of the earlier ones (which other fans love). Despite this, it is still a fundamental season for the overall plot of the show and definitely unmissable for any fan. As usual for Scrubs boxed sets, it includes great bonus features: cast interviews, outrageous outtakes and looks behind the scenes. Watching the episodes in series at your own pace is also good and enhances the experience. Overall, Scrubs is a hilarious comedy, but one not afraid to push the boundaries of genre and address hard-hitting concepts in dramatic fashion. This has been what has maintained its innovation so far. I would recommend Scrubs to anyone.
Boston Legal is an ingenious comedy drama following the antics of the lawyers at Crane, Poole and Schmidt. A spin-off from The Practise, Boston is an all together much lighter hearted affair which will have you quoting it's catchphrases in no time.
William Shatner seems so well moulded into his gun-loving, Republican Denny Crane character that he makes you wonder how much he is actually acting, whilst James Spader's wonderfully naughty Alan Shore gives closing arguments that will have you signing up to a Law Degree course before you can say "I object". This is compelling television, buy it, buy it now!
The first series of this ingenious comedy drama following the antics of the Lawyers at Crane, Poole and Schmidt.
Disney Pixar have pushed the boundaries yet again with their fantastic serving of 'Ratatouille'. This blu-Ray version serves up a treat for fans of computer animation; the colours are richer and brighter and the sound is crystal clear - and I have a bog-standard HD TV, not your all singing all dancing type. Every detail has been meticulously rendered - from the wet fur on each rat in the opening sequences to the scratch marks around the copper pans in the kitchen - all of which adds another dimension to a remarkable movie. If, like me, you want a visual feast to get your teeth into, then get Ratatouille on Blu Ray, sit down with your family and enjoy!
Disney Pixar at it's very best!
The bowler hat,the thin cane which seemed to defy laws of physics in being flexed to the limit and back again, the small, thick moustache, a suit riddled with dust and holes and of course, the walk; a simple rolling strolling motion, the cane being twirled around a free-swinging hand. Robert Downey Jr would certainly have faced a challenge in merely portraying Charlie Chaplin in this guise, as his most famous creation - that of "The Tramp". But this film goes further, to tell something of the life of the man behind the costume, is something for which we can be grateful, and relish. Told through the eyes of an elderly Sir Charles Spencer Chaplin, recounting episodes of his life for the benefit of the publisher of his autobiography, the film gives those of us born after Chaplin's time, a refreshingly keen insight into the life of the man behind the silent mask. Richard Attenborough skilfully directs us on a journey from impoverished East-End slum and the care of a mentally unstable mother, through the first tentative appearances in front of the camera in silent movies, to the dizzying heights of superstardom and the founding of United Artists. He courts controversy along the way, in particular, Chaplin's open distain for the Nazi regime, later mercilessly mocked in "The Great Dictator". We are taken through the maelstrom of euphoria, of self-doubt, the longing for artistic integrity and the all-consuming "workaholism" that led to some of the darkest and bravest choices in his personal and professional lives, respectively. Chaplin himself, said "If you want to understand me, watch my movies." I would tentatively suggest that Attenborough's homage to this icon of cinema be included in that number.
The story behind one of the great icons of twentieth century cinema.
The third season of Sabrina maintains the quirky, charming humour of the previous two. The main plot revolves around the concept of Sabrina having achieved her 'Witches License' and the frustration and limitations caused by not being able to use it until she solves the 'Family Secret.' This season remains enjoyable with some good, clean, comedy moments. The show entails a lot of family fun mixed with fond nostalgia for teens growing up in the 90s. As always the show is enhanced by the witty and loveable Aunts Hilda and Zelda, high-school pals Harvey and Valerie and of course, mortal enemies Libby and Mr Kraft causing trouble for Sabrina wherever possible. In consistent fashion there are some obvious as well as more complex underlying moral messages shining through episode by episode, this season tackling issues like addiction, pressure, embarrassment, will-power and the importance of family as well as attempting to take some episodes into more innovative directions. Characters that particularly stood out watching this series include Sabrina herself continuing to appeal and portray her role convincingly, both aunts, Mrs Quick (the classic one-liners) and inevitably Salem, the tormented, talking cat. As a boxed set it, it is sufficient and well presented however it could have been more: there are no bonus features and some episodes have been edited, which is a real shame. Though the general concept of this show and the childish connotations that arise seem bizarre, do not be put off: it remains an innocent, light-hearted and fun show, worth a watch.
This is a great film and one you need to watch to understand. It kept me guessing what would happen next, right to the end, I love films that do this. It has a good twist to it and the ending was unexpected. This is a good film if you like films like the Sixth Sense.
This is a great Movie for any Bond Fan !
Lots of action, an excellent car chase on the ice and great romance for the ladies.
A must see movie at all cost!
This film is a stroke of comedic genius in my opinion but it's not for all. Why you ask, because it is the most low-brow silly comedy I have ever seen. So if you didn't like any of Will Ferrell's previous movies, especially Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgandy, then this film is not for you. I will close By saying that this film is worth a try no matter what, but if you are a Will Ferrell fan then is a must see.
This is an excellent real-life story about the changing times in London from the 50's to the present day. This isn't a film just about football violence; it deals with issues such as racism and has a thoroughly thought out storyline rather than 2 groups smashing 2 bells' out of each other.
You could watch this with your girlfriend without her cringing and she might even like it too.
We saw this today at the Saturday morning matinee (all 3 kids plus 2 for the grand total of £5 - great value!) and I wasn't sure what to expect.
I can say that we all loved the film - it is definitely the best of all three High School Musical films. The sets are fantastic, the story is quite good with a couple of poignant moments in it, and the ending is great. Good song and dance routines which you would definitely expect from this film. The cast have all grown up a bit, which is nice to see. I would love a High School Reunion film in the next few years - come in Disney, I'm sure it would be great!
In summary, highly recommended by all of us - that is one 10 year old boy, boy/girl twins of 7 and mum and dad in their forties!
Review:
"Carve Her Name With Pride" - another excellent British Motion Picture released on cinema during 1957. Based on the book by R. J. Minney. I think that of all the motion pictures I saw, during the 1950's period this really brought home to me the more or less forgotten men and women who worked undercover during World War 2. It brought home to me the enormity of war and the sacrifices ordinary men and women made. Virginia McKenna refused the use of a double - for the jump from the parachute training tower, and, going against the wishes of the producer and director she insisted on doing this herself. The only assistance she had was a wire, as all trainee parachutists wore. She landed with a professional roll on the mat below. Picking herself up she smiled and said "That was fun; I'd like to do it again."
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Amongst the rest of the cast was:- Paul Scofield - Jack Warner - Denise Gray - Alan Saury. Incidentally, look out for the late Bill Owen - who later achieved fame as 'Compo' in:- "Last Of The Summer Wine" and a young Michael Caine - Can you spot him? This is an excellent motion picture which ranks amongst one of the greatest British motion pictures of all time
Violette Szabo (nee Bushell) was a member of the S.O.E. Who undertook two undercover operations in France - during World War 2. On her 2nd mission she was caught, and after being tortured, ended up as a prisoner of war in Ravensbrueck Concentration camp. She, along with some fellow prisoners, made the ultimate sacrifice for her country and was shot in the back of the head. She was awarded, posthumously, the George Cross, which was presented to her daughter - the young Tania Szabo - by King George V1.
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