From NetFlix:
This legendary TV miniseries, based on Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel of
romantic yearning and loss, is compiled in a special, digitally remastered
collection. Set between the wars in the glittering yet fading world of the
British aristocracy, the series stars the astonishing trio of Jeremy Irons,
Anthony Andrews and Diana Quick and features stunning performances by Sir
John Gielgud, Claire Bloom and Sir Laurence Olivier.
In this blog there are two versions of “Brideshead Revisited”, a two-hour film from 2008 and this 4-CD TV miniseries from 1981. The TV series is the gold standard. When it first came out, it was aired each Sunday evening. The next day at the work lunch table, we could not wait to discuss it. I am ashamed to admit that I have not yet read Evelyn Waugh’s book. Both film versions are excellent and if you are really taken with this classic then why not see both ?
Kathy and I decided to re-watch the TV miniseries version in Feb 2009. We both agreed that the two-hour movie, while well-done, pales in comparison with the TV miniseries. Anthony Andrews as Sebastion is just too perfect. Of course, the pace in the TV series is leisurely. But the details are well worth the time spent. This version remains a treasure.
From NetFlix:
For years, the coastal town of Potters Bluff has harbored a dark
secret. It seems that a number of strangers who have crossed
through Potters Bluff have been brutally murdered, only to turn
up in town as locals after being killed. Sure that there must
be some explanation, the sheriff and the town mortician try to
uncover the mystery and find something more shocking than they
could have imagined. Stars James Farentino and Melody Anderson.
The NY Times suggested this old horror film as a worthwhile piece of film
history. Technically it is pre-digital age, but the visuals can be scary. It is a
B-film. The production values (dark picture, murky sound) are not much.
It is somewhat of a precursor to “Saw” in that there is some real gore.
Surprise ending (or should I have suspected ?) This film is neither for
adults nor for children. I enjoyed it, but then
I LOVE TRASH.
From NetFlix:
Australian Director Peter Weir takes on one of his country’s
most tragic moments in history: the World War I confrontation
with the German allied Turks. As the film leads up to the
battle in act three, we get to know the young men destined to
be casualties of war. A young Mel Gibson (on the heels of his
successful turn in Mad Max) plays one of the innocent doomed.
This poignant war drama swept the Australian Film Institute
Awards with eight wins.
I have classified this film as a “Classic”. It is old but not dated. Mel Gibson
is so young I almost did not recognize him. Wikipedia offers a long
detailed account of the battle at Gallipoli. This battle is very important
to both New Zealanders and Australians. What appeals to me is the
naturalness of the actions. There are no special effects. The entire
emphasis of the film is the close friendships that develop between the
men over the course of the film. But you have to watch this movie
with the understanding that almost every one of those men are
about to die (needlessly as it turns out). There is no bloodshed
whatsoever, and no violence whatsoever.
Films Tony is comfortable recommending.
