Own Them Now On Video
Absolutely Fabulous: Absolutely Not
Eddie and Patsy are back for a final time, in never before seen out-takes from all three series of their darling sitcom. Presented by Jennifer Saunders, the video takes you into the heart of the BBC and AbFab office.
See the original French & Saunders sketch that inspired the
legendary antics of our favourite Stolly/Bolly-soaked beautiful people; and plenty of
other footage that for some reason or other never made the final cut - including parts of
an entire episode that never even made it to air.
Ab Fab has won over 14 awards since its inception, including 2 International Emmys. I
loved the scenes of Joanna Lumley screaming "Blackout!" "Blackout!"
whenever he disobedient cigarette went out and had to be relit by an assistant. Farewell
girls, but theres still a few laughs left to be had in this finall offering.
James Dean: The Story Behind the Legend
Although Id seen Rebel and loved it, Id always thought James Deans icon status was somewhat exaggerated before viewing this documentary. It meticulously supports the theory that JD was a great artist who died too far ahead of his time and left behind a brief body of work filled with incredible promise.
The narration (eloquently provided by Rip Torn) takes us back to humble Indiana origins of Dean and his tragic childhood which strengthened his character. At the age of 9, Dean lost his mother to illness and instead on following her body on the train to its place of burial, running back and checking at each stop that the casket was still intact.
Poignant memories such as these, retold by Deans adoptive relatives, close friends and acting associates tell of a man who was a creative muse and artist, an individual who thought differently and not along the straight and narrow lines of educated society. After his death, a short animation film was discovered among his belongings, which showed his aptitude for technical camera work and direction. Far from the rumour that he was sullen and shy, his friends recall him as a man who could make others laugh, who was highly intelligent and wanted very much to leave a mark on the world.
Key scenes from his 3 main movies - East of Eden, Rebel and Giant - show his obviously overwhelming talent, but it is footage from his stage and commercial days which portray a man who refused to indulge in the pretentious Method acting greatly favoured in his day. He also had a habit of never saying the same line the same way twice, an independent and creative streak which frustrated some directors.
The entire documentary is put together in a standard which can only be described as exemplary; rare childhood photos, footage of his birthplace, interviews with more relatives and famous actors, quotes from several other associates, and much more.
The Noel Coward Collection
Noel Coward, the legendary British writer and actor, has his best works showcased in this collection. Rex Harrison wasnt just in Dr Doolittle, you know - he was also in the film that inspired "The Ghost and Mrs Muir", Blithe Spirit. If you love classic films, then you should note Noel Coward was possibly Britain;s finest modern playwright. A worthy buy, available now.
Evita
Its true: Maddy CAN act. And rather well, too. And Antonio Banderas can sing well enough to keep the audience watching. Evita is a fascinating insight into the life of the much-revered Eva Person, wife of the wartime Argentine President. Almost every wrod is sung, it is true but in a fashion that conveys the meaning, emotion and spirit of a time when one woman gave a country back its self-respect.
Costuming and lighting are extremely effectual (I wouldnt have minded some of Maddys dresses myself); Madonna is superb as the Argentine mistress-turned-saint and Banderas character intriguing as Che, the constantly-evolving role representing Everyman; the worker, the politician, the bartender. Johnathan Pryce is extremely suited to the role of Evas adoring and attentive husband who realises his future lies in her popular hands.
Evita is musical drama of the finest standard. Dont let prejudice stand in the way of enjoying this fine film.