When Robin of Loxley transformed into Robert of Huntingdon in the third series of Robin of Sherwood, many viewers were understandably confused. Michael Praed left the series for reasons that never really became apparent while Jason Connery clearly wasn't a replacement chosen for similar looks or performance. Across the 13 episodes of the third series, Connery's choice became slowly apparent. The magical stories frequently dipped into darker territory as much as they aimed for uplifting humour. The new Hood was at ease with both, while reuniting the merry band and ultimately wooing the fair Marion all over again. Connery turned in a very confident embodiment of the character, clearly bonding well with the established team of actors. Guest stars lined up to contribute alongside him. Memorable appearances include those of Richard O'Brien, David Rappaport, Matt Frewer, Patricia Hodge, Ian Ogilvy and Lewis Collins. (It's fascinating to speculate how different things could have been if the close-second casting choice of Neil Morrissey had been pursued.) The strangest aspect of the series, however, is knowing in retrospect that everyone's confidence and merriment was for nothing. Scripts were written in readiness for the fourth series, but then the studio went bankrupt. Cliffhangers therefore remain that will confuse viewers far more than the lead's replacement. --Paul Tonks
A star cast including Judi Dench, Michael Williams, Roger Rees, Francesca Annis and Nickolas Grace features in a joyfully exuberant Royal Shakespeare Company production of one of Shakespeare s best-loved comedies. Conceived by Trevor Nunn, this musical presentation at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon is a carefree romp in which collapsing chairs, squirting soda siphons, funky wigs, uncompromising couplets and outrageous puns abound. The production features music by composer Guy Woolfenden, who received an Olivier Award for Best New Musical for the show s London production, and dance routines by world-renowned choreographer Gillian Lynne; Francesca Annis won a BAFTA award for her role as Luciana. The play itself is a comedy of mistaken identities involving two sets of twins. With their twin servants, they are separated in a shipwreck and thrown together by chance, and the plot twists and turns in total confusion!
When Robin of Loxley transformed into Robert of Huntingdon in the third series of Robin of Sherwood, many viewers were understandably confused. Michael Praed left the series for reasons that never really became apparent while Jason Connery clearly wasn't a replacement chosen for similar looks or performance. Across the 13 episodes of the third series, Connery's choice became slowly apparent. The magical stories frequently dipped into darker territory as much as they aimed for uplifting humour. The new Hood was at ease with both, while reuniting the merry band and ultimately wooing the fair Marion all over again. Connery turned in a very confident embodiment of the character, clearly bonding well with the established team of actors. Guest stars lined up to contribute alongside him. Memorable appearances include those of Richard O'Brien, David Rappaport, Matt Frewer, Patricia Hodge, Ian Ogilvy and Lewis Collins. (It's fascinating to speculate how different things could have been if the close-second casting choice of Neil Morrissey had been pursued.) The strangest aspect of the series, however, is knowing in retrospect that everyone's confidence and merriment was for nothing. Scripts were written in readiness for the fourth series, but then the studio went bankrupt. Cliffhangers therefore remain that will confuse viewers far more than the lead's replacement. --Paul Tonks
Nothing's Forgotten... A benchmark of quality television drama in the 1980s and arguably the definitive interpretation of the Robin Hood legend, this BAFTA-winning series is presented here in stunning High Definition. Michael Praed and Jason Connery star as Robin Hood in Richard Carpenter's influential and highly acclaimed re-working of the classic myth. Combining equal parts high drama, historical accuracy and atmospheric mysticism, Carpenter's reboot pitched a band of not-so-Merry Men against a decidedly brutal and waspish Sheriff of Nottingham. With a haunting theme from Clannad, strong scripts and outstanding performances from Ray Winstone, Clive Mantle, Judi Trott and Nickolas Grace, to name a few, Robin of Sherwood was, and remains, a worldwide hit. With new HD transfers taken from the original film elements, all three series are presented here at a quality level never previously seen. SPECIAL FEATURES: 1983's The Electric Theatre Show documentary, upgraded and expanded Nothing's Forgotten: The Making of Robin of Sherwood three exclusive documentaries covering the production of the series Image galleries for all three series Music-only tracks on selected episodes Episode commentaries featuring cast and crew Outtakes And much more!
Devoted womaniser and tireless party-goer Arthur Goring (Rupert Everett) is famed throughout London for his elegance, repartee and refusal to take anything seriously.
The second series of Robin of Sherwood sets up both a sense of melancholy for the impending departure of Michael Praed and excitement for his imminent replacement by Jason Connery. These seven episodes are the very best of Praed and co, building upon their established camaraderie and making forest-frolicking seem like TV's best ever gig. "The Prophecy" has a running thread of back plot that will explain Praed's Doctor Who-like transformation to Connery (and all so he could cameo in Dynasty). Mystical Herne predicts the death of a great king, but the merry men are more interested in the introduction of new semi-regular Prince John (Philip Davis). The series becomes braver as it continues by delving deeper into the black arts and exploring such matters as anti-Semitism and pagan beliefs. Gisburne's schemes to capture the bandits grow more desperate, while Herne's advice grows more cryptic and Marion's love for Robin grows stronger. All of which builds to the excellent two-part "The Swords of Wayland" and its coda "The Greatest Enemy". Now prepare yourself for something completely different. On the DVD: Robin of Sherwood's first box set was going to take some beating, but this second series set is as good as anyone has managed for a TV show on DVD. The digital transfers and new Dolby soundtracks (with optional original mono and music-only tracks) are fantastic. The commentary on "The Swords of Wayland" from the director and producer is insightful and endearing. The third part of the behind-the-scenes documentary, still interviewing everyone involved, is consistently fascinating and runs 42 minutes. Add to that two galleries of stills with 156 pictures, seven minutes of outtakes and, for curiosity value, the French and American versions of the Main Title sequence. You can tell some real heart has gone into this release. --Paul Tonks
Based on the novels by Bernard Cornwell, Sharpe (1993-7) ran to 14 full-length television films that follow the adventures of the titular soldier through the later years of the Napoleonic Wars. The programmes are an outstanding achievement for the small screen, dominated by Sean Beans central performance as the heroic, troubled outsider who turns out to be a resourceful and loyal leader. Bolstered by a strong supporting cast, particularly Daragh O'Malley as Harper and (in later episodes) Abigail Cruttenden as Jane, Sharpe is often visually striking, the action tense and gripping. Consistency is maintained by all 14 episodes being directed by Tom Clegg. On the DVD: Sharpe on DVD contains a photo gallery and several screens of background text. The sound is full-bodied stereo while the very "sharp" (pun intended) picture has been transferred slightly letterboxed at 14:9. Though looking much better than the original TV transmissions the occasionally cropped framing makes it apparent the films were shot in 16:9 widescreen, so it is regrettable they have not been transferred to DVD in that format. Otherwise these are first-rate releases.--Gary S Dalkin
The latest Merchant Ivory period drama stars Uma Thurman, Jeremy Northam, Kate Beckinsale and Nick Nolte in a tale of passion & intrigue.
The passion violence mystery and beauty of India are rapturously evoked in Merchant Ivory Productions' acclaimed 'Heat And Dust' based on the novel by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala the Oscar winning screenwriter and novelist. Blending east with west and moving effortlessly between the vibrant world of modern-day India and the magnificent splendours of the Raj 'Heat And Dust' intertwines the contemporary story of Anne a young woman drawn to India by her desire to unravel the scandal surrounding her great-aunt Olivia's seduction in the 1920's by a glamorous Indian Prince. For Anne it proves as much a journey of self-discovery as the opportunity to solve an enigma as she too becomes seduced by the romantic and luxurious enchantments of India.
The passion violence mystery and beauty of India are rapturously evoked in Merchant Ivory Productions' acclaimed HEAT AND DUST based on the novel by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala the Oscar winning screenwriter and novelist.Blending east and west and moving effortlessly between the vibrant world of modern-day India and the magnificent splendours of the Raj HEAT AND DUST intertwines the contemporary story of Anne a young woman drawn to India by her desire to unravel the scandal surrounding her great-aunt Olivia's seduction in the 1920s by a glamorous Indian prince. for Anne it proves as much a journey of self-discovery as the opportunity to solve an enigma as she too becomes seduced by the romantic and luxurious enchantments of India.
A 8 disc box set of all 26 episodes of the hit sword and sorcery drama. Episode titles: 1. Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 1) 2. Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 2) 3. The Witch of Elsdon 4. Seven Poor Knights From Acre 5. Alan A Dale 6. The King's Fool 7. The Prophecy 8. The Children of Israel 9. Lord of the Trees 10. The Enchantment 11. The Swords of Wayland (Part 1) 12. The Swords of Wayland (Part 2) 13. The Greatest Enemy 14. Herne's Son (Part 1) 15. Herne's Son (Part
Long-awaited, long-overdue: The Professionals as you have never seen them before. Bodie and Doyle need little by way of introduction, but if the series had at all escaped you since its debut in 1977 their boss George Cowley, head of CI5, couldn't put it more succinctly than his opening gambit: anarchy, acts of terror, crimes against the public. To combat it I've got special men experts from the army, the police, from every service. These are The Professionals . Featuring the perfect ensemble cast of Martin Shaw, Gordon Jackson (completely against type here) and the much-missed Lewis Collins, the series ran for 57 action-packed episodes and made an immediate impact on British and then international audiences which has sustained 35 years. But the series has never looked this good. Painstakingly restored from the camera-original negatives, the series could have been made yesterday. No matter how many times you have seen The Professionals, this is a new experience, like seeing it for the first time. FEATURES ON THIS NEW EDITION [] Brand-new restorations of all 13 episodes in series three from the camera-original negatives [] Brand-new 5.1 tracks from original sound elements [] Remastered original as-broadcast mono tracks [] Remastered music-only tracks featuring Laurie Johnson's original scores [] Photo galleries featuring hundreds of rare images [] All episodes are presented in their original production order [] PDF material featuring scripts and memorabilia [] English HOH subtitles
The passion violence mystery and beauty of India are rapturously evoked in Merchant Ivory Productions' acclaimed Heat & Dust based on the novel by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala the Oscar-Winning screenwriter and novelist. Blending East with West and moving effortlessly between the vibrant world of modern-day India and the magnificent splendors of the Raj Heat & Dust intertwines the contemporary story of Anne a young woman drawn to India by her desire to unravel the scandal surrounding her great-aunt Olivia's seduction in the 1920s by a glamorous Indian prince. For Anne it proves much a journey of self-discovery as the opportunity to solve an enigma as she too becomes seduced by the romantic and luxurious enchantments of India. Heat & Dust features an all-star cast led by Julie Christie Shashi kapoor Greta Scacchi Christopher Cazenove and Madhur Jaffrey.
A 8 disc box set of all 26 episodes of the hit sword and sorcery drama. Episode titles: 1. Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 1) 2. Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 2) 3. The Witch of Elsdon 4. Seven Poor Knights From Acre 5. Alan A Dale 6. The King's Fool 7. The Prophecy 8. The Children of Israel 9. Lord of the Trees 10. The Enchantment 11. The Swords of Wayland (Part 1) 12. The Swords of Wayland (Part 2) 13. The Greatest Enemy 14. Herne's Son (Part 1) 15. Herne's Son (Part 2) 16. The Power of Albion 17. The Inheritance 18. The Sheriff of Nottingham 19. The Cross of St Ciricus 20. Cromm Cruac 21. The Betrayal 22. Adam Bell 23. The Pretender 24. Rutterkin 25. The Time of the Wolf (Part 1) 26. The Time of the Wolf (Part 2)
When wealthy couple, Richard and Angela visit Marion and Alex in their decaying family home, their differing social and moral attitudes create uneasy tensions. An inharmonious evening of drunkenness and sexual rivalry soon turns bloody as the guests fall victim to an unhinged attacker. Featuring a rare performance from director Bill Douglas (Bill Douglas Trilogy, Comrades), and starring British screen greats Joanna David and Heather Page (both of whom would go on to work with Douglas in Comrades), Sleepwalker is an outrageous mix of biting satire and bloody horror that is at once reminiscent of otherwise unlikely bedfellows Lindsay Anderson and Dario Argento. The stellar cast also includes Nickolas Grace, and features cameos by Fulton Mackay, Michael Medwin (O Lucky Man!) and Raymond Huntley. Remastered from the only surviving print, this unique twist on the British horror genre is presented with two shorts by Saxon Logan and the rare 1971 mid-length fantasy, The Insomniac, directed by Rodney Giesler.
Robin Of Sherwood' retells the famous legend in a completely fresh and innovative way combining action and adventure with sorcery and mysticism. Robin is inextricably bound by the laws of nature which govern Sherwood forest but is forced by destiny to lead a band of guerrilla fighters in a desperate stand against Norman oppression... Seven Poor Knights From Acre: Robin faces the wrath of the Knights Templars seven fighting monks amongst the most feared warriors in Europe led by the fanatical Reynard De Villaret as they believe he has stolen their sacred emblem. Alan A Dale: A broken hearted minstrel arrives in Sherwood threatening to kill the Sheriff. His name is Alan A Dale and the object of his affections Mildred daughter of Baron De Bracey is being forced to marry the Sheriff. Robin decides to help the young lovers. The King's Fool: Robin rescues a strange knight from an ambush and earns the gratitude of the most powerful man in England King Richard recently returned from imprisonment in Europe. He is invited to fight by the King's side in Normandy an invitation he eagerly accepts but the relationship soon sours.
Robin Of Sherwood' retells the famous legend in a completely fresh and innovative way combining action and adventure with sorcery and mysticism. Robin is inextricably bound by the laws of nature which govern Sherwood forest but is forced by destiny to lead a band of guerrilla fighters in a desperate stand against Norman oppression... Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 1): Robin captured by Guy of Gisburne and imprisoned in Nottingham Castle meets the men who are to follow him into Sherwood. Robin Hood and the Sorcerer (Part 2): After his escape Robin sets about rescuing the Lady Marion from the clutches of the evil sorcerer the Baron De Belleme. The Witch of Elsdon: Jennet of Elsdon and her husband are accused of witchcraft and sentenced to death by Abbot Hugo. The Sheriff of Nottingham offers to spare their lives if Jennet will use her powers to render Robin helpless and at the mercy of Gisburne and his men.
The 1984 incarnation of Robin of Sherwood had a crucial ingredient that the traditional tale previously lacked: magic. Creator Richard Carpenter combined his knowledge of Medieval England with a rich store of Arthurian-style folklore to create a world where wizards and witches rub shoulders with Norman knights and Anglo-Saxon peasants. Michael Praeds enthusiastic performance in the lead is matched by the sheer energy of all involved. There may be pauses for a spiritual tête á tête with forest demi-god Herne the Hunter, but swordplay and archery are never far behind. Wrapped in the forests gorgeous greens and pools of shadow the show maintained a perfectly believable look, supported by what should have been (but wasnt) glaringly anachronistic music from Clannad. Best of all, however, is the crackling dialogue that still makes for compelling (and magical) viewing, especially when it comes from guest actors such as John Rhys-Davies as King Richard. On the DVD: Contained here are all six episodes of Season One. The two-part pilot is a terrific introduction to the familiar characters such as Ray Winstones roughhouse Will Scarlet and unexpected new ones such as Mark Ryan as Nasir, "the Boba Fett of Sherwood". Camaraderie on-screen and off was legendary. Its rare to see a cast having so much fun. This exceptional three-disc box set features one of the best extras packages any TV show has been given. The original 4:3 picture is enhanced for 16:9, but the new Dolby Surround track is the real delight (the show was broadcast in mono). Quickie fare includes key cast biographies, Clannads promo video, 175 photos and eight minutes of genuinely hilarious outtakes. The real meat comes from the misty-eyed yet fact-filled commentaries from creator Richard Carpenter and director Ian Sharp on four of the episodes. Theyre only just eclipsed by a brand-new hour-long documentary interviewing everyone involved. Finally, the 1983 Electric Theatre Show 25-minute documentary on the making of the show explores the characters origins and previous screen incarnations. The third disc includes everything shot for that documentary, adding up to several hours of raw footage.--Paul Tonks
The Swords of Wayland (Parts 1 and 2): Robin and the outlaws leave Sherwood to defend a distant village from the Hounds of Lucifer eerily clad horsemen who terrorise the neighbourhood. They are the servants of a powerful coven ruled by Morgwyn of Ravenscar. The coven's purpose is to find the seven swords of Wayland to use for a ritual invoking Lucifer - the devil. One of the seven swords is Albion entrusted to Robin Hood by the mysterious hooded god of the forest Herne. Albion eventually falls into Morgwyn''s hands and she bewitches the outlaws to turn against their leader. Robin is alone locked in combat with the most powerful forces of darkness. The Greatest Enemy: The Sheriff threatened by King John with the loss of office should he fail to finally dispose of Robin Hood sets up a successful ambush. Only Robin Marion and Much escape. Pursued by hounds and men at arms they are flushed out of Sherwood to make an armed stand on a rocky outcrop. Their arrows wreak havoc amidst the heavy forces besetting them yet there can be little hope. Is this the end of Robin Hood?
When Robin of Loxley transformed into Robert of Huntingdon in the third series of Robin of Sherwood, many viewers were understandably confused. Michael Praed left the series for reasons that never really became apparent while Jason Connery clearly wasn't a replacement chosen for similar looks or performance. Across the 13 episodes of the third series, Connery's choice became slowly apparent. The magical stories frequently dipped into darker territory as much as they aimed for uplifting humour. The new Hood was at ease with both, while reuniting the merry band and ultimately wooing the fair Marion all over again. Connery turned in a very confident embodiment of the character, clearly bonding well with the established team of actors. Guest stars lined up to contribute alongside him. Memorable appearances include those of Richard O'Brien, David Rappaport, Matt Frewer, Patricia Hodge, Ian Ogilvy and Lewis Collins. (It's fascinating to speculate how different things could have been if the close-second casting choice of Neil Morrissey had been pursued.) The strangest aspect of the series, however, is knowing in retrospect that everyone's confidence and merriment was for nothing. Scripts were written in readiness for the fourth series, but then the studio went bankrupt. Cliffhangers therefore remain that will confuse viewers far more than the lead's replacement. --Paul Tonks
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