TEN Stars Would Not Be Enough!, Jan 26 2005

Apart from Andy and his costumes, there are two superb back-up vocals (twin sisters) and a full complement of dancers, all of whom also go through a number of really interesting costume changes which are usually themed to the music. As for the choreography, it's nothing short of spectacular, which is especially apparent during the sole instrumental number (The Good, The Bad And The Ugly) which, together with the Arizona-desert backdrop, sets the "cowboy" atmosphere for the upcoming set of songs.

That leads me to the songs themselves. The cowboy-themed numbers include a cover of the country song Stand By Your Man and The Soldier's Return (I'm not sure where this song comes from; I'm not familiar with it and it's not on any of their studio albums). Andy does a breathtakingly beautiful rendition of Over the Rainbow from the Wizard of Oz. Of course, there is the tribute to Abba featuring all four songs from Abba-esque. The rest are all Erasure's own songs: Who Needs Love Like That, Love Is A Loser, and Oh L'amour (from Wonderland); Sometimes (from Circus); A Little Respect, Ship Of Fools, Heart Of Stone, and Chains Of Love (from Innocents); Blue Savannah and Star (from Wild); Stop! (from POP!); and all ten songs from the Chorus album.

Disc two contains the only dvd extra, which is a 25-minute interview (from 2004) with the choreographer, the costume designer, Andy Bell and, at a separate location, Vince Clarke. In a nutshell, they discuss how the idea and themes for the show came about (like the swan, for example), how the music was choreographed, how the ideas for costumes came about and were achieved (that blue-sequined cowboy outfit, which was insured for $125,000, apparently took 5 people 3 months of full-time work to hand bead!), and so on. Excerpts from the concert and snippets of behind-the-scenes footage of rehearsals, etc., are interspersed throughout.

In conclusion, it's obvious that a lot of work went into bringing this musical extravaganza about, and I highly recommend the dvd to all fans of Erasure. Whether you've seen their concerts live or not, if you like the music of this extremely talented British synth-pop duo, you will certainly enjoy this concert. I've watched it twice since getting it (which was less than a week ago), and it is hands down the most entertaining concert I've ever seen!

Extremely highly recommended!

Not as Good as the First Book, but still a Fun Helpful Guide, May 7 2004

This book is set up just like the first one, with Trinny & Susannah doing all of the modelling, and with full-page colour pictures of the "don'ts" on the left-hand side of the page and the "dos" on the right. It deals with dressing for the following occasions: The job interview (for both the first job and going back to work); work wear (for the boss, the executive, and the "pa"); work to play (for both winter and summer--this section only includes "dos", with the day outfit on the left and its evening transformation on the right); school events (sports day, school play, pta meeting, and carol concert); summer and winter weddings (for both day and evening); summer holiday (both beachwear and after sun); winter holiday (both on the slopes and apres ski); and partying (for both winter and summer).

Not only does the book deal with a number of occasions, but it deals with a range of age groups (and it does require a slight stretch of the imagination when Trinny & Susannah dress as young girls embarking on their first job interview!). Most of the "occasions" are divided into three parts--smart (geared more toward the older woman), casual, and trendy (more for the younger woman). The exceptions are weddings (for which their is no "casual" option), school events (which show only one do and don't for each event), and winter holidays on the slopes (which uses the headings "professional", "beginner", and "poser").

The final chapter deals with three underwear concerns: controlling flabby tummies, minimizing the unsightliness of visible thongs, and wearing the right bra.

Overall, I enjoyed the book, though I must confess I didn't find it quite as useful (or as entertaining) as their first. Having said that, it is vitally important to read the introduction before perusing the book. Trinny & Susannah admit that we readers may think some of the "don'ts" look better than the "dos", but they are listed as "don'ts" because they are staid, unimaginative, and cookie-cutter. This is a book that is geared toward the woman who wishes to dress appropriately for the occasion (though I personally question the appropriateness of even their smartest business-wear suggestions for women working in an ultra-conservative, male-dominated profession) without sacrificing her femininity, personal flair, and sense of individuality. Therefore, if you are looking for a book outlining the "business uniform", have a very conservative personal style, or prefer to melt into the crowd and look like everyone else, then this may not be the book for you. If, on the other hand, you've enjoyed the first book and are looking for a little guidance in adding some spice to your wardrobe whilst ensuring you are still dressing (for the most part) within the acceptable parameters required by the occasion, you may enjoy looking through this little book--bearing in mind that it provides basic guidelines only, which still must be adapted to suit one's own body-type, personality, and preferences.

An Outstanding British Suspense Drama!, May 3 2004

To their credit, however, they have rectified their earlier oversight by including the episode entitled "Special Relationship", which should have appeared at the start of the second VHS box set (as it does on the DVD version). It is located on the second tape of the second volume following the final episode of series three. I now have a DVD player, but chose to pay the extra money to buy set three on VHS just to get that missing episode, and I'm very glad I did, for it's one heck of an episode. In my opinion it's well worth having if you're a fan of this extraordinary series. For those new to the series who will be purchasing the VHS version, the episode should be watched in between sets one and two. My recommendation is to buy set one; if you enjoy it, buy both sets two and three and watch "Special Relationship" following set one, as it will really increase your enjoyment of the series to see it before you watch set two.

Series three consists of seven 50-minute episodes and was produced in 1980. It ends on a shocking note, which unfortunately marked the conclusion of the series--due to the mysterious disappearance of series' writer Ian Mackintosh (who was apparently rumoured to have been a former secret service man himself!).

In conclusion, I highly recommend this set (both volumes!) to anyone who has enjoyed the previous sets, and I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for an outstanding suspense drama. It's insightful, suspenseful, and consummately acted by everyone involved; it is also one of the most intelligent series ever produced. Mackintosh's disappearance was our loss, resulting in the abrupt end after only 20 episodes of a series which (at least in my opinion) stands at the pinnacle of the spy drama genre.

A First-Rate British Detective Series!, May 3 2004

The series opens with Frost's wife on her deathbed. Even in such a situation (perhaps, indeed, because of it--for Frost does not handle personal tragedy well), he is unable to spend the time at his wife's side that is expected. While this may sound rather morbid and depressing, I must emphasize that overall the series is not. Certainly, the crimes that are committed are serious and tragic, but like the Inspector Morse series (a series with which this one compares well), the episodes are punctuated by quite a healthy dose of humour, and like Morse it is primarily character humour. In other words, it arises out of the idiosyncrasies in the inspector's character, which become more apparent as we become more familiar with the character. In Frost's case, apart from his questionable tactics, he's extremely disorderly, and his dedication to his work is matched only by his loathing for paperwork--a trait which often has him at odds with his punctilious boss, Superintendent Mullett. Indeed, Frost is perennially ducking into doorways or skipping out of the office in attempts to avoid the unwelcome confrontations. One thing Frost does not have, unlike Inspector Morse, is a regular "Sergeant Lewis" in tow; rather, he has a different sergeant assigned to him for almost every episode.

One aspect which, in my opinion, makes A Touch of Frost such a good series is the powerful punch of irony that usually occurs at the end of each episode. Often one can really sympathise with the killer or at the very least understand his or her motivation. Sometimes we find that it's one trifling incident--someone in the wrong place at the wrong time--or a petty misunderstanding that sets the wheels in motion for a tragic outcome. Often it seems that the bringing of the criminal to justice is the greatest injustice.

In conclusion, this is a well-acted and an extremely well-written mystery series--one with quite hard-hitting stories, thus making the comic relief all the more welcome. It is a series which I recommend very highly to fans of British mysteries in particular--if you enjoy shows like Inspector Morse, for example, or have enjoyed PBS's erstwhile Mystery! series, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one. I would, however, go so far as to recommend this series to anyone looking for a superior quality mystery series, British or otherwise. Personally, I've always wondered why it was never made a part of PBS's Mystery! series, for it was certainly worthy of inclusion.

An Outstanding Dramatisation!, Mar 26 2004

The series is presented in six 90-minute episodes, and as for the quality of the DVD set, the BBC has done an exceptional job. The picture is nice and clear, the sound is good, and the disc set is encased in a richly flocked, emerald green slip case. Best of all, however, are the numerous special features. Firstly there is a 30-minute interview with Glenda Jackson (2001) wherein she talks about the role and her preparation for it, about Elizabeth, and lastly about politics (she's been a Labour MP for the last decade or so). Also informative is a 20-minute interview with historian Alison Weir (2001), wherein she talks about Elizabeth, her world, and the accuracy of the presentation. There is a 45-minute A&E biography (1996) on the life of Elizabeth, an audio reading by Jackson of a number of period documents, behind-the-scenes' photos of Jackson in make-up and costume fitting, a portrait gallery with stills of various characters displayed beside portraits of the originals, and a text-based guide to who's who in the cast. A wonderful feature (which I highly recommend viewers take advantage of!) is the audio commentary provided by Alison Weir, which one can turn on while watching the episodes. Weir provides a lot of background information and other tidbits, as well as highlighting areas where liberties have been taken.

Born in 1533 to Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth was a woman of formidable intelligence who proved herself to be an extremely capable and dedicated monarch, and Glenda Jackson's portrayal of her from youth through old age is nothing short of a masterpiece. I have seen other actresses in the role but Jackson's portrayal is and (for me) always will be the definitive one. It is sheer perfection--one in which realism (thankfully) is not sacrificed on the altar of vanity. Jackson went so far as to blacken her teeth to mimic the rotting teeth of the ageing Elizabeth; also, she partially shaved her head in order to better resemble the high-foreheaded Queen.

Familiar faces to fans of British television include: Robert Hardy (All Creatures, Edward the King), who is magnificent as the dashing Robert ("Robin") Dudley, Earl of Leicester, the life-long love of Elizabeth. The late Michael Williams (A Fine Romance) is highly enjoyable as Elizabeth's "Frog", the Duke of Alencon--the only real contender for her hand. The late Peter Jeffrey is superb as Phillip II of Spain. Robin Ellis (Poldark) is splendid as the young, handsome, highly ambitious but petulant and self-destructive Earl of Essex, whom the Queen rather foolishly favoured--indeed doted on--in her old age.

In conclusion, I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone interested in history or historical biography. Being a 70's dramatisation, it may not have the slick production values of more recent endeavours (ie. it feels at times as though we are watching a play that's been filmed), but don't let that deter you. You'll have to look far to find a more authentic dramatisation or one that is better written or more consummately acted. If you are familiar with and have enjoyed other superb historical productions of the time--shows like I Claudius or The Six Wives of Henry VIII, for example--you will surely enjoy this one! Finally, for those interested in delving a little deeper, I highly recommend Alison Weir's well-researched, captivating book entitled The Life of Elizabeth I.

An Outstanding Historical Biography!, Mar 3 2004

The series covers the life of Bertie from his birth in 1841 through his coronation in 1901 and concludes with his death in 1910. Though extremely privileged, Bertie had a stiflingly sheltered youth dominated by strict, controlling parents, which culminated in an all-but-arranged marriage to the beautiful Princess Alexandra of Denmark. Because of their importance in shaping the character of the young prince, Victoria and Albert (played to absolute perfection by Annette Crosbie (One Foot in the Grave) and Robert Hardy (All Creatures)) are the primary focus of the first few episodes. Victoria did not like to share her power, and her marriage felt the strain of such an inability to delegate (a situation which was not improved by her many temper tantrums!). Ultimately, however, she was persuaded to share her power with her more-than-capable husband--something which, following Albert's death in 1861, she was sadly never to do with her son. Ironically, when he finally succeeded to the throne, Bertie proved himself a very capable and level-headed ruler.

Bertie (played commandingly by Timothy West) longed for responsibility in the government but, thanks to his mother, was destined for the most part to a life of idleness, which he filled libertinely with entertainment, cigars, and of course mistresses--most notably Alice Keppel and Lillie Langtry (portrayed by the beautiful Francesca Annis, who went on to reprise the role in 1979 with Lillie). As the years pass, we see Bertie increasingly in the company of his mistresses. I might just mention (for those with a particular interest in his many affaires du coeur) that his relationships are not the focus here; and certainly, the physical aspects are not delved into (ie. don't expect the gratuitous, explicit sexuality that seems to be a given in current period productions).

The politics of the time are, as one would expect in any profile of a monarch, intertwined with the social and personal life of the individual, and we see over 70 years worth of prime ministers come and go--most notably Benjamin Disraeli (played by John Gielgud) and the perennial thorn in Victoria's side, William Gladstone. We also see the rise to power of the highly unstable Kaiser Wilhelm II of Prussia, the son of Bertie's eldest sister Vicky (played wonderfully by Felicity Kendal (Good Neighbours)). Because of his instability, Wilhelm is an increasingly important figure in Bertie's life.

In conclusion, this is an outstanding production--one which is consummately acted by an all-star British cast, and which I'd recommend very highly to anyone who enjoys quality British period productions or to anyone with an interest in historical biography. If you've enjoyed other classic series--like Lillie, the Pallisers, or Upstairs Downstairs, for example, this one is definitely worth checking out.

Highly recommended.

Delightfully Delicious!, Mar 1 2004

Geraldine McEwan (Mulberry, Barchester Chronicles) is impeccably cast as the wealthy, elegant, widow Lucia, a woman with a strong personality and a flair for the dramatic. Her vocabulary is peppered with the Italian, a language in which she is only too happy to let others think she is fluent. She provides (at least initially) a little spice, excitement, and mystique for the villagers in humdrum Tilling. But she is also a woman who knows well how to get what she wants, and her grace, smiles, and impeccable manners belie a shrewd and cunning mind.

Mapp (Fawlty Towers' Prunella Scales) is a somewhat dowdy, unwealthy spinster, not to mention an insufferable busybody. So it is no wonder she is less than thrilled that Lucia, having decided to leave her home in Riseholme for pastures new, has set her sights on Mapp's terrain. But Mapp, though lacking Lucia's elegance, wealth, and marital status, is not willing to relinquish her position without a fight. Watching the episodes (which are serial in nature) is a bit like watching a game of chess between unequals. In essence, each woman, with an abundance of outward grace and politeness, seeks to establish (or reassert) her position by bringing the other down a peg or two. Lucia is clearly cleverer and at times seems to toy with Mapp as a cat does with a mouse. But Mapp is nothing if not determined and we wonder is she will, after all, succeed in toppling the grand Lucia.

As for a few of the other characters: Lucia is joined by her devoted friend Georgie (Yes (Prime) Minister's Nigel Hawthorne), a rather effeminate, toupee-sporting chap who enjoys painting and petit point. She is also adored by Quaint Irene, a trouser-wearing, cigar-smoking, eccentric local artist who doesn't hesitate to speak her mind and thoroughly enjoys watching the sparring match between Mapp and Lucia. There's also the gruff, masculine, and perennially intoxicated Major Benjy, whose habit of summoning servants with a bellowing "quay-hi" does not endear him to them. Mapp's closest friend is a dowdy and rather timid woman named Diva, to whom Mapp is less than kind at times.

In conclusion, albeit a tad quirky at times (like the time the two rivals get swept out to sea on the kitchen table!), I would recommend this series to anyone looking for a delightful, relaxing, and gently humorous drawing-room comedy. It is dialogue-based (as opposed to physical) comedy. In other words, if you're looking for pratfalls, action, hard laughs, or a fast-paced, in-your-face comedy, then you'd best look elsewhere. The pace here is leisurely, the dialogue is deliciously witty and intelligent, and the humour wonderfully subtle, with often as much conveyed through body language--be it the raising of an eyebrow, the sharp intake of breath, or the tensing of a muscle--as through words itself.

An Outstanding British Seafaring Period Drama!, Dec 29 2003

James has a brother, Robert, a very nervous, cautious man who in many ways is James' polar opposite. A soft-hearted, responsible, and conscientious man, Robert inherited their father's grocery business, and he wants no part in James' grand plans. Robert lives above the shop with his wife, Sarah, and his beautiful but fickle and headstrong sister, Elizabeth. Elizabeth is afianced to one Daniel Fogarty, a swarthy seaman with a devilish temper who is in the employ of James' rival, Callon. But Elizabeth is also the object of much interest on the part of handsome, charming, and wealthy Albert Frazer, the son of a successful ship builder. Certainly, James would love to ally his family with a family of prosperous ship builders. But whom will Elizabeth ultimately choose?

This set contains four 50-minute episodes, and so does the second set. I'd never seen this series before; but it is one our entire family absolutely loved from the first episode. One can only hope BFS will release it in its entirety. I enjoy the British productions of the 90s, but I've seen few whose stories even approach the quality of those produced in the 70s (and I speak as one who did NOT see any of the British dramas when originally broadcast in the 70s). Though the production values in the 90s may surpass those of the 70s, the stories in each episode combined with faultless acting on the part of all involved more than compensates. I have no hesitation in saying that if you enjoy other classic British 70s productions--shows like Poldark, Upstairs Downstairs, or the Duchess of Duke Street--you will love this one. Go ahead and get both sets, you won't regret it! Just hope and pray that BFS will continue to release more episodes in the future!

Very, very highly recommended to all fans of quality British period drama.

A Thoroughly Enjoyable Historical Biography!, Dec 29 2003

Lillie was gifted with exceptional beauty, and although she and her new husband Edward Langtry (played by Anton Rogers (May to December, Fresh Fields)) were people of very modest means when they moved to London, it didn't take long for Lillie to become noticed. Indeed, Lillie craved London society and did all she could to secure herself a place therein. Becoming a Professional Beauty (the 19th century equivalent of a Supermodel) certainly helped for soon her portraits and photographs were everywhere. (Her friendships, by the way, included the artists Millais and Whistler and the playwright Oscar Wilde (played to absolute perfection by Peter Egan)). It was, however, her relationship as one of the mistresses of Bertie, the Prince of Wales, that really sealed Lillie's position in society. Society, however, failed to hold Lillie's interest for long, and she soon embarked upon a career as an actress, a decision that was to bring Lillie international attention and acclaim--to such an extent that a town in Texas was even named after her!

In this series, Lillie is portrayed by the stunningly beautiful Francesca Annis who, at least in my opinion, is simply splendid as Lillie; indeed, so perfect is her portrayal that I cannot possibly imagine anyone else in the role. Having seen pictures of the real Lillie Langtry, both my mother and I have often remarked on how Lillie's beauty pales by comparison with Francesca's--evidence, no doubt, that beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, and that which one society considers to be perfection is often very different from that which is considered to be so by another!

In conclusion, this is an engaging and entertaining story of a woman who led a very interesting and atypical life. It is perfectly cast and extremely well-acted, and I highly recommend it to anyone with a love for either period drama or historical biography. For those interested in delving even deeper into this fascinating woman's life, I highly recommend Laura Beatty's highly acclaimed biography entitled Lillie Langtry--Manners, Masks and Morals (a 1999 UK publication).

A Splendid British Period Drama!, Dec 26 2003

The series covers the lives of three young nannies and the families for whom they work--all of whom are situated in Berkeley Square. Firstly, there is pretty but prim, proper and straight-laced young Matty Wickham, the new nanny for Tom and Harriet, the children of the St. John family (pronounced SINjin). However, all is not domestic bliss in the household, as Mrs. St. John (Hermione Norris--Cold Feet's Karen) is busily engaged in an adulterous affair with dashing Captain Mason (who also happens to have an eye on Isabel, the beautiful but empty-headed young niece of the Hutchinson family).

The head nanny to the children of the Hutchinsons (consisting of young Bertie and his baby brother Charlie) is cold, nosy, unkindly Nanny Simmons. Her new assistant is a beautiful young Irish woman named Hannah Randall (Victoria Smurfit--Ballykissangel's Orla), a woman whose secrets include an illegitimate baby of her own. Luck (with a little less-than-honest assistance from Hannah!) has landed her the position, but can she keep it under the ever-watchful eye of Nanny Simmons?

Finally, there is the Lamson-Scribener family, consisting of the Earl, his young American second-wife and their baby, Ivo, who is the charge of elderly, carmudgeonly, no-nonsense Nanny Collins. Collins' new assistant is a naive-but-good-hearted country girl named Lydia Weston, the daughter of tenant farmers on the Lamson-Scribeners' country estate. Lydia's newfound life is threatened, however, when the Earl's adult son Hugh arrives home.

This is an absolutely splendid, thoroughly captivating period drama with plenty of tension and suspense. However, because the story deals with three households and the interplay between them, it is a little more challenging initially to keep track of who is in the employment of whom! As a result, I recommend not having a break of more than a couple of days at most between episodes. (Believe me, you'll find it difficult waiting for the next episode anyway!).

The series consists of ten 50-minute episodes, and although the last episode does serve to wrap up each of the stories, we are left with a few kernels which were likely designed to serve as a springboard for a further series of episodes, had one been commissioned. I know I'm not alone in hoping the BBC will someday revive this series (they've done so with many others in the past).

In conclusion, I highly recommend this series to all fans of British period productions. Frankly, though, I don't think a penchant for period productions is prerequisite to enjoying this series. If you're looking for a good, clean, captivating dramatic series (of any era), you may want to consider checking this one out.