Sleepers

This has everything: comedy, suspense, brilliant acting, and first-rate direction. Why on earth isn't it on video? It's a ten. Notice especially the casting. Marvelous. Nothing this good has appeared since on the tube!

Loved this mini series and unfortunately do not have a good tape of it. Does anyone know if it is available anywhere on DVD or VHS--it should be! one of the best ever from BBC shown on US PBS. I thought the casting, plot, and mix of humor and serious jabs at the warriors of the cold war was great. With all the crud out on DVD it is hard to believe that this is not available somewhere somehow for purchase. I saw it years ago, has it been re-broadcast more recently on any PBS stations, or does BBC America re-run it ever? Now that WETA Radio in DC has sold out and gone totally "news" and talk there is a desperate need for good entertainment like this mini series. I have searched for years and would greatly appreciate any help in procuring a copy of this somehow.

A clever concept about people left behind - except that they aren't: they have left behind their past, and when they are called upon to act roles ordained in the past, they simply won't. A witty and human subversion of the Ian Fleming/John Le Carre spy story, a tale of what goes right and what goes wrong, of cultural clashes, class warfare (remember that?), identity, politics, greed and happiness. The cultural artefact (I can't spoil it) that sends the storyline spinning into a new orbit is chosen with wit and imagination. Nigel Havers has rarely been so funny although Warren Clarke has always been capable of dominating the screen in comedy like a working-class Jack Nicholson. A mini like no other - because it never flags in pace, intensity, observation or commentary.

This miniseries regarding the cold war is probable the best you are ever likely to see. It is both serious and hilarious at the same time. The stars are all excellent, particularly Michael Gough. I do not know of any other serious-comedy that can hold your attention. make you laugh; keep you under suspense, all at the same time.

This series was superb. It's listed in the IMDB as a comedy, but it is in fact a Cold War drama of the most compelling and chilling sort. Why on earth it hasn't appeared in video is beyond me. It deserves the highest rating.