hounds-3

Poignant and heartfelt film based on Bernard Hare's memoir Urban Grimshaw and the Shed Crew. I've been eagerly anticipating the release of this film and was not disappointed. Great performances by all, especially from Fraser Kelly and Richard Armitage, who play their roles with sensitivity. There are glimpses of pain and love beneath their hardened exteriors. Also, there were some really striking shots--kudos to the cinematographer.

Watched this on Blenheim Films' site and thankful for Candida Brady's persistence and passion to get this finally released to a global audience.

As other reviewers have noted, this is/was an odd show. Among all the zombie, vampire, and supernatural shows out there, this is truly unique for the intelligent writing and stellar acting by the ensemble cast. There isn't a central plot line that drives it and at times may seem out of focus. It's kind of like an anthology of poems or short stories on film loosely centered on a theme. But the writing and acting is so good, it's compelling to watch week after week as the characters struggle with their demons and painful loneliness.

Rory Kinnear and Eva Green are outstanding actors and it saddens me that they have gone largely unrecognized for their performances. The entire ensemble cast largely consists of classically trained actors. John Logan (producer and writer), writer of Skyfall and Spectre, is so talented. Abel Korzeniowski wrote a beautiful soundtrack as well. And there are so many beautiful and haunting moments in this show that will stick in my memory.

Sidenote: The opening to the two-part season three finale is a perfect summary for the show. And as the season three finale ended, I was stunned to find out it was canceled. Now I feel like I'm in mourning for the show and its heartbreaking characters.

I watched the play through digital theatre's website. Gut wrenching in parts and intensely moving. Richard Armitage is such a talented actor and deserves better roles than he seems to get. His voice is powerful and his presence on the stage or in front of the camera is magnetic. Other performances and direction by Farber were stellar as well. I also enjoyed his extended interview that Digital Theatre makes available on their website.

Just a sidenote: I had a difficult time with the download and player that the site makes you use. I am no luddite, but couldn't get the video to play on my smart HD TV. I ended up streaming it. Digital theatre should release this on DVD.