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Reviews
Bargain Hunt (2000)
Entertaining, educational lunchtime viewing
'Bargain Hunt' is often derided as cheaply made, oft repeated, daytime broadcasting fodder.
However, a confession. I love it. Indeed significant numbers have been similarly enjoying it for twenty four years (at the time of writing). Broadcast every weekday (usually at 12:15), and often at weekends too, 'Bargain Hunt' is regularly one of the top ten most watched programmes of the day.
So why is it so successful? Well the simple formula of purchasing items at a boot fair or an antique's centre, and then selling them at an auction for profit, remains very appealing. The viewer can speculate which purchases will be successful or failures. As auctions are so gloriously unpredictable, no-one really knows what will happen. The constant surprises at the auction keeps things fresh.
Another part of the appeal is that the presenters and experts are uniformly friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The contestants are clearly loving the experience.
The bonus is that each episode contains a genuinely educational item. All credit to the producers, because after nearly two thousand shows, they still find such fascinating stories to tell.
In short, 'Bargain Hunt' is forty five minutes at lunch time when you can forget any worries in the company of an inoffensive, undemanding, thoroughly likeable programme.
Long may it continue. Yes? Yes!
Scam Interceptors (2022)
Superb, Gripping Public Service Television
As someone who has fallen victim to scammers, I was immediately interested in seeing the new daytime show 'Scam Interceptors', launched in April, 2022. My own experience was horrible and had a huge effect on my confidence, so I was hoping that SI would help counteract this appalling criminal activity.
As it turned out, I greatly underestimated the effectiveness of the programme. Not only does it give invaluable consumer advice, but shows the drama of the scams as they are happening. There is tremendous tension as these callous and heartless criminals attempt to steal from victims, most of whom are amongst the most vulnerable people in society. The BBC team led by Rav Wilding and Nick Stapleton strive desperately to stop these innocent and trusting people losing their savings. The scammers are relentless and have no scruples, so it is no easy task. I am delighted that the occasions in which scams succeed, are not shown. It would be too heartbreaking. In contrast, the feeling of satisfaction and elation, when the scam is thwarted, is massive.
Massive credit goes to Rav, Nick and the whole team. They are sensitive, caring and doing a great job on our behalf. Certainly what SI does is a drop in the ocean against the monumental tide of fraud perpetrated by these scammers, but boy does it feel good to see these small victories.
I was delighted to see SI get a richly deserved BAFTA nomination and a promotion to a prime time slot. Highly recommended.
The Traitors UK (2022)
Utterly Gripping Tinderbox of Raw and Intense Emotion
Launched in the winter of 2022 to rather disappointing ratings, I was alerted to 'The Traitors' by how many viewers were describing it with words like 'addictive' and 'absorbing'. After viewing the first episode, it was obvious that the show would be a sure fire massive hit. The series has continued to be startlingly fascinating, entertaining viewing and unquestionably my favourite newly launched show of the year.
On the face of it, the premise sounds relatively straightforward. Twenty two strangers perform tasks together to earn a prize fund of up to £120,000. However, covertly hidden amongst the twenty two are the Traitors, who strategically 'murder' the other contestants (Faithfuls). The Faithfuls' job is to root out the Traitors and remove them from the game. Eventually any remaining players take home the prize kitty.
Despite its apparent simplicity, the show has produced some of the most compelling TV exchanges and moments one could wish to see. Psychologists could surely hold conferences studying the group dynamics. It shows how clever manipulation can produce a full on herd, 'Lord of the Flies' mentality as innocent Faithfuls are suddenly turned on and evicted without a shred of evidence against them. The innocent victims become understandably distraught leading to high octane and intense scenes at the 'round table', where each player explains who they wish to get rid of, and why. We are also privy to the machinations of the Traitors.
The devious producers also regularly introduce ingenious twists to keep the viewing guessing, and to ratchet up the tension even more. Compliments also go to the researchers, who cast the 2022 contestants. Refreshingly, the competitors encompass a broad spectrum of ages, temperament and social backgrounds. Many of the contestants view themselves as mind control experts or being able to spot liars. The fact that they have been so inept at either, has given the viewer great schadenfreude.
Claudia Winkleman has played the role of the string pulling games controller with obvious relish. One of British TV's safest pair of hands, she has performed her part with consummate skill.
Add in high production values, the picturesque and atmospheric Scottish castle location and clever use of incidental music, and you have an outstanding piece of television. The show loses one mark, because the actual tasks to raise the prize fund, are far less compelling. However, they do allow the viewer some respite from the sheer intensity of the rest of the each episode.
It's so rare that a new formula bursts on to the TV scene with such an impact. Congratulations to all involved and roll on the next series, when I suspect things may become even more thrilling!
The 1% Club (2022)
100 % Excellent Saturday Evening Fare
Which two letters complete this sequence?
T N E C R E P E
On a digital 24-clock that displays hours, minutes and seconds, how many times in each 24-hour period do all six digits change simultaneously?
These two questions were not featured on high brow quizzes like 'Only Connect' or 'University Challenge'. Instead they were on a new prime time Saturday evening game show on Britain's biggest commercial TV channel, if you please. Scarcely credible really.
'The 1% Club' is clearly something a bit different. It certainly includes all the elements of a successful game show.
1) Easy to follow format 2) Witty and likeable host 3) Great interaction with contestants 4) Exciting climax to the show.
What separates it out from the crowd are the questions, which stay away from general knowledge. Instead there are logic and reasoning problems, that become more challenging as the show progresses. You can play along at home, and even discuss questions with friends and work colleagues later in the week. 'The 1% Club' deserves to be successful and I just hope it finds an audience.
By the way the answer to the two questions are:-
A) N O
B) 3 times during the day.
And if you got both of those correct you are clearly in 'The 1% Club' and will surely enjoy this breath of fresh air to Saturday evening TV.
Doctor in Trouble (1970)
Carry On Cruising Meets Doctor At Sea
'Doctor in Trouble' is the seventh, final and possibly least heralded instalment of the successful 'Doctor' comedy movies, which had begun sixteen years earlier.
Even in the early, glory days of the series, with Dirk Bogarde starring as Simon Sparrow, the films were not laugh out loud affairs. Instead the charm of the characters, and their amusing interplay, created an experience that audiences enjoyed and queued up in their thousands to see. Unfortunately, by 1970, times had changed. Bogarde had left the series and cinema goers preferred broader, more 'Carry On' type humour. 'Doctor In Trouble' went for this somewhat bawdier approach and the resulting production was not a success. The plot was rather nonsensical and the screenplay lacking laughs.
Having said that I would recommend giving it a viewing purely for watching the cast in action. It was a real shame that an ailing James Robertson Justice could only film a short reprise of his legendary Sir Lancelot Spratt characterisation. He was replaced in the central part of Captain George Spratt by Robert Morley, a past master at playing pomposity, but it wasn't quite the same. Leslie Phillips played his usual smoothie role with likability and a sparkle in his eye. The bonus was Harry Secombe. On this evidence the ex-Goon would have made an excellent member of the 'Carry On' repertory company. His character certainly supplied the majority of the film's laughs. As ever in this sort of film, the cast was stuffed with British comedy character actors doing what they do best. Notably Irene Handl as a no nonsense mother and John Le Mesurier doing his usual turn as a world weary, authority figure.
Less effective were the main female characters and Simon Dee's portrayal of a lascivious TV actor. Graham Stark (Pink Panther) and Graham Chapman (Monty Python) did not have their greatest moments either. Perhaps strangest of all was seeing Joan Sims pop up in a very unlikely cameo role as a Russian captain!
Overall worth seeing to complete the series and to spot the acting talent, but don't expect many laughs.
Cavalcade (1933)
5.8; What's That All About?
'Cavalcade' at the time of writing, has the lowest IMDb rating of any of the ninety plus 'Best Picture' Oscar Winners. Having just watched the film for the first time, I can't for the life of me, believe that is a fair assessment (for one thing it has to be better than the horribly pretentious 'Birdman' if nothing else).
My suspicion is that modern audiences shy away from many of the prevalent sentiments of the era, which were extolled in the original play by Noel Coward. Stiff upper lip repressed emotion, class snobbery, and the currently much despised notion of celebrating England, do not seem to sit well with those in the twenty first century. And, undoubtedly, much of the production seems anachronistic. There is no ethnic diversity, and those plummy accents, now seem too grating.
However, what we have got is a marvellously told history of significant events for England in the first third of the twentieth century. It is seen through the dramas, romances and tragedies of two linked families. The direction is clear and some scenes are furnished with some opulence, and an eye for detail. There are a sprinkling of entertaining period songs, and a bit of comedy ('where is Africa?') to lighten the mood.
Although the cast are now largely forgotten names, I was largely impressed with the performances. The stand out was Irene Browne as the family's matriarch. The best, and most moving scene, was set on the ill fated 'Titanic'.
I would urge those rating 'Cavalcade' to judge the film in the context of when it was made. It was at the time a much loved, successful and, I would suggest, an excellent movie. No way is it the worst of the Best Picture winners. No way!
Columbo: Columbo Goes to College (1990)
The Best of the Best
Cards on the table, 'Columbo' is my all time favourite TV programme. Indeed a lot of very shrewd people share that view. However, a much more select opinion is that 'Columbo Goes To College' is the best of all the 68 episodes.
The popular belief is that the 'new' Columbos, from Season 8 onwards, are a poor imitation of the earlier, flawless productions. As a general rule this theory holds water, with some real aberrations such as 'Undercover' or 'Time To Die'.
'Columbo Goes To College' proves that every rule has exceptions. I love it. To begin with the murder plot is ingenious, certainly one of the cleverest of all the episodes. Justin and Cooper, the culprits, are worthy adversaries for the great man. And possibly two of the most dislikeable of murderers, as well. They are thoroughly arrogant, spoilt brats. Throughout they ridicule and belittle Columbo. All of which makes his subsequent outwitting of the pair even more delicious than usual. The moment when he learns that Justin's second name is Rowe, and the realisation of his guilt dawns on him, is pure, vintage Columbo.
The casting is excellent. Stephen Caffrey (Justin) and Gary Hershberger (Cooper) portray the heartless assassins with just the right amount of contemptuousness and psychosis. Best of all, it was a delight to see Robert Culp,'Columbo's' most prolific killer. This time he portrays Justin's father, an incredulous member of the university's hierarchy, who like many before him, seriously underestimated the peerless detective. I also think this a Peter Falk's best portrayal of the latter episodes. The tendency to become a Columbo caricature is resisted, and so his mannerisms and methods, remain credible.
The denouement of 'Columbo' occasionally disappoints. Not this time. The look of desperation on the killers' faces, as they realise their perfect murder has been exposed, is priceless.
An excellent plot, compelling adversaries and Peter Falk, at his most spell-binding best. I call this telly heaven.
First and Last (2020)
Better suited to daytime... but a likeable enough watch
Despite its Saturday evening prime time slot, I somehow doubt 'First and Last' was ever envisaged as a ratings blockbuster. It is an undemanding watch with a relatively miserly pride fund. Almost by design, there is a low key feel to proceedings with rounds including the weighing of vegetables, or even jumping out of a box! The truth is that the producers would have known that the show would not have provided mass appeal to the Netflix obsessed demography. Indeed, Jason Manford often pokes fun at the simplicity and cheapness of the production. However, despite myself, I really enjoyed the show.
Firstly, it is a very easy to follow format (a must for any gameshow). A couple of the ranking rounds are very interesting and allow the viewer to play along as well. I also thought the end game was quite clever. Perhaps most of all, Jason Manford is a likeable and witty host. He has an excellent rapport with the contestants, who also seem to be having a good laugh.
If the show had been launched as a daytime broadcast and allowed to build an audience, it may well have become a cult success. Instead it received a lot of negativity for coming over as too safe and lame. My advice to the schedulers is to let 'First and Last' be placed in a more suitable time slot and watch it thrive.
Tales of the Unexpected: The Verger (1988)
An Unexpected Return To Form For An Influential Series
Whilst watching re-runs of the whole nine series of this iconic drama, it was easy to see why the decision was made to end TOTE. The early episodes had charm, flair and originality. After ten years, which spanned the eighties, the stories were becoming populated by thoroughly dislikable characters. They typically perpetrated multifarious crimes, usually a callous murder. The twist at the end became all too predictable and any feel good factor had long since disappeared. Even the big name stars of stage and screen, which the series was renowned for, began to disappear from the cast list.
However, for the final series, the winning formula returned. Celebrated veterans of the acting profession returned for tales which more subtle and agreeable.
My personal favourite is 'The Verger'. It is based on a short story by a master of the art, William Somerset Maugham. The anatogonists are not killers, but merely a modernising vicar and a hard hearted Health and Safety Inspector.
The greatest joy is seeing two wonderful exponents of character acting, Richard Briers and Patricia Routledge, produce a masterclass. What a delight to see Briers reproduce many of the facets of his marvellous Martin Bryce role from the sit-com 'Ever Decreasing Circles'. 'The Verger's' denouement wrong footed me, and although not startling, felt rather satisfying. A great way to spend 25 minutes.
TOTE episodes had highs and lows, but undeniably it records for prosperity a host of episodes showcasing leading actors of the time, many of whom are no longer with us. For that reason, if nothing else, they are well worth watching.
The Repair Shop (2017)
Thoroughly heartwarming and a pleasure to watch
Daytime programming can be shunned, mocked and pilloried, but just occasionally it conjures up original, educational and outstanding television.
The Repair Shop is a terrific example of this.
The format is simple. Members of the public bring in artefacts, antiques and heirlooms, which over the course of time have broken or faded into disrepair (the backstories are often fascinating). The items are received at The Repair Shop and mended or restored by a member of a team of experts in various fields (clocks, upholstery, toys etc.).
Every aspect of the show is a delight.
Watching the process of how the repairs are carried out, is a wonder to behold. The skills and crafts used are those acquired over many years of learning. Not a computer in sight.
Those bringing in the artefacts care so deeply about their wares, and often possess cherished memories of other family members who once owned them.
The craftspeople who repair the treasures, are the stars of the show. Unassuming, patient, skilful and dedicated. They clearly take delight and pride in their work, and most of all sheer pleasure in helping others.
The culmination of each programme is when the restored items are returned to their owners. Such joyful moments and I don't mind saying it brings a tear to the eye.
No, there is no 'action', nobody gets voted off and it is quite slow. But when so many programmes focus on the worst side of humanity, let's celebrate people behaving wonderfully. A pleasure to watch and long may it continue!
The Many Faces of...: June Whitfield (2009)
The ultimate professional... an incredible career
First made in 2009, this production acts as a worthy tribute to this most reliable of British comedy performers and was shown again on the day after Dame June passed away at the grand age of 93 in December 2018.
An array of contributors including such significant figures as Denis Norden, Nicholas Parsons and Sylvia Sims uniformly paid glowing testament to her comedic talents of timing, interpretation of a script and downright professionalism. She was seen to be very happy to play second fiddle rather than wishing to be in the spotlight hereslf. As such, practically every notable comedian over a huge period of time was keen to work with such a stalwart talent.
This documentary dwelt most on her roles in Absolutely Fabulous and her partnership with Terry Scott. Dame June in a very kindly way hinted that Scott was hard to work with and was also mildly frustrated that 'Terry and June' became much despised for being too middle class. As June observed there is a lot of middle class Britain and nowadays practically no situation comedy attempts to cater for it.
She also contributed to four Carry On films, although strangely this was not even referred to in the programme.
However the wonderful June Whitfield, who clearly had the most generous of natures, was revealed as having appeared in over 250 comedy shows, so it would be impossible to list them all.
Dame June can rest in peace knowing she has added to the pleasure in the lives of countless millions.
The Fallen Idol (1948)
'There's lies and lies'
To quote a hackneyed phrase:- 'they don't make them like this anymore.' And more's the pity.
Ever since I first viewed this outstanding piece of British cinema, over 30 years ago now, it has struck me as a quintessential example of how to transform a relatively simple, albeit fascinating, story into a most compelling 95 minutes of movie making.
First to say, the acting was uniformly outstanding. Ralph Richardson (Baines) as ever the consummate professional, gave us a portrayal of utmost subtlety. His sympathetic portrayal of a kind- hearted man trapped in a loveless marriage to a shrewish wife, had me rooting for him throughout. The revelation though was Bobby Henrey in the key role of Philippe, the diplomat's neglected son. It is surely one of the very best by a child actor. Such a pity that it turned out to be the only significant role of Henrey's career. And of course with British films of this post war era, the supporting cast is packed with stalwart performers who know exactly what to do to enliven any part. Take Dandy Nicholls' wonderful cameo as a cleaner in the Embassy, as a perfect example of the art
Carol Reed's direction is crisp and thoughtful. He lets the beautifully constructed story speak for itself with no desire for gimmickry to gild the lily. What more he coaxed the remarkable acting display out of Henrey. Working with child actors is notoriously difficult, but Reed is a clearly a master of the craft. Note how he pulled the strings so successfully with a juvenile cast 20 years later in 'Oliver'. Carol Reed was rightfully nominated for a Best Director Oscar though lost out at the 1950 ceremony to Joseph Mankiewicz (A Letter To Three Wives).
The film's premise is intriguing. The repercussions of lying, the acceptable lie and when the truth is seen as a lie. These moral ambiguities are confusing enough for adults, let alone a terrified boy who wants to protect his idol. Philippe's plaintive and despairing calling of 'Baines Baines!' reminded me of Joey calling out for Shane at the finale of another great picture.
There are many relatively undiscovered gems of Brish cinema from the twenty years following the war, but this is as good as any. Highly recommended.
Sons of the Desert (1933)
Stan and Ollie at their magnificent best
In many great film stars' careers comes a movie when everything falls into perfect place. It shows the actors at the very zenith of their powers, which nothing before, or after, quite matches. Their magnus opus. For the unsurpassable Laurel and Hardy the masterpiece 'Sons of the Desert' is this very moment.
From the opening, in which the boys stumble in late to a secret convention, right through to the satisfying finale, a comic beat is never missed.
Every scene is choc full of memorable lines (some written by Stan and Ollie themselves). It is one of those movies that needs rewatching several times to even begin to approach the depth of the comedy and characterisation. Watch the vignette of Stan surreptitiously eating the wax fruit, whilst believing it to be real, to appreciate what I mean.
For those who enjoy slapstick, there are plenty of outstanding examples of the art. However it is subtle not 'in yer face'. Sample the sequence with a tub of water to see how to make physical comedy fly.
The story is simple, but smartly constructed, and plausible enough to make us believe it could happen. The superior production values in scenes such as the convention parade and at the convention itself, add gloss and are well worth the added investment.
At the heart of the film though is the relationship between Stan and Ollie. The domineering and pompous Hardy forever putting down the naive and loyal Stan. Yet shining through the occasional ups and manifold downs, is an undefinable bond. These two will be buddies for life. They are my buddies too.
The supporting cast led by Mae Busch ("wax eater"), Dorothy Christie as Stan's wife, complete with duck hunting rifle and Charlie Chase in a scene- stealing cameo, are all flawless.
The delightfully catchy 'Honolulu Baby' and the parade of quotable lines, are just added delights.
I know movie watching is subjective, but anyone who could watch 'Sons of the Desert' without feeling happier afterwards... well I simply would not like to know them at all.