While children's fantasy movies are usually characterized by their happy endings and light themes, revisiting these projects as an adult can provide new insight into the deeper messages. More often than not, the nostalgic aspects of kids' movies hit harder for older viewers since these narratives are reminiscent of a time gone by. The ephemeral nature of childhood and the unexpected difficulties of adulthood are brought into sharp perspective through the lens of a story meant to entice and enchant young audiences. Occasionally, Easter eggs meant for adults provide a fun hidden layer of meaning for returning viewers to enjoy.
These films come from many different eras and niches, with some fantasy movie box office flops developing into cult classics over time, especially with adults rewatching these projects. Understanding the context and setting of these films is a large part of what makes them special for adults, as these parts...
These films come from many different eras and niches, with some fantasy movie box office flops developing into cult classics over time, especially with adults rewatching these projects. Understanding the context and setting of these films is a large part of what makes them special for adults, as these parts...
- 11/24/2024
- by Mary Kassel
- ScreenRant
Paddington fans can now rejoice, as more projects from the film series are officially on the way. A sequel, tentatively titled Paddington 4, and a television series spinoff are in development, as confirmed by StudioCanal. Created by Michael Bond and debuting in 1958, Paddington Bear has been delighting audiences through books, animated series, and his critically acclaimed feature films. Paddington was released in 2014 and featured Ben Whishaw as the lovable bear. He reprised his role in 2017's Paddington 2, one of the best-rated movies of all time on Rotten Tomatoes, and audiences are anticipating the third film in the franchise, Paddington in Peru.
During the Brand Licensing Europe 2024 convention in London, via Comic Book, CEO of StudioCanal Kids and Family Brands Franoise Guyonnet and Head of Global Sales Sissel Henno spoke at the company's panel and outlined the future of the Paddington franchise. They are planning Paddington 4 and a television series, aiming for 2027 and 2028 release dates.
During the Brand Licensing Europe 2024 convention in London, via Comic Book, CEO of StudioCanal Kids and Family Brands Franoise Guyonnet and Head of Global Sales Sissel Henno spoke at the company's panel and outlined the future of the Paddington franchise. They are planning Paddington 4 and a television series, aiming for 2027 and 2028 release dates.
- 9/25/2024
- by Richard Fink
- MovieWeb
King Charles has formally appointed Queen Camilla and Prince Edward to the Order of the Thistle, which is Scotland’s highest order of valor.
Prince Edward Was Appointed To The Order On His 60th Birthday
They were appointed Royal Knights at a private ceremony at St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Prince William attended the ceremony. Charles’s younger brother, Edward, was appointed earlier today on his 60th birthday.
However, the Princess of Wales was absent as she continued her cancer treatment. The Royal Family was also bombarded by protests from anti-monarchy groups who were chanting “Not My King.”
The Queen and Edward donned dramatic green velvet robes, and King Charles also appointed Sir Geoffrey Palmer, Scotland’s first black professor, Baroness Sue Black, a forensic anthropologist distinguished lawyer, and Baroness Helena Kennedy, a barrister and women’s rights campaigner, to the Order.
The Duke of Edinburgh...
Prince Edward Was Appointed To The Order On His 60th Birthday
They were appointed Royal Knights at a private ceremony at St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Prince William attended the ceremony. Charles’s younger brother, Edward, was appointed earlier today on his 60th birthday.
However, the Princess of Wales was absent as she continued her cancer treatment. The Royal Family was also bombarded by protests from anti-monarchy groups who were chanting “Not My King.”
The Queen and Edward donned dramatic green velvet robes, and King Charles also appointed Sir Geoffrey Palmer, Scotland’s first black professor, Baroness Sue Black, a forensic anthropologist distinguished lawyer, and Baroness Helena Kennedy, a barrister and women’s rights campaigner, to the Order.
The Duke of Edinburgh...
- 7/4/2024
- by Jennifer Gardiner
- Daily Soap Dish
In terms of baseline quality, the Seventies is probably the most consistent Doctor Who has been until the 21st Century. There’s a classic story in nearly every season, and fondly-thought-of stories throughout. The long-list for this one was very long, the certainty of not including someone’s favourite even more certain than usual.
Producer Barry Letts and Script Editor Terrance Dicks took a show with the potential for cancellation and moved it from Quatermass homage to the cosiest of nightmare fuel: a family show on and off-screen with the reassuringly haughty Jon Pertwee ruffling hearts and minds at the head of a regular ensemble cast.
After five seasons the family was breaking up, and the show was revitalised by incoming Producer Philip Hinchcliffe and Script Editor Robert Holmes. Aiming at an older audience (Holmes in The Daily Express in 1977: ‘I wouldn’t let any child under ten see...
Producer Barry Letts and Script Editor Terrance Dicks took a show with the potential for cancellation and moved it from Quatermass homage to the cosiest of nightmare fuel: a family show on and off-screen with the reassuringly haughty Jon Pertwee ruffling hearts and minds at the head of a regular ensemble cast.
After five seasons the family was breaking up, and the show was revitalised by incoming Producer Philip Hinchcliffe and Script Editor Robert Holmes. Aiming at an older audience (Holmes in The Daily Express in 1977: ‘I wouldn’t let any child under ten see...
- 11/27/2022
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
To mark the release of To Olivia on 24th May, we’ve been given 3 copies to give away on Blu-ray.
It’s 1962 and Roald Dahl (Hugh Bonneville), an eccentric, burgeoning children’s author and his wife, Patricia Neal, a glamourous Hollywood movie star, have retreated to the English countryside to bring up their expanding young family. Tragically, their lives are turned upside down by the devastating death of their daughter Olivia and as the couple struggle through the unimaginable loss, their shared grief becomes a source of redemption and strength which changes their lives forever.
Inspiring and heart-warming, To Olivia features an all British cast including Sam Heughan (Outlander), Geoffrey Palmer (Paddington) and Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones), was directed by John Hay and co-written by John Hay and David Logan.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
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The Small Print
Open to UK...
It’s 1962 and Roald Dahl (Hugh Bonneville), an eccentric, burgeoning children’s author and his wife, Patricia Neal, a glamourous Hollywood movie star, have retreated to the English countryside to bring up their expanding young family. Tragically, their lives are turned upside down by the devastating death of their daughter Olivia and as the couple struggle through the unimaginable loss, their shared grief becomes a source of redemption and strength which changes their lives forever.
Inspiring and heart-warming, To Olivia features an all British cast including Sam Heughan (Outlander), Geoffrey Palmer (Paddington) and Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones), was directed by John Hay and co-written by John Hay and David Logan.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print
Open to UK...
- 5/21/2021
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Sky has dropped the first trailer for the original film based on the true story of Roald Dahl, ‘To Olivia’ featuring Hugh Bonneville and Keeley Hawes.
It’s 1962 and Roald Dahl, an eccentric, burgeoning children’s author and his wife, Patricia Neal, a glamourous Hollywood movie star, have retreated to the English countryside to bring up their expanding young family. Tragically, their lives are turned upside down by the devastating death of their daughter Olivia and as the couple struggle through the unimaginable loss, their shared grief becomes a source of redemption and strength which changes their lives forever.
Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey) plays novelist Roald Dahl and Keeley Hawes features as his American actress wife Patricia Neal.
Directed by John Hay, Sam Heughan (Outlander), Geoffrey Palmer (Paddington) and Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones) also star.
Also in trailers – Thomas Brodie-Sangster is a dragon in trailer for ‘Dragon Rider’
The...
It’s 1962 and Roald Dahl, an eccentric, burgeoning children’s author and his wife, Patricia Neal, a glamourous Hollywood movie star, have retreated to the English countryside to bring up their expanding young family. Tragically, their lives are turned upside down by the devastating death of their daughter Olivia and as the couple struggle through the unimaginable loss, their shared grief becomes a source of redemption and strength which changes their lives forever.
Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey) plays novelist Roald Dahl and Keeley Hawes features as his American actress wife Patricia Neal.
Directed by John Hay, Sam Heughan (Outlander), Geoffrey Palmer (Paddington) and Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones) also star.
Also in trailers – Thomas Brodie-Sangster is a dragon in trailer for ‘Dragon Rider’
The...
- 12/24/2020
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
British actor Geoffrey Palmer, known for appearing in a large variety of stage, movie, and television roles over the past several decades, has sadly passed away. Having appeared in several episodes of Doctor Who, the official Twitter account posted that they were "sad to report the death" of the veteran performer, listing the episodes he had starred in. It was also confirmed by his agent that Palmer died peacefully at his home following a short illness. He was 93 years old.
Palmer was born on the 4th of June in 1927 in London, England. After serving as a corporal instructor in small arms and field training in the Royal Marines, Palmer had turned his attention to performing. In the 1950s, he was appearing in stage productions at the Royal Court and for the National Theatre Company, including productions of Weest of Suez and Sabrina Fair.
He'd also begin appearing on television around...
Palmer was born on the 4th of June in 1927 in London, England. After serving as a corporal instructor in small arms and field training in the Royal Marines, Palmer had turned his attention to performing. In the 1950s, he was appearing in stage productions at the Royal Court and for the National Theatre Company, including productions of Weest of Suez and Sabrina Fair.
He'd also begin appearing on television around...
- 11/6/2020
- by Jeremy Dick
- MovieWeb
British actor Geoffrey Palmer, known for the long-running series “As Time Goes By,” “Butterflies” and “The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin,” has died peacefully at home, his agent told the BBC. He was 93.
In “As Time Goes By,” Palmer co-starred with Judi Dench. The two reunited in the 1997 James Bond film “Tomorrow Never Dies.” Other notable films he was in include “The Madness of King George,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Mrs. Brown,” and “Paddington.” His last appearance is in “An Unquiet Life,” a film currently in post-production.
Palmer appeared in several iconic TV series, such as “Doctor Who,” “The Saint,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Avengers.”
Tributes have been pouring in after Palmer’s death.
“Baby Driver” director Edgar Wright tweeted a reference to Palmer’s role in “Reginald Perrin”: “The flight path gag wiping out the lines of Reggie Perrin’s brother-in-law is one of my favourite running gags in comedy.
In “As Time Goes By,” Palmer co-starred with Judi Dench. The two reunited in the 1997 James Bond film “Tomorrow Never Dies.” Other notable films he was in include “The Madness of King George,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Mrs. Brown,” and “Paddington.” His last appearance is in “An Unquiet Life,” a film currently in post-production.
Palmer appeared in several iconic TV series, such as “Doctor Who,” “The Saint,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Avengers.”
Tributes have been pouring in after Palmer’s death.
“Baby Driver” director Edgar Wright tweeted a reference to Palmer’s role in “Reginald Perrin”: “The flight path gag wiping out the lines of Reggie Perrin’s brother-in-law is one of my favourite running gags in comedy.
- 11/6/2020
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Geoffrey Palmer, the prolific British film and TV actor, has died at the age of 93.
His death was confirmed by the BBC, which was home to As Time Goes By, the comedy in which he starred alongside Judi Dench. Palmer’s agent told the BBC that he died peacefully at home.
As Time Goes By ran for more than a decade on the BBC, but Palmer appeared in a huge number of other TV shows and movies throughout a career that began in the 1950s.
He was reunited with Dench in James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, while his range is demonstrated in other credits including Doctor Who, The Legacy of Reginald Perrin, Parade’s End and The Hollow Crown. More recent roles included appearing in Paddington.
In 2004, Palmer was honored by Queen Elizabeth II with an Order of the British Empire.
Below is a selection of tributes paid to Palmer:...
His death was confirmed by the BBC, which was home to As Time Goes By, the comedy in which he starred alongside Judi Dench. Palmer’s agent told the BBC that he died peacefully at home.
As Time Goes By ran for more than a decade on the BBC, but Palmer appeared in a huge number of other TV shows and movies throughout a career that began in the 1950s.
He was reunited with Dench in James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, while his range is demonstrated in other credits including Doctor Who, The Legacy of Reginald Perrin, Parade’s End and The Hollow Crown. More recent roles included appearing in Paddington.
In 2004, Palmer was honored by Queen Elizabeth II with an Order of the British Empire.
Below is a selection of tributes paid to Palmer:...
- 11/6/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Retitled from The Honorary Consul and sold in America with one of Paramount’s sleaziest ad campaigns, John MacKenzie and Christopher Hampton’s adaptation of a Graham Greene novel features a fine Michael Caine performance, but prefers to stress sex scenes between star Richard Gere and Elpidia Carrillo. Just call it ‘Lust in the Argentine Littoral’ — but performed in English.
Beyond the Limit (The Honorary Consul)
Der Honorarkonsul
Blu-ray
1983 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / Street Date January 10, 2019 / Available through Amazon.de / Eur 14,99
Starring: Michael Caine, Richard Gere, Bob Hoskins, Elpidia Carrillo, Joaquim de Almeida, A Martinez, Stephanie Cotsirilos, Domingo Ambriz, Geoffrey Palmer, Jorge Russek, Erika Carlsson, George Belanger.
Cinematography: Phil Meheux
Film Editor: Stuart Baird
Original Music: Stanley Myers
Written by Christopher Hampton from the novel by Graham Greene
Produced by Norma Heyman
Directed by John Mackenzie
Director John Mackenzie, fresh off his marvelous gift to the gangster film The Long Good Friday,...
Beyond the Limit (The Honorary Consul)
Der Honorarkonsul
Blu-ray
1983 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 104 min. / Street Date January 10, 2019 / Available through Amazon.de / Eur 14,99
Starring: Michael Caine, Richard Gere, Bob Hoskins, Elpidia Carrillo, Joaquim de Almeida, A Martinez, Stephanie Cotsirilos, Domingo Ambriz, Geoffrey Palmer, Jorge Russek, Erika Carlsson, George Belanger.
Cinematography: Phil Meheux
Film Editor: Stuart Baird
Original Music: Stanley Myers
Written by Christopher Hampton from the novel by Graham Greene
Produced by Norma Heyman
Directed by John Mackenzie
Director John Mackenzie, fresh off his marvelous gift to the gangster film The Long Good Friday,...
- 2/5/2019
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Up until a few years ago, Queen Victoria, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and Empress of India, was the longest reigning monarch. That is until Queen Elizabeth II, her great-great granddaughter surpassed her in September 2015. Elizabeth has been Queen since 1952.
With a reign of 63 years, seven months and two days, Victoria was the longest-reigning British monarch and the longest-reigning queen regnant in world history.
Focus Features has released the first poster and trailer for the upcoming Victoria & Abdul, from director Stephen Frears (The Queen,” “Philomena,” “Mrs. Henderson Presents”). The cast features Judi Dench, Ali Fazal, Adeel Akhtar, Simon Callow, Eddie Izzard, Ruth McCabe, Tim Pigott-Smith, Julian Wadham, Olivia Williams, Fenella Woolgar and Michael Gambon.
Many fans of the 1997’s Mrs. Brown wanted more of the story of a bereaved Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) and her relationship with a Scottish servant, John Brown (Billy Connolly), and the subsequent uproar it provoked.
With a reign of 63 years, seven months and two days, Victoria was the longest-reigning British monarch and the longest-reigning queen regnant in world history.
Focus Features has released the first poster and trailer for the upcoming Victoria & Abdul, from director Stephen Frears (The Queen,” “Philomena,” “Mrs. Henderson Presents”). The cast features Judi Dench, Ali Fazal, Adeel Akhtar, Simon Callow, Eddie Izzard, Ruth McCabe, Tim Pigott-Smith, Julian Wadham, Olivia Williams, Fenella Woolgar and Michael Gambon.
Many fans of the 1997’s Mrs. Brown wanted more of the story of a bereaved Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) and her relationship with a Scottish servant, John Brown (Billy Connolly), and the subsequent uproar it provoked.
- 5/30/2017
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
By Lee Pfeiffer
Olive Films has released a Blu-ray edition of the little-remembered and rarely seen 1979 film "The Outsider", a powerful drama directed by Tony Luraschi , who seemingly had a bright career but who, instead seems to have fallen into obscurity. This seems to be one of only two films he was ever credited with. The reasons for this remain unclear, given the fact that "The Outsider" is a powerful film that has retained its bite over the decades. One can only wonder why a work of such passion could not have inspired its director to continue to direct movies, although perhaps fate prevented him from doing so. (If any readers has any information to share about this, please let us know.) The film is set in Northern Ireland during the height of "The Troubles", that seemingly endless period of time when nation was torn apart by state of virtual civil was.
Olive Films has released a Blu-ray edition of the little-remembered and rarely seen 1979 film "The Outsider", a powerful drama directed by Tony Luraschi , who seemingly had a bright career but who, instead seems to have fallen into obscurity. This seems to be one of only two films he was ever credited with. The reasons for this remain unclear, given the fact that "The Outsider" is a powerful film that has retained its bite over the decades. One can only wonder why a work of such passion could not have inspired its director to continue to direct movies, although perhaps fate prevented him from doing so. (If any readers has any information to share about this, please let us know.) The film is set in Northern Ireland during the height of "The Troubles", that seemingly endless period of time when nation was torn apart by state of virtual civil was.
- 9/28/2016
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
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Ground-breaking, intelligent, prescient 1970s drama Doomwatch, now out on DVD, is a British television classic...
Playing on the public's fear that 'this could actually happen', Doomwatch had a veneer of credibility unusual in the escapist television drama landscape of the late 60s/early 70s. This spring sees the most comprehensive haul of Doomwatch episodes released on DVD for the first time. The nickname for the "Department for the Observation and Measurement of Scientific Work", the series first appeared on BBC1 on Monday 9th February 1970 at 9.40pm. It followed half an hour of comedy from Kenneth Williams, which must have surely heightened its dramatic impact.
The series would run in tandem with the early Jon Pertwee era of Doctor Who; the first episode made its debut two days after part two of Doctor Who And The Silurians. The two shows undoubtedly shared a synergy of ideas - not to mention cast and crew.
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Ground-breaking, intelligent, prescient 1970s drama Doomwatch, now out on DVD, is a British television classic...
Playing on the public's fear that 'this could actually happen', Doomwatch had a veneer of credibility unusual in the escapist television drama landscape of the late 60s/early 70s. This spring sees the most comprehensive haul of Doomwatch episodes released on DVD for the first time. The nickname for the "Department for the Observation and Measurement of Scientific Work", the series first appeared on BBC1 on Monday 9th February 1970 at 9.40pm. It followed half an hour of comedy from Kenneth Williams, which must have surely heightened its dramatic impact.
The series would run in tandem with the early Jon Pertwee era of Doctor Who; the first episode made its debut two days after part two of Doctor Who And The Silurians. The two shows undoubtedly shared a synergy of ideas - not to mention cast and crew.
- 3/31/2016
- Den of Geek
Paramount Pictures
In order to have a successful Christmas you need to make the right choices. The presents should be personal and heart-felt, the food should be fresh and well-cooked, and who you spend your time with should be the ones you love the most.
If that’s not your in-laws, parents, cousins or even siblings, Netflix has got you covered. To help you decide which TV shows and films are worthy of your attention over the holidays, here are six of the best, featuring some of the most popular characters around.
This week, settle in for adventures from detectives both tiny and idiotic, the show critics are calling the next Family Guy, an award-winning drama on race in America and the latest box office blockbuster in the Jack Ryan series.
There’s even an animated Christmas movie, if you’re not sick of that kind of thing yet.
6. The Pink Panther...
In order to have a successful Christmas you need to make the right choices. The presents should be personal and heart-felt, the food should be fresh and well-cooked, and who you spend your time with should be the ones you love the most.
If that’s not your in-laws, parents, cousins or even siblings, Netflix has got you covered. To help you decide which TV shows and films are worthy of your attention over the holidays, here are six of the best, featuring some of the most popular characters around.
This week, settle in for adventures from detectives both tiny and idiotic, the show critics are calling the next Family Guy, an award-winning drama on race in America and the latest box office blockbuster in the Jack Ryan series.
There’s even an animated Christmas movie, if you’re not sick of that kind of thing yet.
6. The Pink Panther...
- 12/19/2015
- by Damien St John
- Obsessed with Film
StudioCanal has brought back original Paddington director Paul King to take the helm on the upcoming sequel, Paddington 2. Deadline reports that the studio and producer David Heyman had been courting the filmmaker to return for Paddington 2 after the original became a financial success. The director has also come aboard to help craft the story with writer Simon Farnaby, an actor-writer who actually played Barry in Paddington.
The report reveals that StudioCanal is hoping to turn this property into a long-running franchise, although no story details have been revealed at this time. The original Paddington was considered a big gamble for StudioCanal, since they fully financed the movie, budgeted at $55 million. The risk paid off, with the movie taking in $76.2 million domestically and $259.5 million worldwide, along with healthy ancillary revenues and merchandise tie-ins.
The first movie, based on the beloved novels by Michael Bond, told the story of the...
The report reveals that StudioCanal is hoping to turn this property into a long-running franchise, although no story details have been revealed at this time. The original Paddington was considered a big gamble for StudioCanal, since they fully financed the movie, budgeted at $55 million. The risk paid off, with the movie taking in $76.2 million domestically and $259.5 million worldwide, along with healthy ancillary revenues and merchandise tie-ins.
The first movie, based on the beloved novels by Michael Bond, told the story of the...
- 10/28/2015
- by MovieWeb
- MovieWeb
Some goofy banter and catchy folk ditties are the best thing about this hammy, predictable British comedy
This only fitfully amusing but affable British comedy features Mark Chavez and Shenoah Allen as two American brothers, both struggling actors, who inherit a sprawling country estate from their grandfather (voiced by Geoffrey Palmer, who narrates from beyond the grave). However, their plans to sell up and settle their debts hit a snag when they find a comely housekeeper (the eminently likable Emily Bevan) and her aged grandmother (Sara Kestelman, giving it full-on Little Edie realness with a turban and disdainful side glances) squatting in the property. Writer-director James Kibbey and the cast occasionally lob in a bit of well-timed goofy banter but the plotting is too predictable and the performances too hammy and broad, especially the gurning, grating Allen. Jaunty, silly folk ditties brighten up the soundtrack, especially a last daft tune...
This only fitfully amusing but affable British comedy features Mark Chavez and Shenoah Allen as two American brothers, both struggling actors, who inherit a sprawling country estate from their grandfather (voiced by Geoffrey Palmer, who narrates from beyond the grave). However, their plans to sell up and settle their debts hit a snag when they find a comely housekeeper (the eminently likable Emily Bevan) and her aged grandmother (Sara Kestelman, giving it full-on Little Edie realness with a turban and disdainful side glances) squatting in the property. Writer-director James Kibbey and the cast occasionally lob in a bit of well-timed goofy banter but the plotting is too predictable and the performances too hammy and broad, especially the gurning, grating Allen. Jaunty, silly folk ditties brighten up the soundtrack, especially a last daft tune...
- 7/23/2015
- by Leslie Felperin
- The Guardian - Film News
Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai at the Oscars Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai on the Academy Awards' Red Carpet Pictured above are Bollywood stars Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan arriving at the 2011 Academy Awards ceremony, which took place on Feb. 27 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. Two years ago, an Anglo-Indian-American co-production, Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire became not only one of the season's biggest sleeper hits, but also the eventual Best Picture Oscar winner. Dev Patel and Freida Pinto starred. Curiously, some have complained that Slumdog Millionaire was just a less interesting rehash of higher-quality Bollywood musicals and dramas that have received relatively little play outside South Asian communities around the globe. Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai movies The son of Indian cinema legend Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan has been featured in nearly 50 films. Among them are: Dhoom (2004). Director: Sanjay Gadhvi. Cast: Abhishek Bachchan. Uday Chopra. John Abraham. Esha Deol.
- 5/9/2015
- by D. Zhea
- Alt Film Guide
Although it has only earned a modest $57 million in its first three weeks in domestic theaters, Paddington has taken in over $208 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing family movie to ever be released by a non-us studio, Studiocanal. Variety reports that StudioCanal CEO Olivier Courson has already engaged in early talks with producer David Heyman to make a Paddington 2 sequel. Here's what Olivier Courson had to say in a statement.
"We have to be selective, work with strong brands, top talent, take the time we need. Obviously, the result on Paddington is a strong incentive to us and the partners on the movie to work on a sequel, and a strong incentive for Studiocanal to continue in this area (of ambitious family movies). Paddington has been our biggest bet. Even the development costs, such as creating the bear, were significant. But it shows we can be ambitious in this area of family entertainment,...
"We have to be selective, work with strong brands, top talent, take the time we need. Obviously, the result on Paddington is a strong incentive to us and the partners on the movie to work on a sequel, and a strong incentive for Studiocanal to continue in this area (of ambitious family movies). Paddington has been our biggest bet. Even the development costs, such as creating the bear, were significant. But it shows we can be ambitious in this area of family entertainment,...
- 2/9/2015
- by MovieWeb
- MovieWeb
Paddington is an instant family classic, and will likely defy the expectations of those expecting another live-action CGI hybrid such as Scooby Doo, The Smurfs or Yogi Bear. Director Paul King is able to take the story of a young Peruvian bear known worldwide, and turn it into a unique and charming experience unlike anything seen before. It truly is a special little film, and it will surely continue to find an audience well after it leaves theaters. Its the type of movie that is impossible to hate on any level.
The movie follows Paddington as he travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined, until he meets the kindly Brown family, who read the label around his neck ('Please look after this bear. Thank you.') and offer him a temporary haven.
The movie follows Paddington as he travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he begins to realize that city life is not all he had imagined, until he meets the kindly Brown family, who read the label around his neck ('Please look after this bear. Thank you.') and offer him a temporary haven.
- 1/14/2015
- by MovieWeb
- MovieWeb
Feature Andrew Blair 22 Nov 2013 - 06:43
Andrew counts down Doctor Who's 50 scariest moments, feat. Daleks, Cybermen, and Nicholas Parsons...
Doctor Who exists to scare children. It introduces them to Horror in a way that can prepare them for the increased intensity and gore of adult films, while its limited budget and family viewing constraints also mean it has to get under your skin in more creative ways. This list is not intended as anything remotely definitive, more a collection of fifty scary moments, scenes, and ideas that the show has given us over the years. There are obviously hundreds more out there, and a Comments Thread waiting for your suggestions. We begin at the beginning, but not necessarily in that order.
1. The first Tardis journey
Following an unsettling twenty-five minutes of investigation, torture and kidnap, our favourite family show was born. The Doctor decides schoolteachers Ian and Barbara have...
Andrew counts down Doctor Who's 50 scariest moments, feat. Daleks, Cybermen, and Nicholas Parsons...
Doctor Who exists to scare children. It introduces them to Horror in a way that can prepare them for the increased intensity and gore of adult films, while its limited budget and family viewing constraints also mean it has to get under your skin in more creative ways. This list is not intended as anything remotely definitive, more a collection of fifty scary moments, scenes, and ideas that the show has given us over the years. There are obviously hundreds more out there, and a Comments Thread waiting for your suggestions. We begin at the beginning, but not necessarily in that order.
1. The first Tardis journey
Following an unsettling twenty-five minutes of investigation, torture and kidnap, our favourite family show was born. The Doctor decides schoolteachers Ian and Barbara have...
- 11/21/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
With all the paparazzi pictures that have appeared of her new film, Taking Stock, you may feel you have already seen it. Still, if it's going to save the industry …
Once again, Lost in Showbiz contemplates paging Jimmy Carr's tax accountant, in search of an urgent explanation for a forthcoming work of British cinema.
I am joking, of course. Admittedly, none of us is yet clear what precise percentage of Britflicks are deliberately conceived as Producers-style calamities, which nonetheless result in millions plopping into various tax-avoiders' bank accounts. But I seek absolutely no explanation for news that Kelly Brook has landed a movie role other than the notion that cinemagoers will gladly pay to see her act.
For Kelly, appearances on the silver screen are second nature. "I can't wait to get back to doing what I love," she informed fans. Which is? "Which is being on set and...
Once again, Lost in Showbiz contemplates paging Jimmy Carr's tax accountant, in search of an urgent explanation for a forthcoming work of British cinema.
I am joking, of course. Admittedly, none of us is yet clear what precise percentage of Britflicks are deliberately conceived as Producers-style calamities, which nonetheless result in millions plopping into various tax-avoiders' bank accounts. But I seek absolutely no explanation for news that Kelly Brook has landed a movie role other than the notion that cinemagoers will gladly pay to see her act.
For Kelly, appearances on the silver screen are second nature. "I can't wait to get back to doing what I love," she informed fans. Which is? "Which is being on set and...
- 7/18/2013
- by Marina Hyde
- The Guardian - Film News
Feature Simon Brew 28 Jun 2013 - 07:11
Ever watched a big movie, and stopped with a jolt when a star of a British sitcom pops up? Us too...
This feature is all the fault of the late Richard Marner. As the incompetent Colonel in 'Allo 'Allo, he built a performance that was indelible in our eyes. Thus, when he turned up in a big Hollywood thriller as the President of Russia, we unsuccessfully stifled a guffaw. A big guffaw.
And it got us thinking: what other times has a British sitcom star appeared out of the blue in a big movie, causing a sedentary double take from the comfort of our local Odeon? Glad you asked.
Two things. Firstly, this isn't designed to be a complete list, and also, we've covered films made after the actor or actress confirmed rose to prominence in a sitcom. Oh, and another thing: none of...
Ever watched a big movie, and stopped with a jolt when a star of a British sitcom pops up? Us too...
This feature is all the fault of the late Richard Marner. As the incompetent Colonel in 'Allo 'Allo, he built a performance that was indelible in our eyes. Thus, when he turned up in a big Hollywood thriller as the President of Russia, we unsuccessfully stifled a guffaw. A big guffaw.
And it got us thinking: what other times has a British sitcom star appeared out of the blue in a big movie, causing a sedentary double take from the comfort of our local Odeon? Glad you asked.
Two things. Firstly, this isn't designed to be a complete list, and also, we've covered films made after the actor or actress confirmed rose to prominence in a sitcom. Oh, and another thing: none of...
- 6/27/2013
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
Doc Martin season 5
Kieran Kinsella
British TV’s best loved non-Gallifreyan doctor is back in a bumper sized boxset from Acorn Media. Doc Martin: Special Collection – Series 1 – 5 + The Movies includes the entire saga so far. It is the ideal gift for Doc Martin fans who have grown frustrated at the show’s infrequent airings on select PBS stations.
Doc Martin began life as a bit part character in the film Saving Grace. At the time, his last name was Bamford and he kept the same name for two spin-off BSkyB produced made for TV movies. Bamford was a younger, slimmer, happier, more relaxed version of the Doc Martin most of us are now familiar with. The character alterations occurred when BSkyB’s drama unit went the way of the Dodo and ITV chiefs decided to develop their own version of the show. It was decided that the Doc should...
Kieran Kinsella
British TV’s best loved non-Gallifreyan doctor is back in a bumper sized boxset from Acorn Media. Doc Martin: Special Collection – Series 1 – 5 + The Movies includes the entire saga so far. It is the ideal gift for Doc Martin fans who have grown frustrated at the show’s infrequent airings on select PBS stations.
Doc Martin began life as a bit part character in the film Saving Grace. At the time, his last name was Bamford and he kept the same name for two spin-off BSkyB produced made for TV movies. Bamford was a younger, slimmer, happier, more relaxed version of the Doc Martin most of us are now familiar with. The character alterations occurred when BSkyB’s drama unit went the way of the Dodo and ITV chiefs decided to develop their own version of the show. It was decided that the Doc should...
- 5/7/2013
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Run for Your Wife is already a contender for worst Britfilm ever made, but could that have been the cunning plan all along?
After the fashion of any self-respecting prime minister, I have not actually seen the thing on which I am about to pass judgment.
In my defence, nor has anyone else. Or rather, a mere £747 worth of cinemagoers have – for it is Run for Your Wife, a film some are already calling the worst Britflick ever made. Which gives you a sense of the scale of its horror.
A movie version of the Ray Cooney farce, Run for Your Wife was billed as a "Danny Dyer comedy vehicle" – and if that didn't suggest the brakes were cut from the start, the presence of 'Allo 'Allo's Vicki Michelle as executive producer should have. (Having said that, Lost in Showbiz does have a soft spot for Vicki Michelle, not so...
After the fashion of any self-respecting prime minister, I have not actually seen the thing on which I am about to pass judgment.
In my defence, nor has anyone else. Or rather, a mere £747 worth of cinemagoers have – for it is Run for Your Wife, a film some are already calling the worst Britflick ever made. Which gives you a sense of the scale of its horror.
A movie version of the Ray Cooney farce, Run for Your Wife was billed as a "Danny Dyer comedy vehicle" – and if that didn't suggest the brakes were cut from the start, the presence of 'Allo 'Allo's Vicki Michelle as executive producer should have. (Having said that, Lost in Showbiz does have a soft spot for Vicki Michelle, not so...
- 2/22/2013
- by Marina Hyde
- The Guardian - Film News
Doctor Who‘s Matt Smith is getting into the Olympic spirit for BBC America’s new drama Going for Gold – The ’48 Games. The one-off 90 minute special retells the tale of two Britons who were thrown together as team mates for the British rowing team just before the 1948 London Olympics. The duo won gold and laid the ground work for what has become a British Olympic rowing dynasty.
Smith’s boat buddie is played by Sam Hoare (The Doctors) and other notables among the cast include James Frain (The Tudors), Geoffrey Palmer (As Time Goes By) and Douglas Hodge (Red Cap). Going for Gold will air at 8pm on June 25 as part of BBC America’s Dramaville. It is also set to air in the UK at some point this summer.
If you would like to comment on this or one of our other articles you can do so by clicking...
Smith’s boat buddie is played by Sam Hoare (The Doctors) and other notables among the cast include James Frain (The Tudors), Geoffrey Palmer (As Time Goes By) and Douglas Hodge (Red Cap). Going for Gold will air at 8pm on June 25 as part of BBC America’s Dramaville. It is also set to air in the UK at some point this summer.
If you would like to comment on this or one of our other articles you can do so by clicking...
- 7/6/2012
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Throughout the month of December, TV Editor Kate Kulzick and Film Editor Ricky D will review classic Christmas adaptions, posting a total of 13 each, one a day, until the 25th of December.
The catch: They will swap roles as Rick will take on reviews of classic television Christmas specials and Kate will take on Christmas movies. Today is day 21.
Doctor Who “Voyage of the Damned” (2007)
Directed by James Strong
Written by Russell T. Davies
What’s it about?
First broadcast on December 2007, “Voyage Of The Dammned” runs 72 minutes long and is the third Christmas special since the show’s revival in 2005. The Doctor finds his Tardis colliding with a luxury space cruiser (based on the Rms Titanic) during a Christmas party. The ship’s captain, Hardaker (Geoffrey Palmer), sabotages the cruise liner by purposely lowering the ship’s shield resulting in severe damage after colliding with several asteroids. It’s...
The catch: They will swap roles as Rick will take on reviews of classic television Christmas specials and Kate will take on Christmas movies. Today is day 21.
Doctor Who “Voyage of the Damned” (2007)
Directed by James Strong
Written by Russell T. Davies
What’s it about?
First broadcast on December 2007, “Voyage Of The Dammned” runs 72 minutes long and is the third Christmas special since the show’s revival in 2005. The Doctor finds his Tardis colliding with a luxury space cruiser (based on the Rms Titanic) during a Christmas party. The ship’s captain, Hardaker (Geoffrey Palmer), sabotages the cruise liner by purposely lowering the ship’s shield resulting in severe damage after colliding with several asteroids. It’s...
- 12/22/2011
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
BBC Christmas 2011
R Feeney
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter.
The BBC have revealed more details about their 2011 Christmas line up. Details of the Doctor Who special and the Borrowers have already been announced but the network have now confirmed that Great Expectations will air this Christmas rather than next year. The adaptation stars X-Files actress Gillian Anderson alongside Poirot star David Suchet.
Only Fools and Horses funny man David Jason returns to BBC1 in a comedy show called The Royal Bodyguard. Stephen Fry is set to star in the Victorian era sit-com The Bleak Old Shop Of Stuff and Jennifer Saunders et al return to the Beeb in two new episodes of Absolutely Fabulous.
Luther actor Steven Mackintosh, Eddie Izzard and Geoffrey Palmer will appear in a modern day Manchester based fairytale called Lost Christmas. Meanwhile, All Creatures Great and Small...
R Feeney
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter.
The BBC have revealed more details about their 2011 Christmas line up. Details of the Doctor Who special and the Borrowers have already been announced but the network have now confirmed that Great Expectations will air this Christmas rather than next year. The adaptation stars X-Files actress Gillian Anderson alongside Poirot star David Suchet.
Only Fools and Horses funny man David Jason returns to BBC1 in a comedy show called The Royal Bodyguard. Stephen Fry is set to star in the Victorian era sit-com The Bleak Old Shop Of Stuff and Jennifer Saunders et al return to the Beeb in two new episodes of Absolutely Fabulous.
Luther actor Steven Mackintosh, Eddie Izzard and Geoffrey Palmer will appear in a modern day Manchester based fairytale called Lost Christmas. Meanwhile, All Creatures Great and Small...
- 11/21/2011
- by admin
David Suchet in Poirot.
N Campion
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter.
David Suchet is to reprise his role as Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot in 2012. As of now, David Suchet has starred in dramatizations of all but five of Agatha Christie’s Poirot stories. The new season will see those five stories hit the small screen. The stories in question are as follows: Labours of Hercules, Dead Man’s Folly, The Big Four, Elephants Can Remember, and Curtain. The series is being co-produced by Wgbh – the Boston based PBS affiliate which means that the shows should air as part of PBS’ Masterpiece Theatre either in 2012 or 2013.
Meanwhile, Poirot will be back on ITV this Christmas as the network plan to rerun The Clocks which originally aired in 2009. The cast includes the late Anna Massey, Jaime Winstone, Tom Burke, Lesley Sharp,...
N Campion
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter.
David Suchet is to reprise his role as Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot in 2012. As of now, David Suchet has starred in dramatizations of all but five of Agatha Christie’s Poirot stories. The new season will see those five stories hit the small screen. The stories in question are as follows: Labours of Hercules, Dead Man’s Folly, The Big Four, Elephants Can Remember, and Curtain. The series is being co-produced by Wgbh – the Boston based PBS affiliate which means that the shows should air as part of PBS’ Masterpiece Theatre either in 2012 or 2013.
Meanwhile, Poirot will be back on ITV this Christmas as the network plan to rerun The Clocks which originally aired in 2009. The cast includes the late Anna Massey, Jaime Winstone, Tom Burke, Lesley Sharp,...
- 11/14/2011
- by admin
The Rise and Fall of Margaret Thatcher. co. BBC America
On 18 October 2011 you can own The Rise and Fall of Margaret Thatcher on DVD. The two-disc BBC America DVD charts the meteoric rise of Britain’s first female prime minister and her eventual demise. The career of the so-called “Iron Lady” is brought to life over the course of the three plays: Long Walk to Finchley, The Falkland’s Play and Margaret.
The three plays feature a star studded cast that includes Geoffrey Palmer, Robert Hardy, Patricia Hodge, Lindsay Duncan, Samuel West and Andrea Riseborough. We are pleased to offer three of our readers the chance to own this set courtesy of BBC America. All you have to do is email us or like a post about this release on our Facebook page. Three winners will be chosen at random. (Full details listed below)
The Long Walk to Finchley is...
On 18 October 2011 you can own The Rise and Fall of Margaret Thatcher on DVD. The two-disc BBC America DVD charts the meteoric rise of Britain’s first female prime minister and her eventual demise. The career of the so-called “Iron Lady” is brought to life over the course of the three plays: Long Walk to Finchley, The Falkland’s Play and Margaret.
The three plays feature a star studded cast that includes Geoffrey Palmer, Robert Hardy, Patricia Hodge, Lindsay Duncan, Samuel West and Andrea Riseborough. We are pleased to offer three of our readers the chance to own this set courtesy of BBC America. All you have to do is email us or like a post about this release on our Facebook page. Three winners will be chosen at random. (Full details listed below)
The Long Walk to Finchley is...
- 10/18/2011
- by admin
Filming has just started on Parade's End a five part serial for BBC2 / HBO, adapted by Sir Tom Stoppard from the novels by Ford Madox Ford, directed by Susanna White, and produced by David Parfitt and Selwyn Roberts. The series will shoot in England and Belgium until December.
Benedict Cumberbatch will star as English aristocrat Christoper Tietjens, Rebecca Hall (currently to be seen in The Awakening) will play his wife Sylvia.
21 year old Australian rising star Adelaide Clemens has been cast as Valentine, the high-spirited young suffragette with whom Christopher falls head-over-heels in love.
Parade's End is the story of a destructive love triangle, set against the backdrop of a society on the brink of catastrophe. As the comfortable certainties of Edwardian England give way to the chaos and destruction of the First World War, English aristocrat Christopher Tietjens finds himself marrying Sylvia, a beautiful but cruel socialite who is...
Benedict Cumberbatch will star as English aristocrat Christoper Tietjens, Rebecca Hall (currently to be seen in The Awakening) will play his wife Sylvia.
21 year old Australian rising star Adelaide Clemens has been cast as Valentine, the high-spirited young suffragette with whom Christopher falls head-over-heels in love.
Parade's End is the story of a destructive love triangle, set against the backdrop of a society on the brink of catastrophe. As the comfortable certainties of Edwardian England give way to the chaos and destruction of the First World War, English aristocrat Christopher Tietjens finds himself marrying Sylvia, a beautiful but cruel socialite who is...
- 9/16/2011
- by noreply@blogger.com (ScreenTerrier)
- ScreenTerrier
Dr Finlay. co. BBC
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Kieran Kinsella
When you talk about TV doctors, many people immediately think of Richard Chamberlain. However, doctors have always been a major feature of TV shows on this side of the Atlantic and to honor the men and women who monitor the health of our favorite fictional characters, here are the Best British TV Doctors.
Dr Finlay (Bill Simpson) in Dr Finlay’s Casebook. Set in the Scottish town of Tannochbrae, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was first broadcast 49 years ago and even at that time Dr Finlay was something of a throwback to simpler times. Despite his small town surroundings, he valiantly fought against all kinds of ills that included his nutty housekeeper and a pernicious rival.
Doc Martin (Martin Clunes) in Doc Martin. Martin Clunes is not behaving as...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Kieran Kinsella
When you talk about TV doctors, many people immediately think of Richard Chamberlain. However, doctors have always been a major feature of TV shows on this side of the Atlantic and to honor the men and women who monitor the health of our favorite fictional characters, here are the Best British TV Doctors.
Dr Finlay (Bill Simpson) in Dr Finlay’s Casebook. Set in the Scottish town of Tannochbrae, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was first broadcast 49 years ago and even at that time Dr Finlay was something of a throwback to simpler times. Despite his small town surroundings, he valiantly fought against all kinds of ills that included his nutty housekeeper and a pernicious rival.
Doc Martin (Martin Clunes) in Doc Martin. Martin Clunes is not behaving as...
- 7/19/2011
- by admin
Poirot. co.ITV
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Last week’s Poirot was more like a Miss Marple adventure and this one was reminiscent of John Buchan’s The 39 Steps. Nevertheless, even if neither of the stories that PBS Masterpiece Mystery have aired so far are your run-of-the-mill Poirot, both tales have been very exciting.
The Clocks had some notable cast members that included Lesley Sharp (Scott and Bailey), Geoffrey Palmer (Fawlty Towers – “I am a Doctor and I want my sausages”) and Phil Daniels (narrator of Blur’s Parklife.) The latter as Hardcastle was an able replacement for ‘astings although the show is not quite the same without the old fellow.
The Belgian brain-box and his English friends had to contend the mystery of a dead man who was both poisoned and stabbed, the death of a spy...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Last week’s Poirot was more like a Miss Marple adventure and this one was reminiscent of John Buchan’s The 39 Steps. Nevertheless, even if neither of the stories that PBS Masterpiece Mystery have aired so far are your run-of-the-mill Poirot, both tales have been very exciting.
The Clocks had some notable cast members that included Lesley Sharp (Scott and Bailey), Geoffrey Palmer (Fawlty Towers – “I am a Doctor and I want my sausages”) and Phil Daniels (narrator of Blur’s Parklife.) The latter as Hardcastle was an able replacement for ‘astings although the show is not quite the same without the old fellow.
The Belgian brain-box and his English friends had to contend the mystery of a dead man who was both poisoned and stabbed, the death of a spy...
- 6/26/2011
- by admin
British actor Geoffrey Palmer helped re-open a charity shop in Princes Risborough – a small town in England’s Buckinghamshire – this week.
The shop raises money for the local branch of Iain Rennie Hospice at Home, a charity that offers anyone who has a life-limiting illness the choice to receive the care and support that they need in the comfort and security of their own home. Palmer – who has appeared in classic British TV shows such as The Fall And Rise of Reginald Perrin, Doctor Who, Fawlty Towers, The Goodies and As Time Goes By – is a patron for the charity.
Read more...
The shop raises money for the local branch of Iain Rennie Hospice at Home, a charity that offers anyone who has a life-limiting illness the choice to receive the care and support that they need in the comfort and security of their own home. Palmer – who has appeared in classic British TV shows such as The Fall And Rise of Reginald Perrin, Doctor Who, Fawlty Towers, The Goodies and As Time Goes By – is a patron for the charity.
Read more...
- 1/27/2011
- Look to the Stars
Hey Britcom fans! To celebrate the release of The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin: The Complete Series on DVD today, JustPressPlay is giving away three copies of the box set! If you have heard of it, you know the series has "Comedy Classic" written all over it. In short, it's about a business man at the end of his rope and the funny things he begins to do as he loses his mind. Or you could read our review!
For those of you that have never heard of Reginald Perrin before today, consider the following:
Do you like The Office (UK or Us)? Do you think obsessive compulsive disorder or anxiety attacks can be funny? Do you wish Monk was funnier? Do you like Monty Python? Do you like Fawlty Towers?
If you said yes to one or more of these questions - you ought to enter the contest.
For those of you that have never heard of Reginald Perrin before today, consider the following:
Do you like The Office (UK or Us)? Do you think obsessive compulsive disorder or anxiety attacks can be funny? Do you wish Monk was funnier? Do you like Monty Python? Do you like Fawlty Towers?
If you said yes to one or more of these questions - you ought to enter the contest.
- 5/12/2009
- by Lex Walker
- JustPressPlay.net
Film review: 'Mrs. Brown'
Director John Madden's third feature is a satisfying period drama with top-drawer performances by Judi Dench as the recently widowed Queen Victoria and Billy Connolly as the burly Scotsman who restores her spirit.
Picked up for a July domestic release by Miramax, "Mrs. Brown" unspools in the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes International Film Festival.
Set primarily in the always invigorating and cinematically potent Scottish Highlands, the English-Irish production is impeccably mounted and boasts many compelling characters, although it falls in the Merchant Ivory category of a hard-sell-to-the-masses historical romancer and has less sexual passion than Madden's 1993 adaptation of Edith Wharton's "Ethan Fromme".
In the same league as "The Lion in Winter", "Mrs. Brown" is dominated by the two leads, with Dench ("GoldenEye") delivering a superb rendering of a complex woman in a highly vulnerable situation. Dubbed the "Widow of Windsor", Queen Victoria, possibly the world's most powerful individual, hid from the public in 1861 after the death of her husband, Albert.
She left the running of the empire to other members of the monarchy and Parliament. After three years of mourning and with the government in turmoil, her private secretary (Geoffrey Palmer) summons Brown, a loyal hunting guide and servant who served Albert and is fiercely loyal to the royal family.
The idea is to cheer up the gloomy, bitter and often cranky queen with an extended stay in Balmoral, where she goes riding and hears plain, often harsh words of truth from blustery, commanding Brown. He eventually becomes her good friend, makes an enemy of the Prince of Wales (David Westhead) and pushes aside Palmer's character.
They fall in love after a fashion, but the duties of the crown beckon. Connolly ("Muppet Treasure Island") is thoroughly convincing as a caring male equal and patriotic subject who has his faults and knows it. The pair together are a delight to watch -- even if the heat generated is indirect, the chemistry is something rare in current cinema.
Antony Sher ("The Young Poisoner's Handbook") is memorable as patient, bemused Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the Parliament scenes, in which a faction arises bent on dissolving the monarchy unless the queen returns.
He too makes the trip to the cloudy hills and valleys for a crucial encounter with the indomitable Brown, whose pride is mighty and instincts unfailing given the queen's long subsequent reign and historic achievements.
Madden, who also directed 1993's "Golden Gate", and debut screenwriter Jeremy Brock, who wrote Madden's TV feature "The Widowmaker", don't aim too high and keep the pace brisk. One learns a few things and inwardly cheers at the great lines, but most importantly one comes to sympathize with the characters and understand the class and cultural conflicts through the richly rewarding characterizations.
Martin Childs' production design and Richard Greatrex's cinematography are exemplary given the project's low budget, while Deirdre Clancy's costumes and Lisa Westcott's hair and makeup design are major contributions. Stephen Warbeck's score is lush and stirring.
MRS. BROWN
Miramax Films
WGBH, Irish Screen
Director John Madden
Writer Jeremy Brock
Producer Sarah Curtis
Executive producers Douglas Rae,
Andrea Calderwood
Director of photography Richard Greatrex
Production designer Martin Childs
Editor Robin Sales
Costume designer Deirdre Clancy
Music Stephen Warbeck
Casting Michelle Guish
Cast:
Queen Victoria Judi Dench
John Brown Billy Connolly
Henry Ponsonby Geoffrey Palmer
Disraeli Antony Sher
Archie Brown Gerard Butler
Running time -- 105 minutes
MPAA rating: PG...
Picked up for a July domestic release by Miramax, "Mrs. Brown" unspools in the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes International Film Festival.
Set primarily in the always invigorating and cinematically potent Scottish Highlands, the English-Irish production is impeccably mounted and boasts many compelling characters, although it falls in the Merchant Ivory category of a hard-sell-to-the-masses historical romancer and has less sexual passion than Madden's 1993 adaptation of Edith Wharton's "Ethan Fromme".
In the same league as "The Lion in Winter", "Mrs. Brown" is dominated by the two leads, with Dench ("GoldenEye") delivering a superb rendering of a complex woman in a highly vulnerable situation. Dubbed the "Widow of Windsor", Queen Victoria, possibly the world's most powerful individual, hid from the public in 1861 after the death of her husband, Albert.
She left the running of the empire to other members of the monarchy and Parliament. After three years of mourning and with the government in turmoil, her private secretary (Geoffrey Palmer) summons Brown, a loyal hunting guide and servant who served Albert and is fiercely loyal to the royal family.
The idea is to cheer up the gloomy, bitter and often cranky queen with an extended stay in Balmoral, where she goes riding and hears plain, often harsh words of truth from blustery, commanding Brown. He eventually becomes her good friend, makes an enemy of the Prince of Wales (David Westhead) and pushes aside Palmer's character.
They fall in love after a fashion, but the duties of the crown beckon. Connolly ("Muppet Treasure Island") is thoroughly convincing as a caring male equal and patriotic subject who has his faults and knows it. The pair together are a delight to watch -- even if the heat generated is indirect, the chemistry is something rare in current cinema.
Antony Sher ("The Young Poisoner's Handbook") is memorable as patient, bemused Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the Parliament scenes, in which a faction arises bent on dissolving the monarchy unless the queen returns.
He too makes the trip to the cloudy hills and valleys for a crucial encounter with the indomitable Brown, whose pride is mighty and instincts unfailing given the queen's long subsequent reign and historic achievements.
Madden, who also directed 1993's "Golden Gate", and debut screenwriter Jeremy Brock, who wrote Madden's TV feature "The Widowmaker", don't aim too high and keep the pace brisk. One learns a few things and inwardly cheers at the great lines, but most importantly one comes to sympathize with the characters and understand the class and cultural conflicts through the richly rewarding characterizations.
Martin Childs' production design and Richard Greatrex's cinematography are exemplary given the project's low budget, while Deirdre Clancy's costumes and Lisa Westcott's hair and makeup design are major contributions. Stephen Warbeck's score is lush and stirring.
MRS. BROWN
Miramax Films
WGBH, Irish Screen
Director John Madden
Writer Jeremy Brock
Producer Sarah Curtis
Executive producers Douglas Rae,
Andrea Calderwood
Director of photography Richard Greatrex
Production designer Martin Childs
Editor Robin Sales
Costume designer Deirdre Clancy
Music Stephen Warbeck
Casting Michelle Guish
Cast:
Queen Victoria Judi Dench
John Brown Billy Connolly
Henry Ponsonby Geoffrey Palmer
Disraeli Antony Sher
Archie Brown Gerard Butler
Running time -- 105 minutes
MPAA rating: PG...
- 5/12/1997
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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