There has been substantial criticism of this series' failure to accurately portray the source material about the Durrells. Not having read the books, I cannot use them as a comparison. So I am judging on the series itself, and comparing it to other presentations of more modern material on Masterpiece. In that light, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. The actors, especially those portraying the children bring real spirit to the four quirky kids. The photography captures the brightness of Corfu, the sky and sea are brilliant blue. The countryside captures the rustic life of the 1930's. The animals add a realistic and fun realism to the family's life. Is it the best Masterpiece ever? No, because the story doesn't lend itself to high adventure and suspense. But it is an enjoyable series that kept me interested in the family's story.
Reviews
5 Reviews
Semper Fi: One Marine's Journey
(2007 TV Movie)
an outstanding view of service life
25 June 2007
As a retired Marine, I watched this film with a jaundiced eye, expecting some kind of whiny apologetic for gays being allowed to serve in the military. I figured it would be a kind of "Michael Moore-ish" blasting of the Marines. But what I saw was a real guy with a desire to serve his country who had the opportunity to serve in a war zone and try his part to do what America was told we were sent to Iraq to do: to bring democracy and freedom to the people there even though he had doubts about the war as a reaction to the 9/11 attack. I listened and watched Jeff Key deal with Iraqis, his fellow Marines and his sexuality in a mature, intelligent way. In the end, he felt compelled to admit his homosexuality and leave the Corps, but nothing I saw in the movie made he think he had done anything but serve his country and the Corps with honor. With interviews of family, friends from his gay life and from the Marines, films of his service in Iraq, and scenes from Key's one man show about his service, this movie ends up presenting, in a non-argumentative way, a persuasive argument for allowing gays to serve openly in the service.
Wedding Crashers
(2005)
Funny funny stuff
17 July 2005
Wedding Crashers follows in the great American tradition of low humor carried on in Animal House, Porky's, Stripes and Something About Mary. Don't go expecting subtlety---just be ready to laugh. A lot! Owen Wilson is his usual adorable self, but Vince Vaughn has really perfected his big lovable crud ball. And the girls are not only pretty, they are hysterically funny as well. But it isn't just "Porky's" type humor---many of the characters are worthy of induction into the weirdo-funny Hall of Fame. A great flick for a hot summer day--my wife laughed more than I did. And when the DVD comes out---you'll want to watch it with about 20 of your favorite margarita-swilling friends for a hilarious party night with the movies.
John Hannah is the bomb!!
19 March 2004
BBCAmerica puts on the best of British TV, which is TV at its best. Rebus is a detective with human failings and troubles. It's exciting to watch a show with characters that have real-life complexity, as opposed to the usual stereotypical shallowness on most TV. And Hannah portrays these levels fabulously. He has humorous moments, and serious moments, and handles both with aplomb. Not only are the characters realistic, but the storylines are complex and multilayered, with unexpected twists. This film is one of about four which feature Rebus, and all are worth watching. It takes a bit of concentration to understand some of the dialog, as the Scottish accents can be quite heavy, but it is well worth the effort. Tune to BBCAmerica, and enjoy!
Little Voice
(1998)
Michael Caine at his best
28 March 2002
Michael Caine is one of the greatest screen actors working today, and this sleeper is one of his best. No one exudes oiliness better!
The way he manipulates and tries to use "Little Voice" exhibits his own desire for success, but he gets the appropriate result. This is a MUST see for all Caine fans, as well as a great musical for fans of torch singers like Judy Garland and Shirley Bassey.
The way he manipulates and tries to use "Little Voice" exhibits his own desire for success, but he gets the appropriate result. This is a MUST see for all Caine fans, as well as a great musical for fans of torch singers like Judy Garland and Shirley Bassey.
Tell Your Friends