Reviews
Soul Music (1997)
Fantastic!
One of the rare films I've seen which really does justice to the book upon which it was based. 'Soul Music' is particularly suited to a small-screen transfer, and much time and effort has obviously been lavished on this production.
A great, funny, intelligent film. Don't miss this one.
Biggles (1986)
An eight-year-old's favourite film ever.
I always believed I'd grow out of this film, but that hasn't happened yet. True, the plot's impossibly silly, but when I first watched the film, that didn't matter to me. Frankly, it still doesn't. Don't watch this film if you're looking for some serious intellectual stimulation. However, if it's great fun, great music and a major dose of eighties nostalgia you're after, this could be the one for you. One last thing - the main theme "Do you wanna be a hero" still sends shivers down my spine every time I see the opening credits.
The Neverending Story (1984)
Read the book instead
Perhaps it was a mistake for me to read the book before I saw the film. The technology to recreate scenes found in the book wasn't available in 1984, and probably isn't available now. However, I'd actually find this a fairly convincing argument for not actually making the film at all.
I can't in all conscience criticise the effects, or the soundtrack, or even the acting performance. My complaint really lies with the bastardised ending. I was really depressed to find the most powerful, meaningful book I'd ever read turned into a live-action version of a Saturday morning kids' cartoon. All I can really do is say please, please read the book instead. Then you can truly have the experience of a lifetime...
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Sheer Perfection
'Beauty and the Beast' is without a doubt the greatest animated film ever made, and the standard by which I judge all others. Recent Disney fare has been something of a disappointment, with films excelling in one area only to be weak in another. So if you're looking for a great animated movie that both parents and kids can enjoy, watch this. If you've seen it already, watch it again.
There's nothing much I can say about this film that hasn't already been said by the critics. Visually stunning and with a fantastic score, it deserved the 'Best Picture' Oscar for which it was nominated. The high point? That unbelievable ballroom scene, where the beautiful title song and some clever computer animation combine to make me cry every time I see it.
Altogether a great movie for romantics everywhere.
The Black Adder (1982)
Series One of the Best Comedy Ever
If you enjoyed the Black Adder (who wouldn't) I'd strongly recommend the last series (Blackadder Goes Forth). Set in the trenches of the First World War, it combines the usual great humour with a surprising level of pathos, particularly in the last few episodes.
Merlin (1998)
A real treat for eyes and mind
I was completely enchanted by this beautiful mini-series. The cast were uniformly excellent, with particular mention going to Sam Neill (in the title role) and Martin Short. Perfect escapist fun for all the family.