One of a number of ABC mini-series released to DVD in late 2005, this has to be the least interesting. In the hands of an uninspired director, it gives the appearance of a stage play, with little movement of the camera. Often the characters are allowed to cross the screen for minutes without any movement. Such would be fine if the story held genuine interest, but seriously, it doesn't! The story is humdrum, to say the least.
On the plus side, the other production values are fine. Sets and costumes are brilliantly mounted. And Wendy Hughes turns in an excellent performance. The same can be said for Sam Neill, but his character 'Tony Duff' disappears before the series is halfway through.
You need to watch for changes of locations and time period, as these aren't always obvious. I lost track of many minor characters by the third episode, but figured I couldn't write a fair review unless I stuck it out to the bitter end.
A far better example of the ABC's mini-series of the time is 'Come in Spinner'. Or for something different, 'Edens Lost'. One aspect common to all is a great transfer, but most are 'bare bones' with no extras, unlike, for example, the brilliant 'Seven Little Australians'.
On the plus side, the other production values are fine. Sets and costumes are brilliantly mounted. And Wendy Hughes turns in an excellent performance. The same can be said for Sam Neill, but his character 'Tony Duff' disappears before the series is halfway through.
You need to watch for changes of locations and time period, as these aren't always obvious. I lost track of many minor characters by the third episode, but figured I couldn't write a fair review unless I stuck it out to the bitter end.
A far better example of the ABC's mini-series of the time is 'Come in Spinner'. Or for something different, 'Edens Lost'. One aspect common to all is a great transfer, but most are 'bare bones' with no extras, unlike, for example, the brilliant 'Seven Little Australians'.
