haroldj-08183 Reviews

Last of the Summer Wine: Getting Sam Home (1983) Season 7, Episode 7

Wonderful episode

[10/10 · 16 April 2024]

I have loved Last of the Summer Wine since the very first episode. This one might be classed as dark humour but was so well done. Lynda Baron, as always, was a delight. The featured countryside sets this series apart from most others and the genius of Roy Clarke has allowed the programme to survive the necessary changes in character. In this storyline, one of the highlights for me was the dressing down dished out by Ivy to our three heroes looking just the way they probably did when getting a good telling off by their teacher back in the schooldays.

So sad that John Comer was too ill to speak but Tony Melody did a convincing job of providing the voice.

As with so many episodes, I could not fault this one.

Sister Boniface Mysteries: The Star of the Orient (2023) Season 3, Episode 1

A fun episode

[8/10 · 19 December 2023]

Agatha Christie influenced tale. Some might say it is contrived but I found it quite enjoyable.

I'm looking forward to the rest of series 3.

Kudos to the makeup people who could transform the beautiful Belinda Lang into Mrs Clam and Siobhan Redmond into Miss Fitz D'Arcy.

I hope the cast had as good a time as it appears, especially as this was filmed during the summer but they all had to dress in Winter clothing.

I always like a happy ending even when corny, as it should be at Christmas.

This is a good old-fashioned show, just right for the festive season. Don't expect high drama, enter into the spirit of this light-hearted drama.

The Great Escaper (2023)

Touching without getting maudlin.

[9/10 · 8 October 2023]

I loved watching this film, sometimes through tears.

The leading actors gave us a masterclass in their art. I would have liked it to be a bit longer to show what happened to Arthur, Scott and Adele but Bernie and Irene were the main storyline.

When I get to Bernie's which is not too long now, I hope I don't end up in a care home with steps up to the main door and stairs to climb once inside .This did not make it look disabled-friendly. It is possible that Bernie was too stubborn to use a lift but that would have shown part of his dogged personality.

Overall, a wonderful experience to watch.

Celebrity Antiques Road Trip (2011– )

Lighthearted bit of fun.

[8/10 · 14 April 2022]

This programme is not to be taken too seriously. I'm not usually keen on Celebrity versions of successful shows but find this one OK depending on the combination of expert and celebrity. The right participants can be very entertaining.

Tim Wonnacott might not be to everyone's taste but his pun laden commentary saves us from some of celebrities who think too much of themselves - I like him.

Father Brown: The Red Death (2022) Season 9, Episode 10

Light hearted drama

[8/10 · 21 January 2022]

This series is not to be taken too seriously, I found it very enjoyable and hope the cast did too.

Mark Williams does a great job of the role as Father Brown and, no matter how preposterous the plot lines and the overacting of some, it is well worth watching.

I was amused by the big storm in this episode which prevented access to the estate yet not a sign of it in the exterior shots - no snow, no wind, nothing at all. Just another need for the suspension of disbelief in this fun series. I sincerely hope more is made.

Annika (2021– )

I am really enjoying this

[10/10 · 25 August 2021]

The Scandinavian dramas are a great favourite in this house but this makes a lighter, refreshing change.

I have liked everything I have seen Nichola Walker in and this is no exception. The "Breaking the Fourth Wall" aspect might not appeal to some but I appreciate it. Each investigation being wrapped up in one episode makes a change from the series which take six or more episodes to crack the case. There is room for different length storylines in crime dramas and I hope this one runs for a long time.

Death on the Tyne (2018 TV Movie)

Great fun

[8/10 · 24 December 2018]

I can't imagine this set out to be a great work of art but I found it really enjoyable. What's more, the cast seemed to be having a good time. If they do a third in the series I will be sure to watch.