I'm watching this for the 2nd time and just savoring it, watching one or two episodes a night. It's great storytelling, acting, directing, cinematography, etc. Subtle but powerful. I must remember to recommend it to others like my sister who enjoys the same types of films I do instead of selfishly keeping it to myself. But at least I'm sharing my opinion with you, aren't I? ;-)
May 28, 2008One of the early pieces with Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson. Amazing cast of interesting characters moving through Europe, Egypt and Eastern Europe just ahead of the Axis invasions becoming World War II. I saw bits and pieces on Masterpiece Theatre many years ago - very memorable.
May 16, 2008Nearly twenty years since this production, but it stands the test of time. Well produced, well acted, and a strangely sad picture of idealism being snuffed out by the harsh realities of war.
April 1, 2008 |  | Charles Dickens and Jane Austen Go to War |  |
The producers of this sweeping video have, with perfect pitch, captured both the spirit and the letter of Olivia Manning's (six) novels. From the hapless and freeloading Prince Yakimov to Dobson, the unflappable F.O. functionary, you see what it's like to live and work with war constantly advancing just over the horizon. Branaugh's Guy Pringle seems cherrily oblivous to the dangers -- even including the danger of losing Harriet (Emma Thompson) his initially naive young wife. Their journey(s), through wartime Rumania, Greece and Egypt, are journeys from simplicity to complexity, from dreams and illusions to sometimes cruel reality. Great characters, great dialogue, great plot, altogether great stuff -- the most absorbing made-for-TV series since the Singing Detective.
February 1, 2008Just as good as the first time I saw it 20 years ago. Good price too!
December 25, 2007More reviews at Amazon.com ...
Daily Birthdays
(31 reviews)