Film Reviews by JD

Absolutely outstanding. The most gifted Shakespearian actors shine through the medium of celluloid. Branagh in particular is intensely moving during the soliloquies. A slightly anticlimactic musical piece at the end did not prevent the piece being totally uplifting.

Although there are moments of great suspense I would not class this as a thriller; More a period drama or detective drama. Set in 1914 there are plenty of references to the build up of the great war but the interest is centred on Robert Powell's character which is brilliantly played. A right ripping yarn.

The plot is basic but different. It starts with a superhero who is uncouth, destructive and unpopular. You can guess how the plot goes from there and you would be right. Will Smith plays it well but could have spent his time better.

Hoping to recapture the unique and eccentric comedy I rewatched these episodes. Fantastic if you missed some but not worth seeing again.

A series of grossly obese Dallas detectives give their version of interviews of a murder suspect. The style is amateur and uninspiring presumably filmed as an information film for local detectives. If the pace were any slower it would be funny.

Jim Dale plays a good "Carry on" style Spike. It is pretty funny but a bit dated and not as poignant as the book.

You can feel the plot moving through the usual phases of irritating discord through petty differences to a relieving and unifying happy ending. Pretty missable except for John Candy who is as usual outstanding.

I'm pleased that they did a further series which is just as good as the first. I haven't seen this repeated. Maybe I've missed it. It is every bit as classic as Black Adder. A fine piece of British comedy. If laughter is the best medicine this is Viagacetamol.

I haven't seen this repeated. Maybe I've missed it. It is every bit as classic as Black Adder. A fine piece of British comedy. If laughter is the best medicine this is Viagacetamol.

The funniest film I have seen for ages. You would not believe it was made 13 years ago. Some ideas I recognised as having since been stolen. A testament to its greatness. Wear clothes you can change afterwards.

The central characters grow and grow, the plot weaves them together and gently unfolds their histories. The acting is superb except for a couple of very minor characters who make you realise how good the others are. Ultimately a sad film but not a weepy nor depressing. I loved it.

Despite a plot with which it should be relatively easy to create a thrilling drama I was bored to sleep by some incredibly average acting. Only Whitaker brought a glimmer of class and he was involved for about 5 minutes. Without this it would be a one star.

There are so many little details some only fleetingly seen that are intensely nostalgic. Things that I have not seen in any other second world war drama. I was touched by a road sign which I hadn't seen for aeons. All acting is spot on even the children. A must see for anyone over 40.

This is the golden era of one line gags and puerile slapstick comedy. This has to be watched with unsophisticated receptivity. If it is there are rich rewards. Watch this with a grandchild.

For a 1949 film it is a masterpiece. It richly deserves to have won the cinematography award. I do not think modern cinematography is better, it has just got a few more tricks. The style of acting has since changed alot and mainly for the good. It is very theatrical and projected especially Orson who sometimes looks as though he is doing Bob Hope impressions. Well worth a nostalgic trip.